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.