inside this issue:
Andy Warhol Addition Details on page 6
University of Maine at Presque Isle Volume 42 Issue 8
Fed Up! Details on page 17
Journalism for Northern Maine Visit us at utimes.umpi.edu
MARCH 7, 2014
Painting Planets for Cancer around the county, of all ages and with many different stories, Aroostook County’s 8th an- came to show their support. nual Planet Head Day took place Many people shaved their heads on Saturday, Feb. 15 from 11 in honor of a loved one or to a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Wieden support the cause. Even those gymnasium. People from all that couldn’t part with their hair still had the opportunity to donate and get their heads painted. One of many individuals with a story was Chris Saretto. This was Saretto’s first time attending Planet Head Day, and he had a very good reason to do so. “My whole family had cancer, breast cancer,” Saretto said. “Mom has been cancer free for three years.” Saretto got Chris Saretto getting his head his head painted painted in honor of his mother. The in honor of his mother and the sign he is holding reads, “Love you battles his family mom. 3+ years cancer free, 50 members faced. This being his more to go.” Nicole Duplessis STAFF WRITER
first attendance, he had a nice experience. “It’s wonderful that it touches so many lives,” Saretto said. Many others had their heads painted, too. Many shaved their heads and painted them afterwards, and some put bald caps on and had those painted. The volunteers were hard at work shaving heads, mixing paint and creating beautiful masterpieces on the heads of many. Michaela Dube was one of the many volunteers painting heads. She has participated in Planet Head Day since she was a little girl and has volunteered for the past three years as a painter. “It’s not something that every place does,” Dube said. “It incorporates everyone.” Planet Head Day is unique to Aroostook County. Many local businesses and organizations participate in this event. Whether knitting hats for those who shaved their heads as Missy Arrington from Merchants on the Corner did this year, to donating food or spreading awareness, the county came together on this special day. “I decided last year that I was going to shave my head this year,” Peggy Gudreau said. Gudreau shaved her head
Many volunteers were located at different tables painting different planets on either shaved heads or on bald caps. and had it painted in memory of her mother, who lost her battle with cancer in 2007. Gudreau also wanted to show her support and help a local organization. Not only did she shave her head for the cause, she also made earrings. There was something for everyone to enjoy. There were activities for the kids, door prizes and a chance to get a photo of your planet head taken. A few women even shaved their heads and donated their hair to Locks of Love. The
emotion, commitment and passion of everyone in attendance was outstanding. In the end, the event raised over $20,000 for our local organization, C-A-N-C-E-R (Caring Area Neighbors for Cancer Education and Recovery). The county may be small, but the people within it have big hearts and big goals. Cancer has touched many lives, and Planet Head Day allowed people to show their support for the organization and for one another.
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University Times
ampus
Hi everyone,
The University Times Staff Editor Nicole Duplessis Assistant Editor Stephanie Jellett Staff Writers Christopher Bowden Nicole Duplessis Stephanie Jellett Ben Pinette Katie York Contributors Kathryn Allenby Ollie Barratt Hannah Brilliant Rebecca Campbell Alexander Csiernik Tia Anita Dee Matt Glover Kelly Gumprecht Dick Harrison Heather Herbert Jason Hoyt Linda Schott Jim Stepp Emily Thibodeau Bobbi Anne Wheaton
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 7, 2014
Hi all,
I hope you all enjoyed your February break! It went by
I hope everyone had a great winter break. I'm sure some of you
fast, but it’s nice to know we are just that much closer to
used the time to catch up on homework or get ahead. But I'm sure
our next break. Maybe the weather will be a bit warmer by
others used this time to relax or maybe go on vacation somewhere
then? I’m hoping to break out the flip flops sooner than
sunny. I did go on vacation, but it definitely wasn't sunny.
later! Speaking of flip flops, does anyone have any plans to travel over spring break? Maybe go somewhere warmer, tropical and relaxing? I know I will be traveling over spring break, but I won’t be able to pack flip flops. Boots will still be my best friend then. Even though I am not traveling anywhere that will tan my pale skin, I am really looking forward to the experience. I will be traveling to Washington, D.C., with the University Times, as I think I mentioned before.
I traveled to Washington State with my roommate, Renee, to visit her friend Krista. It was the first time I had been to the West Coast. It was a long time in a vehicle and on the plane. We had to drive to Portland and take a bus to Boston to catch our flight to Minneapolis. After about 10 hours of going across the country, we finally made it to Seattle: only to be put in a car and drive an hour to Puyallup. After the long day, it was finally nice to relax and get some sleep. While out there, we had the chance to see and do lots of cool things. We ventured around the beautiful, rainy state a lot. I got to see
I hope classes are going well for everyone. I also hope
the Olympic Mountains, but sadly not Mount Rainier. It was always
that everyone has gotten the opportunity to experience the
too overcast and rainy. We spent a lot of time in Tacoma seeing the
biathlon in some way. Whether you attended the opening
glass museum and art museum. One night we went to a comedy club,
ceremony or attended actual events, it was surely worth
which was hilarious. We spent a day in Seattle as well. My favorite
facing the cold. It is so nice to see so many young athletes
thing was going up the Space Needle and being able to see a 360 de-
on our campus and in the area for a couple weeks. It surely
gree view of the city. That was the only nice day we had, so it was
reminds us how small a world it really is!
perfect. We also went to the EMP Museum, which was really neat,
I hope everyone stays warm and adjusts well to the time change on Sunday. At least we’re springing forward rather than falling back!
and the Seattle Art Museum. I'm really glad I had the opportunity to go. It was a great time and I'm glad I was able to experience it with my friends. I hope that everyone has a chance to go to the West Coast. It's beautiful, despite
Nicole
the rain. -Stephanie
Dates fo r Sub mission s to the U Times M arch 17
A pr i l 2 8
A pri l 14
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
Personalized, Proficiency-Based Education at UMPI
Linda Schott. After a year of discussion and planning with campus and community constituents, the University of Maine at Presque Isle recently announced its new vision: to design with each student a personalized, technologically innovative education and to prepare each student for a professional career, global con-
tributions and lifelong learning. In other words, UMPI is the first public university in New England and one of the first in the nation to transition to what Mainers call “proficiencybased” education. Many Maine residents are familiar with the concept of proficiency-based education because
Presque Isle: Caribou:
in 2012, it became state law that all public high schools had to graduate students by 2018 with a proficiency-based diploma. High schools across Maine have been working hard to help their teachers learn this new approach to education. Here in Aroostook County, the Northern Maine Educational Collaborative is spearheading the transformation, assisted by UMPI’s own Dave Ouellette, executive director of the Central Aroostook Council on Education. Why are schools—and now the University of Maine at Presque Isle—making this change? In short, we are doing so in order to ensure that more of Maine’s citizens will complete high school and college and move seamlessly into the workforce. But we are also responding to changes in teaching and learning that are occurring throughout the world. These
260 Main Street, 764-5500 556 Main Street, 493-3030
changes include: 1. A deeper understanding of how learning occurs in the brain and which teaching techniques lead to the deepest, most lasting learning. These include more collaborative and project-based learning and more connection of theoretical information to realworld problem-solving. 2. The use of technology, and especially mobile technology such as tablets and smart phones, to enable learning that extends beyond the walls of the classroom and beyond the class period. 3. An increasing focus on what students actually know and are able to do (their proficiencies) instead of just a letter grade based upon an average of scores across a semester. 4. Helping to ensure that students master the skills and concepts that faculty feel are most important so that students can use those skills later on in their college experience and career after graduation. 5. Making sure that students can
move smoothly from high school to college. UMPI is partnering with high schools that use proficiency-based learning to ensure that students who have flourished in that environment can move smoothly to a university education. 6. Making sure that college graduates are prepared for the workforce. UMPI is partnering with employers in northern Maine and across the state to provide mentoring for our students, work experience prior to graduation (in the form of internships) and sustained coaching on skills such as preparing a job application and interviewing. We at UMPI are convinced that the changes we are making will better serve each student and ensure that our graduates can demonstrate the high quality of their education to their future employers. If you would like to know more about our new direction, please feel free to contact me directly at linda.schott@umpi.edu.
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On The Snowy Streets of Presque Isle’s Art tion of food-based art, some of which were as bizarrely creative On Friday, Feb. 7, art enthu- as you can imagine. The event siasts of Presque Isle found had a great selection of foods for themselves attending the city’s the public to eat and a live band local art walk. Consisting of to entertain them also. “Yummy venues downtown as well as our art, great music and a fun time” own Reed Art Gallery, viewers it’s leaflet read. The event was a sampled a wide range of varying very enjoyable experience and art works from food-based art at recommendable to people of all the Wintergreen Art Center to ages, regardless of their appreciInk Toner experimentation at the ation of the arts or lack thereof. Reed. The walk was a large sucAttenders of the Reed Gallery cess and allowed the showcas- learned that this month’s artist, ing of some very creative pieces. Carrie Scanga, was heavily Host of the Reed Art Gallery as pregnant and unfortunately unwell as having a huge involve- able to talk at the gallery as originally intended. Instead, and to lessen our disappointment, Sincavage was able to provide us with a very in-depth description of Scanga’s work and her inspiration behind it. An assistant professor at Bowdoin College, Scanga produced work that consisted of illustrations “Bacon Love” by Gretchen Violette. of a typical state fair. She ment in organization of the achieved the pieces by using walks, Heather Sincavage said, photocopy toner and a straw to “I am always thrilled with the create a desired spread. She then enthusiasm of our patrons” and etched in her design. of the walk’s continued success “Carrie brings a level of inand public interest. timacy to these places we may Wintergreen Art Center, its have glorified as children. I front windows foggy from the adore the mystery the pieces enjoyment of the people inside, evoke,” Sincavage said. “She presented an intriguing exhibi- looks at ‘the state fair’ in a Ollie Barratt CONTRIBUTOR
way we haven't. But can still tap our own experiences to enjoy them.” Another notable venue included the Morning Star store. Hosting artist Demerese Montgomery, the store was covered in works of her photography and painting. A welcoming atmosphere accompanied with a live band and various nibbles kept those attending pleased to marvel at such work. Star City coffee also participated in the event. It showcased work as well as kept up a welcoming and warm atmosphere. Always scheduled for the first Friday of every month, the art walks continue to impress even the less enthused art viewers of Presque Isle. They bring people together in a setting of appreciation and thought-provoking art. They’re certainly a wonderful event for all to experience.
"Choice Pony" by Carrie Scanga; Copper Etching 2013.
Some of the work on display in the Reed Art Gallery by Carrie Scanga.
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A Glimpse of the Art Walk
“Staging Grounds” by Carrie Scanga; Hand-colored etching, 2009.
"Gustav Klimt reproduction of 'Tree of Life'" by Corey Levesque.
"Island of Misfit Candy" by Dione Skidgel. “Foodie For Life.”
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Ollie Barratt
600 Miles North of the Warhol Foundation
CONTRIBUTOR
Those lucky enough to attend the Reed Art Gallery on the Feb. 7 art walk were met with quite the surprise. Much to the shock of those present at the show, Heather Sincavage revealed five original Andy Warhol prints. And no, that’s no misprint. Sincavage managed to attain these five original prints from the Andy Warhol Foundation in New York for our very own permanent art collection on campus. For those of you who are unaware of Warhol’s legacy, he was quite a prolific artist famous for being the sole creator of the pop art movement, which took off like a storm in the ‘60s. So of course this is fairly big news!
“The Warhol prints are extremely important to us,” Sincavage said. “We are proud to be one of the 180 institutions across the United States to be distinguished with such a gift.” Art major Renee Moore talked of her fascination with the works also. “I was so astounded to see we have our very own original Warhol prints. It’s such a rarity, especially in northern Maine!” This is not our only notable gift from the Warhol Foundation, however. In 2010 we received approximately 200 original Warhol photographs, also now in our permanent art collection. The arrival of these five prints only furthers our collection of Warhol originals, and quite significantly so.
The pieces we have received were created relatively close to Warhol’s death in 1987. They are thought to have remained in Warhol’s studio after his death until the Warhol Foundation catalogued the remaining and unreleased prints. Because of this, the prints have yet to be properly exhibited. Although that’s not to say we have the only existing prints of these pieces, we have still gained a fantastic opportunity to showcase the pieces and marvel in their beauty. The five pieces received are named: •The Fiesta Pig, created in 1979. •The Reigning Queens (Queen Beatrix), created in 1985. •The Reigning Queens
Heather Sincavage and Andy Giles revealing “The Sitting Bull” by Andy Warhol. This is one of five original prints received.
(Queen Margrethe), also created in 1985. •The Sitting Bull, created in 1986. •Camouflage, created in 1987. There’s sure to be a lot of
excitement to see the original prints. All areas of the art community will be attentive. According to Sincavage, you can expect “an exhibition to properly debut the work next spring (2015).”
Another of the five paintings received. This one is titled “The Fiesta Pig” and was created in 1979.
Andy Warhol was an American artist who was a leading figure in the visual art movement known as Pop Art.
Un iver sity T im es ! C A MPU S ! March 7 , 20 1 4
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UMPI’s New Center for Success be scattered throughout campus. But here at UMPI, we are fortuImagine a place where you nate to have all of these services can receive career preparation, (and much more) under one tutoring, disability, counseling roof. This is the new Center for services, mentoring and much Student Success, located in more without having to leave a South Hall. The new center held building. In most colleges, a ribbon cutting ceremony for these services would probably the public at noon on Friday, Feb 7. Interim Vice-President for Student Affairs and Dean of Students’ Jim Stepp was on hand to speak about the new center. “The center is an outgrowth of a proposal drafted as part of a Project Compass. Project Compass was founded in part by a five-year Nellie From L to R: Mary Kate Barbosa, Mae Educational Ray Rice, Jim Stepp and Bonnie Foundation grant sponsored by the DeVaney at the ribbon cutting New England Receremony for the new Center for source Center for Higher Education,” Student Success. Ben Pinette
STAFF WRITER
Stepp said. Along with offices being moved around and/or created, new desks, chairs and furniture were furnished for the new area, as well as large, high quality photographs of current and former students hanging on the walls. Grants helped alleviate some of the funds for the project. “The new equipment and furnishings were provided through a UMS Strategic Imitative Fund grant. Special thanks goes out to S.W. Collins for the use of March Whipple in developing the design concepts and assisting us in the purchasing of the furniture,” Stepp said. The center, which original was proposed in April 2012, was designed for students, faculty and staff to collaborate and learn under one roof. Construction began during the summer of 2012 and continued through 2013. All student services which were scattered around various floors of South Hall are
Along with Stepp, other staff members of the Student Success Center were on hand for the ribbon cutting, including Mary Kate Barbosa, Bonnie DeVaney, Nicole Fournier, Deb Hodgkins, Meg Lighbown, Ralph McPherson, Leslie Williams and Ray Rice. The audience clapped and cheered as Stepp From L to R: Bonnie DeVaney, officially cut the ribbon Meg Lightbown and Jim for the new center. “The center will be Stepp. here for a long time,” Stepp said. now relocated to the first floor A second phase of the Center of South Hall. The Center for Student Success now contains for Student Success is already in the following offices and serv- the works. Phase two will be ices: Career Preparation and home to a new “Center for InEmployer Relations, Counseling novative Learning,” which will Services, Viability Services, go hand-in-hand with UMPI’s Equal Employment Office, In- new role in proficiency-based ternational Student Services, learning, as well as technology Mentoring, National Student innovation and student leaderExchange, Student Support ship. Phase two for the Center Services, Tutoring, and the Writ- for Innovative Learning will begin this summer. ing Center.
UMPI Students, Faculty & Staff Free TB Testing Clinic When: Tuesday, March 11, 2014 Where: UMPI Health Center Emerson Annex Time: 1:15 to 4:30 p.m.
Reading of the TB tests will be held on March 13, 2014 between 1:15 and 4:30 p.m. If interested, please contact the UMPI Health Center at 768-9585 or stop by the Emerson Annex to make an appointment!
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Big Foot Rolls Onto the UMPI Campus
Matthew Glover CONTRIBUTOR
On the cold winter day of Friday, Feb. 7, 2014, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., there was a unique kind of vehicle rolling around the UMPI campus. Located between the Campus Center and the library parking lot, it was unlike any other vehicle. The license plate read “Big Foot.” Standing taller than the average vehicle and looking like a boot, it was quite the marvel to see in person. This was none other than L.L. Bean’s Bootmobile, here for the Frozen Frenzy event. Many people--students and UMPI staff alike--gathered to look at this vehicle and take pictures. Jason Fortin, a senior business student, said, “I think this event is a pretty big success. Just look at all the people and it’s so early into the event.” It was only 11:15. “The weather isn’t too bad, either: it could be
a lot colder,” Fortin grinned. What was it like to get close to the boot? Fortin said, “It’s my first time seeing the Bootmobile and all I can say is this truck is pretty massive! It’s really cool looking and I wonder how something like this could actually be made.” Many people would agree with his statement. Fortin also said, “I would like to see another event like this again. This event had a good turnout and the people, including myself, seem to like it. Maybe we can do something like this next year. We’ll have to see.” Eddie Flaherty, the Bootmobiles’s driver, was happy to share his experiences. He gave some insight into what it’s exactly like to drive the vehicle. “When driving the Bootmobile, you get any look you can think of, from looks of curiosity to looks of complete amazement. A lot of people like the Bootmobile. I always find it funny when
I drive by people and they stick out their leg and show what boots they are wearing.” Driving the Bootmobile is like nothing else. “The Bootmobile is a little taller than your average truck. It is a lot of fun to drive, though. And UMPI is a great place to visit for people to see it,” Flaherty said. The Bootmobile is a marketer’s dream, “The Bootmobile has great promotion opportunities. In fact, this mobile is a replica of the original iconic boot made by L.L Bean in 1912,” Flaherty said. Although the back of the inside of the Bootmobile was not displayed, Flaherty said that it can hold a good amount of storage. Along with the Bootmobile display there was a boot toss game where you had to get the boot in the hole, just like the classic bean bag toss. L.L. Bean was handing out promotional prizes for the winners. Another
The L.L. Bean Bootmobile paid a visit to the UMPI Campus and received a lot of attention! stand had a display of actual L.L. Bean boots and high quality merchandise sold at the L.L. Bean stores. Many people would say the event was a lot of fun and a great marvel to see the Bootmo-
bile in person. Many would like to see it again if they had the chance. Who knows, maybe you’ll be lucky enough to be in a location where the traveling replica of the L.L. Bean footwear is heading!
Have you applied for financial aid for 2014-2015?
- If you are eligible for federal student aid and have not done this, please go on-line and fill out the 2014-2015 application at: www.fafsa.gov - Please complete this process by March 1, 2014 - If you wait, you could lose out on some financial aid assistance!
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Make Your Writing Click—Online Heather Herbert CONTRIBUTOR
Every righter needs and editor. Let’s try that again. Every writer needs an editor. Want to maximize grades and minimize red pen? Writing labs get students and tutors together to work on papers. Best of all, the magic happens before they are graded. Want some of that magic for yourself? As of now,
UMPI students can use a new program for editing and more. How do online students sit down with a tutor? The answer is the VAWLT. Short for “Virtual Academic Writing Lab and Tutoring Project,” the VAWLT is an online writing lab. It’s ready to help polish papers before they get to a professor. That means good things for students at all writing levels. Staffed by students from
UMPI and UMA, VAWLT tutors use video chats and e-mail to connect with writers anywhere. From brainstorming to writer’s block, the goal is the student’s best paper, every time. The VAWLT goes past fixing grammar or spelling errors. From the first idea to the final draft, writers can choose a tutor for help. Right now, the VAWLT uses Google+ to connect tutors and students. Students can use the “Ask a Tutor” service or get feedback by email. Only have a minute? Read about grammar, spelling, punctuation or citations. Or watch 1 Minute Writing Lessons for tips and tricks. Want to video chat? Meet the staff
online first, through video introductions. Michelle Lisi, coordinator of the VAWLT, says students should know they don’t just get corrections, they get help writing. “Our process is interactive and inductive. We ask lots of questions. And we prompt you to pursue your own ideas. We’ll try to get you to figure out what interests you, what you believe in, and what you want to know more about. We won’t forget about your voice.” If you’re ready to check out
the VAWLT, sign in to your Maine.edu e-mail. Then click on your name, in the top right corner of the screen. Search for “UC VAWLT” and join the community. Or dive straight in at UC VAWLT (https://plus.google.com/u/1/co m m u n i ties/107709897093726543229). Then get ready to make sure your writing is right! For more information on the VAWLT program, contact Michelle Lisi at michelle.lisi@maine.edu.
UMPI hosts management courses for the spring semester The University of Maine at Presque Isle will be offering two courses this spring beginning Monday, March 24, and Tuesday, March 25, respectively, as part of its American Management Associationʼs certificate programs. The course registration deadline is March 19. These spring courses, part of a multi-course curriculum leading to Certificates in Management and Human Resources Management, are specifically created to meet the unique needs of working professionals who want to be more effective in their current positions and better prepared for future advancement, according to Keith Madore, campus AMA coordinator. To earn an AMA certificate, each student is required to complete six courses for Management or five for Human Resources Management. Courses may be taken in any order and there is no time limit for completion of the program. Courses also can be offered on-site, Madore said. Each course meets once a week for six weeks and one or more courses may be taken per term. The cost is $250 per course, and includes instruction, text and materials. For more information or to register, contact Keith Madore at 768-9568 or keith.madore@umpi.edu.
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Upcoming Events Thursday, March 13 St. Patrick始s Day Dance 10 p.m. - 1 a.m. in the MPR
Sunday, March 16 175th Anniversary of the Incorporation of Aroostook County UMPI Library
Tuesday, March 18 Eight Strings & A Whistle 7 p.m. in Wieden Auditorium
Wednesday, March 19 Karaoke Night 7 p.m. in the Owl始s Nest Tuesday, March 25 Lunch & Movie 11 a.m. in the MPR
Wednesday, March 26 Resume & Cover Letter Workshop 12 - 1 p.m. in South Hall
Univer si ty T im e s ! C A M P U S ! Ma rch 7, 2 0 14
Save the Date....
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18th Annual
Spring Ball
“Moonlight Masquerade� Friday, April 25, 2014 For more information, contact: Keith Madore at (207) 768 - 9568 or by e-mail keith.madore@umpi.edu Event details will be forthcoming.
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Owls Dominate While Stephanie Jellett STAFF WRITER
Students and community members made the bleachers resemble a sea of pink in the Wieden Auditorium on Feb. 8 for the 4th annual Think Pink Playing for a Cure basketball games. People sported pink Tshirts, hats, bandanas, sunglasses, wigs and even a feather boa! The crowd definitely was supportive of raising awareness and towards their team. The Student Activities Office and the UMPI Relay for Life Team hosted the event. They had booths set up to sell annual Think Pink merchandise, 50/50 tickets and raffle tickets and pink goodies. Dr. Lowman, assistant professor of journalism and mass communication, also had a petting booth set up with her assistance dog, Saint. There were also lots of free giveaways! All the proceeds benefited the UMPI Relay for Life Team. A jug was also put out for people to donate their loose change, which would be given to the American Cancer Society. In total, $536 was raised. Both the men and women played Central Maine Community College. The senior players, Olivia McNally, Michael Warner and Claude “Shmoke” Louis were also honored at each respective half time. The women’s game started at 1 p.m. It started off slow and was very close until the Owls came out with a strong second half to defeat the number one ranked USCAA team in the nation 59-58. “I am so proud of our ladies. They have such fight, they never, ever quit...we just beat another top ranked USCAA team, the number one ranked team in the organization nationally, because our group refused to quit and worked so well together when we were down,” Coach Carter said. McNally racked up 20 points during the game, teammate Amanda Hotham had 17 points and nine rebounds and point guard Darby Toth added nine points, eight assists, five rebounds and four key steals. Rebecca Campbell scored eight points and had nine boards, Kristin Thompson made four points and Sydney Churchill added one point.
Sydney Churchill makes a freethrow.
Back row, left to right: Nancy Gervais Nichols and Danielle Pelky. Front row, left to right: Lisa Leduc and Laurie Boucher working the donation table. Photo by Lanette Virtanen.
Darby Toth brings the ball back down the court.
Senior Olivia McNally (right) playing solid defense.
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Raising Awareness
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The men’s game started after the women’s. The crowd was amped up from the previous game and was ready for more. To make this game even more memorable, England native Michael Warner had his father Tim and sister Alice as part of the crowd for the first time to watch him play collegiate basketball. “We can’t make his graduation so this was our only chance to see a part of what Michael has been doing here for the past four years. It’s not cheap coming over from the UK but we would have regretted it if we hadn’t,” Tim Warner said. “Sending your son to university thousands of miles from home is a big thing for any parent, but to see Michael so happy and settled with wonderful friends, a great learning environment and in a beautiful part of the world has made it all worthwhile.” The first half of the game was steady with both teams making good plays. The Owls led 49-43 going into the second half, with seniors Warner and Louis contributing to the advantage. With less than half the game left, the Owls guard Chase Vicaire scored 12 points within six minutes, including two three-pointers to bring the crowd to their feet as the score rocketed to 89-78. Presque Isle held a 91-82 lead with only 54 seconds of the game, but Central Maine racked up with fouls and two long three-pointers. The Owls only made five out of 10 foul shots in the last minute that seemed to give Central a bit of hope, but with five seconds left Louis fouled Central’s player Shaun Hill on his three-pointer, that led UMPI to win only by one point, 94-93. Warner held the most points of the game with 24, followed by Thiago Conceicao with 20, and Chase Vicaire contributed 17 points. Louis added 12 points to the board, Brandon McGill had 10, Sean Manganti scored eight and Derek Healy made five. The annual Think Pink games are not only supporting a great cause, but bring people from campus and the community together for a fun afternoon. Though this has only been the fourth time that UMPI has had this event, it’s one that has definitely been memorable.
The team locked arms as it came down to the final minutes of the game.
Brandon McGill makes a tough shot.
Photo by Lanette Virtanen.
Michael Warner wowed the crowd with his threepointer.
Sean Manganti jumps up to score.
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March 7, 2014
Bobbi Anne Wheaton CONTRIBUTOR
At some point in time, most of you have probably walked into a restaurant or a supermarket and seen a lobster tank sitting there. You have probably seen lobster brought to tables: bright red, steaming, accompanied by a side of butter and a little plastic bib. Have you ever wondered while you were standing by that tank, watching someone eat that lobster dinner or perhaps eating it yourself, how the lobsters ended up there? How they are caught? Who catches them, and what these people go through each day when they go to work? Let’s meet one of the dozens of lobstermen who reside in the Deer Isle-Stonington area, and get a glimpse into their daily life. It’s 4 a.m. and the sky is still dark, but the day has already started for Bob Wheaton. After a quick breakfast and listening
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A Day in the Life of an Island Lobsterman to the news to get the day’s weather, he packs a lunch and heads over to the shore where his boat is moored. Wheaton gets things ready while the sun is coming up. He can’t haul his first trap until it is daylight due to one of the many laws associated with lobster fishing. Wheaton said, “I like to get an early start to beat the heat in the summer.” Lobstermen dress is heavy boots as well as waterproof pants and jackets, which can make a hot summer day almost unbearable. “I also like the peacefulness of the early mornings and watching the sun rise,” he said. As each trap, or pot as a lot of the lobstermen call them, is pulled over the side of the boat, it has to be cleaned out fast. Once out of the water, the lobsters in the trap will start biting one another, and they can be damaged if not separated quickly. There can also be other creatures in the traps, such as crabs, urchins, starfish, sea cucumbers and sometimes even fish. All of these things have to be thrown back. Once each lobster is out of the trap, it has to be measured with a special measure that goes on the back of the lobster. If the back isn’t long enough, the lobster cannot be kept. If the lobster is a female, which can be seen by
looking at the first two fins under the tail, than she has to be checked for eggs and marks. Eggs look like tiny round, black seeds underneath the tail. A mark is a V notch that has been cut into a certain fin at the end of the tail. This is to help preserve the female population and the survival of the species, as well as the lobsterman’s job. Once everything has been checked, the lobster has to be banded. Another special tool is used to stretch the thick rubber bands over the lobster’s claws. Lobstermen have to be careful when they do this because a lobster can bite hard. “They can bite your finger right off if given the chance,” Wheaton said. Next they go into a tank that is set up on the boat with water running through it for oxygen. If a lobster does not have running water, it will drown. Another thing to remember is that a lobster should always be picked up by the back, not the claws. If it feels that its claw is caught, it will shoot the claw off of its body. Since a lobster’s claw will grow back, this is a great defense mechanism. Now, before the trap is thrown back, it has to be rebaited. The bait, which is usually herring, is stuffed into a knitted nylon bag with a drawstring closure. This is then tied into the trap so that it is hanging for the lobsters to see and smell. And it does indeed smell. When asked how he deals with the smell of dead and sometimes rotting fish every day, Wheaton
said, “I like it! That’s the smell of money.” Then it is on to the next trap to do it all again. Wheaton hauls
100 traps each day. It is up to the fisherman how many traps that he will haul. His wife, Annette, said that she doesn’t know how he can keep track of where all his traps are. “They all look the same. I would be getting turned around all the time and hauling the same traps over again.” It takes a lot of skill and practice to become a successful lobsterman. There are some things, however, that are not so great. The first of these is the horseflies. Most days, the cabin of the boat will fill full of large black horseflies. At any given time, there could be between 30 and 50 horseflies in the boat. Wheaton said, “They fly all around you. They fly in your ears, in your mouth, and if they land on you,
they bite hard.” The horseflies, although bad, are not the biggest danger. Lobstering is actually a very dangerous job. As each trap is pulled in, rope coils around the lobsterman’s feet. It is very easy to get a foot caught and get pulled over the side. “There have been many lives lost over the years,” Wheaton said sadly. When he is done for the day, Wheaton empties his lobster tank and puts his catch into plastic crates. These crates are brought to shore, loaded on his pickup truck and brought to market where they and their contents will be sold. There, he buys more bait for the next day and stops to get gas for his boat. He’ll bring the bait and gas back to the boat so that he will be ready to go again the next morning. He comes home, tired and smelling of bait. When asked why he wants to do such a tough and tiresome job, Wheaton replied, “It’s what I know. I enjoy being on the water. I’m my own boss.” Wheaton takes his boat up every winter, during which time he works on any repairs that need to be done to his boat and traps. He also paints his buoys and gets everything ready for the next year. When he sets his boat back in the water each spring, he says that he is always ready to get back on the ocean again. “I’ve had enough winter,” he said. “Bring on the lobster.”
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#musicaldepression Jason Hoyt
CONTRIBUTOR
Have you ever felt like there was a piece of you missing? Have you ever thought of how to fill it? Some people would say that you’re depressed. Others will say that you “need to get out more.” Some people might even go as far as to say that you need to talk with a professional. What some people don’t know is that most people have a therapist already. Not one that you can talk to: it more or less does all the talking for you. It’s handheld, and you can even carry it around wherever you go. I’m of course talking about music: any music for that matter. You can listen to music is any form and in so many different ways. You
can use an MP3 player, CDs, iPod, iPad, record player and even the radio. With so many different options, how can people not find something that suits them? …..Mike McLean, from Presque Isle, said, “Before I started playing music, I was taking 13 different medications. I no longer take anything: I just play and listen to music.” McLean is 33 years old, has been playing guitar for more than 10 years now and has no intention to stop. “I play guitar whenever I’m not working. When I’m not working, I’m in my garage trying to better myself.” McLean has played in several bands over the years, given lessons and is simply one
of the better guitarists in Presque Isle. How can something as simple as music replace 13 dif-
ferent medications? The answer is simple: there is so much
music available. With everything that is openly available for music, there isn’t a possible chance for you to not find something that you can click with. Not everyone will have the same results as McLean did, but the chances of cutting down on either medication or stress can greatly be increased, making quality of life that much better. It worked for McLean and it also worked for 23-year-old Pat Cochran from Bangor, Maine. Cochran attended Husson University for history, with a focus in art. “Music and art have helped me immensely with all my problems, even the small ones,” Cochran said. Cochran owns a gigantic record collection that his mother gave to him.
“I have over 300 different pieces of vinyl. It’s how I listen to all my music. I only own maybe a handful of CDs” Cochran said. Cochran has since gone on to student teach and one day hopes to become a teacher in art history. Like McLean, Cochran credits music with some of his success. So next time you’re feeling a little off, why not your musical therapist a “call” and see if it helps. Who knows, it might be just what the doctor ordered.
The Healing Power of Words Emily Thibodeau CONTRIBUTOR
Everyone struggles at a certain point in life. We all hurt and look for our own ways to make it go away. We all look for ways to heal and move on, rebuild and start again. Some of us are great at starting over while others need extra help to get through the tough times. You’ve probably wondered more than once how these issues can be fixed: if there’s any help out there. Too many people in this world feel alone and helpless when dealing with depression. Many go through life having accepted being unhappy as something they deserve or cannot fix. What people don’t realize is that there is help out there. There are answers to your questions. Often those answers can be found within ourselves. Caroline Thibodeau, a 23-
year-old student studying psychology, said, “For some people, depression isn’t even a thought. What many people don’t understand is that mental
work for some people to be healthy and happy mentally. A lot of times it takes the help of others like a counselor, therapist—even a trusted friend.”
health is something some people really have to work at. Just as some people go to the gym or see a personal trainer to work on their physical health, some people need help with their mental health. It takes
Another tool many people don’t think about very often is writing. It can be very helpful putting your thoughts and feelings down on paper. It’s a great way to get out what’s hurting you. It’s a way to let those feel-
ings go and deal with what’s hurting you in a healthy way. It’s something that many people find very useful when looking for ways to cope. Thibodeau says that writing has been a very big part of her life and an important part of the therapy she received at a point in her life when she felt helpless. “I wrote in journals I kept for myself and journals I was asked to keep in therapy. It’s amazing how much it helps. It’s like ending a chapter of your life and starting over fresh. It’s a way to share and get out the feelings you don’t want to hold onto.” Writing as a form of therapy is a way to share and feel less alone and it’s also something that can be helpful to people of all ages, even younger children. Cindy Thibodeau has been a teacher/teacher’s aid for 14
years. She has seen improved behavior in children, even children who have more trouble in school, thanks to writing exercises used in the classroom such as journaling. “It’s important for kids to feel like they can share, that they’re not alone, that they matter. Giving them time in the day where they can write about something they choose seems to be something they really love. It helps them and it helps teachers connect with them.” It might not be for everyone, but it’s something simple that has the power to help a lot of people. Writing can help lonely children feel less alone, it can help shy people come out of their shells. It’s a great way to share with others and it’s a way to feel brave about sharing part of yourself with others. We’re all braver than we think.
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Say Goodbye to Doctor Visits This Cold and Flu Season Tia Anita Dee CONTRIBUTOR
It’s that time of year again that everyone dreads. Runny noses, coughing spells and upset stomachs are invading our towns, one victim at a time. Many people may have the initial thought to make a trip to their doctor’s office in hopes for some answers and antibiotics to rid them of their symptoms. But have you ever considered trying to prevent the invasion of the germs before you get sick? Ann King, CIC, the infection control nurse at Cary Medical Center, has some suggestions. Hand hygiene is very important. When you go into many public buildings, you’ll notice hand sanitizers on the walls. Use them frequently. What else can you do to help avoid the doctors during this cold and flu season? King said, “The biggest thing we try to push to the public as medical staff is to get your flu shot.” King said that hospitals try to
use the “herd mentality.” This means that if there were a group of 10 people and eight of the people got the vaccination, the risk of spreading the germs is decreased. “The more people vaccinated, the better,” King said. She says that as much as some people may want to, you can’t live in a plastic bubble. You’re going to be exposed to germs no matter what. But knowing some ways to keep yourself healthy when exposed will help you out tremendously. King had more tips. “It may sound very simplistic, but WASH YOUR HANDS!” King said that practicing hand washing is a very big factor in staying healthy. “When you’re in public areas like Wal-Mart is when you’re the most prone to picking up germs,” King said. Because of how many people use the public areas, like shopping carts, this creates a large risk to easily pick up some kind of virus. King said that carrying a hand sanitizer is also a very good idea. “I have one and the
first thing I do after shopping is go in my car and apply hand sanitizer.” King explained the steps she takes to help prevent spreading germs in her work area. “I al-
work areas with others, to follow these same steps. “Wipe down an area as soon as you get to work and designate that as your work area for the day. You want to work in a sanitary envi-
ways wash my hands before entering my office,” King said. She explained how she has to walk through the hospital to get to her office. She doesn’t want to bring whatever germs she may have come into contact with into her personal area. King stresses to employees around the hospital, especially those who have to share their
ronment.” King said. King stressed the importance of knowing an individual’s personal space. “If you’re within three feet of someone you are now in their spray zone,” King said. When you extend your arms in front of you, that is your personal space. Someone within that area is definitely too close. “When you cough or sneeze, do
it into your elbow,” King said. She explained that if people cough or sneeze into their hands, everything they touch after becomes infected with their germs. King gave some insight into the individuals who are the most prone to the flu. King explained that medical staffs use to be primarily concerned with individuals 65 and older, due to their immune systems. “Now we’re concerned with anyone the H1N1 flu affects, especially those who smoke or have asthma. H1N1 really loves teenagers and young adults who smoke due to the tissue in their lungs,” King said. So, as many of us are still considering living in our own plastic bubbles, these tips will make this cold and flu season a little bit more germ free. Getting vaccinated with the flu shot and washing your hands to stay sanitary are some crucial key points. So, go out to buy yourself some hand sanitizer to stay healthy, happy and germ free!
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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Fed Up! Fighting the War Against Childhood Obesity Kelly Gumprecht CONTRIBUTOR
A ratty ball glove, a stick and a jump rope littered the yard, each marking off a different drill station. Three young boys were doing jumping jacks, push-ups or jumping rope, depending on which station they were at. Two older girls were shouting out commands and words of encouragement. There were no cell phones or iPods. There were no adults or supervision. Left to their own imaginations, the children were playing “Boot Camp,” a game modeled after an exercise class their parents either coached or attended. Laughing and having fun, they enjoyed the game. In a nation where the childhood obesity rates have tripled from 5 to 18 percent in the last 30 years, how is it that an entire group of children plays outside fitness games for fun without parental involvement? Not only does it happen, but it is a common occurrence in the neighborhood where Kasey Haley and Kacie Chapman, two Presque Isle Middle School students, live. “Being healthy and active is a big deal in our family,” Haley said. “Our whole neighborhood gets involved in physical activities in some way or another.” Active lifestyles and healthy role models at home seem to be key factors in how children act and think. It’s natural for children to copy their parents’ behaviors. Jamie Chandler, community transformation grant coordinator for the Aroostook County Action Program, is impressed with
families who actively take part in healthy lifestyles. “Childhood obesity is an epidemic that requires multiple techniques to battle. We need to have community and parental involvement. It’s all of our responsibility.” Kasey Haley and Kacie Chapman also know about making healthy food choices. “My dad cooks homemade Chinese food a lot. I really like green peppers. You should try them,” Chapman said. Stories like Haley and Chapman’s are encouraging. They are, however, becoming the exception instead of the norm. As childhood obesity rates rise, so do the risks for cardiovascular disease, diabetes and other serious social and health factors. Studies indicate that close to 40 percent of Aroostook County youth are either overweight or obese, according to the Maine Department of Health and Human Services. Kasey Haley sees this in her own classmates. “I feel bad for them,” Haley said. “They have trouble in gym and sometimes get really upset because they have to exercise. I’ve seen other kids make fun of them.” Though they are not victims, Haley and Chapman see the challenges that unhealthy behaviors can create. They are witnesses that people treat overweight children differently. Obese children are generally unacceptable by social standards. This in turn creates a special shame that only fat children know. This poor treatment often leads to serious self-esteem or depression issues.
“Our teachers do a good job of teaching us about making healthy food choices. But some kids–the heavier ones–just don’t get it,” Chapman said. “It’s confusing why they don’t, because it’s obvious that being fat hurts them.”
skills they need. Jarrod Walton, father of two young children and with a third due in March, is very concerned about his family. “The kids are fussy eaters and by the time we all get home, there never seems to be enough time.” Walton
Kacie Chapman and Kasey Haley, students at Presque Isle Middle School, discuss what being healthy means to them. The answer is that children are receiving mixed messages. Social changes have had a huge impact. “Parents are busy,” Jamie Chandler said. “They often rely on quick options like fast or processed meal options.” Combine increased serving sizes, the amount of screen (computer, game and TV) time and sedentary lifestyles, and the result is overweight families. Despite outside influences, unless behaviors are reinforced at home, the message seems to get lost. Most parents do not intentionally decide to be overweight or to promote unhealthy choices to their children. But many parents today are overwhelmed. Many do not have the nutritional
wants his family to be healthy, but admits his own eating habits could stand improvements. Like many other young parents, Walton faces multiple challenges in raising healthy eaters. “Cooking healthy is not only time consuming, but it’s complex and expensive.” Walton said. “My wife and I often do not know what to buy or how to prepare it. It’s overwhelming.” Enter programs such as 5210 Let’s Go! (www.letsgo.org). 5210 is a program that educates children and families about healthy eating and active living. It uses the guideline of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables, 2 hours or less of screen time, 1 hour of physical activity and 0 sugary drinks. The pro-
gram fosters supportive environments that provide healthy choices for snacks and celebrations. It provides opportunities for physical activity and ways to educate families on how to adopt and maintain healthy lifestyles. Chandler suggests that following the 5210 strategies and making small changes can make all the difference. “Stop rewarding children with food,” she said. “Use another reward form, like physical activity instead.” The good news is that after decades of climbing obesity rates, some states – including Maine – are now showing small declines. The numbers are still too high, however. We don’t know what the long-range forecast will bring. We do know, however, that if we do not stand up and take some action now, we might be too late. It’s time to arm our children with the skills they need to live active and healthy lives. If we don’t, we take the risk of being the first generation to outlive our own children. Parents also need to educate themselves on the health risks associated with obesity. They need to make better choices. Websites, like www.letsgo.org, offer educational toolkits and strategies geared specifically for families who are learning to live healthier. For more information on what services and information are available locally, please visit www.letsgo.org or call the Aroostook County Action Program at 764-3721 or Healthy Aroostook at 554-4129.
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Learning to Cooperate
Hannah Brilliant CONTRIBUTOR
Often, businesses that foster sustainability and community have to make sacrifices when it comes to turning a profit or paying their employees a livable wage. Cooperative businesses hope to change that. Co-ops give control to you, the consumer. They create positive relationships between retailers and shoppers and avoid consumer exploitation by creating open dialogue between seller and buyer. They are springing up all around the country, including right here in Maine. And meet one recent college grad who has discovered how co-ops are able to support the environment, the community and a sustainable workforce. It’s a business model, she says, that may just outlast all others. Talia Tiffany, who graduated from Reed College in Portland, Oregon, last spring, works as an education and outreach coordinator for the Mariposa Food Cooperative in West Philadelphia. Tiffany moved Back East to participate in a program called Quaker Voluntary Service. QVC, open to Quakers and nonQuakers alike, provides a shared living space and fellowship money to participants who choose from a variety of grassroots organizations to work for. Tiffany chose the co-op, “Because I thought it would be a powerful way to work within the local food system in an urban context, and at the point of distribution rather than production, a piece of the local food movement that is equally challenging but often overlooked.” A big part of Tiffany’s job is educating consumers about what Mariposa is. Mariposa is different from a regular grocery store, and even from a regular natural foods store. A “democratic workplace,” it is run cooperatively. Mariposa lacks traditional management and allows shoppers to purchase equity in
the store. This means they are both members and owners of the cooperative. “The most striking thing to me,” Tiffany said, “is a misunderstanding of what equity means. I think there’s a lot of misunderstanding of what the benefits of being a member are besides a 5 percent discount.” In a co-op, members have the power to shape the direction the business will move in. “Because we are democratically run, our members decide what happens.” Crown O’ Maine Organic Cooperative (COMOC), a Mainebased agricultural cooperative, operates on the same principles: “Just as farmers might cozy up to the fire in January and order the inputs for spring planting, your production planning input happens when you can tell your farmers what you like and how much you would like to purchase. We call this co-production because you are valued partners in our vocation.” Some members of Tiffany’s co-op choose to take the idea of co-production further. Many of Mariposa’s members purchase “work-shares:” they receive a larger discount on products in exchange for labor. Tiffany serves as liaison for two member/owner committees: the AntiOppression Committee and the Food Justice and Anti-Racism Committee. Mariposa started 40 years ago as a members-only cooperative, its membership made up of “primarily lower to middle-class white, anarchist hippies.” Talia explained that since moving into a larger space and opening its doors to the public two years ago, that’s starting to change. “I don’t have statistics on what percentage of shoppers are people of color, or are people using EBT (food stamps). I would guess that it’s higher in comparison to other co-ops, but not in comparison to the local corner store.” That’s where the Anti-Oppression Committee comes in. It works on outreach and educational materials to
help create an even more inclusive, more diverse cooperative community. The Food Justice and AntiRacism Committee works more broadly within the community. Philadelphia just passed a “Land Bank Bill” this January. This means that unused or abandoned lots in the city will now be avail-
labor hours.” And often, management, payroll and distribution happen in separate locations from the storefront. This means that a large percentage of the money from labor also ends up elsewhere. All of Mariposa’s management work in offices in the same building as the retail
Mariposa anti-oppression working group. able for individuals and community groups to purchase and develop. “For example,” Tiffany said, “there’s a lot of people within Philadelphia who have been ‘illegally’ community gardening.” She laughs. The Food Justice and Anti-Racism Committee works with lobbyist groups at the city level to make sure that vacant lots benefit Philadelphians. “We want to see a lot more community building, rather than those lots being bought up by developers from outside the community.” Why do co-ops matter? “For every dollar spent at Mariposa, $1.15 is invested back into the local economy.” Tiffany pointed out that at a traditional grocery store, the figure is closer to 45 cents on the dollar. “The more you think about that return on investment, the more sense (the co-op model) makes. All the money going into the local economy from a traditional grocery is in the form of
space. That means that Mariposa is able not only to support its workers, but also the community and the economy of which it is a part. COMOC’s mission is also to strive for a business that supports itself and the community. “We are fortunate to live in a place of great natural resources and beauty with a population small enough and government ‘grassroots’ enough that we can act with reasonable hope of accomplishment. In our case at hand, it is a community interconnected through a self-providing food system that results in strong and vibrant local agriculture.” Founded in 2006, COMOC connects organic producers with consumers looking for local, organic products. COMOC hopes to strengthen Maine’s economy by buying, selling and employing locally, just like Mariposa. Tiffany put it this way: “Since I started here, I’ve gotten more
excited about the way cooperatives are an important way to work within our system right now to harness the power of local communities to provide for themselves while strengthening themselves. I went into this job with a passion for sustainability and food systems. I know how important it is to think about all the moving pieces. I believe that a co-op is uniquely placed to address all the problems within a food system.” In order for any business to promote sustainability in the long term, the business itself has to be sustainable. Tiffany imagines an economy where all businesses work to support both their employees and their customers, creating a business that both takes and gives back. “Nonprofits have to fundraise every year. That’s really unsustainable. Cooperatives are a great hybrid: they are self-sustaining but have a social mission component. And because they are democratically run, they are really adaptable. They can be whatever the community needs them to be.” That means that Mariposa will be around to support the people of West Philadelphia, in whatever capacity they need, for years to come. Looking to join a cooperative near you? COMOC buys and distributes products from producers all across the state, making it easy to support Maine producers and our local economy. It delivers to more than 50 buying clubs (groups that order in bulk in order to receive bulk discounts), including one in Presque Isle. For more information about joining, and to read more about COMOC’s vision, visit crownofmainecoop.com. For more information about Quaker Voluntary Service, check out quakervoluntaryservice.org to read about the program and this year’s other participants.
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Men’s Season Comes Lady Owls Soar to GNAC to a Close Christopher Bowden STAFF WRITER
It was a rollercoaster season the Owls Basketball team as they started the season fairly strong posting a 4-4 record, but couldn’t really get things together in January or February as they lost a handful of close games along with dealing with injuries that really hurt the team. Leading the charge for the Owls this year was Senior Michael Warner who had a solid year during his final campaign as an Owl, averaging 15 points and 5 rebounds per game. The other senior on the team was the highly energetic “Shmoke” Claude Louis who due to ineligible rule along with an ankle
Claude “Shmoke” Louis.
injury was only able to play 10 games this year. But he was still able to score his 1,000th career collegiate point before shortly going down with the ankle injury. The team has seen a big upgrade from sophomore guard Chase Vicaire, who was able to put up 14 points a game. The big surprise this year for the Owls was the big man Thiago Conceicao, who is only a freshman but was able to average 14 points and 7 rebounds a game. The Owls finished the year with a 8-14 record after losing 10 of their last 14 games during the months of January and February. It was a tough final stretch for the Owls as they suffered a handful of close
game losses. However, they were able to pick up some big wins in the end like a 96-93 win over the #1 ranked CMCC Mustangs. Just like the women did, the men proved that rankings don’t matter when you’re in our house. Looking towards next season, the Owls will lose two stars in Michael Warner and Claude Louis, but they have many talented young players waiting to fill the roles. Freshmen Sean Manganti and Brandon McGill will develop into even better players and putting them on a floor with an already good Conceicao and Vicaire could mean trouble for other teams.
Michael Warner.
Chase Vicaire.
Tournament! Christopher Bowden STAFF WRITER
It’s been a great season for The Lady Owls basketball under new head coach Doug Carter piling up a very impressive record of 17-6 which earned them a spot in the GNAC tournament. The team is being led by senior guard Olivia McNally, who averaged 16 points in 22 games, along with the help of sophomore Amanda Hotham, who shined this year averaging 14 points and 7 rebounds per game. Also helping the cause was junior Rebecca Campbell, who after a year off from basketball returned and was a big help to the lady Owls, averaging 7 points and 7 rebounds, but also put a huge amount of energy to the court. Another player who
Rebecca Campbell.
shined this year was sophomore guard Darby Toth, averaging 9 points and 5 assist this season. Darby along with Hotham both made a big improvement from last season as they look like they will become great players to come in their last two years at UMPI. The Lady Owls had some exciting games this year, adding to a list of impressive wins on the way to their 17-6 record. One of them was the recent dramatic upset of the #1 ranked CMCC, in which a late put back by Hotham secured the Lady Owls the win. The Lady Owls are hoping to use the energy they’ve gained lately as they head into the GNAC conference tournament down in Washington D.C.
Olivia McNally.
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Spring Sport Preview Rebecca Campbell CONTRIBUTOR
This spring, UMPI’s sports are bringing a lot of variety. This adds to the abundance of our sports’ thrilling action that has already taken place this year. Between Softball, Baseball and Track, there is guaranteed to be plenty to look out for. From Dylan Worster’s wicked curve ball, to the dynamic duo of pitcher Krista Coffin and catcher Katie Patenaude, both sports will give spectators something exciting to watch. Track will also have the presence of Steve Wescott and Hilary Soucy to boost up the club program. If that isn’t enough, many seniors are scattered throughout each sport. All are certain to give everything they have for their last season as an UMPI Owl. Since the softball team has acquired four new players, head coach, Peter Coffin, spoke up about different things they could improve on. “Learning the college game and thinking one step ahead. It’s a thinking game and a lot of strategy.” Coffin also mentioned the team’s strengths. One of them is the returning players who have key positions from last year: pitcher Krista Coffin and third baseman Shannon Brown, to name a few.
After ending last season with a 7-22 record and losing a senior, Kellie Peers, there is room
to grow. The powerful group of girls will also be a factor to start fresh and make a lasting impression on this 2014 softball season. “This season will be full of growth and development,” Coffin said. “It’ll be a large learning curve.” Even though this season will have its ups and downs with this growing team, one thing is for sure: they are a close-knit team. They will help each other through everything and help the building process. That would definitely make any season one to remember. While the baseball team ended its 2013 season with a 1623 record, first-time UMPI Coach Michael Pankow anticipates this “senior heavy team” to give him the dedication and fire this team will need for a successful season. “Overall, I feel as though with the seniors we have that will lead this team, along with the talented underclassmen we are carrying, we have a chance to have a lot of success,” Pankow said. Even after losing six seniors last year, the talent and passion on the team is electrifying. With that passion, it is a goal for them to not just work together on and off the field, but to surpass their 16 wins from last season. When talking about what the team needs to be successful, Pankow said, “Just fitting in with our new philosophies and style of play will take a little time to adjust to. Anytime you have a new coach, there is going to be a learning curve. I am optimistic that the curve will be steep and we will get to the top of it soon.” But it didn’t stop there. He went on to discuss his personal goals for making this 2014 baseball season as successful as it
can be. “I also want to help keep developing this team as baseball players and as young men and women who are about to graduate and go out and do great things in this world.” If the team is as motivated and positive as the coach, this season will surely be one to remember. In our club sports, members of the track team are getting ready and anticipating a great and growing season. Coach Chris Smith, however, hopes there will be plenty of students interested in this sport to keep the program going. Smith also commented on the number of students he loses to scholarship programs elsewhere. “A lot of my runners would like it to be a varsity sport. We would need the money, sponsorships and funding to make that happen.” While it only has five intercollegiate meets, track still gets runners out to compete and anticipate. The program has generally throwers, jumpers and sprinters, while distance runners are also in the mix. On April 12, there will be a 5K (3.1 miles) Spring Run-off Road Race funded by student senate. This fundraiser is to benefit the Cross Country team Coach Smith coaches in the fall. The cost is $15 per participant, and the first 60 participants get a free T-shirt. In the next three months there is plenty to look out for and a lot to anticipate. The growth and dedication of these men and women are amazing and should not be overlooked. Look out for the softball doubleheader opener here at UMPI versus Maine Maritime on March 14 at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. The baseball team will have its home debut on May 3 versus EMCC at 12 p.m. and 3 p.m. Both teams are to play at the Presque Isle High School fields behind the school.
Pitcher Ghazaleh Sailors steps to the mound in UMPIʼs first game in Greensboro, N.C., where the Owls took on Guilford College with an 11-0 loss. Sailors gave up only five runs, struck out three batters and walked two in five innings. The second double-header game ended with a 12-2 loss.
The above picture shows the softball team from last year lining up to honor the national flag in the playing of the Star Spangled Banner. Coach Coffin can be seen at the far left side looking on to view the flag.
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21 UMPI students host 19th Fit and Fun Day Ma rch 7, 2 014
Honor and Recognition
!
Getting exercise while having fun? Thatʼs the goal of the 19th semi-annual Fit and Fun Day, which will “A Raisin In The Sun” Tracy Chapman, Grammy be held from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March Dick Harrison CONTRIBUTOR Robin Roberts, host, ABC’s award-winner singer-songwriter 15, in the University of Maine at February was Black History “Good Morning America” RuPaul Andre Charles, drag Presque Isleʼs Gentile Hall. Month, and it is important to Bayard Rustin, Black civil queen, author, singer, host
recognize and honor the contributions of LGBT black figures. They are often invisible or erased from the dominant narrative and there is an eerie silence about the LGBT public figures in black history. Here is a short list of black LGBT people, past and present, who have made noteworthy achievements in their personal or professional lives. Lorraine Hansberry, playwright
rights activist and Martin Luther King Jr.’s advisor who helped organize the 1963 March on Washington. Audre Lorde, poet James Baldwin, writer Billie Holiday, blues singer Langston Hughes, poet Michael Sam, NFL draft pick Alice Walker, Pulitzer Prizewinning author, “The Color Purple” Wanda Sykes - Emmy awardwinning comedian and actor
Jason Collins, NBA basketball player, Brooklyn Nets Billy T. Jones, choreographer, dancer. Alvin Ailey, Choreographer Frank Ocean, songwriter and hip hop musician John Amaechi, former NBA basketball player, Cleveland Cavaliers Josephine Baker, dancer, singer, actress
The Physical Education majors welcome kids ages 5 to 11 to participate in the event, which is designed to promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles for local children. Free registration begins at 9 a.m., with games and activities to follow. Team games, tag and cup stacking are just a few of the activities that are on the agenda for the day. As in past years, the pool and rock wall will be open from Noon to 1 p.m. (supervision provided), so those interested in using the facilities should plan to bring swim attire and a towel. Parents need to sign a release form in order for their children to use the swimming pool and rock wall. Forms will be provided during registration. Aspiring Athletic Trainers will be on hand for “Boo Boo Patrol” as well as to make sure everyone is both safe and well hydrated throughout the activities.
Frank Ocean.
Alice Walker.
RuPaul Andre Charles.
This free event is packed full of physical fun for children from the community. For more information, call Dr. Standefer at 207-768-9457 or email christine.standefer@umpi.edu.
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The Reel Deal: Major League (1989) Alexander Csiernik R 5/5 Stars
CONTRIBUTOR
The movie starts with the owner of the Cleveland Indians dead, and his wife, a former exotic dancer, wants to move the team from Cleveland to Miami. To be able to do this, the team has to have a horrible attendance record. Her plan to accomplish this is to bring in the worst baseball players she can find. Among these players are washed up catcher Jake Taylor (Tom Berenger), bad boy Ricky Vaughn (Charlie Sheen), and a no-namer Willie Mays Hays
(Wesley Snipes). The season begins as she expects and the team is horrible. As they start to come together and start to win, she tries to keep them losing. She makes them ride buses instead of planes and takes away the hot water. This may rally the team together, or it could break them apart. Also, Jake runs into an old flame Lynn Wells (Rene Russo) and tries to use this season to prove to her that he has turned his life around and that he is ready for a committed relationship. This classic baseball comedy has been around for many years but is appreciated by all. There are many quotable lines that are
still being used today and it may have also made the song “Wild Thing” a bit more popular in the late ‘80s and early ‘90s. The movie will keep you laughing as it is light hearted but has some serious moments as well. It is a good road trip movie or if you are just interested in having a laugh. The baseball play-byplay commentary by Harry Doyle (Bob Uecker) is hilarious and makes the movie worthwhile just for his part. All in all, this is a must see movie no matter if baseball is your favorite sport or if you have only seen a baseball game while changing the channel to HGTV.
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 sit y T i me s ! LI FES T YL E ! M arch 7, 201 4
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Star Trek Tech Jim Stepp
CONTRIBUTOR
I have mentioned before that I am a huge science and science fiction geek. Although I may embarrass my wife once in a while, I hold to this trait whenever possible. It was this love of science that got me into reading and watching science fiction shows and movies such as “Star Trek,” “Star Wars,” “2001: A Space Odyssey” and “Gravity.” I also love ready books by Frank Herbert, Isaac Asimov, Carl Sagan and Arthur C. Clark. Part of my reading and viewing caused me to wonder about things like warp drive and transporters and whether such technology would be possible. My curiosity was piqued when I read an article in the January 2012 edition of “Astronomy Magazine” entitled “The Science of Star Trek.” The distance between objects in space is big—very big. Distances are measured in millions of miles or in units called astronomical units or AUs (approximately 93 million miles to 1 AU) or light years (approximately 5.9 trillion miles). Using these measurements, Proxima Centauri, the nearest star to our solar system, is 4.22 light years or about 25 trillion miles way. This star is so far away it would take 76,000 years to get there if you were traveling at 40,000 miles per hour. Einstein’s Theory of Relativity states that no object can travel at or faster than the speed of light, but it does leave open the possibly of warping or bending space. Imagine space as a balloon. When we travel through space, we move along the outside of the balloon. But what if you could travel through the balloon instead of traveling on the outside of the balloon? You would be able to get to other places much more quickly.
This travelling through the balloon is like warping space. Theoretically we should be able to do this. But the amount of energy needed would be huge. One trip would take the energy released by a star going supernova. At this time, we just can’t produce that amount of energy. So I guess for now we will have to continue working on Ion Drives that will permit us to travel about 80,000 miles an hour. In Start Trek, warp drive was first achieved in 2063 by a man names Zefram Cochrane (See Star Trek: First Contact, 1996). With only 49 more years to go, we will have to start working harder to pull this off. “Beam me up” was an important line in “Star Trek.” With these few words, people and objects could be instantly transported large distances almost instantly. During this process, objects were dematerialized, transmitted, and then reassembled in a matter of seconds. Imagine how great this would
of storage and bandwidth. This storage and bandwidth is not available at this time. But who knows what the future will bring. The first use of transporters may be found in the series “Start Trek Enterprise,” which takes place around the year 2150.
be. If transporting were possible, you would be able to eat dinner in Paris and be back in Presque Isle in a matter of a couple hours. This process will probably never be possible. The amount of data needed to break down people and reassemble them would take trillions of megabyte
04:54–06:54 Venus. 21:42–06:42 Mars. 18:42–03:54 Jupiter. 00:00–06:24 Saturn.
20:54–06:24 Mars. 19:00–03:18 Jupiter. 23:18–06:06 Saturn.
03/01@02:59 New Moon.
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–
THE NIGHT SKY Go to www.heavensabove.com for exact times and locations. You will need to register at this site and load your location to be able to get exact times. The University of Maine at Presque Isle is located at 68d00m7.8s west longitude and 46d40m45.6s north latitude. To get a free sky chart go to www.skymaps.com. Sun and Planet Visibility 03/10/2013 06:54 Sunrise. 18:30 Sunset. 06:00–06:24 Mercury.
03/20/2013 06:35 Sunrise. 18:44 Sunset. 05:54–06:06 Mercury. 04:48–06:36 Venus.
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 degrees. 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.
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.
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Hang in there.....
It始s almost Spring Break!