Plattsburgh's Relay for Life

For about a month now, I have been raising money for SUNY Plattsburgh's Relay for Life event. This is the first year I have participated in this event, and it has been an extremely rewarding experience.

The money raised will go to the American Cancer Society, an organization that is close to my heart, considering many of my family members have been affected by cancer. My aunt passed away at an early age in 2012 because of breast cancer. Since then, cancer-fighting efforts have been important in my life.

The efforts of my friends, family and coworkers to donate toward my cause has not only touched me, but also surprised me. It's heartwarming seeing a group of people come together to achieve a common goal.

So far, I have raised $345 of my $500 goal. Initially, I had tried to reach $100 but decided to up the ante. If you are interested in learning more about this event or would like to donate, you can visit Relay for Life.

Are You Experienced?

I took a walk to the liquor store over on South Catherine Street in search of something new. What I found was a unique and delicious-tasting wine called Deep Purple.

What attracted me to this wine was the label, created by cartoonist Bob Johnson.

"It is a tribute to a time when a group of ruggedly independent wine pioneers decided to get in touch with their inner deep purple," their website reads.

I love the '60s, so the wine reminded me of a Jimi Hendrix-looking album cover. And considering their logo is "Are you experienced?", that is probably what the company was going for.

Next time you're at the liquor store, give this a try. You won't be disappointed.

Fighting the Greek Life Stigma

This week, I wrote an article for Cardinal Points about the media's negative attention to Greek life. With several national headlines surfacing, including the Oklahoma University chapter of SAE's racist chant, it's difficult to pride yourself as a fraternity man — most people will call you a "frat boy."

But we're much more than that. We try our hardest to better ourselves and the world around us by taking part in community service and philanthropic activities. I didn't join Alpha Sigma Phi to drink and get high; I joined to make a difference in my community.

After a semester of being a member of this brotherhood, I have grown in many ways: I'm more confident in myself, responsible for my actions and have formed many new friendships. It's a decision I will never regret making.

Read my column here.

Mentos Man

This week on the Internet, a man stuck a bunch of Mentos mints on his body and jumped into a bathtub full of gallons of soda. Why would he do this? Your guess is as good as mine. But I suppose it's all in the name of science, right? Check the video out and see what happens:

Llama Drama

This past Thursday sure was a slow news day. But in Sun City, Arizona, llamas made up for that by running loose all around town as wranglers tried lassoing them to no prevail. As soon as they tried getting closer to these farm animals, they just kept running off in the middle of traffic. They sure gave police officers one hell of a cardio workout. Check out the video: