I feel that this class has really opened my eyes to journalism. It showed me that there is a certain format in which things must be written. Before I felt that a person could just write what they thought and that was it, but then I was mistaken. The format in which journalists write their articles took a lot of time for me to learn and get used to. Now I hope I can keep MLA and APA separate when writing papers for classes. Besides that, I had a fun time in the class and want to peruse some journalism now. I would like to write on my own time for a paper. I don't want to obligation of being employed by a newspaper because I don't have enough time to keep up with it. I want to be able to write an article when I have free time. This class also showed me that journalists have a lot of responsibility and have many different formats to write different pieces they wish to write about. Each different way has its own set of rules to follow and a person who wants to write in that way has to learn them. Overall, I enjoyed learning a lot from this class! :D
Session 31: Blog
Friday, December 18, 2009
Seventh Story: Phi Theta Kappa Poll, How We Love Your Volunteering!
“My grade point average rose after I got involved and started to volunteer,” said Cassandra Gibson, an Anoka-Ramsey Community College (ARCC) alumni student.
“The Phi Theta Kappa gave me a new perspective and made me want to keep my grades good enough to continue,” said Amanda Johnson, a postsecondary student attending ARCC.
The Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is the only honor society officially recognized for two-year colleges. It’s mission is two-fold. The first part is to recognize and encourage academic achievement in students. The second part is to provide opportunities for individual growth and development through participation in honors, leadership, service and fellowship programming.
“I love how active the Phi Theta Kappa is and being apart of the volunteering makes me feel accomplished,” said Erin Pulvermacher who has been attending ARCC for two years.
Out of 38 students randomly selected, 32.6 percent knew what PTK was. Out of that 32.6 percent, 13 percent are active as either a member or volunteer.
“I wish I could be active, but I just don’t have the time or the grades to become a member,” said Jacob Allshouse, an ARCC student of one year who has been deployed back to Iraq.
Even though they may not have known what PTK was, 78.7 percent wanted to be involved with volunteering because 42.6 percent felt it would either help their grades or look good on a transcript. Also 13.2 percent thought that it would help them gain scholarships.
In fact, PTK members do have access to varies scholarships that are not available to any nonmembers. They also receive honors on their diploma with the golden seal and recognition during graduation from wearing the gold stole.
“I am proud to be a member and excited to wear the graduation attire for the Phi Theta Kappa on graduation day,” said Chanelle Nigh an active PTK member.
To become a member of the Alpha Delta Alpha Chapter a student must be actively enrolled as a student on the Coon Rapids campus of ARCC. They must have completed at least 12 credits of 1000 level class or above and have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher at the time of application. To continue their membership students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or above.
Out of the 38 students surveyed 13 percent had a GPA high enough to become a member, while only 7.2 percent were actual members not volunteers.
Today PTK has more than 2 million members and 1,200 chapters. Each year it is estimated that 200,000 students participate in PTK programs and an estimated 100,000 students are inducted into PTK annually. The average GPA for members of PTK is 3.8.
“The Phi Theta Kappa gave me a new perspective and made me want to keep my grades good enough to continue,” said Amanda Johnson, a postsecondary student attending ARCC.
The Phi Theta Kappa (PTK) is the only honor society officially recognized for two-year colleges. It’s mission is two-fold. The first part is to recognize and encourage academic achievement in students. The second part is to provide opportunities for individual growth and development through participation in honors, leadership, service and fellowship programming.
“I love how active the Phi Theta Kappa is and being apart of the volunteering makes me feel accomplished,” said Erin Pulvermacher who has been attending ARCC for two years.
Out of 38 students randomly selected, 32.6 percent knew what PTK was. Out of that 32.6 percent, 13 percent are active as either a member or volunteer.
“I wish I could be active, but I just don’t have the time or the grades to become a member,” said Jacob Allshouse, an ARCC student of one year who has been deployed back to Iraq.
Even though they may not have known what PTK was, 78.7 percent wanted to be involved with volunteering because 42.6 percent felt it would either help their grades or look good on a transcript. Also 13.2 percent thought that it would help them gain scholarships.
In fact, PTK members do have access to varies scholarships that are not available to any nonmembers. They also receive honors on their diploma with the golden seal and recognition during graduation from wearing the gold stole.
“I am proud to be a member and excited to wear the graduation attire for the Phi Theta Kappa on graduation day,” said Chanelle Nigh an active PTK member.
To become a member of the Alpha Delta Alpha Chapter a student must be actively enrolled as a student on the Coon Rapids campus of ARCC. They must have completed at least 12 credits of 1000 level class or above and have a cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.5 or higher at the time of application. To continue their membership students must maintain a 3.0 GPA or above.
Out of the 38 students surveyed 13 percent had a GPA high enough to become a member, while only 7.2 percent were actual members not volunteers.
Today PTK has more than 2 million members and 1,200 chapters. Each year it is estimated that 200,000 students participate in PTK programs and an estimated 100,000 students are inducted into PTK annually. The average GPA for members of PTK is 3.8.
Session 25: Blog
Summary 14: Unemployment Looks Better
Unemployment rate falls to 10% in November
By Paul Davidson, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/2009-12-04-unemployment-november_N.htm)
Summary: The unemployment rate fell from 10.2 percent to 10 percent in Nov. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that it was the biggest drop since April 1998. This is because employers’ cutback only 11,000 jobs instead of the 123,000 expected. The jobs lost are reported to be the fewest since the recession started in Dec. 2007. Plus there may be signals in the Nov. jobs report that show the nation could start to gain jobs in Dec. This being several months earlier than many economists expected. Also economists can see that employers are increasing work hours to 33.2 hours and hiring temporary employees to meet the rising demands. This made the number of temporary workers jump 52,400. On top of that the percentage of the population employed or looking for work fell to 65 percent. This is the lowest since the recession began.
Session 30: Blog
By Paul Davidson, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/2009-12-04-unemployment-november_N.htm)
Summary: The unemployment rate fell from 10.2 percent to 10 percent in Nov. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that it was the biggest drop since April 1998. This is because employers’ cutback only 11,000 jobs instead of the 123,000 expected. The jobs lost are reported to be the fewest since the recession started in Dec. 2007. Plus there may be signals in the Nov. jobs report that show the nation could start to gain jobs in Dec. This being several months earlier than many economists expected. Also economists can see that employers are increasing work hours to 33.2 hours and hiring temporary employees to meet the rising demands. This made the number of temporary workers jump 52,400. On top of that the percentage of the population employed or looking for work fell to 65 percent. This is the lowest since the recession began.
Session 30: Blog
Ninth Story- Feature: Emily Feld A Hard Working Paramedic
“I loved to do moulages with all the fake blood and gore,” said Emily Feld remembering her experience in Opportunities in Emergency Health Care class (OEC). “If it wasn’t for OEC I do not believe I would have gone for my EMT. I probably would have just tried to do nursing and I probably would have failed at it:” Feld continued.
OEC is a high school program offered to junior and senior high school students teaching them Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Students have the potential to earn certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician Basic (NREMT-B), First Responder and CPR Instructor.
OEC classes are offered at Osseo Senior High School in Osseo, Minn. and Spring Lake Park High School in Spring Lake Park, Minn. They are available to all students, both in the district and out. Classes are two hours long and run one whole year building on each other as they progress.
The OEC program also offers other opportunities including fall and spring camps, state emergency medical technician (EMT) competition and providing medical coverage for outside groups.
Feld said: “My favorite subject in high school was my OEC class that was held at Spring Lake Park High School because I had a lot of freedom to do what I wanted and it touched on the subject of medicine which is the field I planned on working in when I was older”
“I learned more in that class then I did in any other class I believe and I left the course accomplishing something amazing,” said Feld.
Since Feld decided to take OEC her career path changed and she became a paramedic before she decided to go to school to become a registered nurse (RN).
“I can diagnose things when people complain of being sick or I can tell when someone is pregnant without them actually saying anything about it. It is useful because my friends and family call and ask me questions about health and I can usually help them out or convince them to go see a doctor if they need it. It isn’t like a special power or anything like that, it is just a nice thing to have if need be:” Feld said.
Feld’s choice to get her paramedic gave her an opportunity to get a full-time job at a poison control center in the capacity of an EMT-P. Now she is being promoted to an IS 2 position which is similar to what she currently does, but requires extra training to be able to handle more toxic products and document them appropriately. This job pays her $18.50 an hour which she uses to pay for her college tuition. She also puts some away for her upcoming wedding.
“I work 40 hours a week answering phone calls, giving first aid, documenting cases, and forwarding them to agencies, such as the FDA, to report any adverse events. I enjoy working here because it is a controlled setting and there is more information available at my finger tips then if I was on the street trying to figure out a situation such as a poisoning:” said Feld.
Fled’s next job is a part-time position as a shift leader at a Holiday gas station. She works mostly weekends and holidays as a cashier. Her final job is volunteering at the University of Minnesota on the EMS team covering different events such as hockey, football, concerts, basketball, cheerleading competitions, speeches, and many more. They have their own ambulance and the ability to transport patients, for no charge, to local hospitals as needed. However, she is in the process of quitting her volunteer work.
“I don’t have the time to do it and some of the people who are in higher up positions have a personal agenda and don’t care who they step on to do what they want,” Feld said.
Feld has made the decision to attend Anoka Ramsey Community College in Coon Rapids, Minn. to earn her RN Degree.
“It is fun to learn new things, I never want to stop being open to new education,” said Feld.
On top of all her responsibilities Feld is getting married Oct. 9, 2010 to her fiancé, Jon Nordick. She will have her best friend, Michelle Jordan, as matron of honor and three other bridesmaids, Andrea Rohly, Jen Edel and Candace Mikel. Her ceremony will be an hour long at the Calvary Church in Roseville, Minn. The reception will follow and take place at the Hampton Inn also in Roseville, Minn.
Feld said, “I hope to feel beautiful and look great on my wedding day and I hope that I don’t end up crying!”
Session 29: Blog
OEC is a high school program offered to junior and senior high school students teaching them Emergency Medical Services (EMS). Students have the potential to earn certifications in Basic Life Support (BLS) Provider, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), National Registry of Emergency Medical Technician Basic (NREMT-B), First Responder and CPR Instructor.
OEC classes are offered at Osseo Senior High School in Osseo, Minn. and Spring Lake Park High School in Spring Lake Park, Minn. They are available to all students, both in the district and out. Classes are two hours long and run one whole year building on each other as they progress.
The OEC program also offers other opportunities including fall and spring camps, state emergency medical technician (EMT) competition and providing medical coverage for outside groups.
Feld said: “My favorite subject in high school was my OEC class that was held at Spring Lake Park High School because I had a lot of freedom to do what I wanted and it touched on the subject of medicine which is the field I planned on working in when I was older”
“I learned more in that class then I did in any other class I believe and I left the course accomplishing something amazing,” said Feld.
Since Feld decided to take OEC her career path changed and she became a paramedic before she decided to go to school to become a registered nurse (RN).
“I can diagnose things when people complain of being sick or I can tell when someone is pregnant without them actually saying anything about it. It is useful because my friends and family call and ask me questions about health and I can usually help them out or convince them to go see a doctor if they need it. It isn’t like a special power or anything like that, it is just a nice thing to have if need be:” Feld said.
Feld’s choice to get her paramedic gave her an opportunity to get a full-time job at a poison control center in the capacity of an EMT-P. Now she is being promoted to an IS 2 position which is similar to what she currently does, but requires extra training to be able to handle more toxic products and document them appropriately. This job pays her $18.50 an hour which she uses to pay for her college tuition. She also puts some away for her upcoming wedding.
“I work 40 hours a week answering phone calls, giving first aid, documenting cases, and forwarding them to agencies, such as the FDA, to report any adverse events. I enjoy working here because it is a controlled setting and there is more information available at my finger tips then if I was on the street trying to figure out a situation such as a poisoning:” said Feld.
Fled’s next job is a part-time position as a shift leader at a Holiday gas station. She works mostly weekends and holidays as a cashier. Her final job is volunteering at the University of Minnesota on the EMS team covering different events such as hockey, football, concerts, basketball, cheerleading competitions, speeches, and many more. They have their own ambulance and the ability to transport patients, for no charge, to local hospitals as needed. However, she is in the process of quitting her volunteer work.
“I don’t have the time to do it and some of the people who are in higher up positions have a personal agenda and don’t care who they step on to do what they want,” Feld said.
Feld has made the decision to attend Anoka Ramsey Community College in Coon Rapids, Minn. to earn her RN Degree.
“It is fun to learn new things, I never want to stop being open to new education,” said Feld.
On top of all her responsibilities Feld is getting married Oct. 9, 2010 to her fiancé, Jon Nordick. She will have her best friend, Michelle Jordan, as matron of honor and three other bridesmaids, Andrea Rohly, Jen Edel and Candace Mikel. Her ceremony will be an hour long at the Calvary Church in Roseville, Minn. The reception will follow and take place at the Hampton Inn also in Roseville, Minn.
Feld said, “I hope to feel beautiful and look great on my wedding day and I hope that I don’t end up crying!”
Session 29: Blog
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Eighth Story: METNET Poll
Have you ever had an email that was used as the main way for your communications that you felt was unreliable?
The Metropolitan Educational Telecommunications Network (METNET) is a distance learning network for higher education establishments. It consists of eleven Twin Cities’ metro area community colleges, technical colleges, Metropolitan State University and the University of Minnesota. Along with five other higher education telecommunication networks it helps make up the Learning Network of Minnesota.
One service that METNET offers is a free email service that is provided to support the educational mission of its institutions. The only problem is that METNET has is the disclaimer on their website under the Server Maintenance heading that says: "The METNET e-mail server has regularly scheduled maintenance on the second Sunday of each month from 9:30 - 10:30 AM. Users may not be able to access e-mail during this time." However, METNET is down way more than this disclaimer says it will be.
When 30 random Anoka-Ramsey Community College (ARCC) students were asked if they knew about METNET only 83.3 percent said yes, leaving the rest clueless. “I guess I don't know what it is or what it stands for,” said Nancy Winholtz, who has been attending ARCC for only four months and is taking only one class.
Out of the 83.3 percent who knew what METNET was 30 percent liked it. That tied with the 30 percent of students who either disliked it or thought it sucked. Amanda Scott, who has been attending ARCC for two years and accesses METNET almost everyday said, “I like metnet alot, it is a easy and productive way to communicate with teachers.” Another 20 percent thought it was outdated while only five percent thought that it was useful. The other 25 percent thought that METNET was ok or were indifferent about it. “It's like any other email account,” said Alison Kolodge, who has been attending ARCC for four years now.
Rebekah Phillips said: “I have attempted to before, but it is no use. It is so annoying when you need to check to see if you got an important email from a teacher or fellow student but are unable to because metnet is currently "down." It seems like it hasn't been as bad lately, but usually at least once or twice a month.” This was in response to the question do you attempt to log onto METNET while it is down and how often? She has been attending ARCC for two years and METNET is important to a few of her classes so she checks it at least once a day.
34.8 percent of students have also attempted to log onto METNET while it is down. “Hope it stays that way,” said Lucina Mendez who has been attending ARCC for only a semester. However, seven students skipped this question completely. “It's a pain becuase it usually lasts awhile and sometimes means that D2L is down also,” said Tawana Grimes who has attend ARCC only since fall semester 2009, but has been a student at Normandale for two years.
Even though METNET can be down and cause headaches 65.2 percent of students feel that professors have the right to require their students to use METNET. “When I first came to ARCC I would have answered no, they don't have the right. But now that I have been here a while I can see how much easier it is for the professors to be able to send out emails all to the same place. It really seems to save them a lot of time and stress, so I respect that they may want to require their students to use it. I think it's more effective when the professors simply request that the students use metnet, but I don't completely disagree with them requiring it. After all, it is their class:” said Rebekah Phillips who has been attending ARCC for two years now.
Overall, the students who were asked seem to either deal with METNET, forward their emails to another address or ignore METNET all together.
Session 27 Blog
The Metropolitan Educational Telecommunications Network (METNET) is a distance learning network for higher education establishments. It consists of eleven Twin Cities’ metro area community colleges, technical colleges, Metropolitan State University and the University of Minnesota. Along with five other higher education telecommunication networks it helps make up the Learning Network of Minnesota.
One service that METNET offers is a free email service that is provided to support the educational mission of its institutions. The only problem is that METNET has is the disclaimer on their website under the Server Maintenance heading that says: "The METNET e-mail server has regularly scheduled maintenance on the second Sunday of each month from 9:30 - 10:30 AM. Users may not be able to access e-mail during this time." However, METNET is down way more than this disclaimer says it will be.
When 30 random Anoka-Ramsey Community College (ARCC) students were asked if they knew about METNET only 83.3 percent said yes, leaving the rest clueless. “I guess I don't know what it is or what it stands for,” said Nancy Winholtz, who has been attending ARCC for only four months and is taking only one class.
Out of the 83.3 percent who knew what METNET was 30 percent liked it. That tied with the 30 percent of students who either disliked it or thought it sucked. Amanda Scott, who has been attending ARCC for two years and accesses METNET almost everyday said, “I like metnet alot, it is a easy and productive way to communicate with teachers.” Another 20 percent thought it was outdated while only five percent thought that it was useful. The other 25 percent thought that METNET was ok or were indifferent about it. “It's like any other email account,” said Alison Kolodge, who has been attending ARCC for four years now.
Rebekah Phillips said: “I have attempted to before, but it is no use. It is so annoying when you need to check to see if you got an important email from a teacher or fellow student but are unable to because metnet is currently "down." It seems like it hasn't been as bad lately, but usually at least once or twice a month.” This was in response to the question do you attempt to log onto METNET while it is down and how often? She has been attending ARCC for two years and METNET is important to a few of her classes so she checks it at least once a day.
34.8 percent of students have also attempted to log onto METNET while it is down. “Hope it stays that way,” said Lucina Mendez who has been attending ARCC for only a semester. However, seven students skipped this question completely. “It's a pain becuase it usually lasts awhile and sometimes means that D2L is down also,” said Tawana Grimes who has attend ARCC only since fall semester 2009, but has been a student at Normandale for two years.
Even though METNET can be down and cause headaches 65.2 percent of students feel that professors have the right to require their students to use METNET. “When I first came to ARCC I would have answered no, they don't have the right. But now that I have been here a while I can see how much easier it is for the professors to be able to send out emails all to the same place. It really seems to save them a lot of time and stress, so I respect that they may want to require their students to use it. I think it's more effective when the professors simply request that the students use metnet, but I don't completely disagree with them requiring it. After all, it is their class:” said Rebekah Phillips who has been attending ARCC for two years now.
Overall, the students who were asked seem to either deal with METNET, forward their emails to another address or ignore METNET all together.
Session 27 Blog
Sixth Story: Staff Member Dr. John Mago, Professor ARCC
“One day I found out that the only way to make a difference is to get into the classroom and share what I have learned and hopefully open the eyes of the adult learner,” said Dr. John Mago, professor at Anoka-Ramsey Community College (ARCC).
Dr. Mago made the decision to teach higher education ten years ago because it came naturally to him. He taught for six years at a number of for-profit institutions before he decided to move his teaching career to ARCC. Dr. Mago said, “I wanted to get into a more traditional institution and the opportunity arose and here I am.” However, his first career choice wasn’t teaching it was business because you need a master’s degree to teach at a community college. Even though it wasn’t his first choice, he has never looked back since making his decision to teach.
Dr. Mago feels his teaching style combines an original mixture of real life experience with some theory. “In other words I create a teaching style that is engaging to all students,” said Dr. Mago. His number one influence on the way he teaches comes from watching other instructors around him that do not understand their intended audience. Dr. Mago said, “In other words, I utilize my past sales experience to understand each adult learner and apply teaching methods that hopefully engage them.” He also watched a variety of his past professors who had utilized nonproductive learning environments and decided that he was not going to be a professor that did that. He wants the students to become interactive with the class instead of turning away the opportunity to learn something.
Dr. Mago’s favorite thing about teaching is when he gets to enjoy the rush he gets when students actually learn something. Dr. Mago said, “It is true that when the light bulb turns on the instructor becomes engaged too!” On the other hand, he doesn’t like the laziness of some students and how they do not want to open their books to learn anything. “The lack of caring by students can be discouraging,” said Dr. Mago.
Dr. Mago has earned a lot of varies degrees to contribute to his ability to teach higher education. He not only attended Saint Mary’s University to achieve his Doctorate of Education in Leadership, but he also attended Cardinal Stritch University and received his Master’s of Science in Management. He will not stop there because he is a lifelong learner and is currently attending the Minnesota School of Business to finish his Master’s of Business Administration, which he will be done with in March of 2010. He will then pursue another Doctorate in Business Administration at Metro State.
Dr. Mago is a full-time professor at ARCC and teaches five courses each semester. The classes that he is currently teaching during the fall semester are Intro to Business, Supervision, Entrepreneurship, Business Ethics and Personal Finance. He will soon be teaching the Leadership course as well.
Dr. Mago finished with, “Teaching is a journey that only the lucky few are called to do!!!”
Session 20: Blog
Dr. John Mago, Professor at ARCC Transcript
Interview Questions - Dr. John Mago:
(Q) 1. How long have you been a professor?
(A) 10 years
(Q) 2. Why did you decide to become a professor?
(A) One day I found out that the only way to make a difference is to get into the classroom and share what I have learned and hopefully open the eyes of the adult learner. The decision to get into higher education came naturally and I have not looked back since I started to teach.
(Q) 3. How come you choose to use your teaching degree at Anoka Ramsey Community College?
(A) I had taught for 6 years before I came to ARCC. I wanted to get into a more traditional institution and the opportunity arose and here I amJ
(Q) 4. How many classes are you teaching at ARCC?
(A) I am a full time professor and teach 5 courses per semester.
(Q) 5. What is this class/what are these classes that you are teaching?
(A) I teach Intro to Business, Supervision, Entrepreneurship, Business Ethics, Personal Finance, and soon Leadership courses.
(Q) 6. Did you teach anywhere else before ARCC?
(A) Yes, I have taught for a number of for-profit institutions.
(Q) 7. Are you currently teaching somewhere else at the same time?
(A) No not right now.
(Q) 8. What would you say your teaching style is/how would you best describe your teaching style?
(A) My teaching style combines a unique blend of real life experience with a blend of theory. In other words I create a teaching style that is engaging to all students.
(Q) 9. What do you think has influenced your teaching style?
(A) I think the number one aspect is observing other instructors that do not understand their intended audience. In other words, I utilize my past sales experience to understand each adult learner and apply teaching methods that hopefully engage them.
(Q) 10. Who do you think has influenced your teaching style?
(A) I have had a variety of professors that definitely created a nonproductive learning environment and I do not utilize that type of teaching style.
(Q) 11. What do you enjoy most about teaching?
(A) I think the rush I get when students become engaged and actually learn something instead of denying the opportunity of a learning event. It is true that when the light bulb turns on the instructor becomes engaged too!
(Q) 12. What is your least enjoyable thing about teaching?
(A) The laziness of students and not wanting to open a book to learn something. The lack of caring by students can be discouraging.
(Q) 13. What school/schools did you attend to get your degree in teaching?
(A) I received a Doctorate of Education in Leadership from Saint Mary’s University
I received a Master’s of Science in Management from Cardinal Stritch University
(Q) 14. Was teaching your first choice or were there others first?
(A) Business first. At this level you need a master’s degree to teach at a community college.
(Q) 15. Did you attempt any other degrees before your teaching degree?
(A) see above question
(Q) 16. Are you still going to school for anything?
(A) Yes! I am a lifelong learner and currently am finishing a MBA. I will be done with that in March of 2010 and wish to pursue another Doctorate in Business Administration.
(Q) 17. If so, what school/schools are you attending?
(A) Currently attending the Minnesota School of Business and will be attending Metro State for the DBA
(Q) 18. Is there anything else (interesting or not) about teaching that I should know?
(A) Teaching is a journey that only the lucky few are called to do!!! Very similar in nature to Nursing…
Session 19: Blog
(Q) 1. How long have you been a professor?
(A) 10 years
(Q) 2. Why did you decide to become a professor?
(A) One day I found out that the only way to make a difference is to get into the classroom and share what I have learned and hopefully open the eyes of the adult learner. The decision to get into higher education came naturally and I have not looked back since I started to teach.
(Q) 3. How come you choose to use your teaching degree at Anoka Ramsey Community College?
(A) I had taught for 6 years before I came to ARCC. I wanted to get into a more traditional institution and the opportunity arose and here I amJ
(Q) 4. How many classes are you teaching at ARCC?
(A) I am a full time professor and teach 5 courses per semester.
(Q) 5. What is this class/what are these classes that you are teaching?
(A) I teach Intro to Business, Supervision, Entrepreneurship, Business Ethics, Personal Finance, and soon Leadership courses.
(Q) 6. Did you teach anywhere else before ARCC?
(A) Yes, I have taught for a number of for-profit institutions.
(Q) 7. Are you currently teaching somewhere else at the same time?
(A) No not right now.
(Q) 8. What would you say your teaching style is/how would you best describe your teaching style?
(A) My teaching style combines a unique blend of real life experience with a blend of theory. In other words I create a teaching style that is engaging to all students.
(Q) 9. What do you think has influenced your teaching style?
(A) I think the number one aspect is observing other instructors that do not understand their intended audience. In other words, I utilize my past sales experience to understand each adult learner and apply teaching methods that hopefully engage them.
(Q) 10. Who do you think has influenced your teaching style?
(A) I have had a variety of professors that definitely created a nonproductive learning environment and I do not utilize that type of teaching style.
(Q) 11. What do you enjoy most about teaching?
(A) I think the rush I get when students become engaged and actually learn something instead of denying the opportunity of a learning event. It is true that when the light bulb turns on the instructor becomes engaged too!
(Q) 12. What is your least enjoyable thing about teaching?
(A) The laziness of students and not wanting to open a book to learn something. The lack of caring by students can be discouraging.
(Q) 13. What school/schools did you attend to get your degree in teaching?
(A) I received a Doctorate of Education in Leadership from Saint Mary’s University
I received a Master’s of Science in Management from Cardinal Stritch University
(Q) 14. Was teaching your first choice or were there others first?
(A) Business first. At this level you need a master’s degree to teach at a community college.
(Q) 15. Did you attempt any other degrees before your teaching degree?
(A) see above question
(Q) 16. Are you still going to school for anything?
(A) Yes! I am a lifelong learner and currently am finishing a MBA. I will be done with that in March of 2010 and wish to pursue another Doctorate in Business Administration.
(Q) 17. If so, what school/schools are you attending?
(A) Currently attending the Minnesota School of Business and will be attending Metro State for the DBA
(Q) 18. Is there anything else (interesting or not) about teaching that I should know?
(A) Teaching is a journey that only the lucky few are called to do!!! Very similar in nature to Nursing…
Session 19: Blog
Monday, December 14, 2009
Summary 13: Tamiflu, Does it Still Work???
WHO: Tamiflu still works against swine flu
USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-11-26-tamiflu_N.htm)
Summary: The World Health Organization (WHO) says that Tamiflu still remains highly effective against most H1N1 cases even though Britain and the United States reported isolated cases of drug-resistant swine flu. Thursday Dr. Keiji Fukuda, WHO flu chief, said that the American and British patients that Tamiflu did not work for had severely weakened immune systems, but investigations are underway.
Session 28: Blog
USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-11-26-tamiflu_N.htm)
Summary: The World Health Organization (WHO) says that Tamiflu still remains highly effective against most H1N1 cases even though Britain and the United States reported isolated cases of drug-resistant swine flu. Thursday Dr. Keiji Fukuda, WHO flu chief, said that the American and British patients that Tamiflu did not work for had severely weakened immune systems, but investigations are underway.
Session 28: Blog
Summary 12: "Women perceive their breast cancer risk to be higher than it really is." - REALLY!?
Women are insistent on mammograms, poll shows
By Liz Szabo, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-11-24-mammogram24ONLINE_ST_N.htm)
Summary: The USA TODAY/Gallup Poll shows that most American women will ignore new recommendations about mammograms, since they are controversial. These recommendations come from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent panel of government-appointed experts, who had previously told women to begin breast cancer screening at age 40. However, last week they suggested that most women don't need routine mammograms until age 50. Out of 1,136 women asked in the new survey, 76 percent of them say that they disagree or strongly disagree with the recommendations. This may be because the women were confused on the panels' motives. They were thinking that it was all based on costs when it really was based on scientific studies. It could also be because the women seemed to perceive their breast cancer risk to be higher than it really is. According to the National Cancer Institute, 1.4 percent is the chance that a 40-year-old develops breast cancer over the next decade. While 40 percent of women estimate that it is 20 percent to 50 percent.
Session 26: Blog
By Liz Szabo, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-11-24-mammogram24ONLINE_ST_N.htm)
Summary: The USA TODAY/Gallup Poll shows that most American women will ignore new recommendations about mammograms, since they are controversial. These recommendations come from the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force, an independent panel of government-appointed experts, who had previously told women to begin breast cancer screening at age 40. However, last week they suggested that most women don't need routine mammograms until age 50. Out of 1,136 women asked in the new survey, 76 percent of them say that they disagree or strongly disagree with the recommendations. This may be because the women were confused on the panels' motives. They were thinking that it was all based on costs when it really was based on scientific studies. It could also be because the women seemed to perceive their breast cancer risk to be higher than it really is. According to the National Cancer Institute, 1.4 percent is the chance that a 40-year-old develops breast cancer over the next decade. While 40 percent of women estimate that it is 20 percent to 50 percent.
Session 26: Blog
Monday, November 30, 2009
I Hate Stress...
One way I like to relieve stress is by sleeping. I sleep as much as I can when I am stressed out so I can dream and not worry about what is stressing me. I stress a lot about the little money we have to make bills, so when it comes to the end of the month I sleep a lot! Another way I like to relieve stress is to clean the house. I mainly clean to keep my mind occupied. It also calms me down because I am still doing something productive. I can’t stand doing something that isn’t productive. Everything I do is for some purpose and generally not for fun. That is one reason my stress gets so high. At least I have a few ways of relieving it.
Shelly
Session 27: Blog
Traveled To Italy!
When I was in high school I went on a national band tour with my band class. We went to Italy and traveled all over the country. We made stops in Venice, Cortona, Rome and many more. We played in venues that were normally places not allowed for people to play in. They were opened to us because our instructor was well known and had been taking national band tours all over Europe for decades. Not only did we play at different venues we also got to site see. Some of the places we went to see were the Vatican City, the Coliseum, a haunted church in Cortona and a torture museum. The haunted church was super scary. We went out in a small group at night and discovered it. It ended up giving me nightmares all night! Besides the nightmares the trip was amazing and I can’t wait to go back. I think I will make Italy my honeymoon.
Shelly
Session 23: Blog
Halloween Costumes Fun
I think Halloween is the best holiday of the year because everyone gets to dress in awesome costumes. This year I dressed up as a witch. It had a laced black and blue skirt which had spiders knit all over it and a blue jean top. The hat matched the skirt with a jean brim. My son dressed up in an orange outfit that said I love my mummy across the chest. It was super cute! My husband dressed up as himself, which is something he does every year. The only downfall to Halloween is some people take it as an opportunity to dress with little clothing. Some women choose to wear short skirts and a bra with high boots and fish net stockings. It baffles me that normally they would not dress this way, but on Halloween they do. Men do not have the opportunity to dress the way women do because they can get away with walking around without a shirt normally. Overall, Halloween is the best!
Session 21 : Blog
Shelly
Session 21 : Blog
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Summary 11: Talking, Texting and Driving...
Half of teens say they’ve used cellphone while driving
By Nanci Hellmich, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-11-16-teens-cellphones_N.htm)
Summary: This summer the Pew Research Center’s Internet and American Life Project conducted a national poll of 800 teens, ages 12 to 17. They found that about half of teens ages 16 and 17 say they have talked on the phone while driving. About a third of those teens have admitted to texting. The teens said they felt compelled to answer the phone or text while behind the wheel only to stay connected with friends. However, many teens stated that it was their parents who were talking to them the most. Many of them said they would wait until they stopped at a red light or held the phone up high enough to watch the road at the same time to text. These ideas were a few solutions given by the teens to avoid danger while driving and texting.
Session: 24: Blog
By Nanci Hellmich, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-11-16-teens-cellphones_N.htm)
Summary: This summer the Pew Research Center’s Internet and American Life Project conducted a national poll of 800 teens, ages 12 to 17. They found that about half of teens ages 16 and 17 say they have talked on the phone while driving. About a third of those teens have admitted to texting. The teens said they felt compelled to answer the phone or text while behind the wheel only to stay connected with friends. However, many teens stated that it was their parents who were talking to them the most. Many of them said they would wait until they stopped at a red light or held the phone up high enough to watch the road at the same time to text. These ideas were a few solutions given by the teens to avoid danger while driving and texting.
Session: 24: Blog
Summary 10: Buy A Home Today!
More home buyers, not just first-timers, can get tax credit
By Sandra Block, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/columnist/block/2009-11-10-ym10_ST_N.htm)
Summary: President Obama signed a bill into law Friday that extends the first-time home-buyer’s credit until next spring. This credit was included in legislation that extends unemployment benefits in all 50 states. The legislation also expands the credit to include some home buyers who are looking for a nicer place that already own a home. To get this credit you either have to be a first-time home buyer, someone who hasn’t owned a home in the three years before the purchase, or an existing homeowner who has lived in their current home for five out of the last eight years. The eligible first-timer can claim a tax credit for 10 percent of the purchase price up to $8,000, while the eligible existing homeowner qualifies for a tax credit up to $6,500. Both credits are refundable and don’t have to be repaid unless the home is sold within three years. For most the credit can only be claimed if a sales contract is signed before May 1, 2010, and closes before July 1, though there are special circumstances. Not only is the credit expanded to existing homeowners, but the legislation also expands the income cutoffs. Overall, the credit is not available for home purchases that exceed $800,000.
Session 22: Blog
By Sandra Block, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/money/perfi/columnist/block/2009-11-10-ym10_ST_N.htm)
Summary: President Obama signed a bill into law Friday that extends the first-time home-buyer’s credit until next spring. This credit was included in legislation that extends unemployment benefits in all 50 states. The legislation also expands the credit to include some home buyers who are looking for a nicer place that already own a home. To get this credit you either have to be a first-time home buyer, someone who hasn’t owned a home in the three years before the purchase, or an existing homeowner who has lived in their current home for five out of the last eight years. The eligible first-timer can claim a tax credit for 10 percent of the purchase price up to $8,000, while the eligible existing homeowner qualifies for a tax credit up to $6,500. Both credits are refundable and don’t have to be repaid unless the home is sold within three years. For most the credit can only be claimed if a sales contract is signed before May 1, 2010, and closes before July 1, though there are special circumstances. Not only is the credit expanded to existing homeowners, but the legislation also expands the income cutoffs. Overall, the credit is not available for home purchases that exceed $800,000.
Session 22: Blog
Summary 9: Fatty Liver? New Study
Fat liver, not belly, may be best indicator of health problems
By Nanci Hellmich, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/weightloss/2009-10-25-liver-fat_N.htm)
Summary: New research was presented at the annual meeting of the Obesity Society on Sunday which shows that fat in the liver is a better reason behind some medical issues than belly fat. Samuel Klein, director of the Center for Human Nutrition at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and colleagues looked at the visceral fat and liver fat of 31 obese men and women. Some of them had high amounts of liver fat and some of them had normal amounts of liver fat which is 5 percent fat or less. During the study researchers discovered that the people with fatty livers had an increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Obese people are at a higher risk of having non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a severe fatty liver which may contain up to 50 percent fat. To make a change obese people can make a marked reduction in liver fat with a 2 percent to 5 percent weight loss.
Session 20: Blog
By Nanci Hellmich, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/weightloss/2009-10-25-liver-fat_N.htm)
Summary: New research was presented at the annual meeting of the Obesity Society on Sunday which shows that fat in the liver is a better reason behind some medical issues than belly fat. Samuel Klein, director of the Center for Human Nutrition at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, and colleagues looked at the visceral fat and liver fat of 31 obese men and women. Some of them had high amounts of liver fat and some of them had normal amounts of liver fat which is 5 percent fat or less. During the study researchers discovered that the people with fatty livers had an increased risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Obese people are at a higher risk of having non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is a severe fatty liver which may contain up to 50 percent fat. To make a change obese people can make a marked reduction in liver fat with a 2 percent to 5 percent weight loss.
Session 20: Blog
Summary 8: H1N1 Here We Go
‘National emergency’ for H1N1 no cause for alarm, experts say
By Mary Brophy Marcus, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-10-25-obama-swine-flu-emergency_N.htm)
Summary: Over the weekend President Obama declared the H1N1 flu outbreak a national emergency. He decided this because of Friday’s report that the swine flu is still on the rise in many schools causing them to temporarily close. A total of 351 school closings in 19 states were reported by the Department of Education on Friday. However, this decision should not alarm the public experts in infectious disease and emergency medicine say. “It’s really more a continuation of our preparedness steps,” Anne Schuchat, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease told USA Today on Sunday. This will allow more help with flexibility in case hospitals see a greater climb in flu cases. Both Hanfling and Brennan say their emergency rooms have in the last two weeks. Overall, health care facilities will be able to set up alternate care sites if needed because the proclamation allows the government to grant waivers, according to White House documents.
Session 18: Blog
By Mary Brophy Marcus, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/health/2009-10-25-obama-swine-flu-emergency_N.htm)
Summary: Over the weekend President Obama declared the H1N1 flu outbreak a national emergency. He decided this because of Friday’s report that the swine flu is still on the rise in many schools causing them to temporarily close. A total of 351 school closings in 19 states were reported by the Department of Education on Friday. However, this decision should not alarm the public experts in infectious disease and emergency medicine say. “It’s really more a continuation of our preparedness steps,” Anne Schuchat, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Disease told USA Today on Sunday. This will allow more help with flexibility in case hospitals see a greater climb in flu cases. Both Hanfling and Brennan say their emergency rooms have in the last two weeks. Overall, health care facilities will be able to set up alternate care sites if needed because the proclamation allows the government to grant waivers, according to White House documents.
Session 18: Blog
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Alpha Delta Alpha – Phi Theta Kappa Updates
The Phi Theta Kappa will be hosting their annual food drive for the Cheer for the Holidays at Anoka-Ramsey Community College in Dec. Every year they run a food drive to collect food for the people who need it the most.
Members also reported that 58 pints of blood were collected during the Anoka-Ramsey Blood Drive they sponsored Oct. 6.
And the board set three major events that will be coming up in the end of Oct. through Nov. These events are orientation, induction, and Good as Gold Week.
The Cheer for the Holidays is an event that helps families who need help providing their children with toys, food and clothes. Every year the Phi Theta Kappa holds a competition between the faculty and students to see who can collect the most nonperishable food items. The food drive will be held Dec. 7 through Dec. 11 and this year will be the first year a trophy will be awarded to the winning side. The same trophy will be awarded back and forth to the winning side in future years.
Next the board members reviewed the Anoka-Ramsey blood drive. Their goal this year was to collect 60 pints of blood and came up collecting 58 pints. They fell only 2 pints short because some walk-in students could not wait for an opening to donate. Also some students were amazed that it took an hour to donate and did not schedule enough time before they would have to leave. The Phi Theta Kappa used a double booking technique that helped them to get up to their 58 pints collected. Using this technique they set out open signup sheets at three different locations around campus and students signed up. Some students were signing up at the same time on a different sheet. Since there were a lot of no shows there were no problems with people that signed up at the same time. This way they got at least one person at each signed up time. Overall, they had a lot of volunteers helping and next year they hope to handout flyers at the door as students walk into the college telling them there is a blood drive going on.
The events calendar then took a turn to the future in preparation for orientation. Orientation is an open meeting for all current Phi Theta Kappa members and interested members that have questions about what the Phi Theta Kappa is and does. The meeting covers all the upcoming events sponsored by the Phi Theta Kappa and gives opportunities to the members to get involved. It also has a question and answering session to get all the looming questions answered. The members who volunteer can earn prizes as they gain star levels. Star levels show how active a member is. They can be earned by volunteering, attending meetings, events and varies other tasks asked by the board members. There will be a folder handed out to each attendee with a bunch of information and star level sheets. Cookies, fruit punch and water will also be provided. The meeting will be Oct. 21 at Anoka-Ramsey Community College in room B206 at 2 p.m.
Orientation isn’t the only event that is coming up in the future, induction also is. Induction is a formal ceremony to induct new members into the Alpha Delta Alpha of the Phi Theta Kappa. It is held every year in the Performing Arts Center. This year’s will be held Nov. 16 at 5:30 p.m. Members who attend can invite family, friends and professors to sit in the audience and show support for their academic achievement. There will be an opportunity for the members to thank their guests for coming during the ceremony. Also members will receive a scroll and recognition as they pass across the stage. Cake, punch, cookies and water will be provided at the end of the ceremony during the reception where all attendees are welcomed to socialize and enjoy.
Good as Gold Week will be held Nov. 16 through Nov. 20 and each day of the week has a different event. Induction will be Monday’s event which is honoring new member’s day. Tuesday is service day and will be hosting the event feed my starving children. The Honors Seminar will be the event for scholarship day on Wednesday. Thursday is founder’s day and members will be at a table in the business bulge handing out cake to students for participating in trivia. Last but not least, an ice cream social will be held Friday in the student lounge.
Members also reported that 58 pints of blood were collected during the Anoka-Ramsey Blood Drive they sponsored Oct. 6.
And the board set three major events that will be coming up in the end of Oct. through Nov. These events are orientation, induction, and Good as Gold Week.
The Cheer for the Holidays is an event that helps families who need help providing their children with toys, food and clothes. Every year the Phi Theta Kappa holds a competition between the faculty and students to see who can collect the most nonperishable food items. The food drive will be held Dec. 7 through Dec. 11 and this year will be the first year a trophy will be awarded to the winning side. The same trophy will be awarded back and forth to the winning side in future years.
Next the board members reviewed the Anoka-Ramsey blood drive. Their goal this year was to collect 60 pints of blood and came up collecting 58 pints. They fell only 2 pints short because some walk-in students could not wait for an opening to donate. Also some students were amazed that it took an hour to donate and did not schedule enough time before they would have to leave. The Phi Theta Kappa used a double booking technique that helped them to get up to their 58 pints collected. Using this technique they set out open signup sheets at three different locations around campus and students signed up. Some students were signing up at the same time on a different sheet. Since there were a lot of no shows there were no problems with people that signed up at the same time. This way they got at least one person at each signed up time. Overall, they had a lot of volunteers helping and next year they hope to handout flyers at the door as students walk into the college telling them there is a blood drive going on.
The events calendar then took a turn to the future in preparation for orientation. Orientation is an open meeting for all current Phi Theta Kappa members and interested members that have questions about what the Phi Theta Kappa is and does. The meeting covers all the upcoming events sponsored by the Phi Theta Kappa and gives opportunities to the members to get involved. It also has a question and answering session to get all the looming questions answered. The members who volunteer can earn prizes as they gain star levels. Star levels show how active a member is. They can be earned by volunteering, attending meetings, events and varies other tasks asked by the board members. There will be a folder handed out to each attendee with a bunch of information and star level sheets. Cookies, fruit punch and water will also be provided. The meeting will be Oct. 21 at Anoka-Ramsey Community College in room B206 at 2 p.m.
Orientation isn’t the only event that is coming up in the future, induction also is. Induction is a formal ceremony to induct new members into the Alpha Delta Alpha of the Phi Theta Kappa. It is held every year in the Performing Arts Center. This year’s will be held Nov. 16 at 5:30 p.m. Members who attend can invite family, friends and professors to sit in the audience and show support for their academic achievement. There will be an opportunity for the members to thank their guests for coming during the ceremony. Also members will receive a scroll and recognition as they pass across the stage. Cake, punch, cookies and water will be provided at the end of the ceremony during the reception where all attendees are welcomed to socialize and enjoy.
Good as Gold Week will be held Nov. 16 through Nov. 20 and each day of the week has a different event. Induction will be Monday’s event which is honoring new member’s day. Tuesday is service day and will be hosting the event feed my starving children. The Honors Seminar will be the event for scholarship day on Wednesday. Thursday is founder’s day and members will be at a table in the business bulge handing out cake to students for participating in trivia. Last but not least, an ice cream social will be held Friday in the student lounge.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Summary 7: Tuxedo Denied in Yearbook
Girl in tuxedo denied a place in school yearbook
By Chris Joyner, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2009-10-18-yearbook-photo-lesbian_N.htm?poe=HFMostPopular)
Summary: 17-year-old Ceara Sturgis is a straight-A student, a goalie on the soccer team, a trumpet player in the band and active in Students Against Destructive Decisions. She is also gay and prefers to wear boy’s clothes. In July she decided that she was going to wear a tuxedo for her senior portraits. Now she is battling officials at Wesson Attendance Center in the Copiah County School District to get her picture into the yearbook. Candace Gingrich of the Human Rights Campaign said that it is not uncommon for LGBT students to have this issue with their schools. The district has been warned by the Mississippi chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union that they are violating Sturgis’ constitutionally protected freedom of expression. However, the district’s attorney has assured Superintendent Ricky Clopton that they are within their rights to exclude the photo.
By Chris Joyner, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/nation/2009-10-18-yearbook-photo-lesbian_N.htm?poe=HFMostPopular)
Summary: 17-year-old Ceara Sturgis is a straight-A student, a goalie on the soccer team, a trumpet player in the band and active in Students Against Destructive Decisions. She is also gay and prefers to wear boy’s clothes. In July she decided that she was going to wear a tuxedo for her senior portraits. Now she is battling officials at Wesson Attendance Center in the Copiah County School District to get her picture into the yearbook. Candace Gingrich of the Human Rights Campaign said that it is not uncommon for LGBT students to have this issue with their schools. The district has been warned by the Mississippi chapter of the American Civil Liberties Union that they are violating Sturgis’ constitutionally protected freedom of expression. However, the district’s attorney has assured Superintendent Ricky Clopton that they are within their rights to exclude the photo.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Obituary: Michelle Bisset
Michelle Bisset, who was VP of Leadership for the Phi Theta Kappa at Anoka Ramsey Community College and an active member in both the community and her school, died yesterday at the age of 22.
Bisset died at 3:30 p.m. from hemorrhaging during labor at Unity Hospital. Her complications started when the placenta detached from the uterine wall and delivered first. Her son, who was later named Calvin, was delivered safely.
Bisset was attending Anoka Ramsey Community College in hopes to finish her generals before transferring to the University of Minnesota. She was in the process of completing her last semester before accomplishing her hopes. She had also just finished planning the Induction Ceremony for the Phi Theta Kappa.
Bisset is survived by her husband, Sean, and her son, Calvin, and her mother, Tina H#######, and her father, Ron T########, and her sister, Kassi Bisset.
Bisset’s memorial service will be at Withrow Ballroom Church 3 p.m. Saturday. She will be buried in the Sunken Gardens Cemetery immediately following the service.
Bisset died at 3:30 p.m. from hemorrhaging during labor at Unity Hospital. Her complications started when the placenta detached from the uterine wall and delivered first. Her son, who was later named Calvin, was delivered safely.
Bisset was attending Anoka Ramsey Community College in hopes to finish her generals before transferring to the University of Minnesota. She was in the process of completing her last semester before accomplishing her hopes. She had also just finished planning the Induction Ceremony for the Phi Theta Kappa.
Bisset is survived by her husband, Sean, and her son, Calvin, and her mother, Tina H#######, and her father, Ron T########, and her sister, Kassi Bisset.
Bisset’s memorial service will be at Withrow Ballroom Church 3 p.m. Saturday. She will be buried in the Sunken Gardens Cemetery immediately following the service.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Summary 6: Kanabec County Sees Stimulus Program
STIMULUS MONEY FLOWS... ...BABY STEPS FOLLOW
By Mike Kaszuba
Star Tribune, Thursday October 8th, 2009
Summary: The $787 billion stimulus program from President Obama is reaching Kanabec County which has the highest double-digit unemployment rate of any county in Minnesota. This stimulus increase has recently raised pressing questions about the difference it can actually make because even with the increase the national jobless rate continues to creep higher. Not only that but, Obama is considering a second stimulus package that could include a mix of new spending and tax cuts.
Unfortunately, Kanabec County has problems that are larger than any temporary cash flow can solve. For decades, they have remained relatively isolated due to the lack of major highways. In January and February, during the hardest recession since the 1930s, their unemployment peaked at 17.8 percent and sits at 11.2 percent today. At Kanabec Hospital, the county’s largest employer, costs to treat uninsured patients jumped from $2 million to $3.1 million in two years. However, despite these few downfalls, the federal stimulus money is making baby steps possible.
By Mike Kaszuba
Star Tribune, Thursday October 8th, 2009
Summary: The $787 billion stimulus program from President Obama is reaching Kanabec County which has the highest double-digit unemployment rate of any county in Minnesota. This stimulus increase has recently raised pressing questions about the difference it can actually make because even with the increase the national jobless rate continues to creep higher. Not only that but, Obama is considering a second stimulus package that could include a mix of new spending and tax cuts.
Unfortunately, Kanabec County has problems that are larger than any temporary cash flow can solve. For decades, they have remained relatively isolated due to the lack of major highways. In January and February, during the hardest recession since the 1930s, their unemployment peaked at 17.8 percent and sits at 11.2 percent today. At Kanabec Hospital, the county’s largest employer, costs to treat uninsured patients jumped from $2 million to $3.1 million in two years. However, despite these few downfalls, the federal stimulus money is making baby steps possible.
Heart Like a Hero - Lashaya Meyers, Keys and Vocals
Lashaya Meyers is a 20-year-old mother whose hobby is to sing and play the keyboard. When her husband, Josh, asked her to join his band as a bass guitarist in 2007, she accepted. She switched to playing the keyboard and singing vocals when she joined her current band Heart Like a Hero. Heart Like a Hero is a local band based out of the northern suburbs of the Twin Cities. Josh, her husband screams vocals and plays the lead guitar. The other band members are: Kyle who rocks the drums, Brian who sings and plays guitar and Tom who strums the bass guitar.
Meyers favorite thing about the band is playing shows and seeing the crowd enjoy something that they have worked so hard on. She would love to play music for a living and this is her plan. However, she feels that they have to become famous first to do this. If playing music doesn’t work out, she has a backup plan to be a full-time mother because she loves her daughter. The band practices at least one night a week when they don’t have a show to prepare for. If they have to play a show they try to practice more. That is one of her least favorite things about being in the band, not enough time to practice.
When Meyers was asked to give advice to someone who wanted to start a band she said, “You have to be dedicated and you need to find a good singer because that is 80 percent of what people listen to.”
Meyers favorite thing about the band is playing shows and seeing the crowd enjoy something that they have worked so hard on. She would love to play music for a living and this is her plan. However, she feels that they have to become famous first to do this. If playing music doesn’t work out, she has a backup plan to be a full-time mother because she loves her daughter. The band practices at least one night a week when they don’t have a show to prepare for. If they have to play a show they try to practice more. That is one of her least favorite things about being in the band, not enough time to practice.
When Meyers was asked to give advice to someone who wanted to start a band she said, “You have to be dedicated and you need to find a good singer because that is 80 percent of what people listen to.”
Michelle
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Interviewing Brett Boxwell on Baseball
Interview: Brett Boxwell
First set of questions:
(Q) 1. What is your favorite hobby?
(A) My favorite hobby is playing baseball.
(Q) 2. What made this your favorite hobby?
(A) It became my favorie hobby because I have an older brother who also enjoyed playing while we were growing up so it was something we were always doing and have continued doing to this day.
(Q) 3. At about what age did this become your favorite hobby?
(A) I always liked playing baseball but I don't think it became my favorite hobby until I was in high school.
(Q) 4. How often do you do this favorite hobby?
(A) I still play quite a bit. I'm on the colleges team here at AR and I also play on an amatuer team in the summer.
(Q) 5. Has anything happened to you while doing this hobby (good/bad/anything)?
(A) The only thing I can think of is the time I was at practice in the eighth grade and got hit with a ball and broke my nose.
(Q) 6. Where is your favorite place to do this hobby?
(A) I've played at hundreds of different fields over the years but my senior year in high school my summer baseball team made it to the finals of a sixtey team tournament and we got to play the championship in the metrodome. We won and it was a really cool experience to play where the pros play.
(Q) 7. Does anyone else do this hobby with you?
(Q) 8. Does anyone else have this same favorite hobby as you?
(A) 7&8. A lot of my friends I made through baseball and a few of them from high school are on the college team and my summer team. I also have a younger and older brother who both play so we've always played in non-organized games amongst each other.
(Q) 9. Where do you go to school?
(A) I go to school at ARCC the Coon Rapids campus
(Q) 10. How old are you?
(A) I'm 21, just turned yesterday.
(Q) 11. What city do you live in?
(Q) 12. Do you attend ARCC? If so, do you visit the campus? If not, then where do you go to school (or are you an online student only)?
(A) I attend all my classes but this one at the Coon Rapids campus.
Second set of questions:
(Q) 1. You have said that your older brother has made baseball your favorite hobby, why is that?
(A) Well growing up, I think if a young boy has an older brother he kind of looks up to him and gets involved's going prett, I focused a little more on baseball because I thought it was the sport I had the best chance excelling in.
(Q) 2. You said that it didn't become your favorite sport until high school, what experience in high school made it your favorite hobby?
(A) Well, I also played football and basketball growing up but baseball ended up being what I was best at. therefore, I think I focused more at baseball because I saw more of a future in that for me.
(Q) 3. You said that you are on the team at AR, how is that team doing?
(A) It's actually going pretty well. Last year was my first year and we made it to the state tournament for the first time in about six years. Most of our starters are returning this year too so everybody wants to do even better than last year.
(Q) 4. Do you do anything special as a team (the AR team), any rituals before games/after games/movie nights/hang out?
(A) As a team, we don't really have any rituals. The ly thing I can think of is getting together after games and celebrating big wins.
(Q) 5. Do you do anything special as a team (the summer amateur team), any rituals before games/after games/movie nights/hang out?
(A) The same thing goes for the amateur team.
(Q) 6. Which team do you like to play on better?
(A) I like playing on both teams pretty equally. I have more friends on the summer team and my older brother plays on it as well, but on the spring college team, I get a lot more innings pitching and play a bigger role on that team which I enjoy. (I'm a pitcher by the way)
(Q) 7. Anything else interesting about baseball I should know?
(A) Not much else really, I hope to continue playing as long as my body and skill level allow me too. Hopefully, if this spring goes well I'll be able to transfer to a four year school and play my junior and senior seasons there.
Michelle
Monday, October 5, 2009
“I can’t imagine what my life would be like without bicycling,” Taylor said.
Marsha L. Taylor, 2012 Lincoln Boulevard, was released two days ago after being injured in a bicycling accident. Shortly after she finished the U.S. Tour she was riding down 72nd Street, almost to Southland Boulevard, when a car hit her from behind sending her flying off of her bike. “That’s all I can remember until I was in the hospital,” Taylor said. She suffered a mild concussion, a broken neck, six broken ribs, a broken arm and a broken pelvis. One of the doctors said it was a miracle she wasn’t paralyzed because she had what they called a hangman’s fracture.
After a couple of weeks the doctors sent Taylor to a rehabilitation facility where they discovered she had internal injuries as well. Her intestines were perforated and her liver and gall bladder were injured which caused her skin to turn bright orange. “When my mother saw me she said I looked like a Halloween pumpkin,” Taylor said. These complications put her back into the hospital for four months.
Even though she suffered many injuries, Taylor still wants to ride her bicycle. “If I could, I’d be out there right now, but it’s hard to ride a bike when you have to use crutches,” Taylor said. The main precaution is to wear protective clothing, especially a helmet when bicycling. “It probably saved my life this time,” Taylor said.
Taylor still has to go three times a week for rehabilitation.
After a couple of weeks the doctors sent Taylor to a rehabilitation facility where they discovered she had internal injuries as well. Her intestines were perforated and her liver and gall bladder were injured which caused her skin to turn bright orange. “When my mother saw me she said I looked like a Halloween pumpkin,” Taylor said. These complications put her back into the hospital for four months.
Even though she suffered many injuries, Taylor still wants to ride her bicycle. “If I could, I’d be out there right now, but it’s hard to ride a bike when you have to use crutches,” Taylor said. The main precaution is to wear protective clothing, especially a helmet when bicycling. “It probably saved my life this time,” Taylor said.
Taylor still has to go three times a week for rehabilitation.
Summary 5: 2009 Nobel Prize in medicine candidates
Stem cell pioneers may be Nobel Prize candidates
From USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/world/2009-10-04-stem-cell-pioneers_N.htm)
Summary: Two Canadian scientists, Ernest McCulloch and James Till, could be candidates for the 2009 Nobel Prize in medicine. In 2005 both scientists won the prestigious Lasker Award, which many go on to win Nobel Prizes after. They are candidates because of their early 1970s identification of regenerative cells has paved the way for research today. Stems cells offer the possibility to replace damaged cells, tissues and maybe organs to treat diseases such as diabetes. In recent breakthroughs, scientists have managed to avoid controversial growth of stem cells from human eggs. Instead they are making human cells from ordinary skin cells. The prizes are handed out every year on the anniversary of Nobel’s 1896 death, Dec. 10.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
My Earliest Memory: Super Nintendo Included
My earliest memory happened when I was living in Rush City, MN. I think I was about 5 years old. It was Christmas Eve night and I put out cookies and milk. I went to bed and the next morning the cookies were half eaten and the milk was half gone. I was shocked, so I took a bite of the cookie and a sip of the milk. I really don't know why I did this, but the cookies were stale and the milk was sour. It was disgusting. I wasn't upset about it though because I got a Super Nintendo that year. :D
Michelle
Michelle
Monday, September 28, 2009
County Sheriff's Department wants New Cruisers and Personnel, County Commissioners Say, "No."
Sheriff Gus DiCesari accused the county commissioners of shortchanging the county sheriff's department to save money Thursday afternoon during a meeting. The county ran short of money this year causing the commissioners and DiCesari to be at odds with each other over new equipment and personnel.
DiCesari told the commissioners he needs to purchase eight new police cruisers to replace eight older vehicles that have more than 150 thousand miles on them and hire five additional deputies. Since the county ran short of money this year, Commissioner President Anne Chenn said the county does not have the additional $580 thousand needed for the new equipment and personnel.
Chenn said the county ran short of money this year because of the increased costs of health care for employees and higher fuel costs. Also the county had to spend $30 million to build a new prison to alleviate overcrowding. The county’s budget this year was $127 million.
DiCesari argued: “It is getting too costly to maintain the older vehicles and they spend too much time in the repair shop. You commissioners eliminated the equipment budgets for my department this year and now I can’t buy anything. This is the first time in my 27 years as sheriff that the county hasn’t allocated money to the sheriff’s department to buy equipment. My deputies can’t keep driving these old vehicles. Something bad is going to happen.”
Chenn then suggested that the deputies not drive their cruisers home each day as they do now, which would make more cars available and preserve mileage. DiCesari said that letting the deputies drive their cruisers home and parking them in their neighborhoods was a deterrent to crime.
On the other hand, Commissioner Anita Shenuski and Raymond Laybourne felt that the county should spend more money on the sheriff’s department and law enforcement than programs for migrant workers who come to the county to work.
Shenuski said during a heated argument with Chenn: “We never had problems until we began letting migrants come to this county to work. They are a problem for our law enforcement, our schools and to our healthcare system. They take away jobs from decent people and work for next to nothing and if something gets stolen, you can be it is one of them that’s taken it. We need to protect local residents from them.”
Chenn denied that immigrants are the problem and stated: “Those people who come here to work are decent, hardworking people being employed at jobs that local residents don’t want to do. They add a great deal to the local economy and they pay taxes. You are being a hypocrite when you try to blame those people for everything.”
The county commissioners estimate that there are around 5 thousand migrant families now in the county working in agricultural, construction and service industry jobs. Commissioner Jose Gardez said many of the migrant workers become permanent members of the community, opening businesses and eventually earning citizenship.
In the end, the commissioners voted 5-2 against the sheriff’s request for additional money.
DiCesari told the commissioners he needs to purchase eight new police cruisers to replace eight older vehicles that have more than 150 thousand miles on them and hire five additional deputies. Since the county ran short of money this year, Commissioner President Anne Chenn said the county does not have the additional $580 thousand needed for the new equipment and personnel.
Chenn said the county ran short of money this year because of the increased costs of health care for employees and higher fuel costs. Also the county had to spend $30 million to build a new prison to alleviate overcrowding. The county’s budget this year was $127 million.
DiCesari argued: “It is getting too costly to maintain the older vehicles and they spend too much time in the repair shop. You commissioners eliminated the equipment budgets for my department this year and now I can’t buy anything. This is the first time in my 27 years as sheriff that the county hasn’t allocated money to the sheriff’s department to buy equipment. My deputies can’t keep driving these old vehicles. Something bad is going to happen.”
Chenn then suggested that the deputies not drive their cruisers home each day as they do now, which would make more cars available and preserve mileage. DiCesari said that letting the deputies drive their cruisers home and parking them in their neighborhoods was a deterrent to crime.
On the other hand, Commissioner Anita Shenuski and Raymond Laybourne felt that the county should spend more money on the sheriff’s department and law enforcement than programs for migrant workers who come to the county to work.
Shenuski said during a heated argument with Chenn: “We never had problems until we began letting migrants come to this county to work. They are a problem for our law enforcement, our schools and to our healthcare system. They take away jobs from decent people and work for next to nothing and if something gets stolen, you can be it is one of them that’s taken it. We need to protect local residents from them.”
Chenn denied that immigrants are the problem and stated: “Those people who come here to work are decent, hardworking people being employed at jobs that local residents don’t want to do. They add a great deal to the local economy and they pay taxes. You are being a hypocrite when you try to blame those people for everything.”
The county commissioners estimate that there are around 5 thousand migrant families now in the county working in agricultural, construction and service industry jobs. Commissioner Jose Gardez said many of the migrant workers become permanent members of the community, opening businesses and eventually earning citizenship.
In the end, the commissioners voted 5-2 against the sheriff’s request for additional money.
Michelle
Summary 4: Student Loans Are Commonly Referred to as “Good Debt”
Private loans for students can become traps
By Kara McGuire
Star Tribune, Sunday September 27th, 2009
Summary: Student loans can be confusing and end up costing a person more in the long run. The term “private student loans” is sometimes used to refer to Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFEL), which can be very confusing. FFEL are the government student-loan programs that are administered by private companies, such as Wells Fargo. Some private loans work more like credit cards. These loans have far fewer protections and guarantees for borrowers than do government-sponsored loans. According to a policy paper by financial aid expert Mark Kantrowitz, private loan volume grew from $7.7 billion in 2003-2004 to $22.4 billion in 2007-2008. Unfortunately, college graduates with too much student loan debt cannot, in most cases, discharge the loans in bankruptcy. Not only that, but these private loans aren’t included in any of the recent laws passed to make college more affordable. The laws passed include income-based repayment plans and loan forgiveness for certain altruistic occupations. One of the only options a student has is to call their lender to explore their options if they are having problems repaying their debt. Also, one tip before taking out a student loan is to calculate how much debt you can afford to repay first.
By Kara McGuire
Star Tribune, Sunday September 27th, 2009
Summary: Student loans can be confusing and end up costing a person more in the long run. The term “private student loans” is sometimes used to refer to Federal Family Education Loan Program (FFEL), which can be very confusing. FFEL are the government student-loan programs that are administered by private companies, such as Wells Fargo. Some private loans work more like credit cards. These loans have far fewer protections and guarantees for borrowers than do government-sponsored loans. According to a policy paper by financial aid expert Mark Kantrowitz, private loan volume grew from $7.7 billion in 2003-2004 to $22.4 billion in 2007-2008. Unfortunately, college graduates with too much student loan debt cannot, in most cases, discharge the loans in bankruptcy. Not only that, but these private loans aren’t included in any of the recent laws passed to make college more affordable. The laws passed include income-based repayment plans and loan forgiveness for certain altruistic occupations. One of the only options a student has is to call their lender to explore their options if they are having problems repaying their debt. Also, one tip before taking out a student loan is to calculate how much debt you can afford to repay first.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
My First Day at Anoka Ramsey Community College
The first time I walked through the halls at Anoka Ramsey Community College I felt very overwhelmed. I had no idea where anything was and had to ask everyone I saw for help. I felt people may have thought I was stupid or something because I threw so many questions at them. Not only was I lost, but I ended up being five minutes late to my class. I couldn’t seem to find it right away. When I finally found it, I was nervous to go in. I had been out of school for a year and wasn’t looking forward to diving back into it. When I got into the classroom, my nerves settled down and everything went smoothly. I made new acquaintances and loved the atmosphere. I am super glad I signed up for classes at Anoka Ramsey Community College!
Michelle
Monday, September 21, 2009
Summary 3: Biggest Slump on Record Came to an End.
U.S. household net worth rose $2 trillion in second quarter
By Bloomberg News, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/money/economy/2009-09-17-net-worth_N.htm)
Summary: After the biggest slump since 1980, consumer spending has started to improve this quarter adding a gain in wealth. This improvement is supplemented by federal stimulus measures such as extended jobless benefits, tax credits and the cash-for-clunkers program. It all happened in the second quarter when household wealth increased by $2 trillion in the United States. Americans are also taking on less debt and saving more. This decision has caused a savings rate up to six percent of disposable income in May. Since consumers are holding back on spending, some economists feel that this savings rate will only continue to increase. On top of all that, net worth for households and non-profit groups climbed to $53.1 trillion in the first quarter. There was an increase by $1.4 trillion in the second quarter for household net worth in corporate stocks and mutual funds as well. Some of these jumps were the largest since 1998.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Two people killed with 20 people injured on Interstate 790
At 6:45 a.m. two tractor-trailers collided with one another that started a chain reaction crash on Interstate 790. Two people driving cars were killed and 20 others were injured and taken to the hospital, four of them were seriously hurt. Tony Sullivan, the fire chief, said that one of the ambulance drivers informed him the seriously injured people were life-threatening.
According to Sgt. Albert Wei of the police department there were a total of four tractor-trailers and 14 cars involved in the accident. One of the tractor-trailers was a tanker hauling diesel fuel. “It was very lucky that it didn’t roll over or dump any fuel or catch fire,” Wei said. The truck part of the tanker was damaged when a car hit it, but the truck driver managed to get it stopped safely along the side of the road.
All five of the fire departments ambulances were on the scene, along with ambulances from four of the nearby city’s fire departments. The “Life Flight” helicopter from Memorial Hospital was also called to the scene to fly two of the worst injured to the trauma center in Statesville, 50 miles away. Sullivan said that his firefighters had to cut the roofs off three of the cars to free the drivers and passengers that were trapped inside.
According to Wei, this accident happened in the northbound lanes of I-790 and closed both the north and southbound lanes. The interstate was still closed at 10 a.m., creating quite a mess for the rush hour traffic. People who normally would have used I-790 had to go on Interstate 690, which backed up traffic for three hours.
According to Sgt. Albert Wei of the police department there were a total of four tractor-trailers and 14 cars involved in the accident. One of the tractor-trailers was a tanker hauling diesel fuel. “It was very lucky that it didn’t roll over or dump any fuel or catch fire,” Wei said. The truck part of the tanker was damaged when a car hit it, but the truck driver managed to get it stopped safely along the side of the road.
All five of the fire departments ambulances were on the scene, along with ambulances from four of the nearby city’s fire departments. The “Life Flight” helicopter from Memorial Hospital was also called to the scene to fly two of the worst injured to the trauma center in Statesville, 50 miles away. Sullivan said that his firefighters had to cut the roofs off three of the cars to free the drivers and passengers that were trapped inside.
According to Wei, this accident happened in the northbound lanes of I-790 and closed both the north and southbound lanes. The interstate was still closed at 10 a.m., creating quite a mess for the rush hour traffic. People who normally would have used I-790 had to go on Interstate 690, which backed up traffic for three hours.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Summary 2: President Obama in Minneapolis
‘THE TIME FOR GAMES IS PASSED’
By Josephine Marcotty, Rachel E. Stassen-Berger, and Mike Kaszuba, Star Tribune staff writers
Summary: Minneapolis was President Obama’s first stop to push his health care reform. About 17,000 people packed into the Target Center Saturday to hear his speech. This reform will include people with or without jobs, elimination of coverage caps and a public option. President Obama showed his support of health insurance exchanges, which would allow negotiation for lower prices. If the exchange doesn’t make health insurance affordable to all, the federal government will provide tax credits. When President Obama announced his public insurance option, the crowd gave a huge applause. However, this has been described as a deal-breaker by Republicans. President Obama would make the public insurance option only as an option, not a requirement to choose. The crowd roared their approval again and again, even as they were exiting. Before and after the speech the crowd was mostly peaceful, except for the few shouting matches. This rally could be a turning point to the negative images portrayed at congressional town hall meetings across the country.
By Josephine Marcotty, Rachel E. Stassen-Berger, and Mike Kaszuba, Star Tribune staff writers
Summary: Minneapolis was President Obama’s first stop to push his health care reform. About 17,000 people packed into the Target Center Saturday to hear his speech. This reform will include people with or without jobs, elimination of coverage caps and a public option. President Obama showed his support of health insurance exchanges, which would allow negotiation for lower prices. If the exchange doesn’t make health insurance affordable to all, the federal government will provide tax credits. When President Obama announced his public insurance option, the crowd gave a huge applause. However, this has been described as a deal-breaker by Republicans. President Obama would make the public insurance option only as an option, not a requirement to choose. The crowd roared their approval again and again, even as they were exiting. Before and after the speech the crowd was mostly peaceful, except for the few shouting matches. This rally could be a turning point to the negative images portrayed at congressional town hall meetings across the country.
Michelle
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Recent Restaurant Visit
I recently visited the Coon Rapids Bakers Square and was disappointed. When I arrived they were moderately busy, so I wasn't offended that getting service took a little time. When the host came to great me she wasn’t smiling or welcoming. However, at the table she was very informative and let me know a lot of information. She let me know that it was pie rush wednesday, the soups of the day, and a few specials.
I then proceeded to sit there and wait for service. About ten minutes passed and the server greeted me with, “has anyone been with you yet?” I was shocked because I could clearly see that this was her section. I am also a waitress and you should take the blame for neglecting a table. All you need to do is walk up to the table, apologize for not getting there sooner and tell them why. I already knew why, but her greeting me that way annoyed me. She then took my drink order and became my waitress (which she already was).
The food was great, though a lot of the condiments were forgotten and we had to ask the manager to get them for us. We really didn’t want to, but my french toast was getting cold and we couldn’t find our waitress. When we were all finished we brought our ticket up to the register to pay. I gave the cashier a check stub to receive my 30 percent discount and she denied it. She said that I could either have pie rush wednesday or my discount. I have always done both, so I was really upset. I also had proof that I have always done it and they still wouldn’t budge. I paid the full price and will never go back there again.
I then proceeded to sit there and wait for service. About ten minutes passed and the server greeted me with, “has anyone been with you yet?” I was shocked because I could clearly see that this was her section. I am also a waitress and you should take the blame for neglecting a table. All you need to do is walk up to the table, apologize for not getting there sooner and tell them why. I already knew why, but her greeting me that way annoyed me. She then took my drink order and became my waitress (which she already was).
The food was great, though a lot of the condiments were forgotten and we had to ask the manager to get them for us. We really didn’t want to, but my french toast was getting cold and we couldn’t find our waitress. When we were all finished we brought our ticket up to the register to pay. I gave the cashier a check stub to receive my 30 percent discount and she denied it. She said that I could either have pie rush wednesday or my discount. I have always done both, so I was really upset. I also had proof that I have always done it and they still wouldn’t budge. I paid the full price and will never go back there again.
Michelle
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Lessons I've Learned of Leads
I have learned a lot this week. To start it off, I have never taken a journalism class in my life. I have no idea how to do any of this, so it is all new and exciting.
I was told that leads have to be in complete sentences. When I turned in my homework last week I found out that my attempt at writing leads looked more like headlines. That was an unfortunate mistake, but I really did learn from it.
I also learned to emphasize the story's most unusual developments. I feel that this is one of the easiest parts because I love the unusual. This makes it easier for me to pick out the unusual and add into my lead. It is also a great way to grab people's attention.
While I was reading about leads it said to avoid using unfamiliar names. That is why when I wrote my leads I used labels instead of names. It was also very helpful to learn that leads can be more than one sentence. I was writing all my leads in one sentence, which made it look like a headline.
Localizing the lead makes it easier to understand grabbed my attention because it makes sense to me. People love to read something that touches close to home. I also learned that stating the obvious can get boring so breaking the rules is a good thing.
Overall, I hope that I get a better grasp on writing leads!
I was told that leads have to be in complete sentences. When I turned in my homework last week I found out that my attempt at writing leads looked more like headlines. That was an unfortunate mistake, but I really did learn from it.
I also learned to emphasize the story's most unusual developments. I feel that this is one of the easiest parts because I love the unusual. This makes it easier for me to pick out the unusual and add into my lead. It is also a great way to grab people's attention.
While I was reading about leads it said to avoid using unfamiliar names. That is why when I wrote my leads I used labels instead of names. It was also very helpful to learn that leads can be more than one sentence. I was writing all my leads in one sentence, which made it look like a headline.
Localizing the lead makes it easier to understand grabbed my attention because it makes sense to me. People love to read something that touches close to home. I also learned that stating the obvious can get boring so breaking the rules is a good thing.
Overall, I hope that I get a better grasp on writing leads!
Michelle
Monday, August 31, 2009
Summary 1: Some Colleges Use SAT Test Scores Inappropriately!?
Mere 30-point bump on SAT can pay off big in admissions
By Mary Beth Marklein, USA TODAY
(http://www.usatoday.com/news/education/2009-05-20-SAT-prep_N.htm?loc=interstitialskip)
Summary: The non-profit National Association for College Admission Counseling released a study based on a survey of 246 college admission officials nationwide that raised concerns about inappropriate use of SAT test scores. This study was put together to see the effect of studying for college admission exams. Various independent studies have estimated that on average a test-taker can improve their reading and math scores by 30 points with tutoring. The College Board, which owns the test, says that’s only a small bump on the 1600-point SAT. However, if everything in the student's application were the same, the study showed that 20% to 40% of officials at 130 colleges who consider the SAT scores in admissions said that the 30 points would "significantly improve a student's chances of admissions". The association did state that this problem happens in only a small number of cases and there are plans the fix them because the 30 point advantage could be attributed to measurement error. Also the association for admissions professionals cautions against using scores as a sole criterion for such decisions.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Top 3 Most Noteworthy News Experiences
My first most memorable, or noteworthy, news experience is way back when I was in preschool and into first grade. I lived in Pine City and attended the Little Red School as well as the Catholic school in town. I was featured in the paper all the time. I remember being featured in the paper for a school performance we put together. It was all about the alphabet and we carried around giant letters and sang songs to help memorize words and things that had to do with the letters we were holding. I still have all the newspapers articles featuring me because my grandma was kind enough to cut them out and put them into a picture book. Since then I can’t remember a time that I have been featured in a paper (well except for the time when our senior class took a national band tour in Italy, but that was the whole group, not just me as an individual).
My second most memorable news experience would have to be the time when my parents were put on Channel 5, as well as printed in the Pioneer Press and Shoreview Press for their inflatable collection. I should say my stepdads inflatable collection. He has over 150 if I remember correctly. Channel 5 came out to interview both my parents on every holiday for a whole year and put together a collaboration of all the inflatable fun to be seen. Not only did they showcase all the different holidays with the matching inflatable collection, but they also told people where they could see this huge collection in person. All this publicity from the news and papers brought tons of people. Not only were people coming out, but buses and limos were making my parents house a place to stop and talk about. It is crazy heading over there for the holidays because I have to wait inline to park at their house! Even then people were angry that I was parking because it got in their way or something. Its like, “I’m sorry that this is my parent’s house and I want to have a holiday with them.” Nonetheless, it was cool seeing my parents get attention. They still do every year!
(Unfortunately this one is a sad one) My final most memorable news experience would have to be the time when I was sitting at home watching WCCO 4 news and my lifetime friend’s grandfather came on. Apparently he had been in his house when someone with a shotgun fired upon him and killed him. That was all that was said at this point. No suspects or anything to note. Later I find out that he had gotten up out of bed to make a sandwich for a late night snack. While he was in the process an unknown man randomly walking by took his shotgun and shot him in the chest through the back patio window. The reason they found the suspect is because the next night he walked to another random residence and shot the person living there as well. Plus there was no connection between the two individuals killed. It was shocking and really sad. What made it the most memorable is a few weeks later I was listening to KDWB and the host was talking about this incident and making fun of the suspects. Like, “Man if he didn’t have the munchies, he would still be alive today.” It was appalling and I called in and had a few choice words with them because it made me sick to my stomach the rest of the day. How dare them…
My second most memorable news experience would have to be the time when my parents were put on Channel 5, as well as printed in the Pioneer Press and Shoreview Press for their inflatable collection. I should say my stepdads inflatable collection. He has over 150 if I remember correctly. Channel 5 came out to interview both my parents on every holiday for a whole year and put together a collaboration of all the inflatable fun to be seen. Not only did they showcase all the different holidays with the matching inflatable collection, but they also told people where they could see this huge collection in person. All this publicity from the news and papers brought tons of people. Not only were people coming out, but buses and limos were making my parents house a place to stop and talk about. It is crazy heading over there for the holidays because I have to wait inline to park at their house! Even then people were angry that I was parking because it got in their way or something. Its like, “I’m sorry that this is my parent’s house and I want to have a holiday with them.” Nonetheless, it was cool seeing my parents get attention. They still do every year!
(Unfortunately this one is a sad one) My final most memorable news experience would have to be the time when I was sitting at home watching WCCO 4 news and my lifetime friend’s grandfather came on. Apparently he had been in his house when someone with a shotgun fired upon him and killed him. That was all that was said at this point. No suspects or anything to note. Later I find out that he had gotten up out of bed to make a sandwich for a late night snack. While he was in the process an unknown man randomly walking by took his shotgun and shot him in the chest through the back patio window. The reason they found the suspect is because the next night he walked to another random residence and shot the person living there as well. Plus there was no connection between the two individuals killed. It was shocking and really sad. What made it the most memorable is a few weeks later I was listening to KDWB and the host was talking about this incident and making fun of the suspects. Like, “Man if he didn’t have the munchies, he would still be alive today.” It was appalling and I called in and had a few choice words with them because it made me sick to my stomach the rest of the day. How dare them…
Michelle
Monday, August 24, 2009
Introduction
I would like to start out by saying that this will be my last semester before I complete my Associate in Applied Arts Degree at Anoka Ramsey Community College-Coon Rapids. Even though my AA Degree will be complete, I will continue to attend ARCC to become an RN. I will eventually transfer to the University of Minnesota. I have been attending ARCC for almost 3 years and I enjoy it a lot. In April of this year I was elected VP of Leadership for the Phi Theta Kappa which is a great honor. I have been a member of the Phi Theta Kappa for almost 3 years now and finally took a board position. I took journalism because I love reading and writing, as well as expressing myself though photojournalism. Overall, I thought taking a journalism class would be an expansion to that passion.
I have written stories and poems for the Rapids Review at ARCC-Coon Rapids and hope to write more. I also hope that being a board member of the Phi Theta Kappa will allow me to write for the ARCC-Coon Rapids newspaper, the Salmagundi. Other than my school activities, I love to be outdoors! My husband and I try to do something every weekend that involves us getting outside. This last weekend we went to the Renaissance Festival and had a blast. Other then that I work as a waitress and we are expecting our first son in November around Thanksgiving (not only our first son, but our first baby!). We are super excited for that :D Thank goodness we picked out a two bedroom apartment from day one.
That's about it.
I have written stories and poems for the Rapids Review at ARCC-Coon Rapids and hope to write more. I also hope that being a board member of the Phi Theta Kappa will allow me to write for the ARCC-Coon Rapids newspaper, the Salmagundi. Other than my school activities, I love to be outdoors! My husband and I try to do something every weekend that involves us getting outside. This last weekend we went to the Renaissance Festival and had a blast. Other then that I work as a waitress and we are expecting our first son in November around Thanksgiving (not only our first son, but our first baby!). We are super excited for that :D Thank goodness we picked out a two bedroom apartment from day one.
That's about it.
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