#ritnewser

Photo Credit: Phatpuppycreations Even as I write this blog post, I am not quite sure what to say. Much like my paper on the ecopark, I feel like I am facing a true case of writers block. As far as my story goes on the ecopark, there is a good “shell” to it. What I have completed on it serves as a good outline, but I am struggling to make it come to life more. Not to mention, there is so much to do and so little time. I think I am starting to feel the pressures of a true writer. Hopefully, I can get a few more interviews or observe at the ecopark again, before the final paper is due. Trying to figure out how to overcome writers block.

This assignment requires us to try and “sell” our story to an editor of any publication. Given my story deal with recycling and the environment, I feel it is most appropriate to pitch the story to some type of publisher dealing with these issues. Ironically, last week, I tweeted about Namibia and their current conservation efforts. By some chance, I was retweeted by an environmental group, @EarthDefendah, better known as Earth Matter NY, Inc. This is a non profit organization which I noticed has a newsletter that gets put out. I feel that my paper would be an interesting topic for the organization to consider for publication. It would be a great opportunity to get this piece published. http://www.earthmatter.org/

So as I push through the ecopark paper, I realize…I NEED more sources. The paper is a good start but it is lacking ‘character.’ Tom Sinclair provided me with various quotes, but I need to find additional sources as well. I have been in contact with an employee from the ecopark, who is willing to go on the record. In addition, I plan to contact the county executive to get some input from a government perspective. In a way, I am worried this piece will sound more like a research paper rather than a feature piece. Let’s hope I can get something of interest.

Last night marked the completion of the first 700 words to my paper on the ecopark. So far…I think the paper is coming along well. I was able to use the pamphlets and handouts that Tom Sinclair gave me for basic information and statistics. They were a great source to better explain the functions of the ecopark. In addition I was able to use a few quotes from Sinclair. They seemed to fit in well with the ‘facts.’ The first 700 words is very fact based in my opinion; however, I think it serves as a good frame for additional quotes and opinions.

( You can also watch the chef roll sushi on the flat screens. Photo Credit: Nikole DeBell) “Every Monday we have a list of people to call back if someone decides not to show up,” said Maria Colopietro California Rollin’ manager. “People start calling ahead and reserving spots for classes in December,” said Maria. Right now the classes are only offered at the Charlotte location. Beaman was not sure if he would be expanding the classes to the Village Gate location in the near future. Beaman hopes his classes will encourage people in the Rochester area to try new things. “Get out of the house especially during the cold winter months, which can leave people in a rut,” said Beaman. A fun night out at sushi class might be just the thing for that!

The ecopark project continues. I found it interesting that one item you can recycle at the ecopark is empty prescription bottles. Yes, those orange bottles with your name plastered across it, prescribing you to some medication you can’t pronounce or even spell if you wanted. So, your reading this and wondering, “Is she alright?” Actually, I’m thrilled. It is possible to even dispose of medications you never finished! Maybe you’re curious as to why I think this is the most exciting item to recycle. Check out the number of people incarcerated due to drug use, possession, or drug related crimes. In the big picture, the war on drugs is more apparent than ever. Seeing improvements in our local economy is innovative and refreshing for a time when any high is sought after.

It is already the first week back at school and the papers, projects, and homework slapped me right in the face. Maybe this is my fault for being stressed on the second day back to classes. Should I have used my relaxation time to work on upcoming assignments? Instead of being proactive about the next few weeks of school, I chose to block it out. Now I am faced with that dreaded “to-do” list. That endless list of assignments, chores, and notes to remember. I use the list to sort out the sounds in my head, but at the same time, I can’t help but wonder if it is actually making me stress out more. Is this list not just a constant reminder of, “Dear Madeline- you’re screwed?” Yes, it sorts everything out. Yes, it makes me prioritize. HOWEVER Yes, it makes me want to procrastinate further. Yes, I want to avoid the list. So as I sit here bitching, I realize, “I just completed an assignment!” Maybe the sounds in my head are working.

Since the early ages, it has been a universal stereotype that “jocks” are less successful in school than non-athlete peers. A recent study conducted by Dr. Mark Frederick and Dr. Will Barratt at Indiana State University proves the fallacy of that stereotype. The duo studied 7 intangible academic skills they felt allude to future success in the real world and job force: • Critical thinking • Self-awareness • Communication • Diversity • Citizenship • Relationships • Leadership The results revealed that student-athletes excel more than traditional students. Lou Spiotti Jr., Executive Director of Intercollegiate Athletics at RIT, proved similar results of student-athletes. “The student body averages about a 3.0 GPA. Student-athletes usually receive 2 higher quality points,” said Spiotti. In essence, are student-athletes better prepared for the job force? “[Athletics], teach you core characteristics companies look for that aren’t easily obtained if not on a team. Athletes are goal-oriented, held to higher standards, and have a desire to be successful,” said Jess Kramer, a member of the RIT women’s basketball team and the Student Athlete Advisory Committee. According to Spiotti, student-athletes are 100% more disciplined and they know how to get the job done. “Student-athletes are more goal-oriented and outwork others which make them more valuable in the job market,” said Spiotti. Student-athletes at RIT share similar thoughts. “One lesson I’ve learned being a student-athlete is time management. Once you learn this you are more valuable in your career,” said Kara Birrell, member of the RIT women’s basketball team. Where’s the proof? Spiotti is proof that these intangibles carry over later in life. “I was a three sport athlete in high school and a two sport athlete in college. I believe it had a powerful effect on my performance. I wouldn’t be where I am now without sports,” said Spiotti. So what? With uncertainty of job placement after graduation, student-athletes might have an edge over other students who are not involved in school activities. As research continues, time will tell whether the “jocks” or “nerds” prevail in the work force.