Chamber Singers to perform in Rome

The Chamber Singers will perform in Rome as part of their 2011 Concert Tour. A highlight of the tour will include the performance of two new compositions — by SMU Music faculty — at St. Peter’s Basilica March 11.

The 25-voice select ensemble is directed by Dr. Patrick M. O’Shea, associate professor of music.

Tour performances will include the following liturgies and concerts:

• Parish of S. Giovanni Battista De La Salle – 6:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday, March 9

• Basilica of St. Peter, Vatican – 5 p.m. Mass, Friday, March 11

• Collegio S. Giuseppe de Merode – 11:30 a.m. Concert, Saturday, March 12

• Parish of Santa Susanna – 10:30 a.m. Mass, Sunday, March 13

The concert at S. Giuseppe is free and open to the public, and guests are welcome at the various liturgies. Repertoire will include a cappella works by Palestrina, Monteverdi, Kevin Siegfried, Moses Hogan, and world premieres of Preghiera Semplice (Prayer of St. Francis), composed by A. Eric Heukeshoven, and O Pray For the Peace of Jerusalem, composed by Dr. O’Shea especially for this tour.

Before departure, the Chamber Singers will sing as the guest choir for Mass at 5:15 p.m. on Saturday, March 5, at Holy Name Cathedral, Chicago. Upon their return, they will present a free “Homecoming Concert” in Winona at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels, 7th and Vila streets, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 17.

For more information, call Ext.1598.

New blog will follow Chamber Choir’s tour

Bob Fisher, Development, has created a blog, “SMUSINGS,” to provide an insiders look at the Chamber singer’s travels throughout Chicago, Italy and Rome.

“SMUSINGS” will provide profiles and updates of the choir members, in addition to pictures and video footage of their site-seeing trips, concerts, and other highlights of their journey. To follow the blog, go to http://smusingswithbob.blogspot.com.

Taylor Richmond benefit to help Grathen family

Saint Mary’s will present the 11th annual Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance from 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, March 26.

The beneficiary of this year’s formal dance — open to the public — is Tony Grathen, the step-grandson of Susan Edel, registrar. Tony is a 7-year-old boy from Rollingstone who was diagnosed with rhabdomysarcoma cancer in April 2010. Rhabdomysarcoma is a rare type of muscular cancer.

Since his diagnosis, Tony has undergone surgery to remove a tumor on his neck as well as 22 lymph nodes. He also has finished a six-week treatment of radiation and requires 44 weeks of chemotherapy. Money raised from the benefit dance and silent auction will help the family pay for medical bills and transportation expenses.

The benefit dance has become an annual tradition since its start in 2001 by students in honor of Taylor Richmond, son of Saint Mary’s Campus Ministry and Student Life staff member Nikki Richmond and her husband Nick 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 Disney World. 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 Lance Thompson at Ext. 1686. Dance tickets will also be available at the door.

In combination with the dance, a silent auction will be held on campus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 24-25. A variety of homemade goods, gift baskets and specialty items will be on display in the game room, located in the Toner Student Center. The public is welcome to bid.

If you are interested in volunteering your time or donating a basket or item for the benefit and/or silent auction, contact Nikki Richmond at richmond@smumn.edu or Lance Thompson at ljthom01@smumn.edu.

SMU offers ‘Tri Swimming’ clinic March 7 – April 30

Saint Mary’s is offering “Tri Swimming,” an open-water swim training and triathlon clinic, March 7 through April 30. This clinic is for beginning or advanced swimmers who are looking for a swim clinic to complement their triathlon training goals.

Many people are hesitant about triathlons because they lack confidence in their swimming abilities. This course is designed to complement the already-training tri-athlete’s workout, and also to encourage those who are intimidated by swimming, especially in open water. Participants will learn and improve swimming skills and techniques necessary for endurance training.

Athletes must be able to swim one length of the pool without the assistance of a flotation device.

The group meets three days a week, Mondays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., Wednesdays from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays from 8 to 9 a.m. The clinic will be held at the Jules Gernes Pool. The instructor is Jami Severson, assistant swimming coach, who has competitive and open-water swimming experience.

The course fee is $125 ($100 for SMU community members). Register and pay online at www.smumn.edu/ageless. For more information, call Ext. 6921.

Father Fabian T-shirts now on sale at Cardinal Corner

Father Fabian T-shirts are now on sale for $10 at the Cardinal Corner. Quantities are limited. Proceeds from sales will be donated to the Polish Children’s Orphanage in Chotomow, Poland.

The Cardinal Corner is a non-profit retail store located in the lower level of the Toner Student Center. Managed by the students of MG315 Entrepreneurship and supported by the School of Business, the mission of the store is to create an opportunity for entrepreneurship students to gain hands-on experience in operating a small business.

Each semester, the class donates profits from the Cardinal Corner to a charity of their choice. In addition, the store sells products for various SMU clubs, teams, departments, and organizations and returns 100 percent of the sales to benefit the SMU community.

For more information, contact professor Jana Craft at Ext. 1491 or jcraft@smumn.edu. Become a fan and receive the latest updates at www.facebook.com/cardinalcorner.

Gallery show highlights sculptures by Truax

A unique grouping of ceramic and mixed media sculptures by Lisa Schreiner Truax of the Department of Art and Design will be on display through March 27.

The show, “Synthetic Harmony,” is free and open to the public at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Students gain insight from Thern’s experience

On Feb. 16, 22 entrepreneurship students, taught by Jana Craft, traveled to Thern for a facility tour and discussion. Thern manufactures tools for lifting, pulling and positioning objects.

The students took full advantage of gaining some valuable real world insight. “We gave them an overview of who we are as a company and what we do,” Chris Baudhuin, executive vice president of Thern, said. “We had a good, open discussion, shared some of our experiences and answered their questions. The students were sharp. They asked very good questions.”

The visit covered a range of topics pertinent to running a family business, including management strategies, business structure, and long-term planning, core concepts that Craft wants to bring into focus for her students.

Habitat for Humanity to dedicate Women Build House

Tyrrena Ostrander and her sons will receive the keys to their new home and to a brighter future at a special home dedication and open house on Friday, March 25, at 182 Edward St.

What’s unique about this Habitat for Humanity house is that approximately 450 women picked up hammers and power tools to build alongside the Ostrander family. The Saint Mary’s University team of 42 individuals raised $9,400 toward the home and has been involved with construction throughout the year.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held in May 2010, and in mid-April the family will be able to move into their new home.

The community is invited — between 5:30 and 7 p.m. — to tour the home, enjoy refreshments, welcome the Ostrander family and congratulate the hard-working Habitat volunteers. A program will begin at 6 p.m.

Women built the house as part of Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program, underwritten by Lowe’s, which encourages women to build Habitat houses to move families out of substandard housing. Nationally more than 1,500 Habitat homes have been built by crews of women; this was Winona County’s first Women Build House.

Saint Mary’s presents Irish dance with Darrah Carr

The Page Series invites the public to celebrate the beauty of traditional Irish step and contemporary modern dance with Darrah Carr Dance Wendesday, March 23.

The fast-paced, spirited dance will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the Page Theatre stage.

Renowned for integrating Irish culture within its choreography, Darrah Carr Dance blends Irish music, step dance footwork, and spatial patterns to create high-energy, rhythmically based work that is accessible to a broad audience.

Artistic Director Darrah Carr calls her style ModERIN: a playful combination of the words modern (dance) and ERIN (an Irish American term of endearment for Ireland). The evening will include a selection of traditional Irish dance as well as ModERIN works that combines elements of traditional style Irish dance with modern elements.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 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 or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Peace and Justice brings in speaker from Sudan

The Peace and Justice Organization, led by Libby Perkins, Bridget Coffou and Robby McGuire, invited Father Lasuba from Rochester, Minn., to come and present on the current situation in Sudan Feb. 17.

The presentation highlighted Father Lasuba’s work with his country’s movement toward independence and the struggles and tragedy he personally has experienced. He also discussed the referendum which will allow South Sudan to become its own independent country.

This guest speaker was a continuation of a series started by Peace and Justice, with support from their connection with Catholic Relief Services, on peaceful solutions and solidarity with those who live in areas of conflict.

Relay for Life to be held March 18-19

The Saint Mary’s Colleges Against Cancer will host its 2011 Relay for Life 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday, March 18-19, in Gostomski Fieldhouse.

Teams comprised of friends, families and co-workers will join together for this fundraising effort, which celebrates people who have battled cancer, remembers loved ones lost, and provides an opportunity to fight back against the disease.

Last year more than 250 people participated in the event which raised more than $20,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Team members will spend the night walking around SMU’s indoor track from dusk to dawn to represent the 24-hour fight against cancer. Each team raises money for the American Cancer Society. This year’s theme is based on the American Cancer Society’s slogan; “Imagine a World with More Birthdays. I’m Making it Happen.”

Activities planned through the night include a silent auction, bingo, and other birthday-party themed games such as musical chairs, a piñata and ‘pin the tail on the donkey.’ Performances by a student band and the SMU Dance Team are also planned. For more information, contact Kaitlin Wermerskirchen at kmwerm07@smumn.edu.

Saint Teresa Institute to host women’s reception

Catherine Goddard Smith

The Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute for Women will host a women’s reception Wednesday, March 16, to kick off Women’s History Month.

Guest speaker Jennifer Weaver, assistant director of the Winona County Historical Society, will present “Winona Women in History.”

She will trace the stories of six Winona women who made history including: Winona’s founding “Aunt” Catherine Goddard Smith (1812-1888), African American entrepreneur Emma Shelton (1865-?), Educator and daughter of Civil War soldier Mabel Marvin (1876-1955), J.R. Watkins’ daughter and adventurer Grace Watkins King (1877-1975), performer Jeanette Lamberton (1869-1956), and Vaudeville and early film actress Myrtle Huntley (1880-1974).

Refreshments and hors d’oeuvres will be served in the Toner Student Center Lounge at 4.30 p.m. and Weaver’s presentation will begin at 5:15 p.m. in the President’s Room.

Competitors needed for Iron Chef competition

The 3rd annual Iron Chef competition will take place in the North Dining Room at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, March 27. As always, the funds raised will be sent to Bethlehem University for the Gaza Student Initiative.

This initiative provides scholarships for students from Gaza to attend Bethlehem University.

Students will be signing up in teams of up to four people. Each team is responsible for preparing a dish and dessert for 10 people.

In the past faculty and staff have also entered. Faculty/staff teams do not have to have multiple members, so if you’re a lone chef, you're welcome to participate.

If you're interested in making a dish for the competition (or just providing a dish and not competing), let Dorothy Diehl know at Ext. 1531 or ddiehl@smumn.edu.

Business Office raising funds for Feed My Starving Children

The Business Office will be working as a team with “Feed My Starving Children” to package meals for children around the world. Volunteers will be hand-packing meals on Saturday, March 26.

Each team is asked to raise $750 to participate. Collection jars are located at the windows for additional donations. For more information about FMSC, go to fmsc.org.

Discussion group for parents with Katy Smith continues

Counseling Services is partnering with Katy Smith, a licensed parent educator for Winona Public Schools, to offer a noontime discussion series for faculty and staff parents (and grandparents) with children younger than 7.

The discussion will center on the book “Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents” by Christine Carter. A wide array of research studies show that happiness is a learned behavior that we can help our children build and maintain.

The discussion series will begin at 12:15 p.m. in the President’s Room. Participants are invited to bring their own lunches; beverages and desserts will be provided. There is no charge for the series. Discussions will continue on March 16 and 23.

Please call Ext. 1773 to indicate your interest in the group or if you would like more information. Participants can come to all sessions or just the ones that fit with their schedules.

Students invited to enter business plan competition

The Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies announces the fourth 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.

The plan must include: a one-page executive summary, a concept statement, anticipated startup costs, a preliminary marketing plan, potential suppliers and/or manufacturing processes (as applicable), a discussion of operating considerations (staffing, operating hours, etc.), pro-forma financial statements for the first year of operation, references for the data sources used in the plan, and contact information for each of the individuals submitting the proposal.

Criteria for judging the plans include: feasibility of the proposed project, creativity, and comprehensiveness that was used to create the business plan.

Cash prizes totaling $1,500 will be awarded.

A hard copy and electronic copy of the business plans must be submitted to Teresa Speck by noon Tuesday, March 15. Semifinalists will present their plans to a panel of judges on Friday, March 18, and winners will be announced within a week.

For more information, contact Speck at tspeck@smumn.edu, Ext. 1449, or stop by her office at 429D, Saint Mary’s Hall.

Saint Mary's students meet top neurosurgeon

Saint Mary's students Kilian Gordon, Samuel Callisto and Alexander Thomas with Dr. Garnette Sutherland.

Thomas and Gordon — joined by Roger Saindon '77 — listen to a presentation on the functional MRI facility at United Hospital.

Tim Bollig of United Hospital gives a tour of a neurosurgery operating room fitted with intraoperative MRI.

On Feb. 24 Saint Mary’s junior Sam Callisto, freshmen Alexander Thomas and Killian Gordon, and Biology assistant professor Dr. Casey Finnerty traveled to United Hospital in St. Paul, to attend a lecture delivered by Garnette Sutherland, M.D., one of the world’s most gifted neurosurgeons.

Dr. Sutherland is a professor of neurosurgery at the University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and with his team he is pioneering the use of robotics and intraoperative MRI in neurosurgery through research that spans medicine, computer science, engineering and cell biology.

Dr. Sutherland’s use of robotics is extending the limits of precision in surgery. With industrial partners he has developed the first surgical robot capable of operating within the core of an MRI machine, allowing surgeons to operate with the guidance of MRI real-time images.

Following Dr. Sutherland’s presentation, the Saint Mary’s group participated in an extensive tour of United Hospital’s neurosurgery units where they saw the functional MRI facility, surgical robots and the hospital's $14 million intraoperative MRI facility. Afterward, the they were able to converse with Dr. Sutherland about his talk and ask questions.

“These students have an interest in neuroscience, so meeting one of the world’s top neurosurgeons was a tremendous opportunity,” said Dr. Finnerty. “They asked some great questions! And I was really appreciative of the time Dr. Sutherland took to speak with our students. Meeting people who work at the frontier of human achievement excites your imagination and inspires you to do the hard work needed to reach your dreams, and I think such excitement and inspiration is critical to student success.

“We even had the pleasure of meeting a Saint Mary’s alumnus and biology major, Mr. Roger Saindon ’77, on our hospital tour. I find I run into Saint Mary’s alumni all the time!”

The group thanks Dr. Larry Kuusisto, vice president of Education and executive director of the Alley Institute for making their attendance possible, and to Timothy Bollig and others at United Hospital for giving them such an outstanding tour of the neurosurgery imaging and surgical units. Video of Dr. Sutherland is available at this link: http://bit.ly/hqbfEn.

Windley-Daoust receives sabbatical grant

Dr. Susan Windley-Daoust, assistant professor of Theology, has received a 2011 Sabbatical Grant for Researchers from the Louisville Institute, a Lilly Endowment funded program supporting those who lead and study American religious institutions.

According the Institute, “The Louisville Institute seeks to identify and support ecclesially-engaged academics and intellectually-astute pastoral and religious leaders whose scholarly research work can contribute to the vitality of Christianity in North America. The Sabbatical Grants for Researchers program supports year-long sabbatical research projects that can contribute to our enhanced understanding of important issues concerning Christian faith and life, pastoral leadership, and/or religious institutions.”

The grant enables Dr. Windley-Daoust to take a full year sabbatical during 2011-2012 to research and write on “Theology of the Body, Extended: The Spiritual Signs of Childbirth, Disability, and Death,” a constructive theology on what it means to be created to be an incarnate sign that points to union with God.

Psi Chi inducts new members

Psi Chi, the International Honor Society in Psychology at Saint Mary’s, inducted new members at a meeting Tuesday, March 1.


New inductees include: Morgan Carlson, Sheree Haslemore, Allison Johnson, Jamie Jones, Megan Leisen, Kathryn Metz, Cathryn Rennie, Catherine Smith, Danielle Strebel and Christopher Williams.

They join existing members: Kelsi Addabbo, Cassandra Berning, Caitlyn Cole, Kristina Empanger, Bethany Hastings, Tiearra Johnson, Nakisa Khoshnevis, Caitlyn Knudson, Steven Lochen, Colleen Norwell, Robert Sassetti and Casey Twardowski.

Sympathy to White family

Arlene Isabe White, 84, mother of Donna White ’91, (SMU Barnes and Noble) died Thursday, Feb. 24, at Gundersen Lutheran Medical Center in La Crosse, Wis.

A note of condolence can be sent to Donna and her family at Box 11.

The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the White family.

Jazz notes

Swing Inc. will perform 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. today, Friday, March 4, at Signature’s Restaurant.

Reminder: No ‘Campus Notes’ next week

Because of spring break, there will be no “Campus Notes” next week. The next edition will be Friday, March 18. Look ahead on your calendars. The deadline for that issue is Wednesday, March 16.

Chamber Singers to perform in Rome

The Chamber Singers will perform in Rome as part of their 2011 Concert Tour. A highlight of the tour will include the performance of two new compositions — by SMU Music faculty — at St. Peter’s Basilica March 11.

The 25-voice select ensemble is directed by Dr. Patrick M. O’Shea, associate professor of music.

Tour performances will include the following liturgies and concerts:

• Parish of S. Giovanni Battista De La Salle – 6:30 p.m. Ash Wednesday, March 9

• Basilica of St. Peter, Vatican – 5 p.m. Mass, Friday, March 11

• Collegio S. Giuseppe de Merode – 11:30 a.m. Concert, Saturday, March 12

• Parish of Santa Susanna – 10:30 a.m. Mass, Sunday, March 13

The concert at S. Giuseppe is free and open to the public, and guests are welcome at the various liturgies. Repertoire will include a cappella works by Palestrina, Monteverdi, Kevin Siegfried, Moses Hogan, and world premieres of Preghiera Semplice (Prayer of St. Francis), composed by A. Eric Heukeshoven, and O Pray For the Peace of Jerusalem, composed by Dr. O’Shea especially for this tour.

Before departure, the Chamber Singers will sing as the guest choir for Mass at 5:15 p.m. on Saturday, March 5, at Holy Name Cathedral, Chicago. Upon their return, they will present a free “Homecoming Concert” in Winona at the Chapel of Saint Mary of the Angels, 7th and Vila streets, at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March 17.

For more information, call Ext.1598.

Outstanding Senior Award finalists announced

The following students as finalists for the 2011 Outstanding Senior Award:

Females — Hilary Ethen, Jennifer Koezly, Ali Kremer, Libby Perkins and Sami Traxler

Males — Santiago Escobar, Lukas Holland, Benton Kodet, Sean Ohl, Dan Streefland and Ryan Wockenfus

Please take a moment to congratulate these outstanding students. Final ballots have been e-mailed to faculty and staff. Seniors will have an opportunity to vote on Tuesday, March 1, at Senior Salute. The award for Outstanding Female and Male Senior will be presented at Founder’s Day on April 5.

Hockey team hits the nets with Big and Little Pals

Approximately 50 youth and Saint Mary’s students involved with Big & Little Pals enjoyed an evening of hockey at SMU Friday, Feb. 18.

The group teamed up with members of the SMU Men’s Hockey team for some off-the-ice hockey training. The Pals had dinner on campus before enjoying obstacle courses, stick handling and shooting pucks. The evening concluded with an SMU Men’s hockey game vs. Gustavus Adolphus. Big & Little Pals pairs SMU students with first- through fourth-graders from the Winona community for a year. The pairs meet once a week for a fun mentoring activity.

Taylor Richmond benefit to help Grathen family

Saint Mary’s will present the 11th annual Taylor Richmond Benefit Dance from 8 p.m. to midnight Saturday, March 26.

The beneficiary of this year’s formal dance — open to the public — is Tony Grathen, the step-grandson of Susan Edel, registrar. Tony is a 7-year-old boy from Rollingstone who was diagnosed with rhabdomysarcoma cancer in April 2010. Rhabdomysarcoma is a rare type of muscular cancer.

Since his diagnosis, Tony has undergone surgery to remove a tumor on his neck as well as 22 lymph nodes. He also has finished a six-week treatment of radiation and requires 44 weeks of chemotherapy. Money raised from the benefit dance and silent auction will help the family pay for medical bills and transportation expenses.

The benefit dance has become an annual tradition since its start in 2001 by students in honor of Taylor Richmond, son of Saint Mary’s Campus Ministry and Student Life staff member Nikki Richmond and her husband Nick 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 Disney World. 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 Lance Thompson at Ext. 1686. Dance tickets will also be available at the door.

In combination with the dance, a silent auction will be held on campus from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 24-25. A variety of homemade goods, gift baskets and specialty items will be on display in the game room, located in the Toner Student Center. The public is welcome to bid.

If you are interested in volunteering your time or donating a basket or item for the benefit and/or silent auction, contact Nikki Richmond at richmond@smumn.edu or Lance Thompson at ljthom01@smumn.edu.

‘Celebrate.Give Back’ Day held Feb. 18

Student volunteers from the Future Alumni Committee

The Freezers performed in the Common Room.

“Celebrate.Give Back” — held Friday, Feb. 18 — was a day for students to celebrate the generous gifts around campus supported by alumni, family and friends that enhance their SMU experience. In addition, it was a day to say “thank you” and spread awareness of the importance of philanthropy on campus and in the community. Hundreds of students signed a “Thank you banner,” and the day concluded with a free concert by the Freezers. This event was sponsored by the Young Alumni Association and the Future Alumni Committee.

Next Page Series event highlights our nation’s history

The Pushcart Players will present the musical tribute “Let Freedom Ring: America at the Beginning” as part of the Page Series Thursday, March 3.

The robust musical review that celebrates our nation’s birth and development will begin at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre.

Audiences will enjoy a history lesson come to life — “Let Freedom Ring” is a compilation of authentic folk songs and vignettes that illustrate significant moments in history.

The play begins with the beginning of time, moving quickly to the arrival of the first Americans from Asia. With the passage of approximately 30,000 years (in under five minutes!), Freedom introduces second Americans who arrive on the Eastern shores in 1620, after a long and arduous journey from England.

Among the new settlers are four main characters —Sam, Sarah, Jennie and Ginny — who transcend time, distance and circumstance to lead us chronologically and geographically through two centuries of our American past. Their journey through the landscape of America includes whistle stops along the way to witness early encounters with Native Americans, disputes with Mother England, the Boston Tea Party, American Revolution, westward expansion, Underground Railroad, Civil War, California Gold Rush and Industrialization.

The finale is a spirited medley of international songs that celebrate the new wave of immigration at the turn of the 20th century.

Nominated for an Emmy for its two prime time specials on CBS, Pushcart Players will be celebrating its 35th year as a touring ensemble.

Tickets are $12 for adults, $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 or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Father Fabian T-shirts now on sale at Cardinal Corner

Father Fabian T-shirts are now on sale for $10 at the Cardinal Corner. Quantities are limited. Proceeds from sales will be donated to the Polish Children's Orphanage in Chotomow, Poland.

The Cardinal Corner is a non-profit retail store located in the lower level of the Toner Student Center. Managed by the students of MG315 Entrepreneurship and supported by the College of Business, the mission of the store is to create an opportunity for entrepreneurship students to gain hands-on experience in operating a small business. Each semester, the class donates profits from the Cardinal Corner to a charity of their choice. In addition, the store sells products for various SMU clubs, teams, departments, and organizations and returns 100 percent of the sales to benefit the SMU community.

For more information, contact the professor, Jana Craft, at 457-1491 or jcraft@smumn.edu. Become a fan and receive the latest updates at www.facebook.com/cardinalcorner.

Gallery show highlights sculptures by Truax

A unique grouping of ceramic and mixed media sculptures by Lisa Schreiner Truax of the Department of Art and Design will be on display through March 27.

The show, “Synthetic Harmony,” is free and open to the public at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Student researchers to present at the Capitol Feb. 28

Two students from Saint Mary’s, along with their faculty advisors, will head to the Minnesota State Capitol Rotunda on Monday, Feb. 28, to present the results of their independent research and creative scholarship at the eighth annual Minnesota Private College Scholars at the Capitol event.

The Minnesota Private College Council hosts this event in an attempt to publicize and celebrate the achievements of just a few of the many thousands of students who attend 14 private schools of higher learning in Minnesota, and to share research that may have long-term implications for Minnesotans.

This event — to be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — will showcase current research projects completed by 37 undergraduate scholars from Minnesota private colleges and universities. Saint Mary’s students attending this year’s event include:

• Jennifer Koezly, Ham Lake, Minn., presenting “Iron Oxide/Nanoparticle Arrays as Multimodal Imaging Agents.” Her faculty advisor is Dr. Paul Nienaber. This work stems from a summer undergraduate research experience conducted with Dr. Valerie Pierre of the chemistry department at the University of Minnesota.

• Stephanie Valentine, Omaha, Neb., presenting “Just Truss Me: Geometric Recognizers.” Her faculty advisor is Dr. Ann Smith. Valentine will introduce Mekanix, a sketch recognition system that can recognize, correct and provide feedback on a student’s hand-drawn truss diagram in real-time.

The Minnesota Private College Council represents 17 well-respected liberal arts colleges and universities with 60,000 students. These institutions award 30 percent of the baccalaureate degrees in the state.

International Showcase a success

Jasmine Wang performs "Butterfly Lovers" on a Zither.

Yer Xiong and Joua Xiong perform a Hmong dance.

A Kung Fu presentation was given by Yuepeng Li

The first International Week concluded with the SMU International Showcase Saturday, Feb. 19. The evening included international music and dance, performed by SMU international students. Proceeds will go to the Winona County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Habitat for Humanity to dedicate Women Build House

Tyrrena Ostrander and her sons will receive the keys to their new home and to a brighter future at a special home dedication and open house on Friday, March 25, at 182 Edward St.

What’s unique about this Habitat for Humanity house is that approximately 450 women picked up hammers and power tools to build alongside the Ostrander family. The Saint Mary’s University team of 41 individuals raised $9,400 toward the home and has been involved with construction throughout the year.

The groundbreaking ceremony was held in May 2010, and in mid-April the family will be able to move into their new home.

Women built the house as part of Habitat for Humanity’s Women Build program, underwritten by Lowe’s, which encourages women to build Habitat houses to move families out of substandard housing. Nationally more than 1,500 Habitat homes have been built by crews of women; this was Winona County’s first Women Build House.

The community is invited — between 5:30 and 7 p.m. — to tour the home, enjoy refreshments, welcome the Ostrander family and congratulate the hard-working Habitat volunteers. A program will begin at 6 p.m.

Saint Mary’s presents Irish dance with Darrah Carr

The Page Series invites the public to celebrate the beauty of traditional Irish step and contemporary modern dance with Darrah Carr Dance Wendesday, March 23.

The fast-paced, spirited dance will begin at 7:30 p.m. on the Page Theatre stage, located in the SMU Performance Center.

Renowned for integrating Irish culture within its choreography, Darrah Carr Dance blends Irish music, step dance footwork, and spatial patterns to create high-energy, rhythmically based work that is accessible to a broad audience.

Artistic Director Darrah Carr calls her style ModERIN: a playful combination of the words modern (dance) and ERIN (an Irish American term of endearment for Ireland).

The evening will include a selection of traditional Irish dance as well as ModERIN works that combines elements of traditional style Irish dance with modern elements.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 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 or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Chat, Chow & Web 2.0 presents new Wednesday topic

The next Chat, Chow & Web 2.0 titled “Still Chilly? There’s an app for that” will be held Wednesday, March 2.

Everyone’s going mobile nowadays, so don’t be left in the dust. Stop by to discover some of the latest “apps” for educators with Dr. Casey Finnerty and Rachel Thomas. As an added attraction, chili in a bread bowl will be on the menu.

Meet between 12:15 and 1:15 p.m. in the main lounge of the McEnery Center. This presentation is sponsored by The Fitz, IT and Instructional Technology.

Lunch is provided; RSVPs can be made to Jason Spartz at jspartz@smumn.edu.

Deadline is today for SMU’s Relay for Life March 18-19

The Saint Mary’s Colleges Against Cancer group invites the community to its 2011 Relay for Life — to be held 7:30 p.m. to 7:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday, March 18-19, in Saint Mary’s Gostomski Fieldhouse.

Teams comprised of friends, families and co-workers will join together for this fundraising effort, which celebrates people who have battled cancer, remembers loved ones lost, and provides an opportunity to fight back against the disease.

Last year more than 250 people participated in the event which raised more than $20,000 for the American Cancer Society.

Team members will spend the night walking around SMU’s indoor track from dusk to dawn to represent the 24-hour fight against cancer. Each team raises money for the American Cancer Society. This year’s theme is based on the American Cancer Society’s slogan; “Imagine a World with More Birthdays. I’m Making it Happen.”

Activities planned through the night include a silent auction, bingo, and other birthday-party themed games such as musical chairs, a piñata and ‘pin the tail on the donkey.’ Performances by a student band and the SMU Dance Team are also planned.

If you are thinking about creating a team; if you would like to come and support the American Cancer Society’s efforts; if you would like to celebrate cancer survivors and remember those you have lost; or if you would like to be recognized as a survivor and have your success celebrated, come to this event. Participants are welcome to stay for as much or as little as their schedules allow.

To sign up, go to www.relayforlife.org/smu. The deadline to be part of SMU’s Relay for Life is Friday, Feb. 25.

For more information, contact Kaitlin Wermerskirchen at kmwerm07@smumn.edu.

‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ begins

Can you spell hilarious? The Department of Theatre and Dance will present “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” Feb. 25-27.

Catchy musical numbers combine with colorful characters filled with youthful angst and yearnings in this one-act musical comedy directed by Dr. Gary Diomandes and music director Judy Myers.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” spotlights the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time.

With the underlying theme that losing doesn’t make you a loser, anyone who sees this show is a winner.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 24-26, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $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.

* This show includes

Spring Dance Show planned for Feb. 27

The 2011 Spring Dance Show, hosted by the Saint Mary's Dance Team, will be 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27, in the gymnasium.

Admission is $3. Performers will include the dance team, cheerleaders, members of the ballroom dance club, the Lady Spartans, students from Nicole’s School of Dance, and other individual performers.

Competitors needed for Iron Chef competition

The 3rd annual Iron Chef competition will take place in the North Dining Room at 5:30 p.m. Sunday, March 27. As always, the funds raised will be sent to Bethlehem University for the Gaza Student Initiative.

This initiative provides scholarships for students from Gaza to attend Bethlehem University.

Students will be signing up in teams of up to four people. Each team is responsible for preparing a dish and dessert for 10 people. In the past faculty and staff have also entered. Faculty/staff teams do not have to have multiple members, so if you’re a lone chef, you're welcome to participate. If you're interested in making a dish for the competition (or just providing a dish and not competing), let Dorothy Diehl know at Ext. 1531 or ddiehl@smumn.edu.

Business Office raising funds for Feed My Starving Children

The Business Office will be working as a team with “Feed My Starving Children” to package meals for children around the world. Volunteers will be hand-packing meals on Saturday, March 26.

Each team is asked to raise $750 to participate. Collection jars are located at the windows for additional donations. For more information about FMSC, go to fmsc.org.

Discussion group for parents with Katy Smith continues

Counseling Services is partnering with Katy Smith, a licensed parent educator for Winona Public Schools, to offer a noontime discussion series for faculty and staff parents (and grandparents) with children younger than 7. The discussion will center on the book “Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents” by Christine Carter. A wide array of research studies show that happiness is a learned behavior that we can help our children build and maintain.

The discussion series will begin at 12:15 p.m. in the President’s Room. Participants are invited to bring their own lunches; beverages and desserts will be provided. There is no charge for the series. Discussions will continue on March 2, 16 and 23. Please call Ext. 1773 to indicate your interest in the group or if you would like more information. Participants can come to all sessions or just the ones that fit with their schedules.

Smith has been working with families, educators, and businesses for more than 25 years, helping to build stronger, more vital communities. She received her B.S.W. and teaching license in Parent Education from Winona State University. She earned her M.E. in Professional Development from the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse.

‘Celebrate.Give Back’ Day Feb. 18 includes free concert

“Celebrate.Give Back” — scheduled for today, Friday, Feb. 18 — is a day for students to celebrate the generous gifts around campus supported by alumni, family and friends that enhance their SMU experience. In addition, it is a day to say “thank you” and spread awareness of the importance of philanthropy on campus and in the community.

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., students will have an opportunity to sign a “Thank you banner,” located in the Toner Student Center and in Saint Mary’s Hall. The banners will be used for various donor recognition opportunities. Free Bloedow’s donuts will be available to the first 300 who sign the banner.

The day will conclude with a free concert from 7-9 p.m. in the Common Room; musical guest will be The Freezers, a cover band from La Crosse, Wis.

This event is sponsored by the Young Alumni Association and the Future Alumni Committee. For more information, contact Sabrina Kelly at skelly@smumn.edu

Next Page Series event highlights our nation’s history

The Pushcart Players will present the musical tribute “Let Freedom Ring: America at the Beginning” as part of the Page Series Thursday, March 3.

The robust musical review that celebrates our nation’s birth and development will begin at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre.

Audiences will enjoy a history lesson come to life — “Let Freedom Ring” is a compilation of authentic folk songs and vignettes that illustrate significant moments in history.

The play begins with the beginning of time, moving quickly to the arrival of the first Americans from Asia. With the passage of approximately 30,000 years (in under five minutes!), Freedom introduces second Americans who arrive on the Eastern shores in 1620, after a long and arduous journey from England.

Among the new settlers are four main characters —Sam, Sarah, Jennie and Ginny — who transcend time, distance and circumstance to lead us chronologically and geographically through two centuries of our American past. Their journey through the landscape of America includes whistle stops along the way to witness early encounters with Native Americans, disputes with Mother England, the Boston Tea Party, American Revolution, westward expansion, Underground Railroad, Civil War, California Gold Rush and Industrialization.

The finale is a spirited medley of international songs that celebrate the new wave of immigration at the turn of the 20th century.

Nominated for an Emmy for its two prime time specials on CBS, Pushcart Players will be celebrating its 35th year as a touring ensemble.

Tickets are $12 for adults, $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 or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Gallery show highlights sculptures by Truax

A unique grouping of ceramic and mixed media sculptures by Lisa Schreiner Truax of the Department of Art and Design will be on display Feb. 24 through March 27.

The show, “Synthetic Harmony,” is free and open to the public at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

An opening reception is scheduled for 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 24, at the galleries.

Student researchers to present at the Capitol Feb. 28

Two students from Saint Mary’s, along with their faculty advisors, will head to the Minnesota State Capitol Rotunda on Monday, Feb. 28, to present the results of their independent research and creative scholarship at the eighth annual Minnesota Private College Scholars at the Capitol event.

The Minnesota Private College Council hosts this event in an attempt to publicize and celebrate the achievements of just a few of the many thousands of students who attend 14 private schools of higher learning in Minnesota, and to share research that may have long-term implications for Minnesotans.

This event — to be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — will showcase current research projects completed by 37 undergraduate scholars from Minnesota private colleges and universities. Saint Mary’s students attending this year’s event include:

• Jennifer Koezly, Ham Lake, Minn., presenting “Iron Oxide/Nanoparticle Arrays as Multimodal Imaging Agents.” Her faculty advisor is Dr. Paul Nienaber. This work stems from a summer undergraduate research experience conducted with Dr. Valerie Pierre of the chemistry department at the University of Minnesota.

• Stephanie Valentine, Omaha, Neb., presenting “Just Truss Me: Geometric Recognizers.” Her faculty advisor is Dr. Ann Smith. Valentine will introduce Mekanix, a sketch recognition system that can recognize, correct and provide feedback on a student’s hand-drawn truss diagram in real-time.

The Minnesota Private College Council represents 17 well-respected liberal arts colleges and universities with 60,000 students. These institutions award 30 percent of the baccalaureate degrees in the state.

International Week events continue

The first International Week, sponsored by the Office of Student Life, has included a full schedule of activities and speakers this week.

The week will conclude with the SMU International Showcase at 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, in the dining room of the Toner Student Center. The evening will include international music and dance, performed by many SMU international students. A freewill donation will be asked, and all proceeds will go to the Winona County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Annual Twin Cities, Chicago receptions successful

The Admission Office reports a record attendance at this year’s annual receptions for both the Twins Cities and Chicago events. The Twin Cities Reception was held on Sunday, Jan. 30, at the Airport Marriot in Bloomington with 106 students and parents attending. The Chicago reception was held on Sunday, Feb. 13, at the Oak Brook Marriott with 59 students and parents attending.

These successful events could not have happened without the generous support of many faculty, staff, coaches, current students, alumni and SMU parents who shared their Sundays to assist in bringing a taste of Saint Mary’s to prospective students. The admission staff would like to thank the following individuals for their supreme efforts:

Winona campus faculty, staff and coaches —Twin Cities: Tom Mans, Jim Bedtke, Joe Dulak, Dennis Gallagher, Laura Schmidt, Nikki Peters, Bill Moore, Eric Lindquist, Nick Winiecke, Rob McColl, Jeanne Minnerath, Shelly McCallum, Tom Marpe, Jaime Mueller, Rob Gordon, Valerie Edwards-Robeson, Carolyn Ayers, Jan Dimitt-Olson, Edith Galvez, Tycho DeBoer, Dean Beckman, Kevin Dennis, Partick O’Shea, Jay Mutter, Adam Stasica, Steve Bouler, Ken Stenstrup, Jayne Wobig and Tammy Vondrasek. Chicago: Rose Beal, Jim Bedtke, Steve Bouler, Carolyn Bray, Dan Bucknam, Brother Pat Conway, Dennis Gallagher, Edith Galvez, Marc Hartmann, Karen Hemker, Eric Heaukeshoven, Dave Jackson, Matt Klosky, Tricia Klosky, Randy Krainock, Roger Kugel, Mike Lester, Tennie McCabe, Ken McCullough, Larry Price, Lance Thompson, Liz Throop, Lisa Truax, Tammy Vondrasek, Peg Winters and Jayne Wobig.

Current undergraduate students — Twin Cities: Libby Baker, Danny Spiess, Coco Booker, Ryan Menden, Trish Nguyen and John Soucheray. Chicago: Joey Hall, Sarah McDonough, Kyle Garesche and Reid Smithe.

Undergraduate alumni — Twin Cities: Dave Karsnia ’00, Nate Semsch ’04, Megan Mollison ’10 and Sara Sloneker ’06. Chicago: Joe Hettinger ’81 and Mike Flynn ’87.

Parents of current SMU students — Twin Cities: James ’88 and Ann ’86 Menden and John ’74 and Kate M’07 Soucheray. Chicago: Patti McDonough, Jeff Norris ’76, and Joe and Angel Hall.

The positive comments the Admission Office hears from the students and their parents after these events is a reminder that this is a valuable way to connect with future Saint Mary’s students.

Students to perform in Intercollegiate Honor Band

Saint Mary’s students, Katie Lieder (Winona), Chris Engesser (Luverne); Tommy Quinn (Cannon Falls) and Ashley Buhr (Mankato) and are performing in this year’s Intercollegiate Honor Band at the Minnesota Music Education Conference in Minneapolis Feb. 17-19.

The ICHB, directed this year by British conductor Keith Allen, is made up of top players from colleges and universities throughout Minnesota. After two full days of rehearsals (Thursday and Friday, Feb. 17-18) the band will perform at 9:15 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, in the Minneapolis Convention Center. This performance is free and open to the public.

A number of SMU music education majors will be attending the conference and assisting with the Music Department exhibit booth including Jessica Bouska, Jessica Giers, Marilyn Yenni, Sara Ku, and Tyler Ringiesen. Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, Music Education Program director, serves on the MMEA (Minnesota -Music Educator's Association) Board of Directors and will be hosting numerous sessions and performances during the conference.

Kabara Institute announces elevator pitch winners

The Kabara Institute for Entrepreneurial Studies announced its recent Elevator Pitch Competition winners as Joe Richards (philosophy and marketing major), Becca Sandager (electronic publishing major) and Brian Dillon (accounting major).

Contestants created an idea for a business or an event and had 90 seconds (the length of an average elevator ride) to convince a panel of judges that the idea was a worthwhile investment.

Judges considered the feasibility and creativity of the idea and the enthusiasm and professionalism of the presentation when awarding the prizes.

The Kabara Institute is currently presenting a series of three workshops to help students create business plans. The annual Business Plan Competition will be held in March. Watch for details!

Chat, Chow & Web 2.0 presents new Wednesday topic

The next Chat, Chow & Web 2.0 titled “Still Chilly? There’s an app for that” will be held Wednesday, March 2.

Everyone’s going mobile nowadays, so don’t be left in the dust. Stop by to discover some of the latest “apps” for educators with Dr. Casey Finnerty and Rachel Thomas. As an added attraction, chili in a bread bowl will be on the menu.

Meet between 12:15 and 1:15 p.m. in the main lounge of the McEnery Center. This presentation is sponsored by The Fitz, IT and Instructional Technology.

Lunch is provided; RSVPs can be made to Jason Spartz at jspartz@smumn.edu.

Relay for Life scheduled for March 18-19

On Friday, March 18, Saint Mary's will be hosting its fourth annual Relay for Life event. Relay for Life is a 12-hour relay held in celebration for cancer survival and a way to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. For more information, contact Kaitlin at kmwerm07@smumn.edu.

‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ nears

Can you spell hilarious? The Department of Theatre and Dance will present “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” Feb. 24-27.

Catchy musical numbers combine with colorful characters filled with youthful angst and yearnings in this one-act musical comedy directed by Dr. Gary Diomandes and music director Judy Myers.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” spotlights the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time.

With the underlying theme that losing doesn’t make you a loser, anyone who sees this show is a winner.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 24-26, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $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.

* This show includes adult language and subject matters.

Business Office raising funds for Feed My Starving Children

The Business Office will be working as a team with "Feed My Starving Children" to package meals for children around the world. Volunteers will be hand-packing meals on Saturday, March 26.

Each team is asked to raise $750 to participate. Collection jars are located at the windows for additional donations. For more information about FMSC, go to fmsc.org.

Discussion group for parents with Katy Smith continues

Counseling Services is partnering with Katy Smith, a licensed parent educator for Winona Public Schools, to offer a noontime discussion series for faculty and staff parents (and grandparents) with children younger than 7. The discussion will center on the book “Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents” by Christine Carter. A wide array of research studies show that happiness is a learned behavior that we can help our children build and maintain.

The discussion series will begin at 12:15 p.m. in the President’s Room. Participants are invited to bring their own lunches; beverages and desserts will be provided. There is no charge for the series. Discussions will continue on Feb. 16, 23 and March 2, 16 and 23. Please call Ext. 1773 to indicate your interest in the group or if you would like more information. Participants can come to all sessions or just the ones that fit with their schedules.

Smith has been working with families, educators, and businesses for more than 25 years, helping to build stronger, more vital communities. She received her B.S.W. and teaching license in Parent Education from Winona State University. She earned her M.E. in Professional Development from the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse.

Winona Arts Center hosts University Jazz Night Feb. 21

The Winona Arts Center will host a University Jazz Night, featuring students from both Saint Mary’s University and Winona State University, Monday, Feb. 21.

The event, which will begin at 7:30 p.m., will take place at the arts center, located at 5th and Franklin streets.

WSU students, directed by Dr. Richard MacDonald, will begin the evening, and performances by Saint Mary’s students, directed by Dr. John Paulson, will follow.

Donations will be accepted.

Student researchers to present at the Capitol Feb. 28

Two students from Saint Mary’s, along with their faculty advisors, will head to the Minnesota State Capitol Rotunda on Monday, Feb. 28, to present the results of their independent research and creative scholarship at the eighth annual Minnesota Private College Scholars at the Capitol event.

The Minnesota Private College Council hosts this event in an attempt to publicize and celebrate the achievements of just a few of the many thousands of students who attend 14 private schools of higher learning in Minnesota, and to share research that may have long-term implications for Minnesotans.

This event — to be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. — will showcase current research projects completed by 37 undergraduate scholars from Minnesota private colleges and universities. Saint Mary’s students attending this year’s event include:

• Jennifer Koezly, Ham Lake, Minn., presenting “Iron Oxide/Nanoparticle Arrays as Multimodal Imaging Agents.” Her faculty advisor is Dr. Paul Nienaber. This work stems from a summer undergraduate research experience conducted with Dr. Valerie Pierre of the chemistry department at the University of Minnesota.

• Stephanie Valentine, Omaha, Neb., presenting “Just Truss Me: Geometric Recognizers.” Her faculty advisor is Dr. Ann Smith. Valentine will introduce Mekanix, a sketch recognition system that can recognize, correct and provide feedback on a student’s hand-drawn truss diagram in real-time.

The Minnesota Private College Council represents 17 well-respected liberal arts colleges and universities with 60,000 students. These institutions award 30 percent of the baccalaureate degrees in the state.

International Week events announced

The Saint Mary’s Office of Student Life will present the first annual International Week, Feb. 14-19. A full schedule of activities and speakers highlight the week, which will conclude with the second annual International Showcase.

Monday, Feb. 14 – Dr. Josh Lallaman (Biology Department) will give a presentation on global warming from noon to 1 p.m. in the Faculty Dining Room. Additionally, the The Yoga Club invites the SMU community to the Dance Studio in the RAC from 7-8:30 p.m. to try yoga, an activity that originates from India.

Tuesday, Feb. 15 – Professor Dorothy Diehl, (Modern/Classical Languages) will present on the Palestinian-Israeli situation in the Middle East from noon to 1 p.m. in the Faculty Dining Room. From 7-8:30 p.m., the Ballroom Dance Club invites others to learn international dances such as salsa dancing, the tango and more in the RAC’s Dance Studio.

Wednesday, Feb. 16 – Student Life will present the movie, “Babies,” at 9 p.m. in Salvi Lecture Hall. This International movie looks at one year in the life of four babies from Mongolia, Nambia, San Francisco and Tokyo.

Thursday, Feb. 17 – The International Fair will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the Toner Dining Room. Participants will experience, first- hand, the places and culture of the university’s international and study abroad students. Also, The Peace and Justice Club will present Father John Lasuba, who will give a presentation about the unrest in the Sudan at 7 p.m. in the President's Room. Father Lasuba lost his father and his five brothers to war in Sudan. He was separated from his two sisters when he moved to the United States in 2004. Now he ministers to 22 new Sudanese families at St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church in downtown Rochester.

Saturday, Feb. 19 — The SMU International Showcase will begin at 8 p.m. in the dining room of the Toner Student Center. The evening will include international music and dance, performed by many SMU international students. A freewill donation will be asked, and all proceeds will go to the Winona County Chapter of the American Red Cross.

Sisters of SAI present 'Fireside' Feb. 11-12

The Sisters of SAI (SMU’s women’s music fraternity) invites everyone to attend “Fireside,” an annual coffehouse-style performance Friday and Saturday, Feb. 11-12.

The event is held in the Common Room in Mary’s Hall, and there are three performances to choose from: Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. Tickets are $7 and are available at the door, and include coffee, hot chocolate and a slice of pie. Proceeds go to support the activities of SAI, both locally and nationally. Come enjoy some great music, wonderful treats and great atmosphere.

Relay for Life scheduled for March 18-19

On Friday, March 18, Saint Mary's will be hosting its fourth annual Relay for Life event. Relay for Life is a 12-hour relay held in celebration for cancer survival and a way to raise funds for the American Cancer Society. For more information, contact Kaitlin at kmwerm07@smumn.edu.

‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ nears

Can you spell hilarious? The Department of Theatre and Dance will present “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” Feb. 24-27.

Catchy musical numbers combine with colorful characters filled with youthful angst and yearnings in this one-act musical comedy directed by Dr. Gary Diomandes and music director Judy Myers.

Feel the anxious anticipation at this fictional spelling bee set in a geographically ambiguous Putnam Valley Middle School. The contestants include a Boy Scout, an allergy-plagued student, an over achiever, a tentative newcomer, the wide-eyed offspring of hippie parents, and a politically aware contestant — six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grownups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” spotlights the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time.

With the underlying theme that losing doesn’t make you a loser, anyone who sees this show is a winner.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 24-26, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $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.

* This show includes adult language and subject matters.

Women’s basketball celebrates the ‘pink zone’ Feb. 12

The women’s basketball team will join forces with teams across the country when they play for a cure to celebrate the “pink zone!”

Game time is 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12, vs. Carleton College (The men’s game will follow at 3 p.m.) Everyone is encouraged to wear pink to the game.

Games People Play out of La Crosse, Wis., has teamed up with SMU women’s basketball to help fund raise for breast cancer awareness. Donations will be accepted at the game as well.

Business Office raising funds for Feed My Starving Children

The Business Office will be working as a team with "Feed My Starving Children" to package meals for children around the world. Volunteers will be hand-packing meals on Saturday, March 26.

Each team is asked to raise $750 to participate. The Business Office team has decided to sell homemade valentines as a way to help raise funds. These cards will sell for $2 each and are available at the Business Office windows.

Collection jars are located at the windows for additional donations.

For more information about FMSC, go to fmsc.org.

Discussion group for parents with Katy Smith continues

Counseling Services is partnering with Katy Smith, a licensed parent educator for Winona Public Schools, to offer a noontime discussion series for faculty and staff parents (and grandparents) with children younger than 7. The discussion will center on the book “Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents” by Christine Carter. A wide array of research studies show that happiness is a learned behavior that we can help our children build and maintain.

The discussion series will begin at 12:15 p.m. in the President’s Room. Participants are invited to bring their own lunches; beverages and desserts will be provided. There is no charge for the series. Discussions will continue on Feb. 16, 23 and March 2, 16 and 23. Please call Ext. 1773 to indicate your interest in the group or if you would like more information. Participants can come to all sessions or just the ones that fit with their schedules.

Smith has been working with families, educators, and businesses for more than 25 years, helping to build stronger, more vital communities. She received her B.S.W. and teaching license in Parent Education from Winona State University. She earned her M.E. in Professional Development from the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse.

Winona Arts Center hosts University Jazz Night Feb. 21

The Winona Arts Center will host a University Jazz night, featuring students from both Saint Mary’s University and Winona State University Monday, Feb. 21.

The event, which will begin at 7:30 p.m., will take place at the arts center, located at 5th and Franklin streets. Donations will be accepted.

Daffodils available on campus March 14; order now

The American Cancer Society's Daffodil Days are the week of March 7 this year, but as our campus is on break that week, Sylvia Pflughoeft will have daffodils delivered on March 14 instead. Support the American Cancer Society and receive flowers to usher in the spring.

For more information, go to www2.smumn.edu/helpdesk/daffodil/daffodil_days_2011.pdf or contact Pflughoeft at spflugho@smumn.edu or Ext. 1455.

Employee changes

New Employees:
• Troy Gonzales, February, Twin Cities associate director, M.A. in Special Education
• Tove Wiggs, January, box office manager
• Frederick De Sam Lazaro, January, Hendrickson Institute project director, Under-Told Stories
• Edith Galvez, January, First Generation - Countdown to College coordinator
• Bridget McCoy, January, University Advancement - Special Events project director - Centennial
• Nicole See, January, Hendrickson Institute producer/editor Under-Told Stories

Employees Leaving:
• Gary Schmaltz, February, Twin Cities - security guard
• Jennifer Fanello, January, box office manager
• Soojin Pate, January, Twin Cities Writing Center consultant
• Christian Dembiec, January, head men’s soccer coach
• Sharon O’Reilly, December, Business - assistant professor
• Patrick Thorsell, December, GIS/RA instructor

‘Celebrate.Give Back’ Day Feb. 18 includes free concert

“Celebrate.Give Back” — scheduled for Friday, Feb. 18 — is a day for students to celebrate the generous gifts around campus supported by alumni, family and friends that enhance their SMU experience. In addition, it is a day to say “thank you” and spread awareness of the importance of philanthropy on campus and in the community.

From 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., students will have an opportunity to sign a “Thank you banner,” located in the Toner Student Center and in Saint Mary’s Hall. The banners will be used for various donor recognition opportunities. Free Bloedow’s donuts will be available to the first 300 who sign the banner.

The day will conclude with a free concert from 7-9 p.m. in the Common Room; musical guest will be The Freezers, a cover band from La Crosse, Wis.

This event is sponsored by the Young Alumni Association and the Future Alumni Committee.

For more information, contact Sabrina Kelly at skelly@smumn.edu

Winona State University hosts astronomer from the Vatican

Winona State University will host Brother Guy J. Consolmagno, S.J., a planetary astronomer from the Vatican Observatory, Feb. 14-15.

Br. Consolmagno, will present “Pluto and Planets X: Is Pluto a Planet? And Why Does It Matter?” at 4 p.m. Monday, Feb. 14, in Room 120, Science Laboratory Center, as part of the Geoscience Department’s Earth Talks Speaker Series. The lecture will address the 2006 International Astronomical Union decision to demote Pluto, in which Br. Consolmagno, cast an official vote. The discussion will also address recent discoveries of other “trans-Neptunian Objects” and what they mean, and the science and politics of planetary astronomy.

At 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 15, the Big Sky series will feature “Astronomy, God, and the Search for Elegance” in Somsen Auditorium. Br. Consolmagno, will examine the intersections of science and religion, exploring how one proceeds from an emotional appreciation of the beauty of the stars and planets to a deeper understanding that satisfies both reason and emotion.

Br. Consolmagno, earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and his doctorate from the University of Arizona. He entered into the Jesuit order in 1989 and was assigned to the Vatican Observatory in 1993. He has co-authored five books and serves as curator of the Vatican meteorite collection, one of the largest in the world.

Both events are free and open to the public.

For more information, call Jennifer Anderson at (507) 457-2457 or e-mail: jlanderson@winona.edu.

International Showcase to celebrate students’ talents

The SMU International Showcase will be held 8 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 19, in the dining room of the Toner Student Center. The evening will include international music and dance, performed by many SMU international students. A freewill donation will be asked, and all proceeds will go to the Red Cross.

Reception for current gallery show planned for today

“The Eye Behind the Eye, the Art of William A. Berry” is on display at Saint Mary’s through Feb. 20.

The show, free and open to the public, is on display at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

This retrospective exhibition celebrates the life and work of the internationally known artist, illustrator, author and teacher William A. Berry.

Berry’s rich professional career spanned nearly half a century. His book, “Drawing the Human Form: Methods, Sources, Concepts” is still a widely used textbook for illustration. Berry also worked as an illustrator for Newsweek, The Reporter, Opera News and Esquire. His work has appeared in more than 500 juried and solo exhibits.

A reception will be held today, Friday, Feb. 4, from 5 to 7 p.m. in the galleries. A presentation by Dr. John Whelan, SMU’s Department of Art and Design, and Valerie Wedel, Missouri Valley College, will take place at 6:15 p.m.

For more information, call Ext. 1652.

Tap company to perform at Valéncia Saturday

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts has hosted the Minneapolis-based rhythm tap company Keane Sense of Rhythm this week at the Valéncia Arts Center, 1164 West 10th St.

Keane Sense of Rhythm (KSR) will present performances featuring their Youth Tap Ensemble in “If The Shoe Fits,” a modern Cinderella story. Performances are Saturday, Feb. 5, at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. at the Valéncia Arts Center Academy Theatre.

Admission to the matinee performance is a freewill offering. Admission to the evening performance, which will also feature KSR’s Young Professional Company, is $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students (ages 3-21) at the door. Cash or checks only will be accepted, and no advance ticket sales are necessary. The performances will include a sign language interpreter.

Keane Sense of Rhythm is dedicated to preserving, presenting, creating, and expanding the boundaries of American tap dance.

For more information about KSR’s residency, contact Ext. 5500 or go online to www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org. For more information about KSR visit www.tapcompany.org.

Relay for Life scheduled for March 18-19

On Friday, March 18, Saint Mary's will be hosting its fourth annual Relay for Life event. Relay for Life is a 12-hour relay held in celebration for cancer survival and a way to raise funds for the American Cancer Society.

For more information, contact Kaitlin at kmwerm07@smumn.edu.

‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’ nears

Can you spell hilarious? The Department of Theatre and Dance will present “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” Feb. 24-27.

Catchy musical numbers combine with colorful characters filled with youthful angst and yearnings in this one-act musical comedy directed by Dr. Gary Diomandes and music director Judy Myers.

Feel the anxious anticipation at this fictional spelling bee set in a geographically ambiguous Putnam Valley Middle School. The contestants include a Boy Scout, an allergy-plagued student, an over achiever, a tentative newcomer, the wide-eyed offspring of hippie parents, and a politically aware contestant — six young people in the throes of puberty, overseen by grownups who barely managed to escape childhood themselves.

“The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee” spotlights the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky yet charming cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time.

With the underlying theme that losing doesn’t make you a loser, anyone who sees this show is a winner.

The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Feb. 24-26, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 27.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $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.

* This show includes adult language and subject matters.

Bring your appetites to annual chili cook-off today

The competition’s getting hot! About 15 faculty and staff members are vying for the title of “Best Chili Maker” on Friday, Feb. 4.

Prizes will be awarded to the top three entries!

Chili makers should bring their “unmarked” crockpot to the Common Room by 11 a.m. for judging. Everyone is invited to eat chili between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Desserts, beverages and toppings will also be provided by the Volunteer Committee and the President’s Cabinet.

Cardinal Corner now open; funds assist orphanage

The Cardinal Corner will raise money this semester for an orphanage in Chotomow, Poland. Ania McNamara, one of the students in the MG315 Entrepreneurship class, has been raising funds to assist the orphanage she lived in as a small child.

The Cardinal Corner is a non-profit retail store located in the lower level of the Toner Student Center. Managed by the students of MG315 Entrepreneurship and supported by the School of Business, the mission of the store is to create an opportunity for entrepreneurship students to gain hands-on experience in operating a small business.

For more information, contact the professor, Jana Craft, at Ext. 1491 or jcraft@smumn.edu. Become a fan and receive the latest updates at www.facebook.com/cardinalcorner.

Women’s basketball celebrates the ‘pink zone’ Feb. 12

The women’s basketball team will join forces with teams across the country when they play for a cure to celebrate the “pink zone!”

Game time is 1 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12, vs. Carleton College (The men’s game will follow at 3 p.m.) Everyone is encouraged to wear pink to the game.

Games People Play out of La Crosse, Wis., has teamed up with SMU women’s basketball to help fund raise for breast cancer awareness. Donations will be accepted at the game as well.

Chat, Chow & Web 2.0 presents new Wednesday topic

The next Chat, Chow & Web 2.0 titled “Pasta & PowerPoint: Alternatives” will be held Wednesday, Feb. 9.

Stop in to see Dave Jackson and Joe Dulak demonstrate powerful alternatives to the ubiquitous PowerPoint slide. As an added attraction, butternut squash ravioli will be on the menu.

Meet between 12:15 and 1:15 p.m. in the main lounge of the McEnery Center. This presentation is sponsored by The Fitz, IT and Instructional Technology.

Lunch is provided; RSVPs can be made to Jason Spartz at jspartz@smumn.edu.

Business Office raising funds for Feed My Starving Children

The Business Office will be working as a team with "Feed My Starving Children" to package meals for children around the world. Volunteers will be hand-packing meals on Saturday, March 26.

Each team is asked to raise $750 to participate. The Business Office team has decided to sell homemade valentines as a way to help raise funds. These cards will sell for $2 each and are available at the Business Office windows.

Collection jars are located at the windows for additional donations.

More information about "Feed My Starving Children":

• Volunteers package 100% of the food;
• Each meal provides the key nutrients a starving child needs to survive and thrive; and
• Each meal costs 24 cents to produce.

For more information about FMSC, go to fmsc.org.

Discussion group for parents starts Feb. 9

Counseling Services is partnering with Katy Smith, a licensed parent educator for Winona Public Schools, to offer a noontime discussion series for faculty and staff parents (and grandparents) with children younger than 7. The discussion will center on the book “Raising Happiness: 10 Simple Steps for More Joyful Kids and Happier Parents” by Christine Carter. A wide array of research studies show that happiness is a learned behavior that we can help our children build and maintain.

The discussion series will begin on Feb. 9 at 12:15 p.m. in the President’s Room. Participants are invited to bring their own lunches, and beverages and desserts will be provided. There is no charge for the series. Discussions will continue on Feb. 16 and 23 and March 2, 16 and 23. Please call Ext. 1773 to indicate your interest in the group or if you would like more information. Participants can come to all sessions or just the ones that fit with their schedules.

Smith has been working with families, educator, and businesses for more than 25 years, helping to build stronger, more vital communities. She received her B.S.W. and teaching license in Parent Education from Winona State University. She earned her M.E. in Professional Development from the University of Wisconsin, La Crosse.

Guest speaker to discuss Catholic liberal education

Guest speaker Thomas S. Hibbs will present “Aquinas, MacIntyre, and the Reform of Catholic Liberal Education,” Thursday, Feb. 10, as part of the Saint Thomas Aquinas Lecture Series.

Hibbs is a distinguished professor of Ethics & Culture and dean of the Honors College at Baylor University. The presentation — scheduled for 7 p.m. in the President’s Room — is generously sponsored by the Department of Philosophy, the Dean of Humanities and Sciences, and the Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, in cooperation with the minor in Medieval and Renaissance Studies. For more information, contact Dr. Joseph Tadie at jtadie@smumn.edu or Ext. 6652.

Jazz notes

Swing Inc. is now officially the “house band” at Signatures. The next performance is 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 4.

Get hints for grad school at next biology seminar

Joshua Lallaman will present the next biology seminar on Thursday, Feb. 10, at 4 p.m. in Room 112, Hoffman Hall. The title of his talk will be “Hints and Tips for Grad School.” Anyone who is interested in attending graduate school should attend.