![Interns](http://votesmart.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/flickr1.jpg)
In keeping with a long-standing tradition here at the Project, the staff and interns battled it out yesterday in the Olympic contest. For the first time in recorded history, the staff took the day, winning the majority of the events. What were these feats? What tested the mettle of these comrades in the fight for our democratic republic? The events were varied, the competition was fierce and spirits were high.
![Tug-o-war](http://votesmart.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/tug-o-tern.jpg)
After the drama of the water event, we took a short break to cool down from the 100+ degree heat and sit in the shade. Quickly thereafter, however, we resumed competition with a good, old-fashioned relay race, involving swimming, running, carrying of water balloons and eggs and a race to drink a gallon of lemonade. The interns bested the staff in the last leg of the competition, giving them their second victory of the day.
The next event took us to Moose Lake, and tested the agility and the strength of the competitors. The Project's newly purchased water trampoline was used as a platform for a gladiatorial contest of King/Queen of the lake. Last one on the trampoline won the event. After 6 rounds of intense competition, the staff came forward with their fourth victory of the competition, securing their victory for the day.
![George eating pie](http://votesmart.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/07/pie.jpg)
The competitions were a chance for us to get out of the office, enjoy the weather and test our physical might and mental acuity. Good times were had by all, and we are now back in the office, pooling our efforts as interns and staff to further the cause of governmental transparency. After all, that's what democracy is about at the end of the day; coming from competition (Olympics/Elections) to unity (Office work/Executive-Legislative cooperation). Or maybe everyone just needs recess sometimes.