Area students invited to SMU Chemistry Nights

Many area high school juniors and seniors (and their teachers) will be experiencing the importance of chemistry in an athlete’s life via hands-on experiments during upcoming Chemistry Nights at Saint Mary’s. Interested students are invited onto campus from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 23 and 30.

Chemistry Night, sponsored by the SMU Department of Chemistry and the La Crosse-Winona local section of the American Chemical Society, is an annual event designed to help students explore the discipline of chemistry and appreciate the positive role that chemistry plays in our everyday world.

Each year students solve a challenging but fun chemical problem, based on the National Chemistry Week (Oct. 19-25) theme. This year’s theme is “Having a Ball with Chemistry – The Chemistry of Sports.”

Students will work in small teams, using wet chemistry and working with chemical instrumentation in the SMU Department of Chemistry, under the guidance of SMU chemistry majors.

Prizes will be awarded to the teams that have the greatest success in solving the chemical problems arising within the sports area. Prizes will include SMU scholarships of $2,000 and $1,000.

The event is free, and there are still openings. Students who are interested should have their high school science teachers contact Dr. Jim Vogel at Ext. 1558.

Page Series to feature African song, dance Oct. 28

The Song and Dance Ensemble of West Africa will combine various African music styles into an explosion of color, sound and dance, beginning at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 28, on the Page Theater stage.

Dressed in colorful costumes, the ensemble’s two-dozen musicians will blend together traditional African rhythms, instruments, folklore and mythology to create a beautiful musical performance. The ensemble incorporates authentic oral, musical and dance styles from African nations such as Togo, Senegal, Guinea, Ghana, Benin, The Ivory Coast and Mauritania.

Past notable performers for the ensemble include singer Oumou Sangare and Toumany Diabate, the prince of Kora. The ensemble has performed many concerts around the world, including stops in France, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Belgium and the Antilles.

Tickets for the Page Theatre performance are $22, $18 for seniors, $18 for students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office,Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Career Services offers upcoming events

Career Fair 2008
Career Fair 2008, co-sponsored by SMU’s Career Services, Winona State University, and Minnesota State College-Southeast Technical, is fast approaching. It is scheduled for noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 22, in WSU’s McCown gymnasium. This event is free and is open to all students, freshmen through seniors. More than 100 employers and graduate schools are registered to attend. It is a beneficial event, whether you are looking for information about a particular career or company, seeking an internship, job-hunting, or researching graduate schools. For information on the companies and graduate schools attending, students can look online at www.smumn.edu/careerservices and click on the “career fair” link. A number of employers will be interviewing candidates for full-time career and internship opportunities the day after the fair, on Thursday, Oct. 23. You can interview with these employers by signing up with the career services office.

A shuttle will first depart at 11:30 a.m. and shuttles then leave every hour between noon and 3 p.m.

Government Fair
The Minnesota College & University Career Services Association is sponsoring the fifth annual Government Fair on Friday, Oct. 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Great Hall of the Coffman Memorial Union at the University of Minnesota campus in Minneapolis. Students can find out how to start their career in government by attending this fair. This fair is open to all students, freshmen through seniors. A list of the government agencies attending can be found at www.mcucsa.org/govjobfair. Registration is due Friday, Oct. 17, in Saint Mary’s Hall, Room 136.

Blue Angel music show set for Oct. 31 and Nov. 1

The SMU annual music variety show, Blue Angel, is planned for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 31 and Nov. 1.

Auditions for the show will be Oct. 17-18 and are open to the SMU community. Look for a sign-up sheet on The Phi Mu Alpha room door in the basement of the Toner Student Center.

For more information, contact Neil Leibundguth at nmleib05@smumn.edu or Rob Brewer at rkbrew07@smumn.edu.

SMU to welcome students from Chicago San Miguel

Sixth-graders from the San Miguel School in Chicago are visiting Saint Mary’s Oct. 19-23 and Oct. 26-30.

San Miguel is a Christian Brothers’ mission school, part of a nationwide network of schools dedicated to teaching underserved populations of urban and rural school children. The Chicago school, located in a Mexican-American immigrant neighborhood, serves primarily children whose first language is Spanish, but they are also fluent in English.

The goals of the program are to acquaint these children with college life and begin to inspire them to consider post-secondary education. The program also gives Saint Mary’s students – particularly education students – the opportunity to work with urban children from another culture.

While in Winona these students stay with Saint Mary’s host families. The program has fostered a close relationship between San Miguel and Saint Mary’s. Many Saint Mary’s alums work or volunteer in the San Miguel Schools.

Saint Mary’s is still looking for a host family for each of the two weeks. The first week, a female student is in need of a host family that does not possess a dog. In the second week, two boys are looking for a family to host them. Being a host family is a great way to represent Saint Mary’s and the Lasallian community at large.

SMU community raises funds for charities

The generous SMU community raised $592 at the September “Jeans for a Cause” drive and added a new record of $485 at the October “Let’s Do Lunch,” sponsored by athletics.

The next “Let’s Do Lunch” will be held on Friday, Dec. 5, hosted by the SMU Cabinet. All proceeds from these events will benefit SMU Nairobi students.

Spartz gives presentations at the University of Kansas

Jason Spartz, information technology manager for Multimedia Systems, recently gave two presentations during the Consortium of College and University Media Centers 2008 Annual Conference in Lawrence, Kan. The first presentation was titled “A Tale of Two Universities in One Town: Classroom Design and Divergent Philosophies.” This session was co-presented with Tom Hill, director of Media Services at Winona State University. The second presentation given was titled “Class-Capture with Tegrity at Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota.” The conference was held Oct. 2-6.

Biology speaker lineup announced

Oct. 16 — Georgette McCauly, current SMU student, “Minnesota Future Doctors.”

Oct. 23 — Dr. Deb Martin, biology professor, “B-Glucanases in Oats.”

All biology seminars will begin at 4 p.m. in Hoffman Hall, Room 112.

‘Buzz Saw’ reading is Oct. 17 at historical society

The Winona County Historical Society is presenting a stage reading of “Buzz Saw,” a play written by SMU professor emeritus Michael Flanagan. It is being presented at the Winona County Historical Society on Friday, Oct. 17, at 7 p.m. Admission for the reading is free, and the presentation will be followed by a discussion and reception.

The play deals with Winonan Mat Wagner, who ran for mayor of Winona in the depth of the Depression in 1931. Two days before the election, he sold 600 dozen eggs to people for 1 cent per dozen when they were going for about 18 cents per dozen. He also put out a newspaper called the “Buzz Saw,” in which he accused local Winona officials of doing all sorts of civically inappropriate things. Two days later he was elected Mayor of Winona, but then ran into considerable legal hassles because of the eggs and the “Buzz Saw.”

Included in the staged reading cast are Ray Felton, Ken McCullough, Orion McCullough-Smith, Sarah Landman, Eric Sorenson, Patrick Marek, Justin Vann, Dan Munson, John Kerr, John Edstrom, Rod Oppreicht, Margaret Shaw Johnson, and Ethan Krase.

The reading is being presented by Theatre du Mississippi, with theatre committee members Lynn Nankivil and Sarah Aydlett coordinating. The presentation is directed by Judith Schmidt.

For more information, call the Winona County Historical Society at 454-2723.

Gallery show features computer illustration series

California artist Tom Lundquist will display images from his “Poissons de Chant” series — including #29 “Pursued by sheep, Joey Poisson adopts a desperate strategy” — Sept. 26 through Oct. 31 at Saint Mary’s University.

Tom Lundquist, a Minneapolis native and faculty member at Santa Monica College, Calif., is displaying images from his “Poissons de Chant” series through Oct. 31 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Lundquist’s digital image series illustrates the adventures of a mythical troupe of singing fish from Montreal. To learn more about Lundquist’s work, go to http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/tomlundquist.

Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Volunteer Services plans ‘Make a Difference Day’

In recognition of national “Make a Difference Day,” Saint Mary’s Volunteer Services group has invited Winona nonprofit agencies to submit requests for service.

Approximately 150 Saint Mary’s University students will be teamed up from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help groups and organizations on Saturday, Oct. 25, in recognition of “Make a Difference Day.”

“Make a Difference Day” is the most encompassing national day of helping others, a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors. Created by USA WEEKEND magazine, this annual event takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October.

For more information, call Katie LaPlant at Ext. 6936 or e-mail volunteerservices@smumn.edu.

Brother William Mann inaugurated as 13th president

Saint Mary’s inaugurated its 13th president, Brother William Mann, FSC, in front of a crowd of 1,200 on Friday, Sept. 26.

The university’s website now features a link to photos, video and other information about the event. Go to the web homepage, www.smumn.edu, and click on the graphic or the link at the top.

Saint Mary’s to host Sylvia Nasar as part of Global Citizenship Symposium

Professor Sylvia Nasar, author of “A Beautiful Mind” and First Knight Professor of Business Journalism at Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism, will speak at both Saint Mary’s and Viterbo University in La Crosse at the end of October.

At Saint Mary’s, her presentation, “Globalization Then and Now: Historical Parallels to Contemporary Events,” will begin at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 30, in the Common Room. She writes, “What was true during the first wave of globalization in the 19th century is still true today. As Thomas Carlyle insisted in 1940, ‘What you have is less important than what you do with what you have.’ ” The event is free and open to the public; no registration is required.

Nasar’s keynote presentation highlights the Global Citizenship Symposium, planned for Oct. 30-31 at SMU’s Common Room. The symposium is sponsored by the SMU Department of Social Sciences and Provost’s Office and is free and open to the public. Other universities participating and attending include Winona State University, Viterbo University and University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Thursday

Creating Sustainable Communities: Environmental Imperatives and Human Responses

11:30 a.m. — Land Stewardship Project, Lewiston, Minn.
12:15 p.m. — Lunch
1:15-1:30 p.m. — “Renewable Energy in Sustainable Development,” Pat Papachristou, Christian Brothers University, with Thomas Harris, UW-La Crosse, as discussant

Lasallian Perspectives on Global Citizenship: Meaning, Purpose and Practice

2:30 p.m. — “Lasallian Perspective on Global Citizenship: A Historical Review,” Richard Tristano, SMU; “Why Should I Care?: Student Responses to Darfur,” Stephen Pattee, SMU; “Bethlehem University,” Dorothy Diehl, SMU, with Joyce Altobelli, SMU, as discussant.

Friday

Living Locally and Visioning Globally: Scholarship, Research, Performance and Service Regarding 21st Century Citizenship

10 a.m. — “Citizenship, diversity and community programs,” Project FINE of Winona
11 a.m. — “Global Trade,” David Lynch, Saint Mary’s
Noon — Lunch
1:15 p.m. — “Globalization of Crime,” Tim Kullman, UW-La Crosse
1:45 p.m. — “Globalization” open discussion with Cecilia Manrique, UW-La Crosse as discussant
2:15 p.m. — “Creating Community Within Profit-Centered Organizations: Pitfalls and Possibilities” open discussion with Jeff Hefel, SMU, as discussant.

Reel Big Fish to headline Oct. 9 concert at Saint Mary’s

Reel Big Fish, a horn-driven ska punk band from California, will headline a Thursday, Oct. 9, concert at Saint Mary’s.

Doors to the gym will open at 6 p.m.; an opening band (Danger is My Middle Name) will perform at 7 p.m., and Reel Big Fish will take the stage at 8 p.m.

Reel Big Fish is best known for the 1997 hit “Sell Out.” The band gained mainstream recognition during the 1990s. In 1998, the band appeared in the movie BASEketball, performing in the stands to pump up the crowd. Their performance at SMU connects their tours in Canada and Brazil.

Tickets are $15 for the general public. Saint Mary’s students will be admitted for free and have the option of purchasing a $10 additional ticket. SMU faculty and staff also pay $10. Tickets are available via the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.smumn.edu/concert. The event is hosted by SMU’s Student Activities Committee.

Page Series opens Oct. 8 with Compañia Flamenco

Saint Mary’s Page Series will come alive with music, fiery footwork and brilliant costumes when Compañia Flamenco José Porcel takes the stage Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Known for their superb flamenco performances, José Porcel and his company of talented dancers will bring an explosion of rhythms, colors and emotions of the Spanish people to Page Theatre, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

A flamenco performance gives spectators an overwhelming sensation of happiness, a joyful and sensual mood. The October program features eight dances, ranging from electrifying solos by Porcel to larger pieces for the company of eight men and women. In addition, the audience will be treated to live performances by a musical ensemble and traditional flamenco singers.

Tickets for the performance are $22, $18 for seniors, $18 for students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Ernesto Calvo, Compañia Flamenco Jose Porcel’s road manager, will present a free pre-show presentation, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Figuilo Recital Hall, located adjacent to Page Theatre. Calvo will introduce flamenco, its history and place in Iberian culture. He will also provide insights into the evening’s performance, including styles, forms, and historical aspects of the dance and music.

New this year will be “student rush tickets.” Any student can purchase a “rush” ticket 20 minutes before the beginning of an event for $10. Students provide a valid picture ID; there’s a limit of one ticket per student and no reserved seats.

Saint Mary’s to host disc golf open Oct. 18

Saint Mary’s and Innova Disc Golf will co-sponsor a public disc golf tournament Saturday, Oct. 18.

The tournament will be held on The Woods disc golf course and will include two rounds of 18-hole amateur recreational play.

Registration begins at 9 a.m. in the Toner Student Center. The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m., and the second round will begin at 1:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places.

Pre-register for the event at www.smumn.edu/thewoods or send registration form and money to the Office of Outdoor Leadership at Saint Mary’s University, 700 Terrace Heights #1490, Winona, MN 55987.

The cost for both rounds is $15 for students and $25 for the general public. Proceeds will go to maintaining the disc golf course and the Outdoor Leadership Program.

Each participant will receive a commemorative Innova Fairway Driver Disc. On holes 1 and 18 players will have the opportunity to purchase a $3 “Ace Pot” buy-in. For more information. go to www.smumn.edu/thewoods or e-mail Davey Warner at outdoorleadership@smumn.edu.

Kabara Institute hosts Greenies® founders

The Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies will host a presentation by Joe and Judy Roetheli, founders of Greenies® dog treats at 4 p.m. Monday, Oct. 6, in Salvi Hall. The event is open to all faculty, staff and students.

It took less than 10 years for Joe and Judy Roetheli of Kansas City, Mo., to conceptualize, produce and market the No. 1-selling treat for dogs in the United States. Greenies® helps clean dogs’ teeth and freshen their breath.

The Roethelis are also compassionate givers, having founded The Roetheli Lil’ Red Foundation which supports a variety of initiatives — including pet therapy for the elderly, building homes in third-world countries in conjunction with Food for the Poor, and supporting entrepreneur programs around the nation.

The Roethelis will share their entrepreneurial story of passion and persistence and their philosophical approach to business. They encourage young people to think and act upon their dreams and hopefully make life better for themselves and others.

For more information, contact Dominic Lawrence, Ext. 1486, or dlawrenc@smumn.edu.

Get election coverage from the library

Encourage students to become engaged in this election cycle. Point them in the direction of the library’s “Elections 2008” page at www2.smumn.edu/deptpages/winlibrary/find/find_ws_elections.html. Here they will find reliable, non-partisan information about the candidates and where they stand on the issues; analysis of ads, speeches, and debates; examination of the money trail; links to party and candidate websites; as well as information about how to register to vote. If you have sites you would like to see added to this page, contact Ruth Torstenson-LeMasters at rtorsten@smumn.edu.

Upcoming volunteer committee activities announced

The October “Jeans for a Cause” stickers are ready. With five Fridays in October, your $10 donation will entitle you to five days of comfort. You may also purchase stickers, individually, each Friday for $3 .

The first “Let's Do Lunch” is scheduled for Wednesday, Oct. 8, in the lobby of the hockey rink. Lunch will be served between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Athletics will provide the standard “tailgate” food; the volunteer committee will provide paper products, desserts and water.

Though it is not necessary, you may bring a dish to pass. Be sure to bring your appetite and a free-will offering. All proceeds will benefit SMU Nairobi students.

Maintenance hosts today’s First Friday

The Maintenance department in Skemp Hall 58 will host the October First Friday gathering from 8 a.m. to 9:30 a.m. today, Oct. 3. There will be assorted beverages and a complimentary breakfast.

Depression screening to be held on Oct. 8

SMU Counseling Services will participate in National Depression Screening Day on Wednesday, Oct. 8. Screenings will be offered from 10 a.m. through 4 p.m. in the Wellness Center in the lower level of the Toner Center.

One out of four young adults are likely to experience a depressive episode by age 24, according to information provided by the Health Minds Project of the American Psychological Association.

Major depression is a serious common medical condition that involves the mind and body. Many people don’t realize that there are emotional and physical symptoms of depression. Depression significantly affects a person’s appetite, sleep, energy, thinking, self-esteem and physical well-being. The symptoms are persistent and not the same as a temporary blue mood or normal emotional experiences such as sadness or grief. Depression can have severe consequences in terms of suffering and disability.

For more information about depression and other college mental health issues, go to www.healthyminds.org/collegementalhealth.cfm.

For more information about SMU’s Depression Screening Day on Oct. 8, call Counseling Services at Ext. 1773.

Biology speaker lineup announced

Oct. 9 — Dr. Phil Cochran, biology professor, “Some Biological Effects of Severe Flooding in SE Minnesota.”

Oct. 16 — Georgette McCauly, current SMU student, “Minnesota Future Doctors.”

Oct. 23 — Dr. Deb Martin, biology professor, “B-Glucanases in Oats.”

All biology seminars will begin at 4 p.m. in Hoffman Hall, Room 112.

Jazz events

The John Paulson Quartet will be performing at the Starlite Lounge in La Crosse, Wis., from 8 to midnight on Oct. 4.

John Paulson and the Cliff Jack duo will perform 6 to 9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 7, in the Redwood Room, Broadstreet Cafe, Rochester.

Schild published in Winona Daily News

Dr. Steve Schild, Social Science, wrote a Sept. 14 column in the Winona Daily News pointing out that readers are not always aware of significant differences that sometimes exist between newspapers’ online and print versions. The column, titled “Two news sources with one name,” can be read at www.winonadailynews.com/articles/2008/09/14/opinion/otherviews/01schild.txt.

SMU marching in Plymouth parade Saturday

This Saturday, Oct. 4, staff from Saint Mary’s Twin Cities campus will march in our first-ever Plymouth parade. This is a great opportunity to engage the local community and increase awareness of Saint Mary’s University in the west metro.

Next Hendrickson speaker is Australian John Howard

The keynote speaker for this year’s Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership Forum will be John Howard. The event is planned for April 21.

As the prime minister of Australia from March 1996 until November 2007, the Honorable John Winston Howard served a distinctively Western role in the Asian-Pacific Rim. Howard approached his responsibilities from a global viewpoint, providing economic vision and security strategies that raised Australia's profile and impact around the world as well as improving economic stability at home.

Howard will discuss the role of world leaders in a new century, addressing the growing concerns of globalization and global economics, the environment, and threats to international security. He will explain in what ways, and to what degrees, China, India and the Pacific Rim may participate. Finally, he will respond to questions submitted by Forum participants.

A block of complimentary tickets have been reserved for faculty and staff and reduced-price $40 tickets are available for additional alumni, faculty and staff; student tickets are $10. General admission tickets will be $50.

Please save the date and await further details:
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
3– 5 p.m., reception to follow
Nicollet Island Pavilion
40 Power Street, Minneapolis

Gallery show features computer illustration series

California artist Tom Lundquist will display images from his “Poissons de Chant” series — including #29 “Pursued by sheep, Joey Poisson adopts a desperate strategy” — Sept. 26 through Oct. 31 at Saint Mary’s University.

Tom Lundquist, a Minneapolis native and faculty member at Santa Monica College, Calif., is displaying images from his “Poissons de Chant” series through Oct. 31 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Lundquist’s digital image series illustrates the adventures of a mythical troupe of singing fish from Montreal. To learn more about Lundquist’s work, go to http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/tomlundquist.

Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Kowles gives presentation at Winona State University

Dr. Richard Kowles, professor emeritus in biology, gave a presentation at Winona State University on Friday, Sept. 19. His talk was titled “The Mysterious B Chromosome.” The seminar presented data from a series of experiments that Dr. Kowles and several Saint Mary’s students conducted with this very weird chromosome in maize (corn). B chromosomes in some organisms, in this case maize, seem to have no function or advantage to the organism that possesses them; hence, they are mysterious. Dr. Kowles presented this research to approximately 80 Winona State University genetics students.

Volunteer Services plans ‘Make a Difference Day’

In recognition of national “Make a Difference Day,” Saint Mary’s Volunteer Services group has invited Winona nonprofit agencies to submit requests for service.

Approximately 150 Saint Mary’s University students will be teamed up from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help groups and organizations on Saturday, Oct. 25, in recognition of “Make a Difference Day.”

“Make a Difference Day” is the most encompassing national day of helping others, a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors. Created by USA WEEKEND magazine, this annual event takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October.

For more information, call Katie LaPlant at Ext. 6936 or e-mail volunteerservices@smumn.edu.

Faculty invited to open house at Marine Art Museum

Saint Mary’s faculty members are invited to a College and University Faculty Open House at the Minnesota Marine Art Museum from 5 to 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 7. Drop in to explore the galleries, have a glass of wine and learn about all the ways that their programs can fit into your curriculum.

Tuesdays are free for college and university students with a valid ID. The museum is open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays. Tours are available for classes. You may schedule a docent-led tour or take a self-guided tour. The cost is $2 per student. (Self-guided tours on Tuesdays are FREE.) There is a minimum of 10 people, and two-weeks advanced notice is required.

Classes cancelled in honor of Brother William’s inauguration

All classes are cancelled on Sept. 26, so that faculty, staff and students are able to attend inauguration festivities. Mass will begin at 10 a.m. in the chapel.

Lunch will be served in the Toner Student Center, starting at 11:45 a.m.; faculty and staff will be dining upstairs. Robing begins at 1 p.m. The convocation begins at 2 p.m. in the gym, and will be followed by a reception in the fieldhouse.

Call Deb Nahrgang, Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu, with questions.

Reel Big Fish to headline Oct. 9 concert at Saint Mary’s

Reel Big Fish, a horn-driven ska punk band from California, will headline a Thursday, Oct. 9, concert at Saint Mary’s.

Doors to the gym will open at 6 p.m.; an opening band (Danger is My Middle Name) will perform at 7 p.m., and Reel Big Fish will take the stage at 8 p.m.

Reel Big Fish is best known for the 1997 hit “Sell Out.” The band gained mainstream recognition during the 1990s. In 1998, the band appeared in the movie BASEketball, performing in the stands to pump up the crowd. Their performance at SMU connects their tours in Canada and Brazil.

Tickets are $15 for the general public. Saint Mary’s students will be admitted for free and have the option of purchasing a $10 additional ticket. SMU faculty and staff also pay $10. Tickets are available via the SMU Box Office, Ext.1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.smumn.edu/concert. The event is hosted by SMU’s Student Activities Committee.

Page Series opens Oct. 8 with Compañia Flamenco

Saint Mary’s Page Series will come alive with music, fiery footwork and brilliant costumes when Compañia Flamenco José Porcel takes the stage Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Known for their superb flamenco performances, José Porcel and his company of talented dancers will bring an explosion of rhythms, colors and emotions of the Spanish people to Page Theatre, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

A flamenco performance gives spectators an overwhelming sensation of happiness, a joyful and sensual mood. The October program features eight dances, ranging from electrifying solos by Porcel to larger pieces for the company of eight men and women. In addition, the audience will be treated to live performances by a musical ensemble and traditional flamenco singers.

Tickets for the performance are $22, $18 for seniors, $18 for students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Ernesto Calvo, Compañia Flamenco Jose Porcel’s road manager, will present a free pre-show presentation, beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Figuilo Recital Hall, located adjacent to Page Theatre. Calvo will introduce flamenco, its history and place in Iberian culture. He will also provide insights into the evening’s performance, including styles, forms, and historical aspects of the dance and music.

New this year will be “student rush tickets.” Any student can purchase a “rush” ticket 20 minutes before the beginning of an event for $10. Students provide a valid picture ID; there’s a limit of one ticket per student and no reserved seats.

Saint Mary’s to host disc golf open Oct. 18

Saint Mary’s University and Innova Disc Golf will co-sponsor a 36-hole disc golf tournament Saturday, Oct. 18.

The tournament — open to the public — will be held on The Woods disc golf course. Beginners are encouraged to participate. Check-in starts at 9 a.m. in the Toner Student Center. The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m., and the second round will begin at 1:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places.

Pre-register for the event at www.smumn.edu/thewoods. The cost for two rounds of 18 holes is $15 for students and $25 for the general public. Proceeds will go to maintaining the disc golf course and the Outdoor Leadership Program. Each participant will receive a commemorative Innova Fairway Driver Disc. On holes 1 and 18 there will be a $3 “Ace Pot” buy-in for confident players.

For more information, go to www.smumn.edu/thewoods or e-mail Davey Warner at outdoorleadership@smumn.edu

SMU family weekend events set for Sept. 26 - 28

The 21st Fall Frolic 5K fun run/walk will be held during Saint Mary’s University’s Family Weekend on Saturday, Sept. 27. The event, held annually, is free to SMU students, faculty and staff, but is open to the community as well. Typically close to 500 people participate; competitors of all levels (including walkers) are welcome.

Registration will run from 8 to 9:30 a.m. in SMU’s Toner Student Center. The race begins at 10 a.m. The $8 cost includes a T-shirt.

Participants will enjoy the beautiful bluff trails of SMU’s Winona campus. Registration forms — as well as a complete weekend schedule — are available online at www.smumn.edu/familyweekend.

Family Weekend, which runs Sept. 26-28, includes a full slate of activities for families of students and the SMU community. In previous years, as many as 1,000 visitors have come onto campus for Family Weekend music and theatre events, sporting events, the Fall Frolic, and other games and activities.

Kaplan-commissioned piece to highlight SMU Concert Band, choirs concert Sept. 27

Marc Bernstein

The SMU Concert Band and three SMU choral ensembles will combine talents for a Family Weekend performance at 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 27, in Page Theater.

The concert will mark the world premiere performance of “Ashkenazi Fathers,” composed for the SMU Concert Band by internationally recognized jazz saxophonist Marc Bernstein through the support of the Sam and Helen Kaplan Foundation. “Ashkenazi Fathers” is a celebration of the Jewish faith, especially the role fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers play in the lives of their children.

This performance marks the fifth in a series of commissions by the SMU Concert Band through the Helen and Sam Kaplan Foundation, which supports performances and activities led by Jewish artists and scholars that are designed to increase cultural and religious understanding at Saint Mary’s.

Bernstein will present a special composer’s conversation, just prior to the performance, at 1:30 p.m. Saturday in Page Theatre. During this conversation, the composer will discuss the cultural inspiration for his piece and the evolution of his work.

The audience is also invited to join the performers for a reception honoring Bernstein after the concert.

Bernstein will travel from his home in Denmark to Saint Mary’s the week prior to the performance to serve in residency. He will rehearse with the band and work with SMU students in a variety of classes and rehearsals.
For more information about Bernstein, go to www.marcmusic.info.

The Concert Band, under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, will open with Steven Reineke’s “Celebration Fanfare,” an exciting new work published just last year. Next the ensemble will play the hauntingly beautiful “As Summer was Just Beginning” — subtitled “Song for James Dean” — written by Larry Daehn in memory of actor James Byron Dean, who was tragically killed in a car accident at age 24 after a brief film career. “Ashkenazi Fathers” will conclude the first half of the Concert Band performance. A Saint Mary’s jazz combo will join the concert band for the premiere piece, and Bernstein will serve as the featured soprano saxophone soloist.

The second half of the concert features the SMU Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea, joined the Women’s Choir, directed by Lindsy O’Shea. Choral selections will include works by Schumann, Morley, Hassler, Nystedt, Mulholland, and choral arrangements by Philip Lawson and Bob Chilcott of the King’s Singers.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students or seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

SMU alum to enlighten students Sept. 25

As part of the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies, Todd VonBastiaans, a 1994 Saint Mary’s alum, will speak about how he has used his theatre set and lighting background to create a successful entrepreneurial venture on Thursday, Sept. 25. As the owner of Alios, VonBastiaans oversees many of the lights around Las Vegas. He also owns the Atomic Todd gallery in the prominant arts district of Las Vegas.

VonBastiaans will make a presentation, beginning at 4 p.m. in Salvi Hall, on how possible it is to chase your dream and shine. Admission is free and open to all students, faculty and staff. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information, contact Dominic Lawrence at Ext. 1486 or dlawrenc@smumn.edu.

Saint Mary’s to stage comedy ‘Bus Stop’ Sept. 25-28

Despite being trapped in a howling snowstorm, weary bus travelers find love and romance in a cheerful roadside diner during the Saint Mary’s Department of Theatre Arts production of “Bus Stop” Sept. 25-28, coinciding with SMU’s Family Weekend.

In this playful romantic comedy, written by William Inge and directed by Judy Myers, Cherie, a young and pretty nightclub singer has been kidnapped by a lovesick 21-year-old cowboy with a ranch of his own (and the romantic methods of an unusually headstrong bull). Romances blossom as audiences are introduced to a roomful of colorful characters including an inebriated English professor, a virtuous bus driver and many more.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Sept. 25, 26 and 27. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28.

Tickets for the performance — to be held in the Page Theatre — are $10, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

2008 study shows positive results for Tegrity students

A new study by Saint Mary’s concluded that students who used Tegrity tended to have a higher cumulative GPA than those who didn't.

Tegrity Campus 2.0 is a Web service that captures classroom lectures and digital materials for playback. Saint Mary’s initially deployed Tegrity in a proof of concept study with a small number of faculty teaching undergraduate courses. Within five semesters, more than half the faculty had adopted Tegrity's class capture service across several departments and more than 100 course sections. During 2007, Saint Mary's faculty created 5,023 recordings.

In spring 2008, faculty and administration conducted a survey of students to determine the impact of Tegrity on student learning. Of the 862 student respondents, which included both users and non-users, 65 percent reported that Tegrity increased their focus on the most important learning objectives for the course. Six out of 10 respondents reported that Tegrity increased their preparation for exams, overall performance on tests, and increased satisfaction with courses and course material.

Cumulative grade point average (GPA) was proven to be significantly higher for Tegrity users than for non-users.

Saint Mary’s students to present jazz concert Sept. 26

Two Saint Mary’s University jazz groups, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will kick off the year with a concert 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, in Figliulo Recital Hall — in conjunction with SMU’s Family Weekend.

Internationally recognized jazz saxophonist Marc Bernstein — at SMU through the Helen and Sam Kaplan Foundation — will join students onstage.

The 18-piece Jazz Ensemble and six-piece Jazz Combo I will perform from 6 to 7 p.m.

Jazz Combo I will play popular selections from the swing era and contemporary jazz. Student soloists in the combo include alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams of Little Falls, guitarist Sam Courtier of Red Wing, and Tom Briese on trombone from Rochester. The big band will play favorites from big band classics as well as new selections from today’s greatest arrangers. Student soloists in the big band include Peter Waldorf of Bloomington, Ill., on trumpet along with Courtier and Briese.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students or seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Free tickets available for faculty, staff

Faculty and staff are able to obtain two free tickets to any SMU-produced event (excluding the Page Series and “The Nutcracker”) — including Family Weekend performances by the jazz ensembles, Concert Band and choir ensembles, and theatre department presentation of “Bus Stop.”

Faculty and staff must come to the box office with your ID to claim your tickets

Biology student, alum to discuss Mayo Scholars, insulin

Bethany Kaufmann (a current SMU student), will discuss “The Mayo Scholars Program” Thursday, Sept. 25.

Nora Sadek ‘08 will present “Insulin stimulants, lung fluid clearance and alveolar cell sodium pump” Thursday, Oct. 2. Sadek spent this past summer at LSSURP on the University of Minnesota campus.

Both events will be held at 4 p.m. in Hoffman Hall, Room 112.

Gaut speaks about Winona’s preservation history

Dr. Greg Gaut, Department of History, made a presentation on Winona’s history of conflicts over preservation titled “The Elusive Big Picture: Preservation in Winona” at the 28th annual Statewide Historic Preservation Conference. The conference was held at Carleton College in Northfield on Sept. 19-20.

He was one of three members of the Winona Heritage Preservation Commission representing the city at the event.

Maryknoll annouces new book

Maryknoll Instute of African Studies has added to its list of publications the book “African Cultural Domains: Life Cycle of an Individual.” This follows on its earlier publication on African cultural themes. As the previous book, this book is a product of the responses of students from the institute coming from different parts of the world.

This book, the first in a series of four, focuses on the activities, events, attitudes and rituals of an individual from birth to death and beyond. The link with the “African Cultural Knowledge” book is that the cultural knowledge (themes) gives meaning to the activities, events, attitudes and rituals that unfold in a person’s life as presented in this book.

Copies of the book can be obtained for $10 at www.africancultures.org.

SMU announces changes to staff

New employees:
Thom Peart, Sept. 8, Athletics — Asst. Hockey Coach.

Leaving employees:
Minhaz Zafar, Sept. 30, TC — iT Support Technician

Pauslon Quartet to perform in La Crosse Oct. 4

The John Pauslon Quartet will be performing at the Starlite Lounge in La Crosse, Wis., from 8 to midnight on Oct. 4.

Next gallery show to feature computer illustration series

California artist Tom Lundquist will display images from his “Poissons de Chant” series — including #29 “Pursued by sheep, Joey Poisson adopts a desperate strategy” — Sept. 26 through Oct. 31 at Saint Mary’s University.

Tom Lundquist, a Minneapolis native and faculty member at Santa Monica College, Calif., will display images from his “Poissons de Chant” series Sept. 26 through Oct. 31 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Lundquist’s digital image series illustrates the adventures of a mythical troupe of singing fish from Montreal. Most of the characters are production assistants, agents, accountants, or animal performers that work for the fish. The elaborate narrative suggested in the prints doesn’t really exist. Though a number of people have suggested that Lundquist write a story to go with the illustrations, he says the only thing he really enjoys doing is making pictures. Lundquist has created an intricate fantasy world that will test your imagination. To learn more about Lundquist’s work, go to http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/tomlundquist.

Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Speakers to address homelessness Sept. 30

Mikkel Beckmen (executive director of St. Stephens Human Services in Minneapolis) and Charlie Parr (Duluth-based blues musician) will dialogue about the problem of homelessness at 10:45 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at the Damian Common Room at Watters Hall.

The pair are being hosted by the Lasallian Honors Program with the aim of fostering a dialogue, not only with honors students who are doing immersion experiences in Minneapolis through St. Stephens, but also with anyone interested in service-learning in general or in homelessness in particular.

The event will consist of a performance of four songs by Parr and a brief 5- to 10- minute lecture by Beckmen on homelessness and the work of St. Stephens. Additionally, students in LH 405 who have completed “A Day in the Life” will give short statements or testimonies.

Classes cancelled in honor of Brother William’s inauguration

All classes are cancelled on Sept. 26, so that faculty, staff and students are able to attend inauguration festivities. Mass will begin at 10 a.m. in the chapel.

Lunch will be served in the Toner Student Center, starting at 11:45 a.m.; faculty and staff will be dining upstairs. Robing begins at 1 p.m. The convocation begins at 2 p.m. in the gym, and will be followed by a reception in the fieldhouse.

Call Deb Nahrgang, Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu, with questions. For more details, go to www.smumn.edu/inauguration.

Athletes, alumni honored at ‘M’ Club weekend festivities

Coach Don Olson was recognized by Athletic Director Nikki Fennern and Brother President William Mann.

Cassie Otte ’09 and Brady Knudsen ’08 were named Saint Mary's University's Outstanding Male and Female Athletes.

The 2008 Sports Hall of Fame inductees included, from left: Dick Kuehl ’57, Diane Kuehl (on behalf of her husband, the late Duane Kuehl ’58), Jen Garin ’99, Katie Kortsch ’95, and Brad Wiley ’90.

In recognition of their 2008 baseball and softball successes Brady Knudsen ’08 and Cassie Otte ’09 were named Saint Mary’s Outstanding Male and Female Athletes during the Cardinal ‘M’ Club Sports Hall of Fame and Awards Ceremony Sept. 13. Kevin Black ’08 and Kasey Schultz ’08 were named SMU’s Outstanding Male and Female Scholar Athletes.

Saturday evening’s festivities also included the induction of five new members into the SMU Sports Hall of Fame: Jen Garin ’99 (fastpitch softball), Dick Kuehl ’57 (baseball), Duane Kuehl ’58 (baseball, posthumously), Katie Kortsch ’95 (women’s soccer) and Brad Wiley ’90 (men’s hockey).

In a special portion of Saturday’s ceremony, longtime hockey coach and athletic director Don Olson was recognized for his 32 years of service to Saint Mary’s; retiring faculty athletic representative Larry Luttmers was also honored.

The weekend kicked off with the seventh annual Cardinal ‘M’ Club golf outing, where more than 120 golfers converged on the Cedar Valley Golf Course. On Sunday, former student-athletes took part in alumni games in baseball, softball, men’s and women’s soccer, men’s and women’s hockey, swimming and diving, and tennis.

Reel Big Fish to headline Oct. 9 concert at Saint Mary’s

Reel Big Fish, a horn-driven ska punk band from California, will headline a Thursday, Oct. 9, concert at Saint Mary’s.

Doors to the gym will open at 6 p.m.; an opening band (yet to be named) will perform at 7:15 p.m., and Reel Big Fish will take the stage at 8:30 p.m.

Reel Big Fish is best known for the 1997 hit “Sell Out.” The band gained mainstream recognition during the 1990s. In 1998, the band appeared in the movie BASEketball, performing in the stands to pump up the crowd. Their performance at SMU connects their tours in Canada and Brazil.

Tickets are $15 for the general public. Saint Mary’s students will be admitted for free and have the option of purchasing a $10 additional ticket. SMU faculty and staff also pay $10. Tickets are available via the SMU Box Office, Ext.1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.smumn.edu/concert. The event is hosted by SMU’s Student Activities Committee.

Page Series opens Oct. 8 with Compañia Flamenco

Saint Mary’s Page Series will come alive with music, fiery footwork and brilliant costumes when José Porcel Compañia Flamenco takes the stage Wednesday, Oct. 8.

Known for their superb flamenco performances, José Porcel and his company of talented dancers will bring an explosion of rhythms, colors and emotions of the Spanish people to Page Theatre, beginning at 7:30 p.m.

A flamenco performance gives spectators an overwhelming sensation of happiness, a joyful and sensual mood. The October program features eight dances, ranging from electrifying solos by Porcel to larger pieces for the company of eight men and women. In addition, the audience will be treated to live performances by a musical ensemble and traditional flamenco singers.

Tickets for the performance are $22, $18 for seniors, $18 for students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

New this year will be “student rush tickets.” Any student can purchase a “rush” ticket 20 minutes before the beginning of an event for $10. Students provide a valid picture ID; there’s a limit of one ticket per student and no reserved seats.

Volunteer Services plans ‘Make a Difference Day’

In recognition of national “Make a Difference Day,” Saint Mary’s Volunteer Services group has invited Winona nonprofit agencies to submit requests for service.

Approximately 150 Saint Mary’s University students will be teamed up from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help groups and organizations on Saturday, Oct. 25, in recognition of “Make a Difference Day.”

“Make a Difference Day” is the most encompassing national day of helping others, a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors. Created by USA WEEKEND magazine, this annual event takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October.

For more information, call Katie LaPlant at Ext. 6936 or e-mail volunteerservices@smumn.edu.

Saint Mary’s to host disc golf open Oct. 18

Saint Mary’s University and Innova Disc Golf will co-sponsor a 36-hole disc golf tournament Saturday, Oct. 18.

The tournament — open to the public — will be held on The Woods disc golf course. Beginners are encouraged to participate. Check-in starts at 9 a.m. in the Toner Student Center. The tournament will begin with a shotgun start at 10 a.m., and the second round will begin at 1:30 p.m. Prizes will be awarded for first, second and third places.

Pre-register for the event at www.smumn.edu/thewoods. The cost for two rounds of 18 holes is $15 for students and $25 for the general public. Proceeds will go to maintaining the disc golf course and the Outdoor Leadership Program. Each participant will receive a commemorative Innova Fairway Driver Disc. On holes 1 and 18 there will be a $3 “Ace Pot” buy-in for confident players.

For more information, go to www.smumn.edu/thewoods or e-mail Davey Warner at outdoorleadership@smumn.edu.

SMU family weekend events set for Sept. 26 - 28

Saint Mary’s will host its annual Family Weekend on Sept. 26-28. The university has scheduled many events for families of students and the SMU community.

The weekend festivities include the 21st annual Fall Frolic Fun Run/Walk; SMU varsity sports contests; a Blue Angel variety show; the theatre department performance of “Bus Stop”; a choir and band concert; a jazz concert; and much more. For a complete list of family weekend events, visit on-line at www.smumn.edu/sitepages/pid2555.php.

For more information, call Chris Kendall at Ext. 1640.

Kaplan-commissioned piece to highlight SMU Concert Band, choirs concert Sept. 27

Marc Bernstein

The SMU Concert Band and three SMU choral ensembles will combine talents for a Family Weekend performance at 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 27, in Page Theater.

The concert will mark the world premiere performance of “Ashkenazi Fathers,” composed for the SMU Concert Band by internationally recognized jazz saxophonist Marc Bernstein through the support of the Sam and Helen Kaplan Foundation. “Ashkenazi Fathers” is a celebration of the Jewish faith, especially the role fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers play in the lives of their children.

This performance marks the fifth in a series of commissions by the SMU Concert Band through the Helen and Sam Kaplan Foundation, which supports performances and activities led by Jewish artists and scholars that are designed to increase cultural and religious understanding at Saint Mary’s.

Bernstein will present a special composer’s conversation, just prior to the performance, at 1:30 p.m. Saturday in Page Theatre. During this conversation, the composer will discuss the cultural inspiration for his piece and the evolution of his work.

The audience is also invited to join the performers for a reception honoring Bernstein after the concert.

Bernstein will travel from his home in Denmark to Saint Mary’s the week prior to the performance to serve in residency. He will rehearse with the band and work with SMU students in a variety of classes and rehearsals.
For more information about Bernstein, go to www.marcmusic.info.

The Concert Band, under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, will open with Steven Reineke’s “Celebration Fanfare,” an exciting new work published just last year. Next the ensemble will play the hauntingly beautiful “As Summer was Just Beginning” — subtitled “Song for James Dean” — written by Larry Daehn in memory of actor James Byron Dean, who was tragically killed in a car accident at age 24 after a brief film career. “Ashkenazi Fathers” will conclude the first half of the Concert Band performance. A Saint Mary’s jazz combo will join the concert band for the premiere piece, and Bernstein will serve as the featured soprano saxophone soloist.

The second half of the concert features the SMU Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea, joined the Women’s Choir, directed by Lindsy O’Shea. Choral selections will include works by Schumann, Morley, Hassler, Nystedt, Mulholland, and choral arrangements by Philip Lawson and Bob Chilcott of the King’s Singers.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students or seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Bernstein and Heukeshoven will appear on HBC news on Tuesday, Sept. 23. Tune in to find out more details about Bernstein’s visit and the upcoming concert. The program airs at numerous times throughout the day.

SMU alum to enlighten students Sept. 25

As part of the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies, Todd VonBastiaans, a 1994 Saint Mary’s alum, will speak about how he has used his theatre set and lighting background to create a successful entrepreneurial venture on Thursday, Sept. 25. As the owner of Alios, VonBastiaans oversees many of the lights around Las Vegas. He also manages Trifecta Gallery in the Arts Factory.

VonBastiaans will make a presentation, beginning at 4 p.m., on how possible it is to chase your dream and shine. Admission is free and open to all students, faculty and staff. Refreshments will be provided.

For more information, contact Dominic Lawrence at Ext. 1486 or dlawrenc@smumn.edu.

Saint Mary’s to stage comedy ‘Bus Stop’ Sept. 25-28

Despite being trapped in a howling snowstorm, weary bus travelers find love and romance in a cheerful roadside diner during the Saint Mary’s Department of Theatre Arts production of “Bus Stop” Sept. 25-28, coinciding with SMU’s Family Weekend.

In this playful romantic comedy, written by William Inge and directed by Judy Myers, Cherie, a young and pretty nightclub singer has been kidnapped by a lovesick 21-year-old cowboy with a ranch of his own (and the romantic methods of an unusually headstrong bull). Romances blossom as audiences are introduced to a roomful of colorful characters including an inebriated English professor, a virtuous bus driver and many more.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Sept. 25, 26 and 27. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28.

Tickets for the performance — to be held in the Page Theatre — are $10, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Volunteer Services to host Gilmore Creek cleanup

The Gilmore Creek (and The Woods disc golf course) cleanup will be held 2 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 23. The annual cleanup, sponsored by Volunteer Services, provides faculty, staff and students an opportunity to get away from their computers and into the fresh air. SMU has adopted a 2-mile stretch of Gilmore Creek.

If you would like to help keep our creek clean, and get some great exercise, contact Katie LaPlant at kalaplan@smumn.edu or Ext. 6936.

‘Playhouse Creatures’ named as second theatre show

The SMU Theatre Department has changed one of its previously announced productions for the upcoming school year. New to the schedule is “Playhouse Creatures” written by April DeAngelis and directed by Dr. Steven Bouler — to be presented at the Valéncia Academy Theatre, Nov. 6-9.

Previously purchased tickets for the production “She Stoops To Conquer” will be honored.

Saint Mary’s students to present jazz concert Sept. 26

Two Saint Mary’s University jazz groups, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will kick off the year with a concert 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, in Figliulo Recital Hall — in conjunction with SMU’s Family Weekend.

Internationally recognized jazz saxophonist Marc Bernstein — at SMU through the Helen and Sam Kaplan Foundation — will join students onstage.

The 18-piece Jazz Ensemble and six-piece Jazz Combo I will perform from 6 to 7 p.m., and two Jazz Workshop Combos, directed by Dr. Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven, will play for a reception following the concert in the Toner Student Center.

Jazz Combo I will play popular selections from the swing era and contemporary jazz. Student soloists in the combo include alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams of Little Falls, guitarist Sam Courtier of Red Wing, and Tom Briese on trombone from Rochester. The big band will play favorites from big band classics as well as new selections from today’s greatest arrangers. Student soloists in the big band include Peter Waldorf of Bloomington, Ill., on trumpet along with Courtier and Briese.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students or seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Free tickets available for faculty, staff

Faculty and staff are able to obtain two free tickets to any SMU-produced event (excluding the Page Series and “The Nutcracker”) — including Family Weekend performances by the jazz ensembles, Concert Band and choir ensembles, and theatre department presentation of “Bus Stop.”

Faculty and staff must come to the box office with your ID to claim your tickets.

Biology student to discuss Mayo Scholars Program

Bethany Kaupmann (a current SMU student), will discuss “The Mayo Scholars Program” at 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 25, in Room 112, Hoffman Hall.

SMU professor published in Northeastern Naturalist

Dr. Phil Cochran, Biology, has published an article titled “A cottonmouth (Agkistrodon piscivorus) in Minnesota, and historical reports of other pit vipers unexpected in the Upper Midwest” in the journal Northeastern Naturalist (15:461-464). The cottonmouth in question was carried to Winona on a barge originally loaded in Louisiana and transported up the Mississippi River.

Next gallery show to feature computer illustration series

California artist Tom Lundquist will display images from his “Poissons de Chant” series — including #29 “Pursued by sheep, Joey Poisson adopts a desperate strategy” — Sept. 26 through Oct. 31 at Saint Mary’s University.

Tom Lundquist, a Minneapolis native and faculty member at Santa Monica College, Calif., will display images from his “Poissons de Chant” series Sept. 26 through Oct. 31 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Lundquist’s digital image series illustrates the adventures of a mythical troupe of singing fish from Montreal. Most of the characters are production assistants, agents, accountants, or animal performers that work for the fish. The elaborate narrative suggested in the prints doesn’t really exist. Though a number of people have suggested that Lundquist write a story to go with the illustrations, he says the only thing he really enjoys doing is making pictures. Lundquist has created an intricate fantasy world that will test your imagination. To learn more about Lundquist’s work, go to http://ourworld.compuserve.com/homepages/tomlundquist.

Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

George Christian to be featured in national magazine

A Connecticut man who spoke at Saint Mary’s last September is featured in an award-winning national magazine as one of “The Librarians Who Shushed the Patriot Act.”

George Christian and his colleagues, who challenged an order to give the FBI records about patrons’ use of library computers, are featured in the September/October issue of Mother Jones magazine. In May, Mother Jones won an Award for General Excellence from the American Society of Magazine Editors.

Christian, who was invited by the Social Science Department to speak in conjunction with Constitution Day, told a standing-room-only crowd in Figliulo Recital Hall last September that he and his colleagues fought the FBI order because they considered it unconstitutional.

Link to the story at www.motherjones.com/news/feature/2008/09/exit-strategy-americas-most-dangerous-librarians.html

For more information, contact Dr. Steve Schild, Ext. 1753.

Saint Mary’s to host guest pianist Kevin Ayesh Sept. 20

Saint Mary’s guest pianist Dr. Kevin Ayesh will present a free recital at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, in Figliulo Recital Hall. Ayesh has performed throughout the United States and has been the head of the Music Department at Blue Ridge Community College in Flat Rock, N.C., since 1992. As a North Carolina Visiting Artist, he appeared before thousands across that state between 1988 and 1992, performing as many as 100 recitals in a season.

During the past two seasons, Ayesh has performed and given master classes at Washington State University, Portland State University, Colorado State University, the University of Kentucky, the University of Tennessee, the University of Nebraska at Kearney, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, the University of Rhode Island, Brevard Community College in Florida, and the Elkader Opera House in Elkader, Iowa.

Early deadline set for next week’s ‘Campus Notes’

Because of the inauguration activities on Friday, Sept. 26, next week’s “Campus Notes” will come out on Wednesday. Deadline for Wednesday’s edition is Monday, Sept. 22, at noon. Quickly take a look at your calendars for events coming up. The following “Campus Notes” will come out on Oct. 3.

Saint Mary’s reports record enrollment for Winona campus undergraduates

Official 10th-day-of-class statistics at the Saint Mary’s Winona campus show a total undergraduate record enrollment of 1,413 — up 4.7 percent from last year’s total of 1,350. The previous record was set in 2002, when Saint Mary’s reported a total Winona undergraduate enrollment of 1,376.

This year’s total of 1,413 includes 1,334 full-time Winona-campus undergraduates and 79 part-time students.

A total of 404 freshmen are enrolled this fall. The freshman class is the second-highest in Saint Mary’s history; the highest was recorded in 1988.

Enrollment in the Saint Mary’s University Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs will be released later this fall.

SMU to honor five during ‘M’ Club weekend Sept. 13-14

Five members are being inducted into the Hall of Fame including: Jen Garin, Brad Wiley, Katie Kortsch, Dick Kuehl and Duane Kuehl (posthumously).

The Saint Mary’s Cardinal ‘M’ Club, in association with the Alumni Office, will induct five members into the SMU Sports Hall of Fame during Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 13-14.

The Hall of Fame Class of 2008 — Jen Garin ’99 (fastpitch softball), Dick Kuehl ’57 (baseball), Duane Kuehl ’58 (baseball, posthumously), Katie Kortsch ’95 (women's soccer) and Brad Wiley ’90 (men’s hockey) — will be honored during a ceremony Saturday evening.

Along with the induction of this year’s Hall of Fame class, Saturday’s ceremony will also honor former men’s hockey coach and athletic director Don Olson for his 32 years of dedicated service to Saint Mary’s. SMU’s 2007-08 postseason award-winners, as well as last year’s outstanding male and female athletes, and outstanding scholar athletes, will also be recognized.

The weekend festivities conclude on Sunday with various alumni games held on the SMU campus. For more information on the award winners, go to www.smumn.edu/08halloffame.

Brother William’s inauguration nears; celebration is Sept. 26

All faculty, staff and students are invited to the inauguration of Brother President William Mann, FSC, on Friday, Sept. 26. All faculty and staff are reminded to turn in their RSVPs, so that catering accommodations can be made. For more information about the day’s events, go to www.smumn.edu/inauguration.

Additional information will be coming soon. Call Deb Nahrgang, Ext. 6966 or dnahrgan@smumn.edu, with questions.

Kaplan commissioned piece to highlight SMU Concert Band, choirs concert Sept. 27

Marc Bernstein

The SMU Concert Band and three SMU choral ensembles will combine talents for a Family Weekend performance at 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 27, in Page Theater.

The concert will mark the world premiere performance of “Ashkenazi Fathers,” composed for the SMU Concert Band by internationally recognized jazz saxophonist Marc Bernstein through the support of the Sam and Helen Kaplan Foundation. “Ashkenazi Fathers” is a celebration of the Jewish faith, especially the role fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers play in the lives of their children.

This performance marks the fifth in a series of commissions by the SMU Concert Band through the Helen and Sam Kaplan Foundation, which supports performances and activities led by Jewish artists and scholars that are designed to increase cultural and religious understanding at Saint Mary’s.

Bernstein will present a special composer’s conversation, just prior to the performance, at 1:30 p.m. Saturday in Page Theatre. During this conversation, the composer will discuss the cultural inspiration for his piece and the evolution of his work.

The audience is also invited to join the performers for a reception honoring Bernstein after the concert.

Bernstein will travel from his home in Denmark to Saint Mary’s the week prior to the performance to serve in residency. He will rehearse with the band and work with SMU students in a variety of classes and rehearsals.

Bernstein, born in Brooklyn, N.Y, graduated from the Berklee College of Music in 1984. Inspired great saxophonists and jazz artists, Bernstein pursued a career in music. He recorded his first CD in 1985, and was a regular performer in New York City. He began playing overseas, and gained notoriety in Denmark, where he was offered a spot with Klüvers Big Band. Bernstein relocated to Copenhagen, Denmark; he left the band in 1996 to go solo, and has since released numerous CD recordings. He is on the faculty of the Danish Conservatory of Music. For more information go to www.marcmusic.info.

The Concert Band, under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, will open with Steven Reineke’s “Celebration Fanfare,” an exciting new work published just last year. Next the ensemble will play the hauntingly beautiful “As Summer was Just Beginning” — subtitled “Song for James Dean” — written by Larry Daehn in memory of actor James Byron Dean, who was tragically killed in a car accident at age 24 after a brief film career. “Ashkenazi Fathers” will conclude the first half of the Concert Band performance. A Saint Mary’s jazz combo will join the concert band for the premiere piece, and Bernstein will serve as the featured soprano saxophone soloist.

The second half of the concert features the SMU Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea, joined the Women’s Choir, directed by Lindsy O’Shea. Choral selections will include works by Schumann, Morley, Hassler, Nystedt, Mulholland, and choral arrangements by Philip Lawson and Bob Chilcott of the King’s Singers.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students or seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Saint Mary’s to stage comedy ‘Bus Stop’ Sept. 25-28

Despite being trapped in a howling snowstorm, weary bus travelers find love and romance in a cheerful roadside diner during the Saint Mary’s Department of Theatre Arts production of “Bus Stop” Sept. 25-28, coinciding with SMU’s Family Weekend.

In this playful romantic comedy, written by William Inge and directed by Judy Myers, Cherie, a young and pretty nightclub singer has been kidnapped by a lovesick 21-year-old cowboy with a ranch of his own (and the romantic methods of an unusually headstrong bull). Romances blossom as audiences are introduced to a roomful of colorful characters including an inebriated English professor, a virtuous bus driver and many more.

Performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, Sept. 25, 26 and 27. A matinee performance is planned for 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 28.

Tickets for the performance — to be held in the Page Theatre — are $10, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

‘Playhouse Creatures’ named as second theatre show

The SMU Theatre Department has changed one of its previously announced productions for the upcoming school year. New to the schedule is “Playhouse Creatures” written by April DeAngelis and directed by Dr. Steven Bouler — to be presented at the Valéncia Academy Theatre, Nov. 6-9.

Previously purchased tickets for the production “She Stoops To Conquer” will be honored.

Saint Mary’s students to present jazz concert Sept. 26

Two Saint Mary’s University jazz groups, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will kick off the year with a concert 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 26, in Figliulo Recital Hall — in conjunction with SMU’s Family Weekend.

Internationally recognized jazz saxophonist Marc Bernstein — at SMU through the Helen and Sam Kaplan Foundation — will join students onstage.

The 18-piece Jazz Ensemble and six-piece Jazz Combo I will perform from 6 to 7 p.m., and two Jazz Workshop Combos, directed by Dr. Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven, will play for a reception following the concert in the Toner Student Center.

Jazz Combo I will play popular selections from the swing era and contemporary jazz. Student soloists in the combo include alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams of Little Falls, guitarist Sam Courtier of Red Wing, and Tom Briese on trombone from Rochester. The big band will play favorites from big band classics as well as new selections from today’s greatest arrangers. Student soloists in the big band include Peter Waldorf of Bloomington, Ill., on trumpet along with Courtier and Briese.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students or seniors and are available at the Performance Center Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Free tickets available for faculty, staff

Faculty and staff are able to obtain two free tickets to any SMU-produced event (excluding the Page Series and “The Nutcracker”) — that includes Family Weekend performances by the jazz ensembles, Concert Band and choir ensembles, and theatre department presentation of “Bus Stop.”

Faculty and staff must come to the box office with your ID to claim your tickets.

Lynch to discuss ‘The War Over War Powers’

Dr. David Lynch, Social Science, will present “The War Over War Powers” 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15, at the Toner Student Center’s President’s Room. The talk will examine the tension between Congress and the President over the authority to use force. The event — which falls near Constitution Day (Sept. 17) — is free and open to the public.

Biology Department weekly seminar schedule announced

The Biology Department will conduct weekly seminars throughout September including:

• Thursday, Sept. 18 — Dr. Richard Kowles, professor emeritus, “The Mysterious B Chromosome.”

• Thursday, Sept. 25 — Bethany Kaupmann (a current SMU student), “The Mayo Scholars Program.”

All seminars will start at 4 p.m. in Room 112 Hoffman Hall.

Nienaber interviewed on Vatican Radio

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) at the European Center for Nuclear Research (CERN) saw first beam on Wednesday, Sept. 10. Two Jesuit physicists (John Cunningham of Loyola University Chicago, and Paul Nienaber, the chair of physics at Saint Mary’s) were interviewed by Vatican Radio and discussed the implications of this milestone.

The story was aired Wednesday and may be heard on the web at www.radiovaticana.org/en1/Articolo.asp?c=229665.

Art show features photography of Great Lakes

Wisconsin photographer Rus Hurt will display photography, including “Harris Johnson Mending Nets” (above) and “January Ice” (below) Aug. 20 through Sept 18 at Saint Mary’s University.




Wisconsin photographer Rus Hurt is featuring a variety of documentary and nature work through Sept. 18 at Saint Mary’s. The show, titled, “In Suspension: Photographs from the Upper Great Lakes” is divided into two sections:

• “Observations of a Lake Superior Fishery Past & Present” — a series of documentary photographs spanning a 35-year period of a Lake Superior fishery; and
• “Moments in the Wake” — a two-part glimpse into special moments on the Upper Lakes. Some of these photos are from the shipside view of a merchant seaman during the “Winter Runs of 1974-76.” Additionally, Hurt, a native of Port Wing, Wis., will display a collection of colorful nature-based seasonal shots, taken along Lake Superior’s south shore, where he lives.

A closing reception is planned for 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 18, at SMU’s Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Next gallery show to feature computer illustration series

California artist Tom Lundquist will display images from his “Poissons de Chant” series — including #29 “Pursued by sheep, Joey Poisson adopts a desperate strategy” — Sept. 26 through Oct. 31 at Saint Mary’s University.

Tom Lundquist, a Minneapolis native and faculty member at Santa Monica College, Calif., will display images from his “Poissons de Chant” series Sept. 26 through Oct. 31 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Lundquist’s digital image series illustrates the adventures of a mythical troupe of singing fish from Montreal. Most of the characters are production assistants, agents, accountants, or animal performers that work for the fish. The elaborate narrative suggested in the prints doesn’t really exist. Though a number of people have suggested that Lundquist write a story to go with the illustrations, he says the only thing he really enjoys doing is making pictures. Lundquist has created an intricate fantasy world that will test your imagination. Learn more about Lundquist’s work.

Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Fine Arts Commission honors Conservatory for the Arts

Each year the Fine Arts Commission selects three local artists or art organizations to receive special recognition. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts was selected this year (along with Winona artists Emilio Degrazia and David Echelard’s Blue Heron Consort). The MCA will be presented with a plaque by the mayor and the Fine Arts Commission at a city council meeting on Sept. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

Winona’s Capital for a Day celebration continues Saturday

Saint Mary’s is again assisting with a Winona Capital for a Day celebration Saturday, Sept. 13, with a magic show, good food and an outdoor animated movie. A full day of activities are planned for Sept. 13 at the Lake Park bandshell area. After the Heroes Among Us, Paddle for Life, and Family Art Day events, stay for an evening of free family fun including:

• The Halls of Magic from 5:30 to 7 p.m. — Twin Cities magician Kevin Hall and his wife will provide audience members with an incredible blend of comedy, magic, illusion and some wild interactive games for the kids. Special local celebrities are scheduled to become on-stage assistants.

• A special, outdoor showing of “The Bee Movie” at 7 p.m. — This animated family favorite will be shown on a 40’ by 22.5’ screen, provided by Twilight Zone Outdoor Cinema.

Both presentations are free and open to the public. Food vendors will be available. For more information, contact Deb Nahrgang, dnahrgan@smumn.edu.

During the Family Art Day events, which run from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 to 4 p.m., Monta May (Communication and Marketing) will conduct a workshop for adults and children ages 10 and older on tapestry weaving. Participants will be able to create and keep a tapestry (limited to 28 participants). Additionally, Emerald Hulsing ’09 will be conducting a workshop on hand-built pottery.

Saint Mary’s to host guest pianist Kevin Ayesh Sept. 20

Saint Mary’s guest pianist Dr. Kevin Ayesh will present a free recital at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 20, in Figliulo Recital Hall. Ayesh has performed throughout the United States and has been the head of the Music Department at Blue Ridge Community College in Flat Rock, N.C., since 1992. As a North Carolina Visiting Artist, he appeared before thousands across that state between 1988 and 1992, performing as many as 100 recitals in a season.

During the past two seasons, Ayesh has performed and given master classes at Washington State University, Portland State University, Colorado State University, the University of Kentucky, the University of Tennessee, the University of Nebraska at Kearney, the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, the University of Rhode Island, Brevard Community College in Florida, and the Elkader Opera House in Elkader, Iowa.

Ayesh is the recipient of many prizes, including the Naftzger Piano Award and Baltimore Music Club Award; he also won both the JCC Baltimore Piano Competition and the Maryland State Music Teachers’ Elizabeth R. Davis Memorial Piano Competition. He has been a finalist in several national and international competitions, was awarded second prize at the Wideman (Shreveport Symphony) Piano Competition, and won both third prize and Composer’s Prize at the New Orleans International Piano Competition.

Lynch serves as speaker for ‘Faithful Citizenship’ series

Dr. David Lynch (Social Science) gave a talk titled “The Economy, Recession and Policy,” at Resurrection Parish in Rochester on Sept. 7. The talk was part of the “Faithful Citizenship” speaker series, organized by Resurrection Parish for Rochester Catholic parishes.

Dr. Lynch also will speak on “The War in Iraq; alternative futures” on Oct. 12. In addition to these talks, the series will have other area professors cover other topics of current interest in the election including health care, abortion and immigration. For more information on the series, contact Steve Strange at sandcstrange@charter.net. Resurrection parish is located at 1600 11th Ave. S.E. in Rochester.

Library announces library website, other changes

The new library website will be available next week. Get more information.

The Fitzgerald Library catalog, MnPALS, gets a new look and a name change. Read more.

Check out the new music database, Naxos.

A new database, Campus Research, is available for social sciences and business researchers. Read more.

Workshop on overcoming speech anxiety offered

A workshop titled “Overcoming Speech Anxiety” will be offered 6:30 to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 16, in the Hendrickson World Room. The workshop is for all students who wish to gain more confidence and less fear when giving presentations in class and other settings. Presenters are Dr. Ann Gibson, director of Counseling Services and Erin Anderson, counseling intern. Reservations are not required. If you would like more information, please call Ext. 1773 or e-mail agibson@smumn.edu

Biology alum publishes paper on lampreys

An SMU alumnus who majored in environmental biology, Devin D. Bloom ‘04, has co-authored a recently published paper (2008. Alternative reproductive behaviors in lampreys and their significance. Journal of Freshwater Ecology 23:437-444) based in part on research completed for his undergraduate thesis at SMU. His research helped reveal that spawning brook lampreys in the Whitewater River engage in a sort of ménage à trois, by which a pair of lampreys during the mating act may be encircled by a second male attempting to “sneak” fertilizations of eggs. This has implications for our understanding of how lamprey species evolve.