So after a long hiatus filled with bacchanalian revel, the march of the penguins commences and the rest of us return to campus to begin anew. I, like many others, admittedly feel a slight twinge of apprehension. Of course, I get to see my friends and acquaintances again, but this comes hand-in-hand with classes and the simultaneous avalanche of course work. This is, however, what I have come to expect from attending Vanderbilt.

\What I haven’t come to expect is a successful football team. I think most people were shocked we made it to a bowl — maybe not at the end, but it was unthinkable at the beginning of the season. On the strength of the defense and special teams, the Commodores eked out a 16-14 win over Boston College. This being the first bowl win in 53 years, it seems like it’s important enough to note.

I think we all felt a communal sigh of relief. It would have been a shame if we went 5–0 just to lose the rest of the games. I doubt anyone would take that well. Fortunately it turned out well, but it was close. With that victory behind us, people have already begun to relax.
However, the most important part of the year is not already over, there’s plenty left to be done. We’re still in the midst of basketball and baseball has yet to begin. Outside of sports, Obama’s been elected, but there’s still some news worth following. Madoff decided to go for broke, Israel’s invaded Gaza and Blago is still mired in his little scandal.

Even if you’re not nationally minded, local politicians are still kicking. The English-Only referendum is still up for vote and Vanderbilt still wrestles with living wage. The 2010 gubernatorial election has already begun to heat up.

So in other words, have no fear, you will still be able to complain, rant and be misanthropic. A new year has come.