A Day with the Governor

Hey Friends and Family,

Finally at the end of another work week. I think I am still getting used to this 40 hour thing. Kealy finishes up her three weeks of full time teaching and we have a fun-filled weekend ahead. Looking forward to the WOU Alumni game and some guitar hero/ping pong/Halo with some guys tonight hopefully.

Anyways, thought I would post some pics from Wednesday, April 25th, here at the capital. While working here, I have had the chance to join a group which is led by Senator Jason Atkinson and which is basically a forum to take a closer look into the innerworkings of Oregon state government and politics. On Wednesday we had the most distinguished guest so far, the honorable Governor Ted Kulongoski. The Governor took time out of his busy schedule to sit and talk candidly with 20 of us for about an hour, sharing his story of getting involved in politics and how technology and 'blogging' will shape the future of politics and campaigns. He was very open and honest and even stayed for an additional twenty minutes when his assistant told him he had to go to another appointment. It was a privilege to get to speak with him and spend time in a less formal occassion talking with him. Working at the capital has been such a great chance to meet and learn from people who have great insight and wisdom and are shaping the future of Oregon. I have learned some good leadership skills, as well as things not to do, and had the chance to search my own values and morals and lay them up against what the world is striving for. Anyways, here's some cool pics:

We all tried to squeeze in to fit into the picture, some of our heads are barely visible. This is the majority of the staff that I get a chance to work with each day. There are bright and hard working. Senator Atkinson is on the far left and Kulongoski is center.

I also had the honor of presenting the Governor with an honorary button from our secret society.

Anyways, looks like the contract will come through soon. Just have to fax them our passport information so they can make sure we really are Americans. Thanks for watching...

Ryan and Kealy Thorson