University of Maine at Presque Isle
Gathering of By Dave Putnam CONTRIBUTOR
On Wednesday afternoon, April 22, an UMPI van set off for Manchester, N.H. Its occupants were on their way to catch a flight to Albuquerque, N.M. to attend the Gathering of Nations, an annual assembly of Native American and First Nations people from across North America. The journey was planned by the Native Voices student organization and funded by organization fundraising activities, UMPI Student Senate and Project Compass. The party consisted of Mike Best, Native Voices spokesperson; Jason Parlin, secretary; Joni Perley, Treasurer; Lennie Perly; Chelsea ??; Suzanne Greenlaw; Tina Bear; Michelle Baumflek, UMPI/UVM research associate; John Denis, Cultural Director for the Aroostook Band of Micmacs; Amy Denis (Joseph) and Dave Putnam, faculty adviser. We represented the Mi’kmaq, Maliseet, Passamaquoddy and Ojibway/Potawatomie nations. After an eight hour drive and a long flight, we landed in Albuquerque, with 12,000 foot Sandia Peak and the Sangre de Cristo Mountains rising to the east of town and the painted desert stretching westward toward Arizona. The Rio Grande meandered like a vast, bright green snake through the valley of ochre, sienna and dusty blue greens. Adobe architecture,
Nations
80 degrees and xeric plantings along the highway informed us that we were no longer in Maine. The Gathering of Nations took place at an indoor arena, called “the pit,” at the University of New Mexico. Long lines in a sea of vehicles and native people greeted us there. We entered a crush of people with crafts and native medicines surrounding the cavernous amphitheatre. Pow wow alley was just outside with fry bread, Indian tacos, pottery, weaving and jewelry vendors. Turquoise, silver, jasper and onyx were shrouded in the fragrances of sage, sweetgrass, red peppers, refried beans and tobacco. The grand entry involved more than 3,000 dancers in the regalia of one hundred tribes: jingle dresses with bells, ribbon shirts, beadwork and feathers. Champion drum groups surrounded the open base of the amphitheatre and the seemingly endless lines of spectacularly dressed dancers filed down six converging staircases to join a swirling mass of color, rhythm and motion circling the center. The bleachers were filled and draped with beautiful Navajo blankets, woven shawls and skin robes. Children capered happily, wailed and dozed. Dancing competitions proceeded each day until late at night. Categories such as teen dancers, fancy dancers, jingle dancers, northern traditional, seniors, etc., took the center in
Congrats Class of ‘09
sequence. Outside, Pawnee, Ute, Tewa, Blackfoot and Seminole ate fry bread and posed for pictures in their regalia. On Saturday we split into two groups. One group struck out into the western desert and explored the juniper/piñon mesas. We examined cactus and animal tracks and marveled at the prehistoric stone flakes — debris from ancient toolmakers — that littered the desert floor. We drove up to the central square on a hilltop in traditional Laguna Pueblo. In the shadow of the adobe Spanish mission, we knocked on a door and were warmly welcomed into the home of Julia Herrera, traditional Old Laguna potter and Harvard graduate. We chatted, admired jewelry and an ancient stone metaté and purchased pottery. The other group ascended the tortuous road to the summit of Sandia Peak above Albuquerque. Snow still lay on the ground and a cold wind reminded the group fondly of Maine. Mike hiked happily in
shorts, nonplussed by other visitors dressed in Arctic gear, and John was viciously attacked by birds. Chelsea struck off on her own, taking a cab to the Albuquerque Zoo and the Rio Grande Nature Preserve. Michelle went off to the Petroglyph National Monument and photographed the ancient rock art there. That evening, the group returned to the gathering for the final dancing competitions. We left New Mexico with regret, but enriched by the brief experience. With the taste of red
and green chilies in our mouths, we retraced our steps: Albuquerque to Baltimore, on to Manchester and the long nighttime drive to Presque Isle. At 2 a.m., Presque Isle was freezing! I don’t think we contracted swine flu, although all were seriously jet-lagged. It was a memorable and empowering experience that we shared with more than 10,000 native people from across this continent. The UMPI students represented our campus with style and dignity, and we hope this will become an annual pilgrimage.
Volume 37 Issue 7
UMPI Seniors reflect on their expirences at college Page, 5 University Times Special Report: Student Senate Page, 10
Campus
University Times
The University Times Staff David Hamilton Editor Jack & Jill Advice Columnists
Staff Writers Stephanie Corriveau Sarah Graettinger David Hamilton Laura Hunter Leah McEachern Pamela Perkins Rachel Pinette Alicia Sisson Natalie St. Pierre Landon York
Contributors Daniel Bell Morgan Berube Lindsey Blackstone Heather Bragg Christine Corsello Elizabeth Gagnon Jason Johnston Jeff Lovejoy Alex McIntosh Dave Putnam Chris Rines Chelsea Sadler Julie E. Stephenson Christin Skinner Jessica Stepp Jim Stepp Don Zillman
Adviser Dr. J The University Times, a nonprofit student publication, is printed at Northeast Publishing Company in Presque Isle, Maine. Articles and photographic ideas for submission may be left at the University Times office Normal Hall, Rm. 102 at UMPI, 181 Main St., Presque Isle, ME 04769. Advertising rates are available upon request. The newspaper takes no responsibility for unsolicited materials. All rights reserved.
May 12, 2009
Your Suggestions: Making the community hospitable By Darylen Cote CONTRIBUTOR
The e-suggestion box has continued to generate comments and suggestions. The CQI Work Group would like to thank all correspondents for their time and ideas! We’ve reviewed the most recent correspondence and have information to share. Again, some suggestions required that we refer to the appropriate department or senior staff member. With others, group members investigated themselves. Suggestion: Reduce energy use by turning off unnecessary lights. Answer: Some lights are already on energy-saving timers, such as the lights in the track area of Gentile Hall. We agree that we could all do a better job, for example, in public areas such as restrooms. A great service project for a diligent on-campus group could be to make small, neat signs to put by the switches in those areas: “To conserve energy, please turn the lights off when you leave.” Do you belong to a group that could take on that project? If so, please contact us via the suggestion box! Suggestion: Please put paper towel dispensers in the bathrooms in Folsom Hall. Lines become too long at air dryers. Answer: While the lines can be annoying and time-consuming, the fact remains that hand dryers conserve paper, are more sanitary and are less wasteful in terms of energy consumption. Overall, they’re more environmentally friendly. As buildings are renovated and modernized, UMPI is gradually getting rid of paper towel dispensers. Suggestion: There’s a need for family housing on campus. Answer: Family housing is available at Skyway, near NMCC, but the units go quickly. There are also some suites in Park Hall. Anyone having special housing needs should talk with Jim Stepp, assistant dean of students and director of residence life. Suggestion: Food in the cafeteria needs to include stir fry every day and a return to simpler foods. Answer: Aramark has a sugges-
tion system in place in Kelly Commons. For things such as menu items, you really need to start there. Also remember that staff members mostly hear what’s wrong, not what’s right. If you like stir fry, tell them! Be sure they know you appreciate what’s positive in addition to your suggestions for making things better. Suggestion: Stop or reduce the use of herbicides on campus lawns. Answer: It seems to this group that the balance between the need or desire for an attractive campus with beautiful, weed-free lawns and a less toxic environment is a constant struggle. A committee already exists to work on this balance. Allen Salo is the chair of the Green Committee. Specific suggestions for better balancing those needs should go to him. Suggestion: The shortened spring semester gives students only 14 weeks instead of 15. When we lose at least a day of classes to snow and another to University Day, there are really only 13 weeks. Can University Day be held on a Friday afternoon in a more compact way? Answer: This group loves University Day! We’ll forward your suggestion to Kim-Anne Perkins, the most recent chair of University Day. As a point of clarification, both semesters are 15 weeks long: 14 weeks for classes and one week for finals. The number of required class meetings is bound by accreditation standards and can’t be shortened.
Suggestion Part A: Combining the two spring breaks into one two-week vacation would save money for travel for the athletic teams and would lessen the impact of their absence in the classroom. Suggestion Part B: If the two spring breaks can’t be consolidated, can we make the schedule more “logical,” with five weeks on, one week off, followed by another five weeks on, one week off, and then, finally, four weeks on followed by finals. Answer: The schedule is decided at the faculty assembly level. There’s an established process for students to express concerns and have input about the academic calendar. Specific suggestions and concerns should go to the student senate. Once the student senate votes on the issue, a student representative takes it to the faculty assembly and presents it. The faculty assembly then votes on the suggested changes. Please also note that the academic calendar is decided upon 3-4 years in advance. One last point: Dean Corsello and Athletic Director Cassavant are always looking at
ways to lessen the impact of classroom absences for student athletes. Thanks for your suggestions! Suggestion: Pedestrian safety on Main Street in front of two particular homes (197 and 199) needs attention. Flooding and freezing, along with inadequate attention to clearing snow and ice, make the area hazardous to those who walk to work and school here at UMPI. Answer: We agree that when foot traffic’s forced into the travel lanes for vehicles, the situation’s unsafe for everyone. We’ll forward this concern to the City of Presque Isle, which is the entity responsible for streets and sidewalks. Suggestion: Offices that are intertwined (business, student records, financial aid, advising, admissions and maybe health) should periodically (3-4 times each year) have mandatory staff meetings for purposes of facilitating communication, identifying and smoothing any glitches in the business processes on campus. Answer: What a good idea! We’ll bring this suggestion forward to the senior staff (Dean Corsello, Vice President Sonntag, Vice President Bonin). Please keep your suggestions and comments coming (umpi-suggestions@maine.edu). Current members of the CQI Work Group are: Ingrid Allen, student advising; Doug Miles, student; Darla Craig, business office; Marteen Hester, computer services; Erica Jortberg, admissions; Karen McCosker, lecturer of language arts and student support services; Jennie Savage, financial aid; Flo Soucie, residential life; Keith Madore, development and alumni relations; and, finally, group facilitator Darylen Cote, Upward Bound. Comments to the e-suggestion box are confidential. No names are shared with either the work group or with senior administrative staff. Please note that this group is not a decisionmaking body, but rather an information and resolution-seeking group. We aim to make our community as hospitable and satisfactory as possible for all of its members.
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University Times CAMPUS May 12, 2009
From Don’s desk 2008-09: remarkable,roller coaster year What a year this has been! How distant August 2008 seems from May 2009. And, what a year of accomplishment, amid anguish, for the University of Maine at Presque Isle this has been. Set your mind back to the opening days of last fall semester. We were debating whether Barack Obama or Sarah Palin would be the political newcomer of the year. We were wondering how soon Wall Street and the U.S. auto industry would get their acts together to end a mild recession. Our thoughts of China probably centered on the recently completed Olympic Games. If someone mentioned pirates, we assumed it would involve Johnny Depp. And, talk of the flu had us engaged in the annual debate: “Do I get a preventive shot or not.” That was August 2008. Since then, President Obama has completed an eventful first 100 days in office. The nation, the world and Maine (“all politics is local”) are in the worst economic decline since World War II. Giants of the business world have disappeared or are facing bankruptcy. China has taken on a far closer relationship to the
University of Maine at Presque Isle. And we’re getting daily reports about how serious a swine flu pandemic might be. What a year! The economic bad news has certainly had an impact on UMPI and the rest of Maine higher education. We’re facing a budget smaller than the prior year’s budget to run the campus. Even federal stimulus dollars won’t fully turn that situation around. We’re doing the most difficult campus budgeting since the mid-1970s—the last year that state support for higher education actually declined. At the same time that our state support has diminished, we’re trying to hold down an increase in tuition as we appreciate the burden students and parents face in this uncertain economy. I feel confident that a tuition increase will be one of the lowest in recent years. In the midst of the bad news, however, the campus accomplishments have been remarkable. I suspect that several decades from now, a historian could look back and find 200809 was one of the most remarkable years in UMPI’s centurylong history. Consider:
We made a highly visible commitment to green energy and to electricity savings with our wind turbine. Join us on May 14 at 11 a.m. for the dedication ceremony. We move ahead on an ambitious exchange agreement with the Chinese Bohua Group to bring Chinese students to UMPI and to offer UMPI students and faculty the chance to study and work in China. We continue to advance our Project Compass and Melmac initiatives to improve our student retention rates. Project Compass will bring $750,000 to campus in one of our largest grants in campus history. Our program to work with our Native American students and communities should benefit many aspects of our retention programs. We celebrate the Maine Board of Education’s full reaccreditation of our education programs . The board noted with pleasure the strong accomplishments of the college, including such unique initiatives as the Professional Development School program operating with both the Caribou and Presque Isle school districts. A remarkable year of activity
in the visual arts began in September with Maine’s first exhibit of the Andy Warhol photographic collection. The University of Maine and Colby College followed with further superb exhibitions. Our exhibit caught the attention of the feature writer of the Bangor Daily News culture section and a reporter from Boston television. We end the year with the exhibition of UMPI honorary degree recipient Bruce Brown’s distinctive collection of minimalist art works. Academic programs and cocurricular programs were outstanding throughout the year. Two of the most visible were the poignant and informative retrospective of the year 1968 and our best ever University Day with its emphasis on student research, public service and hands-on learning. Faculty books, articles and national presentations continued to stress our strengths as a university that understands that great teaching comes from the teachers’ engaged scholarship. Community connectedness expanded and touched every part of campus. We served the business and professional com-
munity with a second superb version of the Young Professionals Institute. Gentile Hall was regularly occupied by young students learning from our students and faculty. Gentile also served as host to the Fall Health Fare and the Spring Sportsmen’s Fest. Faculty and students in social work, criminal justice, arts and sciences, business and education enhanced our Aroostook community with their ventures. Our athletic programs returned to conference competition in the Sunrise Conference. We won four conference titles — women’s cross country, men’s golf, women’s volleyball and women’s softball. We also received more conference and national honors than this column has space to list. Finally, our men’s baseball team completed a 15 win season and had time in the media limelight that any Division I school would love to have. I can’t wait for 2009-10 to begin. We can do even better. Thanks for all you’ve done to make this a memorable UMPI year. -Pres. Don Zillman
Accepting diversity: one small step at a time
By Pamela Perkins STAFF WRITER
2009 has been a year of great changes. On the national level, we have elected our first
African-American president. On the local level, UMPI has installed its first windmill that is going to change how we think about energy. Changes are happening everywhere, though some are smaller than others. On University Day, which was April 8, some people got to see some of those changes. Changes in thinking, teaching, communication, learning and connecting the community were a main focus in many of the presentations. One thing that didn’t change, however, was intolerance about certain groups here at UMPI. You learned in a past U Times issue that the display of one club — the Gay-Straight
Alliance — was defaced before the event was over. The sad thing about this defacing was that if the person who found it, Dick Harrison, hadn’t said anything, nothing would have been done about it. Harrison, who didn’t mean for that article to be posted in U Times, simply wrote the piece to inform the committee of what happened. Though the person who did the defacing is still not known at present, the defacing could be viewed as a “hate crime” toward the GSA club. “Disrespect is still disrespect,” Harrison said, speaking on the issue of gay life here at UMPI. “The times have changed to be better, but only to a small degree.” Several homosexual individuals living in Aroostook Country still feel it is not a safe and supportive environment for them. Gay youths in high schools feel that the transition into college life is still no more supportive than the environment they had while in high school. They feel bullied and
feel they’re living in an atmosphere of don’t ask and don’t tell, instead of one of educating people and acceptance. They don’t take action nearly as often as they should, because some feel that they will be targeted for being different. The defacing of the club’s display shows this. So how do we change this? There needs to be more awareness and acceptance of gay themes around the campus and in the classrooms. In fact, for this reporter, out of all my classes (equaling 112 credit hours) that I was required to take, besides my literary theory class, there was only one book that dealt with a lesbian theme. Suggestions of how UMPI could be more open to gay and lesbian themes include that in October, which is national coming out month, there be one event that focuses on this theme. On the Orono campus, there’s a wear your blue jeans day if you support gay rights day as part of their gay awareness week.
“It makes people think about what they will wear that day if they don’t support gay issues,” Harrison said. Another suggestion was that there could be a speaker on gay and lesbian concerns as part of the distinguished lectures series. An additional idea was brought to the attention of Heidi Blasjo, Owl Productions adviser, asking if the club could play a movie once a semester dealing with gay themes, such as, “Boys Don’t Cry.” She said that the club will consider it for next semester. This is a step toward acceptance and tolerance toward gay and lesbian concerns on campus. But it’s going to take a lot of time and energy to change people’s views into being more open to these types of concerns about gay rights. But having the opportunity to grow, be educated and feel like part of a supportive community is what education is all about.
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University Times CAMPUS May 12, 2009
If you’re not part of the solution…. By Sarah Graettinger STAFF WRITER
Ted Bunch packed ‘em into the Campus Center on the night of Tuesday, April 28. An overflow crowd of 300 crammed into the multipurpose room, sending folks scrambling for every available chair. Bunch held the crowd spellbound. If you missed one of the premier events of the year, you may be wondering: Who’s Ted Bunch? A performer? A pro athlete? Someone rich and powerful? Ted Bunch is the co-founder of A Call to Men: The National Association of Men and Women Committed to Ending Violence against Women. But most men would never physically harm a woman. So what’s this got to do with them? Bunch’s program hearkens back to that old philosophy: If you’re not part of the solution, you’re part of the problem. He shared results of a study in which men were asked what they’d do if they saw a man hit his wife/female companion. Most said they would do nothing: it was a dispute between the two, none of the other men’s business. When the study asked what the men would do if they
By Pamela Perkins STAFF WRITER
There’s an old Bulgarian proverb that goes: If you want a job to be well done then get someone who is busy. Busy doesn’t even begin to describe the person who won UMPI’s April student of the month. Hard-working, active, outstanding, independent and supportive are getting closer. But that still doesn’t fully do this student justice. What does are the words that came from Don Zillman, president of UMPI, when he heard who the month winner was. “Great choice!” The winner for April was Mihaela “Mickey” Pavlova, a business management major from Bulgaria. If the name rings a bell, it should. Pavlova’s in countless clubs: PBL, International Students Club, Ping Pong Club, FFA, Disc Golf and Human Resources. Plus, Chris Corsello, dean
saw a male stranger assault a woman he didn’t know, the majority said they’d try to help. Bunch’s point is that the first case is just as wrong as the second. Being in a relationship doesn’t give a man a right to harm his partner. Men who ignore this are partially to blame. Women have the right to walk away. But many women don’t. Why would a woman stay and endure that abuse? Because when the man isn’t hurting her, he’s the man she fell in love with. Or she stays because of children. Or she has nowhere else to go. Or even a bad certainty is less frightening than the unknown. Men in society are socialized to believe that they can’t feel scared, and if they do, they can’t show it. In law enforcement or any other career, men have to be tough. In sports, men are exhorted, “You
Ted Bunch can’t throw like a girl!” Be anything less than “manly,” and the coaches yell at you to do it right. But those little comments are demeaning to women and girls. They’re just little things that
people say every day that normally you wouldn’t think about. But they take their toll. “Men are taught to view women as having less value than men,” Bunch said. Bunch pointed out the semiconscious habits women practice to try to keep safe. At night, women park under a light. They approach their cars with their keys in their hand and look in the backseat every time before entering. Some even carry pepper spray and other self-defense items. If they leave their apartments for any time-even as brief as taking out the trash-they lock the door behind them. They don’t want to find an intruder when they return. As Bunch shared these points, you could see many in the diverse audience react.
Women nodded in agreement. Men sat back in their chairs, grappling with this new knowledge of women’s everyday insecurity. Bunch brought up the “Man Box.” Men in the box can’t show fear and value women less. They can’t show emotions except for anger. Men in the box have aggression dominance and can’t ask for help. “You can be outside of the man box, but society will always ask men to be tough and be the protector,” Bunch said. There were some laughs, as well. Students involved with the criminal justice club and the domestic violence class, who had worked hard to make the event possible, had also solicited impressive door prizes. Among the favorites was a huge leaf blower. “Are you sure that people aren’t only here for the leaf blower?” Bunch asked with a laugh. As people left the campus center, they talked about their new awareness, their new resolve. Many now realized that domestic violence is everyone’s problem. They knew it was up to them to be part of the solution.
She works hard for the money, so you better treat her right
of students, said, “Not only is Mickey a member, she is also an officer for many of the clubs. She is one of the perfect role models we’re looking for to be students of the month.” JoAnne Wallingford, business professor and PBL adviser, also agreed with Corsello’s statement. “If we had this award in place beforehand, I’m sure you (Mickey) would have won it many times.” Wallingford, who was interrupted many times and didn’t get a chance to submit her nomination on time, was very happy and pleased Pavlova won. Not only did she feel that Pavlova deserved this award, she also presented Pavlova with the PBL Outstanding Member award for 2008 and 2009. The PBL award was made and first won by Pavlova’s sister, Dee, who helped to create the PBL club. “She’s dedicated, talented. Mickey’s just following in her
sister’s footsteps,” Wallingford said. Not only does Pavlova find the time to be involved in all of these clubs, she has also found the time to volunteer for the VITA project this past tax season. This helped students and community members in certain income brackets file their taxes. Pavlova supports UMPI sports teams and can often be heard in the crowd, cheering on our Owls. She helps to organizes UMPI’s Technology Fair, which gives the students a chance to see all the new technological gadgets that are out. She has helped with SOAR, which is part of the orientation for incoming freshmen. You can also see her in Kelly Commons, where she works for ARAMARK. Plus, she is a great joy and delight in class as John Harrington, a teacher of Pavlova’s said, “Mickey’s an active participant in class and she makes the class more fun, along with more enjoyable for
the teacher.” So the next time you’re feeling that hard work doesn’t pay
off, you might just be surprised! You could be the next student of the month.
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University Times CAMPUS May 12, 2009
SENIOR MOMENTS Getting Ready for the Road
the diploma’s in their hands and they can start It won’t be long before with their chosen careers. UMPI hears the sound of Seniors have many the graduation march and memories from their years sees graduates wearing here. They formed lasting their caps and gowns sur- friendships and many witrounded by family and nessed the change of presfriends. Seniors are eager- idents. Oh yes: and they ly waiting the time when gained more knowledge By Sarah Graettinger STAFF WRITER
about a career field that they plan to pursue. So what are their thoughts about the future? “Right now after school, I’m concerned that I won’t be able to find a job because of the economy today,” Jeffrey Carmichael said.
A lot of the graduates are going to get full-time jobs, have to manage all their bills and deal with other aspects of life after UMPI. “I am so excited, happy, and nervous at the same time,” Holly Handren said. “Just do
your best, and make it an awesome milestone.” For the underclassmen, seniors had this to say. “College is a major thing in you life to improve your education. Make the most of it and have fun,” Laura Mooney said.
Closing one door, opening another By Natalie St. Pierre STAFF WRITER
For many, the end of the spring semester signals freedom, a free pass to hit the beach and have a ball. For others it means time to return to the daily grind of work with little play. But for a select few, the semes-
ter’s end will mean graduation. It’s the end of their lives as they have known them for the last 4-5 years. No more mediocre cafeteria food or living in the dorms. No more exams or teacher evaluations. Graduation is a time to reflect as well as look for-
ward to the prospect of a much brighter tomorrow. UMPI senior Frank Scalora plans to use his well-earned B.A. in business to pursue his passion of car customization. He hopes to someday open his own shop. When asked about his time here at UMPI, he
replied,” I’ve had a good time here. The professors have been a great help.” For graduating senior Kasey Knowles that walk across the stage can’t come soon enough. “It’s going to be a bittersweet experience for me,” Knowles said. “I’ve met a lot
of amazing people here and have made some wonderful friends. It’s going to be hard to leave them behind.” Knowles will be using her degree in Psychology to work as a counselor for youth and adolescents in the areas of addiction and abuse.
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University Times CAMPUS May 12, 2009
North of extra-ordinary By Leah McEachern STAFF WRITER
Todd Russell speaks with parents at the poster session
New students gear up for fall By Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER
Do you remember your fist day at college – how anxious you felt trying to make sense of all the new experiences? If so, you could empathize with the 41 new students who, with their families, crowded into the multipurpose room at the Campus Center on April 18 for Accepted Student Day. You could sense their excitement and also anticipation. What will the classes be like? Who are the professors going to be? Where will the classes be located? These questions and others lingered in the individuals’ minds as they mingled with other accepted students. But, the students didn’t have to wait long to get some answers. They had the opportunity to attend poster sessions where they could meet with professors to discuss the classroom atmosphere and also the opportunities that are available in different courses. The students could also talk with members of some of UMPI’s clubs and organizations to get an idea of what activities they could participate in. Mika Ouellette, an accepted student who plans on majoring in English (with the possibility of becoming an educator) said that she was interested in joining both the University Players and
University Times. What was the purpose of the event? “To encourage them [the students] to get involved and also to help them prepare for the fall,” Erin Benson, the university’s director of admissions, said. Besides attending the poster sessions, the group was able to listen to various speakers who gave advice on such things as courses and activities on campus. Other speakers encouraged students to sign up for SOAR sessions this summer. The students also got the chance to tour the university and visit various offices to take care of business for the upcoming semester. As the day wore on, students and their families looked a bit more relaxed. Many seemed to be looking forward to starting the fall semester and becoming part of the campus community. As Erica Ouellette, a future business major said, “I like it because it’s small.” The students’ glimpses of campus life at this event gave them a greater understanding of what college life will be like. Accepted Student Day helped the group to get on the right track. By becoming more familiar with the campus, the new students should have fewer moments of panic on their first day at UMPI in the fall.
The roar of applause echoed throughout the air as bursts of light from the cameras of proud parents exploded around the campus center on April 26 during UMPI’s annual awards convocation. The event recognizes outstanding students and staff and rewards them for their achievements. More than 90 deserving students received plaques, certificates, books and scholarships on the sunny spring afternoon. Besides bestowing a host of individual awards from colleges, departments and groups, the event also acknowledged members of the student senate for the academic year of 2008-2009, UMPI students who’ve been recognized in Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities & Colleges and students belonging to the honors program. Richard Zuras won the distinguished teaching award. Several members of the faculty and staff gave speeches that were interesting, to the point
and dotted with humor when an opportunity presented itself. President Don Zillman opened the ceremony with introductory remarks about how much can change in a generation of people. He touched upon four broad areas that in 1989 seemed unchallengeable. The world was and would be divided into an eternal struggle between the dualities of freedom and communism. Long-distance communication entailed letters and an occasional phone call. The world was led by white men. And energy sources consisted of fossil fuels and nuclear power. The audience chuckled as Zillman underlined today’s different realities: all in a mere 20 years. Then he spoke about how much our students will accomplish in the next 20 years. Then Vice President Michael Sonntag spoke about what makes a small campus such as UMPI stand out and shine just as much as the bigger schools: everybody makes a huge effort to help each other out. The faculty and staff actually get to
know their students. Everybody has a name and is not just a number. This was evident when some professors got up to present awards and mentioned that they had been teaching the students since they first arrived at UMPI as freshmen, or even since they were in elementary school. The event was well attended: so much, in fact, that there was an overflow and people pitched in to retrieve extra seats. A lot of people gave up their time to sit inside on the beautiful spring afternoon, but it was more than worth it. Zillman wrapped up the ceremony by noting some of the outstanding points of the ceremony. He teased the business faculty, all of whom had plugged where their outstanding students worked, urging the audience to patronize those businesses. He urged the audience to attend the wind turbine’s upcoming dedication. And he encouraged all the students who were honored to continue their great work and aspire to excellence.
THOSE RECOGNIZED AT THE CONVOCATION Elementary Education: Frances Cote
Fine Art Talent Award for Outstanding Studio Achievement: Joanna Dumond, Rebecca Kelley, Leah McEachern, Shane Smith, Bryanne Thomas
Secondary Education: Samantha Cousins
Film Scholar: Andrew Bellamy, Joanna Dumond, Bhava Albert, Lila Albert
Post-Baccalaureate: Kelli-Wolfe Enslow
Art History: Joanna Dumond, Demerese Montgomery, Sean Smith
Physical Education: Michelle Phillips Ruel Parks Memorial Award: Parker
Chad
Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Accounting: Brandon Carlow Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Business Management: Brandi Hill Outstanding Achievement in the Field of Management Information Systems: Jenna Flanagin
Outstanding History Major Awards: Ashley Espling, Steven Callioras, Emerson Wright Political Science Polis Award & Certificate in Russian and East European Studies: Michael Dewitt French Award: Emerson Wright Mathematics-Science Award (Math portion): Mathieu Bourgeois Mathematics-Science Award (Science portion): Daniel Sheffield
Athletic Training: Stephen Hopkins, Meagan Toussaint
General Biology I Award: Emily Bartlett, Stephanie Corriveau
Fitness & Wellness: Collette Sloat
Daniel Patterson Scholarship: Steven Giangiordano
Outstanding Social Work Student Award: Heidi Rackliffe Criminal Justice: Yueying Wang Bloomer Humanities Scholarship: Anthony Scott English Book Award: Erin Pelletier
John K. Steinbaugh Mihaela Pavlova
Scholarship:
Steven Edward Eagles Memorial Scholarship: Rachel McGlinn Alan Arman Memorial Scholarship: Lenka Rambouskova T.W. Morrison Scholarship: Lacey OʼDonnell
Monica G. Gilbert Memorial Scholarship: Pamela Perkins Distinguished Teaching Award: Richard Zuras University Times Adviser Award: David Hamilton Whoʼs Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges: Brandon Carlow, Alexandrea Cheney, David DeKay, Trevor Hews, Stephen Hopkins, Daniel Jackson, Shirley Jewell, Douglas Miles, Lacey OʼDonnell, Miheala Pavlova, Erin Pelletier, Meagan Toussaint, Chuck Weiss, Emerson Wright Honors Students: Andrew Bellamy, Christina Booth, Felicia Butterfield, Stephanie Corriveau, Gwen DeFelice, Michael Dewitt, Justin Fereshetian, Hannah Hopkins, Laura Hunter, Samual Johnson, Kristie Kelley, Harrison Kilpatrick, Leland McDougal, Darren Pelletier, Samual Picard, Hannah Smith, Nathan Smith, Zachary Smith, Kaitlin Sprangers, Natalie St. Pierre, Rose Webb Student Senate: Emily Bartlett, Chastity Bernier, Becca Bouchard, Kristin Boxwell, tammy Bragg, Steven Callioras, JonathanDavid Clark, David DeKay, Keren Dumond, Josselyn Forbes, Daniel Fowler, Christina Hall, Chris Hansen, Wendy Jeans, Richard Neal Jones, Harrison Kilpatrick, Brandon Marquis, Leah McEachern, Ravi Munukutla, Lacey OʼDonnell, Isaac Raymond, John Repecko, Buddy Robinson, Hannah Smith, Zach Tupper
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University Times CAMPUS May 12, 2009
UMPIʼs Biggest Loser Less is more
By Natalie St. Pierre STAFF WRITER
Several weeks ago Linda Mastro, Health Services Director, began receiving requests for some sort of weight management program here on campus. After much consideration, Mastro decided to create UMPI’s version of the hit TV series “The Biggest Loser.” Mastro thought this type of program would be a solid choice due to the popularity of the series. For just $10, participants are able to take part in the 10 week program. Every week, each member weighs in. The weighin allows all to track their progress. Mastro expressed the importance of even the smallest weight loss. “Even with just losing a pound a week, imagine where you’ll be a year from now,”
Mastro said. The goal of the program is to educate members on the small changes they can make in daily life to ensure that the pro-
gram becomes less about weight loss and more about overall lifestyle changes. “It (weight) comes off with lifestyle changes you can live
with. My intent is to show people that a loss is a loss,” Mastro said. The group has met weekly to act as a support system: ground-
ed in swapping recipes and comparing nutrition facts. It’s been about working together through support and sharing. The program has served as a wonderful opportunity for everyone to bond and lean on one another. “I wanted something that faculty, staff and students could all be involved in,” Mastro said. At the end of the 10 week program, the member who has lost the highest percentage of body fat will win the sum of monies paid by each participant at the start of the competition. Mastro hopes that there will be continued interest in the program throughout the summer, as well. The group meets on Tuesday afternoons in the Campus Center. Stop by the Emerson Annex for more information or contact Linda Mastro at 768-9586.
Escapism on many levels By Laura Hunter STAFF WRITER
Do you remember the first movie you ever went to as a kid? Sitting in the darkened theater, watching characters up on the big screen — it was love at first sight. For Professor Richard Zuras, that passion has never left. In fact, he’s spreading it through a new concentration and minor in Film Studies. “What I love about UMPI is if you’re willing to do the work, the administration is willing to give you the opportunity,” Zuras said about starting the program. “Film is still in its infancy. It’s only going to become more and more used as a means of communication. It’s the one area we never study.” So what’s in it for the students? What can they get from the program? Some things are obvious: they get
to watch some terrific films with a master interpreter. Zuras can tear down a film and explore the fine points of a frame for hours. This is NOT a man to challenge to a game of film trivia. Students also have a chance to write films. “It’s really supposed to be about broadening your horizons and teaching students to truly understand their world,” Zuras explained. “Everything going on on-screen, whether it’s movies, TV, or the news — it all matters.” The program is multidisciplinary, tapping several areas. Students get to draw on a broad spectrum of talents, from the analytical to the creative. “This program is English and art -- there’s a lot of reading, a lot of writing. It’s very intellectual and artistic.
The students are very much engaged. It’s a great mix in the end. Students tend to get very engaged in the work.” What if you don’t aspire to be the next John Hughes? What can the program offer a more casual film buff ? “For graduate school -going into mass communication — it’s a great minor to have,” Zuras said. Zuras also sees programs such as his as tools for social change. He sees them as keys to greater equality. “So few women are given the opportunity to direct. Film school, studies, can change that. It can really change the scope of Hollywood.” That kind of gives escapism a whole new dimension.
Professor Richard Zuras
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University Times CAMPUS May 12, 2009
Earth Day bird walks and the South Hall sapsucker
Pirates of the Carabiner
By Jason Johnston
By Alicia Sisson
CONTRIBUTOR
STAFF WRITER
A few weeks ago, I saw a brilliantly colored male indigo bunting on the side of the road (check it out on Google images). It was there daily for about a week, and was last seen on Easter, just before a spring snowstorm. What was interesting about this sighting is that northern Maine is at the edge of the northern range of this species, and it was several weeks earlier than it would normally arrive. Perhaps snow was his signal to retreat a bit south. Many bird-watchers and ornithologists help document the seasonal movements of birds. They’ve discovered that many species’ ranges are moving northward and many species are starting to breed earlier in the year. The most supported hypothesis for these adjustments to birds’ distribution and breeding schedule is climate change. Thus, the dedicated effort of hobbyist and professional birdwatchers is informing us about one of the many clear impacts of climate change. Aside from its utility to science, bird-watching is mainly pursued for the enjoyment of getting outside and discovering brightly colored birds. So, to celebrate Earth Day on April 22, I led two campus bird walks starting at 7 a.m., when birds are most active. We explored the campus woods and fields to document common resident and newly arriving migratory species. While it had poured overnight we got a short reprieve from the rain for our walk. Participants included students from my ornithology (BIO 310) class, Ginny Fisher, Bob and Sue Pinette, Tammera Race and her son Noah (a budding naturalist), Bonnie Wood and a few of local residents, including one woman with her two children (with their own binoculars!).
If Captain Jack Sparrow had sailed into the Gentile Hall pool on Friday, April 24, he would’ve felt right at home. Children filled the facility, the perfect place to party. Kids out did one another in their brilliant pirate costumes. This Pirates of the Caribbean inspired event offered many activities for children pre K to age 8. The fun included watching the Pirates of the Caribbean movies, games, rock climbing, tug of war and plenty of popcorn and fruit punch for everyone to enjoy. Roughly 35 children ages 4 to 13 attended this event. OAPI members, the sponsors, were thrilled with the turnout and happy to see everyone having fun. A member of OAPI said, “We’d like to make this an annual event, only with a different theme each year.” Six-year-old participant Josh said, “I had lots of fun” at Friday’s event. When asked what he liked best about his time at the event, Josh Lavway said, “I liked the rock climbing the best! I climbed about four or five times.” Many other children followed this answer, saying that they also enjoyed the rock climbing experience the best. “With the local schools on vacation, it seemed like the best opportunity to allow local children to come to UMPI and enjoy some rock climbing and other games,” a member of OAPI said. The proceeds of this event will help to lower the cost of OAPI trips for students. Overall, all who attended seemed to enjoy this event. People can hardly wait for more OAPI party themes in the future.
A yellow-bellied sapsucker What’s fun about bird walks this time of year is that one is sure to see or hear migratory bird species that haven’t been seen since last fall. The species we counted for the first time this year were eastern phoebe, northern flicker and white-throated sparrow. We also saw a variety of other common species: American crow, American robin, blackcapped chickadee, common grackle, downy woodpecker, hairy woodpecker, American goldfinch, mourning dove and song sparrow. We spotted 17 species by the end of two hours of searching. A
ruffed grouse (locally “partridge”) was a bit of a surprise in the west campus woods. A woodpecker that we saw and heard may be one that you’re familiar with, even if you don’t know what it looks like – the yellow-bellied sapsucker. There are several breeding pairs of sapsuckers on campus. One of them, the “South Hall sapsucker,” loves to pound on the No Parking sign outside my office window. Similarly, you may have heard a woodpecker pounding on your gutters or siding at home. Why do woodpeckers do this? No, they’re not foolishly
searching for food. This drumming woodpeckers do represents the male’s efforts to claim a territory and attract a female mate. Louder is better – hollow trees work well, but nothing beats the reverberations of a metal sign to stake out a woodpecker’s territory. So, as you walk around campus, keep an eye out for the South Hall sapsucker and the 50+ other species that have been spotted on campus. If you have any questions about birds or have an interesting bird sighting to report, please e-mail (Jason.johnston@umpi.edu) or call (768-9652) me.
University Times CAMPUS May 12, 2009
Page 5
Clockwise from upper right: Dr. John DeFelice with his prize; Brandon Marquis drawing winner and staff writer Rachel Pinette; Patric Edward, Sue Pinette, Stephanie Corriveau, Bob Pinette, Mark Putnam and Alicia Sisson; Some of the U Times staff: Laura Hunter, Pamela Perkins, David Hamilton, Rachel Pinette and Alicia Sisson
Happy Birthday, University Times! By Pamela Perkins STAFF WRITER
“Happy Birthday!” Those were the first words of everyone’s beloved snowman, Frosty, when he came to life. But there is no magic, or top hat, that has made the University Times paper the way it is today: just a lot of work, some blood and tears. With that being said, on April 30, the U Times staff hosted its own one year birthday in the new journalism lab, with an open house. It was the birth of not only the total makeover to the University Times, but a celebration to recognize the hard work of a small
staff that consisted of nine students. As Rachel Rice, a contributor to the paper said, “I’m always surprised with how much is in the paper.” All of the staff ’s hard work is paying off, as another participant at the open house said, “I read the U Times now. I didn’t used to.” Besides getting a chance to meet the staff, enjoy refreshments and win great prizes, the staff rolled out the online version of the paper, which can be found at http://utimes.umpi.edu. Plus, at the Web site, you can find our
first sports blog, by Erica Davis, from the women’s softball team, blogging about their recent time on the road. At the Web site, you can find stories from back issues, leave comments on stories and discover additional photos. Another unveiling at the Open House was that the WUPI radio station will be under the same management as the U Times, with the two media converging in the fall of 2009. Most printed newspapers can’t survive on their own in with all the new technology changes. So companies have to find other ways of informing people. Many com-
munication companies have several types of media. It’s all about delivering information and entertainment to people in ways they want and find convenient. This converging will give people a broader spectrum of working with different kinds of media. It will give students the experience they will need in order to go out and be successful in the high ranks of media coverage. As the bottoms of the dishes could be seen and time was winding down, many people congratulated the staffers and gave words of encouragement. Jacqui Lowman, adviser of the
U Times, felt like a proud parent to see the staff ’s smiling faces, enjoying their hard work. A special treat to the staffers was that Mark Putnam, editor of the Star Herald, came to congratulate the hard work that the team has done, give advice, and offer the encouraging words of, “keep it up.” Though this is just the first year in our new journalism lab and changes in the layout of the paper, there will still be more changes to come. As to what those changes will be: you’ll just have to stay tuned.
University Times:
Special Report
Student senate controls $150,000 But who controls the senate?
tors,” Weiss said. But according to Charles Bonin, vice president for administration and finance, the administration doesn’t have the authority to say how much money each club Rumors of alleged coups, election snafus, quesreceives. The administration doesn’t have anything to tionable actions and a number of other issues plague UMPI’s Student Senate. The majority of UMPI stu- do with how the student senate spends its money. dents don’t know exactly what the senate is, or what it That’s not to say that the student senate has a blank check. The student senate has to comply with univerdoes. Nor do the majority of UMPI students care. sity rules and regulations. They have to be held The senate appears to be a vague entity, somewhere along the lines of Opus Dei, operating in the shadows accountable. But accountable for what and accountof UMPI. Yet the student senate is the most powerful able to whom? The student senate submits its budget to the presistudent organization on campus. Why? dent of the university and the president accepts it. The student senate controls $150,000. And just Or not. where does the student senate get $150,000? From “The president doesn’t have to the students. Remember accept it. He can send it back to the that student activity fee senate, recommending changes,” that appears on student Weiss said. tuition bills? The one they But the student senate is under hate to pay because they no obligation to make those have no idea what it is, changes. If the senate chooses not what it’s used for or how it to make any changes, resubmits its benefits them? The one budget request and the president they try to get out of paystill refuses to accept it, there’s an ing because they’re not effective stalemate. With that, no involved in any activities student club/organization, including on campus? The student the senate, will receive funds. senate controls that money. Neal Jones Assuming the president accepts All $150,000 of it. the student senate’s budget, it’s then forwarded to the “It was $180,000 two years ago,” Chuck Weiss, finance office. The finance office makes sure that the student senate president, said. “Now it’s $150,000. money is going to be used for what’s requested. It’s declined. Student enrollment has declined.” If the senate approved it, if the president accepted The student senate is the most powerful stuit and if the paperwork checks out, then, “I have no dent organization on campus because it’s responsible reason not to approve it,” Bonin said. “It’s student for allocating those funds to all student clubs and money and the students control it.” organizations on campus. The student senate is Does it matter if the administration personally, responsible for approving, denying or slashing a morally or ethically disagrees with the senate’s deciclub/organization’s budget. The student senate consions? No. It’s student money, which is in the control trols the purse stings, which can mean life or death of of the student senate. a club on campus. Need funds to bring in a guest And if the student senate decides to pay a former speaker? How about if a club needs travel funds to member of the senate approximately $3,000 to go to a national conference? What about new equiprewrite the student senate constitution? It can do ment for a sports club? It’s entirely in the senate’s that, too. hands. Zach Smith, former member of student senate, was paid $3,000 to rewrite the senate constitution. -Costly toilet paperIn the spring of 2007, then-president Josh Bellamy But what about checks and balances? What about approached Smith to rewrite the constitution in order oversight? The student senate controls the money. to, “protect the senate from abuse and to protect the But who’s controlling the student senate? students and clubs from being abused by the senate,” “We’re watched very closely by the administraBy Laura Hunter STAFF WRITER
Zach Smith got paid $3,000 to write a constitution that’s pretty much toilet paper now -
Smith said. When asked who paid him, Smith replied, “You did. The money came from the student senate – the student activity fee. And I was paid.” Smith continued, “I was hired to do a job. I did the job. Student senate was happy. I spent hundreds of hours on this project. I’m not going to spend that kind of time without being paid.” Despite the amount of time Smith spent, despite the paycheck of $3,000 and despite the fact that students voted to approve that constitution, it was never approved by the university system’s legal department. “Zach Smith got paid $3,000 to write a constitution that’s pretty much toilet paper now,” Neal Jones, the longest serving member of the senate, said. The senate is now operating under a constitution written in 2004, with amendment changes.
-Show me the moneyWho else stands guard over the student senate to ensure that student money isn’t spent frivolously, impulsively or unfairly? What other safeguards are in place to ensure that student money isn’t frittered away? Like all clubs/organizations on campus, the student senate is required to have an adviser. Currently, that adviser is Jim Stepp, assistant dean of students. But being an adviser doesn’t mean that your advice is always followed. “Chuck is willing to ask for advice,” Stepp said. “He doesn’t always take it, but he asks.” The most powerful student organization on campus, in control of $150,000, doesn’t have to take the advice of the adviser. This control that the student senate has over a significant amount of funds, with the power to decide how much money each club/organization receives, is staggering. The fact that the senate is composed of only about 17 students is even more staggering. But it’s not 17 senators who decide the clubs/organizations’ fates. It’s five. Five senators on a budget committee make a recommendation to the senate and the senate votes on whether or not to approve that recommendation. According to student senate treasurer Chris Hansen, “I was part of a five member budget committee. It was a very well-balanced committee. No person controlled anyone else. I’m very happy with my committee. We were dedicated. A lot of time and effort was put into the budget this year.”
UMPI Student Senate President, Chuck Weiss Even the most well-run governments can’t make all of the people happy all of the time. So it comes as no surprise that there was audible grumbling about the senate’s decision to cut budgets this year due to the expected low enrollment in the fall. While most clubs/organizations were happy to be getting anything, others voiced their displeasure. At this year’s annual budget meeting, the senate decided to withhold travel funds from Kappa Delta Phi fraternity and Kappa Delta Phi sorority. The reasoning behind this decision isn’t that the administration froze all travel, though. The senate’s reasoning is that the Kappas are closed groups. A closed group means that unless you’re a member, you can’t attend that group’s meetings or tag along on any of its travel. Jacqueline Gagnon, sorority secretary said, “We’re getting the short end of the stick. Every organization on campus has hoops you have to go through. It’s nothing personal.” The fraternity and sorority each have three mandatory conferences to attend each year. Both pay for two trips on their own but depend on the senate to help with the third. According to Demerese Montgomery, sorority president, “We decided to cut our budget this year because we thought we would help them (the senate) out. We thought we were getting money for travel. They withheld the information that we weren’t getting money for travel.” As of press time, the Kappas were continuing their appeal process through the student senate. “We’re going to hope for the best,” John Repeko, fraternity president, said. “We’re not saying we need a massive amount. But we do a lot of good work on campus. We shouldn’t have to fight for every little penny.” Buddy Robinson, member of the senate and the budget committee, had this to say: “There’s always going to be more requests than what we have. You feel bad, but you have to make tough decisions. We
gave each club a chance to come in and talk to us and to go over their budget. Every club was cut in some way or another. If we gave every club their request, we’d be $60,000 in the hole.”
-Peopleʼs choice?But it’s not all about the money in the student senate. Student senate is also responsible for other things. The purpose of the student senate is to be the voice of the UMPI students. “They’re the liaison between students and administration,” Stepp said. “Student senate’s the recommending body – voice of the students,” Weiss said. So, how many students raised their voices and voted during the last student senate elections? Twenty. Twenty students decided who the president and vice president of the most powerful student organization on campus were going to be. There are 1,296 students currently enrolled. The student senate elections were held in November 2008. When those results were disputed, the re-election took place on BlackBoard. A mass email went out to student’s maine.edu accounts notifying them of the event. “It could have been better advertised,” Stepp said. “The election held on BlackBoard wasn’t run that well,” Jones said. “The election committee should have had more help. Lesson learned.” But the fact that only 20 students voted during the re-election wasn’t the only snafu this past election. Questions were raised about the eligibility of Lacey O’Donnell, who at the time was only in her first semester as a member of student senate. The student senate constitution clearly states that in order to be eligible to run, you must have served at least one full semester. When O’Donnell decided to run for vice president, she hadn’t completed a full semester. “The election committee found it appropriate to
allow me to run. Mainly, there was no one else,” O’Donnell explained.
-Help: Makeover neededMoney woes, questionable actions and election snafus. This isn’t the first time the student senate has been plagued by such issues. Current senate members are aware of the issues that continue to follow it. They understand that because of past actions by previous senate members, a distinct lack of trust lingers, not only among students, but also faculty and administrators. “The student senate has an image problem,” Weiss said. In an attempt to address this, the student senate has been more active in its efforts to go beyond being a budget committee. It’s focusing more on students and student life. The senate’s community service day, which took place at the homeless shelter in Presque Isle on May 2, was a success. The senators have been working with others to hold flag football games. The new fundraising policy has been drafted and is currently under review by the senate. “Whatever the students want to know, there are no secrets. There’s an open door policy. Anyone can come to our meetings,” Weiss said. “In the past, we’ve had issues with individuals who had their own personal agendas. This year, for the first time, things are running smoothly. No shouting matches. There’s lively discussion, but in a respectful manner. Overall, this semester has been running pretty smoothly,” Steve Callioras, student senate member said. But the student senate still doesn’t have to listen to the advice of the adviser. And as long as the budget requests add up, the administration doesn’t have a say. Who’s watching the senate? More important, who’s in control of the senate? And what’s this about an alleged takeover of the senate? To be continued. . .
University Times
May 12, 2009
Community PIHS wraps up year
From Sh ip m a tes P.I. H ig h ’s Ne ws By Jessica Stepp
PRESQUE ISLE HIGH SCHOOL
It’s the time of year when students’ minds start drifting away from school to summer activities and work. But there are still a lot of things going on at PIHS. Seniors are waiting for June to come for graduation. Juniors are stressing out about the SATs they took on Saturday, May 2, and waiting for the results. Juniors are also starting to think of college. Many biology students are heading down to southern Maine on Memorial Day weekend. They’re going to be looking at the different species that live in the ocean. There are a lot of things the biology students have
to do in order to go on this trip. They have to take a test and study different ecosystems. If they pass the test, the students get to go to southern Maine. If they don’t pass the test, the students need to work on the project here at home. Seniors have been getting ready for prom and project grad. These are nights of fun to end their high school life. But it’s only the start. Finishing high school is a small trial that most have to go through. Someone once said, “In the end we are all separate: our stories, no matter how similar, come to a fork and diverge. We
Presque Isle High School are drawn to each other because of our similarities, but it is our differences we must learn to respect.” Classes are made up of people who are different yet there is something that draws everyone
together. As the year comes to a close, students have wishes about getting into college or getting a job. PIHS wishes all of the students luck with their summer. An Irish blessing says, “May
good luck be your friend in whatever you do and may trouble be always a stranger to you.” Let everything be good to you and good luck with your future life PIHS and UMPI’s class of 2009.
Going out for fish ʻnʼ chips Leave it to the Beavers By Lizzy Gagnon
WASHBURN HIGH SCHOOL
With the arrival of April vacation came the green hills of Ireland, the quaint towns of Wales, and the bustling streets of London for five students from Washburn and several students from Ashland. The Washburn students — Elizabeth Gagnon, Jessica O’Donnell, Jesse Dee, Sydney Beckwith and Adam Wilcox — went on a nine day adventure in Europe with Chris and Andrea Hallett, the group leaders. The trip was through Explorica, an organization that supports educational travel tours. The first stop on the journey was Ireland, where students spent four days. The group visited a sheep farm, had the chance to kiss the legendary Blarney Stone, visited many
Dublin landmarks, experienced Irish music and danced at an Irish folklore show. After Ireland came Wales. The group members woke up early on the fifth day to sail across the Irish Sea on a ferry to Holyhead. They drove through the beautiful mountains of Wales later that day. On the following day, the group was able to visit Oxford College and the birthplace of Shakespeare on its way to London. The final day was for a tour of London. The students saw Big Ben, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace and many other famous landmarks. The last day ended with a meal of fish and chips. All of the students had a wonderful time and were very grateful they had the opportunity to visit the breathtaking countries of Ireland, Wales and England.
Drawing by Lindsey Blackstone
Students travel without leaving school
By Heather Bragg & Christin Skinner
WASHBURN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
On April 3, 2009, the Washbur n El ementa r y School pre-kindergarten and kindergarten classes concluded their mul ti cultural unit. The classes worked collaboratively, expl oring Chi na, France and Mex ico. T he children lear ned the number and co lo r
words from each country. They also lear ned about customs and celebr atio ns fro m aro und the world. They ended wit h a fea st of foo ds from the three countries. T hose present enjoyed nacho s, croissant s, cheese, Chinese rice and chi ck en. It was d el i cio us! As o n stu dent said, “My belly says it loves the fiesta!”
Page 14
University Times COMMMUNITY May 12, 2009
Destination? Tennessee... Imagine! By Morgan Berube
WASHBURN HIGH SCHOOL
Seven members of the Destination Imagination team participated in state competition at the University of Maine at Orono on Saturday, April 4. They returned with the firstplace award and will represent the State of Maine at the global competition at the University of Tennessee in May. In the state competition, each team was provided with challenge choices and worked together to solve and meet the challenge requirements. Their adult leadership provided the team with a time, place and some advisement. The students were left to face and conquer the challenges without adult support. The main focus of the
activity included teamwork and cooperation. Washburn’s seven members consisted of: Cameron Huston, Cody Frank, Morgan Berube, Jordan Chandler, Amber Reed, Lindsey Blackstone and Felicia Cochran. The group opted for the theme, “Dr. Seuss Trilogy,” and adapted several popular songs to some of the favorite childhood stories. Their challenge was entitled “Video Lit Hits” and included using literature, musical hits and videos. They highlighted “The Cat in the Hat” with the song “Just Dance” by Lady Gaga, adapted the Sir Mix a Lot song “Baby Got Back” to “Green Eggs and Ham” and used the Flo Rida hit “Low” for “Thing One and Thing Two.” “Horton Hears a Who” fit with the song “Hey
There Delilah” by Plain White T’s. Group members adapted a song from Grease, “We Go Together,” to a variety of storylines and used it as the finale song. The group worked on this project over a period of several weeks, coming up with some intriguing ideas. Members were able to harmonize in a way that truly exemplifies the purpose of Destination Imagination. The group members thank their fellow students, parents, and SAD 45 for the financial and moral support throughout this valuable experience. They also wish to show their appreciation for the support of their adviser, Karl Cousins, and appraisers, Mike and Beth Hartford.
Saving hearts one jump at a time
By Morgan Berube
WASHBURN HIGH SCHOOL
Washburn District Elementary School students have raised money for the American Heart Association for 25 consecutive years through the Jump Rope for Heart and Hoops for Heart events. Funds raised support the American Heart Association’s research and educational programs. These programs help in the fight against heart disease and stroke, our nation’s number one and three killers, respectively. Jump Rope for Heart and Hoops for Heart are terrific programs that teach children how to have a healthy, active lifestyle. WDES students had another record breaking year! This year’s total was $12,095.37, bringing their overall amount to $143,980.01! Last year, WDES received an award as the first place school in Jump
Rope for Heart/Hoops for Heart division for raising $12,091.00. It also got fifth place in the Northeast Affiliate Top 10, which includes schools from not only Maine, but also Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont and parts of New York. For the third year in a row, Washburn is also one of only two schools from Maine to make the Nation’s Top 100 (72) list for the total money raised in the combined Jump and Hoops event. The students anxiously await this year’s results. The physical education department also benefits from participating in the program. It will receive a $750 gift certificate to purchase physical education equipment that promotes healthy, active lifestyles. The American Heart Association rewards students a variety of prizes for their hard
work. The school also gives incentives, however, hoping to increase the desire to participate. These extra incentives heighten enthusiasm and encourage fundraising. Students in grades 1-4 who raised more than $75 got an afternoon of a movie, snacks and free gym time. Students in grades 5-8 who raised at least $125 earned an overnighter. Students in grades 5-8 who raised at least $200 earned a camping trip. For each $50 students raise, they’ll have their names entered into a drawing for a chance to win a Wii. The school will hold a general assembly later in the spring to view a PowerPoint presentation with music to showcase the students and staff who participated and to award prizes. Laura Gardiner, the school’s physical education instructor, coordinates the event.
“An Act to End Discrimination...”
By Alexander McIntosh WASHBURN HIGH SCHOOL
Maine is a unique place to live, especially in this day and age, where the issue of same-sex marriage seems to be at the top of everyone’s agenda. People hold the Pine Tree State in high regard, specifically for its hardworking and culturally rich residents who thrive upon strong ethics, faith and traditions. The state’s seen its ups and downs. But from the St. John Valley to the docks of Portland, though, Mainers live “The Way Life Should Be”: accepting of diversity and alternative beliefs. Due to this outlook, it’s rare for conflict to arise. Lately, however, Mainers have been in disagreement over the same-sex marriage bill proposed to the Maine Legislature this year, which seeks to alter our grand state for the better. LD 1020, “An Act to End Discrimination in Civil Marriage and Affirm Religious Freedom,” was presented to the Joint Judiciary Committee on April 24, 2009, at Cony High School in Augusta. The bill, which seems to be one of the most controversial in recent times, seeks to grant homosexuals the right to legally marry. It also reaffirms the continuing right of religious sectors to refuse to join two people in marriage. The bill establishes
equal rights for both sides of the spectrum by preserving separation of church and state and pursuing civil interest for the minority. Like our neighboring states Massachusetts and Connecticut, where same-sex marriage is legal, and the soonto-be-legal states of Iowa and Vermont, Maine must follow pre-set steps by approving LD 1020. If not, we’ll continue to promote the barbaric errors of our ancestors and subsequently pave a highway of discrimination and hate for our children to blindly accept as virtues. Clearly, this is immoral and unjust to an entire population of people: 10 percent of America. Benefits earned by granting homosexuals the right to wed include: Social Security pensions, income tax deductions, joint parenting rights, spousal visiting rights in hospitals or prisons, funeral and bereavement leaves, joint tax filing, the right to change surname, among many other rights and securities. These are the things that seem to keep a relationship’s stability and assurance afloat. By robbing the homosexual community of these rights, we limit our potential as a whole and degrade a vital part of our nation. The only option we have is to take a stand and do what is right.
University Times
SportS
May 12, 2009
Disc sports club: Doing what they love By Chris Rines CONTRIBUTOR
On the weekend of April 25, 10 members of the UMPI Disc Sports Club traveled to Keene, N. H., to compete in the annual Snow Melt Ultimate Frisbee Tournament. The team consisted of Mindy Sullivan, Chandra Wisneski, Tom Watkin, Brian Korhonen, Loren Fawthrop, Brad Burlock, Aaron Schmersal, R.J. Richardson and captains Chris Rines and Justin Fereshetian. After a nine hour trip, UMPI got a warm welcome from several members of the Keene State team. The first day of the tournament was done in roundrobin format and consisted of four back-to-back games. The first game, against New England College of New Hampshire, was well played. The score went back and forth between the two teams with UMPI suffering its first loss of the day, 8-7. The next three games also were well played, but due to inexperience and to miscommunication, UMPI lost 15-2, 15-3 and 15-2 to SUNY Purchase, Keene State and Keene Alumni, respectively. The second day of the
tournament had a traditional doubleelimination style. During the first round, UMPI played Keene State and lost 15-3 due to m a j o r turnovers near the end zone. UMPI’s final game was against S U N Y Purchase. U M P I stepped up and played well. It was a strong, short, passing game with amazing Rines, Richardson and Fereshetian prepare for SUNY Purchase Rematch defensive plays by Richardson, Fereshetian and Watkin consistently provided with the disc and minimizing Burlock who together led the strong throw offs, giving its errors, this is where the team into the half time, with UMPI’s defense plenty of opposing team’s experience time to set up. Schmersal and and organization overcame an 8-7 lead. Richardson, Fawthrop and Rines did very well at moving us. On another note, the disc Korhonen all made amazing the disc and at breaking catches, moving the disc far through Purchase’s defense, sports club would like to offiup and down the field. even lying out and diving for cially announce that construcSullivan and Wisneski acted the disc several times. At the tion on Talon Trails, the as key defensive players by end of the second half, UMPI disc golf course, will shutting several of Purchase’s Purchase came back and begin soon. As many of you main receivers down when outscored UMPI 15-8. Even may have already heard, the they came close to scoring. though UMPI was connecting UMPI course will consist of
nine holes that will be for the most part behind Gentile Hall, around the cross country trails and behind the tennis courts. Site evaluations and prep work will begin within the next few weeks. The course should be playable this summer semester, with its official opening happening at the beginning of the fall term. The disc sports club is a student-run organization dedicated in full to enriching both the campus and the community in the sports of disc golf, of ultimate Frisbee or any other conceivable sport that involves throwing a disc. If you have any questions or any comments, or if you would like information on joining, you may reach the club’s president, Chris Rines, at chris.rines@maine.edu or the club’s adviser, Aaron Tomlinson, at aaron.tomlinson@umpi.edu. The club would especially like to thank the Sullivans for a wonderful dinner, Keene State for the exemplary accommodations, Chris Smith for the uniforms and everyone who made it possible for us to do what we love.
OAPI announces trip of a lifetime OAPI invites all interested UMPI students, faculty, staff and community members to join us for an amazing trek. Please join us for:
- South America Spring Break (March) 2010
This trip will focus on glacial travel, South American culture, attempting high, mountainous peaks and possibly rock climbing -- depending on location. This trip will require great physical and mental stamina. It will take months of training and saving ($$) to be prepared. Thatʼs why early decision-making is necessary for both us and you! Weʼre still in the planning process, but need to start taking names now! Weʼre limited on the number of seats available, so early signup and commitment is critical! Deposits (amount TBA) will be due in early fall 2009. If youʼre interested, please visit or contact Amanda Morin at the OAPI office in Gentile Hall, 768-9401 or amanda.morin@umpi.edu
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University Times SPORTS May 12, 2009
Home is Home Again By Landon York STAFF WRITER
A brisk, biting wind swirled the Presque Isle High School field as the UMPI Owls took the field for their first real home baseball game since 2005. The Bates Bobcats were in town to share the occasion with the Owls and a small gathering of fans. Freshman Caleb Hale threw a first pitch strike to begin the first game for UMPI. But the good times didn’t roll for very long. After going down relatively quietly in the first inning, Bates strung together three hits and two walks, scored four runs in the second and never looked back. In the bottom of the fourth inning, UMPI junior D.J. Charette hit a three run home run, his first of the season, which gave the Owls a bit of momentum. “When I was up to bat, I just wanted to make something happen in front of our crowd. I was looking for a hit and ended up hitting it over the fence,” Charette said. In the end, Charette’s home run was the only offense for the Owls. The game ended with a
final score of 8-3. The first game didn’t go as UMPI would have liked it to. But the beauty of playing two games is that you get a chance to make up for any mistakes you may have made in the first. Game two was the better game, with senior Brandon Elie making his first and last start at home. Elie struggled a bit in the first inning. Bates got men on base and drove in two. But he picked it up in the second, and set the side down in order in the third. In the bottom of the fourth, UMPI junior A.J. Pennartz hit a solo home run to get the Owls on the board. In the top of the fifth, Bates’ C. Burke hit a two run home run to extend the lead to 4-1. The score remained the same until the bottom of the 7th and final inning. Then Tyler Delaney hit a two out double that scored two runs, making it 4-3. But that was as close as the resilient Owls would get, ending their season with a 43 loss. The Owls played a 39 game season. They played 37 of those on road trips. In the end, they won 14 games. That’s believed to
be the most ever for an UMPI baseball team. “Finishing at home is always nice. It’s obviously extra nice because of the four years since our last home game,” Leo Saucier, head coach, said. When asked what he took from the record-setting season, Saucier added, “What I take is, we’re just getting started on improving to the point of competing better. We want to KNOW that we have a chance to win, no matter who we’re playing. That’s what our goal has to be. The returning players MUST want the same thing. If not, they shouldn’t be playing this game.” The Owls will remain a relatively young team, with only Brandon Elie graduating this year. While he was a valuable piece to the puzzle, this leaves
Batterʼs up!
hope for great years to come. Sophomore Seth Dorr believes the Owls are in good shape. “Losing Elie is a big loss for us. But he’s contributed in ways to the team that will stick with us for a very long time. With a potentially great group of freshmen
coming in and a large number of starters coming back, I think the sky’s the limit for the Owls for many years to come.” Let’s hope they keep up the good work, and maybe get a few more home games. As for the past season: GO OWLS!
The UMPI Womenʼs softball team Danielle Humphrey, and fresh- were forced to practice indoors Conference Tournament. Even men Cassie Green, Kathleen and even when they were able to though there hadn’t been a Higgins, Emily Moore, Desiree go outside, they had to play on home game in several years, the Smith, Emily Staples and the soccer field. This could be a team finally had a chance to play Carolyn Tuck. serious disadvantage to the on their own turf on April 25 at Erica Davis, who’s the first team, especially when playing the Presque Isle High School base and center field player for competitors from states south of softball field against Fisher the team, said that, compared to Maine that have been able to use College. This was undoubtedly her past years of playing softball their softball fields. an exciting moment for the team at UMPI, “This has been our Although the UMPI players members as their win against most successful [season].” had their challenges, they also Fisher drew them closer to a The team had a record of got some rewards for their hard chance to compete at the nation17-11, which is quite impressive work. In addition to beating last al championships in Oklahoma considering the circumstances. season’s wins, the team was eligi- City. Most of the time, the players ble to compete in the Sunrise Before the players could go to
nationals, however, they had to compete against William Carey University in the NAIA Regional Qualifying Tournament, which took place in Charleston, W. Va. The Owls lost to the highly ranked William Carey. Although that was disappointing, they’re already looking forward to next year. Guerrette has definitely been one of the driving forces behind her team’s success. Despite it being her first year as softball coach, she has kept strict regulations for her players to follow, such as being on time. This stern attitude has been a positive influence on the team, keeping players focused on their goals. These players share their coach’s desire to achieve their ambitions. Guerrette confirmed that the team members have excellent teamwork. Their ability to continue to cooperate will be a definite factor toward their future accomplishments. The hard work that both Guerrette and her players have put into this season has made UMPI proud. With that kind of attitude and effort, UMPI fans anticipate an even better season to come. Thanks, OWLS!
UMPI Owls’ softball steps up to plate
By Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER
Sitting in her office at Wieden Hall, Tracy Guerrette, UMPI softball coach, looked exhausted. “It’s been a very grueling season in a short amount of time,” she said. The softball team was constantly traveling long distances to meet with opponents since there were no home games. (Sound familiar?) There’s no doubt that those long trips to places such as Vermont and Boston could take a toll on the players and coaches. But that doesn’t mean that Guerrette ever lost hope. In fact, quite the opposite. When she spoke, you could hear the tone of optimism in her voice and the passion that she has for the game. There was a willingness to prove that despite her tiredness, Guerrette truly does love being a coach and working with her players. “Despite all the challenges that we face, we have a very talented team,” Guerrette said. This season’s team has a total of 11 players: seniors Erica Davis and Erin Pelletier, junior Nicole Russell, sophomores Brittany Humphrey and
University Times
May 12, 2009
Voice Graduating from UMPI By Daniel Bell CONTRIBUTOR
After obtaining much knowledge of the world, particularly criminal justice, I feel as though I am better equipped to deal with the road beyond college. The University of Maine at Presque Isle has prepared me for the hard times and the tribulations that may arise through shady politics and fine print scenarios.
At every turn, UMPI throws up hurdles in the way of the path to success that often require much finagling to get around. Once students believe that everything is all set to continue, this college will contact those individuals to inform them of some mistake that has occurred. Although this mistake generally stems from inexperience, lack of attention or a
complete disregard for professionalism on the part of UMPI itself, the blame always gets placed on the students, who then need to come up with additional funds or resubmit certain paperwork. Students, although paying customers of this university, are often treated as immature, ignorant individuals incapable of success: without a doubt, as
Sweet summer
By Jeff Lovejoy CONTRIBUTOR
Speaking of the environment (I actually will, later), I witnessed a fascinating story on “60 Minutes” Sunday night. Not the one on the elephant orphanage, though that was touching in a very non-Disney sort of way. The CEO of Duke Energy, America’s third largest coal company, was touted as being a surprising advocate of clean coal. It turns out that the promise in the headline was just that: a promise. NASA’s chief scientist on the subject of climate change, Dr. James Hansen, reiterated that everybody needs to stop building coal plants immediately if we’re to keep the planet in any kind of balance. Then came a most damning statistic: China is putting an average of one new coal plant on line EVERY WEEK. Finally, there’s the bottom line. There’s technology to
neutralize the emissions from coal burning (albeit outrageously expensive). Had Duke Energy’s CEO spent even one nickel on investigating this for his company? Not exactly. They’d done some “general studies.” So it goes. Actions still speak volumes louder than — well, volumes of words. Pictures of hope A few weeks ago, the warmer and drier weather reduced the long spine of snow running down our front yard to a spot the size of a large pizza. By nightfall, it was gone. And on April 27, I noticed a similarly sized spot in the backyard. After weather nearing 80 degrees, it also left. There are still a few isolated mounds in the woods, but snow as an everyday reality seems gone for at least six or seven months. That brings me hope. And for most of the people I’ve talked to about it,
especially older folks for whom winter can be especially trying, it does as well. Still, I can count a large number of younger folks who have left the area in the last couple of years, overwhelmed by the snow, the cold and the dismal dearth of sunshine. With the warmer weather, of course, come flowers (the smell often before the buds), the almost daily ritual of baseball, the slowing of streams off the hills (and through our yard) and a lightening (in weight and color) of wardrobes. And also, for some reason I’ve yet to discover, we tend to feel a very bittersweet nostalgia for old tunes, nearly forgotten bands, marathon volleyball games in the park on Saturday, groups of friends scattered across the globe and even former girlfriends. How is it that approaching summer can do that? Or is it just me?
anything but clients. I’ve done my best to refrain from redirecting this negativity toward my outlook on life and society as a whole by simply understanding how much the almighty dollar means to some organizations. Keeping all these events in mind, I’m ready to go on and be free from the bondage that is UMPI. I’m ready to prove this college
wrong and make something of myself, thanks to this incredible piece of paper that I’ve paid so much to achieve. Yes, I have in fact grown into a much better person. I’m better in many aspects. But mostly, I’m better in my ability to see things for how they really are and to know where the blame truly lies in the structured restraints of society.
Dog of the Week Name: Sophie Approximate Age: 4 – 5 years Sex: Female, Spayed Breed: Mountain Cur Description: Tan, small, short hair, floppy ears and docked tail Vaccinations: Yes Current Address: Central Aroostook Humane Society Future Plans: To be adopted by a loving and caring family
Sophie arrived at the Central Aroostook Humane Society on April 10, 2009. She’s a very smart dog, but is nervous around males. Because of this, the staff at the Humane Society believes that Sophie would be much happier in a woman-only home. Although Sophie doesn’t
seem to be fond of men, don’t think she wouldn’t make a good pet. She’s housebroken, good with children and would make a great watchdog. If you’re looking for a pet who’ll be reliable, caring and can live in a womanonly home, then come see Sophie today.
Cat of the Week Name: Mickey Approximate Age: 1year Sex: Male, Neutered Breed: Domestic short hair Description: Brown tiger/White Vaccination: Yes Current Address: Central Aroostook Humane Society Future Plans: To be adopted by a loving and caring family
Mickey was brought to the Central Aroostook Humane Society on April 14, 2009 and is ready for adoption now. His previous owners brought in
Mickey because they were moving. He is a very friendly cat and enjoys playing. He is litter box trained and would make the perfect pet for a loving family.
University Times
May 12, 2009
Want to go into space? By Jim Stepp CONTRIBUTOR
It’s always been a dream of mine to go into space. In the late 1960s and early 1970s, I used to watch the Apollo flights and dream of sitting in a capsule on top of a mighty Saturn V rocket blasting off into space. Since the space shuttle started to fly, my dream shifted to flying into space on the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Odds are that I will never get the chance to fly into space, but you might. Soon there’ll be at least four different ways you can fly into space. If you’re looking to go up into space now, call the Russians. To date, at least three people have paid $20 million to join the Russians as they fly to the International Space Station. The good news is that you’ll get to stay in space for about two weeks. The bad news is that you need to travel to Kazakhstan and spend about 6 months training for the flight. Virgin Galactic will be the next low orbit opportunity to get into space. The Virgin Galactic company won the X
Prize in 2004 by becoming the first private company to fly into space twice by using the same craft. Flights will be leaving the Mojave Spaceport in California within the next couple of years. The good news is that the cost is just $200,000 per person. The bad news is that there are more than 200 people on the waiting list, you can only take one friend with you and the entire trip will last only 2.5 hours. In 2015 the French aeronautics firm EADS Astrium will start flying the FAST 20XX Spaceplane. You’ll need to travel to Sweden for the launch. The cost will also be about $200,000. The FAST 20XX will have one big advantage over the Virgin Galactic Spaceplane: you can bring your family. The Spaceplane will have room for six to eight people. Finally, you can go into space on the XCOR Lynx rocket plane. This flight will be relatively cheap. It will only set you back $95,000. The XCOR also will take off from the Mojave Spaceport. You won’t be able to bring friends with you. The
Rocketplane only holds two people, but you’ll get to sit up front. For more information, go to Popular Science’s Web site at popsci.com. Night sky Through May 12, the ISS is visible in the morning sky. After May 13, the ISS is visible in the evening sky. Go to www.heavens-above.com for exact times and locations. You’ll need to register at this site and load your location to be able to get exact times. The University of Maine at Presque Isle is located at 68d00m7.8s West longitude and 46d40m45.6s North latitude. To get a free sky chart go to www.skymaps.com. Sun and planet visibility on May 10, 2009 Planet visibility times are based on the planet being at least 5 degrees high and 30 minutes from either sunrise or sunset. Sunrise 05:04 Sunset 19:54 Mercury 20:14 – 20:34 Venus 03:51 – 04:34
Mars Jupiter Saturn Uranus Neptune
04:09 – 04:34 02:27 – 04:34 20:24 – 02:45 03:31 – 04:34 02:28 – 04:34
May 9 between 01:54 and 03:48 Eta Aquarid meteor shower visible (3/hr)
May 6 at 03:12 Moon eclipses 21 Virgo May 6 between 02:12 and 03:54 Eta Aquarid meteor shower visible (3/hr) May 7 All Day Space Day http://www.spaceday.org/
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May 7 between 02:00 and 03:54 Eta Aquarid meteor shower visible (3/hr) May 7 at 04:14 The ISS passes 0.8 degrees from the moon May 8 between 02:00 and 03:48 Eta Aquarid meteor shower visible (3/hr) May 9 at 00:01 Full moon
May 10 between 01:54 and 03:48 Eta Aquarid meteor shower visible (3/hr) May 11 at 04:24 ISS passes 0.5 degrees from the moon May 11 at 14:01 Space Shuttle Atlantis scheduled to launch from Kennedy Space Center, Florida May 13 at 22:51 Moon at apogee – farthest from Earth - 251,636 miles or 404,882 km May 16 1969 Venera 5, Venus impact http://nssdc.gsfc.nasa.gov/nm c/masterCatalog.do?sc=1969001A May 16 1926 Robert Goddard launches the first liquid fueled rocket
ADVICE FROM JACK & JILL Dear Jack & Jill, I have a boyfriend whom I don’t get to see very often — perhaps only four or five times a year at most. Although I care very greatly for him and like to take advantage of every minute we have together, I find that he has to be around all the time and I hardly get a second for myself. How do you tell a guy that he’s being too clingy without hurting his feelings? Sincerely, Cautious
Jack: You’re breaking up with me?! Jill: I sincerely doubt this letter is from your girlfriend. Jack: How can you be sure?! Jill: Your girl doesn’t know the right way up for a pencil. Relax, there’s no way she wrote this. Jack: Yeah, you’re probably right. Hey, wait a . . . Jill: So, what I’m hearing from Cautious is that she cares for the guy but doesn’t want to spend every waking minute with him. Sounds like it’s time to break out the old standby. Jack: It’s not you, it’s me? Jill: We’re better off as friends. Jack: I love you, I’m just not IN love with you. Jane: OK, but what if she’s just really independent? Just because she doesn’t want to be attached at the hip to this guy, doesn’t mean she doesn’t want them to be together. And just because she doesn’t go on for five pages about how in love she
is with him, that doesn’t mean that she isn’t. She could be just really reserved. Jack: Yeah, but if you only see your significant other a few times a year – what else do you have to do that’s so important? Jill: Look, if she loves him and wants to be with him, but needs a little downtime for herself, then fine. All you have to do is tell the guy, “Look baby, I love you, love being with you and can’t wait to spend time with you — but I need some time for myself.” Jack: Usually it’s the girls who are clingy, not the guys. Jane: So, for all she knows, he wants some time for himself, too, but doesn’t know how to tell her? Jill: Exactly. Jane: So what if it blows up in her face? What if he really is that clingy? Jack: Oh, that’s not cool. Jill: If the guy can’t handle a rea-
sonable request for some free time, Jack: Then it’s time to check out chapter 7 in our book, “How to Beat a Dead Horse into Loving You,” – how to recognize a potential stalker. Jane: I can’t believe we’re ending the semester on a depressing note. Jack: Till next semester readers! We enjoy hearing from you! Jill: Keep those letters coming! We’ll continue to do our best to answer them! Jack: So who the heck was that? Jill: No idea. She just wandered in here. Jack: You know, next semester, we could…. Jill: No. Jack: But it could be…. Jill: No. Jack: But I could….. Jill: No. Jack: But…. Jill: Go home, Jack. Jack: OK. See you next semester.
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University Times LIFESTYLE May 12 2009
Get Involved: Club of the Week OAPI By Pamela Perkins STAFF WRITER
Are you a person who’s too busy to stop and smell the roses? Are you wishing you could get out of the office and go for a walk in the woods? Do you like to feel the mud between your toes? Or are you someone who likes to hear the songs of the birds? Well here at UMPI, there is a club for that! It’s called Outdoor Adventure Program International or OAPI. Though the club is known for its outdoors programs, doesn’t just offer relaxing days in the parks. It offers a wide range of activities for people of all ages and skills levels to choose from. Activities include caving, hiking, indoor and outdoor rock climbing, white water rafting, skiing and snowshoeing. Along with this, the club has most of the required gear, so all you will need after you paid your
deposit, is yourself and your sense of adventure. OAPI also gives people the chance to learn skills that can be useful in daily life. It teaches such skills as first aid, how to survive in the woods and how to stay comfortable in the cold winter while you’re outside. The club isn’t just about offering people a chance to enjoy the outdoors or some exercise. OAPI offers people a chance to travel to other places to experience the outdoors in a new setting. There have been recent trips to the White Mountains of New Hampshire and the caves of Quebec, Canada. Trips are even open to community members. What’s the best thing about OAPI? A group of OAPI members put on their collective thinking caps and answered this way. “The best thing about OAPI
is that you can choose your own trip. It’s one of the clubs that loves to hear students’ ideas of where or what they like to do. We try to do as much of what people are interested in doing as possible. It gives you a chance to meet new people and hang out with people with the same interests as yourself. You get to learn how to use all the gear. And OAPI has most of it, so it’s not like you have to go out and buy your own. Though the down side to that is that there might be a renting fee, but it’s pretty cheap. Trips offer recreation majors chances to sharpen their leadership skills and other skills like proper usages of equipment, survival and first aid.” For more information on OAPI, you can talk to Jo Bubar the president, or contact the adviser, Amanda Morin, at Amanda.morin@umpi.edu or at 768-9401.
Flick Picks Summer Blockbusters By Laura Hunter STAFF WRITER
Well, gang, this is my last column for the semester (don’t worry, I’ll be back fall 2009), so I thought I’d do something a little different. Instead of reviewing one movie, I decided to list some of the most anticipated movies for the summer blockbuster season! This list is by no means complete, but it’s a start! Opening dates are subject to change! May 1 – “X-Men Origins: Wolverine” – WHOO-HOO! OK, my inner comic book geek is jumping up and down in anticipation for this one! Wolverine has to be one of the most beloved comic book badboy tortured heroes in the Marvel universe. As for Hugh Jackman – best. Casting. Ever. May 8 – “Star Trek” – highly anticipated by Trekkies all over the world. I have to admit, I’m not a huge Trek fan. There are two reasons I’m probably going to go see this movie, however. 1) Director JJ Abrams is the genius behind my two favorite shows (“Alias” and “Lost”) and 2) Zachery Quinto. The jury is still out on Chris Pine, but I’m hopeful! May 21 – “Terminator Salvation” – Temper tantrum or not, Christian Bale is an extremely talented actor, 100 percent dedicated to the craft. It’s impossible to be disappointed by any of his movies. Like “Transformers” below, it’s all about the machines in this one. May 29 – “Up” – the latest from Pixar, the trailer alone has me impatient with anticipation. Just might have to deal with the Comic by Bhava Albert kiddie crowd and see this one in
the theater. June 5 – “Land of the Lost” – not a huge Will Ferrell fan and not a huge fan of the TV show this film is based on. That said, I’m still gonna give this one a try. The trailer has me curious and Ferrell seems to have toned it down a bit. June 24 – “Transformers: Revenge of Fallen” – not a huge Shia LaBeouf fan, but Transformers isn’t about Shia LaBeouf – it’s ALL about the machines. Loved the first one and I’ll be first in line to see the sequel. July 1 – “Public Enemies” – Johnny Depp stars. What more can I say? Based on the life of John Dillinger, the film looks amazing. Also stars Christian Bale. July 17 – “Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince” – eh. . .I don’t know. Ever since I finished the series, I’ve lost interest in the films. And do I really want to relive the death of a beloved character? August 7 – “G.I. Joe: The Rise of Cobra” – Hell yeah!!! I have been waiting for this movie my whole life. I’m buying the tickets early and crossing the border to the good theater in Grand Falls for this one. Yo, Joe! August 21 – “Inglorious Basterds” – This film is Quentin Tarantino’s latest. Since it’s directed by Tarantino, it makes up for the fact that it stars Brad Pitt. I haven’t seen a trailer, nor have I heard much about it, except for the controversy surrounding the name of the film. I’m not worried, though. It’s a Quentin Tarantino film. Enjoy your summer!
Bhava Albert
Sandy Igel
Charles Bonin
Bob Maynard and the Northeast Publishing staff
Claude Boucher Eric Brissette Christine Corsello
Susan Pinette Rachel Rice Ray Rice
Greg Curtis
David St. Peter
John DeFelice
Michael Sonntag
Tom Everett
Rick Thibeault
Tracy Guerrette
Don Zillman
Dick Harrison
The Student Senate
All our contributors Marteen Hester And last, but not least, our staff If we have forgotten anyone we apologize Thank you, again.