Volume 40 Issue 1

inside this issue:

UMPI’s Very Own “Hollywood Squares”

Details on p. 5

University of Maine at Presque Isle

Volume 40 Issue 1

London’s Calling...

Details on p. 13

Journalism for Northern Maine

SEPTEMBER 16, 2011

With Open Arms

said that they were both excited for classes to begin.

Conroy, who plans to major Students in bright yellow in elementary education, shirts waited in front of the came to UMPI because she dorm entrances, ready to carry boxes and totes. Even President Don Zillman joined the group to greet newcomers and help unload vehicles. Thursday, Aug. 25 from 1 to 4 p.m. was freshmen move-in at the University of Maine at Presque Isle.

Incoming freshmen, along with their parents and family mem- has relatives who reside in bers, excitedly entered into the area. Duguay, who said the dorms and began that Presque Isle is similar to her hometown, will unpacking in their rooms.

New roommates Lauren major in biology.

It appeared that most of Duguay of Skowhegan and the freshmen, such as Amber Conroy of Levant

Visit us at utimes.umpi.edu

Duguay, are enrolled in “They gave me the best a resident assistant. She said introductory level courses. financial aid package,” that many people were movSome of the students, Clark said. ing into the dorms and however, decided to attend Clark and her mother, seemed to be happy with UMPI for the specialized Kim Clark, had previously their rooms.

Langley visited the appeared delighted to be c a m p u s . greeting the freshmen.

Clark said “I’m just excited for the that she year and excited to meet found every- new students,” Langley said. one extremeAmid the hustle and busly nice and tle of move-in, there was a this helped sense of enthusiasm for the lessen her new year. The new students fears about come from different towns courses it offers. Erika how her daughter will fare. and have varying interests, Spann of Clinton and “Everyone’s been so which will contribute to the Courtney Bishop of Saco friendly and I don’t have a diversity of the student are planning to take classes worry in the world that body. UMPI welcomes with offered in the criminal jus- she’ll be OK,” Clark said. open arms: best of luck in tice program. Bishop is Carly Langley, who was your courses to all freshmen also interested in partici- assisting with the move in, is and returning students! pating in extracurricular opportunities, such as the outdoor club and, potentially, softball. Some of the reasons she said she wanted to enroll at UMPI was to come to another part of the state and partake in outdoor activities.

She’s also eager to meet others and enjoy Presque Isle’s environment. “[I’m looking forward to] making new friends and enjoying this small town atmosphere,” Bishop said.

Another incoming freshman, Alicia Marie Clark of Caribou, anticipated Week of Welcome activities and beginning courses.

She chose to come to UMPI because of the support it Alicia Marie Clark and Kim Clark at move-in.

Amber Conroy and Lauren Duguay at move-in. would provide.

Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

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The University Times Staff Editor Lanette Virtanen Assistant Editor Kayla Ames Stephanie Jellett Staff Writers Kayla Ames Stephanie Corriveau Sarah Graettinger Stephanie Jellett Mika Ouellette Ben Pinette Lanette Virtanen Brianna Williams Contributors Chris Corsello Bonnie Devaney Linda Mastro Ralph McPherson Vanessa Pearson Jim Stepp Don Zillman Athletic Department PULL Residence Advisory Council Student Exchange Office Student Support Services Testing Services Adviser Dr. J The U Times welcomes submissions from the campus. Send digital versions of articles, photos, etc., to utimes@maine.edu and jacquelyn.lowman@umpi.edu

University Times

ampus

September 16, 2011

Dear Readers, Now that we’ve been in classes and things have settled down to a routine of sorts, take the time to get out and make good use of all that UMPI has to offer. Go to the games and cheer on our teams, watch for the free movies on campus, go to the gym or take part in an OAPI adventure. With everything that’s going on, it’s a shame to not take advantage and see something new. The comedian Michael Harrison was just here and put on quite a show. So keep your eyes open, check the bulletin boards and read the Toilet Talk.

Enjoy the weekend and the nice weather when we have it.

Lanette Greetings, Welcome back, readers! I hope everyone had an agreeable, or at least productive, summer. Maybe it was a little bit like James Wright’s poem, “Lying in a Hammock at William Duffy’s Farm in Pine Island, Minnesota:” pleasant, yet unsatisfying. I know I would have liked it to last longer – but here we are, back at UMPI. My classes have already proved themselves demanding, and in combination with layout, I have very little free time. But I’ve missed certain things about this place, including the U Times. I hope you enjoy the finished product as much as I appreciate the process and people involved.

Please continue to support us if you’re returning, and if you’re new, I encourage you to start reading! Thank you, Kayla Hello all!

Where has the summer gone? To me, it went by way too fast, but I’m glad school is back in session. It’s nice to see everyone and be back here at the U Times, I have definitely missed the layout nights with Lanette and Kayla.

To new students: As you’ve heard a million times by now, welcome to UMPI! I hope you’re enjoying it so far. If you’re interested in writing for us, just stop by the student media lab, 102, in Normal Hall, any Tuesday at 12:30 p.m. You can also catch us many evenings during layout weeks. Or contact our advisor, Dr. J, at 768-9745 or jacquelyn.lowman@umpi.edu.

Until next issue, have a good week! And don’t forget to pick up the next issue.

Stephanie

D ates fo r Sub m issi o n s t o t h e U T i mes Sept. 26 Oct. 12 Oct. 24 Nov. 7 Nov. 28 Any submissions recieved after a deadline will be published in the following issue.

If you have any questions please contact Dr. Lowman at 768-9745.

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From Don’s Desk

I want to start Academic Year 2011-12 with an introduction to some of the symbols of UMPI. Reed Gallery Director Sandra Huck has provided information on the outdoor art. Vice President Charlie Bonin has provided information on some of our renewable energy and energy efficiency projects.

Let’s start our tour on the Library side of the Campus Center. The six white walls are, in fact, a work of art created in 1992 by Portland artist Robert Hoover. It was funded by the State of Maine “percent for art” program. This program provides 1percent of the cost of any public building for a work of art connected to the building. Hoover’s “Walls” reflected his desire that viewer’s draw their own conclusions regarding the work. He hoped the work would be a place where students would meet, study, and work—depending on the season.

Now, walk down the grass to Main Street and look for the large totem pole. This is “Owls,” created in 1977 by

Symbols of UMPI

Maine sculptor Bernard Now, walk to the end of A short distance downLanglais. It was one of a series hill is the percent for art Pullen Hall. You can’t miss of outdoor sculptors on sculpture “To the Other the two large green figures.

University campuses created Side,” done in 2010 by These are the IT Men. They for the bicentennial of the Andreas von Huene. Von began life as the central gate Declaration of Independence. figures at the last of three The owls weigh four tons outdoor concerts and measure from 18 to at former Loring 30 feet. Originally, the Air Force Base in owls were painted. Note Limestone by the the one that is winking. group Phish.

Langlais used all variThe three Phish ety of old wood for his concerts in the sculptures. He expected late 1990s and them to disintegrate early 2000s drew eventually in the harsh over 200,000 Maine weather. We think spectators to the the owls are the lone County—probaremaining sculpture. We bly the largest treasure this reminder of gatherings in the UMPI mascot while it County history. continues its life.

Brian Hamel and Our next stops are professor Andy between Wieden Hall Giles rescued the and Folsom Hall. Just figures and outside Wieden is a lovely encouraged their table and benches created installation on in honor of Jan and the side of Pullen Evelyn Kok—longtime Percent for art sculpture “To the Other Hall. Notice that members of the UMPI Side,” by Andreas von Huene. the yellow paddles community. Their niece, are lighted at Christina Shipps, gave the Huene’s message is about night, a symbol of welcome tribute in their honor. The the coming together of to UMPI. slogan, “Let There be Music”, cultures and the human Pullen Hall contains some reminds us of Jan and Evelyn’s growth and change that of the campus’ renewable passion for music. take place at a university. energy and energy efficiency

3 projects. Outside the building you will see several heat pumps. These have allowed a significant reduction of fuel oil use in their three years of operation. Inside, a new boiler will use Maine wood pellets instead of petroleum for further energy efficiency.

On the roof of Pullen Hall, and slightly visible from the top floor of the library, are 90 solar arrays which will allow the generation of electricity for Pullen Hall.

Records of the production will be kept by the United States renewable energy offices in Colorado.

Our last stop is the 65 meter wind turbine tower and the 600kW nacelle. The turbine was installed in May 2009 to further reduce the use of carbon fuels on campus and to generate about 30 percent of total campus electricity. The tower has quickly become a symbol of campus. It is one of my favorite walking destinations, both for the lovely view to the west and for the pleasure of seeing us generate electricity without burning coal, natural gas or petroleum.

UMPI celebrated the start of a new semester with an outdoor barbeque on Wednesday, Aug. 31. Students, staff and faculty gathered outside the Campus Center, not only to take advantage of the nice day, but also a free meal and chance to meet people.

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Chrisʼ Corner

Be a Turtle

Welcome to another exciting year at UMPI — it promises to be a great one! This issue of the U Times is filled with exciting updates and important information for all students, new or returning. Please read the information in this issue thoroughly as it is intended to lighten the uneasiness of any new academic year by keeping you informed of important happenings here at the university.

The faculty and staff are excited to begin a new year and are eager to assist you in any way they can. Our goal is simple — provide you with a wonderful university experience in and out of the classroom.

As we kick off a new academic year, I’d like to take this opportunity to suggest a theme: Be a Turtle.

My vision is for each and every student to be successful, in and out of the classroom, and to grow in ways unimaginable. For this to happen, you

have to push yourself. Try new things, take some risks, meet some new people and develop new perspectives, new ways of thinking and doing. Where do you begin? You have to be a participant. Be willing and able to share some of what makes you a person and to be aware of some of what makes the other a person.

That willingness and ability can happen when you a) are committed to the basic communication process, b) are willing and able to make yourself and your ideas available to others, c) are willing to listen to others and be empathetic and d) have some resources available to deal with conflict.

College will open for you an unbelievable range of opportunities to explore diverse fields of

knowledge, along with a variety of activities that will help you grow personally and socially.

Although you could educate yourself outside the college environment, it is much more

Kayla Ames

Joining a club is one way to get involved, but there’s also volunteering, internships and other work-related experiences to consider. You’re probably in college not only to further your education, but to take those first steps toward entering your chosen profession. This will help.

Take Advantage of Office Hours and Offered Assistance There’s a reason professors list office hours on their syllabi and encourage you to ask questions. At some point, you’re almost certainly going to need answers, clarification or a quick proofread. Establishing a rapport will probably make your life easier and keep your grades up in addition to giving professors a good impression.

Take Responsibility for

Success and Failure It’s easy to smile and pat yourself on the shoulder when you ace an exam. That’s not the case when you bomb it. At times like those, you have to reflect on what you did wrong or could have done better.

Mistakes are an essential part of this transition into adulthood, as long as you own and learn from them.

Set Goals This will keep you on track and give you something to look forward to, since setting and achieving your goals can come with a variety of rewards. It’s also a good way to prepare yourself for life after college and prove your maturity.

expedient and satisfying to learn with other students and from teachers who are commit-

ted to creating an environment that supports learning.

In college you will have the time and freedom to delve into many areas of interest that you may not have explored. You will also be exposed to areas of the human experience that you did not know existed.

Just imagine! In a relatively short span of time, you can acquaint yourself with a wide range of human knowledge and experience. At no other time in your life will you have such a concentrated opportunity for learning and reaching beyond what may have been your original goals.

I’m sure by now you’re asking, what in the world does any of this have to do with being a turtle? I have to borrow a quote from Ruth

Westheimers, who said, “My favorite animal is a turtle. The reason is that in order for the turtle to move, it has to stick its neck out. There are going to be times in your life when you’re going to have to stick your neck out. There will be challenges and instead of hiding in a shell, you have to go out and meet them!” I think your time in college is the perfect time for being a turtle…stick your neck out.

But also know…there are lots of faculty and staff who have your back and will help you succeed and meet those challenges.

I look forward to the year ahead and meeting all of you turtles! Best wishes for a great year.

Procrastinate This is a habit that, for many, is all too easy to fall into.

Putting things off not only stresses you out, but can leave you unprepared, not to mention your professor unsatisfied with your work.

Skip Classes Like procrastination, this habit can become addictive.

Each individual course you sign up for, though, is probably more expensive than you realize. When you skip multiple classes, you miss important information and, in the process, end up hurting yourself.

Opt for Job Over Academics Money is important, especially for notoriously broke college students, but your educa-

tion should be your number one priority. Considering tuition prices and the benefits of a quality GPA or decent grades, opting for academics makes more sense.

Neglect Your Health College is already hard enough without adding sickness to the mix. While studying, homework, clubs, jobs and a social life are noteworthy, try not to overlook your physical and mental wellness or you’ll be of no use to anyone, especially yourself.

Forget Who You Are Don’t forget where you come from, your purpose here at UMPI or what you’ve done to get this far. That means keeping some of these list items in mind, as well as practicing them as best you can.

Christine L. Corsello Vice president for student affairs and dean of students 100 South Hall christine.corsello@umpi.edu 768-9615

Dos, Don’ts and Things to Keep in Mind STAFF WRITER

This will, hopefully, prove to be a helpful guide to college.

These tips aren’t just for incoming freshmen, either, but rather for anyone who might need advice or reminding.

DO...

Join a Club Lots of people will tell you this, but you might not realize just how beneficial it can be until you’re part of one.

Getting involved, be it through a club or something else, can enhance a resume, help you develop marketable skills, lead to new friends and professional connections and be loads of fun!

Get Involved Beyond the Classroom

DON’T...

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Counselorʼs Comments

Let’s Get Started on the Right Foot Ralph McPherson CONTRIBUTOR

Welcome back students and a warm welcome to incoming freshmen. I trust everyone had a great summer and you are now ready to get back to work.

It’s a very exciting time and the energy level is high. Your classes are just beginning and it’s a fresh start to the new semester.

This is my second year at the counseling center and I am very glad to be here. Last year, I met many students and it was a privilege to assist students who needed some help. I also learned a great deal from the students I worked with. They taught me how to make the best of what we have and not to take things for granted.

We can forget that sometimes. I’m a better counselor and person for working with them.

I’d like to offer a piece of advice to start the new semester. The new semester will quickly evolve into assignments and deadlines. Before you know it, we will approach midterms and grades will begin to take shape. Let’s get off on the right foot by setting good study habits. Take time each and every day to read and complete assignments. Don’t miss classes and be prepared when you do go to class. Get a tutor if you are having trouble in a certain subject area. Take time and get familiar with the syllabus. This will help you be prepared for what is due and it will also allow you to ask for assignment clarification from your professor. Then we have the basics of getting enough sleep and proper nutrition.

These are just a few tips for getting a good start to your semester. It’s important to have fun and make time for relaxation. Unfortunately, this can be carried too far and before you know it, you’re in academic trouble. Believe me, I dealt with this a lot last year.

I’d like to dedicate some of this article to our services and how we can help students. The role of a counselor is to help people who may need some support in a life area. Some of these areas may include: time management, relationship issues and career guidance.

So me oth e r i ssue s may i nvol ve sad o r dif fi cul t feelings, excessive wor ri e s or i ssue s of substance a b u s e .

Re g a rd l e s s of the issue, the counseling center is here to serve students i n o rde r to enhan ce t heir academic pursuits.

Referrals can be made through student support services or you can just call my office. I’m here MondayFriday, from 3:30-7:30 p.m.

My office is located at 101 South Hall and my extension is 768-9791. It’s OK if you’re not sure what you want to talk about. I’ve had some students just come by my office and introduce themselves. You’re always welcome. This is a free service to students and information is kept confidential.

Please feel free to contact me with any issues, concerns or problems you may be experiencing. I wish all students a fun and exciting time this semester.

UMPI Squares--Jim Stepp, Dick Gardiner, Tricia Pelkey, Mary Lawrence, Keith Madore, Jennie Savage, Erin Benson, Jannie Durr, Candace Roy, and Charles Johnson.

It’s Hip to Be a Square Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

Have you ever watched “Hollywood Squares” on television and wondered what it would be like to be a contestant? Have you also ever wondered what being on the show would be like if the “squares” weren’t celebrities but people you know? UMPI CAB answered these questions for a few lucky students by hosting a game of “UMPI Squares” during WOW. The “squares” were made up of 10 different UMPI staff people, two of which were the center square. The “squares” were: Jim Stepp, Jannie Durr, Keith Madore, Mary Lawrence, Erin Benson, Jennie Savage, Charles

Johnson, Candace Roy, Dick Gardiner and Tricia Pelkey.

Vanessa Pearson was the show’s host. All of the “squares” were excited about their positions and even encouraged students who were in the Owl’s Nest, where the game was taking place, to play.

“It’s hip to be square,” said Jim Stepp, Director of Residence Life and upper right hand corner square.

Two students would volunteer to play for each round.

Like in both Tic-Tac-Toe and the real “Hollywood Squares,” one student would be an “X,” while the other would be an “O.” The “squares” were asked questions about either UMPI his-

tory or random trivia, while the students had to determine if their chosen square’s answer was true or false.

There were eight rounds and each student who won in each round got a prize. The prizes included UMPI Tshirts and sweatshirts, UMPI Owls team banners and two $25 gift certificates to the campus bookstore. The winning students included Ben Lulofs, Bob Healey, Liz Bousquet, Alicia Clark, Tyler Ouellette, Jason Fortin and Hilary Jackson. The two gift certificates went to Ben Lulofs and Tyler Ouellette. These students got not only prizes from this game but a fun bonding experience with UMPI staff members as well.

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Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

As a part of Week of Welcome, UMPI freshmen received a presidential welcome.

Not from President Obama, but from UMPI’s own president, Don Zillman. Friday, Aug. 27, was a day full of WOW events, for which the president took time out of his busy schedule to participate in giving students the opportunity to meet the man “in charge.”

The day’s events kicked off in the Campus Center with Zillman giving a speech to the incoming freshman introducing himself, the campus and college life as a whole. He started off his speech by giving the freshmen advice based on his own college experience, though his experience was, admittedly, somewhat different from that of UMPI’s freshmen (he went from a small high school with a graduating class of 70 to the University of Wisconsin with a student population of over 40,000).

“It was something of an adjustment, but you are the one who is setting the agenda,” Zillman commented on the transition from high school to college.

UMPI Students Receive a Presidential Welcome

From there, Zillman went on to introduce university faculty, though there was no formal introduction of the different instructors as one would expect there to be. There were no facul-

Aroostook County.

“By no means are these instructors the stars of the faculty, but examples of work done here at UMPI,” Zillman said.

After Zillman was finished

lunch, this gave them an informal “meet and greet” opportunity with some of their future professors and advisors.

After lunch and advisor meetings, students met up with

Freshmen class photo ty members in the audience, but Zillman introduced the work of 10 faculty members. These works ranged from social work professor Shirley Rush’s work in Tanzania to more local projects such as biology professor Jason Johnston’s work on a grant to discover renewable energy in

speaking, a freshman class photo was taken in the MPR before they broke off for lunch. At lunch, students had the opportunity to meet the faculty mentioned in Zillman’s speech and even sit down for lunch with them. As they had formal meetings with their advisors after

Zillman and his wife Linda in the Campus Center, this time for a tour of campus unlike the one they had at SOAR. This tour highlighted many of the landmarks on campus that students may have seen on their previous tours but didn’t actually visit.

“This tour is meant to give you

[the students] an idea about things they see on campus but don’t really know about. It’s a combination of renewable energy and art,” Zillman said.

The tour took students to stops such as the windmill, the various Percent for Art projects around campus and even the roof of Folsom/Pullen to see the newly installed solar panels. While on the roof of Folsom/Pullen, less attention was paid to the solar panels than the view of the surrounding area from the roof.

Those on the roof could clearly see all of downtown Presque Isle and the area surrounding it.

“It has a great vista,” Linda Zillman, an artist herself, commented on the view.

After the tour, students went their separate ways for dinner and other activities in their residence halls. These activities went until around 9 p.m. that evening when students and staff met for a bonfire held by UMPI CAB behind Gentile Hall. Students were able to enjoy s’mores and each other’s company around the bonfire, capping off a long but eventful day welcoming them to campus.

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Things You Need to Know Chris Corsello CONTRIBUTOR

Emergency Notification System.

As a reminder: the University has an emergency notification system for all faculty, staff and students. Under this system, if there is an emergency, you will be notified about the situation immediately -- no matter where you are geographically -- on your mobile phone, through e-mail, and/or on your pager. Examples of emergency notifications may include: -University closings.

-Changes in hours.

-Weather emergencies.

-Power failures.

-Bomb threats.

-Campus violence.

You Must Sign Up To Receive These Notifications.

Simply go to our home page http://www.umpi.edu and click on the e2campus box at the bottom of the page. This takes you to the sign—up form, which takes less than a minute to complete. You will be asked to agree to the terms.

Please note: There Is No Charge to Sign Up or Use This Service. You may want to consult your cell phone and Internet, service provider(s) for any applicable charges, however.

This service is convenient, easy to use, fast and accurate. After signing up to receive these messages, you will receive a confirmation text message or e-mail message. You will then need to VALIDATE your account. Once you receive the validation code (on your phone or via e-mail), you will need to login once again, unless you are still logged in. Once logged in, you should see a screen that has the following options— Dashboard, Services, Groups and Account—across the top. To change phone numbers/e-mail addresses or to validate your account, choose the Services option. Then enter the code into the field provided online to com-

plete the validation. This is an important step in the process! It confirms that you are a live person, not a computer.

Should you have any questions or concerns about our emergency alert system, please feel free to contact me.

Student Absences As always, class attendance is expected of all students.

However, we realize that life happens and sometimes you are unable to attend class due to illness, medical emergencies, a death in the family or other life events.

If you will be absent from class— for one day or multiple days— you should contact the dean of students office at 7689615 or 768-9601, which will then assist you by notifying all of your professors. This streamlines the process for students by only requiring you to make one call!

Consideration Please Please DO NOT use our campus sidewalks as roadways or block entrances to campus buildings with vehicles and/or equipment. These activities pose a hazard to our entire campus community, especially those individuals who may have mobility issues or have visual impairments. Not only is this an ADA issue, but also a simple matter of consideration for our students, staff and faculty.

Many thanks in advance for your attention to this matter.

Emergencies In the event of a medical emergency or life-threatening situation, please call 8-911 (from a campus phone). Please be certain to give the 911 operator specific instructions/information on where you are located. Also be sure to call the following individuals to notify them of the situation: Christine Corsello, vice president for student affairs and dean of students (768-9601); Greg Daniels, coordinator of security & safety (768-9580); Linda Mastro, director of health services (768-9586).

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Movie Night at the Braden Offers a Trip Back in Time Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

The marquee outside of the Braden Theatre read “The Smurfs,” “The Rise of the Planet of the Apes” and “Fright Night.” Driving by, one would think that they’d gone back in time to the 1970s or 1980s, but in reality those are the movies currently being shown. As a part of WOW, UMPI CAB and Residential Life offered students both a free movie ticket and a free trip back in time.

Students had a choice of a free ticket to one of the three movies playing and, along with the ticket, got a free small popcorn and fountain drink. Of course, the trip back in time came with the films, which were adapted for a modern audience. One UMPI staff member and older “Planet of the Apes” fan wasn’t upset with the film adaptations

but appreciated them.

“It’s exciting to me because I’m old enough to remember the original ‘Planet of the Apes’ films,” commented Jim Stepp, director of residence life at UMPI. For those who decided to stay a little closer to the

present day in their trip ba ck in tim e, “The Smurfs” didn’t disappoint either. Most students today are old enough to remember “The Smurfs” cartoon series which aired in the 1980s and 1990s. One student enjoyed her trip down memory lane so much that she has even added “s m ur f,” t he wo r d us ed fr equentl y by the Smurfs to mean m ult ipl e t hi ngs , t o her vocabulary.

“I smurf you!” said Kimberly Francis to her friends in the audience after the film.

Love them or hate them, these film adaptations made UMPI’s Movie Night at the Braden a hit. With the number of other film remakes and adaptations expected to come out in the next year, hopefully UMPI can offer its students another trip back in time. Of course, offering it all for free along with snacks helps as well.

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Student Activities Office

Vanessa Pearson CONTRIBUTOR

Greetings from the Student Activities Office! As the new coordinator of student activities and leadership development, I am super excited to be here and look forward to working with the UMPI campus community!

There are a lot of exciting things happening in the student activities office this semester.

The student activities office, along with the Campus Activities Board is working hard this year to bring fun, educational, social, cultural and interactive events to campus. Most events will be open to the public and will be free for students! A sampling of events is below. Be sure to check out Toilet Talk, the Dean’s Daily News, the Student Activities Bulletin Board, and more for up-to-date information. A new and updat-

ed student activities website is coming soon!

Upcoming Events:

demic and religious organizations to service and activity organizations, there is something

1 p.m. in the Campus Center MPR to find out more about these groups. If you don’t see an

-Tuesday, Sept. 27 Coffeehouse with the Billies, 6-9 p.m., Owl’s Nest -Tuesday, Oct. 18 Happy Hour w/Comedian Bernie McGrenahan, 7:09 p.m., Wieden Auditorium -Wednesday, Oct. 19 Midnight Madness, time TBA, Wieden Auditorium -Tuesday, Nov. 15 Hypnotist Michael C. Anthony, 7:09 p.m., Wieden Auditorium One of the best ways to get involved at UMPI is to join one or more of the 40 student groups on campus. From aca-

The Billies, scheduled for Tuesday, Sept. 27. for everyone! Be sure to check out the Club and Community Fair on Sept. 15 from 11 a.m. to

organization that you’re interested in joining, you can easily start your very own student organiza-

tion. It’s a very simple process and will give you tons of leadership experience that will look great on any resume.

The student activities office is also piloting a new leadership development program called, “iLead.” The program kicked off with a successful fall retreat that had 11 students participate. Throughout the fall semester, there will be additional programs such as, “iLead by Setting Goals,” and “iLead by Communicating,” that are designed to improve leadership skills.

I am always looking for feedback and ideas for events, so please stop by the student activities office located in room 104 in the Campus Center to share your thoughts. You can also call 207-768-9582 or e-mail vanessa.pearson@umpi.edu. Have a great semester!

Calling All Writers, Poets and Artists!

Do you have an orginal work youʼd like published?

Submit to UpCountry, UMPIʼs online journal. Weʼre looking for fictiion, nonfiction, poetry and visual art for our fall 2011 issue.

-- Both current UMPI students and alumni are welcome to send work.

-- Send three to five poems, up to 25 pages of prose, or as many as five images of your artwork.

-- Submit manuscripts as “.doc” or “.rtf” files.

-- Prizes of $100 will be awarded each year in each category.

-- Deadline for fall submissions is October 5, 2011.

Send your questions and submissions to upcountry@maine.edu.

Visit our website at www.upcountryjournal.wordpress.com for news, updates, and issues.

A water fountain on the second floor of Emerson Hall was dislodged from the wall on Sept. 7. The individual responsible for the damage has since come forward.

According to resident life director, Jim Stepp, the fountain was dislodged as a result of horesplay in the hallway.

Unive r sity Ti m e s ! CAMPUS ! Se pt em b er 1 6 , 2 011

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Have a Voice and Get Involved Chris Corsello CONTRIBUTOR

As the vice president for student affairs and dean of students, I continue to be very interested in creating opportunities to keep the lines of communication open to and from students. I want to make certain students have a forum to become aware of upcoming projects and new initiatives, to participate in decision making and to voice your concerns.

With this in mind, here are some things I will be doing to make myself available to listen to you.

E n h a n c i n g Communication and Participation in Decision Making As always, I am available for appointments throughout the week. However, I understand that sometimes students have a quick question for me. So please know that you DO NOT need a scheduled appointment! Just stop by my office (100 South Hall) and pop in. If the door is open and I’m not in a meeting, you can see me! If you want to make certain I’m here and available, then I suggest scheduling an appointment by contacting my assistant, Marjorie

McNamara, at 768-9615.

Another way to stay connected is by attending Coffee with the Dean and Town Meetings with the dean. These events take place monthly and are open forums for students to discuss areas of concern with the dean or to simply stop in and say hello. Please watch email and the electronic bulletin boards for dates and times.

Dean’s Advisory Council I’m also looking for approximately 25 students, from all class years and all degree programs, to serve as an ad hoc group. Last year, the Dean’s Advisory Council proved extremely helpful in providing input into important campus decisions and providing feedback to the administration.

This group meets periodically throughout the year and will continue to lend guidance and advice to the dean of students on upcoming issues and decisions affecting the student body. The commitment is limited, as there will be no set meeting times (except for one initial meeting). Rather, it will meet periodically as issues arise and decisions approach.

The more students involved the better!

To sign up, please contact me at chris-

tine.corsello@umpi.edu or my Marjorie assistant, McNamara, at 768-9615 or email marjorie.mcnamara@umpi.edu.

Pride Committee

UMPI experience. To keep the efforts going, we need more student representatives on the committee! The committee will meet on a regular basis throughout the school year,

As dean of students, I remain committed to improving school spirit and pride on the UMPI campus. Teaming up the dean of students and members of the student affairs staff, the Pride Committee exists to explore ways to build a sense of pride within all UMPI students and increase students’ overall satisfaction with the

evaluating their success and planning events.

Students interested in joining this committee are urged to contact Bonnie DeVaney, chair of the Pride Committee, by calling 768-9750 or e-mail barbara.devaney@umpi.edu.

Student of the Month program Hand in hand with the Pride Committee, I am excited to

announce that we will continue our efforts to recognize the contributions made by students with the Student of the Month award. Each month of the school year, one student will be chosen to represent UMPI as the Student of the Month.

Nominations will be accepted from anyone at the university and are due the 20th of each month.

Completed forms should be submitted to the dean of students. The dean of students, along with members of the Pride Committee, will review nomination forms and select a monthly recipient. Selected students will receive their awards at various events and will be announced in the U Times and other university publications.

Nomination forms can be found on the Web and will be distributed the middle of each month over e-mail.

Here are a few things we will be looking for in a Student of the Month recipient: students who exhibit dedication to UMPI and its mission; who go out of their way to help other students; who contribute to school pride; unity and student life; who serve as positive role models for other students; who embrace diversity and are open to all students.

WUPI 92.1 FM

“A Lifetime of Music” We play 70 years of recorded music each week here on The Owl. Pick out your favorite decade of hit songs and listen in!

The Owl Throwback with Tom Pinette: Fri 1-3 p.m.

The ‘60s Radio Show: Sun 6-8 p.m.

The ‘70s Radio Show: Sat 6-9 p.m.

The ‘80s Radio Show with Ben Pinette: Sat 9 p.m.- midnight The ‘90s Radio Show with Nicole Gray: Mon 7-9 p.m.

The Owl Rewind- 2000s with Nicole Gray: Sun 8 a.m.- noon 2010s: Our Regular Automation

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Uni ver si ty Ti m e s ! CAMPUS ! Se ptemb er 1 6 , 2 011

Take the Plunge with UMPI Kayla Ames

STAFF WRITER

thunder storm, she was the only group member allowed to make the return trip. The entire ordeal, from gearing up to removing all of the equipment, took about an hour and a half, as is usual.

And, believe it or not, this is only one opportunity students such as Donna Delong can find here at UMPI. “I would say that the trip is worth going on and something that people

Donna Delong teetered on the edge, knowing that, beyond, there was only empty air and roaring rapids.

Erupting spray dampened her clothes as a fierce wind tugged her hair. She wasn’t afraid. Rather, the coming plunge excited her. Seconds ticked by, then, as if completely on a whim, she let go and stepped off.

Just as she’d expected, the steel cable holding her aloft tightened.

Now she was flying through the air across a 500 foot wide gorge, 125 feet above the water.

Trees, people and the nearby dam faded to blurs as she leaned back and dangled, wishing these few incredible moments could somehow last forever.

This was just one UMPI student’s description of the zip line in Grand Falls, New Brunswick, Canada.

Donna Delong, a senior at the University of Maine at Presque Isle, decided to try her hand at it while on a birthday excursion with friends.

“Having my friends there to share the experience was so important to the overall experience. Donna Delong geared up at Zip The feeling of getting suited up in all the ropes and would enjoy taking. It is rigging was exciting and the offered through CAB [the anticipation began to grow Campus Activities Board] and it is very cost effective from there,” Delong said. to go with them rather Delong started on the than to go alone,” Delong north side of the gorge, zip lining across to the south side recommended.

Though she paid about before walking to another $40 to zip line across the St. platform. Due to a sudden

John River, groups of 11 or more people usually receive deals. Outdoor Adventure Program International, otherwise known as OAPI, one of many campus clubs, has lead groups to Canada before.

They are currently planning many more exhilarating activities for the coming months, including an Adventure Weekend from Sept. 17 to 18, featuring rock climbing, hiking and sea kayaking at Acadia National Park.

For more information regarding OAPI and its plans, you can go to www.umpi.edu/gentilehall/oapi or find them on Facebook. If you would rather speak directly to a club representative, try kimberly.mccrea@umpi.edu or call 768-9401. Zip Zag, the zip lining company Delong went through, encourages people to call for information and reservations. Their website is http://zipzag.ca/.

When asked to say a few last words about her adrenaline-filled adventure in Canada, Delong supplied this final remark: “The first flight lasted only seconds, but the feeling will last a long time.”

S o i f yo u t h i n k Zag. yo u , t o o, w o u l d e n j oy s o a r i n g t h ro u g h t h e s k y like a true UMPI owl, d o n’t h e s i t at e. U M P I h a s countless opportunities t o s h a re w i t h i t s s t u d e n t s.

There are many fun m e m o r i e s t o b e m a d e, i f only you’re willing to t a k e t h e p l u n g e.

Welcome from International Students Services Bienvenue, Swagatam, Huan Ying, Shalom, Soo dhewow, Bienvenidos!

We l c o m e i n Fr e n c h , Nepalese, Chinese, Israeli, Somalian and Spanish, the home languages of some of our current students.

International Students Services, located in South Hall, welcomes you to campus.

B o n n i e D e Va n e y a n d Jo h n H a r r i n g t o n are here to answer your questions and assist you with any concer ns you may have about your student visa, getting settled in, banking, life at UMPI, employment, etc.

R e m e m b e r, a s a n international student, you must check in with International Students Services twice during e a c h s e m e s t e r. A t t h e beginning of each s e m e s t e r, y o u n e e d t o complete the check in form at South Hall or

online at h t t p : / / w w w. u m p i . e d u / c u r r e n t - s t u dents/internationalstudents/check-inform.

Then, at the end of e a c h s e m e s t e r, y o u n e e d to have your I-20 signed by Jo h n Harrington or Bonnie D e Va n e y, b o t h l o c a t e d in South Hall, or Je s s i c a Blackstone, admissions office, Preble Hall.

I f yo u n e e d h e l p, come to South Hall, call 207-768-9750 or em a i l B a r b a r a . D e Va n e y @ u m p i.edu or Jo h n . H a r r i n g t o n @ u m p i . e d u . Fo r m o r e i n f o r mation, check out the International website at h t t p : / / w w w. u m p i . e d u / c u r r e n t - s t u dents/internationalstudents.

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Unive r sit y Ti me s ! CAMPUS ! Se pte mb er 1 6 , 2 011

Not in Kansas Anymore Lanette Virtanen STAFF WRITER

England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, oh my! For some, these aren’t just places that you dream about. UMPI art professor Cliff Boudman, along with students and others from the surrounding area, met in Boston to board a plane that took them to London’s Heathrow airport on

May 23. From there, the adventure began.

For some, this was a trip that would be taken with a bonus of three credits toward an Art 400 course. For others, it was a chance to go to places they’d only dreamed of. Either way, it was a trip that gave everyone present a chance to see places and things such as: Big Ben, The Tower of London,

A view of Stonehenge.

Stonehenge, Roman Baths, the Irish National Stud, the Edinburgh Castle and Shakespeare’s birthplace.

This trip was not only a chance to meet new people, those on the tour bus from all over the world along with the group from UMPI, but also a chance to try new foods.

Yorkshire pudding, haggis and fish and chips are just a few that you might have heard of. Some people also took time to enjoy art museums and plays. The tour offered up a chance to see an Irish Cabaret in Dublin as well as a Scottish evening in Edinburgh. The music, the dance and the people made this trip one to remember.

The tour went full circle, starting and ending in London. After arriving back in London, group members had three days to do whatever they wanted, and let’s just say that the possibilities were endless.

Students enjoying the Roman baths.

Walk in any direction from the hotel and there were so many things to see and do that you could’ve stayed for weeks and wouldn’t have seen it all. In walking distance: the London Eye, the Tower of London, Westminster Abbey and Piccadilly Circus. The pubs, the food, the taxis and the double decker buses were all around you, so much to see and never enough time to see it all.

When it was done 14 days later on June 14, the plane landed in Boston and everyone who went was changed by what they’d seen. They’d been together on a journey that took them to another part of the world and they were changed by it. Friends were made and memories captured forever, most not by a camera, but through experiences that will stay with them for a lifetime.

Having a Little PULL

The PULL program was created by students for students. Its ultimate goal is to provide a low-stress setting where new students have opportunities to socially connect with their new classmates, spend time with faculty members in more social settings and understand our university culture and how to succeed. PULL stands for Preparation for University Life and Learning. This program is offered throughout the fall semester to our firstyear students and is coordinated by three upper-class students who live on your floors as peer mentors.

LeAnn Abbott is a junior secondary math/elementary education major at UMPI. She Nordic skis, plays softball and is the secretary for the disc sports club. In addition, she is a member of the math

club. If she were to have free time, she would read, sleep and spend time outside. She is excited to be a PULL programmer because she loves planning events that help people have fun.

Tim Babine is a second year pre-med biology student and comes from Dexter, Maine. This is his first year as a PULL programmer and he is “totally stoked about it!” Tim is very involved on campus in student senate, the Kappa Delta Phi fraternity and RAC (residence advisory council). He loves to help others and enjoys meeting new people. His favorite colors are black and gold and he loves to be outdoors. He currently resides in Merriman 215 which is, according to Tim, probably the best residence hall on campus. (Of course, he is looking for you to prove him wrong.)

Alex Csiernik is a sophomore

athletic training student from Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

Besides being a PULL programmer, he is also on the UMPI baseball team. He is most excited to be a PULL programmer because it will give him the opportunity to help the new students at UMPI as well as meet people and friends new to campus along the way.

Coming to a new place, like a university can be difficult.

Being a part of these activities will offer you social outlets and helpful connections to the university culture. The PULL programs are convenient.

They are offered either in Park or Merriman TV lounges, outdoors on the soccer field or in the Owl’s Nest. The events are focused on fun and engaging activities that try to connect all personality types and interests.

Here is a look at the September programs they have

in store for you: September: Tug-of-War: The challenge begins early.

Test your muscles against upperclassmen and faculty to see it your incoming class or which residence hall will be the new reigning champs!

Merriman won in 2010. Who will take the 2011 title?

Wiffle Ball: Get in the spirit! Enjoy an early evening game outdoors (weather permitting) and some Park versus Merriman fun!

Club and Community Fair: Get Involved! Prizes, food and fun. The Club and Community Fair is a great time for all. Join us in the Campus Center and explore your options. Our table raffles off a free large pizza!

How to Save $$$ in College: Join us for advice from the financial pros and student experts (the ones who do it right and the ones who have made

mistakes).

Fight the 15: Healthy snacks are provided at this event where students can learn more about eating healthy while living on campus, be it at the dining hall or in their rooms.

Can You Rock? Come and show off your Rock Band skills at this interactive gaming competition.

Gather a band or form one at this program event in the Owl’s Nest. Snacks will be provided.

I f yo u h ave q u e s t i o n s or suggestions about the PULL prog ram, please c o n t a c t Ja n n i e D u r r a t e-mail: jann i e. d u r r @ u m p i . e d u .

If you would like to become a PULL coordin a t o r, yo u m a y a p p l y t o Ja n n i e D u r r d u r i n g t h e s p r i n g s e m e s t e r.

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Uni ver si ty Ti m e s ! CAMPUS ! Se ptemb er 1 6 , 2 011

Testing Services Welcomes Students Testing Services welcomes you to campus whether you are starting your first year or preparing for graduation.

We are here to help you by providing standardized testing services for the entire university community. We offer testing to assist you in meeting your educational

and/or professional goals.

Have questions? Want to learn more about our testing services and which tests are available on campus?

Just visit us at: http://www.umpi.edu/curre nt-students/testing-services We hope to see you soon. And we wish you a g reat year.

Helping to Keep Students Healthy The Student Health Service staff would like to welcome all new and returning students. We’re in Emerson Annex. During the semester, a registered nurse practitioner holds office hours Monday through Friday (excluding holidays), 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

All UMPI students are welcome to use the campus health service. Services available include physical

exams, laborator y tests, treatment for routine health problems and immunizations.

Health education infor mation is also made available on many health topics.

For more information, contact Linda Mastro, CRNP, director of health services, at (207) 768-9586 or linda.mastro@umpi.edu.

We wish you a healthy and successful year.

Welcome to UMPIHome of the Owls On behalf of the Athletic Department, we welcome you and are p l e a s e d yo u ’ve ch o s e n UMPI to attain your academic goals. The university has much to offer you academicall y, s o c i a l l y and athletic a l l y.

Whether yo u ’re i n t e r ested in c l u b s, i n t r a mu r a l s p o r t s or varsity level athleti c s, i t c a n a l l be found here.

Get involved in all you can w h i l e yo u ’r e here.

Yo u r c o l l e g e ye a r s w i l l g o by q u i c k l y a n d they will be a time in your life you’ ll always r e m e m b e r.

We h o p e t h at eve n i f yo u ch o o s e n o t t o p a r t i c -

ipate in our intercollegiate athletic prog ram, yo u w i l l b e c o m e a m e m ber of the Blue Crew: s t u d e n t s wh o s u p p o r t o u r teams at home games.

M e m b e r s r e c e i v e a T-

s h i r t a n d h ave t h e i r ow n bleacher section at the h o m e b a s k e t b a l l g a m e s.

We b e g a n o u r B LU E CREW PRIDE a few ye a r s a g o a n d h o p e t o

Love Music?

Love to talk?

Come join....

WUPI 92.1FM The Owl.

100 percent local radio for UMPI and Presque Isle.

Special New Student Meeting Thursday, September 22, 12:30 p.m., Normal 102. *If unable to attend, please contact the station manager’s office line at 768-9741.

increase the number of s t u d e n t s wh o w a n t t o j o i n i n t h e f u n . Yo u ’ l l h e a r more about this as time goes on.

The department offers 12 varsity sports with open tryouts for all teams. If you h ave q u e s t i o n s or are looking for more information about our teams, please feel free t o s t o p by t h e athletic office located in Wi e d e n H a l l .

M a k e s u re to check out our schedules o n t h e We b a n d b e s u re t o come out and c h e e r o n yo u r teams and become part o f U M P I at h l e t i c s. Yo u c a n f i n d a l l o f o u r t e a m ’s s ch e d u l e s, a s w e l l a s ro s ters, on the website at w w w. u m p i . e d u / at h l e t i c s.

Unive r sity Ti m e s ! CAMPUS ! Se pt em b er 1 6 , 2 011

Student Support Services: Here to Help With Your Problems

Concerned about your grades? Organizationally challenged? Having difficulties due to a documented disability?

Wonder where to go to about a problem? Our friendly crew would like to meet you, so please come visit us at Student Support Services in South Hall for assistance.

Seek help the minute you experience a problem. Meghan Lightbown, our tutor coordinator, will speak with you about your academic struggles and arrange for a FREE tutor for your classes or help you structure your class work. Please call 768-9614 or contact Meg at meghan.lightbown@umpi.edu for assistance.

Mary Kate Barbosa, the

director of student support services, encourages students with documented disabilities to seek appropriate accommodations on campus. Each student requesting services must provide appropriate documentation.

Contact 768-9613 or mary.barbosa@umpi.edu to arrange an appointment, obtain the appropriate forms and request accommodations.

In addition to these important areas, we are also happy to provide personal, financial and career counseling and referrals for students needing these services. We work directly with counseling services, financial aid, and career services to most effectively serve you.

Helping Students Help Themselves Mika Ouellette STAFF WRITER

On your campus tour, you most likely went through South Hall. While you were in there, you probably noticed a sign next to the computer lab on the first floor that said “Writing Center.” You probably also wondered what it was and what they did there.

When you start classes, your professor may require you to go there for an assignment. You probably think that someone will write your paper for you or edit it as your teacher would.

You get there and the tutor tells you to read your paper aloud so that you can point out your own mistakes. You seem confused by these instructions, but in fact the tutor is doing their job.

At the writing center, students bring in their assignments for an hour-long consultation with a student tutor. All of these tutors are UMPI students who have had a special class required to work in the writing center taught by advisor Dr. Deborah Hodgkins. These stu-

dent tutors don’t edit papers but rather help students to become better writers by helping them to pick out their own mistakes and discuss their assignments.

Also, as part of their training, writing center tutors must bring in one of their own assignments for a consultation with one of their colleagues. This gives them an opportunity to feel what the students who will come to them with assignments experience, allowing them to better help students help themselves. This requirement also helps new tutors get to know their colleagues better.

Many professors, especially those of lower level courses, send their students there to have consultations for assignments, whether it be a class requirement or just for extra credit. Some students choose to come in on their own to get help with their own assignments. Appointments can be made by signing up on the sign-in sheet on the front desk of South Hall or by calling 768-9615.

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The Student Exchange Office: Your Gateway to Limitless Options

UMPI offers a variety of student exchange opportunities for students. If you are interested in a semester (summer, fall or spring) for a national exchange or an international one, we should have a program that will work for you.

The National Student Exchange (NSE) gives you the opportunity to attend more than 200 campuses in the U.S., U.S. territories and Canada, paying either UMPI home campus tuition or in-state tuition at the host campus (whichever works best for you) while using your financial aid to cover all your expenses.

Course work is preapproved and transferred back into your current program at UMPI. NSE is a wonderful opportunity for students to diversify their academic and life experiences and break out of their comfort zone and experience life from a new perspective. Applications for the following year are due in February of each year.

The College Consortium for International Studies (CCIS) offers students the opportunity to study abroad.

Financial aid can be used to cover costs for this program.

Students work through a partner campus to select classes and prepare for a semester or year abroad. More information on this program can be obtained through the stu-

dent exchange office in South Hall.

Project Maine France (PMF) is an exchange program between the U n i ve r s i t y o f M a i n e ’s

seven-campus system and six univer sities in France.

Tuition and fees are paid t o t h e s t u d e n t ’s h o m e c a m p u s.

Financial aid can be used to cover the

c o s t o f ro o m , b o a rd , f light, books and expenses wh i l e on ex ch a n g e.

Students must have a mini mu m o f t wo ye a r s o f French to be eligible for

this prog ram and should apply early in the spring for the following year.

The New England Board of Higher Education of fer s many exchange programs to students to study at universities in Quebec and Nova Scotia as well as other New England universities at a reduced tuition rate. We have had students take advantage of the tuitionfree 12-week intensive French prog rams in Quebec over this past summer.

T his prog ram requires language proficiency with a minimum of two years. More infor mation on these programs can be obtained in the student exchange office.

You can obtain information about the George J. Mitchell Peace Scholarship through this office as well.

UMPI is the proud home campus of the 2010-11 recipient of the Mitchell Peace Scholarship and will have a student attending Cork University in Ireland for a semester with tuition and housing paid, as well as travel and living expenses.

Information on the Marshall Scholarship and the Rhodes Scholarship is available. Don’t miss out on great opportunities that are available to you just by stopping by and asking.

Where do you want to study next year?

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Univer si ty Ti m e s ! CAMPUS ! Se pt em b er 1 6 , 2 011

Dissecting a Summer Research Experience

held on July 26. For the symposium, fellowship participants could either present a poster or The scene from the window give a 12-minute talk on their was gorgeous: trees framing the summer projects. view of the rocky coastline and The summer wasn’t filled with dark blue ocean waters. In only a all work and no play, however. For couple of minutes, you could instance, fellowship participants walk down to the seaweed-lined helped staff stations for Family shoreline and smell the salt in the Science Night, which included air. Turning away from the winfun science-related activities for dow, however, was a completely children and their families.

Also, different view: microscopes, test many student researchers climbed tubes, beakers and flasks and the paths of Acadia National Park shelves full of chemical bottles. and visited the shops and restauSuch differing sceneries are a rants of Bar Harbor. A unique part of the few of the students, such Mount Desert Island as May and Meredith Biological Laboratory, Adamo, a junior at Union which is located at College, were even able to Salisbury Cove (near Bar eat seafood, such as lobHarbor). The lab offers ster, for the first time. the benefit of conductSpeaking of food, the ing research right along meals served at MDIBL’s the sea.

“Co-Op” dining hall were Yo u m a y b e quite delicious. Adamo wondering how said that one of the things yo u c o u l d w o r k i n she enjoyed about such a picturesque MDIBL was the dinnerenvironment. time discussions.

MDIBL offers “I loved the fact that I Dr. Andy Christie, Dr. Dan Hartline, Lauren summer research learned as much about sciGrotton, Eric Martindale, Stephanie fellowships with ence during dinner convera p p l i c a t i o n s a v a i l - Corriveau and Isabel Morgan. sations as I did when I was able at working in the lab,” Adamo said. ferent research work involving www.mdibl.org/undergraduate_ The summer research fellowcrabs and water fleas.

Morgan a p p l i c a t i o n _ p r o c e s s . p h p.

University of Maine at Presque looked for proteins in these organ- ship offered the opportunity to Isle students can be considered for isms that affected their circadian engage in an interesting project of a 10-week fellowship through the rhythms, or daily cycles. She said choice while enjoying beautiful Maine IDeA Network for that what she enjoyed most about scenery. As Lauren Grotton, a Biomedical Research Excellence. her research was getting to try dif- senior from Maine Maritime Food and housing are paid for by ferent activities, such as gathering Academy summarized, it also the INBRE fellowship and partic- her own crabs from the beach, gave students the chance to create ipants receive a weekly check for which seemed a difficult task at friendships and develop valuable first (because of the pinching scientific skills. Grotton enjoyed their work. her time at the lab and would go There are many types of proj- nature of the crabs). back to MDIBL, if given the “I appreciated the exposure to ects you can choose from at opportunity. new things.

It forced me to adapt MDIBL. For instance, you might “The knowledge I have gained outside of my comfort zone,” study such topics as cystic fibrosis and the contacts and friends I Morgan said. or regeneration. UMPI assistant have made are priceless,” Along with performing professor, Dr. Rachael Hannah, Grotton said. research, students took part in a performed summer research at If you’re interested in parpresentation class.

This course the lab involving regeneration of ticipating in a summer allowed students to critique the parts of the central nervous system research fellowship, you’re weekly presentations that were in zebrafish. Megan May, a junior highly encouraged to visit the delivered by lab and visiting scifrom DePauw University, said that MDIBL website.

The experientists.

It also allowed class parher project involved both cruise ship monitoring and helping pre- ticipants to show off their own ence will give you a unique serve eelgrass (a marine plant). work and receive feedback on view, not only of Salisbury She enjoyed conducting this work, their presentation skills. This Cove and Bar Harbor, but also which was done mostly outdoors. helped prepare students for the of how you can become a part student symposium, which was of the scientific field.

Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

“What I liked the most about the research was the ability to spend time out in the environment on a regular basis,” May said.

Other projects that were available in the summer of 2011 involved studying crustaceans. In one project, shrimp nerve cords were examined for a certain type of protein called neuropeptide F that is responsible for controlling the shrimps’ sizes. Isabel Morgan, a sophomore from Mount Holyoke College, completed dif-

Residence Halls – For Commuters and for Residents Jim Stepp

CONTRIBUTOR

Welcome to UMPI. My name is Jim Stepp and I am the assistant dean of students/director of residence life. The title of this article may seem confusing to you, but it is accurate. The residence halls are for commuters as well as residential students.

The residence halls offer opportunities for programming and learning for residential and commuting students. The residence halls also may be used for emergency housing for those students who commute.

In a separate article in this edition of the University Times, Jannie Durr describes some of the activities available in the residence halls to aid new students in their adjustment to college life. This series of activities are part of the Preparation for University Life and Learning (PULL) program. Although these programs take place in the residence halls, they are open to all students. The programs are designed to help you meet new people, learn important skills needed for college and are just plain fun. Watch future editions of the University Times to find out more about these programs.

Another area where the residence halls may be useful to the commuting student population is for emergency housing. As you might have guessed, it does occasionally snow in northern Maine. If school is canceled and you feel as a commuter student

it is unsafe to drive home, please feel free to contact me. If you do not have a friend in the local area to stay with, I should be able to find a place for you to stay. Remember, your safety is very important to the university.

In my role as the director of residence life, I and my staff work with the residential students to help them succeed in college. There are two full-time professionals who live and work on campus. Jannie Durr, the assistant director of residence life, lives in Emerson Hall and Vanessa Pearson, the coordinator of student activities and leadership development, lives in Park Hall. Jannie works closely with the resident assistants and can help residential students with roommate issues and other items that may affect their lives at college. Vanessa’s main focus is providing campus activities.

If you have any concerns about living in the residence halls, please feel free to stop by the Emerson Hall Annex and speak with me or Jannie. I also eat most of my meals in the cafeteria, so feel free to sit down with me, have a meal and chat.

As the assistant dean of students, I work with many other people on campus to help students stay in school.

If you feel you are having problems with your grades or with any other situation, I may be able to help. If I cannot help, I will be able to assist you in getting to the right person for help.

17

Unive r sity Ti m e s ! CAMPUS ! Se pt em b er 1 6 , 2 011

Lanette Virtanen STAFF WRITER

A week before school s t a r t e d , s e ve r a l s t u d e n t s got together with Va n e s s a Pe a r s o n f o r a leadership retreat that t o o k p l a c e ove r a t w o day span. The retreat s t a r t e d A u g. 2 3 , g o i n g f ro m 1 t o 6 p. m . , a n d continued the following day from 9 a.m. to 9 p. m . i n t h e C a m p u s C e n t e r. T h e r e t r e a t w a s meant to help students d e ve l o p l e a d e r s h i p s k i l l s that can be used with fellow students in the clubs that they belong t o. T h e r e t r e a t w a s a l s o meant as a tool to help those students in their l i ve s a f t e r c o l l e g e.

The two-day retreat w a s d e d i c a t e d t o e x e rc i s e s t h a t h e l p e d i m p r ov e

Retreat!

leadership skills and w i t h w o rk i n g t o g e t h e r a s a team to accomplish your goals. Lear ning

well together was the s t a r t o f t h e s e w o rk s h o p s.

When asked about these workshops, Pear son said,

Participants in the iLead retreat working together as a team to untangle the human knot they created as a group activity. about having people from all the different c o l o r t y p e s i n o n e g ro u p and making them work

“This is just the beginning of our iLead Leadership series throughout the year.

T hey’ll focus on various

leadership topics such as: iLead by communicating and iLead by setting goals.

T hey’ ll be open to students, faculty and staff.”

Kimberly Francis, a student who participated in the retreat, said, “iLead was a great opportunity to lear n more about ourselves as leaders.”

Day two started out with more exercises to help better understand what it takes to work together as a team. Participants took on a task and had to collectively figure out what it would take to finish that task. Later that evening, Joe Urbanski motivated and empowered the iLead group along with RA’s and early ar rival students.

Urbanski had the group on their feet, chanting, hugging, laughing and taking in every word that he said.

The Personal Leadership Experience, rightly titled, was exactly what he gave the group. From the personal experiences he shared to his words of encouragement, he left the g roup feeling energized and upbeat, ready to start the new semester.

Urbanski, who does these seminars across the countr y, was brought to UMPI co-sponsored by the student activities of fice and residential life. His being here a week before classes started helped to set the tone for how the following weeks would play out. His wit and wisdom got the point across that you can make a difference by being here and by being a part of UMPI. Look for upcoming dates for more of the iLead leadership series.

A Schooling in Student Support Services Stephanie Corriveau STAFF WRITER

At times, college courses may seem overwhelming, but there are people you can turn to for assistance here at the University of Maine at Presque Isle. The staff of Student Support Services is always ready to help. Meghan Lightbown, who is the assistant director of SSS, welcomes those students who may be having concerns with their classes to visit her office on the first floor of South Hall. SSS offers tutoring opportunities for many of the subjects taught at UMPI. Lightbown said that even if a tutor isn’t available for a subject, SSS will work to get one. The best part about the services is that you can get an hour of weekly tutoring in each subject that you need assistance with at no cost.

Lightbown believes that there may be a common misunderstanding regarding tutoring. She said that individuals

may feel that they only need a tutor when they’re in trouble with a class. The best time to sign up for tutoring, however, is immediately after you begin experiencing difficulties. “[Sign up] as early as possible to get the full benefits,” Lightbown said.

It takes only a few easy steps to register for tutoring. First, you must pick up and complete a form from SSS. Lightbown adds that those who previously had tutoring only need to fill out a shorter application. Next, Lightbown said students should schedule an appointment with her. The meeting is relatively short, but will prepare students for the tutoring services they’ll receive. Lightbown encourages students to meet with their tutors every week, rather than only as needed.

“I would prefer and I think the tutee gets the most benefit with a weekly session,” Lightbown said.

Of course, the services that SSS offers can only be made if

tutors are readily available. If you have succeeded in classes and feel comfortable tutoring them, you should apply for a tutor position.

Lightbown said that, along with filling out an application, students are required to have a minimum 2.5 GPA, a recommendation from a professor or adviser and be able to serve as a positive representative for UMPI, in order to be considered for an interview.

For the fall 2011 semester, there’s a demand for tutors in education, social work, business and accounting, criminal justice, anatomy and physiology and an even greater need in English, the sciences and athletic training.

Lightbown said that tutors should have a good personality and treat the tutees with respect. Tutors can work with Lightbown to plan tutee appointments.

“We go around your schedule, so your regular life can go on as always,” Lightbown said.

According to Lightbown, there are many rewards for

being a SSS tutor, especially in that it helps tutors review their own skills and examine courses they’ve already taken through other students’ perspectives.

comes students who either need a tutor or want to be one to contact her. She can be reached at 207768-9614 or at meghan.lightbown@umpi.edu or

Meghan Lightbown

“They’re refreshing those basic concepts, which are helping them with higher level classes,” Lightbown said.

Lightbown states that she has an “open door policy” and wel-

even by stopping by her office.

Whether you need some extra assistance or want to get directly involved with helping fellow students progress, SSS will always give you the support you need.

18

Univer si ty Ti m e s ! CAMPUS ! Se pt em b er 1 6 , 2 011

The Finished Product

Pullen Hall renovations 95 percent completed school has been in session, students have already noticed a difference in their It had been a long learning environment. s u m m e r f o r t h e w o rk e r s “It’s nice to have a good renovating our own climate control and an Pullen Hall.

Between atmosphere that fosters the 15 inches of higher educarain above nortion. It’s about mal, thundertime the stus t o r m s a n d s t ro n g dents get what winds, it was a they are paying wonder that any for and the prow o rk g o t g e t d o n e. fessors deserve But according to these updated U M P I ’s v i c e p r e s i classrooms,” dent for admisRob Butcher, a s i o n s a n d f i n a n c e, fourth year stuC h a rl e s B o n i n , t h e dent at UMPI, project is very who, like many, near completion. has classes in the “The project was new Pullen Hall. to cut down on So what’s Pullen’s carbon footnext for print and fuel oil Pullen Hall? consumption with According to the addition of new solar panels on the An example of the renovations done in Pullen Hall. B o n i n , t h e r e are still a few roof and a biomass boiler system in the base- money that can be spent on t h i n g s l e f t t o d o .

“We’re still waiting for ment.

The project also other things.

“We’ve saved about some of the connections included installing energy efficient windows, improving 25,000 gallons of fuel putting to our solar panels on the ADA accessibility, updating heat pumps in the Folsom roof and also, eventually, the existing heating and ven- side, so we’ll be saving at t h e re w i l l b e a d i s p l a y tilation system and adding least another 20,000 gallons module down on the f loor. temperature control in one of fuel in Pullen as well, so We a l s o s t i l l h ave t h e of the University’s two this is just the beginning,” w e at h e r s t a t i o n e q u i p ment that hasn’t arrived major classroom buildings. Bonin said.

In the short time that yet, so we’re about 95 perAnd, no more noise from cent complete.”

In t h e en d, U M P I ’s c o n t i n uing commitment to go green and to reduce its carbon footprint with the wind t urbi n e a nd n ow Pul len Ha l l renov a t i o n s has certainly gone well i n t h e past few yea r s. “ B a s i c a l l y, we stayed on time, and that was a good thing,” Bonin said.

Renovations to Pullen almost completed.

Ben Pinette

STAFF WRITER

univents! Faculty and students always used to complain about that interfering, Bonin said.

These upgrades will continue to save the university thousands of dollars a year—

Residence Advisory Council: A Voice for Residential Students The Residence Advisory Council began as a student-driven initiative in fall 2009 and officially became recognized by the student senate in the spring semester of 2011. When residential students sought to have a stronger voice about their living experiences on campus, the RAC became the outlet for their opinions and change-making.

RAC members consist of students who live in the residence halls and possess a passionate and empowered spirit.

Not only do the RAC members provide opinions, but they take action.

The RAC executive board consists of four upper-class students, including Lizzie Bousquet, Tim Babine, Elizabeth Keagan and Matt Nadeau. Two members of the residence life department, Bryan Jennings and Jannie Durr, assist the RAC members as advisers.

Days ago, RAC sponsored the Early Arrival program for upper-class student leaders who volunteered to help firstyear students move into the residence halls during the week of welcome.

One of RAC’s goals for the coming year is to create opportunities for inter-hall competitions in collaboration with the resident assistants and Preparation for University Life and Learning programmers. The residence life and housing office plans to take suggestions for improvements from the RAC. If you have questions or suggestions about the RAC, please contact any of the above executive board members, the RAC Facebook page or their advisers, Bryan Jennings, bryan.jennings@maine.edu, or Jannie Durr, jannie.durr@umpi.edu

Attention all Education Majors!

Fingerprinting dates for this semester are as followed: Saturday, Sept. 17 Saturday, Nov. 19 Saturday, Dec. 10

To register go to: http://www10.informe.org/cgibin/dps/fingerprint/check_slot.pl

For more information contact: Shara Gardner Administrative Assitant II College of Education University of Maine at Presque Isle 210 Normal Hall (207) 768-9419

L

University Times

Jim Stepp

ifestyle September 16, 2011

Astronomy in Northern Maine

CONTRIBUTOR

Hello everyone. My name is Jim Stepp and I’m the assistant dean of students and director of residence life here at the University of Maine at Presque Isle. Astronomy has been a hobby of mine for about 30 years. I first became interested in astronomy in sixth grade.

Living in Pittsburgh, PA gave me the opportunity to go to the Buhl Planetarium and the Allegheny Observatory on many occasions. One of the first objects I saw through a telescope was Comet West when it lit up the evening skies in the early 1970s.

When I was a college student, I worked at Edinboro University of Pennsylvania’s Planetarium. I had the opportunity to write several scripts and develop interactive planetarium shows. I also had the opportunity to use EUP’s 13inch telescope and build a solar telescope that projected a 30-inch image of the sun on a wall.

For those of you who may be interested in astronomy, please contact me to get on a list to receive a monthly newsletter about astronomy.

The newsletter is produced by the Aroostook County Astronomy Club. The club was formed to provide opportunities for individuals interested in astronomy to get together and observe the night sky.

Membership is open to everyone and no astronomy background is needed. If you are interested in joining the astronomy club, please contact me at

768-9560 or by e-mail at james.stepp@umpi.maine.edu.

Throughout the upcoming year I will be providing information about the objects that are visible in the sky over Presque Isle and hopefully I will be able to answer some of the questions you might have about the nighttime sky.

If you are interested in

mits you to sign up for an email service that will let you know when there is a likelihood of northern lights.

Finally, if you would like to take an interesting trip through the cosmos, check out the Francis Malcolm Science Center. The Science Center’s w e b s i t e i s : www.malcolmsciencecenter.org/

being at least five degrees high and 30 minutes from either sunrise or sunset.

09/20 09/30 Sun Rise

0515

Sun Set1734

1714

Mercury Not Visable

0436 - 0506

Venus 1730 – 1754 1742

1712 -

Mars 0500

0006 -

THE NIGHT SKY The ISS is visible in the morning sky beginning Sept. 19.

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

To get a free sky chart go to www.skymaps.com Sun and Planet Visibility Planet visibility times are based on the planet

0012 – 0448

Jupiter 1912 – 0506 0518

1830 -

Saturn 1800 – 1824 Visable

N o t

Uranus 1918 – 0354 0342

1836 -

Date

finding out what is going on in the night sky go to S k y m a p s . c o m (www.skymaps.com). At this site you will be able to print off a sky chart that will help you find the planets and constellations in the nighttime sky. This site also has various articles that will be helpful for beginning astronomy hobbyists.

Another site to check out is Space Weather.com (spaceweather.com/).

This site will give you information about the events occurring each night. This site also per-

0529

Time

Event

09/08 0142 Mercury at Perihelion – Closest to the Sun Full Moon

09/15 2 0 t h Anniversary of the first launch of the Space Shuttle Discovery 09/15 0112 Moon at Apogee – Furthest from the Earth 09/16 0142

Moon

degrees from Jupiter

09/20 0618 Comet Elenin at its brightest, Mag 4.9.

Visible to the unaided eye 09/20 0838 Moon

Last Quarter

09/23 1 6 5 t h Anniversary of Neptune being discovered by Johann Galle (1846) 09/23 0404 begins

A u t u m n

09/24 0417 ISS passes 0.68 degrees from the Moon 09/25 Uranus at opposition – closest to the Erath 09/27 0608

New Moon

09/27 1956 Moon at Perigee – closest to the Earth

09/08 4 5 t h Anniversary of the 1st Star Trek Episode on TV

09/12 0426

! 19

5.8

09/28 1518 Mercury in suoerior conjunction with the Sun. Closest to the Earth 09/29 1848 Venus degrees from Saturn 10/03 2215 Moon

1.3

First Quarter

10/05 1800 D r a c o n i d s Meteor Shower 5 meteors/hour 10/06 1701 Mercury degrees Saturn

1.7

10/06 1800 D r a c o n i d s Meteor Shower 7 meteors/hour

20