Students with Algerian Ambassador Baali

After yesterday’s disaster I was hoping that today would be different – and I wasn’t disappointed.  Dana Perino, President Bush’s press secretary, started the speaker series today, followed by Ted Koppel and Clarence Page from the Chicago Tribune.  While some of the students found Koppel “boring” I found his knowledge fascinating.  Clarence Page was extraordinary and brought a nice close to the morning session.

We were all looking forward to our private meeting with the Algerian Ambassador and we were not disappointed.  He was not only a very congenial host, but was willing to at least attempt to answer our questions , while still being as diplomatic as possible – especially with my camcorder running in his face!

Of course I had to get a picture of everyone with the Ambassaor so here it is.  I can’t guarantee how many more pictures I will be able to get – I think the students are planning on destroying it!  I’ve tried to convince them that some day they will be glad I took these pictures but they are really getting tired of me sticking the camera in their faces.

Welcome to the St. Bonaventure University 2009 Presidential Inauguration Trip Blog.  We are a group of 13 students (and one faculty member) from St. Bonaventure University who are attending The Washington Center’s (www.twc.edu) Presidential Inauguration Seminar in Washington, D.C. from January 10-20. 

This blog will record our thoughts, pictures, video and activities while we are in Washington watching history being made as Barack Obama is sworn in as our 44th president.  We will be updating our blog daily once we get to D.C.  Please check back often to find out exactly what we are up to.