Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Dalton Anderson On Dumpster Diving Response

1. Avoids reading personal information, is considerate to the other scavengers, and avoids diving at night.
2. He does not eat home-cooked/ home-canned foods. He eats only easily identifiable foods.
3. Scroungers are messy and inconsiderate (tossing objects left and right without the slightest thought as to how it would effect anyone else). Most divers, for example, may find a perfectly good coat. They may not have any need for a coat at the time, so they place it aside in an easy-to-see spot out of the way so it won't get messy.
4.Bees, cats, fire ants, and birds.
5. He might mean that people are always wanting more. That they don't focus on what is really important in life.
6. He was mostly optimistic, sometimes a bit pessimistic, but overall he seemed to feel no shame at all about the way he lives (or lived) his life. Knowing he was homeless, I couldn't help but be impressed at his word choices, he did, at times, seem rather an erudite person. Doug Hodge, Cassie Brasher, Scotty McMasters, Devan McCallister, and Dalton Anderson.
Monday, August 29, 2011
Dumpster Diving Sheri Stephens, Krissi Wester, Stephanie Urrutia, Justin Middleton, Cody Baker

#1 Eighner doesnt eat canned food because of botulism, he never takes more then he needs, he sets things aside so others see and use. He often ate yogurt and crackers because they would stay good for a long time.
#2 Lares he prefered to eat food that was still hot that restaurants threw out. He would often eat yogurt because he knew it would stay good past expiration date, he did not look dented or damaged canned food, He also would not eat homecooked left overs, nor would he eat pork or egg based food.
#3 A dumpster diver only take the neccesities, can scroungers wanted cans and things that could be traded for money to get drugs, cigarettes etc.
#4 He encountered fire ants, maggots, birds, and cats while dumpster diving.
#5 He ends the story with " I am sorry for them" because people are wasteful and have no idea what they want in life or know what they are looking for. example people surfing through channels.
#6 Eighners tone was very humble,and honest, he wrote as though he were still in the midst of dumpster diving.
On Dumpster Diving - Ariel, Duston, Jordan, Ian, Annie.
1. He does not eat every food item, "If it was thrown away it was thrown away for a reason." no pork, poultry, egg-based food; Know the area you are working in and check the area frequently; reinspect what you have got.
2. Did not prefer canned food with meat, he likes pizza, he liked yogurt, he liked fruit, chocolate, and hard candy. He did not like egg-based food, poultry, and pork. He did not enjoy left-overs.
3. Can-scroungers make a mess out of the dumpster and ruin a lot of good things in the dumpster. They just take the cans. Dumpster divers look for anything of good use and importance. The scroungers are usually druggies and winos.
4. Fire ants, bees, cats, and birds.
5. He feels as though we are a very wasteful society and we do not keep the things we have that are perfectly useful.
6. He is very intellectual. He has a very informative style. You could use his writing as a guide. He spoke with pride and was not ashamed of where he had been in the past.
2. Did not prefer canned food with meat, he likes pizza, he liked yogurt, he liked fruit, chocolate, and hard candy. He did not like egg-based food, poultry, and pork. He did not enjoy left-overs.
3. Can-scroungers make a mess out of the dumpster and ruin a lot of good things in the dumpster. They just take the cans. Dumpster divers look for anything of good use and importance. The scroungers are usually druggies and winos.
4. Fire ants, bees, cats, and birds.
5. He feels as though we are a very wasteful society and we do not keep the things we have that are perfectly useful.
6. He is very intellectual. He has a very informative style. You could use his writing as a guide. He spoke with pride and was not ashamed of where he had been in the past.
Dumpster Diving Group Discussion
Sapphire Armstrong Filkins
Thomas Belden
Scott Erickson
Lechunda Duncan
Emily Eyberg
Karyssa Adame
1. Three guidelines that Eighner follows when dumpster diving are using the sense to evaulate conditions of the found materials, knowing the dumpsters of the given area, checking them regularly, and seeking to always answer the question 'Why is this discarded?'
2. Eighner prepared canned food, pizza, doughnuts, and yogurt. He did not prepare leftovers from homes, poultry, pork, and egg-based food.
3. Eighner describes the differences between a dumpster diver and a can scavenger by describing the scavengers as alcoholic druggies who only grab cans. Dumpster divers carefully pick through the dumpsters and leave anything they don't need.
4. Eighner encounters fire ants, birds, maggots, and cats when dumpster diving.
5. Our group felt that Eighner said he felt sorry for them because he goes dumpster diving with a purpose knowing what he needs, while others just mindlessly wander without a purpose.
6. Eighner's tone is very descriptive but also cynical in a way. His style is very narrative is also like a how-to guide to dumpster diving.
Thomas Belden
Scott Erickson
Lechunda Duncan
Emily Eyberg
Karyssa Adame
1. Three guidelines that Eighner follows when dumpster diving are using the sense to evaulate conditions of the found materials, knowing the dumpsters of the given area, checking them regularly, and seeking to always answer the question 'Why is this discarded?'
2. Eighner prepared canned food, pizza, doughnuts, and yogurt. He did not prepare leftovers from homes, poultry, pork, and egg-based food.
3. Eighner describes the differences between a dumpster diver and a can scavenger by describing the scavengers as alcoholic druggies who only grab cans. Dumpster divers carefully pick through the dumpsters and leave anything they don't need.
4. Eighner encounters fire ants, birds, maggots, and cats when dumpster diving.
5. Our group felt that Eighner said he felt sorry for them because he goes dumpster diving with a purpose knowing what he needs, while others just mindlessly wander without a purpose.
6. Eighner's tone is very descriptive but also cynical in a way. His style is very narrative is also like a how-to guide to dumpster diving.
On Dumpster Diving - Discussion Questions
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Lars Eighner |
- Describe at least three guidelines Eighner follows when dumpster diving.
- Describe the foods Eighner preferred and those which he did not.
- What is the difference between a dumpster diver and a can scrounger?
- What four types of insects or animals does Eighner encounter when dumpster diving?
- Why do you think Eighner ends his story with the line, “I am sorry for them”?
- Describe Eighner’s style and tone.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Saturday, August 27, 2011
Friday, August 26, 2011
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Duston Scott- Intro
I come from a small town in the middle of nowhere called Thornfield where the hunting is great and people drive for kicks and giggles. Plenty of trees to climb, and creeks to swim in. What else does Thornfield have to offer? Not much more. Suffice to say I was well entertained. I have a big family. My parents who I respect most in life, two older brothers, and three older sisters. All married with multiple kids. I am an uncle multiple times over and it's always a blast when I get to visit with my nephews and nieces. I have a wonderful girlfriend who I have been with for three years and would not trade her for anyone or anything. In the common language of our cat whose voice we express for him, "You can no has, she is mine!"
I'm insane, as in I like to have fun. I love to hang out with my friends when I am not busy and just mess around, whether it's just talking and being loud or playing games with them. I like to be a goof and try to make people laugh. I have a serious side that I believe that my dad inspired. Play when its play time, but work is work. Work your hardest and you will rewarded for your efforts.
I attended Thornfield Elementary School and then went to Ava High School I graduated in 2005. Was I top of the class? Hardly, but I did work hard to make it through even though at times I just wanted to give up. After school I worked for a few years before deciding that I didn't want to work in a factory all my life. I moved to Springfield without so much as a job or place to live and started classes at OTC, eager to get my education back on track. I am working as a security officer, but I would hardly call it work. I sit around for eight hours at a desk until I do rounds. Fun right? WRONG!!! That's me in a nutshell.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Billy Essick-Intro
My name is Billy Essick, I come from a small town of Billings just south of here about 30 minutes. Everybody knows everybody in my town, not many things happen without people knowing about it. I live in the country on a small farm, where have my own beef cows, I also work on a Dairy Farm just down from my house. Love being in the country and being on a farm wouldnt have it any other way. My brothers and I used to rodeo, I rode bulls while my littlest brother rode sheep and my other brother rode calves. I hated to quit but baseball was looking up for me and being hurt from riding all the time was setting me back. I am the oldest of 4, 16 year-old brother and a 11 year brother and I have a 3 year old sister. I was the class clown in school, was member of the baseball and basketball team, FFA, and lots others. I went on to play college baseball at Jefferson College in St. Louis. I was a catcher, got to visit and play in alot of different places but my favorite was Mississippi which is a beautiful place. I had a blast love baseball until I was injured during a game. Dislocated my shoulder while diving back to first where later found out I tore my labrium in my shoulder. Surgery later followed and out for a year becuase of other complications with my shoulder. I hope to get back at it soon. Im quiet until we make friends then I wont shut up, I like to joke alot, but I can be serious when needed. Thats all me questions ask!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Sheri Stephens
Hi my name is Sheri. I am currently a student at OTC. I am seeking a degree in industrial Psychology. I grew up in the pacific northwest but have resided in Missouri for the past ten years. I am the oldest of three children, and now have a niece that I absolutely adore.
In my free time I enjoy baseball, jogging, reading, and being social with friends, and family. I love to travel. I typically go somewhere new every year for my birthday. My favorite things to do when I travel are,try new foods, music, and learn about different cultures their history and so on.
I have traveled to many countries Italy being my favorite.. I have been three times. I might be a little bias since my family is Italian, but if you ask me Italy is a place full of history, and culture a place that everyone should see at least once.
My next trip will be to Hawaii. I will leave at the end of December. I plan to live there for the winter, possibly longer. While there I hope to work on my studies and experience everything Hawaii has to offer.
Ariel Lathrom - Intro
Quirky, kind, dorky, and honest are some terms you might use to describe me, but there is much more to my personality than what just a few words can tell you. To help my audience get to know me better, i'll tell you a little bit about my origins and hobbies, as well as my ideas for the future. I hope you enjoy what you read and come to find that I am as nice as I describe myself to be.
My name is Ariel Lathrom. I am from the busy rural areas of Phoenix, Arizona. I lived there for twelve years until my family moved to Ava, MO. I've been in Springfield itself now for about two years. My time in Arizona prepared me for the city life. The streets were busy, schools were packed full, and crime happened right outside your front door. To those who grew up in the country it may sound chaotic at times, but when you're an unknowing child protected by your parents, it really is a heavenly place to grow up. Now, my time in Springfield is much different. I've come back to the city to live as an adult. I'm a student at OTC preparing to transfer to MSU. I do modest, hard work at a Dillon's Grocery store where I earn my keep to live in my apartment for another month. I have a cat at home named Switch, whom I love very much, and a boyfriend whom I also love. It's a pleasant place with pleasant roomies to return home to.
To transition to a more exciting tone, i'll tell you about my hobbies and ambitions. Exercising and eating right are not the kind of things I leave out of my weekly routines. I am a health freak of sorts, which is why i've chosen Dietetics to be my college major. With that, I hope to one day open a vegan restaurant where I will create dishes for my menu. Perhaps I will even be a personal trainer to the stars one day. I said before that i'm dorky, and that is true in every way. I spend a lot of my free time sitting at my computer playing games. You might find me rocket jumping as a soldier on Team Fortress 2, or healing up my party on World of Warcraft, Aion, or other such MMORPG's. Despite my gaming habits, I have a very active and exciting social life, attending poker nights, going out to eat at my favorite sushi joints, or relaxing at a friend's watching B movies until we can't take it anymore. Aside from my usual hobbies, i also delve into sewing, reading, blogging, video making, cooking, and a horde of other things.
I'm sure you've heard enough about me by now, so conclude my short autobiography on this note: I may be sort of quiet and even somewhat of an introvert in a work setting, but, hidden behind the veil of shyness, i'm a pleasant and interesting to talk to, at least i'd like to think so.
My name is Ariel Lathrom. I am from the busy rural areas of Phoenix, Arizona. I lived there for twelve years until my family moved to Ava, MO. I've been in Springfield itself now for about two years. My time in Arizona prepared me for the city life. The streets were busy, schools were packed full, and crime happened right outside your front door. To those who grew up in the country it may sound chaotic at times, but when you're an unknowing child protected by your parents, it really is a heavenly place to grow up. Now, my time in Springfield is much different. I've come back to the city to live as an adult. I'm a student at OTC preparing to transfer to MSU. I do modest, hard work at a Dillon's Grocery store where I earn my keep to live in my apartment for another month. I have a cat at home named Switch, whom I love very much, and a boyfriend whom I also love. It's a pleasant place with pleasant roomies to return home to.
To transition to a more exciting tone, i'll tell you about my hobbies and ambitions. Exercising and eating right are not the kind of things I leave out of my weekly routines. I am a health freak of sorts, which is why i've chosen Dietetics to be my college major. With that, I hope to one day open a vegan restaurant where I will create dishes for my menu. Perhaps I will even be a personal trainer to the stars one day. I said before that i'm dorky, and that is true in every way. I spend a lot of my free time sitting at my computer playing games. You might find me rocket jumping as a soldier on Team Fortress 2, or healing up my party on World of Warcraft, Aion, or other such MMORPG's. Despite my gaming habits, I have a very active and exciting social life, attending poker nights, going out to eat at my favorite sushi joints, or relaxing at a friend's watching B movies until we can't take it anymore. Aside from my usual hobbies, i also delve into sewing, reading, blogging, video making, cooking, and a horde of other things.
I'm sure you've heard enough about me by now, so conclude my short autobiography on this note: I may be sort of quiet and even somewhat of an introvert in a work setting, but, hidden behind the veil of shyness, i'm a pleasant and interesting to talk to, at least i'd like to think so.
Doug Hodge-Intro

Hey there! My name is Doug Hodge. I am 24 years old and like long walks on the beach, footprints in the sand, and slow dancing after midnight. Actually that's not true at all! I am 24 years old and from Buffalo, MO. I was born in Germany when my dad was stationed there in the Army and later raised in Missouri.
I'm pretty much a typical person with maybe a few interesting facts about me. I like to watch football, play sports, read, lift weights, run, hunt, fish, and spend time with my family. I have a rather larger family. I'm the oldest of eight kids. And now I have one nephew. So I'm sort of the big "responsible" brother to everyone. I do my best.
I haven't been in college in a few years other than going to military schools. I have been looking forward to finishing my degree for quite some time now and am really excited to get to do so. I'm taking 15 hours and looking to quickly get back in the swing of things.
I have a pretty neat job. I am an Independent Insurance Agent. I get to travel wherever I want in the United States, work what hours I want to for the most part, and get to help families out when they need it the most which is by far my favorite part. Just last month I was in St. Louis, Dallas, Oklahoma City, Nashville, Memphis, and Raleigh, NC. I can also work around home if I choose to. It's pretty flexible.
I am also in the National Guard. It's not too bad. They pay for my school which is really great. But the downside is that Afghanistan is calling my name next year. I basically run a warehouse on a computer program that the Army invented for my job.
All in all, I am most excited about school. As I said before, I have been wanting to go back for quite some time now and I finally get to do so! I look forward to getting to know all of you this semester!
Assignment 1 Scott Erickson

Hi I’m Scott Erickson I Have lived in Springfield my whole life. I'm a sophomore at OTC and went to Glendale high school here in town. While I was in high school I competed on the swim team and we placed second in state my senior year I go to the lake almost every weekend in the summer and most weekends in the winter. My favorite things to do down there are wakeboard, fish, and just chill with my friends. When I’m not at the lake on the weekends I like to go camping or driving around in my Jeep. I work at the O’reilly Warehouse on Chestnut, where I load a truck five days a week. I have two older siblings my brother Robert and my sister Melissa. Robert got married 3 years ago in Mexico and Melissa is a Spanish teacher in St. James Missouri. My family went to Jamaica at the end of July. It was amazing down there and I would go back in a heartbeat. I am going to OTC to get my associates of arts transfer degree than hope to transfer down to Florida Atlantic University to finish my schooling and get a degree in Naval Architecture. After that I want to start my own business manufacturing and selling yachts.


Wello hello there fellow classmates. Here is just a little bit about myself.
As you can see my name is Thomas Belden. I have lived in the bible thumping town of Springfield all 21 years of my life. I would love to get out to a bigger city...but i tend to be broke most the time and OTC is cheap..
I come from an average size family i suppose. I have two older sisters. The oldest is getting ready to have a baby in December and that will make me an uncle for the first time. Im definitely excited about that. My second sister is about to get married and she wants to go to Mexico to make that happen. My fingers are crossed because i would love to visit that place again.
I am all about sports. mostly the NFL. Huge KC fan so if your a supporter of Denver, Oakland, Or San Diego then you should prob go home and repent because even Jesus is a fan of KC... HAHA I kid... but seriously plan on Kc taking the AFC West. I aslo watch a lot of baseball, cards fan. I know they are several gameas back but they will turn it around. I also play golf when i get the chance but it tends to be expensive and lets face it... im not the richest guy out there (sorry ladies)
I tend to go downtown a lot or out to the bars on the weekends and if im not there im chillaxin with some of my friends. I am a very social person and am always out and about. If there is nothing to do my friends and I always go out and find something to do. During the weekdays if im not at work or school i like to be at the pool. Sooooo in a tiny little nut shell thats me I guess.
Devan McCallister - Intro

Hi my name is Devan McCallister. I grew up in the bootheel of Missouri in a small town of about 5000 people called Malden. I went to school their from first grade until i graduated. Through i high school i played football and ran track.My senior year i made second team all conference on defense. In track i ran the 800 meter race and pole vaulted. After i graduated i then moved to O'ffalon, Missouri. There i attended my first year of college at St. Charles Community College. After that i moved to Seymour, Missouri and am currently attending classes at OTC in Springfield.
Outside of my academic life, I enjoy playing the guitar or at least trying to play. I have been with my current girlfriend Britney for a little over a year and a half. She is currently living with me and attending cosmetology school in Springfield.
For the most part i enjoy all types of music. It really just depends on what kind of mood I'm in. I like Anything From Hank Williams Jr. to Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Justin Middleton Intro

My name is Justin Cody Middleton. I go by Cody which makes coming to new classes difficult sometimes because you have to notify professors to change your name on their roster. I have lived in Springfield all my life. Sometimes I find it to be mildly annoying. However, when I go away for any period of time, I find myself missing home.
I am 27 years old and I am a second year OTC student. I really have enjoyed college so far. It keeps me busy and my mind working. I also am a server at the Ruby Tuesday on South National Avenue. I just got the job about a month ago and its still fairly new to me. Working and going to school at the same time is going to be a formidable challenge for me. My last three semesters I didn't have a job so it was only school. Fortunately, I only have to work part time which will hopefully still give me enough time to complete all my homework assignments.
In my free time I am a bit of a nerd. I play the card game magic the gathering which is an expensive hobby, but I enjoy it thouroughly. Thanks for taking time to read this about me. I hope we all enjoy our semester!
Krissi Wester-Intro

I am a native of the area, having been born in St. John's Hospital, right here in Springfield, Missouri. I spent most of my childhood living in Clever, Missouri and graduated from Clever High School in 1984. I am the mother of five children, with four girls and one boy, ranging in age from twenty three to fourteen. And for the record, I HATE teenagers. Nothing personal to fellow students, but I have disliked teenagers from the time I was a teenager. I am a single mother and currently have only two children remaining at home. If I survive the next four years of their high school careers, it will be a miracle. I have returned to school late in life because of my decision to have a family, as well as some other poor decisions that kept me from completing a degree earlier in life. I am currently employed at JP Morgan Chase as a customer service associate. I am seeking my Associates of Arts in Psychology and plan to continue toward my Bachelor's, most likely at Missouri State, however I am not sure where I will go from there. My son, who is a sophmore in high school, is a basketball player with a promising future in the sport so my future could be affected by what turns his career takes in the sport. I have attached a photo of my children, however the photo also includes my first husband and father of my oldest three children, and his son and step-son from a second marriage, so the young man on the far right and the small boy in front are not mine, but the rest of the children in the picture are mine. This picture was taken last May at my middle daughter's from high school in West Palm Beach Florida.
My LIfe (Jordan Parks)


1st Period
Born in Peoria, Illinois in the great year of 1989 I Jordan Parks was born. Growing up in Peoria all I had on my mind was sports, sports, sports. I was the second youngest of seven kids in my family and 1 of 22 guy cousins on my moms side of the family. So growing up I literally competed for everything. Everyone knows that Ricky Bobby saying, "If your not first then your last." Well I felt that way as a kid growing up. So if you didn't know by now I played sports, I was playing since pre-school. Coming up in the years I was always considered one of the better athletes in my town at basketball and baseball.
2nd Period
My family moved to St. Louis when I entered high school. Where I stopped playing basketball and baseball and started to wrestle. I changed sports for the pure fact that the best players will be the ones playing. It turned out to be a good choice because through wrestling I had got scholarships to different colleges to wrestle, but that ended after getting hurt my first two years in college.
3rd Period
After getting hurt I decided to go in the path of coaching. I'm here at OTC for a semester and then will transfer to MSU. My major is in secondary education. I want to teach and coach wrestling. Early in my college life was hardy party but now that I'm at a new school it's all about academics.
OT
As finishing I realized I didn't say much about myself. I'm a outgoing guy who loves a good time. Talking to people isn't much a problem to me unless I'm sick. I love watching storms and nature. I can never get enough of fresh air. I love life and life loves me.
GOD bless America
Stephanie Urrutia
My name is Stephanie Urrutia, and my goal of going through college is to become an elementary teacher. Since I was a little girl, teaching is what I have wanted to do. My mom and dad have always supported me in this and I am very excited to have my own class room some day.
I was born in Pamona California, which is in LA county. My mom and dad dragged me and my only sister Sara back here when we were only 1 and 2 years old. I have been in Missouri since, and I am actually very pleased to have grown up here, and not in the crazy state of California. I've been back once since we moved, but maybe someday I can go back and live there for a while. Maybe even use my teaching degree!

I was born in Pamona California, which is in LA county. My mom and dad dragged me and my only sister Sara back here when we were only 1 and 2 years old. I have been in Missouri since, and I am actually very pleased to have grown up here, and not in the crazy state of California. I've been back once since we moved, but maybe someday I can go back and live there for a while. Maybe even use my teaching degree!

About me...

I am a sophomore in college hoping to transfer so I can get a Doctorate degree in Genetic Counseling. I am 20 years old and enjoy studying, cooking, and playing video games. My favorite video games include Final Fantasy I to VI, Tales of Phantasia, and Seiken Densetsu 3. I graduated from Willard in 2010. My favorite color is green. I don't really blog at all, I do not have a myspace or facebook account. I really do like Autumn and Winter, especially when it snows. I was born in Germany, and I lived there for about two years before I moved to the U.S. I have one sister and one brother, he lives somewhere in California. The place I want to visit the most is London, England. I would really like to go there and study how their mannerisms and societal norms differ from ours. My favorite television show is called Mystery Science Theater 3000, Invader Zim is a close second. I spend most of my free time studying, but when that is done, I will play some games or read a book. English is probably one of my favorite subjects. I actually enjoy writing research papers and the like. My favorite drink is hot green tea, I drink it without any sweetener. I think sugar masks the earthy taste of the tea. If you have any comments, then please.
LeChunda Duncan

My name is LeChunda Duncan and I am currently in my last semester at OTC. I graduated from Parkview High School, here in Springfield.I am going to school for Pharmacy. I was born here in Springfield, but raised in Little Rock, Arkansas. I come from a family of 6 children. My mother had 5 girls and 1 boy. Within the 5 girls, 4 of us are twins. I have a twin sister who plays basketball at Missouri Valley College. Twins run through my family. Within my grandparents generation of children down to myself, we have 22 sets of twins. Family is everything to me. We spend time together every Sunday. I also have a 2 year old son, who is very energetic and very playful. I am very involved at my church. I attend Washington Avenue Baptist Church, where I am one of the leaders of the dance ministry and also in the college ministry. When I am not in school, I am working or at my church. During my free time, I like to play basketball, play the piano, and dance. I also enjoy taking my son out and having fun with him. I usually don't have a lot of free time, but when I do I make the most of it! This is a small story of my life, so if you're interested in knowing more, just ask!
Karyssa Adame
Hey everyone, my name is Karyssa Adame. I am 20 years young and I am originally from Fullerton, California which is in Orange County and moved to Missouri 6 years ago.When i first got here I landed in the small town of Lebanon and I graduated from Lebanon High School in 2009. Talk about a culture shock!! I am attending OTC for my Associates of Arts degree and may transfer after that. I am the oldest out of 5 siblings and family is very important to me. I just moved to the Springfield area at the beginning of summer to be closer to school and, I am really liking it here so far. I am working while attending school which always keeps me busy and on the go. I recently got engaged over summer break also! I am very excited!
When I have free time I like to visit my family, be outdoors, go to the gym, and watch comedy movies, and i must admit I am also a sucker for reality tv. I am a frequent movie renter and when all the Blockbuster's seem to be closing down everywhere, it kind of makes me sad. I remember being little and making movie trips all the time with my parents and now I have resorted to Redbox. I admit, i am semi excited to be back in school but I am mainly happy to be back in this great atmosphere and meeting new people!!! I believe I am easy going so hope to be talking to you guys soon.
Cassie Brasher - Intro

My name is Cassie Brasher. I am 20 years old. I have lived in Springfield my whole life and am working on my associate of arts degree right now. I am a sophomore this year working on general education. I plan to go to MSU afterward for fashion design. I like to sew and make clothing and other things. I have some purses that I've made selling at Vintage Vice downtown. I don't think I'll really find a job in fashion design after I graduate, so I'm planning on probably getting more stores like Vintage Vice to carry things that I've made.
I am married and have a 14 month old boy named Eden. I work part time at the deli in Wal-mart, but get almost enough hours to be full time. I took a couple of classes this summer so I would have less this semester and it would be easier to juggle work, school, and a baby. I've never really thought of myself as a good writer. I've always done ok in school, but I've never really liked writing stories or essays very much and I don't really know what to write about right now. My favorite color is purple. My favorite kind of food is barbecue (my husband makes the best burgers). My favorite animal is a turtle. I hope this is an effective introduction. If you have any questions feel free to ask.
Sapphire ArmstrongFilkins-Intro

My name is Sapphire Armstrong-Filkins. I am originally from the United States Virgin Islands until I moved to Missouri when I was six. I still visit the Virgin Islands often and consider it my second home.When my mother and I moved to Missouri we settled down in a small town about an hour north of Springfield called Hermitage. I lived in Hermitage until I graduated high school. I moved out of my childhood home in December of 2010 after I graduated high school early and now I reside in Springfield as a full time student.
I enjoy playing softball, running cross country, and traveling in my spare time. Most find me to be a very outspoken person and I always enjoy a good conversation. In my circle of friends I am known to be the jokester and I believe laughter is often the best medicine. I also have a dog named Lucy that I enjoy taking care of. When I have time I also like to go home and visit my family in Hermitage where my mom and younger siblings still live. I still work in Hermitage on the weekends for my mom at our family business called Town Video. This job provides me the freedom to work minimumlly but still provide suffienct funds to support myself, which I thoroughly enjoy. I hope to finish this semester with minimum stress in my school and work life, but I am always prepared for what challenges await me.
Hannah Bookout About Me


About Me:
Hello! I'm 21 years old, and born and raised in Springfield, Missouri. I have one brother and one sister, who are both younger than me. I am engaged to my best friend, Darren, who I have known since 5th Grade, and the wedding date is set for September 2012. I have a daughter named Jocelynn, who was born 1/11/11, and is 7 months old. I currently work at St. John's hospital on third shift, so I get off at work at 7 AM and get to come here!
This is my second semester at OTC, and I am enjoying it so far. I am currently getting the prerequisite courses that I need to have under my belt for nursing school. My career of choice (at the moment) is to become a Nurse Practitioner.
I don't have too much time on my hands with a full school schedule, a full time job, and my daughter, but when I do get to enjoy some alone time, I love watching movies, listening to music, and spending time outside. Some of my favorite movies are the Lord of the Rings trilogy, 300, SLC Punk!, and A Clockwork Orange. Some of my favorite bands are Against Me!, Streetlight Manifesto, The Misfits, and Alkaline Trio, although my fiance' has been getting me to listen to more country than rock. :-/ Some of my favorite places to go are Bull Shoals lake, and spending time on the Galloway Trail (when there isn't construction.)
Annie Green


Hi! My name is Annie Green. I am 20 years old. I live in Bolivar, MO. I am going to school for Early Childhood Education. I have the most amazing 20 month old son. He has blonde hair and the biggest blue eyes. He seems to be the quiet type, but he is amazing at watching and learning. We enjoy listening to music and learning different instruments. He is a "thinker" and one of the most ornery children I have ever seen! I live in a duplex with one of my close friends, Emillee, and her husband, Benji.
I like to go on bike rides with my son. We have a beach cruiser with a child seat on the back. It is very hard to go uphill, but we still enjoy it. Connor frequently exclaims, "Woo hoo!," as we go down hills. We also enjoy spending time outdoors. He loves to read books. Going to the lake was a favorite activity for the summer, especially when he got a life jacket and could attempt to swim on his own.
Music is a passion of mine. I enjoy many genres. However, the majority of the time I am listening to an assortment of indie, folk, or classic rock. I could go on and on about music, but I think I have the required amount of words on here!
Scott McMasters - Intro

Hello, I am Scott McMasters, but most people just call me Scotty. This is my first year in college and I am of course new to a lot of things. Also I did not take English 101 in college my high school had a dual credit program. Teacher put us through quite the obstacle course of writing assignments that left half of us passing the class. I went to high school in Greenfield, Missouri, I would be surprised if not many people in this class do not know where that is. I have a big spot in my heart for anything that involves technology. Video games, movies, music, and computers are interesting to me and those things and the culture around them has kind of shaped who I am. I am a bit shy but if there is ever a question you need to ask me I am an open book. So most of my life people have said I am a goofball or many people describe me as a easy-going, however, I do not know where those people get that idea. I am kind of a scadderbrain and many thoughts that I have appear to be random ones, but that is just who I am. I am glad to be in this class and I hope everyone will have a decent time here as well. I am looking for to knowing many of you.
Emily Eyberg-Intro

My name is Emily Eyberg, I was born in Rolla MO,but have moved to a few states since I was nine.I've lived in PA,TN, and moved back to Missouri almost six years ago. This is my third year in college; I spent my first year at OTC, second at MSU and now I'm back to OTC.My plan is to get my AA in the Spring and then transfer to Drury in Rolla in the fall of 2012. I am going for a degree in Elementary education, and hopfully will be certified to teach by the fall of 2013. I've worked a few different jobs,but being a part time nanny was probably the most fulfilling. I got my first job as soon as I was able to,and began work as the 'sammich girl' at Subway.I worked for Subway for two years, and it was usually a love-hate relationship. However,now I feel that since I have experience in food service I know how stressful it can be to be on the other side of the counter. Now, I have a couple of families whom I babysit their children.A few of the kids I've been around since they were first born and are now four and five years old.I've never had cable TV(even though I do love Bones and South Park);I was homschooled;I love roller derby;I only drive a stick shift car;I have one tattoo;I prefer the country to the city;I am a Harry Potter fanatic. Also,I'm proud to say I'm helping re-build a hot rod.
Ian Ehrhart - Intro
Living through an abusive childhood makes you tougher on an emotional scale at the very least and as a result of this abuse, I have sought to meet people with non-violence if it is a possibility.
When I turned 8 years old, we moved out of the country to Togo, Lome (a little country on the western coast of Africa) and spent two years there where I learned to appreciate the little that was given to me in life. Here, I also learned that an overwhelming number of Americans took far too much for granted.
After 2 years in Togo, we spent a year in Fukushima, Japan, where we lived with my great aunt, Yoshiko Iji. Yes, that makes me a quarter Japanese. Unfortunately, with only a single year of Japanese under my belt and no reason to practice, the language has all but left my mind. But after Japan, we spent two years in Dublin, Ireland, followed by a year in Berlin, Germany, then two years in Nassau, Bahamas.
What I have come to learn is that I utterly hate living in America because the majority of Americans disgust me. But nevertheless, circling all the way back to my first point, I try to see everyone in the same light and greet them politely, treating them with non violence as long as possible.
My life has made me what I am (that's an obvious statement) and that is a Satanist (not Luciferian; if you don't know the difference, do the research) and a Thelemite, an insomniac, an artist, and a prisoner of hope.
One final thought before the abrupt end: I hate my name. I always have. My friends, though they are few and far between, call me J or Panda.
Cody Baker ; Introduction

I am currently working at the Price Cutter Plus on Battlefield and hwy 65, I have worked there for almost four years. My job title there is JC, which means I am the person who stocks the shelves. Besides working forty plus hours a week and going to school I like to hang out with friends and play basketball. I am very easy going
In the spring I am hoping to transfer to Baptist Bible College to play basketball there and continue my education in business and education. My goals in school are to get my masters degree in business and in teaching. I have plans for both degrees in case I dont achieve one or the other. For my teaching degree, I would like to teach in the elementary and coach in basketball or baseball. For my business degree I would like to have a corporate position that would let me assist in making executive decisions that will benefit for the company I would work for and also the employees.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Welcome to the Blogosphere! - Assignment 1
Welcome students! I hope you have had a nice break and are raring to go. For you first assignment, I want each of you to post a 200-300 introduction about yourself to this blog. Please include at least one picture that corresponds with the introduction. Then, I want you to read and respond to 7 other posts. Please do not respond to posts that already have seven responses. This will ensure that everyone gets responses to their post. This assignment is worth 25 points and is due Tuesday August 23rd.
About Me
I am a native Kansan although I have been in Missouri since 1990. I come from a large family where I have nine brothers and sisters. I am married and now enjoying my life long dream to be a teacher. I went to college after my two children were grown and the financial burden of raising a family eased. I enjoy learning new and interesting things. I was self employed in several businesses before deciding to get an education. I received a Bachelors of Science degree from Missouri Southern in Joplin. In 2009 I completed my master's degree through Missouri State. I wrote my master's thesis on using technology in the classroom to increase student motivation and performance. For the past four years I have been teaching English to juniors and seniors in a small rural school.
I love life and many times wish there were more hours in a day. I have many interests. I enjoy gardening, swimming, hunting, reading, watching movies, South Park, old rock 'n roll, traveling, learning new things, and many others. One of the greatest joys of my life has been the births of my granddaughters Kelea and Sheridan (pics below). I really marvel at how fast babies can learn.
About Me
I am a native Kansan although I have been in Missouri since 1990. I come from a large family where I have nine brothers and sisters. I am married and now enjoying my life long dream to be a teacher. I went to college after my two children were grown and the financial burden of raising a family eased. I enjoy learning new and interesting things. I was self employed in several businesses before deciding to get an education. I received a Bachelors of Science degree from Missouri Southern in Joplin. In 2009 I completed my master's degree through Missouri State. I wrote my master's thesis on using technology in the classroom to increase student motivation and performance. For the past four years I have been teaching English to juniors and seniors in a small rural school.
I love life and many times wish there were more hours in a day. I have many interests. I enjoy gardening, swimming, hunting, reading, watching movies, South Park, old rock 'n roll, traveling, learning new things, and many others. One of the greatest joys of my life has been the births of my granddaughters Kelea and Sheridan (pics below). I really marvel at how fast babies can learn.