On October 9, 2005 the College of Health and Human Services celebrated its first semi-annual picnic for faculty and staff. At around 11 am CHHS employees began to descend upon a sleepy little park in Torrance. People brought culinary delights from around the world as side dishes reflected the diverse nature of the people who work in our College. Before long the charcoal was hot and the aroma tantalizing as a variety of meat was placed on the grill. The ravenous crowd devoured hot dogs, hamburgers, short ribs, carne asada, and sumptuous hot links.
While many may have thought that after the consumption of copious meats and side dishes the picnic would wind down and people drift off to their alternate lives, the fun and games were just getting started. Stomachs had barely begun to settle when Ginger Wilson led a group hula session. After images of Waikiki and grass skirts faded from memory the first competition of the afternoon began. In an action-packed and extremely tense final, Jessica Barragan narrowly defeated Chloe Peyton to win the vacant “Rock, Paper, Scissors” title. Jessica confidently proclaimed that she will take on all challengers “anytime, any place, anywhere.” Rumor has it that if you venture into the Student Services Center and ask Jessica about her title she will proclaim that “no one can touch Jessica Barragan, no one!”
Those hoping to wind down and relax after the nail-biting Rock, Paper, Scissors tournament had to check their pace-makers once more as the donut eating contest quickly got under way. In a controversy-filled event with more rules and regulations than CSUDH policies and procedures, Andrew Long emerged victorious as he skillfully swallowed three mini-donuts from a piece of string in the fastest time. Despite gallant efforts from Sydney Hardy, Andy McDaniel, Kami Amirheshmat, and Craig Levine, the “Belly from Britain” showed he had what it takes when confronted with three donuts on a string.
Finally, the wild and crazy folks of CHHS decided that calories needed to be burned and, using a kickball set provided by Mary Lou Cappel, a game began that produced sporting legends. After five innings of pure adrenaline, the two teams decided that the spoils of victory would be shared with a 10-10 tie. We left the field with our heads held high and our legs sore. More than a few participants were heard to murmur “I’ll get you next time,” and “I don’t understand I thought I brought my “A” game.”
Throughout the day children and adults alike enjoyed the company of Carole Shea’s friendly and playful dogs. Other entertainment included a bouncy castle and hula hooping. Paul Mills won the cash raffle prize and Andrew Long won tickets to the Los Angeles Zoo. As CHHS employees left the park with full stomachs, tired legs, and great memories, it seems fair to say that a good time was had by all.
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