Songkran is one of the biggest festivals in Thailand. Chiang Mai is considered the best place to be for the event. Every year, the entire city shuts down for a 3 day (or more) water fight. People load up the back of pick-up trucks and drive around with buckets of water throwing them at innocent bystanders. It's a fun time. However; many people get too caught up in the festive mood and a lot of traffic accidents occur. This year, over 3000 people were injured in traffic accidents and approximately 300 people died. One of these was one of our members. She was hit by a drunk driver in the Samoeng district. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her family.

In late March, Common Interest held a three-day conference for its volunteers. Common Interest has approximately 30 volunteers in various villages throughout Northern Thailand. These volunteers have been extremely important to the growth of our organization. As a show of appreciation, we held a three day conference which included updates on our organizations as well as some relaxation at Horizon Resort in Doi Saket.