Volume 42 Issue 6 by University Times

inside this issue:

What’s up, North Dakota? Details on page 5

University of Maine at Presque Isle Volume 42 Issue 6

Community Gives Back Details on page 15

Journalism for Northern Maine

DECEMBER 13, 2013

Visit us at utimes.umpi.edu

Food For Thought Kayla Ames STAFF WRITER

Chances are, after you return home for Christmas break, you'll take part in a big holiday meal. You'll get to enjoy a traditional feast, one of the many perks that comes with this time of year. In other parts of the world, though – including in Aroostook County – families will go without. They will stare at empty bowls and desperately wish things were different. Every day, one in eight people go to bed hungry, but we have the power to change that. On Friday, Dec. 6, people from all over the County demonstrated some true Christmas spirit. They gathered at the William V. Haskell Community Center in downtown Presque Isle to help as many disadvantaged locals as possible. It was all part of a project called Empty Bowls, an international effort to fight hunger at a community level. Artists, educators and students from the area – including from the University of Maine at Presque Isle – made hand-crafted bowls and sold them for 10 dollars each. The proceeds went to Martha and Mary's Soup Kitchen. Students from instructor

Hyrum Benson's Ceramic II class organized the event, which was extremely successful. Other artists included Heather Bessey, Russell Mount, Benson himself and students from the Presque Isle High School. Though advertisements said the sale would last from 6 to 8 p.m., artists began selling the bowls early and, half an hour into the scheduled time, they sold out! “It surprised me. I didn't think they would go by so quick,” Benson said. Even after the bowls were gone, though, there was plenty to do at the Community Center. Heidi Rackliffe, a case manager for ACAP (Aroostook County Action Program), shared some statistics and spoke about regional poverty. The group is known for providing heating assistance, but they also do a lot more for area families, children and the elderly. In the wake of President Obama's stimulus package, Rackliffe and her fellow ACAP members had to figure out what the County needed most. Sadly, one of the most obvious answers was food. This year alone, they have served over 18,000 people. Attendees with or without a hand-crafted bowl could also try

some soup provided by generous local businesses and organizations. Donors included Aramark, Cafe Sorpreso, Governor's, The Whole Potato, Gretchen Violette and Star City Coffee. Soup types ranged from corn chowder and lambsausage-chickpea to chicken enchilada and, of course, potato. “I thought this was an excellent idea for students to participate in this, to give back to Left to Right: Sandra Huck, Lena Tingley, Karrie Brawn, the community. And it's Hyrum Benson and Kati Christoffel. really awesome soup,” Leah Rodriguez, one of the show their support, it's likely That sense of connection, that just beginning. embodiment of the Christmas many participants, said. “We've learned a lot with our spirit, makes Maine winters While some provided food first Empty Bowls project. Next bearable – and we can only hope and pieces of art, others donated year, hopefully, will be twice as that it will eventually make their time. Dylan Markie, an UMPI student, served soup good. We'll be twice as every- hunger a thing of the past. thing,” Barbara Lambert, a vol- Meanwhile, by continuing to along with several others. donate our time, money and “At times, it would calm unteer, said. The project gave people a whatever else we can afford, we down and, at other times, it would be a mad rush. Seems chance to do something good for can make this a truly wonderful like it went over pretty well,” the community. Attendees got to time of year for everyone. talk and connect with others For more information, conMarkie said. while enjoying a hot meal and tact Hyrum Benson at This is the first fundraiser learning more about an imporhyrum.benson@umpi.edu or of its kind in northern Maine, and organizers expect that it tant issue. It was a heart-warm- 768-9441, or visit www.facewon't be the last. In fact, given ing reminder of how many book.com/EMPTYBOWLSAhow many people came to charitable and compassionate ROOSTOOKCOUNTY. souls live here in Presque Isle.

The University Times Staff Editor Nicole Duplessis Assistant Editor Stephanie Jellett Staff Writers Kayla Ames Christopher Bowden Nicole Duplessis Stephanie Jellett Contributors Sarah Ames Alex Csiernik Linda Schott Jim Stepp

University Times

ampus

Hi Everyone! I’m happy to say that there is only one week until break! It will be so nice to finally have a month off. I think we’re all in need of some rest and time away from the books for a while. Did any of you go to the Christmas light parade this past Saturday here in Presque Isle? If you did, it was well worth it. I was, however, in a nice heated vehcile. For those of you who braved the cold and stood outside for the entire parade, I give you props! UMPI’s float was very nice and I also give props to all those who walked in the parade in support of UMPI. My personal favorite of all the floats was The Griswolds. It was very original! I hope everyone has had the opportunity to get in high spirits for upcoming holidays. I know finals and last minute assignments can really drag me down, but turning on some Christmas music and watching some Christmas movies really put me in the spirit of the season! They get my mind off things and give me something to look forward to. I want to wish everyone good luck on finals. I also want to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! I hope you all have safe travels and enjoy your time off. Before you know it, we’ll be back for another semester! See you all in 2014! - Nicole

December 13, 2013

Greetings, Look at that, it’s the last week of the fall semester. I can’t believe how quickly it’s gone by. It’s hard to think that next semester I’ll be graduating! This will be my last semester as a part of the U Times. Five years with the paper has been such a great and rewarding experience. There’ve been some ups and downs, but in the end, I’m glad I stuck with it because I met some amazing people and made memories that will last forever. With finals coming up next week, I hope that you still take some time to relax and (try) not to stress too much. Bigrock is opening this weekend, so if you’re intrested in skiing or snowboarding, what better way to take the stress away! Alas, I finally got to “try something new.” Not entirely, but I went skating this past Sunday and to my surprise didn’t fall! I also didn’t go very fast, but it’s a work in progress. Maybe next time I’ll learn how to stop. I wish everyone the best of luck with finals and I’ll see you around campus next year! -Stephanie

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Lindaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Letter

UMPI Wins Grant to Advance New Vision

Linda Schott. The Davis Educational Foundation, based in southern Maine, recently awarded UMPI almost $200,000. These funds will help us advance our vision: to offer a personalized, technologically in-

novative university that prepares each graduate for a professional career, global contributions and life-long learning. In particular, the Davis grant will support faculty and staff development in

the area of proficiency-based education. To be proficiency-based means that we will focus on helping students become proficient in their chosen fields, and not just get passing grades. Students will have a voice in how they best learn and choices about how they can best demonstrate their learning. If students sre already proficient in an area and can demonstrate that proficiency through a portfolio or some sort of standardized test, they can move on to other topics instead of having to spend time doing work they already know how to do. If students need extra time to become proficient, they will get it. The goal will be the same for all students: absolute mastery of the critical concepts and skills in their chosen fields or careers.

Proficiency-based education is grounded in the latest neuroscience research. That research tells us that students learn best and are most motivated when they have a say in how they learn, how they show what they have learned and the pace at which they do so. As a result of this grant, our faculty and staff will have the opportunity to work with their colleagues and with external consultants to redesign how they teach. They can hold on to effective techniques they have used in the past and supplement them with some new approaches and new ways to nurture and evaluate student success. Furthermore, many high schools in Maine are transitioning to proficiency-based education. The Davis grant will allow UMPI to learn alongside Aroos-

took County schools as they transition and will position UMPI as the "college of choice" for those students who learn best in this kind of system. Students who have taken ownership of their learning in high school will come to UMPI wanting to do the same here. They will be motivated and invested in their learning, and they will be more likely to persist to graduation. UMPI has provided great educational experiences to generations of students. With the help of the Davis Educational Fund grant, UMPI will build upon that solid foundation to provide a cutting-edge, 21st century education that better serves students and is even more aligned with the need of the state for more highly educated citizens and employees.

From all animals big and small, we wish a Happy New Year to all!

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J i m ’s J o u r n a l T he Pa ssin g of Nel so n M an de l a

Jim Stepp. Nelson Mandela died after a long bout of illness on Dec. 5, 2013. I guess you may be asking yourself why a dean of students would be writing about the for-

mer president of another country. This question is very valid, but I feel there is much to learn from this man. Nelson Mandela was born on July 18, 1918, in the village of Mvezo, Umtatu, South Africa.

Until the early 1990s, a policy called Apartheid existed in South Africa. Apartheid was a system of racial separation and segregation that divided South Africa’s population into several subgroups. Each subgroup had its own rank in society and had different privileges based on the color of a person’s skin. The four main classifications were White, Coloured, Indian and Black. Black people were refused citizenship and received lesser education, medical care, public services and were forced to use separate facilities at places such as beaches. In 1962, Nelson Mandela was arrested for fighting against Apartheid. He was sentenced to prison and in 1964 began a 27year-long incarceration. While in the prison on Robben Island and in the Pollsmoor Prison, he was kept in solitary confine-

ment. His cell was eight feet by seven feet and he had to sleep on a straw mat. If any man had a reason to be angry and seek the destruction of a government, it was Nelson Mandela. Instead of seeking revenge, he sought negotiations. In 1994, he was elected to be president of South Africa. When he was elected, many of the white South Africans thought he would produce laws that would punish them for the years of suffering he went through and the decades of Apartheid blacks endured in South Africa. Instead, he worked on making South Africa a “Rainbow Nation,” a place where all people would be accepted. In the United States, we look at several people as being very special. These people include George Washington (the father

of our country), Abraham Lincoln (the great emancipator) and John F. Kennedy, Lyndon Johnson and Martin Luther King (civil rights). To the country of South Africa, Nelson Mandela was all of these people rolled into one. He kept his hopes and dreams together when life was at its worst. He sought collaboration and cooperation, when many would have sought revenge, and he planted the seeds for a country to move past a system of hate and separation. We all can learn from Nelson Mandela. We all should learn from him. If you want to learn more about him, go to http://www.biography.com/people/nelson-mandela-9397017 or watch the 2009 movie “Invictus,” directed by Clint Eastwood and staring Morgan Freeman as Nelson Mandela.

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The “Boom” Felt ‘Round the World Stephanie Jellett STAFF WRITER

North Dakota used to be a state with never-ending open spaces, but now it has become one of the top three oil-producing states. There's less open space now but more money, more international attention and trade, not to mention oil rigs, backed-up traffic and temporary housing camps with thousands of workers. On Nov. 20, award-winning journalist Darrell Dorgan, who is from North Dakota, spoke in the Campus Center about the positive and negative effects of the oil boom and how it relates to Maine. Dr. Jacqui Lowman, professor of journalism and mass communication, introduced Dorgan and spoke a little about North Dakota. “Since the rapid changes in North Dakota from the oil boom, there's been housing shortages, violent crimes and alcohol abuse,” Lowman said. “But Darrell will tell you more about that. He's a great

story teller.” That soon became evident. Throughout his presentation, Dorgan showed pictures of North Dakota and told the story behind each one. He spoke about how the oil from North Dakota is transported to refineries in Canada by railways that pass through Maine. Pan Am Railway in Maine operates one of the three routes for the crude oil to get to refineries. The train that exploded in Lac-Megantic, Que., this past summer was from North Dakota heading to a refinery in St. John, N.B. North Dakota has gone from being ranked the number eight oil-producing state to number two in just seven years. It currently produces 783,000 barrels of oil daily. “It's one of the largest discoveries of about 12 billion barrels of crude oil,” Dorgan said. That equals a great deal of change. There's only one percent rate of unemployment in North Dakota, but Dorgan also explained that university enroll-

ment is low because students would rather go work on the oil rigs. “There are about 10,000 jobs that pay between $60 to 100,000 a year,” Dorgan said. “That's where the students go after high school.” It's not only the universities that are struggling to gain students. Other businesses just don't have enough employees. The local McDonald's in his town pays $15 an hour, so young people, even when educated, opt for that job over one with more far-reaching benefits. Darrell Dorgan, Dr. Jaqui Lowman & Saint. In other words, the oil boom has had a positive ef- and the workers need some- landfills unless the levels of rafect on the economy, but all where to live. With everyone dioactivity exceeds the protothat good comes with some moving to North Dakota to col of the landfill – in which bad. The rigs need workers, work, housing contractors can't case, they're shipped to rabuild fast enough to accommo- dioactive waste disposal sites date everyone. in Texas, Utah or Idaho. “There are temporary housThe oil boom is creating ing camps where most workers thousands of jobs and helping to live, but people live basically lower the unemployment rate in where they can. They'll use Sty- what used to be a quiet corner of rofoam and hay as insulation on the country. It's also led to more trailers. This is going to be a crime, homelessness and pollutough way to live in the winter tion. It has and will continue to because it gets very cold in influence other parts of the North Dakota,” Dorgan said. world, including Maine, in ways Dorgan also exposed the problems that occur because of that are both positive and negathe oil rigs. He said there are tive. No one knows for sure just filter socks that contain ra- how long the boom will last or dioactive materials “laying what will happen in the future, around everywhere.” There are but Dorgan certainly gave atten75 tons of radioactive materials dees a good idea of what has produced per day. The socks been going on and what to excan be disposed of at waste pect in the years to come.

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ROCKin’ Around the Christmas Tree building up to one of their most ambitious trips yet. The primary goal on these Are you looking for interesting and inexpensive stocking trips is to learn more about the stuffers this holiday season? earth and how its organisms inLook no further than Folsom- teract, but they're never opposed Pullen Hall! There, the Univer- to having fun. While in Iceland, sity of Maine at Presque Isle's they dressed as vikings and tried geo-ecology club has been sell- a local delicacy: fermented ing polished stones and other shark. While in Vermont, they laughed around nightly campgeological specimens. The geo-ecology club is one fires and slid down muddy emof the oldest student groups on bankments (mostly on purpose). campus and, though its mem- In Washington, D.C., they bers seem to have been lying learned what it means to be low the past few years, they spies and walked in the foothave actually been going on in- prints of dinosaurs. Amid all ternational adventures and this, they deepened their knowledge of renewable energy and the effects of climate change, diverse history and cultures, even stream dynamics and aviation. If these science enthusiasts have their way, the next educational adventure will take place during March Break, in and around Arizona – specifically, the Grand Canyon. In an effort to make this dream a reality, they've been organizing fundraisers and looking to outside sources for help. The Geological Society of Maine, for instance, gave them a grant for a From back to front: Sarah Ames, thousand dollars, Angie Paul and Chris Staples at which the university agreed to Kayla Ames

STAFF WRITER

the fundraising table.

match. The rock sale that took place from Nov. 19 to 21 was their latest fundraising-idea-made-real, and it was hard to miss. This first time around, they sold everything from modern arrowheads and amethyst chunks to Morrocan geodes and quartz crystals. It was a unique sight: tables covered in chunks of blue sodalite, silver hematite and yellowish travertine. The club members had cracked open several geodes, too, revealing their sparkly insides, as well as brought in baked goods, thanks to several generous volunteers. By the end of those three days, they made more than $350. Along with pol- Chris Staples, geo-ecology club ished stones and cookies, interested prices. passersby could buy a ticket for has a system. “Each day, I like to look at a snowfall prediction activity. The object was to guess how the National Weather Service much snow would fall by the web page and see what the end of November in Caribou, forecast is, and also the climate Maine. Whoever had the answer data for Caribou. At the time I that came closest to the actual made my prediction for Noaverage received half the pro- vember snowfall, Caribou had ceeds from that sale. Malcolm already received 4.2 inches for Coulter, a lecturer of mathemat- the month. The weather foreics here at UMPI, won. Accord- cast called for a few light ing to the National Weather snowfalls during the next Service, 9.1 inches of snow fell week, so I thought we would during the month of November, end up with eight or nine whereas Coulter guessed that we inches,” Coulter said. would get 8.8 inches. His sucGeo-ecology members had cess makes sense, given that he another sale that lasted from

president, is smashing Monday, Dec. 9 until Thursday, Dec. 12. The table looked a little different. Along with familiar items from before, they sold Brazil geodes and shark teeth along with ammonite halves and necklaces, all at “rock bottom” prices. The holidays are coming up. Why not treat yourself to something beautiful or show someone you care by cracking a geode with them? Each specimen comes with a little bit of mystery and a lot of history, and it's all for a worthwhile cause.

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What’s Going On Around Campus?

PULL Programmers hosted Money Talks, Dec. 3, a program about financial aid, scholarships and credit scores. They also played human monopoly with UMPI related squares.

Even the Campus Center is ready for the Holidays!

Tisʼ the season!

PULL Programmers donated $300 raised from the penny wars event to the Central Aroostook Humane Society. From left to right: Connor Murphy, Michelle Bucci and Crystal Patterson from the Humane Society.

! ! 8 What Does Christmas Mean to You? Univer sit y T i me s

Nicole Duplessis STAFF WRITER

Christmas is supposed to be one of the happiest times of the year. For many people, however, this isn’t necessarily the case. Some look forward to giving and receiving gifts. Others look forward to being with friends and family. Many of us have the luxury of having a home-cooked Christmas dinner. It is too easy to take for granted all these wonderful Christmas traditions we grow into as individuals. We all have different versions of Christmas and what it means to us. A handful of students from UMPI have shared what Christmas means to them. Some have chosen to share their identities,

and some have chosen to remain anonymous. Christmas can be a sensitive time for some, and these different meanings will broaden your horizons. “To me, Christmas means togetherness, gathering of family, friends and all loved ones, thankfulness and the gift of giving,” Tonya Godin, a third year student at UMPI, said. Godin expressed that Christmas is not about material things. Like many, Godin enjoys the simplicity of being surrounded by family and loved ones. This is a time for being thankful and giving to others who cannot experience the same kind of joy during Christmas time. “Christmas is a time that I can get together with my family and enjoy traditional values and experience the warmth of their

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company,” Ethan Campbell, a fourth year student at UMPI, said. “The older I get, the more tradition and values of the family mean to me. It is really wonderful to be able to spend what time we have with our family and friends.” Campbell also enjoys and cherishes time with family. One thing that usually comes with time is learning your true meaning of Christmas, and Campbell demonstrates just that. He demonstrates tradition and values that come as individuals mature. When we’re kids, Christmas is usually about Santa Claus, presents and all the toys we can possibly unwrap. We don’t realize that Christmas may be a difficult time for some people. We’re

literally “wrapped up” in all of our new presents. “I try to make the most of it, but deep down Christmas is a hard time for me and my family,” an anonymous second year student from UMPI said. “We lost someone close around this time a few years ago and it always brings back memories.” Losing someone around Christmas makes it difficult. Whether you lose a loved one around the holidays or throughout the year, it changes Christmas time drastically. Christmas may only happen once a year, but the spirit and anticipation lasts

Attention All Seniors!

Are you planning to complete your degree requirements in May or August of 2014? If so, you need to submit an Application for Degree to the Office of Student Records by November 29, 2013. Applications for December 2013 potential graduates are due NOW. Applications can be obtained from the Office of Student Records, 235 Preble Hall or online at: http://www.umpi.edu/offices-services/studentrecords/graduation

Why Do I Need to Apply for a Degree?

Completing an Application for Degree allows the following to happen: - Academic Record to be reviewed by the Office of Student Records to ensure completion of degree requirements - Degree Status Report to be forwarded to Academic Advisors for review and signatures - Information regarding Commencement, Caps, Gowns and Announcements to be mailed in late March, 2014 - Name to be included in the Commencement Program - Diploma to be ordered - Name to be included on lists of graduating seniors being considered for awards or other recognitions - Commencement list to be approved by Faculty Assembly in April

much longer. All handle the holidays differently and have different traditions and ways of coping with difficult emotions. While UMPI students all have their own meaning of Christmas, just imagine all the different types of meanings that exist. But whatever your traditions or thoughts this time of year, may they bring you some measure of peace and joy.

Commencement and Degrees

Students who submit their Application for Degree by the November 29, 2013 deadline, and who have a completed Degree Status Report signed by their Advisor and the Director of Students Records will be allowed to participate in the May 2014 commencement ceremony. Once students have completed all degree requirements, the Office of Student Records will issue a transcript and award the degree. Students will receive a diploma that will be dated the August, December or May following the actual completion of degree requirements. Diplomas are awarded only three times per year.

Commencement Participation Policy

Students lacking no more than six semester hours of credit toward completion of all degree requirements OR who have a single internship or practicum worth no more than fifteen credit hours (which are graded on a pass/fail basis) may participate in the commencement ceremony in May. Either shortfall should be completed by the following December. Students meeting this policy and planning to complete degree requirements in August 2014 or December 2014 must submit an Application for Degree by the November 29, 2013 deadline.

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The U Times is looking for new staff members. -Previous experience NOT required. -ALL talents are always welcomed.

Come, join the... For more information contact (207) 768-9741 jacquelyn.lowman@umpi.edu Dr. Jacquelyn Lowman, Adviser or, e-mail us at: utimes@umpi.edu Meetings every Tuesday in Normal 102, 12:30-1:30 p.m.

9 -Journalists. -Sales Representatives. -Layout Editors. -Artists/Photographers. -Online Editors. -Anything Else You Can Think Of.

Light

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Molly the Trolley came out for the parade on Dec. 7. Happy holidays from the UMPI float! It looks delicious!

There was no shortage of lights on the various floats!

People dressed up to make a Charlie Brown Christmas float.

Imagine how long it took to decorate the firetruck as the American flag!

Many different vehicles were decorated during the parade.

Parade

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Even the Grinch couldn始t help but come out and show his Christmas spirit!

Some vehicles had some awesome lights!

The firetruck was completely covered in lights! You could see it for a mile away!

There was even a recreation of the Griswold Family Christmas!

The Maine State FFA had a very decorative float.

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Dece mber 13, 2 01 3

o mmun ity

No Better Gift Sarah Ames

CONTRIBUTOR

During the holidays, it’s important to remember to give back. Members of Phi Eta Sigma, UMPI’s National Honor Society, have already started doing their part. On Friday, Dec. 6, a small group of volunteers visited the Central Aroostook Humane Society to spend some time with the furry residents. This is just one of the activities Phi Eta Sigma is part of. Along with annual visits to the local shelter, they’ve also decorated the local nursing home for Christmas the past few years. Earlier in the semester,

the group collected signed holiday cards for soldiers overseas, DVDs for veterans recovering in hospitals and books for those without easy access to them as a way to increase literacy. Being part of the community and helping those in need aren’t the only things important to this group. They prize academic achievement almost as highly. In order to be inducted, a member must have a GPA of 3.5 or above by the end of their freshman year. On Saturday, Dec. 14, the group will actually be inducting 25 new student members into the honor society. This means that, next year, there

Kayla Ames and a cat named Stirfry.

will be even more people to help the shelter. Upon arrival, current club treasurer and secretary Michelle Bucci as well as president Melinda Hitchcock split from the group and went into the dog kennels. Braving the cold, they took each excited canine out for a refreshing walk. “I love going. Walking the dogs is great. It gets out their energy, they really deserve it and it’s a lot of fun,” Bucci said. After exercising and attending to a few dogs, Bucci and Hitchcock moved to a different part of the shelter – the ward for mother cats and new arrivals. The two remaining members of the group, Sarah and Kayla Ames, tended to felines in a different room. The cats varied in age, from a few months to a few years old. Some arrived as strays, others came from homes with too many cats and still others had been relinquished by their owners. They differed in personality, too. Some were cuddly as could be while others were content to hang back and relax. All of them were obviously relieved to be out of their pens and interacting with people who really cared. “My favorite part was the cats. I’m totally a cat person at heart,” Hitchcock said. Winter is an especially hard time for the Humane Society, since the number of volunteers tends to be low while the number of animals stays high or climbs. In other words, plenty of

One of the many cats that are available for adoption. animals still need love and a good home. Shelters are happy to receive any amount of help, no matter how small. The hard working staff members appreciate donations of any kind and are always looking for cleaning, pet and office supplies. “The shelter’s full of animals that would love to find a home for the holidays,” Hitchcock said. When buying gifts or heading home, remember there are lots of adorable pets whose greatest wish is to simply have someone to care for them. They’re waiting for you, the perfect gift to brighten any

household. If you think you and your family are ready for the responsibility of a four-legged family member, there could be no better gift than the love of a happy animal.

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Not Just Fun and Games Kayla Ames STAFF WRITER

Think back to your childhood, to your favorite toy. It could have been a stuffed animal or doll, a Tonka truck or ac-

cialties are photography and painting. At Star City Coffee, UMPI ceramics students and other local artists put together a plate display. This was similar to what was going on at the

A photograph by local artist and UMPI alumna Lanette Virtanen. tion figure. Whatever it was, it probably meant a lot to you, for a number of reasons. Some people never leave those toys behind or forget their significance. The artist Jme Smith is an example of that. A resident of Caribou and alumnus of the University of Maine at Presque Isle, Smith has a toy collection and has centered most of his work around those reminders of youth. On Friday, Dec. 6, he spoke about that work and his creative process to students, community members and faculty as part of the First Friday Art Walk. Smith’s exhibit is entitled “The Robot, The Rooster, The Red Dress and The Blue Indian” and it’s from the third of his four set series. He was one of many people connected to the university to participate in the December art walk. The artist of the month for Morning Star Art & Framing was Demerese Montgomery, an alumna whose spe-

William Haskell Community Center, to an event called “Empty Bowls.” There, local artists, educators and students donated hand-crafted bowls that people could buy for 10 dollars in an effort to end hunger in the area. The Whole Potato unveiled the photographs of Lanette Virtanen, who recently graduated from the University of Maine at Presque Isle. Her series is called “A Walk Through the Woods,” and it’s a testament to family, legacy and memory. Heather Sincavage, the director of the Reed Art Gallery, was happy to see such interaction. “We’re proud of our students and they’re taking over tonight,” Sincavage said. She also introduced Smith, who isn’t like many artists. Not only is his subject deceptively straightforward, but he doesn’t obsess over how he should present it. He likes working with a raw or blank canvas, then going

from there and experimenting. In other words, he prefers not to have a plan. “I like the exploring of the creative process, like ‘What can happen when you do this?’” Smith said. This certainly goes along with the theme of his art. He believes there is nothing more clean, pure and innocent than what a child sees. He uses bright, dramatic colors and somehow seamlessly utilizes simplicity and detail. One of his purposes is to strike people with an image, make their eyes move around it. This is evident when a viewer gets close and sees the complicated brushstrokes as well as the layers upon layers of paint. On the one hand, these paintings come across as lighthearted, even frivolous. Smith doesn’t mind that – just the opposite, in fact. “I just want it to be fun, because life is hard for a lot of people,” Smith said. Anderson Giles, professor of fine art, sees the other, deeper side of paintings such as “The Blue Indian” and

“House/home.” He describes them as rich connections to another time and place. Toys orient us as children. They represent our interests and can set us on more permanent and influential paths. Giles views these works as spiritual. “In a way, they really transcend the innocence of just being toys,” Giles said. In response to questions from attendees, Smith talked about artists who inspire him, what it’s like to return to an empty studio after finishing a series and the rewards of making art. He believes that everyone is creative and we have to follow our passion, even if doesn’t make us wealthy. “It just brings people together and you can just see it in the people’s minds. It allows you to explore things you haven’t done all day. It takes you to a different place,” Judith Roe, an impressed viewer, said. Other art walk stops included The Bike, Board and Ski Shop, Catholic Charities and The Connection. Copper’s Lounge featured the music of Travis

Jme Smith during the First Friday Art Walk.

Cyr, Hand Me Down Antiques that of “George & Friends Fiddlers” as well as a live mannequin display. Peter Parker and his fellow musicians added to the atmosphere set by Montgomery’s art and Wintergreen Arts Center presented an exhibit called “Texture,” which showcased work by David K. Small. Meanwhile, Presque Isle Bossa Quartet provided jazz music with a Latin flair. The First Friday Art Walk is a great way to relax at the end of the week while opening your mind and furthering your education. The art it honors entertains and enlightens, as does Smith. His exhibit will be in the Reed Art Gallery until Jan. 11 of next year. This is the last time some of his pieces will be together. If you haven’t had a chance to see them or take part in an art walk, there’s always next semester, and it’s never too late to learn something new while having fun.

For more photos, see next page.

Univer si t y Ti m e s ! C O MM UN IT Y ! De c em b er 1 3, 20 1 3

Photos from the First Friday Art Walk

Some of the many generous souls who participated in the Empty Bowls project.

Dylan Markie (middle) and other volunteers serve soup to donors during the Empty Bowls project.

People enjoying Smith始s exhibit entitled 驶The Robot, The Rooster, The Red Dress and the Blue Indian.始

Univer sity Ti m e s ! C O MM UN IT Y ! De c e mb er 1 3, 20 1 3

Giving Back Amid the Tears Nicole Duplessis STAFF WRITER

Abigail Ladner was celebrated and remembered for the beautiful, active and intelligent person she was. On Dec. 4, White Smiles Family Dentistry, along with many volunteers, held a benefit supper at the Fort Fairfield Elementary School in her memory. A silent auction took place as well as a 50-50 raffle. The idea for this event arose when Abby was involved in a serious car accident at the end of October. White Smiles Family Dentistry staff members thought that the gathering would be a great way to give back to the community. Abby was very active in the community, and they felt getting the community involved would be a wonderful way to support and give back to Abby’s family in remembrance of all that she had accomplished. “Our thoughts and prayers are with her family during this time,” Brooke Beaulieu, the event coordinator and dental assistant at White Smiles Family Dentistry, said. “Abby was an amazing girl, so we are very happy to be able to give back.” The cost for the meal was a

mere $5. All of the food was donated by Hillside IGA, The Blue Moose Restaurant, Catholic Charities and Students Baking a Living. People had a spaghetti dinner and also had the opportunity to participate in a silent auction. “We had a huge outpouring from the community,” Emily Ala, a Fort Fairfield Elementary School staff member and volunteer at the event, said. “We had a lot of items that were dropped off anonymously.” The silent auction took place in the library. There were an astounding number of items donated. Some of the sponsors of the silent auction included the Tiger’s Den, Loring Job Corps, Al’s Diner, Olympia Sports, Ruby Tuesday and many anonymous donors. Items such as hoodies, T-shirts, gift certificates, electronics, furniture, holiday signs and home décor were all a part of the auction. Fort Fairfield High School National Honor Society members also volunteered their time selling 50-50 tickets. People were very supportive and generous. All of the money raised at this event is going towards a scholarship fund in memory of Abby.

Some of the many items donated for the silent auction.

Left to right: Vicki Armstrong, Lisa Keegan, Danielle Daigle and Debbie Bennett from White Smiles Family Dentistry working the registration table. Abby’s grandmother, Connie Jarvis, is in charge of the scholarship fund. Abby was a second year student at UMPI and had just recently declared her major as social work. “It’s amazing to see a family who lost such a valuable and

precious part of them still able to give back, and give back in a way that will always represent Abby,” Beaulieu said. Not only was the benefit supper a great way to give back, it also showed how tight knit a community Fort Fair-

field is. This fundraiser brought out the best in people, and people were more than gracious. Abby Ladner has left a mark on her community— and will continue to leave marks on the lives of many in the years to come.

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po rts

UMPI on a Hot Streak Christopher Bowden STAFF WRITER

Get on your feet, folks! It’s time for some UMPI basketball. The season tipped off on Nov. 15 as the men hosted University of Maine at Machias and captured a 92-74 win. The women started theirs on Nov. 16 as they outlasted Newbury 4338. Since then, the men posted a 2-3 record with their other win against Maine Maritime Academy. The three losses come from tough matches with two close games against rival University of Maine at Fort Kent and Fisher College. The future of the men’s team looks promising, too.

Michael Warner is leading the players and the owl’s roster is full of young talent, including freshmen Thiago Conceicao and Brandon McGill and returning sophomore guard Chase Vicaire. Sophomore Derek Healy, who transferred to UMPI this fall, is also proving valuable. Though the Owls are not at full strength with senior Aaron Hutchins sidelined due a knee injury and star play “Shmoke” Claude Lewis unable to return until next semester, we can expect a lot from them. As for the UMPI women, they’re off to a great start this year, sitting at 4-0 with wins against Newbury, Thomas and UMaine Machias. The

women’s roster is small but strong because of players such as senior Olivia McNally, junior Brigitte Pratt, junior Rebecca Campbell and sophomore Darby Toth. Although not the most experienced team, they have great leadership thanks to other, older members. Hoping to keep the hot streak alive, they’ve been working hard during games and practices. It’s almost the end of the semester, which means lots of studying and homework. Still, given all these recent wins, now would be a great time to attend a game and root for your fellow Owls. You really shouldn’t miss it!

UMPI Foundation Scholarship 2014-2015: Now available for returning students. Stop by the Financial Aid Office to pick up an application (232 Preble Hall) or you can go online at: http://www.umpi.edu/files/current-students/financial-aid/finaidscholarship-app.pdf. Print it, fill out the form and return it to the Financial Aid Office. Due date is Feb. 14, 2014 **Late applications will NOT be accepted**

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Another Tough Loss for UMPI

UMPI player Ben Savoie during the game.

UMPI Goalie Dillon Kingsbury during the game on Nov. 25 against the Swamp Donkeys. UMPI suffered a 12-2 loss.

There was non-stop action in front of the net.

UMPI player D.J. Conley during the face-off. UMPI player Nathan Norris (left) struggling to get the puck.

Photos by Stephanie Jellett

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The Reel Deal Alex Csiernik CONTRIBUTOR

“The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” PG-13 4/5 stars In the second movie of The Hunger Games trilogy, Katniss Everdeen (Jennifer Lawrence) is thrown back into the spotlight with Peeta Mellark (Josh Hutcherson) and Haymitch Abernathy (Woody Harrelson) as they participate in their victory tour around the 12 districts. Little do Katniss and Peeta know that there’s an uprising in the shadows ever since Katniss and Peeta stood up to the President and Gamemaker in the 74th annual Hunger Games. President Snow (Donald Sutherland) senses that people see Katniss as a beacon of hope and wants to

eliminate it within the districts. In order to do this, he decides to host the third quarter quell. This means that champions from every district have to participate again and, as misfortune would have it, Katniss and Peeta are back in the Hunger Games. This time, though, is different. The difference is that all other the tributes are former champions. It’s not only a game of survival, but also of alliances. Along the way, Katniss and Peeta know that there will only be one winner, so this makes their bond grow even stronger. They meet new allies – some they welcome and some they are hesitant about, but they know that they’re all important to surviving for as long as possible. Katniss is aware of the risks and

that President Snow it out to get her, but is she up to the challenge? Can Katniss hold on to win the 75th Hunger Games? Does she even want to? “The Hunger Games: Catching Fire” is a great sequel to “The Hunger Games.” It has all the same action and adventure along with – as hard as it is to believe – comedy intertwined. The moral decision that Katniss faces makes her realize who’s truly important to her and what she will do to protect the people she loves. This film relies on the passion and intensity brought on by the Hunger Games, but, at the same time, the comedy and sorrow add an opposing feel that meshes nicely with all the action. If this continues, it will make for a great trilogy unlike any other.

i festyl e Off The Beaten Path Tour: Justin Moore With Randy Houser and Josh Thompson. Friday, March 7, 2014 7 p.m. Cross Insurance Center, Bangor, ME.

The U Times will be raffling a pair of concert tickets valued at $100 the start of spring semester.

Raffle tickets will cost $10 each. For more information, contact the U Times staff at: utimes@maine.edu.

Uni ver sity Tim es ! L IF E S T YLE ! Dec e m ber 1 3, 2 0 13

All Hype–Comet ISON Jim Stepp

CONTRIBUTOR

Over the past couple of articles, I added to the media hype about Comet ISON. For this, all I can say is, I am sorry. Many professional astronomers had pegged Comet ISON to be one of the brightest comets in the past 100 years. Comets are unpredictable, however, and Comet ISON proved that to be the case. What happened? Why aren’t we looking at a bright comet now?

Comets are the remains of the material that formed the solar system. They are made of dust, various sized rocks, different kinds of ice and various frozen gasses. Each comet is a little different. Some have more water ice; others have more dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide). Some have a small amount of rocky material; others have a lot. When we see the tails of comets, we are actually seeing the ice and gasses in the comet that have been vaporized. Prior to coming close to the sun, comets reside in an area called the Oort Cloud. The Oort Cloud extends to about 50,000 astronomical units (AU–1 AU equals the distance from the Earth to the sun or about 93 mil-

lion miles). Comets in the Oort Cloud orbit the sun just like planets, but at a much slower rate. Some comets may take hundreds of thousands of years to complete one orbit around the sun. Occasionally, the gravity of the sun and the gravity of another star interact and shift the orbits of the comets in the Oort Cloud and they start the long journey toward the sun and the inner solar system.

Once comets fall into the inner solar system, there are three possible fates: 1) They slingshot around the sun and gain enough velocity to be ejected from the solar system. (This would have been the fate of Comet ISON if it survived.) 2) They interact with one or more of the planets and have their orbits changed in such a way that they form orbits that permit them to pass by the sun on an ongoing basis. (This is what happened to Halley’s Comet.) 3) They fall into the sun or pass close enough to the sun to be destroyed. (This is what happened to Comet ISON.) Comet ISON started to fall apart about a day prior to its

closest encounter with the sun. This was most likely caused by the sun’s gravity pulling the comet apart. Comet ISON most likely was more rock than ice. Ice acts like a glue, so the lack of ice would have made the comet more likely to break up. At the same time, the comet was subjected to temperatures approaching 5,000 degrees Fahrenheit. If the comet was poor in ices, this would have caused all of the ice present to vaporize and leave little material to hold the comet together. Remnants of Comet ISON did make it around the sun, but pretty much dissipated by Dec. 1. To watch a neat video of the comet passing the sun, go to http://science.nasa.gov/media/m edialibrary/2013/12/02/ison_ani m.gif. THE NIGHT SKY The International Space Station is visible as follows: Evenings–After Dec. 8. Mornings – After Jan. 1. Go to www.heavens-above.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 12/10/2013 Sunrise 07:05. Sunset 15:44. Mercury 06:18-06:48. Venus 15:42-18:24.

Mars 00:18-06:30. Jupiter 17:54-06:48. Saturn 04:30-06:30. 12/20/2013 Sunrise 07:13. Sunset 15:46. Mercury not visible. Venus 15:48–18:06. Mars 00:06–06:36. Jupiter 17:12–07:00. Saturn 03:54–06:36. 11/22 04:43 Moon at apogee– farthest from the Earth–405,400 km or 251,900 miles. 11/25 14:28 Last quarter moon. 11/25 20:54 Mercury 0.3 degrees from Saturn. 11/27 05:12 Mars 5.9 degrees from moon. 11/28 13:24 Comet ISON passes 1.1 million miles from the sun– may not survive. 12/01 05:36 Saturn 2.4 degrees from moon. 12/01 06:42 Mercury 5.3 degrees from moon. 12/02 19:23 New moon. 12/04 05:02 Moon at perigee– Closest to the Earth–360,100 km or 223,700 miles. 12/05 15:42 Venus 6.7 degrees from moon. 12/09 10:12 First quarter moon. 12/09 21:30 Venus at its brightest--4.67 mag. 12/10 15:44 Earliest sunset of the year. 12/13 02:00 Geminid Meteor Shower–11 meteors per hour. 12:13 22:00 Geminid Meteor Shower Maximum. 12/14 02:00 Geminid Meteor Shower–47 meteors per hour. 12/14 19:00 The Christmas Star–Planetarium Show at the Malcolm Science Center. Call 207-488-5451 for reservations or information. Cost $3.50 for adults and $1.50 for children. 12/15 02:00 Geminid Meteor

Shower–7 meteors per hour. 12/17 110th anniversary of the Wright Brothers First Airplane Flight (1903). 12/17 55th anniversary of the creation of Project Mercury (1958). 12/17 04:29 Full moon–this is the smallest full moon of the y e a r . 12/19 00:52 Jupiter 4.9 degrees from moon. 12/19 18:36 Moon at apogee– farthest from the Earth–406,300 km or 252,500 miles. 12/21 45 anniversary of the launch of Apollo 8–First manned spacecraft to circle the moon, to see the earthrise over the moon and read the story of Genesis from space on Christmas Eve. 12/21 12:11 December solstice. 12/21 18:54 Mercury at aphelion–farthest from the sun--69.9 million km or 43.4 million m i l e s . 12/25 08:48 Last quarter moon. 12/26 00:30 Mars 6.1 degrees from moon. 12/29 04:00 Saturn 5.6 degrees from moon. 01/01 06:14 New moon. 01/01 15:52 Moon at perigee– Closest to the Earth. 01/02 07:16 Latest sunrise of the year. 01/02 15:54 Moon 7.0 degrees from Venus. 01/03 15:00 Quadrantid Meteor Shower Maximum. 01/04 06:59 Earth at Perihelion– Closest to the sun. 01/05 16:11 Jupiter in opposition–Closest approach to the E a r t h . 01/07 09:01 Mercury 6.4 degrees from Venus. 01/07 22:39 First quarter moon. 01/11 07:24 Venus in Inferior Conjunction–Between the Earth and the sun.

Seasons Greetings & Happy Holidays