As we near the end of the tour, we find ourselves grateful for the lovely resorts and accommodations provided for us as our energy dwindles. We spent the night in a second resort, this time in Riva del Garda, Italy. We woke up to some free time, during which Singers walked around the city, found some beautiful churches to sing in, shopped, and enjoyed the amazing mountain views and hotel grounds.
At 1:30pm, we met up at the bus to depart for Milan. During our 2.5-hour drive, we enjoyed some additional shenanigans, including a celebrity look-alikes presentation featuring each member of the choir. After a quick pit stop at a gas station, we completed the drive and prepared for church, during which we were expected to sing. Dr. Crane ended up programming Baptism (arr. Spencer Baldwin) and Solo un Filio di Dio (I am a Child of God in Italian). Marie Hansen conducted the congregational hymns and Dr. Crane played the piano during the meeting.
After the sacrament meeting, we attended a special meeting for YSA members. The ward provided dinner for all of us, and we got to mingle with the Italian YSA folks. We had a nice assortment of charcuterie-type foods, followed by a traditional Italian dessert. The YSA had organized an activity for us: Kahoot trivia questions about Italian and American history. It got pretty crazy!
Unfortunately, while all this frivolity occurred, our bus driver was robbed while cleaning the bus. The burglars took his wallet with a substantial amount of cash and his passport. Upon learning this, Dr. Crane organized a donation system to help reimburse the driver. Between small student donations and outside generosity, we were able to partially make up the money he lost.
After the YSA activity, we departed for the hotel in Milan.