Sarah Hoffman Photo

Utopia

2012-02-15T13:54:00.000-06:00

We were ambushed with another assignment when we walked into class on Monday morning. We were told we were no longer students but employees of the "Utopia" newspaper. Everyone in the class was assigned to shoot three assignments on deadline including a prearranged local artist portrait where we would have 20 min to shoot, a winter break feature at the Steno childrens Museum and a creative image about public transportation. Below are the results of my day!

Postal Code: Hasle

2012-02-12T15:53:00.010-06:00

For our first assignment at the Danish School of Media and Journalism we were given a map. On the map was outlined the postal code of Hasle, a primarily residential area outside of Aarhus, where we were sent to find a story. I met 19-year-old Mads Jeppeson at the Citykirken Pentecostal Church near the center of the town.

Christianity is the national religion of Denmark but the majority of the Danish population (over 80%) is religiously secular. Mads Jeppeson and his family have been members of the Pentecostal church for his entire life. Jeppeson attends church every Sunday and integrates faith into his daily life through worship, youth group and personal prayer.

As Jeppeson grew older he began to live his life differently than the teenagers around him. He refrains from drinking, drugs and sex before marriage to live a Christian life. As Christianity became a bigger part of his life he searched for friends to support his beliefs and his lifestyle choices.

Mads Jeppeson clutches his shoulders while speaking in tongues during prayer at the Citykirken Pentecostal church in Aarhus, Denmark. He has been a member of the Pentecostal church his entire life.

Jeppeson rests his hand on his chest while singing along to a video game in the teen activity room at the Citykirken Pentecostal church in Aarhus, Denmark. Jeppeson volunteers in the LOUD program at the church as a mentor for young teens.

Jeppeson lays on his bed after school with his two stuffed alligators in his room at his parents home.

The Jeppeson family says grace at their kitchen table on Sunday after attending church.

Jeppeson rides the bus home alone after school. "When I am going to school I pray to god to help me and support me because sometimes I feel really depressed and I felt really stressed because of my work so all the burdens of that I kind of put onto God." Jeppeson said.

Jeppeson and his mother discuss who will get to use the car later that evening.

Jeppeson holds Kasper Leibeckolesen, 15, shoulder as he prays for him during the LOUD teen service at Citykirken church. “Loud is so much more that just God. Teens have so many problems so it's much more about letting then know about God. It’s about talking to them and listening to them.” Jeppeson said.

Jeppeson and makes nachos with Marcus Boje at Citykirken church on Friday evening. “Alcohol sex and drugs are much more a part of the Danish culture today, Every time I go to a party with my classmates all of them are drunk. It's really good to have friends in the church.” Jeppeson said.

Jeppeson smokes flavored tobacco at a waterpipe café with fellow Citykirken chuch member David Boje. Jeppeson meets Boje often to talk and ask for advice when he is going through a difficult time.

Jeppeson drives his car home. "It has really helped me all my life to know God because I've always had someone to help me when I was really sad or I didn’t know what to do" Jeppeson said."

Night walk to Skjoldhøj Kollegiet

2012-02-07T16:17:00.002-06:00

Snow sightings in Denmark

2012-02-01T10:21:00.003-06:00

Giddy on the first day of school

2012-01-30T18:10:00.001-06:00

I still get as giddy on the first day of school as I did when I used to wait for the school bus in my driveway as a little kid. Here is an image from our tour on the first day at the Danish School of Media and Journalism.

Au Paris

2012-01-29T08:33:00.001-06:00

By bus, by boat, by train, by plane

2012-01-29T04:28:00.002-06:00

I have finally arrived in Aarhus, Denmark where I will spend my semester studying at the Danish School of Media and Journalism. I recently took a trip to Paris to visit my roommate at Mizzou before my program starts. Here are a few photos of the different modes of transportation I used to get there.

Bus in Aarhus, Denmark

Ferry to Copenhagen, Denmark

Train in Paris, France

Terminal to Paris, France

Snippets of 2011

2012-01-02T18:23:00.004-06:00

Joplin, Mo.

Columbia, Mo.

Hartsburg, Mo.

Shreveport, La.

Pilot Grove, Mo.

Columbia, Mo.

St. Paul, Mn.

Franklin, Mo.

Welcoming Back The Sun

2011-12-17T14:51:00.001-06:00

I went to the Unitarian Universalist celebration of the winter solstice last night. Members of the church sang and danced around a bonfire to celebrate the Sun God.

Also check out posts from Grant Hindsley and Matt Busch.

Tater's Test

2011-12-15T16:07:00.001-06:00

Tater passed his test and went up for adoption at the Central Missouri Humane Society.

Stephanie Lanham shoves a fake hand into Tater's bowl during the food test portion of his behavior evaluation. Dogs are graded A though F in five behavior tests including face hold, body rub, pinch test, tag test and food test to determine if they are eligible for adoption. If the animal does not pass the tests they are reevaluated by the manager to determine if they will be adopted, it is sent to another rescue, placed in foster care or euthanized.

Holidays are here

2011-12-02T13:23:00.007-06:00

Annika Donnell, 6, reaches for a light on the Magic Tree on Thursday in the Village of Cherry Hill. The tree has been lit every year in Columbia since 1995.

Children grab lights hanging off the Magic Tree on Thursday in the Village of Cherry Hill. The tree is lit every year by Randy Fletcher.

Francesca Viator sits on John Viator's shoulders at the Magic Tree lighting on Thursday in the Village of Cherry Hill.

Kimaya Davis and Master of Ceremonies Nkiruka Omeronye speak before a presentation starts at an early Kwanzaa celebration on Thursday in the Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center. Kwanzaa begins Dec. 26 and ends Jan. 1.

Freshman Hannah Alexander sings during an early Kwanzaa celebration on Thursday at the Gaines/Oldham Black Culture Center. The African American and Pan-African holiday has 7 principles and emphasizes family, community and culture.

MU v KU: The Rivalry

2011-12-02T13:06:00.001-06:00

Missouri quarterback James Franklin is tackled by Kansas safety Bradley McDougald near the end of the first quarter of the Missouri versus Kansas game on Saturday at Arrowhead Stadium.

Missouri defensive back Robert Steeples looks at the scoreboard after Kansas returned an interception for a touchdown in the second quarter of the Missouri versus Kansas game on Saturday in Arrowhead Stadium.

Rain

2011-11-16T11:42:00.001-06:00

Fire

2011-11-16T11:42:00.000-06:00

I was sent by the Columbia Missourian to cover a fire at an abandoned University of Missouri research building.

A fire spits flames into the sky on Sinclair Road at about 9 p.m. Thursday.

MU Police Department officer Justin Patlan blocks southbound traffic on Sinclair Road at about 9 p.m., close to where a fire broke out Thursday

First Day in the new Catholic high school

2011-11-14T19:57:00.002-06:00

Father Tolton Regional Catholic High School had its first day in its new facility. The mass was held in the gymnasium while parts of the school remain under construction. The skylights in the gym made for some nice afternoon light onto the bleachers.

Madeline Baggett talks to her father Dennis Baggett in her kitchen before her mother Jennifer Baggett (right) drives her to her first day in the new building for Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School. The Baggetts said they chose Fr. Tolton because it brings values from home into her school.

Caroline Parker sits in class in the gymnasium.

Students receive Communion from Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School principal Kristie Wolfe in the school's gymnasium on Tuesday. This was the first Mass to be held in the new school.

Caroline Parker studies in her class held in the gymnasium on Tuesday at Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School. Because construction of the facility has not been completed, classes are being held in any available rooms, including the weight room, art room and music room.

Students sit in the gymnasium in their uniforms during class.The dress code has restrictions on all clothing except for socks.

Olivia Oglesby, Heidi Gundy and Caroline Parker hold hands during mass at Fr. Tolton Catholic High School. The school opened for its first day in the new facility at U.S. 63 and East Gans Road.

The sky through a 17-foot lens

2011-11-07T19:59:00.005-06:00

The biggest lens. Seventeen feet to be exact. I was able to see jupiter and its moons!

Steve Bornemeier looks into the sky at the Morrison Observatory in Fayette, Mo. The observatory has several telescopes, including one that is more than 130 years old.

Cameron McCalister climbs the stairs to the 130-year-old telescope housed in Fayette's Morrison Observatory on Oct. 27. The observatory is open for public viewing on Thursday evenings.

A photograph titled "The Moon at Twenty Days" hangs in the Morrison Observatory in Fayette. The observatory has been on Central Methodist University's campus since 1936.

Zane Rice, 9, and Steve Bornemeier look into a telescope at the Morrison Observatory in Fayette. The observatory has several telescopes, including one that is more than 130 years old.

Footies

2011-11-03T09:39:00.000-05:00

The Hickman High School soccer team prepares for their district semifinals game against their rival team the Jefferson City Jays.

Extreme Makeover: Joplin

2011-11-02T18:07:00.010-05:00

Morgan Grawe, Courtney Padgitt, Lauren Vienravee, Stephanie Rasch and Emelie Henzel prepare to be filmed by the "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition" crew on Tuesday in Joplin. The MU architecture students traveled from Columbia to volunteer. The The students traveled from Columbia to volunteer by unwrapping furniture and rolling artwork.

A Crate&Barrel home decor truck delivers furniture on Jackson Street in Joplin, where homes are being built by "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition." Seven families are having homes rebuilt only blocks away from St. Johns Regional Medical Center, which was destroyed by the May 22 tornado.

Two men work on one of the seven houses being built for Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

A volunteer works on one of seven houses being built for Extreme Home Makeover.

For more information about the event read the Columbia Missourian's full written piece here.

Rooster Chase

2011-10-30T21:36:00.006-05:00

Children chase the infamous rooster around Peace Park in hopes of trapping him before the winter.

To be an athlete

2011-10-24T11:11:00.008-05:00

Whiskey Wild Saloon

2011-10-21T00:21:00.000-05:00

Columbia Regency mobile home park

2011-10-19T23:53:00.003-05:00

Residents gathered during a tour for Councilwoman Barbara Hoppe to discuss the possible rezoning of Columbia Regency mobile home park.

Children play in Columbia Regency before the tour for City Councilwomen Barbara Hoppe and Helen Anthony.

Fifth Ward Councilwoman listens to residents during a tour of Columbia Regency mobile home park.

Mary Kelley sheds tears during the tour of the Columbia Regency mobile home park while she speaks to city council members Barbara Hoppe and Helen Anthony on Thursday. Kelley said the safety she feels at Columbia Regency is important to her because her son was killed in a home invasion.

Children play on the playground at Columbia Regency mobile home park.

Mizzou's 100th Homecoming

2011-10-17T21:43:00.003-05:00

Kansas State v. Mizzou football 24-17

2011-10-10T20:39:00.000-05:00

The Kansas State Marching band practices before the Kansas State vs. Missouri football game.

Quarterback James Franklin walks off the field after the first half with Missouri trailing behind Kansas State University.

Jacquies Smith yells after a penalty is called on Missouri at the Kansas State University game.

Linebacker Zaviar Gooden tackles Kansas State running back John Hubert in the fourth quarter of the Missouri game against Kansas State on Saturday. Hubert ran for 126 yards.

Fans brave the rain at the Kansas State University v. Missouri football game.

Oklahoma v. Mizzou football 38-28

2011-10-06T13:27:00.002-05:00

Members of the Oklahoma RUF/NEKS prepare Boomer and Sooner, Welsh ponies, for the Missouri vs. Oklahoma game on Saturday. The RUF/NEKS are an all-male spirit group present at Oklahoma football games since 1915.

Two men play cards on "Tiger Mobile" before the Missouri-Oklahoma game on Saturday.

MU quarterback James Franklin runs toward the end zone Saturday night in Norman, Okla. The run ended in a touchdown, but it wasn't enough to win. The Sooners defeated Missouri 38-28.

MU defensive coordinator Dave Steckel reacts during the second quarter of the game at Oklahoma on Saturday.

Oklahoma defensive tackle Stacy McGee tackles MU quarterback James Franklin as MU offensive lineman Austin Wuebbels attempts to block during the first half of the MU v. Oklahoma game on Saturday.

Wide Receiver Rolandis Woodland and offensive lineman Mitch Morse exit Owen Field at Gaylord Family-Memorial Stadium on Saturday. The Tigers fell to the Sooners with a final score of 38-28

New Website Coming soon!

2011-10-05T22:48:00.000-05:00

Sneak peek at sarahhoffman.photoshelter.com

Missouri Photo Workshop

2011-10-02T17:07:00.003-05:00

The Missouri Photo Workshop in Clinton, Mo. was an incredible learning experience. I worked on the crew in the vortex (see video below). Although I was not shooting I was able to see how much planning, re-planning, commitment and soul it takes to tell a story. The last day the stories came alive when the community was invited to view all of the work in a print gallery.

MPW.63: Into the Vortex from Missouri Photo Workshop on Vimeo.

Claudia Wheeler-Rappe waits to be edited by faculty at the 63rd Missouri Photo Workshop in Clinton, Mo.

MPW crew and faculty work at the Benson Community Center in Clinton, Mo.

A portrait of MPW crew members Tatiana Fernandez, Nick Schnelle and Han Cheung at Benjamin Franklin Bistro.

Katie Currid stands with her bike on the Katy Trail in Clinton, Mo.

Footsteps of the Tornado

2011-09-17T11:00:00.004-05:00

I returned to Joplin to document the life of families that recently moved into FEMA trailers for the Columbia Missourian. Susan Bragole and her family were all living together before the tornado destroyed their house and relocated her grandchildren away from Joplin.

Read the story here: http://www.columbiamissourian.com/stories/2011/09/16/joplin-family-relocates-fema-trailer/

Watch the multimedia below:

Fitz and the Tantrums

2011-09-11T14:04:00.002-05:00

Fitz and the Tantrums visited Columbia for the first time at the Roots 'N' Blues 'N' BBQ Festival. The soul/indie-pop/funk band played several tracks from their newest album Pickin Up The Pieces.

Noelle Scaggs of Fitz and the Tantrums raises her hand to lead singer Michael Fitzpatrick on Saturday, Sept. 10 at the Roots 'N' Blues 'N' BBQ Festival.

Noelle Scaggs and Michael Fitzpatrick get the crowd riled up at the Roots 'N' Blues 'N' BBQ Festival.

Michael Fitzpatrick throws his head back and laughs during the Fitz and the Tantrums performance at the Roots 'N' Blues 'N' BBQ Festival in Columbia, Mo.

Mizzou football v. Miami (Ohio) 17-6

2011-09-06T21:26:00.004-05:00

I really enjoyed shooting my first Mizzou football game this weekend. It took some time to adjust to running up and down the field with a 300mm but I am really looking forward to spending the rest of season as one of two lead football photographers for the Columbia Missourian.

MU quarterback James Franklin is tackled by Miami (Ohio) linebacker Mitch Krotz at the football game on Saturday on Faurot Field. More than 58,000 people attended the game.

Cheerleaders fly during the Mizzou v. Miami (Ohio) football game on Saturday. The Tigers won the first game of the season with a score of 17-6.

Delany Brown, 2 1/2, grabs pom poms while attending her parent's breakfast tailgate before the Missouri football team took on Miami (Ohio) on Saturday. This was Brown's first experience at an MU football game.

Half-time act members wait on the sidelines to perform at the Mizzou v. Miami (Ohio) football game on Saturday, Sept. 3.

Warm Fuzzies

2011-09-02T11:50:00.000-05:00

A few cute-themed images featuring sunshine, kids and puppies from Minneapolis and Columbia.

Stephanie Luger lies on a sailboat on Lake Calhoun in Minneapolis, MN.

The Tin Fish lakeside restaurant in Minneapolis, MN.

Leashes.

The Lewis wedding in Columbia, Mo.

Athena's senior portraits

New Athletes at Columbia's recently opened Catholic high school

2011-08-31T17:35:00.002-05:00

I recently started as a Staff Photographer for the Columbia Missourian. Here are a few images from one of my first assignments at Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School's Fall Sports Pictures and Media night.

Freshman Church Brennan looks into the hood of a Ford Mustang being raffled on Thursday at Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School.

Players and coaches of the new Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School line up for a team photo at the Tolton Catholic Fall Sports Pictures and Media Night on Thursday at Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School.

Kelsey Bequette hugs her teammate Margaret Oberkrom while Father Mike Coleman speaks to the new softball team at Tolton Catholic Fall Sports Pictures and Media Night on Thursday, Aug. 25 at Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School.

Monsignor Mike Flanagan gets into the Mustang being raffled at Fr. Tolton Regional Catholic High School on Thursday.

Small-town residents saddened by prospect of post offices closing

2011-08-03T14:37:00.002-05:00

In Missouri, 167 post offices have been identified to be evaluated for closure. I went to three post offices west of Columbia where residents expressed their opinions on the possibility of closing. Here are a few shots from inside the historic Arrow Rock post office.

Read the full story in the Columbia Missourian here.

Kathy Borgman of Friends of Arrow Rock examines postal tools displayed in the Arrow Rock post office. The U.S. Postal Service is proposing a "village post office" alternative which would move operation of postal services to local businesses.

Yvonne Rennolds stops by the Arrow Rock post office to get her mail and bring postmaster Tempe McGlaughlin leftover pasta salad. The post office serves as a community gathering space for Arrow Rock.

Post office boxes at the Arrow rock post office.

Old letter openers, rubber stamps and other tools of the mail trade are displayed at the Arrow Rock post office

Chicken Masala and Banana Muffins with Homemade Peanut Butter

2011-07-28T21:29:00.001-05:00

Chicken Masala, baingan (eggplant), and crispy ginger garlic potatoes over naan.

Banana, peanut butter, oatmeal muffins with honey homemade peanut butter

Columbia Masonic fraternal members, families volunteer at Boone County Fair

2011-07-27T12:32:00.000-05:00

Here are two shots from my story on the Aleppo Grotto and their volunteer work at the Boone County Fair. The group is very family oriented and includes multiple generations of volunteers.

Rex Taggart and Joan Barron prepare orders in the Aleppo Grotto food stand at the Boone County Fair on Sunday, July 24, 2011. The food stand became a part of the fair in 2010 and raises money for children's organizations.

Rex Taggart, center, works in the Aleppo Grotto food stand while Lily Tinker Fortel, left, and Tim Cullen, right, dine outside. The organization has been working at the Boone County Fair since 1993 but opened the food stand last summer to raise money for children's organizations.

All is Fair

2011-07-25T14:56:00.007-05:00

I have been covering the Boone County Fair all weekend in Columbia. I have yet to indulge in a funnel cake but who knows what will happen before the fair ends on July 30. This is my first state fair outside of Minnesota so I am trying to get used to not having everything on a stick. Overall, the fair has been really interesting with several events including horse shows, the carnival, fireworks, and the parade.

Hunter Skouby leads his horse outside the arena at the Boone County Fun Youth Horse Show on Saturday at the Boone County Fairgrounds.

A competitor in the Boone County Fun Youth Horse Show rides around the arena at the Boone County Fair.

Garrett Anderson leads his horse outside the arena at the Boone County Fun Youth Horse Show on Saturday at the Boone County Fair in Columbia.

Katilynn Berbridge pets her horse before she competes in the Boone County Fun Youth Horse Show on Saturday at the Boone County Fair in Columbia.

Boone County Fair Queen Royalty ride in the Boone County Fair Parade on Saturday.

The Redbirds basketball team eat freeze pops handed out during the Boone County Fair Parade.

A carnival worker waits for customers at his game booth.

Emma Schudel sits on Nick Schudel's shoulders watching fireworks on Sunday at the 65th Boone County Fair.

View full Columbia Missourian galleries here:

Photo Gallery: Equine excellence

Boone County Fair Parade marches through downtown

Photo Gallery: Sunday at the fair

River town businesses hurt by flood fear

2011-07-21T20:02:00.000-05:00

Here are some photos from the story I wrote on how the perception of flooding in Missouri river towns is detrimental to business.

Roscoe Robinson and Travis Brobst sit in the Trailside Cafe & Bike Shop after biking the Katy Trail in Rocheport on Tuesday, July 19, 2011. The perception of flooding has been detrimental to business, and owner Larry Horning is worried the shop may go under.

Nancy Lewis looks at a product catalog with salesman Ron Eggleson at White Horse Antiques in Rocheport on Thursday, July 21, 2011. Several Rocheport businesses have lost revenue since news of flooding began.

Gary Smith, treasurer of the Rocheport Area Merchants Association, works at his store, Two Sisters and Me, in Rocheport on Thursday, July 21, 2011. Since news of flooding began, Smith has had an estimated 45 percent decrease in revenue at Two Sisters and Me

Cows & Balloons

2011-07-20T23:07:00.001-05:00

Here is a shot from the California Balloon Invitational. I ended up going on "the chase" following the balloon with the crew through farmland and cow pastures.

Summer Heat

2011-07-19T11:40:00.000-05:00

This week Columbia's heat index is expected to fluctuate between 105 and 115 degrees. I contributed to the Columbia Missourian's story on how the dangerous heat conditions are expected to prevail all week by examining how children's day camps are affected. Here is a photo from Camp Adventure that ran with the story.

In The Air: Before the Balloon Race

2011-07-15T11:31:00.000-05:00

This weekend I will be attending the 1st Annual California Balloon Invitational. I spent the evening with Columbia balloon pilot Gary Whitby who will be participating in the race. Whitby demonstrated the "hare and hounds" style of balloon racing. The lead balloon takes off and marks an X at its landing spot where the balloons must toss a 3oz sandbag as close to the X target as possible. Pilots have limited control over the direction of their ballon so they must calculate what degree to launch from in order to hit the target.

Shrimp Fajitas and Homemade Green Chili Salsa

2011-07-12T20:34:00.002-05:00

Shrimp, bell peppers, and mushroom fajitas with sweet and spicy corn and green chile salsa.

Roasted tomato green chile cilantro salsa

Columbia volunteers use acupuncture treatments to make a healing difference in Joplin

2011-07-07T16:54:00.002-05:00

Here is my first story published in the Columbia Missourian where I will be spending the rest of the summer as a reporter.

Read the full story here.

Patriotic Portraits

2011-07-05T13:08:00.000-05:00

Just a few fun portraits with friends for the 4th of July.

Barnout 2011

2011-06-21T18:05:00.004-05:00

Local Missouri bands play at the 4th annual Barnout outside Mcgurk, Mo.

Duluth and The Great Lakes

2011-06-07T11:48:00.002-05:00

I went up to Duluth for a couple days to explore the great north for the first time since I was a kid. Duluth is about 2.5 hours north of the twin cities and is known historically as a major port city. The city sits on the Minnesota Wisconsin border over Lake Superior. I camped out on the beach with a few friends until sunrise and was fortunate enough to see the northern lights for the first time.

Russ Kendall's smoked fish shop.

Visitors explore the Two Harbors lighthouse built in 1892.

The northern lights shine above Lake Superior.

Carmen Matile and Arianna St. George light candles along Lake Superior as a memorial to 24-year-old Tim Stephenson.

Summertime in STL

2011-06-02T13:24:00.013-05:00

The sun is out and so are families in St. Louis, Mo. Here are a few shots from the trip down to St. Louis with Grant Hindsley.

Soundset 2011

2011-05-30T12:53:00.000-05:00

P.O.S. performs at Soundset 2011 in Canterbury Park. The hip hop music festival features artists on the Rhymesayers label and from all across the country.

St. Louis: Freedom balloons released after slave reenactment

2011-05-29T13:19:00.000-05:00

Hundreds gathered at the Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration in St. Louis witness the reenactment of an 1855 slave capture. Following the reenactment balloons were released to represent freedom.

Attendees of the Mary Meachum Freedom Crossing Celebration release balloons to represent freedom.

Roller skate champion's memory untouched by tornado in Sedalia, Mo.

2011-05-27T11:59:00.014-05:00

After a tornado hit Sedalia, Mo. Wednesday the only thing left of The

Wheel Thing Skate Center is a glass case full of memorabilia that serves as a memorial

for Jesse Joe Harrison. Harrison, nicknamed “Dog” passed away

at the age of 17 in a car accident in 1998. Jesse’s best friend Christopher Homan visits the

memorial in The Wheel Thing Skate Center. “That skating rink was our home.” Homan

said. Harrison’s mother’s house lies on the other side of the rink and was damaged by the

tornado. Homan still continues to think of Connie as his own “mom” and assists her in

the process of rebuilding.

The Wheel Thing Skate Center is flattened by a half-mile wide tornado that hit on Wednesday, May 25 in Sedalia, Mo. “Its an icon in the town its one of those things you expect to be here” said former skate coach Connie Koch.

The only thing left of The Wheel Thing Skate Center is a glass case full of memorabilia that serves as a memorial for Jesse Joe Harrison. Harrison, nicknamed “Dog” passed away at the age of 17 in a car accident in 1998. Jesse’s best friend Christopher Homan visits the memorial in The Wheel Thing Skate Center for the first time after the tornado hit. The two were skating partners. “It wasn’t all about speed it was all about fun,” Homan said. Homan quit shortly after Harrison’s death. “It was my whole life growing up,” Homan said.

Homan still remains an integral part of Harrison’s family. He stands in Harrison’s mother Connie Koch’s driveway looking at the surrounding damage. Homan came to assist Connie in rebuilding her home. "He helps me because he is a part of what Jesse and Chris and I were together,” Koch said.

Koch and Homan’s girlfriend look at a photograph of a rainbow that arched into the skate center when Homan went to see Harrison’s case. “He has his arms around that case,” Koch said.

Homan’s girlfriend’s daughter peers over Koch’s balcony into the neighbors yard. The Wheel Thing Skate Center is just on the other side of the house. “That rink has been our life. I actually moved here just to be close,” said Koch.

A pile of skates sits on the outskirts of the rink. “There is not much to do around here you either go to the movies or you go skate,” Koch said. The skating rink was over 50 years old. “This is just an opportunity to build something better,” Homan said.

Homan visits Harrison’s grave in Sedalia, Mo. The gravestone has a Tasmanian devil in roller skates engraved on it. Homan’s tattoo of Harrison’s initials in barbed wire peeks out of his shirt. “The reason I got barbed wire is its tied in a knot. There’s sharp edges on barbed wire. If you try and pull it apart you’re going to get hurt. There’s nothing in the world that can pull it apart and were still together like brothers and I think of him in the same way even though he is not here.” Homan said.

Search and Rescue in Joplin Mo. after Tornado

2011-05-24T19:36:00.008-05:00

I continued coverage in Joplin, Mo. at the Metro Emergency Transport system and alongside the local fire department. Rescues calls decreased from Monday but hundreds of people were still unaccounted for.

METS workers and out of town volunteers discuss their experiences since the tornado hit in Joplin. Paramedics and EMTS came from hundreds of miles away to provide support medically and emotionally.

A fire station is damaged by the EF5 tornado that hit Joplin, Mo Sunday evening. The tornado has claimed 124 lives in a six-mile path that destroyed the local hospital and majority of Main Street.

METS workers see St. John's Hospital for the first time up close on Tuesday, May 24.

A man finds a diploma in a pile of rubble in Joplin, Mo.

A teddy bear hangs on a yield sign outside a home that was hit by an EF5 tornado Sunday evening in Joplin, Mo.

A walker hangs out the window of a patient room at St. John’s Regional Medical Center. Five patients died in the tornado that left the hospital severely damaged.

Search and rescue workers sweep a field after responding to a call of a missing person.

The Kansas Task Force Rescue meets in the fire station to assist in Joplin, Mo.

METS workers find it difficult to locate tornado victims because the city is virtually unrecognizable.

Metro Emergency Transport System aides after tornado in Joplin, Mo.

2011-05-24T00:42:00.006-05:00

The strength of this city is evident through the work that Metro Emergency Transport System is doing to help people trapped or injured after one of the biggest tornados in U.S. history hit Joplin, Mo.The tornado left a six mile path and has claimed 116 lives. St. John's Regional Medical Center has been severely damaged and Main Street has been hit so hard that it is difficult for locals to navigate streets they have driven on for years.

Many of the METS team's homes have been affected by the tornado yet they are taking long shifts away from their families. Additionally, the communities outside Joplin have demonstrated immense support for Joplin. Paramedics have come from all over Missouri and the border states to assist in cleaning up after a disaster that requires more hands than usual.

Linda Brinkoff of the Metro Emergency Transport System looks up to check the incoming weather.

A house is destroyed but the closet hangers and wall paintings are left virtually untouched.

Linda Brinkoff walks through damage in the backyard of a woman that called for assistance to be transported.

Two people wait by the train tracks in Joplin, Mo. following the tornado.

A family portrait lies on the ground in front of an apartment complex that was virtually leveled on 20th st.

Jay Stoney of the Metro Emergency Transport System takes a smoke break on McClelland Blvd.

Joplin residents search through rubble for missing neighbors and loved ones.

Wheelchairs sit outside the Greenbriar Nursing Home that was destroyed in Joplin tornado.

The Way it Was

2011-05-11T11:11:00.003-05:00

For my final project in Advanced Techniques in photojournalism I traveled to the Camp Jackson Affair Civil War reenactment in Lemay, Mo. I worked with Nick Michael Quint Smith and Lori Marshall to produce a three minute multimedia piece on wet plate photographer Douglas Harding.

Recreating a 150-year-old process Douglas Harding attempts to "time travel" to 1861 both chemically and psychologically.

The Way It Was from 1504 Pictures on Vimeo.

Senior Sendoff

2011-05-10T00:51:00.003-05:00

Every year the freshman class at the University of Missouri sprints through the columns towards Jesse Hall to symbolize their entrance into the university. The following spring the graduating class participates in Senior Sendoff a bittersweet mirroring of the event as the walk through the same columns towards downtown. The freshman will meet tiger stripe ice cream while the seniors receive free beer and lunch on the south quad.

University of Missouri graduates rush through the columns at Senior Sendoff to symbolize their exit from the university and entrance into their futures.

University of Missouri class of 2011 enjoys a reception on the Mel Carnahan Quadrangle.

Daily Nommin'

2011-05-04T22:58:00.002-05:00

With finals week approaching my kitchen has become my haven for procrastination.

Blueberry muffins topped with cinnamon nutmeg crumble

Mango-lime-chili quesadillas with cilantro, salsa, lettuce and tomato

Homemade tabouli with hummus and sauteed zucchini in pita

Chicken and eggplant curry with cous cous

Blueberry muffins topped with cinnamon nutmeg crumble

Time Traveling To 1861

2011-05-02T15:12:00.008-05:00

I spent the past weekend at the Camp Jackson Affair in Lemay, Mo. covering Douglas Harding an authentic wet plate photographer. The event was held in celebration 150th anniversary of the Civil War. I worked with three other photojournalists to create a multimedia piece using stills, video and audio. The piece will be posted next week but for now here are a few shots from the weekend.

Wet plate photographer Douglas Harding prepares to photograph a group of reenactors at the Camp Jackson Affair in Lemay, Mo.

Douglas Harding prepares a piece of glass that will act as his negative.

Civil War Reenactors socialize after the public leaves The Camp Jackson Affair in Jefferson Barracks.

Reenactors attend the ball celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Civil War at the Camp Jackson Affair.

Mizzou's greektown reacts to announcement of Osama Bin Laden's death

2011-05-02T03:16:00.008-05:00

Over 3,000 Mizzou students rushed to greektown after the announcement of Osama Bin Laden chanting, drinking, and celebrating.

Advanced Techniques: Painting With Light

2011-04-27T15:33:00.002-05:00

For our painting with light assignment I worked with Allison Pasek, BJ Worley and Robson Abbott to create a whimsical photo illustrating adolescent fantasy literature. We went to two locations for our painting with light but had more luck with our second concept.

In the spirit of J.R.R. Tolkien's Lord of the Rings series, contemporary authors such as J.K. Rowling have rejuvenated the fantasy genre in literature. This renaissance has helped spur childhood and adolescent reading and literacy rates over the last decade. These books are also beloved and well read by adults of all ages.

How we did it:
1. Strobe on me reading the book
2. Lit a sparkler and ran it from the book in a spiral to behind the tree
3. Used a strobe gelled blue to paint the tree
4. Held the book and used strobe at 1/64 power

Lighting Diagram:

Here is an outtake from our attempt to illustrate the increase in gas prices:

Columbia Earth Day

2011-04-18T15:54:00.005-05:00

Columbia celebrated Earth Day in Peace Park with muddy feet, educational booths, and plenty of animals. Spring has sprung!

Brandt Martin, 4, plays in the creek in Peace Park at Columbia Earth Day.

Mackenzie Mccollum sees her butterfly face painting for the first time at Columbia Earth Day.

Hazel Zettl plays in Peace Park with her red balloon.

A great horned owl is displayed at the Missouri Wildlife Rescue Booth.

Niall Owens waits for ice cream at Columbia Earth Day.

Amateur Drag Show: Fake Nails & Fedoras

2011-04-17T14:33:00.006-05:00

Tri-Co hosted their annual drag show in honor of Pride Month Friday night in Allen Auditorium. All tips given to performers at the event were donated to The Center Project, the only LGBTQA community center in mid-Missouri.

Krystal Chandelier flips her hair at the Amateur Drag Show. She has been performing for over 20 years.

LSD places a rose behind an audience member's ear.

Honey Cheffan sings "Do It Like A Dude" at the Amateur Drag Show.

Fake nails are strewn around the dressing room. All the performers do their own costume and makeup.

Advanced Techniques: Multiple Flash

2011-04-14T14:15:00.004-05:00

For my multiple flash I set up two SB 900's and triggered them with pocket wizards. The image was crosslit with strobes low on either side.

Nathan Gibbons skateboards April 12, 2011 at the Columbia Skate Park

Here is an outtake from before I set up the strobes.

Boone County Fairgrounds Horses

2011-04-11T22:34:00.001-05:00

I went to shoot an event at the Boone County Fairgrounds and stumbled upon some horses and owners winding down after barrel races.

Brittany Lowary lets her horses graze after barrel racing at the Boone County Fairgrounds.

Lynsay Mcgarvey hoses down her horse after barrel racing on Saturday, April 9 at the Boone County Fairgrounds.

Carolina Tiger Rescue

2011-04-03T23:17:00.007-05:00

I have spent the past week volunteering on the Carolina Tiger Rescue as part of The University of Missouri’s Alternative Spring Break. Ten students hopped into vans and made our way across the U.S. on a 30 hour round trip drive through the Midwest and into the Appalachian mountains. The Carolina Tiger Rescue is a non-profit that provides a lifelong sanctuary for several different kinds of wild cats who have been abandoned, mistreated, or surrendered. Througout the week we built fences, disassembled old structures, transported industrial materials, and cemented new posts.

Alternative Spring Break volunteers attach wire to new polls at the Carolina Tiger Rescue.

I bet you’re wondering: Did I get to pet these adorable creatures? No.

Volunteer Coordinator Scott Miller leads an education tour of the Carolina Tiger Rescue.

Common Misconceptions about Tigers and Wild Cat Rescues

Sanctuaries allow physical contact with tigers

The Real Deal: According to the wildlife safety act in order to be a federally recognized sanctuary you must meet the following guidelines: No physical contact, be tax exempt, no captive breeding, refrain from the buying trade and selling of animals. Any injuries by tigers could put the public, staff, and the organization's credibility at risk.

It is acceptable to have your picture taken with a tiger cub because the money is going to help fund a wildlife sanctuary.

The Real Deal: Most of the time these sanctuaries do not exist. Lets do some math. You pay 20 dollars to get photographed. Tigers are virtually impossible to handle after six months so where does the tiger go? These animals are found malnourished in backyards, along the highway, or on display in entertainment venues. If a tiger lives for 18 years there is no way the money made in six months can finance a tiger for its lifetime.

Animal rescue workers are vegetarians.

The Real Deal: The Carolina Tiger Rescue takes no stance on vegetarianism. The cats eat meat. So do many of the workers and volunteers.

Wild animal attacks are rare.

The Real Deal: Attacks are not always reported but occur frequently. Wild animals may be handleable 99% of the time but if their predatory insticts kick in one time it can be fatal. This is a problem because of lax regulation on exotic animal ownership. In North Carolina it is illegal to own a bobcat without a permit but legal to own a tiger.

White tigers are a special rare breed of tigers.

The Real Deal: White tigers are actually inbred. The gene that makes tigers white is recessive so the only way to breed these tigers is by mating them with their siblings. This can cause serious birth defects to the tigers. The last stable population of white tigers seen in the wild was in to 1800’s.

If you tame tigers from birth they can be loving adorable pets.

The Real Deal: Domestic animals have been human companions for tens of thousands of years. Wild animals have not. There is no way to remove their predatory instincts. Even house cats demonstrate this behavior sometimes but are much less dangerous because of their size.

Sheba was given up by her owner who charged tourists for photographs with her at 6 months after she became too difficult to handle.

Alternative spring break workers remove nails from old boards so they can be reused.

Jellybean is the Carolina Tiger Rescue's only white tiger. Many private breeders will inbreed tigers with the white gene in an attempt to get white offspring.

Camp New Hope just after sunrise. Alternative spring break stayed in cabins over spring break while volunteering at the Carolina Tiger Rescue.

Advanced Techniques: Fill & Balance

2011-03-24T12:12:00.003-05:00

I went to Benton Elementary to photograph the High Steppers for my color correction assignment. When I found out the rehearsal was moved outdoors on the basketball court I decided to try some fill flash. I shot most of my take in natural light but I wish I had tried a few more with strobe. The intensity of these kids was apparent the second rehearsal started. I am excited to work with them more and see where it goes.

La'Rue Martin and Decarlo Flarris drum at the High Steppers rehearsal on March 15 outside Benton Elementary. The group of dancers and musicians range in ages 8 to 12 and come from all over Mid-Missouri.

Fill lighting diagram:

I did my balance portion Ernie's Cafe & Steakhouse to do the balance portion. The strobe was bounced off the ceiling above the table.

Balance lighting diagram:

Cirque Montage

2011-03-23T11:55:00.004-05:00

I have always been curious about the circus. Cirque Montage is a traveling performance troupe that features trapeze artists, jugglers, and hand balancers. The majority of the performers come from L.A. and Las Vegas some of which have performed in Cirque du Soleil. All of the production and stage design is self managed by WonderWorld Entertainment. Overall, it was a beautiful artful experience.

Sarah Moser, an aerial chiffon artist, climbs her way to the top unsupported by wires.

A juggler throws one of four hats.

Sarah Moser rolls down the fabric she has climbed at Cirque Montage.

Sarah Moser talks to audience members at Cirque Montagein Jesse Auditorium.

Benton Elementary Kindergarten Registration

2011-03-22T12:54:00.001-05:00

Parents sign up their children and meet with teachers at Kindergarten Registration in Benton Elementary. I had forgotten how small all of the chairs and scissors were in elementary school. I wish our classrooms were still this colorful.

Zachariah Jouret plays with a football helmet and meets his future Kindergarten teacher at Kindergarten Registration in Benton Elementary.

NOSH

2011-03-20T20:32:00.003-05:00

Over the weekend I did a shoot in the studio for Theresa Berens prototype magazine NOSH. The idea was to show the average person and their personal on-the-go snacking habits.

"The Healthy Eater"

Benton High Steppers

2011-03-18T15:18:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday I went to Benton Elementary to photograph the Benton High Steppers. The group of dancers and drummers range in ages 8-12 and come from all over mid-missouri. The kids are incredibly talented and dedicated to the team. I look forward to spending more time with this group.

Daleshaun Coleman, 8, watches the High Steppers rehearse at his first practice.

The Benton High Steppers rehearse behind Benton Elementary.

Advanced Techniques: Color Correction

2011-03-17T14:07:00.001-05:00

For my color correction assignment I went to The Wardrobe in Columbia. I gelled my strobe with 1/2 green and 1/2 CTO and set my white balance to florescent. I bounced my strobe off the ceiling onto my subject. This assignment made me realize how awful and distracting indoor tungsten and florescent lighting can be to a photograph.

Marvin Bennett measures and sorts jeans at The Wardrobe Thursday afternoon. The Wardrobe provides affordable used clothing for the Columbia community.

Here is a lighting diagram of how it was done:

An outtake from color correction:

Volunteer Marvin Bennett measures a pair of jeans at The Wardrobe.

Advanced Techniques: Single Flash

2011-03-10T13:01:00.006-06:00

For my single flash assignment I chose to shoot Busker's last stand using bounce technique. The event was very high energy with a lot of interaction.

Jake Greenlaw of the Touchcats drums along with other True False Film Fest musicians at Busker's Last Stand Sunday night in the Missouri Theatre. The jam style musical event wrapped up the weekend long film festival.

I bounced off the ceiling at a 45 degree angle onto the circle of musicians playing. I should have taken into account the warmer tones in the room and the photo is underexposed. There were several other photographers shooting so I chose a lower shot to minimize background distractions. I shot at f/4 1/125 and 100 ISO.

Below is my lighting diagram:

Direct flash was another story. My flash only fired once at the Mojo's show I shot Wed. night. As a result I only have one direct flash photo as seen below.

Danny Seim of Menomena plays keyboard Wed. March 9 at Mojo's.

Here is a direct flash outtake from the week:

Nadine Oelschlager sits in her favorite chair March 2.

True/False Film Fest

2011-03-06T11:27:00.073-06:00

True False Film Fest brought together approximately 30,000 film fanatics for a weekend somewhere in between reality and the imagination. Several very talented directors brought their best work, documentary or fiction, to the screen. From Thursday to Sunday Columbia was transformed into a haven for smart wool, creative beings, and supporters of the arts.

Festival attendees and volunteers socialize at the @ction party Friday night in Tonic night club.

Despite the rain True/False attendees celebrate the beginning of the festival in the March March Friday through downtown Columbia.

House manager and Juggernaut volunteer Caitlin Cunningham works outside The Blue Note.

Festival musicians play at Buskers Last stand, the closing event of the weekend, Sunday night in the Missouri Theatre.

The audience waits for Academy Award-winning director James Marsh's most recent film Project Nim to begin in the Missouri Theatre.

The Def-fish-it

2011-03-03T02:49:00.043-06:00

I hear a lot of numbers being thrown around about where U.S. money goes and where it is coming from. I decided to investigate and provide a visual representation of some number crunching. I wanted to show how far the U.S. has fallen into debt and who will be affected by any spending cuts.

The following is a photo illustration of U.S. spending in 2010.

From the bottom up:

Soil: 57% of the U.S. budget is mandatory spending (Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid etc.).

Sand: 38% of the U.S. budget is discretionary spending (Homeland Security, Health, Education etc.).

Water: 5% of the U.S. budget was money earned on top of the 1.3 trillion dollar deficit.

Fish: Americans.

The United States is drowning in a debt of over 14.1 trillion dollars. Fifty-seven percent of the budget is mandatory spending (soil) which is untouchable money. Thirty-eight percent of the budget is discretionary spending (sand) which could be reduced if it was not borrowed money. As a result federal spending cuts are limited to the positive portions of the U.S. budget (water).

All information from the U.S. Office of Management and Budget.

Lighting Diagram:

I positioned the fishbowl on a light table directly in front of the camera. I lit from underneath and had Alex Wood gobo. I placed a strip box at an angle to light the front so you could see the detail in the sand and soil. I shot at ISO 200 f/11 1/15.

C.O.L.O.R.S. Step Show

2011-03-01T11:39:00.004-06:00

Several talented individuals from greek organizations at their respective schools showcased their step skills for the entire Big XII Conference on Black Student Government at the The C.O.L.O.R.S. Step Show Saturday night in Jesse Auditorium. Check The Maneater for a slideshow of the entire performance.

Alexandria Sayles, a member of MU chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, holds up a Delta backstage at the Coalition Of Leaders Organizing Radical Segues Step Show.

Members of Lincoln University's Omega Psi Phi stand together before going on stage at the C.O.L.O.R.S. Step Show.

Jalisa Ray of the MU chapter of Delta Sigma Theta performs at the C.O.L.O.R.S. Step Show.

This Week In The Kitchen

2011-02-20T20:17:00.004-06:00

Rosemary chicken soup with roasted veggies and cous cous.

Saffron chicken and vegetable fried rice.

Tomato basil chicken with mushrooms and scallions.

Advanced Techniques: Classmate Portrait

2011-02-17T12:18:00.008-06:00

Here is my first attempt at a studio portrait. Look below for lighting diagram.

Junior Jeremy Jardine throws his hands over his head to relax. Jardine describes his "happy place" as laying in the grass on a beautiful day.

I placed 2 soft boxes at even power 200Ws, one on either side of the subject, to create soft even light. To imitate real sunlight I placed a modeling light high in the back at 800Ws. I also used a white reflector angled over the subject to create more evenness. I shot f/22 and 1/30 at ISO 100.

No Coast Valentines Day Massacre

2011-02-15T19:38:00.002-06:00

Battle rappers and performers came together from all over the nation (and Canada) to compete in the No Coast Valentines Day Massacre Feb. 11th and 12th at Cafe Berlin.

Mr. Biscuit yells to Maniphest DestNE during the No Coast Valentines Day Massacre at Cafe Berlin.

Dallas and Hindu Rock face off before their battle on Saturday at Cafe Berlin

Men's Basketball (Mizzou vs Oklahoma)

2011-02-13T23:42:00.003-06:00

The Mizzou vs. Oklahoma game was in the afternoon which made for some nice light. The Mizzou Tigers won the game with a score of 84-61.

Junior Laurence Bowers shoots over three Oklahoma players.

Junior Steve Moore drives to the hoop.

Oklahoma head coach Jeff Capel argues with the referee.

Junior Ricardo Ratliffe goes for a shot against Oklahoma.

Echolilia

2011-02-10T12:11:00.010-06:00

Timothy Archibald created a portrait series to examine and try to understand his son's autism. The light in the series was versatile. I found that mostly soft light was used to emphasize innocence and youth but it also integrated hard light to make some of the images more emotive. I think the subject and the photographer are revealed simultaneously in these portraits. Dimension and depth were created through this series by spending extensive time with the subject. The photographs are very intimate and feel natural. Some of the photos were staged and some were documentary style but each picture presented a representation of consciousness by the photographer.

Photo by: Timothy Archibald

Men's Basketball (Mizzou vs. Colorado)

2011-02-06T14:16:00.005-06:00

Junior guard Marcus Denmon races past Colorado guard Levi Knutson

Junior Kim English trips on the court.

Assistant Coach Matt Zimmerman yells from the sidelines.

Night Light

2011-02-03T20:49:00.000-06:00

Spencer Pearson works on his computer Wednesday night.

Snow Day: Outdoor Edition

2011-02-02T21:35:00.002-06:00

The University has announced its third snow day due to an 18 inch snowfall. Students are taking advantage of the time off school by building igloos and snow forts. The roads are just beginning to clear up but most cars are buried under mounds of snow. At night downtown has been eerily empty resembling some sort of post-apocalyptic scene.

University maintenance workers shovel in front of the Reyonlds Journalism Institute.

Senior Miles McGhee sits in an igloo on east campus.

Residents shovel an abandoned Tenth St. on Tuesday night.

Snow Day: Indoor Edition

2011-02-01T17:52:00.003-06:00

Columbia has declared a Weather Emergency and cancelled classes through Wednesday. Naturally, the snow has caused residents to cozy up indoors except for the occasional peek outside. With the pantry stocked and fleece blankets galore this blizzard has been a guilt free way to spend time just watching the snow pile up on the windowsill.

Nadine Oelschlager takes her first peek out the window on Tuesday morning.

Homemade chicken curry with crispy potatoes over rice and garnished with cilantro.

Snow accumulation on the windowsill as of Tuesday evening.

Mizzou Women's Basketball vs. Kansas

2011-01-27T00:54:00.004-06:00

Sophomore Sydney Crafton tries to grab the ball at the Mizzou vs. Kansas game Wednesday night in Mizzou Arena.

Senior RaeShara Brown dives through a group of players at the Mizzou vs. Kansas game Wednesday night in Mizzou Arena. Brown was the high scorer of the game with 22 points made in the 66-52 win.

Basketball: Mizzou vs Iowa State 87-54

2011-01-24T01:00:00.004-06:00

University of Missouri’s Ricardo Ratliffe, right, blocks a shot during the Mizzou vs Iowa State basketball game on Saturday, Jan. 22, 2011 in Mizzou Arena. The Tigers took the victory with a score of 87-54 in the blowout game.

Mid-Missouri snow mimics Minnesota

2011-01-20T19:28:00.006-06:00

Columbia was hit by the biggest snowfall I have seen since attending the University of Missouri. About eight inches of powder blanketed the city in the past 24 hours. In Minnesota, eight inches is a minor inconvenience and residents tend to have stubborn pride about not letting the snow get the best of them. In reality, if Minnesotans shut down the city every time it snowed there would be a good two months of unemployed northerners. I cannot count the number of times today I heard the words "blizzard" or "snowpocalypse."However, Missouri is hit much harder by flurries because the city is less equipped to plow and shovel.

Some tips for Missourians:

1. Anticipate getting stuck. Keep an ice scraper and extra warm clothes in the car.
2. Snow boots not rain boots
3. Packed snow is better for snowmen than powdery snow
4. Flurries are the best excuse for hot chocolate

Happy Accident

2011-01-02T16:54:00.003-06:00