It's been ...

A group, including Eric Bolin (front center left), gathers for a photo with the Washington Monument in the background.

It’s been so cool to eat so well.
It’s been so cool to see our Capitol.
It’s been so cool to feel its history.
It’s been so cool to learn so much.
It’s been so cool to discover such passion.
It’s been so cool to meet Joe (Grimm), Keith (Woods) and Merv (Aubespin).
It’s been so cool to know Willie (Allen), Sean (Jensen) and Maria (Montoya) were here, too.
It’s been so cool to see such diversity.
It’s been so cool to make new friends.
It’s been so cool to meet journalism kings.
It’s been so cool to see their belief in us.
It’s been so cool to hear we can make the difference.
It’s been so cool to know John Quinn.

Thank you from the heart.

-- Eric Bolin, Northeastern State University, The Associated Press, Sioux Falls, S.D.