Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts registration open house is Jan. 4

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will conduct semester II registration open house, Monday, Jan. 4, from 4 to 7 p.m., at the Valéncia Arts Center, 1164 West 10th St.

Registration for the Winona Area Youth Singers (WAYS) choir, private music lessons, and semester II dance classes, which begin Jan. 5, will be accepted at the open house. Tours of the facility will be available, refreshments will be served, and students will have the opportunity to meet new and returning faculty and staff. Additionally, students can be fitted for all their dance attire needs at the open house. MCA’s dance attire boutique offers quality basics including leotards, tights, ballet slippers, jazz shoes and tap shoes.

Dance class offerings are available for youth as young as 3 to adults and include beginning through advanced levels in classical ballet, tap, jazz, creative movement and modern, hip hop, and a special tuition-free boys program. Semester II also provides programming specifically for beginning teens and adults through classes in partnership with Winona County Community Education, including: Clogging I, Clogging II, Dance Fitness, Power Piyo, and Teen and Adult Ballet. Academic credit is available through Cotter High School and Saint Mary’s University for a variety of MCA dance classes.

The official youth choir of the Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts, WAYS offers students in grades four through eight additional educational and choral performance opportunities. Semester II WAYS members will participate in a spring concert, a special mentorship program with Saint Mary’s choirs, and in community outreach by performing at nursing homes and for other charitable events. Placement auditions for new choral students interested in becoming WAYS members will take place at the open house as well. Due to a grant from the Saint Mary’s University Friends of the School of the Arts, WAYS is tuition-free for all students for the 2009-2010 academic year.

Private lessons in voice, guitar and other classical instruments are available for students in grades four through 12. Private music lessons are $75 for five 30-minute lessons or $140 for 10 lessons.

MCA Semester II music and dance programming provides five to 13 weeks of instruction, depending on the specific course/activity. Dance classes conclude with a demonstration week, March 22-27. Those dancers in the Dance Repertory Company will perform in the company’s annual spring concert April 22-24. WAYS will conclude the semester with the presentation of a spring concert April 18 and a performance with the SMU choirs on April 24. Tuition for MCA classes varies, depending on course length and level. Discounts and scholarships are available.

For more information about MCA’s open house, dance classes, WAYS, private music lessons or future performances, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call (507) 453-5500. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University.

Saint Mary’s faculty art show highlights work of Sister Margaret Mear

Sister Margaret Mear's work will be featured in the upcoming faculty show at Saint Mary's University. Mear is retiring after 33 years with SMU's Department of Art and Design.

WINONA, Minn. — Seven Saint Mary’s University faculty members from the Department of Art and Design will display their work Thursday, Jan. 7, through Sunday, Feb. 14, in the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

The show, “Seven Point Perspective,” will feature a retrospective of retiring faculty member Sister Margaret Mear’s work and honor her tireless contribution to the university for the past 33 years. Also displaying works are Brother Roderick Robertson, Preston Lawing, Rob McCall, John Whelan, Charlie Campbell and Kathy Greden Christenson.

An opening reception is scheduled for 4:30 to 6 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 7, at the galleries, which are 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 Mear at mmear@smumn.edu.

Saint Mary’s Gifts for Winona grateful for Winona’s generosity

There wouldn’t be room to sign this letter with 1,400 signatures of thanks.

Those 1,400 people include close to 950 children who will excitedly rip open presents to find new toys and clothes this holiday season. I hope you all feel a sense of warmth knowing that so many of these children and teens will be ready for the winter with their new winter boots, mittens and coats.

Additionally, about 100 seniors are thanking you for a variety of basic necessities, including silverware, coats and blankets.

Because of the enormous growth of this program, Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona modified its program this year; youth younger than 18 and seniors older than 60 were eligible to apply. But, because of the outpouring of generosity of our donors, every family received either groceries or a grocery card as well. These families thank you for the food that will now fill their holiday tables.

Because of you, these families have been given presents for their trees and hope in their hearts. For the eighth year in a row, our community has made sure that no one goes home empty handed.

We know that our donors never see the families they help. They write checks and shop for presents for people they’ll never meet. And, they never get to hear the heartfelt “thank yous” or see the smiles and tears these families share with us when they receive their gifts. It is this kind of blind generosity that overwhelms us with humble thanks.

As we count our blessings for the past and upcoming years, we should also remember those less fortunate whose material blessings are just a little harder to come by this year. We hope and pray that 2010 will have many wonderful things in store for these families.

The Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona volunteers will say an extra special thanks to all of you, including:

• the program’s additional partners, Winona Radio, Winona Post and Winona Volunteer Services;
• the many shoppers, wrappers, data-entry volunteers, sorters and organizers, who put in long hours without complaint;
• the many sponsoring businesses, schools, churches and organizations who helped groups of 10 or more;
• every individual who took a tag off of a tree or donated money;
• Fleet Farm for donating orange bags, Walmart for its generous donation; and our friends at Cars & Credit who always make sure there are no tags left.
• the Winona National banks, the Winona Public Library, Videoland, Scrapper’s Haven, Affinity Plus, Winona Post and Security State Bank for sponsoring giving trees;
• referral agencies who provided support;
• the staff and patrons of the Valéncia Arts Center for allowing us to take over the building for one of the gift distributions, and Fran at the Resource Center in St. Charles for helping to distribute gifts;
• and the area media for helping spread the word about this program and how to help.

We continue to be very blessed to be part of such a caring community.

Saint Mary’s Gifts for Winona gifts due Dec. 11

WINONA, Minn. — The deadline is fast approaching to return gifts to the Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona giving trees. Because the community distribution is early, gifts MUST be returned to giving trees by Friday, Dec. 11!

Approximately 1,400 tags went out through the program this year. The early deadline is a priority so that this large number of gifts may be properly sorted and recorded.

Because of the overwhelming generosity of the Winona community, tags may no longer be available.

Those individuals who have already taken tags should return their wrapped packages (with tags securely fastened) to the tree where they got the tag. Trees are located at the Winona Public Library, Scrapper’s Haven, the three Winona National Bank locations, Videoland, the Winona Post, Affinity Plus, and Security State Bank in Lewiston. Donors are asked to spend about $30 per person.

Tax-deductible contributions can also be made out to Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona and sent to 700 Terrace Heights #8, Winona, Minn., 55987.

The Winona Post, Winona Radio and Winona Volunteer Services join Saint Mary’s University in helping to make this program a success.

Saint Mary’s benefactor, alum William Hendrickson dies

WINONA, Minn. — William Hendrickson, 91, a 1939 Saint Mary’s University alumnus and founder of the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership, died Friday, Dec. 4, in Naples, Fla.

Hendrickson was a native of Plainview, Minn., and director, chair and chairman emeritus of St. Jude Medical Inc. of St. Paul. He often said he was fortunate to work with and observe ethical leaders who recognized the importance of developing other leaders with high moral standards. He also observed the erosion of ethical leadership of some leaders in positions of authority. His desire to help reverse this trend led to his establishing scholarships, a speaker series founded on ethics, the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership at Saint Mary’s University, and the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership Forum.

“Bill Hendrickson said on more than one occasion that his objective was to do nothing less than change the world,” said Brother William Mann, president of Saint Mary’s. “His generosity and vision touched the lives of hundreds of students through scholarship programs based upon good character. These students have gone on to become the change that Bill wanted to see in the world.”

In 1988, Bill and his wife, Jean, invited Saint Mary’s to partner with them to identify, encourage, nurture and develop creative, ethical and globally oriented leaders. The Hendricksons funded the first of Saint Mary’s Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholarships. These scholarships provide assistance to students who commit to a lifestyle of ethical behavior and good character. Tomorrow’s Leaders Scholars have provided society with well-rounded ethical leadership and, as graduates of Saint Mary’s, they are committed to playing a constructive role in creating an ethical society.

In 1994, the Hendricksons expanded their university scholarship program and established the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership at Saint Mary’s Winona campus. Over the years, the Institute has provided a variety of programming and training on ethical leadership, serving for-profit and non-profit organizations.

Bill and Jean Hendrickson furthered their commitment in 2003. Recognizing the need to nurture the development of young people of good character, they established the Tomorrow’s Leaders High School Scholarship Program. The scholarships provide incentives for Midwestern high school students to complete leadership and service projects within their schools and communities.

In 2007, the Hendrickson Institute was moved from Saint Mary’s Winona campus to its Twin Cities campus in order to expand programming to the Twin Cities community. Saint Mary’s University and the Hendrickson Institute established an annual speaker series, the Hendrickson Institute for Ethical Leadership Forum, and an annual award for ethical leadership.

A private family funeral is planned.

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

McCullough, Winona’s Poet Laureate, to perform classic Christmas tale

WINONA, Minn. — Ken McCullough, Winona’s new Poet Laureate, and also the assistant director of Academic Advising and director of the PASS program at Saint Mary’s University, will perform Dylan Thomas’s classic, “A Child’s Christmas in Wales” on Tuesday, Dec. 8, at Saint Mary’s.

The reading — free and open to the public — will begin at 4 p.m. in the Common Room, located on the third floor of Saint Mary's Hall. Refreshments will be served. The event is sponsored by the Saint Mary’s English Department and MUSE, the university’s English club.

SMU jazz combos to perform at Acoustic Café Dec. 13

WINONA, Minn. — Two student jazz workshop combos, directed by Dr. John Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven of the Saint Mary’s University Music Department will present a free concert from 2 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 13, at the Acoustic Café in Winona.

This event will feature student musicians who have been playing together all semester. The performance serves as their “final exam.” They'll be playing well-known jazz standards by composers like Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter and Miles Davis, as well as some unique hybrid arrangements of popular jazz tunes blended with familiar Christmas tunes by Heukeshoven.

Biology students receive Tribeta research grants

Five Saint Mary’s University biology students were awarded the National Biology Honor society Beta Beta Beta Research Foundation research scholarships including, from left: Brianna Braun, Angela Lager, John Fox, Ashley Loos and Hilary Framke.

WINONA, Minn. — Biology students at Saint Mary’s University were awarded Beta Beta Beta Research Foundation scholarships. Each student submitted a proposal for his or her senior research project outlining the objectives of the research and a budget. The students, their projects and their research advisors are:


• Hilary Framke, “Physiological responses to crude extract of Noturus gyrinus pectoral spine toxin,” Dr. Randy Krainock, advisor;

• Ashley Loos, “The response of Micropterus salmides to venom produced by Noturus gyrinus,” Dr. Krainock, advisor;

• John Fox, “The effects of tissue isolation from the fins of Noturus gyrinus on Leponis gibbosus and Mus musculus,” Dr. Jeanne Minnerath, advisor;

• Brianna Braun, “Determining the paternity of Mountain Ash (Sorbus aucuaria) in the bluffs around Winona,” Dr. Phil Cochran and Dr. Debra Martin, advisors;

• Angela Lager, “Genetic variation between and within local populations of timber rattlesnakes, Crotalus horridus,” Dr. Martin and Dr. Cochran, advisors.


Dr. Martin is the Beta Beta Beta advisor.

SMU entrepreneurship students raise money for humane society

WINONA, Minn. — Students from the Saint Mary’s University entrepreneurship class sold specially designed T-shirts this fall to raise money for the Winona Area Humane Society. Students pictured include, from left, Jake Lechner, Kathleen Pawlowski, Dave Dahlstrom, Lindsey Quinn and Emily Merchlewitz. Their professor, Jana Schrenkler, fourth from left, presented WAHS volunteers Karen Kryzsko, fourth from right, and Tammy Vondrasek, right, with a gift card for office supplies. Also pictured are Trixie and Al Przybylski, dog handler.

The 20-member class raised $600 for the WAHS with the sale of the first annual Cardinal Pride T-shirt, designed by students. With the proceeds, the class was able to purchase a $400 gift card from Office Depot and reimburse the WAHS $200 for the large animal steps shown. This project — a lesson in social entrepreneurship — is part of the business department’s focus on promoting and supporting the university’s new entrepreneurship major. Each semester, students choose a local non-profit organization in which to donate funds from their class-run business. If you would like to nominate a local non-profit organization to benefit from next semester’s entrepreneurship business, please contact Jana Schrenkler at jschrenk@smumn.edu or (507) 457-1491.

Film, presentation about Palestine offered Dec. 9

WINONA, Minn. — The public is invited to a video and presentation about Palestine at 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 9, at Saint Mary’s University.

The free event will begin with a half-hour video about the Free Bethlehem Campaign. The video will be shown in Salvi Lecture Hall, located on the third floor of Saint Mary’s Hall. The movie discusses the highly controversial Israeli West-Bank barrier, a network of fences with vehicle-barrier trenches. Following the video, Dr. Dorothy Diehl, associate professor and chair of the Modern/Classical Languages Department, will make a presentation about her visit to Palestine in the fall of 2008. Diehl will also give an update on conditions in Bethlehem.

The Free Bethlehem Campaign, sponsored by the American Association for Palestinian Equal Rights, works to educate Americans about the current situation in Bethlehem.

Area high schools advance in SMU High School Challenge

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University High School Challenge preliminary season finished Saturday, Nov. 21, with Round 1C. High School Challenge is the longest-running, locally produced television program showcasing area schools in an educational forum. Participating schools come from Eastern Minnesota, Western Wisconsin and Northeast Iowa.

The following schools competed in October and November and are moving on to the Consolation Championship on Dec. 5: Bangor’s red team, Holmen’s white team, Blair-Taylor, Youth Initiative I, Aquinas, Cotter’s white team, DeSoto, and Decorah’s red team. Moving on to the Super Challenge Feb. 13 are: Cotter’s blue team, Riceville (Iowa), Decorah’s blue team, Logan’s red team, Lewiston-Altura, Regis’ green team, Holmen’s maroon team and West Salem’s black team. Other competing teams were: La Crosse Central, Bangor’s black team, North Crawford, West Salem’s orange team, Winona Senior High, Logan’s white team, Youth Initiative II, Weston, Regis’ white team, Alma Center Lincoln, Caledonia, La Crescent, Seneca, Onalaska and Osseo-Fairchild.

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. All members of the school’s senior class with a B or above average are eligible for these scholarships.

For more information, contact Nicole Witt Gerdes, High School Challenge coordinator, at (507) 457-1761 or ngerdes@smumn.edu.

Miles Johnston to highlight SMU jazz concert Dec. 4

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University will present an evening of jazz — featuring student jazz groups and guest musician Miles Johnston — Friday, Dec. 4.

The event will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Page Theater, located in the SMU Performance Center. The Jazz Ensemble (16-piece big band) and Jazz Combo I, both under the direction of Dr. John Paulson, will perform.

The Jazz Ensemble will perform a wide range of styles, featuring several distinctive student soloists, and Johnston, who is a multi-talented drummer, singer and cornet player. The set will include “The Nasty Blues” by Mike Carubia, which will include solos by Vanessa Grams of Little Falls on alto sax; Trevor Woggon of Viroqua, Wis., on trombone; Benjamin Scott of Rochester on bari sax; and bassist Joe Mazucca of St. Michael. Also included will be Mike Tomaro’s arrangement of Juan Tizol and Duke Ellington’s “Caravan”; “Smack Dab in the Middle,” arranged by Sammy Nestico from the book of Count Basie; and a new plunger trombone feature, “Keep the Stick” by Dean Sorenson. This piece will highlight the work of student trombonist Tom Briese of Rochester, Minn. Johnston will sing several selections from the Great American Songbook, arranged by Dave Wolpe for big band, including, “I’ve Got You Under My Skin,” “Just Friends” and “Night and Day.”

Jazz Combo I will play several recognizable works by Horace Silver like “The Preacher” and “Sister Sadie,” along with an outstanding arrangement of “Freddie The Freeloader” by Miles Davis, arranged by Frank Mantooth and featuring Johnston on cornet. Also, included in their set will be a new arrangement by vibraphonist Jeremy Johnston of “Black Magic Woman,” as played by Santana.

A jazzy Christmas tune or two will be included in the mix, and an additional Jazz Workshop Combo will perform in the lobby for a pre-concert show. Come early to enjoy music by these talented students.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Miles Johnston

Miles Johnston has been playing music for more than 40 years. He studied music at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and then piano technology at the UW-River Falls.

While in the Army, Johnston played in stage band, concert band, marching band, and small jazz and rock groups. With the 3rd Armored Division Band he traveled throughout Germany, Holland, and France playing Fasching parades, concerts, beer tents, and Army ceremonial jobs.

After the Army and after finishing school, Johnston and his family moved to Rochester, where he has played with numerous bands.

When Johnston was in his early 40s, he decided to take up the cornet as a second instrument. After seven years of cornet practice, just as he had started to play publicly, he was humbled by the onset of Bell’s palsy, which temporarily paralyzed the left side of his face. It was a year before he could play publicly again.

In 2000-2001, he performed aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line flag ship the S.S. Norway. Since then, has been performing with the swing group 2 O’Clock Jump and doing freelance work. He also regularly plays with the Miles Johnston Quartet and as part of a local jazz trio and duo.

Winter Dance Showcase Dec. 4-5 at Valéncia

WINONA, Minn. — Dance Repertory Company II performers and young choreographers will present Winter Dance Showcase 2009, Friday and Saturday, Dec. 4-5.

Audiences can enjoy performances at 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, and 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 5, in the Valéncia Arts Center Academy Theatre, located at 1164 West 10th St.

Dance Repertory Company II is the junior performing troupe of Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts (MCA). Students ages 5 to 12 will perform classical ballet, jazz and modern dance. These young students auditioned last September for the showcase and have been participating in weekly technique classes and rehearsals.

“The Winter Dance Showcase is a great performance opportunity for our younger dancers,” said Christine Martin, MCA managing director. “The children really enjoy performing contemporary dance forms, as well as being part of our full-length ballets like The Nutcracker and Cinderella.”

The performance will also include original works by the MCA and Saint Mary’s University young choreographers. These high school and college students participated in choreography and dance composition courses throughout the semester.

“The Winter Showcase offers the students a culminating project requiring them to utilize all of the choreographic tools that they have learned this semester,” said Tammy Schmidt, SMU assistant professor of dance and MCA director of dance. “Additionally, the process of directing their pieces gives these young choreographers real world experience in dance performance production.”

Young choreographers presenting works include: Dot Armstrong, Abby Ayotte, Fallon Devine, Lydia Feuerhelm, Joanna Mills, Sarah Mills, Bryan Moore and Adelle Vietor. DRC II cast members include: Colin Cada, Lauren Callahan, Walker Crum, Gwendolyn Gray-Burlingame, Cooper Hancock, Phoebe Kropuenske, Megan Lynch, Alec Meinke, Hayden Meinke, Justine Meinke, Laura Schleich, Natalie Schleich, Olivia Schlesser, Maren Stewart, Emily Strom, Anna Velikanova, Calli Jo Wagner and Emmalena Williamson.

Tickets are $10 for adults. Admission for children and students ages 2-21 is free. To reserve tickets, call (507) 453-5500. Seating is limited. For more information about MCA performances, classes and programs, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org. For more information about the SMU dance minor program, visit www.smumn.edu/danceminor.

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

Saint Mary’s Concert Band holiday concert is Dec. 6

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Concert Band, under the direction of Dr. Janet Heukeshoven, will hold its annual holiday concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 6, at the Page Theatre.

Musical selections include classic Christmas favorites such as “O Holy Night,” Leroy Anderson’s “A Christmas Festival” and “Sleigh Ride.”

After the concert, the audience is invited to join the band in the Miller Lobby for a Christmas cookie reception with more music, presented by SMU band members.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Tickets are also available at the door.

For more information, contact Dr. Heukeshoven at jheukesh@smumn.edu.

Saint Mary’s University choirs to present ‘Lessons & Carols’ Dec. 5

WINONA, Minn. — 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. 5.

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

Music will include familiar carols, as well as selections by a variety of composers from Renaissance to the present.

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.

Winona Area Youth Singers winter concert is Dec. 6

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will present the Winona Area Youth Singers (WAYS) in a winter concert — featuring music from around the world — on Sunday, Dec. 6.

The concert will be held at 1:30 p.m. at the Valéncia Arts Center Recital Hall, 1164 West 10th St. The program will include folk music from the Pacific Rim, Africa, Europe and the Americas, and concludes with some traditional Christmas carols.

“The singers have been working hard and are excited to perform songs from different cultures and in different languages,” said Lindsy O’Shea, WAYS director.

WAYS members include: Shae Alcamo, Phillippa Armstrong, Adrian Brietzke, Andrew Behling, Mariah Bruner, Carina Dretske, Daria Goede, Justine Meinke, Alexa Morescki, Shannon O’Brien, Audrey Schmidt, Addison Sim, Noel Thompson and Korto Thrune. The WAYS assistant conductor is Matt Polum, and Laura Rothe serves as accompanist.

Reserved tickets are not necessary. Admission is $10 at the door for adults; cash and checks are accepted. Admission is free for children and students ages 2-21.

In addition to the winter concert, the group will be participating in holiday caroling throughout the Winona community on Monday, Dec. 7.

WAYS members are students in grades four through eight from Winona and the surrounding areas. The youth choir started its second year this past September and has been rehearsing a variety of choral material.

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

WAYS is tuition-free to all students in the 2009-10 academic year, courtesy of a grant from Saint Mary’s University Friends of the School of the Arts. Registration and placement auditions to join WAYS for semester II are Monday, Jan. 4, 2010.

For more information about WAYS or MCA’s other performing arts programming, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call (507) 453-5501. The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts is an affiliate program of Saint Mary’s University.

Giving trees go up Nov. 19 for Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona giving trees will be going up Nov. 19. This communitywide program — in its eighth year — is providing gifts to area children and seniors in need this holiday season.

Tags, each labeled with a different person’s holiday gift wishes, will be placed on area giving trees beginning next week.

Trees will be located at: the three Winona National Bank locations, the Winona Public Library, Videoland, Scrapper’s Haven, the Winona Post, as well as Security State Bank of Lewiston.

Individuals who want to help make someone’s season a littler merrier should visit one of these locations, take as many tags off the trees as they wish, and return the wrapped gift/s by Dec. 11 to the tree where they obtained the tag/s. The recommended amount for holiday gifts is approximately $30 per person. Tags should be securely taped to the outside of the presents.

As the gift distribution is early this year — mid December — the community is asked to begin their season of giving early as well. The success of this program depends on the generosity of the Winona-area community.

For more information, call the Gifts for Winona line at (507) 457-8719. Other community partners that join SMU to help make this program possible are the Winona Post, Winona Radio and Winona Volunteer Services.

Student art on display through Dec. 11

This relief print by Brianna Nelson is one of several pieces on display for the 2009 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 Thursday, Nov. 19, through Friday, Dec. 11, 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.


A True Fighter” by Mariana Sanchez is part of the 2009 Undergraduate Art Show at Saint Mary's University. The show, currently on display at the Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries, includes photographs, drawings, sculptures and prints. The exhibit will run through Dec. 11 and is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, contact Sister Margaret Mear at mmear@smumn.edu.

Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona application deadline is Nov. 13

WINONA, Minn. — The last day to apply for the Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona program is Friday, Nov. 13. People who need help obtaining holiday gifts for the children and seniors in their families should go to one of the human service agencies that they work with (Catholic Charities, Habitat for Humanity, Project FINE, Semcac, Winona County Department of Human Services, Winona Senior Advocacy Program, Winona Volunteer Services, Winona Red Cross or Women’s Resource Center) to get a form.

Through the generosity of the Winona-area community, this annual gift-giving program helped more than 1,800 people have a much happier holiday season last year.

Other community partners that join SMU to help make this program possible are the Winona Post, Winona Radio and Winona Volunteer Services.

For more information, call the “Gifts for Winona” line at (507) 457-8719.

Page Series brings swing music to Saint Mary’s stage Nov. 19

WINONA, Minn. — Enjoy a night of energetic swing music combined with lively storytelling during the next Page Series performance of Five By Design: Club Swing on Thursday, Nov. 19.

Travel back in time beginning at 7:30 p.m. in Saint Mary’s University’s Page Theatre.

The swing era comes to life at the mythical Club Swing nightclub in the Hotel Crosby. As the nightclub faces a wrecking ball, Joe Sullivan, the club’s former mixologist, must do something to save the club.

From the frenetic-paced opening of Benny Goodman’s “Bugle Call Rag” to the show’s blockbuster finale of Louis Prima’s “Sing, Sing, Sing,” Club Swing celebrates the songs, events and personalities that defined American popular culture during the swing era. Whether performing their seductive arrangement of Cole Porter’s “Begin the Beguine,” the madcap parody of Spike Jones’ “Cocktails for Two,” or the lush romance of Nat King Cole’s “Mona Lisa,” Minneapolis-based Five By Design enchants audiences by deftly blending music and theatrics.

Tickets are $25 for adults, $20 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Make your evening an event: enjoy a pre-show dinner – catered by Chartwells – in the nearby President’s Room of the Toner Student Center. Dinners can be reserved when purchasing tickets. Dinners are $22 for adults and $14 for children.

SMU Oldie Moldies to perform at Signatures Nov. 21

WINONA, Minn. — Catch dinner and a show with the Oldie Moldie All-Stars from Saint Mary’s University on Saturday, Nov. 21, at Visions Event Center.

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

The Oldies are members of the national music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia at Saint Mary’s. The group consists of 10 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 now through Nov. 19 by calling Signatures at (507) 454-3767. Payment is accepted at time of reservation. A chicken or pasta option is available by reservation.

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

SMU students to stage ‘The Crucible’ Nov. 12-15

WINONA, Minn. — The historical events surrounding the infamous witchcraft trials of Salem, Mass., will be portrayed in the Saint Mary’s University Department of Theatre and Dance production of “The Crucible.”

This intense play, written by Arthur Miller in 1953, includes a large, energetic cast under the direction of Larry Gorrell, former SMU dean of the School of the Arts. Show times are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Nov. 12-14, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 15, in Page Theatre, located in the Performance Center.

One of the greatest plays of the 20th century, “The Crucible” revolves around Reverend Samuel Paris and members of his household involved in allegedly practicing witchcraft during an era when individuals were tortured and put to death for mere insinuations of such involvement. This two-act drama explores how Americans respond to non-traditional and unconventional behavior and how it is so easy to turn our backs on those who differ from us. Also evident in this extraordinary work — still relevant for today — is Miller’s perspective on the way the elders, religious leaders and lawmakers handle the gripping situation.

Authentic period costumes are designed by guest artist Jason Lee Resler, who has designed costumes for the Guthrie Theatre in Minneapolis, Lanesboro’s Commonweal Theatre, and the University of Minnesota Centennial Showboat.

The 21-member cast includes five students from Rose Bruford College, located outside of London. These students — American Theatre majors — are studying abroad at Saint Mary’s in 2009-10.

Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Halloween Walk of Horror tonight cancelled because of rain

WINONA, Minn. — Tonight’s Saint Mary’s University Walk of Horror has been cancelled because of rain. The 13th annual hair-raising fundraiser for the SMU Cardinal fastpitch softball team will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 30-31 in the SMU bluffs.

Walkers are asked to meet on the lighted path between the SMU baseball and softball fields, where the haunted walk will begin.

Groups are then escorted through the dark bluffs surrounding the SMU campus for approximately 20 minutes.

The cost is $5 for adults, $4 for students with ID, and $4 for children 12 and younger. Tickets are available at the gate. For more information, call coach Jen Miller at (507) 457-6923.

SMU, WSU host evening of jazz

The WSU Jazz Band

The SMU Jazz Ensemble

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University and Winona State University will partner up for a free night of jazz at Jefferson Pub and Grill from 7:30-9:30 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 3.

The SMU Jazz Ensemble, directed by Dr. John Paulson, and the WSU Jazz Band, directed by Dr. Rich MacDonald, will perform back-to-back during “University Jazz Night.”

SMU big band highlights will include:

• “Smack Dab in the Middle,” a Sammy Nestico original from the Count Basie book, which will feature SMU senior Ryan Ballanger of the Twin Cities on tenor sax.
• “Keep the Stick” by trombonist and University of Minnesota jazz director Dean Sorenson, which features the “plunger” trombone stylings of SMU senior Tom Briese of Rochester.
• “The Nasty Blues” by Mike Carubia, featuring several soloists in the SMU band.
• The band will close on a high-energy note with an arrangement of the jazz standard “Blue Skies” by Mark Taylor.

The WSU set will include:

• “Southeast Sixstep,” a new composition from Eric Richards, which features a 6/4 rhythm that switches between Latin and Swing styles and includes solos by WSU senior Alan Rewitzer of Coon Rapids on trumpet; and freshman Justin Solle of La Crosse, Wis., on tenor saxophone.
• “Bag’s Groove,” a great blues standard recorded by Milt Jackson with the Clayton/Hamilton big band. The WSU rendition features senior Matt Meler of Oconomowoc, Wis., on vibes, as well as solos by freshman Kelly Blau of Burnsville on guitar; sophomore Jase Ginkel of Eden Prairie on trombone; senior Alan Rewitzer of Coon Rapids on trumpet; and freshman Justin Soller of La Crosse on tenor saxophone.
• “Hit the Ground Running,” a new Gordon Goodwin composition from the “Act Your Age” CD, which features the whole band.

For information, call Jefferson Pub and Grill at (507) 452-2718 or Paulson at (507) 457-1596.

Halloween Walk of Horror tonight cancelled because of rain

WINONA, Minn. — Tonight’s Saint Mary’s University Walk of Horror has been cancelled because of rain. The 13th annual hair-raising fundraiser for the SMU Cardinal fastpitch softball team will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 24 and 29-31 in the SMU bluffs.

Walkers are asked to meet on the lighted path between the SMU baseball and softball fields, where the haunted walk will begin.

Groups are then escorted through the dark bluffs surrounding the SMU campus for approximately 20 minutes.

The cost is $5 for adults, $4 for students with ID, and $4 for children 12 and younger. Tickets are available at the gate. For more information, call coach Jen Miller at (507) 457-6923.

Saint Mary’s University announces Catholic high school scholarship

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota has established the Diocese of Winona Catholic High School Scholarship. Beginning this year, each graduate of Cotter High School, Lourdes High School, Loyola High School and Pacelli High School is eligible to receive a $2,000 scholarship to attend SMU.

The scholarship guidelines are:

· The student must attend as a full-time undergraduate on the Saint Mary’s Winona campus.

· The scholarship is renewable for an additional three consecutive years, provided the student remains in good academic and disciplinary status (bringing the total amount awarded over four years to $8,000).

· The scholarship may be used to study at an SMU internship or study abroad site.

· The scholarship may be combined with other SMU merit and need-based grants and scholarships, as well as with governmental grants.

For more information, contact Tony Piscitiello at 1-800-635-5987, Ext. 1700 or tpisciti@smumn.edu.

Clothing drive, music, speakers highlight SMU’s Lasallian Week of Peace

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Office of Campus Ministry has a full slate of activities planned for Lasallian Week of Peace Oct. 19-25. The theme of the week is “solidarity in peace as Lasallians across the globe.” Events — several of which are open to the public — will touch on many contemporary issues including immigration, genocide, war, personal peace and the expression of peace through music. Events will engage several different groups and organizations on the SMU campus.

The Lasallian Week of Peace schedule includes:

Monday, Oct. 19 — Sister Judith Schaefer, OP, Ph.D., university dean for university affairs, will discuss “How to bring peace into your life” at 8:30 p.m. in the President’s Room of the Toner Student Center.

Wednesday, Oct. 21 — Ernesto Velez Bustos of Centro Campesino Inc. will present “Immigration 101: What we know, but don’t understand about immigration,” at 6:30 p.m. in the Presidents Room of the Toner Student Center.

Thursday, Oct. 22 — The Winona Peacemakers will conduct a non-violent civil action from 4 to 5 p.m. on Broadway and Main streets in Winona.

SMU associate professor of interdisciplinary studies Stephen Pattee will discuss “Genocide: Personal & Communal Implications” at 7 p.m. in the Presidents Room of the Toner Student Center.

Friday, Oct. 23 — The Common Threads Clothing Drive kicks off from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Room B of the Toner Student Center. Gently used clothing and footwear for men, women, youth and infants will be available. A fashion show, featuring donated clothing, will begin at 4 p.m. The cost is 50 cents per item or $3 per bag, and all proceeds will go to the Dan Corcoran Catholic Worker House.

Carlos Lumbí, a singer/songwriter from Leon, Nicaragua, will perform at 8 p.m. in the Toner Student Center Lounge. His lyrics cover a range of topics, focusing on Central American social and environmental justice issues, and his musical style is folk/trova. Lumbí has also set to music poems by Gioconda Belli, Ernesto Cardenal and Francisco Ruiz Udiel, among others. Along with his own music, Lumbí performs songs by friends from Nicaragua who also sing of a deep desire for social, economic and environmental justice in Nicaragua.

Students will be raising awareness about the millions of people who do not have adequate shelter to sleep during Habitat for Humanity’s Shack-a-thon from 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. in the Plaza. Students will be sleeping outside in cardboard boxes.

Saturday, Oct. 24 — The Common Threads Clothing Drive continues from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. in Room B of the Toner Student Center.

Saint Mary’s will be volunteering as part of Make a Difference Day throughout the community from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Make a Difference Day is the most encompassing national day of helping others, a celebration of neighbors helping neighbors.

Sunday, Oct. 25 — The Common Threads Clothing Drive concludes from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in Room B of the Toner Student Center.

Public invited to free Saint Mary’s faculty recital

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University Music Department faculty members Janet Heukeshoven and Sylva Hanson will present a free recital at 3 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 25, in Figliulo Recital Hall, located in the SMU Performance Center.

Heukeshoven, on flute, and Hanson, on clarinet, will perform pieces by Bach, Enesco, von Weber, Sutermeister and Brahms, showcasing compositions from Baroque music to 20th century pieces.

Jan Matson will assist on piano, and guest soprano Maureen Sherman will contribute vocals.

Page Series presents puppet show about water Oct. 23 at Saint Mary’s

WINONA, Minn. — Large, colorful puppets will explore and explain the world’s water issues at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Oct. 23, at Saint Mary’s University’s Page Theatre.

Since 1973, In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre (HOBT) has been using water, flour, newspaper, paint and unlimited imagination to tell stories that explore the struggles and celebrations of human existence.

Drawing inspiration from the world’s traditions of puppet and mask theatre and its lively roots in transformative ritual and street theatre, HOBT creates vital, poetic theater for all ages and backgrounds.

“Beneath The Surface” is a splashy celebration and investigation of our everyday drinking water. This enlightening and entertaining production features live performances, music and video. A “What You Can Do!” carnival will engage and inspire all ages. Using fun, energy and imagination, children will be introduced to the issues that face our world about water.

Come to the theatre lobby early and take a blind taste test of drinking waters.

Tickets for this Page Series performance are $12 for adults and $5 for seniors and students and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

Halloween Fun Night is Oct. 26 at Saint Mary’s

WINONA, Minn. — Elementary and preschool children from the Winona area are invited to attend the tenth annual Saint Mary’s University Halloween Fun Night from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Monday, Oct. 26.

Participants should stop at the guard booth at the main entrance of the Winona campus for directions on where to park.

Young trick-or-treaters should start out the evening at the Hall of Fame Room, located in the Toner Student Center, where tattoos and stickers, a coloring station, and other fun games will be offered, and the Cardinal mascot will greet pint-sized ghosts and goblins.

From there, SMU students will lead groups of trick-or-treaters through the residence halls of the university, where they can go door to door for candy.

Last year more than 700 youth participated in this free, safe and fun event, sponsored by the Office of Residence Life of Saint Mary’s.

Get set to scream at annual Saint Mary's Walk of Horror

WINONA, Minn. — This year’s Saint Mary’s University Walk of Horror is again guaranteed to give you goosebumps. New scares are planned around every corner.

The 13th annual hair-raising fundraiser for the SMU Cardinal fastpitch softball team will take place from 7 to 10 p.m. Oct. 23-24 and 29-31 in the SMU bluffs. Walkers are asked to meet on the lighted path between the SMU baseball and softball fields, where the haunted walk will begin.

Groups are then escorted through the dark bluffs surrounding the SMU campus for approximately 20 minutes.

The cost is $5 for adults, $4 for students with ID, and $4 for children 12 and younger. Tickets are available at the gate.

SMU head fastpitch softball coach Jen Miller said the event is fun for all ages. The scare level is toned down for younger children and turned up for groups bold enough to face their fears. Last year more than 1,100 brave souls took SMU’s Walk of Horror.

Proceeds from this event will be used for the softball team’s travel expenses.

For more information, contact Miller at (507) 457-6923.

Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona announces application dates, major program change

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Gifts for Winona program has announced that it is setting age requirements for applicants this year.

Because of the economy, a record number of individuals are expected to apply this year. The Winona Food Shelf is reporting a 21 percent increase in families using its services. (Eight hundred families are using the food shelf per month.) With more families asking for help and a smaller number of people who are in a position to donate, the program is being adapted this year. The program’s main priority is to provide gifts to children 18 years of age and younger and individuals 60 years of age and older. Families will only be able to report gift requests for family members in these age ranges.

The annual gift-giving program — in its eighth year — helps more than 1,800 people have a much happier holiday season. The program has grown significantly each year.

Families may pick up an application form through one of the human service agencies that they work with (Catholic Charities, Habitat for Humanity, Project FINE, Semcac, Winona County Department of Human Services, Winona Senior Advocacy Program, Winona Volunteer Services, Winona Red Cross or Women’s Resource Center).

Completed application forms must be returned to Winona Volunteer Services (402 E. 2nd St.) from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fridays, Oct. 23 or 30, or 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, Oct. 24 or 31. SMU student volunteers will be available for assistance on these dates.

This program exists through the generosity of the Winona community, as well as the work of other community partners including: Winona Volunteer Services, Winona Radio and the Winona Post.

SMU welcomes students from Chicago San Miguel

San Miguel student Elizabeth Leon and Saint Mary’s University student Cindy Nava grab lunch during a welcome reception on the Winona campus. Twenty-three San Miguel students are visiting SMU this week to get a taste of college life.

WINONA, Minn. — Sixth-graders from the San Miguel School in Chicago are visiting the Winona campus of Saint Mary’s University through Thursday, Oct. 8. San Miguel is a Christian Brother’s mission school, part of a nationwide network of schools dedicated to teaching underserved populations of urban and rural school children. The Chicago school, located in a Mexican-American immigrant neighborhood, serves primarily children whose first language is Spanish, but they are also fluent in English.

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

While in Winona, these students stay with Saint Mary’s host families. Saint Mary's and San Miguel maintain a close relationship. Many Saint Mary’s alums work or volunteer in the San Miguel Schools.

Students celebrate National Chemistry Week during Saint Mary's Chemistry Nights

WINONA, Minn. — Many area high school juniors and seniors (and their teachers) will learn how the elements are an important part of everyday life via hands-on experiments during upcoming Chemistry Nights at Saint Mary’s University. Area classes are invited onto campus from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 22 and 29.

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

Each year students solve a challenging but fun chemical problem, based on the National Chemistry Week (Oct. 18-24) theme; this year’s theme is “Chemistry—It’s Elemental!”

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

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

The event is free, and there are still openings. Students who are interested should have their high school science teachers contact Dr. Roger Kugel at (507) 457-1556.

Saint Mary’s theatre majors to perform in London

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary's University theatre majors will stage the bittersweet comedy “Vanities,” a show that chronicles the lives, loves, disappointments and dreams of three best friends, in London Oct. 13-17.

Written by Jack Heifner, the plot revolves around three women as they mature during tumultuous times in American history — the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, the height of the Vietnam War and the women’s movement. Over the course of 10 years, the women mature from starry-eyed cheerleaders to disillusioned adults, too self-absorbed to see the world changing around them. Although written in the ’70s, “Vanities” focuses on the timeless question all women ask themselves, “Can we have it all?” The play is directed by Gary Diomandes, professor of theatre and dance at Saint Mary’s.

Qualified theatre majors at Saint Mary's are studying theatre in London this semester through the Stefannié Valéncia Kierlin Theatre in London Program. Under the guidance of Saint Mary’s faculty, the program includes a variety of classes in theatre, as well as courses focusing on broader enrichment. Students will have the unique opportunity to attend numerous performances at London’s West End, Off-West End and Fringe theatres.

Illustrations, sculpture on display Oct. 7 through Nov. 11 at Saint Mary’s

"Octopus" by Chris Ayers

"Genesis" by Maureen Costa

WINONA, Minn. — Chris Ayers, a Los Angeles character designer, and Maureen Costa, an Arizona sculptor, will display their work Oct. 7 through Nov. 11 at Saint Mary’s University’s Lillian Davis Hogan Galleries.

Ayers’ film credits for character design include “Star Trek XI,” “X-Men: The Last Stand,” “Fantastic Four,” “Iron Man,” “The Incredible Hulk,” and “Men in Black 2.” In the spring of 2005 Ayers was diagnosed with leukemia, a type of blood cancer. One year later, he started a sketchbook and drew one animal each day for a year to help with his healing process. His SMU show, “The Daily Zoo,” will include a variety of these sketches — now published in the book, “The Daily Zoo: Keeping the Doctor at Bay with a Drawing a Day.”

In “Contemplation,” Costa will display work that serves as a metaphor about the religious imagination, reincarnation and the changing states of consciousness. Her pieces, carved from basswood, have a bulbous shape, from which she is able to create a “moment of blissful liberation.” Costa says, in her view, that humanity is in a constant state of changing and metamorphosis, and she aspires to reflect that change in her work.

A closing reception will be held 4 to 6 p.m. Friday, Nov. 6, at the galleries, located in the Toner Student Center. Ayers will be present for the show’s closing to sign his book, which will be available for purchase. A portion of the proceeds from “The Daily Zoo” is used to support cancer-related charities and research.

Admission is free and open to the public, and gallery hours are 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. For more information, call (507) 457-1652.

Page Series to host Ukrainian dance Oct. 15 at Saint Mary’s

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Page Theatre stage will come alive with the colorful costumes and artistic acrobatics of the Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 15.

The world-renowned ensemble of 80 folk dancers and musicians will showcase authentic Ukrainian costumes, regional music and lively, dramatic stunts as members leap through the air and spin like tops.

The Virsky Ukrainian National Dance Company, founded in 1937 by ballet master Pavlo Virsky, embraces the charm, beauty, and folk dance traditions of its homeland and shares them with audiences in the four corners of the world. Clad in colorful clothing and blessed with grace, the company performs dances filled with romance, optimism, humor and occasionally sorrow.

Tickets for this Page Series performance are $27 for adults and $25 for seniors and students and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

SMU invites teachers, artists to puppetry workshop Oct. 20

WINONA, Minn. — In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre (HOBT) will conduct a workshop on the use of puppets and storytelling in the classroom from 4-6 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 20, at Bluffview Montessori School.

The workshop, hosted by Saint Mary’s University and supported in part by the Minnesota State Arts Board Arts Across America grant, will include details on how to use paper, glue, paint and chicken wire to engage students in learning about complex issues. HOBT artists will present hands-on instruction in puppetry and will discuss how to integrate the arts into the classroom in core subjects such as science. This is valid for 2 hours CEU.

The workshop coincides with HOBT’s Oct. 23 performance of “Beneath the Surface” at Saint Mary’s. During the Page Series performance, In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre will present a circus of wonderment about our relationship to water beginning at 6:30 p.m. in Page Theatre. Tickets are $12, $5 for students and seniors, and are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, or online at www.pagetheatre.org.

The cost for the workshop is $15. Space is limited, and registration must be made by Wednesday, Oct. 14. Contact Jennifer Fanello at the Saint Mary’s Box Office by calling (507) 457-1716 or e-mailing jfanello@smumn.edu.

Pianist Norman Lee to perform Oct. 6 at SMU

WINONA, Minn. — Pianist Norman Lee, a native of Hong Kong, will present a recital at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 6, at Saint Mary’s University.

An educator, as well as a performer, Lee has degrees from the Peabody Conservatory of Music and the University of Western Ontario.

The event, free and open to the public, will be held in Figliulo Recital Hall, located in the SMU Performance Center.

Saint Mary’s adds three new business majors

WINONA, Minn. — Three new business majors — sport management, entrepreneurship, and human resource management — are being offered this fall on the Saint Mary’s University campus.

According to Tom Marpe, dean of SMU’s School of Business, the new majors grew from an increasing demand for specialized study by students and employers, as well as a growing job market in these areas.

Business majors at Saint Mary’s combine course work in the theory and practice of business with studies in the liberal arts. The study of business, when coupled with liberal arts, provides students with a broad educational foundation from which to enter a rapidly changing business environment. Saint Mary’s students now have the option to choose from six majors: accounting, entrepreneurship, human resource management, international business, marketing and sport management.

The sport management major is in response to the growth of sports in our culture and the growing job opportunities in this area. The entrepreneurship major has been added in response to the current economic climate and the expectation that entrepreneurs will be the drivers of future economic growth. And the human resource management major was instituted in response to employer demands for professionals with this skill set.

For more information about SMU’s School of Business, go to www.smumn.edu/businessdepartment.aspx.

Saint Mary’s invites nonprofits to submit ‘to-do’ lists for ‘Make a Difference Day’

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

Do you need someone to help with your fall cleaning, to rake leaves, to do some painting, or to help with construction? Approximately 150 Saint Mary’s University students will be teamed up from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. to help groups and organizations on Saturday, Oct. 24, in recognition of “Make a Difference Day.”

Saint Mary’s will supply the workers, if you supply the materials needed (paint, brushes, rakes, tools, etc.).

“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 are participating.

To register your request, please call Katie LaPlant at (507) 457-6936 or e-mail volunteerservices @smumn.edu by Friday, Oct. 16.

Buckets and Tap Shoes show Oct. 2 at SMU sold out

WINONA, Minn. — Tickets are sold out for the first Saint Mary’s University Page Series event, Buckets and Tap Shoes.

This company of musicians, percussionists and rhythm tap dancers will perform in SMU’s Page Theatre at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 2.

The group uses five-gallon buckets, metal cans, barrels, found objects and tap shoes to create rhythms. They also mix in original live funk music, improvisation and some magic tricks.

Members of the troupe will lead a tap dance workshop at Valéncia Arts Center from 4 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct.1. For more information about fees, dress, and skill levels required, call (507) 453-5501.

For more information about other Page Series events, go to www.pagetheatre.org.

Papenfusses donate $50,000 to endowed SMU scholarship for students in need

Jerry and Pat Papenfuss met with Brother William Mann on campus

WINONA, Minn. — Pat and Jerry Papenfuss, owners of the Result Radio Group, have donated $50,000 to Saint Mary’s University for an endowed scholarship, in their name, designated for students with financial need. The scholarship was awarded for the first time this fall, to a Winona-area student. Jerry Papenfuss is a 1962 graduate of Saint Mary’s.

“We’ve both been very blessed with our college experiences, and we recognize the importance of a good education,” said Jerry Papenfuss. “Saint Mary’s instills the knowledge students need to be competitive in the evolving business world, and we especially appreciate the Lasallian, values-based education the university provides.”

“In this challenging economic climate, as more and more students are finding it difficult to pay for college, scholarship assistance like this is a blessing,” said Saint Mary’s President Brother William Mann. “Donations like these will make a difference in the lives of many future students.”

About 90 percent of all SMU undergraduates receive financial aid of some kind. In 2009-10, SMU will provide over $12 million in financial aid, including scholarships, to students.

For more information, contact Joe Sweeney at jsweeney@smumn.edu or (507) 457-1495.

SMU offers full weekend of student performances

WINONA, Minn. — Three student performances — a jazz concert, a choir and band performance, and a staged comedy — highlight Saint Mary’s University’s upcoming Family Weekend.

• The Saint Mary’s University Department of Theatre, under the direction of Judy Myers, will stage “Fallen Angels” Sept. 24-27 at Page Theatre. This three-act comedy takes place in the 1920s and follows best friends Julia and Jane as they wait for a visit from Maurice, a French seducer who had affairs with both women before they were married. While their husbands play golf, the women quarrel, make up, and get a little tipsy on champagne. They then must face their husbands, who unexpectedly return early. The show begins at 7:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, Sept. 24-26, and 3 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 27. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors.

• SMU jazz groups will kick off their year with a fall blast at 6 p.m. Friday, Sept. 25, in Figliulo Recital Hall, located in the Performance Center. Jazz Combo I (a new and hot jazz septet) will fire off the show with jazz classics like Horace Silver’s “The Preacher” and the Miles Davis classic “Freddie The Freeloader.” The 18-piece Jazz Ensemble follows with some great selections and soloists including “Keep The Stick,” a new Dean Sorenson composition that will feature trombonist Tom Briese of Rochester, Minn. They will also perform “The Nasty Blues” by Mike Carubia, featuring many of the soloists in the band; “Smack Dab in the Middle” from Count Basie’s book; and “Blue Skies,” arranged by Mark Taylor. Both groups are directed by professor of music Dr. John Paulson. Two jazz workshop combos directed by Dr. Paulson and Eric Heukeshoven will play for a reception following the concert in the Toner Student Center Lounge. Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors.

•The SMU Concert Band will join the choirs for a 2 p.m. concert Saturday, Sept. 26, at Page Theatre. The Concert Choir and Chamber Singers, under the direction of Dr. Patrick O'Shea, and the Women’s Choir, directed by Lindsy O'Shea, will present works in English, Latin and the African Xhosa languages. The SMU Band will start the year by featuring two Minnesota composers’ works, “The Jig is Up” by Dan Kallman, and “Jazz March” by Frank Bencriscutto. Both works feature the percussion section. To round out the program, a beautiful setting of the traditional Irish hymn-tune “Be Thou My Vision,” will be performed, as well as music from “Offenbach” arranged by John Bourgeois (former director of the U.S. Marine Band), and the “Galop (from Genevieve de Brabant).” Tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for students and seniors.

Tickets to all three performances are available at the SMU Box Office, (507) 457-1715, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays or online at www.pagetheatre.org. Tickets are also available at the door.

Saint Mary's invites public to Fall Frolic Sept. 26

WINONA, Minn. — The public is invited to participate in the 22nd Fall Frolic 5K fun run/walk, to be held during Saint Mary’s University’s Family Weekend on Saturday, Sept. 26. The event, held annually, is free to SMU students, faculty and staff, but is open to the community as well. Typically close to 500 people participate; competitors of all levels (including walkers) are welcome.

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

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

Family Weekend, which runs Sept. 25-27, includes a full slate of activities for families of students and the SMU community. In previous years, as many as 1,000 visitors have come onto campus for Family Weekend music and theatre events, sporting events, the Fall Frolic, and other games and activities.

Constitution Day presentation is Sept. 17 at Saint Mary’s

WINONA, Minn. — Larry Price, J.D., assistant professor in the Saint Mary’s University Department of Business, will give a Constitution Day presentation titled “Civil Rights & the U.S. Constitution: Justice Delayed” on Thursday, Sept. 17.

The event, which begins at 7 p.m., will be held in the President’s Room of the Toner Student Center. The presentation — free and open to the public — is sponsored by the SMU Social Science Department. For more information, contact Dave Lynch, chair, Department of Social Science, at dlynch@smumn.edu or (507) 457-1526.

Saint Mary's reports 1,404 Winona campus undergraduates

WINONA, Minn. — Official 10th-day-of-class statistics at the Saint Mary's University Winona campus show a total undergraduate enrollment of 1,404 — just down from last year’s record enrollment of 1,413. The third-highest enrollment was in 2002, when Saint Mary’s reported a total Winona undergraduate enrollment of 1,376.

This year’s total of 1,404 includes 1,343 full-time Winona-campus undergraduates and 61 part-time students.

A total of 330 freshmen are enrolled this fall.

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

Three Saint Mary’s athletes to be honored during Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend

WINONA, Minn. — The Saint Mary’s University Cardinal ‘M’ Club, in association with the Alumni Office, will induct three members into the SMU Sports Hall of Fame during Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12-13.



The Hall of Fame Class of 2009 — Tom Pepper ’74 (basketball), Sue Otto ’90 (soccer) and Chad Doerre ’96 (baseball) — will be honored during a ceremony Saturday evening, Sept. 12, in the SMU gymnasium.



Along with the induction of this year’s Hall of Fame class, SMU’s 2008-09 postseason award-winners, as well as last year’s outstanding male and female athletes, and outstanding scholar athletes, will also be recognized. The weekend festivities begin on Friday with a men’s hockey alumni game, continue Saturday morning with a golf outing at Cedar Valley Golf Course and conclude on Sunday with a picnic and various alumni games on the SMU campus.


SMU HALL OF FAME, CLASS OF 2009

Tom Pepper, Chicago

A three-year letterwinner and an NAIA All-District performer his senior season, Tom Pepper still remains one of the premier scorers in SMU men’s basketball history. His 1,281 points and 16.9 career per-game scoring average rank him ninth all-time, despite having only played three seasons at Saint Mary’s, after transferring from NCAA Division I Loyola Marymount University. Upon graduation, Pepper traded in his sneakers for a coach’s whistle, coaching high school basketball at St. Mel’s and Farragut Academy in Chicago.


Sue Otto, Santa Monica, Calif.

A four-year letterwinner, Sue Otto was a stabilizing force for the Saint Mary’s University women’s soccer team — a team that won three Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference titles and made three trips to the NCAA Division III national tournament, including a semifinal appearance in 1986. An All-MIAC First-Team selection in 1988 and 1989, Otto and the Cardinals lost just two conference games in her four-year career, going 47-2-0. Along with her all-conference honors, Otto was also a two-time First Team All-West Region pick in 1988-89, as well as a Third-Team All-American during her junior year, and a First-Team All-American and team MVP during her senior season. Otto appeared in 77 games during her four-year career, compiling 17 goals and 27 assists for 61 points. Her 27 assists rank No. 5 all-time in SMU women’s soccer history, while her 61 points are 11th and her 17 goals put her 12th.

Chad Doerre, Joliet, Ill.

A four-year letterwinner, Chad Doerre is one of the most accomplished pitchers to come through the Saint Mary’s baseball program. As a freshman, Doerre helped pitch the Cardinals to their most recent Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference title and a second-place showing in the NCAA Division II Regional Tournament. A two-time First-Team All-MIAC selection in 1995 and 1996, Doerre closed out his career with a 22-7 record with 11 complete games. He threw 197 innings, compiling a 2.38 earned-run-average, while walking 43 and striking out 143. His 22 wins and 197 innings pitch rank No. 1 all-time in SMU baseball history, while his 11 complete games and 143 strikeouts are No. 5 all-time. Doerre is also among the top 10 in ERA, ranking ninth at 2.38, while also proving productive at the plate, boasting a .330 career batting average and a .346 slugging percentage in 188 at-bats.

Saint Mary’s plans first Young Alumni Weekend

WINONA, Minn. — Saint Mary’s University graduates from the last decade have been invited back to campus for the inaugural Young Alumni Reunion Weekend, Sept. 11-13.

Approximately 200 students are planning to attend the special weekend of events which will include a bonfire, a community outreach project, a faculty and staff social, ropes course activities, disc golfing and a pig roast picnic. The weekend also coincides with Cardinal ‘M’ Club Weekend, giving SMU alumni opportunities to cheer on Cardinal athletics. A special barbecue is planned for the anniversary class of 2004.

For more information about the Young Alumni Program, please contact Sabrina Kelly at (612) 238-4507 or skelly@smumn.edu.

Conservatory registration open house is Sept. 9

WINONA, Minn. — The Minnesota Conservatory for the Arts will conduct a semester I registration open house from 4 to 7 p.m., Wednesday, Sept. 9, at the Valéncia Arts Center, 1164 West 10th St.

Registration for semester I dance classes and MCA’s tuition-free youth choir – the Winona Area Youth Singers — will be accepted at the open house. Tours of the facility will be available, refreshments will be served, and students will have the opportunity to meet new and returning faculty and staff. Additionally, students can be fitted for dance attire at the open house. MCA’s dance attire boutique offers quality basics, including leotards, tights, ballet slippers, jazz shoes and tap shoes.

Classes begin Sept. 14. Dance class offerings — available for children age 3 through adults — include beginning through advanced levels in classical ballet, tap, jazz, modern, hip hop, Pilates, and a special tuition-free boys program which offers a Dance Technique for Boys class and performance opportunities. Semester I also provides programming in partnership with Winona County Community Education for teens and adults including: Teen and Adult Ballet, Clogging I, Clogging II, Dance Fitness, and Piyo.

MCA’s music division offers a youth choir – Winona Area Youth Singers, for students in grades four through eight. In response to the current economic climate, MCA is waiving WAYS tuition for any and all students who desire to participate for the 2009-2010 academic year. This tuition waiver is made possible by a grant from the Saint Mary’s University Friends of the School of the Arts.

Now in its second year, WAYS seeks to take young people who have been introduced to choir/music in their elementary, middle schools, or junior highs and further encourage and nurture their talent. WAYS members will participate in weekly sessions, a winter and spring concert, a special mentorship program with SMU Choirs, and in community outreach by performing at nursing homes, malls, charitable events and holiday caroling.

Academic credit is available through Cotter High School and Saint Mary’s dance minor program for a variety of MCA dance classes.

Semester I classes will provide 10 weeks of instruction, concluding with a demonstration week, Nov. 16-21.

Dance students ages 5 to 13 are also invited to audition for MCA’s Dance Repertory Company II Winter Showcase. Auditions are 5 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 10, at the Valéncia Arts Center. The Winter Dance Showcases will be Dec. 4-5 at Valéncia Arts Center Academy Theatre.
Winona Area Youth Singers will conclude Semester I following their winter concert, Dec, 6, at the Valéncia Arts Center Recital Hall.

Tuition for MCA classes varies depending on course length and level. Discounts and scholarships are available.

For more information, visit www.mnconservatoryforthearts.org, e-mail mca@smumn.edu or call (507) 453-5500.

MinnPost founder to discuss newspaper industry Sept. 15 at Saint Mary’s

WINONA, Minn. — Joel Kramer, founder, editor and CEO of MinnPost.com, will discuss the changes taking place in today’s newspaper industry on Tuesday, Sept. 15, at Saint Mary’s University.

Kramer founded an online newspaper seen by some observers as a model that might succeed while traditional print newspapers fall by the wayside. His presentation, “The collapsing business model for journalism: What's next?” will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Figliulo Recital Hall, located in the SMU Performance Center.

Kramer served as the editor of the Minneapolis Star Tribune from 1983 to 1991 and as publisher and president from 1992 to 1998. In summer 2007, Kramer launched MinnPost.com, a nonprofit online newspaper with a mission “to provide high-quality journalism for news-intense people who care about Minnesota.” The site features high-quality video and audio, as well as written stories and commentary pieces.

As Matt Snyders of City Pages said in a March 2, 2009 article, “the ink-stained community went abuzz.” Snyders continued, “For an industry wracked by massive layoffs and plummeting ad revenue, any news not involving job loss was a good thing.”

MinnPost has garnered quite a bit of attention as both critics and supporters have questioned whether this type of nonprofit journalism — one that aims to eventually break even with the support of corporate sponsors, advertisers and donations from members — can thrive in today’s struggling newspaper climate.

In a report for the Nieman Journalism Lab, Kramer wrote, “A lot of pixels are being spilled these days reflecting on the future of newspapers, news, journalists, and journalism. I spent my career in newspapers, first as a journalist and later as a publisher, and I left when the business was financially near its peak. With the for-profit model now shriveling, I’ve spent the past 16 months trying to build one example of what might be coming next—a not-for-profit enterprise providing high-quality regional journalism on the web.”

A question-and-answer period will follow Kramer’s presentation. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, contact Dr. Steve Schild, at (507) 457-1753 or sschild@smumn.edu.

Area schools invited to Page Series matinees

WINONA, Minn. — Schools are invited to bring student groups to matinees of Saint Mary’s University Page Series performances — featuring a full season of music, dance, theatre and even giant puppets.

Admission is $2 per person, including both students and chaperones, and payment is due upon arrival. Schools are asked to limit chaperones to one adult per 10 students when possible.

Two matinee shows are available this fall. Buckets and Tap Shoes, a lively performance that features tap dance with European and African influences, will begin at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 2. In the Heart of the Beast Puppet and Mask Theatre will perform Beneath the Surface, which explores water issues through performance, music and video, at 10 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 23.

Teachers or school administrators can contact Jennifer Fanello at (507) 457-1716 to make reservations for their school groups.

The Page Series matinee programming is supported in part by Target. The visit of In the Heart of the Beast is supported by the Minnesota State Arts Board grant “Arts Across Minnesota.”

More information about all the events is available online at www.pagetheatre.org. Click “School Matinee” on the left side to find the complete list of matinee performances and their descriptions, as well as links to artists’ websites and study guides.

Saint Mary’s hosts fiddling poet Ken Waldman Sept. 8

WINONA, Minn. — In a unique fusion of music and verse, Ken Waldman, “Alaska’s Fiddling Poet,” will perform 7 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 8, at Saint Mary’s University.

This event, free and open to the public, will be held in the President’s Room, located in the Toner Student Center.

Waldman combines old-time Appalachian-style fiddling, original poetry, and Alaska-set storytelling for a performance uniquely his own. Waldman has published six full-length poetry collections, a memoir about his life as a touring artist (“Are You Famous?”), and seven CDs. Since 1994, he’s worked full-time as “Alaska’s Fiddling Poet,” performing at some of the nation’s leading universities, festivals, art centers and clubs — including Millennium Stage at The Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

Event sponsors include Saint Mary’s Academic Affairs and Student Activities Offices, and the English Department.

For more information, contact Dr. Carolyn Ayers at cayers@smumn.edu or (507) 457-1523.