Saint Mary’s students to stage ‘A Chorus Line’ March 27-30

The Department of Theatre and Dance, under the direction of Judy Myers, will stage the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical “A Chorus Line” March 27-30.

The show is set in an empty theatre, on a bare stage, during casting for a new Broadway musical. For 17 dancers, this audition is the chance of a lifetime. It’s what they’ve worked for every day of their lives. It’s the one opportunity to do what they’ve always dreamed — to have the chance to dance. The storyline delves into the personalities of the performers as they describe events that have shaped their lives and their decisions to become dancers.

The timeless classic about passion, despair and joy is the longest-running musical in Broadway history. Audiences will find themselves singing along to familiar favorites by Marvin Hamlisch and Edward Kleban like “One (Singular Sensation),” “What I Did for Love,” and “I Hope I Get It.”

“A Chorus Line,” is the musical for everyone who’s ever had a dream and put it all on the line — a powerful metaphor for all human aspiration.

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Friday, March 27; Saturday, March 28; and Monday, March 30; with a 3 p.m. showing on Sunday, March 29 — all at Page Theatre, in the Performance Center.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the Box Office, Ext. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Because of adult content, this play is suitable for mature audiences only.

Concert Band to feature diverse marches March 22

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Concert Band will present “The March Tradition” during its Sunday, March 22, performance, scheduled for 3 p.m. in Saint Cecilia Theatre, located at Cotter High School.

The concert — in celebration of national Music in Our Schools Month — will feature a number of diverse marches, under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven.

The program will include “March & Procession of Bacchus” by Delibes; Gustav Holst’s “Suite #2 in F Major”; Percy Grainger’s “Children’s March”; “American’s We” by Fillmore; Dvorak’s “Slavonic Dance”; “Poem” by Boerma; and a circus march by Brian Beck called “Technicolor Pachyderms.” Student soloist Jeremy Johnston, a senior percussion performance major, will present the “Creston Concertino for Marimba and Band.”

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

Cardinal athletes plan fundraiser for Guinn family

The Cardinal Athletic Council is inviting area youth in grades one through four to come and play their favorite sports with Cardinal athletes to raise money for Shaymus Guinn, age 8, who is battling bone cancer. Shaymus is the son of Tony Guinn, the former Cardinals women’s soccer coach and one of the founders of the Cardinal Athletic Council.

Shaymus is fighting Ewing’s disease, which is a cancer that can start in the bones or tissue. Shaymus and his family are at the University of Iowa cancer center where he is enduring chemo, platelet and blood transfusions, as well as countless other medical treatments. Throughout all of this Shaymus and his family continue to have hope.

The event will be held at Gostomski Fieldhouse from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 22; registration begins at 1 p.m. The cost of the event is $10 per person, and each child will receive a free T-shirt and goody bag. Proceeds from the event will go directly to the Guinn family to help pay for Shaymus’ fight against cancer.

Stations for baseball, softball, track and field, hockey, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and soccer will be set up, and Cardinal athletes from each of those sports will be in attendance. To register for the event, e-mail your child’s name and grade to Toni Winter at twinter@smumn.edu or Ext. 1579. There will be a waiver form on the day of the event that must be filled out by a legal guardian in order for the child to participate. Cash or checks made out to Saint Mary’s University are accepted. If you are unable to attend the event but would like to make a donation, please contact Nicholle Hanson at nahans05@smumn.edu.

Annual benefit dance to help Geheren family

Saint Mary’s will present the ninth annual Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance from 8:30 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, March 28.

The beneficiaries of this year’s formal dance — open to the public — are 1990 SMU alumni Bill and Mia Geheren of Huntley, Ill., and their four children. Their three adopted children were born addicted to cocaine; one child is addicted to heroin and meth as well. Money from the benefit dance and silent auction will help the family purchase a handicapped accessible van.

This benefit dance has become an annual tradition since it was started by students in 2001 in honor of Taylor Richmond, son of Saint Mary’s Campus Ministry and Student Activities staff member Nikki Richmond. Taylor has a genetic terminal illness called Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) and the money from his benefit was used to fulfill Taylor's dream of going to Disneyworld. Each year this event benefits someone in the SMU community in need.

The dance, featuring music by the Johnny Holm Band, will be held in the Toner Student Center dining room. Ticket prices are $15 per person or $25 per couple.

To purchase tickets or receive more information, contact Jason Richter at Ext. 1648 or Katie LaPlant at Ext. 6936. Dance tickets will also be available at the door.

To make a donation, send checks — payable to the Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance — to Katie LaPlant, Box 1471.

In combination with the dance, a silent auction will be held on campus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 26-27. A variety of homemade goods, gift baskets and specialty items will be on display in the game room.

Famous Dave’s founder to speak April 27

Dave Anderson, founder of the popular barbecue franchise Famous Dave’s of America, will speak at Saint Mary’s University on Monday, April 27.

The event, hosted by the Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies at SMU, is free and open to the public. Anderson’s presentation, “Me, Inc. — The Spirit of Entrepreneurship,” will run from 6 to 7 p.m. in Page Theatre.

A highly sought-after keynote speaker, Anderson shares his heartfelt optimism using his life’s story to share insight and life lessons in dealing with today’s fast-changing world. He is an enthusiastic advocate of the American dream and stresses that no matter how tough things may seem today, if you never give up your dream and work hard, tomorrow’s rewards will always come.

Anderson founded Famous Dave’s of America, which has more than 120 restaurants and growing. He is also known for helping found the Rainforest Café, another successful nationwide restaurant company. Throughout his career, he has helped found three publicly traded companies on Wall Street and created more than 20,000 new jobs.

In his own life, Anderson has experienced adversity, frustration and bankruptcy, as well as tremendous success. His life story is featured in two New York Times bestsellers. He has served two presidents and three governors in advisory positions. Anderson has also provided key testimony before Congress and the U.S. Senate. Always tackling the impossible, this bottom-half-of-the-class high school student earned his master’s degree from Harvard University without an undergraduate degree. He has appeared on all major networks including “Regis and Kathy Lee,” “Oprah Winfrey,” “The Discovery Channel,” “The Food Network,” “National Public Radio,” and more than 200 radio shows.

Anderson, a Native American, devotes his life to making a difference in his community and in the lives of others less fortunate. Oprah Winfrey’s Angel Network recently recognized his leadership development work with at-risk youth.

Anderson will be available following the presentation to sign his books, “LifeSkills for Success” and “Backroads and Sidestreets Cookbook” in the Performance Center lobby. Copies of the books will be available for purchase, with proceeds going to the Lifeskills Center for Leadership in Minneapolis.

Saint Mary’s to participate in free virtual college fair

Saint Mary's University will participate in CollegeWeekLive, a free virtual college fair on Wednesday, March 25, and Thursday, March 26, between 9 a.m. and 9 p.m. An admission counselor will be available for a live chat throughout the entire event. Financial aid personnel will be available each day from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and current students will be online to chat each day from 5-9 p.m.

Saint Mary’s will join more than 200 schools for this two-day event where students, parents, and guidance counselors can get information about schools and
• meet with admission reps;
• listen to speakers;
• learn about financial-aid opportunities;
• hear tips on SAT prep, writing winning essays and acing interviews; and
• register for scholarships and other giveaways.

Students are encouraged to pre-register at www.collegeweeklive.com for the world’s largest online virtual college fair.

Relay For Life, silent auction events are today

The second annual SMU American Cancer Society Relay for Life is today, Friday, March 20, at Gostomski Fieldhouse.

A special luminaria ceremony will give Saint Mary’s community members an opportunity to remember those they have lost to cancer and honor those who have survived.

Anyone desiring to make a luminaria or a silent auction bid should come to the basement of the Toner Student Center between 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. today. Donations are accepted.

Relay For Life is a fun-filled, overnight event. Teams of eight to 15 members gather with tents and sleeping bags to participate in the largest fundraising event in the nation and to celebrate the lives of those who have had cancer, remember those lost, and fight back against a disease that takes too much. Relay For Life brings together friends, families, businesses, hospitals, schools, churches ... people from all walks of life. Teams seek sponsorship prior to the Relay, all with the goal of eliminating cancer. Teams of people camp out at a local high school, park, or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path. Each team is asked to have a representative on the track at all times during the event. Relays are an overnight event, up to 24 hours in length.

Saint Mary’s community cancer survivors (anyone who has ever been diagnosed with cancer) will kick off the Relay For Life on 7:30 p.m. at the field house with the official Survivors Lap; then, the rest of the participants will join the fun. SMU has nearly 175 people signed up to participate so far.

This year’s theme for Saint Mary’s is “Beat It.” At each hour of the walk, different themes, such as “Mr. Relay For Life” or “RFL Olympics,” will be hosted. Prizes for winning teams will be presented throughout the night.

Dollars raised through Relay For Life are providing hope to people in the Winona community. For cancer information, day-to-day help, or emotional support, call 1-800-ACS-2345 or visit www.cancer.org.

For more information, contact Marissa, mjkadl06@smumn.edu, or Alison, amhill07@smumn.edu, or go online at www.relayforlife.org/smu.

SMU, WSU choirs to present ‘The Spirit of Venice’ March 21

The choirs of Saint Mary’s and Winona State will present an evening of Renaissance and early Baroque music in “The Spirit of Venice” on Saturday, March 21.

The choirs, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea and Dr. Harry Mechell, will perform, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels, located at the Saint Teresa campus.

The concert will feature the works of G. Gabrieli, Schuetz, Monteverdi, Hassler, Charpentier, Vivaldi and Pergolesi — composers who have all lived or studied in Venice.

Tickets are $10, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Free student rush tickets are available 20 minutes before the performance with either a Saint Mary’s or WSU student ID.

Kendall to perform for Savin’ Grace concert

A Savin’ Grace Concert — a benefit to support Grace Place Inc. — will be held 3 to 4:15 p.m. Sunday, March 22, at Figliulo Recital Hall.

Performing will be Chris Kendall, vice president for Student Development, and the Two Rivers Bluegrass Band.

It is the mission of Grace Place to provide Christian guidance, support and encouragement for women with unplanned pregnancies and for families experiencing brokenness and change so that they may become strong, God-centered families and productive citizens of their community.

Tickets are $2 each and can be purchased at Grace Place, 66 E. 2nd St., or at the door. For more information, contact John Schollmeier.

SGPP hosting next ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ today

The last ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ fundraiser of the school year is scheduled for today, March 20, in the Common Room. Hosting this event, “Tantalizing Treats with No Meat (and some with meat),” is the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs. The Volunteer Committee will provide deserts and water. New this time: in our continuing effort to go green, everyone is invited to bring their own cup for water. Proceeds from this event will be given to our Nairobi campus.

Alumni and friends arts event scheduled for March 28

The SMU Department of Theatre and Dance, the Friends of the School of the Arts, and the the Alumni Association will host an alumni and friends event on Saturday, March 28, featuring a performance of “A Chorus Line.” Faculty and staff are invited and welcome to attend this gathering.

From 2 to 3:30 p.m., a panel of theater majors will meet with current theatre students in the President’s Room, Toner Student Center.

At 5 p.m. a social hour and dinner will be offered in the Toner Student Center lounge, and “A Chorus Line” begins at 7:30 p.m. in Page Theatre. At 9:30 p.m., a dessert reception — with cash bar — will be held in the Presidents Room.

The cost is $35 for the dinner, performance and reception or $15 for the performance and reception.

To register for this event, contact the alumni office at Ext. 1499 or register online at www.smumn.edu/sitepages/pid819.php.

‘Engage: Poverty’ weekend events announced

The Peace and Justice Club will host a variety of activities March 20-22 in recognition of Engage: Poverty weekend including:

• Common Threads Clothing Sale Friday through Sunday.

• Spoken Word – Youth poet Tottiana Adams (Minnesota State Youth Poetry Champion) at 7 p.m. today, March 20, in the Game Room. Go to
http://tw.youtube.com/watch?v=wsfv9TNwz4c&feature=user for more information.

• Fair Trade/Local Business Fair — 6 p.m. Saturday, March 21, Hall of Fame Room.

• Hunger Banquet — 11:30 a.m. Saturday, March 21, Saint Mary’s dining room.

• Keynote Speaker Julia Dinsmore, 3 p.m. Saturday, March 21, Presidents Room.

• Poverty-related movie with Will Smith — 8 p.m. Saturday, March 21, Presidents Room.

• Prayer Service — 4:30 p.m. Sunday, March 22, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

Faculty, staff invited to perform in faculty revue

The fourth annual faculty revue is back by popular demand. Faculty and staff are invited to show off talents. Proceeds will benefit the sophomore class!

The show features a variety of acts. Past acts have included solo/group musical performances (vocal or instrumental), comedy, skits, and poetry readings. Other creative acts are always welcome!

The event is planned for 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 25, in the Common Room.

If you are interested or have any questions, contact: Luke Gonnella ljgonn06@smumn.edu or Ali Kremer amkrem07@smumn.edu.

Common Threads Clothing Drive is March 20-22

On March 20-22 the Peace and Justice Club will be having a clothing drive/sale for the SMU community and the Winona community. Shop 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Saturday or 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday in the Hall of Fame Room. Items are 50 cents each or $3 a bag! All proceeds are donated to help those in poverty. This event is part of the Engage:Poverty weekend.

Poems co-authored by McCullough featured in play

Four poems from the book “Sacred Vows,” co-authored by Cambodian poet U Sam Oeur and Ken McCullough (PASS program and Academic Advising), were featured as songs in a new play, “Breaking the Silence,” by veteran Dutch director Annemarie Prins. The play premiered in Phnom Penh and then toured the Cambodian provinces. The production was sponsored by the Prince Claus Fund, with additional support from the Dutch Embassy in Bangkok.

Jazz notes

Two Saint Mary’s University Jazz Combos, directed by John Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven, will perform at the Westfield Golf Course Lounge Thursday, March 26, from 7 to 9 p.m. The informal event is free, and the public is invited to attend.

A Saint Mary’s University Jazz Workshop Combo, directed by Paulson, will perform at 7 p.m. Friday, March 27, at the Winona Arts Center, 228 5th St., for a special slide lecture and jazz presentation on painter Robert Ryman, given by Dr. Vittorio Colaizzi, WSU assistant professor of art history. The combo includes John Kamp, guitar; Zach Hansmann, drums; Ryan Ballanger, alto sax; and Neil Leibundguth, bass. Admission is based on individual donations. For more information, call 453-9959 or visit www.winonaarts.org/events.html.

The John Paulson Trio performs 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, March 20, at Michael’s Restaurant in Rochester, and the John Paulson Quartet performs 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, March 21, at the Starlite Lounge in La Crosse, Wis.

The John Paulson Jazz Quartet will also perform a concert of jazz standards and original works Friday, March 27, at 7:30 p.m. at the Paramount Theatre, Austin, Minn. Tickets are $12 for adults and $6 for students and senior citizens. For information on tickets, go to www.paramounttheatre.org or call 434-0934.

A. Eric Heukeshoven will be featured pianist with the Jeff Clark Trio this weekend in La Crosse and Rochester. The trio will perform today, March 20, from 8 to 11 p.m. at the Waterfront in La Crosse, Wis., and Saturday, March 21, at Michael’s Restaurant in Rochester, Minn. Saxophonist Jeff Clark is known for his hard-hitting interpretations of jazz classics in the tradition of sax legend John Coltrane. There is no cover charge at either venue.

May is next Knowledge Acknowledged speaker

Monta May, Communication and Marketing, will share her passion for creating art that is bound up in the mystery of antiquity — the ancient artifacts, techniques, motifs, and imagery that allow us brief glimpses into the lives of our common ancestral pasts — on March 24 at the library. Her artwork reflects a fascination with things from the past.

Swim teams earn Academic All-American honors

The College Swim Coaches Association of America has recognized the men’s swimming and diving team with Academic All-American Team honors for the fall 2008 semester.

The women’s swimming and diving team earned Academic All American Team honors for spring 2008.

The teams maintained an average GPA over 3.0 to be recognized.

McCullough to participate in Georgetown University event

Ken McCullough (Academic Advising, PASS program) will participate in “Cry Havoc!: Poetry of War and Remembrance, 1968-2008,” a Lannan Symposium and Festival, at Georgetown University March 30-31. McCullough will present the poetry of Cambodian U Sam Oeur, Pol Pot survivor, as part of a symposium entitled “Terror and Image: Poetry, the Built and the Visual, from Cambodia to El Salvador to Fallujah.” McCullough will also be part of a panel discussing “War and Remembrance: Surviving with Language and Memory.”

SMU in the news

Here are recent mentions of SMU “making the news” — in the Winona area and beyond.

• The Winona Post published an article titled “Local colleges mark Women’s History Month” in its March 15 edition. The article included details of SMU events.

• The Winona Daily News published “Getting their kicks: ‘A Chorus Line’ celebrates sacrifice” on Thursday, March 19.

High School Challenge continues on Fox 25/48

Last Sunday the quarterfinals of High School Challenge kicked off with La Crescent High School defeating Winona Senior High 140-135.

This Sunday, Logan Red will take on Eau Claire Regis in the second quarter final game of High School Challenge, a tournament of knowledge sponsored by Saint Mary’s. Eight teams compete for the title of High School Challenge Super Bowl Champion. Tune in at 10 a.m. on Fox 25/48, Sunday, March 22, to see which team will advance to the semi-finals!

Gaut interviewed about National Endowment Grant

Dr. Greg Gaut (History Department) was interviewed for the article, “Winona Historical Society Exhibit Earns National Endowment Grant,” which was published March 16 in the Rochester Post Bulletin.

To read the story online, go to www.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=2&a=390085.

Gaut to give presentation March 25

Dr. Greg Gaut (History dDepartment) will speak about “Red Stars over Minnesota: The Gorbechevs visit the Twin Cities” on Wednesday, March 25, from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. in the faculty dining room. Let the cashier know you are going to the FDC presentation and then proceed through the lunch line.

Gaut’s presentation details Mikhail and Raisa Gorbachev’s visit to the Twin Cities after a summit meeting with George Bush in June, 1990. Gov. Rudy Perpich hoped the visit would aid in his reelection campaign, corporations hoped to find economic opportunities in the Soviet Union, and average Minnesotans hoped that the end of the Cold War would lead to U.S.-Soviet cooperation on the environment, nuclear disarmament, and poverty. Things turned out differently.

Supported by a Summer Faculty Research Grant, Dr. Gaut researched this article at the Minnesota Historical Society in St. Paul and the Iron Range Interpretive Center in Chisholm, MN (where the Perpich papers are archived). With his co-author Marsha Neff, he prepared a manuscript which reconstructs and interprets this day when Minnesota held the attention of the world's press. After peer review, Minnesota History accepted the article for publication in its December 2009 issue.

Heukeshoven serves as guest clinician

Dr. Janet Heukeshoven (music department) served as guest clinician for the Classic Lakes Conference Band Festival, held at Wayzata High School on Tuesday, March 17. Dr. Heukeshoven worked with two Wayzata Senior High Bands (Symphonic Band and Wind Ensemble), Robbinsdale Armstrong High School Concert Band, Edina Concert Band, and the Minnetonka Wind Ensemble.

Sympathy to Ryan family

James Markham, father of Kathy Ryan (program director, M.A. Special Ed.) died March 11. Cards of condolence can be sent to: Kathy and Dane Ryan, and sons, Jacob, Zachary and Ayden at Campus Box 22.

Saint Mary’s students to stage ‘A Chorus Line’ March 27-30

The Department of Theatre and Dance, under the direction of Judy Myers, will stage the Pulitzer Prize-winning musical “A Chorus Line” March 27-30.

The show is set in an empty theatre, on a bare stage, during casting for a new Broadway musical. For 17 dancers, this audition is the chance of a lifetime. It’s what they’ve worked for every day of their lives. It’s the one opportunity to do what they’ve always dreamed — to have the chance to dance. The storyline delves into the personalities of the performers as they describe events that have shaped their lives and their decisions to become dancers.

The timeless classic about passion, despair and joy is the longest-running musical in Broadway history. Audiences will find themselves singing along to familiar favorites by Marvin Hamlisch and Edward Kleban like “One (Singular Sensation),” “What I Did for Love,” and “I Hope I Get It.”

“A Chorus Line,” is the musical for everyone who’s ever had a dream and put it all on the line — a powerful metaphor for all human aspiration.

Showtimes are 7:30 p.m. Fri., March 27; Saturday, March 28; and Monday, March 30; with a 3 p.m. showing on Sunday, March 29 — all at Page Theatre, in the Performance Center.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the Box Office, Ext. from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Because of adult content, this play is suitable for mature audiences only.

Concert Band to feature diverse marches March 22

The Saint Mary’s Concert Band will present “The March Tradition” during its Sunday, March 22, performance, scheduled for 3 p.m. in Saint Cecilia Theatre, located at Cotter High School.
The concert — in celebration of national Music in Our Schools Month — will feature a number of diverse marches, under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven.

The program will include “March & Procession of Bacchus” by Delibes; Gustav Holst’s “Suite #2 in F Major”; Percy Grainger’s “Children’s March”; “American’s We” by Fillmore; Dvorak’s “Slavonic Dance”; “Poem” by Boerma; and a circus march by Brian Beck called “Technicolor Pachyderms.” Student soloist Jeremy Johnston, a senior percussion performance major, will present the “Creston Concertino for Marimba and Band.”

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

Cardinal athletes plan fundraiser for Guinn family

The Cardinal Athletic Council is inviting area youth in grades one through four to come and play their favorite sports with Cardinal athletes to raise money for Shaymus Guinn, age 8, who is battling bone cancer. Shaymus is the son of Tony Guinn, the former Cardinals women’s soccer coach and one of the founders of the Cardinal Athletic Council.

Shaymus is fighting Ewing’s disease, which is a cancer that can start in the bones or tissue. Shaymus and his family are at the University of Iowa cancer center where he is enduring chemo, platelet and blood transfusions, as well as countless other medical treatments. Throughout all of this Shaymus and his family continue to have hope.

The event will be held at Gostomski Fieldhouse from 1:30 to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 22; registration begins at 1 p.m. The cost of the event is $10 per person, and each child will receive a free T-shirt and goody bag. Proceeds from the event will go directly to the Guinn family to help pay for Shaymus’ fight against cancer.

Stations for baseball, softball, track & field, hockey, basketball, volleyball, tennis, and soccer will be set up, and Cardinal athletes from each of those sports will be in attendance. To register for the event, e-mail your child’s name and grade to Toni Winter at twinter@smumn.edu or Ext. 1579. There will be a waiver form at the registration table on the day of the event that must be filled out by a legal guardian in order for the child to participate. Cash or checks made out to Saint Mary’s University are accepted. If you have any other questions or are unable to attend the event but would like to make a donation, please contact Nicholle Hanson at nahans05@smumn.edu.

Annual benefit dance to help Geheren family

Saint Mary’s will present the ninth annual Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance from 8:30 p.m. to midnight on Saturday, March 28.

The beneficiaries of this year’s formal dance — open to the public — are 1990 SMU alumni Bill and Mia Geheren of Huntley, Ill., and their four children. Their three adopted children were born addicted to cocaine; one child is addicted to heroin and meth as well. Money from the benefit dance and silent auction will help the family purchase a handicapped accessible van.

This benefit dance has become an annual tradition since it was started by students in 2001 in honor of Taylor Richmond, son of Saint Mary’s Campus Ministry and Student Activities staff member Nikki Richmond. Taylor has a genetic terminal illness called Ataxia Telangiectasia (A-T) and the money from his benefit was used to fulfill Taylor's dream of going to Disneyworld. Each year this event benefits someone in the SMU community in need.

The dance, featuring music by the Johnny Holm Band, will be held in the Toner Student Center dining room. Ticket prices are $15 per person or $25 per couple.

To purchase tickets or receive more information, contact Jason Richter at Ext. 1648 or Katie LaPlant at Ext. 6936. Dance tickets will also be available at the door.

To make a donation, send checks — payable to the Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance — to Katie LaPlant, Box 1471.

In combination with the dance, a silent auction will be held on campus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 26-27. A variety of homemade goods, gift baskets and specialty items will be on display in the game room.

‘Famous Dave’s’ founder to speak at SMU April 27

The Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies is hosting David W. Anderson, founder of the Famous Dave’s BBQ franchise, on Monday, April 27, in Page Theatre. Anderson will speak on “Me, Inc. — The Spirit of Entrepreneurship.” The event is free and open to the public. Mark the date on your calendars and watch for more information.

Relay For Life is March 20

The second annual SMU Relay for Life is Friday, March 20. Register at www.relayforlife.org/smu. Thanks for all you do to help fight back against cancer! SMU has a goal of 20 teams and 200 participants.

For more information, contact Marissa (mjkadl06@smumn.edu) or Alison (amhill07@smumn.edu).

SMU, WSU choirs to present ‘The Spirit of Venice’ March 21

The choirs of Saint Mary’s and Winona State will present an evening of Renaissance and early Baroque music in “The Spirit of Venice” on Saturday, March 21.

The choirs, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea and Dr. Harry Mechell, will perform, beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels, located at the Saint Teresa campus.
The concert will feature the works of G. Gabrieli, Schuetz, Monteverdi, Hassler, Charpentier, Vivaldi and Pergolesi — composers who have all lived or studied in Venice.

Tickets are $10, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Free student rush tickets are available 20 minutes before the performance with either a Saint Mary’s or WSU student ID.

Alumni and friends arts event scheduled for March 28

The SMU Department of Theatre and Dance, the Friends of the School of the Arts, and the the Alumni Association will host an alumni and friends event on Saturday, March 28, featuring a performance of “A Chorus Line.” Faculty and staff are invited and welcome to attend this gathering.

From 2 to 3:30 p.m., a panel of theater majors will meet with current theatre students in the President’s Room, Toner Student Center.

At 5 p.m. a social hour and dinner will be offered in the Toner Student Center lounge, and “A Chorus Line” begins at 7:30 p.m. in Page Theatre. At 9:30 p.m., a dessert reception — with cash bar — will be held in the Presidents Room.

The cost is $35 for the dinner, performance and reception or $15 for the performance and reception.

To register for this event, contact the alumni office at Ext. 1499 or register online at www.smumn.edu/sitepages/pid819.php.

SGPP hosting next ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ on March 20

The last ‘Let’s Do Lunch’ fundraiser of the school year is scheduled for Friday, March 20, in the Common Room. Hosting this event, “Tantalizing Treats with No Meat,” is the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs. The Volunteer Committee will provide deserts and water. New this time: in our continuing effort to go green, everyone is invited to bring their own cup for water. Proceeds from this event will be given to our Nairobi campus.

SMU spellers earn fourth consecutive title

The Saint Mary’s team of Paul Nienaber, Physics, and Chris Stromberg and Paul Weiner, Mathematics and Sciences, competed in the Winona ORC Corporate Spelling Bee. SMU emerged victorious in a field of nine teams. Words spelled correctly by the team included septendecimal, literati, plumbeous, and pugilist. Words that others stumbled on included quorum, cinephile, vanadium, mistigris, and ecclesiastical. This marks the fourth year in a row that SMU has captured the spelling title.

SMU exhibit features digital photography, paintings

“Old Media, New Ways and New Media, Old Ways” — featuring the work of two Chinese-American artists — will be on display through March 20 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Jing Zhou, Monmouth University in West Long Branch, N.J., is displaying digital photography and Ming Zhou, University of Missouri, Columbia, is displaying paintings.

The Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries are free and open to the public and are open daily between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Common Threads Clothing Drive is March 20-22

On March 20-22 the Peace and Justice Club will be having a clothing drive/sale for the SMU community and the Winona community.

Flanagans and Friends to perform on St. Patrick’s Day

“Flanagans and Friends” will perform at Jefferson’s from 6 to 9 p.m. on St. Patrick’s Day Tuesday, March 17. Several members of the Flanagan Irish Dancers will be on hand to display a variety of step and figure dances and to encourage people to participate in several ceili dances.

Tim Flanagan, Pat Costello and Kate Flanagan will play and sing many of the well-known standards, as well as other less familiar Irish tunes. Other community members will also be on hand to share their musical talents. Come join the “hooley” — it will be a great way to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

March is Campus Energy Challenge Month

During the month of March, the Saint Mary’s community is invited to examine its energy consumption and work together to reduce the amount of energy. In the coming weeks, look for more information via e-mail and all over campus about ways you can reduce energy and some activities promoting energy-saving .

Gaslight on stage this weekend

Gaslight music show performances will be this Friday and Saturday, March 13-14. For more information, contact Kaitlin Depuydt, kadepu05@smumn.edu.

SMU in the news

Here are recent mentions of SMU “making the news” — in the Winona area and beyond.

• An article titled, “It’s all relative” appeared in the March 8 edition of the Winona Daily News and detailed the Page Series’ “Einstein Alive!” performance.

• The Daily News ran an article titled, “Students to rally against state grant cuts” on March 5.

Heukeshoven interview airs in Rochester Sunday

The popular cable series “Festival of Music” moves to a new venue and form when Swing Inc. entertains the patrons at the Canadian Honker with many jazz standards. A. Eric Heukeshoven, Music Department, answers questions from series founder/producer Jerry Barnhart. The show airs at 8 p.m. Sunday (March 15) on Rochester Charter Cable channel 10.

Jazz notes

Dr. John Paulson (Music Department) and Miles Johnston Quartet will perform 8 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Oak Center General Store in Oak Center, Minn., just outside of Lake City. The John Paulson Trio performs 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, March 20, at Michael’s Restaurant in Rochester.

A. Eric Heukeshoven, Music Department, will be featured on piano with Minnesota Music Hall of Fame member Les Fields from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. today, March 13, at Michaels Restaurant in Rochester. Fields, who is best known for leading the Turkey River All-Stars for more than 40 years, was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 2005.

May is next Knowledge Acknowledged speaker

Monta May, Communication and Marketing, will share her passion for creating art that is bound up in the mystery of antiquity — the ancient artifacts, techniques, motifs, and imagery that allow us brief glimpses into the lives of our common ancestral pasts — on March 24 at the library. Her artwork reflects a fascination with things from the past.

Employee changes

Leaving:

• Jerrie Seibert, March 31, director of Campus Safety

May to display mosaic at Winona Arts Center

Monta May, Communication and Marketing, will display a glass tile mosaic titled “Flock” at the Winona Arts Center Members Exhibition March 6 through April 29. A reception will be held 5:30 to 7 p.m. today, March 13. Gallery hours are Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Fridays from 3 to 6 p.m. For more information about May’s work, go to www.854w5th.com.

Nationally recognized poster comes from new program

Beth Seebach (Psychology) and Cherie Smischney (2008 alumna) will be presenting a poster on “Body Image” at the annual meeting of the American Psychological Association in Toronto. This is research from the Body Image Collaborative Research lab. The Collaborative Research labs were started in Fall of 2007 in the Psychology Department to allow students to gain research skills by working collaboratively with faculty members and other students in designing and conducting research. Current labs are exploring Body Image and Exercise; Alcohol Use in College Students; Parenting Style and Alcohol Use; and Aggression.

Hendrickson Institute hosts John Howard April 21

The Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership will host the 2009 Forum on Leadership on Tuesday, April 21. John Howard, former Prime Minister of Australia, will speak about “Leadership in a Global Economy,” and the Hendrickson Institute Medal for Ethical Leadership will be awarded to Charles M. Denny.

As the Prime Minister of Australia from March 1996 until December 2007, the Honorable John Winston Howard served a distinctively Western role in the Asian-Pacific Rim. Mr. 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.

During Howard’s tenure:
• Ten of the 12 annual budgets produced by the Howard government were in surplus and $96 billion of federal government debt was repaid.
• Economic growth averaged 3.6 percent per annum and the unemployment rate sank to a 33-year low of 4.3 percent.
• Extensive trade expansion with the nations of Asia created new markets, particularly the development of the relationship with China, which is now Australia’s largest export market.

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.

Denny will be honored for his years of ethical leadership as chairman and CEO of ADC Telecommunications Inc; his commitment to equity and justice. (For example, by providing jobs through Project for Pride in Living Industries); and his decades of volunteer work in the nonprofit sector. He is also recognized for his legacy of written ethical guidelines for corporations, from the Minnesota Principles to his research and writing as a recipient of the Louis W. Hill Jr. Fellowship.

Registration begins at 3 p.m., the forum runs from 3:30 to 5 p.m., and a reception will follow at the Nicollet Island Pavilion, 40 Power St., in Minneapolis.

Tickets are $50 for the public, with a special student rate of $10, and a faculty and alumni rate of $40. For more information, contact Barb Hall at bhall@smumn.edu or (612) 238-4517. More details can be found online at hendricksonforum.smumn.edu.

Brother Louis to discuss global economy Thursday at SMU

Brother Chancellor Louis DeThomasis will address global economic challenges and their impact on the U.S. economy from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday, March 12, in Figliulo Recital Hall.

The event is free and open to the public. Light refreshments will be available. The presentation is sponsored by the Offices of the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, and the undergraduate School of Business.

Brother Louis — an accomplished educator, scholar, author, lecturer and executive — served as president of Saint Mary’s from 1984 to 2005. He has extensive first-hand knowledge of the business world. He is a founder of Christian Brothers Investment Services Inc., an investment advisory firm that today manages assets valued at more than $5 billion dollars. He also was a director of the Galaxy Funds, which manages mutual funds with collective assets of approximately $20 billion dollars.

Page Series presents Einstein Alive! March 12

Storyteller Marc Spiegel, channeling Albert Einstein, will prove to audience-goers of all ages that learning is fun on Thursday, March 12, at Saint Mary’s.

The final Page Series event of the season, Einstein Alive! is a one-man show that is both entertaining and educational. Through theater, sing-along songs and audience participation, Spiegel vividly and realistically brings Einstein to life as he takes you on an adventure into the great genius’ mind. Audience members will find themselves laughing while they learn complicated theories, including Einstein’s Theory of Relativity.

The show begins at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students and are available at the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and online at www.pagetheatre.org.

This presentation is supported by the Performing Arts Fund, a program of Arts Midwest funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art, with additional contributions from Minnesota State Arts Board, General Mills Foundation and Land O’Lakes Foundation. The Helen and Sam Kaplan Foundation is providing additional support, and Excel Energy Foundation has supported the school matinee for Einstein Alive!

Relay For Life is March 20

The 2nd annual SMU Relay for Life is Friday, March 20. Register at www.relayforlife.org/smu. Thanks for all you do to help fight back against cancer! SMU has a goal of 20 teams and 200 participants.

For more information, contact Marissa (mjkadl06@smumn.edu) or Alison (amhill07@smumn.edu).

National Women’s History Month is March

During March, Saint Mary’s will join thousands of other institutions across the United States in recognizing the significant role of women in American history and contemporary society for National Women’s History Month.

The 2009 theme is “Women Taking the Lead to Save Our Planet.” The 2009 national honorees are women who have demonstrated leadership in protecting the environment on a local, state, national, or international level. The most well-known 2009 honoree is Rachel Carson, who authored “Silent Spring” and who is widely recognized as a founder of the current environmental movement. Other honorees include women who are scientists, engineers, business leaders, writers, filmmakers, conservationists, teachers, community organizers, religious or workplace leaders and others whose lives show exceptional vision and leadership to save our planet. For information about all honorees, go to www.nwhp.org.

SMU women also take the lead in saving the planet through a variety of activities and initiatives and these projects will be highlighted during March. Mark your calendars —Thursday, March 12, will be the annual Women’s History Month reception. Look for more information throughout the month about local projects to save our planet.

SMU, WSU choirs to present ‘The Spirit of Venice’ March 21

The choirs of Saint Mary’s and Winona State will present an evening of Renaissance and early Baroque music in “The Spirit of Venice” on Saturday, March 21.

The choirs, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O’Shea and Dr. Harry Mechell, will perform,beginning at 7:30 p.m. at Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels, located at the Saint Teresa campus.

The concert will feature the works of G. Gabrieli, Schuetz, Monteverdi, Hassler, Charpentier, Vivaldi and Pergolesi — composers who have all lived or studied in Venice.

Tickets are $10, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Free student rush tickets are available 20 minutes before the performance with either a Saint Mary’s or WSU student ID.

SMU information provided in MPCC newsletter

The February 2009 four-page electronic newsletter of the Minnesota Private College Council mentions Saint Mary’s in an article titled “College presidents make case for preserving state’s financial aid.” Go to www.mnprivatecolleges.org/publications/newsletter/2009/02_all.php. Three hundred and seventeen Saint Mary’s undergraduates receive these need-based grants; and the total aid received by these students amounts to about $1 million.

Alumni and friends arts event scheduled for March 28

The SMU Department of Theatre and Dance, the Friends of the School of the Arts, and the the Alumni Association will host an alumni and friends event on Saturday, March 28, featuring a performance of “A Chorus Line.” Faculty and staff are invited and welcome to attend this gathering.

From 2 to 3:30 p.m., a panel of theater majors will meet with current theatre students in the President’s Room, Toner Student Center.

At 5 p.m. a social hour and dinner will be offered in the Toner Student Center lounge, and “A Chorus Line” begins at 7:30 p.m. in Page Theatre. A 9:30 p.m. a dessert reception — with cash bar — will be held in the Presidents Room.

The cost is $35 for the dinner, performance and reception or $15 for the performance and reception.

To register for this event, contact the alumni office at Ext. 1499 or register online at www.smumn.edu/sitepages/pid819.php.

May to display mosaic at Winona Arts Center

Monta May, Communication and Marketing, will display a glass tile mosaic titled "Flock" at the Winona Arts Center Members Exhibition March 6 through April 29. A reception will be held 5:30 to 7 p.m. Friday, March 13. Gallery hours are Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. and Fridays from 3 to 6 p.m. For more information about Monta's work, go to www.854w5th.com.

ICAA hosts ‘Taste of Africa’

Renee Mompremier, James Agunsoye and Hillary Stenzel participated in a fashion show.

Christian Yao Adeti

The ICAA (Intercultural Awareness Association) hosted a Black History Month program, “Come and get a Taste of Africa,” on Saturday, as part of the De La Salle Week activities.

The evening included a special dinner and presentations by Christian Yao Adeti, renowned drum and dance instructor and performer; Yolanda McIntosh, Twin Cities motivational/inspirational speaker; former staff Xavier Wilson with the “I Have a Dream” recitation; and presentations by SMU students. The event also included dance performances and an African fashion show.

Next SMU exhibit features digital photography, paintings

“Old Media, New Ways and New Media, Old Ways” — featuring the work of two Chinese-American artists — will be on display through March 20 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Jing Zhou, Monmouth University in West Long Branch, N.J., is displaying digital photography and Ming Zhou, University of Missouri, Columbia, is displaying paintings.

The Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries are free and open to the public and are open daily between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Common Threads Clothing Drive is March 20-22

On March 20-22 the Peace and Justice Club will be having a clothing drive/sale for the SMU community and the Winona community.

March is Campus Energy Challenge Month

During the month of March, the Saint Mary’s community is invited to examine its energy consumption and work together to reduce the amount of energy. In the coming weeks, look for more information about ways you can reduce energy and some activities promoting energy-saving via e-mail and all over campus.

Gaslight performances near

Gaslight music show performances will be March 13-14. For more information, contact Kaitlin Depuydt, kadepu05@smumn.edu.

McCullough to judge Poetry Out Loud competition

Ken McCullough, assistant director of Academic Advising, and director of the PASS program, will serve as one of three judges for the state Poetry Out Loud competition on March 9 at the Fitzgerald Theatre, St. Paul. The National Endowment for the Arts, in collaboration with the Poetry Foundation, has created Poetry Out Loud, a program that encourages the nation's youth to learn about great poetry through memorization and recitation. In 2005, after a successful pilot program in Washington, D.C., and Chicago, Poetry Out Loud was launched in high schools across the country. State arts agencies bring Poetry Out Loud to each state, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the District of Columbia, with more than 150,000 students participating annually.

Heukeshoven featured in Twin Cities jazz newsletter

A. Eric Heukeshoven, Music Department, is featured in an article published in the March 2009 edition of “Coda,” the online newsletter of the Twin Cities Jazz Society. The story, written by retired Star Tribune reporter Dick Parker, chronicles the Winona Steam Calliope’s recent
appearances in the 2009 New Orleans’ Mardi Gras parades.

The newsletter is not yet available on the Twin Cities Jazz Society’s website, but Parker has given SMU permission to link to a PDF of the newsletter at http://av.smumn.edu/03_09_Coda.pdf.

SMU in the news

Here is a recent mention of SMU “making the news” — in the Winona area and beyond.

• An article titled, “Earmark may help SMU teacher training” appeared in the Feb. 27 edition of the Winona Daily News.

Jazz notes

Dr. John Paulson and Miles Johnston Quartet will perform 8:30 to 12:30 p.m. today, March 6, at the Starlite Lounge in La Crosse, Wis., and 8 p.m. Saturday, March 14, at the Oak Center General Store in Oak Center, Minn., just outside of Lake City.

Swing, Inc. (Jerry Paulson, Dave Townsend, Steve Kulas and Eric Heukeshoven, Music Department) will perform in the all-new Riverside Center at Jefferson Pub & Grill in Winona from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. today, March 6; no cover charge.

May is next Knowledge Acknowledged speaker

Monta May, Communication and Marketing, will share her passion for creating art that is bound up in the mystery of antiquity — the ancient artifacts, techniques, motifs, and imagery that allow us brief glimpses into the lives of our common ancestral pasts — on March 24 at the library. Her artwork reflects a fascination with things from the past.

Poems co-authored by McCullough featured in play

Four poems from the book “Sacred Vows,” co-authored by Cambodian poet U Sam Oeur and Ken McCullough (PASS program and Academic Advising), were featured in a new play, “Breaking the Silence,” by veteran Dutch director Annemarie Prins. The play premiered in Phnom Penh and then toured the Cambodian provinces. The production was sponsored by the Prince Claus Fund, with additional support from the Dutch Embassy in Bangkok.

Faculty/staff changes

Leaving:
• Charles Cicalello, Feb. 25, athletics — assistant baseball coach
• Timothy Johnson, Feb. 11, Twin Cities security guard

SMU invited to Polish-American Art Show and Lecture

The Polish Art Museum (at 102 Liberty St.) will celebrate its annual “Dyngus Day” on Monday, April 13. Dyngus Day is a celebration of Easter Monday. The celebration is based on traditions of baptism and the suffering of Jesus during the Easter season. A Polish-American art exhibit, displaying past and present paintings of local Minnesota artists of Polish descent, will be a major part of the festivities. The exhibit will be open between 4 and 9 p.m.

Additionally, Dr. Tomas Tolvaisas, an assistant professor in the Department of History at WSU, will lecture on the numerous intersections and mutual influences of American and Polish modern art during the 1960s. His presentation and a question-and-answer session will take place in the museum theater between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m.

The exhibit will continue through Saturday, April 18, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, go to www.lacrossetribune.com/brochures/polishmuseum/polishci.htm or call the Polish Museum, 454-3431.

Sympathies

Michael Troy Wieser, son of Richard Wieser ’68, and the nephew of Kevin Hennessy (Professional Development specialist), died on Wednesday, Feb. 25. Condolences can be sent to: Kevin Hennessy and family, Campus Box 74.

Marie McDonald, mother of Terri Nye (assistant to Brother Chancellor Louis DeThomasis and Brother President William Mann), died Saturday, Feb. 28. A Mass of Christian Burial will be held at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, 360 Main St., Winona, Minn., at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, March 7. There will be an hour-long visitation prior to Mass. Notes of condolence may be sent to Terri Nye at Campus Box 28.

Lyle G. Seebach, father-in-law of Dr. Beth Seebach (psychology) and father of Barton Seebach M’06 died Tuesday, March 3. Notes of condolence may be sent to Beth and Bradley Seebach and Family, Campus Box 1488.

The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to these families.

Faculty, students, Brothers honored at Founder's Day

Dean Beckman and Dr. Jane Anderson

WINONA, Minn. —At its Founder’s Day ceremony Tuesday, Feb. 24, Saint Mary’s University observed the 75th anniversary of the De La Salle Christian Brothers’ affiliation with the university. Also honored were a dedicated faculty member, a Lasallian educator, and two outstanding seniors. Founder’s Day is the annual celebration of the founding of Saint Mary’s in 1912 by Winona Bishop Patrick R. Heffron.

Starting off the Founder’s Day event, Christian Brothers currently affiliated with SMU were recognized for their service to the university. Provincial Edmond Precourt, Superior of the Long Island-New England (LINE) District, accepted a special recognition on behalf of the Brothers of LINE district for their distinguished service. Three SMU presidents (including Brother President William Mann) have been members of this district, which serves Brooklyn, Queens, Long Island and New England with provincial headquarters in Narragansett, R.I.

Dr. Jane Anderson was named as SMU’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator for 2009. Dr. Anderson has been on the faculty since 1995 and now serves as Dean of the School of Education. She is recognized for her efforts to engage and support the San Miguel Schools in Chicago and Minneapolis and her career-long commitment to understand and advance the cause of literacy education. Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards are given by many Lasallian institutions in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers; they honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian mission of education.

The 2009 Brother H. Charles Severin Award for Excellence in Teaching was presented to Dean Beckman, assistant professor in the Social Science Department. Beckman has been a member of the faculty since 2001 and teaches courses in the mass communication program.

Over the years, he has shown consistent excellence in preparation of his courses, in communication and delivery of course material, and in fairness in dealing with students. He joins 21 other past and present faculty members as a Severin Award recipient. Recipients exemplify the teaching excellence and commitment to a student-centered learning that characterize a Saint Mary’s University education.

The Outstanding Male and Female Senior Awards were presented to students who have demonstrated the ideals of scholarship, character, leadership, service to colleagues and the university community. Above all, these men and women have shown genuine concern for meeting the needs of others. The Outstanding Male Senior Award went to Jakub Szymanski, son of Ryszard and Marianna Szymanski of Opole, Poland. The Outstanding Female Senior Award went to Emily Berg, daughter of David and Sharleen Berg of Owatonna, Minn.

Szymanski is an accounting major and a statistics minor. He has worked as a resident assistant (serving as SMU’s first international student R.A.), a New Student Orientation leader, a math and business tutor, and a student manager in the cafeteria. He has also actively participated in mission trips, intramurals, Student Senate, Volunteer Services, and Campus Ministry. After graduation, he hopes to earn a graduate degree in accountancy and start a professional career as a Certified Public Accountant.

Berg is a Spanish and K-8 education major with a concentration in language arts. She has played varsity women’s soccer and participated in various intramural sports. She also plays flute in concert band, wind ensemble, and flute choir. A member of the SOUL (Serving Others United in Love) Council, Berg and has led three service trips to Kentucky, Montana and Illinois. She is a member of ASCD, an education club that promotes excellence in education. She has also served as a tutor, taught religious education and migrant school instruction, and coached club and community soccer teams. After graduation, her goal is to teach through Teach for America, Alliance for Catholic Education, or Lasallian Volunteers.

The following students were finalists for the 2009 Outstanding Senior Awards. Males: Gary Borash, son of Ron and Ann Borash of North Prairie, Minn.; Ryan Langr, son of Ken and Cindy Langr of Coon Rapids, Minn.; Neil Leibundguth, son of William and Laura Leibundguth of Westchester, Ill.; and John Nolte, son of Doug and Ruth Nolte of Owatonna, Minn. Females: Maria Borgerson, daughter of Richard and Carol Borgerson of Bellingham, Minn.; Teresa Gill daughter of Mary and Dave Gill, Fort Collins, Colo.; Kaitlin Depuydt, daughter of Mark and Teresa Depuydt of Mankato, Minn.; and Julia Jergenson, daughter of Skip and Kris Jergenson of Houston, Minn.

De La Salle Week events announced

Students participated in Mardi Gras events during De La Salle Week activities.

The year 2009 marks not only 97 years since SMU’s founding, but 75 years since the De La Salle Christian Brothers came to Saint Mary’s University.

Students, staff and faculty members are invited to a week of participation in these opportunities for learning, reflection, discussion and connection with others.

De La Salle Week events are sponsored by the Offices of Mission and Student Development.

TODAY, FEB. 27 - GLOBAL LASALLIAN FAMILY

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Fair Trade Sale, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

12:10 p.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

4 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Brother Christopher Soosai, SMU graduate student from India, Common Room.

7 p.m. — Movie time with Brother Jerome Rademacher, Christian Brothers’ Residence, including Brother Jerome’s famous popcorn! (Limited to 20 people; sign up in Student Activities.)

SATURDAY, FEB. 28 - SERVICE DAY

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Habitat for Humanity Service Trip.

Noon to 5 p.m. — “Just Bouncing Around” Ping-Pong Tournament, Toner Student Center Game Room.

6 p.m. — “Africa Night,” Common Room; Dinner (first 100 people); 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. music and dance, hosted by Intercultural Awareness Association (ICAA).

SUNDAY, MARCH 1

10:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. — Liturgy for the first Sunday of Lent, Saint Thomas More Chapel. Refreshments follow each Mass, compliments of Campus Ministry.

SMU to host night of Irish music with David Munnelly Band March 5

Audiences are invited to a high-spirited show in celebration of the music and dance of Ireland on Thursday, March 5, at Saint Mary’s University.

Celebrate the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day early with Ireland’s young, multi-award winning David Munnelly Band — hosted through SMU’s Page Series.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. in Page Theatre. Tickets are $20 for adults and $17 for seniors and students and are available at the Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

The David Munnelly Band is fast becoming one of the most sought-after groups in Irish music. Led by button accordion wizard David Munnelly, who toured with The Chieftains for four years, as well as with DeDanaan and other legendary groups, the band plays with an exuberant style not often duplicated. The group combines button accordion, fiddle, guitar, mandolin, banjo, bodhrán and flute for a high-spirited instrumental sound colored with a bit of jazz and ragtime. Munnelly and his band create “pure Irish magic” through their contemporary reinterpretation of the music of the 1920s most widely associated with The Flanagan Brothers.

Saint Mary’s students to stage ‘Long Christmas Ride Home’

The heart — and the heartbreak — of family dynamics are closely examined in the hopeful drama, “The Long Christmas Ride Home,” to be presented by the Department of Theatre and Dance at Saint Mary’s.

In a seemingly Rockwellesque beginning, author Paula Vogel introduces audiences to a family of five, traveling by car to their grandparents’ house on Christmas Day.

Arguments ensue, unfortunate words are spoken, and we discover that memories of this dysfunctional and poignant car ride play a pivotal role in how the family’s three children mature into adulthood.

As the author intended, the three children are portrayed by Japanese Bunraku-inspired puppets. In this production each puppet is controlled by two black-cloaked figures, and one of their puppeteers (whose face is not obscured) then becomes an adult version of each child as the story flashes forwards.

Audiences also discover that the opening car ride is a memory of one of the children, Steven, who has died of AIDS. Though somewhat damaged by their past experiences, the three siblings have an enduring bond that transcends life itself.

“It’s universally beautiful,” said director Sarah St. Laurent, an SMU senior theatre major. “We all have a family, and no family is perfect. Family comes with a lot of baggage, but there are also redeeming qualities.” St. Laurent and Preston Lawing, chair of the SMU Department of Art and Design, constructed the puppets used in this presentation.

“The Long Christmas Ride Home” will be staged at Academy Theatre, located at the Valéncia Arts Center, 10th and Howard streets. The show runs 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 26-28 and Monday, March 2; a matinee performance is scheduled for 3 p.m. Sunday, March 1. The show contains several adult themes and is recommended for mature audiences.

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

National Women’s History Month is March

During March, Saint Mary’s will join thousands of other institutions across the United States in recognizing the significant role of women in American history and contemporary society for National Women’s History Month.

The 2009 theme is “Women Taking the Lead to Save Our Planet.” The 2009 national honorees are women who have demonstrated leadership in protecting the environment on a local, state, national level, or international level. The most well-known 2009 honoree is Rachel Carson, who authored “Silent Spring” and who is widely recognized as the founder of the current environmental movement. Other honorees include women who are scientists, engineers, business leaders, writers, filmmakers, conservationists, teachers, community organizers, religious or workplace leaders and others whose lives show exceptional vision and leadership to save our planet. For information about all honorees, go to www.nwhp.org

SMU women also take the lead in saving the planet through a variety of activities and initiatives and these projects will be highlighted during March. Mark your calendars —Thursday, March 12, will be the annual Women’s History Month reception. Look for more information throughout the month about local projects to save our planet.

Kabara business plan competition for students

The Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies announces the second annual Student Business Plan Competition.

Participants must be full-time undergraduate students on the Winona campus, may participate as an individual or as a team of two students, and can have any major.

Students are asked to develop a business plan for a business that they would like to start. The business does not need to be an on-campus business. The projected start-up costs and initial capital required may not exceed $10,000.

A hard copy and electronic copy of the business plans must be submitted to Teresa Speck by noon Monday, March 2. Semifinalists will present their plans to a panel of judges on Friday, March 13, and winners will be announced within a week.

For more information, go to www.smumn.edu/kabara or contact Speck at tspeck@smumn.edu or Ext. 1449.

Next SMU exhibit to feature digital photography, paintings

“Old Media, New Ways and New Media, Old Ways” — featuring the work of two Chinese-American artists — will be on display through March 20 at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Jing Zhou, Monmouth University in West Long Branch, N.J., is displaying digital photography and Ming Zhou, University of Missouri, Columbia, is displaying paintings.

The Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries are free and open to the public and are open daily between 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. For more information, call Ext. 1652.

SMU’s Day at the Capitol is March 5

Saint Mary’s students have been actively involved over the last few years in Minnesota’s Private Colleges Day at the Capitol. On this day students meet with their legislators at the State Capitol to advocate for student financial aid, specifically the Minnesota State Grant Program. Between February and April 2007, more than 400 students developed skills on how to be effective citizen lobbyists and urged their hometown legislators to support Minnesota students.

Saint Mary’s will be at the Capitol on March 5. Anyone can attend Day at the Capitol — students, professors, parents, or administrators. Last year 40 students took advantage of this opportunity. Student Senate is trying to increase these numbers this year.

Minnesota undergraduate students and their families had to borrow more than $1 billion dollars in 2005 to pay for higher education — an amount that has grown 162% since 1995. The value of state grants dropped 14 percent from 2000 to 2005. Only 2 percent of public spending for Higher Education goes to private schools while 28 percent of state graduates come from private schools like Saint Mary’s.

With 71,108 students receiving need-based aid through the State Grant Program and our state budget deficit for the next biennium forecasted to be at least $4.8 billion, preserving the State Grant program and keeping the cost of education low is even more important.

Go to the Minnesota Association of Private College Students’ (MAPCS) website at www.mnprivatecolleges.org/mapcs/index.php for more information. Students will be able to register on the MAPCS website or through Student Senate as the event draws nearer.

In addition to excusing students to attend, faculty are encouraged to promote conversations about the cost of higher education and the problems our state is currently facing.

If you have any further questions, contact Mary Gleich, Student Senate vice president for external affairs, at mtglei04@smumn.edu.

Money appropriated for SMU on listed of federal projects

Rep. Tim Walz, D-Minn., has listed federal projects that will be headed to his district — courtesy of the Omnibus Appropriations bill — if both houses approve it in the coming days and it's signed by President Obama.

A total of $190,000 would go to Saint Mary’s University’s Teacher Mentorship Program to help expand the university’s educator professional development programs by using technology to allow greater outreach to teachers in Minnesota, with impact on thousands of students in critical STEM subjects.

Common Threads Clothing Drive is March 20-22

On March 20-22 the Peace and Justice Club will be having a clothing drive/sale for the SMU community and the Winona community.

Students showcase work at the Capitol

Melissa Wolf, Carina Woodward and Sarah Windschitl participated in Private Scholars at the Capitol Day.

Private Scholars at the Capitol Day, a gathering of undergraduate scholars and their faculty research mentors, was held at the State Capitol Rotunda on Feb. 19. The event, sponsored by the Minnesota Private College Council, is a celebration of the scholarly excellence of undergraduate student researchers and their faculty mentors at Minnesota’s private colleges.

SMU students participating (along with their projects and advisors) were: Melissa Wolf (biology, Dr. Jeanne Minnerath), “A comparison of heat versus methanol fixation for gram staining bacteria”; Sarah M. Windschitl (psychology, Dr. Beth Seebach), “Role models and their influence on self-objectification in college women”; and Carina Woodward (biology, Dr. Jenny Shanahan), abstract of “Recreating reality in one hundred years of solitude.” They joined 26 undergraduate scholars from around the state.

Gaslight performances near

Gaslight music show performances will be March 13-14. For more information, contact Kaitlin Depuydt, kadepu05@smumn.edu.

Grover participates in Birkebeiner Classic

John Grover, Information Technology, placed 32nd in the age 65-69 category in the Birkebeiner Classic with a time of 7:02:08.9.

SMU in the news

Here is a recent mention of SMU “making the news” — in the Winona area and beyond.

• Stories about 2006 alum Maddy Loftus’ death in a New York plane crash were published across the United States. SMU staff fielded calls from local, Twin Cities, Chicago, and New York media. Articles about Loftus ran in CNN, the New York Times, and on national network news including ABC, FOX, NBC and CBS.

• Tycho de Boer, history, was interviewed in a Winona Daily News article on Feb. 16 titled, “Make room for Millard.”

• An article titled “SMU send-off: Seven destinations, seven days, one mission” about SOUL trips ran in the Feb. 14 issue of the Winona Daily News.

• A story about SMU’s “The Long Christmas Ride Home” production ran in the Feb. 24 issue of the Winona Daily News. Theatre major Sarah St. Laurent was interviewed for “No strings needed for these masters of puppets.”

• Photos of SMU students with Winona Bishop John Quinn appeared in the February edition of “The Courier.” Quinn was at SMU for a vocations breakfast, hosted by the SMU Women of Faith Discernment Group.

• Articles about this year’s “Above and Beyond” students have been running each Wednesday in the Winona Daily News. SMU is a sponsor of the Above and Beyond program, which recognizes high school seniors who have overcome obstacles or performed outstanding community service.

• A story about the David Munnelly Band, appearing March 5 at SMU, appeared in the Winona Daily News Thursday, Feb. 26. The article was titled, “Luck of the Irish.”

• Ray Faber sent an e-mail to Denny Long and Jim Gilbert of WCCO radio in mid-February. The two have a program called Nature Notes on Sundays. Long read the whole email on-air. Jim’s response was “I took a couple of courses in Winona and those guys were just great.”

The e-mail read, “A pair of bald eagles was at their nest near Pickwick along the Mississippi River on Saturday. Deer in the Ridgeway area (south of Winona) have been exhibiting nutritional stress since late December. Last week a fawn stayed in the same place without moving for two days, then died underneath a crabapple tree right in front of our house. We moved it away from the house and into an open field on Sunday afternoon. Within two hours a pair of bald eagles were circling the carcass and have been feeding on it ever since. This is almost 10 miles from open water! Eagles regularly fly through the area in winter, on the lookout for victims of winter. Last night I counted 39 deer within sight of my house.”

Jazz and rock notes

Dr. John Paulson and Miles Johnston Quartet will perform 8:30 to 12:30 p.m. March 6 at the Starlite Lounge in La Crosse, Wis., and 8 p.m. March 14 at the Oak Center General Store in Oak Center, Minn., just outside of Lake City.

Admission Counselor Adam Stasica will be performing with his band BAKKUS at Johnny Ringo's in Spring Valley, Minn. Showtime is 9 p.m. to close. No cover. The group covers songs from Judas Priest to ZZ Top to Jimi Hendrix.

Tune in to watch High School Challenge on Fox 25/48

On Saturday, Feb. 23, High School Challenge, a tournament of knowledge sponsored by Saint Mary’s, ended the 2008-2009 season with the Consolation and Super Challenge Championships. Eight games were played and taped by Fox 25/48 and will air at 10 a.m. on Sundays March 8 through April 26.

Thirty-two area high school teams began competing in the fall for a spot in the Super Challenge Tournament. Teams that won their second games advanced to the Consolation Championship games.

The first game on Saturday, Feb. 23, was the Consolation Championship game between La Crosse Central High School and Holmen High School – White team. Tune in March 8 to see who becomes the Consolation Champion.

La Crescent, Winona Senior High, Logan Red, Eau Claire Regis, Cotter, Onalaska, La Crosse Aquinas and Eau Claire North competed for the Super Challenge Champion title

Watch these schools in action in the quarter-finals, starting March 15 on Fox 25/48 with La Crescent playing against Winona Senior High School. Logan Red plays Eau Claire Regis on March 22. Cotter plays Onalaska on March 29 and Aquinas plays Eau Claire North on April 5. Winners will advance to the quarter-finals, starting April 12.

A very special thank you to all the schools that competed, Altra Federal Credit Union and Lewiston Auto for their support this year, and to Winona National Bank for the sponsorship of the Closed Captioning.

Sympathy to Schneider family

William B. Schneider, father of Sherry Boynton (Development and Alumni), grandfather to Emily and Sara Boynton '08, died Sunday, Feb. 22.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered at noon, today, Feb. 27, at St. Stanislaus Kostka Church. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery.

The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the Schneider and Boynton families.

Founder’s Day planned for Feb. 24

The campus community will celebrate Founder’s Day on Tuesday, Feb. 24. All faculty and staff are invited to join in the festivities. Mass begins at 11 a.m. in Saint Thomas More Chapel. The convocation begins at 1:15 p.m. in Page Theatre.

Class schedules for the day are:
• 7:45 to 9 a.m. classes meet from 8 to 8:50 a.m.;
• 9:15 to 10:30 a.m. classes meet from 9 to 9:50 a.m.;
• 10:45 a.m. to noon classes meet from 10 to 10:50 a.m.;
• 12:15 to 1:30 p.m. classes meet from 3 to 3:50 p.m.; and
• 1:45 to 3 p.m. classes meet from 4 to 4:50 p.m.

Anderson to receive
Distinguished Lasallian Educator award

Dr. Jane Anderson has been named as SMU’s Distinguished Lasallian Educator for 2009. Dr. Anderson has been on the faculty since 1995 and now serves as Dean of the School of Education. She is recognized for her efforts to engage and support the San Miguel Schools in Chicago and Minneapolis and her career-long commitment to understand and advance the cause of literacy education. Distinguished Lasallian Educator Awards are given by many Lasallian ministries in the North American-Toronto Region of the De La Salle Christian Brothers; they honor contributions and commitment to the Lasallian charism in education.

Beckman to receive Severin Award

The 2009 Brother H. Charles Severin Award for Excellence in Teaching will be presented to Dean Beckman, assistant professor in the Social Science Department. Beckman has been a member of the faculty since 2001 and teaches courses in the mass communication program. Over the years, he has shown consistent excellence in preparation of his courses, in communication and delivery of course material, and in fairness in dealing with students. He joins 21 other past and present faculty members as a Severin Award recipient. Recipients exemplify the teaching excellence and commitment to a student-centered learning that characterize a Saint Mary’s University education.

De La Salle Week events announced

Saint Mary’s University has celebrated Founder’s Day for many years to commemorate its founding in 1912. It has been a time of celebration and recognition of individuals within the Lasallian community.

With so much to celebrate about our Lasallian history and mission, the annual day of celebration has been expanded to become De La Salle Week. The year 2009 marks not only 97 years since our founding, but 75 years since the De La Salle Christian Brothers came to Saint Mary’s University.

Students, staff and faculty members are invited to a week of participation in these opportunities for learning, reflection, discussion and connection with others.

De La Salle Week events are sponsored by the Offices of Mission and Student Development.

SUNDAY, FEB. 22

9 p.m. — Opening liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

Food and money will be collected throughout the week for local Catholic Worker houses.

MONDAY, FEB. 23 - DE LA SALLE DAY

8 a.m. — SMU community gathering, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

12:10 p.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

4 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Ben Murray ‘96, co-founder and president of San Miguel Middle School-Minneapolis, Common Room.

8 to 9:30 p.m. — “About Lasallian Volunteers” with Martin Richard, Lasallian Volunteer recruiter, Toner Student Center Cardinal Club. Learn more about the Lasallian Volunteer movement and hear from Brendan Corcoran ‘07, current Lasallian Volunteer at San Miguel Middle School, Tulsa, Okla. Refreshments will be provided.

TUESDAY, FEB. 24 - FOUNDER’S DAY

8 a.m. — SMU Community Gathering, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

11 a.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

1:15 p.m. — Convocation, Page Theatre, including:
• Recognition of the 75th anniversary of Christian Brothers at Saint Mary's;
• Recognition of the Christian Brothers Long Island-New England District for service to and leadership for Saint Mary’s;
• Presentation of the Distinguished Lasallian Educator Award;
• Presentation of the Brother H. Charles Severin Award for Excellence in Teaching; and
• Presentation of the Outstanding Senior Awards.

2:30 p.m. — Convocation reception, Hall of Fame Room.

6 to 8 p.m. — Mardi Gras Bazaar, Toner Student Center.

WEDNESDAY, FEB. 25 - ASH WEDNESDAY
A day of prayer, fasting and alms giving

12:10 and 4:30 p.m. — Liturgy and distribution of ashes, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

11:30 am to 1 p.m. — Commemorative Lunch, Common Room (A Commemoration of De La Salle’s heroic vow “to live on bread alone;” includes an optional lunch of bread and water and freewill donation for Christ the Teacher Institute for Education, Nairobi campus).
2 and 5 p.m., Service Trip Opportunities, sponsored by Volunteer Services.

7:30 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Dr. Steve Pattee, associate professor of interdisciplinary studies, Common Room.

THURSDAY, FEB. 26 - CELEBRATION OF LASALLIAN ARTS AND SGPP

8 a.m. — SMU Community Gathering, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

12:10 p.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

4 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Dr. Patrick O’Shea, associate professor of music, Common Room.

4:30 p.m. — Build an igloo with Brother Finbar McMullen, Plaza (weather permitting).

7 to 8:30 p.m. — Fun and Games, Founder’s Style, Hall of Fame Room. Enjoy French cuisine and games from the time of De La Salle in 17th century France; sponsored by Health Advocates.

7:30 p.m. — “The Long Christmas Ride Home,” Valéncia Academy Theatre.

7:30 p.m. — Chamber Singers Homecoming Concert, Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels.

FRIDAY, FEB. 27 - GLOBAL LASALLIAN FAMILY

8 a.m. to 4 p.m. — Fair Trade Sale, first floor, Saint Mary’s Hall.

12:10 p.m. — Liturgy, Saint Thomas More Chapel.

4 p.m. — “Lasallian Hour” with Brother Christopher Soosai, SMU graduate student from India, Common Room.

7 p.m. — Movie time with Brother Jerome Rademacher, Christian Brothers’ Residence, including Brother Jerome’s famous popcorn! (Limited to 20 people; sign up in Student Activities.)

SATURDAY, FEB. 28 - SERVICE DAY

8 a.m. to 5 p.m. — Habitat for Humanity Service Trip (sign up in the Office of Campus Ministry).

Noon to 5 p.m. — “Just Bouncing Around” Ping-Pong Tournament, Toner Student Center Game Room.

6 p.m. — “Africa Night,” Common Room; Dinner (first 100 people); 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. music and dance, hosted by Intercultural Awareness Association (ICAA).

SUNDAY, MARCH 1

10:30 a.m. and 9 p.m. — Liturgy for the first Sunday of Lent, Saint Thomas More Chapel. Refreshments follow each Mass, compliments of Campus Ministry.

Go Red to Get Ahead’ SGPP promotion is Feb. 26 in Winona

The Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs are hosting a “Go Red to Get Ahead” promotional event Thursday, Feb. 26, on the Winona campus.

The event will be an opportunity for information, education and celebration. On that day, attendees will receive a more complete overview of the SGPP and the many educational opportunities SMU currently offers in Minneapolis, Winona, Rochester, Apple Valley, Minnetonka, greater Minnesota and Wisconsin.

The information will be valuable for undergraduate students, faculty and staff, as well as for our alumni and the greater Winona community. Whatever your role with the university you are encouraged to attend one or more of the events scheduled throughout the day.

• Pre- Event Activity: Morning classrooms will receive red balloon bouquets including an attached schedule of events for the day.

• Morning Event: (8 to 10 a.m.) Tables will be set up in key locations across campus offering juice and mini-muffins. Visitors will also be presented with a small give-away and post cards with a brief overview of the day’s events. Sign-up sheets for the raffle will be available at each table.

• Faculty and Staff Information Sessions (9 and 11 a.m., 2 and 3 p.m.) Undergraduate faculty and staff are invited to attend informational sessions on the SGPP in Meyer Conference Room and Salvi Lecture Hall. SGPP administrators and program directors will lead the information sessions. Power Points will be presented and handouts will be available for Q&A. Light refreshments and sign-up sheets for the raffle will be available at each session.

• Afternoon Event (11 a.m. to 3 p.m.): Each of the graduate schools (and each individual program within the school) will be represented by faculty and staff in the North Dining Room of the Dining Hall. Financial Aid and Career Services tables will be set up, and additional information about the SGPP will be available just outside of the North Dining Room. Visitors will view Power Points, have an opportunity to sign up for a raffle, and participate in a Guitar Hero contest.

• Evening Event (4 to 6 p.m.) An open house for alumni and the general public will be held in the Toner Student Lounge. Refreshments will be available, as well as basic SGPP materials. School deans, program directors and program staff will be on hand to greet visitors and discuss the SGPP options.

Saint Mary’s students to stage ‘Long Christmas Ride Home’

The heart — and the heartbreak — of family dynamics are closely examined in the hopeful drama, “The Long Christmas Ride Home,” to be presented by the Department of Theatre and Dance at Saint Mary’s.

In a seemingly Rockwellesque beginning, author Paula Vogel introduces audiences to a family of five, traveling by car to their grandparent’s house on Christmas Day.

Arguments ensue, unfortunate words are spoken, and we discover that memories of this dysfunctional and poignant car ride play a pivotal role in how the family’s three children mature into adulthood.

As the author intended, the three children are portrayed by Japanese Bunraku-inspired puppets. In this production each puppet is controlled by two black-cloaked figures, and one of their puppeteers (whose face is not obscured) then becomes an adult version of each child as the story flashes forwards.

Audiences also discover that the opening car ride is a memory of one of the children, Steven, who has died of AIDS. Though somewhat damaged by their past experiences, the three siblings have an enduring bond that transcends life itself.

“It’s universally beautiful,” said director Sarah St. Laurent, an SMU senior theatre major. “We all have a family, and no family is perfect. Family comes with a lot of baggage, but there are also redeeming qualities.” St. Laurent and Preston Lawing, chair of the SMU Department of Art and Design, constructed the puppets used in this presentation.

The show contains several adult themes and is recommended for mature audiences.

“The Long Christmas Ride Home” will be staged at Academy Theatre, located at the Valéncia Arts Center, 10th and Howard streets. The show runs 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 26-28 and Monday, March 2; a matinee performance is scheduled for 3 p.m. Sunday, March 1.

Tickets are $10, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Kabara business plan competition for students

The Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies announces the second annual Student Business Plan Competition.

Participants must be full-time undergraduate students on the Winona campus, may participate as an individual or as a team of two students, and can have any major.

Students are asked to develop a business plan for a business that they would like to start. The business does not need to be an on-campus business. The projected start-up costs and initial capital required may not exceed $10,000.

A hard copy and electronic copy of the business plans must be submitted to Teresa Speck by noon Monday, March 2. Semifinalists will present their plans to a panel of judges on Friday, March 13, and winners will be announced within a week.

For more information, go to www.smumn.edu/kabara or contact Speck at tspeck@smumn.edu or Ext. 1449.