Volume 40 Issue 12

-SPECIAL

UNIVERSITY DAY ISSUE-

University of Maine at Presque Isle Volume 40 Issue 12

Journalism for Northern Maine

Visit us at utimes.umpi.edu

MAY 4, 2012

Coming Together Ben Pinette STAFF WRITER

Wieden Auditorium was fluttering with activity on Saturday, April 21, thanks to the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Native Voices and Project Compass groups. That was the day they hosted their annual “Native Appreciation Day.” The hours were filled with spectacles ranging from a dancing competition and to basket weaving to prayers and songs from members of both clubs.

The event is meant to develop strong connections between higher education and the

Native American/First Nations indigenous populations by setting aside time to focus on their culture and traditions. About

150 people attended the first year’s event, and about 400 attended the event in 2010.

Glenn Bernard is a member

One of the final dances of Native Appreciation Day.

Out of My Bailiwick Kayla Ames STAFF WRITER

I’m a Maine girl at heart. I’m used to the woods, quiet surroundings and small groups of people. Imagine my shock, then, upon entering Washington, D.C. It’s a very different place.

This probably leaves a question in your mind, though: why was I in Washington, D.C.?

I went with the UMPI geoecology club in search of new experiences and knowledge. We set off on Friday, March 23, around 11 a.m. Our group included club secretary Sarah Ames, President Gary Parent, Chris Staples, adviser Dr. Kevin McCartney and me. Michelle Hersey, another member, joined us on Sunday. We stayed the night with the Prokeys – Rich,

Carole, Jen and her fiancé, Justin. We shared a delicious homecooked meal as well as great conversation.

Saturday started early and turned out to be a much longer day. We passed through six states: Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Maryland and Delaware.

McCartney pointed out interesting examples of geology along with monuments. Parent, McCartney and Staples ate at Louis’ Lunch in Connecticut.

They claim to have served the first burger. Dinner took place with our host family, the Turners, made up of Tamara and Ron, as well as their daughters, Elise and Alexis. Despite all we’d seen and the new people we’d met, that was only the

of Native Voices and was instrumental in putting on the event. This is his third consecutive Native Appreciation Day. “Everyone seems to be enjoying themselves so far, dancing and watching us perform. Native Appreciation Day is a gathering and pow-wow for people to get together, share songs and dances. Families are welcomed to come to reunite, even meet some new friends,” Bernard said.

Bernard wore many hats during the event, including MC and performer.

“I’m still trying to get use to the MC-ing thing. I keep stum-

bling,” Bernard said.

Native Appreciation Day was conceived in late 2007 by David Perley, a councilor with the Tobique First Nation in New Brunswick. He’s also a lecturer for the University of Maine, the University of New Brunswick and St. Thomas University. Native Voices since its conception, has carried on the tradition.

The day-long event started at 9:30 a.m. with registration for the dancing competition and for booths. Competition danc-

S e e To g e t h e r, Pa g e 6

b e g i n n i n g.

“I always appreciate the opportunity to enrich my own personal experience and understanding of the world beyond Aroostook County. Whether it’s learning to master a new public transportation system or explore landmarks I’ve never seen before, I always feel I’ve gained something good, be it life skill or knowledge, that comes back home with me,” Hersey said.

Sunday brought one of those many enriching experiences: my first time on the metro.

McCartney had decided beforehand that, this year, we would break up what came to be known as “the Death March.”

We ended up going to a lot of

See Bailiwick, Pa ge 6

Geo-ecology club members at the U.S. Capitol Building.

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The University Times Staff Editor Lanette Virtanen Assistant Editor Kayla Ames Stephanie Jellett Staff Writers Kayla Ames Stephanie Corriveau Donna Delong Cole DuMonthier Shara Gardner Sarah Graettinger Kathi Jandreau Stephanie Jellett Taylor Lawrence Mika Ouellette Ben Pinette Jessie Rose Carlos Villoria Lanette Virtanen Kathleen York

Contributors Chris Corsello Deborah Hodgkins Danielle Pelkey Jim Stepp Kaitlyn Wells 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

University Times

ampus

May 4, 2012

Dear readers, Our open house last week was our best to date and I want to thank those who stopped in to say hello. If you missed it, just remember that weʼll be having another one next year and would love to see you there. I would also like to thank all of our writers this semester and say how much weʼll miss those who are graduating this month. Itʼs been a great semester and as much as Iʼm looking forward to the summer, Iʼm going to miss everyone. Good luck with finals and Iʼll see you all next semester.

Lanette

Greetings, Shakespeare wrote “parting is such sweet sorrow,” and Iʼm inclined to agree. Iʼm looking forward to summer, and Iʼm guessing all the students, staff and faculty here at UMPI are as well.

Iʼll miss the layout crew, though, and several of the graduates.

Nevertheless, next semester will come soon enough, with new classes and therefore new knowledge! Be sure to pick up and take home this latest issue of the U Times. Thank you for all your support, Kayla

Hi everyone, Well, Iʼm back, for the time being.

For the past three years, I have helped do the layout for our monstrous University Day issue. Once again, I offered to come back and help out the layout team. One year, Lanette and I stayed 17 hours to complete the U Day issue. We were just a little tired by the end.

Itʼs really hard to believe that another year has gone by and summer is on the way. I hope to have a great summer, and I look forward to seeing you next fall.

Ben

Hello everyone!

Itʼs that time of the year again: finals are next week and graduation is just around the corner. Iʼm not sure where this semester has gone, but the time seemed to fly by! This semester had its ups and downs, but there are definitely memorable moments with everyone.

Iʼm definitely going to miss Donna, Steph C., and Sarah, who are graduating and leaving the U Times.

I wish you all the best of luck on your finals and hope you have a great summer! I look forward to seeing the students who will be coming back and the new faces on campus this fall!

Stephanie

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Un ive r si ty Ti m es ! CAMPUS ! M ay 4 , 2 0 12

From Don’s Desk

For Everything a Season We approach two weeks to graduation as I write my last U Times column as pres-

ident. It has been a wonderful and challenging six years.

This was supposed to have

been a two year assignment.

But, somehow….

We will welcome Dr. Linda Schott as the 11th president of UMPI. Officially, Linda takes charge on July 1.

U n o f f i c i a l l y, Linda and family will arrive in Presque Isle in mid-June and get settled into the president’s house and the community. I’ll handle any detail work before then.

I was a sideline spectator

for most of the presidential search. That is exactly as it should be. Presidents should not pick their successors even if that pattern works (or not) for North Korea. We were blessed with a strong and representative search committee.

An accurate description of the challenges and joys of the job attracted more than 50 candidates. (I would note that the Chancellor search drew far fewer than that.) The committee sorted down to eight candidates for on-campus interviews. I did get to meet all of them. I was well impressed by six of them, including all three of the eventual finalists.

Those finalists then met with the campus and community.

Each candidate made some very positive impressions.

Each offered distinctive skills that UMPI will need in the next decade. My hope is that all other University of Maine System leadership searches can do as well.

We have plenty of work to do for the rest of the semester and into the summer.

Several faculty searches continue. New system leadership continues to evolve. We look forward to senior shows, the new Andy Warhol photo display and the graduation festivities. And, yes, the coming of spring.

I’ll be leaving UMPI in one capacity. But I’ll look forward to staying connected in many ways.

From Professor to Published Author Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

As if UMPI didn’t have enough reasons to be proud of the fine people who roam its halls, it now has one more.

Richard Zuras, associate professor of English at UMPI, is now a published author. His

first novel, “The Bastard Year,” has recently been published and is now for sale at both the UMPI bookstore and on Amazon.com. A reading and book signing was held to celebrate Zuras’ accomplishment on the evening of April 9 at UMPI’s Campus Center.

Richard Zuras signing copies of his recently published novel.

Many faculty, staff and students attended the event and bought books in support of Zuras. But there was no prouder person in the audience than his wife of 21 years, Kelly. Kelly Zuras is currently a stay-at-home mother to their two children, Holden and Everett. She was the first person to read her husband’s novel before it was published and supports him greatly.

“I’m really excited. He’s worked really hard on this,” Kelly Zuras said.

“The Bastard Year” is a coming-of-age story about the teenage son of a CIA agent involved in the Iranian Hostage Crisis of the 1980s. The book does have some autobiographical elements as Zuras’ father and the main character’s father were both CIA agents. This gave him background information to work with in writing this novel but it’s by no means an

a u t o b i o g r a p h y.

Rather it’s realistic fiction. He even clarified this to the audience during his reading.

“For me, writing starts out in a true place. I find using historical background information in my work rewarding,” he said.

Although this is his first novel, Zuras is no stranger to being published.

He has had some of his poetry and short stories published in various journals and other publications b e fo re. H i s s u c - Zuras with “The Bastard Year.” cess will not end with this novel as and promote his current he wants to pursue writing one. The UMPI communif u r t h e r. N ex t ye a r, h e ty wishes Zuras the best as plans on taking a sabbati- his writing career unfolds. cal to write another novel

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Un ive r si ty Ti m es ! CAMPUS ! M ay 4 , 2 0 1 2

Chris’ Corner

Farewell and Thanks Dear Campus Community First, I want to wish all of our students success as they finish the spring semester. To all upcoming graduates - congratulations and best wishes as you begin the next phase of your life and begin your careers. Know that you have received a quality

to offer: both in and out of the classroom.

This is my last column as I prepare to depart UMPI and move forward in my own journey. I wish to thank everyone here at UMPI for making my last five years memorable.

There are many to thank for my experiences, and I couldn’t pos-

education and are well prepared to move forward. It is my hope that everyone has taken advantage of the ample opportunities UMPI has offered and continues

sibly list everyone. Thanks to the many dedicated faculty and staff who work diligently every day to ensure the success of our students. Specially thanks to

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“Dr. J.” for allowing my space in this publication to say something every month and for her steadfast dedication to getting the word out...students are lucky to have you in their corner, Dr. J. I especially want to thank the student affairs staff and athletic department staff who support the academic mission of the institution and always put students first. This group of individuals truly knows what it means to be studentcentered and “walk the talk” every day. I’m likely biased, but without this dedicated group of individuals, not much would be accomplished in terms of providing the support, encouragement and additional learning our students need to be successful. I couldn’t have asked for a better group of individuals with whom to work.

A very special “thank you” to President Zillman who first

gave me this opportunity and supported me each and every day and allowed me to do what I do best. I and the university are lucky to have such a gracious leader!

I am hopeful that as people reflect on my time here, they will know and realize that my priority has always been the students and everything I attempted to do was for the benefit of the students and moving the institution forward. I hope that the community gained half as much as I have during my tenure.

As the semester ends, please take a moment and thank those around you. We can’t do anything alone, so take a minute and recognize those who have made your own success possible.

As I bid you farewell, I wish all continued success Chris Corsello. and God’s speed!

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Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

What could you build with Froot Loops, crackers and pretzel sticks? Students who have taken Dr. Bonnie Wood’s genetics class would answer a DNA strand. Wood is known for her creative teaching tools and techniques. In fact, her “lecture-free” methods have touched many students’ lives.

This is Wood’s last semester at UMPI as she’ll be retiring. It’s the perfect time to reflect on the significant accomplishments she has made here at the University.

Wood said that she started at UMPI full-time, on Sept. 1, 1989. Although Wood said that she could instruct medical students, she prefers working with undergrads. She also chose to teach at the University because of its size.

“I knew I wanted to teach at a small liberal arts undergraduate school. It ended up being a really good fit for me,” Wood said.

When Wood began working at UMPI, she instructed general biology and genetics. She still teaches these courses today, along with human nutrition and a class she devised called science seminar. Wood admits that her favorite class to

A ‘Lecture-Free’ Life: Memories of Teaching instruct is general biology. This is because it’s the class where students are first introduced to the topic.

Wood said that her techniques have changed over time.

She started with lectures, but she’s proud of the methods she has developed to instruct her students. As mentioned, she

Dr. Bonnie Wood. uses a variety of materials.

Wood also uses case studies and is known for her “learning teams.” She strongly encourages connecting real-world

applications to the information she’s teaching.

“I think that they learn how to think scientifically,” Wood said.

Pre-medical student Carly Langley enjoyed the courses she took with Wood.

“I love learning with case studies,” Langley said.

Wood has also been active within the campus and community. In the past, she served on the Honors and University Day committees. She also invited several guest speakers to campus.

“It was broadening for me to get to know those people as well as being able to share it with the community,” Wood said.

Wood also worked as Transitions: Partnership for College Success UMPI coordinator. In addition, she was on the Society for College Science Teachers executive board for two years. Wood has also had close relations with the Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory. She served on MDIBL’s Maine Biological and Medical Sciences Symposium planning committee. She also was on the IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence steering committee.

Wood has written several pieces. She said that she has published chapters in other

After 14 years at UMPI, Leo-Paul Cyr (pictured right) is hanging up his art supplies. Over the years, he has touched the lives of countless students with his unique style of teaching and his passion for the arts.

Cyr plans to go back to Grand Falls, New Brunswick, Canada, and continue living a quiet life. He hopes to do some traveling in southern France and plans to visit UMPI as often as he can.

We wish you all the best, Leo-Paul, in your retirement. We will miss you.

authors’ works. Some publications have been articles in journals, such as the “Journal of College Science Teaching” and “American Biology Teacher.”

One noted achievement was the production of her 2009 book, “Lecture-Free Teaching: A Learning Partnership Between Science Educators and Their Students.”

Currently, Wood is co-adviser of the BioMedical Club. She’s also involved with service projects. An example of this is teaching community members about nutrition.

In retirement, Wood plans to keep hosting workshops. She believes she may do some writing and will spend time being involved with the outdoor activities she loves. “[I’m going to] pursue the things that I’ve enjoyed doing in my spare time,” Wood said.

Wood said that she has enjoyed seeing UMPI students blossom over the years to become confident people.

She’ll miss working with them, but enjoys staying connected.

Wood also commented on how, as the pre-medical adviser, she’s noted positive change.

“I’ve seen a lot of growth in the program. Not only the quantity of majors, but also the quality of majors,” Wood said.

Junior advisee Jacob

5 Fillebrown appreciates the assistance Wood has given him.

“She’s very easy to communicate with and get in touch with,” Fillebrown said.

Wood commented that she’s extremely happy to have been an instructor for the University.

“I’m very proud of being on the faculty of UMPI. I always have been,” Wood said.

Colleague Dr. Robert Pinette had many positive things to share about Wood. He said that her retiring would create a gap because of the classes she has taught and activities she has been involved with. Pinette commented on her many positive characteristics, including her loyalty.

“She’s very personable, outgoing.

You enjoy being around her because she’s fun,” Pinette said.

Pinette also discussed the large amount of effort that Wood puts into her classes.

“I think she is certainly one of the most dedicated faculty members that we have,” Pinette said.

If you happen to see Wood, be sure to say congratulations and thank her for her contributions. Also, wish her well as she enjoys her retirement and the next chapter of her “lecturefree” life.

6

Together

Continued from Page 1 ing in all categories and ages was held from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. Dance categories included: Senior Women, Senior Men, Junior Girls, Junior Boys, Teen Girls, Teen Boys, Women and Men. All of these categories have separate Traditional and Fancy/Jingle competitions.

There was also a Tiny Tots category for the youngest partici-

Bailiwick

Un ive r si ty Ti m es ! CAMPUS ! M ay 4 , 2 0 1 2 pants. Prize money was awarded to first, second and third place winners.

An awards presentation for the dancing competition followed ending the day at 5 p.m. By then, participants had danced and applauded the day away, each moment bringing everyone

Photo on right: Attendees and vendors with some of the items that were for sale.

The reverence that everyone seemed to have at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial was Continued from Page 1 good to see. That showed hope places, but, in previous years, for the future,” Parent said.

We saw the Jefferson they went to many more. Our Memorial from afar and the first stop was the Smithsonian house where Lincoln died.

When we went back to the Smithsonian, our group explored the Fossil, Ocean and Ancient Sea Halls. Our last stop was the Inter national Spy Museum.

On Monday, we continued our so-called Death March.

We began at the Library of Congress, walked across the White House courtyard during a protest, got a tour of the U.S. Capitol and met Senator Susan Collins. Then it was on to the Botanical Gardens, another highlight for Part of the Martin Luther King Ames, Hersey and I. Lunch Jr. Memorial. took place at the National Museum of the Castle. Next, we went to the American Indian.

After that, we Washington Monument, then spent quite a bit of time in the World War II Memorial, another part of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Lincoln Memorial Smithsonian, the National Air and Space Museum. Our final and Vietnam War Memorial.

“The palpable silence at the destination that day was the Vietnam Memorial, ‘The Wall,’ National Gallery of Art. It is something that struck me. holds the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the

Americas, a portrait called here,” McCartney said.

“Ginebra di Benci.”

From there, we visited the Tuesday was “our day.” U.S. Naval Academy Museum We didn’t have a schedule. and then the National Wildlife McCartney and Ron Turner Refuge. The latter place is went to the Steven F. Udvar- known for rehabilitating and Hazy Center, another air and releasing whooping cranes. space museum. Parent and Thursday and Friday were Staples returned to the mostly driving, aside from a National Museum of stop at the Dinosaur State Park American History, though it in Connecticut. was new for Hersey. The rest “There are a lot of memoof us had been there before, ries I will always keep with me to see the flag that inspired of this trip and it is hard to narFrancis Scott Key’s “The row them down to one or two Star Spangled Banner.”

Ames and I spent part of our day in the Natural History section of the Smithsonian.

Parent, Hersey and Staples came later.

By then, Ames and I had moved on to extensions of the National Gallery of Art. We went to the Sculpture Garden and Plantings section. Most of us decided soon after that the Natural History museum was our favorite.

Parent, on the other hand, said he most enjoyed seeing the World War II Memorial and the Hope Diamond.

They made him feel closer to his mother and father.

Wednesday was our day in the countryside or, in the case of Parent and Hersey, around the city. While they went on a trolley tour, Staples, McCartney, Ames and I started our journey at the Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. We went to a research site in the wetlands and learned about climate change, carbon dioxide and plants from our guide, Patrick Megonigal.

“This is a research center, so there are a lot of different The Smithsonian Castle. experimental projects going on

‘favorites,’” Parent said.

As much as I enjoyed coming home to Maine, I’m glad I went. Quite a few parts of our trip stood out to me, not the least of which were the enthusiasm of my fellow geo-ecology members and the generosity of the Prokey and Turner families.

So no, I wouldn’t say I assimilated into Washington, D.C.’s, ways. I was out of my bailiwick, my usual realm. But that doesn’t mean I didn’t love every minute I was there.

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Un ive r si ty Ti m es ! CAMPUS ! M ay 4 , 2 0 1 2

Doctor, Doctor, Give Me the News Kayla Ames

STAFF WRITER

Maybe you know her for her red L.L. Bean backpack or the ar mload of books, binders and other school stuff she’s always carrying. If you’ve ever eaten one of her classic chocolate chip cookies, you’re not likely to forget it anytime soon. If you read the U Times, you’re bound to have seen her name on especially thorough and well-written stories. This carrier of the backpack, baker of cookies and writer of stories is also known as

ter. Her father pointed out that she could commute, and she was attracted by the small class sizes. As for what made her want to become a doctor, she liked biology as well as human anatomy in high school. Inspired by a visit to a pediatrician’s office, Corriveau thought it would be interesting and a nice fit for her.

“I’m one of those random people who enjoy going to the hospital,” Corriveau said.

Though Corriveau excels at classes and she says they’re one of her favorite parts of her college experience, she’s

Stephanie Corriveau.

Stephanie Corriveau, and, at the end of this semester, she’s graduating.

Corriveau came to UMPI in August 2008. Her father, who graduated from here with a degree in education, was the first to mention the biology program. That major allows you to concentrate on professional biology, design something yourself or become a pre-med student.

Corriveau opted for the lat-

also enjoyed taking part in extracurricular activities. She dedicates a lot of time to them – not only to writing stories for the U Times, but to the Phi Eta Sigma National Honor Society and the biomedical club, which she started and is now president of.

“I jokingly refer to her as the ‘science reporter’ because, among other things, she publishes wellwritten articles highlight-

ing science-related activities at the University,” Corriveau’s adviser, Dr. Bonnie Wood, said.

Getting the biomedical club started and the U Times’ annual open houses have provided some of Corriveau’s favorite memories. She’s also worked as a science and writing tutor at student support services and the writing center.

“My experiences at Mount Desert Island Biological Laboratory were great,” Corriveau said, referring to another cherished part of her time here.

If Corriveau’s grades didn’t speak for themselves, she’s received several academic awards. These include induction into the national honor society, dean’s list every year, the General Biology I Award, student of the month award in March 2011 and the MathematicsScience Academic Achievement Scholarship.

With recognition such as this behind her, it’s no wonder she’s already been accepted into the University of New England College of Osteopathic Medicine and is waiting to hear back from Tufts.

“My goal is to pursue pediatrics and hopefully return to Aroostook Country and practice rural medicine,” Corriveau said.

In other words, she wants to give back.

Corriveau attributes the success she’s had at UMPI to a variety of sources. She’s been able to interact closely with her instructors and classmates, taking part in everything from University Day presentations to a mini-medical school at the Maine Medical Center.

“In balancing her extracurricular life with her rigorous academic schedule, Stephanie demonstrates excellent time-management skills – a talent that will serve

her well as a physician,” Wood said.

Corriveau encourages others to get involved as she has. She also thanks her parents for their support.

Though Corriveau worries about moving further away from home, she thinks college has helped prepare her for that. When asked to give a few words of recommendation, she advised students to become well-rounded.

For instance, learn to write even if you’re a science major.

Also, become involved in the community because, sooner or later, you’ll be working in one.

“I’m really happy because I’ve come to know a lot of students and a lot of teachers and have gotten

opportunities I don’t think I would have had at a larger school,” Corriveau said.

She feels as if her experience here at UMPI has been more personal than it might have been elsewhere. It’s this personal experience, this close interaction, that will make us miss her all the more when she graduates.

The familiar cookies and pleasant stories will be gone, but traces of Stephanie Corriveau will, thankfully, remain. We’ll see her in the creativity of University Day posters for the U Times, in the existence of the bi-medical club and, not least of all, in the memory of a red backpack as its wearer rushes to class, not to mention toward a bright, expectant future.

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Un ive r si ty Ti m es ! CAMPUS ! M ay 4, 2 0 12

The ‘Epic’ Accomplishments of Sarah Graettinger

Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

Time flies when you’re having fun and getting things done.

For senior U Times staff writer Sarah Graettinger, time at UMPI has passed by quickly thanks to her involvement in her major and extra-curricular

sent an application to the National Archives in D.C. and, ultimately, with a graduate degree, wishes to have a career in civil services.

“I would like to work for the government and help people all over the world,” Graettinger said.

Sarah Graettinger. activities. Graettinger is an international studies major with a concentration in history. She also has a minor in mass communication. After graduation, Graettinger plans to get a graduate degree in international relations/global studies. She

Graettinger lived in several locations before starting at UMPI. Though Loring Air Force Base was her birthplace, her family spent time in Ohio as well as Westmanland, Maine.

Graettinger currently lives in Presque Isle. When asked why

she chose UMPI, Graettinger had an interesting response.

“Actually, UMPI kind of found me,” Graettinger said.

While at Caribou High School, she got to attend meetings with UMPI representatives. Graettinger said that she found UMPI’s atmosphere and close proximity appealing.

“It’s close to home and it wasn’t really that expensive,” Graettinger said.

Graettinger has a few positive memories of UMPI. She absolutely loved the class that she took with Dr. Kim Sebold that let her help set up a Medieval Faire. Graettinger was quite fond of getting into her role and creating scripts for her character, Annah.

Graettinger was later involved with a University Day presentation on it.

“It was a lot of fun,” Graettinger said.

Graettinger has also enjoyed working with the University Times since 2009.

One of her favorite events that she covered was the 1968 Retrospective.

Graettinger also loved going to New York City with her fellow staff writers in her freshman year.

The newspaper has given Graettinger writing experience.

She said that she joined after taking a class with Dr. Jacqui Lowman. Graettinger knew she wanted communication experience and thought about becoming a communication major.

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Although she started off with an English minor, she switched to communication. Her love for history along with her communication skills will be helpful for her future job.

Graettinger is content with how much she’s learned.

“This minor has taught me a lot about how to write better,” Graettinger said.

Lowman, who taught Graettinger in a few different courses, said she’s impressed with Graettinger. She’s amazed by how Graettinger has had to face challenges, but stays optimistic and overcomes the tough issues she faces.

“She’s bright, she’s enthusiastic, she’s incredibly persevering,” Lowman said.

Besides her involvement at UMPI, Graettinger has also worked within the local community. From 2007 to 2011, Graettinger was an employee at Wal-Mart’s deli department.

Next, Graettinger was hired as an intern for Senator Susan Collins’ Caribou office.

Graettinger said that she has completed two internships there. She will finish on May 11 and miss this job, but feels she got a good deal of experience from it.

“I learned a lot about how the legislative process works,” Graettinger said.

Graettinger has some advice for other students at the school or entering a degree program. First, she encour-

ages a “game plan.”

“To have at least a goal you want for after graduation. Write a list before you go to college: this is what I want to do. This is why I want to go to college,” Graettinger said.

Second, Graettinger encourages others to explore.

She warns against getting involved with some of the potentially negative aspects of dorm life, including too much partying. Last, she admits college can be challenging, but is bearable with goals in mind.

“It’s not that difficult if you have a plan,” Graettinger said.

Graettinger is a perfect example of her own advice.

Lowman commented that Graettinger has set strong goals for herself. She has a vision and plan of action.

Lowman finds that she’ll miss Graettinger because she was one of her first UMPI students. In one word, Lowman described Graettinger as “positive.”

“She finds a way to find the positive, to keep going,” Lowman said.

Overall, Graettinger has enjoyed her time at UMPI. The following words sum up Graettinger’s thoughts about her experience at the University and her truly friendly, outgoing spirit: “It’s been an awesome adventure of epic proportions,” Graettinger said.

Congratulations to the class of 2012.

We wish you well in all that you do!

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There’s One in Every Group Ben Pinette STAFF WRITER

At a small college like UMPI, it’s often difficult not to become close with someone on campus. It’s especially difficult not to become friends with someone in your major and shared clubs. For the past year, senior Donna Delong has been a permanent fixture to the U Time staff. Her spontaneity and sometimes sheer bluntness has made her a lovable fixture, not only to the U Times, but to UMPI and the world as well. What sets DeLong apart, though, is that the road to the U Times didn’t start when she came to UMPI. “When I came back to school, I was originally in the social work program. I found out soon that it just wasn’t for me, so I decided to take ENG 215: business communication with Dr. Lowman. I had never met Lowman up to this point.

It was a perfect fit because I always enjoyed writing. I never pursed it much before college,” Delong said.

Delong eventually switched her major to professional communication. In her classes with Dr. Lowman, she has

gained skills that she never group that really helped me get involved. I’m going to thought she would have.

“I started writing newspa- miss my friends. This has per stories in the fall of 2010 been my home. I’ve spent the in ENG 212, then called jour- majority of my time here in nalism: news reporting and the newspaper office. They Stepping writing. We got to produce are like family. stories for our radio station and turned them around for the paper. I found there was a need for stories for the paper, then,” Delong said.

Delong joined the University Times in the fall of 2011 full-time. One of the most exciting stories she covered while on the newspaper was the bomb threat that took place on campus last fall.

“I felt like the cub reporter from Superman at that time. I grabbed my steno pad and ran over. I got stories from everyone, including Mike Sonntag.

He gave me a really in-depth interview, which was great,” Delong said.

Delong graduates from UMPI this year with a degree in professional communication and a minor in humanities.

She will be leaving the U Times after this issue. Delong had kind words to say about the club and its members.

“We have such a tight-knit Donna DeLong.

away from this is going to be difficult, yet exciting…”

Delong said.

One of Delong’s primary mentors during her time at UMPI, Dr. Lowman, who is also adviser to the newspaper,

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will miss her as well.

“I’ll miss Donna’s openness and passion to learn. Any challenges that I’ve ever thrown at her, any criticism, she’s always accepted gracefully.

She always wants to improve and be the best she can be. She manifests that passion for everything, which is really great,” Lowman said.

After graduating, Delong will be looking for a job in the area.

“I’m just going to have to see what happens. I have the tools and knowledge to look into the places I haven’t been before. I’ve gained the skill of listening. And I have an advantage, I feel, with Dr. Lowman’s classes. The skills you learn in her classes you can take downtown and use right away or put on a resume,” Delong said.

The U Times and everyone at UMPI will miss Delong’s natural, outgoing nature and her mothering instincts that all have to come to love, especially here in the U Times office.

We wish her luck and we’ll really miss having her around.

On a side note, we’ll also miss her toaster.

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Race to the Finish Cole DuMonthier

the Sundrops, Carleton Project and Terry and the Sharkettes. It was a slow start for the Sharkettes, who began taking on water soon after cast off. They made it about halfway down before they capsized. Carleton Project was able to get to the other end of that pool and began to head back before it, too, succumbed to the water. The Sundrops absolutely dominat-

valiantly stayed aboard the sinking vessel as she went down.

The Argonauts were On April 6, eight groups of able to cruise to a decisive vicintrepid adventurers brought tory and claimed the last spot their homemade cardboard in the finals. boats to the Gentile Hall pool The teams in the final were for an event sponsored by the the Argonauts, the Sundrops UMPI art department and stuand Studio 923.

The dent activities. The goal was Argonauts were unable to simple: in teams of two, each cope with damages sustained group would paddle its boat to during their previous run and the opposite side of the pool, sank soon after being placed get out and turn the boat in the water. So the race turned into a two boat contest.

Studio 923 fought hard, but it was unable to keep up with the blistering pace set by the Sundrops. The winner of UMPI’s first cardboard boat regatta was the Sundrops.

There were other prizes awarded, as well. The most original went to the Argonauts.

Most UMPI school spirit went to Studio 923. The Mighty Fish Stick was crowned the most creative. The patented clap-oFrom left to right: Renee Moore and Audra Kirk paddling meter chose a fan favorite, with their way to the finish line. the Argonauts receiving a ed the heat and were able to resounding cheer. around, and then paddle back.

We hope that all of the conThe first team to make it back overcome the others.

In the final heat, there were testants enjoyed themselves to the starting point was the only two teams competing: the and we look forward to this winner. The contest was broken down into three heats with Argonauts and V-Dawn. Both becoming a tradition here at the winner of each progressing teams began very well. The UMPI. Keep your ears open Argonauts, however, quickly for more races in the future. to the finals.

Heat one consisted of the took the lead. V-Dawn began As one UMPI student, groups Studio 923, the Mighty to take on water and sunk soon Jessalyn Levesque, said, “It Fish Stick and the MacGyvers. after turning around. Its crew was awesome!”

STAFF WRITER

The Mighty Fish Stick was unable to make it off the starting line and began to take on water almost immediately.

Studio 923 and the MacGyvers had a hard fought race, with both teams reaching the opposite side at almost exactly the same time. In the end, Studio 923 was able to edge out the competition and came out on top.

The second heat saw more than its fair share of capsizes. Participants lowering their boat into the pool.

The teams in this heat were

99 Percent Perspiration…

Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

She’s also hoping to get input about the programs. There will be no charge to participate in either program.

“I’m going to offer it free until the end of the semester,” Marston said.

In the future, Marston hopes to have additional work-out programs. For instance, she’d

And one percent inspiration.

You’ve heard the saying before.

For Keli Marston, the inspiration percentage may actually be higher. She’s said that she’s full of new ideas relating to her job as the fitness and wellness coordinator. One thing is for certain: she’s definitely going to get people moving.

Marston has now been working in Gentile Hall for about a month. In the past, she was an undergraduate at UMPI. She later completed a master’s degree at Marshall University in health and physical education.

With her husband, she started the High Intensity Training Center in Jacksonville, FL. Marston explained that she came back to Presque Isle to work at UMPI so that she could be near family. Both her and her husbands’ parents live in the Keli Marston. area. This way, their families can also see Marston’s two love to offer a work-out session for senior citizens. It wouldn’t daughters.

“We wanted to come back be overly strenuous, but could be really beneficial for them. closer to home,” Marston said.

“I think I can help them with In the short time she has been at UMPI, Marston has gotten balance, core stability, flexibility,” some great programs started. She Marston said.

Marston also wants to offer wants to help improve the health of people on campus and within fun activities for children. She the larger community. Marston explained that a program such will also look at ways to help peo- as this would be helpful for parple handle their stress. Other ents, who could bring their kids things that Marston has said she’ll to it after school. Plus, there’s assist with are sports and personal the health benefits to consider training, as well as nutritional and Marston could teach them assessments. By this point she’s about nutrition. Marston also started two work-out groups. One has thoughts about a summer is called Fit Camp and will be held sports-conditioning camp.

“I’ve got all kinds of ideas,” Mondays, Wednesdays and Marston said.

Fridays from 5-6 p.m.

Marston is very enthusiastic.

“It’s going to be really high She’s enjoyed being in Gentile intensity,” Marston said.

The other group is called and the work that she does.

“I love helping people. If Step-N-Tone.

It’ll be on Tuesdays and Thursdays from you can make people happy, 12-1 p.m. Marston said this will that makes me happy,” include things such as body- Marston said.

So, stop in some time to talk weight training and ball work. If she discovers that there’s a large with Marston and join one of amount of people signed up for her programs. After all, have the groups, Marston said she’ll you given your 99 perfect perconsider doing another class. spiration today?

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2012 Awards Convocation Recipients Sunday, April 22, 2012

Maine Policy Scholar Maine Policy Scholar Award-Andrew Levesque

AFUM Scholarships Daniel Patterson Scholarship-Andrew Hunt John K. Steinbaugh Scholarship-Eric Brown

College of Professional Programs Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Accounting-Robert Blaisdell Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Business Management-Ashlee Pryor Outstanding Athletic Training Major -Brittany Kirby Outstanding Fitness & Wellness Major-Maryl Rae Shaw Outstanding Recreation Major -Amanda Turmenne Outstanding Social Work Student Award-Kelsey Albert & Dustin Damboise Outstanding Criminal Justice Senior Award-Nathan Cronkite Distinguished Teaching Award & Distinguished Staff Award Distinguished Teaching Award-Shirley Rush Distinguished Staff Award-Barbara DeVaney Senate Members Timothy Babine -Parliamentarian Emily Bartlett Catrina Comeau -Secretary Mercedes Dobay -Student Affairs Co-Chair Jason Fortin Robert Healey III Jeffrey Jamieson Elizabeth Keagan -Vice President Logan Lockhart Patrick Manifold -SAAC Representative Jeffrey Rhoads -BOT Representative Leah Rodriguez Andrew Seeley-Treasurer Jessica Stepp -President Adam Tilsley -Student Affairs Co-Chair

Who’s Who Kelsey A. Albert Elizabeth C. W. Bousquet Kyle D. Corrigan Justin Fereshetian Bryan W. Jennings Patrick Manifold Christopher R. Moore Cooper A. Plaisted

Student Senate Scholarships Steven Edward Eagles Memorial ScholarshipElizabeth Keagan Monica G. Gilbert Memorial Scholarship-Lanette Virtanen Alan Arman Memorial Scholarship-Richard Landry T. W. Morrison ScholarshipNicholas Reid

College of Arts & Sciences Humanities Scholarship- Kayla Ames English Book Award- Hayley Jipson Outstanding Achievement in Professional Communication & Journalism- Donna DeLong University Times Advisor AwardKayla Ames & Lanette Virtanen Fine Art Talent Award for Outstanding Studio AchievementAlanna Venturo Art History Award- Karrie Brawn & Lanette Virtanen Film Scholar Award- Lanette Virtanen Outstanding History Major Award- Samuel Picard Most Promising French Major Award- Jessica Doucette Mathematics-Science Award- Carly Langley General Biology I Award- Cole Dumonthier College of Education Outstanding Elementary Education Major-Danielle Pelkey Outstanding Physical Education Major-Desiree Smith Ruel Parks “Rising Star” Memorial Scholarship-Emily Pelletier

Congrats!

A Sneak Preview Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

During lunch on Saturday, April 21, you may have wondered why there were so many more people eating in the cafeteria than usual. These faces, though unfamiliar to you now, will soon become familiar because they will probably be students here in the fall.

Accepted Students Day brought 80 incoming freshmen along with their parents to campus to give them a sneak preview of their future lives at UMPI. The day-long event was full of activities for the future stu-

dents, starting at 9 a.m. The students were given the opportunity to prepare for the start of classes in the fall by signing up for their residence halls, registering for classes and setting up their financial aid. They also sat in on sessions about campus life, extracurricular activities and a mini-First Year Seminar class. The mini-First Year Seminar class was a sneak preview to the actual FYS class that the students will have to take in the fall.

“It gives you an idea of what goes on here on campus,” Lanette Virtanen, a current

UMPI student class said. easier. Though they may not course, it also helped that they Many current UMPI stu- have been as comfortable when had some friendly, soon-to-be dents volunteered their time to they first arrived on campus, familiar faces to help them give tours and speak at the ses- that changed quickly. Of along the way. sions. They also had the chance to socialize with their future fellow students over lunch. Both current and future students were pleased to meet each other. At lunch, they discussed their feelings about the upcoming fall semester, where they would be living and what classes they would be taking.

The incoming students appeared to be excited about starting school in the fall, making their transition to college Students getting an earful on Accepted Students Day.

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The Future of Education Danielle Pelkey CONTRIBUTOR

What do you get when you have Education students and the Maine Education Association in the same place?

The 2012 SEAM and Professional Issues Conference “The Sky’s the Limit.

Promoting Creativity in Maine’s Schools,” of course!

On March 24, 2012, members of the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s chapter of Student Education Association of Maine ventured down to the University of Maine at Augusta to take valuable steps to become successful educators.

SEAM chapters coming from numerous colleges and universities within the state of Maine gathered together for a

full day conference to take part in several workshops. These included talking about race within the classroom, how to create meaningful and engaged learning for underachievers, as well as social justice. Each

workshop provided participants with resources and necessary tools to assist with their future careers. It was also a great way to meet other students throughout the state having the same dream profession

and gaining more professional d e v e l o p m e n t .

Each chapter also had the opportunity to compete in contests throughout the day such as which chapter could collect the most box tops and a T-shirt contest. Even though UMPI’s chapter didn’t win either one of the contests, it was a great experience to work together as a group to decorate our “super” Ts h i r t s .

Since we will be teaching students of Left to right: Nick Piers, Danielle Clark, Danielle Pelkey and the future, it’s Scott Robinson. important to

gain professional development and interact with educators who are already in the classroom to learn from their experiences.

E d u c a t i o n students are strongly encouraged to join their chapter at their school. Membership is $27 a year.

This allows members access to resources that will prepare them for their professional careers through professional development opportunities and various on and off campus activities. SEAM truly prepares education students to become professional educators. If you have any questions or would like to become a member of SEAM, please contact Danielle Pelkey at danielle.pelkey@maine.edu.

Around the U.S.A. With SEAM Kaitlyn Wells CONTRIBUTOR

The afterschool program in Washburn got a special treat on April 3, 2012. The University of Maine Presque Isle Student Education Association of Maine members went to Washburn and held a Read Across America event that had children traveling all around the United States. Have you ever wanted to take a tour of a bat cave in New Mexico or take a trip to Florida and learn about the different seashells there? How about dig up some fossils in Montana? Or maybe you’d prefer to lie on the beach in Hawaii and learn to speak Hawaiian? That’s exactly what the Washburn after school program did recently with the help of the University of Maine at Presque Isle SEAM members and their imaginations. The children were broken into groups and each given a suitcase and a destination.

They began their trip to Read Across America.

First stop: the bat caves in New Mexico. The children learned many facts about the bats that inhabit the caves, echolocation, the food the bats eat, and made their own bat to put in their suitcase. After a sticker from the state to go on their suitcase, as a passport stamp, they were off to the next state: Florida!

Once they arrived in Florida, the children picked seashells and looked them up on a seashell chart. They got to label the shells and see all the different types of shells that can be found on the coast, by the ocean. They also learned interesting facts about the ocean, and the seashells they were choosing. Once all the children had their shells labeled and packed in their suitcases, they got a snack: a little piece of the ocean, complete with fish. In actuality it was just blue Jell-O and gummy fish, but with a little imagination and squint of the eyes, it was a tasteful ocean treat in a cup. After they ate their own bit of the

Atlantic Ocean and got a sticker for their suitcases, they were off to their next destination: Montana!

When in Montana, the children learned about fossils, dinosaurs and archeology. They got to see fossils and dinosaur figures. They read a book about fossils and learned about the archeologists who study the fossils found in Montana. The children broke into pairs/small groups and looked at a book with facts about Montana, dinosaurs and archeology. The trip to the archeologist site was complete with a worksheet about Montana and a sticker for their suitcase. Then they were on the road again: last stop Hawaii!

Once they arrived in Hawaii, they each got a lei around their necks. They sat down and had a snack of Hawaiian fruit kabobs and learned some Hawaiian words. The children loved learning about Hawaii, the different plants it has, the way the native alphabet is different from Maine’s and the different fruits

the people there eat. After the snack, the children got to use the new words they learned and talk to each other in Hawaiian.

The day ended with the children returning to Maine and telling all their friends and teachers all about what they

had learned and did and finally boarding the school bus to head home. The UMPI SEAM members did an amazing job at providing a fun way to get children to read and learn about the different states when they Read Across America.

SEAM member Margaret Selig gives the Washburn Afterschool Program children a lesson about seashells when they visited Florida on their Read Across America trip on April 3.

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When We Talk About Tutoring....

Debroah Hodgkins

Franklin-Wight and Ussery discussed the importance of flexibility and their experiences identifying, on the spot, the best approaches to take with writers based on the project being discussed—from brainstorming to a completed draft—and the needs of the writers. They discussed particularly rewarding and challenging consultations, and the metaphors they have used to describe their roles in reflection: both the roles they feel they have played and the roles they feel writers have imagined for them.

“The more I thought about it

going to St. John’s and talking to CONTRIBUTOR other tutors, I’m amazed at the many different shapes, sizes and Saturday, April 14, was a budgets that other writing cenbeautiful spring day in Queens, ters operate under. At UMPI, we N.Y., as UMPI writing center have six tutors, but some of the tutors Martha Franklin-Wight schools had over 100. So that and Taylor Ussery presented at goes to show the difference.” the annual Northeast Writing Franklin-Wight was also Centers Association invigorated by the conference Conference at Saint John’s and surprised by some of the University with writing center differences she discovered director Dr. Deborah Hodgkins. between centers.

The UMPI group’s session, “I really enjoyed going to New titled “The Whole Writer, the York City for the conference.

Whole Tutor: What We Talk Not only did I get to experience about When We Reflect on presenting to others, but I also Practice,” was an interactive learned so much one, engaging the audiabout other writing ence in activities, after centers...their ideas, first providing context. hardships and pasHodgkins stated that sions. It really the purpose of the sesopened my eyes to sion was to “explore the how lucky we are to language that we use have the writing when we talk about center here in tutoring and reflect on Presque Isle.” practice and the This was metaphors we invoke Hodgkins’ third both for what writing time presenting at consultants do and how they describe their roles Left to Right: Taylor Ussery, Deborah national or regional conferences with in sessions with writers.” Hodgkins and Martha Franklin-Wight.

UMPI consultants.

She introduced the ses“I am always sion by making connections to recent research and describing and prepared for it, the more impressed with the outstanding how the session originated both beneficial it became to me,” work that all of the writing cenfrom papers produced in Ussery said. “I hope our presen- ter tutors do each time they ENG/EDU 393, Writing tation manifests itself the same work with writers. It is imporTheory and Practice, and con- way in the minds of our audi- tant academic work,” Hodgkins versations in the writing center. ence. There’s really so much to said. “Having the opportunity to present on that work at a proThe title, in fact, was inspired by think about and reflect on.”

The other sessions that the fessional conference is an a paper by another consultant, Stephanie Corriveau, who could three attended gave Franklin- invaluable experience, and not attend due to another com- Wight and Ussery the chance Martha and Taylor represented mitment. As she was applying for to learn from and communi- UMPI very well.”

With several tutors graduatmedical school, Corriveau dis- cate with other consultants and directors. ing this semester, Hodgkins is covered a powerful connection “I learned a lot just from talk- seeking new tutors to staff the between the osteopathic philosophy of “patient-centered” medi- ing with other tutors about the writing center in the fall. If you cine. This embraces a kind of sessions we sat in on,” Ussery would like more information on reflection on the patients’ needs said. “I’d never thought of other becoming a writing center tutor, that seems to resemble the meth- writing centers as being any dif- contact Hodgkins at 768-9423 or ods that writing center tutors use. ferent from UMPI’s. But, after deborah.hodgkins@umpi.edu.

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Helping and Healing Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

basic classes. There are also clinical components. PA students get experience in a variety of fields.

“Picking good rotations is a big thing,” Thomas said.

Thomas encouraged students to job-shadow before applying.

She also urged them to check that the school they want to attend is accredited. If you’re interested in getting more information, Thomas said that you should check out the American Academy of Physician Assistants and National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants websites.

Thomas really loves her career and interacting with patients. She enjoys being a PA because of the different fields she has worked in. These include emergency medicine and dermatology.

“I really like the PA profession because one of the nice things about it is that you can change

To enter the healthcare field, you’ve got to be willing to give your time. This is one piece of advice that physician assistant Christine Thomas has to offer. On April 18, Thomas visited with UMPI’s BioMedical Club. She shared information about PA school.

Thomas also gave tips on how to become a successful PA, or Physician Assistant.

Thomas works at Pines Health Services in Presque Isle.

She’s Canadian and travels to her job three days of the week— she serves 12-hour shifts.

Thomas began her career path as an undergraduate at the University of New Brunswick.

Although she considered medical school, Thomas was eventually drawn to becoming a PA. She shadowed Glenn Raymond, a PA at Cary Medical Center.

By working with him, Thomas was motivated to look into the PA program.

“Wow, this just sounds like a great fit for me to do,” Thomas said of her thoughts about shadowing Raymond.

Thomas explained that one of the best things to have when applying is experience.

Before PA school, Thomas said that she had worked with mentally ill patients. She feels that experience in the mental health field is great for any medical Talk participant Bryan Jennings career. Thomas’ work helped her to get accept- whos interested in becoming ed at Hahnemann in a PA. Philadelphia.

According to Thomas, a PA specialties,” Thomas said.

If you want to learn more, program lasts about 30 months. feel free to contact She shared that it’s definitely a stephanie.l.corriveau@maine.e lot of work.

“It’s the intensity and the volume du. If you’re interested in medicine and helping care for othof information,” Thomas said.

PA programs consist of the ers, a PA profession may be very rewarding for you!

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Showcasing Off to New Pastures Science Ben Pinette

Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

also had the chance to view There other presentations. were two additional poster sessions. There were also formal 15 minute talks. Hannah gave one of these talks on summer work she did at MDIBL. It was titled “An open-head traumatic brain injury model in adult zebrafish (Danio rerio).” UMPI professor Dr. Judith Roe was also in attendance. She gave a talk called “Evolutionary genetics of Arabidopsis thaliana.”

Dylan Plissey said that he found the symposium interesting. He believes he would return for next year’s event.

Jennings agreed and also enjoyed the MBMSS. “Definitely a good experience,” Jennings said.

Many of the students learned a lot from the presentations.

Langley commented on the extent of the research that was discussed. Oster added to this remark, noting that this work was for only the state of Maine.

“There’s a lot of research going on in a lot of research fields,” Langley said.

The symposium was a fun opportunity for the UMPI group. For some, it was their first experience at an event such as this. It also gave them a great chance to showcase their work.

Consider attending next year’s event to become a part of the greater research community!

STAFF WRITER

a lot of fantastic opportunities that many people don’t fully understand or appreciate. The people you work with are part of what makes it special.

UMPI’s counselor, Ralph McPherson, has worked with

“Chris’s work has touched every aspect of the UMPI student experience—residence life, health, counseling, athletics, student activities, admissions and on and on,” Zillman said.

On January 5, it was announced to faculty via eThe poster was proudly mail from President Don pinned on display. UMPI stuZillman that Chris Corsello dents Bryan Jennings, Carly will be leaving UMPI in an Langley, Robyn Oster, Dylan undisclosed date this spring.

Plissey, Taylor-Jo Quint and Corsello is UMPI’s vice presiStephanie Corriveau stood dent for student affairs, athletready to show off their research ic director and dean of stuwork. The poster was for the dents will be leaving UMPI in Maine Biological and Medical an undisclosed date this spring.

Sciences Symposium. This Corsello will be taking a job as event was held at the Mount vice chancellor/dean for stuDesert Island Biological dent services and enrollment Laboratory on April 13 and 14. management at Carolina The students traveled to the HealthCare System. on the MBMSS with their course campus of Carabbus College instructor, Dr. Rachael of Health Sciences in Hannah. Hannah worked with Concord, N.C. the students in their class, “I think, as a smart profesadvanced molecular biology sional, I wanted to explore techniques, to present a project some different options.

It just they had begun at MDIBL. In happened that there were jobs January, the group had comthat were close to my family pleted a short course under the and my partner’s. I ended up supervision of MDIBL being a finalist at those differresearcher Dr. Voot Yin. The ent positions and I took the project focused on zebrafish one in North Carolina,” and limb regeneration.

Corsello said.

Specifically, the students looked In the e-mail to staff back at microRNAs. These are in January, Zillman said that small genetic fragments that the move will “relocate can help control other genes Corsello and her partner, Joy, and ultimately affect bodily to familiar territory in North processes. The poster the Carolina.

Joy’s family is strug- Dean Corsello with UMPI mascot Hooty in 2010. group showed was called, gling with serious health issues, Corsello in South Hall since he According to him, “MicroRNAs let-7i and miRwhich is part of the reason arrived at UMPI around two Corsello functions as a pro101a are regulated during they’re relocating.” years ago. fessional as well as a wise zebrafish caudal fin regenera“As we get older, it’s hard “What a lot of people friend and counselor. tion: Fishing for MicroRNAs.” to be so far away from both don’t know about the dean is “I know I speak for campus While at MBMSS, the group of our families as they get ill. her sincere dedication to the in saying how much we will This opportunity came about students.

She genuinely miss Chris’ leadership and her so we could be closer to our cares about the students at passion for UMPI students. We families and wouldn’t have to UMPI and their needs. I will wish her well in her new travel so far,” Corsello said. miss that from her,” endeavors,” Zillman said.

Corsello will miss UMPI McPherson said.

Officials are currently in and the numerous students Outgoing president Don pursuit of Corsello’s replaceand staff she has met over Zillman also had a few ment. Until then, we’ll just the years. kind words to say in appreciate the time we have “I’ve grown very fond of the Corsello’s behalf. left with her. students here, the professionals I got to work with. I’ve said it when I first came here and I’ll say it again: this institution is like a diamond in the rough,” Corsello said.

Left to right: Stephanie Corriveau, Bryan Jennings and She also said that UMPI has

Dylan Plissey.

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Baby Bob the chinchilla.

An Eurasian eagle owl named Obidia.

Naomi the gray kangaroo.

UMPI GOES WILD!

Stephanie Jellet and Ben Lulofs holding Vinnie the American alligator.

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Social Networking: The Key to Success?

Kathi Jandreau STAFF WRITER

As college students in Aroostook County, we know a few things about the difficulty of finding a job. The

economy is bad news.

Because of this, we see fewer

jobs, and with fewer jobs, the people with more experience are our competition for these positions. Not only is it becoming more and more difficult to settle down into the career of your choice, but gaining experience in your specific industry can also seem impossible. In an area as rural as Aroostook County, many feel they have to leave in order to find a satisfying career. That being said, students need to take hold of every opportunity possible that may help them with their individual goals.

Networking has been on the rise for many years now. We all network in some way or another. Since many jobs require background checks and keeping up with evolving technology, it is more important than ever for students to have a professional online presence.

In a time such as this, the key isn’t always what you know, but rather whom you know. Social networking is on the rise, and it is also becoming a key to success.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 70 percent of all jobs are found through networking. Because off this, and since we all network in one way or another already, why not take on a profession-

al approach and join a professional social network?

LinkedIn is the world’s largest professional social network. With a LinkedIn profile, you can have more control over the search results of your name, connect with future employers, get noticed by a recruiter in your field, and search for jobs that suit your skills.

College students work very hard earning their degrees. But when all is said and done, too many are spending several months and even years trying to find jobs in their fields to suit their skills.

Getting connected while you are still in college can really benefit you after grad-

uation. Not only will you be building your networking skills, which are important in almost every career. You will also be expanding your connections and get the opportunity to learn from others who are currently working your dream job. As future professionals and leaders, students must be aware of their online image. Students can use LinkedIn to professionally present themselves via social media.

Twitter: Not Just for Birds Anymore

COMING SOON:

My project consists of help to the community to be informed about what is going on around the U.S. and world. This will include headlines and links of the news from the most important news sources in the world.

This project is going to cover politics, international news, economics, sport, weather and entertainment.

Keep updated every day with headlines from

The opening reception of “Eye to Eye with Andy Warhol: The Multiples” will take place on Friday, May 4, from 5-7 p.m., as part of the First Friday Art Walk.

The exhibition will last from May 4 to June 16.

Carlos Villoria STAFF WRITER

Twitter is an online social networking service that enables its users to send and read text-based posts of up to 140 characters, known as “tweets.” It was created in March 2006 by Jack Dorsey and launched that July. The service rapidly gained worldwide popularity, with over 140 million active users as of 2012, generating more than 340 million tweets daily and handling more than 1.6 billion search queries per day. It has been described as “the SMS of the Internet.”

Twitter, with the most important news that the community may want to know about.

You can find the latest headlines at: h t t p : / / u t i m e s. u m p i . e d u / under U Times Twitter Feed.

Photographs by Andy Warhol.

FEEL FREE TO COME BY!

Un ive r si ty Ti m es ! CAMPUS ! M ay 4 , 2 0 1 2

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Wisdom of the Woods Kayla Ames STAFF WRITER

Whom would you expect to find in the woods? A park ranger? A logger? A hunter?

How about the president? As to that last suggestion, probably not. If you’re author and lecturer Andrew Vietze, though, you know just how likely that would have been in

park ranger helped with that.

He wrote an article about Theodore Roosevelt climbing Mount Katahdin after reading a book detailing the legacy of Baxter State Park, where he worked. It was a big hit.

“It became obvious to me that there was a lot more to say about these people,” Vietze said.

One of these people was

Andrew Vietze. years past.

Vietze came to UMPI on Tuesday, March 6, as a Distinguished Lecturer. By 7 p.m., around 40 people had gathered in the multipurpose room of the Campus Center.

People saw pictures of his book, which were for sale after the event, as they passed by.

It’s entitled “Becoming Teddy Roosevelt: How a Maine Guide Inspired America’s 26th President.” Not long after, Charles Johnson, assistant professor of criminal justice, introduced Vietze.

Vietze started off by giving a brief job history and saying where his book came from.

Though he worked as an editor for a large part of his life, he always wanted to write.

The hardest part, Vietze said, was figuring out what to write about. His experiences as a

Teddy Roosevelt. Like many, Vietze viewed him as an icon of manliness. He was shocked to discover that Roosevelt was actually asthmatic, sickly and pampered.

Soon after coming to Maine for the first time, Roosevelt decided to change this about himself. He started working out, toughening up. His tutor, an avid outdoorsman named Arthur Cutler, steered him toward a Maine guide named Bill Sewall. Cutler knew from personal experience that Sewall could help.

When Roosevelt’s father died, Cutler saw all the more reason he needed a masculine role model in his life. He encouraged Roosevelt to go to Island Falls, where he first met Sewall and instantly regarded him as a hero. Sewall’s opinion of Roosevelt was not so high,

in the beginning. By the time one of his own they parted, he’d fixed this children. He estabimpression. And Roosevelt lished Camp had also, by then, fallen in love Roosevelt for Boys with Maine. He returned in his honor and again and again, eventually continued teachclimbing Mount Katahdin in ing, in his own way. nothing but thin deerskin slip- It just goes to pers and winning the affection show: certain lesof countless locals. sons and friendIn between these trips, ships never die.

Roosevelt made his way During the questhrough Harvard. Soon tion and answer after, Roosevelt married his portion of the lecfirst wife, Alice. Sewall met ture, Vietze and married a woman brought up his next named Mary Sherman. The book. The title will men kept in contact over the be “Boon Island: A years. This line of communi- True Story of cation kept Sewall up to Mutiny, Shipwrecks date, including when tragedy and Cannibalism.” Vietzeʼs latest book, “Becoming struck Roosevelt, who lost He also addressed Roosevelt.” his wife and mother in a 24- topics such as what hour period. happened to Camp Roosevelt of people in more remote “Here again is Theodore and the sources for his book. parts of Maine are rarely Roosevelt at a very fragile time He discussed Roosevelt’s told,” Hodgkins said.

Along with providing in his life,” Vietze said, “And health problems, what his and inspiration and insight into who does he turn to but his Sewall’s wives were like and what it truly takes to be a good friend, Bill Sewall.”

Sewall’s involvement in polileader, Vietze helps us realize As he had multiple times tics. Dr. Deborah Hodgkins, that it is the least acknowlbefore, Roosevelt fled to the an UMPI English professor edged, perhaps the most wilderness. This time, he who attended the event, said humble among us, who have found refuge in the Dakota she liked that Vietze was the most to teach.

Roosevelt Territory, where he decided he acknowledging the importance wanted to start a cattle ranch. and worth of “the little peo- might not have become the Sewall, though pessimistic, ple” with books such as man he did, or the president most of us look upon fondly, tried to support his friend. But “Becoming Roosevelt.” if it weren’t for Sewall, his he was right: Roosevelt ended “There are so many pockown strong will and the beauup losing money and Sewall ets of folks who are famous on ty of the Maine woods. returned to Maine. a national level, but the stories Roosevelt became involved in politics, setting him on the path that would eventually lead to presidency. He never lost his fondness for the Sewalls, though.

His respect for people like them – hardworking, honest people – also remained.

Bill Sewall stayed his friend and counselor until the end.

Though 13 years his junior, Roosevelt died 11 years before Sewall. The guide One of Rooseveltʼs many adventures -- proving himself a true grieved as if he’d lost Maine cowboy.

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Keep Reading On Cole DuMonthier STAFF WRITER

One of the afternoon sessions on University Day was about strategies for teaching reading. Shawna Stephenson, Kaitlyn Dolimount, Margaret Selig and Emily Case presented this topic. They included many methods that can be used to help both children and adults. According to the presenters, there are a variety of ways teachers can improve the atmosphere for reading within their classrooms.

The first thing that the group talked about was what could lead to people having reading difficulties.

These include being raised in poverty, which can generally be combined with low parental reading. Language/speech disorders as well as hearing disorders are other reasons that someone could have trouble reading. Another reason is a limited proficiency in English, such as those who don’t speak english as their first language.

Many things can be used to help those who have difficulty reading. The first method that was talked about was for teachers to make sure their classrooms are a literacy rich environment. This means teachers should make reading material readily available to all students.

It could be a designated spot with all kinds of reading material or even just lots of posters round the room for children to look at.

As a teacher, it’s also important to make sure you address the needs of all of your children. The presenters outlined a three-step process for helping students with a reading disabil-

ity. The first step is diagnostic assessments in order to determine the severity of the disorder. Then, you must determine that particular child’s interests and, finally, identify what learning style will work best for that student. Once this is done, there are many different options available to help those children. These strategies include flexible grouping, learning groups, tiered assignments and learning contracts.

Another track that people with reading disabilities might take is the use of assistive technologies. These are any device that could help someone read.

The devices in this category are various, from high tech and expensive to lower tech and inexpensive. The higher end electronics include computer software that reads entire webpages of text to the user or websites where you can download audio books as well as print so you can read along.

The low tech end includes devices such as tape recorders.

This presentation showed that, even if you have an issue reading, there are many ways to help. In the classroom, something as simple as having the reading material available can have a big effect. When more intervention is needed, there are strategies that teachers can use to provide an atmosphere to help students improve their reading. If necessary, there are also technologies that can assist people with reading problems. All of the presenters did a wonderful job of communicating this information and presented very well.

Can You Taste a Difference?

Jessie Rose STAFF WRITER

A group of students has been working hard to show fellow students the work they have been performing throughout the semester. The class consists of mostly biology majors who showed their

bill. A waiter (Joel Whitaker) brought out the eight different cups of coffee for Cyr. Cyr couldn’t tell the difference as she had insisted, which left Pinette responsible for the coffee bill.

The students then talked about p value = to probability

From left to right: Joel Whitaker, Justine Cyr, Stephanie Emily Barlett, Thomas Pinette and Robin Oster. research in the form of a skit on University Day. It included involvement from the audience as well. Everyone was encouraged to participate.

The skit started at a coffee shop with a model (Justine Cyr), and her bodyguard (Emily Bartlett). Cyr played a dramatic model who insisted she knew the difference in whether the milk was added before the coffee or after. A bet was established by Bartlett and a professor (Thomas Pinette) who overheard the conversation between Cyr and Bartlett.

If Cyr was able to tell the difference between eight cups of coffee, getting them all right, then Bartlett was to buy the coffee. But if Cyr was to get even one wrong, then Pinette would be responsible for the

value. P<.05 or 5 percent. This was used to determine the number of cups of coffee that would need to be used to determine whether Cyr could really tell the difference.

The audience was then split

into different groups, depending on whether you were a coffee drinker, a tea drinker, a soda drinker, an energy drink drinker or none of the above. Since the coffee drinking group was large, it was then split into two separate groups. The audience was then asked to create a hypothesis. The group that came up with the best one would have the chance to test it on a volunteer afterwards.

The experiment was changed to focus on 10 cups of coffee. The volunteer only got two out of the 10 wrong when trying to distinguish the difference in milk being added first or after the coffee.

The experiment was based on a real experiment that also didn’t go as Corriveau, planned. In that experiment, people were not able to distinguish the difference. The students in the group, which also includes Stephanie Corriveau and Robyn Oster, are trying to have their research published with the help of Dr. Bonnie Wood.

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To the Future and Beyond Ben Pinette

STAFF WRITER

A large crowd gathered in the multipurpose room in the Campus Center during UMPI’s University Day 2012.

They were there for this year’s keynote speaker, Dr. Gary Marx. Marx is an internationally renowned speaker and the founder and president of the Virginia-based Center for Public Outreach.

Marx has visited around 80 countries and has guest appeared on various television and radio shows in various places. He came to speak to students, faculty and staff about the emerging and persistent trends that will impact education and the future.

Marx opened up his presen-

tation with a few startling statistics. According to Marx, for the first time in history, the old will outnumber the young.

Majorities will become minorities, creating ongoing challenges for social cohesion.

“The future is all around us. It’s already here. These are the people that are changing the world. The question isn’t ‘When do things go back to normal?’

It’s ‘What will the new normal look like?” Marx said.

Marx stressed in his presentation that it’s important to keep the young well-educated and productive. He says we should call on experienced people to help connect what is being learned and it’s applications to expand opportunities

for lifelong learning and to consider how we can slow or reverse the trend of the young outnumbering the old.

“Change is inevitable, progress is optional. We need both hindsight and foresight,” Marx said.

Toward the end, Marx spoke about the challenges of developing people who are curious, persistent and inquisitive.

“There’s going to be a greater need for personalization in the future. In a world of diverse talents and aspirations, we will increasingly discover that one size does not fit all,” Marx said.

Jason Fortin, a junior here at UMPI, attended Marx’s lecture.

“He had some good ideas and beliefs… he was strongly opinionated. I learned that technology and education are going hand and hand in the near future. One size doesn’t fit all,” Fortin said.

Marx has published a series of books on his findings, including “Sixteen Trends: Their Profound Impact on Our Future” and “FutureFocused Leadership: Preparing Schools, Students, and Communities for Tomorrow’s Realities.” Both books are available at www.amazon.com.

For more information about his findings, or to speak with Marx directly, contact him at 703-938-8725, or e-mail him at gmarxcpo@aol.com.

Dr. Gary Marx.

Global Connections In So Many Ways Shara Gardner STAFF WRITER

This year’s Distinguished Alumni award recipient is not only being recognized locally for her abilities and accomplishments. She was also seen on a national level! Alana Margeson is an English teacher at Caribou High School. She’s an UMPI class of 2000 graduate, having earned two degrees: one in Elementary Education and the second in Secondary Education English. And she’s Maine’s

2012 Teacher of the Year.

Margeson has been an educator for the past 12 years, having started her career at Caribou Middle School teaching eighth grade language arts, math and social studies. In the fall of 2005, she was hired as part of the English department at Caribou High School and has taught AP English language and composition since completing her training in 2010. Her students fondly refer to her as “Mama Margeson.”

Alana Margeson at the luncheon.

“She has an exceptional way University Day and its continof bringing her unique experi- ued success on campus. ences and perspective to the The winner of the best stuclassroom every day in a way dent organization poster that connects her with her stu- award for this year was the dents and connects them with their studies,” Mark Jones, principal at Caribou High School, said.

In addition to her current title of Maine Teacher of the Year, Margeson is a wife and mother of four boys: 11-yearold and 8-year-old triplets. She resides in Westmanland, Maine, with her family on their all natural beef and organic seed farm.

“My life is a message and if I can share one thing today, it is that good teachers and education are innately connected to our survival,” Margeson said. “Education is the key to Alana Margeson. the future.”

Kim-Anne Perkins was also recognized at the luncheon was University Times. This is well for her 11 years of dedication deserved, as the U Times not and guidance to University only does a great job in parDay. She has been an integral ticipating in University Day, part of the growth of but it also does a phenomenal

job sharing the different projects and presentations with the community.

And Rowena Forbes was recognized for winning the

University Day cover design contest. Forbes is an art major at UMPI and created the design around this year’s theme: Global Connections.

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Israel, the Jewish Homeland Donna DeLong STAFF WRITER

Culture Fest, held on University Day, did not disappoint. Learning about Israel from Liron Albag, who was raised there, opens your eyes to a place that you mainly hear about in church or the news.

Israel, the only Jewish state, is very small — about the size of New Jersey.

“Even the stamps glue is K o s h e r, ” Albag said.

Even though this country is tiny, it’s filled with d i v e r s i t y.

Most people have heard of the West Bank occupied territories on the news, but to Albag, it’s just a Liron Albag. way of life.

Jerusalem is the modern capital of the state of Israel and the country. There the first century rubs shoulders with the twentyfirst century. Picturesque, “old” neighborhoods nestle against office towers and high-rise apartments.

Netanya is Albag’s hometown.

The houses are jammed together in the areas that aren’t desert.

Most homes are duplexes.

In Israel, it is mandatory to serve in the military: females for two years and males for three years. The military is strong and has the fourth largest air force in the world with 250 F16s. ? Albag served at an information center for injured and missing military personnel.

This information was then communicated to other posts so that families could be notified.

“I worked at a radio station where I met many celebrities.

My duties included working in the archives transferring reel to

reel into digital.” Albag said.

Agriculture is important as well. The most important source of water is found underground. The water that comes from the tap is not fit to drink.

Negev is mostly desert and is inhabited primarily by nomads and herders. It takes only four or five hours to travel from one end of the country to the other.

The state of Israel is 63 years old.

One U.S. dollar is equal to 3.7521 Israeli dollars. There are roughly 300 days of sunshine during the year. The population of Israel is 7.2 million, including people on or in the West Bank and East Jerusalem. Nineteen percent are Arabs and 4.3 percent include Druze and other tribes while 24 percent of workers hold university degrees. Israel has the highest rate of entrepreneurship, including the highest rate among women and people over 55 in the world.

There are 33 languages and dialects spoken in the local communities. The main language is modern Hebrew. Israel is the largest immigrant-absorbing country on the earth. It has the eighth longest life expectancy and 98 percent of the homes use solar energy.

We hear plenty about this place, but rarely are offered a personal glimpse into what life is like and what this tiny country holds within its boundaries.

This presentation allowed its listeners to venture across the world to experience a remarkable country, if only for an hour.

Facts: - Consecrated by ancient history events and holy places, Jerusalem is worshiped by Jews, Christians and Muslims from all around the world.

- The West Wall surrounds Jerusalem with seven gates. It may be considered the most holy city of the world.

- The City of David is described in many religions for different reasons. The Jews believe in the biblical Zion, where Jesus was imprisoned during his last days. The Christians believe in the last supper and the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. The Muslims believe this is where Mohamed ascended into heaven.

- Aside from that, Jerusalem also has more than 2,000 archeological sites, 70 cultural centers for the arts, poetry and literature.

- There are 60 museums and the Hebrew University.

- Tel Aviv is the largest city in Israel, located at the center of the country by the Mediterranean coast.

- Tel Aviv is a modern city that functions as the center of the commercial and financial life of Israel.

- Jaffa, an old suburb of the city, is a major tourist attraction. Night life in the city of Tel Aviv includes a variety of entertainments such as theaters, concerts, night clubs and pubs.

- The climate of this country varies from one end to the other. The north is green with water, lakes, streams and beautiful waterfalls. The coastline is humid.

- The Mediterranean Sea, located by Tel Aviv, and is known as the new city of the first Hebrew metropolis. It has a population of 200,000 people and land is very expensive. It is a well developed city and you can see the Israeli Towers, reminiscent of our former Twin Towers.

- Eliat City, the gate to the Red Sea, is a paradise. People enjoy diving, water skiing, swimming and boating. It also has all the amenities of a modern resort with luxury hotels, fine restaurants, bars, pubs, nightclubs, an international airport, plus V.A.T. or free shopping.

- Haifa, the seaport of Israel and the capital of the north, overlooks the modern harbor, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea. Haifa is the world center for the Bahai faith.

- The Dead Sea and Negev are the lowest point on earth, at about 1,300 feet, or 400 meters below sea level. The area is rich with potash, magnesium and bromine to make it the perfect location for visitors seeking a relaxing vacation.

- The Dead Sea or Yam Hamelach, “sea of salt,” is 33 percent salt. There’s no fish or plant life, but there are microscopic bacteria that can withstand the acidity. There’s no outlets, either, and it’s estimated to contain seven million tons of water.

- Nazareth city, the City of Annunciation, is a mix of races and religions. The historical city of Nazareth is one of the major places around the world. Nazareth is in the lower Galilee and not far from the Sea of Galilee.

- The Sea of Galilee, or Kinneret, is 46 meters deep and is fresh water. It is 23 meters below sea level and is the lowest freshwater lake in the world.

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Comics: To the Rescue!

Kayla Ames

STAFF WRITER

Wham! Zap! Pow! What do these sounds remind you of ?

Perhaps superheroes and comics. The question posed by Nick Piers and Scott Robinson on University Day was whether these have a place in the classroom. Can comics help people learn? According to Piers and Robinson, definitely.

The pair presented on Wednesday, April 11, from 1:40 to 2:40 p.m. Their session was entitled “Super Teaching: Implementing Comics Into Classrooms.”

Piers and Robinson started by asking the audience what they think about when they hear “comics.” The first thing to pop into most of our minds would be, more likely than not, superheroes. This makes sense. They have a lot to teach us. Spiderman teaches us about responsibility, Batman about ingenuity and preparedness. Superman is known for integrity and hope. Wonder

Woman is a positive role model.

Comics are also valuable because they’ve been known to encourage equality among races, cultures and people with disabilities. For examples, look to Warpath, a non-stereotypical Native American from X-Men, or Daredevil, who’s blind.

Piers was inspired to start collecting comics after reading about the death of Superman.

He thinks that, in recent years, superheroes have started to become too similar. There are still some good stories out there, though. And he hopes to clear up a common faulty impression: “A lot of people probably still think of comics as for kids. But some of these are actually really mature comics,” Piers said.

It’s this maturity that will help kids start to make connections between words on pages and the real world. Comics are an excellent way to learn how to read. They enable young readers to become actively

From left to right: Scott Robinson and Nick Piers.

involved in the experience as comics helpful. Science is a reg- irony, puns and humor. They well as develop critical skills. ular part of them, and not just talked about how comics are They can be introduced to the in the sense of radioactive spi- part of our everyday life, in basics, including reading from ders or experiments gone forms we might not recognize – left to right and sequential wrong. Old Superman comics consider the pictures showing order. They can begin to realize the significance of symbols: to associate an exclamation point, for instance, with a surprised face.

Comics can also make complicated literature – think of classics such as Shakespeare or “The Illiad” – easier to understand, not to mention more enjoyable. Piers and Robinson think they can be used to help introduce these kinds of works or serve as “companion pieces,” something to read along with the regular text. Education should be about choices, according to them, which comics can provide.

“Having a Dracula comic in the classroom could definitely Some of the many comic books that can aid in learning. help readers who are struggling,” Robinson said. used to talk about the science you how to perform CPR or Nor are English teachers the behind his strength and ability safety instructions on planes. only ones who might find to leap great distances.

They’ve been around since the Last, when it comes to editorial cartoon and hieroteaching sensitive subjects, glyphics. Comics can give kids comics might be the way to their first glimpse into that go. Rather than become total- gray moral area, introduce ly immersed in a world of ideas of identity and empathy. words or have to take on a Robinson listed relevant classcharacter’s perspective, Piers room activities involving and Robinson believe they comics while Piers made recallow readers a sort of psycho- ommendations, two of which logical distance. Drawing were Owly and American them in black and white, in Born Chinese. particular, helps dial down the This is not to say, howevviolence. Comics such as those er, that the big question detailing the life and death of doesn’t remain: why comics?

Anne Frank as well as one What can they do that great entitled Maus teach about the literature can’t?

Piers’ Holocaust. The lessons are answer was humble. easier to remember, though “It’s a little more versatile teachers must always be care- and something students can ful about the level of violence relate to a little better,” in the material they introduce. Piers said.

Rather than have one quesHe believes you can create tion and answer session at the more meaning with less – end, Piers and Robinson had essentially, that some pictures several spread throughout the truly are worth thousands of presentation. They addressed words. Piers also stated, with questions about everything great passion, that he loves from what age to introduce comics and no one can stop comics to kids and how to him from doing so. Given all make females more interested the possible benefits, though, in them to the beneficial use of who would want to?

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Un ive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 20 1 2

Communication Saves Lives Kathi Jandreau STAFF WRITER

The audience in Folsom 206 was all ears as Amanda Reid took the stage on April 11, during the 11th annual University Day at UMPI. Reid is a junior in the social work program at the University of Maine at Presque Isle. She was hired on as an intern at The Aroostook Medical Center in Presque Isle where she did research on the communication between patients and providers in the healthcare industry today. This is important because we’ve all been to a healthcare provider at some point in our lives. We should all have an idea of the power of communication. It’s especially important to have effective communication with your healthcare provider, as it is your health, and therefore your life you are dealing with.

“Good communication between patients and providers is really important,” Reid said. “And it is the responsibility of both.”

Reid explained how patients

are more likely to take charge of their own health if there’s good communication between them and their providers.

Patients are also more likely to follow provider’s instructions when they have an established

Amanda Reid.

relationship. There needs to be a mutual trust and seriousness when entering a doctor’s office.

Without this, great healthcare cannot be achieved.

When going to a hospital or doctor’s office, effective communication is the key.

The first step to good communication is for a patient to be satisfied from the start. After all, healthcare can be very expensive.

Some of the factors that Reid described as influencing patient satisfaction were wait times, interaction with the receptionist, the environment of the waiting room and then the encounter with the provider.

Providers can’t always control every factor regarding patient satisfaction, but

they can do their best to increase it. Showing empathy and not using medical jargon are some ways they can help. A provider must be friendly and inviting, but the patient must be patient and understanding.

“Not all providers are going to remember every problem you have,” Reid said. “They see so many people in one day.”

Reid went on to suggest ways that we as patients can have a more efficient experience at a healthcare facility. Patients need to know what their diagnosis is and the treatment plan that goes with it. Any miscommunication could reap terrible results. Reid suggested that patients create an accurate list that’s up to date and includes all the medications they’re taking. This includes over-the-counter medications and herbal remedies. Also, create a list of all current health concerns, so that you don’t forget anything when you speak to your provider.

“Be as descriptive as possible.

Take notes, ask questions,” Reid said. “Use the ‘ask three’

approach: ask three questions before you leave.”

The cost of ineffective communication can be huge. Not only is it a waste of valuable time, but it can result in the prescription of the wrong medication, the wrong diagnosis and patients could also end up being remitted to the hospital.

There’s also the loss of money to consider. Lack of communication can result in frustration and health problems.

Reid got a very positive experience out of her time at TAMC. She also benefited TAMC and the people she chose to inform about the research she’s done. She learned a lot and will be sharing her knowledge with others in the future. Reid’s currently working on a flier for patients regarding communication between them and their providers. This is something that deserves recognition, as you cannot put a price on good health, and you cannot truly benefit from healthcare without good communication.

Learning About Crime Sarah Graettinger STAFF WRITER

When going to University Day, many people walk around figuring out what events to go to. One session they could have attended, “Historical and Current Trends in Criminal Justice,” explained the criminal justice club’s trip to the Sacramento Police Department.

This trip helped increase the awareness of students as to what police do and what prison trends exist. Club members went to Alcatraz and had the chance to visit real working prisons as well as go on ride L-R: Hanad Ashkir, Josh Conroy, Sierra Turmenne, alongs with police.

Different members of the club Christina Hall, Josh Esty, Tom Dionne, Ben Lulofs, Mark had different experiences while Bartlett and Richard Landry. riding with police. Stolen cars and

violent criminals were just some of the things they witnessed.

One great thing they saw a demonstration in honor of Distracted Drivers Month.

While in California, they saw a demonstration with a lot of people dressed up as zombies to get the point across that being a distracted driver is not a good thing. People playing around with a song list or texting while driving can cause accidents.

While visiting some of these prisons, club members got a feel for what it’s like to be inside one and saw the people held there. Folsom Prison is the oldest prison and people have actually escaped in the past. In 1923, three convicts escaped using the sewer system. It isn’t known if these

escaped convicts were found.

Members of the club learned a lot about what it was like in California and how criminal trends relate to the past and now. This meeting at University Day helped show what’s in the field of criminal justice and how students viewed what happened during their trip. This was a great example of how members of the community and current students at UMPI get to thrive and grow as a result of this educational institution. The criminal justice club will continue to do both with all of the information learned during trips such as these. They have our thanks for sharing this wonderful experience with everyone willing to listen.

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Unive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 2 01 2

The Benefits of Fidgets Jessie Rose

STAFF WRITER

There are no two children ever the same, no matter if they have ADHD or are even siblings. All children are individuals and shouldn’t be treated alike when their needs are different. You

“Be fair to suit each individual child. You can’t give every child five books. That isn’t fair to the child who can’t read,” Staples said.

White talked about the

so the child can focus on what the teacher is saying. These can also help to be a good distraction from something that the student may be having other problems with. There

As the classroom filled with students and community members, five education students stood in front, readying themselves to start their presentation.

Emily Case, Hayley Ritchie, Alison Casey, Tyson White and Emily Staples introduced themselves and their presentation.

They were going to talk about Attention Deficient Hyper-activity Disorder, better known as ADHD, focusing on children in the classroom. Case described the different types of ADHD and different signs that may indicate a child has ADHD. “The signs must be present for at least six months before 7 years of age,” Case said.

Ritchie talked about the importance of structure for a child who has ADHD. Ritchie also explained how to improve the child’s behavior and selfesteem and that the same techniques could and should be L-R: Alison Casey, Hayley Ritchie,Tyson White, Emily Staples and Emily Case used at home.

“They need predictable should focus on the positives importance of fidgets: how are different types of fidgets. structure and clear expecta- and not the negatives. Rules they can be used to keep a Some fidgets are as simple as should be posted somewhere children’s hands busy to help a pencil grip. Then there are tions,” Ritchie said.

Staples discussed how there were the child can see them. them focus on what the Silly Putty or Play-Doh. are no two children with Make the rules easy to read, teacher is saying. They can be Other children may benefit used to keep the hands busy from a reading strip to help ADHD who are the same. along with colorful and fun.

The Art of Reading Taylor Lawrence STAFF WRITER

During UMPI U n i ve r s i t y D ay, a s e s s i o n took place in the Pullen A r t G a l l e r y. T h e ro o m , with paintings lining the walls and lights illuminating the area, was filled with around 20 p e o p l e p at i e n t l y aw a i t i n g P ro f e s s o r R i ch a rd Z u r a s i n t ro d u c t i o n o f t h e s e s s i o n , F i c t i o n Re a d i n g.

Zuras spoke about what would be happeni n g. O n e a t a t i m e, t h r e e

people went up to the podium and read their stories, 10-20 minutes l o n g e a c h . O n e w r i t e r, M i k a O u e l l e t t e, r e a d h e r short s t o r y, “The N o r m a l L i f e. ” “ I t ’s b a s i c a l l y a c o m ing of age story in modern day America,” Ouellette said.

I n Z u r a s ’ c l a s s, t h ey read Stephen K i n g ’s “ C a r r i e. ” “ I t ’s c o m i n g o f a g e, not in the H o l l y wo o d s e n s e o f p re t t y p e o p l e, ” O u e l l e t t e

said. She also recomm e n d e d S t e p h e n K i n g ’s “ O n Wr i t i n g. ” Matt Austin, a second year student, read h i s s h o r t s t o r y. S t e v e n McKenna gave the concluding reading of the stories were individual and unique in their own ways.

The session ended o n c e M c Ke n n a f i n i s h e d h i s s t o r y. M a n y l e f t with a feeling of satisfaction from the first class pieces they heard.

them stay focused and not lose their place while reading.

“Sugar and caffeine have the opposite effect on children with ADHD. They can be used to calm a child with ADHD along with having the opposite effect when given to a child with ADHD,” White said. “But they don’t cause ADHD.” There were fidgets on most of the tables in the classroom while the presentation was going on. It was interesting to see how many people in the room actually played with the items that had been laid out.

Casey ended the presentation by showing some videos of roleplaying. One of the students in the video had ADHD and the videos showed what not to do and what would be beneficial to do. The audience was asked what was done wrong the first time to show that they understood the difference in what happened with the different outcome. The second video showed the way the situation should be handled and gave different ideas on how a teacher could help a child who has ADHD be able to perform better in the classroom.

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Un ive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 20 1 2

Welcome to China Kayla Ames

STAFF WRITER

Have you ever been to China? Well, if you haven’t, you would have felt much closer to the culture and people on Wednesday, April 11 – also known as University Day. From 9:30 to 10:30 a.m., Xiaoyi Yang gave a presentation on the Chinese New Year as well as a variety of topics brought up during an extended question and answer session. He had help from several other Chinese students and Barbara Devaney, adviser of the international students club. Yang’s presentation was part of UDay’s CultureFest and took place in Pullen 210.

Yang started off by talking

Xiaoyi Yang.

about the Chinese New Year.

It’s a celebration that can last up to two weeks and is meant to guarantee a good harvest for farmers. Many of its traditions are based on an old story about a monster that used to attack villages and people.

Some of the victims discovered that the monster feared the color red and loud noises.

As a result, both of these have become important aspects of the Chinese New Year. It’s why celebrators wear red, decorate doors and windows with red scrolls and set off firecrackers. Food is also a big part of it – one of Yang’s favorite, in fact. The Eve Feast, in particular, is special.

“Family members get together and forget the sorrow of the past,” Yang said.

As more Chinese people move into America, they bring their traditions – including those surrounding the New Year – with them.

Yang spoke of the springtime festival with its many lanterns, some of them huge; the Temple Fair; fruit candies and oranges given to bring luck and money for the families of receivers. One of the things that interested Yang most as a kid was “lucky money,” given to children by the older generations.

“The whole thing would be colorful

noisy,” and Yang said.

Currently, China is in the year of the dragon. That was the birth year of Lijing Zhou, another UMPI Chinese student who helped answer questions.

T h o u g h Americans often view and portray dragons as evil, the Chinese consider them good.

They are believed to control the water and rain and are made up of pieces of other animals, such as the body of a snake and antlers One of the of a deer.

Another interesting fact concerning zodiacs: it’s considered unlucky to marry during your birth year. Zhou, for instance, according to tradition, should not marry during the year of the dragon.

Other topics discussed during the presentation included schooling, terrain, laws and language differences. Most of the Chinese students present said they’d already done two years of college in China, then decided to come to America.

Classes last a lot longer there and the college entrance examination, a test that holds incredible weight, requires a lot of studying.

“It’s not flexible like here,” Yang said.

When asked what their country looks like, Yang and others said that parts of China are very mountainous. Other areas are crowded. Farmers working and living in rural areas get land from the government that can be used up to 70 years. It can be passed on to children and the rights to it

items on display during UDayʼs CultureFest. sold to fellow Chinese citizens.

He encouraged audience members to learn other languages, especially Chinese, so that they can become bridges.

This seems especially wise given the relationship between China and America today. Languages in China can vary greatly, some totally different despite a separation as small as a river.

“Different places have their own dialect,” Yang said.

One of the three languages Yang is fluent in is Cantonese, an official language of Canada. He gave an example of differences in sound, asking “Do you have your dinner?” in Cantonese then Mandarin.

When most people think of China, they probably think of the one-child law. That’s applicable to citizens in the city, but farmers can have two children.

Yang, Zhou and another speaker, Johnny Mu, all come from single child families. Due to this, when they marry, they can also have two children.

They rely on strong family structure and the discipline of

parents to control teenagers rather than an abundance of laws. There’s no legal drinking age or restrictions on cigarettes. But if people drink too much then drive, they can have their licenses canceled.

Driving itself is very interesting. In China, because there’s so little room, driving tests have to be divided up into six tests. Yang passed his in 40 days, but that’s an unusually short amount of time.

Whether it’s driving tests or lucky money, China is about much more than what instantly springs to mind. It’s about the people, the type of people who would generously give their time to teach us about a way of life that’s already affecting ours and will, very likely, continue to do so. Even if it wasn’t, other cultures are well worth learning about. They expand our minds, further our empathy and education, make communication and collaboration easier. That seems to be the purpose of the CultureFest.

That, and learning about some pretty awesome traditions.

Unive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 2 01 2

25

Work Hard and Be Ready Carlos Villoria STAFF WRITER

The first presentation of the day that athletic training students hosted was “Strength and Conditioning for Football Players.” The presentation took place in Folsom 205 on Univer sity Day. But after a quick introduction to more than 50 people present, all moved to Wieden Gymnasium to

have more space to show drills to those present.

To n y B a k e r, Wi l l Cole, Ellis Pe l l e t i e r, Hugh McLellan and Karen Creighton led the presentation.

After an explanation to the audience, they were asked to participate if they wanted and divided into four groups.

Those groups were going to perform a circuit of drills.

One of the most important

Football conditioning exercises.

aspects of a football player is the ability in his feet. He has to be able to go by the opponent or stop him, depending on his position in the field.

After a quick static stretch of the participants by the athletic training staff, the first activitity started with a ladder drill to train foot ability.

Another really important aspect is to know how to play and cover your position.

That’s why the athletic training students in charge of the presentation added several Medicine balls, a tool to improve strength. drills for quarAt the end of the presenta“It was a really useful presterbacks, runtion, the audience had a chance entation. It wasn’t bad. I liked ning backs, corto ask the athletic training stu- it,” Ryan Thompson, athletic ner backs, dents about the drills and if training student, said. defensive tackthey have any doubts about To be a good athlete, you les and wide them. One of the questions was have to know your weakreceivers. The whether those drills used can be nesses. That way, you know circuit of drills utilized for other sports, such as what you need to put some finished with a baseball, basketball or soccer. work and effort into. This couple of exer“No, you can’t use the presentation helped those cises with medsame drills. But you can present to have an idea how icine balls to adjust them, depending on hard football players and improve the the sports that you are in.” athletes in general work to strength of the Will Cole answered. be professional and elite. athletes.

Back in the Force Ben Pinette

STAFF WRITER

During the last session of University Day 2012, in Folsom 206, students in Lisa Leduc’s honors women and crime class spoke about the unique project they’d done regarding a women’s reentry center in Bangor.

“The reentry center takes women who have been in prison for one to five years and gives them a place to provide them their skills. In prison, they aren’t making any money, so this is a good service for them,” Leduc said, According to Leduc and her students, the women have 3035 hours of training rehabilitation a week. Everyone goes

to Windham, Maine for 120 days at the Maine Correctional Center. Their daily life includes different community service activities, behavioral classes and outside work. The challenges for the women in the Correctional Center, however, go beyond what most people think.

“In a rural area, it is very isolated, so making an appointment is very hard for them. They have to travel to and from appointments, have less available services and help and have a visitation difficulty at times. Some of them get put back in a jail cell, sadly,” Kamrynn Thyng, a student in the class, said.

Ryan Kilcollins, another stu-

dent, spoke about ways to help will be used to purchase bus the reentry center and hand the women. tickets, taxi vouchers and non- over the money that they “We sat down as a group to slip work shoes. The class fundraised. Despite the chalhelp them out, including having sponsored an Ultimate Frisbee lenges of reentry, with people bake sales, an ultimate Frisbee tournament that was held on like the students of Lisa tournament on u day and a Sunday, April 22. On Friday, Leduc’s class helping them clothing drive, just to name a May 4, students in the class out, life for these women few. We wanted to meet our took a trip to Bangor to visit might just get a little easier. goal for the reentry center,” Kilcollins said.

Claudette Welton spoke about the clothing drive the class put on.

“These women need clothes for their professions. They need to look and feel professional,” Welton said.

“Every penny counts. If we don’t get the funds, the women may not get the jobs or child custody,” Leduc said.

All funds raised by the class Lisa Leducʼs Woman in Crime class getting ready.

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Un ive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 20 1 2

Are You Really Listening?

Jessie Rose

STAFF WRITER

Three students from the Professional Communication and Journalism major were center stage as the room filled with students and community members. Sitting, waiting for presentation time were Donna Delong (a senior), Rob Butcher (a junior) and Stephanie Jellett (a junior).

Delong, Butcher and Jellett had traveled to six of the seven U Maine u dayes to conduct focus groups. A focus group is a focused discussion to gain knowledge.

“It’s about feelings and emotions, not just a question and answer interview,” Butcher said.

The focus groups usually consist of five to seven people. You want to have a small group so everyone is comfortable and you can get to know them.

“You want to invite twice as many as you need because people will break your heart,” Jellett said.

Fort Kent was one of the u dayes that the g roup visited.

“It is a small u day with a strong attachment to the and community each other. They people were nice and happy. This was a positive experience,” Delong said.

The group also visited the University of Southern Maine u day. The library and u day were much larger than the other u dayes that they visited. The library alone is seven stories tall.

The Augusta u day is the newest four year college with many classes being offered online and seems to attract many nontraditional students. The group also did phone interviews with alumni from some of the u dayes.

“The interview is hard going over the phone,” Delong said.

The group members have developed a strong bond and a friendship. They shared

their fears and struggles as well as joys when going through this experience.

All shared their favorite u day that they had the chance to visit. And each had a different favorite. USM was Jellett’s favorite u day as it was a “great adventure.” Delong

Left to right: Robert Butcher, Stephanie Jellett and Donna DeLong.

liked the Augusta u day the most because it was not only a beautiful u day, but she was able to talk with businesses in the area along with nontraditional students and representatives of the president of the school. Butcher enjoyed the Machias u day, which the group visited twice, because they have great programs and the professors also work with rescuing marine life from the coast.

But what does one do after a focus group?

The group spent time to debrief.

They talked about things and the experience. During the focus groups, they took turns with one being a moderator and the other two being note takers along with

recording the sessions.

Then they transcribed everything, which they later tur ned into a professional report.

“Listening is a key component,” Delong said. “The professional paper also had to meet Dr. J standards.”

“It takes you out of your comfort zone and you gain confidence as a speaker,” Jellett said. You also learn how to adapt and learn time management skills.”

“It is amazing what you can accomplish” Butcher said.

“You learn useable skills and how to market yourself,” Delong said.

“How has this changed your career goals?”

Professor Lowman asked.

The group each took turns answering the question.

“I decided that I would get something out of every class. It helped with developing skills in communication and relationships with other students,” Butcher said.

“You got to see a side that other students rarely get to see.

You were able to be with people and learn from them, along with letting us know what students felt about their university,” Delong said.

“I switched my major from education after getting involved with the newspaper. More opportunities since I switched my major,” Jellett said.

While the group members did their focus groups, they learned a lot but also realized that many things carried over from university to university. They feel that it was an honor to be able to work with a marketing company that valued the work they did. It also taught them that listening is a key part in anything that they do. Are you really listening?

Unive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 2 01 2

Behavior and Inclusion Cole DuMonthier STAFF WRITER

During one of the first sessions of University Day, the team of Nathan Moore, Josh Mitchell, Alison Casey, Sara Ralston and Donny Kitson presented their findings on behavior management in inclusive classrooms. To a very full room, they explained the difficulties of inclusive classrooms and what can be done to make them run smoother. There were several different strategies that teachers and students can use to make the inclusive classroom more conducive to learning. These range from behavioral strategies for kids to training for the teachers.

They began their presentation by describing just what an inclusive classroom is. An inclusive classroom is where both children with disabilities and children without them work side by side.

It was stressed in the presentation that the same behavioral techniques can be used for all children within the classroom. A key theme that ran throughout the presentation was prevention, or stopping the behavior before it becomes a problem. This could either be in regards to the child or possibly even a change the teacher must take on. The techniques that children can use to

keep their own behavior under check can be used by any child.

These techniques included selfregulation, which teaches the child to control their own behavior and also open management skills, which allow the child to organize and govern themselves.

Although having the children regulate themselves is great, it doesn’t always work, so most of the pressure falls on the teacher.

Presenters emphasized just how much of an impact a teacher’s attitude has on their children. If a teacher goes into an inclusive classroom nervous and hesitant, their performance and attitude are going to reflect that. This alone could lead to some behavior problems. The presenters spoke about some things that teachers can do before going into the classroom that might help alleviate some anxiety. These include guided field experience, beginning to foster the positive attitude during pre-service and just having a general willingness to change.

Other than working on their own attitudes, teachers can do other things to keep the inclusive classroom a positive place.

Teaching based on the individual needs of each student can reduce the student’s frustration and assist in learning. In order to

help with integration of students, teachers should try to build a classroom that promotes differences and acceptance of those differences. Another thing that teachers can do is to have more collaboration with fellow faculty.

Teachers should also be willing to change their curriculum if possible. “There’s a chance” that many behavior problems arise from a child’s inability to grasp course material rather than another factor. A change in curriculum could reduce behavioral incidents and allow children to learn at a higher rate.

Teaching in an inclusive classroom can be difficult. If teachers use some of the strategies that were presented during University Day, however, things might become easier.

It’s important to remember that, as a teacher, you must also learn to adapt in order to provide the best education for your students.

That might mean adapting your lessons to multiple learning styles or just being there when your students need you. The most important thing that teachers need to have is a positive attitude. Just being happy to be there can make all the difference. Many thanks - to all the presenters on a wonderful and informative presentation.

L-R: Josh Mitchell, Nathan Moore, Donny Kitson, Sara Ralston and Alison Casey.

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Squirrels, Moon Landings and Coupons Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

On University Day, you probably ran across the strangest title on your schedule about squirrels and moon landings. You probably wondered what kind of presentation it was and what moon landings and squirrels have to do with each other. The answer to your question is that they are the topics of written works read by members of Dr. Deborah Hodgkins’ creative nonfiction class.

“We have a variety of pieces ranging from memoirs to personal essays,” Hodgkins said.

Hodgkins was right about the variety of selections. There were mostly personal essays but some pieces of humor and a video essay. All of these selections belong to the genre of creative nonfiction, a type of writing that uses literary styles and techniques to make factbased narratives.

The students wrote the pieces they presented during UDay over the past semester.

The subjects they chose to write on included a home invasion by

squirrels, the moon landing of 1969, couponing, religion and even an experience using an outhouse. The students chose their topics and wrote them based on events that occurred in their own lives.

The students in the class were just as varied as the topics they chose to present. The class members are: Kandi Small, Pierre Gagne, Mika Ouellette, Martha Franklin-Wight and Kayla Ames. All of them are English majors who have previously written and had published pieces for various UDay publications, including in the U Times and Upcountry.

Overall, the presentation had an excellent tur nout with a large audience filling the entire classroom of Folsom 203. Most of the audience was likely curious about how squirrels and moon landings related to one another. But they got the answer to their question by listening to the thoughtprovoking and sometimes funny pieces read during the presentation.

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Un ive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 20 1 2

Service Learning in Tanzania: Bonding and Building Connections Kathi Jandreau STAFF WRITER

The theme of this year’s University Day was “UMPI = Global Connections,” and that’s exactly what a team from our University’s social work program did last summer. All students in the social work program are required to complete 700 hours of community work with people in need. They chose Tanzania as their destination, eager to experience the culture, needs and values abroad. The group included four UMPI social work students: Kelsey Albert, Ashley Brewer, Abbey Atcheson and Nicole Michaud. UMPI alumnae Jen Bordon accompanied them, as did Shirley Rush, associate professor of social work and Husson University student Paige Nichols. Ashley Brewer and Kelsey Albert shared their story about the service learning experience of a lifetime.

For more than a year, the group was persistent and worked very hard. They’d prepared and raised money for the trip, which lasted from May 28 through the June 11.

Individual and group fundraising made it happen. The trip was integrated into the academic curriculum and coordinated in collaboration with school. Each student received academic credit for the trip.

“We started out knowing we wanted to go to Africa,” Brewer said. “Each week, we would think of what to do for fundraising and donations.”

From snow cones and

lemonade all summer long to shared photos of the CCS ferent groups of people.

“We found a lot of value in apple pies and raffle tickets, home base, where they stayed the students spent a lot of time for the two week trip, which our specific placements. We all and energy raising the money was gated for safety. The have a different story to tell for this trip. They also learned group moved around in vans because we were placed in a lot about the strategy of and with tour guides. Their individual areas,” Albert said.

Albert was eventually fundraising and what actually placed into a juvenile detenworks. Brewer and Albert tion center, where she was shared how they made a lot of able to associate with many connections in the community young people who were through their efforts. brought in for theft and From becoming closer other crimes, sometimes friends, to getting even closcommitted simply because er to family members, the they needed a place to stay. group gained more than just She shared how the children funds as a result of this there were fed porridge and fundraising. They were able mainly kept indoors. to gain a sense of communi“A lot of them were street ty beyond what they origichildren,” Albert said. “They nally thought possible.

“Our friendships evolved. original fear about the food knew it was a shelter. They We weren’t as close coming disappeared as the food was didn’t have a lot of resources. into this, but now we’re life- very good and the people very We made the best out of the long connections, like a mini-family, between the social work program at UMPI and this trip,” Albert said. “Our community here was very supportive of us.”

The group did a lot of planning with Cross-Cultural Solutions, a program which helps volunteers serve abroad and address critical global issues in several different countries.

Tanzania is seven hours ahead of Maine.

Jetlag and sleep deprivation were inevitable. Left to right: Kelsey Albert and Ashley Brewer.

Brewer and Albert time we had with them.” explained how the air, the a c c o m m o d a t i n g .

Each student was given the Brewer was placed at a smells and the language brought them to a new level of opportunity to work at a spe- nursing school.

“It was a one-room school cultural understanding. They cific placement and help dif-

Please donate to the animal shelter!

building with a chalk board and a podium. There were no books and just one notebook to write in,” Brewer said. “We prepared lesson plans in all subjects and taught children of all ages at once.”

After all their hard work, the students were also to get a taste of Africa and have some fun. They went on an Arusha day trip to see the Tanzanite Museum and the United Nations war crimes tribunals. They also got to go to the Massai Market and Batik workshop. Pictures from their African Safari were breathtaking. Along with this, they saw a waterfall and visited a Mosque.

They took away their own special experience and a connection to the people they had met and formed bonds with.

The poverty in Africa, including Tanzania, has undergone slow progress over the years. The people lack resources, education and opportunity. It can also be a very dangerous place.

The language barriers the students faced were stressful at times, but with a translator and some patience, they found it easier to express themselves and communicate with the locals. It’s an inspiration to fellow students, those who have jumped in to help others abroad regardless of the environment. For them, it was a meaningful and intense experience. For us, it’s a motivational story.

UMPI’s Phi Eta Sigma is collecting donations for the animal shelter. Possible things to donate include: cleaning supplies, kitty litter, dog and cat food, pet dishes, toys and newspapers. Items may be dropped off at the Residence Life Office. If you have any questions, feel free to contact Rebecca Stepp at rebecca.stepp@maine.edu. Thanks for your help!

Unive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 2 01 2

Standing Up to Bullying Kathleen York STAFF WRITER

Not long ago, a high school girl sat curled up in a pay phone just outside her school. Class was in session, but she had no desire to be there. Nearly comatose, she called home and told her mother to come pick her up and where she could be found. When her mother got to the pay phone, she saw that her daughter had been half-stripped and left with the broken remains of her flute. This was one of the many encounters she had had with the bullies at her school, Fredericton High School in New Brunswick.

Her mother took her home and immediately called the school. She only received one disheartening response: “I know you’re upset, but you have to calm down.

We’ll get to the bottom of this.”

Action was never taken. This story was one of the things presented to a somber audience at University Day in the session five presentation “Bullying: Awareness and Prevention.”

The UMPI student pres e n t e r s — K a i t l y n Dolimount, Shawna Stephenson, Brett Goodin and Sara Ralston—took turns describing different aspects of bullying. They described bullying as repetitive abuse where there is a clear power difference between the bully and the victim. There are two different types: direct and indirect bullying. Direct is when victims are present and physical or emotional harm is done to them or their property. Indirect, in contrast, is when victims suffer abuse but don’t have to be physically there when it’s happening. Cyberbullying is a form of indirect bullying

that is rapidly becoming the most common of all types.

“It’s on the rise because of how technologically advanced our world has become,” Dolimount explained. “It’s when any bullying is carried out by an electronic medium. It can be more damaging simply because of the sheer number of people it can reach.”

The group explained that age and gender play into how a person bullies.

According to their research, boys prefer direct bullying (hitting, shoving, poking, name-calling) and will pick on either gender. Girls prefer indirect bullying (spreading rumors, talking about people behind their backs) and generally prefer to only pick on other girls. The group showed a YouTube clip from the movie “Mean Girls” to illustrate this point.

There are many warning signs for parents and teachers on whether a child is being bullied or is the bully.

“A parent knows their child quite well, obviously.

But a teacher may only see that child for a year and may not know them prior to coming into the class,” Stephenson said.

Children may be suffering from bullying if they: Claim they’re sick and miss several days of school.

Change their eating and sleeping habits.

Become anti-social and start spending time alone.

Show physical markings.

Are sad, angry or selfloathing.

Frequently lose their personal things.

Often want a ride to school.

Children may be bullies if they: Have dominating behavior.

Are physically strong.

Are the same age or older

than a possible victim.

Don’t like to be controlled.

Are generally negative.

Parents can also encourage bullying by being in total control, being violent or stressing that mistakes are not acceptable.

There is, fortunately, a glimmer of hope, and the presenters stressed it: don’t stand by silently, act.

Parents, teachers and students all have a role to play in decreasing the number of kids who are caught in the endless cycle of bullying.

“Studies show that 20 to 70 percent of bullying decreased if adults intervene,” Ralston said.

Support is available now where it wasn’t before for all types of victims of bullying, their families and their teachers. It helps also that the media are now giving the subject the attention it needs with movies such as “Mean Girls” and a new movie that will be hitting theaters soon simply called “Bully.”

The student from Fredericton High School never got the support and help she needed, despite her family’s best efforts. She was eventually pulled from school because nothing was being done and the bullying wouldn’t stop. Like so many other children in the world, she leaves a sad legacy for us to learn from.

“We’re all from that area, so this story really hits home for us,” Goodin said as the presentation drew to a close.

“This is what happens when we don’t take a stand.”

The mood was heavy as everyone slowly filed out of the room. But the group members can draw comfort from knowing that their project has taken one vital step closer to making schools bully-free.

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Keeping Us Posted Sarah Graettinger STAFF WRITER

One of many things people do on University Day is walk around, getting a sense of what UMPI is all about. If they were up early enough, they could have gone to a poster session in the Campus Center. It was there that students and members of the community gathered to see what is going on at UMPI. This poster session was a great example of what students are studying and a chance for them to showcase their hard work.

The poster session revealed what students have been researching, not to mention how they organize their information. One example of this was a poster explaining theft from motor vehicles. This poster showed how two criminal justice students went and gathered three years of data from the community. This helped the study by figuring out how many cars had things stolen from them. All of this data was then compiled on a poster, and shown.

Going across the room, you

might have seen people mingling and talking. One popular stop was the bio-medical club poster. They were taking fish out of a bowl and giving them a small sedative that made that made the fish sleepy. Then they took a razor and removed a fin.

This fin grows back in about 15 days and the fish goes back into the water. No fish died while doing this.

Another example was from two students teaching reliability measure of probability.

Jessalyn Levesque was the author of this poster along with Leland McDougal.

“University Day is cool because you get to talk about what you did in a professional manner and get to talk to others about what you did,” Levesque said.

Many other people did posters and talked with those who attended the event. Topics ranged from traditional indigenous medical plants to different birds currently being studied.

This variety of information is just one of the reasons that University Day is so important.

This is a form of direct bullying, as described in the story on the left.

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U n ive r si ty Ti m es ! U DAY ! M ay 4 . 20 1 2

A Journey Halfway Across the World Jessie Rose

STAFF WRITER

As people found available chairs, Lijing Zhou, a business major at UMPI, talked about her personal experience traveling to China with a group of scientists. Zhou traveled with UMPI’s own Dave Putnam and his son Aaron on the adventure of a lifetime.

Zhou talked about the mission… to find glaciers.

Zhou showed pictures of the adventure and all of their travels throughout the region. Some of the pictures that she showed were of the Terra Cotta Warriors, where many people lost their lives being forced to build this treasure. Another photo was of the Xi’an Bell Tower, where every hour the bell is rung. Zhou showed photos of the Shaanxi Loess, which are wind deposits for med in dust.

The expedition had special reservations to see the animals, which Zhou showed

photos of as well. Zhou talked about seeing the pandas and showed multiple pictures of them as well.

Zhou showed photos of the Taklimakan Desert. She also showed how they traveled through the desert and had drivers who would bring them where they needed to go.

“They were crazy drivers,” Zhou explained.

Zhou showed photos of the donkey ride that they went on to get around. She explained that this was the normal transportation of the area.

“My favorite part was the grape vines. The grapes were very good,” Zhou said.

At the end of the trip, before they departed to return home, Zhou was able to have dinner with her family and the scientists she traveled with. Zhou felt very lucky to be able to travel with the scientists, especially since she is a business major. She knows what a great opportunity this was for her.

Lijing Zhou talking about her experience in China.

One Foot Here: One In Nepal Donna Delong STAFF WRITER

species of birds. It’s home to the rare one-horned rhino and the Royal Bengal tiger.

Nepal is also known as a holy land. Religion is a way of life. The two major religions are Hinduism and Buddhism.

These religions worship the same god, which are known by different names. There are more gods than there are people in Nepal. They have the only living princess under 10 named Kumari.

Cows are sacred in Nepal and never eaten. They do eat buffalo, chicken and pork.

You’ve probably dreamed of going to exotic lands to experience new people, places and traditions at some point.

During Culture Fest 2012, held on the University Day this year, everyone had the opportunity to visit Nepal through the eyes of a native of that land. Anup Prasai gave a presentation with a detailed and heartfelt description of his land that made audience members feel as if they were there, used in another story.

Nepal’s government and people survive on money from tourism. Nepal’s terrain is one of the reasons “so many people come”. This small country is home to Mount Everest as well as six other of the highest mountains in the world.

Trekking and mountaineering are a favorite for the many who travel there to test their strength and endurance. The country opens different mountains every year to keep the landscape changing for its visitors. The cost to climb Mount Everest is $60,000 to $80,000.

The other mountains that are open are much more cost effective or free to climb. There are certified guides who will take Mount Thamserku in Nepal. you or you can go it alone.

Nepal also has the highest “If you want to have an bungee jump. idea of what the food is like The country of Nepal is in Nepal, just add hot sauce diverse. Even though it’s a to everything you eat,” very small — about the size of Prasai said.

Maine — its landscape ranges There are 50 major celebrafrom the mountains and pris- tions, and more festivals are tine lakes to lush tea gardens held in Nepal than there are to the hot temperatures of the days in the year. Vacationing southern jungle. Our seasons in Nepal is very reasonable. here in Maine coincide with The most expensive part is theirs. Their national flower paying to get there. It’s defiis the rhododendron. Nepal nitely a beautiful place to visit. has 103 ethnic groups with 92 Sacred temples are everywhere languages. Nepal is much and many are decorated with more attentive to public safety lights at night. You can find as and is considered a very inex- many as 50 in a small area. pensive place to stay. Thirty- They’re practically on every nine percent of the country is street corner. Some temples jungle and it has 848 different are open to the general public

while others do not allow more than five or six holy people to ever enter. There are temples that are only open five or six days out of the year. Some temples will not let the tourists in because they eat beef, which goes against Nepal’s religious beliefs. There are some temples that are considered hot spot for young people to go at night so they can mingle and party. Also, there are usually numerous places to eat nearby. Nepal has the largest Buddhist temple that has a thousand stairs to the top.

“There are more temples than houses in Nepal,” Prasai said.

Nepal doesn’t run on the same time schedule as we do here. It’s 12 hours ahead and the year is not 2012, but rather 2069. A flight to Nepal takes about two days with two layovers.

Nepal is a national treasure trove.

Whether you like trekking or mountaineering, village tours, rich history and culture or jungle tours, Nepal has something for everyone. To see a video on Nepal, check out: http://www.youtube.com/watc h?feature=player_embedded&v =QRzBM45M_sI.

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Unive r sit y T i me s ! U DAY ! M ay 4. 2 01 2

Let Rabbits Keep Their Feet Carlos Villoria STAFF WRITER

On University Day, students of athletic training at the University of Maine at Presque Isle gave a presentation about myths and myth-busters in sports. Lots of athletes--professional, college and even kids playing any sports have superstitions about things that they should wear or do before each game.

The presentation was originally scheduled to take place in Folsom 205. But attendance was so high that they had to move it downstairs to the Fishbowl.

Matt Nadeau, Kati Christoffel, Emily Pelletier, Allison

McDonald, Reanne Thompson, Maryl Shaw and Brittany Bearden led the presentation.

The conversation started with the superstitions of some professional athletes. For example, Michael Jordan wore his college UNC shorts under his Chicago Bull shorts to every single game of his career.

The athletic training students also touched upon energy drinks.

Lots of athletes usually drink energy drinks before a game. But, in fact, the sugars of the energy drinks make you weak.

Another myth buster in the presentation was related to running shoes. Did you know that you

don’t need an expensive pair of The skills that you have are what ance and be a good athlete, not shoes to run? Recent studies show make you have a great perform- what you do before each game. that shoes with “new” technologies such as shocks or springs and air bags can cause many more injuries than a regular cheap shoe.

“A cheap shoe from Kmart has the same performance as an expensive shoe. In fact, they will both prevent you from an injury,” Kati Christoffel, athletic training student, said.

The purpose of this presentation was to let those present know the most common myths and myth busters in sports. But you always have to remember that it doesn’t matter what you wear, drink or do before every game. Sports Mythbusters presentation in the Fishbowl.

Something Fishy: Mysterious Jumbo Shrimp Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

The secrets about a special type of seafood were shared on University Day, April 11.

Senior biology major Stephanie Corriveau gave a presentation titled, “The Mysteries Behind Jumbo Shrimp.” The talk was about the research she did with this crustacean at Mount Desert

Island Biological Laboratory.

Corriveau explained how she was awarded a research fellowship by the IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence.

Before she continued, Corriveau said that she would focus on both her research and the other interesting things she did at MDIBL. She then explained her reasons for

Stephanie Corriveau working in the lab.

choosing to work at this location. The lab’s beautiful environment and friendly atmosphere made it the perfect place to spend the summer. In addition, she chose her research mentor because of his fascinating projects.

Dr. Andrew Christie works with crustaceans. He looks at the workings of circadian rhythms or biological clocks.

For the 10 weeks she spent at MDIBL, Corriveau examined neuropeptide F in penaeid shrimp. By reading Christie’s past research, Corriveau learned that NPF is a protein that can affect a shrimp’s size and behavior.

She planned to map out NPF’s locations in the shrimps’ nerve cords. This would help her to see how it affects the nervous system. Corriveau said that a better knowledge of NPF may help the aquaculture industry produce larger shrimp. She later asked the audience if anyone had yet figured out the mysteries behind jumbo

shrimp. Her answer showed that more research on NPF still needs to be done.

“The mystery has yet to be solved,” Corriveau said.

In the last part of her presentation, Corriveau talked about working with her peers and caring for her research animals. She also got to help out with MDIBL’s “Family Science Night” and showed marine organisms to children. Along with her project, Corriveau participated in a research symposium and wrote a final paper.

A weekly presentation class that she took during the summer helped her to prepare.

Corriveau had a wonderful time with her internship and encouraged audience members to apply.

Corriveau’s adviser, Dr. Bonnie Wood, attended the presentation. Several students from Wood’s general biology class also participated in the talk. Wood said that the talk was definitely understandable for the diverse audience. It

related to the biology course she was teaching.

“I was hoping that it would be relevant to them [the students] and it was,” Wood said.

Wood said that the talk informed her about NPF. It was the first time she had heard about this subject. She commented on how participants were asking questions, including professors.

“That’s a good indicator that you sparked an interest,” Wood said.

Overall, audience members got to learn about the mysterious jumbo shrimp. Sure, the mystery needs to be cracked, but participants got a preview into what the shrimp field of research can offer.

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U n ive r si ty Ti m es ! U DAY ! M ay 4 . 20 1 2

Free to Learn

Lanette Virtanen

attention. One example he used was a student who reads at a third grade level but should be at a fifth grade level.

For this instance, they could give that student a lower level textbook that teaches the same thing. This means that they are able to meet curricular standards without having to be in a special class. This would only happen if they couldn’t meet those goals.

After a quick video showing

ways to meet the needs of every student, Jake Ellis was up to speak. Ellis talked about the tier system and how it worked. There are three tiers.

The first tier is that all students receive attention without singling out students for having disabilities. The second tier would be the same as the first plus using smaller groups.

These smaller groups would be students that all have the same areas of need. There

might be 15 percent who need this tier. The last tier would have more intense instruction.

Two to six percent might need this and most would be taught by special needs programs. All this would be done to try to get all the students to the first tier. If none of that worked, then and only then would they be identified as needing special education.

Last up to speak was Caitland Ballard. She dis-

cussed concerns and criticisms. These include teachers who can’t clearly figure out whether students have issues.

Sometimes slow learners are identified as having issues when they are just slow learners. Without good teachers, figuring out if there are issues becomes harder and the chance that this program wouldn’t work properly increases. There’s a possibility that parents could push to get results and then get the wrong ones. Teachers could put some students in a group that wouldn’t make the teacher look bad.

After the presentation, the group answered questions and explained that all of what was mentioned in this presentation is going to be implemented in the schools.

With these processes in place, any children who might need a bit of help will be given the chance to succeed without singling them out. With good teachers, these processes will help children be a part of the class and be able to move on to a better education.

by Aroostook Right to Read were spread out on a table at the front of the room. There were magazines, poetry collections, manga (Japanese graphic novels) and novels for various age groups available for reading. But a majority of them were children’s picture books.

One such book was “The Legend of the Blue Bonnet,”

by Tomie DePaola, which tells the Native American origin story of the blue bonnet flower.

A reader who settled down in a chair and opened its pages would find a story that begins at a season of drought. The people pray for a miracle, waiting for their shaman to return from his journey to tell what they need to do to appease the

spirits. In this small village lives a girl called She-WhoLives-Alone. She has this name because her family died, and now she has nothing but a buckskin warrior doll. It is her prized possession, the last thing

she has to remind her of her family. When the shaman returns and tells the people that a sacrifice of something precious must be made, SheWho-Lives-Alone is left with a difficult choice. The ending is sweet and appeals to readers of all ages.

As the event drew to a close, a few people present at Stop, Drop and Read were willing to share which types of books they liked best.

“I’ll read anything,” Mercedes Dubay, a student senate coordinator, admitted with a shrug.

Stepp thought about it after the reading session was over, then said, “It depends on my mood for that day.”

“I like fantasy,” Jake Atchinson, a community member, said.

Bradd Gustafon, a community member, added, “For me, I read history and nonfiction mostly. Though I also like ‘Dark Tower’ by Stephen King.”

Overall, the first ever Stop, Drop and Read went well. It was clear that this event appreciates avid readers stopping by. But it really hopes to draw in a new crowd with people of all ages and reading habits.

Perhaps we’ll have even more readers willing to participate in a quiet half hour of reading time at the next University Day.

STAFF WRITER

Starting young with students and giving them opportunities to excel in the classroom was what it was all about on University Day, in room 213. Four students gave a presentation called “Response to Intervention” that informed and educated everyone in the room.

Brett Goodin was first to speak and explained the meaning behind IDEA, Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, and RTI, Response to Intervention.

It’s all about making sure that students with disabilities have equal rights in regards to getting their education. Goodin talked about the processes that are being put into place to ensure that.

Stuart Gallant was up next.

He talked about the purpose of RTI and said that it was to keep students in the classroom without separating them. This is done by figuring out where the students are and assessing what it would take to let them learn in the class with the other students without drawing

Kathleen York STAFF WRITER

The room is quiet. All that can be heard is the sound of relaxed breathing and the turning of pages. As of this year, such a scene may become commonplace at University Day as Aroostook Right to Read unveiled its newest UDay event: Stop, Drop and Read.

“Basically, all you do is stop for 30 minutes and read a book,” Jessica Stepp, one of the UMPI student senate members coordinating the event, explained.

Those present were already picking books from the wide selection of reading material.

All manner of books provided

Left to right: Jake Ellis, Stuart Gallant, Brett Goodin and Caitlin Ballard.

Stop, Drop and Read

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University Times

ports May 4. 2012

! 33

2012 Atheltic Awards Ceremony On Wednesday, April 25th the University of Maine at Presque Isle held their annual Athletic Awards Ceremony.

The following athletes were honoured and recognized for their excellent play throughout the 2011-2012 athletic season: 2011-2012 MOST VA LUA B L E P L AY E R S : Men’s Cross Country, Justin Fereshetian (Turner, ME) Women’s Cross Country, Kathleen Christoffel (Clifton Park, NY) Golf, Reynold Brown (Essex, CT) Men’s Soccer, Kyle Corrigan (Caribou, ME) & Craig Maffei (Readfield, ME) Women’s Soccer, Lainey Herring (Houlton, ME) Volleyball, Shaina Hood

(Princeton, ME) Men’s Basketball, Patrick Manifold (Great Yarmouth, UK) Women’s Basketball, Emily Moore (Lisbon, ME) & Rashell Saucier (Washburn, ME) Men’s Nordic Skiing, Joey Bard (Woodland, ME) Women’s Nordic Skiing, Justine Cyr (Fort Kent, ME) & Kathleen Christoffel (Clifton Park, NY) Baseball, Dylan Worster (Howland, ME) Softball, Desiree Smith (Thomaston, ME) 2011-2012 MOST INSPIRATIONAL AWARD: Men’s Cross Country, Timothy Chase (Houlton, ME) Women’s Cross Country, Sarah Taylor (Industry, ME) Golf, Michael Balmer (New

Female Athlete of Year Kati Christoffel.

Smyrna Beach, FL) Men’s Soccer, Lucas Bartlett (Bradley, ME) Women’s Soccer, Chelsea Beauchemin (Adams, MA) Volleyball, Mirandah Akeley (Fort Fairfield, ME) Men’s Basketball, Aaron Hutchins (East Millinocket, ME) Women’s Basketball, Renee Moore (Lisbon, ME) Men’s Nordic Skiing, Justin Fereshetian (Turner, ME) Women’s Nordic Skiing, Desiree Smith (Thomaston, ME) Baseball, Bryan Lucas Molloy (Lovell, ME) Softball, Carolynn Tuck (Brewer, ME) 2011-2012 ROOKIE OF THE YEAR AWARDS: Men’s Cross Country, Philip Boody (New Sweden, ME)

Women’s Cross Country, Emily Wright (Mapleton, ME) Golf, Reynold Brown (Essex, CT) Men’s Soccer, Aaron Hutchins (East Millinocket, ME) Women’s Soccer, Kallie Pelletier (Madawaska, ME) Volleyball, Elizabeth Kofstad (Presque Isle, ME) Men’s Basketball, Lucas Bartlett (Bradley, ME) Women’s Basketball, Brigitte Pratt (Southwest Harbor, ME) Men’s Nordic Skiing, Andrew Nesbitt (Williamstown, MA) Women’s Nordic Skiing, Chelsea Beauchemin (Adams, MA) Baseball, Ghazaleh Sailors (Santa Barbara, CA) Softball, Whitney Donovan (Ashland, ME) & Danielle Smith (Phillips, ME)

Male Athlete of the Year Craig Maffei.

The Al Arman (Make a Difference) Awards went to Justin Fereshetian (Turner, ME) and Susan Lavertu (Madawaska, ME) while the Stanley H. Small Coaches Award was presented to Desiree Smith (Thomaston, ME).

Women’s Basketball named Brigitte Pratt (Southwest Harbor, ME) the Ruel Parks Coaches Award winner.

The Donald N. Zillman Character was awarded to Lucas Bartlett (Bradley, ME).

Culminating the evening was Craig Maffei (Readfield, ME) gaining the prestigious Male Athlete of the Year honor and Kathleen Christoffel (Clifton Park, NY) achieving the Female Athlete of the Year.

Stanley H. Smith Award - Desiree Smith.

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University Times

34 ! May 4. 2012

i fest yl e

The Reel Deal:

‘Larry Crowne’ Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

PG-13 98 minutes ** It’s time to take a look back at the movies on the shelf. You know, the ones that you haven’t yet had a chance to see. In the last U Times movie review, this happened to be “Soul Surfer.”

In this review, you’ll get a preview of “Larry Crowne.” This film seems to promise high standards. After all, the stars of the show are Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts. A few of the great movies they’ve starred in will probably come to mind, such as “Forrest Gump” or “Pretty Woman.” There’s no doubt that they’re talented actors.

Does this talent really shine in “Larry Crowne,” though?

In the movie, Mercedes Tainot (Roberts) is in a terrible relationship and is less than in love with her career.

She’s a college professor and finds that her students just don’t seem to care about her class.

Larry Crowne (Hanks) soon becomes one of her students after losing his job. Of course, Tainot is not any more impressed with him than her other students. But over time, she gets closer to Crowne and, all of a sudden, the class starts to improve.

It seems to be a decent storyline but, unfortunately, there seems to be something is missing. All through the film, you just can’t quite put your finger on it. Maybe it’s the chemistry between

Hanks and Roberts? They’re brilliant actors, but their relationship seems off.

Or perhaps it’s the sudden improvement of the college class?

There are really no signs that Tainot has been putting major efforts into working with the students. It’s really too bad because this movie had a lot of room to grow. There were some major issues the characters faced that could’ve been explored, such as job loss or relationship strains.

So,

maybe you might not want to watch “Larry Crowne.”

But don’t be discouraged.

There are lots of wonderful Hanks or Roberts films for you to choose from.

Want to help a great cause?

UMPI Relay For Life team is selling tickets for its gift certificate bag.

Itʼs a shopping extravaganza -- an almost $1300 value.

You get them all if we draw your name.

Tickets are: 1 ticket for $1 or 7 tickets for $5.

You can purchase them in the Financial Aid Office.

Drawing will be June 1 at our Aroostook Relay for Life event in Caribou.

All proceeds are going to the local American Cancer Society.

35

Un ive r sit y Ti m e s ! LIFESTYLE ! M ay 4. 2 0 1 2

Seven Months to the End Jim Stepp

CONTRIBUTOR

Just about everyone has heard about the date Dec. 21, 2012. This date is when many people are predicting the Earth will be destroyed or experience a new beginning.

Doomsday predictions are nothing new. The web site www.bible.ca/pre-date-setters.htm lists more than 240 dates that have been predicted as dates the world will end.

Many of these dates have come and gone and we are still here.

Some of the possible end dates in the year 2012 include: Sometime this year a comet will hit the Earth and destroy it. This is based on Michael Drosnin’s interpretations of passages from the first five books of the Bible.

Mr. Drosnin is the author of the book “The Bible Code.”

A comet hitting the Earth is very possible. Evidence supports the idea that a comet or asteroid hit the Earth 65 million years ago to finish the extinction process of the dinosaurs. An impact crater has been seen off the coast of the Mexican Chicxulub peninsula in the Gulf of Mexico. If such a blast were to occur today, most of the human race would probably be killed.

Many astronomers are working to make sure we have some notice prior to any meteor or comet impact event. Comets are discovered every day. Many of them never pass inside the Earth’s orbit, but some do come close to the Earth. At this time, there are no known comets or asteroids expected to hit the Earth any time soon. For more information about the comet or meteor that killed off the dinosaurs, please go to www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/edu cation/events/cowen1b.html.

On Dec. 21, 2012, the Mayan calendar will end its

13th baktun.

Since the Mayan didn’t appear to produce a 14th baktun, many authors have used this date as the date the Earth would be destroyed. It is worth mentioning that the Mayans considered the changes in baktuns as times of new beginnings and not necessarily endings.

There are many events that are predicted to happen on or around 12/21/12.

These include potential

This upcoming fall I plan on writing a series of articles linked to the 12/21/12 predictions. If you would like some advance knowledge of these possible events, please go to www.december212012.com.

05/05 Sunrise 04:10

05/13@08:23 Jupiter in conjunction with the sun – furthest from the Earth.

Sunset 19:12 Mercury

03:42 – 03:54

Venus 18:48 – 22:18 Mars

THE NIGHT SKY The International Space Station is visible in the morning sky after May 20.

Moon.

19:24 – 01:54

05/19@11:28 Moon at Apogee, furthest from the Earth, 406,500 km or 252,600 miles from Earth.

05/20@18:47 New Moon, Solar eclipse visible in parts of Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah, Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico and Texas.

Jupiter Not Visible Saturn 19:24 – 03:36

05/22@00:31 Mercury 0.4 degrees from Jupiter.

05/22@15:18 Moon degrees from Venus.

7.5

05/27@06:18 Mercury in Superior Conjunction with the sun: Mercury passes behind the sun.

05/28@15:16 First Quarter Moon.

05/28@23:36 Mercury at Perihelion, closest to the sun: 46,000,600 km or 28,583,400 million miles from sun.

effects from a galactic alignment, large solar storms, shifts in the Earth’s magnetic field and the close approach of a wandering rogue planet names Nibiru.

Should you be worried about these events? The answer is maybe. Events such as the alignment of the sun, the Earth and the galactic center; large solar storms; and a shift in the Earth’s magnetic field have all happened in the past and we are still around. Currently, there is no information about a large planet coming toward the Earth. My advice is to worry about other things.

Go to www.heavensabove.com for exact times and locations. You will need to register at this site and load your location to be able to get exact times. The University of Maine at Presque Isle is located at 68d00m7.8s west longitude and 46d40m45.6s north latitude.

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

Uranus Not Visible

Sun and Planet Visibility

05/05@22:40 Moon at Perigee – Closest to the Earth – This is the closest perigee of the year – 356,900 km or 221,800 miles from Earth.

Planet visibility times are based on the planet being at least 5 deg rees high and 30 minutes from either sunrise or sunset.

05/01@03:29 Moon degrees from Mars.

7.3

05/04@19:18 Moon degrees from Saturn.

7.4

05/05@22:35 Full Moon – This is the biggest full moon of the year.

05/12@16:46 Last Quarter

05/29@01:41 Moon degrees from Mars.

6.4

05/31@19:54 Moon degrees from Saturn.

6.6

06/01@15:18 Mercury 0.2 degrees from Venus.

06/03@08:22 Moon at Perigee, closest to the Earth, 358,400 km or 222,700 miles from Earth.

06/04@06:11 Full Moon.

06/05@17:02 Venus begins to pass directly in front of the sun. The transit will end after sunset.

06/05@20:06 Venus in Inferior Conjunction, directly between the Earth and sun.

36

Back Row, L-R: Kayla Ames, Stephanie Jellett, Lanette Virtanen, Sarah Graettinger and Cole DuMonthier.

Front Row, L-R: Dr. J, Saint, Mika Ouellette, Stephanie Corriveau, Donna DeLong and Ben Pinette.

Not pictured: Kathi Jandreau and Jessie Rose.

Thanks for making our Open House a success!

From all of us at the U Times, have a great summer!