Well, there are a few things to catch up on!

Yesterday was kind of a big deal for the country. Watching the inauguration of Barack Obama as our 44th president reminded me of all the work that students on campus did during the fall semester. So many people worked to get the word out about the candidates. I have always felt that one of the most important duties of a voter is knowing where the candidates stand on key issues, and students on this campus made sure that people knew. Both the College Democrats and the College Republicans got the word to people who were not in the know and made sure that those who were planned on hitting their local polling site on Election Day. As always, the students of The U had a vested interest not only in how this national event would affect the country but how it would affect us at a local level here in Scranton and at The U.

And even when John McCain came to our campus during those last days of his campaign, supporters of both candidates came out and peacefully (although loudly at times) spoke about their respective parties. It was actually pretty inspiring for me to see that so many people cared, that they were concerned about so much more than the day to day happenings of our city.

I was glad to have been a part of this election process, and I look forward to seeing how this new and (hopefully) improved White House reacts to the ills and joys of America.

On a closer-to-home note, ResLife winter training came and went faster that anyone could have thought. This year's theme--Mighty Ducks--came with awesome hoodies with which RAs and CAs can display the pride that they have for being a part of such a great organization. I, along with a few of my fellow RAs, presented on a few topics that student staff members face every semester. Presenting is always a cool event because I start speaking to people with the sincere hope that they speak back to me and teach me something; usually, they do!

And, of course, the RA Olympics on Sunday gave everyone something to get excited about. It was a long few hours, and at points, it looked as if anyone could take the trophy. Ultimately, my region--Region III--tied with the other freshman region--Region II. The best part, though, is that the Head RA of Region II, Tom, and I were both in Region IV last year, the champs of the 07-08 RA Olympics. Corny as it may sound, I think it's nice that so many people were able to share in the victory.

Now, I'm back at work, eagerly awaiting 4:30. Seeing "My Bloody Valentine" is on my list of things to do today, as well as finishing Zelda: Twilight Princess. (I've already read a handful of books this intersession, so this is video games week. I've definitely been giving my Wii a workout these past few days!)

And I will have new pictures up soon! I have some from last Saturday's RA gala that need to be seen.

Later days!

~Rob