Saint Mary’s hosts pianist George Winston Dec. 19

Solo pianist George Winston will fill the Page Theatre with the sounds of the transcendent beauty of nature and the changing seasons, as well as a tribute to New Orleans musicians on Friday, Dec. 19.

His 7:30 p.m. performance, part of the Page Series, will also draw attention to the Winona Volunteer Services Food Shelf. A food drive is held at all of Winston’s concerts. Attendees are asked to bring canned goods and nonperishable food to the show; drop-off areas will be set up in the lobby.

Winston, best known for his melodic rural folk piano style, will play selections from his latest CD, “Gulf Coast Blues and Impressions — A Hurricane Relief Benefit,” as well as from his melodic seasonal recordings including “December” and “Winter Into Spring.” Winston has performed more than 2,500 concert dates, with more than 3 million tickets sold.

Tickets for the Page Theatre performance are $25, $20 for seniors and students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

‘Gifts for Winona’ nears completion; gifts due today

Today is the last day to get your gifts in for Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona. This community-wide program — in its seventh year — provides gifts to less-fortunate families during the holiday season. Last year the Winona community provided gifts to more than 1,500 residents. This year more than 1,800 individuals — a record number — have asked for help. Return gifts to the Business Office. If you are unable to return your gift today, please call Deb Nahrgang at Ext. 6966 with tag identification information.

A monetary donation can also be made; make checks payable to SMU GFW and send to Gifts for Winona, Box #8 or drop off at the Business Office windows.

Family entertainer Red Grammer will perform Jan. 13

Grammy-nominated family entertainer Red Grammer will bebop his way onto the Page Theatre stage at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13.

With a playful, good-natured character, Grammer is a young-at-heart, premier entertainer of children and families. Parents Magazine has described Red as “the best voice in children’s music.” Having been featured on “The Today Show,” “CBS This Morning,” Nickelodeon, Showtime, PBS, and his own Disney Channel concert special, Grammer is practiced in lifting the spirits of families across the United States. He has set the gold standard for writing and performing music that playfully reconnects each one of us with the best in ourselves.

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

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 the Minnesota Arts Board, General Mills Foundation, and Land O’Lakes Foundation.

Environmental Awareness Center plans weekend hours

The Environmental Awareness Center will be open between 1 and 4 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday to check out cross country ski equipment. The Environmental Awareness Center is located next to the clock tower on the top floor of the power plant. There is no charge, but an SMU I.D. is needed. If you would like to use the ski equipment, contact Brother John Grover at Ext. 1404.

Crozier presents paper at Metropolitan State University

Dr. Bill Crozier, archivist, presented a paper at the regional meeting of the American Conference for Irish Studies at Metropolitan State University, St. Paul. The paper, titled, “An Irish Enclave between Little Italy and New Israel on New York City’s Lower East Side, 1900” provided a social analysis of 1,055 Irish — born and Irish-stock people who resided on or near the Bowery.

Employee changes

New:
Debra Rose, administrative assistant, Health & Human Services, Twin Cities campus, Dec. 1.
Leaving:
Tessy Neves Dias, International Student Activities, November.

Rodeheffer presents at international conference

Dr. Jane Kelley Rodeheffer, professor of philosophy, represented Saint Mary’s and the International Consortium for Core Classics at the “Liberal Education and East Asian Traditions” Conference, which was held over the Thanksgiving break in Taipei, Taiwan. Dr. Rodeheffer presented a paper titled, “Self-Cultivation in Augustine’s Confessions and the Confucian Tradition.” She also served as a consultant to faculty from China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Japan on the use of core classics in liberal arts education, as East Asian Universities seek to develop models of liberal arts education. Dr. Rodeheffer’s trip was supported by a grant from the National Chiao-tung University of Taiwan.

'Study Abroad Photo Contest' winners on display

The “Study Abroad Photo Contest” display is up in the Fitzgerald Library. The top 12 photos, submitted by Mike DeGidio, Alex Gorgone, Alison Kay, Anna Keller, Erin O’Keefe, Caitlin Radtke, Jillian Reinboldt, Sarah Weir, and Danielle Zauher, are on display.

Jazz Notes

Performing in the upcoming MAFA concert are, from left: Adrianna Rackow, Dr. John Paulson, Evan Glenna and Eric Heukeshoven.

• Music Access for All students and faculty will present a Christmas Musicale Saturday, Dec. 20, from 11:30 a.m. to noon at Faith Lutheran Church, located at 1717 W. Service Dr. The M.A.F.A program was organized in December 2002 by Dr. John Paulson, music department, with the assistance of William Doerer of the Winona Housing and Development Authority which serves as a home for the program. The SMU Music Department serves as a co-sponsor of the organization. The purpose of the program is to provide instrumental music lessons, instruments, and sheet music to students ages 10-18 in need of financial assistance. Teachers in the program include program director, SMU professor of music Dr. John Paulson (band), SMU music faculty member Eric Heukeshoven (band and piano). SMU alumnus Michael Munson has also been adding to the program by assisting with guitar instruction. The program is free and the public is welcome to attend. Refreshments will follow.

• The “Standard Time” duo, consisting of Jerry Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven, music department, will perform at the Canadian Honker Restaurant in Rochester from 7 to 11 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13.

• The John Paulson Jazz Trio will perform from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 19, at Michael’s Restaurant in Rochester.

SMU in the news

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

• A letter praising the Dance Repertory Company production of “The Nutcracker” appeared in the Winona Daily News on Dec. 9 and the Winona Post Dec. 10.
• An article regarding area school closings, with pictures featuring children sledding at Saint Mary’s appeared in the Winona Daily News Dec. 10.
• Articles about Saint Mary’s “Gifts for Winona” were featured in the Winona Daily News Dec. 6 and the Winona Post Dec. 10.
• The Daily News printed a story titled, “Happy to give back” about guest pianist George Winston on Dec. 11.
• Also on Dec. 11, an article titled, “Musicians hold concert to collect a toy for every tot” about an SMU music alum fundraiser ran in the Daily News.

Reminder: This is last ‘Campus Notes’ before break

Because of Christmas break, the next issue of “Campus Notes” will be Jan. 9. The deadline for that issue is Jan. 7.

Sympathy to Frith family

Roger Frith, London lighting designer, died Saturday, Nov. 29. Roger had been lighting London shows since the London Semester program began back in the mid-1990s. A tribute to Roger can be viewed at http://roger-frith.blogspot.com. Saint Mary’s extends its sympathy to the Frith family.

Saint Mary’s hosts pianist George Winston Dec. 19

Solo pianist George Winston will fill the Page Theatre with the sounds of the transcendent beauty of nature and the changing seasons, as well as a tribute to New Orleans musicians on Friday, Dec. 19.

His 7:30 p.m. performance, part of the Page Series, will also draw attention to the Winona Volunteer Services Food Shelf. A food drive is held at all of Winston’s concerts. Attendees are asked to bring canned goods and nonperishable food to the show; drop-off areas will be set up in the lobby.

Winston, best known for his melodic rural folk piano style, will play selections from his latest CD, “Gulf Coast Blues and Impressions — A Hurricane Relief Benefit,” as well as from his melodic seasonal recordings including “December” and “Winter Into Spring.”

In 1972, Winston released his first solo album, “Ballads and Blues”; he currently has 11 solo albums. His musical genre ranges from New Orleans R&B piano to stride piano and folk piano. Winston has performed more than 2,500 concert dates, with more than 3 million tickets sold.

Tickets for the Page Theatre performance are $25, $20 for seniors and students, and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Enjoy dinner and a show. Chartwells Catering will provide a pre-show dinner in the Toner Student Center. Seating begins at 6:30 p.m. Regular dinners cost $20 and include chicken, beef and vegetarian options, water, milk, coffee, tea, vegetable, and dessert. Children's dinners cost $12 and include mac-n-cheese or chicken fingers with French fries, water, milk, vegetable, gelatin cup, and two cookies. Dinner tickets are also available at www.pagetheatre.org.

Dance Repertory Company presents ‘The Nutcracker’

The Dance Repertory Company of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts — in association with Merchants Bank — will present the holiday favorite “The Nutcracker” through Dec. 7.

The 2008 cast includes 100 members — including students from Saint Mary’s, Winona State University, and children and community members from the Winona area. In addition to beautiful dancing, this year’s production will feature a special choral performance by MCA’s Winona Area Youth Singers at the conclusion of Act I in the Land of Snow.

“The Nutcracker” performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. today, Dec. 5, and Saturday, Dec. 6, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Page Theatre. The evening performances are recommended for children ages 5 and older. The Sunday, Dec. 7, afternoon performance is considered a “family event” and children ages 2 and older are welcome. At this time, the Page Theatre facilities and programs are not equipped to serve the needs of infants.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens and are available at the Saint Mary’s Box Office at Ext. 1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit www.pagetheatre.org. Faculty and staff can receive two free tickets.

SMU Concert Band to give holiday performance Dec. 7

The Saint Mary’s Concert Band will present a multi-cultural holiday concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at St. Cecilia Theater, located on the Saint Teresa campus.

Under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, the band will perform Polish music composed by John de Meii, Russian Christmas music by Alfred Reed, and a Chanukah celebration written by David Bobrowitz and Kenneth Soper. In addition, SMU student conductors will lead the band in two arrangements. “Away in a Manger,” composed by Chip Davis and adapted for concert band by Robert Longfield, will be directed by Ryan Ballanger; “Variations on Deck the Halls,” arranged by Robert W. Smith, will be conducted by Gosia Paidosh.

The music will continue to flow after the formal concert. A Christmas cookie reception in the lobby will include lively jazzy carols, a brass quintet, a flute choir and a clarinet ensemble.

Tickets are $10, $5 for seniors and students and are available at the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays.

Saint Mary’s University choirs to present ‘Lessons & Carols’

Saint Mary’s University Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Women’s Choir will present their annual holiday tribute, “Lessons and Carols,” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.

The performance — a celebration of Advent and the Nativity through sung and spoken word — will held at Chapel of Saint Mary’s of the Angels, located on the Saint Teresa campus.

Music will include some familiar carols, as well as selections by Byrd, Hassler, Rutter, Nystedt, Mozart, and a variety of other composers from Renaissance to the present.

The concert will feature the premiere of “Ovejita,” a setting of a Lorca poem in English translation by composer William Neil. The setting is for women’s voices and harp, and harpist Elinor Niemisto will join the women of the Concert Choir for the premiere. Neil's composition, along with a major work in preparation for the 2009 SMU Spring Choir Concert, is supported by a grant from the McKnight Foundation.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Provost Pre-Finals Breakfast set for Dec. 11

The Office of the Provost and Chartwells Food Service will again sponsor the Pre-Finals Christmas Breakfast for students.

Faculty members are invited to participate in the event. The breakfast will be served from 10 to 11:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 11, in the Toner Center Dining Room. This popular event is usually attended by at least 650 students. About 25 faculty and staff assist with cooking, serving, and cleaning up. By tradition, second- year full-time faculty are asked to cook and serve from 9 to 10:30 p.m. First-year full-time faculty are asked to serve and clean up from 10:15 to 11:45 p.m. However, all faculty and staff are welcome to participate in this festive event.

Faculty are invited to join students in singing Christmas carols, and Santa will be making an appearance. If you are willing to help with this event, contact Barb Schmidtknecht at Ext. 6678.

Students sell Christmas lights to benefit ‘Gifts for Winona’

Volunteers will sell Christmas lights through Tuesday, Dec. 9, for the “You Light Up My Life” fundraiser for Saint Mary’s Gifts for Winona. The lights cost $5. All of the profits will benefit Gifts for Winona to help families in the community during the holiday season.

During the Dec. 12 Provost’s Breakfast, everyone on campus is asked to turn on their Christmas lights.

SMU ‘Let’s do Lunch’ scheduled for today

The next “Let’s do Lunch” is scheduled for today, Friday, Dec. 5, and is sponsored by the SMU Cabinet. Money from the potluck-type meal will be given to our Nairobi campus. The “Let’s Do Lunch” and “Jeans for a Cause” fundraisers are hosted by the SMU Volunteer Committee.

‘Gifts for Winona’ seeks donations for families in need

Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona giving trees are up. This community-wide program — in its seventh year — provides gifts to less-fortunate families during the holiday season. Last year the Winona community provided gifts to more than 1,500 residents. This year more than 1,800 individuals — a record number — have asked for help.

Tags, each labeled with a different person’s holiday gift wishes, are available on one of the trees located in the Toner Center and Saint Mary’s Hall.

Return gifts to the Business Office by Dec. 10. A monetary donation can also be made to sponsor the purchase of gifts; make checks payable to SMU GFW and send to Gifts for Winona, Box #8 or drop off at the Business Office windows.

‘Toys for Teens’ hosted by CAC accepting donations

The Cardinal Athletic Council will host its “Toys for Teens” holiday giving drive by the stairs in the Toner Student Center from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 to 6 p.m. today through Dec. 10.

Bring a gift appropriate for a teenage boy or girl to be entered into a drawing for gift certificates around Winona. Monetary donations will also be accepted to purchase toys. CAC will be competing with all other MIAC schools for the highest percentage of toy collection.

For more information, contact Melissa Paulson at mmpaul05@smumn.edu.

Saint Mary’s represented at Huether Conference

Saint Mary’s was well represented at the 35th Annual Huether Lasallian Conference, Nov. 20-22, in St. Louis, Mo. Dr. Mary Catherine Fox, Interdisciplinary Studies, and Sr. Judith Schaefer, OP, Ph.D., Theology, presented two fully subscribed breakout sessions titled, “The Twelve Virtues of a Lasallian Educator: A Global Lens for the 21st Century.”

This year’s conference theme, Global Learning and Social Responsibility through a Lasallian Education, gathered a diverse group of presenters and attendees from Lasallian schools, universities and service agency ministries across the United States and Toronto Region.

The SMU contingent included 10 members of the faculty and staff from both the Winona and Twin Cities campuses, including (in addition to Dr. Fox and Sister Judith) Brother Lawrence Humphrey, director of Mission; Dr. Roxanne Eubank, director of the Institute for Lasallian Studies; Tim Gossen, dean of Students; Dr. Tycho deBoer, assistant professor of history; Dr. Jack McClure associate professor, SGPP; and Chris McClead and Lynn Streefland from Campus Ministry. Sarah Fischer, SGPP admissions recruiter, also attended and worked the SMU exhibit booth showcasing the Institute for Lasallian Studies to the many interested attendees.

As always, SMU alums who now serve at Lasallian schools and universities were in attendance and enjoyed reconnecting. Highlights of the conference included: an international opening prayer service held in real-time and simulcast from Lasallian venues in Bethlehem, Nairobi, Mexico City, Manila, and St. Louis; remarks by the Superior General, Brother Alvaro Rodriguez Echeverria; and keynotes by Reverend Drew Christiansen, S.J. editor-in-chief of America; Dr. Eboo Patel, founder and director, Interfaith Youth Core; and His Excellency Reverend Miguel d’Escoto Brockmann, MM, President, United Nations General Assembly, 63rd Session.

‘Study Abroad Photo Contest’ winners to be announced Dec. 10

The Study Abroad Office will open its “Study Abroad Photo Contest” display at 4:30 p.m., Wednesday, Dec. 10, in the Fitzgerald Library. The top 12 photos, submitted by Mike DeGidio, Alex Gorgone, Alison Kay, Anna Keller, Erin O’Keefe, Caitlin Radtke, Jillian Reinboldt, Sarah Weir, and Danielle Zauher, will be on display. The winners of the photo contest will be announced at a reception following the opening.

Volunteer Services accepting cookie orders until Dec. 16

Volunteer Services will receive orders until Dec. 16 for a cookie fundraiser to supplement the cost of service trips. For more information, contact Katie LaPlant at Ext. 6936.

Holiday services announced

The Patronal Feast is scheduled for 12:10 p.m., Monday, Dec. 8, and the Christmas Light Service is set for 9:30 p.m., Thursday, Dec. 11.

Six students receive Tribeta research grants

Saint Mary’s University biology students, from left, Maria Borgerson, Nicole Haese, Ben Linder, Melanie Tyler. and Lori Brunner, received Beta Beta Beta research scholarships.

Six biology students were awarded the National Biology Honor society Beta Beta Beta Research Foundation research scholarships. Students submitted a proposal for their senior research project outlining the objectives of the research and a budget. The students and their research advisors are Maria Borgerson, (Dr. Debra Martin); Nicole Haese (Dr. Jeanne Minnerath); Ben Linder (Dr. Debra Martin); Melanie Tyler, (Dr. Martin); and Lori Brunner, (Dr. Richard Kowles). Dr. Martin is the Beta Beta Beta faculty advisor.

SMU program in nuclear medicine reaccredited

The Joint Review Committee on Educational Programs in Nuclear Medicine Technology has continued the accreditation of the Saint Mary’s degree program in Nuclear Medicine Technology until 2013. The program operates in conjunction with clinical sites at three hospitals in the Chicago area.

Special congratulations go to Dr. Jeanne Minnerath, associate professor of biology and director of Allied Health Programs, for her excellent work leading the self study report and accrediting team visit.

Johnson completes Ph.D.

Dr. Peggy Johnson, director of the Writing Center, completed her Ph.D. in Composition and Rhetoric at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. She successfully defended her dissertation, “A Pedagogy of Love: Exploring Emotion, Spirit and Intellect in the Basic Writing Classroom” on Nov. 13. Dr. Johnson’s degree will be officially awarded at IUP’s December commencement. She has also earned degrees from the State University of New York and the University of North Dakota.

Jazz News

SMU Jazz groups will perform from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 11, at Westfield Golf Course.

Remicks honored at AFP Day Nov. 10

Jack and Mary Ann Remick, SMU trustee, were honored as Outstanding Philanthropists at the Association of Fundraising Professionals Southern Minnesota Chapter’s National Philanthropy Day on Nov. 10.

English faculty present at convention in Minneapolis

Dr. Carolyn Ayers, English Department, and Dr. Brooke Lenz, English Department, recently moderated a session titled “Situated Narratives” at the annual convention of the Midwest Modern Language Association in Minneapolis. During this session, they also presented a paper titled “Contesting Narratives in Tsitsi Dangarembga’s Nervous Conditions and The Book of Not,” which focused on the authenticity, ethical imperatives, and narrative form of the narrator’s story.

SMU faculty attend NASM Conference in Seattle

Dr. Ned Kirk, Music Department, and Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, accreditation renewal coordinator, both attended the NASM (National Association of Schools of Music) conference in Seattle Nov. 21-25. NASM is the national agency which granted SMU full membership in 2005. The first renewal process will be completed during the 2010-11 academic year, with renewals once every 10 years thereafter.

Student Activities Committee gathers 422 pounds of food

The Student Activities Committee participated in the 10 Days of Giving Program, which collects food for the Winona Volunteer Services Food Shelf. On Monday Dec. 1, the Student Activities Committee did a door-to-door campaign in all of the residents halls. They collected 422 pounds of food and raised $91.24 for the food shelf.

SMU in the news

As an effort to let our university community know all the ways SMU is “making the news” — in the Winona area and beyond — the Communication and Marketing Office will provide a regular list of stories highlighting SMU that are featured in the print media.

• The Winona Daily News published an editorial titled “Gone (for now), but not forgotten” about the decision to suspend the Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre after its second season. The article appeared Nov. 25.

•The Daily News also published a article on Dec. 3 titled “‘Nutcracker’ features record number of male dancers.”A video clip is located on the Daily News mainpage.

•The Winona Post’s Nov. 23 issue included an article titled“Gifts for Winona fills big needs.”

•Ashley Otte, a Saint Mary’s SGPP student, came within a feather of winning $2 million on the Thanksgiving episode of the popular NBC TV show “Deal or No Deal.” Otte took home $260,000. To read her story go to http://news.postbulletin.com/newsmanager/templates/localnews_story.asp?z=2&a=372682. The Rochester Post Bulletion and several other area media reported the story.

•The Christian Brothers of the Midwest publication Partners in Mission featured a variety of Saint Mary’s news including a story about the Lasallian Teacher Immersion Program, a feature about Brother President William Mann, and a photograph from Brother William’s inauguration.

•The Daily News wrote a story called “Sounds like history: Composer looks to Winona’s past for inspiration” about William Neil. Neil’s work will premiere at the “Lessons and Carols” concert. The article appeared on Nov. 25.

Let us know so we can share

Whenever you have news to share, call Deb Nahrgang, director of communication-Winona, at Ext. 6966 or e-mail dnahrgan@smumn.edu. The venues we use to share the good news about Saint Mary’s include “Campus Notes,” internal e-mails, news pitches to media, press releases, the alumni magazine, university e-newsletters, brochures, the website and more.

Reminder: last ‘Campus Notes’ before break is next week

Because of Christmas break, next week is the last “Campus Notes” in December, so look ahead on your calendars. After break, the next issue of “Campus Notes” will be released Jan. 9. The deadline for that issue is Jan. 7.

Sympathy to Wnuk, Wiltgen families

Evelyn Wnuk, who served as the executive secretary for Brother Louis DeThomasis for 13 years, died Tuesday, Nov. 25, in Winona. A card of condolence can be sent to Mark Johnstone and family, 567 East Broadway, Winona.

Kathleen (Katie) Jo Wiltgen, daughter of alum Patrick Wiltgen ’75 and granddaughter of former Saint Mary’s coach and faculty member Ken Wiltgen, died Saturday, Nov. 29, due to injuries from a car accident. Nancy Witgen, Development and Alumni Relations, is Kathleen’s cousin. Several other extended family members are SMU alumni as well.

The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the Wnuk and Wiltgen families.

Eubank named director of Institute for Lasallian Studies

Dr. Roxanne Eubank has been selected as the first director of the newly established Institute for Lasallian Studies in the Schools of Graduate and Professional Programs. She will continue as professor in the Doctor of Education in Leadership Program, teaching and advising graduate students.

Dr. Eubank has been at the university since 1991, serving as a faculty member and an administrator in the graduate school. She has participated in a wide and rich variety of Lasallian formation programs, and she now is recognized as a leading lay partner in university, regional and international Lasallian conversations. Dr. Eubank currently serves on the SMU University Council for Lasallian Mission, the Mission and Ministry Council of the Midwest District of the Christian Brothers, and the International Lasallian University Leadership Program.

The Institute for Lasallian Studies was founded to provide Lasallian formation and accompaniment to members of the regional and international family. The Institute will provide master’s-level and doctoral-level programs, as well as certificates, designed to serve the needs of those working in Lasallian ministries around the world. In addition, the Institute anticipates hosting retreats and workshops on emerging issues of special concern to members of the Lasallian family.

Visiting Palestinian prof to speak about West Bank life

Dr. Muna Matar, a computer science professor from Bethlehem University in Palestine, will speak on “Daily Life in Bethlehem: The Israeli Occupation” on Thursday, Dec. 4. Dr. Matar’s presentation will run from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in Salvi Hall. The event is free and open to the public.

Dr. Matar is a visiting scholar in residence at Saint Mary’s during fall semester. She is teaching courses on “Women in the Middle East” at both Saint Mary’s and Winona State University. Dr. Matar lives in Beit Jala, a small city near Bethlehem. After graduating from Bethlehem University with a degree in mathematics, she earned an M.A. in Computer Science from Oregon State University and a doctorate from the University of Ghent in Belgium.

The Palestinian cities of Beit Jala and Bethlehem are part of the West Bank territories occupied by Israel after the 1967 war. For Palestinians, daily life in the occupied territories involves coping with checkpoints, the Israeli barrier wall that divides communities, and the growing number of Israeli settlements.

Bethlehem University is a Catholic institution in the Lasallian tradition, which has been serving students of all faith traditions since 1973. Dr. Matar’s visit is the result of the close association between Saint Mary’s and Bethlehem University, both of which are led by the De La Salle Christian Brothers.

Dance Repertory Company presents ‘The Nutcracker’

The Dance Repertory Company of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts — in association with Merchants Bank — will present the holiday favorite “The Nutcracker” Dec. 4-7.

Producing this delightful ballet every other holiday season, the Dance Repertory Company once again brings this magical experiences to the Winona-area community for its fifth biennial production.

The 2008 cast includes 100 members — including students from Saint Mary’s, Winona State University, and children and community members from the Winona area. In addition to beautiful dancing, this year’s production will feature a special choral performance by MCA’s Winona Area Youth Singers at the conclusion of Act I in the Land of Snow.

“The Nutcracker” performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, through Saturday, Dec. 6, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Page Theatre. The Dec. 4-6 evening performances are recommended for children ages 5 and older. The Sunday, Dec. 7, afternoon performance is considered a “family event” and children ages 2 and older are welcome. At this time, the Page Theatre facilities and programs are not equipped to serve the needs of infants.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens and are available at the Saint Mary’s Box Office at Ext. 1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit www.pagetheatre.org. Online ticket orders are only available through Dec. 1. Faculty and staff can receive two free tickets.

SMU Concert Band to give holiday performance Dec. 7

The Saint Mary’s Concert Band will present a multi-cultural holiday concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at St. Cecilia Theater, located on the Saint Teresa campus.

Under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, the band will perform Polish music composed by John de Meii, Russian Christmas music by Alfred Reed, and a Chanukah Celebration written by David Bobrowitz and Kenneth Soper. In addition, SMU student conductors will lead the band in two arrangements. “Away in a Manger,” composed by Chip Davis and adapted for concert band by Robert Longfield, will be directed by Ryan Ballanger; “Variations on Deck the Halls,” arranged by Robert W. Smith, will be conducted by Gosia Paidosh.

The music will continue to flow after the formal concert. A Christmas cookie reception in the lobby will include lively jazzy carols, a brass quintet, a flute choir and a clarinet ensemble.

Tickets are $10, $5 for seniors and students and are available at the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Online orders are available until Dec. 1.

Saint Mary’s University choirs to present ‘Lessons & Carols’

Saint Mary’s University Concert Choir, Chamber Singers and Women’s Choir will present their annual holiday tribute, “Lessons and Carols,” at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 6.

The performance — a celebration of Advent and the Nativity through sung and spoken word — will held at Chapel of Saint Mary’s of the Angels, located on the Saint Teresa campus.

Music will include some familiar carols, as well as selections by Byrd, Hassler, Rutter, Nystedt, Mozart, and a variety of other composers from Renaissance to the present.

The concert will feature the premiere of “Ovejita,” a setting of a Lorca poem in English translation by composer William Neil. The setting is for women’s voices and harp, and harpist Elinor Niemisto will join the women of the Concert Choir for the premiere. Neil's composition, along with a major work in preparation for the 2009 SMU Spring Choir Concert, is supported by a grant from the McKnight Foundation.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors and are available by calling the SMU Box Office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Tickets are available online through Dec. 1.

SMU ‘Lets do Lunch’ scheduled for Dec. 5

The next “Let’s do Lunch” is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 5, sponsored by the SMU Cabinet.

Jazz groups, Batucada joint performance is today

Saint Mary’s jazz ensembles will join forces with the percussion ensemble Batucada Nossa Senhora for an evening of rhythmic jazz and unique ethnic sounds starting at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21 in Page Theatre.

The joint concert combines the talents of the 18-piece Jazz Ensemble and 12-member Batucada ensemble. The Jazz Combo, featuring five student soloists, will also perform. Dr. John Paulson directs the jazz groups and Denny McGuire directs Batucada Nossa Senhora (translated as “percussion ensemble of our lady”).

The big band will feature the world premiere of Dr. Paulson’s “Drop Off Blues.” This piece stretches the boundaries of traditional blues arrangements by giving each section in the band a challenging “soli” part, as well as ample space for individual soloists. Also included in the jazz ensemble set will be a Basie-style ballad “Nice and Easy,” written and arranged by Jeff Taylor; “Carnival Del Sol,” a lively jazz samba by Dean Sorenson; Dizzy Gillespie’s famous “Manteca”; bebop trumpeter Lee Morgan's ever popular “Sidewinder”; and “Spring Cleaning” by Maynard Ferguson alumnus Matt Harris (featuring music faculty member Eric Heukeshoven on piano). Jazz Combo will be performing A.C. Jobim’s well-known bossa nova “Triste” and Mongo Santamaria’s “Afro Blue.” The jazz groups will combine with the Batucada percussionists to ignite the rhythmic excitement of the concert’s Latin-jazz style pieces.

Student soloists in the jazz groups include: tenor saxophonist Ryan Ballanger; baritone saxophonist Ben Scott and trombonist Tom Briese; and alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams.

Batucada Nossa Senhora will perform styles from the Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian traditions, as well as a drum medley from Ghana in West Africa.

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. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org. For more information on the event, contact Dr. Paulson at Ext. 1596 or jpaulson@smumn.edu.

SMU jazz combos to perform Dec. 4 at Acoustic Café

Three jazz workshop combos, directed by Dr. John Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven of the Saint Mary’s Music Department, will present a free concert Thursday, Dec. 4, at Acoustic Café in downtown Winona.

The event will be held from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. and will feature student musicians who have been playing together all semester. The performance serves as their “final exam.”

The show will include jazz standards by composers like Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter and Miles Davis, as well as some unique arrangements by Heukeshoven of popular jazz tunes blended with familiar Christmas melodies.

Student art on display at SMU through Dec. 12

“Hungry?” — a photograph by Keisha Harcey — is one of several pieces on display for the 2008 Undergraduate Art Show at Saint Mary’s University. The show is not limited to art majors, but is open to any SMU art student. A variety of artwork is on display Nov. 13 through Dec. 12 in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, located in the Toner Student Center. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and the exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Sister Margaret Mear at mmear@smumn.edu.


This linoleum print by Mariana Sanchez del Castillo is part of the 2008 Undergraduate Art Show at Saint Mary's University. The show, currently on display at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, includes photographs, drawings and prints.

Area schools advance in SMU High School Challenge

The Saint Mary's University High School Challenge season continued Saturday, Nov. 15, with Round 1C. High School Challenge is the longest-running, locally produced television program showcasing Eastern Minnesota, Western Wisconsin, and Northeast Iowa high school students in an educational forum.

The following schools competed Nov. 15 and are moving onto the Consolation Championship on Dec. 6: Melrose-Mindoro, Osseo-Fairchild, and Alma Center Lincoln. Moving onto the Super Challenge Feb. 21 are: La Crosse Aquinas, Cotter and Eau Claire North. Other competing schools were: Holmen Maroon, Decorah, West Salem Black, West Salem Orange, Hope Lutheran and Bangor.

During the first rounds of competition, teams that win their afternoon game return for the Consolation Championship games. Teams that win their morning and afternoon games return for the Super Challenge Championship. The final eight games of the tournament are taped at SMU and televised on Fox 25 La Crosse and Fox 48 Eau Claire.

High school students receive scholarships to Saint Mary’s for participating in High School Challenge. Schools that win their first game receive $2,000 scholarships to SMU. Schools that lose their first game receive $1,000 scholarships to SMU. These scholarships are for any member of the senior class with a B or above average.

For more information, contact Nicole Witt Gerdes, High School Challenge coordinator, at Ext. 1761 or ngerdes@smumn.edu.

Winona Area Youth Singers’ inaugural concert is Nov. 23

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will present the Winona Area Youth Singers (WAYS) in “Musical Menagerie,” an inaugural concert, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Valéncia Arts Center.

WAYS members are students in grades three through six from the Winona area. The youth choir started in September of this year and has been rehearsing a variety of choral material. The program features music about animals, including German and American folk songs; a familiar hymn text; and modern compositions, both serious and humorous.

Lindsy O’Shea serves as the WAYS director. The WAYS assistant conductor is Jeff David, and Anthony Freeman serves as accompanist.

Reserved tickets are not necessary. Admission is $5 (cash or check only) at the door.

WAYS is the official youth choir of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts. WAYS is dedicated to providing quality, artistic and educational programs for all young people, regardless of their financial circumstances.

For more information about WAYS or MCA’s other performing arts programming, visit www.smumn.edu/mca, e-mail dance@smumn.edu or call Ext. 5501.

‘Gifts for Winona’ seeks donations for families in need

Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona giving trees are up. This community-wide program — in its seventh year — provides gifts to less-fortunate families during the holiday season. Last year the Winona community provided gifts to more than 1,500 residents. This year more than 1,700 individuals — a record number — have asked for help.

Tags, each labeled with a different person’s holiday gift wishes, are available on one of the trees located in the Toner Center and Saint Mary's Hall.

Return gifts to the Business Office by Dec. 10. A monetary donation can also be made to sponsor the purchase of gifts; make checks payable to SMU GFW and send to Gifts for Winona, Box #8 or drop off at the Business Office windows.

‘Toys for Teens’ hosted by CAC accepting donations Dec. 2-10

The Cardinal Athletic Council will host its “Toys for Teens” holiday giving drive from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and 5 to 6 p.m. Dec. 2-10 by the stairs to the Cafe.

With a gift appropriate for a teenage boy or girl, you will be entered into a drawing for gift certificates around Winona.

Monetary donations will also be accepted to purchase toys. CAC will be competing with all other MIAC schools for the highest percentage of toy collection.

If you have further questions, contact Melissa Paulson at mmpaul05@smumn.edu.

Heukeshoven featured by American Composers Forum

A. Eric Heukeshoven, instructor in the SMU Music Department, is one of the featured members on the American Composers Forum website, www.composersforum.org, during the month of November. The ACF selects members to be featured on their homepage based on composers’ recent works. John Michel, director of Projects and Promotions for the group, cited recent premieres of “Honneur à Toi” for Brother William Mann’s inauguration and “Things Things Things You Love,” commissioned and recently premiered by the La Crosse Chamber Chorale, as examples of Heukeshoven’s on-going work as a composer.

The “Featured Member” section on the ACF homepage highlights several composers each month and changes each time the page is visited. If the link to Heukeshoven’s feature doesn't appear, reload or refresh the page until it does.

Staff, student basketball game to raise money for Habitat

Volunteers are needed to play in a staff vs. student basketball game fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity. The game will be held on Sunday, Nov. 23, at 6 p.m. in the SMU gym. Because the student team will be made up of any club presidents who are willing to play, no skills are required. If you are interested, please contact Anjy Buck at habitat@smumn.edu.

SMU in the news

As an effort to let our university community know all the ways SMU is “making the news” — in the Winona area and beyond — the Communication and Marketing Office will provide a regular list of stories highlighting SMU that are featured in the print media.

• SMU alum and former Trustee Renée Garpestad was interviewed by Minneapolis/St. Paul Magazine’s December 2008 issue in an article titled, “Why I Give,” about the reasons why she donates to Saint Mary’s University.

• The Winona Daily News has printed a variety of stories in mid-November including: SMU’s Gifts for Winona community gift-giving program (Nov. 19), the expansion of our Brother James Miller program (Nov. 19), a learning extension through SMU’s Science and Math Methods students and the Area Learning Center in a hands-on GPS lesson (possibly Nov. 21), and the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts Sugar Plum Tea Party (Nov. 17). Additionally Steven Bouler was interviewed in an article titled, “Where the Boys Aren’t: Area Theatre Needs a Few Good Men,” (Nov. 16).

Let us know so we can share

Whenever you have news to share, call Deb Nahrgang, director of communication-Winona, at Ext. 6966 or e-mail dnahrgan@smumn.edu. The venues we use to share the good news about Saint Mary’s include “Campus Notes,” internal e-mails, news pitches to media, press releases, the alumni magazine, university e-newsletters, brochures, the website and more.

Reminder: No ‘Campus Notes’ next week

Because of Thanksgiving break, there will be no “Campus Notes” next week. The deadline for the Dec. 5 edition is Wednesday, Dec. 3.

Sympathy to Fox family

Gale Fox, father-in-law to June Fox (Registar's Office) and grandfather to John Fox ’10 died Thursday, Nov. 13. A card of condolence can be sent to the Fox family at Campus Box 34. The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the Fox family.

Brother William schedules roundtable, town hall meetings

Brother President William Mann is inviting the university community to participate in discussions about institutional priorities.

During the week of Nov. 17, he will host round-table discussions on planning with four constituent groups: faculty, staff and administrators, students, and parents and alumni. Invitations have been sent to 40 individuals from each of these groups to meet on the Winona and Twin Cities campuses.

These small gatherings will be followed by two town-hall meetings, one on the Winona campus and one on the Twin Cities campus, where all members of the Saint Mary’s community will be welcome to contribute insights on the proposed priorities. These town-hall meetings are scheduled as follows:

Town Hall Meeting, Twin Cities campus:
Monday, Nov. 24
PAN building Alumni Room
3:30-5 p.m.

Town Hall Meeting, Winona campus
Thursday, Nov. 20
Salvi Lecture Hall
3:30-5 p.m.

Following these roundtable sessions and town hall meetings, Brother William will finalize a set of priorities which will then be used to guide operational planning for the university over the next several years.

Student art on display at SMU through Dec. 12

“Hungry?” — a photograph by Keisha Harcey — is one of several pieces on display for the 2008 Undergraduate Art Show at Saint Mary’s University. The show is not limited to art majors, but is open to any SMU art student. A variety of artwork is on display Nov. 13 through Dec. 12 in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, located in the Toner Student Center. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily, and the exhibit is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Sister Margaret Mear at mmear@smumn.edu.


This linoleum print by Mariana Sanchez del Castillo is part of the 2008 Undergraduate Art Show at Saint Mary's University. The show, currently on display at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, includes photographs, drawings and prints.

Dance Repertory Company presents 'The Nutcracker'

The Dance Repertory Company of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts — in association with Merchants Bank — will present the holiday favorite "The Nutcracker" Dec. 4-7.

Heralding the message of peace on earth, “The Nutcracker” is performed around the globe during the holiday season. Producing this delightful ballet every other holiday season, the Dance Repertory Company once again brings this magical experiences to the Winona-area community for its fifth biennial production.

The 2008 cast includes 100 members — including students from Saint Mary’s, Winona State University, and children and community members from the Winona area. In addition to beautiful dancing, this year’s production will feature a special choral performance by MCA’s Winona Area Youth Singers at the conclusion of Act I in the Land of Snow.

“The Nutcracker” performances are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 4, through Saturday, Dec. 6, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 7, at Page Theatre. The Dec. 4-6 evening performances are recommended for children ages 5 and older. The Sunday, Dec. 7, afternoon performance is considered a “family event” and children ages 2 and older are welcome. At this time, the Page Theatre facilities and programs are not equipped to serve the needs of infants.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and senior citizens and are available at the Saint Mary’s Box Office at Ext. 1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, or visit www.pagetheatre.org. Online ticket orders are only available through Dec. 1.

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s.

Jazz groups, Batucada joint performance is Nov. 21 at SMU

Saint Mary’s jazz ensembles will join forces with the percussion ensemble Batucada Nossa Senhora for an evening of rhythmic jazz and unique ethnic sounds starting at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21 in Page Theatre.

The joint concert combines the talents of the 18-piece Jazz Ensemble and 12-member Batucada ensemble. The Jazz Combo, featuring five student soloists, will also perform. Dr. John Paulson directs the jazz groups and Denny McGuire directs Batucada Nossa Senhora (translated as “percussion ensemble of our lady”).

The big band will feature the world premiere of Dr. Paulson’s “Drop Off Blues.” This piece stretches the boundaries of traditional blues arrangements by giving each section in the band a challenging “soli” part, as well as ample space for individual soloists. Also included in the jazz ensemble set will be a Basie-style ballad “Nice and Easy,” written and arranged by Jeff Taylor; “Carnival Del Sol,” a lively jazz samba by Dean Sorenson; Dizzy Gillespie’s famous “Manteca”; bebop trumpeter Lee Morgan's ever popular “Sidewinder”; and “Spring Cleaning” by Maynard Ferguson alumnus Matt Harris (featuring music faculty member Eric Heukeshoven on piano). Jazz Combo will be performing A.C. Jobim’s well-known bossa nova “Triste” and Mongo Santamaria’s “Afro Blue.” The jazz groups will combine with the Batucada percussionists to ignite the rhythmic excitement of the concert’s Latin-jazz style pieces.

Student soloists in the jazz groups include: tenor saxophonist Ryan Ballanger; baritone saxophonist Ben Scott and trombonist Tom Briese; and alto saxophonist Vanessa Grams.

Batucada Nossa Senhora will perform styles from the Afro-Cuban and Afro-Brazilian traditions, as well as a drum medley from Ghana in West Africa.

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. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org. For more information on the event, contact Dr. Paulson at Ext. 1596 or jpaulson@smumn.edu.

SMU Oldie Moldies to perform at Signatures today

Catch dinner and a show with The Oldie Moldie All-Stars from Saint Mary’s today, Nov. 14, at Visions Event Center.

Rock along to your favorite ’50s, ’60s and ’70s tunes, while you enjoy a menu of garden salad, pan-seared Canadian walleye fillet, wild rice pilaf, mixed vegetables, caper tarter sauce, rolls and butter, and a mini banana split.

The Oldies are members of the national music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia at Saint Mary’s. The group consists of 12 talented and engaging singers and band members. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7 p.m.; the Oldies will perform two sets, one at 6:30 p.m., and a second at 7:45 p.m.

The price for the dinner and show is $30 per person; reservations can be made by calling Signatures at 454-3767. Payment is accepted at time of reservation. The reservation deadline is Nov. 12.

Visions Event Center is located at Signatures Restaurant, 22852 County Road 17 in Pleasant Valley.

Visiting Palestinian prof to speak about West Bank life

Dr. Muna Matar, a computer science professor from Bethlehem University in Palestine, will speak on “Daily Life in Bethlehem: The Israeli Occupation” on Thursday, Dec. 4. Dr. Matar’s presentation will run from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in Salvi Hall. The event is free and open to the public.

Dr. Matar is a visiting scholar in residence at Saint Mary’s during fall semester. She is teaching courses on “Women in the Middle East” at both Saint Mary’s and Winona State University. Dr. Matar lives in Beit Jala, a small city near Bethlehem. After graduating from Bethlehem University with a degree in mathematics, she earned an M.A. in Computer Science from Oregon State University and a doctorate from the University of Ghent in Belgium.

The Palestinian cities of Beit Jala and Bethlehem are part of the West Bank territories occupied by Israel after the 1967 war. For Palestinians, daily life in the occupied territories involves coping with checkpoints, the Israeli barrier wall that divides communities, and the growing number of Israeli settlements.

Bethlehem University is a Catholic institution in the Lasallian tradition, which has been serving students of all faith traditions since 1973. Dr. Matar’s visit is the result of the close association between Saint Mary’s and Bethlehem University, both of which are led by the De La Salle Christian Brothers.

Biology seminar featuring SMU alum planned for Nov. 20

Rebecca (Dahlin ’98) Laborde, Ph.D., will give a talk titled “New High-Throughput Genomic Strategies for the Study of Head and Neck Cancer: Next Generation Sequencing and Advances in Individualized Medicine” at 4 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 20, in Room 112, Hoffman Hall. Dr. Laborde works at Mayo in Rochester.

Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party fundraiser set for Nov. 16

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will host the fifth biennial Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party on Sunday, Nov. 16, at the Valéncia Arts Center, located at 1164 West 10th St.

Two tea sittings (1 p.m. and 4 p.m.), each with specialty teas and exquisite finger foods, will be offered. The Land of the Sweets Gift Boutique, featuring holiday gifts and crafts, will be available for the public’s shopping pleasure from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.

All children attending the tea party will receive a complimentary photo of themselves with their favorite live character from “The Nutcracker” Ballet. Additionally, storytelling of this favorite holiday classic will be held in the Land of the Sweets Gift Boutique during shopping hours.

The Sugar Plum Fairy Tea party is the first big event of “The Nutcracker” production season for MCA and its youth performing troupe, the Dance Repertory Company.

The Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party serves as a fundraiser for MCA; all proceeds go toward production costs for “The Nutcracker.”

For tickets to the tea sittings or for more information about the gift boutique, call Ext. 5501. Tickets are $15.

Winona Area Youth Singers’ inaugural concert is Nov. 23

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will present the Winona Area Youth Singers (WAYS) in “Musical Menagerie,” an inaugural concert, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Valéncia Arts Center.

WAYS members are students in grades three through six from the Winona area. The youth choir started in September of this year and has been rehearsing a variety of choral material. The program features music about animals, including German and American folk songs; a familiar hymn text; and modern compositions, both serious and humorous.

Lindsy O’Shea serves as the WAYS director. The WAYS assistant conductor is Jeff David, and Anthony Freeman serves as accompanist.

Reserved tickets are not necessary. Admission is $5 (cash or check only) at the door.

WAYS is the official youth choir of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts. WAYS is dedicated to providing quality, artistic and educational programs for all young people, regardless of their financial circumstances.

For more information about WAYS or MCA’s other performing arts programming, visit www.smumn.edu/mca, e-mail dance@smumn.edu or call Ext. 5501.

Senior class auction today in the game room

The senior class auction is today, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the game room. A variety of items are available to bid on including gift certificates, luggage, a Carhartt jacket, movies, homemade dinners and more.

For more information, contact Mandy Haus at alhaus05@smumn.edu or Kaitlin Depuydt at kadepu05@smumn.edu.

SMU High School Challenge results announced

Four area schools earned the right to advance Saturday, Nov. 8, in the second weekend of Saint Mary's University High School Challenge. High School Challenge is the longest-running, locally produced television program showcasing Eastern Minnesota, Western Wisconsin, and Northeast Iowa high school students in an educational forum.

The following schools competed in Round 1B Nov. 8 and are moving onto the Consolation Championship: Holmen White and Seneca. Moving on to the Super Challenge are Onalaska and Eau Claire Regis Green. Other competing schools were Lewiston, Viroqua, Eau Claire Regis White and Weston.

The tournament will wrap-up its first round with Round 1C, starting at 9 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 15, in the World Room. The public is welcome to attend.

The following schools will participate in Round 1C: Holmen Maroon, La Crosse Aquinas, Melrose-Mindoro, Decorah, West Salem Black, West Salem Orange, Cotter, Osseo-Fairchild, Hope Lutheran, Alma Center Lincoln, Bangor, and Eau Claire North.

Teams that win their afternoon game will return for the Consolation Championship games Saturday, Dec 6. Teams that win their morning and afternoon games will return for the Super Challenge Championship Saturday, Feb. 21. The final eight games of Round 1 are taped at Saint Mary’s and televised on Fox 25 La Crosse and Fox 48 Eau Claire.

The following schools competed in Round 1A Oct. 11 and are also moving onto the Consolation Championship: La Crosse Central, Logan White and Riceville (IA). Moving on to the Super Challenge are La Crescent, Logan Red and Winona Senior High Orange. Other competing schools were Caledonia, Blair-Taylor, North Crawford, and Youth Initiative.

High school students receive scholarships to Saint Mary’s for participating in High School Challenge. Schools that win their first game receive $2,000 scholarships to SMU. Schools that lose their first game receive $1,000 scholarships to SMU. These scholarships are for any member of the senior class with a B or above average.

For more information, contact Nicole Witt Gerdes, High School Challenge coordinator, at Ext. 1761 or ngerdes@smumn.edu.

Cochran gives presentation at reading conference

Michelle Cochran, K-12 Reading Licensure Program and Department of Art and Design, gave a presentation at the Minnesota Reading Association 2008 conference in Brooklyn Park, titled "Supporting Literacy Development Through Visual Arts."

SMU raises funds for Nairobi

The Saint Mary’s community continues to raise money for the Nairobi campus through Jeans for a Cause, as well as Let’s Do Lunch events. The next “Let’s do Lunch” is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 5, sponsored by the SMU Cabinet.

Employee Changes

New Employee:
Carolyn Bell, Nov. 10, Twin Cities, program director, M.A. Health and Human Services Administration.

Leaving:
Maricar Johnson, Nov. 7, Twin Cities, administrative assistant.

Sympathy to Speltz, Korte families

Barbara Speltz, mother-in-law of Dawn Speltz, Financial Aid Office, died on Nov. 9. A funeral was held Thursday, in Altura. Cards of sympathy can be sent to Dawn and John at Campus Box 5.

Maurice Korte, brother of Sister Clare Korte, Biology Department, and father to Michael Korte ’95, died on Nov. 9. A funeral was held in Highland, Ill. Cards of condolence can be sent to Sister Clare at Campus Box 10.

The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the Speltz and Korte families.

Brother William schedules roundtable, town hall meetings

Brother President William Mann is inviting the university community to participate in discussions about institutional priorities.

During the week of Nov. 17, he will host round-table discussions on planning with four constituent groups: faculty, staff and administrators, students, and parents and alumni. Invitations have been sent to 40 individuals from each of these groups to meet on the Winona and Twin Cities campuses.

These small gatherings will be followed by two town-hall meetings, one on the Winona campus and one on the Twin Cities campus, where all members of the Saint Mary’s community will be welcome to contribute insights on the proposed priorities. These town-hall meetings are scheduled as follows:

Town Hall Meeting, Twin Cities campus:
Monday, Nov. 24
PAN building Alumni Room
3:30-5 p.m.

Town Hall Meeting, Winona campus
Thursday, Nov. 20
Salvi Lecture Hall
3:30-5 p.m.

Following these roundtable sessions and town hall meetings, Brother William will finalize a set of priorities which will then be used to guide operational planning for the university over the next several years.

Saint Mary’s congratulates alumni elected to offices

Congratulations go to the following alumni who ran for office on Nov. 4.

• Mike Johanns ’71 (R-Nebraska) was elected U.S. Senator. Johanns formerly served as U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.

• Rep. Tim Walz (DFL-Mankato), who is completing his doctorate with SMU, was re-elected to Congress.

• Debbie White ’00 was re-elected Winona city councilwoman for an at-large position.

• Additionally, Cullen Sheehan ’97 worked as the campaign manager for Sen. Norm Coleman (R-Minnesota) who edged out challenger Al Franken in a close race; a recount is planned.

• Bill Jungbauer (R-Minnesota) ’75 lost his bid for the Minnesota House of Representatives.

If you know of other alums who were involved with major elections, please let Deb Nahrgang know at dnahrgan@smumn.edu.

Saint Mary’s students staging ‘Playhouse Creatures’

The Saint Mary’s Department of Theatre Arts will stage the racy historical drama “Playhouse Creatures” through Nov. 9.

Set in 1669, a bawdy and troublesome time, “Playhouse Creatures,” by April DeAngelis details a time when theatres have just reopened after 17 years of Puritan suppression. With this surge in theatrical activity, comes a new British novelty — the actress. Too often the lines between actress and prostitute become obscured as these women walked a tightrope between admiration and derision.

Directed by Dr. Steven Bouler, “Playhouse Creatures” captures the pioneering struggles of these extraordinary women, including six of the most famous — Nell Gwyn, Elizabeth Farley, Rebecca Marshall, Elizabeth Barry, Doll Common and Mary Betterton.

This tale of theatrical heroism and perseverance is a moving, and often comic, account of the precarious lives of Restoration actresses. Please note that this play contains adult language and situations.

“Playhouse Creatures” begins at 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday, Nov. 7-8, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. All performances will be held in the Academy Theatre of the Valéncia Arts Center, located at 1164 West 10th St.

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. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Area schools compete in SMU High School Challenge

The Saint Mary’s University High School Challenge kicked off its 38th season with Round 1A on Saturday, Oct. 11. High School Challenge is the longest-running, locally produced television program showcasing Eastern Minnesota, Western Wisconsin, and Northeast Iowa high school students in an educational forum. Competition resumes with Round 1B, starting at 8:30 a.m., Saturday, Nov. 8, in the World Room. The public is welcome to attend.

High School Challenge is a contest in which students compete to correctly answer questions dealing with high school subjects, general information and current events. Thirty-two teams compete in winner and consolation bracket tournaments.

High school students receive scholarships to Saint Mary’s for participating in High School Challenge. Schools that win their first game receive $2,000 scholarships to SMU. Schools that lose their first game receive $1,000 scholarships to SMU. These scholarships are for any member of the senior class with a B or above average. Each scholarship is renewable for three consecutive years provided the student remains in good standing and maintains a 2.8/4.0 cumulative grade point average.

The following schools competed in Round 1A Oct. 11 and are moving onto the Consolation Championship on Saturday, Dec. 6: La Crosse Central, Logan White and Riceville (IA). Moving on to the Super Challenge on Saturday, Feb. 21, are La Crescent, Logan Red and Winona Senior High Orange. Other competing schools were Caledonia, Blair-Taylor, North Crawford, and Youth Initiative.

The following schools will participate in Round 1B on Nov. 8: Lewiston-Altura, Onalaska, Holmen White, Viroqua, Eau Claire Regis Green, Eau Claire Regis White, Seneca and Weston.

Teams that win their afternoon game will return for the Consolation Championship games. Teams that win their morning and afternoon games will return for the Super Challenge Championship. The final eight games of the tournament are taped at SMU and are televised on Fox 25 La Crosse and Fox 48 Eau Claire.

For more information, contact Nicole Witt Gerdes, High School Challenge coordinator, at Ext.1761 or ngerdes@smumn.edu.

SMU Oldie Moldies to perform at Signatures Nov. 14

Catch dinner and a show with The Oldie Moldie All-Stars from Saint Mary’s on Friday, Nov. 14, at Visions Event Center.

Rock along to your favorite ’50s, ’60s and ’70s tunes, while you enjoy a menu of garden salad, pan-seared Canadian walleye fillet, wild rice pilaf, mixed vegetables, caper tarter sauce, rolls and butter, and a mini banana split.

The Oldies are members of the national music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia at Saint Mary’s. The group consists of 12 talented and engaging singers and band members. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7 p.m.; the Oldies will perform two sets, one at 6:30 p.m., and a second at 7:45 p.m.

The price for the dinner and show is $30 per person; reservations can be made by calling Signatures at 454-3767. Payment is accepted at time of reservation. The reservation deadline is Nov. 12.

Visions Event Center is located at Signatures Restaurant, 22852 County Road 17 in Pleasant Valley.

Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party fundraiser set for Nov. 16

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will host the fifth biennial Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party on Sunday, Nov. 16, at the Valéncia Arts Center, located at 1164 West 10th St.

Two tea sittings (1 p.m. and 4 p.m.), each with specialty teas and exquisite finger foods, will be offered. The Land of the Sweets Gift Boutique, featuring holiday gifts and crafts, will be available for the public’s shopping pleasure from 12:30 to 5:30 p.m.

All children attending the tea party will receive a complimentary photo of themselves with their favorite live character from “The Nutcracker” Ballet. Additionally, storytelling of this favorite holiday classic will be held in the Land of the Sweets Gift Boutique during shopping hours.

The Sugar Plum Fairy Tea party is the first big event of “The Nutcracker” production season for MCA and its youth performing troupe, the Dance Repertory Company. The company will present the full-length ballet Dec. 4-7 at Saint Mary’s Page Theatre. This year’s cast of 100 includes students from Saint Mary’s, Winona State University, and children and community members from Winona and the surrounding areas. For tickets to the production, call Ext.1715 or visit www.pagetheatre.org.

The Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party serves as a fundraiser for MCA; all proceeds go toward production costs for “The Nutcracker.”

For tickets to the tea sittings or for more information about the gift boutique, call 453-5501.

Winona Area Youth Singers’ inaugural concert is Nov. 23

The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will present the Winona Area Youth Singers (WAYS) in “Musical Menagerie,” an inaugural concert, beginning at 1:30 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23, at the Valéncia Arts Center.

WAYS members are students in grades three through six from the Winona area. The youth choir started in September of this year and has been rehearsing a variety of choral material. The program features music about animals, including German and American folk songs; a familiar hymn text; and modern compositions, both serious and humorous.

Lindsy O’Shea serves as the WAYS director. WAYS members include: Alexa Akre, Shea Alcamo, Philippa Armstrong, Andrew Behling, Taylor Cada, Libby Crigler, Kate Dulak, Korto Greene, Trinity Hougin, Justine Meinke and Lucy Wilfahrt. The WAYS assistant conductor is Jeff David, and Anthony Freeman serves as accompanist.

Reserved tickets are not necessary. Admission is $5 (cash or check only) at the door.

In addition to its inaugural concert, WAYS will be featured in the snow scene with MCA’s Dance Repertory Company in “The Nutcracker” (Dec. 4-7), will perform a spring concert second semester, and will participate in community outreach by performing at nursing homes and for other charitable events.

WAYS is the official youth choir of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts. WAYS is dedicated to providing quality, artistic and educational programs for all young people, regardless of their financial circumstances.

For more information about WAYS or MCA’s other performing arts programming, visit www.smumn.edu/mca, e-mail dance@smumn.edu or call Ext. 5501.

SMU group photo planned for today in the plaza

The Saint Mary’s community is invited to participate in a large group photo of everyone wearing their “Jeans for a Cause” and spirit red shirts today, Friday, to send to our Lasallian friends on the Nairobi campus.

Saint Mary’s campuswide fundraisers this year have been designated for the Nairobi campus; so far $3,000 has been raised.

Participants can meet in the plaza at 10 a.m. or — in the event of rain — in the Performance Center lobby. The final location will be sent out via e-mail by 9 a.m.

November “Jeans for a Cause” stickers are available for purchase in the Business Office.

The next “Let’s do Lunch” is scheduled for Friday, Dec. 5, sponsored by the SMU Cabinet.

Donations needed for senior class auction Nov. 13-14

The senior class auction is set for Nov. 13-14. In preparation, the senior class is seeking donations from businesses, students and faculty (including cooking a meal, photography, art, tickets, gift baskets etc.) For more information, contact Mandy Haus at alhaus05@smumn.edu or Kaitlin Depuydt at kadepu05@smumn.edu.

SMU flu shot clinic returns Nov. 13

Saint Mary’s will host a flu shot clinic for employees on Thursday, Nov. 13, in the Faculty/Staff Lounge, Room 115, Saint Mary’s Hall. The clinic will be held from 8:30 to 10 a.m. and from 4 to 5 p.m.

Flu shots are free to employees (and their dependents) covered by Saint Mary’s health insurance through CCStpa. The cost for others is $23, which will need to be paid at the time of the shot.

Mayo Clinic seeks volunteers for genetic study Nov. 13

Mayo Clinic is seeking volunteers for a study that determines how the genetic makeup of heart, lung, and blood pressure receptors influence blood pressure regulation from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 13 in the Toner Student Center.

The study is necessary to describe the importance of gene variation in heart and lung function. To participate in the study, volunteers need to donate a blood sample for genetic determination. The sample is 4 teaspoons. The genetic makeup of certain receptors will be determined over the subsequent months. Depending on genetic makeup, volunteers may be eligible for studies, which may include arm or leg blood flow measurements, medication administration, exercise (handgrip, leg extension, or bicycling), breathing maneuvers, nerve measurements, or dietary salt manipulation.

For time and inconvenience, a monetary compensation stipend will be offered for all studies. Volunteers may not be on regular prescription medications, except contraceptives.

Pre-registration will be held from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 10. in the Toner Student Center. Walk-ins are welcome, but pre-registration is preferred.

To pre-register in advance call 255-6938 or e-mail: Engrav.pamela@mayo.edu.

Joint jazz, Batucada concert set for Nov. 21

The SMU Jazz Ensemble and Jazz Combo, under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, and Batucada Nossa Senhora, directed by Denny McGuire, will perform a joint performance at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21, in the Page Theatre.

Tickets for the performance are $10 for adults and $5 for seniors and students and available by contacting the Page Theatre box office at Ext. 1715 or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

SMU guest pianists to give free recital Saturday

Saint Mary’s guest pianists Dr. Mary Ellen Haupert and Dr. Timothy Schorr will present a four-hand piano recital at 3 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, in Figliulo Recital Hall. Admission is free. The program includes works by Corigliano, Gottschalk, Beach and Barber.

Dr. Schorr is a strong advocate of both solo and collaborative piano literature from all musical periods. His performance credits in the United States and Europe include Carnegie Recital Hall in New York, numerous university guest artist concerts, and concerto appearances. He frequently adjudicates, presents workshops, and gives master classes, and has authored and edited publications for Keyboard Companion Magazine and Hal Leonard Publishing. He is currently associate professor of music at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wis., where he serves as Music Department chair and coordinator of Applied Piano & Pedagogy.

Dr. Haupert divides her time between music directorship at Roncalli Newman Parish and teaching duties as assistant professor of music at Viterbo University in La Crosse, Wis. An avid chamber musician, Dr. Haupert has enjoyed frequent appearances with the Artaria String Quartet, as well as a rewarding collaboration with Dr. Schorr. Since their first concert two years ago, the two have performed four-hand programs at Washington University in St. Louis, Winona State University, and University of St. Francis in Joliet, Ill. They were also featured on Wisconsin Public Radio’s broadcast of “LIVE from the CHAZEN” in February 2006.

Barlow, Beckman attend 2008 Assessment Institute

Patrick Barlow, director of college assessment, and Dean Beckman, mass communication program coordinator, recently attended the 2008 Assessment Institute, sponsored by Indiana University and Purdue University-Indianapolis. Beckman presented a 75-minute workshop on “E-folio Use that Benefits Students and Programs.” The presentation focused on Beckman’s use of an electronic portfolio for students in the senior capstone course for the public relations major to provide feedback to the students, as well as collect information for program improvement. The Assessment Institute is the nation’s oldest and largest event focused exclusively on outcomes assessment in higher education.

O’Shea, Heukeshoven compose music for Words to Music

Dr. Patrick O’Shea and Eric Heukeshoven of the SMU Music Department composed music for this year’s La Crosse Chamber Chorale Words to Music Project.

Through the Words to Music Project, poetry from six La Crosse area students are set to music. The students, as eighth-graders, were the winners of a poetry contest themed “My Favorite Things.” The contest drew 154 contestants.

Audiences can hear these works in concert at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9, at First Lutheran Church in Onalaska, Wis.

O’Shea wrote a piece for choir, oboe and piano for “Sand Castle” by Erin Brenner. Heukeshoven set to music Laura Nebeck’s “Things, Things, Things You Love.”

Tickets for the event are $15 adults, $12 senior citizens, $8 students. They can be ordered at (608) 780-6107 or by e-mailing chamberchorale@centurytel.net.

Business Office to host First Friday

The Business Office will be hosting the Nov. 7 First Friday gathering today in its reconfigured area. In recognition of everyone’s efforts to work safely, visitors can enjoy a special cake in addition to the regular First Friday offerings.

Jazz news

The John Paulson trio will perform 6:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 8, at Michael’s Restaurant in Rochester.

Sympathy to Dotterwick family

Elaine Brosinski, mother of Sally Dotterwick, switchboard operator, died Nov. 4. A funeral is planned for Saturday, Nov. 8, in Stoddard, Wis. Cards of condolence can be sent to Sally Dotterwick, Campus P.O. 15. The Saint Mary’s community extends its sympathy to the Dotterwick family.

Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre takes the summer off

Saint Mary’s has announced that the Gilmore Creek Summer Theatre will not present a season of shows in 2009. Michael Charron, dean of the School of the Arts, said the university is stepping back to evaluate its professional summer theatre program, “given the current economic climate and the saturation of the arts market in Winona.”

GCST is a professional summer stock program produced in collaboration with the Saint Mary's School of the Arts.

Charron said the first two seasons of GCST featured “wonderful shows, and talented actors and directors. It was a grand experience for everyone involved.”

He added that the university plans to whole-heartedly support local endeavors such as the Shakespeare and Beethoven festivals, as well as the many community theatre productions in the area. “We’re also leaving open all possibilities for the future,” he said.

Judy Myers, GCST artistic director and theatre arts faculty member, thanked the community for its support. “Gilmore Creek was tremendous fun,” she said. “It provided a wonderful opportunity for budding theatre professionals, and was certainly of great value for the community. I look forward to continuing my involvement in other Winona performing arts activities.”

Global Citizenship Symposium continues today

The Global Citizenship Symposium continues today, Oct. 31, in the Common Room. The symposium is sponsored by the Department of Social Sciences and Provost’s Office and is free and open to the public. Other universities participating and attending include Winona State University, Viterbo University and University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.

Friday
Living Locally and Visioning Globally: Scholarship, Research, Performance and Service Regarding 21st Century Citizenship
10 a.m. — “Citizenship, diversity and community programs,” Project FINE of Winona
11 a.m. — “Global Trade,” David Lynch, Saint Mary’s
Noon — Lunch
1:15 p.m. — “Globalization of Crime,” Tim Kullman, UW-La Crosse
1:45 p.m. — “Globalization” open discussion with Cecilia Manrique, UW-La Crosse as discussant
2:15 p.m. — “Creating Community Within Profit-Centered Organizations: Pitfalls and Possibilities” open discussion with Jeff Hefel, SMU, as discussant.

Horrible Harry hits Page stage Nov. 5

Harry may be horrible, but audiences are sure to find his transition from page to stage entertaining when the Omaha Theater Company presents “Horrible Harry” at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, at the Page Theatre.

This brand-new theatrical production of author Suzy Kline’s popular children’s books “Horrible Harry in Room 2B” and “Horrible Harry Moves Up to Third Grade,” was adapted for the stage by Omaha Theater Company Artistic Director James Larson and will captivate children ages 4 to 12, as well as entertain audiences of any age.

The meaning of “double revenge” will become clear as spectators get a double dose of Harry’s antics as a school-aged prankster who is transitioning between grades. Doug, Harry’s best friend, frequently speaks to the audience, giving an inside look at Miss Mackle’s classroom. The production follows Harry, Doug, Sidney, Song Lee, Miss Mackle and the rest of the class from room 2B to room 3B, with amusing moments all along the way.

Kline’s vivid characters will take audiences on a lighthearted ride through a hilarious, prank-ridden storyline that will make everyone realize that maybe Harry isn’t so horrible after all.

In addition to Harry’s mischievous shenanigans, the audience will experience a clever rendition of a Thanksgiving play and a class field trip to the aquarium, brought to life by the clever stage design for “Horrible Harry.” Harry and friends move from Room 2B to recess to the bus to the aquarium and back again, without time for set changes, allowing Omaha Theater Company Set Designer Will Davis to skillfully combine all of the scenes into one set.

Tickets to this Page Series performance are $10 for adults, $5 for seniors and students and available anytime online at http://www.pagtheatre.org/, or by calling the Performance Center box office, Ext. 1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Omaha Theater Company’s national tour is sponsored by Children’s Hospital. Local sponsors include HBC and Winona Radio.

SMU to host free cello recital Sunday

Saint Mary’s will host a free cello recital by guest artist Kirsten Whitson at 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 2, in Figliulo Recital Hall. This recital is unusual in that it will be performed without piano. Whitson plays regularly with the Minnesota Orchestra and the Saint Paul Chamber Orchestra. The program includes Jean Louis Duport’s “Concert Etude #1”; Chinary Ung’s “Khse Buon”; Johann Sebastian Bach’s “Suite # 6 in D Major”; and Mark O'Connor’s, “Appalchia Waltz.”

Whitson also performs with the Milwaukee Symphony and the Grand Teton Festival Orchestra in Jackson, Wyo. Whitson maintains a private teaching studio in St. Paul and has taught at McPhail Center for the Arts, Indiana University, Carroll College and in a fishing village in Norway. She has performed throughout the U.S., Europe, Japan and Cuba with Minnesota Orchestra, the Milwaukee Symphony and the Bergen Philharmonic. As a chamber musician she played with the Koan Quartet in Minneapolis from 2000-2003 and the Morini String Quartet in Milwaukee from 1994-1999.

SMU Oldie Moldies to perform at Signatures Nov. 14

Catch dinner and a show with The Oldie Moldie All-Stars from Saint Mary’s on Friday, Nov. 14, at Visions Event Center.

Rock along to your favorite ’50s, ’60s and ’70s tunes, while you enjoy a menu of garden salad, pan-seared Canadian walleye fillet, wild rice pilaf, mixed vegetables, caper tarter sauce, rolls and butter, and a mini banana split.

The Oldies are members of the national music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia at Saint Mary’s. The group consists of 12 talented and engaging singers and band members. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., and dinner will be served at 7 p.m.; the Oldies will perform two sets, one at 6:30 p.m., and a second at 7:45 p.m.

The price for the dinner and show is $30 per person; reservations can be made by calling Signatures at 454-3767. Payment is accepted at time of reservation. The reservation deadline is Nov. 12.

Visions Event Center is located at Signatures Restaurant, 22852 County Road 17 in Pleasant Valley.

Special movie night hosted by Saint Teresa Institute

The Saint Teresa Leadership and Service Institute is hosting a special movie night at 6 p.m. Monday, Nov. 3, in the World Room.

One hundred and forty four years after the founding of the United States of America, women gained the right to vote. Women around the world are still working to gain this right in their countries. Learn from women in office today what the political arena is like for women and watch a movie portraying young American women suffragettes’ actions as they risked their lives to help American women win the right to vote.

After the movie Dr. Muna Matar, SMU visiting professor, and Marsha Ward, 5th Ward Winona County commissioner, will host a discussion.

Saint Mary’s students to stage ‘Playhouse Creatures’ Nov. 6-9

The Saint Mary’s Department of Theatre Arts will stage the racy historical drama “Playhouse Creatures” Nov. 6-9.

Set in 1669, a bawdy and troublesome time, “Playhouse Creatures,” by April DeAngelis details a time when theatres have just reopened after 17 years of Puritan suppression. With this surge in theatrical activity, comes a new British novelty — the actress. Too often the lines between actress and prostitute become obscured as these women walked a tightrope between admiration and derision.

Directed by Dr. Steven Bouler, “Playhouse Creatures” captures the pioneering struggles of these extraordinary women, including six of the most famous — Nell Gwyn, Elizabeth Farley, Rebecca Marshall, Elizabeth Barry, Doll Common and Mary Betterton.

This tale of theatrical heroism and perseverance is a moving, and often comic, account of the precarious lives of Restoration actresses. Please note that this play contains adult language and situations.

“Playhouse Creatures” begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 6-8, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 9. All performances will be held in the Academy Theatre of the Valéncia Arts Center, located at 1164 West 10th St.

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. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Author to discuss ‘Hmong in America’ Nov. 6

Kao Kalia Yang, author of the memoir, The Latehomecomer, will be reading from her book about her family’s experience in Laos during the Vietnam War, in refugee camps in Thailand, and, now, as American citizens in St. Paul. The presentation about “Hmong in America” begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, in the President’s Room. The event is free and open to the public and is sponsored by the Lasallian Honors Program, School of Humanities, and the Departments of English and History. For more information, contact Dr. Jenny Shanahan at Ext. 6607.

Excerpt from The Latehomecomer, from Coffee House Press:

Before babies are born they live in the sky where they fly among the clouds. The sky is a happy place and calling babies down to earth is not an easy thing to do. From the sky, babies can see the course of human lives.

This is what the Hmong children of my generation are told by our mothers and fathers, by our grandmothers and grandfathers.

They teach us that we have chosen our lives. That the people who we would become we had inside of us from the beginning, and the people whose worlds we share, whose memories we hold strong inside of us, we have always known.

From the sky, I would come again.

Donations needed for senior class auction Nov. 13-14

The senior class auction is set for Nov. 13-14. In preparation, the senior class is seeking donations from businesses, students and faculty (including cooking a meal, photography, art, tickets, gift baskets etc.) For more information, contact Mandy Haus at alhaus05@smumn.edu or Kaitlin Depuydt at kadepu05@smumn.edu

United Way pledge forms due today

United Way pledge forms should be returned to the business office, box 8, today, Oct. 31. Forms are available at the rack in the hallway outside of the business office. SMU needs a big finish in order to match its pledge from last year.

Employee change

New employee:
Aretta-Rie Johnson, Oct. 20, Rochester site coordinator.

113 SMU students volunteer for ‘Make a Difference Day’

Saint Mary’s University students Sara Clements and Tim Wojcicki raked leaves at a Minnesota City residence as part of the annual Make a Difference Day.
Chris Stanish moves building materials to help out a Minnesota City family during Make a Difference Day Saturay, Oct. 25.

In recognition of national “Make a Difference Day,” 113 Saint Mary’s students volunteered their time on Saturday, Oct. 25, throughout Winona and the surrounding area. Students raked leaves, painted, stacked lumber, cleaned sheds and assisted individuals and organizations in numerous other ways.

Volunteers helped at St. Anne Hospice, the Catholic Worker Home, Valleyview Towers, Living Light Church, Winona Arms, the Winona Family Community Center, all three grocery stores (with the 10 Days of Giving), Cathedral of the Sacred Heart, Saint Mary’s Parish, and individual homes of seniors, as well as homes affected by flooding in the Minnesota City area.

“Make a Difference Day” is the most encompassing national day of helping others, a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors. Created by USA WEEKEND magazine, this annual event takes place on the fourth Saturday of every October. SMU is proud to join the millions of people throughout the nation who participated.