Even though they are so young, Venus and Serena Williams have influenced teen girls across the nation. With their charisma, determination, and hard work, Venus and Serena Williams are heroes to me. You will see how they can be incredible role models for girls all ages.

To start at the beginning of their childhood, Venus, being born on June 17th, 1980 is the older of the two sisters; Serena is the youngest child of five. She was born on September 26th, 1981. They had hard times in the ghetto of Saginaw, Michigan during their childhood and teenage years. They had to live with the same problems that most girls deal with today. Serena started to play tennis when she was about five or six. Then Venus joined in, too. Their dad has been and still is their coach.

By this time, you know that Venus and Serena are known world wide for their tennis skills. The accomplishments of these two fantastic women reach far in numbers. In 1999, Venus and Serena were the first sisters to win Grand Slam crown's together in the 20th century. Also taking gold at doubles in the 2000 Olympics together, Venus and Serena both took metals for singles. Venus won her first Wimbledon, also in 2000. Being the first African American women to reach number one on the Women's Tennis Association was a great feeling for Venus. Also in 2002, Serena was named number one on the WTA's ranking. This was the first time any sisters were both named number one. 2002 was a big year for the two ladies, but also for Serena, who won her first Wimbledon that year, in singles and they both won Wimbledon in doubles. The next year Serena again won Wimbledon. Last year, Venus took first place at Wimbledon.

Venus and Serena's father wanted to raise tennis stars. After they showed their father the most potential in their family, he and his family moved to Palm Beach Garden, Florida. The purpose of the move was to work with professional tennis coaches, who they did, but heir father still remained their number one coach. Venus and Serena still live there today.

The best qualities of Venus and Serena make them heroes. They demonstrate hard work and love for the game. Also, they love each other and their family. They don't attempt to be something they are not. Also, they make great role models to look up to as a teen girl.

These two ladies have made an impact in my life by writing books on how to deal with pressure in the teenage years. They were discriminated against ever more because they were African American. I also look up to them because they are so pushed to thrive in their sport. I would like to have that same ambition. Now that they have accomplished many goals in their tennis careers, they are free to live out their other dreams. Take Venus for example, she is starting her own fashion design company.

Venus and Serena are heroes to me specifically because they work hard for were they are. They had been to professional coaches when they were so young. This maintained their devotion to tennis. They also are so respectful to everyone and each other. They have competed against each other several times, and each time they do, it makes them work harder. Also, it strengthens their relationship because they can't get mad at each other because they love each other so much. Even though the world knows them as tennis stars, they are trying to make their own names.

All in all, these two young women have worked hard for where they are. I am moved to try so hard to make it as far as them in everything that I do. I look up to them as they show tough effort, respect, love for each other and the game, and being individuals. I can get to where they are if I give all my exertion and energy. Works Cited Thomas, Mike. "Serena and Venus Williams." Footsteps. May-June 2005. Williams, Serena. "Did you know?" Google. 16 January 2005. Williams Serena. "The Lowdown on Venus." Google. 16 January 2005.

Most people think of heroes as Superman or Spiderman, but heroes are real people just like you and me. They don’t have to be able to fly or shoot spider webs from their hands, all they have to be is a person that someone looks up to and wants to have the same values and respect as that person. My hero is my mom.

Deborah Zweber Lundell is my hero. Her name was originally Deborah Therese Zweber, but then she fell in love with my dad and got married. She then changed it. Her oldest sister, Marianne was 18 years old when my mom was born, she selected my mom’s first name. The reason she choose this name was because Deborah was very popular in the late 50’s. My mom’s middle name came from her aunt Therese, who was a Catholic nun. Her last name is German; there is actually a small town in Germany named Zweber.

My mom grew up the youngest of seven, four sisters and two brothers. Marianne, Agnes, Maurice Jr., Carol, Rita, Hunse, and then my mom. Deb went to Guardian Angels, which is now St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. She then went on to graduate from Hastings High School. She attended the University of Minnesota and graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design. She was in college for six years, as she changed her major more then once.

After graduating from college my mom moved to Orlando Florida. 1,500 people a day were moving into central Florida at that time and she felt it would be a perfect place to start her career. And it was! One of her first big jobs was designing the interior of a 10,000 square foot private nightclub. Her lips were used on the logo, and were on billboards and license plates all over the state. After that she proceeded to design many restaurants, offices, spas, and homes. It was a busy and productive time in her life but she found time to take up sailing. She went back to Minnesota for a break and that’s when she met my dad. They fell in love quickly and were married 7 months later.

She moved back to Minnesota and continued to work in her chosen career of Interior Design. She is a great designer and it was easy for her to simply start over in a different location. After getting settled in she started working for a homebuilder and did award winning model homes for four years. She also did the interiors of many well know and wealthy people. After I, Paige, her daughter, was born it made since for her to become self-employed again, as she wanted to balance her career with parenting. She started a business called Bodele and had a show room in International Market Square, the design center in Minneapolis. After four years she decided she needed to spend more time closer to home and me. So she started working out of our home. In doing that she started another business named Lundell Design Group and is still very successful today.

My mom was born to Maurice and Elizabeth Zweber, at the Hastings Hospital. She grew up in a home her father built in 1947. Her family’s farm included what today is the Hastings Country Club. Now there is a street named Zweber Lane in honor of our family. She moved to Florida in 1982 and stayed there until 1988. Then she moved back to Hastings in 1988 and has been here ever since.

My mom has many heroic qualities; to name a few she has strong morals. She also has the magical ability to bring joy into people’s lives with her decorating skills. She is involved in the community and the love of her family and God comes first.

She has taught me the value of family, God, love, and optimism. My mom has made me who I am today. She guides me in the right paths and leads me into a great future. As far as the difference she has made in the world, I believe she has brightened the lives of thousands of clients that she has had all over the country in the past 24 years.

My mom, Deborah Zweber Lundell is a hero to me because she is the strongest person I know! She is a widow raising a teenage daughter who is very high maintenance. Her career keeps her very busy working an average of 50 hours a week. She attends mass every Sunday and talks to her siblings and her mother everyday, sometimes twice a day. The main reason my mom is my hero is because she is who she is; she makes me her priority everyday because she loves me and respects my feelings.

My mom, Anna Trumble, makes me smile each day with all her heroic qualities she possesses. Always thinking of others she helps people with great pleasure, and always works above her expectations. She guides me in all that I do, and always loves my family with unconditional love. For this reason, and many more my mom is my hero.

My mom is my hero to me, and she is the best at it! She has a great lifestyle and always fits in time for herself, her friends, and her family. Being her best friend Kathy Berk always supported my mom as well as my mom to Kathy Berk. Around her busy schedule of college, work, taking me to gymnastics, and exercise, she accomplished the gift of having three children and loving them twenty-four seven.

Although we currently live in Hastings, Minnesota, my mom grew up in a house in St. Paul. Being a child of nine and having eight brothers and sisters, its hard to imagine how hectic life would be. She and all her brothers and sisters went to a catholic high school. They loved it very much.

Still another reason my mom is my hero to me is for all her heroic qualities. She’s always kind, thoughtful, and loving. I love when she helps me with things that I could not necessarily get done on my own. She always gives 110 percent, and wants my brother, my sister, and me to succeed.

To make a difference in the world my mom specifically gives money to charity all the time. She also delivered meals on wheels when she was younger and currently volunteers for everyday tasks that need to get done.

My mom is my hero to me because of her ambition, love, and care for everyone in the world and herself. She teaches me what I right and helps me learn from my mistakes.

To sum up, my mom is the greatest hero. She brightens my day and leads me in the right direction. Even though my mom is probably not “your” hero, make sure you find that special person in your life!

1/22/06 8Y Hero Biographical Essay Bobby Orr

Are you a hockey fan? If so, I’m certain you have heard of Bobby Orr. Bobby is an old time hockey legend and my hero. I will tell you about his childhood, family, training, early adulthood and important accomplishments. Read on if you want to learn more about Bobby Orr, one of the NHL’s best defenseman to ever to play the game of hockey and my hero.

Bobby’s childhood and family were very normal. They did not know Bobby would love to play hockey or how famous he would become. On March 20, 1948, Robert Orr was born in Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada. Bobby was named after his grandfather, Robert Gordon Orr. His grandfather was a pro soccer player. His dad’s name was Doug Orr and his mother’s name was Arva Orr. He has two brothers and their names are Pat and Ron. Bobby started skating at a young age. He was only four years old when a family friend gave him his first pair of skates. In kindergarten he played on a squirt hockey league. Most squirt players are eight to eleven years old, so he was very young to make the team. At age nine, he won the MVP, most valuable player award, for the pee-wee division. As a bantam player at only fourteen years old, scouts from the Boston Bruins NHL team scouted him at a bantam All-Star game. The scouts wanted to sign him, but Bobby was only fourteen years old so they would have to wait until he was eighteen years old. The scouts said Bobby was a future star for the NHL. Bobby was very humble about his talent and players liked him.

Bobby’s training as a young adult was filled with hard work and it got him noticed. Bobby was a powerful defenseman. He practiced his hockey skills everyday. His goal was to someday play professional hockey. Bobby weighed two-hundred pounds and was six foot, one inch tall. He was said to be a two-way player, which means he could play both forward and defense. He was known for being able to hit hard and score goals. The Bruins didn’t forget about Bobby, in 1966 he turned eighteen and started to play in the NHL. Bobby signed a two-year contract with the Boston Bruins and made $75,000. He finished high school, but decided not to go to college. His mother was always afraid that Bobby would get hurt playing hockey so hardly ever went to watch him play.

Bobby’s practicing and hard work paid off. He had many important accomplishments in his career. I will tell you about some of them. In 1966 Bobby played for the Boston Bruins farm team. He was named outstanding rookie in 1966 and 1967. In 1967 he was also the leading point scorer and won the Norris Trophy which is given to the best defenseman. In 1970 the Boston Bruins brought him up from the farm team and signed him. From 1967 to 1975 he made the All-Star Team every year. Bobby is most known for helping the Boston Bruins win the Stanley Cup on May 10, 1970, by scoring the winning goal in overtime. In 1972 his biggest accomplishment was winning the Stanley Cup again. He was the first player in the NHL to get 100 points and the first defenseman to score over 40 goals in one season. Bobby signed with the Chicago Blackhawks in 1976. Bobby was the first pro hockey player to get paid one million dollars and the first player to ever hire a lawyer to negotiate a contract. Bobby had fourteen knee operations. Because of his on going injuries, he retired in 1977 at the young age of twenty-nine years old. At the age of thirty-one he was voted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. He was the youngest player to ever be voted in. Now Bobby is helping other players and working as an agent and to help them to sign big contracts. He has worked doing commercials for General Motors and Master Card. Today Bobby Orr is fifty-eight years old and is still my most favorite player and hero.

You have just read about Bobby Orr’s many, many accomplishments, training, early adulthood, childhood and family. It is easy to understand why this great hockey legend is my hero. He worked very hard by practicing every day, he had natural talent, a goal to become a professional player and most important a love for the game. He was always humble about his accomplishments and people liked and respected him. Hockey players that are able to play defense and score goals like Bobby did, are very hard to find. Bobby’s winning goal in the 1970 Stanley Cup finals was the most awesome and unforgettable goals ever. I think Bobby Orr is an all time great and that is why he is my hero and a legend.

Works Cited

Bliss, Jonathan. The Legends Hockey Heroes, Florida: Rourke Book Company, 1994

Duplacey, James. The Spirit of the Game, Illinois: Triumph Books, 1996

Hunter, Douglas. Champions, The Illustrated History of Hockey’s Greatest Dynasties, Illinois: Triumph Books, 1997

Neal, David. “Around the NHL: League needs injection of offense.” The Miami Herald, 15 November, 2003

“Orr, Bobby.” The Columbia Encyclopedia, Edition 6, 2000

Bob Marley also known as “the king of reggae,” is one of the most influential musicians of all time. Bob was a guitarist, songwriter, singer, and activist. He has always taught us to be positive, be happy, and ignore the little things that may go wrong in life. He did not just preach this to us though, but he practiced it as well. Through his positive thinking, and laid-back beats and lyrics, he tells us to live life in order to be happy.

On February 6th 1945 Robert Nesta Marley entered the world at Nine Miles, in St. Anne’s, Jamaica. Although no birth certificate was ever found, this is the date believed to be correct. Bob’s mother was an eighteen-year-old black girl called Cedella Booker. His father was Captain Norval Sinclair Marley, a fifty year-old white Liverpool born quartermaster attached to the British West Indian Regiment. Bob’s father was only able to see his son once before he died and was never able to truly get know Bob and see his worldwide success. After Bob’s father died he and his mother moved to Kingston’s Trench Town slum in the 1950’s. When Bob was a child he met a man named Joe Higgs, this man taught Bob how to read, write, and play music, which eventually led to his musical career in reggae. Bob was a firm believer in the Rastafarian faith. He had such a strong belief that it later would prove critical to his life. Although he practiced a different religion, he still possessed many of the same qualities we as Catholics honor and support.

In 1974 Marley started a band called, “The Wailers,” with two others, Peter McIntosh (Peter Tosh) and Bunny Livingston (Bunny Wailer) they helped to propel reggae to the international reputation that it has today. In 1974 the band broke up and Bob started a new band called, “Bob Marley & The Wailers,” with the, “I Threes,” as backing vocalists. The other two went on to become successful solo artists. In 1976 two days before a free concert Bob had scheduled the for the open public, Bob, his wife Rita, and his manager Don Taylor were shot inside their 56 hope road home. Bob only suffered minor injuries to his arm and chest while Don took the most bullets to his legs and torso, Rita also recovered from a shot to the head that she received that same night. The shootings were believed to be politically motivated because Jamaican politics were usually relatively violent especially as the Election Day grew close. Even through out the whole shooting ordeal Bob still remained peaceful and positive. It is that positive attitude that we remember and honor him for.

Marley was born in 1945 and died in 1981 at the age of only thirty-six. In July of 1977 Bob found a wound on his right big toe, which he thought was from a football (soccer) injury. When the wound would not completely heal and his toenail later fell off, that was when the correct diagnosis was actually made. It was found to be true that Bob actually had Malignant Melanoma, a form of skin cancer. Bob was advised to have his toe amputated, but he refused because of his Rastafarian belief that the body was to remain whole and to have it amputated would be a sin. Eventually the cancer spread to his heart, lungs, stomach, and brain. He went to Munich Germany in search of alternate treatment. The treatment in Munich was of no long-term help. When Bob became extremely ill he wanted to spend his final days in Jamaica but became too sick to continue on his trip back to his home in Jamaica. Unfortunately his journey was cut a little a short in Miami Florida where he eventually died in the Cedars of Lebanon Hospital in 1981. He is now buried in a crypt at Nine Miles, near his birthplace, with his Gibson guitar, Bible, and a bud of marijuana.

Although Bob is widely known for his musical talent it is what he stood for that truly makes him a hero to me. Bob was positive and was extremely humble and peaceful. He always said anything positive he could come up with and constantly spoke out against war, hating, and all negativity. These qualities are truly what make Bob one great man. Bob was one of the most peaceful men of his time. He constantly spoke against war and hatred. He wrote such positive songs no matter what is bothering you he can always add his little bit of advice to maybe help you with your problem. Most of Bob's songs deal with the powerless and impoverished which put such meaning into his music.

Bob’s peaceful style of living makes him true hero in my eyes. I believe we need more people in our world who will stand up for what they believe in and will stand strong with their ideas no matter how many people agree or disagree with them. Bob’s ability to speak out for what he believes and follow through with what he truly stands for is what really sets him apart from the average ordinary man. Unfortunately because of a few bad decisions he made to be involved with marijuana people often overlook the countless positive things he did over the course of his life.

Bob was always trying to be as positive as he could, and was very determined to make his views known and understood. For that Bob deserves more appreciation than most people will allow him, but because of his hard work and all he has been through he deserves all the respect he can get. Although Bob is no longer with us but his spirit still burns brightly in his followers. The legacy of Bob still lives on.

Works Cited

1.Anderson, Jeff. “Bob

Marley, Life Story.”

Google. 17 January.

2005.

http://www.bobmarley.com/lif

e/story/part6.html:

INTERNET

2.”Bob Marley.” Wikipedia. 1987

3.White, Timothy. The

Boy From Nine Miles: The

Early Life of Bob

Marley. New York: PMA. 1991.

Can you believe my brother went to the Naval Academy? Well, neither can I, and I’m his sister. My brother’s name is Adam Shemon, and he’s been there for about a year. Why is he there? He wants to serve our country just like my father and grandfather did. Adam has many amazing qualities in him that makes him a hero.

Next is my family of five. My dad’s name is Glenn, my mom’s name is Rhonda, and Mitch, Adam and I are the children. My dad ran the Twin Cities Marathon, and my mom and I were fortunate to see him. My mom has little jobs like sewing costumes for my dance classes, cleaning the house, and just being a mom. My brother, Mitch is busy doing homework, wrestling, and taking care of our dog. I have been dancing for eleven years and playing basketball for about five. I am busy doing homework as well.

Before Adam went to college, he went to Hastings High School for four years and got straight A’s. With the help of my mom Adam left for the Naval Academy at the end of June 2005. Adam was accepted into the Naval Academy for a couple of reasons. Adam had awesome academics, and had amazing ability to wrestle. My brother always believed in perfect grades, even though he didn’t need to study. Now he has learned how to study at the Naval Academy because without studying he would be failing.

My brother lived in town but we moved outside of town to the country at the end of December 2004. Now he lives in Maryland and is quite happy. Adam, the Naval Officer, was born in 1987 and he is still alive and ready to rumble through his journey of life. He is soon going to be nineteen and it’s a little scary.

After Adam went to the Naval Academy he became my hero and her has quite a lot of qualities. Adam, has many heroic qualities. Adam is brave because he went into the Navy and supports his country. My brother is smart. He needed to be very smart to get high ACT’s and get accepted into the Naval Academy. He has leadership qualities to take a stand. Confident because he is sure that he wants to be a naval flight officer. Fearless because he has no fear of what he’s going to do when he’s older.

This year Adam has done so much in this world to make himself my hero. He invites people to sit with him at lunch, he helps people study, and helps people see the world. People know that there is so much more out there then just television, computer, and X-Box because he shows them. The world is also touched because he is in the Navy and is serving our country. I asked him what he had thought he accomplished in high school and he said wrestling accolades. My brother has accomplished just being my brother and watching over me.

At the end of the day I asked Rhonda, my mom, how Adam made a difference in her life? She said Adam made a difference in her life by setting goals and by to taking them and accomplishing them. I totally agree with her. He made a difference in my life by watching out for me. When I was in elementary school he always said any boy who is mean to you I’m going to come and beat him up. Well, eventually I have a feeling that’s not going to happen. I’m very glad I have a brother who cares that much for me.

Adam has many amazing qualities that make him a hero, such as his background, his accomplishments, his heroic qualities, and how he made a difference in world. That’s my brother and his life. Now I know why Adam went into the Naval Academy. I am very proud of him. Work Cited Shemon, Adam. Personal Interview. 17, January 2005. Shemon, Kirsten. Personal Interview. 17, January 2005. Shemon, Rhonda. Personal Interview. 17, January 2005.

My Hero

What an amazing hero I have. She has been a part of my life since I was born, and will be till the day I die. She is my hero because I hope to grow and become a lot like her. This amazing hero is my mother Jennifer Raskob.

My mom was the youngest of five children. As the baby of the family she was often spoiled, but also picked on by her older siblings. She and her mother had a very strong relationship which always helped her in sibling rivalries. According to her brother, Jack, she always wanted to please her mom. This was especially true when her mother got sick later in her life. My mom continues to try to help people either in her family or community. As her daughter, I can see she is still much the same person by the way she likes to care for her family.

My mother is a hard-working driven person. Throughout school she was active in sports, church, and other school activities. After high school, she went to The Collage of St. Thomas and graduated in four years. Immediately after graduation she got a full time job in an insurance agency in downtown Minneapolis. Shortly after collage she married her husband Dan, and this suburban girls’ life changed dramatically. She now helps out at the golf course, and is a stay at home mom.

Growing up a city girl is much different then country living. My mom lived in Minneapolis for her entire childhood. When she married my dad she moved to south Hastings to the country. To her family, country living was some thing they thought she’d never survive. As always her stubbornness and drive to succeed proved she could do it and make it fun. Family events out at our place are some of the best times we share. It doesn’t matter where she lives as long as she has her family can make it home.

Being a mother is a job she takes seriously. The qualities that I see in my mom are that she is stubborn, funny, caring, loving, and always available to us. She would tell you being her kids’ mom are the most important thing she can be doing in her life right now. This is also exactly what she wants to be doing. I think how she felt about her mom is why she is such a great mom and believe in motherhood. She is my hero each and every day by the way she lives.

Two days after her twenty- ninth birthday her mother died of breast cancer. Losing her mother was the most difficult event in her life. She often wonders and thinks how life would be with her mother here guiding her. What makes her a hero to me is how she shares this with me and makes me feel a part of the relationship she had with her mom.

The lessons she learned from her mom that she shares with me make me think more about my decisions and choices. She always expects the best from her kids, and is always the first to help them achieve their goals. She never backs down from a battle. When her mom was sick she was always there for her. Taking her to appointments, caring for her, staying at the hospital with her, helping her when she was sad, listening to her, and mainly just being her friend. They had a bond that was very special to both of them.

Being thought of as my hero would just make her laugh, that is why she is my hero. Her mother set a good example of what an important person is. My mom’s desire is to prove to herself that raising a family is a great accomplishment. Raising a good family is more important to her then a high paying job. To my mom, being grateful to her kids and showing that she cares and loves them is an accomplishment. She proves this to her own kids and hopefully I will someday be able to prove it to my own.

What makes her such a hero to me is that her children come first in her life. We are the greatest thing she has and that means a lot to us. We know she would never trade a car filled with crabby kids, a family dinner, or just a family night filled with laughter for a briefcase, fancy title, or a corner office. My mom is the best hero I think a girl like me could have! Works Cited Gravel, Jack. Personal interview. 16 January, 2006. Jackson, Terry. Personal interview. 18 January, 2006. Raskob Jennifer. Personal interview. 20 January, 2006.

“She’s the one,” my mom whispered to my dad as we sat at in the pew at my grandpa’s funeral. The day we decided Martha should be the one to teach me piano, she was playing and singing. My family and I had been looking for a piano instructor for two years. We had searched at church, through the phone book and in other places near home. My whole family was surprised that we hadn’t thought of her before. She is my dad’s first cousin and we knew she taught piano. My grandpa died in April and even though Martha had a waiting list, I started playing piano in June. It pays to be family. From my first lesson, she has been an inspiration and a phenomenal teacher to me. Her personality, way of teaching and accomplishments are some of her finest qualities.

Martha Davis’ childhood is like anyone’s normal childhood “back in those days”. She is one of three children. The other two are twin brothers. They are mirror twins, which makes them interesting. While Ward has curly and dark hair, Brad has straight and blond. Ward has a talkative personality. Brad is very quiet. Everything about them is opposite, except their profiles and height. Her dad had two jobs and her mom worked part-time at their church, which was somewhat unusual because most moms stayed at home. They didn’t have babysitters very often because their parents taught them how to behave and brought them everywhere they went. Martha begged her mom to pay for piano lessons, but lessons were, in that day, for the very wealthy or very talented. Eventually, her family came across a well-worn piano at a garage sale for $200. Now, it was time to look for a teacher. At first, her mother taught her, but she was uncooperative, so Martha taught herself.

She lived and went to school in Highland Park. Mrs. Schmidt was a favorite teacher of Martha’s. She taught Music and Humanities. “Mrs. Schmidt put everything into perspective. Instead of just dates and wars, she taught music and culture,” says Martha. Martha was so interested in this that she decided to major in it in college later on. However, this was not where her love of music began.

Martha found her first piano teacher at Macalister by the name of Mrs. Obrich. Mrs. Obrich was kind, but strict and a “right down to business” kind of person. At first, Martha didn’t think Mrs. Obrich liked her very much because she was so critical. She told her that her fingering was terrible and that she would ruin her joints if she didn’t start doing it right. She also had plenty other complaints of Martha’s playing. Eventually, though, Mrs. Obrich told Martha’s mom that Martha was an extremely talented student and she was willing to teach her. Martha ended up graduating from Macalester with a degree in Performing Piano and she won the Pressier Scholar Award.

Martha moved to Los Angeles to attend graduate school and also ended up getting married while living there. After having her first two children, the family moved to Denver, her husband’s hometown. In Denver, she had her third child and got divorced. Then she moved to Eagan to be closer to her father and brothers, which is where she still lives today.

Martha has played piano for several different musical groups. She has directed the Macalester Choir and played at many churches, including Hamline United Methodist, Bethlehem Baptist and Crossview Lutheran. She also plays regularly for Advent Church in Eagan, her home parish. She has played for many versions of Godspell and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat performed at local churches. She has directed music at Breck Senior High and Mounds Park Academy. Martha feels that her biggest accomplishment came in 1996, when she traveled to Europe as the pianist and musical director of the college choir. They performed in several different countries and she was interviewed on Polish Public Radio. She is also proud of the CD she is in the process of creating. It will be her second recording.

Martha has many heroic qualities. She is a single mother with three children. The oldest is in college and the army. The younger two are heavily involved in figure skating. All of them have traveled extensively. Her older daughter Natalie says that she is very proud of her mother’s accomplishments but she thinks her mother is very modest and doesn’t show pride in all she has done. It’s not your average person who can teach over 60 piano students, work in the Foreign Language Department at Macalester College, be the music director and pianist at her church and still raise three wonderful children. Yet Martha does this on a limited budget, and with humor, kindness and an incredible talent and passion for music that she passes on to every one of her students.

Martha teaches me how to play piano, but she also shows me some great ways to live my life. She has taught me over the years that it is important to work hard and show everyone what you can but, but also to have fun with life and love everything and everybody. Martha is a wonderful example of fun and work at the same time. We laugh and talk in lessons, but also get a lot accomplished in my half-hour class each week. She teaches all of her students piano and life lessons.

Martha is a hero in several different ways. For one thing, many piano teachers play a little and know a fair amount about music. Martha, on the other hand, knows almost everything there is to know about piano music and she has chosen to make it her life. No matter how many mistakes you make, she will never get even a little bit frustrated. She and my dad and I all have very similar personalities. We all enjoy music and are very weird. Martha gets along with everyone and she makes me feel confident and special.

Martha is not only a teacher, but also a role model. She shows that she has confidence in her students, she makes people laugh and she always has a story to tell. Her accomplishments, personality and skills as a teacher truly make her a hero to me. Sources Cited Davis, Martha. Personal interview. 14 January, 2006 Davis, Natalie. Personal interview. 24 January, 2006 Kisby, David. Personal interview. 14 January, 2006

My hero is my Great-great Uncle Dom. He was many things to many people. I grew up going next door to his cabin from my grandparents’ cabin up north, and could frequently be seen sitting on his lap, holding conversations with him. He was a wonderful man and my hero.

Dominic Leon Krezowski was born to Agnes and Thomas Krezowski. He was born just a little before midnight. My Great-great-great grandparent’s came to this country from Poland, and wanted so much to have a fourth of July baby – they were so proud to be Americans. My Uncle Dom’s mother begged the doctor to put July 4th on the birth certificate, but he wouldn’t do it; but we celebrated his birthday on the fourth of July anyway! He was the third of five children, Albin George (my great-grandfather), Amelia, Dominic Leon, Thomas Kaejen, and Barbara Krezowski.

He grew up in Northeast Minneapolis behind Holy Cross Catholic Church. Dominic attended Holy Cross Grade School, Sheriden Junior High, Edison High School, and the University of Minnesota. Dom was in the first class to be inducted into the Edison High School Hall of Fame. He was inducted for football and track. He was also the first twelve-letter recipient at Edison High School.

Dominic, or Dom, as most people knew him, was a great athlete. He played football, from 1934 through 1936, and basketball; but his best sport was track and field. He was a phenomenal shot putter and discus thrower. In football, he was an end (like a wide receiver or a tight end in todays football); there was no such thing as a tight end back then. In basketball, he played center (the tallest player on the court generally whose job it is to score and play defense). Dom was the conference medal winner for the University of Minnesota in 1936. That award is only given to one member of each school, every year in the Big Ten for scholarships in athletic excellence. Dom tried out for the Olympic Team in 1936 at the Los Angeles Coliseum in the shot put. Unfortunately, he sprained his wrist and was not able to continue competing. If he hadn’t been injured, he would have gone to Berlin, Germany, and competed with Jesse Owens in the Olympic games.

My Great-great Uncle Dom, just “Uncle Dom” to me, lived in many places in his lifetime. He grew up in Northeast Minneapolis. Two years after his second child was born, he moved with his family [Doris, Kent (9/10/42) and Susan (9/1/45)] back to Northeast Minneapolis. They later moved to Edina. My Uncle Dom taught various science courses for over 30 years and had a Masters Degree. From the time he graduated from the University of Minnesota until he was about sixty-two years old, he refereed football and basketball games. He was a great teacher, and was remembered by his students. After his marriage on September 1, 1938, to his high school sweetheart, Doris, they lived in Worthington, Minnesota, where he taught Chemistry and Physics. He was a great coach, and put his heart and soul into the games and his teams. He was also the Athletic Director, football coach and basketball coach. Sometimes they would say ”hi” to him and tell him how great a teacher he was.

Uncle Dom made a great difference in the world and my life. He was a great father and husband. He loved his family unconditionally to the end. He wrote a letter to his family a long time before he died so that when he was gone, they would remember how important they were to him and how much he loved them. My Uncle Dom was a great Uncle. He taught me always, helped coach me through life, supported me, and always had a piece of candy, a hug, and an open lap to sit on. He was very special to me. He was the closest I could come to knowing my Great Grandfather, Albin. He and my Great Aunt Doris spent summers at the cabin next to my Grandparent’s cabin on Big Sandy Lake. Every weekend, my brother and I would go next door and spend time with my Uncle Dom. He’d fish with us, hold us on his lap, talk and laugh with us, while my Aunt Doris would bring us chocolate chip cookies outside on their deck.

My Great Uncle Dom is a hero to me because he was loving, kind, and great. He was a Teacher, an Athletic Director, a Coach, and Referee; but first and foremost, he as a father, a husband, and a family man. He was always teaching and telling me, my brother Tony, and my cousins stories. He always had an open lap and an open ear. Uncle Dom taught me many things in the relatively short time I knew him, and I loved every minute that I spent with him. He was ninety years old and died peacefully on September 6, 2004.

Dominic Krezowski was a hero to many people. He was strong, kind, loving and gentle. He was a great husband, father, uncle, grandfather, brother, son, teacher and more. He touched the lives of many people and was much loved by all who knew him. When my Uncle Dom passed away in 2004, he and my Aunt Doris had been married for sixty-six years. He was a wonderful man, and I have a lot of really great memories of him. My Mom took pictures of my brother and me fishing with Uncle Dom on his dock. I will always treasure those pictures and my memories of my Great Uncle Dominic.

Works Cited Doris Krezowski. Personal Interview. January 22, 2006 Kent Krez. Personal Interview. January 22, 2006. Susan Krez. Personal Interview. January 22, 2006

Do you have the most perfect grandma in the world? My grandma has lived a tough, amazing life and has always been the best grandma a kid could ever want. This is the story of my grandma’s life.

First, about my grandma’s life. Cecilia Katherine Stelten was born February 26, 1926 at her family farm. She was the oldest child in her family. Her parents had another daughter, Clara. There were also three babies that were born but only lived a few days. The Stelten farm had twelve dairy cows, a few heifers, three horses, hogs, and chickens. When she was seven, her dad got cancer. The Steltens had to sell all of their livestock. The cancer eventually went away and they bought everything back. Cecilia had a lot of chores to do as a child. Her sister was sick a lot so she couldn’t help much. Her mom was also never really healthy so that only left Cecilia. There wasn’t much time for extra activities but every once in a while, Cecilia would play checkers. She remembers playing outside when her cousins came over. When she was twelve, her dad’s cancer came back. They had to resell all of their livestock. This time, he passed away. It was in the middle of winter and Cecilia’s mom didn’t know how to drive. They had to move into town. School was always Cecilia’s favorite. Plus, she did very well. Since there were so many hardships at home, she felt that school was an outlet. She graduated top of her class. Cecilia’s best childhood memory was when she was sixteen. Her aunt threw her a surprise sixteenth birthday party! Then, Cecilia’s mom got cancer. It was a year and a half struggle, but she also passed away. Cecilia was twenty –three years old.

In her early adulthood, Cecilia moved on to working for state income tax. She also worked in the courthouse. When she was twenty-eight, Cecilia married Silverius Becker. He was a very loving man. They had to push up the wedding by two months because Silverius’ mom died. Cecilia needed to cook for her father in law. They lived with him for a while. They eventually got their own farm. Without a furnace, washer, or dryer, they had five children in five and a half years. “ Busy is the word,” was what she told me about raising her family. One of there daughters was severely handicapped. She died fifteen years ago. The Becker’s are now happy grandparents of fifteen grandchildren. When I asked her what her favorite thing about being a grandma is, she replied, “Just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes. They bring me so much love and happiness. I feel bad for anyone without grandchildren.”

As you can tell, my grandma had moved a lot. She was born in Chaska, Minnesota, at their farmhouse. When her dad died, they moved into town. They went from a seven-bedroom house in the country to a two-bedroom house in town. They had to move several more times after that. When my grandma got married to my grandpa, they had to move into his father’s house. After two years, they bought their own farm. They lived there fifty years and just moved this fall into a townhouse in New Prague.

Obviously, my grandma has accomplished many things in her life. She was Val Victorian of her class. My grandma worked six to seven years for state income tax. By the time she left, she was the supervisor of twenty-five typists, half of which were older than her. She was twenty-six years old at that time. She was also “Register of Deeds” for eleven years in the courthouse. My grandparents have been married fifty-one years. My grandma told me, “I can’t complain, all my children turned out wonderful. Plus, I have a saint in heaven.” It shows she was a wonderful mother. For six or seven years, she taught CCD, a religion class. She was also involved in ARC, Association for Retarded Children. She worked up at the church a lot also.

Naturally, my Grandma possesses many heroic qualities. She always cared for others, starting very young. My grandma had to help out so much more than I do at my age. She had a very difficult life, but it never stopped her from helping others. She told me, “Part of life has to be struggles to get to Heaven. I had mine at a young age.” Even though life was rough back then, she said that she would do it over again to be there for her family. Now she is always there for me. She makes sure that I am warm and safe. She is a very giving, loving person.

Furthermore, my grandma has made a huge difference in my life and others lives. Without her my mom wouldn’t be here so neither would I. When she was a teenager, she had to take care of her family. She had to work a lot since there was little money. Without her, the courthouse would have never had such a great lady work there. When my mom had me, my grandma stayed with us to help around the house and take care of my older sister who was two at the time. She also did that when my little sister was born. She has been a good influence on everyone who has met her.

Last, my grandma is a hero to me in many ways. She is such a great role model. When she was young she took care of her mom, sister, and father in law. She also took care of her handicapped daughter. Now she takes care of her husband, children, and grandchildren. She has had so many accomplishments that I look up to. My grandma has always been there for me.

To summarize, my grandma is a truly amazing person. She has been through hardships but has also led a fulfilled life. I am sure you now know why my grandma is the most perfect grandma in the world and I love her!

Works Cited Becker, Cecilia. Personal interview. 18 January, 2006 Mages, Kathy. Personal interview. 17 January, 2006 Mages, Michelle. Personal interview. 19, January, 2006.

Have you ever wondered if Helen Keller could have dreams? Well, my sister, Megan Gelhar, has. She says that if you don’t dream you’ll go crazy, but Helen Keller was deaf and blind. So what could she dream about if she has never seen or heard anything before? This thoughtfulness is one of the many reasons I chose Megan Gelhar as my hero.

To begin, Megan Gelhar is my older sister. She is sixteen years old and in tenth grade. Megan lives in Hastings, Minnesota. Hastings is in the southeast part of Minnesota. The population in Hastings is 18,204. Hastings is a relatively small town but is growing in size. Megan went to Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton School from kindergarten through eight grade, and now she goes to the Hastings High School. We also have an older sister, Jenny, who is twenty-four, and an older brother, Ryan, who is twenty-one.

Now, about Megan’s dreams. When Megan was little she always loved animals. She would always say that she wanted to be a veterinarian when she was older. She eventually changed her mind in middle school. Now she wants to be a zoologist. A zoologist is a person who studies animals. The job includes a lot of traveling, and she loves to travel. She is hoping to go the University of Minnesota. Regarding her schooling, she is a straight “A” student. She tries very hard in everything she does. In high school, she takes French and photography classes. She is in honors math. Megan also plays Lacrosse. It is a new sport, but is becoming more popular.

As I have said, Megan has always gotten great grades in all of her school years. Megan has won lots of contests throughout school in all different skills. She is very well rounded. Megan can always make a person laugh. In the saddest times, she can make you feel love, comforted, and safe. She is also a great photographer. She takes excellent action shots. There is a framed picture of me jumping off a swing in the photography room at the high school. She also goes to art classes at Studio 61.

Most importantly, Megan is kind, caring, loving, and forgiving. She is very understanding and has a creative mind. She does exactly what an older sister should do. She looks after me, helps me, and loves me, though she never says it, she always shows it. She sets good examples for me, like getting good grades and not getting into any trouble. She is always there for me when I need her, and whenever I need help with math, too.

Now, how Megan has made a difference in the world and in my life. Like I said, Megan always sets good examples for me. She gives a positive attitude to the world. She helps her friends make good decisions. Megan goes to church every weekend. She doesn’t fall for bad trends. She sticks to her own opinion.

To sum up, why I chose Megan as my hero. Megan has always been there for me in the toughest times of my life. I can always talk to her and she will listen. She has always been there for me, and she’ll always make me feel better. She will never let me give up; she’ll always say keep trying. If I need help in school, she will do the best she can to help me. If Megan was irresponsible and didn’t set good examples for me, I know I would be a totally different person. Megan is a great person, I look up to her. She is my best friend. So, if you have ever wondered if Helen Keller could dream, you have something in common with Megan, a creative mind. Work Cited Gelhar, Mark. Personal interview. 18 January, 2006. Gelhar, Megan. Personal interview. 18 January, 2006. Rother, Annie. Personal interview. 19 January, 2006.

You Probably know the movies Snow White, Pinocchio, Bambi, Dumbo, and Mickey Mouse. Do you know about the brilliant man who created them? Walt Disney brought these characters to life. Through his childhood, schooling, his career, his heroic qualities, and the differences that he has made it the world, he accomplished many things and became a hero to people everywhere.

A very important factor in Walt Disney’s success is where he grew up and started his career. At the beginning of his life, Disney lived in Chicago. Soon after, he and his family moved to Marceline, Missouri. He lived most of his childhood there. They also moved to Kansas City. There, in Kansas City, is where he started his amazing career.

One reason that he accomplished so much was through his childhood and schooling. Walt’s creative mind and drawing ability came when he was very young. He had three brothers and one sister who all encouraged him. When he was seven, he would sell small sketches and drawings to his neighbors. Instead of doing homework, he would doodle. He went to McKinley High School in Chicago. Here he focused on drawing and photography. At night, he would go to the Academy of Fine Arts to improve his drawing skills. After a while, he picked up acting and performing. Disney really enjoyed it, and he would sneak out of the house at night to perform because his father wouldn’t let him. He also joined the Red Cross for a year because he was too young to be in the military. He was only sixteen at the time. On July 13, 1925, he married one of his first employees, Lillian Bounds. Three years later, he created one of the best characters in his time. He created the magical cartoon character, Mickey Mouse.

The main reason that he accomplished so much was because of his wonderful and exciting career. He first created Mickey Mouse in 1928 in the silent film called Plane Crazy. After this, he had an idea to make a movie with sound. It took him a lot of work, but he did it. He went to the legendary press agent, Harry Reichenbach, who was managing the Colony Theater in New York City. Reichenbach offered Disney $1000 if he would give him the new movie, Steamboat Willie, for a two week run. Reichenbach also said he would make Disney’s little movie, Steamboat Willie, and Disney himself, famous. Steamboat Willie premiered on November 18, 1928. Out of all of the new movies in the theater, Steamboat Willie caught the press. Crowds nearly created riots just to go see it. Disney was for sure on his way to fame and wealth. His first feature length cartoon was Snow White. He also produced the cartoon favorites Pinocchio, Bambi, Fantasia, and Dumbo. He created more than 100 features in his studios. He also built Disneyland in California and Disney World in Florida. He accomplished a lot in his life, but sadly he died on December 16, 1966, from advanced lung cancer.

The reason that I picked Walt Disney is because he is a hero to me. Walt Disney has a lot of heroic qualities. One, is when he started with an idea, he would never give up on it. Even when people thought that he would fail, he never stopped in the middle of an idea. The films and amusement parks that he created were and are great for people of all ages and also for families. He had dreams and didn't give up until his dreams were fulfilled. He has many heroic qualities.

Besides all the things that I have written, Walt Disney also made a big difference in the world and in my life. He pioneered the fields of animation and found a lot of different and new ways to teach and educate people. He made our lives more enjoyable through his funny and good family films. Taking the dreams of America and making them come true, Disney brought hope to those who needed it. I remember when I was little I would always pretend to be a princess. A lot of kids that watch his movies have dreams of what they want to be. He has touched many people over the years.

In conclusion, he is a hero to me because through his brilliant ideas, he brought life and magic to his characters and into the lives of children everywhere. The classics that he made for children will carry on for generations. Also, through his amusement parks, he made all of his wonderful characters literally come to life and touch the hearts of many children. He created a fun and beautiful environment for children to play. Through his childhood, schooling, his career, his heroic qualities, and the differences that he has made in the world, Walt Disney accomplished many things and has become a hero to people everywhere. Works Cited “Disney, Walt.” The Columbia Encyclopedia. 2005. Schickel, Richard. “The Mouse That Roared.” Time. 31 March, 2003: A10. Wingert, Chris. “Walt Disney.” Google. 18 January, 2006. www.justdisney.com/WaltDisney100/biography01.html; INTERNET.

I am about to announce one of the greatest historical figures in history! Theodore Roosevelt, one of the most famous presidents ever. You are going to learn about all the great things he did as a president and as a man. You will also learn about his family and life.

Theodore Roosevelt was born on October 27th, 1858. He was born the son of a wealthy Dutch family, in New York. Teddy eventually served New York in legislature and as a police chief. He also served in the New York state assembly.

When Teddy was a young boy, he had asthma and really bad eyesight. He could not attend school as we do because he would get sick easily. His father suggested that Teddy exercise and play outside as much as possible. This in fact actually did help Teddy get better, and so he exercised and worked out in the gym everyday. When Teddy was 13 he was bullied by two kids on a trip. Teddy couldn’t defend himself and he knew he never wanted that to happen again. When he got back from his trip he started boxing lessons. After another trip to Europe at age fifteen, Teddy began to study with a mentor so he could attend Harvard. Eventually Teddy became a good enough boxer to be on the Harvard University team. Teddy was accepted. When he graduated he married Alice Lee. Tragically, Alice died while giving birth to their daughter. She died on the same day, in the same house, as Teddy’s mother. Stricken with grief, Teddy moved to a ranch in the Badlands, North Dakota. After two years, Teddy married again to Edith Carow, and had 5 children in addition to his first daughter.

Theodore Roosevelt accomplished many amazing things in his life; it would be hard for me to list them all so I will name some important ones. One well known event was about the bear. Teddy went hunting and couldn’t find any game. His guide managed to trap a small bear. Teddy refused to shoot it out of pity. This is how the “Teddy bear” was started. Theodore was awarded the Nobel Peace prize for meditating the Russo-Japanese war. He authored over 25 books, and led the “rough riders” in the Spanish-American war in Cuba. Teddy also began the Panama Canal project.

Theodore Roosevelt posses many heroic qualities. One which I find very heroic is his physical illness. I can relate to this because I was very sick with ear infections and mono when I was young. As a small boy he was very weak, yet he fought to overcome his sickness with regular exercise. This exercise did help him and got him involved in sports. He eventually became a great boxer and hunter.

Theodore Roosevelt made a great difference in the world. He had ideas that no one had ever came up with before. Such as “trust busting”, or the breaking up of large companies that could strangle the economy. He also solved a coal strike issue that could have left homes, schools, and hospitals heatless. He used the term “square deal” during negotiations with the coal miners, and that became his slogan during another election.

Theodore Roosevelt is a hero to me because he fought to go from a sickly child to a great man. His ideals changed the world forever, and he demonstrated courage as he served the people. He strove to get the best education, while enjoying his life. Theodore is a great role model and I would try to be more like him.

I hope everyone that reads this learned a lot of new things they didn’t know before. I also hope that you all were inspired by the deeds performed by Theodore Roosevelt. I would encourage you to look him up yourself and check out some of the deeds I didn’t list. Teddy was a great leader, while being a great servant, and I hope other presidents will follow his example.

My hero is Bill Beckfeld which is my dad, because he’s funny, he spends time with his kids, and a hard worker. Both of my parents saved my life by adopting me, because they knew what I had gone through in my life in the Philippines. Through out his life and because of his admirable equalities my dad is my hero.

First, he was born on July 16, 1963 to William and Mary Beckfeld. He is one of eight children; he had three sisters and four brothers. Also he’s born and raise in Eden Prairie, MN.

Second is, when he was growing up they didn’t watch TV at all, because they didn’t have any cable, so they played with each other all the time, and they spent a lot of time playing outside together. As a family they did a lot of camping. He was involved in sports like basketball, baseball, football and racket ball.

Later in his life, he went to a Catholic School up to third grade, and then he went on to public school through high school. His college year he studied drafting and estimating, and also building and inspection.

The three most important event in my dad life were when his brother David died at age 14 from strip throat and developed a staff inspection, David was also mentally handicapped. When he was on hospital and they gave him the wrong medicine which led to his death. It was very hard for the family, they love David very much, but it made the whole family closer to each other. Next, is when my parents had their children and adopting me.

He own a job called Cornerstone Equestrian Center, and Cornerstone property. They have built many building’s including Valley automotive in Hastings, and ware houses.

My day hero would be William Beckfeld his dad, because his is honest, always helping people in need, he was a deacon of Catholic Church, and an active minister, his dad taught him great work ethnics, taught him through hard work that anything is possible.

The reason why my dad is my hero, because he is funny, a loving person, caring and kind, he taught me a lot of great things through out the years, also taught me how to be a better person. He is also a very hard worker, he tried really hard to spend enough time with his kids and he had lots and lots of love for his family, friends, and people around him.

Did you know that Gary Schloesser has served the state of Minnesota for over twenty years? He is a police officer, a husband, a friend, and a great dad. He is also my hero.

Gary Schloesser has done a lot of good things for the state of Minnesota. Gary was born in 1962 in St. Paul. He grew up in South St. Paul with his two brothers and his sister. His father was a steamfitter, and his mother was a homemaker. He went to catholic schools in town and in St. Paul. He really enjoyed his high school career.

His family did many activities together. They loved to camp, play games, and spend time as a family. He loved spending time with his grandmother and watching his brother being ordained a priest. He also had fun serving in the U.S. Marine Corps, getting married, and having four children.

My dad, Gary, was diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s cancer on December 18, 2002. This made our family and friend’s very sad. The Channel 9 news crew came over to our house to ask us some questions about the cancer. My dad has been in remission for six months.

Jesus and his teachings influenced him. His mother and father, the Marine Corps, and his close friends at work were a great influence on him.

He has been a state trooper for almost twenty years, serving the citizens of the state of Minnesota. He continues trying to be a better disciple of Jesus. His four kids have become his four favorite hobbies.

He is my hero because he is my dad. If I need help he is there. He shows me how to do things.

Do you know someone who’s constantly busy? I do. My hero is a woman named Katie Obinger. She is one of the busiest people I know. I often wonder how she manages to do it and still find time to teach me about the things she does best.

Katie was born on December 17, 1976 in Welch. Her family was very close-knit. She lived in Welch and went to school there until their family moved to Hastings when she was sixteen. It was easy for her to adjust to her new home. Katie went to Hastings High School for 10th through 12th grade and never moved after she graduated from high school. She went to college at Dakota County Technical College and then at Waldorf College in Iowa. While in college, Katie studied to be a Medical Assistant for two years, Child Development for two years, and Music for two years. Right now Katie lives with her parents, two sisters, her son and two dogs. Her childhood hero was her mother. She has one child, three-year-old Nicholas and she is not married.

About two or three years after their family moved to Hastings, the family acquired Rahab, their golden retriever. Later that summer they decided to get another dog, Bella, their cocker spaniel. Both dogs are however, about five years old. Katie is the dogs’ main owner and tried training them, however, that didn’t work well, especially with Bella.

The two dogs know different commands. Bella knows sit and come, but doesn’t really like to fetch and doesn’t know up, down, lie down or stay. Rahab knows come, sit, up, lie down, and down. Rahab won’t give up a ball after fetching it, or stay. At least they’re learning more commands.

Katie is my hero because she increased my knowledge about dogs. She taught me how to properly train them, walk them, care for them, and showed me good walking routes. She is a really good single mother. Katie has a very busy schedule but manages to take care of Nicholas by herself. She makes time for Nicholas every day by playing with him, making sure he’s healthy, taking him out on activities, and caring for him. Katie was kind enough to share her knowledge about childcare by teaching me the basic skills of baby-sitting. She helped me baby-sit once and is also allowing me to baby-sit Nicholas when needed. I feel lucky to be able to have my hero be one of my neighbors.

Throughout her life, Pam, like any other person, had many struggles; though none were as hard as her battle with Lou Gehrig’s disease, also called ALS.(Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) ALS is a progressive neuromuscular disease that weakens and ultimately destroys motor neurons, which are components of the nervous system that connect the brain with the skeletal muscles. Pam battled with ALS for four years and always kept a strong faith in God. Pam’s courage, bravery and understanding are just some of the things that make her a true hero to me.

First, Pam was born in Bottineau, North Dakota on the 2nd of October in 1956. She was the third of three daughters; Bette, who was two and a half years old and Judy, who was one year old, when Pam was born. Her parents are Colleen and William Baumann. Pam attended the same school from kindergarten through twelfth grade. Her family owned the Red Rooster, which was like a Dairy Queen. Pam and Bette would go shopping and Pam once splurged to buy fake red glasses. They went to a cabin each summer where they would spit sunflowers seeds, water ski, and get beautiful tans (well I guess that could be burns). One year Pam received an internship in Texas, where she worked at a heart hospital. Pam was very attentive to nursing and loved working with people. Pam attended college at the University of North Dakota.

Throughout Pam’s life she was very active in bible studies, and her faith was important to her. In high school she was in a bible study with non-Catholics. She asked her local priest if she was sinning by going to a bible study with people who were not Catholic. Here in Hastings Pam continued with bible study with a group called WINGS. Pam’s favorite bible verse is Isaiah 43:1, “I have called you by name, you are mine.”

While Pam was alive there were many important events in her life. The time Pam spent in Texas was very special to her. One year Pam auditioned for and won a chance to go to Europe to play the bass clarinet. Another time Pam won a trip to New York City to visit the United Nations for a speech she had written about freedom. Pamela Baumann and David Schmitt were married on May 27th, 1978. Ben, their first son, was born in 1980, Mark in 1982, Pat in 1987 and Katie in 1990. These births of her children were all extra special days in Pam’s life.

Although many people influenced Pam in her journey through life, there were a few that really stuck out. The biggest influence in Pam’s life were her parents, Cool and Bill. They were big role models for Pam. Pam also seemed to have a special connection with the priests in her parish. One of Pam’s English teachers also played a big role in Pam’s life.

As many people would probably agree, Pam had many qualities that make her a hero. While Pam had ALS she kept a fighting spirit the whole way through. Pam always had a constant cheerful attitude and a big, bright, shining, smile on her face. Pam has touched many, many lives. With Pam’s courage, love, bravery, and generosity she was an inspiration to many people. Pam Schmitt battled and handled four years of ALS with much grace.

Even though there may have been times Pam struggled, or became angry with ALS, she always thought that it was God’s purpose, his plan, for her to have it. Pam’s faith in God was forever unfailing. In the margin of her notebooks and journals, Pam would ask God questions. Pam thought that she was diagnosed with ALS because she had asked God to help her get back in touch with Him. She once said that she wasn’t sure she would have asked God for that kind of help, because of the way He answered her plea, but since He had answered that plea with disease, who was she to question him. In the end, the last breath of Pam’s life was taken so that she could live a closer walk with God. Pam died on December 9, 2003

Pam is one of my heroes because she always kept a positive attitude. She was a loving friend, wife, mother, sister and nurse. Pam fought a very courageous battle, and lived her life for God. Pam was there to offer advice or a helping hand to anyone in need. People would come to Pam to cheer her up and often it would be just the opposite, Pam would be the one to cheer them up.

Bette is Pam’s older sister who spent the last six months of Pam’s life with her. Bette loves Pam more than she will ever know. She, like countless others, misses Pam tremendously and many times wishes to have her here on earth again, living among us. Bette loved being here in Hastings with Pam. While Bette spent time combing Pam’s hair, rubbing her feet, or giving her a hug during a transfer, she could see how God stood beside Pam through the thick of it. Pam was such an inspiration to Bette.

As you can see Pam was loved by and was an inspiration to many people. Pam had good times and bad times, but always kept her faith in God and prayed that she would get through it. Pam’s love, faith, courage, bravery, understanding, and positive attitude are what make her a hero to me. There is a quote that says, “When you were born everyone around you was smiling and you were crying. Live you life so that when you die, everyone around you is crying and you are the one smiling.” To me, that is the way that Pam did live her life.

Who was Korey Stringer? Why is he an important person to us? What did he give to society and why did he give that? All of these questions and more will be answered about this person, my hero, Korey Stringer.

Stringer's success in pro football stems back to when and where he went to school. Korey was born on May 08, 1974. He went to Harding High School in Warren, Ohio. In his senior year he was named the Ohio Division 1 Lineman of the Year. When he graduated from high school he went to Ohio State Universiry and became the first to earn an All-American honors since 1979. When he attended Ohio State Robert Smith was one of his teammates. Robert was a running back for the Minnesota Vikings.

Stringer was a n excellent football playerand played on the Minnesota Vikings for seven seasons. Standing 6'4" weighting 346 pounds, Korey was a right lineman for the Vikings. Korey started in the last 65 games he played. He was ranked seventh in the club history starts by a tackle with 91. Stringer was also graded highest in the Vikings offensive line.

Korey's football career all ended on a hot, humidy day in August of 2001. He died while at pre-season training practice held in Mankato Minnesota. Heat, humidity and exhaustion all played a factor in Korey's death. He suffered a heat stroke and passed away hours after being brought to the hospital. That was devastating for everyone, including his former teammates. Losing one of their excellent lineman was a big loss to them. They retired Korey's jersey #77 at the Vikings vs. Giants game. This tragic event has opened the eyes of many athletes and coaches. The importance of taking care of one's self in the heat is now a common practice during all sporting events.

Korey has done a lot for the public. He was a part of the Twins Cities community through "Vikings Super Challenge" at local schools. One of his most interesting volunteer projects Korey started was a group called Korey's Kids. He would hang out with kids in different neighborhoods. He would play footbal or other activities to entertain the children. Everyone loved seeing him because he was a big loveable guy with a huge heart.

Korey is a hero to me because he had s big heart. He could run out and play a rough game of football then go hang out with some younger kids. Just being there for the kids when they need him is a big thing and he was a wonderful role model. He seemed to have a very special bond with children and enjoyed having them around or he would not had been able to accomplish what he had done. It's so sad to think that someone so kind and special is no longer here for us and others to enjoy

Hero, a person admired for bravery, great deeds, or noble qualities. This is the dictionary definition of a hero. My definition of a hero is someone who knows God and is insperational to others. A person who is involved with everything and tries to be all they can be. Someone who stands up for what they believe in, no matter who is going to laugh at them. She is the person who lets the nerd in the class sit by her at lunch. This person would be Elizabeth Hermanson.

On December 16, 1983, Elizabeth was born in Saint Paul, Minnesota. At the age of 2 months, Elizabeth was adopted by Peter and Ann Hermanson. She then moved to her new home in Hastings, Minnesota. She attended Kindergarten through 8th grade at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton School.

When Elizabeth started high school, she had to leave SEAS and to go to Hastings High. This was a huge event in her life that she'll never forget. She had to make new friends and establish who she was and what she believed in. She had a huge challange and change but she said it was definitely worth it.

Another big event that Elizabeth remembers is her confirmation. Confirmation is a great way to get to know God better. And you always want to do that! Her childhood babysitter was her sponsor during confirmation. She loved getting to know her better since she hadn't seen her in years.

The following are things Elizabeth is involved in. She is an awesome cross-country runner. She also loves to be in anything that has to do with music such as choirs, drama, and band. She is also involved in liturgical dance, a program to praise God through dance at church. One of Elizabeth's newest experiences is Youth Ambassadors. This is a program where you welcome new students and foreign exchange students to the Twin Cities and Hastings.

Elizabeth's hero is her nanny, Pearl Orline; she is an insperational, encouraging part of Elizabeth's life. She always has something nice to say.

Elizabeth is now a senior at Hastings High School. She is a fun and inspirational person to be around. I want to thank her for being my hero and not trying to put on an act of someone she's not.

My Mom, My Hero

When Shirley was younger her heroes were her dad, uncle, and grandpa because of her love for farming. Now her heroes are her parents for the things they taught her. Learning from the ones before her, she became a hero to others, including me.

Shirley Mathilda Ludwig was welcomed into the world February 8th by her parents, Jane and Donald Ludwig, and older brother. They brought her home to the outskirts of New Trier, MN. There they resided on a farm.

As Shirley grew older, her family continued to grow. Two more boys and two girls were born later. They were like a Brady Bunch family because there were three boys and three girls born alternately. In addition to these, she had four other siblings who passed away. One of her memories is when her brother, Billy, was born. He died three days later.

Growing up on a farm isn't easy, but it was fun. Shirley's favorite jobs were milking cows and raising calves. Waking up early was essential in order to finish her chores before school. At night they would eat supper really late because of all the things that needed to be done. She also enjoyed driving the tractor. Farming was something Shirley loved.

Shirley started her schooling at St. Mary's Catholic School in New Trier and ended it at Hastings High School. In first grade through fourth grade she had nuns for teachers. She went to St. Mary's for eight years. She then went to HHS for four years. She graduated in 1973 .

One day Shirley met Dennis Foss, a man that would have a big impact on her life. As they continued to grow in love and friendship they decided to get married. October 18th, 1975 they celebrated their love and became one. Shirley Ludwig then became Shirley Foss.

Children are something both of them had always wanted. They thought it was a miracle when their first one was born. Now they have six daughters, the youngest of which is me.

My mom does a lot of things for us. She washes clothes, does dishes, helps us with our homework and helps us grow and learn. Also, she takes us places, wether it is for fun or not. She has taught us all how to live life.

Born on February 8th, Shirley Mathilda Ludwig was welcomed into the world. Learning from the ones before her, she has become a great person. Through her life, she has touched many lives, including mine. She will continue to have an impact on many. She has taught me how to live life, along with many other things. I want to be like her, able to have fun, with limits. I am proud to say that my hero is my mom.

Peter was born in Regina Hospital in Hastings Minnesota on April 25th, 1987.From kindergarten to 8th grade he went to St.Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic school.Schooling beyond that is unknowen.

His full name is Peter Anthony Bauer.He Wakes up at 6:30 a.m. to go to school and on weekends he sleeps in.His favorite cereal is "Cinnamon Toast Crunch".One of his main hobbies is working or playing on the computer. His favorite computer game is "StarCraft". Math is one of his favorite classes in school. His favorite singer is Weird Al, and he wears braces that he can change color.

Peters Dad got him involved in computers, because they have so many of them.Peter say's his family has eight computers in all.

Pete say's he has no idea what he's done for society. In a different interview he said he helped at the animal ark.

He say's an important event in his life is when he got his first computer.Also when he met his best friends Jon, Phil,& Steve. His hero is Bill Gates.

Pete is my hero becuase he's my best friend. Peter is very funny and smart.He's a good friend and supports you when your down. That's why he's my hero.

On Febuary 24th, 1960 at 2:30 pm, there was a new cry at the Swedish Hospital in Minneapolis, MN. Melvin and Lorraine Peterson had smiles on there faces when they saw their baby boy. Jeffrey was their first child.

On March 13th, 1960 Jeff was baptized at Resurrection. In May 1968 he had his first communion. He was also an altar server. He went to elementary and middle school at Resurrection in Minneapolis just a couple of blocks away from where they lived. And he attended Holy Angels High School in Richfield. On July 23, 1983 Laurie Crapps became apart of the family. They were married at St. Boniface church in Hastings, MN. In April of 1987 Rachel was born. Four years later in November of 1991 Andrew was born.

He worked at Seagate for about 17 years. Sometimes in the night his work would call asking him if he could come into work since the real mechanic couldn't come or was on vacation because a machine was broken. He was very loyal to the company even during the bad times.

Edward and Dora Peterson influenced Jeff to be what he stood for in life. Ed and Dora used to take him to all kinds of places and when he would come home he could tell the stories almost word for word. Edward and Dora were Jeff's grandparents, they died in 1987. Rachel got to see her great-grandfather before he died later on in the year.

My dad is my hero because he was very talented. he could do plumbing,carpentry,electrician, and be a mechanic. If my dad wanted to do something and didn't know how to, he would read about it and figure out how to do the job. He also liked traveling and going camping. My dad and I would almost always work together on a project. My mom would be the person packing and organizing, Iwould be helping my dad set up the equipment or getting things he needed to set up the equipment. My dad I would take care of the outside stuff while my mom did the inside stuff. When my dad used to change the oil in mom's car or his truck I would be right there under the car trying to figure how to do it myself or when my dad would mow the lawn I would follow right behind him with my toy lawnmower. He was very influential in shaping me into who I am.