Home for the Holidays

After a long bus trip yesterday afternoon, I have arrived home for Christmas and New Year's. I don't get home much so it is kind of nice.

What I've Been Up To...

Wow...the last substantive post I made was right after Thanksgiving! I guess I'm about due, eh? Although as I've said before, posting ought to be more about content than frequency of posts.

Well, let's see. In the last few weeks:

• We welcomed a new Senate VP, Steph, who I think is going to be an absolute rock star this spring. Could not ask for a better team at the top.
• We had a great conference...all 14 of us. I continue to feel really good about the amount of interest our Senate has in MSUSA.
  
• I became a Board Member of MSUSA at the aforementioned conference. I must give major props to everyone who, as Laura put it, "Caucused the hell out of it" to get me elected. So, to April, Laura, Steph, Mitch, and everyone else who I can't think to link to...Thanks!! And of course there's Cody, without who's encouragement I might not have decided to run again. I only hope that I am able to carry out this position in a manner that will make not only this Senate, but all seven, proud.

And school-wise:

• I got through my World Lit and Campaigns and Elections finals
• I finally finished the paper for World Lit
• Battled SPSS for Inquiry
• Got my student teaching assignment--at BHS starting Jan. 3
  

Labels

I was going to sit here and label all my previous posts since I'm now converted to the new Blogger...I've decided that's a bit much work.

Testing

Testing the new Beta

Tragic Coincidences

In the spring of 2002, I was a Senior in high school. That was the year I was on Student Council, so I wanted to experience everything that Council was part of, even the Junior/Senior Prom. Yes, it meant breaking a Fishing Opener tradition, but Dad was ok with that...there is an Opener every year and only one Senior Prom.

Since I wasn't seeing anyone, my friend Tina set me up to go as her sister's date in a group with her and some other friends. Except for her, none of us was dating the guy or gal we accompanied so it was just a fun evening shared with friends.

That same year, my sister accompanied her then-boyfriend, who was a Senior like me. They had a wonderful, memorable evening as well.

Fast forward...

Labor Day 2003: My friend, the sister of my prom date, is killed in a motorcycle crash.

Thanksgiving Day 2006: The brother of my sister's former boyfriend and 02 prom date is killed in a motorcycle crash. The cycle had been a birthday gift just weeks ago. He was 20.

Both college sophomores, wonderful kids and so full of life. Both siblings of our prom dates. Both lives taken far too soon. An eerie, tragic coincidence.

If one needed a reason never to get on a motorcycle, this is it.

Rest in Peace, Tina and Brandon. Know that those of us who knew you will always remember the wonderful people you were.

Time to "Think Big"

I have been involved in student government a long time. In that time, I have seen the group ebb and flow...some months and years have been better than others. Nothing you do is always perfect. Just a couple of weeks ago I was writing on this blog about bumps in the road.

However, in the last couple of weeks I have also come to realize just what we are doing this year. It is not every day that students, faculty, and alumni come up to you and say things like "That bill was excellent", "I admire you", "He's a rock star" or the simple, yet powerful "Thank you for your work."

As my colleagues and I have discussed of late, it is very easy to get caught in the day to day kinds of functions we are required to fulfill, like going to such and such meeting or reviewing new policy. Much Senate business is reactive--we offer a response to an administrative proposal.

In the last month or two however, it seems like things are being taken a step further. Proposals are being reviewed, but along with that come suggestions for improvements. And folks are speaking up and asking questions. There are some things in the pipeline, that if done right will impact BSU in the long term.

It's time to "Think Big" and I'm glad I'm around to see it.

Not So Mighty?

Last night, the scroll ball on my Wireless Mighty Mouse quit working.

This morning I spent an hour on the phone with Apple.

They are sending me a new mouse.

Hopefully it will be mighty enough to last more than a couple of months.

Something From "The Lodge"

Checking out "The Lodge" today, I came across this post. Apparently, the U is considering adding language to their conduct policy that would punish students for off campus violations if they were serious enough.

Read the full article on wcco.com.

Definite food for thought for a student leader, especially as we've been discussing honor and conduct codes this past week. The big question related to this article--who decides which offenses are "serious" enough??

Election 2006

Well, yesterday was certainly an interesting one. I spent it in the office hanging out and answering election queries before heading over to the local DFL celebration with other friends.
Hanging out at a party soiree like that was a new experience It was a good time, and the energy was positive because they did very well.

Let's see:

• Moe won re-election and Olson unseated Ruud.
• Amy Klobuchar becomes MN's first woman US Senator--and I met her the other day.
  
• DFL took control of MN House and kept Senate, but Pawlenty kept the Governor's office. It will be interesting to see how things play out over the next couple of years.
• Democrats took US House and the US Senate, Of course they will have to contend with Bush and vice versa...which means a slow couple of years.
• The Event Center passed, albeit by a slim 44 votes.

The downers...

• Michelle Bachmann wins the 6th...UGH!
• Hal and Zac both lost to incumbents. They are both young and will (hopefully) try again some day.
  

It's Election Day

VOTE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

A Proud BSU Student Am I

This photograph was taken last week outside Royalton on Highway 10, and sent by our illustrious student body president to the Marketing Director with subject line "The Greatest Image Ever"

Me, the king of silly pictures and out of context quotes.

Whirlwind

It's hard for me to comprehend the past two or so weeks. They have been a rollercoaster of emotions surrounding my three "lives"...personal, professional and academic. Mostly the latter two.

First came the midterms. Those stressed me out. I felt like I did not have a grasp of them at all but ended up with high Bs and low As, which caused me to breathe a sigh of relief. Now I must worry about my thesis...I think I know where I'm headed but it has been slower going than expected. The data portion has frustrated me most...I have it but my SPSS version will not read the documents I need!

Then come the bumps in the road we have faced in Senate. It's probably no worse than I have been though before but I have felt like I was in the middle of, and even contributed to, a lot of drama. We all have lately, and it hasn't been the greatest use of time--something I realized through many conversations with a certain friend and colleague who has usually been able to help me put things in pretty good perspective. And I'm thankful beyond words for that. Everyone needs a person or two to keep them "grounded".

Of course the MSUSA conference this past weekend had its share of drama too. Our State Chair, a colleague for several years, decided to step down after this semester. While everyone understands it was a decision he had to make, it's sad to see him go.

I was asked yesterday how I was doing lately. My honest response was that I am hanging in there and have been pretty stressed. This week has seemed better and I hope it stays that way.

What a Week

And it's only Wednesday. Enough said.

Oh well, at least I don't have class tomorrow. The beauty of having two classes the same day with the same prof who decided to cancel for the day.

"Crash"

Tonight I had the opportunity to watch the movie Crash. It was screened on campus...an event put on by the newly formed "Diversity Jam" group.

Wow...what a picture. It was powerful...sad. It was so interesting to see the different perspectives the characters had. It really brought home the point that everyone has their own struggles and set of prejudices. And I found that the score was quite good as well...bought the soundtrack.

Definitely a movie worth watching.

A Busy Week, But Productive Too

• Took two midterms--I feel comfident about the Campaigns and Elections one, but not so much about the World Lit one.
• Did one of the pieces of my campaign analysis project
• Turned in my grad plans...now officially filed to graduate in May...a little scary, but good.
• Met about my poli sci thesis, which is starting to come together, at least I know where I'm going with it...if only I could fast forward through the whole data collection and entry part.
• Did lots of little things around the office, and helped our speaker with the meeting since Cody is gone and Bruce was temporarily mute.
• and plenty more...
  

It's Entirely Too Early

To be windy and snowy and nasty like it has been the last two days.

UGH.

I Haven't Dropped off the Face of the Earth

Once again, I have not posted in nearly a week, and as usual I imagine that people have been waiting to hear what I have to say...or not. I was in the office the other day and Steph and Cody were talking about whether or not blog posts should be dated. Yes, it provides a nice chronology but also makes one look and go "oh gosh I haven't posted in X number of days."

At any rate, it's been a very busy week. We had Senate elections, so I spent close to 10 hours tabling for that. We did get 400-some votes cast, which is pretty good. I did miss the episode of CSI my friend was in...bought what I thought was the right episide on iTunes yesterday, but it wasn't so I guess I will have to wait until the right one comes out.

Of course I also had a few assignments to get done...seems like everything always comes due at the same time, but it always works out.

Retreat

Yesterday we had our Senate retreat. I think it went very well. We went out to Itasca State Park and it was a great day; a tad cool in the morning but sunny and nice. The fall color there was also beautiful. It was good to get away from campus on such a day and have some conversation about the rest of the year.

Today--a lazy Sunday.

Facebook's Grammar

Facebook grammar is freaking amazing. On my friend's profile it reads:

"Kara is your friend. They was also a fellow group member. "

They was, was they?

Wonder who does their programming? Whomever it is might have flunked English.

This is what happens...

When one dines with the staff he worked with all summer, and another colleague, after a long day of MSUSA meetings.

Me: "Our organization may not be sexy, but we are!"

Kelly:"I can't pay with my hotel keycard"
Me: "Unless you can find a real hott waitress!"

Yes, I said these...I blame overtiredness.

A Crazy Weekend

I'm finally getting around to blogging about this weekend. It was fun but very busy. Hosting a conference tends to make a person feel very busy. Additionally, there was also the STLF Dilla Days event going on, so between the two it made for long days and late nights on Friday and Saturday.

It's crazy but worth it. I would not trade any of it for anything.

I Want...

The new features of Blogger in Beta...come on already and let me convert!

Weekend Home

This weekend I went home in order to see my grandparents who were in town for a short visit. Honestly I was surprised to hear they were coming as they don't make it to Minnesota much anymore. After all, it is a long driving trip for folks in their 80s. (They don't like flying anymore and prefer to take a few days in the car).

They were completely surprised to see my sister and I...parents had not told them we'd be down so they were completely floored and VERY happy. I am glad we got the chance to visit.

Also had a chance to see Brent, Derek and Sadie, which was very nice and I am happy to see that she's enjoying the "city life."

Clarification

To all who commentend with shock at my decision to step away from my role as a voting Student Senator:

-We are not full
-I can still participate in debate
-I am still a member of the body
-I'll get used to not voting

I chose to go this route in order to "ease out" by gradually reducing my role over the next year as opposed to going from as involved as I have been to flat out being done...if that makes any sense.

Still on Senate, No Longer a Senator

Today I did something I never thought I'd do...I resigned from my Senate seat. No, I am not giving up Senate, but I took a nonvoting position as Special Assistant to the Cabinet. Essentially I'll be a consultant and work to impart my "institutional knowledge" to younger folks as I gradually prepare to move on. This is, of course, my final year.

This will be the perfect way to finish out my "career." However, I must admit it will be a tad odd to participate in discussion and then not chime in with a vote for the first time since I've been in the organization.

I Live in My Email Box

Just for kicks, I counted the number of emails in my Sent folder from today.

There were 20. And I use Gmail, so that's 20 "conversations," many with multiple messages back and forth each.

Yeah, I am a creature of Email.

Something For Literature Fans

On AIM/iChat at the moment, one person on my Buddy List has the following Away message:

"Beowulf was a bad ass"

My Head is a Star?

I went to see Gubenatorial candidate Mike Hatch speak on Thursday and my head made the news...a shot of me from behind was in the paper and apparently a side view of me was in video on the local news.

It's not everyday your head makes the local media.

LOL.

My Blog is 2 Years Old

Today is officially the two-year mark for this blog. It was "born" on September 3, 2004.

Gateway Laptop For Sale

Since I've now joined the "Cult of Mac", my newer Gateway Laptop is up for sale...

USED GATEWAY LAPTOP
7322 GZ

System Info:
• Intel Pentium 4, 2.80 Ghz
• 512 MB RAM
• 60 GB HD
• 15.4 inch widescreen
• 4 USB Ports
• 56k Modem and 10/100 Ethernet
• Wireless Card installed
• CD/RW and DVD ROM


Programs Installed:
• MS Office 2003 (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint)
• Outlook Express
• Internet Explorer, Netscape, Firefox
• Quick Time
• Adobe Reader 7.0
• Windows Media Player 10
• Ad-Aware
• SPSS Student Edition 11

Laptop is 1 year old, recently serviced, in good, clean condition and virus free. The extended warranty (Best Buy) is transferable and valid through May, 2008.

Will include a laptop case and Microsoft corded USB mouse.

$650.00
or best offer

If you're interested, comment or email.

Back on Mac

Yes folks, it's official. I am now a true "Mac Stud" as opposed to the "Gateway man" I was in the early days of this blog. After contemplating the purchase of a MacBook since their release in May, I got a deal I couldn't pass up and brought home my shiny new laptop yesterday.

What promted the switch?

• I used Macs until 10th grade and have always liked them.
• I realized I don't do anything on my computer that can't be done on a Mac.
• I worked on Mac on an almost daily basis for 2.5 years in the Ed Lab.
• I am friends with Cody, Bob, and John...all of whom have told me of the virtues of Mac.
  
• I've been selling them to people since January...once you've pitched the ups and downs of Mac vs. PC you start to develop an idea of what you believe to be the winner.

And...they're solid products that are just plain cool.

And We're Off!

Day One of Fall Semester 2006 went a little bit like this:

8 am: Arrive at Computer Store and for the next 3 hours take more calls and assist more customers than I usually see in a week....ok maybe an exaggeration but it was busy.

11 am: Supposed to leave for lunch before class, still with a customer. Tell another person where to find MS Office deal before closing a nearly $2k laptop and iPod sale.

12 pm: Pro Teacher

1 pm: World Lit

2-4 pm: Back to the store. More people to help.

4 pm: Stop in Superlab to print Senate applications since office printer is not up and running.

4:30 pm: Stop in the office to do paperwork. Notice it is coming together well.

5:15: Back to Maple

Busier days lie ahead...

Move In Day...

The freshmen are in.

Sights and sounds of the school year slowly return to campus.

Academic year 2006-07 is only a day and a half away.

Is everybody ready?

Information Sharing

This evening I got a visit from my new RA. At the same time as he introduced himself, he also advised me of the new tuition payment policy...pay within five days of class starting or be dropped. That would have been well and good, a friendly reminder. But then he proceeded to tell me that based on information he had been given, he knew that I hadn't paid yet. (Waiting for arranged course paperwork to go through so I know what I actually owe)

Something's wrong with that:

1) Don't feel like you have to advise me of my status with regard to policies I knew about before you even did.

2) What business is it of yours who has and has not paid? I have to wonder what Residential Life was thinking giving that kind of info to student staff. My account status is between me and the Business Office.

Internship Over, Back in Bemidji

On Friday, I finished my tenure as an intern in the MSUSA office. It was, all things considered, a very good experience...I feel like I got to help the organization in a number of ways, really get into things. I felt like a part of the office...I think it comes from the fact I've worked with these folks a long time and know the organization, so I was no doubt more involved and my opinion sought more than if I had gone and worked in some big office where I didn't know anyone.

Some things I worked on:

• Chronicling files
• Chairing the DC Summit Task Force
  
• Getting bids for things-lots of them
• Setting up computers and troubleshooting technology-becoming the temp IT person, in a way.
• Participating in the hiring process for new staff-reviewed resumes, sat in on some interviews
• Helped with Summer Conference and the Golf Scramble
• Helping with the website move, saving a ton of $$$

At my "Goodbye" lunch (Hardly goodbye, as I am still going to be Campus Rep and the organizer will be in town 24 hours from now) I was asked to sum up my internship in one word. Instead, I gave five--a little bit of everything. I really did do a wide variety of stuff, which I enjoyed because I became more familiar with different facets of the organization.

I was also asked what my favorite part was. I responded that I enjoyed the opportunity to work every day with our officers and staff. They joked that I was kissing up, but it is true...they are a really great group of people, both working hard and having fun, and it is apparent they truly do care about the work they do. Knowing what the association has been through in the past couple of years I am glad to know that it is in a good place. I may have said it in the past, but this is a better, stronger, happier MSUSA .... with our students and staff, great things are to come.

And now, I'm back in Bemidji preparing for my fifth and final year of undergraduate exitement. We'll see what develops!

Berne at the Golf Course

Yes, you read that right. I don't golf, but I did spend the day at a golf course, helping out with MSUSA's Penny Fellowship Golf Scramble. It was a nice day, and luckily the rain stayed away.

And I even won a free iTunes card in the raffle. Fun stuff.

Busy Summer for the Folks in "Berne's World"

In the past week, I updated my sidebar...fixed broken links and etc. If you are reading this and were taken off the list, it doesn't mean anything except that you haven't updated in a long time. Here are just a few highlights...new arrivals and updated old favorites.

• If you're in to teaching, check out Ryan @ TFA in the MS Delta, Aimless @ Layers, and Miss G, who's busy Closing the Gap in NYC
• Lindsi is back to blogging at a New Spot
• Cody went to China, and the CrustyProfessor is going there too.
• Nicole is off to begin teaching English in Owatonna, and Sadie is Traveling the Journey from Bemidji to the Cities.
• Don Jacobo is headed back stateside for a visit...where, according to Julie, "carrots need love too"
• MSUSA has a new website, and a Facebook group...if you're an alum, join up!
• And finally, last but not least, a shout out to the folks campaigning and working hard to elect Hal Kimball for Senate 18. Not my district, but if it were, he'd get my vote. Also, check out the musings on the campaign blog.
  

I'm not the only one keeping busy this Summer...these people all rock!

100 Degrees!?

Yes, according to the Weather Channel website, and the radio earlier today, it is 100 degrees here in the Twin Cities. Last time I checked, this is Minnesota, right? It is simply not supposed to get that hot here. The other night we even went to stay with friends to escape the heat in our un-air conditioned bedrooms.

Rain and the 80s will feel awfully good tomorrow.

Getting Out More

I have long said I needed to get out more. This summer I have somewhat surprised myself, as I am actually doing so. In the last week, I've had two dinners and a lunch with different friends, one of whom I hadn't seen in a year. All of these were quite enjoyable.

Having a social life is a good thing.

A July Conference in Moorhead...Hot, Hot, Hot!!

This weekend was the Summer conference in Moorhead, complete with 100-plus degree weather. It was a good weekend, and Bruce and I held our own as the tiny Bemidji delegation of two. It was interesting to wear two "hats," as a proxy and an intern. Got to present a couple ofb things to the General Assembly, so it felt like I was talking a lot more than usual.

Despite a lack of quorum in GA (hey, it's the summer, who goes to these things in the summer?) we had some good discussions and between that and the board meeting set some good general direction for the year.

I see more positive things on the horizon.

Old Friends

A couple of days ago I ran into two high school friends while walking into a restaurant. Student Council colleagues from Senior year. I had not seen them since graduation. Both are doing well and are still a couple after 5 years--always a nice couple and wedding bells in the future would not surprise me in the least.

The next night I talked on AIM with another friend I don't believe I've spoken with in about 6 months.

It's good to catch up with folks.

The Reason I Haven't Been Posting More

Two words:

Dial - up internet. That's all we've got, and it has been driving me nuts. Slow is the operative word.

I have off the next couple of days. One of my projects will be blogs:
1. substantive update
2. template update
3. catch up on reading and commenting

Weekend in Review

This was a nice weekend. It brought some relaxation time with friends and family and was quite enjoyable.

Friday after finishing up at the office, I ventured into downtown Minneapolis to have dinner with Brent and Derek. It was an adventure given that I don't go down there often, let alone take the bus. But I made it down to Brit's on Nicollett Mall. We had a nice dinner and then walked back to their place which I had not seen. Looks great, and the neighboorhood seems nice. I always enjoy those two...great people indeed.

Saturday brought Mom's birthday. We went to a graduation party, and shopping at her favorite Mall of America store, a candy shop that sells Pez dispensers. The day finished off with a great dinner at Mancini's...if looking for a good steak, try it.

Finally, Sunday was a day spent outside, helping with a bit of yard work.

Yes, a nice weekend indeed.

Random?

I've recently been told this blog is kind of random.

Looking back at some entries, I realize that is kind of true.

Oh well :)

When News Makes News

Isn't it strange when as you read the daily paper or watch the nightly newscast, you find that that paper or newscast has in fact made the news itself? How dumb they must feel reporting on themselves.

Today I noticed that Dan Rather is leaving CBS News. It seemed only a matter of time really...he didn't like being forced out of the anchor chair and they didn't like his screwup on the Bush National Guard story a couple of years back. He'll land somewhere, although if I were him I'd say age 74 was a good time to retire.

Meanwhile, over at WCCO, coincidentally our CBS station in the Cities, they're pairing Frank and Amelia at 6 pm. Big surprise there. Not really, anyone who watches TV news in these parts probably saw it coming the minute KARE decided to dump Frank in favor of Smilin Mike, who looks rather like a plastic doll in some shots.

The question really should be: when newscasters make news themselves, with all the moving and shaking, is it a sign that TV news is less about news and more about entertainment?

Summer Posting

I have to agree with Aaron....posting in summer can be hard. After all, as I've said before, my life just isn't that exciting. Yet it almost feels like I should be updating at least once a week to keep the jucies flowing and let any readers I may have know I'm still alive.

So, world, forgive the sporadic nature of my postings these next couple of months. Of course I've ever really updated on a schedule have I?

Riding the Bus...

Is proving interesting already. Yesterday I was told "hope you heal, brother!" and today was confronted by two missionaries on bicycles as I walked from the stop back to my house.

What will tomorrow bring?

First Days

Yesterday and today were my first days in the MSUSA office. I think it will be a good experience there. I enjoy the people, which makes for a nice working atmosphere. It will be interesting to spend the summer in the office and see a little of what goes into the daily operation of a student association.

5 Things

Julie tagged me with this quiz. Here it goes.

5 Things in the Fridge:

-Pop (Squirt, Diet Pepsi Twist, Diet Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper
-Oranges
-Lunchmeat
-Pork Chops (to be cooked tomorrow on the George Foreman Grill)
-Leftovers (hamburgers, beef roast)

5 Things in my Closet:

-Shirts
-Rubbermaid totes containing goodness knows what
-Extra slippers
-Green cap and gown from high school graduation
-Old/spare jackets

5 Things in my Purse (well, how about wallet)

-Cash
-ID's (BSU, MN driving permit)
-Credit Cards (Visa, Herberger's and Best Buy, the latter two I never use)
-MN fishing license
-Blockbuster Video card (for the one across from Maple)

5 Things in my Car:

Well, I haven't been inside my van for a long time...goodness knows what the parents threw in there since the last time I drove...maybe I should clean it out :)

5 Things I Wish I Was Doing Right Now:

-Hanging in this house with more than just cats
-Vacationing with the 'rents
-Hanging out with friends
-Watching a movie
-Sleeping

5 Things I Like About my Bedroom:

-My Bed
-Alarm clock
-Stringer of fish pillows
-Trunk full of keepsake
-Bookshelf full of books and other various things

Idleness, and a Bit of Reflection

It occurs to me I have not blogged much lately. Perhaps it is because my life has not been that exciting. I go to bed late, get up late, surf the net, do dishes...etc. There is only so much to do when you have nothing productive to do. The free time was fun for the first couple of weeks but now it is getting old...I am used to having things to do. June 12 can not come soon enough (the day I finally start my internship work).

I am nearing the end of my solo week. It will be nice to have others in the house again. And good for the cats...they have been acting strange, I think they sense that Mom and Dad are missing.

The other day I found myself looking through some things and came across a box of cards written to me when I graduated high school. An interesting trip down memory lane. It's hard to believe four years have passed; the time flies cliche is really true. Got me wondering what has become of some classmates, the majority of whom recently graduated. For me, though, it's another year of the "college life." And knowing what lies at the end of that year, I'm perfectly fine with that.

Week Solo

Parents left this AM to go out west for a week, leaving me home with the cats. This should be an interesting week, hopefully not too boring.

In other news...it's REALLY hot and humid out. UGH!

Golden

Today is my birthday...22 on the 22nd.

Happy Birthday to me!

(Also, a Happy Birthday to Cody, who is 21 today...even though I doubt he reads this thing.)

Spring 2006 Grades in...

And I must say I am pleasantly surprised....

Political Analysis: A...must've done OK on that final, thank goodness.
Canadian Politics: A...as expected
Shakespeare: B....very happy with that
Social Stats: C...expected, but I'm ok with that...as long as I passed
Leadership Credit: A

3.3 for the semester, 3.67 cumlative....not bad.

Apple Releases the MacBook

Yes, it is here. MacBook, the long awaited successor to iBook, arrived yesterday. Apparently it also replaces the 12" Power Book, which means I was correct in assuming there would not be a 12" MacBook Pro.

Looks like a solid machine. They will sell well.

The biggest question...$200 more in Black? Come on, Apple.

Back Home

And so far it has been low-key. Sunday I went to my cousin's graduation from the U and for dinner at Buca. The last couple of days have been spent doing a whole lot of nothing...while it is nice to a point, I am used to having things to do. (I have a couple free weeks before my internship starts).

It's odd being here and realizing I will be for three months. I have not been at home more than 3 weeks at a time since the summer after my first year. Still not sure how I feel about this, even though I had many reasons to come back here instead of staying. It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.

PA Final Done

Yes, the evil Political Analysis final is complete. It took longer than expected, as my "good" laptop caught a virus last night and I had to shut it down...after of course I transferred every file I on to my jump drive and burned all my purchased iTunes to CD. I want my stuff in the event the stupid thing needs to be wiped. Have not had the best of luck with the thing.

Now all that's left to do is turn it in when I meet w/him at noon.

Sage Advice Via Blog

Tonight I clicked on Steph's blog and saw the following short post:

"Words of Wisdom
Suffered a small mental breakdown yesterday. Still recovering. A lot of tears were shed. A lot.

***

President-elect Cody had some advice for me yesterday as I stressed over a final project in Pub Design and two finals back to back yesterday afternoon: "There's more to life than getting a 'B' over a 'C'." And at long last, I believe him.

I am also convinced that he is THE nicest, selfless person EVER.


TBA: Steph's 'C' Party. Say "Goodbye" to 4.0's! Drinks. Drinks. And more drinks!"
--
And I left this comment:
--
"Steph, I totally needed to read that just now. I took two finals today (Monday) in Shakespeare and Stats. I also came to the realization that I will end up with Cs in both courses. I have received one C in my BSU life...and that was Freshman year. I do not get Cs.

But alas, Cody is right...There's more to life than getting a B over a C.

And I agree...he is the nicest, most selfless person ever. (or at least one of them)

Hang in there.''
--

So, even though it was not intended for me, thanks for the advice, bro.

This is a Test

All my spacing

in all my posts

appears to have disappeared

This makes me mad

I like paragraphs

Problem fixed...a setting had been changed somehow

The Past Week

So, I have not blogged, at least substantially, for an entire week. I blame finals...even though finals week officially started today, I have been quite busy all week with studying and papers and such.

I happily completed my thesis topics and Shakespeare paper on time, although I doubt if its the best paper I've written. In fact, I know it isn't.

Wednesday night I hung out at the Senate Sunsplash table and talked to people as they ate the ice cream sundaes we gave them. Something funny always happens with the Senate crew...this time it was Cody and our Hall Director both going for joyrides around the fieldhouse in my scooter. It was quite hilarious. 7 Senate apps came in for Fall thanks to Cody and his mad recruiting skills (or applying pressure until people gave in...I've done it too). Will be interesting to see how many actually show up and decide to run in September.

Yesterday, Senate played softball against the administration...and lost.

Today, I worked for an hour, went to a meeting about the Union remodeling, attended lunch and the open forum with the second candate for associate director, and took my Canadian Politics final.

And, scooter tires are evil...hope to god it is fixed this time.

It's Slightly Shrinking

School:

• Shakespeare final (Monday@8:00)
• Stats final (Monday @ 1)
• Analysis take-home (Due next Wed. the 10th)
• Meet w/ Pat Thursday 11th at 12:30
  

Senate:

• End of Year Report (technically overdue, but we're all students so people understand)
• 3 more candidate meetings
  
• Check w/ C about meeting with RG
  
• Get stuff out of office so it's not lost
• Send final site updates to web coordinator
  

Other:

• Laundry
• Work
• Clean/pack room

The End (of the Year) is Near

And here's the To Do List:

School:

• SPSS assignment for Stats (due tomorrow)
• Thesis topics for Analysis (due tomorrow)
• Shakespeare paper (due Wednesday)
• Canadian Politics final (Friday @ 3:30)
• Shakespeare final (Monday@8:00)
• Stats final (Monday @ 1)
• Analysis take-home (Due next Wed. the 10th)
• Get meeting w/Pat-leadership option

Senate:

• Bookstore Committee meeting (tomorrow @ 9)
• Meeting/Softball/Picnic (Thursday @4)
• End of Year Report (due Friday)
• Attend as many lunches and open forums as possible for Union and VP candidates
• Send out Honor Code bill
• Get other bills to send to webmaster
• Conference expense report
• Check w/ C about meetings with RG, TM
• Get stuff out of office so it's not lost
• Evals-N. T, C, S

Other:

• Thursday AM service project
• Laundry
• Work
• Clean/pack room

And that's just what I can think of off the top of my head.

Four Years of MSUSA...and it Isn't Over Yet

Good conference this weekend. The meetings went well, and I think we had fun. It was low key, there was good discussion, and evenings were calming...the way I like it, but not the way it always goes.

It is hard to believe yet another year of conferences has come to an end. Seems like yesterday that I was attending my first conference, and that was nearly four years ago. I may not have loved every moment of every conference, but each experience, each person I have come in contact with has impacted me. Taught me. Many of them have become friends.

This morning I accepted the association's yearly MVP award. I've never really thought of myself as an MVP, but I am humbled and honored by the thank you.

And looking forward a fifth year ahead...

From Mankato

Sitting in a hotel room and posting just because I can. Gotta love wireless internet.

More on conference to follow tomorrow.

Embarassing Moments...

You have a meeting with a faculty member about a Student Senate proposal.

You are scheduled to meet in the Union and decide to try something new...a Chai Javalanche from the food court coffee shop.

You go over to the table and set down your drink without incident.

Then your colleague from Senate arrives at the table, and in the process of sliding over to give him a place to sit, you bump the drink you just set down, and it spills all over both of you, and your papers, right in front of the person you're meeting with.

Yeah...that's how my first meeting of the day started. Luckily, it went well from there!

Road Trip!

After my crappy day on Thursday, I decided I needed a break....from thinking about homework, classes, Senate and other stresses. So, I did something different for a change--on Friday, I packed a change of clothes and headed to Minneapolis with Cody, Bruce, Beth, Spooner, Grace and Bobbie for the STLF Spring Conference.

I called Mom Friday night, and she was quite surprised to hear I was in the Cities. I am usually not one to travel on a moment's notice. She's usually the one that calls and says "See you in 4 hours", or books tickets with old friends at the last minute. For me, when I go places, it's usually Senate/MSUSA related and planned well in advance.

I must say I think I need more spontaneous road trips. It was fun to hang out with awesome people, some of whom I had not seen since Spring Break. It was nice to relax. Saturday brought a beautiful morning for a Como Park cleanup. (Oh, how clean it was compared to our last experience cleaning a park (D.C.) ). The afternoon brought a chance to go to some different kinds of seminars.

Yesterday evening, headed to St. Cloud for the Regional Film Fest, and left proud that "Prelude," the Beaver Film Fest's first place winner, took the same prize when pitted against competition from around the state. (Congrats again, Aaron!)

Got back into town at about 1 am. Even though it was only a day long excursion, it was just what I needed to re-energize and focus on the next couple of busy weeks as the semester comes to a close.

Rough Day

Woke up late.

Got to work in the Ed Dept and realized my scooter tire was flat as a pancake. Thank goodness we (thanks to my awesome coworker for help) were able to find someone in town with the right part--and they sent a guy over to fix.

10 am lab worker a no show. Between that and the scooter, I missed Canadian Politics.

Social Stats test--hell.

At least the Senate meeting was good.

Podcasting...Only a Matter of Time

Moorhead Campus to try Podcasting for Classes

Only a matter of time till this makes it to BSU...hopefully.

Young Politicians

I saw an article recently in the Forum about young people entering politics in Minnesota and North Dakota. I found it quite interesting (partially because I know one of them), and emailed the story to the Student Senators with a note: "Those of you that enjoyed lobbying, just think...you could be there someday, as a Representative!"

Since you need a password to access archives older than a week, I'll post the text of the article below.

-------

Young Entering Politics

Fargo Forum, April 10, 2006

On the first day of this year’s recent North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party Convention, Zachary Ista sat near the back of the hall behind three silver-haired delegates. Instead of his daily uniform of blue jeans and casual button-down shirts, he wore a pale-brown suit and navy shirt. He bought the ensemble the day before over his mom Loris’ objections that the lime-green tie was “too Starburst.”

At 20, Ista, a North Dakota State University junior, is the only endorsed Democratic House candidate from West Fargo’s District 13. If elected in November, he’ll join the exclusive club of state legislators in their 20s. They make up less than 1 percent in a group with an average age of 53, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures.

Ista is among a spate of North Dakota and Minnesota college students and recent grads who’ve taken a crack at local and state elected offices, undercutting the cliché of the apathetic, jaded twenty-something. Their age might cause them to jut out among graying fellow politicians, but they harness it as their strongest selling point.

“Young people don’t want to sit around and debate anymore,” Ista says. “They want to get out and protest, start petitions – or run.”

The latest crop of college-age politicians has already signed on to state legislative and local races this election year.

Besides Ista, Democrats at their convention in Fargo a week ago endorsed the state House bids of Ben Vig, a 22-year-old farmer from rural Aneta, and Stuart Savelkoul, 24, of Dickinson. Across the river, 21-year-old Karl Struck of Mankato and former Laura Bush intern 22-year-old Austin Bleess of Long Prairie are seeking Republican nominations to the Minnesota Legislature, where members’ average age is 49.

In Bismarck, recent Dickinson State University graduate Ian Karvo, who turns 25 in June, sought the GOP green light to vie for Earl Pomeroy’s congressional seat, but pulled out in March.

And in Fargo, 22-year-old JJ Gordon is preparing to launch his bid for mayor.

Jim Danielson, Minnesota State University Moorhead political science professor, says that in recent years about half a dozen students sought his advice about running for office. He says this is a recent phenomenon.

No agency appears to keep track of candidate ages, but party veterans and academic experts say student political involvement has spiked since 2000.

Jim Fuglie, North Dakota Democratic-NPL Party chairman, says his generation of Vietnam War protesters gave way in the late ’80s and ’90s to “the generation that wasn’t paying attention. What I’m sensing now is people of college age are starting to engage again.”

Fuglie says College Democrats, virtually non-existent during the ’90s, is now a vibrant organization with chapters on almost every state campus. A March membership drive by College Republicans enlisted more than 200 on three campuses – Minot, Dickinson and Mayville – where the organization didn’t have a presence before.

What’s making elected offices increasingly alluring to candidates in their early 20s?

In spring 2004, Amy Warnke, then a Republican North Dakota House member, urged University of North Dakota student senator Stacey Horter to run for her Grand Forks seat. Horter parried the pitch, saying jokingly, “I thought you had to be 65 to run.”

Horter was graduating that year and on track to attend law school. Taking a two-year detour to Bismarck didn’t tempt her.

But the idea haunted her over the next two months. As a lobbyist for the North Dakota Student Association, Horter campaigned to ease tuition increases, which averaged 16 percent a year at her school.

“Higher education is one of the most crucial issues in my district, and I thought, ‘What a great way to be involved and have a hand in it,’ ” Horter says. She now serves on the House Education Committee and sponsored a bill that would have forced colleges to stick with a flat-rate rather than per-credit tuition plan.

Many college-age candidates enter politics eager to address tuition increases and student loan cuts, issues that directly affect them. But experts say there’s more to their sense of purpose.

Today’s polarized political landscape sucks young people into the clash of ideas more readily than the generation before the contested 2000 Bush-Gore standoff. In 2004, more people ages 18 to 24 voted than in any presidential election since 1972, though at a 47 percent turnout, they still were the least active age group on Election Day.

In the buildup to the last presidential election, everyone on campus seemed to have strong opinions on abortion, gay marriage, taxes and the Iraq war, says MSUM College Democrats Chairwoman Jolene Thorne. “I don’t think that’s a good thing for our country,” she says of the stark political divide, “but it woke a lot of young people up.”

At the same time, both parties seem to be more receptive to college-age candidates. Like Horter, Bismarck native and 2004 North Dakota House candidate Matt Maslowski – 19 at the time – was lured to the campaign trail by a party invitation, from then-DFL chairman Tom Dickson. Both young politicians say they wouldn’t have made the leap otherwise.

“I don’t think young people are apathetic,” says Horter. “It’s a matter of asking people to be involved and planting that seed.”

When Danielson advises would-be student officeholders, he warns them their chances are slim because of what he calls “anti-young person bias” on the part of voters who equate youth with inexperience.

In 2004, the year 24-year-old Democrat Andy Welti of Plainview became the youngest member of the Minnesota Legislature, four other twenty-something Democratic challengers lost.

To compound issues with credibility, student candidates also need to squeeze campaigning into their hectic schedules.

Besides his full-time load as a secondary education student, Ista puts in 20 hours a week working at West Fargo’s Faith Lutheran Church, 25 hours into his internship at Byron Dorgan’s Fargo office, 10 hours into his basketball coaching gig and about five hours into sleep each night. And if he doesn’t keep up with house chores, his mom threatens not to vote for him.

But instead of downplaying their youth to gain credibility, student politicians strive to make it work in their favor.

A 2003 study by Rutgers University’s Eagleton Institute of Politics found today’s young leaders aren’t demographically much different from the older generation of decision-makers. Of the 814 elected officials younger than 35 in 48 states polled, almost 90 percent were male, 80 percent were Caucasian, and the great majority were middle or upper-middle class. Fifty percent identified themselves as Democrats and 41 percent as Republicans.

But college-age politicians say their unique vantage point gives them an edge over older colleagues.

If elected, MSUM student and Fargo Park Board candidate Ben Hanson would be the youngest among the board’s five members, all older than 40. “I don’t have the experience a 40- or 50-year-old would have,” says Hanson, 19. “What I have is the experience of using the parks.”

Hanson is an alum of the Fargo Trollwood Performing Arts School video production program and loves to bike down park trails. On his platform: more park events steering youth away from drinking (inspired by his own recent experience as a restless high schooler) and advance notice on mosquito spraying (inspired by a chat with the mom of an asthmatic toddler).

A forte of youthful candidates is their idealism, says Elizabeth Beaumont, a University of Minnesota political science professor in charge of the Carnegie Foundation’s Political Engagement Project targeting college youth.

“On the one hand, they’re young, naļve, politically inexperienced. The double edge of this is that they aren’t cynical yet. They’re not owned by anyone yet.”

And in the wake of the Jack Abramoff lobbying scandal, younger candidates might be an easier sell to newly skeptical voters.

Instead of using his spring break to schmooze with fellow politicians, Ista regaled nursing home residents in Madison, Wis., and spruced up a rundown YMCA in Chicago as part of a weeklong student community action trip. “With my age come fresh ideas and fresh experience,” he says.

Readers can reach Forum reporter Mila Koumpilova at (701) 241-5529

---------------

If you live in these districts, go vote for these young people in November! They are proof positive...students are far from apathetic!

The Time of Year for Marathon Meetings

Long Senate meeting last night. A total of six bills introduced. It has been a strange year...we can go weeks without one, and then BAM! a whole bunch. It likely has something to do with the fact we have only 2 meetings left this year.

In case you're curious, the bill Jessica speaks of in this post passed 10-3-1. The passed bill is similar, although not identical to, the one she pasted into her post...students can get a copy in the office, and it will be online eventually at our website. (The authors need to forward the final to me, so I can send it to the webmaster with the next batch of updates)

Additionally, we took action on the Res Life budget and a couple of technology items. And finally, the introduction of a bill supporting the creation of a Public Service Center, an idea born in the minds of students on a spring break trip, and one of the most exciting initiatives I've been able to lend help and support to in my "career". If it comes to fruition, it will be a great thing for BSU and a huge, tangible victory for STLF-BSU and Senate alike.

Even after four years, I still love this job.

Long, But Great

It may have lasted 16 hours, but today was a great day. The sun was shining, the weather warm, and I had fun.

The Scholarship Conference went well. The keynote and closing were enjoyable, and all 5 presentations I went to were interesting and informative. I still have to do the write up for Analysis though, and it's almost midnight...did not return here till 11.

Beaver Film Fest was awesome! We estimate 350 people attended...it really is one of the biggest events of the year, Beaux Arts was certainly pretty filled up. Overall, the films were good. They're all online, check them out! Big Congrats go to Mr. Reini and his crew for their first place finish.

All around, today was a day that proved just how talented so many BSU students are.

16 Hour Wednesday Approaching

Yeah, tomorrow is going to bring new meaning to the words "long day"

Here's what's on tap:

7:30 AM: Need to be in M100 to get ready for the Scholarship Conference
9:00: Listen to Keynote
10:30: Watch Student Presentations
12:00 PM: Committee Luncheon
1:00: More Presentations
2:30: Closing Ceremony
4:30: Be in Beaux Arts to prep for the Film Fest
7:00: Doors open for Film Fest
10:30: Res Life Sign Up Celebration/Drawing
11:30: Back in room (I hope!)

Yeah...I better go to bed!

Weekend

Busy weekend for me. Attended the Senate 4 DFL convention Saturday, where we endorsed Mary Olson.

Saturday evening, attended the Festival of Nations, along with Mom, who paid me a surprise visit. It was fun and we ate lots of interesting foods.

Today, attended the Who's Who reception.

Boy, it seems as though I've had some short, rather boring entries lately.

Feeling Charitable?

If so, here's a public service announcement--consider donating to one of these GREAT causes!

North Star Red Cross
Chapter serving northern and central Minnesota and they need help!
http://www.northstar-redcross.org

Relay for Life
Help combat cancer by participating in, or donating to this event sponsored by the American Cancer Society
BSU Relay Web Site

STLF
As of last week, STLF is a 501c3 non-profit and any donations to the great student cause are tax-deductible.
http://www.stlf.net

Reflecting on Another MSUSA Weekend

This past weekend, we had MSUSA Spring Delegates and Lobby Day.

As far as Delegates went, it was the first time in three years we got all the work done without a walkout or anything. MSUSA has an FY 07 budget, revised bylaws, revised policies, officers for next year, and at-large board members for next year as well. It was long as always, and the budget did take a while, but we got it done. Surprisingly, the longest, most contentious thing was probably the treasurer election...in the end, the right candidate prevailed.

Had some fun evenings while there...Friday was the "night out", Saturday was laid back...just hung out in the hotel and chatted with people. Also had the chance to have dinner with Mom on Sunday, which was nice as I had not seen her since Christmas. Took Sam and Cody along, and I know she enjoyed meeting a few more of the "crew".

Also, later Sunday evening, several of us went to see V for Vendetta at Imax...quite a good movie, although not for the squeamish...a fair amount of death and blood.

Monday brought the annual Lobby Day. For the most part, my well laid plan and schedule worked out. We did have a handful of meetings that were cancelled or had the times changed, but I suppose that is to be expected at the Capitol, especially in such a busy year with a condensed session. Made a stop at the U before we came back to Bemidji to see their student union and visit a couple of guys from STLF, which was nice...we told them they have to come north some time.

This was probably my favorite Delegates Weekend in four years. As usual, our delegation did very well, brought up smart points in the assembly, and had fun together. And with such a large number along, I was able to step back a bit and give newer people some experience at the table while I answered questions and helped keep everyone organized. The good day lobbying was an added bonus--icing on the cake. I left tired but able to take pride in being a member of the BSUSA.

Bemidji Day at the Capitol

I'm back on the blog after a long absence. I didn't disappear, but being sick and busy sucks.

Yesterday, Nolan Nicole , Cody, and I, along with about 80 others from Bemidji, attended the first ever "Bemidji Day at the Capitol".

It was an interesting experience lobbying with people other than just fellow students on a couple of different issues. And for us, it was a good warm up for MSUSA Lobby Day coming up on Monday.

We even made the front page of the Pioneer...80 Bemidji-ites clad in lovely plaid sweaters. Rock on.

Impressive, Interesting, and a Whole Lot of Fun

Upon reflection, that's the best description I can offer of my time with STLF following the DC Summit.

Having worked with, and on behalf of students on campus and across the state and country for almost four years, I have encountered all kinds...some ultra involved, some completely apathetic, and most in between. And in the last several weeks as I've done reading for lit reviews, I've seen that media rarely portrays the good students do...the media says we don't care, all too many community members believe we don't care...it's hard to get away from the stereotype.

Well, after spending a few days with the students of STLF, I am reminded that students DO care...it may not be political lobbying like I'm used to, but community service is something we really should be doing...as individuals and as a Senate.

309 students
8 buses
9 days
50-plus cities
Countless lives touched
Many friends made

And it's all done by students on a volunteer basis...no established budget, no staff help. Absolutely amazing.

Student government leaders are not the only ones out there...these kids are the definition of what student leaders should be. I am proud to have been there, if only for a short while.

PIF Tour Blog

For LOTS of info, stories and photos from the entire BSU/MSUM Pay it Forward Tour, check out the tour blog, which they've updated throughout the trip (including via cell phone...and I once questioned mobile blogging...shame on me!)

http://www.stlfbsu.org

On The Road...Near Indianapolis

It's currently 10:30 eastern and I am sitting in a YMCA near Indianapolis where we are spending the night...although I do not expect much sleep to occur.

The past couple of days have been WONDERFUL. The "Beaver Fever Dragon Wagon" is a great group of people who were immediately welcoming of another person for their DC project and return trip. Needless to say, my BSU friends and colleagues were fairly surprised to see me in their midst...as only 4 or 5 of the 40 people on the bus knew I'd be joining them. The project with the ECC (Cleaning a VERY dirty park) went well, and the closing conference was good.

They say this PIF tour changes everyone. Even in the short time I've been with them I can say it is a powerful event. I am grateful to Cody and Lisa (and Julie, their MSUM counterpart) for the invitation to join in the final leg of the event.

More reflection to come after I return to Minnesota.

Summit Wrap Up...and I'm Still Here

Lobbying Day 2 went well. Had a nice meeting with Betty McCollum and another with Mark Dayton. Both are quite nice people and very supportive of students, so the meetings were enjoyable.

Saw the rest of the group off at Union Station last night before heading to my hotel for the evening. A nice Best Western, but a rather iffy area of town. I safely made it to and fro, but likely would not stay alone in that area again if given the choice.

Today I putzed around for a bit, rode around and found this evening's dwelling. Presently sit in a Barnes and Noble/Starbucks across the street catching up on email. blogging, and working on a midterm. They arrive in about 3 hours, and I've been told the element of surprise surrounding my presence is generally intact.

Lobbying Day 1

Lazy day, one meeting with Sen. Coleman's office. Tomorrow will be a bit busier.

Answering Julie's questions...

-Scooter, and aside from having to travel 9 blocks to the nearest Metro stop with a working eleavator, itr has worked well.
-We know we missed the blizzard...it has been in the 70s here, although tomorrow is supposed to cool into the 50s...still warmer than MN.

Summit Update

It's Sunday afternoon and we have just finished the "conference" portion of DC Summit. This year, we had roughly 120 people from 17 states. We would really like to see more frojm other states next time (40 plus are from MN), but being that the Summit is only in its second year, it is still growing.

Had a good slate of workshops this year on a variety of topics. Did a lobby training game that students from the other states loved. We broke into teams and pretended to be from different states. I was on Team Maine, and while we were not victorious we had a great time.

This afternoon brings time to relax before lobby meetings on "the hill" interspersed through the next two days.

In DC

Well, after a long week and lots of preparation I am happy to report that the BSU Senate crew has arrived in Washington. Great keynote tonight and we are looking forward to some great sessions tomorrow. The only chink in the armor so far has been encountering a broken Metro elevator this afternoon.

I am going to try and blog daily this year on the trip, as I am lucky enough to have wireless in the hotel and a laptop along.

Getting Shorter...But Not by Much

To do before Wednesday Night...yeah, my timeline just got shorter...

SCHOOL:

• Lit Review-due Tues
• Stats Assignment for Tues
• Shakespeare Midterm-Mon and Wed (Half Done)
  

SENATE:

• Special Senate meeting: Tuesday@8

• Update contact and email lists--get info from Tessa
• Reminder email for Delegates sign up
  
• Make sure to get Tech meeting notes from C.
  
• Caucuses-7 pm Tues
• Send out book list stuff to faculty (NEW)
  

DC PREP/ OTHER:

• Email Participants (BSU)
  
• Do a sheet for stipends
• Do dishes
• Laundry
• Clean scooter up and put air in tires
• Practice dissassembling scooter
  
• Make sure room is vacuumed and trash is out
• Finalize personal plans

Now...to work on that lit review.

Busy Week Ahead

To do before Thursday...

SCHOOL:

• Lit Review-due Tues
• Stats Assignment for Tues
• Shakespeare Midterm-Mon and Wed

SENATE:

• SOAR Orientation Workgroup: Mon @10:30
  
• AA Committee Meeting: Mon@ 2 (That's Ac Affairs, not the other "AA")
  
• Special Senate meeting: Tuesday@8
• Update contact and email lists--get info from Tessa
• Reminder email for Delegates sign up
  
• Make sure to get Tech meeting notes from C.
  
• Caucuses-7 pm Tues
  

DC PREP/ OTHER:

• Work *Tuesday is timecard day CHECK
  
• Email Jessie
• Email Participants (BSU)
  
• Do a sheet for stipends
• Bank
• Target
• Great Clips
• Do dishes
• Laundry
• Clean scooter up and put air in tires
• Practice dissassembling scooter
  
• Make sure room is vacuumed and trash is out
• Finalize personal plans
  

Oddities

An Oscar-nominated song called "It's Hard Out Here For a Pimp"??

hmmm.

Update: the song won

Sad Day in the News

Another student at a sister university has passed away, the result of a drowning after a night out. I wish this were the first story of its kind this year, but it's not.

Be careful, and use the buddy system when going out. Not all tragedies are preventable, but this should not keep happening.

It's just terribly sad.

Verdicts...

C on my first stats test, not the best but at least I did not tank it.

Deadline on lit review extended to Tuesday...excellent.

People are stupid...and that's all I have to say about that for now.

Never Eat Alone-My Rare Opportunity to Read for Pleasure

Yes, it sounds strange. As an English major you’d expect me to read veraciously. However, it seems that all too often I spend so much time reading materials for classes and other activities that about the only “pleasurable” reading I get time to do is the online newspaper and blogs.

Last week, I visited a friend after returning from the day’s CD Conference activities. Before I left, he handed me a book and said I absolutely had to read it…right away. I was intrigued, as people do not usually hand me books and tell me to read them. So I made an effort to do so for this one-Never Eat Alone by Keith Ferrazzi. Right there, I’m in trouble-I often eat alone. Of course, it's a figurative statement. Seriously though, there are some great quotes and pearls of wisdom in the book.

Key Quotes:

“When you help others they often help you.”
I’ve always tried to do this…everyone needs help to be successful, and we must give help in order to expect to receive it.

“You’ve got to be more than willing to accept generosity. Often, you’ve got to go out and ask for it.”
Something I’ve not always done…I can sometimes be stubbornly independent.

“There’s no need to ponder whether it’s their lunch or yours. There’s no need to keep track of favors done and owed.”
If someone is a true friend, they’ll repay you in the long run ten times over.

“Do you understand that it’s your team’s accomplishments, and what they do because of you, not for you, that will generate your mark as a leader?”
Cliché as it may sound…there is no I in team. No matter my personal accomplishments in my work and my organizations, it’s not about me. Instead it is about what I can do/have dome for the whole.

“Many executive assistants are their bosses’ minority partners. Don’t think of them as “secretaries” or “assistants.” In fact, they are associates and lifelines.”
This could easily be called Job Seeking or Lobbying 101. I’ve been in classes where profs have told stories of secretaries being the ones making the hiring decision with a simple thumbs up or down.

When lobbying, many students are bummed out when they realize that we often only meet with Legislative Assistants. What they don’t realize is, and I’ve heard this time and time again…the LA is the legislator’s partner, and often has more influence on that member’s decision making process than people think.

“Shared interests are the basic building blocks of any relationship.”
One has to find a way to connect with people.

“Make follow up automatic.”
If we don’t follow up, the headway made in a meeting could be all for naught.

“Friendships are the foundation for a truly powerful network.”
I’ve said it for years…artificial separation of one’s work (or political) and personal life is a load of BS.

“Every conversation you have is an invitation to risk revealing the real you…the real winners…are those people who put it all out there and don’t waste a bunch of time and energy trying to be something (or someone) they’re not”
I’ve blogged before about the pressure to “watch oneself” in public…the idea that everything I say as a leader could be put under a microscope. (Julie's post about the double standard) Yes, it is important not to say anything inflammatory or inappropriate, but my advice to anyone would be to be real, to be yourself when you are dealing with Professors, administrators or your boss…because they are people too…and if you’re real with them, they’ll be more real with you.

“There’s no better way to learn something, and become an expert at it, than to have to teach it.”
Learn by doing, learn by teaching…clearly one learns, or relearns, quite a bit once they know they are going to be teaching it. I know that will happen to me.

“Balance is a myth.”
I’ve often thought about balance in my life. The author argues that too many people think of balance as “X hours doing each activity” instead of what really matters…filling your life with work you enjoy, and people you care about. That’s how I’ve tried to live…maybe I have balance after all.

“Everyone fails in life.”
Yep…I know I have. What matters is that I get back up and keep trying. I try to learn and grow from my failures and mistakes.

In addition to these, several other good points were made:

• It is important to build relationships as both a mentor and mentee.
• In the grand scheme of things, GPA has little bearing on success (Also, see my essay “Grade OCD”)
• Set goals
• Make lists
• Find a personal “board of advisors”…people trusted to help you out. I know I have a few

Finally, I was surprised, albeit pleased, to see blogs mentioned several times. Near the end of the book, Ferrazzi has this to say about them:

“These self sustaining communities are flourishing. In the future, as personal branding continues to solidify itself as a mainstay in the economy, blogs will become as ubiquitous as resumes. "

And people think blogging is a waste of time. Not. Yes, some blogs are kept just for fun and are not meant for professional “display.” But, one’s blog can also be a good mix of personal and professional, creating a great addition to an online portfolio or personal website (which he suggests, and I’ve thought of on multiple occasions…we’ll see).

All and all, there’s a lot of good advice in the book. It’s framed around business, and I certainly wouldn’t do everything he suggests…the book is not perfect and neither is every bit of the advice provided. But it may be worth a read…especially to those interested in business, politics and student government.

It may all boil down to this: Be yourself, treat your friends right, and realize that you can’t succeed in a vacuum…ask for help and share credit for your accomplishments with those who helped you get there.

To Fix My Profile...

I simply need this picture here so that it has a URL. It was previously housed on the Senate site, but since all those files were modified or deleted when the new version went live, my profile pic disappeared.

CD Conference Photos

Here are a couple pics from the CD Conference...Yeah, I'm not that great with a camera.

CD Conference

By all accounts, MSUSA's CD Conference this weekend went quite well. The presentations were awesome and participants were engaged. Adam did a rock star job...there was some criticism that I think was leveled in the wrong place/time, but nonetheless I think it was a great weekend and next time will be even better.

Perhaps I will post pictures later...if any of them turn out...haha.

C-C-C-COLD!!!

-15 in B-Town this morning. My room is FREEZING despite the fact my windows are closed as tight as can be and the heat is cranked up in the dorms. The draft is terrible. Isn't it supposed to get warmer this time of year instead of colder? Winter 05-06 seems to be happening backwards.

The funniest part...tomorrow-Sunday, we host MSUSA's CD Conference. On the coldest weekend of the year. Welcome to Bemidji, folks!

Good News and Bad News

The Good News:

• I got all the points on the first two stats assignments
• I Started to find sources for my bibliography last night
• We got a few new Senate applications today, including one from Aspen, (after some convincing from Aya.)

The Bad News:

• I still have a shit load of work to do on the aformentioned bibliography
  

Billy's Wearing His Beer Goggles...AGAIN!!

So, this new neighbor of mine, while not supremely annoying, does listen rather loudly to the same songs over and over. It gets old.

Chief among these songs:

Neal McCoy's "Billy's Got His Beer Goggles On"

I wonder what this neighbor's favorite pasttime is??

Manic Monday

I've received some comments lately that I seem very busy. Well, for a student I probably am...today was illustrative of my always on the go tendencies:

7am: Wake up

8 am: At work in Computer Store, where I would be until about 11:30

12 pm: At work in Ed Lab, where I would blog, check email, and attempt some homework in between answering questions. There until 2.

2 pm: Office hour

3 pm: Time for Shakespeare

4 pm: Lib Ed Task Force meeting

5 pm: Legislative Affairs meeting, where we continued to hash out the Constitutional changes

6: 30 pm: Presentation about Senate to Media Writing class

7 pm: Time to eat again

7:30-8:45: Start Homework. Devote time to Anotated Bib for Pol Analysis and discover that finding scholarly sources on topic may be difficult. Make mental note to see prof sometime before class tomorrow for suggestions.

9 pm: Hall Council, always quick

9:30: Back to annotated bib search, with a little MSN chat interspersed

11:00 Give up on that search for the evening and decide to write this blog entry.

Gas and an iPod to Go

I'll take 10 gallons on pump 7
This Diet Coke
a Twix bar
and an iPod?

That's right. Apparently, 7-Eleven has started stocking them at stores in Japan. I don't know how I'd feel about buying a major electronic at the gas station. Even if it were to happen in the U.S., I'll stick to the campus store and Apple Store online.

VP Cheney...Shoots a Guy?

As if things weren't bad enough for Vice President Cheney (Dean calling for his head over the CIA Leak/Libby affair). Now this...

He shoots some poor guy while quail hunting. How does one manage this? Probably by being careless.

Froyd is right...it's mildly funny. Nice move, Dick.

Seriously Lazy Weekend

So, I started this weekend with the intent of catching up on things. It didn't happen. Instead I spent Friday evening and most of Saturday feeling rather icky.

Today...redemption? Well, sort of. I have done some Shakespeare review and looked over the notes for Canadian. However in between have watched TV, including some dorky ABC Family movie starring the guy from Grey's Anatomy and Brad Paisley's wife.

Real productive.

If You Love Technology...

Check out this edition of StrongBad Email. I got a chuckle out of it, at least.

Random Thursday Night Ramblings-Second Editiion

Well, it seems I've gone yet another few days without a post. I feel like such a slacker since I know I have so many readers depending on me for updates. Interesting things since Monday.

-Survived round two with SPSS.
-Solidified Spring Break (DC Summit)
-Ate far too many sugar cookies in the office during our decorating event
-Watched Strange Brew in class today...yes, in class
-Senate meeting: the SOAR showdown continues

We impeached three people tonight. Not pleasant, but they had been excessively absent, and were not fulfilling other obligations. When that's the case, it's better to let someone who has the time and committment take the seat. On the bright side, elections are soon and we will hopefully welcome some more. (Apply here...deadline is the 16th.)

In other news...

I've added a link to Apple under "Websites I Visit". I may still be a PC person, but hey, I've found myself there at least daily recently, so there ya go.

SPSS=Tree Killer

Finished my first stats assignment with SPSS about an hour ago. The program itself is not hard to figure out, aside from being a bit time consuming. However, all the printouts of tables and graphs could darn near comprise a book.

Big waste of paper. Environmentalists should be up in arms.

Speaking of iPods...

The quote of the day...

"But I want it NOW!"

-Aspen, in jest, after receiving my email that her personalized iPod had not yet arrived in the store.

Frivolous Lawsuit Over iPods

Some people are just dumb. It's being reported that some guy is suing Apple claiming that iPods damage your hearing:

iPods May Cause....Eh?

They have a term for this kind of litigation: a frivolous lawsuit. It is not news that portable music players can potentially damage your hearing, be it an iPod, any other MP3 player or even an old-school walkman.

Yes headphones and earbuds are not great to have in your ears for prolonged periods at high volume. DUH! That's a lesson I learned in middle school music. So, if you listen to your iPod at a volume so loud people can hear it 10 feet away, yeah, you're hurting your ears. Not a new phenomenon. To blame Apple, and brand iPod a "defective" product is just plain stupid.

So, my response to the plaintiff in this case is: Turn down the volume, doofus!

Minneapolis Wi-Fi

This evening, we were discussing the desire for BSU to go wireless. That would be cool...and a recruitment tool, even if it is "keeping up with the Joneses"

Makes good sense for a campus? But a city? Minneapolis seems headed in that direction:

Minneapolis is cool with citywide Wi-fi.

This Made Me Chuckle

Found an assessment of Bush's State of the Union on a blog. Pretty funny...unless you're a Bush fan.

Live Blogging of the State of the Union Address

Computer Cell Phones

Hard Cell? Report says Gates sees more computing by phone

Not sure on this one. We ought to stick to laptops. I love technology, but phones are for talking. Yes, I have a cell. Does it have bells and whistles? Yes. Do I use them? Never.

Bush Speaks

And more of the same comes out of his mouth.

Julie's post put it well, in terms of education.

Sadly, our government is so divided right now, nothing seems to be getting done. And it isn't like democrats have any really great candidates to put up next time either.

Random Thursday Night Ramblings

An update, random snippet style. It's been a good week...

Work...
Started job number two on Tuesday. Between it and the lab, with all this time spent around Apples and people who love them, I may yet become a true Mac Stud. (See link) We shall see. The other day I finally figured out what podcasts are--thanks to listening to the sales pitch.
------------
AA Committee Exists!
Had a committee meeting Tuesday, and for the first time have members, including a new recruit, whom it was an absolute pleasure to meet after months of emails and Facebook messages about the committee. I am so happy to have people, unlike last semester.
-----
The big debate...
I've been reading (and participating in) the blogging debate that seemed to envelop the Blogs and Wikis class. I think some people's comments might have been misenterpreted, but ojn the other hand most of us know each other (it's really a growing network of bloggers here at BSU. The debate wasn't like this in my section...it's interesting to note what a new group brings to the fore.
-------
Senate meeting...
Brought a bit more craziness than usual. Next week will bring some real fun as we attempt to find out why someone in networking is holding up the laptop plan.
----

And finally...Kimmy Gibbler?
Yes, I saw the name on a Battle of the Bands poster. Why would someone name a band after the dorky neighbor on "Full House"?

Some Days, I Feel The Same Way

Erin posted comments about being a "boring blogger"

I'll admit, some days I'm a pretty boring blogger too. But I think that's allowed. Not every post has to be exciting, because not every day or event in my life is exciting or something another person necessarily wants to read.

That's why it's my space and not other people's, I guess.

MySpace

A couple of days ago, I remarked that I thought Facebook was the preferred alternative to MySpace.

Sue's recent posts illustrate a key reason why:

the day she joined

the day she said "No more"

My Bad

Was just conversing with Michael and was informed that while I talked about his blog being in the sidebar in the previous post, I had neglected to actually add it.

See what happens when you write the post before you actually update the template?

Anyway, an official welcome once again to Carbonated Pop-Culture

Updated Links and Blogroll

Check out the new additions to the Berne's World sidebar...

In Websites I Visit:

• Internet Movie Database-an excellent resource
• Get Rid Of Things-Everyone else plugs it, so I should too.

In People, formerly Blogs I Read:

Daily Reads from the newest Blogs and Wikis group:

• Tran-Sex-Scend-Me-Now-Jessica

• Grey Haired Coed-Sharon
• Someday I'll Know-Muriel
• Carbonated Pop-Culture-Michael, my neighbor who I never expected would blog
• Basket of Apples-Jessica
  
• Family, Friends, and Then There's Me-Ginger, who faithfully covers our Senate meetings for the NS.
  

Others:

• The Ditch Walker-Jeppe the photoblogger, back at it. Well maybe he was always at it and I just stopped checking for a while.
  
• Cody, Apple Guru #1
  
• For The Love Of Bob, Apple Guru #2
  
• Sam

Why the change to "People"...some are more website than just blog.

Group Blogs and Directories:

• Senate-still hoping for a comeback.
  
• MSUSA
• Google Blog Search
  

E-Podunk?

Some call Bemidji a podunk town.

A search for BSU on Google turns up this result on epodunk.com

Tagline: "The power of place"

Should We Be Worried?

Study: College Students Lack Literacy For Complex Tasks

I think I'm pretty literate. Are you?

Lazy Day

Had hoped to do some more substantial posting today, update the template, etc. Instead I have a headache and no energy. Go figure.

Facebook: Good or Bad?

There's been an interesting discussion thread re: Facebook on Tech Rhet the last couple of days. Basically, they're discussing whether or not it and similar services are a good thing...privacy issues, etc. I rarely weigh in on this list, but here's my two cents, emailed in yesterday:
------
As a student who's always been intrigued by "life online" I am quite interested by all your thoughts on this topic. Facebook was new to my University this fall, so it wasn't even part of the discussion a year ago when I was first learning about online writing spaces. Since it "arrived" in September, it has exploded...it seems like everyone has it.

There are certainly some drawbacks. As one of you pointed out, there can be some unflattering thingas posted that not everyone finds funny. I know a big controversy erupted last spring at another school in the state over some photos of a student government candidate looking...less than professional. But, one could run into the same kinds of pictures on a person's blog or MySpace.

There is, from a student perspective, some good to Facebook, despite it's detractors. Among the "good" things:
-It's a fast, easy way to get ahold of people
-It serves as a sort of online directory for emails and phone numbers, etc.
-Announcement/ Event feature, while used to announce keggers, is also often used by clubs and organizations to get the word out about meetings or events.
-People reconnect through Facebook...I've found friends I lost touch with 3 or more years ago, and we're back in touch because we looked each other up.


And is there a distinction between Facebook and MySpace? Yes, I think so. Facebook is restricted to people associated with your school (or your friends from other schools). MySpace, by contrast is viewable to the entire wold...I'd think Facebook would be the more "secure" of the two, if there's such a thing as security on the net.


For college students, I think Facebook is a great thing. Do they need it at the high school level? Maybe not.

Tonight...

What I should have done:
Study and read

What I did:
Hung out in the office and chatted w/ Peter from MSUSA while watching American Idol and Skating With Celebrities.

Yes, I watched those shows. At least I don't watch Laguna Beach like a certain Senate Pres. I know...that would be really bad.

Why I Blog: A Reexamination

Why blog? It's something I tend to think about every few months. Usually, something or someone provokes the thought. This time, it is a post from Lindsi contemplating the future of her blog... As well, I am sure, as the beginning of another offering of the class that started it all. Reading the Daybook and the new bloggers' blogs brings back memories.

Yes, when I began this blog, it was a requirement for a class. Within a few months, that class was over, and I had grown to love blogging. September maked my one year blogiversary. But why keep it up? What is my blog?

Sometimes, as Jess points out, I blog about everyday things. I also blog about Senate, MSUSA, politics and current events. This blog has been, and continues to be, about my life and the world around me. It is, after all, called "Berne's World."

Do I write knowing I have an audience? Certainly. But do I write what I want, when I want and how I want...without a doubt. Sometimes it may not be exciting...I know that. But as Aaron said in a Studio Tour back then...maybe it is. Maybe Berne: Uncensored and Uncut is better than any "purposed" blog could be.

So, I continue on. Maybe that's the purpose of these reexaminations...they energize me to continue. This blogging thing is an addiction...too goddam much fun!

Tis True

I am back to my old tricks, exploring and commenting on new blogs from the class which I am no longer part of but still keep my eye on. Some of these new bloggers may soon make the Blogs I Read list.

As you can tell, I reverted back to this old template. I tried the last one on for size for a couple of weeks, but just did not like it. I am finding I have a bit of "Template OCD" at the moment.

So, readers old and new...help me out! Tell me what you think is the best look for Berne's World:

A. This One...keep it as it appears
B. Masala
C. Bryant

Vote via comment or shoot me an email...thanks!

Friday Evening in The Office

Brought a spirited discussion of religion, politics and other things one might not have expected. Thought provoking, philosophical and on the whole quite enjoyable.

Fridays in the BSUSA office...one never knows what to expect.

It's Back...

Morgan's breeding a new crop of blogaholics and wikimasters over at Blogs and Wikis. It's what got me started and I'm still at it.

Watch what develops.