SAFe-ty First!

This past week, my team and I at Intrado packed up and hit the road for a few days of Scaled Agile Framework (SAFe) training in Scotts Valley, CA. Once on the ground in Cali, we found cold weather, big trees, good food, and some learnin', too!

Westbound and Down

The first leg of our flight to San José was scheduled to depart Mobile Regional Airport at 6:10 AM on Sunday morning. Subtract the TSA-recommended two hours to allow for check-in and security, plus another to get ready and finish packing, and I found myself getting up at 3 AM that morning. Needless to say, I was looking forward to catching some z's on the plane.

We're not nearly as happy as we look.

Despite a short delay due to an issue at the check-in desk, we all managed to make it to the aboard easily enough (if not a little drowsy). The short flight to Dallas was mostly uneventful, as was the longer hop to San José. Before we knew it, we were touching down in the Golden State.

California Dreaming

Arriving in California at around noon, we found some lunch nearby and then set out to Scotts Valley.

Reminds me of the town Rambo blew up in First Blood.

A small city of about 11,000 people nestled in the Santa Cruz mountains about 30 miles south of San Jose, Scotts Valley probably isn't what comes to mind when you think about modern technology hub. However, several major players in the tech space got their start in Scotts Valley, including Netflix, Seagate, and Borland. Today, Intrado rents a small office space at the Enterprise Technology Centre, which was our ultimate destination this trip.

Among Giants

In addition to our Intrado office, Scotts Valley is also home to an old-growth forest called Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. Not wanting to pass up an opportunity to see some of the largest trees in the world, we set out after lunch to go for a hike.

And what a hike it was.

"The Giant"

First of all, these trees are massive. I can't describe it any other way, and pictures don't do them justice. To think that something that big is a living organism boggles the mind, and if the sheer sizes of these trees aren't enough, the ages are nigh unbelievable. 

Redwood cross section.

Near the entrance to the park, a cross section of the redwood is on display. On it are markers identifying the rings that correspond to the years of specific historical events such as the birth of Jesus, the discovery of gunpowder, and the signing of the Magna Carta. To be honest, I couldn't quite wrap my head around the fact that I was standing in the presence of something that old. It's almost otherworldly, but I digress.

We were actually freezing to death, or at least I was.

While at the park, we walked a mile-long trail that took us around some of the more noteworthy trees in the area, including the Fremont Tree, inside which the famous explorer John C. Fremont supposedly camped while exploring the west coast (when asked by a reporter to verify the tale, Fremont simply said "It's a good story, let it stand").

The interior of the Fremont Tree.

Aside from the massive redwoods themselves, I found the most noteworthy aspect of the forest to be the eerie silence. Unlike the pine tree woods of the south (which are noisy with rustling leaves and creeping critters), the redwoods are almost painfully silent, with little noise made by flora or fauna. We spotted no birds or small animals during our walk; only a small deer made an appearance just before we decided to head out for the day.

Deer in the redwoods.

Base Camp

After a full day of flying and a walk in the woods (all the while running on about 4 hours of sleep), we were all exhausted and in agreement that soft beds and room service should be our next objective. From the park, we shipped out to our hotel, the Hilton Santa Cruz/Scotts Valley.

Looks like a big stone cabin to me.

To be sure, this wasn't your run-of-the-mill Hilton. The designers obviously wanted to embrace the winter resort vibe, complete with stone brick decor and a fireside bar in the lobby.

I'm not sure if the indoor waterfall is very winter-y.

The fireside bar. Cozy!

After checking in and touching base with our other teams from Mobile who had arrived after us, we all decided to crash for the evening. 8 AM was going to come quite early.

Back to School

Arriving at the Enterprise Technology Centre the next morning, we met up with the other engineering teams from Intrado for our first day of SAFe for Teams training.

Class is in session.

The day mostly consisted of a lengthy presentation divided up by some smaller workshops. Not much to elaborate on, but let's just say that our group was looking forward to watching the college football national championship game that night.

Game Time

The evening following our first day of training, our group met up at a sports bar in Scotts Valley called Bruno's. Let me tell you, this may have been the highlight of the trip.

Geaux Tigahs!

To start, Bruno's is a two-story sports bar in the heart of Scotts Valley. While the first floor has a traditional dining setup, the second floor features big screen TVs and large, overstuffed couches to relax and watch the game on. It wasn't long before we all settled in with some drinks and great pub food for the big event. 

Having the whole team together and just enjoying the evening was a great experience. It's no secret that times have been tough at Intrado recently, but that night we were alright.

Eating Crow

The next day consisted of another presentation mixed with workshops, much like the first. For our evening excursion, we decided to head 6 miles south to Santa Cruz for dinner at a dockside establishment called The Crow's Nest.

Impressive presentation. Food? Not so much...

The members of our team who had been to Scotts Valley before had spent sometime talking up this place during the trip over, so I was fairly excited to try it. From the outside, the presentation was impressive; it reminded me of an oversized seaside cottage overlooking the harbor.

Trust me, there's an ocean there.

Unfortunately, that's where the good news ended. Our team of 6 was squeezed into a table obviously intended for 4, my Coke was as flat as a board, my steak was just okay, and when I finally got outside to take a picture of the Pacific, it was so dark that I couldn't see anything (not their fault, but still disappointing). In the end, The Crow's Nest flew the coop.

SAFe-ty First!

The next day brought our first day of PI (Program Increment) Planning, and with it, no small amount of chaos and confusion (as was expected). That said, we rallied later in the day to get some good work done and set the stage for our last working day in Scotts Valley.

Later that evening, I decided to go ahead and take the optional exam for the course to get officially SAFe certified. Confident after acing the practice test, I jumped right into the real deal with no reservations.

My badge!

About half a dozen questions into the exam I started regretting my haste. However, I managed to pull through and pass without too much anxiety. Needless to say, it was a relief to finally have my certification in hand after studying for the last two weeks and sitting through two full days of instructor-led training.

Vittoria!

We powered through our final working day in Scott Valley without too much drama. We shook hands and bade farewell to our colleges from other locations that we'd only be seeing over conference calls for the foreseeable future, but not before we had one last outing to celebrate our completion of SAFe training.

For the occasion, we found a small, authentic Italian place nestled deep in the redwoods called Ristorante Casa Nostra. 

Is there a better way to wrap up a trip?

Oh man, what a treat. Not only was the food delicious, but we were truly relaxed for the first time all week. For me, it might have been because I had my certification, but I think we were all relieved to make it through all of the uncertainty and to the end of the work week.

Homeward Bound

For the second time in a week, we had to catch a 6 AM flight. That, coupled with the fact that we were flying out of a major airport and said airport was 30 miles away dictated that I set my alarm for 2 AM. Not fun.

Nevertheless, we somehow made it to the gate on time (thanks in no small part to TSA PreCheck. Best $80 I've ever spent!), despite running into some traffic issues along the way. Once again, our flights were uneventful, but I did find a neat burger joint in the Dallas/Fort Worth airport called Smash Burger. How could I pass it up?

Gonna smash this return trip... with Smash Burger!

In the end, we touched down in Mobile at 4 PM, almost exactly 12 hours after I woke up that morning. Commercial air travel never ceases to amaze me.

Looking Back

All-in-all, I have to say that this was a great trip. I don't get to travel nearly as much as I'd like, and for my first time west of the Rockies, I was impressed. I know Scotts Valley isn't San Francisco, Napa Valley, or any of the other more "touristy" California locales, but I still got to see some sights, enjoy some good food, and add another certification to my résumé, all the while avoiding any major disruptions (which I've found is something you should always thank your lucky stars for).

Anyhow, now that I'm in the office again, it's back to the grind. Time to put that new certification to work!

The Grand Tour

Pacific Coast Highway in California.

From about the 17th to the early 20th century, there was a traditional, extended trip across Europe on which young, upper-class European men would embark. This trip was called a Grand Tour, and it would typically take a young man to several of the major historical and cultural centers of Europe, serving as a both a rite-of-passage and an educational experience. The idea behind the Grand Tour was that after seeing the world first-hand and being immersed in the culture and history of European society (as well as mingling with the European aristocracy), a man would return home more educated, refined, and ready to take his place in the world as a true gentleman.

While the specific locations visited as part of a Grand Tour varied from one individual to another, culturally important cities such as Paris, Barcelona, Venice, Prague, Athens, Rome, Florence, Brussels, and Vienna were popular destinations. In addition, visits were often planned around certain events or seasons. While the tradition of a Grand Tour was always distinctly European, I have been wondering what an American Grand Tour would look like. Culture and history were the focus of the traditional Grand Tour, and while much younger than the iconic European locales, America is still rich in both. With that in mind, I set out to identify some of the places of cultural and historical significance (as well as a fun spot or two) that I would like to visit should I ever have the opportunity to embark on a "Grand Tour" of my own.

So, without further ado, I present my American Grand Tour.

The American Grand Tour

Boston - The Birthplace of America

Boston Harbor

Boston is historically important to America for an obvious reason: It's where the American Revolution started. The colonial heritage of America is well-preserved throughout the New England states, but perhaps no single city embodies it as much as Boston. In addition to its historical value, Boston also features a rich seafaring culture, which can best be seen in the cuisine. Besides being the craft beer capital of America, Boston also boasts some of the best seafood around. If you ever find yourself with a craving for colonial history, a good lager, and some Clam Chowder, this is the place to be.

New York - The Empire City

Empire State Building

To the world at large, perhaps no city is as quintessentially "American" as New York. After all, you could argue that New York is a microcosm of the country: A melting pot of cultures and ethnicities that make up the collective American identity. However, New York also has a culture that is all its own, and the best place to see this culture on display is nowhere other than Manhattan itself. In addition to its rich culture, New York also has no shortage of iconic sights (Statue of Liberty, Freedom Tower, Empire State Building, just to name a few), making it a "must" on the Grand Tour of America.

Washington - The Capital

The Capitol Building

Each city on this list possesses both sights and culture, but no locale features quite as many of the former as Washington, D.C. From the National Mall, to the White House, the Capitol Building, the Smithsonian, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, Arlington, and others, there is definitely no shortage of places to visit. While I admit that I have personally visited D.C. on three separate occasions and did not take the opportunity to sightsee on any of them (all three trips were for business), the landmarks alone place Washington near the top of my list of "Grand Tour" destinations. 

Savannah - The Hostess City of the South

Forsyth Park

Okay, I'll confess: I have a soft spot for the South. After all, Savannah, Georgia isn't one of the locales that come to mind when considering a "Grand Tour" of America. However, you'll be hard-pressed to find a city that does more to embody the culture and sophistication of the Antebellum South. Plantations, mansions, parks, beaches, and oak trees all combine to immerse you in the wrappings of a simpler, gentler time. If you want to experience the full charm of Southern Culture or just want to step into a scene straight out of Gone with the Wind, Savannah is the place to be.

Orlando - Theme Park Capital of the World

Cinderella Castle

While you're passing through the southern United States, why not drop by the "Happiest Place on Earth"? After all, no city in America is quite the tourist destination that Orlando is. Home to a myriad of theme parks and resorts, including Disney World (the world's #1 theme park and resort), Orlando provides a family-oriented entertainment experience found nowhere else in the world. Besides, who doesn't want a picture with Mickey?

Miami - Gateway to the Caribbean

Miami Beach

Part of me wonders if Spain knew just what they were giving up when they ceded Florida to the Untied States in 1821. Year-round warm weather, long white-sand beaches, crystal-clear water, abundant fishing; the list goes on. Today, Miami stands as the crown jewel of the state, serving not only as an amalgamation of the previously listed qualities, but also as a gateway to the rich landscape and culture of the Caribbean. Whether dropping by to enjoy the beaches, the Latin American culture, or just a home port for a cruise of the Caribbean, Miami is a city that you won't soon forget.

New Orleans - The Crescent City

Jackson Square

Perhaps no city on this list has a culture so uniquely its own as New Orleans. Known for the easy-going disposition of its residents and its melting-pot heritage (as well as the revelry of Mardi Gras), the Crescent City is a place quite unlike any other. Rich history, world-class cuisine, and a charm that is sure to leave an impression on anyone combine to make New Orleans a top destination for any trek across the country.

Louisville - Derby City

Churchill Downs

Some cities are on this list for their culture, others for the sights, and some for the unique experiences. As the home of the Kentucky Derby, Louisville is certainly one of the latter. Each year, on the first Saturday of May, tens of thousands of people descend on the hallowed grounds of Churchill Downs for the biggest thoroughbred race in the world. Here, the full pomp, pageantry, and glamor of horse racing is put on display for the entire world to see. Whether you attend for the thrill of the "Fastest Two Minutes in Sports" or just to soak up the charm of the sport, a visit at the Kentucky Derby is sure to be a crown jewel in any Grand Tour.

Indianapolis - The Birthplace of Speed

Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Detroit may be the birthplace of the auto industry, but Indianapolis is the cradle of auto racing. The centerpiece of American motorsport, the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, stands as a testament to the vision, courage, sacrifice, and triumph of the trailblazers of the sport. This spirit has become synonymous with Indianapolis; from the racing-themed establishments around the city, the murals to racing heroes of the past and present at the city's airport, and even the image of an Indy racecar engraved in the Indiana state quarter, it's easy to see how closely the city identifies with the sport. Each year, you can see this spirit on full display when IMS hosts the biggest race in the world, the Indianapolis 500. Whether you're an auto enthusiast or simply in the market for a world-class spectacle, a stop by Indianapolis for the Indy 500 is an easy call to make.

San Antonio - Alamo City

The Alamo

The legend of the American Old West is known around the world. The stories of cowboys, Indians, outlaws, and damsels in distress have held a special place in the collective imagination of people everywhere. San Antonio embodies this spirit, and not just because of its location deep inside of Texas. Truth be told, the city is home to perhaps the biggest story to ever come out of the Old West: The Battle of the Alamo. The legend of that battle and those who fought in it have intrigued people for well over a century, and the old Spanish mission itself still stands today, ready for anyone interested to visit and learn of its history. If you have ever been fascinated by the legends of the Old West, a visit to San Antonio would be well worth your time.

Las Vegas - City of Lights

Las Vegas Strip

It's entirely possible that of all the cities on this list, Las Vegas needs the least introduction. As the world's leading gaming and entertainment destination, the City of Lights is a place quite unlike any other. Despite its reputation for adult-centric thrills (and there are plenty of those to be had), Las Vegas actually does offer a wide variety of attractions that appeal to a broader consumer base, including world-class resorts, shows of every kind, and some of the best dining around. If you're not afraid to take a chance or two, Vegas might be the place for you.

Los Angeles - Home of the Stars

Hollywood Sign

It's my sincere belief that at some point in their lives, everyone dreams of being a star. Whether it's for fame, fortune, or fun, the allure of Hollywood is something that everyone understands. And while not all of us make it on the A-list, there's still plenty of fun to be had when taking a trip down Hollywood Boulevard. The Walk of Fame, Hollywood Wax Museum, Chinese Theatre, and the Musso & Frank Grill are all worth a visit. And who knows? You may even run into a real star or two taking their own stroll down the Boulevard...

Napa Valley - America's Vineyard

Napa Valley Vineyard

I've always thought that in a broad sense, vacations fall into one of two categories: Exciting and Relaxing, and anyone interested in the latter would do well to stop by Napa Valley. While California may be known as fast and fun playground, Napa Valley shows that the West Coast has a lot more to offer than adrenaline-fueled thrills. Here, you can take the opportunity to slow down and enjoy life at a more intentional pace. Featuring world-class wine, breathtaking scenery, and the charm of a good ol' Bed & Breakfast, Napa Valley puts the allure of a relaxing getaway on full display.

Honolulu - Crossroads of the Pacific

USS Arizona Memorial

As one of the world's top tourist destinations, there's a little for everyone in Honolulu. Whether you'd like to hike a volcano, catch some waves, or soak up some sun, there's always something to do at the Crossroads of the Pacific. However, I have a very different, personal reason for wanting to visit: My grandfather served in the Navy during World War II. As a kid, I was fascinated by the stories he would tell and of all the places he visited. At a young age, this instilled within me an interest in the events of the second World War and a profound respect for those who served in it. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that a stop by the USS Arizona Memorial is on my bucket list. I know that solemn reflection is rarely what people have in mind when it comes to a vacation (especially in a tourist hotbed like Honolulu), but in this case, it means everything to me.

Looking Back

The early 20th century saw the demise of the traditional Grand Tour. At the time, the development of commercial railways and the rise of the modern middle-class meant that long-distance travel was now easy, affordable, and practical for the common man. This, combined with the gradual dissolution of the aristocracy, meant that an elaborate, formalized "Grand Tour" was no longer the grand statement that it once was. Still, I believe that even today, a Grand Tour (or something like it) can serve as an important instructional and/or educational experience that could help anyone develop into a more well-rounded individual. Today's interconnected media may make the world seem like a small place, but the experience of seeing it first hand cannot be undervalued. Whether it's sights, sounds, experiences, or even simple peace and quite, I believe that each location on this list has something meaningful to offer.

I sincerely hope that you enjoyed reading about my American Grand Tour! To close, let me leave you with this parting question: Where would your Grand Tour take you?

Millennial Chess

Hey, everyone!

Welcome to my new blog, Millennial Chess! Here, you'll find my thoughts on a wide range of subjects, encompassing sports, technology, entertainment, politics and other aspects of modern life. Simply put, my goal is to provide a civil, welcoming destination for anyone interested in analyzing and/or discussing the topics of the day. As such, please feel free to comment on any of my posts you may find intriguing!

Just to give you a little background about myself, my name is Garrick Aube (pronounced 'obey') and I'm from a small town in south Mississippi called Poplarville. I started blogging on-and-off through high school, but as the normal pressures of college (and the start of my career thereafter) began to pick up, I gradually fell out of the habit. As of this post, it's been about 6 years since I last attempted to blog in earnest, but now that life seems to have calmed down a bit, I've decided the time is right to take another swing at it!

That said, as of right now I really don't have a set schedule for when or how often I'll try to post, so please bear with me while I try to get my authorial processes restarted, haha. Still, I hope that you all enjoy your time here and feel free to let me know what you think of the blog once I get up and running.

Thank you, and welcome again to Millennial Chess!