Atheme that ran throughout the 2011 World Finals was family -- more specifically -- the friendly, unique, and sometimes crazy Odyssey of the Mind family. Whether it was celebrating three generations of the Micklus family working on the program, the fact that competitors cheer for each other and help each other in need, or that even more people are joining from all over the globe -- World Finals was not just a celebration of creativity, but of family.

  With 856 teams, the largest tournament of creativity ever, the Odyssey family covers many cultures and backgrounds. There were also many countries participating for the first time: Sweden, Togo, and India were all welcomed with open arms and have plans on expanding the program. Japan was also celebrated in attending even though it had to endure much over the past few months. Buddy Teams and Homestays successfully brought about new friendships with one thing as the foundation -- a love for Odyssey of the Mind.

  A long-standing member of the Odyssey family, NASA, continued to educate and entertain with its E-Theater presentations, classroom activities, and its popular creativity festival booth. Artist Willard Wigan joined in the festivities for the second time and wowed participants with his micro-sculptures. Thirty-year-veteran Bob DuBois announced his retirement as Scoreroom IPC. Everyone at CCI sincerely hopes he will continue to be involved in some aspect. He was awarded a plaque of gratitude at the Awards Ceremony. The University of Maryland has also become a part of the family by hosting World Finals for the eighth time.

  Aside from all of the fun of World Finals there was obviously competition! China and Pennsylvania had the most first place winners with three; Virginia and North Carolina each had two; and Florida, Korea, California, Singapore, New York, Kentucky, New Jersey, and Poland each had a one.

  No matter where teams placed, they should be proud of their accomplishments and remember that they are an important part of the Odyssey family and to World Finals. See you next year!