The Greenwich Democrat who unseated Republican Chris Shays in this month's election is in Washington this week for an orientation of newly-elected Congressmen.  Jim Himes this week is getting to know other freshmen lawmakers as well as the experienced ones. 

"Orientation is largely about making sure we know what exits and entrances to use and where the bathrooms are," Himes jokes.

The House Speaker traditionally hosts a dinner the first night strictly for members of his or her own party.  However this year Democrat Nancy Pelosi chose to also include newly-elected Republicans.  Himes believes it's an ideal way to set the tone for what many are hoping will be a bipartisan Congress.

"It's just a great way to kick off this new Congress," Himes says.  "It symbolizes the fact that we're really going to need to come together if we want to solve the very challenging problems we have."

The freshmen Congressmen Friday will draw lots for office space.