Just after midnight, I walked downstairs in my house and turned the heat up a notch. On my way back up the stairs there was a flash of blue light that lit up the sky. I couldn't imagine what happened to cause such a big flash. My two sons came running into my bedroom to see if my husband or I had seen the flash. I noticed the flash was blue and my son, Trevor, saw a yellow flash that followed the blue one. We looked outside a couple minutes later, but we couldn't see anything. Later today, we discovered that what we witnessed was the meteor that hit Utah(some people believe it was in southern Utah). I read the news story about this event in the Salt Lake Tribune. It was reported that someone has heard that this event was witnessed in California, Nevada, Idaho and Colorado, in addition to Utah.
I have always been fascinated with the sky. I remember constantly watching the sky as a young girl. It is amazing how something as constant as clouds can be ever-changing. I know of nothing more specacular than the sky. A couple of years ago, I took an Astronomy class in college. Unfortunately, it was during the summer months (accelerated for college) and online, so I missed out on the full experience of the class. However, I still loved learning about the planets, stars, suns, meteors (meteroids, meteorites), etc. Soon after reading a chapter in my Astronomy book about galaxies, I had the most amazing dream about a galaxy. I believe I will always be fascinated with the wonders of the universe.
Last night's (or rather, this morning's) meteor event was another amazing part of science that intrigues me so much. It was awesome to read about the meteor event and to see the picture that was taken of the aftermath. When I showed the picture to my son, Trevor, he told me how he took a picture of a similar scene this morning. He showed me the pictures he took, and sure enough, it is of the same scene. To view the article, visit http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_13814412.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
UVU Celebrates Cultural Diversity
Orem--Utah Valley University kicked off its Global Engagement Week with the International Community Festival in the Student Center Ballroom Monday.
The festival brought together a diverse crowd of students and members of the community from all around the world. Children and adults alike had the opportunity to learn about a variety of cultures by visiting booths filled with authentic crafts, country information, games and ethnic finger foods.
Remembering Our Culture (ROC) entertained attendees of the festival throughout the night with song and dance performed by international students from local universities. Group members represented countries from all over the world: South America, Philippines, Korea, Japan, China, Mexico, Native America, the Polynesian Islands, the Mediterranean Sea and many other beautiful places.
The International Community Festival was one of the many events scheduled to take place during Global Engagement Week (GEW). UVU is promoting cultural awareness by encouraging students and the community at large to participate in this week's events.
"The International Committee chose 'Together We Can' as the theme because when international students come to UVU they frequently feel that they are not part of the community," said Dr. Blair Van Dyke, Coordinator of International Affairs at the Orem Institute of Religion and member of the University International Committee. "This festival is intended to bring international students and members of the community together. As students have the opportunity to get more involved in the Utah Valley community, they feel more comfortable here and we get to know more about them and the rich and diverse cultures from which they have come."
GEW offers students and the community the opportunity to participate in several activities during the week, including the International Food Extravaganza, Japanese Cultural Night, Native American Pow-wow, an International Ping Pong Tournament and other activities. GEW encourages UVU students to become more productive citizens in the global society.
"If you want to be a globally competent graduate, you need to take every opportunity to learn about other cultures," said Maryna Storrs, program coordinator for the Office of International Affairs and Diplomacy. "The reality is that when you graduate, you're going to be in the market place where global skills and knowledge will put you up front."
The festival brought together a diverse crowd of students and members of the community from all around the world. Children and adults alike had the opportunity to learn about a variety of cultures by visiting booths filled with authentic crafts, country information, games and ethnic finger foods.
Remembering Our Culture (ROC) entertained attendees of the festival throughout the night with song and dance performed by international students from local universities. Group members represented countries from all over the world: South America, Philippines, Korea, Japan, China, Mexico, Native America, the Polynesian Islands, the Mediterranean Sea and many other beautiful places.
The International Community Festival was one of the many events scheduled to take place during Global Engagement Week (GEW). UVU is promoting cultural awareness by encouraging students and the community at large to participate in this week's events.
"The International Committee chose 'Together We Can' as the theme because when international students come to UVU they frequently feel that they are not part of the community," said Dr. Blair Van Dyke, Coordinator of International Affairs at the Orem Institute of Religion and member of the University International Committee. "This festival is intended to bring international students and members of the community together. As students have the opportunity to get more involved in the Utah Valley community, they feel more comfortable here and we get to know more about them and the rich and diverse cultures from which they have come."
GEW offers students and the community the opportunity to participate in several activities during the week, including the International Food Extravaganza, Japanese Cultural Night, Native American Pow-wow, an International Ping Pong Tournament and other activities. GEW encourages UVU students to become more productive citizens in the global society.
"If you want to be a globally competent graduate, you need to take every opportunity to learn about other cultures," said Maryna Storrs, program coordinator for the Office of International Affairs and Diplomacy. "The reality is that when you graduate, you're going to be in the market place where global skills and knowledge will put you up front."
My Response to "News War"
We watched a section of the film News Wars in my Reporting for the Mass Media class today. The film told the true story of Josh Wolf, a news reporter who was arrested and sent to prison for refusing to release part of the footage from some film he recorded of anarchist action against the G8. FBI agents told him that someone tried to start a police car on fire during this event and they needed the footage of the film he recorded because they thought it would help them find out who did it. He released part of the film, but when he refused to release the rest of it he went to prison. Josh served 226 days in prison--the longest time in history served for defying a court order to release information.
To be honest, I have mixed feelings about whether the FBI (or other government agency) should be able to ask a journalist to hand over information to help in an investigation. I believe in the freedom of speech to the fullest extent. Thomas Jefferson said, "The only security of all is in a free press. The force of public opinion cannot be resisted when premitted freely to be expressed." I certainly believe in the freedom of speech. It was so important that the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees our right to the freedom of speech. The reason I would consider siding with the FBI would be in the case of protecting Americans from acts of terrorism. Because it is illegal for anyone to withold information in an investigation, journalists should not be treated any different than anyone else. Current policy from the U.S. Department of Justice United States Attorney's Manual states: "In all cases, members of the Department must balance the public's interest in the free dissemination of ideas and information with the public's interest in effective law enforcement and the fair administration of justice." Therefore, I believe that the situation should determine the action taken.
To be honest, I have mixed feelings about whether the FBI (or other government agency) should be able to ask a journalist to hand over information to help in an investigation. I believe in the freedom of speech to the fullest extent. Thomas Jefferson said, "The only security of all is in a free press. The force of public opinion cannot be resisted when premitted freely to be expressed." I certainly believe in the freedom of speech. It was so important that the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution guarantees our right to the freedom of speech. The reason I would consider siding with the FBI would be in the case of protecting Americans from acts of terrorism. Because it is illegal for anyone to withold information in an investigation, journalists should not be treated any different than anyone else. Current policy from the U.S. Department of Justice United States Attorney's Manual states: "In all cases, members of the Department must balance the public's interest in the free dissemination of ideas and information with the public's interest in effective law enforcement and the fair administration of justice." Therefore, I believe that the situation should determine the action taken.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
A Band of Miracles
About a month ago, I received a phone call from a dear friend of mine, Lisa, who told me about her husband, Chad, witnessing a tragic event. I found out that Chad was a bus driver for the American Fork band. They were coming home from a competition (that they won) in Idaho. On their way home the bus driver in the bus directly in front of Chad's bus (a lady who he knew well) passed out and the bus wrecked. Lisa told me what she knew had happened up to that point, which included the fact that one woman was killed in the accident. At that time we thought she was the mom of one of the kids, but later found out that she was one of the band leaders. This heroic woman noticed that the bus driver was unconsious and jumped up to grab the wheel to avoid an accident. Although they still crashed, the fact that she grabbed the wheel saved many lives that day. Tragically, she died in the process. The accident left some of the AF band students pinned under the bus, but the medical teams were able to rescue them without any more deaths. Needless to say, this was a tragic time for the American Fork band members and their families. Thanks to the teacher who gave her life to save others, many people witnessed a miracle that night.
I have been following some of the follow-up stories about the American Fork band. And, to my amazement, they are continuing with outstanding performances. I think this is a wonderful tribute to their teacher who died. I saw another article about the AF band and noticed that they have earned a trip to Indianapolis for the Grande Nationals. In my opinion, the miracle lies in the fact that in only two days they raised a quarter of a million dollars to send the band on this trip. For people to be able to donate that amount of money in this economy is amazing. I am so happy for them! I have a strong feeling that they have angels watching over them. Good Luck American Fork Band! To read this article, visit http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/north/american-fork/article_a27ab011-5522-5ba6-be92-f9ae726c88f4.html
I have been following some of the follow-up stories about the American Fork band. And, to my amazement, they are continuing with outstanding performances. I think this is a wonderful tribute to their teacher who died. I saw another article about the AF band and noticed that they have earned a trip to Indianapolis for the Grande Nationals. In my opinion, the miracle lies in the fact that in only two days they raised a quarter of a million dollars to send the band on this trip. For people to be able to donate that amount of money in this economy is amazing. I am so happy for them! I have a strong feeling that they have angels watching over them. Good Luck American Fork Band! To read this article, visit http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/north/american-fork/article_a27ab011-5522-5ba6-be92-f9ae726c88f4.html
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
My Mock Obituary (A Difficult One to Write)
Ann Petersen, age 41, passed away November 10, 2009, at her home in Lehi after choking on her gum during a bubble gum blowing contest with her family. Her family resides at 4042 Bounty Cove Lehi, Utah. Ann died doing what she enjoyed most--having fun with her family. She is now enjoying the family reunion in heaven with her two sons, mother and two sisters who preceded her in death.
Ann's life was about being a wife and mother to her beloved family. Her marriage to David L. Petersen of Springville was the most important decision she made. Dave and Ann were united for time and eternity on March 6, 1987 in the South Jordan LDS Temple. Together they had two sons, Christopher and Trevor. They were later blessed with a daughter, Mikayla, who Heavenly Father sent them through the gift of adoption. She was sealed to their family on April 30, 2002.
Ann had a competetive nature and enjoyed participating in games with family and friends. She enjoyed learning new things and sharing her knowledge with others. She was known as "the cake lady" to neighbor children, as she often baked and decorated birthday and wedding cakes for friends, family and neighbors. Ann enjoyed decorating cakes and coming up with creative themes for the cakes she made.
Ann was a student at Utah Valley University, where she studied public relations in the Communications department. She was passionate about writing articles about other people's life accomplishments. When she was an intern for United Way of Utah County, she discovered just how much she enjoyed writing articles about ordinary people who do extraordinary things for other people. Ann believed that anyone could be a hero--a mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, friend or neighbor.
Ann served in many callings as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She enjoyed teaching in her many Primary, Young Women and Relief Society callings. She loved serving the members of the Church, especially the children.
Ann is survived by her husband David; her children Christopher, Trevor and Mikayla; her dog Pogo; her dad Clair Brown; three brothers, Lynn Brown (Nancy), Donald Brown (Joy) and Paul Brown (Lesley); and two sisters, Carol Messerly (Tony) and Debra Parker (Stewart).
A celebration of Ann's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, November 13, 2009 at the Pilgrim's Landing 3rd Ward Chapel 3610 West Newland Loop, Lehi. Friends and family are welcome to the viewing services Thursday, November 12, 2009 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Wing Mortuary 118 East Main, Lehi and again at the Pilgrim's Landing Chapel prior to the funeral services from 8:00 -9:30 a.m. Friday.
Rather than purchasing flowers, the family has requested donations go to the Primary Children's Medical Center. Donations will be accepted at the funeral home.
Ann's life was about being a wife and mother to her beloved family. Her marriage to David L. Petersen of Springville was the most important decision she made. Dave and Ann were united for time and eternity on March 6, 1987 in the South Jordan LDS Temple. Together they had two sons, Christopher and Trevor. They were later blessed with a daughter, Mikayla, who Heavenly Father sent them through the gift of adoption. She was sealed to their family on April 30, 2002.
Ann had a competetive nature and enjoyed participating in games with family and friends. She enjoyed learning new things and sharing her knowledge with others. She was known as "the cake lady" to neighbor children, as she often baked and decorated birthday and wedding cakes for friends, family and neighbors. Ann enjoyed decorating cakes and coming up with creative themes for the cakes she made.
Ann was a student at Utah Valley University, where she studied public relations in the Communications department. She was passionate about writing articles about other people's life accomplishments. When she was an intern for United Way of Utah County, she discovered just how much she enjoyed writing articles about ordinary people who do extraordinary things for other people. Ann believed that anyone could be a hero--a mom, dad, grandma, grandpa, friend or neighbor.
Ann served in many callings as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. She enjoyed teaching in her many Primary, Young Women and Relief Society callings. She loved serving the members of the Church, especially the children.
Ann is survived by her husband David; her children Christopher, Trevor and Mikayla; her dog Pogo; her dad Clair Brown; three brothers, Lynn Brown (Nancy), Donald Brown (Joy) and Paul Brown (Lesley); and two sisters, Carol Messerly (Tony) and Debra Parker (Stewart).
A celebration of Ann's life will be held at 10:00 a.m. Friday, November 13, 2009 at the Pilgrim's Landing 3rd Ward Chapel 3610 West Newland Loop, Lehi. Friends and family are welcome to the viewing services Thursday, November 12, 2009 from 6:00-8:00 p.m. at Wing Mortuary 118 East Main, Lehi and again at the Pilgrim's Landing Chapel prior to the funeral services from 8:00 -9:30 a.m. Friday.
Rather than purchasing flowers, the family has requested donations go to the Primary Children's Medical Center. Donations will be accepted at the funeral home.
It's That Time of Year to Help the Food Bank
I had the opportunity to write an article last week for the UVU Review. The article is about the Utah Valley Parking & Transportation Services teaming up with the Utah Food Bank to get donations for this very busy Christmas season. I enjoyed writing this article because it gave me the chance to interview Tena Medina from the UVU Parking & Transportation Services and find out what they are doing to get the donations--it gave me an inside perspective. Every year they give UVU students an opportunity to donate cans of food to reduce the late fees from parking citations. Last year they received 2500 pounds of food for the Food Bank. I am excited that the article was published and I look forward to writing more articles. Read the article at http://www.uvureview.com/2009/11/09/help-the-food-bank-help-yourself/.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Making a "Beary" Big Difference to a Child
It is a tramatic thing when anyone is involved in some type of disaster, but it is especially sad when a child (or children) have to deal with such a difficult thing. I was reading through some articles in the Daily Herald and found a story about the Alpine Educational Support Professionals (AESP) in Lindon who are collecting Teddy Bears to comfort children involved in disasters. The act was inspired by the president of AESP, Kimberly James, whose husband had been suffering from some health issues and a police officer went to the trunk of his car and got a couple of Teddy Bears for her children. This act of kindness helped Kimberly realize how important it is to have something to comfort a child during a tramatic experience.
I am always inspired by stories where someone makes a difference in the lives of others--especially children who may be suffering. When disasters happen, adults are usually so busy trying to take care of the problem that the children's worries are left unattended. It is amazing to me that the police officer in the above scenerio took the time to think about the children and the fact that they needed to be comforted through a difficult time. It made such an impression on the children's mother that she was able to take that experience and turn it into a project that would make a difference in the lives of other children. Another thing that makes this story so great is the fact that so many people are taking action and donating Teddy Bears or other stuffed animals to help comfort children in their community. This story has inspired me to want to reach out and make a difference for children in some similar way. I hope to be able to report what I am going to do about bringing this thought to action in the near future (so look for my posting on the subject). To become inspired (or just to satisfy your curiosity), view this article at: http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/north/lindon/article_e40a86bc-8ff6-50c8-8db1-9b7575144b33.html
I am always inspired by stories where someone makes a difference in the lives of others--especially children who may be suffering. When disasters happen, adults are usually so busy trying to take care of the problem that the children's worries are left unattended. It is amazing to me that the police officer in the above scenerio took the time to think about the children and the fact that they needed to be comforted through a difficult time. It made such an impression on the children's mother that she was able to take that experience and turn it into a project that would make a difference in the lives of other children. Another thing that makes this story so great is the fact that so many people are taking action and donating Teddy Bears or other stuffed animals to help comfort children in their community. This story has inspired me to want to reach out and make a difference for children in some similar way. I hope to be able to report what I am going to do about bringing this thought to action in the near future (so look for my posting on the subject). To become inspired (or just to satisfy your curiosity), view this article at: http://www.heraldextra.com/news/local/north/lindon/article_e40a86bc-8ff6-50c8-8db1-9b7575144b33.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)