Apr 27, 2012

Psi Beta induction

The Psi Beta chapter of the national honor society in psychology inducted five members at Central Lakes College on April 26 in a ceremony on the Brainerd campus. New members are Casey Burnett, Breezy Point; Katie Seipp, Nisswa (shown); and Annamarie Hausken, Maribeth Ladouceur, and Karen Pikula, Brainerd.
Images: http://www.flickr.com/photos/58518185@N04/

Full-time instructors hired

Central Lakes College recently announced the hiring of six full-time instructors – three in English, three in mathematics -- for the 2012-13 academic year. Selected for the English posts were CLC adjuncts Lori-Beth Larsen and Adam Marcotte of Brainerd and Brandy Hoffmann, a writing studies instructor at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Selected for the mathematics posts were CLC adjunct Anne Nelson-Fisher of Brainerd, Mamfe Osafo of Mankato, and Deana Bobzien of Kewanee, Ill.

Apr 26, 2012

Graduations May 9 and 10

A retired university president and retiring Brainerd college instructor are scheduled to give the 2012 commencement addresses for Central Lakes College. Kathy Blake, a mathematics instructor retiring after 21 years at CLC, will give the commencement address to Staples campus graduates in a ceremony that starts at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 9 in the Staples-Motley High School gymnasium. A two-time Teacher of the Year at CLC, Blake is a first-generation graduate of Brainerd Community College who earned post-graduate degrees at St. Cloud State University and a doctorate from Wisdom University. Jon Wefald, former president of Kansas State University, will speak at the Brainerd ceremony that starts at 7 p.m. on Thursday, May 10 in the Brainerd High School gymnasium. Wefald is also a former Minnesota state university chancellor, president of Southwest Minnesota State University, and state commissioner of agriculture. The Class of 2012 at CLC will receive degrees, diplomas, and certificates for program completion. Honor graduates will be recognized. Student speakers will be student senate presidents Latoya Ross-Sullivan at Staples and Steve Sabin at Brainerd.

CLC one of top 120

Central Lakes College, Brainerd and Staples, for the second straight year has been named one of the top 120 community colleges in the United States. The Aspen Institute identified 120 community colleges -- 10 percent of all institutions -- using a formula that assesses performance and improvement in four areas: graduation rates, degrees awarded, student retention rates, and equity in student outcomes. The College Excellence Program, directed by the Washington, D.C.-based Aspen Institute, challenges Central Lakes College and the 119 other institutions to compete for prize money from a $1 million fund to be given to the select few with the most innovative strategies and measurable student success.

Photo contest results

The 45th annual Central Lakes College Photo Contest in Brainerd was one of the largest, with 72 photographers from 33 communities entering 490 photographs. The contest included nine categories -- Landscape, Portrait, Action, Creative, Birds, Animals, Flowers, Children, and the theme category Everything Under the Sun. Photographers from 13 communities were recognized for their Best of Show images. Jamie Birkedahl of Nisswa, a CLC student and 2009 Brainerd High School graduate, received Best of Show in the Everything Under the Sun theme category with a narrow landscape of a sunrise viewed from inside a cave.

Streed and Tech Services honored

Congratulations to Scott Streed, CLC Director of Technology Services, for receiving a MnSCU IT Award Recognizing Excellence and Innovation. Scott was recognized for the work he and CLC's Tech Services Dept. did implementing iPads and a paperless/collaborative work area for AASC. Scott recognized the hard work of Sue Bowman and Justin DeZurik for their efforts to make this project a success.  "They did a great job getting the iPads prepared and provided training and support to the faculty/staff using them.  Their efforts contributed to the smooth roll-out and success of this project," he said. Details in this video-

Instructor of the Year

Jessica Herron, a nursing instructor at Central Lakes College in Brainerd, was named 2012 Instructor of the Year by the Minnesota State College Student Association. The recognition came during the recent spring general assembly of the organization, which was held at Breezy Point. She was nominated by the CLC Student Senate. More than 300 student leaders from two-year public colleges in the state convened for the opportunity to honor individuals such as Jessica, who have been influential in educating others. She became a fulltime nursing program instructor at CLC in 2008. She had served as adjunct instructor prior to that. She earned her associate's degree in 2002 from CLC. She has worked as a registered nurse at St. Joseph's Medical Center in Brainerd. Jessica earned her bachelor's degree in nursing in December of 2008 from the College of St. Scholastica.
Video:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9RMwkg3uz-4

Ghana next Cultural Thursday

Genevieve Avevor of Ghana presents the next Cultural Thursday program at Central Lakes College, a free, public event on May 3 in Room E 203 (Business & Industry Center), on the Brainerd campus. She is a student attending CLC for one year through the Community College for International Development program. She is majoring in business. Following an internship this spring, Gen returns to Ghana to continue studies and move toward her goal of creating a business using the training obtained at CLC in the Business Management program. About Ghana and the Cultural Thursday program, she said: "Ghana has many cultural activities to boast of.  Some are festivals, language, food, music, art and craft and tourism.  Festivals are celebrated throughout Ghana with rites and rituals.  They cover rights of passage, child birth, marriage and death.  They include thrilling durbars of chiefs, queen mothers decorated and processions in palanquins. I look forward to sharing my country with the community."

Assist at FFA convention

An instructor and a student in the welding program at Central Lakes College in Brainerd recently assisted at the annual convention of the Minnesota Future Farmers of America at the University of Minnesota St. Paul campus. Mike Reeser, instructor, and Shantel Koering (shown), a CLC welding student from Fort Ripley, helped educate the high school students on the latest welding techniques and tools. About 500 FFA members tested their welding skills on the new Lincoln Electric VRTEX 360 Virtual Welding Trainer. This new tool is in use by the CLC welding program. Reeser evaluated the testing and reported that Kyle Kasper of Grand Rapids received the highest score at 94.

Apr 25, 2012

Rain gardens and more

Beth Hippert, district technician at the Crow Wing Soil and Water Conservation District, spoke at the Earth Day Fair on the Brainerd campus of Central Lakes College Wednesday. Her presentation cited the benefits of rain gardens as one way to create a cohesive landscape that soaks up runoff and reduces pollutants using natural plant communities. CLC Natural Resources and Horticulture students hosted the free, public event that included talks about on-farm biofuels production and backyard birdscapes, plus a showing of the land ethic video about Aldo Leopold, games, prizes, and a cookout fund-raiser for the Natural Resources Club.

Apr 24, 2012

'Lot o' Shakespeare'

Tim Mooney performs his one-man William Shakespeare show, "Lot o' Shakespeare," in Dryden Theatre at Central Lakes College in Brainerd at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, May 3. Inside a drum are balls with the title of each of the Bard's 38 plays and many of his sonnets. In lottery fashion, Mooney performs a monologue or sonnet at random. The audience plays along with bingo-style "Iago” cards and wins prizes! Tim Mooney's incredible versatility, unmatched energy, and performance talent are amazing to experience. Prices of "Lot O'Shakespeare" are $12.50 for general public and $7.00 for CLC students. Seating is general admission. For full ticket details, go to this event's page at www.clctickets.com

Wolf program

Take a walk on the wild side with Minnesota DNR Large Carnivore Specialist Dan Stark when he presents “Minnesota Wolf Recovery” at 7 p.m., Tuesday, May 1 in Room E203 at Central Lakes College in Brainerd. The presentation is part of the Center for Lifelong Learning’s 2011-2012 speaker series. In January of 2007, wolves were removed from the threatened list of the Endangered Species Act. Stark will review the history, management, and population status of wolves in Minnesota, as well as information regarding current status and development of a possible wolf season in fall of 2012. Stark is the Large Carnivore Specialist for the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Division of Fish and Wildlife, and works as the state’s wolf specialist in overseeing the transition of wolf management from the federal government to the Minnesota DNR and implementing the State wolf management plan. Stark also works on bear season and policy issues for the DNR. A Minnesota native who grew up in central Minnesota, Stark has a bachelor’s degree in biology from Saint Cloud State University and completed graduate work at the University of Arizona. Cost to attend this event is $5 for non-members or free for those with a Center for Lifelong Learning membership. Pre-registration is recommended and can be made by calling Bev at 218-855-8118. For information on the Center For Lifelong Learning, visit www.clcmn.edu/lifelonglearning.

Apr 23, 2012

Awards Day - Brainerd

Awards Day was held at Central Lakes College, Brainerd campus, today to recognize outstanding efforts among students, clubs, faculty, staff, and administrators. Julie Jo Larson of Crosby is the Brainerd campus Student of the Year, selected from a field of six nominees with at least a 3.5 grade-point average and evidence of community activism, volunteerism, and participation in school activities. A committee picked the winner. Other major winners: Janel Loven, Brainerd, Paul Findorff Business Scholarship, $2,754; Gregory Botts, Brainerd, Reese/Webb Business Award, $500; International Club - Club of the Year; Suresh Tiwari - Administrator of the Year; Sarah Kath (shown) - Outstanding Faculty; Deb Breneman - Outstanding Staff; Maintenance - Department of Year; Dr. Bill Faber - Adviser of Year; Jennifer Miles, Deerwood; Imran Samuel, Pakistan; Lindy Johnson, Crosby; Mark Englund, Brainerd - Citizenship-Leadership Awards; Irshad Hussain, Pakistan - Senator of Year; Molly Winters, Brainerd - Senate Executive Officer of Year; Georgi Georgiev - Student Employee of Year.
Images:  http://www.flickr.com/photos/58518185@N04/

Sabin elected

Congratulations to the new president of the Minnesota State College Student Association: Steve Sabin from Central Lakes College. He is the first CLC student to be elected to the statewide office, a post of leadership for some 100,000 Minnesota students. He will assist as an advocate for higher education accessibility, quality, and affordability in the Minnesota State College and Universities system. "I am determined to do whatever it takes to get our leaders organized and to fight for students so that out two-year colleges are affordable and accessible," Steve said. Meanwhile, he continues to earn his Practical Nursing diploma and next year complete work for the Associate in Arts degree at CLC.
Video:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U_KlenJQSLY 
and Steve received Student Leader of the Year at this statewide event. Watch the video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=astrEsedSOk

Celebration of Nations

Chicken dancer Talon Billy (Center of the Sky Eagle) of the Nay Ah Shing Tribal School American Indian Dance group provided a sample of his specialty, accompanied by the school's drum group, at Friday's Celebration of Nations in the Brainerd campus gym of Central Lakes College. Hundreds of guests negotiated the College Drive construction zone to find a multi-cultural bonanza during the four hours of music, dance, family activities, food, capped by fireworks. Several international students at CLC shared information about their homelands, wearing traditional attire and joining together for a lively sample of dance familiar in the Far East. The Diversity Leadership Council, International Club, and other volunteers worked hard to create the third annual showcase of heritage. If you are interested in being a part of the 2013 Celebration of Nations, please contact Tashana Husom, Lori-Beth Larsen, Adam Marcotte, Erich Heppner or Mary Sam.
Images: http://www.flickr.com/photos/58518185@N04/

The Art of Science

Lindy Jo Johnson was named winner of the CLC Juried Student Art Contest for 2012, receiving the award from Joli Austin, adjunct faculty member who judged the works with assistance from Heidi Steadman. Artwork entered and qualifying for exhibit is displayed in the CLC Gallery, where a reception was held April 20. "The Art of Science" art show kicked off with a meet and greet, hors d-oeuvres, beverages, and live entertainment hosted by the 50-member CLC Science Club. Lindy Jo's oil on canvas titled "Simple Twist of Fate" took top honors. Runner-up Martin Nelson of Brainerd created an acrylic and mixed media on canvas piece titled "The Great Divide, AKA Black Gold." Lindy Jo credits CLC art instructor Mic Stowell with inspiring and mentoring her artistic side. Lindy Jo, president of the CLC Science Club, will next pursue an environmental engineering degree at Bemidji State. Martin thanks his artist-father Mitchell Cory Nelson, for raising him in an artistic environment and nurturing creativity. Martin is headed to St. Cloud State to study fine arts. He currently has one of his works displayed in the Wells Fargo building in St. Paul, as part of the Chancellor's Exhibit (Minnesota State Colleges and Universities).

Apr 20, 2012

MSCSA at Breezy Point

Dr. Larry Lundblad, president of Central Lakes College, gave a welcome to about 300 delegates from two-year colleges attending the spring general assembly of the Minnesota State College Student Association today at Breezy Point. The conference continues  Saturday with elections, workshops, roundtables, regional meetings, and advisers' reception, awards dinner, and 80s prom dance. On Sunday morning it wraps up after breakfast with a keynote speaker, author-playwright-motivator Ryan Penneau, and lunch, followed by the oath of office ceremony. CLC's Brainerd Campus Senate President Steve Sabin, a non-traditional nursing student,  is unopposed on the ballot for state president of the organization.

Apr 19, 2012

President honored

Dr. Larry Lundblad of Central Lakes College, Brainerd and Staples, is one of 20 college presidents receiving the 2012 Shirley B. Gordon Award of Distinction. The award was presented April 13 in Nashville, Tenn., at the national convention of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society for two-year colleges. College presidents are selected for this award on the basis of outstanding efforts given toward promoting the goals of Phi Theta Kappa. The Award of Distinction is named after the late Dr. Shirley B. Gordon, who served as Chair of Phi Theta Kappa's Board of Directors for 20 years. She was President Emeritus of Highline Community College in Washington. Lundblad was nominated by Julie Jo Larson, president of the Upsilon Omega chapter of PTK at Central Lakes College, along with other PTK members.

New fulltime instructors

Central Lakes College recently announced the hiring of six full-time instructors for the 2012-13 academic year. Scheduled to start on Aug. 22, 2012 are three English and three mathematics faculty. Selected for the English posts were CLC adjuncts Lori-Beth Larsen and Adam Marcotte of Brainerd and Brandon Hoffmann, a writing studies instructor at the University of Minnesota-Duluth. Selected for the mathematics posts were CLC adjunct Anne Nelson-Fisher of Brainerd, Mamfe Osafo of Mankato, and Deana Bobzien of Kewanee, Ill.

Disability services coordinator

Andria Belisle of Big Lake has been hired by Central Lakes College to serve as its disability services coordinator starting Monday, April 30. She has been a graduate assistant in the St. Cloud State University Office of Student Disability Services and an intern in Career Services at the University of Minnesota. Andria in May will receive her Master of Science degree from St. Cloud State in College counseling and student development. She received her bachelor’s from SCSU with a major in communication sciences and disorders. She has also worked as a special needs instructor and is the incoming co-chair for the MN College Personnel Association’s Disability Commission.

Apr 18, 2012

Celebration warm-up

Cyril Paul and the Calypso Monarchs, a band from Trinidad, performed Wednesday in the cafeteria at Central Lakes College as a kick-off for Friday's Celebration of Nations at CLC. The lunch-hour theme included a sample of ethnic food, Caribbean Chicken. Along with featured musical performers, assorted ethnic treats will be available at the Celebration of Nations. The CLC Office of Diversity and Equity, Diversity Leadership Council, International Student Club, and Student Life are hosting the celebration Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. in the gymnasium on the Brainerd campus, concluding with fireworks.

Photo contest

The 45th annual photo contest at Central Lakes College, Brainerd campus, is currently on display with one of the largest collections of photos in the history of the contest, according to contest coordinator Larry M. Kellerman. This year 72 photographers from 33 Minnesota communities entered a total of 490 photographs in the nine categories of landscape, portrait, action, creative, birds, animals, flowers, children and the theme category “Everything under the sun.” The photos will remain on display in the hallways near the library and theatre until Monday, April 30.

Vocal music honors

Four Central Lakes College students recently competed in the Vocal Solo portion of the MN State Colleges and Universities Two-Year Fine Arts Association Music Festival at Breezy Point. Chelsea Anderson of Verndale, Robert Howell of Minneapolis, Peter Lucken of Melrose, and Janiqua Robinson of Hinckley performed one art song for an adjudicator on Thursday, April 12.  Over 200 students participated in the entire two-day music festival, and 30 competed in the vocal solo event, reports Brenda Handel-Johnson, voice instructor.  Janiqua (shown) from CLC was honored as one of the top eight students selected to sing in an Honors recital. She sang "Bel Piacere" by G. F. Handel. 

First graders visit

First graders from St. Francis Elementary School, Brainerd, visited the Brainerd campus of Central Lakes College Tuesday, attending the children's theatre class production of "Alice's Excellent Adventure in Wonderland" in the Dryden Theatre, and then taking brief tours of the Humphrey Center for American Indians, and the Dental Assisting, Criminal Justice, Welding (Instructor Mike Reeser is shown as he demonstrated a welding simulator), and Horticulture programs. "All this is an effort to familiarize the kids with college," said Suzanne Karsnia, CLC counselor who accompanied the children. She said it also helps to make the connection between school and work, which is what Suzanne did when she visited their school as a Junior Achievement volunteer.

Apr 17, 2012

Choir concert

“A Choral Tapestry,” a free Central Lakes College Spring Choir Concert, will be held at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, May 3 in Chalberg Theater on the Brainerd campus. Director Michelle Sakry-Winkelman, who is retiring after 22 years, said the event will include music performed by the Chamber Singers, Cantare’ Concert Choir, and Men’s Ensemble. The singers will perform a variety of musical works by Vivaldi, Luboff, Dickau, Scarlatti, Westler, and Rossetti. A choral medley of 10 songs from the musical “Les Miserables” will be performed by the combined choirs accompanied by Jim Olsen, guest guitarist.

Apr 13, 2012

Marketplace presence

Central Lakes College is participating in the April 13 and 14 Marketplace Show (aka Commerce & Industry Show) at the Brainerd Area Civic Center. Staff are helping to man the prominent booth located at the entrance to this Chamber of Commerce-orchestrated event. The CLC Horticulture program has been getting rave reviews for decorating not only the area around our booth but also the "Avenue of Nature" that has been incorporated into this year's showcase for businesses and organizations. What appear to be entire birch trees as well as greenery and plantings of fresh spring bouquets have added a splash of natural splendor to this event. Thank you to the Hort instructors and students and to our great CLC staff people who have put in time to share their knowledge of the college and help distribute materials to those who stop to chat. We'll probably do it again next year!

Auto Tech seminar

Thirteen Central Lakes College students in the Automotive Technology program recently attended the two-day Midwest seminar of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association in Bloomington. Accompanied by instructor Ray Johnson of Pequot Lakes and lab assistant Richard Altepeter of Brainerd, the 13 students represented all two-year colleges in the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities system. A favorite of shop owners and managers, the seminar is considered a valuable addition to formal education and career placement as graduated students from programs with ATRA affiliation go into business and contribute to an auto repair facility or dealership. The CLC students participating, who all received prizes and assistance with lodging discounts at the Minneapolis Airport Marriott, were Cody Kelley, Remer; Robert Pahl, Breezy Point; Christopher Pistone, James Sorensen, and Brady Tesch, Brainerd; Jeremy Davidson, Baxter; Tyler Gottwalt, Royalton; Michael Bounds, Staples; Devin Okerman, Derik Jendro, Charles Hansen, and Mitchell Waldvogel, Little Falls; and Brandon Hoeschen, Freeport.

Apr 12, 2012

Earth Day Fair

Central Lakes College will host a free, public Earth Day Fair on Wed., April 25 at the Brainerd campus from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. The event features presentations by speakers, earth-centered games and activities for children and adults, prize drawings, and a lunch-hour cook-out hosted by the Natural Resources Club. Bob Schafer, director of the Central Lakes College Agricultural and Energy Center at Staples, will present an update on bio fuels and how farmers can grow crops that can supplement their fuel costs. The Center is a state leader in research of energy crops and on-farm biofuel production.

Apr 11, 2012

Veterans honored

The Staples campus of Central Lakes College hosted a send-off for veterans headed to Washington,. D.C. as an "honor flight" and recognized all CLC-connected veterans during a lunch-hour ceremony co-hosted by the Staples Lions. The "guardians" are flying to D.C. to visit memorials such as the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, WWII Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery. The CLC event was a means to say "thank you" to all serving our country in the military. Among those applauded were students Steve McKay and Troy Houde, Brainerd; Caitlin Robinson, Ironton; Adam Schlangen, Watkins; Dennis Benjamin, Moorhead; Andy Vaverek, Little Falls; Michael Callahan, Baxter; and Larry Helsene, Pillager. CLC veteran staff members honored were Calvin Gudgeon, Dan Gunderson, Don Pfeffer, Kathy Marshik (shown), and Mike Sams. CLC Photo and Videography students documented the event using DSLR video and are producing an Honor Flight production for each of the Veterans on this trip.  This class assignment is a Service Learning project. Congressman Chip Cravaak attended the event.

Living with Alzheimer's

Bailey Wachholz of Nisswa, 2012 Miss Minnesota’s Outstanding Teen, will give a teenager’s perspective on Alzheimer’s disease in the first day of a May 15 and 16 educational forum at Central Lakes College in Brainerd. The forum is sponsored by the Lakes Area Memory Awareness Advocates (LAMAA) and seven other organizations. The May 15 program is from 3:30 to 8 p.m., and the May 16 program is from 7:30 a.m. to noon in the Business and Industry Center of the Brainerd campus (Door No. 6). Wachholz’s breakout session is scheduled for 5:15-6:15 p.m. and 6:30-7:30 p.m. on May 15. She has a message to raise awareness as her platform in pageant competition, including the Aug. 14-18 Miss America’s Outstanding Teen competition in Orlando, Fla.

5-K Walk/Freedom Run

The Staples Campus Student Senate of Central Lakes College is sponsoring the Tour de Staples 5K Walk/Freedom Run Saturday, May 5 to benefit the CLC Veterans Resource Center. The 5-kilometer (3.1-mile) race for runners starts at 10:30 a.m., with the non-competitive walk beginning moments later. Registration is from 9 to 10 a.m. for those not signing up in advance through the Staples Campus CLC Bookstore. The entry fees are $15 advance, $20 day of event for individual adults, $25/$30 for teams of three to six people, and free to ages 11-under. All participants receive 5K Walk/Run T-shirts and refreshments before and/or after the event. Award recognition is presented to the top individual and team finishers.

Apr 10, 2012

Music contest on Brainerd campus

The Subsection 24 solo and ensemble vocal music contest of the Minnesota State High School League will be held on the Brainerd campus of Central Lakes College Wednesday, with up to 400 singers expected throughout the day. Schools entered are Bertha-Hewitt, Lake Region Christian, Menahga, New York Mills, Pequot Lakes, Pillager, Pine River-Backus, Sebeka, Staples-Motley, Verndale, and Wadena-Deer Creek. Most of the activity is expected to be in the east and northeast portion of campus, where rooms with pianos have been reserved for the day. Lunches will be eaten in the 11 a.m.- 1 p.m. period in the Multi-purpose Room (E101). Judges have a sequestered areas in the Rosenmeier Room off the Jon Hassler Library to tabulate and report the ratings of Superior, Excellent, etc. and determine who advances to the May 5 sectional contest at a site to be determined.

Teaching practical finance

Central Lakes College instructor Bruce Klopfleisch and Gloria Palmer of Staples-Motley High School are partners in an effort to teach practical financial management skills to high school students. Bruce is helping incorporate his curriculum from the CLC course "Money Management Skills" into Gloria's resource management class at the high school. He is doing the same for schools in Brainerd, Little Falls, Crosby-Ironton, and Pine River. The effort stems from the College in Schools program offered by CLC to award college credits to high school students. Money Management Skills is a one-credit class offered in the College and Career Studies cluster at CLC. Students learn about financial aid and college loans, tuition, room and board, insurance, credit reports, ID theft, making car payments, bank accounts, and budgeting. Guest speakers come in for more real-world insight. The Staples-Motley school project was featured in the March 29 Staples World newspaper.

Apr 9, 2012

'Art' April 26-28 at CLC

“Art,” a witty Tony Award-winning play, will be performed by three local actors in Dryden Theatre on the Brainerd campus of Central Lakes College, Brainerd, April 26-28 at 7:30 p.m. Presented through the Cultural Arts Series at CLC, the play features the talents of Erik Steen, Dan Rohr, and Patrick Spradlin – all veteran actors from the Brainerd area. Spradlin is also coordinator of the series. “Art” explores the questions of what is art, what is friendship, and on what canvas and with what media do we draw the lines of our relationships? It was written in 1994 by Iranian playwright Yasmina Reza, originally in French.

Indian Civil Rights Act

Professor Tadd Johnson, department head and director of Graduate Studies in American Indian Studies at the University of Minnesota-Duluth, presented a one-hour program on the American Indian Civil Rights Act at Central Lakes College in Brainerd today. His program was arranged in conjunction with Diversity Month at the college. Mary Sam, Director of Intercultural Services, Diversity and Tribal Relations at CLC, presented a traditional American Indian gift, the Pendleton Travel Blanket, to help keep him warm on his travels as he works to educate and bring understanding to Indian and non-Indian communities.  A second gift, the small beaded turtle tie, represents Earth - Turtle Island -- where Prof. Johnson is helping create understanding and healthier relationships. Johnson is an enrolled member of the Bois Forte Band of Chippewa and an attorney who has served as a tribal court judge, administrator, and national Indian Gaming Commission chair (appointed by President Bill Clinton).

Special Cultural Thursday

A special set of Cultural Thursday presentations have been added to the April schedule at Central Lakes College in Brainerd to take advantage of a slide presentation on Suriname’s Amazon Delta by CLC sociologist Gary Payne.Gary and Pine River teacher Mary Rosenberg traveled across this tiny South American nation over twelve days in March, loaded with camera equipment. Gary said, “Suriname's history is one of the most unusual on the planet.  It was called Dutch Guyana during centuries of slavery when large numbers of African slaves were brought over. But as the African slaves escaped and rebelled against the plantation owners, the Dutch brought in large numbers of indentured slaves from Pakistan, India, China and Indonesia. Two presentations will take place on Thursday, April 19 in the Brainerd campus lecture hall (E354). The first starts at noon and second presentation at 7 p.m.  Admission is free, the public is invited.

Practical Nursing pinning ceremony

Central Lakes College recently held a pinning ceremony for 42 March graduates of the Practical Nursing program. The recognition acknowledges completion of the 40-credit diploma requirements to prepare graduates for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nursing.
            Graduates listed by community of residence:
Backus – Shawna Hamilton.
Baxter – Courtney Barnett, Emily Eisenbraun, Julie Simmons.
Brainerd – Cheryl Allen, Amanda Beyer, Talia Bishop, Krystal Efterfield, Jessica Green, Jodi Houde, Karole Ives, Rita Jedlenski, Mashona Jensen, Angela Kleinschmidt, Lindsey Korte, Whitney Martinsen, Carrie Rutske, Stephen Sabin, Shannon Shepherd, Brittany Stegora, Jessica Weber.
Breezy Point – Tia McMonigal.
Crosby – Nicole Hagel.
East Gull Lake – Jane Carlson.
Foreston – Melissa Anderson.
Ironton – Honi Strange.
Isle –Lanisha Pojanowski.
Little Falls – Nicoel Loxterkamp, Ammber Sahr, Jessica Schleif.
Merrifield – Ronda Gauerke, Sarak Lueck.
Nisswa – Chandra Jorgens, Rachel Karson.
Palisade – Jodi Oxborough.
Pierz – Ashley Stangl.
Pillager – Jennifer Friedel, Lavonne Hinrichs.
Pine River – Sarah Melberg, Jessica Pikula.
Randall – Kelly Miller.
Sartell – Jamie Zylka.

Apr 6, 2012

All-Minnesota Academic Team

Julie Jo Larson and Jonathan Hammer, Central Lakes College honor students, were named to the 2012 All-Minnesota Academic Team, a 40-person list from public two-year institutions. Nominations are based on outstanding academic performance and service to the college and community. The national honor society Phi Theta Kappa, two-year college presidents, and community college state associations co-sponsor All-State Academic Team recognition.

Veterans Honor Flight send-off at Staples

The Staples campus of Central Lakes College on Wednesday, April 11 will host the Veterans Honor Flight send-off in the cafeteria commons starting at 11:30 a.m. with the arrival of veterans and guests. The group is expected to include 19 student veterans, according to Bruce Fuhrman, one of the organizers. The CLC Color Guard will provide appropriate salutes. Lunch will be provided by Lakewood Health System through a donation from the Wadena VFW. Guests and CLC veterans may participate in the lunch. From 11:50 to noon President Larry Lundblad or Dean Jeff Wig will give a brief address. This is the third year for this event, which originated from efforts by coordinators Frank Odell and Gene Matilla of Staples, who each has been recognized as a Citizen of the Year as a result of the work. Odell will direct a medals presentation to veterans from noon to 12:10. At 12:20 p.m., CLC students will provide flag-waving recognition to the guests, whose destination is Washington, D.C., to tour all memorials to veterans.

Apr 5, 2012

Cultural Thursday: India

The April 2012 Cultural Thursday event held on the Brainerd campus proved to be one of the liveliest to date as international students presented an energetic, entertaining sample of the culture of India by joining Naresh Chunara for a demonstration of his country's popular dance style. The students are here at CLC through the end of this semester as part of the Community College for International Development program. They introduced their mentor families during the program in Chalberg Theatre, and Naresh showed slides and in response to a question from the audience sang a song along with Irshad Hussain from Pakistan. CLc alumna Abra Fisk joined the students in their closing dance number, which included some audience participation. For a look at this outstanding lunch-hour showcase, go to http://www.flickr.com/photos/58518185@N04  The next Cultural Thursday is May 3 and will feature Genevieve Avevor, a student from Ghana. It will be held in E203 in the Business and Industry Center at CLC. The Cultural Thursday programs are free and open to the public, running from noon to 12:50 p.m.

College Drive Improvement construction news

From City of Brainerd
Anderson Brothers Construction Company of Brainerd has informed the City of Brainerd that construction on the College Drive Improvement will resume on Monday, April 9. The favorable weather conditions over the winter have set the stage for work to begin earlier than originally anticipated. The project location extends from west of County Road 48 in Baxter, along County Road 48 north and south of College Road/College Drive and then easterly through the intersection of Quince and Fifth. Work did continue on the public and private utility relocations over the winter and into the spring.

Apr 4, 2012

'A Deeper Look'

As part of Diversity Month programming, the non-profit, nationally recognized CLIMB Theatre of Inver Grove Heights performed "A Deeper Look" at Central Lakes College today, sponsored by the Diversity Leadership Council at CLC. We enter the stage as African Americans, Asians, Native Americans, Latinos, and Caucasians. Because you see us, you naturally think you know us. Our personal stories, bravely told through monologues, scenes, music, dance and slides, will take you on a journey of deeper understanding—not just of us, but of yourself. We are, you see, more alike than different, but can we interact from that point of view with others, especially after 9/11? Can we both embrace and disengage from our American history of prejudice and religious intolerance and its power to repeat itself over and over again? "A Deeper Look" fits the CLIMB mission:  to create and perform plays, classes, and other creative works that inspire and propel people - especially young people - toward actions that benefit themselves, each other, and the community. After the show, the DLC conducted a "Privilege Walk" in the gymnasium as an interaction session to enable individuals to assess their degree of privilege.
More images: http://www.flickr.com/photos/58518185@N04

Apr 2, 2012

Leon Redbone April 21

The Central Lakes College Cultural Arts Series, in collaboration with Minnesota Public Radio, presents Tin Pan Alley enthusiast Leon Redbone for a 7:30 p.m. show on Saturday, April 21 in Chalberg Theatre on the Brainerd campus. Neo vaudeville crooner Redbone is a gem of American music who has made an indelible stamp on popular culture. At the core of his initial calling was the desire to simply honor songs from the past – a waltz with bygone days that established him as sole curator of the museum of 20th century music.

College Drive construction

The College Drive Construction Project has begun. Work ahead includes grading, curb and gutter, paving, storm sewer, sidewalk construction, trail construction, signal upgrades, roundabout construction, retaining walls and landscaping. Utilities work continues to relocate gas lines, fiber optics and other cabling near the Brainerd campus. Starting April 9 construction equipment may be positioned on the traffic corridor, so please use caution as you travel College Drive. Work is to progress westward from near Brainerd High School to Highland Scenic Dr. (CR48). Please be aware of possible interruption in services as utility upgrades are established ahead of roadwork from sunrise to sunset. College Drive is tentatively scheduled for closure June 4 through Aug. 24 with access to CLC by Mississippi Parkway from east and west intersections with College Drive. The anticipated completion date for construction work is Oct. 25. We will provide updates as construction proceeds via email and at our website www.clcmn.edu

CLC Half Mile inaugurated

Steve Sabin, president of the Brainerd campus student senate at Central Lakes College, saw his pet project realized Friday, March 30, when he cut the ribbon to officially open the CLC Half Mile Walking Trail. The indoor, two-tier pathway is marked by signage from the ceiling to show both Easy and Intense loops through the spacious hallways of the campus. Dr. Suresh Tiwari, vice president of academic and student affairs, joined Steve in the ceremonial slice. Brainerd Mayor James Wallin praised the effort in remarks covered by Lakeland News reporter Becky Parker, who aired the inaugural walk on the evening broadcast by the public TV station serving the northern half of Minnesota. About 60 walkers of all ages made the first lap, and several others continued on with the stairs lap to sample the higher-level work-out. Steve, a nursing student, designed the indoor path as one way to help the community lower the incidence of Type 2 diabetes and generally improve the physical condition of those who exercise. He notes that walking lowers medication usage, lowers the risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease, blood pressure and bad cholesterol. Steve offers these suggestions for walkers: Stand tall, do not slouch forward; prevent tension by shrugging shoulders as you pace; consciously tighten stomach muscles; step down heel first in your gait.
Photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/58518185@N04