As a “progressive” publication, the Rearguard places a lot of emphasis on politics. As the new Online Editor, I will also be heading a Science and Technology section, which will expand our reach. There will be exposés of the ground-breaking research done throughout our state universities in the name of progress. There are great things happening in Oregon and I’ll help introduce you to them.

Another project dear to me will be a gadget review column. I’m not so naive that I believe that each gizmo I review will find a place in your dorm. I’m aiming for those treasures that will do no less than save your college life – either through ease and comfort or via sheer pimp factor. Prepare to be amazed by the inane and ultimately useful things we find.

While we’re on the subject of reviews, I’ll also be writing the “Restau-rant.” We spend on average 1.15 hours each day eating, and I’d imagine at least 5 hours per day thinking about where to eat. My goal is to cut down your thinking time by telling you what’s good nearby, and what’s worth a longer trip. No thanks are necessary, because I happen to eat all the time and have a keyboard. The least I can do is share.

Now I could go on and on about the administrative junk I’m tasked with but I won’t. Suffice to say that we’re growing this year and there’s a need for more contributors from all disciplines (except education majors – you should focus on teaching people to read). We aspire to be a reliable source of news, which means that our readers must hold us accountable. Please use our “article comment” function online, which is available to registered users. Ask us questions, direct our focus, and if all else fails, submit (articles).-g