On Friday the 13th, The Daily Collegian ran an editorial opinion proposing several New Year's resolutions for the calendars of Undergraduate Student Government members. The purpose of this editorial seemed to be twofold: to inform students on USG's progress, and to advise USG members to continue to pursue their goals. Although we appreciate this attempt to give our administration "more direction and focus," the editorial neglected and distorted a great deal of essential information.

The column credited USG with two accomplishments: "Rose Bowl tickets and Borough housing efforts." A more complete list would include:

1. Providing free, trained legal advice through Legal Affairs.

2. Creating a USG Tutoring Network.

3. Successfully securing funds for University tutors.

4. Facilitating international instruction and education.

5. Inclusion of more upgraded opportunities in plan for General Education.

6. Association of Resident Hall Students/USG Book Co-op to save students money on textbooks.

7. Improved lighting in local neighborhoods and distribution of night maps.

8. More emergency phones, including mobile solar units.

9. Implementation of Leadership Development and Freshman Internship Programs to build future leaders.

10. Strong advocacy of student housing needs including over 3,000 petition signatures to replace the occupancy limit with a square footage system.

11. Improved Weekend Loop transportation and safety service.

12. Centralized, convenient student voting in the HUB.

13. The first Student Rose Bowl Tour, express bus trips, and much more.

Although USG has accomplished a great deal, our best is yet to come. We intend to work through the end of the semester on many projects that are nearing completion. Our own list of USG Executive resolutions would include:

1. Replacement of the three person unrelated occupancy limit in appropriate areas.

2. Create Student-Neighbor programs to improve relations.

3. Fight for increased federal and state funds for higher education.

4. Pursue Student-Alumni network for more internship opportunities.

5. Complete USG reforms to improve relations with organizations and students.

6. Plan for franchises to supplement the HUB Eateries.

7. Hold Tutoring Forum to generate ideas improving services.

8. Improve computer labs through better equipment and information.

9. Host Model U. N. Conference for students.

10. Provide stimulating programs and speakers, such as Ralph Nader and Yolanda King.

11. Establish more locations for all-night study.

12. Expand and improve the Escort Service.

13. Provide low-cost services, such as ski trips, express buses, Spring Break trips, pepper spray for safety, and more.

Unfortunately, this letter can only provide a snapshot of a myriad of significant projects and initiatives. We hope this gives you a better idea as to what's really going on in USG, and we would be more than happy to discuss these issues in greater detail. The media often oversimplifies complex issues and tends to personalize them by focusing on "King and Pennay." As president and vice president, we accept full responsibility for USG's shortfalls. However, USG is a TEAM of hardworking individuals who have made USG what it is today. Many will spend hours working toward USG's goals, yet will never be credited for their efforts. Without their dedication to public service, we would never fulfill our mission of making Penn State a better place. This year's team will continue its dedication and perseverance in working to serve students first.