umpi briefs

Backpacking the Pacific Crest
    PRESQUE ISLE — “Backpacking the Pacific Crest Trail: Mexico to Canada” is the topic of a presentation on Wednesday, Oct. 21, at 7 p.m. in Room 104A, Normal Hall at UMPI. Assistant Professor of Physical Education Dr. Todd Russell will discuss the 2,650 mile trek from Mexico to British Columbia which he and his wife, Kaye, began two summers ago, completing the journey in 2007. Through photos and personal experiences, he’ll highlight what Russell calls the “trials and tribulations” of the journey, the varied terrains — from the Mohave Desert to the High Sierra Range snow fields and the many interesting people encountered. The public is invited to attend this free presentation. FMI, 768-9537.
God and Evil topic of forum
    PRESQUE ISLE — Campus and community will have the opportunity to explore the topic “God and the Reality of Evil” in a public panel discussion to be held Thursday, Oct. 22, at 7 p.m. in UMPI’s Campus Center. The forum is sponsored by Presque Isle Student Ministries (PrISM), an interdenominational, campus ministry serving  NMCC and UMPI.
    According to PrISM Chaplain James P. Morgan, the topic for this year’s forum came about as a response to the often asked question, “Why does God allow disaster to happen? – both natural disaster and human misdeeds.”  Five panelists representing different perspectives will be on hand to provide what Morgan hopes will be varied interpretations for an evening of lively discussion. They include: NMCC President Dr. Timothy Crowley, UMPI Political Science professor Dr. William Davidshofer, Reverend Dr. Robert Grove-Markwood of the P.I. Congregational Church, UMPI English Professor Dr. Raymond Rice and UMPI President Don Zillman.
    All interested in the topic are invited to attend this free forum. FMI, contact Morgan at 227-8207.
 Gay Awareness/Blue Jeans Day
    PRESQUE ISLE — Since 1994, October has been “National Coming Out Month” and in recognition of such, the University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Gay-Straight Alliance has planned the first “UMPI “Gay Awareness Day,” endorsed by the UMPI Student Senate. Wednesday, Oct. 28, will be “UMPI Gay Blue Jeans Day” when students, faculty and staff are urged to wear blue jeans to demonstrate their support of equality for gay people. At 7:30 p.m. in Wieden Auditorium is a free screening of the award-winning film, “Boys Don’t Cry” (the story of Brandon Teena, a transgendered teen who preferred life in a male identity until it was discovered he was born biologically female) starring Academy Award winner for Best Actress, Hilary Swank. Monday thru Wednesday, Oct. 26-28, members of the Gay-Straight Alliance will be in the Campus Center offering information and answering questions about the “marriage equality” vote (ballot question 1). FMI about these events or about the Gay-Straight Alliance, call 484-8980.