University Times
DECEMBER 11, 2009 Volume 38 Issue 7
The University When I started at the University Times I didnʼt expect to end Times Staff where I am. During that first semester, getting to the end of an David Hamilton Editor Lanette Virtanen Assistant Editor Landon York Assistant Editor Sarah Graettinger Assistant Editor Staff Writers Callie Foster Bhava Albert Kayla Ames Robert Butcher Lauren Camargo Long Cao Stephanie Corriveau Cassandra Gildert Bert Goldman Sarah Graettinger Laura Hunter Stephanie Jellett Marie Mazerolle Leah McEachern Kaitlyn McLaughlin Mika Ouellette Pamela Perkins Ben Pinette Jennifer Sappier Daniel Smiley Lanette Virtanen Landon York Contributors Jonathan David Clark Christine Corsello Dick Harrison Justin Howe Bob Pinette Amber Reed Sarah Sjoberg Jessica Stepp Jim Stepp Curtis Thompson Courtney Turner Adam Wilcox Don Zillman
issue was the only goal and a 12 page newspaper was a monumental task. It still amazes me how far weʼve come in the past year and a half. It is now when I get ready to leave UMPI and the U Times that I can finally, fully appreciate what the people who have crossed the threshold of Normal 102 have accomplished. They dared to believe in something bigger than themselves. It has been a privilege and an honor to work with so many people who embraced the challenges of never-ending deadlines. I am eternally grateful for the opportunities that have been afforded to me, not just the U Times, but at UMPI in general. I look forward to seeing what the staff turns out in the future. With the union of the paper and WUPI, the possibilities are truly endless. Take it easy, Dave The end of the semester is upon us. Some people are leaving, and some people will be joining us. Dave Hamilton is one of the people leaving us. He will be around, but there is a changing of the guard. Lanette, Sarah and I will be taking the reins of the newspaper. Dave has left us in a good spot, and we hope to keep things going well. Next semester will be one of new beginnings, we hope you join us. It should be fun, Landon York
Hi my nane is Sarah Graettinger and I will be one of the assistant editors for the newspaper now. I’m really excited to get news out to UMPI and have a lot of fun doing it. I’ve Adviser been with the paper two years now, and will continue to get the news out there. You never Dr. J The University Times, a non- know what you can do unless you try. profit student publication, is Sarah Graettinger printed at Northeast Publishing Company in Presque Isle, Maine. Articles and photographic ideas for submission may be left at the University Times office Normal Hall, Rm. 102 at UMPI, 181 Main St., Presque Isle, ME 04769. Advertising rates are available upon request. The newspaper takes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. All rights reserved.
Hi, my name is Lanette. I’m new to the newspaper here on campus. While I was interested in taking pictures for the paper, I’ve found that doing the layout for the paper has become has become my favorite part of working with it. I’m looking forward to working with the newspaper team. I’d like to take this time to thank Dave for showing me the ropes before he leaves. Lanette Virtanen
University Times
Campus
December 11, 2009
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From Don’s Desk Happy Holidays and Good Prospects for 2010
The Op-Ed page of the weekend Bangor Daily News featured a column by representatives of the University of Maine (Orono) Faculty Senate entitled: “Cuts would devastate UMaine academics.” The sobering article talked of a $25 million reduction in the academic budget at the Orono campus. It noted “200 to 230 faculty positions will potentially be cut.” The column continued to anticipate a loss of programs and majors, larger class sizes, and “fewer opportunities for students to work with faculty.” The overall impact would be “damaging effects lasting for decades.” Wow! I’m a decade removed from working closely with the University of Maine academic budget. But, I have high regard for the column authors and the UMaine officials. The Op-Ed is certainly indicative of the times. Nevertheless, as former Speaker of the House Tip O’Neill was fond of saying, “All politics is local.” What does this mean for the University of Maine at Presque Isle? My first reaction was that compared to UMaine, we’re doing just fine.
I would certainly urge any present or prospective UMaine students who believe that the column accurately predicts their future to transfer immediately to Presque Isle. We do have budget concerns to face. More on that shortly. But I don’t foresee a loss of essential programs, an expansion of class size or the reduction of student opportunities to work with faculty. We’re making some tough decisions on programs, but we’re able to build strong programs and we’re making faculty-student collaborations ever more a part of the UMPI experience. What do we face at UMPI and what are we doing about it? Since early fall, we have been reviewing majors and programs that are under-enrolled. We do this in response both to System demands to assess low performing programs and also to our budget necessities. That process has involved a close look at four programs. We have met with the program faculty, reviewed their submissions of future growth and community need, considered thoughtful comments from faculty leadership and community members. Within a week, we will decide
which programs will be recommended to the System for suspension or termination. A part of that very detailed request will address how students already in the program will be allowed to finish their degrees and what provisions will be made for the faculty who are central to the program. A similar, though not identical, review will examine nonacademic parts of campus. The single most important factor in these reviews will be: how essential is this for the education of our students? This has been a deliberate process for many reasons. First, much of the campus budget is controlled by legal contracts governing employment or other matters. Some of these require increases in spending even though the revenue isn’t there to support them easily. The president and staff are not free to simply say: What is the 2 percent or 5 percent of the budget that we could most easily do without and eliminate that. With the ample advice of both System and campus human resources experts and legal counselors we are being faithful to contract provisions.
Second, we continue to determine how much of a badly reduced state tax (income, sales, excise, etc.) base will be coming to the University System and then to UMPI. We have gotten some greater clarity in recent weeks. Some of the news is better than feared. Some of it is yet to be made final. But, overall, we continue to face the worst state support picture in three decades. Third, we continue to assess our other major source of revenue—student tuition. We don’t know exact second semester enrollment numbers yet. We don’t know fall semester 2010 enrollment numbers. We have a number of exciting initiatives for new programs. But until they turn into backpacks on the classroom chairs, we speculate. Fourth, personnel expenses (faculty, administration and staff salaries and benefits) cannot be stopped immediately after a decision to close a program. In some circumstances, the university would face an 18 month buy-out period for a long-term employee. We need to plan now for what our budget will be in July 2011. All of that said, however, our
situation isn’t close to resembling the Orono horror scenario. Any loss of programs will focus on programs that are not attracting students. That may have nothing to do with the quality of the faculty or staff or the programs. Students of 2010 simply aren’t choosing them in any numbers. We hope to complete all our budgetary review work by early next year, well ahead of the schedule for UMaine or the University of Southern Maine. We do this so that we can then move ahead to strengthening the programs that are doing well or that can do better. We also want all faculty and staff to know where they stand as soon as feasible. We all could wish to go back to the economics of 2007. That seems unlikely to happen for some time. We must adjust to that and think aggressively about strategic growth initiatives. We are in a good position for that. We need all of your help with that. I’ll ask for your good advice and keep you posted as matters develop. Good exams and Happy Holidays. See you in January. Don
Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season -From the Student Media Staff See You Next Semester!
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University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
Chrisʼ Corner
The Perfect Heart
One day, a young man was standing in the middle of the town proclaiming that he had the most beautiful heart in the whole valley. A large crowd gathered and they all admired his heart for it was perfect. There was not a mark or a flaw in it. Yes, they all agreed it truly was the most beautiful heart they had ever seen. The young man was very proud and boasted more loudly about his beautiful heart. Suddenly, an old man appeared at the front of the crowd and said, “Why your heart is not nearly as beautiful as mine.” The crowd and the young man looked at the old man’s heart. It was beating strongly, but it was full of scars. It had places where pieces had been removed and other pieces put in, but they didn’t fit quite right and there
were several jagged edges. In fact, in some places there were deep gouges where whole pieces were missing. The people stared. How can he say his heart is more beautiful, they thought? The young man looked at the old man’s heart and saw its state and laughed. “You must be joking,” he said. “Compare your heart with mine. Mine is perfect and yours is a mess of scars and gouges.” “Yes,” said the old man. “Yours is perfect looking, but I would never trade with you. You see, every scar represents a person to whom I have given my love. I tear out a piece of my heart and give it to them. And often they give me a piece of their
heart, which fits into the empty place in my heart. But because the pieces aren’t exact, I have some rough edges, which I cherish, because they remind me of the love we shared. Sometimes I have given pieces of my
Long Cao
“It’s usually a tradition to make apple pies with my family. But I couldn’t this year because I was here in Presque Isle,” Elgee said. So they decided to recreate the experience right here on campus. To Eglee’s surprise, her family came all the way from Fredricton to come help her make the pies. They met at 8 a.m. on the Sunday before Thanksgiving in the faculty lounge in Normal Hall to make the pies. There were people from SOSW, Elgee’s Family and others from the community who came together that day to make it work. “I guess this is how a group or organization should work: a group at its peak. This shows how everyone can just pull together and make it work,”
Elgee said. A lot of people who showed up to help didn’t know how to do it. They had never made apples pies from scratch. So Elgee’s family being there was a real blessing. They showed everyone what to do and they got to work. They stopped making pies around 3 p.m. By this time they had made around 160 pies. The only thing left was to deliver the pies to everyone whom had ordered one. “To me this was a shared experience. For Becky’s family to share their apple pie making skill for student activities is what UMPI is all about,” Professor Shirley Rush, SOSW advisor said. The apples pies were more than a way to make money.
heart away, and the other people haven’t returned pieces of their hearts to me. These are the empty gouges - giving love is taking a chance. Although these gouges are painful, they stay open, reminding me of the love I have for these people, too. And I hope someday they may return and fill the space I have waiting. So now do you see what true beauty is?” The young man stood silently with tears running down his cheeks. He walked up to the old man, reached into his perfect young and beautiful heart, and ripped a
piece out. He offered it to the old man with trembling hands. The old man took his offering, placed it in his heart and then took a piece from his old scarred, heart and placed it in the wound in the young man’s heart. It fit, but not perfectly, as there were some jagged edges. The young man looked at his heart, not perfect anymore but more beautiful than ever, since love from the old man’s heart flowed into his. They embraced and walked away side by side. During this holiday season, I hope you take time to cherish and celebrate your faith, your family and your friends. Find the beauty in others and life and make sure to share your love, because it would be sad to go through life with a whole untouched heart. Have a great holiday season!
Making them really showed the spirit of our community: coming together and doing something good for the community while having fun at it. The apple pies were not the only
blessing this Thanksgiving to think about. There were also the people who made them. Thank you to everyone who came together to make it possible.
A Little Slice of Happiness
STAFF WRITER
Thanksgiving is a time when we can all celebrate those things that we’ve been blessed with: whether it’s the family we’re surrounded with or the many blessings in our everyday lives. This year the Student Organization of Social Work, SOSW, was looking for a fundraiser to go on a trip to New York next year in February. Members couldn’t come up with any idea until Becky Elgee, co-chair of SOSW, come up with the idea to make and sell inexpensive apple pies for Thanksgiving. Elgee came up with the idea from her family who are in Fredricton, Canada, where she is from.
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University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
Festive Feast for All!
Be On the Lookout!
Kayla Ames STAFF WRITER
Photos by Lanette Virtanen Kayla Ames STAFF WRITER
The Thanksgiving meal in the cafeteria on Nov. 19 started like many other meals. Students waited, a majority of them impatient, outside the doors. It started at 5 p.m. As with countless meals before, silverware and plates were ready for use. The change came directly after, when dishes and utensils gave way to a variety of Thanksgiving-themed food. Silver dishes lined a long table bearing a white tablecloth. They held green beans with almonds, spiced carrots, pumpkin squash with miniature
Sheryl and Paul getting ready for dinner.
marshmallows, stuffing, gravy. Turkey was, of course, served, while lamb was kept and cut up under a red light. White as well as wheat rolls were offered. There was a platter covered in crackers, cheese and fruit. Deserts included pumpkin pie, apple crisp, an ice cream bar and banana foster. There was regular food for those who chose not to partake or, who had already celebrated Thanksgiving. Decorations were as festive and themed as the food. The table was covered in pumpkins and tall white candles encircled by small swags.
Clusters of balloons were tied to random chairs. Participants gathered with friends, as usual. Some brought family members. They talked and laughed as they would at a regular meal, but somehow conversation seemed more lighthearted. In the background, kitchen workers moved in a coordinated fashion. They promptly replaced dishes and kept food hot. Nov. 24 the cafeteria dinner proved just exactly how much we have to be thankful for. Food and smiles alike were abundant. Those who were unable to return home for Thanksgiving had the chance to feast and spend time with people they cared about. Others simply enjoyed an ordinary meal. Staff, cooks and helpers went far beyond what was expected of them. On the holiday meant for giving thanks, perhaps they are among the many who deserve our utmost appreciation.
Jesse James Lee Clark, president of the geo-eco club, was hard at work Friday afternoon putting cloves in oranges. Other members were gluing bark wings to pine cones in order to make nature-based owls. They are only some of the crafts that will soon be on sale as part of an attempt to raise money. The club, interested in geology, ecology and other sciences related to the environment, has been laying low since the semester began. Aside from an autumn fieldtrip to the wildlife refuge next to Loring Air Force Base, the geology-ecology club has focused primarily on meetings and fundraising efforts. Lately, members have been thinking up ways to raise the funds. Ideas so far include selling natural crafts, offering gift wrapping services and auctioning bags stuffed with assorted goodies. The crafts should be on sale during December into January or February. Other fundraisers
will take place during or after this time. Be on the lookout! Also be on the lookout for donation cans spread throughout the campus buildings. Students, staff or faculty who wish donate, but are unsure of where to find the cans, can contact the club president at jesse.clark@maine.edu. There’ll also be a potluck dinner and gathering of science and art affiliates Dec. 11 on the third floor of Folsom. So, looking for Christmas presents? Want UMPI-themed or environmentally friendly decorations? Prefer to have someone else wrap your gifts for you? In the mood to party?! Or maybe you just want to donate money to a worthy cause? If so, keep your eyes open for geo-eco events, notifications and cans. In the meantime, Club members appreciate your interest, support and generosity. For more information on any of anything mentioned above, feel free to ask a geoecology club member. Questions are always welcome, as are new members.
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University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
WUPI on the Move Landon York STAFF WRITER
UMPI’s radio station- WUPI 92.1- is moving. The target date for the beginning of the move will be Dec. 14. The destination is Normal Hall, room 109. WUPI is moving for a number of reasons. The hope is that being in Normal Hall will help make the station more of a resource and asset for the students at UMPI. It’s also hoped that the station will become a more viable option for the community as a whole. David Hamilton, WUPI’s current station manager, is helping oversee the move. “I just hope its better. It’s had ups and downs. I hope it stays on the up and gets more diverse programming and gets more people involved,” Hamilton said, WUPI is always willing to accept new members and is open to show ideas. If you want to have a show of your own or have ideas for programming of any kind, contact the station at wupi@maine.edu or the adviser of the club, Jacqui Lowman, at jacquelyn.lowman@umpi.edu. As a member of WUPI, you are just that: a member of a team. And as part of the staff, there are some expectations. Although WUPI is a campus station, it still has to adhere to federal, state and industry guidelines. You’re strongly encouraged to attend the staff meetings that’ll help you stay on track. Ben Pinette will be stepping into the position of station manager when Hamilton graduates this semester. Pinette hopes to keep WUPI on the rise. “I want to make it so students will listen. We encourage a lot of feedback. And we want to bring it to the community as a whole,” Pinette said. So keep an eye out for WUPI staffers and if you have any questions just ask them. They’d be glad to have you on board!
UMPI Bachelor of Applied Science Program Presents Valuable Opportunity Cassie Gilbert STAFF WRITER
Most students who attend UMPI probably know a few things about the types of bachelor’s degrees the university offers. Degrees in subjects such as education, art or math are quite common among students. But what exactly is a Bachelor of Applied Science? Did you know that UMPI offers such a degree? If you didn’t, you’re not alone. Even though this program can be useful to many people, few students have taken advantage of this opportunity in the past. UMPI wants to change that and make students more aware about the possibilities of the program. Kim-Anne Perkins is the chair of the Center for University Programs and is working to make the Bachelor of Applied Science more wellknown among students—and prospective students. She also wants to update information that’s currently available about the program. She’s speaking with students about it as well, and wants to help potential students who are interested in this degree. Perkins is the first person students should see if they have an interest in the program. “I always serve as the primary adviser,” Perkins said. Perkins sometimes partners with other advisers in a specific minor based on what the particular student is looking for. The Bachelor of Applied Science program gives students a way to earn a bachelor’s degree in two years. But students can choose to take longer to complete the program. Students must already have an associate degree from a two year institution, such as NMCC. Then at UMPI, they can choose an area of interest from more than 25 minors offered here. Perkins said the
first step is doing a transcript analysis. “They determine what classes you have left to take to complete the general education part of your degree,” Perkins said. “Then a lot of people, when they come in, see a list of classes. But they’re not sure which comes first, which comes second. So we help people kind of map that all out.” There are many types of people who may be interested in this degree. The program can be designed to work for them personally. For example, students might already be educated in a certain trade. At UMPI, they can minor is business and gain the skills necessary to run their own business. People might currently have jobs, but not having a bachelor’s degree is preventing them from moving up to a higher position. They can come to UMPI and earn the degree necessary to qualify them for a better job with higher income. This program can be customized for the individual. To make students more aware of this degree, Perkins has recruited the help of some students. For the past few weeks, Dr. Jacqui Lowman’s English 215 Business Communication class has been trying to come up with ideas to help Perkins market the program. They have created brochures, fliers and other materials to help give Perkins some ideas on how to make information about the program available to other students. Tonya Corriveau is a student in this class. “I created a brochure to help give KimAnne some ideas. I used lots of short sentences to make it short and sweet, something that would capture people’s attention,” Corriveau said. Perkins is also talking to students at various events to educate them on the program and
it’s potential. “We make arrangements for me to meet with people when they come on campus and talk about the Applied Science degree and look at that as an option,” Perkins said. Perkins said she is working closely with the admissions office and places such as the career center and adult education to spread the word about the Bachelor of Applied Science program. “We’ve also made sure that we’re going down to the Houlton Higher Education Center to talk to the folks down there. The Houlton area has had the highest percentage of people laid off,” Perkins said. Perkins said many people who might be interested in this degree are people who have lost their jobs due to the current state of the economy. These people might sometimes feel as if they wasted their time getting an associate degree. But the Bachelor of Applied Science program gives these people a way to create new opportunities. The classes students have
already taken will most likely transfer to UMPI, so they don’t have to start all over. Credits they’ve already earned can be used toward a higher degree. “I think it’s comforting to realize that you can take everything you did and have it be worth at least two years of education, if not more, when you come back to college,” Perkins said. The Bachelor of Applied Science program at UMPI is an option that could benefit many different types of students. Perkins plans to continue working toward informing students about the many possibilities of the program. This program gives people more options. Even if their current career is going down-hill, Perkins said they can turn it around. In a very short time the program can provide new career opportunities—and even new careers. With the Bachelor of Applied Science program, students create opportunities for themselves that can improve their lives.
University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
World-renowned composer Sam Hazo comes to UMPI
BenPinette
STAFF WRITER
Despite snowy weather of Monday, Nov. 30, a number of people flocked UMPI to welcome world-renowned composer Samuel Hazo. Hazo had a packed day, giving a lecture that morning, a concert that evening and visiting area schools in between. He shared insights into music and education during his talk. Throughout the presentation, Hazo remarked on how the No Child Left Behind Act cut music programs from being an active part in our schools. “The world needs music, and
it starts in the schools. Sure, music will still be around in 20 to30 years for these kids. But for some it may not be. The NCLB cut our art programs, and gave us a false representation of what should be taught in our schools,” Hazo said. Hazo also said that students who study or play music often have higher GPAs in high school and score much higher on standardized tests such as the SATs. Hazo also said that just 15 minutes of listening to Mozart can dramatically improve any IQ test. “The arts are what make peo-
Winter Concert with Sam Hazo
ple whole. They bridge the difference between music and words.” Hazo credited his early passion for music to be where he is today. “Everything in our formation is musically based. If I hadn’t had music in my school, I wouldn’t be here today, for sure. The world needs music. It starts in the schools,” said Hazo. For more information, you can contact Sam Hazo directly at samuelhazo@earthlink.net. Or visit his Web site at http://www.samuelrhazo.com/ contact.html.
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Extreme Band Makeover Bert Goldman Staff Writer The UMPI/Community Band’s concert on Nov. 30 was amazing. UMPI and private donors helped bring composer Samuel Hazo to give some lectures and to work with the musicians. That night, at 7 p.m., the band performed a concert filled to the brim with Hazo’s compositions. Kevin Kinsey, director of the band, came onto the stage after the musicians had gathered. The musicians had been practicing on their own. It was a hullabaloo of sound. But after Kinsey came out, the band warmed up together. That was when the audience knew something wonderful was coming. From the low buzz of the tuba to the spritely piccolo, everything was in sync. Many of Hazo’s composit i o n s w e r e c o m m i s sioned for spec i f i c events, from anniversaries to a memorial for the shooting at Virginia Tech. Before the band played each, Hazo told the audience the background. “I could have done without the long introductions. I don’t know any of the people he’s talking about,” Virginia Fischer, UMPI librarian said. An UMPI student,
Bourgeois, had Mathieu another idea. “Knowing something about it (the composition) makes you understand it better,” Bourgeois said. One thing everyone seemed to agree on was how great it was to work with Hazo. “Having Hazo here has been everything we could have hoped for,” Kinsey, the band director, said. Dean Corsello, who was instrumental in bringing Hazo here, had similar things to say. “It surpassed my expectations. He was engaging, informative and educational. He helped people understand where he was coming from,” Corsello said. Hazo co-directed the performance that night. When asked about the program, Hazo said, “The pieces are snapshots of emotions.” And that’s what Hazo said music is about. He gave two workshops on UMPI campus, one of which was for local high school students. “Whether I’m working with professional musicians or middle school students, we all get to transmit our emotions through music,” Hazo said. From the beautiful dissonance in the music, Hazo gave us a way to feel the great and difficult things that happen in life. And the band expressed these emotions skillfully. Corsello said, “The band played complicated pieces extraordinarily.” UMPI thanks Samuel Hazo and Kevin Kinsey’s remarkable band of musicians.
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University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
Pam Perkins STAFF WRITER
“Go where fashion sits”
Though it certainly wasn’t the service you would get at the Ritz, it was the next best thing as the senior class, alumni association and career services hosted the 10th annual Professional Reception, Dinner and Fashion Show. The event started out with light hors d’oeuvres, with jazzy music playing softly, as students were able to mingle with one another, along with meeting some professors. Next they were ushered into the Campus Center to partake in the main part of the event, which was a five course meal. As Bonnie DeVaney, UMPI’s director of career services, greeted the audience, she said she was delighted and pleased to see students relaxing and enjoying a formal dinner. Students not only got the chance to ask questions about “Is this proper etiquette?” or “What do I do when?” but students also were able to learn which utensil to use for which course. DeVaney felt that this event was a fun and entertaining way for students to learn techniques that could help them get better jobs in their futures. Seating was limited and mostly filled by students. Nicole Cote, an UMPI alum, said, “It’s nice to see you (students) wanting to better yourself in
Sarah Graettinger STAFF WRITER
your careers.” That was one of the focal points for the event. One thing that students learned was that it’s not proper etiquette to sit down at a table before your host does or tells you it’s ok. They learned that the napkin is their best friend. And they learned that you should always have one hand free, usually the right one, for handshakes when meeting and greeting new people.
As the meal went on, students were able to share in the embarrassing stories faculty and staff members had with their etiquette dinners. For starters, Keith Madore, one of the etiquette speakers for the event, learned the hard way. After placing the fancy flower from the plate in his mouth, whole, he learned that it wasn’t white chocolate, but instead was butter. Sharon Rox, the other etiquette speaker, learned that women should be aware of what they wear and to take small bits of food after she had a sorbet accident. Bonnie DeVaney learned that cherry tomatoes may fly across her plate to another person’s plate. To end the event, members of the senior class put on a fashion show to let other students in attendance know what would be acceptable to wear for a job interview or on the job itself. Some Other Etiquette Rules (for side bar)
- If you donʼt know which utensil to use, start from the outside and work your way in. -Coffee is an after diner drink. Not Before.
-Once you use a utensil, it doesnʼt go back on the tablecloth. Put it on your plate. -When you are done, turn the utensil over in the plate. This lets the server know that you are done. -For eating soup, make sure you ladle it away from yourself. This will help lower the chances for the contents spilling on you. Plus donʼt slurp the soup. -Make sure you taste the food before you put salt or pepper on it. It is seen as being rude and insulting to the chef if you donʼt at least taste the food first -Ladies-when on an interview, keep your jewelry minimized and simple. You donʼt want your jewelry to take away from you. -If you have tattoos, make sure they are covered up on your interviews.
Coordinator of Friendship
Every time you go in the campus center, you pass by an office that deals with coordinating conferences and events for the public. Mary Lawrence is in charge of making sure that everything gets done for the visitors who come to UMPI. She’s coordinator of conferences and special programs. Lawrence makes sure that everything necessary for a successful event gets done. Her office takes care of the schedul-
ing and contracts people have to do before they come to UMPI. “We have to make sure that the building is available when you want it. We have to make sure that the space is available when you want it. We have to make sure that all of the finances are in place too,” Lawrence said. Mary Lawrence has been with UMPI sense 1992. She’s had different jobs at UMPI,
including library clerk and adviser. She helps many students who walk through the doors. “One of my favorite things is, I get to make connections. I meet many different people from off campus groups, to community members, soccer camps and the distinguished lecturers,” Lawrence said. Lawrence helps many students through advising the group Campus Crusades for
Christ. For three years, she and her husband Dean have helped the group. “We keep in touch with the leadership team and give them advice. We give them the tools that they need to run the organization,” Lawrence said. Things wouldn’t run so smoothly on campus without her. So, Mary, thanks for everything that you do, from the planning to organization and advising.
University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
Lauren Camargo STAFF WRITER
Do you want to get away this summer? If you do, this is your perfect opportunity. This is a chance to experience the beauty and wonders of another country. Experience another culture and broaden your horizons! What do you gain from travel? “Get the chance to experience another culture. And look back more objectively on where you are. You get a chance to think about yourself and the future a little more. You gather cultural material to bring back into your own life. And everything is 100 percent new, every moment and every day,” Cliff
When in Rome....
Boudman, who teaches art here at UMPI, said. Boudman has organized an Italian Dream Tour that will take place May 27 through June 6 2010. This will be his 37th annual fine art trip to Italy! Anyone is welcome to go, including students and people of the community. There’s a wide variety of people planning to go already. They’ll be flying first to Boston, then London—and from there off to Rome. If you go, you won’t only be visiting Rome! You’ll also be stopping by the Bay of Naples, the Isle of Capri, Assisi, Pompeii, Venice, the Italian Lakes, Florence and Sorrento. You’ll also be visiting the Roman catacombs and St. Peter’s Basilica.
If you go to Boudman’s website at w w w. c l i f t o n b o u d m a n . c o m under ‘Cliff ’s Travels,’ you’ll be able to see all the dates, information and pictures of all the hotels you’ll stay at throughout the whole trip. There’s going to be porterage throughout the whole trip, as well, so you don’t have to worry about lugging all your things around. There will also be buffet breakfasts. If you’d like to book the airfare, you can e-
mail Boudman at clifton.boudman@umpi.edu. You’d need to do that by December 31. If you’d like to bring someone along with you, the second ticket is half off !
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Stop dreaming, and instead experience a true dream come true on this Italian Dream Tour. You’re guaranteed to be amazed and have a lot of fun!
Tepknusetk (Dep-Kun-no-Set-k) ʻMoons/Monthsʼ: The Miʼk maq Language Daniel Smiley STAFF WRITER
When considering language, you also have to consider the change of both the people who speak it and the language itself. Languages can change as much as the seasons change throughout a year. The difference in temperature is as relative to seasons as dialects are to language. The Mi’k maq people are the largest tribe/band in the Northeast, as well as the largest population in the Wabanaki Confederacy. That’s an alliance of five tribes/bands of Maine and New Brunswick that also includes Maliseet, Penobscot, Passamaquoddy and Abenaki. The Mi’k maq are a proud and fluent speaking culture with roots that are largely spread throughout Maine and Canada. “The Mi’k maq language throws grammar out the window. The most important things in the Mi’k maq language is the way you say things and who you’re talking to,” John Dennis, cultural director for the Aroostook Band of Micmacs, said. “In the Mi’k maq culture,
there is a fairness and respect for women. Both men and women share 50-50 roles. When asked by a child, an elder explained why men play a big drum and women a hand drum. The elder said because men are life takers and women are life givers.”
for such a gift. Over “many moons”—-meaning the passing of several seasons or time— the people changed and so did their language. There are many Mi’k maq reserves located in Presque Isle, Caribou, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and Quebec. Today there are three different
There is a sense of respect among both genders. One holds a responsibility of life and one to provide life. “The language was given to us by the creator so we can speak to the creator,” Dennis said. Dennis, who is a member of the Mi’k maq Band from Eskasoni, has been speaking his language since he was young. Dennis also said, “The elders say prayers in Mi’k maq, then repeat them in English.” The gift of language is a sacred tool to carry and speak. When Mi’k maq is spoken, the language is to honor the creator
dialects of the spoken language of Mi’k maq, such as the Nova Scotia dialect, the New Brunswick dialect and the Quebec dialect. Here in Presque Isle, the main dialect spoken is the Nova Scotia dialect. Much change occurred in the Mi’k maq language occurred through contact with the modern world/technology and
through interactions with Great Britain and the French. In the Mi’k maq language, there is French influence. A few of the towns in Maine have names formed due to Mi’k maq influence.
words and meanings but also even politics, history and treaties have changed the language. Some words were adopted and some words were added to better adjust to these changes.
“For example, the name Madawaska, which actually came from the pronunciation of an animal called the porcupine,” Dennis said.
“’Emsit No’kmaq,’ meaning ‘all my Relations’ is a phrase used in Mi’k maq language to better understand everything all mixed into one, life as one,” Dennis said.
“Matues” (Ma-dew-ess) means porcupine. This word was used to explain or describe the place now called Madawaska. The Mi’k maq described this place as the porcupine people and the town later becomes known as Madawaska. Technology has always been a constant changing element of life. The Mi’k maq adapted by using such words to describe common items such as a pen— Pikun—which actually means” feather.” This makes it easier to understand the action of the object. A refrigerator is another example of technology changing the language. In some cases not only technology changes
Dennis explained that the language is like “fish in an aquarium and people can only see us and we can see them but there’s no communication between the two.” It’s important for people to learn the language and understand it. Here on campus, John Dennis himself will teach the Mi’k maq language. If you’re looking for a language course that meets the multicultural experience language requirement, then look no further. The course is WAB 100: Intro to Micmac Language, which will meet in Pullen Hall, room 113, Mondays and Wednesdays from 4:30-5:45p.m.
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University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
Life is What You Make of It
Marie Mazerolle STAFF WRITER
Each and every one of us has a different goal in life. Whether we succeed depends on the path we decide as adults to take. Students at UMPI choose education as a key to success. But once they choose their school, what are their options for degrees? The University of Maine at Presque Isle College of Professional Programs offers many degrees and emphases, such as athletic training, recreation, criminal justice, social work and sociology. Athletic training is a six semester program. Athletic trainers work with professions in the medical field. They get one-on-one training that takes place in the UMPI athletic training room in Gentile Hall. They also train in several offcampus places, such as high schools, physical therapy clinics and with local emergency medical services. They attend sport practices. “Our classes consist of learning about basic anatomy of the body. We do in-depth focus on injuries and prevention of the injuries, and rehabilitation, basic medical conditions and illnesses.
Lanette Virtanen
I really enjoy the major and would suggest it to anyone interested. It’s very time consuming but very gratifying and worth the time and the work,” senior AT major said.
Criminal Justice is another one of the professional programs. During the criminal justice class and internships, students learn the aspects of crime and how they are supposed to react to the situation of the crime being committed. Exercises are based upon critical thinking and problem solving in the class settings. Graduates tend to find the program an easy source for jobs. The society is in need of police, detectives and other related jobs. The program here at UMPI can also pave the way for attending law schools. The criminal justice program here is a 100 credit course. “Well, the program is amazing and challenging, but also interesting. It depends on what classes you are taking to make it time consuming. If you want a great grade, then you will have to put more than one day’s worth of work into it. Right now, I am taking criminology and criminal law, race class and power. There are so many careers that you could possibly do with this major: honestly, I haven’t chosen mine. I’m still working on what I can do in life
and see where my abilities will bring me,” Kimberly Lynn Francis, CJ major said.
Social work is a popular program here at UMPI. Although it requires a major time commitment, in the end you have the great ability to work with families, groups, organizations and individuals who may need your help. At UMPI, this program puts you into situations where you can practice, such as preschools, schools, hospitals and clinics. Social workers have big responsibilities. As a BSW student, you will complete at least two field practicums, one or two in the junior year consisting of 100 hours each. Then there’s one in the senior year consisting of 500 hours. “The program is very enjoyable, but it is tough. With the generalist perspective you get with the BSW, you can do pretty much anything, because people in need are everywhere. It is very time consuming. But in the end, it’s worth it. I took a variety of classes. In order for me to get my degree I have to complete my internship,” senior BSW student said. . Looking for some adventure in your life? The department of
recreation and leisure services could be just what you want. It offers three different concentrations: Outdoor Re c r e a t i o n / L e a d e r s h i p ; Community Recreation; Natural Resource Recreation Management. A degree can lead to careers working in parks, fitness .facilities, environmental education, as a guide— and that just barely scratches the surface. The department’s alums are some of its most ardent supporters. Take Jamie Landeen, who earned a B.S. in Recreation and Leisure Services in 2007. She now works as a recreation specialist for Loring Job Corps. What does she think of the program? “When I attended UMPI in the recreation program, instead of memorizing we did more hands-on learning, such as taking weekend long trips to go backpacking, hiking, skiing, etc. I found that by doing this it helped me to apply myself to more situations than I would be in in my actual work. It helped me to progress to where I am now and will help me where I want to be later in life. ‘North of Ordinary’ doesn’t refer to UMPI not being normal. It refers to the way you are uniquely educated at this school. It is Uniquely Ordinary.”
Some might also say that UMPI and the department are Extra-Ordinary. What exactly is sociology? It’s the science or study of the origin, development, organization, and functioning of human society, the science of the fundamental laws of social relations. It’s a relatively new program here at UMPI. The sociology program teaches a student to think logically, to have good communication skills and be able to present answers and then to write reports. These are demanded skills in any workplace. Some careers that a sociology major might get to experience would be health, law, education and international relations. “To understand the true quality of people, you must look into their minds, and examine their pursuits and aversions,” Marcus Aurelius. (No, he didn’t get a degree from UMPI—that’s his loss.) Every program that UMPI has to offer gets you ready for what the world may bring to you. It’s up to you to choose which path to go down to obtain what you want to do in life. It may be hard, but overcoming all the obstacles helps you further in life. That’s what the College of Professional Programs is all about.
Guess Whoʼs Coming to Dinner?
STAFF WRITER
All they had to do was find an idiot to bring to dinner. Whoever brought the best one would win. That was the plot of the movie “The Dinner Game” that the French club showed on Nov. 18 in Folsom Hall. It was a comedy about a group of wealthy men who got together every week to see who could bring the dumbest idiot
to dinner. It was all just so that they could have a laugh at someone else’s expense. Pierre, an author who plays the game, thinks he’s found the best one. He meets Francois Pignon on the train going home from work. Pignon is showing off photos of the models that he’s made with matchsticks and believes Pierre when he tells him that he
would like to produce a book of his photos. Pierre was going to cancel the dinner
after he had hurt his back, but called too late and Pignon shows up at his house. From the minute that Pignon shows up at his door, everything that could go wrong, does. The movie was from France and was spoken in French with subtitles in
English, but as Rhonda Cyr, an audience member, put it: “Loved it. It was funny. I thought I’d have a difficult time with the subtitles, but the story was very easy to follow. It had a continuous plot that built constantly.” Laughter is laughter in any language and that’s what was heard coming from room 105 the night the movie played. If you happen to get a chance to see the movie, you won’t be disappointed.
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University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
Tutoring the Tutors
Bert Goldman STAFF WRITER
Writing Tutors Earn National Recognition Laura Hunter STAFF WRITER
Do you ever wonder how tutors from UMPI’s writing center stack up nationally? The answer is, very well. A small contingent recently presented at the National Conference on Peer Tutoring in Writing at Mount Holyoke College in Massachusetts. “I was so very pleased when our proposal for the NCPTW was accepted, because it gave our writing consultants the opportunity to present their work at a national academic conference,” Deborah Hodgkins, writing center director, said. After a long, adventurous trip down to the conference, the next day we all put on our academic hats as the conference opened. Due to the sheer number of participants, there were approximately seven presentations each session. So we had to decide which presentations we would attend. These were difficult decisions to make. Since UMPI’s writing tutors have a habit of consulting each other about their writing, Lightbown and Hunter decided to attend, “When Tutors Tutor Each Other: A Shifting Balance.”
“That was an interesting one,” Hunter said. “We began to see that when we tutor each other, we tend to fall back on a traditional, patriarchal approach to tutoring, but that we’re also very aware of our own authority over our paper.” We also attended, “Collaborating Ourselves into Existence: Notes from a New Writing Center Studio Staff ”; “Speaking of Ebonics,”; “I Have Used All My English Words,”: Global English/Local Expectations,”; “Leadership in a Session’s Opening Moments.” All of the panels were fun, invigorating and informative. “This conference gave us an opportunity to learn from other tutors rather than strictly learning from the book,” Lightbown said. “This was a fantastic opportunity,” Hunter said. “To meet and be able to have discussions with other tutors from all over the country, to find that we all have the same concerns and issues and to reveal some different and unique ways on how we handle those issues was very helpful.” The following day, it was our turn. We presented, “What Leaders Look Like:
Postcolonialism and the Role of the Writing Tutor.” Hunter presented on the feminist theory of tutoring, while Lightbown presented on the similarities between her role as a writing center tutor and social work major. “Laura and Meg’s presentations were well received and stimulated a rich discussion following our session,” Hodgkins said. Unfortunately, in order to make it home before midnight, we had to leave immediately after our presentation. During the journey home, we had time to reflect upon our experiences. “I really felt that presenting at a national conference was the culmination of my experiences as a writing tutor over the past four years at UMPI. I enjoyed being able to share not only my experience as a writing tutor, but to connect that with my experiences as a social work student,” Lightbown said. “Being able to present at a national conference was great,” Hunter said. “We may be small, but our tutors are of the same caliber as the tutors from bigger universities. This was a fantastic opportunity. To be able to learn from other tutors and to be able to impart some of our wisdom to others was awesome.”
Well, we got up at 4 a.m., but it was worth it. On Nov. 21, the UMPI writing center, with director Deborah Hodgkins, had the opportunity to join with writing centers from across Maine. Colleges and universities, and even one high school, met at UMaine. Neal Lerner gave the keynote address of the conference. Lerner wrote the text many writing centers use, including our own at UMPI, to teach tutors how to be tutors. Lerner spoke to the tutors and teachers present about how science writing can be incorporated into the writing center. Science writing has to be easy to read, just as much as any other academic discipline. Lerner works at MIT, instructing students how to write clear scientific essays. After Lerner’s lecture, Harvey Kail, director of Orono’s writing center for 30 years, asked Lerner what he thought made the best tutors. “Great curiosity,” Lerner said. Lerner thought that no matter what the paper or essay was about, tutors have the kind of expertise that can help writers. This is true even of science writing, such as the biology Lerner
works with at MIT or the engineering papers at Orono. There was another session in the afternoon. Our host from Orono, Kail, wanted the tutors to know how important tutoring is for tutors, not just for the people who come to the writing center for help. “Being a tutor teaches skills that translate into job skills,” Kail said. To drive this point home, the teachers and tutors split up and both groups made lists of what tutors learn by tutoring. There were similarities between the two lists the groups created. Patience, social skills and writing skills were all on there. But one the students forgot was leadership. After the final activity, one of Hodgkins’ tutors asked a stranger to take a photograph of the group. Then they made the trek home. Bobby McNally, UMPI writing center tutor, said, “I’m still processing it all.” It was a full and well-spent day for UMPI tutors. It gave them a chance to see what the broader academic community in Maine has to say about what makes good writing tutors. It was also a good thing for UMPI students because the tutors came back knowing how to give better help for anyone who comes to the writing center.
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University Times CAMPUS December 11, 2009
Saving Money with Used Books Jennifer Sappier STAFF WRITER
Wind and the Power of Change
Sarah Graettinger STAFF WRITER
People sometimes joke that Don Zillman is so passionate about the way that he eats and drinks it. Well, apparently a lot of other people feel the same way because that was the topic of UMPI’s business breakfast. The food and coffee were good. But the real draw was the chance to listen to Kurt Adams, and Wayne Kilcollins. The speakers were here to discuss many aspects of wind energy and how great it is for the state and the campus. Wayne Kilcollins, NMCC wind power technology instructor, was the first to speak about NMCC and it’s new tech program. The program has 38 students now, and has a wait list for next semester. The program covers different aspects of
wind turbine technology. “All of the students have to do a safety course at the beginning. They learn how to use the harness, and the components in a tower,” Kilcollins said. The students learn different electronic skills for the industry. They also learn a variety of math skills that will be useful to their future. “One of the great things is that it is a great learning opportunity. There’s about 80 jobs in the state of Maine alone, and many in other states,” Kilcollins said. The other speaker at the breakfast was Kurt Adams. He is the executive vice president and the chief development officer of First Wind, a wind mill company in Maine and Hawaii. The company built the
Mars Hill wind farm, has helped with electricity costs in the area. “We want to use new technology and help with the energy costs that have been plaging the country. We provide new jobs and put money back into the community,” Adams said. First Wind wouldn’t have been able to get many things done without the community backing it up. People all over the country are using wind power to help with electricity and costs. “It was a project that represented the best of markets, and a great project in Aroostook County,” Adams said. It was a great learning experience about wind powerand good food. Thanks to everyone who spoke to tell us so much about wind energy!
Are you looking to buy less expensive new or used textbooks for next semester? Unless you know where to get them for free, comparison shopping will be your best bet. The variety of Web sites that sell and buy them appears endless and your campus bookstore will have what you need. There are the usual Web sites, such as ebay.com, amazon.com and half.ebay.com. Their selections are huge, but they may not offer as many used books as new. When buying from ebay.com and half.ebay.com, you may have to be wary of the delivery system of the seller. These sites offer seller reviews from previous purchasers that allow you to judge the reliability of the seller. So be careful if the seller didn’t get good reviews. Comparison shopping on other Web sites may be a better alternative. To do online comparison shopping, your best bet would be the buyusedtextbooks.com Web site. Once you enter the textbook you’re looking for, it will give you a list of where to buy it, whether it is new or used and how much it will cost you. You can also check out the site eCampus.com, which is made for students. It offers new and used textbooks. You can sell your textbooks on this site, purchase supplies and it has a separate section for medical books. It also offers textbook rental for those of you who don’t want the commitment of buying and don’t mind letting go of the old. There’s a site that offers everything the other sites offer except the textbook rental. But it also contributes funds for literacy worldwide. Betterworldbooks.com also offers free shipping in the United States. It offers good pricing, huge selection and takes pride in its customer service. The site, at first glance, is a lot to take in visually. But the search bar on the top of the site
allows you to put in the book title and away you go. But if you like the idea of making contributions to good causes for purchases you’re required to make, how about buying from your school’s bookstore? The money spent at your school’s bookstore stays on campus and goes right into the university’s budget. So you know your money is going to a good place and not overseas somewhere or lining some stranger’s pocket. “Textbooks are the biggest investment in your grade,” Gregory Doak, UMPI’s bookstore manager, said. Doak went on to say that students can bring books that they bought here at UMPI’s bookstore, for a refund, either before or during add/drop. The bookstore also schedules time at the end of each semester to buy back books. It will also buy books originally purchased at Northern Maine Community College. The commission from buy-back also goes into the school’s budget. If you’re buying online, be sure to compare shipping and handling charges and other fees before checking out. You may find the book at a price you can’t believe. But other charges or fees may apply and that may be where they get you. Buying your textbooks from your school’s bookstore can help you avoid the extra charges. And you’ll also know you’ll be getting the right book and you don’t have to wait for it to come in the mail.
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University CAMPUS December 11, 2009
UMPI: A Friend to the Environment Robert Butcher STAFF WRITER
On Oct. 27, President Obama signed legislation that allotted $6.6 million in federal funding to four Maine projects. Part of this legislature designated $800,000 for the University of Maine Presque Isle. This grant will allow UMPI to install photovoltaic panels and establish an automated weather station to collect information on solar radiation levels. The rooftops of UMPI will be the home of the solar panels. The description of the funding is included in the 2010 Energy and Water Senate Appropriations Conference Report. Dave Putnam, an instructor at UMPI and energy expert, said, “The rooftops are unused space. It makes sense to utilize it.” Putnam spoke of some of the benefits the solar panels will bring. “Increased employee pro-
Ben Pinette
ductivity. Increased electrical grid reliability. Exploration of alternative energy. Advances in university curriculum and reduced dependence on fossil fuels. The benefits are great,” Putnam said. The increased employee productivity will come as working conditions improve. The roofs currently absorb the heat from the sun, making the buildings hotter. Having the photovoltaic cells on the rooftops will change all that. This also means less energy spent on air conditioning. And since the money is a grant, UMPI doesn’t have to pay it back Students will benefit as well. The university curriculum will grow. These days, it isn’t hard to find wind turbines and solar panels. Just take a short drive and you become aware that this industry is growing. This project will gather large amounts of data on photovoltaic panels and will teach students how they work. The students will be able
to learn about the alternative energy source as it’s being tested and assessed. The university will be offering students the chance to be a part of the data collection involved. That will look good on any resume. The grant was not an easy hurdle for the university. Many people spent a lot of time building the grant and investigating benefits. Dave Putnam and Charlie Bonin, Vice President for administration and finance originated the idea and pursued it diligently. Allen Salo, head of UMPI’s Green Committee, was heavily involved. Putnam said, “People like
Theresa Fowler (Presque Isle Chamber of Commerce), Skip Babineau (NRCS), Ted Shapiro (WAGM) and Tom Stevens (Presque Isle town manager) wrote letters of support.” Phil Bosse, who works for Sen. Susan Collins, proposed that UMPI apply for the grant as part of an earmark. Then Sen. Collins pushed the grant
through the Senate. So what’s next in UMPI’s attempt to reduce our carbon footprint? UMPI will be looking at biomass, which is energy from waste materials, and then possibly hydroelectricity. The savings from these projects will not just benefit UMPI .They’ll also help the world’s environment.
People Flock to Seminar “We would try to play a song with the nest searching secure and ready and a bird will actually fall into it. Once we capture it, I can get a blood sample and take all the basic measurements. Finally, we about six to eight hours to find the nest it belonged to,” Johnston said.
STAFF WRITER
There are a lot of negative expressions involving birds; bird brain for the birds- those are just a few. But birds can teach us so much. For example, how about the effects of wind turbines on the environment? On Friday, Nov. 20th, Professor Jason Johnston held a Faculty Noon Seminar in Normal Hall about a recent study he and a group of students did with the wind turbine and breeding of birds. “When I first came here, I found no one had done a study on the wind turbine and birds, so I jumped on it. I thought that the turbine may compromise the physical and psychological conditions of birds. There has been a lot of study about if there have been bird deaths with the turbine, so I wanted to find out for myself if
there were any” Johnston said. During the presentation, Johnston gave examples of some of the birds he’s found to living right here on campus. Through the years, Johnston
and a group of ecology majors have gotten up quite early to try to catch birds. They used such techniques as mist netting, nest searching, video, and even music.
Overall, Johnston and his team have found a wide variety of birds here on campus. “I have found the yellow warbler, brown thrasher, gray
latbird, clay-colored sparrow and more right here on campus” Johnston said. As of this year, results for Johnston have been few and far between. “In 2009, we have found fewer nests near the turbine. However, our lab work is still on going.” Johnston also had his ENV 110 class go out one by one in the early hours between Sept. 10 through Oct. 26 to check around the turbine for dead birds. “Fortunately, we didn’t find any dead birds. But we did find one bat in the summer” Johnston said. For more information on his recent findings with the birds, feel free to contact Johnston at jason.johnston@umpi.edu.
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University Times COMMUNITY December 11, 2009
Gingerbread Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER
No smell says Christmas stronger than the aroma of gingerbread. Tapping into that, the Wintergreen Arts Center decided to hold a Gingerbread Countdown Workshop fundraiser. So on Saturday Nov. 21, from 1-3 p.m., Gentile Hall became gingerbread ground zero. Children of all ages and their parents had the opportunity to learn to create festive crafts for the upcoming holiday season, including gingerbread man shaped holiday countdown calendars and decorative ceramic tiles. Usually at this time of year, the arts center holds a gingerbread festival. But this year it decided to hold this workshop instead in order to raise funds for the opening of its new location in the former Wight Building at 149 State St. in Presque Isle. The most popular craft- and the event’s namesake- was the gingerbread man countdown calendar. The calendars weren’t what you might imagine. They were four-foot long ribbons on which people strung 25 gingerbread men shaped paper cutouts. They’d then use them to count down the days in December leading to Christmas. On the gingerbread men, participants could write festive messages and “to-dos” for each day on the calendar. Along with creating the ginger-
bread countdowns at the event with the basic supplies of paper and ribbon provided, participants were encouraged to decorate the countdowns more to their liking. Creating festive holiday crafts wasn’t the only activity taking place at this event. Since this event gave families a chance to spend an afternoon together, it was also a great opportunity to have photos taken just in time for sending out Christmas cards. Kim Griffeth, of Specialty Photography from Fort Fairfield, donated Christmas portrait sittings valued at $48. But for this event, he offered them at a discounted price to the Wintergreen Arts Center. For $15- which included the sitting fee and a 5 x 7 portrait, families could have their photos taken in front of a wintry background and support a charitable cause at the same time. The photos taken at this event could be purchased at Griffeth’s Web site: specialtyphotographycom.ifp3.com. Overall, this event proved to be a success. Many families came out to spend time together while preparing for the upcoming holiday season. This event really showed the true meaning of Christmas by bringing families together to have fun while giving back to a worthy cause. Let’s hope that once the Wintergreen Art Center’s new location is opened, there will be more events like this.
Phi Eta Sigma “Decks the Halls” of Presque Isle Nursing Home Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER
One of the prettiest decorations of the holiday season is the Christmas tree. When fully adorned, it can spread happiness and cheer to those who gaze upon it. With these thoughts in mind, some of UMPI’s Phi Eta Sigma members trimmed two Christmas trees at the Presque Isle Nursing Home on Dec. 5. The group of volunteers assembled the trees, draped tinsel, strung lights and hung ornaments as residents watched and admired the decorations. As if on cue, the trees were finished as a troop of Girl
Scouts began making their rounds and singing Christmas carols. It was the perfect atmosphere to get the residents into the holiday spirit. “The Christmas spirit came alive this morning not only for us, but for all the nursing home residents as they listened to Christmas music and watched us decorate the rooms and trim the trees. I think this will be a yearly tradition for the chapter,” Amy Barnes, Phi Eta Sigma president, said. “The residents seemed to really enjoy it,” Laura Hunter, a Phi Eta Sigma member, agreed. Along with trimming the trees, Phi Eta Sigma members
also decked the windows and nurses’ stations with Christmasthemed static clings. Once the members completed their decorating, the residents applauded their work. It was a rewarding experience for the volunteers to witness the residents’ joy and appreciation. Everyone deserves to have a wonderful Christmas. Phi Eta Sigma’s work gave the nursing home residents’ holiday season a great start. As Barnes put it, “Our goal for Phi Eta Sigma is to make someone’s day and put a smile on their face. I believe that is what the Phi Eta Sigma members did today.
2009 Harvest: Of Mud and Triumph Robert Butcher STAFF WRITER
Through the sun and mud, this harvest was unique. The harvest started early, but did not end with a sunny forecast. Farmers used every ounce of experience and a little common sense to provide needed supplies and earnings to local businesses and laborers. Yes, the harvest did start early as the crop flourished with great sun and rain throughout the summer months. It was mild and sunny at the start of the harvest, and the forecasters
seemed to promise more of the same for farmer’s needs. “These conditions provided a really nice crop,” Greg McCrum, receiving manager at Naturally Potatoes, said. McCrum should know too. He sees all the farmers’ crops. “The crop yield seemed to be slightly above average and the potatoes look very good,” McCrum said. McCrum went on and discussed the struggles that the farmers faced toward the end of harvest. “The extremely wet end to the harvest created a lot of
mud,” McCrum said. “The crews ended up working a lot of late nights on the nice days to finish harvesting the crop.” What’s the financial impact? Tim Hobbs, the director of development and grower relations, for the Maine Potato Board, reported that approximately $540 million in business sales (money made by businesses) and more than 6,100 jobs are created each year. This shows the 56,000 acres of planted potato farmland working for the economy of Maine.
University Times COMMUNITY December 11, 2009
Bear Feast: Honoring the Bearʼs Hibernation Daniel Smiley STAFF WRITER
When the term “Bear Feast” comes up in a social context, there are typically two different reactions to it. Some people’s mouths begin to water while thinking that the bear feast is about actually eating bear meat. Others may think the thought of eating a bear is gross enough and they would never attend any event with that title. But contrary to any misconception, the Bear Feast held at Spruce Haven on Nov. 21, 2009, wasn’t actually about a gourmet meal with bear as the main dish. Spruce Haven holds the Bear Feast every year around the time of the bear’s hibernation. As it said on the event flier, “Prepare for his hibernation by celebrating in seeing him off for the year.” The Bear Feast is to honor the bear’s journey to prepare for his hibernation. The feast doesn’t consist of actual bear meat. The main dishes that the public consumes are actually what the bear will need for his hibernation or what the bear would normally eat. The feast incorporates such food as different berries, potatoes, salmon and moose/deer meat, as well as non-bear items such as soda and chips and different favorite dishes. The Bear Feast also has a
ceremonial/spiritual sense. People pray and honor the bear’s hibernation through such ceremonies as a sunrise ceremony, sweat lodge, the feast, the pipe ceremony and the talking circle. The different elements and traditions embody the hopes for a safe hibernation season for the bear. The sunrise ceremony is conducted at dawn with smudging and tobacco offerings for the prayers of the new day and the bear’s hibernation. The smudging is done by lighting of different medicines, such as sage and sweet grass, to produce a smoke to cover your body to cleanse it and pray while the smoke leaves your body. The tobacco offerings are used to give up a piece of valued medicines (tobacco) to offer mother earth and receive her blessings so it can be a good day to have the events. A sweat lodge is also held following the sunrise ceremony. Participants sweat in honor of the event as well as the protection of the bear. Each round of the sweat represents different stages of life from birth to adulthood and the prayers are for the different animals of the four directions. The pipe ceremony is told to be a gift from the white buffalo calf women and the pipe is passed around four times before it makes its completion. The smoke clears the minds and
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Wilderʼs: Presque Isleʼs Unique Jewel
hearts of the people praying Bert Goldman and when exhaled, the prayers STAFF WRITER of the participants are carried to the Great Spirit. The pipe Every time you walk into ceremony was an introduction Wilder’s Jewelry Store, on Main and lead into the start of the Street of Presque Isle, you’ll see talking circle. something new. Cathy Beaulieu, who has owned The talking circle is used to Wilder’s for 13 years, always speak about the journey of the buys new and unique things. event and to say prayers and “All women are different,” thanks for the day or about the Beaulieu said. “They have difbear’s resting. Another part of ferent needs, wants, sizes. the talking circle is to discuss There’s something for every teachings of this event and woman who walks in.” And other things. The talking circle there is something for every is a sign of common respect for one another and knowing that man who comes in to find there are no hierarchies and something for his unique jewel. everyone is equal in the circle That’s why Wilder’s carries and welcomed to speak. such variety. Wilder’s has rings of all shapes and colors, such as The event is held every a pink tourmaline with laseryear—and sometimes twice— cut texture on the bottom. during the beginning of the hibernation season. In all this, There are beautiful inlaid boxes there is hope and respect that and quirky handmade gifts, the most common things or such as one of a kind “knobanimals, such as the bear, stoppers” to cap wine bottles. bring people and their sur“I felt they were kind of roundings together to form an interesting,” Beaulieu said understanding and meaning of about the golf balls and vintage the things around us. By this door knobs, each fitted on the time next year, many more bottom with a wine cork. bears will need to hibernate Beaulieu knows the artists and it gives us a chance to honor the natural cycle and who make these and almost learn things that aren’t shown everything else she buys for the store. She talked about an to us from day to day. artist from San Francisco. She “All truths are easy to won’t talk to him, though-only understand once they are dis- to his wife because of the man’s covered; the point is to discov- artistic temperament. She also er them.” –Galileo Galilei told stories about Mac Shapiro, who lives in Presque Isle, and the paintings that he brought in for Beaulieu to sell. “The thing is, Shapiro will only sell to people he knows,” Beaulieu said. So his paintings of local historical flowers grace the walls of Wilder’s. But you’ll have to meet Shapiro if you want to buy one. Most of what Wilder’s carries comes from the U.S., and a lot comes from Maine. The things that don’t are the Canadian diamonds Beaulieu buys and some jewelry from
China. The diamonds that come from Canada have a clean conscience, so to speak, because they don’t have anything to do with the controversial diamond trade in Africa. And the jewelry from China is made by a company called Sarah’s Hope, an organization that saves Chinese women who have been abandoned because they would not give up their daughters. So even if the product is not from the U.S., everything in Wilder’s has a conscience. “Chain stores are about how much money can be made per square foot,” Beaulieu said. Beaulieu talked about how chain stores will carry only one or two ring designs. That store will then offer the same design at different prices. Beaulieu supports local artists and she supports the community of Presque Isle. Seven years back, Beaulieu started Main Street Mania. She got together with other Maine Street businesses in Presque Isle and planned a party. They just did it again on Nov. 20. “We need a party. We can’t ask our customers to get up at 4 a.m. and go to Wal-Mart to get them a dollar off a CD.” So Wilder’s, along with other businesses, pool their advertising. They call everyone out before Black Friday, serve wine and support Presque Isle’s own unique businesses. Wilder’s has been in business since 1932 when the wife of a clock repairman started buying things from Boston for her friends up in Presque Isle. Beaulieu continues that tradition of buying unique things. She provides this service men and women because everyone is unique. When you come to buy a gift at Wilder’s, you can be sure no one else in town will have it.