Being Present for Your Pets

More often than not, we receive stories from people who write about their pets after the beloved companion has died. Although these stories are wonderful tributes, we wonder if the person might have written while their pet was still alive.  Note: Leaf (dog), Sunshine (bird), and Speedy (cat) are featured in the images in the blog.

The process of writing causes the writer to become aware and observant. It brings the past and future together in the present. Although it has been cathartic for us, too, to write about pets who are no longer with us, there is something immensely satisfying when we take the time to be present to our pets right now.

In the present moment we can express our gratitude for the joy they are bringing to our lives. When Allen wrote his New York Times bestselling memoir A Dog Named Leaf, it was emotionally fulfilling to be able to take a walk with Leaf, photograph him playing at his favorite dog park, and tuning in to who he is to us today.

There is always a tinge of sadness in writing about animals, even while they are living. We know their life spans are shorter than ours. We know this immensely good thing will someday end. But writing and sharing
stories about them, while we can still pet and play together, replaces fears of loss with admiration and gratitude for the blessings.

Let’s see what new and inspiring stories bubble to the surface as a result of living in the present and rejoicing in the blessings of now.

 

“Anatole France said, ‘Until one has loved an animal, a part of one’s soul remains unawakened.’ We agree with that statement. And we heartily invite you to join us in exploring the world of Angel Animals.”

Do your pets try to talk to you?

A Dog Named Leaf

DOG TALK

For many years, our cocker spaniel Leaf has vocalized to Linda in an attempt to talk to her every night before we all go to sleep. He jumps up on the bed, rolls over for a belly rub, and then begins with a series of moans and groans that are his version of words and sentences.

Depending on how tough or interesting a day he’s had, he talks a lot or a little; in calm or excited tones. Linda asks him a question such as, “How was your day?” Leaf answers with emotional responses.

Allen is also on the bed, watching the scene unfold. But Leaf doesn’t confide in him. He only shares his heart with his “mommy”. Allen’s role is to play with Leaf, so Linda calls him “Leaf’s favorite toy.” The dog is more than happy to have Allen scratching his ears during the debriefing session on bed at night.

One night, Linda was amused to hear Leaf talking to her in his usual manner. Except for one thing: Leaf was having the conversation in a dream. From his dog bed next to ours, Leaf babbled on with the same kinds of moans and snorts he uses while awake.

Nice to know that even in his dreams, Leaf continues to communicate in his unique ways.

A Dog Named Leaf

ANGEL CATS, ANGEL DOGS, and DOGS AND THE WOMEN WHO LOVE THEM Book Signings

We will be signing our books at the following Kowalski’s Markets Twin Cities locations on SATURDAY, AUGUST 2, 2014. We look forward to seeing.

DOGS AND THE WOMEN WHO LOVE THEM

Allen, Leaf, and Linda

Kowalski’s White Bear Lake Market, 10:00 am to Noon
4391 S. Lake Ave.
White Bear Lake, MN 55110

Kowalski’s Oak Park Heights Market & Wine Shop, 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm
5801 Neal Ave. N.
Oak Park Heights, MN 55082

Kowalski’s Grand Avenue Market, 2:30 pm to 4:00 pm
1261 Grand Ave.
St. Paul, MN 55105

BEING PRESENT TO YOUR PETS

More often than not, we receive stories from people who write about their pets after the beloved companion has died. Although these stories are wonderful tributes, we wonder if the person might have written while their pet was still alive.

The process of writing causes the writer to become aware and observant. It brings the past and future together in the present. Although it has been cathartic for us, too, to write about pets who are no longer with us, there is something immensely satisfying when we take the time to be present to our pets right now.

In the present moment we can express our gratitude for the joy they are bringing to our lives. When Allen wrote his memoir A DOG NAMED LEAF, it was emotionally fulfilling to be able to take a walk with Leaf, photograph him playing at his favorite dog park, and tuning in to who he is to us today.

There is always a tinge of sadness in writing about animals, even while they are living. We know their life spans are shorter than ours. We know this immensely good thing will someday end. But writing and sharing stories about them, while we can still pet and play together, replaces fears of loss with admiration and gratitude for the blessings.

Take a look, right NOW, at the pets in your life. What do you want to say about them? What are the touching, funny, confusing, remarkable things they do? What are the gifts they are bringing to you and your home every day?

 

Allen and Linda Anderson, Angel Animals Network

http://www.angelanimals.net, http://www.adognamedleaf.com

 

 

Have you ever had to overcome your fear of an animal?

OVERCOMING A FEAR OF DOGS

I recently did a radio interview and got to do what I love, which is to talk about my book, A DOG NAMED LEAF. I always enjoy sharing with anyone who will listen to me talk about Leaf and how we came out of challenging times as a spiritual team. Both of us became better and more loving from our experiences together.

I talked about the joy and comfort a person receives by having the unconditional love of a dog and gave examples of how Leaf’s presence made my and his life better.

On the air, the host said that she had grown up in an environment where her mother taught her to fear dogs. To this day, she would be too afraid to have a dog as a pet. She added that without knowing better, she had instilled that same fear in her son who is now 10 years old. As we chatted during the interview about the book and my experiences, the radio show host began to understand how much she and her son are missing out on, by not having a dog join their family.

I talked about how animal shelters are always looking for volunteers. Volunteering often helps people who cannot have a dog for some reason or may be concerned over the cost of adoption.

The host said that, as we talked, she had realized that it was time for her to move forward and past her deep, lifelong fears. Both she and her son were going to volunteer a couple of hours each week at their local animal shelter. They could become more accustomed to and less fearful by being around all kinds of dogs and experiencing firsthand the different characters and doggy personalities.

She added that one fine day, she might find a dog at the shelter. They would welcome the new arrival into their home with open arms.

What a satisfying interview that was for me, the host, and hopefully, for her listeners.

Have you ever had to overcome your fear of an animal?

A Dog Named Leaf (ISBN-10: 0762781654, ISBN-13: 978-0762781652), a 224-page paperback published by Lyons Press, an imprint of Globe Pequot, is available at major online book retailers, in bookstores, and at lyonspress.com. Visit the book’s Facebook page and view photos of Leaf at http://www.adognamedleaf.com or http://www.facebook.com/adognamedleaf

 

When have you asked your animal companion to go the extra mile and been rewarded with having your request filled?

SPEAKING FOR RESCUED DOGS

We enjoyed our time at the 4th Annual Dog Days of Stockholm as guest speakers. The daylong dog adoption event was well attended with many dog lovers traveling to the beautiful riverside village of Stockholm, Wisconsin. Booths with rescue groups and animal shelter volunteers and the dogs who needed homes lined the perimeter of the event.

In addition there were pet related booths, dog demonstrations, stirring speakers, and a variety of activities such as a Blessing of the Animals by a local pastor and contests: Best Dressed, Best Trick, Looks Most Like Owner, Best Dog Name, and Best Dog Hairdo.

Pat Kessler from WCCO TV in Minneapolis was the MC. He had a lot of help from his pug Shelby. Pat did an incredible job of keeping the program’s pace just right with his genuine love for dogs, great sense of humor, and spontaneity.

Our little cocker spaniel Leaf was sweet and adorable. We gave him our “be nice” talk before arriving at the event. Leaf tends to be a dog who has his own thoughts about who he wants and doesn’t want to meet. We asked him to be nice to everybody — people and dogs — and promised to make sure everyone was nice to him.

We were happy to watch him let everyone pet him without any of his editorial comment. He squealed once when someone squeezed his long floppy ears — something that must hurt a sensitive cocker spaniel. His only slip-up was backing off from a young woman dressed in a fairy costume with wings. She must have looked strangely non-human to a dog who thrives on everything being “normal.”

Leaf wagged his tail with enthusiasm, when those who had read A DOG NAMED LEAF came over to admire him. We wondered if he is becoming accustomed to his new role as a doggy celebrity. He was a real trouper all day and slept soundly for hours after we came home.

The three of us (Leaf, Linda, and Allen) spoke onstage to the crowd. Leaf stood in the middle, receiving sliced apples (his favorite treat). At one point, we all seemed to be looking at someone in the audience with our heads pointed in the same direction.

Visit http://www.angelanimals.net/nlimage108.html to view photos of the event featuring Allen, Linda, and Leaf Anderson.

When have you asked your animal companion to go the extra mile and been rewarded with having your request filled?

New Audio Book — A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life

New Audio Book — A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life
UNABRIDGED
by Allen Anderson , Linda Anderson
Narrated by Bob Malos

A big-hearted and undeniably appealing memoir about a man and his dog. After authoring fourteen successful books that tell other people’s stories about the human-animal bond, Allen Anderson is ready to tell his own story – a remarkable journey with a highly intuitive but troubled, rescued cocker spaniel who literally saved Allen’s life.

Allen, a former police officer who became with his wife Linda, an award-winning animal book author, received shocking news. Although only in his mid-fifties, he had two potentially fatal health issues – a brain aneurysm, which could rupture at any time, and a blood clot aimed at his heart. Leaf, his newly adopted canine family member, proved that at some level he understood and wanted to help with the dire situation. A Dog Named Leaf: The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life includes a strange but true example of animal cognition that leaves readers pondering, “What do dogs really know?” Leaf’s empathy went far beyond what scientists believe dogs are capable of knowing and doing.

Although the experiences described in the audiobook are harrowing at times, as Leaf and Allen each face life-threatening situations, their journey ends happily for both of them. Throughout the audiobook, humor cuts through the potential tragedies and lifts the Anderson family’s and reader’s spirits. By the end of the story, Allen and Leaf have formed a strange, wonderful, mysterious, and spiritual partnership that as one reviewer commented, “transcends the pet book genre by leaps and bounds.”

The audiobook takes readers on a dual journey of healing and trust for Allen and Leaf in three segments: The Journey of Two Souls Begins; Nightmares, Battles, and Surrender; Uncertain Outcomes: and Transformation and Healing.

©2012 Allen Anderson and Linda Anderson (P)2013 Allen Anderson and Linda Anderson

What the Critics Say

“I am convinced of Leaf’s ability to sense what Allen needed. Readers will feel as if they know Lef, and they’ll grow to love him too.” (Jeffrey Moussaieff Masson, Ph.D., New York Times bestselling author of When Elephants Weep and Dogs Never Lie about Love)

“A dramatic dual journey that explores intangibles of health and healing without attempting to explain them away. This is truly the most unusual dog book – ever.” (Dr. Marty Becker, resident veterinarian for The Dr. Oz Show and Good Morning America)

“This book is impossible to put down. Read and share it widely.” (Dr. Marc Bekoff, Ph.D, animal cognition expert and author of The Emotional Lives of Animals)

http://www.audible.com/pd/ref=sr_1_1?asin=B00CPP6V9M&qid=1368490018&sr=1-1

A DOG NAMED LEAF

“I’ve fallen in love with Leaf! I thoroughly enjoyed this story of a cute little dog’s journey from a troubled past to a loving relationship with his new master, a relationship that carried his master through the perils of brain surgery. Allen Anderson has portrayed him with humor and love. The photos scattered among the pages confirm the verbal picture of him as an adorable little pooch.

“This is a story of Leaf’s abrupt abandonment by former owners, his transition into the Anderson’s loving household, his troubled behavior, his gradual healing, Allen’s discovery of a life threatening aneurism, his profoundly human concerns in the days leading up to the dangerous surgery, and the special part Leaf played in Allen’s dreams to reassure him of the outcome.

“The book glows with love, the love of one soul for another, no matter that they occupy different body forms. It provoked laughter, sympathy, and compassion. I’m so glad I read it!” –Kenneth J. Lucas “Ken Lucas” (Chanhassen, MN USA), Amazon.com reviewer

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“I loved this book so much I had to have Allen and Linda Anderson as guests on The Real Dr. Doolittle Podcast Show With Val Heart. Allen and Linda are so passionate about their love for animals and the miracles they truly are. Their work is focused on the nature and essence of spirituality and the lessons that animals teach us. This book touched my heart and inspired me. You won’t be able to put it down!” –Val Heart (San Antonio, TX, USA), Amazon.com reviewer

“A Dog Named Leaf is an intimate accounting of a Man (Allen) facing a life threatening health issue and his Dog (Leaf) who in his own struggles of abandonment and rescue builds a bond of trust and love with his new owner. When Allen finds out he needs surgery he realizes his “friend” Leaf is there every step of the way. Allen watches Leaf re discover the world as he builds trust in his new surroundings and with his new owners. (a difficult thing to do when you’ve been cast aside by previous loved ones) The comical antics of Leaf lend humor and spiritual understanding to many everyday experiences that both Leaf and Allen are going through. This book is a very quick read because you become so involved in the true life characters. You can’t wait to see how it all turns out.” –Donna Owner, Pet Grooming by Donna, Amazon.com reviewer

“This is a beautiful book and I loved learning about the relationship between Allen and Leaf. I bought several copies to give as gifts for Christmas! Very heartwarming tale. :)” –Heather Renae, Amazon.com reviewer

“The most difficult part of writing a review about “A Dog Named Leaf” is resisting the temptation to share some of the many priceless moments to be found in this wonderful book. Allen and Leaf share a spiritual journey which takes both of them through very tough times – Leaf, an abandoned and badly disturbed but amazing puppy, and Allen, a man filled with uncertainty as he faces a health crisis which could end his earthly life. The parallel suffering and healing these two guys go through really opened my heart – and it will yours as well.” –Daniel Tardent, Amazon.com reviewer

“Allen and Linda Anderson out did themselves as they shared the intimate story of their lives with the world. The story intertwines the trust built between Allen and Leaf, a frightened dog as Allen faced potentially life-changing health issues. I couldn’t put the book down. Each page the love grows between Allen and Leaf. Thank you for sharing how Leaf overcame fear and the growing bond with Allen. Four paws up!” –Minneapolis reader (Minneapolis, MN USA), Amazon.com reviewer

“A wonderful book about the unconditional love between canine and human. I was able to vicariously experience the relationship between Leaf and his humans and felt drawn into the emotions of the frightful medical situation through the eyes of both humans and canine.” –Doggiemom7701, Amazon.com reviewer

“I know Allen and Linda. This is such a personal account of what could have been so tragic. I am so anxious to meet Leaf at a local booksigning. He is a gift from God with tender loving paws.” –Animal Lover, Amazon.com reviewer

“I love Leaf, Allen, and Linda. This book is so beautifully written. I couldn’t put it down. Allen is so brave to have shared his journey to health with us. Leaf is truly an amazing dog (Soul). I would recommend this book to anyone. I was inspired to look at all pets, including my cat Angel, with even more respect and insight into their ability to help their humans be more open to love and guidance.” –Sheila B, Amazon.com reviewer

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“I received a complimentary copy of “A dog named Leaf” from the authors. It is a compelling, engaging, mesmerizing true story. Abandoned, then dumped at an animal rescue shelter, and finally adopted by the Anderson family, Leaf overcomes his distrust, and fears, and is transformed into a survivor, faithful friend and master strategist, according to Author Allen Anderson. This book is packed with day to day, moment to moment experiences between Allen, Linda and Leaf, demonstrating the animal-human spiritual bond. The similarities between the challenges both Leaf and Allen face are astounding. Together they move on, learning, discovering, healing, and helping each other to “brush off the dust of past failures and lapses in judgment, get back up, and be in the present.” (pp205.)

The “Building of Life” dream experience and Leaf’s “ticket for Allen” solution is profound and almost beyond belief. Allen was diagnosed with an unruptured brain aneurysm and……, but wait, I am revealing too much. You can read the rest in the book. Just before I wrote this review, a breaking news item blazed across our television screen, here at home. Another dog, Duke, also adopted from an animal rescue shelter, saved the life of a baby. In her sleep, the infant had stopped breathing. It was around 3:am in the morning. Duke, awakened the parents, pouncing on their bed, barking incessantly until they followed him to the baby. Paramedics summoned to the house, were able to revived the baby. She is okay. “How did the dog know?” my husband asked in wonder. I answered, “The spiritual bond between Duke and the family who saved him. It’s like the bond between Leaf and Allen. Something about unconditional love and animal communication. The Andersons are on to something. The bond is real. It’s explained right here in this book, ‘A Dog named Leaf.” My husband is now reading my copy of the book.

Well written. Highly recommended.” –Dorothy Weiss (ORLANDO, FLORIDA United States , Amazon.com reviewer

AMAZON Reviews of A DOG NAMED LEAF by Allen Anderson

A Dog Named Leaf

“You will think I would be biased as I am one of the animal communicators mentioned in the book A Dog Named Leaf. I can tell you that I expected a nice story, but I couldn’t put the book down. The trials so honestly written by the author will touch your heart. The story of Leaf’s journey and healing will amaze you, not too heavy, there’s humor, but it’s a journey which will inspire you and touch your heart at the courage, love and experiences of the author and his wonderful dog. It’s very special.” –Marcia, Amazon.com reviewer

“It takes courage to share your story. I also think to share the deep love of a pet takes courage. The fact that Allen, being a man, shares his deepest fears and also his amazing love for Leaf makes this book truly inspiring. We’ve heard many stories of the connection between women and dogs, or children and pets, but to hear Allen share his deepest thoughts and biggest fears, as well as, his devotion and love for Leaf touched me deeply. As I read the last page of his book I wanted to weep. I wanted to weep for those that never experience a connection like Allen and Leaf have. I wanted to weep in happiness for Allen and his recovery. I wanted to weep for the courage it took for Allen to share this remarkable story that some may find hard to believe at times. But I know it is real as I’ve experienced some profound moments with my own dogs, just like Allen has with Leaf. If you’ve ever doubted animals have souls, this book will open your heart and mind to truly believing we are all connected. You will never doubt again. Your life will be enriched far beyond what you could have ever imagined and you will have author Allen Anderson to thank for it.” –Barbara Techel “Author of Frankie the Walk ‘N… (Elkhart Lake, WI), , Amazon.com reviewer

” A Dog Named Leaf truly touched my heart. Allen helps us to see that there is so much more going on in our relationships with our animal companions. I hope it will help others to be more aware of this incredible love bond between Souls and to also help us respect one another more. THANK YOU Allen! I love this book! Great for all who have dogs or anyone who has furry or feathered friends!” –Misha’s Mom, Amazon Review of A Dog Named Leaf

“I thoroughly enjoyed A Dog Named Leaf, couldn’t put it down, have given it as a gift, and highly recommend it! I was touched by how Allen and Leaf were brought together in order to help each other heal from both physical and emotional wounds. Throughout the book, Allen recognizes and shares the spiritual growth opportunities he receives through his deep love bond with Leaf. As a love relationship coach, I also enjoyed references to Allen’s relationship with his wife, Linda. Allen shows how people respond differently to crises and the value in understanding the other’s perspective.” –Lyndra H. Antonson, Amazon.com reviewer

“I loved this book. It highlights something I’ve always believed, that there is far more going on in the mind of a dog than most people think. It’s a terrific book for anyone that’s ever had a rescue dog and knows the problems and pitfalls along that path, as well as the reward that awaits when you give your heart completely to a new dog. Allen Anderson’s journey with Leaf is a wonderful story and I’m very happy that he chose to share it with us.” –Christopher Wilson (Salt Lake City, Utah United States)

“5 out of 5 stars. Transcends the pet-animal story genre by leaps and bounds. I finished this book in two sittings. It’s a page-turner. It’s about every day life in its most usual aspects — making a living and partnering your spouse. But it’s also about how the past weaves seamlessly with the future to make you whole. It’s also about life and death — enduring a life-threatening illness and having to go way beyond preconceived limits of patience and stamina.” –Barbara Buckner, Amazon.com reviewer

“This is a wonderful book that shares the personal life struggles and loving support between a dog and his family. Written with honesty, humor, introspection and warmth. I have purchased several to share with dear friends as it has touched me deeply!” –Betty Redfield (Syracuse, NY, US), Amazon.com reviewer

“It was a wonderful book. I recommend it to any animal lover, be they cat or dog. Leaf and his dad are special people.” –Nancy C. Miller (Prescott, AZ, USA), Amazon.com reviewer

“A Dog Named Leaf” touched my heart deeply. It showed how the qualities of love patience persistence surrender and trust—-were developed in 2 Souls who were in each others life. It showed how they developed a relationship of great blessings to each other. The animal/ human bond was so beautifully demonstrated—I fell in love with Leaf. I admired the journey of each–I highly recommend this book.” –Robin Houlgate, Amazon.com reviewer

“What an amazing personal story! I couldn’t put the book down. This heart opening adventure will help so many people. I learned more about how to reach the inner depths of listening to my own dog, soul to soul. I appreciated understanding more about police work from the inside out, and how to prepare for going to the hospital to deal with critical illness. I loved the part about dog groomers at the end, and the very important gift of service that they provide. My dog groomer cried when I gave her a copy of the book. I think she felt the love coming from the book! I was so inspired after reading Allen Anderson’s book, that I immediately ordered 5 more copies to give away to friends and family. A Dog Named Leaf is a must read!!!” –Maureen Dixon, Amazon.com reviewer

“Praise to the authors for so honestly sharing their personal journey with Leaf. I laughed. I cried. I pondered the deeper meaning behind the relationships with my own canine companions. More than a who rescued who story….so much more.” –Sandy , Amazon.com reviewer

Newspaper and Magazine Book Reviews — A DOG NAMED LEAF

A Dog Named Leaf

Reviews:

“Part Marley and Me and part Jon Katz… the story is endearing, and the many photographs of Leaf running, swimming, and chasing a tennis ball in south Minneapolis are adorable.” –Laurie Hertzel, “The Browser” MINNEAPOLIS STAR TRIBUNE

“A Dog Named Leaf is a beautiful story told with honesty and depth. You’ll be changed by Allen and Leaf’s journey. This book will fill you with hope.” –Peggy Frezon, Brooks Books, Peggy’s Pet Place

Allen says, “Thanks to a loving, intuitive, paper-chewing pup, I am alive and well today.” –National Examiner, as told to L.A. Justice, December 17, 2012

“Take a break from life’s drama and venture into a world of Leaf, a rescued dog who have changed a couple’s life. Find out how rewarding adopting a dog can be, regardless of how impossible he may seem to take care of at first. Get the book [A Dog Named Leaf] and be inspired.” –WHiMZ News, November 8, 2012

“I truly found a kindred spirit in Allen and Linda.  They believe, as I do, that we should always view our animal companions with respect and appreciation.  Because when you look into the eyes of an animal, what you will discover is a spiritual SOUL that is experiencing this lifetime as your dog, or cat, or horse.  For those of us who have witnessed and been forever blessed by an animal’s love, this if for you!  Enjoy.” –Val Heart & Friends, November 2012

“The author of a series of animals books has written about the healing said he experienced with the help of an emotionally scarred adopted dog.” –Sun-Sailor, November 29, 2012

“If you’ve ever doubted animals have souls, this book will open your heart and mind to truly believing we are all connected. You will never doubt again. Your life will be enriched far beyond what you could have ever imagined and you will have author Allen Anderson to thank for it. A Dog Named Leaf is a great gift idea for the dog loving friends and family in your life!” –Barbara Techel, Joyful Paws

“…The authorial voice is distinctly Allen’s. In 2006, Allen learns that he has an unruptured brain aneurysm, seven months after the family adopts a black cocker spaniel, Leaf, from a shelter. Throughout, he clearly conveys the affection that he and his dog have for each other and how that affection proved crucial to his recovery from brain surgery…” –PUBLISHER’S WEEKLY, September 24, 2012

“This touching, almost lyrical book [A Dog Named Leaf] is a very personal story bravely told by the author and his wife…  This is a lovely story that will uplift anyone who has ever loved a dog.” –Amy Shojai, About.com Guide, December 27, 2012

“…The story is about Allen and the dog’s healing process and how they helped each other.  In the Epilogue Allen writes about his and Leaf’s relationship, ‘We are two souls who entered each other’s lives when we most needed the healing power of a human-animal friendship.'” –Heidi Skarie, Blue Star Visions, November 25, 2012

“This is a story about the marvelous bond between humans and dogs as well as the healing power of love, which can truly make miracles.” –CosmoDoggyLand Dog Magazine, November 2012

“Allen gives all animal lovers a gem in ‘A Dog Named Leaf – The Hero from Heaven Who Saved My Life.'” –Wendy Garrett, Conscious Living

“Allen’s writing draws the reader into peak moments of challenge and choice in the life of both Leaf and himself, as a family. It is a rare glimpse into the deep workings of spirit through our animal human love bonds. It is one of the best examples of how we need one another to heal and that the commitment to love through all things brings forth the magic of miracles.” –Donna Strong, Awareness Magazine

“Part ‘Marley and Me’ and part Jon Katz… the story is endearing, and the many photographs of Leaf running, swimming, and chasing a tennis ball in south Minneapolis are adorable.”” — Laurie Hertzel, “The Browser” Minneapolis Star Tribune