Volume 42 Issue 4 by University Times

inside this issue:

Hand Over the Keys Details on page 7

University of Maine at Presque Isle Volume 42 Issue 4

Midnight Madness Details on page 16

Journalism for Northern Maine Visit us at utimes.umpi.edu

NOVEMBER 8, 2013

See For Yourself Stephanie Jellett STAFF WRITER

Imagine what it's like to be homeless. You don't have anywhere warm to sleep, no food to eat and you're all alone. Some of you may have witnessed this. Some of you may know a person who was or is homeless. Maybe you didn't have anywhere to go for a while yourself. Whatever the case, on Friday, Oct. 18, outside Gentile Hall, the Student Organization of Social Workers hosted an event that allowed people to live this sort of life, if only for a

few hours. Julie Devine, the chair of SOSW, explained that, every year, the club has a theme to create events around. This year's theme was “walk into my story.” The 12 Hours of Homelessness activity she and others organized did just that. It allowed participants to try out a reality that many people face daily. “The purpose of the event was to show how it feels to be cold, wet, hungry and have no belongings,” Devine said. “And to think about how the body was affected afterwards. One person

was sick from the cold.” Fifteen people came and went during the 12 hour event, but seven slept overnight. The participants had to donate one non-perishable food item or pay two dollars. All the proceeds went to the Sister Mary O'Donnell Homeless Shelter in Presque Isle. Throughout the night, starting from 7 p.m., SOSW had different activities to keep everyone busy. The first included building shelters out of cardboard boxes provided by various local businesses. Those would serve as their homes for the night. They

Chris Staples(right) and Ryan Ouellette(left) getting their shelters ready.

also took part in a scavenger hunt, where members of two teams had to compete for different resources, and watched the movie “With Honors.” “The event definitely opened my eyes as far as what homeless people go through. I was only able to stay 'til5 a.m. and experienced symptoms such as fatigue, hunger and, of course, cold,” Tim Babine, who participated in the event, said. Kayla Ames, another participant, found the experience to be positive and enlightening. “I think more people need to be aware of this, of what it truly means to be homeless. They can sympathize and help out – that's great – but even after all this, I can't truly understand what it means to struggle to survive, to have no choice in the matter and be completely alone. If more of us knew what that felt like, maybe there wouldn't be any homeless people,” Ames said. The event ended at 7 a.m. Devine said she would do it again. “Think of the big picture. That was only 12 hours....some people didn't make it the full night. Think about days, weeks, months. Think of how it would affect you a year from now.” It's not a pretty picture.

Sarah Ames laying in her shelter. Homelessness isn't something we like to think about. But it's a reality and a possibility – if not for us, then people we know, or people we might come to know. Even if we can't personally relate, we have a responsibility to our fellow humans beings. The important thing to remember is: you can make a difference. You can effect change by donating to homeless shelters, spreading awareness and trying to walk a mile in someone else's shoes – or, rather, by trying to sleep 12 hours in someone else's cardboard shelter.

The University Times Staff Editor Nicole Duplessis Assistant Editor Stephanie Jellett Staff Writers Kayla Ames Christopher Bowden Nicole Duplessis Stephanie Jellett Lisa Van Pelt Contributors Melissa Crowe Dick Harrison Linda Schott Jim Stepp

Adviser Dr. J The U Times welcomes submissions from the campus. Send digital versions of articles, photos, etc., to utimes@maine.edu and jacquelyn.lowman@umpi.edu

University Times

ampus

Hi Everyone! I hope everyone enjoyed their fall break! It sure went by fast, but that only means we are that much closer to Thanksgiving and Christmas breaks! I shouldn’t wish the time away, though. We’re now into November, and it’s quite obvious that winter is on the way. Make sure to dress warmly because getting sick at this time of year isn’t fun. Finals will creep up on us before we know it! Before then, however, make sure to register for classes for next semester. Yes, it’s that time of year again! Aside from signing up for classes and staying warm, make sure to make some time for some fun activities, too! The Forum is now open for anyone interested in ice skating. Get together with some friends and go have fun! Hockey season has also started. Going to watch the games is a great way to have fun, stay involved with campus activities and spend time with friends. I hope everyone was able to catch up on sleep with the hour change! It sure takes some time to get used to it getting dark so early! Take care, stay warm and enjoy the final weeks of classes before Thanksgiving break! - Nicole

November 8, 2013

Bonjour! How about this weather, eh? It’s gotten quite chilly over these past couple of days--so chilly that I’ve had to take out my winter coat! Let me tell you something, I’m not too thrilled about this. But that means that winter is upon us, Thanksgiving break is just around the corner and sooner rather than later, it’ll be finals week. While the air is getting colder, I’m dreamig of a warmer tomorrow. Now, I know that won’t happen for another six months or so, but I know I should make the most of my time--even if I dread the cold. Mixing things up can liven up your everyday routine, even if that means I should try something winter related. Maybe I’ll take up snowboarding or skiing (when there’s snow): who knows, I might just like it. It’s really important to keep busy, especially during the cold winter months, because it’s too easy to just stay cooped up inside. I challenge you to try something new that you’ve never done before within the next few weeks and I will too. And I’ll share my experience next issue! Can’t wait to get “out of the ordinary”! -Stephanie

Dates for Submissions to the U Times Dec. 2 Nov. 18 Any submissions received after a deadline will be published in the following issue. If you have any questions, please contact Dr. Lowman at 768-9745.

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Linda’s Letter UMPI: Quality AND Affordability

Linda Schott. In its 2014 list of Best Colleges, U.S. News & World Report recently ranked UMPI among the best regional colleges in the northern United States. The 2014 rankings list UMPI as one of the top 50 regional col-

leges in the North, as one of the top 15 public regional colleges in the North and the very best public regional college in the North for graduating students with the least debt. What do these rankings

mean? What exactly is a regional college? What states are in the “north?” And how are the rankings compiled? U.S. News & World Report defines regional colleges as those that focus on undergraduate education and that grant fewer than half of their degrees in the traditional “liberal arts” disciplines. In other words, these are colleges primarily focused on teaching students who are working to achieve a bachelor’s degree in a professional field. (At UMPI, those would be disciplines such as business, education, social work, criminal justice and athletic training.) These colleges also grant degrees in fields such as English, history, biology, psychology and art, but the majority of their graduates are not in those areas. U.S. News & World Report

divides that United States into four regions: North, South, Midwest and West. The North includes all eastern states north of Virginia: Maryland, Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Massachusetts, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. The rankings themselves are based on a wide variety of “input” and “output” factors. Input factors are those that measure what the institution or a student starts with: for example, the quality of the faculty and how well incoming students did in high school and on standardized tests such as the ACT and the SAT. Output factors are those that measure how well a college serves students once they are admitted. Do students stay at the college? Do they graduate from the college? How

much debt do students incur as a result of attending the college? In this last category—the amount of debt with which students graduate—UMPI was ranked as the very best of all public regional colleges in the North. In 2012—the year on which this ranking was based— UMPI graduates averaged $18,052 in educational debt. The only other Maine public regional college in the top 25 for least student debt was UMFK with an average of $21,911. Given all of the news stories in the national media about students graduating with $100,000 or more in educational debt, it is important to know that students do have the option of getting a quality education at a much more affordable price. Most important, they can do so here at the University of Maine at Presque Isle!

Christmas is just around the corner. Are you looking for the perfect Christmas Gift? Look no more – the UMPI Owl Relay for Life Team will be holding a Lia Sophia Jewelry Fundraiser Party for everyone (invite faculty, staff, students, friends, and family). Nancy Nichols will be on hand with the Lia Sophia Fall/Winter styles of jewelry. You will be able to purchase jewelry at the event or you can place an order if the jewelry you want is not available at the party. Nancy has stated that the order will arrive in plenty of time before Christmas. Also the UMPI Owl Relay for Life Team will be on hand to wrap your gift(s) for free!! This is just not for the ladies – gentlemen, stop by and get all your Christmas shopping done for the ladies in your life (wife/mom/daughter/sister/girlfriend) who wouldn’t expect it – What a surprise it would be!! If you need assistance, Nancy is more than willing to assist you with your selections.

The Special for November: Purchase two items at regular price and get up to four items at half price. (The most expensive item(s) at half price) There are also extra specials for the month of November. Deals you can’t pass up!! Date: Thursday, November 14th Time: 4:45-7:00 p.m. Place: Human Resource Conference Room -- Food and beverages will be provided!

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J im ’s Jou rnal M i d t e r m Warnings: What Do I Do Now?

Jim Stepp. Midterm grades were due on Friday, Oct. 25, 2013. Did you get a midterm

grade? Do you know what to do if you receive a midterm grade? Whom can you talk

Presque Isle: Caribou:

to if you got a midterm grade? Working with midterm grades is an important part of staying in college. Midterm grades are a way for your instructors to let you know that you may be having difficulties in a class. More important, they signal it is time to seek out assistance to help you do better in that class. If you want to find out if you received a midterm warning, you should sign into your MaineStreet account and go to your student center, click on grades and then click the tab for midterm grades. The first thing that usually pops into students’ head when they receive a midterm grade is “who should I talk to about

this?” The best answer to this question is–your instructors. Your instructors will best know the issues you may be having in classes. They will be able to let you know what areas you may need to focus on. They may also be able to suggest things you can do to improve your grades. The university also has a program in which a member of the advising staff or the student affairs staff will contact you and discuss ways to improve your grades. These suggestions may include talking to your instructor or adviser, working with the writing center, getting a tutor, working with your time management skills and other advice that may be specific to your needs. If you get such a

call, please try to make and keep these appointments. They will help you turn things back on track. The most important thing is to be as proactive as possible. As stated above, talk to your instructor or adviser as soon as you find out that you have received a midterm grade. Go to South Hall’s lobby and seek services through the Center for Student Success. Work with the Center for Student Success and sign up for the writing center or tutoring as quickly as possible. Do not wait. The faculty and staff of the university would like all of our students to succeed and we are all here to help you. Please ask or when offered, let us help you. Good luck with your grades.

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*FREE delivery to Campus! Sun-Thur: 10:30 a.m.- 11 p.m. Fri-Sat: 10:30 a.m.- Midnight

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Karaoke night was held on Monday, October 21 in the Owlʼs Nest. Students were given the opportunity to sing songs at random by themselves or in a group. Here, Jason Fortin and Amanda Larrabee are doing a duet. It was a fun-filled evening with great music!

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The Passion Behind Awareness Nicole Duplessis STAFF WRITER

Most of us know someone who’s battled breast cancer: it truly touches most of our lives. So every year, the UMPI community marks Breast Cancer Awareness Week. Oct. 7 marked the kickoff with Women’s Expo Night, a truly gala event. Women of all ages came together to celebrate, creating an aura of positive energy. A large group of women eagerly gathered in the lobby of Gentile Hall, getting goodie bags upon arrival. Finally, the doors to the gymnasium opened, and the women were able to

enjoy all the different vendors. There were raffles, plenty of food and even manicures and massages! “There was a really great turn out and everyone seemed interested in the different booths,” Amanda Larrabee, a second year student at UMPI, said. The entire gym was decked out with pink balloons and ribbon. Many vendors and participants sported some sort of pink in support of breast cancer. Pancsofar’s Bridal Boutique even had a model, Brittany Bearden, wearing a pink gown in honor of the event.

Ally Hafford and Katie-Anne Buckley from The Total Look Salon doing manicures.

“I felt like I gained a better sense of community. So many people who have had breast cancer, or have had family and friends who have, were all under one roof,” Larrabee said. It was a very welcoming and friendly environment. Not only was it a great way for breast cancer survivors to get involved, it was also a great way for students to do so. The evening gave everyone a sense of support and, as Larrabee said, a wonderful sense of community. Coming together in support of a cause was a perfect way to meet new people and discover new things. “It was great to see so many women come out to support breast cancer awareness. There were lots of tables set up with great door prizes and I made sure to make the rounds to see them all,” Lanette Virtanen, a staff member at UMPI, said. Events such as the Women’s Expo Night are terrific to attend. For those who were unable to do so, it’s still possible to support breast cancer awareness. You can do something as simple as wear a pink ribbon, wear a pink shirt or just know in your heart that it’s something you care about.

Together, we can fight against Breast Cancer.

Lisa Leduc, Laurie Boucher and Danielle Pelkey at the registration table.

Courtney Wetzel and Brittany Bearden from Pancsofarʼs Bridal Boutique.

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For Children of All Ages Christopher Bowden STAFF WRITER

Halloween recently passed and reminded us once again why we love it. Whether you most enjoy the candy, the parties or getting to wear a costume that shows the child inside you, Halloween seems to have it all. For some, though, it was less about getting together with friends and reliving their childhood and more about helping real kids enjoy theirs. On Thursday, Oct. 24, students in the UMPI dorms played host to a barrage of kids, all looking forward to trick or treating. Merriman and Park Hall opened their doors to a number of the little vampires, zombies and princesses looking to score some candy. The students even decorated their dorms to help

get in the Halloween spirit. The event had quite a nice turnout, with kids coming from all over the County to attend this wonderful, spooky event. Some of the students even dressed up in costumes to add to the experience. One UMPI student, Adam Begos, really got into the Halloween spirit. He dressed as a fairy princess. He enjoyed the event and, according to him, there were many sights to be seen this year. “It was nice, seeing the kids have a good time. Everyone was having fun. That’s what Halloween is all about, you know… And as for the best costume, I don’t know, that’s tough. I saw a kid dressed as the Hulk and I’m a really big superhero fan, so I really appreciate that

one,”Begos said. With that and much, much more, another Halloween wraps up at UMPI. Everyone –college-age, adults and children alike –seems to

have enjoyed themselves. This event brings together the community and the university. Kids get to have fun and see a college setting while students remember what it's like to be

that young. They put smiles on each other's faces. To put it another way: no matter your age or the costume you're wearing, Halloween is a pretty sweet time of year.

Delta Chapter Scholarship What is Delta Kappa Gamma? Delta Kappa Gamma International promotes the professional and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education. Worldwide there are over 90,000 members in 90 chapters throughout 18 countries. What is the scholarship? To promote the professional growth of prospective educators, Delta Chapter located in Central Aroostook

County is offering a $500 scholarship to a woman who is serious about pursuing her career as a teacher. The money is to be used during student teaching or for other related college expenses her senior year.

stone, Easton, Ft. Fairfield, Ashland, Washburn) Will be student teaching during the fall or spring semester of her senior year Completes the attached application and returns it by Friday, November 15, 2013

What are the eligibility requirements? Must be a woman who has achieved junior status Must have graduated from high school in Central Aroostook (Presque Isle, Caribou, Mars Hill, Lime-

How will the application be scored? The Delta Scholarship Committee will read and score each application using a scoring guide developed by the Delta Scholarship Committee.

When will the recipient be notified and receive the scholarship money? The recipient of the scholarship will be notified by Friday, December 6, 2013. The money will be mailed before January 1, 2014. An invitation to the Tuesday, March 6, 2014 meeting of the Delta Chapter at the Grant Memorial Methodist Church in Presque Isle, Maine will follow.

What if there are questions or concerns? Contact Elaine Hendrickson by email: Elaine.hendrickson@gmail.com or by telephone: 207, 764-0252. The Scholarship is posted by the Financial Aid Office and the Education Departments and is listed on the following website: http://www.umpi.edu/current-students/financialaid/scholarships

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Better Safe Than Sorry Christopher Bowden STAFF WRITER

One of the biggest problems that college students face is the mistake of driving drunk or riding with somebody who is under the influence of alcohol. We’ve all been there. A friend says they’ve only had a couple. You take them at their word or think it will be all right, so agree to ride with them. What you should remember, though, is that even buzzed driving is drunk driving,

and both have consequences. Studies show that more than three million college students, ages 18 to 24, will drive or ride with a drunk driver during a year. Of that three million, more than 110,000 get arrested for driving under the influence, and they’re the lucky ones. More students –550,000 of them –are injured due to drunk driving, and 1,825 die each year from alcohol-related motor vehicle c r a s h e s . Starting at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 22, UMPI and the Presque Isle Police Department put on a presentation about the dangers of drinking and driving. Organizers used a Nintendo Wii and beer goggles to help students and other attendees realize the effects of

alcohol. They also helped raise awareness about the price you might pay for doing so. Not all of them are monetary. There are many consequences that come from driving under the influence, including loss of license, court fines, community service and even jail time. Of course, some people do it and nothing happens, but what about the next time? There might not be a next time if you make the mistake of driving drunk or riding with someone who is. If you're driving a vehicle, you have a responsibility to your passenger as well as everyone on the road. If you're a true friend, you should speak up –not only for yourself, but so that others stay safe. Don’t become a statistic. Use a designated driver while enjoying a night out. It could be the reason you wake up t o m o r r o w .

Hand over your keys or your life. Make the right choice.

Consider Going Upcountry Melissa Crowe CONTRIBUTOR

Do you have a poem, short story, personal essay or artwork that you’d like to see published? Then Upcountry, the English department’s literary journal, could be just the outlet you’ve been looking for. The deadline for submissions is Friday, Nov.15. The journal’s advisor, Dr. Melissa Crowe, and student

editors Jessica Edney and Kayla Ames hope to include more fine work from returning and new contributors. “We were so happy with the first ‘Town & Gown’ issue that we decided to keep up that momentum. So we’re continuing to accept work from the larger UMPI and Presque Isle community,” Crowe said. Send submissions to the editors at upcountry@maine.edu.

For other specific submission instructions, please visit the journal on the Web at www.upcountryjournal.wordpress.com. To view the latest issue of Upcountry in its interactive format, visit http://upcountryjournal.wordpress.com/ and click on the “Expand” button. For more information about Upcountry, contact Crowe at upcountry@maine.edu.

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Happening on Campus?

Minnie Mouse painted by Jasmine Cote.

Taylor Thiboutot dressed up as a banana as he makes his way into the Halloween Dance. Logan McNulty as Flo the Progressive girl and Elissa McNeil as Minnie Mouse.

Participants in the Fashion Show during the Etiquette Dinner held on October 24. Mike Wazowski from Monsters Inc.

Senior class representatives at the Etiquette Dinner. From left to right: Josh MacKinnon, Brittany Lovely, Elyssa Deschaine and Tyler Cavanaugh.

A few of the pumpkins painted by UMPI students for the pumpkin painting contest.

Valerie Cormier and Nicole Cyr in costume for the Halloween Dance.

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Journey to a Dangerous Place Anderson Giles, professor at the University of Maine at Presque Isle, recently helped lead a private tour to South Korea for the College of the Ozarks, which gave Korean War veterans and students the opportunity to visit important Korean War sites, the Demilitarized Zone between North and South Korea and important cultural sites. The tour took place from Sept. 28 to Oct. 7 and included stops at several sites, including in Cheorwan Country, Yanggu, Gyengii-do, Busan, and Incheon. Giles, a professor of art at the university, is passionate about the history of World War II and the veterans who served in the Pacific/Asian Theater. He has worked for more than 20 years to preserve the history of the war in that region through film, photographs, paintings and commemorative lectures. He has traveled to many islands in the Pacific—including Iwo Jima, Tarawa, and Peleliu—and also China, Vietnam, and Korea, to document historical sites and interview veterans about their experiences in order to preserve their memories for future generations. Giles escorted the group to the Iron Triangle Battlefield, the headquarters of the North Korean and Communist Chinese armies during the Korean War. This area was the scene of major battles with high numbers of casualties on both sides. Giles’ group also visited the Pork Chop Hill area, the 980-foot hill that was the scene of battle after battle from 1951 to the signing of the armistice in July 1952. The famous movie of the same name, staring Gregory Peck, depicts only the last two battles, which were fought by troops

dug into World War I-type foxholes as their leaders were negotiating a cease-fire. The group also visited Yanggu, the scene of some of the Korean War’s most bitter battles. Still a military zone, the area has a large concentration of soldiers. Sometimes called the

each side of the border, as a buffer zone between the two countries. As one of the last relics of the Cold War, the DMZ attracts a great deal of worldwide interest. Inside the DMZ, the group had the opportunity to see the Imjingak Park, with its Korean War monuments, the

Vet Jose Mendoza (left) and Anderson Giles (right) inside a demilitarized tunnel that stretches between north and South Korea. Peace and Life Zone (PLZ), Yanggu is a place where the natural world has flourished, due to the restrictions of civilians. Many species of rare birds nest in this restricted zone today. Giles’ group visited the 4th Infiltration Tunnel dug by the North, discovered only in 1990, and the Eulji Observatory, just one kilometer from the Line of Demarcation. From here, one has a remarkable panoramic view into North Korea, enabling views of major bunkers, observation posts and miles of fortified boundary lines. From this post, you can also see the Punch Bowl area, where the Battle of Heartbreak Ridge was fought. On Oct. 5, the group made their way to Panmunjom and demilitarized zone area. During 1952-1953, South Korea and North Korea negotiated and then designated the DMZ, 2 kilometers away from the truce line on

Bridge of Freedom over the Imjin River and the DMZ Museum and Exhibition Hall. On the way to Panmunjom, the group visited the area along the Imjim River very near the site where Giles’ father was killed in action while serving with the 1st Marine Division in 1953. At the Panmunjom complex, Giles’ group was allowed into the building where the negotiation table is displayed in a room where one end is in North Korea and one in South Korea. Armed soldiers from each side face each other from opposite ends in a perpetually tense situation. They saw the abandoned village in the JSA where the 1952 Armistice Agreement was signed, and Camp Bonifas, the former UN Command post now manned by American and Korean soldiers. They then visited the “Bridge of No Return,” the point where U.S. prisoners re-

leased from North Korea returned or chose to stay. They also visited the 3rd Tunnel that was discovered Oct. 17, 1978. Approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers could move though this tunnel in one hour. The group also saw the Mt. Dora Observation Platform located near the 3rd Tunnel. From this observation platform, North Korean military personnel with loaded weapons in bunkers are visible. The city of Gaeseong and the Geumgangsan Mountains are visible in the distance also. In Gyengii-do, the group saw the site of the First Battle of Osan, which took place on July 5, 1950, and was the first engagement of U.S. troops in the Korean War. Task force Smith suffered a major defeat and had to retreat in disarray. In route to Busan, they visited the Dabudong War Memorial Museum and the Waegwan War Memorial Museum in Chilgok. Here the epic battles associated with the Pusan perimeter campaign are commemorated. In Busan, the group visited the UN Memorial Cemetery and Peace Park, established to honor the soldiers from 16 different countries who lost their lives fighting alongside South Korean troops. The impressive green park encompasses the UN Sculpture Park, the Peace Park, cemetery and Memorial Tower. On the Wall of Remembrance, Giles viewed his father’s name along with 40,895 other U.N. soldiers’ names chiseled on the granite wall. He also viewed his father’s name on the Monument of those killed in action in the expansive National War Memorial and Museum in Seoul. Another important battle site visited was Incheon, where General McArthur led the fa-

mous amphibious invasion on Sept. 15, 1950, which broke North Korea’s hold on South Korea. The group visited the Incheon Landing Operation Memorial Hall, commemorating the victorious amphibious invasion of the city. Two 1st Marine Division veterans, Jose Mendoza and David Williams, who made the landing there, gave the group compelling descriptions of the intense action. Throughout the tour, the group took in other cultural sites, including the royal Changdeok Palace, a number of Buddhist temples, the Namdaeum Market, and Gwanghwamun Square, the oldest and largest market in Korea. Giles said it was a unique experience to share his insights on the Korean War with the students on the trip. He feels many have forgotten that technically we are still at war with North Korea. A permanent peace treaty has never been ratified, and this area continues to be a hot spot on the global scene. Giles also related that seeing the area where his father was killed brought back painful memories of growing up without a father. However, seeing his Dad’s name on the Memorial Walls and how the South Korean people poured out their thanks to the veterans in Giles’ group for their sacrifices was a powerful, healing experience. The Korean War veterans on the trip were extremely gratified by this reaction. A blog about the trip can be found at http://cofokorea2013.blogspot.c om/.

For more photos see page 12

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We Are Stephanie Jellett

When someone mentions polio, do you think of an outdated disease? Do you associate it with WWII, iron lungs and old technology? If so, you’d be wrong. Polio hasn’t been a crisis in the United States for a while now, but it doesn’t belong to the past, either. People are still suffering its effects and, what’s more, it has not been completely eradicated. It remains in three countries: Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria. Though 99 percent gone, one percent remains – which means that so, too, does the possibility of its return. In 1985, Rotary International began the fight against polio. The Presque Isle Rotary Club, along with UMPI, came together on Oct. 23 and 24 in the hope of getting that much closer to eradicating polio once and for all. They collaborated to pull together fundraising events on campus and in the community, and to help raise awareness for the cause. Their kick-off event started on Wednesday, Oct. 23 in the Campus Center. Ralph McPherson, president of the PI Rotary and counselor at UMPI, welcomed everyone, as did Erin Benson, UMPI admissions director. Benson spoke on behalf of President Schott. “This is the second year we’ve held this event. We need to spread the social justice and end polio,” McPherson said. “It’s a wonderful cause.” Polio is a crippling and potentially fatal disease. In 1985, 350,000 people were affected by polio and today there are as little as 223 cases. There’s been a 99 percent reduction since 1985. “One percent doesn’t sound like a lot, but there’s still a lot left to do,” Rachel Rice, the chair of World Polio Day, said. Rice also explained the many ways to help raise funds and awareness about the cause. There were several guest speakers throughout the evening. One was Rodney Leach, whose wife, Barbara, is a polio survivor. They grew up in the County and have been married for 41 years. Leach stressed that his story wasn’t about him and his family, that it was about polio. “Barb was 13 months old when she contracted polio. She had to go through therapy, which affected her muscles and bones. Her hips never fully formed. Her right leg from the knee down has no muscle, so she had to have braces to help her walk,” Leach said. STAFF WRITER

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This Close Leach spoke about Barb and her struggles, as well as the many surgeries she’s had to have over the years. He’s extremely proud of her and doesn’t want anyone to treat her differently, or to give up on her. “It’s a lifelong disease, but it’s treatable, it’s curable,” Leach said. The other guest speakers were Brett Varnum and Joy Baresi Saucier. Varnum is the past district governor of Rotary District 7810. “Lack of funding is the largest problem to eradicate polio. We’re close, but we’re just not there yet. We’ve accomplished so much. There are less than two new cases per day now,” Varnum said. Joy Baresi Saucier, the foundation committee’s co-chair, spoke about making a difference and how everyone can help. “Please help me in the fight to eradicate polio,” Saucier said. The kick-off event helped people prepare for Thursday, Oct. 24, or World Polio Day. Groups of volunteers set up tables throughout the community. There were 12 locations in all: Star City Coffee, Northern Maine Community College, UMPI, Houlton Higher Education Center, Aroostook Centre Mall, Bradley’s Citgo, TAMC, Grave’s Shop ‘N Save, MMG Insurance, Maine Public Service Company and the Presque Isle High School. It only takes $0.60 to help protect one child from polio. This year, the event raised $1,775, which is more than last year! When people donated money, they had their pinkies painted purple to symbolize one immunization against polio, which means one child saved. “We can’t stop now and lose everything we’ve done. In 40 years, there [could] be up to 10 million cases if we don’t act now,” Rice said. We are very, very close. With a few more volunteers and a little more time, we could eradicate polio completely and never have to worry about it again. For that to happen, though, more people have to join and contribute to the fight. If you’re interested in doing so, or in finding out more about World Polio day, visit www.endpolionow.org.

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At the Punmunjom complex, Giles始 group visited the Armistice Table, which is displayed in a room where one end is in North Korea and one in South Korea. Andy Giles had the opportunity to visit the UN Memorial Cemetery and Peace Park at Busan during his recent visit to South Korea. A special part of that visit was the chance to view his father始s name on the Wall of Rememberance. There are more than 40,000 soldiers始 names chisled on the granite wall.

Giles snapped a photo of thousands of prayer ribbons placed on a barbed wire fence near Panmunjom. The ribbons were place there by South Koreans praying for unification.

Attention All Seniors! Are you planning to complete your degree requirements in May or August of 2014? If so, you need to submit an Application for Degree to the Office of Student Records by November 29, 2013. Applications can be obtained from the Office of Student Records, 235 Preble Hall or online at: http://www.umpi.edu/offices-services/studentrecords/graduation

Why Do I Need to Apply for a Degree? Completing an Application for Degree allows the following to happen: - Academic Record to be reviewed by the Office of Student Records to ensure completion of degree requirements - Degree Status Report to be forwarded to Academic Advisors for review and signatures - Information regarding Commencement, Caps, Gowns and Announcements to be mailed in late March, 2014 - Name to be included in the Commencement Program - Diploma to be ordered - Name to be included on lists of graduating seniors being considered for awards or other recognitions - Commencement list to be approved by Faculty Assembly in April

Commencement and Degrees Students who submit their Application for Degree by the November 29, 2013 deadline, and who have a completed Degree Status Report signed by their Advisor and the Director of Students Records will be allowed to participate in the May 2014 commencement ceremony. Once students have completed all degree requirements, the Office of Student Records will issue a transcript and award the degree. Students will receive a diploma that will be dated the August, December or May following the actual completion of degree requirements. Diplomas are awarded only three times per year.

Commencement Participation Policy Students lacking no more than six semester hours of credit toward completion of all degree requirements OR who have a single internship or practicum worth no more than fifteen credit hours (which are graded on a pass/fail basis) may participate in the commencement ceremony in May. Either shortfall should be completed by the following December. Students meeting this policy and planning to complete degree requirements in August 2014 or December 2014 must submit an Application for Degree by the November 29, 2013 deadline.

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! 13

Owl’s Get Clipped in Season Opener Stephanie Jellett STAFF WRITER

UMPI player Micheal Sorensen steals the puck from the opposing team.

UMPI player Stephen Thorne during a face-off.

There’s officially a chill in the air, and while some of you are already thinking about snow and Christmas, for others, it means the start of hockey season. Despite the recent cold, there was a lot of fire in the rink and among fans on Oct. 23, during the Presque Isle Gentlemen’s Hockey League season opener. UMPI played a good game against the Islanders, but it wasn’t enough, and the Islanders won 9 to 4. “We had a rough start. We definitely saw improvement in the second and third period, though. It was our first time out on the ice and with the new players. It’s definitely going to be a work in progress,” Stephen Thorne, an assistant captain, said. Thorne scored one goal, as did rookie Tom Pietroski. Josh MacKinnon scored two. The team has many returning players. Josh MacKinnon is team captain. Along with Thorne, Jordan Duffy and Tyler Cavanaugh are assistant captains. D.J. Conley, Taylor Dulmage, Michael Sorensen and Cam Morrell provide further experience. The team has many promising new faces, though, too, such as freshmen Adam Begos, Nathan Norris, Tom Pietroski, Cody Merrill, Benjamin Savoie and goal tender Dillon Kingsbury. Taylor Thiboutot coaches the team and Luke Bartlett is assistant coach. “It won’t be like the last season. We had the talent and a lot of work ethic,” Cavanaugh said. There are 15 games in the season until the playoffs. The next game will be on Nov. 13 at 8:30 p.m. and they’ll be playing the Swamp Donkeys. Make sure to head out to the forum to cheer on the Owls!

UMPI scrambles to get the puck back in their control and away from the net.

An UMPI player trying to get the puck out of their own zone.

UMPI player Jordan Duffy soars through the air and dives to stop the puck.

Unive r si t y T i m e s ! S P O RT S ! N ove m b er 8 , 2 0 1 3

Win Some, Lose Some: UMPI Fall Sports Wrap-Up Christopher Bowden STAFF WRITER

Kayla Cote (5) during the game against Fort Kent.

Shannon Brown (14) tries to block the ball.

The end of October means two things: one is that Thanksgiving will soon be upon us and the second is that fall sports have come to an end. It was a great season for both men and women, but soccer, cross country, volleyball and golf have all completed their final regular season matches. Starting with soccer, the men’s team wrapped up their season with a tough 9-0 loss to rival UMaine Fort Kent. It really has been an up and down season for the team, with injuries being one of the biggest problems. But they have also taken some positives from this year. They’re a young team with great potential. They finished with a 5-9-1 record and only hope to improve it next year. The women’s soccer team ended their regular season with a matchup against rival UMaine Fort Kent as well. They suffered a tough 7-0 loss and finished with a 5-10-1 record overall, but it’s not the end just yet. They have the Golden State Athletic Conference Championships coming up this month. Both cross country teams finished the regular season meets with strong performances at the Maine State Championships at Colby College. Once again, all runners ran strong races and can only get better from here. Volleyball players ended their rough regular season with a loss at Plymouth State. They finished with a 0-21 record and, although they had no wins, they did achieve a lot of moral and team victories during the season. The golf team finished at Colby in early October and pleasantly surprised everyone. They proved to be a strong team on and off the course. All golfers had breakthrough performances, including some people who thought they couldn’t get any better. As with all sports, some teams won, others loss. Rather than focus only on records and scores, we are better off remembering and celebrating the commitment of UMPI’s athletes, their skill and hard work, and the potential that will lead them to future victories.

Marc Reynolds (7) takes a close shot at the net.

Senior Jen Ouellette (11) during the game. The men took a victory lap around the field as UMPI scored.

Univer si t y T i m e s ! S P O RT S ! N ove m b er 8 , 2 0 1 3

More Photos From The Games!

Ryan Van Buskirk (16) kicks the ball away from his opponent. The UMPI Owls getting ready to jump serve.

The women始s soccer team huddle before the game.

Some of the students around campus got into school spirit by painting their bodies blue and yellow to support the various soccer and volleyball games on Oct. 19. From left to right: Tyler Cavanaugh, Tommy Collins, Lucas Molloy, Isaiah Straubel, Jordan Duffy, Alex Csiernik and Shane Smith.

Unive r si t y T i m e s ! S P O RT S ! N ove m b er 8 , 2 0 1 3

Midnight Madness! Becca Campbell throwing the ball back into play during the girls game.

Michael Warner dunks the ball to win the dunk competition.

The net was temporarily broken due to the dunk competition.

Michael Warner and Brandon McGill before the dunk competition.

The men getting ready to start the game.

The crowd was constantly cheering during the games.

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Free to Be Ourselves (?) Dick Harrison CONTRIBUTOR

Throughout history, humankind has struggled to treat everyone equally. Every generation seems to have its victims, the group that gets criticized and persecuted. The LGBT community is only the latest. Adults, at least, can speak up and defend themselves. But what happens when children begin to question who they are? What happens when powerful systems and figures of authority try to make them someone they’re not? At times like those, people need to stand up. That’s exactly what Dr. Wayne M. Maines did. Maines is an Air Force veteran, NRA member and hunter who writes an occasional online column for “The Huffington Post.” He found his beliefs and values tested when one of his twin boys began presenting as a transgender girl. He was also the keynote speaker at this year’s Gay Awareness Days, where he spoke passionately about his transgender child and shared his story about being the father of identical twins – a boy, Jonas, and a gender non-forming daughter named Nicole. “The Bangor Daily News” has covered the story, which began in 2007. That was when Nicole was forced to stop using the girls’ bathroom in her Orono elementary school after the grandfather of one of the students complained. Instead, she

had to use a staff bathroom. Nicole’s parents, Wayne and Kelly Maines – along with the Maine Human Rights Commission – sued the school district on

Maine Supreme Judicial Court in June 2013. “I hope they understand how important it is for students to be able to go to school and

Dr. Wayne M. Maines during his presentation. her behalf. A Superior Court judge ruled in favor of the district and against the Maineses. After that, they appealed and gave oral arguments to the

get an education, have fun, make friends and not have to worry about being bullied by students or the administration and to be accepted for who

they are. That’s the most important thing,” Nicole, now 15 years old, told “The Bangor Daily News.” Maines explained how Nicole was being told every day that she was wrong, that she was a boy when she knew she was a girl. They had a similar, initial reaction. “There were times I struggled [with the fact] that my son wanted to be a girl,” Maines said. For a while, her parents couldn’t accept Nicole as female. Dr. Maines described it as being “locked into gender stereotypes.” He was ashamed that his son wanted to be a girl, but he didn’t know why. Then, when he was only 10 years old, his son taught him a lesson. “It’s OK to be afraid,” Jonas said, “but you can’t let your fears control your mind.” With Jonas’ help, they embraced Nicole as she presented herself. “Love conquers all fears. I’ve always loved my children,” Maines said. The Maineses are still in court, fighting for not only their own children, but children everywhere. During his presentation, Dr. Maines said that people fear things they don’t understand. He emphasized that we need to break down barriers. We all have the opportunity to do this. “Have the conversation!” he said.

Rather than encourage people to use the term “tolerance,” Dr. Maines describes that as a “weasel word.” What these kids really need is acceptance. Transkids go to school every day knowing they’re going to have a bad day, which isn’t fair. He pointed out that being transgender is a medical issue, not a mental health issue. His daughter is a healthy young woman. “Bravery is telling the world – at 10 years old – ‘I’m transgender and just want to go to school and be with my girl friends,” Maines said. Due to the public nature of the court case, the Maineses now live in separate towns. Dr. Maines remains in Orono. His wife and children are in the Portland area, where Nicole and Jonas attend a supportive school. “This is not about just LGBT kids, it’s about everybody,” Maines said. During his one-hour presentation at UMPI, Dr. Maines said he never thought he would be part of a new civil rights movement. He was really just fighting for his children, his beliefs and what he sees as the betterment of society. That said, he’s speaking up for all children now, for people everywhere. Maines is doing his part to make sure we live in a world that doesn’t just tolerate, but accepts, us for who we are. We could all learn from his example.

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The Reel Deal Stephanie Jellett STAFF WRITER

‘21 & Over’ Rated R 4/5 Stars If you’re looking for a great buddy movie with a lot of laughs, then go no further. “21 & Over” will deliver that and much more. Think of this as “The Hangover” – not from the dayafter-perspective, but as what the night actually was. With the R rating, you can be sure to expect nudity and swearing, but it’s definitely a must-see. On the eve of Jeff Chang’s (Justin Chon) biggest life changing med-school interview, his two best friends, Miller (Miles Teller) and Casey (Skylar

Astin), show up to celebrate his 21st birthday. Though he insists he can’t go out, the duo convince him otherwise. After barhopping, countless drinks and other birthday shenanigans, Jeff Chang gets belligerently drunk. The two friends, though in their own drunken stupor, have to bring him back home. The trouble is, they don’t know where that is, which sends them off on a whirlwind adventure. Some people may think that this is just an over-the-top movie about drinking and partying, but honestly, it’s not as bad as one would think. Throughout the movie, there’s also subtle hints about Jeff Chang and his life, which ends up bringing the

friends closer than before. “21 & Over” is a good movie to pop into the DVD player to get some good laughs and maybe a few, “oh my gosh, I can’t believe that just happened!” moments. The characters are genuinely likable and all hilarious in their own ways. There were only a few cheap racist jokes, which was really surprising. If you find “The Hangover” hilarious, you’ll probably like “21 & Over.” There’s an abundance of jokes, ridiculous situations and just pure craziness. You’ll be sure to get some enjoyment out of it. So get some popcorn in the microwave and get ready for some R-rated fun!

i f est yl e Interested in anything in the pre-med or biology field? Join the pre-med/bio club!! Itʼs never too late to join and being a pre-med/bio major is not a requirement. Meetings: Tuesdays @ 12:30 p.m., Library first floor conference room. For further information contact Errol Ireland at errol.ireland@maine.edu We look forward to seeing you!

Univer si t y T i m e s ! L I F E S T Y L E ! N ove m b er 8 , 2 0 1 3

Comet ISON Jim Stepp

CONTRIBUTOR

There is a comet approaching the sun right now that has the potential of being one of the brightest comets in the past 100 years. It’s also possible that this comet will be destroyed as it passes the sun and end up being a huge dud. We’ll find out on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28, 2013.

will pass closer to the sun than the sun is wide. When Comet ISON passes the sun, it will pass close enough that it may be ripped apart by the sun’s gravity. Whether this will occur will depend on how big this comet actually is. If Comet ISON is larger than about 1 mile in diameter, it has a chance of surviving its close encounter with the sun. Current

the Earth and will fade quickly after that. In my next article, I will give you some tips on how to see Comet ISON. For more information, go to http://www.fallofathousandsuns.co m/comet-ison.html.

THE NIGHT SKY The International Space Station is visible as follows: Mornings–between Nov. 8 through Dec. 1. Evenings–after Dec 8. Go to www.heavensabove.com for exact times and locations. You will need to register at this site and load your location to be able to get exact times. The University of Maine at Presque Isle is located at 68d00m7.8s west longitude and 46d40m45.6s north latitude. To get a free sky chart, go to www.skymaps.com. Sun and Planet Visibility

Artyom Kislovodsk and Vitaly Nevsky, using the International Scientific Optical Network’s (ISON) 0.4-meter reflector, discovered comet ISON on Sept. 21, 2012. Comets are named after the person or satellite that discovered it. This is why this comet is called ISON: it was found on an image taken by the ISON satellite. Comet ISON is already starting to show a short tail in photographs. During the month of November, Comet ISON will move from more than130 million miles from the sun to about 724,000 miles (1,165,000 km). The 724,000 mile distance from the sun may sound like a lot, but the sun is 864,000 miles in diameter. Therefore, the comet

estimates show that ISON may be about 3 miles (4.8 kms) across. This gives the comet a reasonable chance of making it when it passes its closest point to the sun. Estimates of how bright Comet ISON will be vary. Original estimates said that the comet might be as bright as the moon. Estimates using the most current data show that the comet will be easily visible, but will be between the brightness of Venus (currently visible in the western sky) and the stars in the Big Dipper. The brightest period for the comet will be just after it passes the Sun in late November and early December. On Dec. 26, 2013, Comet ISON will pass 29.6 million miles (64.2 million kms.) from

11/10/2013 Sunrise 06:27. Sunset 16:04. Mercury 05:00-05:54. Venus 16:06-18:24. Mars 00:45-05:54. Jupiter 20:00-06:12. Saturn Not visible.

11/20/2013 Sunrise 06/41. Sunset 15:53. Mercury 05:00-06:30. Venus 15:54-18:30. Mars 00:42-06:06. Jupiter 19:24-06:30. Saturn 05:42-06:06.

11/01 04:00 Venus at greatest elongation 47.1 deg. east. Visible in the evening sky. 11/01 16:18 Mercury at inferior conjunction–between the Earth and the sun. 11/03 02:00 Daylight Saving Time ends. Turn your clocks back 1 hour. 11/03 01:51 Mercury 0.0 degrees from Moon. 11/03 07:48 Hybrid solar eclipse visible at sunrise. Do not look at the sun directly–you must use special equipment to see this. 11/03 07:50 New moon. 11/03 12:32 Conjunction in angular separation. Sa turn 1.5 degrees from moon. 11/06 04:14 Moon at perigee-closest to the Earth–365,300 km or 227,000 miles. 11/06 07:00 Saturn in conjunction with the sun–opposite side of the sun as the Earth. 11/06 17:42 Venus 8.0 degrees from moon.

19 11/07 19:19 Mercury at perihelion–Closest to the sun—45.9 million km or 28.5 million m i l e s . 11/10 00:58 First Quarter moon. 11/15 10:00 Mercury at half phase. 11/16 05:00 Leonid Meteor Shower–7 meteors per hour. 11/17 05:00 Leonid Meteor Shower–11 meteors per hour. 11/17 10:16 Full Moon. 11/17 11:00 Leonid Meteor Shower Maximum. 11/17 21:28 Mercury at greatest elongation 19.5 deg. west. Visible in the morning sky. 11/18 05:00 Leonid Meteor Shower–9 meteors per hour. 11/21 22:30 Jupiter 5.5 degrees from moon. 11/22 04:43 Moon at apogee– farthest from the Earth–405,400 km or 251,900 miles. 11/25 14:28 Last Quarter moon. 11/25 20:54 Mercury 0.3 degrees from Saturn. 11/27 05:12 Mars 5.9 degrees from Moon. 11/28 13:24 Comet ISON passes 1.1 million miles from the center of the sun–may not survive. 12/01 05:36 Saturn 2.4 degrees from moon. 12/01 06:42 Mercury 5.3 degrees from moon. 12/02 19:23 New Moon.

Have a great Break!