Volume 42 Issue 9 by University Times

inside this issue:

University of Maine at Presque Isle Volume 42 Issue 9

Senior Athletes Details on pages 16 & 17

Laugh Out Loud! Details on page 9

Journalism for Northern Maine

MARCH 14, 2014

Let The Games Begin! Christopher Bowden

The Nordic Heritage Center and Aroostook County were proud to welcome the 2014 International Biathlon Union (IBU) Youth / Junior Biathlon World Championships. The opening ceremonies kicked off at the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Gentile Hall on Feb. 27. It was a packed crowd as friends, family and fans came to support one of the 25 national teams from all over the world. There was a total of over 200 athletes who competed from 25 different countries, hoping to strike gold in one of the four events that took place. The events were broken down into both youth and junior along with those being broken down into men and women. The competition took place from Feb. 28 to March 6. The events were high paced and very competitive as these athletes all have potential of becoming future Olympic athletes. Looking over a few of the events that occurred, one of the host country’s own has racked in the gold. Sean Doherty (USA) piled up two gold as he placed first in the youth men sprint and pursuit. Another strong competitor was Alexander Povarnitsyn of Russia, who took a gold and silver in the junior men’s sprint and pursuit. On the women’s side, Lisa Vittozzi of Italy, who captured two gold medals in the youth women’s sprint and pursuit. She dominated the competition and hoped to keep it going through the rest of the championships. In the junior women’s, Galina Vishnevskaya of Kazakhstan, also captured one gold and a silver in the sprint and pursuit events. STAFF WRITER

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ampus

Hi everyone,

I hope everyone is adjusting to the time change well! It sure

is a bummer to lose a whole hour of sleep. The nice thing though, is that we’ve gained an hour of sunlight! It’s starting to feel more and more like spring everyday, despite all the snow

The University Times Staff

and cold weather we still have. One day at a time! I know I certainly have cabin fever, and even though it’s looking promising for nice weather in the future, I still need to keep myself occupied when not being able to enjoy the outdoors. I have picked up a few new hobbies this past winter. I’ve started making knot blankets. They are the easiest things to

Editor Nicole Duplessis

make and the material only costs between $20 and $30. Pretty

Assistant Editor Stephanie Jellett

it a try, here is a great website that shows you just what to do.

Staff Writers Christopher Bowden Nicole Duplessis Stephanie Jellett Ben Pinette Katie York Contributors Kathryn Allenby Ollie Barratt Hannah Brilliant Rebecca Campbell Alexander Csiernik Matt Glover Kelly Gumprecht Heather Herbert Jacob Kiehn Linda Schott Jim Stepp Bobbi Anne Wheaton

cheap for a blanket I must say! If anyone is interested in giving http://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Fleece-Tie-Blanket Being a college student, I need money! Yes, I have a job, but sometimes that just isn’t enough to pay all the bills and have a little spending money left over. I have started listing clothing items, electronics, jewelry and more on websites such as eBay and Facebook. Facebook has many different pages you can post items you’d like to sell. I’ve had great success! Some pages on Facebook include Aroostook County Classifieds and Aroostook County Clothing for sale. Give it a try! Get out and start a new hobby or try to make some money in the coming weeks! Selling things you don’t use anymore is a great way to make money. Maybe you’ll earn some extra spending money for a possible new hobby! -Nicole

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

March 14, 2014

Hi everybody, I’m sure you’re all ready for another break eh? I know I am. It’ll be here before we know it. Some of you are probably going down south to escape from this fridgid cold, snowy weather. Or maybe some are a staying in the area or just going home. I hope that wherever you end up, it’s fun and relaxing. I’ll be in Washington, D.C., over spring break with the U Times crew. I went on this trip last spring semester, but I’m not turning down this opportunity to go again. It’ll be a blast! We’re planning on spending a day at the Newseum, a very fun, interactive museum all about the news! It’s a really great museum to experience, especially for us. We’re also taking a day to do the Smithsonian Museums and are taking a bus tour all around D.C. to see the monuments. I’ll be making new memories this break and I hope that you will too. I’ll give an update on how the trip went when we get back. I’m sure I’ll have a few stories to tell! Have a great break and I’ll see you around campus. -Stephanie

Dates fo r Sub mission s to the U Times

A p ril 1 4

A pri l 2 8

Any submissions received 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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Linda’s Letter Strategic Planning

Linda Schott. The University of Maine at Presque Isle adopted a new vision last fall: to design with every student a personalized, technologically innovative education and to prepare each graduate for a professional career, global contributions, and lifelong learning. This new vision is now driving change across the

university. The change is being led by the Strategic Planning Committee and is focused in five areas: Personalization of Pedagogy, Personalization of Campus Services, Enrollment Management, Career Prep, Community Outreach and Alumni Engagement. Sub-committees have been working to develop recommendations in each of these areas, and we will be using those recommendations as we formulate our strategic plan and the key steps we will need to take to implement it. I’ve had the pleasure of reviewing the sub-committee reports and have found that some common themes have emerged, even though groups were addressing

different topics. There is clear agreement that we need to provide even better service to all of our campus constituents. In particular, we need to make it easier for students to navigate their way through the many aspects of becoming and being a student at UMPI. One idea being considered is the development of a “one-stop” Student Service Center on the second floor of Preble Hall. This center would bring student financial services, student records, student ID and parking passes, placement testing, and information on residence life all into one location. The offices of the Vice President for Academic Affairs and the Dean of Students would be close by. Another idea that has been suggested is to focus on improving our service to the external community. UMPI already serves the community in many ways, but folks from off-campus sometimes have trouble figuring

out which office can answer a question or meet a need. We will be exploring ways to provide a higher level of service and make the connections between UMPI and the external community even stronger. Of course, the primary purpose for UMPI is to help students be successful and gain the foundation that will enable them to achieve their dreams. Several sub-committees offered recommendations in this area. Many faculty members are engaged in rethinking how to best engage students in learning and how to help students persist and be successful. Staff members across campus are also thinking about how they can be even more involved in student success. How can student learning be deepened and extended by the Student Activities office? For students who live on campus, how can that experience be tied to learning both inside and outside of the traditional class-

room? A critical piece of helping students achieve their dreams is preparing them for employment or further study after graduation. The sub-committee that worked on this area has excellent ideas about how to engage regional employers and UMPI alumni to help our students gain critical skills and abilities as well as the personal connections that can facilitate getting an interview or a job. Over the next few weeks, campus leaders and the Strategic Planning Committee will be analyzing all of the ideas that have been suggested. We will then formulate a draft plan along with key implementation steps. Once a draft plan is ready, we will be presenting the plan in a variety of forums. I’ll look forward to talking with you about our work and hearing your thoughts on it.

Warm Hearts Make Warm Blankets Katie York STAFF WRITER

With the weather being as cold as it’s been, an extra blanket or two is always welcome. That was the mindset for Kappa Mu’s Project Linus event. It tool place on March 5 in the Campus Center and drew a small but dedicated crowd of UMPI and SAGE students and alumni. Kappa Delta Phi NAS member Jessica Coppola was responsible for overseeing the

blanket making with help from Kappa Delta Phi alumnus William Coppola III. Jessica bought and prepared the nosew blankets herself ahead of time. She gave the volunteer participants several different colors to choose from to make their blankets. “They’ll be donated through Marden’s,” Jessica said. She also said that part of Project Linus’ goal is to keep all locally made blankets in the area.

The organization gives them to organizations such as TAMC as well as donates them to anyone of any age in need of a little extra warmth. “We thought it was interesting,” SAGE student Mary Godfrey said when asked why she and fellow student Adelma Obar wanted to help out. “So we decided to give it a shot!” There was a wide range of experience levels among the volunteers. Obar admitted that

this was her first time making a no-sew blanket. “I crochet and knit…I made blankets for my grandchildren once.” While for others, this wasn’t their first time. “I’ve made 12 of these one year for Christmas,” Godfrey said. In total, people completed eight blankets. Participants created them by taking two similarly sized pieces of fleece fabric. Then they cut strips

along the edge and knotted two different colored strips together all along the edge to create a fringe. Jessica said while finishing her example blanket that it was an easy pattern to find on the Internet by searching for “no-sew blanket.” A few volunteers expressed interest in making their own in the future. It was a relaxing evening’s work that went to a worthy cause.

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J i m ’s J o u r n a l Ch asing Your D re am s

Jim Stepp. Everyone has dreams and aspirations. It may be to get a job in your field, it may be attracting that special someone or to pass a test you have next week.

Presque Isle: Caribou:

Every dream is important, and you should make sure you work your hardest to reach your dreams. I am writing this article while

at a conference in Chattanooga, Tenn. The conference I am attending will help me realize my dream or will lead me to modify it. Over the past 10 years or so, I have had a dream to start a business. Ten years ago, I kept this idea to myself. Over time I started to work through a plan to pull this business idea together. In the past two years, I have worked on and off to develop this idea. Now my family knows all about it and a handful of others have been told. No matter what your dream is, I would like to suggest you try to do the following things to help it come together. 1. Write down your dream and post it somewhere you will be able to see it on an ongoing basis. You need to remember your dreams and you need to be reminded about it. By putting

260 Main Street, 764-5500 556 Main Street, 493-3030

your dream in writing, you increase your chances of reaching it. 2. Think about what you need to do to pull that dream together. Go past writing the dream down: list steps you can take to increase your chances of success. Be detail oriented. Plan out the time, place, who, how, when, what, where and why of the thing you want to achieve. 3. Once you have a plan, tell someone else. When you tell someone about your dream, you can build support and find others who may be willing to support you. Ask for help and be willing to learn everything you will need to make your dream come true. 4. Put your plans into action or modify them. Sometimes the information we gain will lead us to go for our dreams. This de-

velopment of a plan and the gaining of support will help to push you forward in your plans. It is also possible that you will determine you just can’t pull off what you want. That doesn’t mean you should quit on your dream: it means you may have to adjust your dream. Whatever happens, you will be better off by looking into your dreams and trying to reach for them. Above I mentioned that I was writing this while in Tennessee. My family has supported me in this venture. I do not know if I will be able to continue chasing this dream or not, but I know I have gained experience and knowledge that will help me in my life. Perhaps the most important thing I have discovered is how much my family supports me.

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A Journey Into Oneself Ollie Barratt CONTRIBUTOR

There comes a time in all of our lives, after all the torment and turmoil, that draws us to search for answers. More specifically, it draws us to seek answers about ourselves. Heather Sincavage, an UMPI assistant professor of fine arts, director, Reed Fine Art Gallery & University Collections, has recently experienced something such as this. She ventured on a trip unlike any other, which she praised as a great meditative process. After this journey, she is also eager to thank the university and her friends and family who helped supply and support such an experience. On Feb. 12, at UMPI’s Pullen Gallery, Sincavage showcased her creations from her fall residencies. She was thrilled to be given this opportunity, titled “Breath on a Mirror.” Her first stop of the trip began in July 2013 in the Arteles Creative Center Hameenkyro, Finland. In August, she visited the Can Serrat International Art Center at El

Bruc, Spain. And finally, her trip ended in the Nes Artist Residency of Skagastrond, Iceland. Sincavage talked of her excitement and adulation about her residencies. “These are places to go play and discover new things about yourself.” It is also important to mention that she was not alone on her excavation and despite spending much of her time in soul-searching solitude, Sincavage also got to enjoy the company of many other creative artists. “Artists come from all over the world to a place to create,” Sincavage said. This then became a theme throughout her talk about this enlightened journey with creation. To those at the exhibition, it was obvious to see the vast change in artistic medium Sincavage experimented with. Regularly working with pieces surrounding portraits, she has made quite a new and creative change to her artwork. Sincavage outlined the importance of her trip, telling us, “It caused me to look for wholeness in myself and embark on a personal jour-

Heather Sincavage standing in front of one of her pieces of artwork entitled “Iʼm More Than All The Others.”

Heather Sincavage elaborating on her art piece “History of Errors.” ney.” One piece in particular that really portrayed this new way of thinking involved Sincavage sawing a 25-foot-long birch sapling in half. This being foreign to her usual methodology of work, she took to a different technique to create this particular piece. She tried “splitting (the sapling) in half and then thinking about myself splitting in half as if looking within.” After flirting with these thoughts of self-realization through splitting oneself in half, Sincavage then moved on to a thought process with circles. She pondered “the process of drawing the circle and the flawed process of drawing the circle because it can never be perfect. The act of drawing (the circle) is more important than the actual final circle in itself.” Much of her work was scaled to her body shape, height, arm

span, etc. She outlined this being a result of her interest to understand the soul, or her soul in particular. Sincavage also presented a piece entitled “I’m more than all others” at the show that grabbed the attention of the crowd immediately with its vibrant yet vacant gaze. Created once she had returned from her trip, Sincavage labels this as her final conclusion to her self-realization journey. This piece showed her “completing the circle and feeling the wholeness that the circle implies.” She used her body and various ways to present her body as a way of providing identity of self. Inspired art enthusiast Steph Jellett talked about the event and on Sincavage also. "I think it's great that we're learning about what our professors are accomplishing outside of UMPI. I find

by doing this I’ve gotten to know my professor on a different level. I've learned about her struggles and realized that I can relate to them as well. I think this is something that UMPI should do more of.” This indicates the impact such a trip can have on students and how they might benefit from a similar soul-searching opportunity. Sincavage strongly advised students of all art interests to embark on such a journey. “It will change you,” she said, inviting them to experience a similar wonder. Because Sincavage created more than 75 pieces while away based also around the idea of alchemy, she was unable to showcase all her work. But attendees responded to what she did show of from her recent lifechanging journey.

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Creative Cancer Therapies Nicole Duplessis STAFF WRITER

The thought of finding a cure for cancer has consumed the minds of many for years. That thought is in the process of becoming a hopeful reality sometime in the future. On Tuesday, March 4, UMPI was proud to welcome Dr. Carol Bult from the Jackson Laboratory in Bar Harbor, Maine. Bult has been a part of the Jackson Laboratory for 16 years. She is a professor and scientific director of the Patient Derived Xenograft and Cancer Avatar Program. The UMPI campus welcomed her to share information on Cancer Avatars and Individualized Cancer therapy. President Linda Schott and biology instructor Judith Roe introduced Bult. “Carol and her group have been at the forefront of managing these approaches,” Roe said. Bult began by discussing what occurs at the Jackson Laboratory. She explained that it is a nonprofit mammalian genetics research lab. They use mice as a

model for human disease: more specifically, NSG mice. These mice are genetically altered to have no immune system. Why? Human cells are transplanted into the mice. Not having an immune system allows the cells to not be rejected. “Mice are really quite excellent in understanding human biology,” Bult said. “We understand these are models, but they are models that reveal the truth.” The Jackson Laboratory sends its mice to more than 16,000 labs to be tested. It hopes to predict the best drugs for cancer patients, to have personalized cancer diagnostics and to predict how a patient’s cancer could evolve. Bult further discussed actual scenarios, the types of cancers staff members have tested on the mice, and how they don’t plan on ever giving up. “Sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn’t,” Bult said. “We want targeted therapies.” Bult discussed Xenografting. This is implanting human tissue

into mice. As hard as they are working toward success, Bult admitted that about half the time the tumors don’t take well within the mice. They have worked with a variety of cancers. Bladder, brain, colon, kidney and lung cancer are only a few. She says that larger tumors, tumors that are at a higher stage or higher grade, are the ones that take the best within the mice. “Part of our innovation is to improve how this system works overall,” Bult said. Bringing her presentation to a close, Bult shared interesting information about a previous cancer patient’s results in comparison to the mice. Both the patient and the mice had similar reactions to the different types of treatment. This patient had lung cancer. Researchers are hopeful that the response data they receive from the mice will someday give results soon enough to prevent recurrence. The floor was then open to anybody who had questions for Bult. She answered many questions and also expressed her

Dr. Carol Bult. thanks to the many pathologists, surgeons and donors who play a role in all that they are doing to make this a reality. She also made it clear that all the information relating to this research

is available to the public. Many people have played a role, many people have high hopes. Working together toward a common goal will, it is hoped, have a positive outcome in the future.

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Your Results Are In Kathryn Allenby CONTRIBUTOR

Have you ever had a blood test? Have you waited on a lab result? Chances are if you have the person who managed the results at the laboratory is a graduate of the Medical Laboratory Technologist (MLT) Program of Maine. This is a very important field and job growth industry for the State of Maine. The Associate of Science in MLT is an interactive curriculum shared between the universities of Maine at Augusta and Presque Isle. The director for the University at Presque Isle, Dr. Linda Graves, will be retiring this year. Graves is not the doctor who

Dr. Linda Graves.

would be ordering the tests. But she has been teaching and growing an extraordinary program at UMPI since the early '80s. Graves said, “As soon as I came back to campus after completing my Masters of Science from Northeastern University in 1982, I was called into President Connie Carlson's office. She said to me, ‘Well don’t you think it’s time for you to go for your doctorate?’” Graves looks forward then laughs softly, reminded of the moment. Graves grew up in the Fort Kent area of Aroostook County. She has a Doctor of Education from University of Maine. Over the past 30 plus years she has

been the driving force in promoting the MLT Program of Maine into the 21st century. Barbara Michaud is a senior technologist in hematology (the study of blood, blood forming organs and blood diseases) and has worked in the field since graduating from UMPI in the '80s. “I transferred from another program in medical technology and enrolled at UMPI for my second year. I had been told that Linda, the new director, was doing great work and the program was now fully accredited. Linda took on this program at a time of unprecedented change,” Michaud said. “So much of the profession is about advocating and taking action for critically ill people. We’re tracking down clinicians to notify them of abnormal results, even making suggestions for following up,” Michaud said. “I also learned to evaluate my own strengths as a technologist and I knew that I wanted specialization in hematology. The most satisfying part of my job is mentoring newer technologists. I have seen some great technologists come out of UMPI’s program. It’s a great legacy.” Jason Johnston, associate professor of wildlife ecology and assistant chair of the College of Arts and Sciences, has been with UMPI since 2007. His office is next door to Graves’ office. Johnston said, “Linda is one of the most modest people I have come to know, but she has accomplished a lot!” Raymond Rice, interim provost and vice president for academic affairs, gives an indication of how much. “If you

have any contact with a health facility in this state, it’s probable the person doing the lab work is from the MLT program.” The MLT program is also associated with STEM, an acronym referring to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The term is typically used in addressing education policy and curriculum choices in schools from kindergarten through college to improve competitiveness in technology development. Rice acknowledges his colleague’s accomplishments with a high regard. In addition to her teaching and directing, Graves has written four clinical textbooks. One was just translated into Korean and she is preparing to do an-

other. Obvious glee bursts through the shadow of such a daunting task. With nervy optimism Graves hopes to hold onto her third floor office a wee bit longer. “I'd be grateful to finish this book here in this office,” Graves said. Graves has always lived in Aroostook County and has no plans to leave after retiring. Graves and husband Bill enjoy taking cruises to the Caribbean. Graves also enjoys playing golf in her spare time. “I really like the dry heat in Las Vegas compared to the humidity of the East Coast,” she said. Her friends at Wildhorse Country Club near Vegas will surely be happy to have her visit and play nine holes in the Nevada sun.

! ! 8 Keeping it Clean: Maxine Hathaway Un ive r si ty T im e s

Jacob Kiehn CONTRIBUTOR

There’s a lot we don’t think about during the day. There are a lot of people we don’t think about too. Why would we? Is there something we might want to know? Well, to answer that, we’re going to take a trip to a little place called the Physical Plant. It’s a little out of the way, but what it does have are some of the unsung heroes of the UMPI campus. One of these is Maxine Hathaway. Her job is to keep the physical plant running and organized. But what’s her story, you may ask? Hathaway began her career in the education office of the

Loring Air Force Base. She worked there for six years until she came to work at UMPI, two

Maxine Hathaway.

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years before Loring closed down. She started out working on the switchboard and in the bookstore. She eventually came to work in the physical plant which, at the time, was relegated to the Normal Hall basement. “It was a big transition from education to the physical plant,” Hathaway said. “I had to learn everything from scratch. My only benefit was that I knew everyone here.” Regardless, she’s managed to maintain her job at the plant for around 25 years. She’s managed to stay busy on the job as well.

As the administrative assistant, her duties include payroll and work study for 20 people, dealing with complaints and public affairs and dealing with purchases and bills. “I do a little bit of everything,” Hathaway said. “No two days are alike. If it was the same every day, I don’t think I would’ve made it 34 years.” She also keeps herself busy with overseeing major events on-campus. The latest special projects that she dealt with were setting up for the biathlon and preparing for Aroostook County’s 175 anniversary. In the summer, she also helps to deal with events such as baseball and tennis.

Is it hard to deal with events on short notice? “We usually get enough notice before an event to support them as best we can,” Hathaway said. Hathaway has earned the appreciation of her co-workers. According to fellow employee Kim Masse, “Maxine is Mother Hen. If she wasn’t here, we wouldn’t be here.” So if you should happen to see Maxine Hathaway on-campus, maybe you can stop and say a quick hello, maybe give her a quick handshake. Let her know that her work is appreciated. Without her, our campus wouldn’t be the clean and beautiful place that it is.

Keeping it Clean: Ricky Wasson Jacob Kiehn CONTRIBUTOR

When you look around the school, you’re bound to see a small mess here and there. By the time you get back, though, it could just as likely be gone. How does that work? And who helps set up for big school events? And what about the really little jobs, like replacing toilet paper or fixing desks? Well, to answer that, we’re going to take a trip to a little place called the Physical Plant. It’s a little out of the way, but what it does have are some of the unsung heroes of the UMPI campus.

Take Ricky Wasson. Wasson helps to keep the physical plant running smoothly. But what’s his story, you may ask? Wasson began his work days at Loring Air Force Base. He ran his own cleaning business for 20 years until the base was shut down. It was good work for him but he didn’t get weekends or holidays off, so he decided to seek out opportunities. “I was tired of working every weekend,” Wasson said. “I wanted to do a Monday to Friday job. You don’t really realize how much that means to you until you’ve worked your own business.” After the closing of

the base, Mr. Wasson came here for work in the physical plant. He’s been here for more than 25 years. Wasson’s duties include ordering cleaning supplies, organizing event set-ups, ordering material safety data sheets, safety supplies and regulations, repairing equipment, performing mechanical maintenance and overseeing routine examinations of equipment. Recently, with the relative shortness of staff, one of his most essential roles is supplementing other employees in their work. When asked about how he decides who goes where, he responded, “You have

to be versatile to get the job done.” As for big on-campus events, as overseer, he has one of the largest roles of any physical plant member. He’s in the process of ordering rugs that are easier to clean. He was in charge of setting up for the biathlon opening and giving lodging to the athletes. He’s also working to bring the cleaning supplies further along toward more ecofriendly products. Finally, he’s helping to prepare Gentile Hall for the eventual closing of the Presque Isle Public Pool. “It’s great that we can at least

help them out,” Wasson said. “If you’ve got these two people working by themselves, not communicating, that can cause trouble. But if they work together, it really helps the community grow.” When asked about Wasson, fellow employee Kim Masse responded, “Ricky’s the brains of the operation.” So if you should happen to see a Mr. Ricky Wasson oncampus, maybe you can stop and say a quick hello, maybe give him a quick handshake. Let him know that his work is appreciated.

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The Laugh Heard From Around the World Matthew Glover CONTRIBUTOR

The night of Feb. 26, 2014, was a night filled with laughter when comedian Omid Singh took the stage to perform in Wieden Hall. With his cultural themes and ability to adjust to his audience, he had the crowd roaring with laughter. Singh’s jokes were about the places he has lived and their cultures. The jokes also consisted of places he has seen. It seemed he always

Paul Bunyan because his name was mentioned in the crowd during his performance. “It exceeded what I had expected it to be. The show was so comical that I seriously thought I might have been watching a special on the channel Comedy Central on television or something.” Smaligo said. “The only thing better than watching it on Comedy Central was the fact I got to see him live on the stage in person. Honestly, comedians

Omid Singh. had something humorous to say about any place he been. Singh would even crack an occasional joke about his current relationship. He was specifically popular among the younger college-aged crowd. Greg Smaligo, a sophomore education student, said, “It was hilarious! He delivered jokes so perfectly and was very successful at improv.” There was a joke he kept rolling back to in the show about

are a lot funnier in person than they are on television because you can get more in tune with the comedian’s expression when he says or hears something. You also have different people in the crowd feeding the comedian material. I felt it was a great event. I’ve seen all the comedians since the last school year and this was by far the best comedian I have seen yet. It was absolutely great,” Smaligo said. Alex Brittian, a freshman undeclared student, said, “It was

really funny. He did really well with improv. He was also good at adjusting to audiences that he performs for. He really knows how to make a crowd laugh in a lot of situations he’s put in.” As far as to how well the show went, Brittian said, “This was a really good comedy show. It was all I expected and maybe a little more. I had watched a video of a comedy skit he did once online, so I had an idea on what to expect of him. Most of the people in the audience seemed to have enjoyed it and I especially enjoyed it. It was a good event as most of the comedies are here at UMPI. I would like to see more comedians in the future.” Brittian also had some comments about the comedian himself. “He had good interaction with the crowd and the decency to respect the audience’s interest, given what his content was primarily about. He seems like he would be a pretty good and funny guy to get to know.” It would appear that many of the students liked this event. Many felt it was time well spent, just lasting a little short of an hour. This event was very successful and there was a good and somewhat large crowd at the event. Shortly after the comedy part of the show, if you were one of the people to stick around, there was an opportunity to ask Singh questions about his career and even about himself. He was even humorous on that subject. It was good to see so many people enjoyed him. Best regards to Omid Singh in his comedy career!

My UMPI Bucket List Ben Pinette STAFF WRITER

As I prepare to walk across the stage in a few months to receive my diploma, it’s got me wondering if I’ve utilized everything I can, as a student, that UMPI has to offer. Sadly, I’ve failed at that attempt. There are places and things that I’ve either never visited properly before or only have checked out the places maybe once or twice in five years. And when I happen to be at some of these places, there are little to no people around. So, without further ado, I give you a list of places to check at UMPI before you graduate. We’ll call it our “UMPI bucket list.” 1. Tennis, anyone? As a tennis fan and player myself, it’s disheartening to see our tennis courts up near the Physical Plant empty. Granted, winter does play a huge role in this, but it would be nice to see a few people on these courts once in a while come April or May, and even in the summer and fall time. Tennis is a great sport that teaches hand-eye coordination, running, and mental toughness. I will be checking out these courts once the weather is warmer. 2. The UMPI library, particularly the second floor. This is a hidden gem at UMPI that I wish I would have utilized more. It is a very quiet space with plenty of sunlight and space for you to concentrate on your homework and studying. I would encourage you to come here if you want some peace and quiet that you can’t find in your dorm or even house. You’ll be glad you did. 3. The Reed Art Gallery, first floor of Campus Center. I used to come here once in a while and check out the art but not really think anything of it. This is a beautiful area that your

Art classmates have put a lot of time and effort into doing every month. And while you’re at it, check out the First Friday Art Walks starting here at 5 p.m. on the first Friday of each month. 4. The windmill, past soccer field on campus. You may be asking, “Why would you care about seeing a windmill.” But, if you’ve ever actually walked up to it and looked it at it, you’ll see it’s pretty majestic-looking and very large. You might want to bring a pair of earplugs while you’re at it. I would encourage anyone to check it out at least once during their time at UMPI when the weather is nice. 5. Whoo’s Hut, Folsom Hall. This may be a situation where you visit already visit this place every day to hang out in-between classes or to do homework. I hate to admit it, but I’ve only been here a handful of times over the years. It’s a nice area with plenty of computers, chairs and even a large TV. Invite a friend who may be in the building as well to hang out here in between classes instead of walking back to your dorm. 6. Gentile Hall. Some of us are guilty of not coming to Gentile Hall often enough to work out, including myself. There’s so much to offer inside this building, such a walking track, fitness area, pool and large gym area for various activities. It’s a great place to live an active and healthy lifestyle. I know I’m probably missing a few places on this list. But, the moral of this story is to use up every square inch of UMPI while you can. Before you know it, it will be too close to graduation and you’ll be making a list like I did. I would love to hear your suggestions for underutilized places at UMPI that I’m missing. Send me an email at benjamin.pinette@maine.edu.

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Into the Mystic Kathryn Allenby CONTRIBUTOR

Anderson “Andy” Hume Giles is retiring after 35 years with the University of Maine at Presque Isle. Giles was hired in 1979 as an assistant professor for the fine arts department. No Google maps back then. Giles thought he was going to be on the coast. Presque Isle is French that translates to “almost an island.” The open room and northern light pouring into the third floor of Pullen Hall was a welcomed compromise. Giles grew up in Virginia Beach, Va., and worked as a lifeguard. Giles attended The College of William and Mary, where he studied art and played football. Giles said, “I was hated by teammates for being an artist and hated by artists for being a jock.” Perhaps drawing on these

experiences, he would like to see less turf conflict in teaching and more shared ideas across disciplines for greater student success. Carol Ayoob, a local business owner, was a new art student at UMPI in 1980. She remembers Giles telling the class, “Whether or not you have a regular job, you should always practice art.” While employed in social work, Ayoob said, “I found art to be a healing mechanism I could use with clients.” Giles' idea “create your audience” has served Ayoob well. Today she brings art, music and food together at The Whole Potato here in Presque Isle. Sparking controversy in the late '80s, Giles was instrumental in establishing statewide support for academic freedom. Giles' painting Transformation hangs

in the campus library today, but the painting had been removed at one time due to negative remarks from people seeing it for the first time. Dr. Raymond Rice, interim vice president of academic affairs and provost, said, “Educational institutions should never be in the business of censorship when it comes to artistic expression.” Knowing Giles over the past 16 years, Rice added, “Andy's passion for informing his students to always be aware and to advocate for themselves should be an inspiration to all students.” Current art major Jessalyn Chafee said, “As a mentor, Andy encourages us to think outside of the box. Right now I’m learning about using different mediums for expression.” Chafee is looking forward to Senior Show, in which each sen-

ior art major has an individual art exhibit. During the interview Giles shared a funny story about a student who had left his religious studies to become an art student. While on a sponsored art trip to New York, this student became upset seeing so many homeless people living on the streets. On the third day or so, no one really noticed the student missing from the group. When they returned to the hotel later, the manager was up in arms. It seems the student had gone to the rooms of his fellow art majors and had taken the pillows and blankets out to the homeless and given them away, along with his own coat and clothes. Giles said, “This student was confronted and did something about it. Art drives us.” Giles is excited about heading small guided trips to the South Pacific during his retirement. Giles began a personal

journey some years ago. He wanted to honor his father and other vets who served in the South Pacific during World War II. Giles said, “It was basically using a machete and chopping through jungle … at first.” The decades of work have landed Giles as one of the leading experts on the history of Tinian. The Japanese were in control before the island was taken over by the United States. Both atomic bombs were constructed on the island before they were dropped on the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Giles’ efforts culminated with a meeting of a Japanese survivor and veterans from both countries on the island. Lanette Virtanen, an art graduate, said, “Andy has a wonderful technique of storytelling that he uses in his classes. He will be missed.” And so we wave good-bye to he who dares to fly “into the mystic.”

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Heather Herbert CONTRIBUTOR

Growing up in a poor town can teach people lessons. Sometimes it teaches folks the value of family and friends. Sometimes it teaches them prayer. Sometimes the lesson seems to be that life can’t get better. For those who grow up without much family and without a lot going for them, sometimes the lessons learned are the difference between giving up on life and going on to live. Sometimes the best lesson is that the only chance of a better life is in working hard, and hoping harder. Beth Ross knows about hard work and hope. A 31-year-old divorced mother of two, she spent the last 16 years living just west of the Appalachian Mountains, in Jonesborough, Tenn.. Life in Jonesborough can be hard. Almost 26 percent of residents live below the poverty line, many of them unmarried mothers. Ross struggled to avoid being among them. On her own since the age of 16, Ross did well in high school. She received a Marine Corps scholarship and had the choice between West Point, the Merchant Marine Academy and the Naval Academy. She was raised in hardship and was ready to escape it. Not so fast. Just after she graduated from high school, Ross received a shock. Ross says, “I had a very bright future

o mmun i t y

Juggling It All

ahead of me and I was finally Fate, however, wasn’t done going to break the cycle of with Ross. She got sick, and poverty. However, I discovered after a year of questions, she had that I was pregnant with my a diagnosis. A rare autoimmune daughter the week after I gradu- disorder without a cure, and ated. My options disappeared.” doctors weren’t sure if she Instead of pursuing her would live. dreams of the military, Ross worked at IHOP, as she had since she was 16 years old, and then had a second child. A hard worker, she was promoted to general manager by the time she was 21 years old. The sole breadwinner, Ross worked at least 70 hours a week to provide for her family. The struggle took a toll on her and her children. Ross knew her life needed to change. She says, “A little over a year went by and I was growing more and more miserable in my career. I was good at what I did and I was making a good living, but I hated every minute of it. More importantly, I felt Beth Ross. like I was failing as a mother. I worked all of the time and never had any quality time with The next two years were a my children. I was so unhappy hell of medications and pain. that I felt like I was not even set- Her medical bills put her more ting a good example for them. than a half million dollars in Nothing was going right.” debt. It wasn’t until her partner Things seemed hopeless for convinced her to fight back Ross. She felt trapped in a job against the disease that her luck without a future, because she started to change. “He showed needed money to raise her chil- me that I had to take control of dren. Then she had some good my life and fight for myself. I luck. When Ross met her part- became an expert on my own ner, she thought she was finally disease, I joined forces with a on the right track. He was local political group to stand for everything she wanted, and she healthcare reform, and, most imwas happy. portantly, I got out of bed.

Amazingly, things started to turn. My health started to improve and I felt like I had a purpose. I went into remission and I am convinced my mentality shift put me there. Almost immediately, I enrolled in school. I decided that I was finally going to do what I really wanted to do all along: get an education.” Ross says she was always good at school. In college, she was brilliant. She applied the same work ethic she brought to her job to her time at Northeast State Community College. She felt guilty for spending time studying instead of playing with her children. But this time, she knew it was for the right reasons. She was building a future for her family. “When I was working at IHOP, I was leaving them for a paycheck, not a purpose. When I left them to go to school, I was being a good example for them. I was showing them that nothing, not even the threat of death, is enough to keep their mother from pursuing her dreams. I was showing them the importance of getting an education and not giving up.” That perseverance paid off. In her last semester at community college, Ross won the Jack Kent Cooke undergraduate transfer scholarship, one of the largest scholarships available in

the United States. With funding in hand, Ross was able to say yes to her dream school, Columbia University. For most students, that would be the happy ending. But Ross is driven. Sometimes, that drive comes with a price. The high stress environment of Columbia is affecting her health. Because of this, Ross’ doctor thinks that her disease may no longer be in remission. While her health issues can’t be directly linked to her stress levels, everyone expects big things of Ross. No one expects more of her than she does. She admits that she over-thinks things and often obsesses over assignments. Ross says this can affect her time with her children and partner. Now she, and her doctor, has to figure out if it’s affecting her health. Ross isn’t ready to give up her dream, though, even if it means risking her life. Non-traditional students such as Ross often juggle family, work and school. It’s hard to choose to keep studying over spending time with family. It can be even harder to decide whether to disappoint a professor or a boss. Some students, though, make the decisions seem clear-cut. For Ross, risks to her health are just a possibility. Education is where Ross finds all of her guarantees, and the future for her children. For Ross, that’s where her hard work and hope belong.

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Kelly Gumprecht CONTRIBUTOR

A new fitness center is in town. And it’s creating a buzz among area health and wellness fans. Located at 605 Central Drive in Presque Isle, CrossFit Six05 has taken up shop. And it’s not your typical gym or health club. “The Box,” like most CrossFit affiliates, is a warehouselike facility. It has dark walls and rubber floors. Pull up bars and gymnastic rings hang from industrial metal racks. Barbells and heavy weights line the walls. Here, the men and women train together. The workout of the day, or WOD, is intensive and short and thrives in a group setting. All support and encourage one another. They start together and finish together. According to the website (www.six05ive.com), “When you join CrossFit Presque Isle, you’re not just joining a gym. You’re stepping into a community that will support your journey as an athlete wherever you go.” On Saturday, Feb. 22, 2014, Six05 invited the community to come to “The Box” for a special demonstration of “Fran,” a popular WOD. With Eminem’s music rock-

Crazed for CrossFit

ing the box, athletes displayed impressive strength and fitness levels. The multiple sets of pullups and barbell thrusters (a front squat/push press combination) pumped up the crowd. It was easy to see why the program is popular. Six05 also offered an introductory “teaser” to CrossFit. Participants found themselves caught up in the CrossFit hype when coaches provided one on one instruction. After learning correct form for “air squats,” push-ups and pull-ups, community members were able to take part in a modified WOD. The open house was a huge success. Six05 and the fever for CrossFit affected all who attended. There is no doubt that program can help athletes realize elite physical fitness. Moreover, the difficult workouts sculpt, tone and build strong athletes. But is it safe? Despite popularity, the program raises health concerns. Critics warn that the workouts put too much focus on speed and intensity. Athletes can quickly tire, resulting in poor form and serious injury. “Injury occurs in every sport and it can happen in CrossFit, too. But if it does, the trainers are not doing their

CrossFitters performing Fran.

job,” Adam Simose, Six05 CrossFit coach, said. Not all gyms are equal. Poorly educated instructors at some affiliates push athletes to the point of discomfort. Most of the workouts are time-based, meaning you don’t stop until the clock hits zero. Even as your muscles fail and your mind weakens, coaches and fellow gym goers push each member to completion. The camaraderie in the gym is nothing short of contagious. As such, the program has earned its skeptics and, of course, true believers. “The Box” is the same. The WODs are the same. But Six05 is not. All the coaches have backgrounds in healthcare, fitness or nutrition. They will never push anyone beyond their abilities. In fact, it’s just the opposite. “Here at CrossFit Presque Isle Six05, it’s safety first,” Simose said. “If I see athletes/students break form, I immediately give them lighter weight and correct them. I am not going to let poor form or fatigue cause an injury.” CrossFitters talk a lot about “scalability.” In other words, people in various stages of fitness can perform the same WOD but modify it to fit their ability level. They do this by altering load, rest and intensity. One person in a group class may be doing thrusters with a PVC pipe and another may be using a 135-pound barbell. “I design the workouts for my elite athletes. But I’m always working on ways to scale them down to meet every individual’s needs,” Simose said. New members must also complete a four-week foundations course. Through lectures and demonstrations, the course

trains students/athletes about CrossFit Presque Isle Six05 is CrossFit concepts. The first Six05 foundation class graduated Feb. 28, 2014. Billie Jo Porter, mother of three small children, just completed the class. “It’s definitely a challenge,” she said. “But I really enjoy it. I can already see a difference in my strength in everyday activities, even when just lifting on the kids.” Janna Clukey, another recent graduate, said, “I wanted to push myself to do something dif- Katie and Adam from CrossFit ferent. I’ve learned Six05. a lot. The class is worth it, so you don’t get hurt.” setting a precedent. It does not Not only is safety a concern, want to be like other gyms. It but cost is as well. At $95 for wants to stand out. Armed with just the foundation course, the supportive coaches, Six05 creprogram may seem out of reach ated a fitness center where athfor some. Prospective members letes of all levels can come and need to consider what they get workout safely. for the price. Like all fitness programs, “Membership fees are higher people should approach Crossthan that of a regular health club Fit with caution. Get informed. or gym. But you get more for Check with your doctor. Then your money,” Clukey said. try Six05, if you are healthy and “Classes are small enough that ready for a challenge. Simose you get personal attention. I and the other trainers will be wouldn’t get that if I was work- with you every step of the way. ing out at a gym on my own.”

CrossFitters performing barbell thrusters.

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Life in a Small Island Community Bobbi Anne Wheaton CONTRIBUTOR

Some of you may know what it is like to live in a small community. But what about a small island community? With approximately 2,400 people who reside there year round, Deer Isle-Stonington is a bit like stepping into the past. The only way on and off of the island is by crossing a 1,088-foot suspension bridge that has been standing since 1939. Once on the island, the first thing that greets you is a handmade sign by coastal artist David Taylor. It says, “Welcome to our beautiful island.” The island is quiet. A lot of the homes have been through generations of family members. Ginnie Miller, who lives in Lee’s Summit, Mo., has been coming to the island during the summer for most of her life. “Like my father,” Miller said, “I have spent some time there for almost every summer of my life. So in many ways, the island has more continuity in my life than any other place. I have lived in four other states, but always return to the same cabin on the Island. So in some ways it is the place that never changes.” The unchanging island has a lot of heart and tradition. There are island events that

residents and visitors look forward to every year. These include: the Independence Day parade that goes through Deer Isle; the fireworks that light up the ocean and vast array of lobster boats over the Stonington harbor; the boat races where island fisherman see who has the most powerful boat while families picnic and watch; and Fisherman’s day—a day of fun, games, food and music on the Stonington pier. Sometimes it can be a challenge living in a place where

is in need. There have been many tragedies over the years. But it is truly heartwarming to see the community come together to help those in need, whether it be a family after a house fire, someone who has lost a loved one or anyone else who needs some extra help. Miller said, “I think there is a sense of looking out for one another that you don’t get in a bigger city.” All of the members of the island ambulance and fire department are strictly volunteer. Yet they are always there

you know everyone and everyone knows you. But it is also a wonderful thing. The whole community comes together during basketball season to root on the high school team. There are always many helping hands when someone

at a moment’s notice. These wonderful people are dedicated to helping others. They take time out of their lives to make sure the island is taken care of. Deer Isle Fire Chief, Brent Morey, said, “It feels very satisfying to help our community. Being able to make a difference with life and property keeps me interested in what the fire department is doing and how we have to stay on the cutting edge of our profession.” The island has several small markets where residents can get what they need. There are even movies and shows that people can go see at the Stonington Opera House. This is an old building overlooking downtown Stonington that

was built back in 1893 to be used as a dance hall. Some residents choose to never leave the island. Crossing the bridge is like crossing into a different way of life for some and they are happy right where they are. Miller expressed her admiration for the people of the island: “I admire the self-sufficiency necessary from living a more isolated life ... making do rather than running off the island every time you need something, the way we do in our outside lives.” Even for those of you who have never been to the island, you have probably still seen a part of it. Granite, taken from the Deer Isle quarry, is used all over the world. It can be seen in the construction of the Statue of Liberty, the Harvard

Bridge in Cambridge, the Robert F. Kennedy Bridge in New York City and President John F. Kennedy’s memorial at Arlington National Cemetery, just to name a few. Deer Isle-Stonington may not have all of the modern conveniences. Residents have to travel at least 40 minutes to get to the closest city of Ellsworth. There is no pizza delivery and up until a few years ago parts of the island still had dial up Internet. But what it does have is peaceful surroundings filled with kind, hardworking people. Once you fall under its spell, it’s hard to ever really leave. Just ask Ginnie Miller. “I think that (being on the island) taught me to be more neighborly at home... and more independent.”

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Mind the Gap Hannah Brilliant CONTRIBUTOR

The American Gap Association reported this year that the number of students taking a “gap year” away from school is growing. But high school and college graduates are also taking gap years before entering an increasingly competitive (and often depressingly slow) job market. And more and more often, they are choosing to spend that time on farms. How would you feel if people you were close to told you they wanted to leave their school or job behind? What if it was your son or daughter? When Judy Suzuki’s son, Cory, announced he had left his job and was moving to Maine, she needed some reassurance: “When Cory first told me he was going to work on a farm, I was stunned and worried. I think I said, ‘Wow! Cory, I just cannot picture you getting up at dawn and milking cows!’ I have to say, however, when he explained more about the apprentice program and I realized he really wanted to do it, I supported him 100 percent.” Cory’s father, Katsuaki Suzuki, had similar mixed feelings: “I felt a mix of hope and uneasiness (when Cory started his apprenticeship). When I visited Cory’s farm for the first time, I saw him covered with

dirt. But then I saw his big smile, which I hadn’t seen for a long time. All my uneasiness disappeared.” Many small-scale farmers rely on interns and apprentices. The farming population in this country is getting older. Young, energetic workers are needed to keep farms running. And even if

lows students and young postgrads who may already be strapped for cash to take time away without digging themselves further into debt. The Maine Organic Farmers’ and Gardeners’Association runs a Farm Apprentice program to connect young adults with Maine farms in need of workers.

farming was a viable career for young people: “I thought it was a job for Midwesterners and others who were born into it and brought up on farms. I have since learned that it has evolved into a highly technological vocation using intricate machines and a lifestyle that suits some people and is what

you don’t plan on farming, working on a farm can help you develop valuable, marketable skills. Apprentices learn how to feed animals and plant seeds. They also learn how to work hard and get along with others. Often positions provide some form of income as well, along with room and board. Make no mistake: no one gets rich apprenticing on farms. But being able to live for free al-

“MOFGA’s Farm Apprenticeship program connects people wanting to learn organic farming with experienced farmers willing to share their expertise. The typical arrangement involves an exchange of labor for room, board, a stipend, and informal, intensive training and experience in farming.” Mrs. Suzuki said that when her son started his apprenticeship, she didn’t understand that

makes them happy.” Mr. Suzuki agreed: “When I was a kid, my family lived in farming country in Japan. It was hard to earn a good income. But farming is not the same as when I was a child. It has become much more modernized.” Mrs. Suzuki has also come to appreciate the opportunities that agriculture provided for her son: “I would tell another parent whose child is interested in agri-

culture as a career to absolutely work on a farm first for the invaluable experience and to see if they liked it. I would tell them that if this is what their child is passionate about, then they should pursue it. Life is about finding your passions and being happy and agriculture is a very interesting and worthy career.” Mr. Suzuki recommends farming apprenticeships as a way for young adults to receive a “real-world” education: “I think Cory made the best decision. I would recommend it to all parents. Probably, (their kids) will see the true value of life and society while they are working on the farm.” MOFGA warns prospective apprentices on the Farm Apprenticeship information page that farming is hard: “Farm work can be extremely rewarding, but it also can be tedious, exhausting, and frustrating.” That may be true, but it has not stopped the hundreds of young adults choosing to spend their gap years (and sometimes much longer) in the fields. And standing proudly behind them are many parents who never dreamed of their kids going back to the land, but have seen their children’s lives changed for the better by doing so. For more information about the MOFGA Farm Apprenticeship program, visit mofga.org and click on “Programs.”

Campus Crusade for Christ Detroit Mission Trip during Spring Break

UMPI Crusade for Christ is planning a mission/service trip through Motown Mission to Detroit this Spring Break where its members will be participating in activities such as feeding the homeless, constructing homes and working with youth in poverty stricken areas. They will also be attending Easter Service with Motown Mission. For more information please contact: Sara Gendreau (207) 316 - 3707 sara.gendreau@maine.edu

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Seniors’ Time To Shine Rebecca Campbell Seniors all over campus are finishing up those last few credits to graduate. Some are also finishing up their last season playing the game they love as UMPI Owls. Although many people don’t get the opportunity to play on a sports team in college, these 11 UMPI student athletes have been fortunate to live the dream. No one knows that better than basketball player Olivia McNally from Sherman, Maine. An outstanding player from Katahdin High School, she moved her talents to UMPI just four short years ago. “I came to UMPI because I heard they had a great physical education program. The program is phenomenal. When I came for my visit for the basketball team, it got me hooked right away,” McNally said. “The campus also had a small feel to it and it was close to home.”

After four years, McNally was blessed with a winning regular season with a record of 17-6 after three years of losing seasons. When asked about her favorite memory, she opened up about this year’s home game against Central Maine Community College where the Lady Owls came away with a win. “The atmosphere of it was amazing. There was never a dull moment in that game and there was intensity throughout the whole game for 40 minutes. It felt like we won the championship and cheering sounded endless,” McNally said. She will end this year with many memories and a season to remember. Leslie Theriault, from Enfield, Maine, is another basketball senior. Her main sport, though, is volleyball. Theriault will be receiving a degree in liberal studies with an associate in criminal justice and a minor

in recreation. She decided to play these sports due to boredom. “It was just something to do. I was tired of being lazy and I had nothing better to do,” Theriault said. One of her favorite memories in volleyball, she said, was torturing the coach, Mark Kornachuk. She also enjoyed hanging out with Shaina Hood and Mirandah Akeley. Out of the whole season, Theriault’s favorite basketball memory was “making the team” and the tour guide, Jake, at the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Michael Warner, from Norwich, United Kingdom, is one of the few international players who have ventured across the Atlantic to play the sport he loves. In England, he attended a basketball academy that had a goal of getting kids to the United States. After applying to five schools here in the U.S. and being accepted at all of them, he decided to come here

to UMPI for athletic training. “I had no idea what athletic training was until I came here. I didn’t even know what I wanted to do. It sounded interesting, so I decided to give it a go,” Warner said. His favorite memory that he recalls would be from his freshman year when the team played the University of Maine at Fort Kent at home. “People ran onto the court afterward and random people were hugging me, too.” In his last senior game at UMPI, however, he had an amazing surprise where his dad and sister showed up to watch him play. “That was the first game they’ve seen me play in that I can recall,” Warner said. That is a great memory and will definitely stay in his mind forever. On the other side, teammate Claude “Shmoke” Louis from Union, New Jersey, ended his UMPI basketball career of two years with a bang. In one of the

Olivia McNally.

Leslie Theriault.

Michael Warner.

Claude Louis.

CONTRIBUTOR

last home games of the season, Louis scored his 1,000 point of his entire college career that ended here at our own Wieden Gymnasium. Last year, he had to say, was one of his favorite memories when the team played Fort Kent at home. “Everyone was here and it was the senior game for last year. The crowd was loud and really into it. I like playing for the crowd and playing that game made me think ‘all right, it’s good that I came here,’” Louis said. Even though Presque Isle is quite a way from New Jersey, Louis says that’s what he liked about it: “It was far away from home.” Another appeal that drove him to play for UMPI was Coach Casciano, the men’s basketball coach. This spring Shmoke will graduate with a business administration degree with a management concentration.

ʻShmokeʼ Jen Ouellette.

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Seniors’ Time To Shine/Cont. Earlier this school year, soccer seniors ended their seasons and look forward to their graduation day and move on to the next chapter. One of these is Jen Ouellette from Van Buren, Maine, who will be graduating in May with a business administration degree with a management concentration. The decision to attend our institution wasn’t a difficult one because of the ability to play the sport she loved and professors who worked with the student athletes. “Teachers were good with athletes and helping them out,” Ouellette said. One of the most exciting moments of her four years of playing soccer was going to the GSAC (Great South Athletic Conference) tournament. The team attended the tournament last November in North Carolina. “It was the only year I was in an actual tournament like that. I got to spend time with the team. And also knowing it was my senior year made it memorable,” Ouellette said. On the men’s soccer team, Matt Vick, also from Van Buren and with the same degree, liked the opportunity to play for a team. This opportunity allowed him to experience the UMFK games that always brought intensity between both teams. “We’re always so ready for

Matt Vick.

those games,” Vick said. “We had UMFK tied in same digits in the first half once. I think that was the first time that season any team had held them like that.” Vick went on to say meeting his soccer teammates each year was always exciting.

money,” Akeley said. “Between the home crowd’s enthusiasm and support and confidence, it boosted us up to compete against a high ranking team.” Teammate and senior Shaina Hood from Princeton, Maine, remembers the MMA game as

A volleyball player, Mirandah Akeley, from Fort Fairfield, Maine, also played to create relationships with her teammates and wanted to experience playing for a collegiate team sport. Akeley is getting a bachelor of fine arts with a concentration in painting and photography. Her favorite memory of playing volleyball, she said, was the time the team played against Maine Maritime Academy. “We thought we were going to get slaughtered, but we actually gave them a run for their

one of her favorites as well. “The baseball team came to support us. Everyone was so pumped, especially for a volleyball game. Even though we lost, it felt like a victory,” Hood said. Hood came to UMPI and after was recruited by Coach Cummings, who was the volleyball coach at the time. “I thought it would be a great way to make friends. I really love the sport and the people I was playing with,” Hood said. She will graduate with a degree in ath-

Mirandah Akeley.

Shaina Hood.

letic training in hopes to move on to grad school and get a doctorate in physical therapy. Josiah Brazier, on the other side of the school year, plays baseball and is from Searsport, Maine. He will be graduating with a degree in business administration with a management concentration and a minor in project management. Brazier decided to play here due to the previous coach’s offering him a position. “I enjoy playing baseball. Without it, I would’ve gone to University of Maine at Orono,” Brazier said. “Spending a lot of time with the same group of guys, traveling, building relationships and doing a lot of fun stuff together,” Brazier said were his most memorable times with the team. His teammate, pitcher Dylan Worster from Howland, Maine, also liked the relationships with the guys as well as playing in close games and celebrating on the field with the team. “I like the area,” Worster said. “You can do whatever: hunting and fishing. I like doing all that stuff. It’s what attracted me.” Worster also talked about his favorite memory while playing as an Owl. “Last year’s doubleheader with our rival Husson. We beat them and everyone swarmed around me in celebration,” Worster said. He will graduate in May with a degree

Josiah Brazier.

in business management. Krista Coffin from Presque Isle, however, will be graduating with a degree in athletic training. Before playing softball her freshman year, the previous coach, Tracy Guerrette, had talked to her about playing. The coach followed Coffin from her junior year in high school and watched her play. Coffin then decided to play for UMPI. Coffin has enjoyed playing softball and says her favorite memories come from last year. “We’re one of the most tightknit teams on campus. The team chemistry has been there the last two years and makes it a lot more fun.” Look for the April 25 edition to see profiles of more senior athletes.

Krista Coffin.

Dylan Worster.

18 !

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i festyl e

The Reel Deal: Robocop (2014) Alexander Csiernik 3/5 stars PG-13

CONTRIBUTOR

The new Robocop movie starts out as a battle for political dominance if robots should be used for security on American soil. The robots are already being used overseas and have proven to be a success. Then it switches to Alex Murphy (Joel Kinnaman), a detective in the Detroit Police Department trying to nail down Antoine Vallon (Patrick Garrow), a Russian crime lord. In this struggle, Murphy gets blown up and put in critical condition. To try to prove a point on why the Americans need robotic cops,

Raymond Sellers (Michael Keaton), who wants robotics in the world, enlists help from Dr. Dennett Norton (Gary Oldman) to save his life and have a robotic human police officer. When saving his life, Dr. Norton changes the way Murphyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s brain functions so that he computes information faster than a normal human and more like a robot. When Alex returns back to see his wife and son, they feel like something is different but they cannot put their finger on it. Before Robocop is revealed to the world, Alex has a meltdown and Dr. Norton removes more of his emotions and prevents him from feeling emotions. Will Alex fully become a robot or will he return more to his human self?

This movie was not what I expected, but not in a bad way. There were many plot twists and turns that made you feel compassion for not only Alex Murphy but for his family as well. This movie also focused on a political aspect and how much we as a society need technology to function and if it is worth it. The movie tries the age-old debate. Is technology going to take over the world? Are robots going to take over jobs that once belonged to humans? There are many unanswered questions from the movie, but there are a couple of things that you learn. Never doubt the compassion and the determination of the human spirit, and if you let it, technology can take over peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s lives and it may not be for the better.

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

For more information contact (207) 768-9745 jacquelyn.lowman@umpi.edu Dr. Jacquelyn Lowman, Adviser or, e-mail us at: utimes@umpi.edu

-Journalists. -Sales Representatives. -Layout Editors. -Artists/Photographers. -Online Editors. Meetings every Tuesday in -Anything Else You Normal 102, Can Think Of. 12:30-1:30 p.m.

Univer si ty Ti m e s ! LI FES T Y LE ! M arch 1 4, 2 014

The Cosmos Is Back Jim Stepp

CONTRIBUTOR

Some people are into science and some people are not. Whether you are or are not, you probably heard of Carl Sagan or you heard of the TV series “The Cosmos: A Personal Voyage.” This 1980s TV series that aired on PBS was a show billed as a place where nonscientific people could learn about science. Carl Sagan’s catch phrase “billions upon billions” started with the line: “A galaxy is composed of gas and dust and stars—billions upon billions of stars.” For the younger people reading this, that line probably means nothing. For those of us who were around during the 1980s, that line conjures up many comedic lines that used imitations of Carl Sagan’s voice and the words “billions and billions.” The original series was comprised of 13 parts and had at least 400 million people watch it in about 60 different countries. This show is still one of the highest rated shows ever on PBS. Now Ann Druvan, Carl Sagan’s widow, and another person, Steven Soter, have modernized the series. They have updated the material and changed some of the topics. The new presenter will be astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson. The new show will be called “Cosmos: A Personal Voyage” and will air on Fox and Nat Geo. On the website for the show, Neil deGrasse Tyson described the new Cosmos as “the new series will contain both new material and updated versions of topics in the original series, but primarily, will service the

‘needs of today’s population.’ We want to make a program that is not simply a sequel to the first, but issues forth from the times in which we are making it, so that it matters to those who is this emergent 21st century audience.” Three episodes have been announced:

“Standing Up in the Milky Way” (2014-03-09)”Some of the Things That Molecules Do” (2014-03-16)”When Knowledge Conquered Fear” The biggest thing to remember is that this show has been designed to help the science person as well as the none science person understand science. So no matter what your background is, you will be able to enjoy this show. For more information, go to

http://channel.nationalgeographic.com/channel/cosmos-a-

spacetime-odyssey/.

THE NIGHT SKY The International Space Station is visible as follows: Mornings–Through April 6. 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 03/20/2013 06:35 Sunrise. 18:44 Sunset. 05:54–06:06 Mercury. 04:48–06:36 Venus. 20:54–06:24 Mars. 19:00–03:18 Jupiter. 23:18–06:06 Saturn.

03/30//2013 06:15 Sunrise. 18:58 Sunset. Not visible Mercury. 04:36–06:18 Venus. 19:54 – 06:00 Mars. 19:12–02:42 Jupiter. 22:36–05:42 Saturn. . 03/08@08:08 First

Quarter

Moon. 03/09 Yuri Gagarin’s 90th Birthday. Gagarin was the person to orbit the Earth. 03/09@02:00 Daylight Saving Time begins. Turn clocks ahead one hour–lose an hour of sleep. 03/10@03:12 Moon 6 degrees from Jupiter. 03/11@02:00 Mercury at half phase. 03/11@15:40 Moon at Apogee– farthest from the Earth–405,400 km or 251,900 miles. 03/14 Albert Einstein’s 135th birthday. 03/14@02:30 Mercury at greatest western elongation–27.6 de-

grees. Visible in the morning sky. 03/14@05:58 The ISS passes 1 degree from Alpha Aquila (Altair). 03/16@05:56 The ISS passes 0.7 degrees from Alpha Cygnus (Deneb). 03/16@13:08 Full Moon. 03/17@19:00 March Equilux– Equal length of day and night. 03/18@21:30 Moon 3.7 degrees from Mars. 03/19@19:06 Mercury at Aphelion–Farthest from the sun— 69.9 million km or 43.4 million miles. 03/20@12:57 March Equinox– Spring begins in the Northern Hemisphere. 03/20@23:54 Moon 1.4 degrees from Saturn. 03/22@15:30 Venus at greatest western elongation–46.6 degrees. Visible in the morning sky. 03/22@16:16 Mercury 1.2 degrees from Neptune. 03/23@13:24 Venus at half phase. 03/23@21:46 Last Quarter Moon. 03/27@05:18 Moon 2.8 degrees from Venus. 03/27@14:26 Moon at Perigee—closest to the Earth– 365,600 km or 227,200 miles. 03/28@05:41 ISS passes 1.2 degrees from Alpha Lyra (Vega). 03/29@04:52 ISS passes 0.8 degrees from Alpha Cygnus (Deneb). 03/30@14:44 New Moon. 04/01@04:01 ISS passes 1 degree from Alpha Aquila (Altair). 04/01@05:36 ISS passes 0.8 degrees from Saturn. 04/07@04:30 First Quarter Moon.