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Headwaters 2014 North Dakota State College of Science

Locations in Wahpeton & Fargo, ND

Yes, the cats are back.

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Editors: Rebecca Zimmermann Michael Schmitt Aereauna Houle Richard Siegel Natasha Achter Ashlie Challner Carly Cressman Chelsie Habiger Emily Hoffman Anita Moor Megan Rein Jason Roth Michael Schmitt Ashley Tripp Diahnna Tripp Sybil Priebe

Above: Photo by Tre’von Ware, Current NDSCS Student #trevonwarephotography

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This is the 2014 Headwaters Index:

Tre’von Ware, Photograph. Page 2. John Travis, “Choral Festival.” Page 4.

Justus Garneau,“Argument With God.” Page 5. Dr. John Richman, “Positive Attitudes are Contagious – Be a Carrier. My Approach to a Positive Attitude.” Page 6.

Barry Frank, Photograph. Page 7. Sara Holcomb, “Two Year College.” Page 7.

Timothy Gill, Prose Poems. Page 8. Shannon King, Photograph. Page 8.

Elisha Bajumpaa, “Pros and Cons of Standardized Tests.” Page 9. Chad Zachmeier, Two Opposing Poems. Page 9.

Brianna Hanson, “Dance.” Page 10. Sybil Priebe, “The Trifecta Poem.” Page 10.

Barry Frank, Photograph. Page 11. Samantha Lemmerman, “Candy Hearts.” Page 11.

Tantine Mulasi, “A Poem.” Page 12. Hunter Onchuck, “Experienced Lover.” Page 12.

Tre’von Ware, Photograph. Page 13. Brett Pietron, Two Opposing Poems. Page 14.

Chelby Ward, “Pro and Con Poems of Gay Marriage.” Page 14. Ronda Marman, “This Professor’s Thoughts.” Page 15.

Gene Pinkney, “To Audrey at Sixty-Four.” Page 16. Deandra McFadden, Image. Page 16.

Gene Pinkney, “To Her Human Side.” Page 17. Deandra McFadden, Image. Page 17.

Megan Rein, “Small Town USA.” Page 18. Victoria Grenier, Painting. Page 19. Anne Taylor, Photograph. Page 20.

Anne Taylor, “Time Traveler.” Page 20. Janine Pacheco, “North Dakotan Proud.” Page 21.

Janine Pacheco, “Mom.” Page 21. Dave Binkard, “The Existential Crisis of a Goldfish.” Page 22.

Wade King, Photograph. Page 22. Gene Pinkney, “The Straits of Lake Lida.” Page 23.

Mike Schmitt, “Untitled.” Page 24. Jenny Olejar, “College Education Poems.” Page 26.

Samantha Lemmerman, “Astray.” Page 27. Deandra McFadden, Image. Page 30.

Hannah Lupkes, “Icy Roads and Dog Racing.” Page 31. Amanda Gillespie, Photograph. Page 32. Dave Binkard, “Pile of Leaves.” Page 32.

Dave Binkard, “The Gamble.” Page 32. Janine Pacheco, “Untitled.” Page 33.

Britain Pfaff, “Just Think.” Page 33. Lindsay Spillman, Two Opposing Poems. Page 34.

Grant Bruesch, Two Opposing Poems. Page 34. Brandyn Bartlett, “Why We Should Pay College Athletes.” Page 35.

Thank You. Page 36. North Dakota State College of Science Authors on Amazon.com. Page 37.

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“Choral Festival” By John Travis, Current NDSCS Faculty. I arrived early at the Harry Stern and Ella Stern Cultural Center containing the event. It appears from the outside to be a very well-kept masonry exterior commercial building. I entered the lobby a bit nervous, I don’t think I’d ever been to a “Choral Festival” before and it would be a new and frightening experience for me. As I waited in the lobby of this magnificent building some more guests arrived. I was soon put to ease as I realized these guests were the same individuals I’d seen going in and out of the local bingo parlor. I quickly assumed there were no special “Hot Seat” drawings on this night at bingo, but then it dawned on me that just maybe these were seasoned listeners of choirs and they could make the Dakota Magic casino later as it stays open all night. The doors to the main event soon opened, I rushed in to get a good seat, to my surprise so did others. I could just sense an eventful evening. As we got to the main theater, most of the best seats were reserved for participants and a few local celebrities. I felt kind of bad for an instant as I rushed past an elderly lady to obtain my seat, but I did score a front row position. Soon the participants came in dressed in black 007-style banquet attire.

Soon, one of the local celebrities, President Richman of NDSCS, got up and thanked everyone for coming to tonight’s event and introduced some more people there with him and the two directors for tonight’s performance. Let the show begin. I sat in anxiety as the first group of performers took the stage. Now since I don’t know much about what or how the performers were supposed to act or sound, I have to try and focus on just listening and watching to observe any facial expressions, out of the normal sounds and body movements of the participants that would indicate that they made a mistake. I saw none, so assumed they did an awesome job. I personally was quite impressed by their talents. They stayed on stage for a second performance, an individual in the group stepped to the side and grabbed a musical instrument, I think a flute, and then the director got the second song launched with the accompaniment of this solo flute accompanied by the stage piano. Once again I checked for body language and unusual tones thru their performance, they did another awesome job. I was just beginning to look forward to another song and they exited the stage.

Next a new group entered the stage, I got a bit excited because I recognized some of these individuals. Some I’d had for students, some I’d taken classes with. I listened to their performance with an unskilled ear just looking for expressions to indicate that they weren’t comfortable with their own performance. They finished and stayed on stage for a second performance. They actually did a heck of a job by being a great sounding, good-looking bunch. As they exited the stage I sensed that something wasn’t quite right, the group did a job like that and yet didn’t celebrate—no high fives, back slaps or individual exhibition dancing. I quickly assume that they couldn’t be having as much fun as the hockey team when it scores a goal.

To sum up all of the nights performances, I can’t really tell if I have a more favorite or a least favorite performance by any group or combination of both groups, I felt that the overall performance was just the right length of time and it got me interested enough to think about attending other events like this one. Each performance was individual and kept me interested, although I’m more into contact sports. If I had any input to improve the performance, it would be none, but to get a larger crowd maybe the performers could combine their performance with more action maybe perform while riding kangaroos or something like that.

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9-18-12 9-18-12

“Argument With God” by Justus Garneau, Current NDSCS Student. Me: Hey big guy it’s me again. Are you busy? God: Of course I do Justus! You do remember I am omnipotent, omnipresent, omniscient right? Me: Oh yeah, It’s hard to wrap my mind around sometimes! I’ve got a question for you though, and I don’t mean to question your judgment about this, because after all you are God, but why did you create women? (pg. 11) God: Well, your ancestor Adam asked for a companion, and I provided him with one. Do you not like what I provided for you? Me: No! No! Of course I do! I like them a lot! I guess my real question is why did you create them the way you did? God: What do you mean? Me: Well I’m not trying to say you made a faulty product, because you didn’t, they look great! I would like to ask you to make a few adjustments. (pg. 6) God: Such as… Me: Well, I feel like sometimes my girlfriend sets me up so I say something that gets me into trouble. The other day I came home from work and my girlfriend came over to spend some quality time together. We were watching television and when a commercial came on, and she stated her opinion on how some men think certain household chores should be done by just women. She then asked for my honest opinion and waited for my response. I gave my honest opinion and I felt I was respectful to both sides. She on the other hand, apparently expected me to just agree with her, and blew up in my face. (pg. 6) God: Well I can’t take away a human’s free will and without arguments wouldn’t agreeing on everything be boring? Me: Yes I guess that’s true but, can you do anything about her interests? Last march I was watching one of the Final Four games of March Madness and my girlfriend sat down and started watching with me. Not more than two minutes into the first quarter, she asks, can we watch wedding shows? I proceeded to tell her about how much I enjoyed basketball and all the finer points of March Madness, and why it was imperative I watched this game. As soon as I was finished with my speech, she leaned in, looked at me with her big blue eyes, while showing off the goods you gave her (great work on those by the way!) and asked, “I would love if we could watch wedding shows.” So that night I learned what a mermaid dress looked like, instead of being able to talk about the game with my buddies the next day. (pg. 9) God: Didn’t you enjoy how that night turned out later on though? Me: On second thought, your right, forget about that one. God: Any other “adjustments” you would like me to make? Me: Actually, quite the opposite, the more I think about it the more I realized you did give us the perfect mate. God: I knew that when I created women I was indeed creating an almost perfect companion for men in almost every way. Of course men and women have their differences and don’t see eye to eye on a lot of things, but you’re not supposed to. I intended it that way. The differences that may drive you nuts sometimes are the same reasons you like or even love someone. If you want to know more, I talk about it plenty in the bible. (pg. 11) Me: You’re right again. I never really stopped to think about it like that. I was always just focused on what she did that made me mad. I realize now though that we need those differences to keep our relationships interesting and happy. Well thanks for the insight big guy, but I should go because I have to write a paper for my English class now. (pg. 13) God: I’m glad I could answer your questions. What are you going to write your paper about? Me: I’m not entirely sure yet, but I think I just got an idea.

*Please note: The page numbers listed are referring to a textbook, not this magazine.

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“Positive Attitudes are Contagious – Be a Carrier My Approach to a Positive Attitude” By Dr. John Richman, NDSCS President.

Attitude: “manner, feeling, mindset, it is the way you mentally approach your life.”

Six Behaviors – Expectations:

1. That you will take care of yourself – Physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually; rest, nutrition, exercise. 2. That you will take care of your family – Spouse, children, parents, siblings, they are all important and very

special people who need you in various ways and at various times, remember Moms are special people. 3. That you show up – Be on time, be prepared, be engaged, get involved, 80% of success is just showing up. 4. That you have a good attitude – Receptive to making improvements – to understand that different does not

mean good or bad – just different, to be a learner and not a judger. Compliment people on their achievements. According to George Washington Carver: “99% of the failures come from people who have the habit of making excuses.”

Approach to work/life - 10% is what happens to me, 90% how I choose to respond/react.

5. That you work smarter and harder – Strive for what you want, work collaboratively, look for efficiencies. Remember it is just as important how you accomplish your duties as it is what you accomplish.

6. That you have fun - enjoy your work/life and the people you work/live with. If not…change your “seat on the bus” or change buses. Build a sense of value/worth, be part of something that is progressing and meaningful to you.

Your attitude starts with you and it extends to everyone you come into contact with… and never ends…

Steven Covey: “Start with the end in mind; write your obituary now and then lead your life as your obituary is written.”

Positive attitudes are contagious - catch it! Be a carrier. Is yours worth catching?

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Above: Photo by Barry Frank, a faculty member in the NDSCS Diesel Technology program.

“Two Year College” By Sara Holcomb, Current NDSCS Student. I can save money, I can be free, Of all the homework And anxiety. The time is shorter Than the other places, And I don’t have to put up With so many faces. A two-year college is the place to be, Especially if your mascot is Wildcat Willy.

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Prose Poems By Timothy Gill, Current NDSCS Student “Equality” What is equality? Is it average? Is it greater? Is it the worst? Is equality given or earned? Is it only desired by humans or all living things? No one knows but everyone wants it, not so that everyone else can be happy but for themselves. Can equality benefit everyone? No one knows but so many are curious to find out? Is it a motivation tool used to give minorities and people in poverty something to strive and fight for, or is it actually because of a pigment color? Equality can make or break our society but if it does at least we all can say we tried.

“Future” I love my past, because it made me become you, not quite sure of you but I am excited for you, I dream of you but can’t actually see you, I think of you, but I can only predict you, I do right every day in the present just to better you, I learn so much now so you can gain knowledge, I live strong and brave now so I can meet you, Hi, Do I know you, yes, I am your future.

Below: Photo of Wade King by Shannon King, Current NDSCS Faculty.

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Two Opposing Poems By Chad Zachmeier, Current NDSCS Student. Facebook J Facebook is good Facebook is fun Facebook is the reason why I never need to see the sun It keeps track of all my friends It lets my friends keep track of me Facebook is the reason why in real life, my friends I don’t see But that’s ok, They post their pictures of their day I have Facebook so I don’t need to see them anyway Facebook keeps me busy Facebook distracts me from the homework I hate Facebook is the little devil that I can not seem to hate Facebook L Facebook is a killer of time I log on at 3:00 And look up five minutes later to a clock that strikes 9:00 I don’t know why I return to that worthless sight It is so pointless All I see is fight after fight Yet people are amused, thinking it’s fun To chat with their oblivious crush Or to find some juicy story about someone I can’t explain what about it is so addicting Like a powerful drug No one will ever know how much damage Facebook is afflicting

“Pros and Cons of Standardized Tests” By Elisha Bajumpaa, Current NDSCS Student Cons of Standardized Tests They make us take standardized tests, I don’t understand why. I know I am smart, My results don’t show high. It shouldn’t be about filling in a bubble, But what I really am good at. Standardized tests don’t know me. They don’t know if I had a bad day while taking it. My grades show all A’s, These tests only measure a small part of my education. We have to be timed, This throws everyone off. We are stressed to do our best, But standardized tests don’t know us. Pros of Standardized Tests Standardized tests are used throughout the USA, They measure the importance of how students are taught. They allow for help to be sent, And training to be done, For teachers and students who need it. Multiple choice questions are used to help derail stress, And timed tests are used to keep students on task. Many schools succeed from these, And students do too. They focus on what is important, And provide useful information, While keeping the United States on track.

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 “Dance” By Brianna Hanson, Current NDSCS Student. Dance is more than just performing in front of a crowd, It is practicing to be the best you can be. It doesn’t matter your body figure or your weight, Everyone can work hard to be good at it. There are many different types of dance classes, So everyone should have at least one they love. It takes a lot of dedication, talent, and free time, But the most important thing is you need to be flexible. You will burn a lot of fat and calories, And be in shape all year round. Dance is one of the most expensive hobbies, And the most time consuming. You have to be committed to dance to be good, Even if that means giving up other priorities. The routines are complex and most of the time difficult, And mastering skills is something you can always grow on. No matter how tired you get through a routine, You keep going with a smile on your face even if you can’t breathe. Body tights suck, that’s all that needs to be said, They go up your butt and you can’t do anything about it.

“The Trifecta Poem” By Sybil Priebe, Current NDSCS Faculty. She’s been shrinking herself the bust, the brain, the body She’s been replacing her worth with a car, with long hair, with jewels Teeka reduces herself to a text message from him, from her, from them She’s been enhancing her life by stealing others’ Her friends refrain from trying the debt, the love, the lust There isn’t much reciprocation There isn’t much inspiration The man displays his vanity his ego, his abs, his duties She struggles to earn peace with him, with them, with herself Teeka seeks out silence within herself, outside, between friends They bombard her with too much it’s a doomed trifecta

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“Candy Hearts” By Samantha Lemmerman, NDSCS Alumna. They weren’t dime size hearts. They were more half dollar size, the kind where even the white ones taste like chalk. Those were my favorites, the white ones. Little mints. He worked on his lap top, checking his stocks for the third time that day. Silver and gold, mostly. I never understood stocks. Up, down, left, sideways, I didn’t get what the numbers meant. What the expiration dates meant. Going down was good for him, but bad for silver. And going up was just the opposite. I asked him to toss me the bag of sweets. Cheesy sayings stamped on each candy, each one in a different pastel color. I searched for the white ones and popped it in my mouth. Then I searched for one in particular. It took me going through the whole bag to find it. I’d wanted to say it for weeks. It would more special in person, and easier to get out with some Korbel. The message was squished on one, almost at the bottom of the bag. “Hey,” I called. He stopped, the stock markets in his favor, and caught the flying treat. He read the message. “Aww, you’re sweet.” He popped the candy in his mouth and cracked it in half.

Above: Photo by Barry Frank, a faculty member in the NDSCS Diesel Technology program.

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A Poem By Tantine Mulasi, Current NDSCS Student. I am an independent and unbreakable girl. I am a dreamer. I am a girl with hope. I am a girl who never gives up. I am a girl who never stops trying. I am a girl who believes in me, not in peer pressure. I am a girl who never stops thinking of how the future going to be, And of how the past was. I am an intelligent girl. I am a believer. I am an incredible girl. I am a girl who knows what life means and how it can be sometimes. I am a girl who proud to be herself. I am a girl who knows where she came from, where she is and where she's going. I am a pleasant girl that’s always happy with what I got. I am a girl who never tries to be someone I'm not. I am a patient girl. I am a girl who's looking forward to survive life. I am me, whether I'm pretty or ugly and will always be me. I am an independent girl and unbreakable, and there is no reason for me to be forgettable of my personalities.

“Experienced Lover” By Hunter Onchuck, Current NDSCS Student.

The love that escapes me is unimaginable in the eyes of those who only see the past. It is the past of which that destroys the healthy heart that one may have. It has been only months but I can still feel the love that you once gave me. Is it a fantasy or is it a nightmare? I am lost in these thoughts of happiness and sadness. Your iron grip is tighter than ever. You still control the thoughts that go through my mind with your kiss of death. You destroy any walls that I built with a single touch. I am at war with myself just to keep myself sane. My mind is now a battlefield for which I try to escape your grasp. You rip and slash at my thoughts just to bring me to my knees. There is one thing for which you don’t know though. I am an experienced lover of this war. I have been here before. I have lost and I have won but never have I given up yet. This mind has been broken to pieces before but it has also been rebuilt. I may be lost, I may be broken, but I am not ready to give myself up.

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Above: Photo by Tre’von Ware, Current NDSCS Student #trevonwarephotography

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“Pro and Con Poems of Gay Marriage” By Chelby Ward, Current NDSCS Student. Pro Gay Marriage Same sex marriage is a civil right It’s protected by Constitution’s commitments It shouldn’t be limited by religious objections Concept of traditional marriage is historically inaccurate Also, marriage provides both physical and psychological health It will not harm heterosexual marriages It would make it easier for same-sex couples to adopt Majority of Americans now support gay marriage These couples should be allowed to publicly celebrate their commitment They should have access to same benefits as heterosexual couples Con Gay Marriage Idea of marriage is traditionally defined as between man and woman Allowing gay marriage will weaken idea of marriage Marriage is a privilege, not a right It is a religious rite between man and woman It is incompatible with beliefs and traditions of religious groups It could lead other nontraditional relationships to want to marry Shouldn’t be allowed because they can’t produce children together Lead to more children being raised in same-sex households Don’t want tax dollars used to support something that is wrong Same-sex marriage isn’t a civil right

Two Opposing Poems By Brett Pietron, Current NDSCS Student. Cars Less at the gas pump will be paid. My kids will be afraid. Because when I hit the gas My acceleration won’t be delayed. My insurance will be lower. And you will see Your car will be slower. With this small motor I will try to pass. Because there is someone That is tailgating my ass. Trucks My exhaust will be louder. My tires bigger. Big trailers I will pull And I won’t die when I roll. Lots of stuff I can hold While I drive very bold. I can drive with all four tires While others are stuck in place. I can help others out When they are about to pout. While other vehicles are leaky I’m in my truck cheeky.

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“This Professor’s Thoughts” By Ronda Marman, Current NDSCS Faculty As I thought, And rethought, A realization grew. All is not lost. Maybe I needed to take the student’s view. If they thought about it, they’d know That teachers and professors all talk-- It’s not a big show. We compare notes--

About what has been emailed, texted, or said, And sometimes we even,

Make decisions from our hearts and not our head. But beware that teachers also know: Students create situations, And students create fabrications, And students create little lies That can only grow and upsize. The truth is preferred.

Though often we are forced to defer-- To a questionable doctor’s note, Or a parent’s deciding vote About whether you are here or there, About whether you will continue to fare-- Well at our institution Or stay home to for a short constitution. No matter what the case, Keep in mind-- Teachers are human. Teacher’s can be kind, But most of all, We just want to expand your mind.

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“To Audrey at Sixty-Four” By Gene Pinkney, Retired NDSCS Faculty. Happy Birthday, beloved, now sweet sixty-four Still lovely and mild, still the one I adore Still soft to the touch, still with lovely brown eyes Still gentle and caring and loved from the Skies Still mine, not another’s, still my treasure trove Still beset of all mothers, if we’re talking love. Your kids call you bless’ed and call you each week And the Lord calls you bless’ed, for blessed are the meek. And I choose this small verse to reveal our great heart Where the Lord makes His temple and will not depart. And I pray you’ll be with me through all of our days Till the Lord raptures us, and we fly up in Praise. Till then I will thank Him for giving me you-- Dearest Audrey, the best of the lovely and true.

Below: Image created by Deandra McFadden, NDSCS Alumna.

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Right: Image created by Deandra

McFadden, NDSCS Alumna.

“To Her Human Side” By Gene Pinkney, NDSCS Retired Faculty.

I will wrap my hopes around her Twine my soul in her perfumed hair Let her low voice hum me yonder To a place beyond this dark despair Let her colors tint my sunrise Let her sighs soft-breeze my nights Let her gentle touch allure me I the moth and she the light Then I’ll seek no more for manna Nor some nectar Heaven drips While my feast is Audrey Anna And my wine her perfect lips

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“Small Town USA” By Megan Rein, Current NDSCS Creative Writing Student

If I could tell you of a place where a person is provided with security, a healthy lifestyle, and a great place

for kids and teenagers would you be interested? It all exists in a small community! There are numerous advantages to living in a small town, such as I did. Security, living a healthy lifestyle, and raising kids in a caring community are the three most important factors to consider if I were deciding where to live.

As said before- I was born and raised in a small town. I recently learned that for the 18 years that I lived

there, our doors were NEVER locked. When I explain this to people I get the same familiar expression; the, “what the hell was your family thinking” look. Unlocked doors, unlocked cars; these were things that people didn’t need to worry about. There have been no reported robberies or break in’s since I have lived in this small community; something that cannot be said for larger cities. Another benefit of small town security: kids and teens can walk around without any fear of being kidnapped. For example: Phoenix, Arizona (a large city) had over 370 reported cases of kidnappings 2008 (Ross, 2009). The town I lived in had zero kidnappings in 2008.

People in the big cities may be able to escape the terror of being kidnapped or robbed, but can they escape the unhealthiness of the fast food restaurants conveniently located, well, everywhere? How healthy of a lifestyle is a person able to have when there are 8 McDonalds scattered throughout one city? In a small town, there are very few (if any) fast food restaurants. This enforced more home cooked meals and healthier snacks in my home. Tim Hammonds, the president of FMI, states that, “Regular family dinners are the best ways parents can help their children eat healthy meals.”

Most importantly, we have to think about the kids. A student in a class of 300 or more could easily be left behind; but a student in a class of 20 other students is able to get extra help without a problem. In my class alone, we had 5 people who literally got their own teacher to help them. Unfortunately, this would be almost impossible to arrange in a larger classroom. When a student falls behind, it’s very unlikely that they are able to get back up to speed with the rest of the class without help of a teacher.

Choosing to live in a small town over a large city has a “triple threat” of benefits. The feeling of safety in

your own town is very important; along with student success at school. No one wants to see their child fall behind. And who could argue with more home cooked meals; a much healthier option to fast food meals. Growing up in a big city would have drastically changed my life; however, I am proud and very lucky to be raised in a small town.

Work Cited: Brian Ross. "Kidnapping Capital of the U.S.A. - ABC News." Newsgroup. ABCNews.com - Breaking News, Latest

News & Top Video News - ABC News. ABC News, 11 Feb. 2009. Web. 31 Jan. 2012. <http://abcnews.go.com/Blotter/story?id=6848672>.

Mazzotta, Karen. "FMI NEWS RELEASE." Editorial. FMI | Food Marketing Institute | Home. 6 Dec. 2006. Web. 1 Feb. 2012. <http://www.fmi.org/news_releases/index.cfm?fuseaction=mediatext>.

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Above: Painting by Victoria Grenier, Current NDSCS Student.

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“Time Traveler” By Anne Taylor, Current NDSCS Faculty I breathe the deep dust of ancient souls. The gray-green pebbles of an ageless earth guide my tentative steps along the familiar shores of yesterday. Bones remember. Blood runs anew. Amid the white wind that whispers my name, the fjords of my ancestors answer my call. And the midnight sun welcomes me home.

Above: Photograph of a spot in Norway by Anne Taylor.

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“North Dakotan Proud” By Janine Pacheco, NDSCS Alumna 1981. North Dakota, born and raised. This is a land I always praise. To see so far in a single glance. God put me here, it was not chance. I love to look at wheat fields blowing, and all the things the farmers are growing. I love to remember the dust as we walked, the grasshoppers hopping as we talked. Playing in rhubarb up to our knee, picking fresh fruit off the tree. Simple days and simple ways sharing work and saying grace. working hard and feeling good doing what we know we should. Going to church on Sunday morn, driving out to look at corn. Early to bed, early to rise, growing up North Dakotan, is surely the prize.

“Mom” By Janine Pacheco, NDSCS Alumna 1981. My mom grew up a farmers kid. She learned to value what they did. She learned real young what real work was. She had to do it, just because. She had to stay in the middle of the floor, and keep her siblings away from the door, While her parents went to work in the field, she had to listen, she was their shield. She did her best, she shared the load, the farm is what they had to hold. As she grew and learned and worked, hard work was something she never shirked. She moved away to start her life, as mommy and as devoted wife. She found herself alone with us, but she had a dream, she had a focus. She took her lessons from on the farm, she did not rely on female charm. She went to school, she studied so much, she knew she needed the good Lord's touch. She came here a long time ago, it was then called Science School, don't ya know. A nurse she became, and a good one at that, she was so proud to get that white hat. My mom was tough, and she was smart, and she had an honest, grateful heart. She showed us how to do our best, and not to depend on all the rest. She treated others the way she should, she believed we were all equals, my mom was good. She loved her family and she loved her friends, we were so sad when her amazing life would end. But the lessons we learned from this old farmer’s kid, are brilliant and important and totally splendid. I miss my mom, oh so much, I long for her phone calls and the comfort of her touch. I hope so much and I truly pray, that I have made mom proud at least in some way.

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“The Existential Crisis of a Goldfish” By Dave Binkard, Current NDSCS Faculty (Adjunct). The goldfish scratching glass with thin lips wonders if a defect attaches faithfulness to the dull ring that reverberates water from childish taps.

Above: Photo by Wade King, Current NDSCS Faculty.

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“The Straits of Lake Lida” By Gene Pinkney, Retired NDSCS Faculty. (This is in reference to the Faculty Fishing Trips.) As I walked out on the striats of Lake Lida I met an old turtle* a crawlin’ along His eyes were all wild, like a fly with a spider He wailed, as he walked, the most mornfullest song. I see by your beer can, said I, you’re a turtle, And that you’ve been out here a pretty good while. It looks like you tripped when you took the last hurdle What was it that robbed you of your turtle smile? I’ll tell you my story if you’ll tell it ‘tothers For I must save turtles lest they take my path, I’d go and lie down now if I had my ‘druthers But maybe my tale will save someone’s sweet ass. A keg-mate, here nameless took note, of this creature And ogled full long as she wiggled on by, I saw him deep study her every fine feature From full dropping bosom to well-curv’ed thigh. I followed them long through the wild in the darkness And then became lost and bewildered forlorn I called out his name but heard only the starkness Of black croaking ravens that clamored til morn. To this day I know not what evil befell him I know only this, that he’s never returned But I say here in warning, beware of Black Helen Take rein on your passions when she makes them burn. So all ye wise turtles, when you make spring sojourn Out here to Lake Lida, take heed to my tale. If ever Black Helen comes sit down beside ya, Let loose of your flagon and run ye like hell. For none yet have returned from her lair in the wild-wood None have returned to describe her wild charms. Believe not the rumors that say how she loves good But only return to your sweet baby’s arms.  

And be thankful you met me all withered to tell you Before you succumbed to her hot heaving charms, Be thankful I stand her with truth to unspell you So you tangle not in her hair and her arms. For I have it from others she’ll never release you Till she has deprived you of reason and rime Believe not her lie that she’s just come to please you, Or you’ll look like me when drink makes it your time. So all you young turtles, come sing by the fire side Sing loud of the dear one who wears your bright ring. And fix not your thoughts on the wiles of Black Helen; Just take it from me, you have reason to sing.

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“Untitled” By Mike Schmitt, Current NDSCS Creative Writing Student. There I was walking down the street next to the road the wiz and buzz of the streets were ringing in my ears. I was scared for my life. A bunch of people started to walk up to me I try to hide. I ran into that little crawl space. Leave me alone I want to be left alone please go away I yiff. Ooo there’s something that smells good there in front of me was a piece of meat. It smelled different from what I am used to but I wanted I poked my head out of the crevice. Oooo there tries to grab me. I move as fast as I can I need to get away as far as I can. Hurry hurry I need to get a safe place to hide. I ran and I ran for what felt like a day when I finally got to someplace with grass. I found some nice shade and sat in it. It felt so good stretching out trying to catch my breath. There I sat panting for a few minutes. Finally I decide it’s time for a nap I walk to the tree and start to dig out a little place for me to take my nap. In the tree roots are always safe I think to myself. I digged and I digged until I could finish up my temporary den. I pushed some of the dirt to hide my sleeping body. I close my eyes letting my ears fall back. There the beep of those gods forsaken things why can’t it just be quiet during the day?

I woke up it was night it was quiet just how I like it. I stepped out of my hole I stepped on the grass I love the nice cold air on my coat. This time at night is kind of magical. I was walking across the grass when I heard a psst and all of a sudden water started to spurt out of the ground. Ahh it was so cold I tried to get out of the grass but I couldn’t find an end in sight. I ran again until I finally got out of it. Brrr I thought I’m freezing I need to find some warm somewhere where could it be. I shook off the water it feels horrible and searched for my warmth. I got back onto the side walk walking again. I see some gentle light poking around the corner. I walk up to the corner and see 3 humans huddled by that large metal thing. There is my hiding spot that box right next to it. I get on my belly and slowly crawl my way to the box. I hear those men making loud sounds and finally I reach my destination. I sneak my way into the box there I was warm I was happy. Those men in the torn up coats look unhappy they weren’t smiling and laughing like the most of the people I normally see. They spoke angrily at each other and I knew this was a place I couldn’t stay forever. They were drinking water but after they drank a bit they got even angrier at each other. I don’t ever want to drink that stuff. I curled up into my tail watching the fires dance. They woooshed and they warbled they were magical. The fire would be my guardian tonight and will protect me till morning. The two men fell asleep quickly after I lay down. The morning light appeared it was time to continue my journey onto the next leg.

I was walking down the alleys trying to stay out of the water. They puddles were so annoying it was nice the smell of something was just heavenly. I walked and poked my head out of alley and say a big window with people walking in and out. I don’t know why this place smelled so good but I had to get whatever was this amazing that I couldn’t stop drooling over it. I jumped out from the corner and ran to the door and sat there until it opened. I waited and I waited until a person walked out and threw something warm at me. It was fluffy and white I picked it up and thanked the person with a bow of my head. I sat it on the side walk and tried to eat it. I couldn’t fit it into my mouth hole I starred at it for a second to try to figure out what to do. Someone came up and picked up my treat why I poked my head up. They were tearing up the treat and held out their hand to me. I saw it was a girl with blue hair and black dress on. It looked complicated and frilly I looked puzzled up to her behind her it looked like she had bird wings. She put a piece of the treat in her mouth and then held one for me she then showed her bight white teeth at me laughing. I take it in gentle trying not to bite her. It was delicious I licked her finger to keep tasting the treat. I couldn’t get enough of the taste. I looked back up at her she was laughing at me I turn my head and looked puzzled up to her. She made another noise I had no clue what was happening. She then picked me up and I tried to worm my way out of her grasp. She started to shush me and sat me in her bag. I poked my head up out of it as she carried me into the building where they have gave me that treat I liked so much. She got more treats I couldn’t stop my tail this human was treating me gently. Something I have never experienced before I couldn’t believe this. I looked up at her face it was shimmering with a metal. I yiffed up at her and she said,” it will be ok you little fox.” We then left the store her taking me around the town in her bag. I couldn’t help but wonder why she was treating me so gently.

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This girl took me across the town to a store that noisy with birds. When we got in she set me down on the floor and I followed her around the store. She took me to tree with colorful leaves. She grabbed one of the short ones and said, “sit up.” She grabbed a treat out and poked I followed tracing the treat. I found something around my neck soon after with a thing that was metal that made noises every time I moved. I started to swat at the thing because I found it funny at first. A guy dressed in white started looking at me and picked me up. He took me to a room with a metal table. I looked up at the girl and all she did was brush my fur back. I felt a tight pinch on my behind. What was happening I looked frantically all around the room trying to figure out what was happening. I yiffed in pain. She tried to shoosh me as much as she could with her hand. The man then grabbed me and lifted up my paws. He then started to get rid of my nails one at a time. Why I yiff again? She just put my mouth in her hand. She pulled me into her arms and put my head on her neck. We left hat room all I could hope is too never come here again this place was the torture chamber. The girl in the black dress then took me to a room where everything was comfy I found the most comfortable place to sit then she picked me up again and where I sat I looked puzzled up at her what was happening. Why can’t I just sit here and be comfy. She took out some green stuff and gave it to the man that hurt me. We then left the store I was confused as could be. She put me back in her back and walked out.

We were going down the sidewalk again and all of a sudden I heard a noise and bright lights in her bag. What this I poke my down and look at this black thing that was cold I asked it what is it and why are you crying out. She put her hand in and grabbed it. She started to talk to it and it calmed down. She then walked to one of that giant metal beast that almost squished me a few days ago. She sat me down in it closed the door. I looked up watching for her and she went to the place next to me and got into it. She started to pat my head as I looked all round. We started to move really fast. I hated this feeling and hid under my paws. I wanted this day to end I want to go hide and be safe. We went to a giant building that I couldn’t see all of it. People were pushing those small metal things around with giant bags in them. What is this I wonder and why does it smell good? She picked up and stuck me in the bag yet again. I looked up watching her when she set me in the bag on the metal thing. It was really hot I was lucky there was a bag to keep my paws from getting burnt. She pushed the both of us into the building when then giant doors opened up magically. We didn’t push them open how did they open I wondered. I gave up trying to figure out what was happened when I saw all the good smelling meat. I started to drool it smelled even better than the treats earlier. The girl looks at me laughing and wiping my mouth from my drool. I looked puzzled up to her she laughed at me again. I really don’t understand humans why do they laugh at me all the time. I crawled deep into the bag and hid from her laughs. All of a sudden I see a piece of meat with some wood poking into the bag. I sniffed it and it smelled like it would taste good. I bit it and pulled. I started chewing it and it became hotter and hotter. My mouth felt like it was on fire I yiff for help. This was the most horrible thing ever I spit out the meat and start to lick my paws trying to get the taste out of my mouth but was no avail. All I could do is waiting for the pain to end. That girl pulled me out hugging me tight rubbing my face. Other people saw and ran over. No why are there so many people all around me just go away I yiff. None of them left I hid my face in that girls arms hoping they would all just go away. I felt tugs on my my fur. It started to hurt when I looked up there was a lot of little humans and more girls all trying to rub my fur. The girl protecting me motioned them away and sat me back in the bag and hides me under it. She took us to a new place where there was food on tables and it kept moving. She set me in the bag on the table and watched myself moving even though I wasn’t doing anything I wanted it to stop so I jumped out the bag and started walking to the edge of the table. No matter how much I walked me never seemed to make any progress though. Everyone around me started to laugh I tried to start running but to no avail. I sat down and moved back onto a cold metal thing. The girl picked me up and said it time to go home. I got into her bag and fell asleep again. We stopped again and picked me up and walked me up a lot of stairs I was going so high so very high. She sat me down at a door as she rummaged through her bag for something that jingled. She touched the door and it opened up. She motioned me to walk in so I followed her directions. When in she closed the door and picked me up again She sat down after kicking her feet off. We both sat on a big soft thing. She then petted me while she played with a hard black thing with soft squares on it. This is where it is nice I hope I can stay here with this human. She has been so gentle with me I don’t want to leave. I fell asleep on her and that was the first day of the rest of my life.

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 “College Education Poems” By Jenny Olejar, Current NDSCS Student. Controversial topic Of college education is debated today and many are Led to think there are several pros. Living a longer and healthier life is shown in a study plus Earning a college degree is a major life achievement. Graduates have lower poverty rates and have more and better Employment opportunities. College graduates are Projected to make more money plus more jobs Require a college degree. Obviously not all jobs, but the benefits like health insurance and retirement plans are more common. Overall the Skills and connections made are huge when it comes to the real world. You learn something new every day, but it is not what you know it is who you know. Controversial topic Of college education is debated today and many are Led to think that there are several cons. First of all, Loan debt is crippling for college students. Plus many college graduates are Employed in jobs that do not require college degrees. Those students who do not Graduate waste their own and the government money. Tuition for Education has risen quicker than income making it difficult to pay off the crippling loans and the total Cost of going to college also includes the cost of missing Opportunities to make money at a job. A college degree is No guarantee of workplace benefits either. Basically there are Several ways to succeed without a college degree.

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“Astray” By Samantha Lemmerman, NDSCS Alumna.

Sue walked across the yard with a slightly haggard way about her. The roundness of her hips had been getting to her lately. Every single bite she ate shot directly to her hips and Jackson, her husband, had let her know, followed by a sharp, and overly exuberant, smack on the ass. The dust whirled around her and the sun bounced off her dirty blonde bob. She wiped the sweat from her forehead and eyed the tree line for the escaped brown Angus calf. Only five and a half months and the sucker was ready to run from its momma. They couldn’t believe it when they counted. But when Jackson spotted a bit of fence off kilter, he knew the calf had gotten into the open pasture.

It had been an hour since then and the longer it took to find the calf, the easier it would be to lose it forever. Once dark hit, it would be prey to coyotes and rattle snakes. The yard was already starting to grow dark, the trees blocking out half of the sun. Sue called out to the calf, checking around the backside of the horse barn.

There was nothing. She swore at the calf under her breath. The shadows were growing longer. Even being a rancher’s wife, Sue didn’t understand the fuss over one calf. If they did get it back, there would be a chance of an injury. And if they didn’t find it, well, that made their herd five hundred forty-seven. There was really no appeal to finding it. It was only one measly calf. “We didn’t get a lot of steers this year,” he’d said. A drip of sweat made its way down his neck. “We’re going to need every last one or else we’ll end up buying another two to make up for it.” “Jackson, it’s one stinkin’ calf. Just let it go.” Sue cut the bottoms of a bundle of wild flowers. “What’re you doing with Grandma’s vase?” “Because, we need to lighten this place up, Jacks. It’s too blah in here.” “So you’re putting weeds in the kitchen? Where we eat?” “They’re Twinflowers, not weeds.” She fluffed the drooped pale pink wildflowers in the heavy vase. Jackson turned and rolled his eyes. “We need that calf.” He had stared out the window with tired eyes, searching from the kitchen. “At least look around the yard? Check if the stinker isn’t just gnawing on some grass out back?” Sue had sighed and agreed to look, just for a little while. “Good,” Jackson had set down his water glass before heading for his boots. “I don’t know how far it could’ve got, but just look.” She stepped around him, pulling her boots from in the closet. Jackson’s hand, spread wide, slapped the curve of her ass. The pain went as fast as it came. As soft as the ATV engine was rumbling, Jackson had to be getting close to the ravine. She sighed. This was the last thing she wanted to be doing. There was an empty glass and whole lot of margarita mix to drink, and it sure as hell wasn’t going to get done standing outside. Instincts told her as soon as she’d walk in the house, Jackson would pull back up. The second she turned on the heel of her twenty-year-old boots, the engine rumble grew louder. It wasn’t hard to miss coming up their driveway that stretched nearly three-quarters of a mile off of an equally isolated road. She couldn’t tell who it was driving the truck.

Not even with her hand blocking the sun. “Susie Q, I think I mighta found somethin’ of yours,” Lyle Jensen hollered over to her. The truck door slammed shut just barely after a chocolate lab jumped out of the door. The dog trotted around the yard, sniffing at different pockets of grass. Sue’s neighbor walked around to the back of the truck and yanked open the tailgate. She hadn’t seen Lyle in ages. The unmistakable cries of a calf echoed around the tin buildings. Sue propped her hand on her hip. “Put him in the barn for tonight I guess, Jacks’ll have to look him over.” She led both man and calf to the barn. There was still a calving stall set up, for rare instances. “Thanks Lyle, he’ll be excited.”

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He hoisted the animal into his arms with a slight grunt. Sue watched him fumble with his steps before getting into a fast walk. Almost twenty-five years after high school and he hadn’t changed much. The beer gut had grown a little more outward, and maybe his hair was thinning a little more, but he looked about the same. His always happy attitude hadn’t changed either. His laugh was just as loud as his hollering. Sue was surprised Jackson couldn’t hear it all the way in the ravine. “You know when the ol’ man’ll be back?” Lyle nudged the fence open. The calf settled right into the bedding as the mother bellowed from the lot. “No,” she listened for the four wheeler. “No way of knowing since,” Sue jerked her head toward the calving stall. The sun was just starting to dip below the line of trees. He’d be home before too long. “Why don’t I getcha a beer?” She headed for the house, hoping that Jackson would be happy that someone found the calf. She had a split second thought to tell Lyle to go home and take credit for finding the poor animal back behind the house. The house was air conditioned and Sue thanked the heavens for it. The sweat had started to drip down her neck. She clicked the fan another notch higher. Almost too cold, the air blew right on her chest. She even shivered. The tip of her boot helped to slip off the other. Lying against the front door, they sat propped next to Jackson’s special riding boots. Lyle sat down on the nearest bar stool. His elbows propped up on the island, he played with his Skoal. Sue grabbed for a beer, the shirt she wore untucked from her jeans and exposed part of her stomach. Swinging the refrigerator door shut, she swung around, the beer slid into the corner of the dark china vase. It crashed, shattering against the tile. “Shit!” Lyle jumped off the stool and pulled her back a few feet. His hands clutched her tightly to him. Even though his muscles had been a little more defined back in the day, his hold still shot goose bumps through Sue. He lifted her off the ground with ease, setting her on the opposite side of the island. “I’ve got my boots on, give me a broom, Doll,” Lyle said, looking at her feet. Sue stammered over her words before pointing to the closet. “I’m such an idiot. Jacks’ going to be pissed,” she looked out the windows, waiting to see him roll up and start yelling. She was so tired of him yelling all the time. “He always such a grump?” Lyle swept up the glass shards and dumped them in the garbage. To make extra sure there were no left overs, he did it again. Sue sat back on the stool, running her hand through her hair. Her heart beat was still rapid from the unexpected shattering. The cool air wasn’t helping anymore. Fanning herself, she told Lyle to just set the broom down; she’d go over it again. “Are you okay?” His large hand spanned over her shoulder. His fingertips grazed her back before he motioned for her to prop her tennis shoe socked foot on his knee for further examination. “Yeah,” she exhaled. She gazed at Lyle, a smile still spread across his face. His thumbs rubbed the insole of her foot before he gently let it go. With a slight crack of his knee, Lyle began to stand, but Sue stopped him. Her hands on his cheeks, she closed the few inches between them. Their lips hardly pressed together before he pulled away. “Shit,” he muttered. He said nothing else before Sue pulled him back in. Her hands slipped around the collar of his shirt. The minty flavor over took the kiss, making Sue light headed. His hands spread across her back, pulling her tightly to him. Breaking the kiss, they gazed at each other. The rumble of the ATV pried them apart. Sue’s breath caught in her lungs as she watched Jackson saunter across the yard. He lifted his cap from his head and wiped the sweat away. There was no surprise in his face when he saw Lyle’s truck. “Sue, you get that calf inside alright?” Jackson hollered before there were two dull thuds.

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“Yeah, Lyle brought him back ‘bout fifteen minutes ago.” She glanced at Lyle, her eyes wide. Hearing Jackson’s heavy footsteps grow louder, Sue went for the fridge, grabbing another beer and the bottle of Hennessy. She took a swig before she set the beers on the counter. Jackson stopped at the doorway. His shoulder digging into the wooden frame. He always looked serious and Sue tried to hide any facial expression that would give it away, there was nothing. “So,” Jackson said. “What ya think Lyle? She pass?” His eyes flicked from Sue to Lyle. Her heart sped up. Lyle looked at her. His tongue prodded the dip a few times. “With flying colors Jackson. You got yourself a gold star woman.” Side stepping Jackson, Lyle patted his friend on the back. He turned and looked at Sue before walking out the front door. Jackson grabbed the beer from the counter and slipped his work boots off, leaving them next to the fridge. The black leather recliner groaned under his weight as he resituated to grab the remote. “Worked all day adding new fence and the first thing that happens is that damn calf.” He sipped from the bottle. “What are you gonna make for dinner?” The television clicked from the weather channel to the local news station.

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Below: Image created by Deandra McFadden, NDSCS Alumna.

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“Icy Roads and Dog Racing” By Hannah Lupkes, Current NDSCS Student.

One day I went to pick up my friend Lacey at her house because we were going to go to a basketball game. Lacey has a long driveway, about a half mile long and during the winter it gets really icy at times. I was driving my brother’s Jeep and I made it down her driveway just fine. Once Lacey hopped in we started down her driveway, we got a little ways down and then I stopped. She was wondering what the heck I was doing and I had a plan to put the Jeep in four wheel drive and race her dog, Ritz, down the driveway. Well we got going about 35 miles an hour and I started to feel the Jeep’s backend kind of swerve a little. When I started feeling it swerve I knew not to hit the brakes, so I just let off the gas and tried to keep straight while going down the driveway. Well that didn’t end up working because the swerving started to get worse I could just hear Lacey making sound effects as the Jeep swerved side to side. I remember as the Jeep was whipping around I felt nervous that something bad was going to happen to Lacey. Then we ended up finally going into the ditch and as we hit the snow, which kept us from rolling the Jeep, everything in the Jeep hit the right side of the vehicle making it sound like the back window had shattered. The next moment I opened my eyes I found us facing the complete opposite direction that we were going. I was nervous that Lacey had gotten hurt so the first thing I did was I looked at her, she was already staring at me with a look on her face that I could tell said what the heck just happened, and then I asked her if she was alright. Then she just starts laughing hysterically, and then I joined in and started laughing too. I told her that I was really embarrassed about what just happened, and of course we laughed some more. After we sat there and laughed forever, Lacey called her dad Scott, who was just sitting in her house at the time. I remember her saying to her dad that we went in the ditch just going down the driveway and he did not believe her right away until he looked out the window of the house, and he just told us to wait and he would be there in a minute. While we were standing there we remembered that we went into the ditch because we were racing her dog, Ritz, down the driveway. We thought that Ritz would be somewhere around us because we were just racing her. So we called out her name but she never showed up. I was freaking out because Lacey’s dog could be under the Jeep, that I let get out of control. So we had to just wait until Scott to pull me out of the ditch to see if Ritz was really under the Jeep. Then we saw Scott get into his truck and drive toward us. I was nervous that Lacey’s parents would never let Lacey ride with me anywhere again. When Scott got there he didn’t really say much, he hooked the Jeep up to his pickup and I had to sit in the Jeep to keep the steering wheel held to the left while he got into his truck to try and pull me out. Lacey just stood outside while we did this and since we were so deep in the ditch Scotty had to really give it some gas, which sent rocks up at Lacey hitting her all over on her legs. After awhile I finally got pulled out of the ditch and Lacey got in and told me that Ritz was not under the Jeep and must have just gotten scared and ran off. She also told me how the rocks were hitting her and I felt so bad because it was my all my fault that she had to go through getting hit with the rocks. When we got out of the ditch we had to go all the way back to the house so we could turn around. As I started to go down the driveway I got really nervous, my hands began to sweat, and I was concentrating very hard so that I wouldn’t go in the ditch again. I could tell that Lacey was nervous too because all she said was be careful and she didn’t say anything else until we got past the driveway. When I drove past the spot where I went in the ditch I felt embarrassed and I could even feel my face turning a little red. Once we got to the end of the driveway I felt a sense of relief and happiness to be done with that. Lacey and I eventually made it to the basketball game without any more accidents. The whole ride to the game was just laughter and us talking about how funny the experience actually was. I don’t think I will ever forget about this day because of all the different emotions I felt in a short period of time and that now it is hilarious to think about what actually happened. I learned something that day, and that is to never race a dog on an icy road.

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Above: Photo by Amanda Gillespie, Current NDSCS Student.

“Pile of Leaves” By Dave Binkard, Current NDSCS Faculty (Adjunct). I saw an old professor one autumn day, wearing tan slacks and a blue jacket. He should have taken the sidewalk but instead cut through the grass, kicking up leaves with a smile. If he came upon a raked pile, I know he would drop his leather bag dive in headfirst, and toss up the leaves, to let them flutter down all around.

“The Gamble” By Dave Binkard, Current NDSCS Faculty (Adjunct). You glance at your watch, as the dealer stares at you with heavy eyes. You give the twitch of the hand and the cards are dealt. Your first card is a 9, the age of your oldest of 2, your next card. Did you know your next card, the Queen of Hearts, has taken them out of their beds to sleep elsewhere tonight? But then, at half past your fourth drink, she relented and drove them back home? But you’ve won this hand. and you know the next hand is yours as well.

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“Untitled” By Janine Pacheco, NDSCS Alumna 1981. there was a little brown haired boy, he was his families pride and joy. he was maybe just about two, when grandmas sickness was diagnosed new. he and grandma were best of friends, the love they had is the kind God sends. he brought delight and so much joy, how this family needed this little boy. then God sent another blessing their way, a baby sister to brighten the day. with dark curly hair and big brown eyes, so much love, these 2 were a prize. grandma watched them everyday, so when mom went to work, they could play. grandmas sickness took a hold, and dear grandma was weak, sick and cold. She taught those babies how to pray, they talked to Jesus every day. grandma's arms and hands were weak, the chemo made so many things bleak. mom would bring those two kids there, to sit with grandma in that rocking chair. in the rocker those 3 would sit ,and rarely did those babies have a fit. when hair loss came, the choice was clear, no wigs allowed, they made sister fear. so grandma wore a baseball cap, and the kids rubbed her head when they sat in her lap. the kids and grandma had another delight, they loved when grandpa was in sight. the fun they had with that crazy guy, always laughter, no time to cry. music was always being played, memories of love were being made. with that music came the moves, those kids and grandma sure could groove. laughter, giggles and love galore, they did not want to stop, they always wanted more. God sent those kids to fill grandmas cup, he knew she needed them to get her up. when she was tired from fighting to live, that dear boy gave all the love he could give. he would rub her bald head with his soft little hands and say, "I love you, dance, nini, dance.” the love of a family can do oh, so much, God uses it to let folks feel His touch.

“Just Think” By Britain Pfaff, Current NDSCS Student. Just think. Just think if you could live in a land of eternal sun Just think if you could lie around and bathe in unending fun Just think if you could end all of the pain Just end it all like it was some kind of childish game Just think if the day will come where worries will be gone No more money or stress or right or wrong Just think if you could be with the one you love The one with you and the ones send up above Just think if paradise is a place where you and I could go Just go on a vacation like Paris or Rome Just think if you could have it all be it all Just think if you could give it all, share it all

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Two Opposing Poems By Grant Bruesch Most people say you need a college education They say you won’t get a job without it “If you don’t have a degree you might as well apply at fast food” “It’s only two to four more years” You get to study what you want They say it will be the best years of your life You will meet new friends There are so many fun things to do The skills you learn will actually be used in your job “Go get a college education” You don’t need a degree to get a job College costs more than it is worth Many employers hire without degrees People only party Students barely study Most classes you just take tests Most people don’t even use their degree Twelve years of school was enough I won’t go to class anyway You don’t need a degree to get a job

Two Opposing Poems By Lindsay Spillman, Current NDSCS Student. Leaving the plug in She was hit by a drunk driver She never wanted her life to end this soon Maybe one day she will wake up and be better She was supposed to be living her life and having a family Her mother doesn’t know what she would do without her She made it alive this far We can’t just give up on her She moans sometimes I think she can hear our voices What if she would want to stay alive? Pulling the Plug She doesn’t respond to anything Her bed sores are getting worse We can’t ever bring her home No guarantee she will wake up, EVER The hospital bills are piling up I doubt this would be what she wanted for herself She can go to a better place Her tube feeding is starting to be painful for her We can’t just play God What if she wouldn’t want this?

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“Why We Should Pay College Athletes” By Brandyn Bartlett, Current NDSCS Student. Pros Paying college athletes is the top talk in college administration right now, Being a college athlete is harder than most believe it, it will break the weak. The benefits of paying athletes will change the way things work for better. Athletes could buy items they want and won’t have to steal because of lack of money. We don’t have much money because we don’t have time to get and job and make our own because, all our time goes to the sports and university. Cons There are a couple of cons for paying college athletes that I will admit to be a problem. Athletes will spend their allowance of things that will get them in trouble In the long run. For example weed and other drugs, these drugs will hurt them in their performance and in the long run their teammates. At the end of day 90% of these sports in college are team sports and hurting your team is one of the worst things you can do.

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Thank you for submitting to

and/or reading Headwaters 2014!

Sincerely, the Creative Writing Class (Online Spring 2014) & Sybil Priebe, Creative Writing Instructor

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 Current Books at Amazon.com by NDSCS-based Authors:

Above right: Mr. Ford’s book is explained. Bottom right: Sybil Priebe’s first version of a nontraditional textbook. Bottom left: Sybil Priebe’s first attempt at fiction.