Relieving stress

When the day comes to an end and I'm ready to relieve some stress, I turn to my usual glass of white wine followed by a steamy bath and listening to Michael Buble or Frank Senatra. Both help with physical and mental tension. It is the ultimate relaxation technique.

poll no.2

COLLEGE LEVEL STUDENT- ATHLETES ARE EXCEEDING THEIR EXPECTATIONS

Students and staff of Anoka-Ramsey Community College say National Collegiate Athletic Association sports are not helping students graduate. It is a balancing of the two that can lead to victory or destruction.

Anoka-Ramsey Community College (ARCC) is home of the Rams. The collegiate level sports players

A recent survey asked students of ARCC if college level sports contribute to the player’s academic success. A total of 26 students participated in the survey and of that 61 percent said no, players will not have a better chance at graduating even though they are involved in a sport and 39 percent said yes, being involved in sports will increase the chances of graduating with a degree.

Members of the NCAA conducted a study in 2002 that focused on the relationship between athletics and academics. Their results show that 79 percent of freshmen student-athletes who entered in 2002 earned their four-year degrees.

NCAA’s results show that the graduation rates for student-athletes continue to significantly exceed those of the general student body. This may be a result of the NCAA’s academic reform package that is designed to improve the academic success and graduation of all student-athletes.

The University of Minnesota- Twin Cities holds a report showing the statistics of the Graduation Success Rate (GSR) compared to the Federal Rate. It shows that every sport offered to students between 1999 and 2002 have succeeded in maintaing the same rate as the Federal Rate or above.

ATTN: Classmates

Due to computer difficulties I am unable to continue the story. I’ll post the rest of it at a later time-

Toddler found unconscious at day-care

Bloomington day-care provider says supervision was adequate- Star Tirbune

A 22-month-old boy was found strapped tightly into a car seat in the basement of Mama D’s 24-hour day-care and died after he suffered from oxygen deprivation. Doris Meeks and daughter, Harmony Newman operated the daycare out of Meeks Bloomington home. Both have been charged with three counts of second-degree manslaughter in connection with child neglect, child endangerment and culpable negligence.

ACCEPTANCE OF THE GAY COMMUNITY

A survey reveals that Gay/ Lesbian/ Transgender/ Bisexual (GLTB) organizations are completing their mission of raising awareness and ending oppression. The survey showed that organizations are helping but more may be needed to complete their goals.

The Gay/Lesbian/Transgender/Bisexual community is a growing community. Support groups and awareness organizations flyers can be found just about anywhere. Anoka-Ramsey Community College (ARCC) developed the Gay- Straight Alliance (GSA), at both the Coon Rapids and Cambridge locations, where students of all sexual orientation are able to come together and empower one another. The GSA group at the Coon Rapids campus meet every Monday at 2 p.m in room H223 for the fall semester.

A recent poll was taken by ARCC staff, faculty, and students along with member of the community. There were 67 respondents to the poll, of which 71 percent said that existing GLTB support groups help raise the awareness of oppression experience by the gay community. Of those same respondents , 61 percent said that there should be more organizations similar to ARCC’s Gay-Straight Alliance and let the voices of GLTB people be heard.

GLTB communities are spread all across the globe and still experiencing a significant amount of oppression. In the U.S there are only five states that have established same sex marriage.

The survey showed that 77 percent of the respondents say all U.S states should recognize and establish equal rights for the GLTB community. The results show that more people are supporting the rights of GLTB and would like to see that same notion of acceptance across the country.

Alaska wont go down without a fight

Alaska fights to reverse polar bear listing- MSNBC

Alaska Governor Sean Parnell is trying to find a way to get Polar Bears off the Endangered Species list, he has made accusations about some people improperly using the Endangered Species Act. This could harm Alaska's main source of revenue, petroleum development.

Costa Rica, 2003

A Spanish course in high school gave me the opportunity to travel to Costa Rica for a month. I went on this tour with several other spanish students around the entire country of Costa Rica. We rode on buses down the sides of mountains. through rolling hills and under waterfalls. My trip to Costa Rica was exhilarating to say the least. I witnessed a whole different way of living. A more simple and accepting way of living. The people of Costa Rica changed my life with out even knowing it. I saw inner city residents washing their clothes in buckets or a small creek behind their house. Some homes did not have four walls to shelter them. They endured a poverty stricken life. My junior year of high school I learned not to take everything in life to granted. The most convenient of things, a washer and dryer. I learned that Dolce and Gabbana were not necessary to make me happy or life more enjoyable to live. If I had the opportunity to go back to Costa Rica, I would go in a heat beat. There was a lot of tanning on the beach, watching professional surfing competitions, exploring the rainforest and steering clear of the untamed lizards. I can vividly remember laying on the beach, watching sailboats float near the cliffs, green ocean water carrying friends out further and further as the tide came in and out and three large lizards sun bathing no more than a couple feet away from me.

Could this have been preventable?

Clear Warning Signs, Hanan’s colleagues say - MSNBC

Ft. Hood, Texas experienced a tragic event that left 13 dead and 29 wounded. Major Nidal Malik Hasan is the only suspect involved in the rampage. People that have come into contact with Hasan all commented about his questionable behavior. Many have witnessed his anti-american propaganda and doubts about being deployed to Afghanistan.

Halloween memories to last a lifetime

This years Halloween was celebrated by trick or treating. A few days before the holiday, my husband and I taught our 18 month old son to say "trick or treat." On all Hallows Eve our family met up with several other families to circle the neighborhood blocks. Our son was dressed up as a leopard with a painted black nose and whiskers. The only noise that were to come out of his mouth during the door-to-door adventure, was "gurrr." The only words to exit were "treat" and "please." He actually caught on to the concept of trick or treating. He collected his candy from the participating homes faster than I could have imagined at his age. He would race a head of the group, beating 4 and 5 year olds to the doors. He really enjoyed himself. Seeing your child happy is what parents always want. I felt proud of him, yet sad that he isn't a tiny baby. We spent some time checking candy and of course letting him eat his hard earned treats. The night came to an end after my husband and I pulled an all 'nighter' watching horror movies back to back. Needless to say I didn't get any sleep. Every crick in the floor made me think of the ORPHAN.

Grandmother accidently kills grandson

A Lakeville woman was found sleeping on top of her 6-week-old grandchild. She was taking perception medication and drinking alcohol before the incident. The grandchild was not breathing and later announced dead. She faces 45 days in jail and 10 years probation for second-degree man slaughter.

Knowledge is Power

Do you want to expand your horizons and go back to school? Juggling work, family and education can be done. With a lot of hard work, planning, strategy and commitment to your future, the possibilities are endless.

Anoka- Ramsey Community College employs many mothers with a full-time position and a desire to continue their education. One employee fits the description. Kally Kruchten, of Sauk Rapids, is a full-time employee with ARCC and serves as a Administrative Assistant for the Marketing & Public Relations department. She will soon be celebrating her three year ‘anniversary’ of employment. Kruchten’s work responsibilities consist of a variety of things that include the weekly College Bulletin for employees, the construction of the new ARCC website, the Visual Arts Center Groundbreaking Ceremony, the Cambridge Campus Patio Dedication Ceremony, and assisting the ARCC President. Kruchten applies her special skill of keeping a positive attitude on a daily basis.

As a permanent employee, Kruchten, receives full benefits with a bonus. After three years of employment she is eligible for the MnSCU Tuition Waiver. This is a program that allows employees that would like to further their education and enroll in curriculums free of charge.

It is clear that Kruchten is right where she belongs. She added, “All that and a job i enjoy!”

Kruchten’s weekly schedule consists of 40 hours of work a week, not including her daily drive of one hour each way. On occasion she will bring her work home with her. She says this is not mandatory but helps her keep up with her tasks. She can recall one instance where she applied family time to a work related project. She put together candy boxes for legislators and senators in efforts to persuade them to vote to fund a college building project. She says her boxes must have helped because the Visual Arts Center now be constructed was funded by the state. Beyond her life at work she has a husband, a toddler at home and goals to register for classes at ARCC.

When asked about what motivates her to go back to school, Kruchten said that is her family’s well-being and her personal ambition. “I know it will allow more career options for me to provide for my family.”

Spring semester 2010 is when Kruchten plans on ‘hitting the books.’ She will sign up for six credits as a part-time student. She has not limited herself to campus classes, she is taking full advantage of an online class and what it will provide. Her goal is to first attain an Associate in Arts degree with an emphasis in Psychology, then she would like to go and an receive her Bachelor of Arts degree in Community Psychology.

Most mothers can agree that raising children and caring for a husband is a job in itself. Others may say that there isn’t time for anything else. Kruchten said her biggest obstacle she will have to overcome is her ability to manage her time. She says it will be difficult to draw the line where work ends, school begins, and then go home to her family.

Kruchten’s strategy for successfully providing time for work, school and family is taking one night class and one online class. She hopes to get studying done between work and her evening class, an hour of study at home, and to find time on the weekends.

“My options range from taking evening classes, to online, to classes offered off campus in a college on Your Corner program.”

ARCC was an obvious choice of colleges for Kruchten to attend due to benefits and her busy lifestyle. She promotes that ARCC has flexible courses.

“I would recommend Anoka-Ramsey because of those options that people have and also because we are the lowest cost tuition in the system,” said Kruchten. “ I think that those are two very important aspects when it comes to choosing a school.”

Interview Transcript of Kally Kruchten

Please spell your first and last name

and nickname if applicable: Kally Kruchten

When did you start your employment with ARCC -Coon Rapids? April 2007

What age were you when you started? I was 23 years old.

How long have you been working there? I will have my 3 year “anniversary” with Anoka-Ramsey in April.

Why did you decide to work for ARCC, CR? I was currently unemployed with a 4 month old son, and our family needed two incomes in order to get by. I applied, was interviewed and hired as a full-time employee.

What is your position at ARCC, CR? I am an administrative assistant for the Marketing & Public Relations Department, and am also located in the President’s Office so I do some administrative duties for the President as needed.

How many hours do you work per week? 40 hours every week.

What types of duties do you have? I am fortunate that my job has a lot of variety. I have my ongoing duties such as purchasing paperwork and contracts, writing and publishing the College Bulletin (for employees), supervising our student worker, taking and organizing photos, arranging retirement/farewell parties for eligible employees, and I also work closely with the President’s Assistant on mailings and filing. In the last 6 months my position has also been geared toward the new Web site. The majority of the work I do on the Web is for the College Bulletin, which is published weekly. I also work with the flash player on the home page (the picture/information slides) and help keep our events calendar and session-sign-up pages updated. Last spring, we had two major school events that I facilitated with a close team of other employees; the Visual Arts Center Groundbreaking Ceremony and the Cambridge Campus Patio Dedication Ceremony.

Do you have any special skills? I believe that my attitude is a very special skill. Customer Service is a large part of Marketing & Public Relations. I have learned a lot during my employment at Anoka-Ramsey and feel that the computer skills and feel that those skills will be used throughout my life.

Do you take your work home with you? I have done it in the past only to get ahead on a project over a weekend, but it is not necessary. For example, in the winter of 2008 I took home a project to make candy boxes for legislators and senators in order to pursue them to vote to fund our college on a building project. It must have helped, because the state gave our college that money for the Visual Arts Center now being constructed.

How often? Maybe once or twice every 6 months.

What types of benefits do you get for working at ARCC? As a full-time, permanent employee I am eligible for the full benefits package. This includes family medical and dental insurance, life insurance, retirement package, short-term and long-term disability leave, staff development funds and wellness funds, and after 3 years of employment I am eligible for the MnSCU Tuition Waiver. All that and a job I enjoy!

Education

Did you attend ARCC before employment? I did as a PSEO student in my senior year of high school, and for one semester in the spring of 2006.

If so, how long did you attend ARCC before employment? A total of two semesters.

If not, where did you attend college before you’re employment? I attended UMD for two years, and SCSU for one year.

Are you currently registered for any classes while employed? I will begin taking courses this spring to attain my AA w/ emphasis in Psych.

If so, which ones? Intro to Stats, and Abnormal Psych.

How many credits are you taking? I hope to take 6.

Any online classes? Yes, Abnormal Psych.

How much time do you spend doing anything school related? Right now I don’t spend any time. That will change when I begin classes.

If not, do you plan on furthering you education? Yes, I do.

When do you plan on attending college? Spring 2010

What are your goals you plan to achieve? AA w/ emphasis in Psych. and then apply for the B.A. in Community Psych.

Is there anything motivating you to go back? My family first, and my own personal ambition.

What do you plan do to do with your degree after you get it? Unsure.

Home

What city do you live in? (if your not comfortable with that please specify you county) Sauk Rapids, MN

Are you married, single, don’t specify? Yes, I am married.

Do you have any children? Yes, we have a son who will be 3 years old in January.

What do you think with will be your biggest obstacle with juggling work, family, and school ( when you start ) ? I think the most difficult thing for me when I go back to school is going to be the time management. Drawing the line where work ends, school begins, and then to go home to a family will be difficult. Especially trying to find time to study. My situation will be a little different since I drive an hour one way just to get to work.

Do you have a plan or strategy for juggling all three? I plan on taking two classes: one night class and one online. I am hoping that I can get some studying done in between work and my evening class and also hope to have an hour of study time each evening and find more time on the weekends.

Do you have any tips for other working mothers motivated to go back to school? ( this could be motivational or tips on how to do all three) Maybe after I start the school experience as a working mother ; ) I am motivated to start school because I know it will allow more career options for me to provide for my family.

Do you believe that ARCC has a flexible staff and courses to where you would recommend working mothers to continue their education there?

Why or why not? Yes, I do believe Anoka-Ramsey has flexible courses. My options range from taking evening classes, to online, to classes offered off campus in the College on Your Corner program. I would recommend Anoka-Ramsey because of those options that people have and also because we are the lowest cost tuition institution in the system. I think that those are two very important aspects when it comes to choosing a school.

- Show quoted text -

Eat well, be well

Eat well , be well- Star Tribune

The Zukor- Zimmerman family, of Minneapolis, is making an effort in promoting healthy food choices for their family. Lee Zukor, has created a way to spread the benefits of living healthy. He founded Simple, Good and Tasty, a website featuring local and organic food choices and ways to live a healthy lifestyle.

Award winning novelist meets ARCC students

As part of the Three Rivers Reading Series, Anoka Ramsey Community College had welcomed award winning novelist Sandra Bentiez and author of The Weight of All Things, to read a portion of her novel, then answer the questions of ARCC students and faculty. Hispanic Business Magazine has named her one of 100 influential Hispanics in the U.S.

Questions were prepared before her arrival by a faculty member that has read and introduced the novel to ARCC students. Benitez answered questions regarding her motivation for writing the novel and the incorporation of politics.

Benitez saw an opportunity to write an intense, heartfelt story when she traveled back to her childhood homestead of El Salvador and saw the impact the civil war had on the citizens. She had chosen to write the story through the eyes of a 9-year-old boy that had experienced, first hand, the damages of civil war. Benitez’s goal was to inhabit his sensibilities, then deliver a novel that expressed the most important events happening in his life.

When Benitez was asked what her motivation was for writing this novel she simply replied, “It touched my heart.”

Benitez was captured by the young boys devotion and faith in the Virgin Mary and forced her to remember her beliefs in Catholicism. She had taken words and scriptures from the bible to amplify the boy’s demeanor.

The reasoning behind the inclusion of scriptures and words of the bible was to give the novel a more religious meaning. Benitez portrayed the boy’s personality as the gentleness of a lamb and the strength of a lion. She explained that this insight had come from the bible.

Throughout the novel religion was apparent and so was the brutality endured by brothers and sisters during the civil war. This included rivalries between family members and the separation of mothers from their sons, sometimes resulting in death. Many ARCC readers had wondered about the significance of the civil and if the novel was an outlet to Benitez’s own political stance.

Benitez was asked why she decided to write about such a political topic. Benitez clarified that the novel was not meant to be about politics but that it only played a part of the story. She said that it was such a large and important part of the boys life that it must be written about with great significance.

Benitez said that she was not providing the readers with her opinion of the civil war. Her intentions were not to teach the reader but instead an attempt to understanding herself and to learn what her life means on her terms.

The novel had peaked her interest because of it oppressive nature upon many El Salvador communities and her personal connection to them. Benitez elaborated on her connection to the people by sharing her experience living with them as a child.

Following the question and answer session she allowed time for readers and fans to ask additional questions and autograph their copies of her novel.

Discrimination and bigotry is still alive.

Official in interracial couple flap under fire.- MSNBC

New Orlean’s Tangipahoa Parish is disrupted by a possible suite brought against their elected justice of the peace, Keith Bardwell, for discriminating against interracial couples by refusing to sign marriage certificates. Bardwell is a public official and must abide to the laws of the United States and Louisiana.

my obit

Christine “ GiiWii” Morris traveled the world only to be captivated by it’s beauty. She immersed herself in cultures and traditions of several countries. Her passion was to discover and deliver the tastes of food and wine and disclose the secrets of fusing foods in her magazines. She died Monday October 12th while on a backpacking trip in Uraguay. GiiWii built her home on Minnesota reservation. She was very committed to her native spirituality and devoted much of her time to teaching the Ojibway language.

She survived by her husband Jourdan Morris and son Kade Morris, both of Minnesota.

A traditional Native American funeral will be held at the Rosswell Cemetery on Wednesday October 14th. The service is open to family and close friends.

The addiction to basketball

Basketball can be many things; it can be a sport with a competitive nature, a blood pumping past-time or a leisurely event that brings together family and friends.

Cassandra Pettit, a journalism student at Anoka- Ramsey Community College, thinks of it as life style. She is a proud supporter of the Wisconsin Badgers college team and NBA team, the Celtics. She said it all started when she was a player in middle school. Although, she was sucked into the game on a friends behalf; she stuck it out for two years. Soon Pettit realized that she was better of as the boy’s team manager.

As Pettit grew up, her love of basketball grew too. Through the years her love of basketball had been exposed to family and friends. Loved ones saw the light basketball added to her life and joined in on the fun. She says that it is the people she has met though basketball that have touched her life more than the sport itself. Through basketball she has found everlasting friendships and companionships.

Pettit’s boyfriend is her motivation to keeping her hobby alive. She thrives on the passion basketball brings to the lives of players and encourages it by helping her boyfriend improve his skill. Pettit gives credit to her boyfriend for teaching her that dedication and hard work is always worth something you love.

“ I’ll always be a fan for sure,” said Pettit.

Pettit remembers her favorite basketball moment being when her boyfriend broke the all time high school scoring record of 1,000 points. Pettit says the key to success is passion. She says that in order to do well, you need to invest a lot of your time playing the game.

Anti-abortion Tactics

Abortion foes tell of their journey to the streets.- MSNBC

Abortion protests are happening across the country. The christian community claims that it is obedience to their faith. People are taking a stand and fighting for the lives of unborn Americans. Protestors are planting themselves in front of schools, abortion clinics and in the neighborhoods of doctors performing the abortions.

Interview of Carissa Parker

Carissa Parker’s special interest is Photography

Q: How long have you been into photography?

A: I’ve only been into photography for a few years. When my little sister was born nearly five years ago, I loved taking pictures of her. I have so many pictures from her as a baby that I took! Eventually I started venturing out and being interested in photography other than just my sister.

Q: How old were you when you started photography?

A: Well my mom was a Creative Memories Consultant, which is an independent business that sells scrapbooking and photo preservation products. So since I was about 8 my mom was very involved in capturing every moment of our lives. So I kind of got that aspect of photography from here. In my mid-teens I started making it my own, and finding my own niche in photography, I love being able to have pride in something so tangible.

Q: Who or what inspired you to pursue photography?

A: Initially it was probably my mom and her business, just reiterating the importance of being able to document meaningful events. But eventually it turned into something I could work on myself and be proud of. I really love having something to call me own and tell people, “I did that.” Or “I made that.” It’s such a self-satisfying feeling, and when someone gives me a compliment on my work, I never forget it. It means the world to me. If you really get down to it, it was really my need to feel proud for myself that made me continue pursuing it.

Q: What do you like to photograph?

A: Basically everything! This world is such a beautiful place, and I feel honored to have the ability to capture it in a way not every can. I feel that as an artist I see the world a little differently. Photography helps me find beauty in an often ugly and depressing world.

I love photography people, especially children. There is so much emotion to be captured, and so much life and personality. Of all God’s creations, people are his finest. I also enjoy scenery, parks, flowers, landscapes. I also go into New York City occasionally and I love the architecture there. One of my favorite pictures is one I took on the Brooklyn Bridge with the manhattan skyline and the sun setting behind it. I am also an abstract vintage inspired photographer and so a lot of my work is untraditional, it’s very unique. Not something you see everyday, I really like having that to myself.

Q:What do you MOST like to photograph?

A: Probably people.

Q: Where do you do most of your photographing?

A: I take my photography everywhere I go. I love just capturing my natural surroundings, the places I live, the people around me, places that mean the most to me. But I love finding unique places as well. There are so many fun parks, museums and beaches on Long Island that give me a way to capture so much beauty that not everyone in the world can experience. I will go anywhere for pictures though.

Q: Did you take photography classes?

A: Actually no. This surprises most people. But once I moved back home to Minnesota, I plan on going to art school for photography. My sister-in-law is a professional photographer based out of Milwaukee, WI and has invited me to join her business eventually as a photographer. I would love that opportunity! Although I feel I could never be half the photographer she is, she is the most talented woman I have ever met, I get a lot of my inspiration from her.

My dream school is the Minneapolis Art Institute. I plan on working hard to save money to go there.

Q: If so, how many have you taken and when?

A: n/a

Q: Where did you take you photography classes?

A: n/a

Q: Do you teach others about photography?

A: If they’re interested, why not? When my fiancé and I first started dating, several of our dates were me doing photoshoots of him! It was a great way to get to know each other in a really relaxed atmosphere. We went to several parks and beaches and I had a blast having a model. (and he is a great looking guy if I do say so myself!) After awhile, he wanted to take pictures of me, so he is now very interested in photography because of me. I’ve taught him a lot, but he has a natural eye for it as well and it’s so much fun to be able to share that passion and love with him now. After awhile, I couldn’t teach him much anymore because it all comes down to having a special eye as a photographer and seeing the world in a way not many others see it.

Q:Do you have a studio where you keep your equipment?

A: I don’t, someday I hope to though.

Q:Besides a camera, what kinds of equipment do you have?

A:I use Photoshot CS2 to edit a lot of my pictures. I use a tripod as well.

Q: Do you develop your own pictures?

A: No, I’d love to get into dark room developing eventually. Once I start my major, I will definitely take that class!

Q: What kind of camera do you use?

A: Right now, I only use a Kodak C913. It’s just a point and shoot. I’m lacking funds for a better camera! But I’m in the process of saving my money now for a Nikon D80.

Q: Have you ever sold your photos for money?

A: I have not. Eventually I might.

Q: Have any of your photos won awards?

A: I’ve never entered any contests. I was going to submit them to the county and state fair last year but it didn’t work out.

Q: What kinds of equipment should a beginner have to be successful?

A: Honestly, a simple camera is all it takes. A good photographer doesn’t need a lot of equipment to make beautiful pictures. It is not the camera that makes the work; it’s the person behind the camera. I figure if anyone can make a picture from a point and shoot camera look professional, imagine how far they could go with a professional camera. I cannot wait until I get my dream camera!

Q:What would you suggest is the best and easiest camera for a beginner?

A: If you really plan on going far into photography, and not using it just for a hobby, then I suggest any of the Nikon D series. They are all awesome cameras and you can find some great deals on the internet. The camera I want is Nikon D80, and retails for a little over $1,000. But places like ebay sell them refurbished in $500-$700 packages. And other retailers online do the same. I also love Canon, their D series is AMAZING! However, they are much more expensive, and more professional cameras.

Otherwise, a canon powershot is a great, fun camera, and even mine, the Kodak C913, are great. They have between 7-10 megapixels, which are high picture quality, and often have good features, simple enough for a beginner not looking for a lot of complicated techniques.

Q: What kinds of tips can you give to a beginner in photography?

A: Practice, practice, practice! Just like a sport, you realize what works and what doesn’t by just taking pictures. Later you evaluate. I find myself saying, “I wish I would have known if I’d raised the ISO this picture would have captured the lighting so much better!” Also, read your camera’s instruction manual! Sounds boring, but you won’t look like you know what you’re doing if you don’t know what you’re doing! They include those things for a reason!

And just have fun with it. There is no way to lose and no way to win. Be proud of your work and don’t let other people tear you down, make it yours, make it unique and do what you want.

Q: What are things should a person avoid when photographing a subject?

A: Be aware of lighting conditions which can drastically change the outcome of a photo. Make sure things are in focus, and use your natural eye more often than a camera viewfinder. You learn by trial and error, find what works for you and what you like, and do it that way. There is no defined set of rules that every photographer must follow, that would make the world of photography extremely boring if everyone did it the same way! Maybe that is why I love photography so much, it allows my personality and my spontaneity to shine through. My pictures tell a story in a way that my words cannot. It’s like painting a picture into my heart. That’s how it should be for everyone. Let your pictures tell your readers who you are.

Story 3

Early Wednesday morning North Point Inn was robbed by knife point and soon became the crime scene of a murder case.

Around 9 a.m. Nina Cortez, a book keeper at North Pint Inn, arrived to work expecting it to be a day like any other. Cortez said she saw an unusual vehicle in the parking lot. Cortez continued her routine of counting the revenue from the previous night. She said that there was $6,000 spread along her desk when a man came around the corner armed with a knife. Cortez said, “ I started kicking and screaming.” Cortez was not harmed by the man. She reported that the robber grabbed $130 in five dollar bills then walked out of the room with out saying anything. Cortez believes that the robber was not acting alone. She said she heard a man say, “get the money out of there!” Her immediate response was to lock the door and wait for the police to arrive.

The police found Cortez and escorted her to the reception area where they found co-worker Kevin Blohm laying the floor with a large knife wound to the chest and another to his hand. Cortez has no idea of why some one would stab Blohm.

Cortez describes the robber being about six feet tall with a medium build and maybe in his early 20’s. She said that he was wearing a floral scarf around his face, a blue plaid button-up shirt, blue jeans and blue tennis shoes. She reported that she should not see his face nor recognized him to be an employee of the restaurant.

If you have any information involving the robbery or the identification of the suspect, please contact your local Police Department.

Warmer Weather threatens Minnesota’s moose

Warmer Weather threatens Minnesota’s moose. - MSNBC

Researches are finding that the increase of temperature in Minnesota is effecting the mortality of moose. The estimated 7,400 moose that currently inhabit Minnesota’s North woods is declining. Researcher Rolf Perterson says they are dying of health-related reasons but doesn’t know what they are dying from.

Story 3

Early Wednesday morning North Point Inn was robbed by knife point and soon became the crime scene of a murder case.

Around 9 a.m. Nina Cortez, a book keeper at North Pint Inn, arrived to work expecting it to be a day like any other. Cortez said she saw an unusual vehicle in the parking lot. Cortez continued her routine of counting the revenue from the previous night. She said that there was $6,000 spread along her desk when a man came around the corner armed with a knife. Cortez said, “ I started kicking and screaming.” Cortez was not harmed by the man. She reported that the robber grabbed $130 in five dollar bills then walked out of the room with out saying anything. Cortez believes that the robber was not acting alone. She said she heard a man say, “get the money out of there!” Her immediate response was to lock the door and wait for the police to arrive.

The police found Cortez and escorted her to the reception area where they found co-worker Kevin Blohm laying the floor with a large knife wound to the chest and another to his hand. Cortez has no idea of why some one would stab Blohm.

Cortez describes the robber being about six feet tall with a medium build and maybe in his early 20’s. She said that he was wearing a floral scarf around his face, a blue plaid button-up shirt, blue jeans and blue tennis shoes. She reported that she should not see his face nor recognized him to be an employee of the restaurant.

If you have any information involving the robbery or the identification of the suspect, please contact your local Police Department.

My Earliest Memory

My earliest memory is of when I stole my parent car. I was around the age of four or five. My older sister and I stayed up late and played the game Truth or Dare. She dared me to drive our parent car down the drive way and back. I wasn't the type to let a dare go to waste. I got in the car and turned the key. She saw that I was comfortable going down the driveway and back. She then triple doggie dared me to drive around the block, this meant I had to. I did it! No one told so no one cared.

Necessities to protect and serve are denied

“You’re putting the lives of the people of this county in jeopardy.”

Sheriff Gus DiCesari laid his claim of “jeopardizing lives” at the feet of several County Commissioners after his request for new police cruisers and hiring five Deputies was denied.

Thursday afternoon, Sheriff DiCesari met with the County Commissioners claiming he needed eight new police cruisers to replace those with 150,000 miles or more. Sheriff DiCesari supported his claim when he said, “It is getting too costly to maintain the older vehicles and they spend too much time in the repair shop.” After the request was denied, DiCesari accused the county of “short changing” the county’s Sheriff’s Department to save money.The Commission President, Anne Chenn disagreed with Sheriff DiCesari’s claim and said the county does not have the money to buy new police cruisers or hire Deputies because the county ran short of money this year due to an increase in health care costs for employees and higher fuel costs. Chenn told DiCesari that the Sheriff’s Department would have to make do this year because the county did not have the additional $580,000 to supply the Sheriff's Department with its needs. Chenn suggested that Deputies not drive their cruisers home each day as they do now. This would make more cars available and preserve mileage on the vehicles. DiCesari argued that letting deputies drive their vehicles home is a deterrent for crime in that neighborhood.

DiCesari’s requests were denied by a vote of 5 to 2. Commissioner, Anita Shenuski supported DiCesari’s request. She shook up the room and brought a more intense topic to the table. Shenuski said that the city should spend more money on the sheriff’s department and law enforcement than programs for migrant workers. During the meeting Sheruski said, " we never had problems until we started letting migrant workers come to this county to work. They are a problem for our law enforcement, our schools and our healthcare system. They take away jobs from decent people and work for next to nothing. And if something gets stolen, you can bet that it is one of them that’s taken it. We need to protect local residents from them.”

In the migrants defense, Chenn disputed Sheruski’s statement and replied with, “those people who come here to work are decent, hardworking people being employed at jobs that local resident don’t want to do. You are being a hypocrite when you try to blame those people for everything.” The County Commissioners estimate that there are around 5,000 migrant families now in the county working in agricultural, construction and service industry jobs. Commissioner Joe Gardez said, many of the migrant workers become permanent members of the community, opening businesses and eventually earning citizenship.

California funds biggest energy efficiency plan

California is getting aggressive with their energy efficiency programs. The California Public Utilities Commission has launched it newest effort on saving energy. The program, the commission’s president calls, CalSPREE aims to cut energy use by offering rebates and developing programs to educate, train, and help others to save energy. 

My first day at Anoka Ramsey Community College

My first day at ARCC I attended classes on campus Wednesday August 25, 2009. The day after most staff and students roamed the halls, intently listened to lectures and found friends from last semester. 

This day also marked the first day I have ever attended ARCC. I was unfamiliar with the staff, campus and the city of Coon Rapids, home of ARCC. 

I was not intimidated by the unfamiliarity of ARCC because I have been in situations lacking certainty many times before. I felt ready for what was to come. The long lectures, the extensive research and late night study sessions were awaiting my arrival. I felt a slight progression to where I want to be, a graduate. 

I started my morning with an introduction to Philosophy and ended with the review of simple, well-known materials of Astronomy. I spent more time dipping my toes in different areas of the campus in efforts to find appropriate areas for studying, researching and common conversation.  

I ended my day with a visit to the student center enjoying music and announcements of campus happenings.

A father alone spreads help to others like him

A Minnesota native has loved and lost. He experienced the devastating death of his wife and turned it into a positive. He created a blog that bloomed into a nonprofit foundation that offers support to men and women that have lost their spouse and left to raise their children.

The body of a news story

Two deaths were the end result of a devastating chain reaction crash that began with the collision of two tractor trailers.

The intense sound of sirens may have acted as alarm to wake up some people but for others it was melody encouraging great vitality. Around 6:45 a.m. two tractor trailers collided while traveling northbound on Interstate 790. According to the Police Departments Sgt. Wei, the accident caused a major pile up totaling 14 vehicles and four tractor trailers. One of the tractor trailers was a tanker hauling diesel fuel. The truck of the the tanker was damaged by a car. Wei said, It was very lucky that it didn’t roll over or dump any fuel, or catch fire. Wei said, the driver did not suffer any injuries.

 As a result of the accident there were two casualties and 20 others injured. Four of them in life threatening conditions, were taken to the hospital. Memorial Hospital’s “Life Flight” helicopter had taken two of the worst injuries to the Statesville Trauma Center, 50 miles away. 

 All five of the Fire Departments ambulances along with others from a nearby city were on the scene. Fire Chief, Tony Sullivan said, when he arrive the crash scene looked like something from a war zone, with bodies laying along the road, people covered with blood sitting next to their cars, emergency workers running from place to place trying to help the injured and sirens wailing in the distance as more fire trucks and ambulances were called. Sullivan said, he had never seen anything that bad in the 18 years he’s been with the Fire Department. Wei said, police officers were having trouble figuring out which people were from which vehicles, and who were the drivers and who were the passengers.

According to Wei, the accident closed the entire highway, both northbound and southbound. Cars are sitting bumper to bumper and drivers are waiting for the signal to pass. Wei has no idea when it would be open again. Divers that would normally take Interstate 790 are now redirected to travel on Interstate 690, on the eastern side of the city. 

Men looking for hope and parent loosing it.

Many Somali- American men traveling far distances to their homeland are being shot to death while overseas or held behind bars for fighting. People of the community are hoping that the young Somali men will see the deaths and imprisonment as a warning sign and discourage them from fighting.

Young Men:' Searching for Something Better.' - Star Tribune

Summer's Hottest Restaurant

Smalley's Caribbean Barbeque & Pirate Bar in Stillwater, Minn has been a big hit with locals and out-of-towner's. The steady flow of customers confirms their success. There is an authentic feel to the bar. Considering I've never been on a pirate boat, I could not differentiate what is authentic and what is not.  It fits with Hollywood's perception of pirates, their boats and the food they ate while on an adventure. Human skulls, fake of course, line the walls of the bar, eye patches and parrots complete the ensemble, and to make things more interesting, yet exciting, the crew treats you like a mate on deck. The entrees and appetizers are less than gourmet, but they pull the whole pirate theme together. The caribbean style food with satisfy your hunger with out a doubt. 

"dos and don'ts" of leads

I have a trouble electing the adverbs and adjectives that need deleting.  I often incorporate them into my writing, which may turn my readers away. The adverbs and adjectives, I so commonly use, may give an objective view to my audience. They are unnecessary and may state the obvious. I have learned that sentences with out adverbs or adjectives make my story stronger, more intelligent and in some cases less opinionated. 

Writing with an echo is an area I struggle with. I am redundant with particular words. This weakness makes my story weak. I learned to avoid an echo by better understanding the english language and expanding my vocabulary.

Summary: False Prophet, false profit's

American’s nationwide focus on Pat Kiley, a Christian radio show host of Bloomington, Minnesota, who has taken their money. He'd preach about financial gain and how to obtain it. Over five years he has taken the life saving’s of many American’s. The investors are paying the ultimate price; everything. 

Top three most note worth news experiences

At the top of my list was a media coverage of a homicide in Minneapolis, MN.  It was the headlining news for that day. A man had stabbed his wife over 70 times and threatened the lives of his step-daughter and biological daughter. The man is now facing life in prison who zero chance of parole. This new flash had consisted of unthinkable behavior and details that could do with out mentioning. I had been working at a children's shelter when the homicide occurred. Later that same week we had an intake of a young girl who had lost both of her parents. One to death and the other to imprisonment. She was the daughter of the woman brutally murdered. 

The second note worthy news I had encountered was on the front page of the Star Tribune. There was an eye catching article of a man that had "unintentionally" killed his 1+ year old step-son due to excessive battering. This article stated that the baby had been beaten and severely injured over the course of several months. The baby was living with fractured bones, including his ribs and collar bone and a broken back. The man who pleaded guilty to the boys death was charged with involuntary man slaughter. His punishment to this crime was 2 + years in prison and an unspecified time spent on parole. I didn't agree with the sentence given considering there are crimes less heinous and more time spend in the prison system. This article hit home for me because I, myself, have a son 16 months old.  He is the age where wrongdoing is unknown and cannot be punished with such severity.

The third news article I encountered, was an incident I could relate to. In fact, witness with my ears. There was recently, within the last two months, a shooting in South Minneapolis near Columbus and 31st.  I was working an overnight at the children's shelter when the sound of gun shots rippled though the air. My first thoughts were fire works and the ongoing excitement of Independence Day. After the sounds became more clear my thoughts were immediately disrupted by the screams of people, then sirens telling me help is on the way. All I could think to do was close the curtains and tuck my head under the blankets. Thankfully all shelter clients and staff were safe. It was reported to have possibly been gang related. I have not worked an overnight shift since the time of the incident. 

Introduction re-post

My name is Christine Morris. This is my first semester at ARCC. I have previously attended U of M- Duluth as a communications major. I have spent the last two year traveling around the states and starting a family. I am married with a 16 month old son. I'm fortunate to have been able to go back to school and participate in this class. I am currently a student and a stay at home mother. I know this class with help improve my communication skill, writing skills, and reporting skills. Lets get started!