Volume 40 Issue 6

inside this issue:

He will survive!

Details on p. 8

University of Maine at Presque Isle

Volume 40 Issue 6

Donna DeLong STAFF WRITER

Thursday, Nov. 17, 2011, at 12:23 p.m., the Presque Isle Police Department received a 911-bomb threat call targeting the University of Maine at Presque Isle campus. The university security office was notified.

Its emergency response team, working in conjunction with the PIPD and a Maine State Police bomb dog team, evacuated students to a secure location and conducted a campus search of the grounds, dormitories and business facilities.

No bombs were found.

The initial threat originated from a hearing impaired relay line from a computer on the West Coast. Corporal Wayne Selfridge contacted Greg Daniels, coordinator of safety and security at UMPI. The perpetrator used the line to send a bomb threat that was then in turn called into the PIPD. The PIPD dispatched two officers to the university as well as Bailey, the bombsniffing canine, and his owner, trooper Shawn Whalen. The time it takes bomb dogs to sweep a building is minutes, compared to hours if it is searched by people. Their keen sense of smell and training allow them to not only locate an explosive device, but also to sense it way before they are close to the device. It took only minutes with the technology that we have today to

DECEMBER 9, 2011

Basket-making Ph.D. Details on p. 10

Journalism for Northern Maine

Bomb Threat:

University on Lockdown

locate the IP address that the perpetrator used and the PIPD are closing in fast.

“I have never heard of this hearing impaired relay line

diately put into effect.

Students, faculty and staff received a message on their cell phones or through e-mail from the e2campus notification sys-

Students, faculty and staff gathered in Gentile Hall.

device before, so this was a unique learning experience for everyone.

Communication forensics that we do on the telephone is usually very timely in giving us the trace and so was the relay communication company. It took only 20 minutes before we had the originating IP address that we used to begin tracking down the person responsible. The system worked quite well despite the three thousand mile difference,” Selfridge said.

A bomb threat, the first ever reported for UMPI, was imme-

tem. The message said to leave campus immediately as it was closing due to an emergency.

People gathered outside the buildings and headed for Gentile Hall, the secure location that had been designated for people to gather in.

“We received the call from Jannie Durr, area coordinator of residence halls, and began to clear the dorms and move people over to Gentile Hall,” Courtney Cray, Cassie Green and Chris Moore, all RAs from Emerson, said.

“There has been a bomb

threat and the authorities are in the process of sweeping the buildings.

The campus is closed to everyone except for Gentile Hall, which had been cleared before anyone was allowed to congregate there.

The cafeteria will be swept now so that the students will be able to attend supper and then the dorms and so on,” Michael Sonntag, and vice president for academic affairs, said. When asked if he had ever heard of anything like this happening before at UMPI, he said, “To my knowledge, this has never happened before.”

“I have been here for 20 years and, other than the odd fire drill, there has never been anything like this that gathered so many people together with questions on their faces,” Karen McCosker, lecturer of language arts, said.

The majority of the people were in the gymnasium of Gentile Hall as President Don Zillman spoke to them from the walking track above.

Zillman explained that this wasn’t a drill and that no people could leave the building unless they were leaving campus. He added that all areas

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were being secured and that the situation was well in hand with no need to panic. The people listened to him as Zillman’s calm demeanor influenced everyone. Students grabbed basketballs to play ball and talked to their classmates, staff and faculty, while they waited in the large gym.

The one thread that wound through many of the conversations was how amazing, calm and professional the evacuation had been.

Many students left the campus either to go home if they were commuters or to frequent a restaurant or store downtown until the threat had passed.

Students, staff and faculty who had left personal belongings in offices had to leave them behind for the night.

Personnel stayed to make sure that buildings stayed locked before they were swept clean.

The threat was over that night. The person or people responsible could face charges of terrorizing, a Class C felony punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $5,000 as well as restitution.

If you haven’t signed up for the e2campus emergency notification system, then now is a good time to do it. Go to the Web page of UMPI, scroll to the bottom and click on the link to register.

Thanks to the dedicated police department, the staff, faculty and trained RAs, business was returned to usual.

C

2

ampus University Times

December 9, 2011

Dear readers,

The University Times Staff Editor Lanette Virtanen Assistant Editor Kayla Ames Staff Writers Kayla Ames Robert Butcher Stephanie Corriveau Donna Delong Sarah Graettinger Jordon Guy Stephanie Jellett Mika Ouellette Ben Pinette Jessie Rose Lanette Virtanen Brianna Williams Contributors Chris Corsello Jim Stepp Don Zillman

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

This semester is almost over and Christmas is just around the corner.

Soon the snow should be here and it really will look like itʼs winter here in

northern Maine. Get out and enjoy the time that you have when you go home.

Take advantage of the free time before the next semester. Before long, itʼll be January and classes will be starting again.

Weʼve had some great stories in past issues and we know that thereʼll be

more great things to come. This is the last paper of the semester and we here at the U Times want to say good luck on those finals, have a great break and

we look forward to seeing you all in the upcoming semester.

Lanette

Greetings,

A lot of the stories in this issue contain many important reminders. I encour-

age all of you to read them and remember what the holiday season is truly

about. Henry Wadsworth Longfellow wrote a poem entitled “Holidays,” com-

paring tender memories made during this time of year to white sails, clouds

and lilies. He described them as “lovely as a landscape in a dream.” Indeed, if

theyʼre made with the right people and under the right circumstances, memo-

ries can be truly beautiful. I hope all of you make some good ones during the

upcoming break. Maybe this issue of the U Times will even help you recall a

few good times here on campus. I know Iʼve had plenty. Enjoy! Thank you,

Kayla

3

Univer si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

From Don’s Desk

Agreeing to Disagree

A colleague of mine at the University of Maine shared a disturbing story with me. He had just had a long and good discussion with a student about one of the controversial issues of the day. My friend left the conversation with the buoyant feeling: “This is just what the university is about, candid dis-

fully agree with each other.

Recent events have suggested that, all too often, we cannot. I offer a few examples. A “super committee” of the United States Congress has just failed to agree on a formula for addressing the budget deficit.

Leaders of Europe have struggled with their own deficit and

significant for the United States.

We are an increasingly diverse society. A sage political commentator observed that it would be unimaginable for a German citizen of Vietnamese or Turkish origin ever to rise to the Chancellorship of Germany.

The foreigner will be a foreigner forever. Yet, in the United

cussion of the hard issues of our time.” His buoyancy deflated the next day when the student returned and told him: “I’ve been so upset that you didn’t agree with me yesterday.”

My friend’s story speaks to larger issues today in the state, country and world. They raise the question of whether we can make progress when we don’t

governance questions.

Politicians have managed to make science into politics as they address or ignore evidence of climate change. And, a fine public university has seen its reputation shattered because its leaders couldn’t agree what to do in the face of horrific criminal behavior.

These issues are especially

States presidential election of 2008, Barack Hussein Obama, whose father was Kenyan born, defeated John McCain, whose father and grandfather were senior leaders in the most admired profession in the United States—the military.

Statistics also indicate that, within a decade or two, there will be no race that composes

Tuesday: Pasta Night from $6 per bowl.

Thirsty Thursday: Drink specials and authentic Mexican food.

Saturday: Late night dancing in the bar.

over 50 percent of the American population. And, while Christianity is still the predominant religion in the land, there are considerable differences in Christian beliefs.

Two additional divisions suggest that collaboration in America is going to be harder, but even more essential in the years to come. The first is social class. Both Tea Party and Occupy Wall Street supporters feel that the privileged in society are receiving far more than their share of the American promise. The second is age. A number of important public issues show wide differences in attitude depending on whether the voter or poll respondent is age 20 or 40 or 60 or 80.

All of these differences provide great teaching moments. I know that some or all of them will have been discussed in classes and in informal sessions. An essential part of a good university education should teach us all how to handle such matters. Good analysis of tough problems is a crucial part of the learning process.

It also is a highly prized work-place skill, as survey after

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survey of business leaders disclose. In addition to analyzing problems capably, it is also essential to learn how to work with those who disagree with you. Some disagreements can be resolved by clarifying the facts in a non-aggressive way.

Others can be assisted by a careful assessment of the consequences of following through on a particular set of beliefs.

Some disagreements, however, go beyond facts or appreciation of consequences. There, it becomes highly useful to know how to agree to disagree without becoming disagreeable. The future of the United

States will depend on our ability to do so.

Have a good end of semester and then a relaxing and renewing holiday season.

Free Wi-Fi.

Catch up with what’s happening each week on our website: www.thecrowsnest.com or check out our Facebook page.

4 Well, it’s that time of year again- -the holiday season.

What is it about this time of year that can be so delightful, yet so maddening? At least that’s how it is for me. I’m so irritated by the mad dash to be first…first in line, first to get the “must have item of the season,” first to get the decorations up, first to get the gifts wrapped--blah, blah, blah. It’s infuriating.

Everywhere you turn – at work, at school, at home, even on vacation – people are busy.

Too busy to pay attention to our feelings, too busy to get to the things we really enjoy, too busy for each other. Too busy to live. We call this the holiday season, But where’s the joy? Let me share a little story of how someone took the time for things that really mattered and made a lasting impression.

It was a very big moment in a very small person’s life. I was

Unive r si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Chrisʼ Corner

Where’s the Joy?

five years old and finishing up a full year of kindergarten in Iowa. I was playing the role of

a carrot in our end of the year theatrical presentation. As I recall, the story line of the play seemed to be less based on dramatic moments and more based on maximum participation. As luck would have it, there were 26 kindergartners and exactly 26 roles.

Of course, to me, there was no role more important than the role of the carrot. I can’t vividly recall exactly what my motivation was as the carrot, but I am reasonably certain that I was a beautiful, gorgeous carrot, the kind of carrot that was always popular and had lots of friends (those friends were the tomato, celery and potato – what a great soup we made!)

To be honest, I don’t remember much about the play, but I do remember after the play. My teacher, Ms. Richards, said to me, “You were the best carrot I’ve ever seen.”

That moment is frozen in my mind. When I recall it, I can almost smell the kindergarten classroom: a combination of finger paint, playdoh and Sam, the class hamster.

I’ve always wondered why that moment has stuck with me for so long. And recently, while I was pondering the idea

of recognizing others, it came to me. It was the recognition that marked the moment. My teacher singled me out and recognized my achievements.

She essentially said to me, “you’re special.” Her recognition of me meant so much that

the moment became a cherished memory.

Each day we have the opportunity to make someone feel special. How many times do we ignore that opportunity?

Most of us know it’s important but in the hustle and bustle of

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our daily chores and the craziness of the season, we sometimes forget.

Let’s all try to correct this. It won’t take but a minute.

Recognize someone around you – it doesn’t matter who or for what, simply do it. Take the time to make someone feel special – you’ll make their day, and likely yours.

Isn’t this what the season is all about – bringing joy to others?

There are lots of folks here at UMPI that bring me joy each and every day, to all of you, thank you for making me feel special.

Have a great finish to the fall semester and I hope everyone finds peace, happiness and joy during the holiday season!

5

Univer si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Words Can Kill

Stephanie Jellett STAFF WRITER

Since middle school, Jessica “Jessie” Logan was bullied.

Boys from her school called her “midget, dwarf and troll-like.”

Once she entered high school, the bullying didn’t stop. People would tell her to “go hang yourself ” because “no one cares about you.” In her senior year, Jessie started seeing a boy from a nearby high school named Ryan and sent him a nude photo. The photo went viral and circulated through three schools in the area.

Jessie was viscously attacked through her cell phone via text message and Facebook. She talked to her guidance counselor to get help, but that didn’t seem to work, so she did an anonymous video for the local TV station about “sexting” to try and help others in her situation. Once the video aired, the bullying got worse. People would spit on her and torment her to the point where she would skip school. On July 3, 2008, Jessie hanged herself in her closet. She was her parents only child.

This is a true story that was shown as a special on “48 Hours.” The video was featured in the presentation, “Life Online,” that took place in the Owl’s Nest in the Campus Center on Nov. 3 “The purpose of this is to help make people aware of what they do online and that cyber bullying is on the rise,” Jessica Stepp said, who’s a part of the campus Student Senate.

Threatening, harassing and causing embarrassment to someone is bullying. Bullying can be done either online, on blogs and websites, or by direct attacks, which can also be through cell phones. An example of cyber bullying that someone might not think of is: updating a friend’s status on Facebook when they don’t know you are. The status could be embarrassing, and hurtful to that person.

“Think before you post,” Jeff Rhoads, president of the student senate, said.

Presenters explained how bullying can happen. They

said spreading lies about the victim, getting personal information, sending or forwarding nasty messages or pretending

to be the victim online to trick others are all examples how bullying begins.

Statistics show that nine out of 10 students will have their feelings hurt online from kindergarten to the end of college and that girls are more likely to be bullied than boys. Most people who cyber bully believe that it isn’t a big deal and think

win $100.00 DESIGN THE COVER of the

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that everyone does it. Eighty one percent of bullies believe that what they’re doing is funny, but what they don’t know is the consequences for them, the bully and the victim.

Rhoads explained that victims of bullying can react in different ways. Some victims will try and avoid the bully by blocking them on social networking sites and deleting messages. Other victims seek revenge on the bully by bullying back. Most victims feel hurt, embarrassed and scared and seek alternate routes to take. The best route to take would be to report the problem.

“You need to talk to someone. Talk with the RAs on campus. There’s even Jannie, Jim Stepp and Ralph,” Rhoads said. “If you talk about it, it will help you in the long run.”

Unfortunately, the more common way to escape from the pain of bullying is suicide.

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for men and women between the ages of 10 and 24. An average of one person dies from suicide every 16.2

minutes. Each year, over 31,000 Americans die from suicide and many more make an attempt.

There are many signs of suicide, such as thinking or talking about and wishing for suicide, substance abuse or use and feelings of being purposeless, trapped and hopeless. Anger, withdrawal from family, friends, school, activities, hobbies, etc., anxiety, recklessness, mood changes and giving possessions away are other signs.

If you know or think someone is suicidal, you can help save a life. Speaking up if you’re worried about someone can make a big difference because that can provide relief from loneliness for that person.

When talking to a suicidal person, it’s important to be yourself and let them know that you care and that they’re not alone.

“There is a strong support system here to help you,” Rhoads said.

If you’re feeling lost, don’t hesitate to talk to someone, talk to your parents, the RAs or anyone you feel comfortable talking to. Someone is always there to help you.

ing r e t Ca ilable Ava North Street, Presque Isle *Colle ge Day T uesday 2 0 % o f f fo r c o l l e g e s t u den t s w it h I D 1 0 % wi th c o l l e ge I D a n y o t he r d a y

The booklet includes a schedule of events and descriptions of each session.

The winning cover art will also be used on posters, advertisements and other related University Day items.

University Day is Wednesday, April 11, 2012 Art submission deadline is Monday, February 27, 2012 The UDay theme is

UMPI = Global Connections For complete details about dimensions, format, etcetera, go to:

www.umpi.edu/uday

D e l iv e r y A va il a b l e Mo n d a y - We d ne s d a y 1 1 a . m. - 8 p .m .

T hu r s d a y - Sa t u rd a y 1 1 a .m . - 9 p . m .

S u nday 1 2- 7 p. m .

C a l l R o se l l a ’ s a t 7 6 4 -6 6 4 4 .

6

Unive r si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Wish Granted

Jordan Guy

STAFF WRITER

This past semester, around February, the University of Maine system radio engineer, Rob Sobczak, called our very own Ben Pinette, WUPI station manager. He told him about a grant that the Maine Association of Broadcasters was offering to campus radio stations. The MAB had a certain amount of money that college stations could apply for to see if they could qualify to make their stations better for the listeners.

Pinette and his advisor, Dr. Jacqui Lowman, sent in a form and cover letter to officially let the MAB know that they were interested in the process.

Pinette said, “ If we didn’t receive any money, it wouldn’t have been the end of the world.

Any amount of money would have been a plus to the station.

We felt that we should at least give it a shot.”

Around mid-April, Pinette received a call that they had, in fact, gotten the grant for $3,600. Needless to say, every-

one was very excited to put the money to good use. The money couldn’t have come at a better time for the station because it had to upgrade its equipment, which would roughly be around $3,000 dollars.

“It’s great that a student organization did this to get a grant to purchase newer equipment and institute new programming that wasn’t already there,” Charlie Bonin, vice

president for administration and finance, said.

It’s probable that a large amount of the money will go toward new equipment for the station, including an RDS encoder so that select cars can have title and artist information pop up on their car radio dial.

Pinette hopes that by the spring, this will be up and running.

Pinette had this to add. “ I never thought they would award us, up here. We are about as bare bones as it gets, but the fact that WUPI has been producing local news material, such as our U-Radio Show done by students in a journalism class last year, this really helped us out.”

Tyler Folkins, a student who has his own radio show for WUPI says, “ I think the station is a good opportunity for students like myself to get a chance to see what its like to be a DJ of their own show.

It’s really WUPI station manager Ben Pinette. cool that the station is now Bradley’s streaming on the inter& net so that Canadians like C-Store myself and people who used to attend the college can get a little taste of Presque Isle again.”

WUPI is making great new changes every semester and is * Presque Isle’s only 24 hour CITGO, moving up its technology and becoming more and more effiC-Store & Snack Connection! cient. Keep an eye out for all Automatic carwash the changes that the school and 4 self-serve carwash bays WUPI have coming at you.

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7 Tides of Grass and Echoes of the Past Univer si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Kayla Ames

STAFF WRITER

When we think about climate change, most of us probably imagine the effects it will have on the future. That is, after all, what we often hear about and discuss. But what about the past? What about cultures beyond our own?

What can they tell us about present and future climate change? David Putnam, a lecturer at UMPI, gave his audience good reason to consider these questions during a seminar entitled “Tides of Grass: Cultural Responses to Climate Change in Central Asia.”

Held on Thursday, Nov. 17, in Folsom 105, the seminar lasted from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m.

Aaron Putnam, who also traveled to China and took part in the research the presentation was based off of, couldn’t make it. His father, David Putnam, acknowledged his part in the project and made it clear to attendees that his talk was meant to connect research to people. Tomasz Herzog, associate professor of social studies education, introduced Putnam.

“We will hear of things that are a concern to many of us: climate, nature and its effect on people,” Herzog said.

Putnam started with a bit of a review, saying that, over the years, the research projects of which he’s been a part have taken on a lot of people from many institutions. They’ve explored several different areas of China, including the Tarim

Basin, a part of it called the our dates,” Putnam said.

Takla Makan Desert and the A lot of the mountain Tien Shan mountains. ranges they explored were too Putnam used that time to young to give them the kind of give his audience an idea of information they needed. Still, what type of climate used to be what they did find and the most beneficial to past inhabi- samples they could take proved tants. Dry, cold winters with little snow helped livestock they depended on such as goats, sheep, camels and cattle or yaks find grass all year long.

Records also show that, when monsoons didn’t come, crops failed, citizens rebelled, economies and even Chinese Dynasties were known to fail.

Putnam made it very clear just how important climate was and still is to societies and people in general.

Despite their best efforts to reconstruct pieces of the past, Putnam and members of the research group ran into numerous problems. Beside political and Lecturer David Putnam. boundary issues, there’s also the fact that impor- quite educational. In one part tant geological specimens have of the desert, they found shells, been carved out by sandstorms. which Putnam said they “This removes surface area expected to be much older. and, as a result, compromises This suggested that, not only

had water been there, but it was around much more recently than previously thought.

“If we could date when the water was there, that would be really helpful. And, indeed, we can, because we found mollusk shells there,” Putnam said.

They also discovered tree graveyards, and one of the most informative type of trees was poplar.

Despite their incredibly long roots, which would have found water even in a dry climate and, in doing so, kept them alive, the trees had died.

At some point, the water table had dropped too low. Their ability to hold onto water and contract their pores failed to save them, though Putnam and group members gathered more evidence on when the drought may have occurred.

Putnam spent some of his time talking about pastoral nomads, those who rely on domesticated animals and who move from place to place. Mongols are one of the bestknown examples of pastoral nomads, and one of the great questions in history is what drove them to expand.

“There have been many explanations of this, but none of them particularly satisfy...So, the question is, why did this occur?” Putnam said.

Wouldn’t you love to have your message seen and heard in print or on radio?

Consider placing an ad in our school newspaper, The University Times.

Another possibility: our campus radio station, WUPI 92.1 “The Owl.” Contact Sales Manager Donna DeLong at 227-0070 to inquire.

One of the theories is geographic determinism, which says geographical conditions led to expansion. Another suggests a person, more specifically a “great man,” inspired the change. A third theory argues that more than one factor may have been at work and involves economic interdependence. Either way, people are either pushed out of their homeland or “pulled” – in other words, another place offers better possibilities.

The question and answer portion of Putnam’s seminar was cut short by an evacuation of the school, the result of a bomb threat. Before that, though, many audience members had begun talking among themselves and asking Putnam for his input. His seminar inspired a lot of discussion and reflection.

Toward the end of his presentation, Putnam summarized how the climate had changed according to records, specimens and interpretation.

Nomads eventually moved southward in order to save their herds. Though we no longer move from place to place, we can relate to this response. In the not-too-distant future, it’s likely we, too, will have to dramatically change our way of life due to climate change. There’s a lot we can learn from the people who came before us. Besides, if the saying is true and the past is bound to repeat itself, we should probably be ready when it does.

Donna DeLong Sales Manager

8

Unive r si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Nothing But the Truth

“To be honest, I’m not a ered that there were 18 total big fan of ‘Survivor,’” castaways. He wasn’t allowed Crowley said. to speak with any of the other A true “reality show” took Crowley explained that he people until the filming actualplace in the University of initially felt this way because he ly began. In the time before Maine at Presque Isle’s the game’s dishonest disliked occurred, though, this Campus Center on Nov. 10. ways.

Although he wasn’t as Crowley got some training.

Professor Charles Johnson excited about the call as his greeted the crowd, who had friend, Crowley decided to try come to welcome “Survivor out.

He said that he made a Gabon” winner, Bob Crowley. video of himself and was invitJohnson stated that Crowley ed for a week’s worth of interwas the oldest person to ever views with “Survivor” producwin the show. Crowley curers.

Of course, they asked rently lives in Gorham, Maine.

Crowley whether he would be In 2009, he retired from able to deceive.

Crowley his position as a physics eventually admitted that he teacher. Other interestcouldn’t.

He said that he ing facts that Johnson was a teacher, after all, and shared about Crowley had to keep up his positive included that he had image. At that point, it may worked for the have seemed unlikely to Smithsonian and had Crowley that he’d be select- Crowley during “Survivor.” conducted insect research ed. But Crowley said that for the USDA. he ended up being Jimmy The castaways were taught Crowley was excited to Johnson’s replacement, basic survival skills and how to be sharing his experiences since Johnson had heart ward off dangerous animals. with the audience. Before problems.

Crowley joked He shared stories with the he talked about about his outcome on the crowd about these lessons. For “Survivor,” though, he show. instance, depending on the mentioned two important “I ended up doing OK,” positioning of an elephant’s charities. He urged the Stephanie Corriveau and “Survivor” Crowley said. ears, Crowley was advised to crowd to support the winner Bob Crowley.

One of Crowley’s biggest either freeze or maneuver in a American Red Cross and very much at home,” worries was how his father “zigzag” pattern.

Of course, Salvation Army. Since it was Crowley said. would respond.

He feared that these hilarious tips couldn’t close to Veteran’s Day, he also Crowley said that his he’d disapprove of Crowley keep Crowley from laughing. made sure to thank those who “I’m in a full-fledged giggle served. Once he was finished, “Survivor” journey began in going on the show. Crowley February 2008.

He recalled said that his father ended up at this point,” Crowley said. he turned to the screen in the being out with a friend who was studying the game and called Crowley shared other memroom and showed a short video a “Survivor” fanatic when he him with some advice. orable moments, too.

He of his time on the reality show. got the call to be part of the “Bluffing in poker is not recalled when his wife, Peggy, The film ended and Crowley made a reference to an impor- show. Some of the audience lying, play for all the marbles in visited his camp. He also talked about things, such as his signatant challenge he won on members may have been the pot,” Crowley said. shocked when they heard what Crowley shared that, once ture bowtie and the fake “Survivor” that kept him in the Crowley said about the game. he arrived in Africa, he discov“immunity idol” he had crafted. game.

Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

Ben Pinette

STAFF WRITER

Not in Presque Isle? Are you away from UMPI and miss the scenery that you’ve come to love? Now, you can take a look at UMPI 24 hours a day, seven days a week with one of three different highdefinition webcams.

T h e we b c a m s a re p l a c e d at t h e t o p o f Folsom Hall, Nor mal Hall

“The only place that I’ve lost fire challenges in the world is in the County,” Crowley said.

As part of his visit to the region, Crowley took part in a fire-making competition that he, unfortunately, didn’t win.

He was thankful to be touring the County, though, which is where Crowley’s wife, Peggy— who’s from Fort Kent—grew up. Crowley thought the reception he received from UMPI was wonderful.

“You’ve made me feel very,

A Room with a View

and the Campus Center and offer views of the wind turbine, the walkway between campus and the city of Presque Isle. They can be accessed at h t t p : / / w w w. u m p i . e d u / we bcams.

Michael Sonntag, UMPI’s vice president for academic affairs, was one of the individuals involved in getting the webcams running.

“We have been recruiting international students recently, and parents may want to come and see the campus during the different seasons. They won’t need to make the trip up now,” Sonntag said.

Sonntag has had the idea about putting up webcams around UMPI since he first started here.

“When I first took this job,

I remember seeing pictures from the Campus Center to Folsom during the different seasons. We waited a while to get funds for high definition cameras for the last two years, instead of the low resolution cameras we had. It has made a difference,” Sonntag said.

Sonntag hopes the students here will get something out of the webcams

Crowley saved many of the items he encountered on the show and had them on display when his presentation finished.

Before that occurred, he made sure to thank the crowd one more time.

“This had been one of the best adventures I’ve had,” Crowley said.

Following his talk, Crowley signed copies of his books and postcards with his picture. He even took photos with fans. Peggy Crowley watched as her husband chatted with the people in line.

She shared some of her favorite “Survivor” moments.

“I loved when I saw that fake immunity idol,” Peggy Crowley said.

She also said that she appreciated going to Gabon and meeting the other contestants’ family members. When asked whether her husband might want to return to “Survivor,” Peggy Crowley was fairly quick to respond.

“He always said he’d leave here right now,” Peggy Crowley said.

Within 10 minutes, a fan asked Bob Crowley the same question and his response was the same as the one his wife gave. Crowley, who’s known for having played an honest game on “Survivor,” fascinated those who attended his talk at UMPI. If he ever does return to the show, he’ll be sure to have many fans watching from the County!

“I’d love for the students here to be in view of the cameras so their friends can see them from far away.

That’s what they are here for,” Sonntag said.

No matter where you are in the world, as long as you have a solid internet connection, a live shot of UMPI awaits you with just a click of a button. Now that’s service with a smile.

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Univer si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e mb e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Another One Under his Belt Ben Pinette

STAFF WRITER

“Survivor” winner Bob Crowley at the Rock Wall showing OAPI a few pointers

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It’s not every day you can say that you’re a published author.

But for UMPI president Don Zillman, the Maine Tort Law 2011 Supplement is just another publication he can add to his growing collection.

“This is probably the sixth or seventh supplement that Jack Simmons and I have done in 20 years,” Zillman said.

Published by LexisNexis, the work provides updates to the 2004 edition of Maine Tort Law, which was co-authored

by Zillman, Simmons and David D. Gregory. According to the LexisNexis website, Maine Tort Law serves as a quick reference guide for civil litigators and summarizes the legal requirements of virtually every cause of action based in tort recognized in Maine.

Zillman reflects on how he got started on the Maine Tort Law nearly 20 years ago.

“At the time, I was getting to know the state of Maine and I discovered that the state was sufficiently small that no one had published a compilation of all the cases and statutes that apply to my field of tort law. I talked to a few of my faculty and we all decided we needed to do this, and that’s what got us started. We are about due to put all this into the original book,” Zillman said.

The 87-page supplement covers 19 chapters and provides updates on everything from assault and battery and false imprisonment to product liabili-

ty and defamation. Torts are civil wrongdoings for which damages can be sought by the injured party. According to Zillman, publishing a book takes numerous steps, often taking years to complete. “[My group] and I have been doing a book every two years.

We have a meeting when we present the old book and we think what should the new one be. The midterm meeting puts paperwork behind it and we get started on the beginning stages of the 2012-2014 project,” Zillman said.

As for the Maine Tort Law, the book can be found at your local library.

“It should be in all libraries around the state of Maine and some further, I presume. It’s a very useful reference. You can find the standards if, for instance, you were in an auto accident or the doctor has committed malpractice against my father. Those are all tort pieces that we put together with a Maine emphasis on the case,” Zillman said.

Zillman already has plans for his next publication, which could be along the lines of energy.

“If it’s going to be energy, I would love to see us jump into the intersection of water access and energy. A lot of us think water is the next big natural resource shortage. I will have to see what my fellow authors are doing and start the discussion going,” Zillman said.

Zillman thinks that his next publication will come out by 2014.

UMPI president Don Zillman.

10 Kayla Anes

STAFF WRITER

Imagine an important part of your culture is fading. Even more difficult, you’re one of the few people still practicing it.

How would you feel? How would you react? Chances are, you’d try to keep the tradition alive. That’s what basket-makers Fred Tomah, Victor Bear, Roldena Sanipass, Jennifer Neptune and Jeremy Frey are trying to do.

From assorted Native tribes, Tomah, Bear, Sanipass, Neptune and Frey came together Wednesday, Nov. 30, to give a panel presentation entitled “The Evolution of BaketMaking: From Function to Art.” Held in the multi-purAn pose room of the Campus Center, these panelists met to discuss basket-making, their experience with the tradition, why it’s in danger of fading and what they’re doing to save it.

John Dennis, cultural director of the Aroostook band of Micmacs, opened the panel with a prayer. After him came President Don Zillman, who said he was delighted to have to put out extra chairs for the event. He acknowledged tribal leaders and Project Compass, who organized the presentation.

“We’re very lucky tonight to have these five fantastic basket-makers...I’m sure they have many stories to tell,” Dennis said.

Tomah, from the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, spoke first. He’s been making baskets for more than 45 years, starting with potato baskets. He eventually decided to start weaving utilitarian baskets, or those that are useful rather than simply for decoration, such as laundry hampers, waste baskets and fruit holders.

Unive r si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Baskets and Bridges

Tomah also wanted to make baskets that brought attention to Native culture. One of his best-known creations has a butterfly design on the top, a reference to the butterfly that lives on Mount Katahdin, according to Native beliefs.

said. “I try everything. It’s a until they rediscovered the tra- Frey finished his first basket, he good way of life.” dition as a way of holding on to decided to keep at it. He Bear is also trying to bring their culture. As tourism grew always saw basket-making as back the Maliseet language. He more common in Maine, so did an art as well as an outlet. makes instructional videos, the basket-making and selling. The “It’s kind of a spiritual thing most recent of which was on 50s and 60s saw imported bas- for me,” Frey said. basic basket-making. Bear says kets, plastic containers and He offers apprenticeships it will be available on-loan by paper bags in grocery stores, all through the MIBMA, encournext year. of which hurt their trade. aging anyone who thinks they Sanipass, of the Realizing the craft might not be want to learn.

Aroostook Band of around much longer, they During the question and Micmacs, was the third formed the Maine Indian answer part of the panel, speakspeaker. She talked Basket Making Alliance, which ers discussed topics such as dyes about her mother, who, offers apprenticeship programs, and why most practitioners along with her father, workshops and shows where don’t use natural ones anymore, was very well-known in artists can sell their work. and whether they believe basthe community. Her Neptune’s grandmother and kets are more about form or parents sold baskets in father were also basket-makers. function now. They also elaboorder to support their As an anthropology major, she rated on other nature-based family and Sanipass has spent a lot of time in muse- items, including snow shoes, said that, though her ums. Many of today’s designs toboggans and canoes, as well childhood was tough, and techniques resemble those as the wood-cutting process and she loved it. Sanipass of the past, proving that the two how it differs between tribes or took up the tradition example of Fred Tomahʼs work. when she was about 20, a later age than the Tomah believes that one of other panelists. the reasons there’s not many Her mother still makes basbasket-makers is because most kets, keeping her prices low people think it’s hard. He despite the economy. Sanipass doesn‘t consider basket-making encourages those with baskets a job though, and says he never to keep them since there may really has to work. Another rea- come a day when they’ll only be son the practice is in danger is in museums. It’s becoming the emerald ash borer, an inva- harder to find suitable land for sive beetle that feeds on ash materials and less people are Baskets by Jennifer Neptune and supplies she uses trees, limiting their best basket- passing down the knowledge. to make them. making material. Other coun- Despite this, and Sanipass pur- are more connected than we individual basket-makers. tries and groups have also been suing her education as a fresh- might have thought.

Though not all of us are known to copy them, an exam- man here at UMPI, she has “Traditional artists are Natives, we can put ourselves in ple being Shaker baskets. taught her own children to bridges between what was their shoes. We’re all part of a “I’ll probably end up seeing make baskets. and what is yet to be,” culture that has practices of its some of the last trees grown “It’s something we don’t Neptune said. own, customs we would probahere,” Tomah said. encourage as much as we used Frey is from the bly hate to lose. We can also Bear, from Tobique First to. We encourage them to go to Passamaquoddy tribe and acknowledge the contributions Nation, spoke second. He’s college instead,” Sanipass said. spoke last. One of the points their endangered tradition has been making baskets for about Neptune, from the Penobscot Zillman addressed at the made to our way of life.

60 years, starting when he was Nation and the fourth speaker, beginning to the panel presen- Potatoes are still a major crop in seven. As with most practition- is also a beadworker. She start- tation concerned the Sante Fe northern Maine and baskets ers, he learned from family ed by talking about the history Indian Fair in New Mexico. helped greatly in the gathering members. As a child they made of basket-making for the Native Earlier this year, it honored process. Just as each panelist on potato baskets, and it was more people. Before outside groups Frey with a Best in Show Nov. 30 suggested and proved, of a job. Now, Bear views it as came across Native Americans, award. He said he always loved basket-making is truly a conan art and truly enjoys the the latter used baskets to carry art and basket-making gave nection to the past, a part of process. He pounds his own ash gathered food. Changes in soci- him a new direction in life. our present and a reflection on wood and likes working alone. ety and the economy caused Frey’s mother encouraged him our future. Whether it remains “I experiment a lot,” Bear them to lessen in popularity to take up the practice. After is mostly up to us.

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From Raffle to Reward Phi Eta Sigma Holiday Farmers and Artisans Market on Nov. 19. Through the generous support of friends, family, faculty and the community, the club raised $311.70.

Raffle winners

the funds raised among the STAFF WRITER charities to buy things that they could use. For instance, It must have been a strange paper towels and pet food sight. UMPI BioMedical club could be used by the shelter. members waited in the Wal-Mart Puzzles and word finds would checkout line work well for with three carts the rehab cenworth of items. ter.

Also, kids’ They had everybooks were thing from huge great for bags of pet food TAMC’s play and cat litter to area.

Robyn potted poinsetOster, who was tias. The mempart of the bers also had shopping event, books, puzzles, enjoyed purgames, pet toys chasing goods and DVDs. Of for the last course, the items organization. had a purpose: “My favorite the club was part was pickdonating them ing out books, to three Presque puzzles and toys Isle charities for for children,” Christmas.

From left: Jacob Fillebrown, Carly Langley, Robyn Oster said.

Before the Oster and Jessie Rose.

Another club shopping took member, Emily place, though, the club had to included Bobby Ireland, Bryan Bartlett, had fun getting items find a way to buy the gifts.

Jennings and Cathie for TAMC and the shelter.

She Members sold raffle tickets on Sherwood. said that she thought the three prizes: maple syrup, a Throughout the ticket fundraiser was a wonderful Christmas-themed gift basket and a homemade quilt. The sales, the club advertised the idea.

“I enjoy helping others who realprizes were donated by charities they were fundraising for.

Members had selectly need these items. It’s nice to give Salmon Brook Valley, Felicia ed the animal shelter, rehab to those in need and put a smile on Butterfield and Brenda center and The Aroostock someone’s face,” Bartlett said.

Corriveau, respectively. One Medical Center children’s Club members took the time special event that the club was unit.

They wanted to divide to wrap the donations they purallowed to sell at was the chased before delivering them.

Carly Langley said that the entire fundraiser was heartwarming and wanted the organizations to enjoy the items.

“I hope that the charities will feel special when they receive the gifts and know that student organizations like us in the UMPI community care about them,” Langley said.

The BioMedical club is grateful to everyone who gave money to their cause. It was rewarding to buy the gifts and donate them to three worthy local charities. May everyone have a wonderful Christmas and know that they’ve helped others to have a great Raffle winner Bryan Jennings.

Christmas, too!

Stephanie Corriveau

Decks the Halls Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

With the holiday season comes the task of decking the halls with boughs of holly in between all of the activities that come with the busy holiday season including cooking, entertaining and shopping. As a part of their annual service learning project, UMPI’s Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society chapter did just that. Members of the organization took time out of their busy schedules in order to help decorate the Presque Isle Rehab and Nursing Center for the holidays.

The event took place the morning of Dec. 3. The members of Phi Eta Sigma met on campus first thing Saturday morning and then carpooled to the nursing home for the proj-

ect. Once at the nursing home, students unpacked and assembled artificial Christmas trees.

From there, the trees were decorated and displayed in locations designated by the nursing home activities staff.

“It’s an event that we look forward to every year,” Rebecca Stepp, the president of Phi Eta Sigma, said.

I’s not just the members of Phi Eta Sigma that look forward to this annual event. The residents and staff of the nursing home also look forward to this service project as they get to enjoy the finished product for the duration of the holiday season. By helping to deck the halls of the Presque Isle Rehab and Nursing Center, Phi Eta Sigma does its part in spreading some holiday cheer.

One of the two Christmas trees Phi Eta Sigma decorated.

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Unive r si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Something for Everyone

Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

When most people think of starting their holiday shopping, they think of lining up in front of the mall in the wee hours of the morning after Thanksgiving to get the best deals on everything for everyone on their list.

Black Friday may have been about a week away, but UMPI decided to give community members a chance to get a head start on their holiday shopping by holding a Farmers and Artisans Market on Saturday, Nov. 19. Unlike your typical farmer’s market, this event was held indoors and out of the cold in the Campus Center.

Local vendors such as farmers, nonprofit organizations, artists and crafters brought their products to be sold at the market. Items included jewelry, clothing, baked goods, candles, decorative items and even a

variety of organic foods. You could even enter your name in a drawing for a homemade quilt or holiday gift basket with profits from ticket sales going to benefit UMPI’s new biomedical majors club. One UMPI professor who went to the market got most of her holiday shopping done in one day.

“There is such a great variety of items here that my bag is already full. I bought some stocking stuffers for my family and some things for myself,” Bonnie Wood, professor of biology at UMPI said.

Whether you were shopping for the holidays or just yourself, the market was the place to go to kick off the holiday shopping season. With so many different items for sale you could find something for just about everyone on your list. Let’s hope that UMPI will continue kicking off the holiday shopping season this way for years to come.

A few of the Farmers and Artisans Market tables.

Fit and Fun for the Future Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

they learn some team-building skills though the games as well,” Chris Moore, the PE Majors Club president said.

dren play basketball, soccer and cup-stacking games. Then at noon the students could either go swimming or climb the rock wall, also at Gentile Hall. The students got water and some equipment, but they had to bring their own swimsuits and gym clothes.

The event was staffed by UMPI’s PE Majors Club members who are planning to become physical education teachers. Along with teaching children about fitness, Fit and Fun Day helped future physical education teachers practice working with students. So no matter what the game, all who participated in this event won.

If you were at Gentile Hall getting in your morning workout on Saturday, Nov. 19, around 9 a.m., you may have wondered why there was a group of small children running around the gym. You also may have wondered about the table you passed by on the way in at which there were UMPI students in gym clothes seated. These two things The day began with gym were related because they games in the Gentile Hall were part of UMPI’s Fit and gym.

Parents could sit on the Fun Day. sidelines and watch their chilFit and Fun Day is an event held once per semester by the PE Majors Club on campus.

This event is usually held on a Saturday and invites area elementary school students and their parents to come to UMPI to enjoy what Gentile Hall has to offer.

There are organized activities such as swimming, rock climbing and gym games for the students. This is the seventh year that UMPI has held this event.

“Fit and Fun day is focused on teaching kids the importance of being Kids taking part in a Fit and Fun Day activity. physically active and

Please Donate Your Books!

Do you have books that you’d like to get rid of, but don’t know where you could bring them? Phi Eta Sigma will take them! From Dec. 5 to 15, Phi Eta Sigma will be holding a book drive. Be on the lookout for green collection boxes that will be distributed around campus. Please leave your donated books -- that are in still in good condition -- in the boxes or bring them to the residence life office. These books will be sent to the Better World Books organization, which donates them to charities conducting “literary projects.” Also, Phi Eta Sigma raises money for their organization with each book that’s collected. Thank you for your help! For more information, contact Rebecca Stepp at rebecca.stepp@maine.edu or visit www.betterworldbooks.com.

Univer si t y T i m e s CAMPUS D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Fourth-Grade Fieldtrip Fun

thoughts on service dogs. The fourth-graders were especially excited when a few of them got Towels and bathing suits in to read their work. Many of hand, the fourth-grade students them were pleased to hear what were ready. On Nov. 4, these the college students thought. schoolchildren packed into the When the activity finished University of Maine at Presque up, Corriveau’s class headed Isle’s Gentile Hall. Steve to the cafeteria for Corriveau of Van Buren lunch. They were overElementary School had joyed when they saw brought his class to enjoy the buffet choices. But the pool. Corriveau was what really made them joined by the class’ gym happy was the desert teacher, Jay Edgecomb. table.

Corriveau The pool activity, which reported that his class took place during the class’ even enjoyed getting to regular gym time, was a eat in the same area as great workout for the stuthe college students. dents. They smiled as they The day didn’t end splashed through the water. with the morning’s After an hour in the pool, activities and lunch, the class, Corriveau, though. The class got Edgecomb and bus driver to have one more presRoland Cyr attended anothentation. Dr. Rachael er activity.

Dr. Jacqui Hannah took the time Lowman’s business commuto teach them about the nication students gave a brain. She was joined presentation. For her class, the students had been creat- Steve Corriveau supervising shower by BioMedical club members Bryan ing storybooks. The books cap activities.

Jennings, Carly Langley, would be used by two organizations: NEADS and Canines Corriveau had his students Robyn Oster, Dylan Plissey for Disabled Kids.

These share some of the stories they and Stephanie Corriveau. groups help educate people had been working on. The session began with a about service dogs and disabili- Corriveau felt it was important YouTube “brain rap” that got ties. The business communica- for them to get feedback and the class laughing. Afterward, tion students wanted to test their see how much work needs to go the students asked questions about the brain and then products on children. Tyler into writing stories.

“The students got a better guessed what it felt like: nooHutchinson was one of the participants.

He said that he insight into how the drafting dles, beans or Play-doh.

One special activity that the hoped his book taught the kids process is the same for college students as it is for elementary students’ completed was makabout autism and social dogs. ing “shower cap” brains. The “It was nice to read the story students,” Corriveau said.

Corriveau’s class listened to club members supervised as to the age group it was written the business communication the students colored in parts of for,” Hutchinson said.

Cooper Plaisted and students and had great ques- the brain.

“We helped them draw when Stephanie Corriveau also tions. They even shared their Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

shared their stories. All of the business communication students talked about their projects and the processes they had to go They also spoke through. about their experiences with Lowman’s service dog, Saint.

When they finished, Steve

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they were doing the shower cap future, the college students and activities,” Oster said. their professors can visit Van Jennings was happy that the Buren Elementary School,” students were having fun.

Corriveau said.

“It was great to see kids excitIt took several weeks for ed about something related to Corriveau to plan the activities. science,” Jennings said.

Along with arranging the events At the end of the presenta- with the college students and tion, the students were given instructors, Corriveau had to brain activity sheets, pencils get permission from the eleand brain erasers. Langley mentary school. He said that it enjoyed helping out and said was a great educational experithe session went great. ence overall. He’s grateful to “We would love to do it have had the opportunity to again,” Langley said. visit the campus, from which Hannah was happy to have he’s an alumni. the help of the club and “All of the fourth-graders thought the session was productive for educating the kids about the importance of science.

“I thought that the activities related to neuroscience went well and the students were very curious and engaged,” Hannah said.

Corriveau’s students packed up to leave after the brain session. But they didn’t forget all of the things that had happened in their day. Students making brain shower Corriveau stated that caps. the students talked about all of the activities they from my class would like to had participated in on the drive thank the professors and the back to Van Buren. He shared students and everyone who was that a couple of parents had involved that made this trip poseven given him positive feed- sible,” Corriveau said. back. Corriveau called the trip By working together on to UMPI “Academic Day” and “Academic Day,” both the shared that it was a success. class and college students “The Academic Day spent got to learn a thing or two at UMPI was an experience from each other while havthat these students will never ing a fun and definitely forget and, hopefully, in the memorable time.

SCHOLARSHIP INFORMATION 2012-2013 Academic Year A pplications f or s cholarships to be awar ded for the new A cademic Year ar e now av ailable in the Financial Aid Of f ice – 232 Pr eble Hall (t op floor ) or online at: h tt p : //w ww. u m p i . e d u / fi l e s /c u rr e n t- st u d e n ts/ fi n a n c i a l - a i d / fi n a i d - sc h o la rsh i p - a p p . p d f ( P lease print , fill out , and retur n to the Financial A id Off ice) St udents w ith a GPA of 3.0 or great er are ur ged to apply.

Application deadline is: February 17, 2012 *Late applications will not be accepted*

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University Times

ommunity

December 9, 2011

Big Company, Big Heart

Robert Butcher STAFF WRITER

With recent events such as Occupy Wall Street, sometimes it’s easy to lose sight of the good things that are happening locally.

Believe it or not, some large companies are not hoarding their wealth and preying on the everyday taxpayer.

Huber Engineered Woods, located in Easton, really wants to help local people.

Huber employs 112 local people. That is not just a number, it is more: it’s 112 people and families in Aroostook County who depend on the company for a livable wage. It is 112 people who care about the

area. Employing Aroostook County people is smart business, because we are hard workers, but Huber shows its big heart with donations as well. Tammie Fletcher, office manager and a Huber employee for 28 years, said, “We are firm believers in community service. We want to help people in need.”

In the past, Huber has donated to such organizations as Helping Hands, Habitat for Humanity and, very recently, to Northern Maine Development Commission. Fletcher, told of the numerous donations with pleasure. As she told the stories, her voice became more and more emotional,

Huber Engineered Woods, a local business.

like she was touched with the kindness. She said, “Our donations even cross the border into Canada. We look at all requests, we look at the need.”

Kent Demerchant, the disability resource coordinator for Norther n Maine D e v e l o p m e n t Commission, spoke about Huber’s recent donation.

He said, “I am really impressed when a big corporation steps up to help. It is not a hand out, it is a hand up.”

With Huber’s recent donation, it has allowed a Maine worker to stay working in Maine.

Demerchant said, “It is

important that we empower people. It is a social work value.”

T h e pe ople i n M a i ne w i t h d i s a b i l i t i e s h ave a lot to offer t h e st ate, a n d empowering those people t o c o n t r i bu t e a n d i m p r ove the state is i m po r ta nt .

D e m e rch a n t i s a g r a d u at e of U M P I ’s social work p ro g r a m . H i s role at N M D C a l l ow s him to make a d i f f e re n c e.

He said, “UMPI felt like it was the right place to be.

E v e r y o n e talked about

helping people, and I want to help people.”

T h e con n ection b etwee n H uber an d N M DC wi ll con tinue t o benefit Aroostook County.

As the protestors against Wall Street say, “We are the 99 percent.” Well, with people such as Kent Demerchant and the 112 employees at Huber being in that 99 percent, we’re in good hands. There should be an overwhelming vote of confidence in the power of people helping people in this country. When you see the Huber logo in the local building supply store, remember, it is not just a company: it is a lot of caring and good people. Living in Aroostook County is beautiful, but not just because of nature. It is beautiful because of the people who live here.

Univer sit y T i m e s COMMUNITY D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Pictures from the 2011 Presque Isle Light Parade Photos by Kayla Ames

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University Times

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ifestyle

December 9, 2011

Jim Stepp

CONTRIBUTOR

New Probe to Mars

The first space probes to fly

by Mars were sent by the United States and the USSR in the 1960s and 1970s. First came the USSR’s Mars spacecrafts, the USA’s Mars Observer, Mars Pathfinder and the Viking Probes. Since that time, the probes have become more and more sophisticated and eventually included landers and rovers. For a full list of Martian Space Probes, please go to http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/prog rammissions/missions/log/.

In 1976, the United States landed Viking 1 and 2 on the planet Mars. Viking 1 landed on Mars on July 20, 1976—the seventh anniversary of the 1969 Apollo 11 Moon landing—and Viking 2 landed on Mars on Sept. 3, 1976.

These probes were stationary and had relatively few scientific experiments on board.

Each of these probes measured the temperature of the red planet, sniffed the atmosphere to determine the composition of the Martian air and scooped up soil samples in an effort to see if

Mars was capable of sustaining life.

The Viking 1 and 2 probes also sent back to the Earth 150,000 incredible pictures of the rock-filled plains they landed on. For me, the most inspiring shots were of the pink colored skies and the Martian sunrise. To see some of the Viking Probe pictures, go to http://photojournal.jpl.nasa.g ov/mission/Viking.

Since the Viking Program, 16 additional space probes have been sent to Mars. In 2003, the Mars Rovers Spirit and Opportunity landed on Mars. These probes were designed to last just 90 days, but lasted much longer. Spirit continued operation through March 22, 2010. Opportunity is still operating and making discoveries today. To view information about these two probes, please go to http://marsrover.nasa.gov/ho

me/index.html.

The most recent probe to be sent to Mars was launched on Nov. 26, 2011 and will take 252 days to reach the red planet. This probe is called Curiosity. Curiosity is quite different as compared to the

Mars had an atmosphere and proper conditions to sustain primitive life. Curiosity was designed to look for signs of past life. Perhaps Curiosity may help answer the age-old question of whether life once existed on Mars.

The University of Maine at Presque Isle is located at 68d00m7.8s west longitude a n d 4 6d4 0m45 .6s north latitude.

To get a free sky chart, go to www.skymaps.com.

Sun and Planet Visibility

Dec. 15, 2011 Sunrise 07:09 Sunset 15:44 Mercury 05:30 – 06:36 Venus 15:42 – 17:54 Mars 22:30 – 06:36 Jupiter 16:00 – 02:12 Saturn 02:18 – 06:36 Uranus 17:18 – 22:30

previous probes sent to Mars.

It’s about the size of a small car and uses a small nuclear power plant to fuel the craft.

Curiosity will be able to drive around Mars, scoop up soil and shoot it with a powerful laser as well as drill holes into the ground and rocks.

In many ways, Mars was once very much like the Earth a few billion years ago. Due to its small size and distance from the Sun, it cooled off and lost its thicker atmosphere.

We now know that

For more information about Curiosity, please go to http://mars.jpl.nasa.gov/msl/ mission/timeline/launch/ THE NIGHT SKY

The International Space Station (ISS) is visible in the morning sky through 12/08.

The ISS will be visible in the evening sky between Dec. 14 and Jan. 5. The ISS will be visible in the morning sky beginning Jan. 13.

Go to www.heavensabove.com for exact times a nd lo c at io ns. You w il l need to register at this site and load your location to be able to get exact times.

Dec. 31, 2011 Sunrise 07:16 Sunset 15:53 Mercury 05:48 – 07:00 Venus 15:54 – 18:36 Mars 21:54 – 06:42 Jupiter 16:06 – 01:36 Saturn 01:18 – 06:42 Uranus 17:24 – 21:24 Jan. 15, 2012 Sunrise 07:12 Sunset 16:10 Mercury 06:36 – 07:00 Venus 16:12 – 19:18 Mars 21:06 – 06:36 Jupiter 16:24 – 00:42 Saturn 00:24 – 06:36 Uranus 17:49 – 20:30

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Mars

12/11@15:44 Earliest Sunset of the year.

Continued from Page 16 ASTRONOMY EVENTS

All of the times and dates below are calculated by http://calsky.com. You must do the free registration in order to get accurate times. The events below are listed in Eastern Time. For Atlantic Time, please subtract one hour.

12/02@04:52 First Quarter Moon.

12/04@03:54 Mercury in inferior conjunction with the Sun. Passing between the Earth and the Sun. 12/05@01:06 Mercury at Perihelion – Closest to the Sun, 28,583,000 miles.

12/05@20:06 Moon at Apogee, Farthest from the Earth, 251,900 miles.

12/06@16:18 Moon degrees from Jupiter.

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Univer sit y T i m e s COMMUNITY D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

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12/10@17:36 Full Moon, the 3rd northern most full moon in the next 10 years.

12/13@02:00 Meteor Shower ors/hour.

Geminid 5 mete-

12/14@02:00 Meteor Shower ors/hour.

Geminid 33 mete-

12/14@10:00 Geminid Meteor Shower Maximum.

12/15@02:00 Meteor Shower ors/hour.

12/17@19:47 Moon.

Geminid 10 mete-

Last Quarter

12/18@13:48 Half phase.

12/20@02:36 Moon degrees from Saturn.

12/22@22:06 Mercury greatest western elongation – 21.8 degrees, visible in the morning sky.

12/23@04:00 Ursae Minorid Meteor Shower Maximum, 5 meteors per hour.

12/23@06:12 Moon degrees from Mercury.

01/04@19:32 Earth at Perihelion, Closest to the Sun. 01/08 Stephen Hawking’s 70th birthday.

01/09@02:30 Full Moon.

Moon 01/13@21:48 degrees from Mars.

8.7

12/21@18:14 ISS passes 0.8 degrees from Vega – Alpha Lyra.

12/21@21:50 Moon at Perigee, closest to the Earth.

12/22@00:30 Winter Solstice, Sun -23.437 degrees south of the equator.

01/20@08:18 Comet P/2006 T1 at its brightest, Mag 7.0, visible in binoculars, http://www.aerith.net/comet/ catalog/2006T1/2006T1.html.

5.6

01/22@00:42 Comet P/2006 T1 closest to the Earth.

12/23@11:12 Comet C/2009 P1 at perihelion, closest to the Sun. Mag 7.3, visible in binoculars goto for more information http://cometography.com/lco mets/2009p1.html or http://aapod.astronomy.fm/20 11-11-13_comet-C2009-P1Garradd.html.

01/23@02:39 New Moon.

01/26@17:00 Moon 6.9 degrees from Venus.

12/24@13:06 New Moon.

6.5

01/18@12:06 ISS passes 0.4 degrees from Deneb – Alpha Cygnus.

12/26@17:42 Moon degrees from Venus.

01/01@01:14 Moon.

7.3

Last Quarter

01/02@07:16 Moon at Apogee, furthest from the Earth.

01/02@17:30 Moon degrees from Jupiter.

4.6

01/16@04:07 Moon.

Last Quarter

01/27 45th Anniversary of the Apollo 1 fire that killed Gus Grissom, Edward White and Roger Chaffee.

01/16@06:36 Moon 7 degrees from Saturn.

01/29@23:12 Moon degrees from Jupiter.

01/17@16:16 Moon at Perigee, closest to the Earth.

01/30@12:42 Moon at Apogee, farthest from the Earth.

01/18@00:42 Mercury at Aphelion, farthest from the Sun.

01/30@23:09 Moon.

First Quarter

WUPI 92.1FM “The Owl”

wishes you and yours a happy holiday!

Listen starting Dec 24-25 for your favorite Christmas songs all day and all night long!

Listen online, anywhere in the world at http://utimes.umpi.edu/wupi-radio

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University Times

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oice

December 9, 2011

Turning the Volume Up on Those Christmas Songs

Ben Pinette Staff Writer In your lifetime, you have probably shared some warm, joyful memories each and every Christmas.

Most of these memories couldn’t be possible without those holiday songs that have been in our heads for many years.

Even though we don’t like to admit it, we sometimes think of these songs in the middle of July. They’re timeless.

Last year, I made a list for the U Times about the five worst holiday songs of all time, in my opinion.

Well, I’m back with a new list. For WUPI 92.1, it’s my job to find hundreds of Christmas songs and put them into our playlist to be played over the

Sarah Graettinger STAFF WRITER

What do you think of when it comes near to the holiday season? What is the meaning of Christmas, or how did it come about? Well, here’s a journey to the past, going back to the epic adventure of Christmas past to figure out what it means for the holiday today.

The history of Christmas

course of December. After about 40 songs, it can get a little repetitive. But, apparently, over 2011, I have become softer, so I have warmed up to some of

these songs, and found some I haven’t heard in years. Without further ado, here are my personal five greatest Christmas songs ever made.

#5- Winter WonderlandEurythmics (1987) Anyone who knows me personally will tell you I’m a sucker for ‘80s music. When I heard the Eurythmics’ version of the classic “Winter Wonderland,” it definitely screams ‘80s to me, with its synthesizer pumping in the background of this song.

It’s a classic song with an ‘80s twist, that’s for sure. #4- Have Yourself a Merry Little ChristmasJudy Garland (1944) The classics never die. And this one is an oldie. We fell in love with her in “The Wizard of Oz” with “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” and we did again with this treat. No instruments, no chorus, just her powerful voice. #3- Baby Please Come Home- Mariah Carey (1994) This is a feel-good one for

sure. This would probably be the song you would want turned up on Christmas Day. It’s a feel good song that you can’t help but get excited over each time you hear it. #2- White ChristmasThe Drifters (1954) This will probably give away my age: I first heard this song while watching “The Santa Clause” back in the ‘90s and it still reminds me of Christmases gone by. Of course, there are many versions of this song that others have done that I do love, but this one really does bring back the memories for me and I hope it does for you, too. #1- Jingle Bell Rock Bobby Helms (1957) This was probably one of the hardest lists to compile. All of them honestly could be number one. But “Jingle Bell Rock” by Bobby Helms is a classic virtually everyone has heard at least

Spread the Joy

dates back over 4,000 years. It has become an annual holiday for millions of people around the world, where they celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ on Dec. 25. People give gifts, decorate Christmas trees and, overall, have a great time.

Now, you may wonder where Santa Claus comes into the picture. What does this guy in a red suit mean to you? Well, he’s

known as St. Nick, Father Christmas and Kris Kringle.

How did this one person get all of these names? He brings gifts to all the girls and boys in the late night of Dec. 24.

The spirit of jolly old St. Nick is giving presents all around and people being merry.

Megan Ford, an UMPI student, had this to say about Santa.

“He’s a spirit that brings peo-

ple together and helps create a feeling of happiness between people,” Ford said.

Santa Claus knows when you have been naughty or nice and has your name down on a list.

Songs are written about his name and many people chant them in the holiday spirit.

Many people love them.

“I love them, I love Christmas. I listen to all the

once. Personally, for me it doesn’t quite bring back the memories like the others have, but it’s a mainstay.

As we get older, it’s hard to have the same feelings of Christmas that we once had.

Staying up all night and wondering if Santa has come is a thing of the past. We’re also in the middle of a recession, which really has put a damper on large Christmases. Remind yourself that Christmas isn’t about material possessions.

It’s about being close to the ones you love and being thankful every day for what you have and not what you don’t have.

Find something that makes you happy and hold on to it. I hope I’ve instilled some words of kindness as Christmas 2011 fast approaches. I hope you have a nice holiday season and break and I’ll see you back in the new year.

carols to wish people a Merry Christmas. I usually start the day after Veterans Day,” Ford said.

Well, you might not know what the symbolism is from Santa to Jesus, but you can be sure that many are in the holiday spirit already. Spread joy around to you and others. We wish happy holidays to all at UMPI.

Unive r si t y T i m e s VOICE D e c e m b e r 9 , 2 0 1 1

Jessie Rose

The Spirit of Christmas

STAFF WRITER

It’s that time of year when people are a little nicer, when cheer and joy are all around.

The sound of favorite holiday songs echo over the speakers throughout the store or office. The streets are bright from Christmas lights.

Neighbors may be competing for the best-lit yard with the most decorations.

Different shades of green and red are everywhere.

Christmas lights are decorated in abundance throughout the towns. Decorated Christmas trees can be seen through every window. Waiting for the first snowfall can only mean that Christmas is around the corner.

But what makes this time of year so special? When does the official season start for people?

The reason Christmas is so special is different to people and varies greatly. But a big reason that the holiday is a favorite for most has to do with family.

Families come together for the

Lanette Virtanen STAFF WRITER

Does this time of year get you worried, depressed or anxious? When you walk in a store, grocery or otherwise, does the sound of the Christmas music seem like it’s just too much? Have you heard one Christmas song too many? Do you feel pressured to be in the holiday mood or to have all the right presents?

Do you find that, instead of getting in the Christmas spirit, you want to just shut it all out and ignore what this time of year really means? If you do, then you aren’t alone.

There are many who work in those stores and have to be immersed in the holiday spirit whether they want to be or not. For them, sometimes it might feel like it’s more than

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holidays, all celebrating the special occasion. People are joyful and, it seems most try a little harder this time of year.

The holiday, for many, starts the day after Thanksgiving, better known as Black Friday. This is the day that stores have great sales on many high-value items for about half off. These items include electronics such as TVs, game systems, games and DVD players. People arrive at the stores hours before they’re due to open in the hopes of getting a good place in line to be able to purchase one of the high-ticket items. While hundreds or thousands wait in line then enter at the same time, everyone seems to be after the same items.

They want the highly valued items, but there’s never enough for everyone who wants one.

This is another reason people will wait for hours in line before the store opens to get a chance to be one of the first in the store—so they can grab one of the highly prized items first.

Why is Black Friday such a big phenomenon? Black Friday,

for some, is a family tradition.

The whole family gets together on Thanksgiving and, the next morning, all go out to start or finish their Christmas shopping. This is passed down from generation to generation, as daughters go with their mothers and even grandmothers to start the holiday season.

While many people today have resorted to shopping online with thoughts of it being easier and not having to deal with the holiday crowds, Black Friday is a day that has an astonishing turnout of people in the stores. They enjoy the deals that occur and often enjoy being part of the large crowd that shows up. Stores depend on this day for their bottom lines.

Many people depend on this

After Black Friday, the volume of customers in the stores increases dramatically

through Christmas Eve. But after Black Friday, many people in the stores are joyful as they get ready to celebrate the holiday season.

While the lights shine throughout the neighborhoods around the country, joyfulness can be found on the faces of children of all ages. Their innocent eyes glisten as they talk about Santa Claus and the joys of Christmas and why it’s important to them. Smiles shine across their faces as they wait for Christmas to arrive. Making cookies, decorating a gingerbread house and hanging stockings are the little things that may be forgotten around Christmas time, but can be found through the eyes of our children.

While the spirit of Christmas is alive in all of us, looking at a child and getting that view can help bring out the real meaning of Christmas that some of us may forget throughout the year.

what they can handle. Right now, retail is in Christmas mode all the way and, if you

might feel like you’ve already had enough and can’t wait for it to be over.

For those who don’t work in retail and are just tired of listening to Christmas music every time you walk into a store, just remind the Scrooge inside of you that, before you know it, it’ll be January, the snow will be flying and it’ll be all over with.

When you’re out shopping for the presents that you want to get, try to remember that other people are out there to do the same thing. Remember what it is that you’re in there for and then stop and think about the people who are around you. They could be

other holiday shoppers or they could be the people who are working in the stores but there’s no reason to be rude or angry while in the stores. This time of year can bring out the best and worst in people and, if everyone shopping could remember that this is supposed to the “hap…happiest season of all,” then shopping experiences would be less stressful.

There can be a lot of guilt that comes around the holiday season. For some, it’s because they think that they haven’t spent enough money or they haven’t gotten as much as they wanted to get for family or friends.

With the economy the way it is, some people will use their credit cards to pay for the presents and then knowing that the bills will be

coming will, in turn, create more stress.

What you have to remember is that Christmas is not just about spending your money to get the right gift for someone. It’s not about having to max out credit cards or getting the newest game that just came out. This time of year should feel special. Christmas should be about family and friends. Instead of spending all that money, spend time getting together with the ones whom you love. That’s what it should be all about. Christmas is a time to remember family traditions.

So put up a Christmas tree or don’t, with or without the lights around the house or the music playing in the background. Take the time to sit back, relax and have a “holly jolly Christmas.”

day to be able to get the items that are on Christmas lists, so it would seem like a win-win situation for all involved.

Bah Humbug!

work there and spend your time surrounded by the sights and sounds of Christmas, you

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U n i ve r si t y T i m e s

December 9, 2011

Happy Holidays

from everyone at the U Times.