Wednesday, March 28, 2007

Campus News

The UML Lowell Center for the Arts will present Hansel & Gretel: A Puppet Opera in Durgin Hall on Sunday April 1st. The show will run for an hour and will be a part of the University’s Discovery Series. Show times are at 2pm and 4pm. Tickets are $12. For more information call ext. 4444.

A 3 year, $100,000 grant from the Lowell National Historic Park has set into motion a study that will try to uncover and highlight Lowell’s global history and its contemporary cultural geography. They plan to do this by tracking immigration patterns starting with Native Americans. Professor Robert Forrant is principal investigator of the project.

UMass Lowell’s School of Health and Environment kicked off a seven week walking program yesterday. It's partnering up with the Greater Lowell Health Alliance with a seven week challenge to promote physical health. To learn more about the challenge contact Jennifer_Hanson@uml.edu.

Today at 3:30 in O'Leary 500M Dr. Philip Gura speaks on behalf of the ack and Stella Kerouac Center for American Studies. Gura plans to address how he chose the field of American Studies and his current research projects.

Friday, March 23, 2007

News Update, March 23, 2007

Campus News

Congressman Marty Meehan was selected to be the new Chancellor of the University of Massachusetts – Lowell last week, beating out a field of almost 100 candidates. Meehan has stressed raising funds for several science departments, including nanotechnology and biotechnology, according to reports. The seven term congressman has decided to leave his congressional post in order to pursue his chancellorship in a decision which he has called “the most difficult professional decision of [his] life. Meehan, a Lowell native and university alum, was best known in the House of Representatives for legislation on campaign finance reform and tobacco legislation.

The UMass Lowell Center for the Arts will present “Hansel & Gretel: A Puppet Opera” on Sunday, April 1, in the Durgin Concert Hall on South Campus. Performances will be held at 2 PM and 4 PM, and is intended for children ages six and up. The one hour show is part of the University’s Discovery series, and features the giant puppets of Theater Sans Fil, a puppet company from Montreal. The production’s soundtrack features an orchestral score, which will be sung in English. This production recreates the original opera written by Englebert Humperdink, which was originally based on the original fairy tale written by the Grimm Brothers.

Fourteen high school teams and two middle school teams will compete in this region’s “BotBall” tournament on Saturday March 24th from 9 AM to 5 PM in Costello Gym on North Campus. This national competition pits teams against each other to use automated robots in order to complete various tasks. This year’s competition has a Hawaiian theme, and has teams rescuing simulation homes and crops from an imminent volcano eruption. The teams had just eight weeks to build their robots, and program them to be completely autonomous. The competition features individual demonstrations, as well as head to head competitions.

Local News

A local elderly woman with Alzheimer’s disease was found just over the Dracut line after wandering away from her family on Aiken Ave. on Thursday. The family reported the woman missing at around 5 PM, reporting that she had been missing for about 6 hours. The police were planning on calling in a helicopter to help with the search, but this proved to be unnecessary as the woman was found just over the Dracut line by Dracut police at Pleasant and Bridge Sts. A Trinity Hospital Ambulance evaluated the woman and found that she was in good health.

A much acclaimed cycling race from Montreal to Boston will wind through the Merrimack Valley this summer, promoting economic growth and possibly bringing a national spotlight in the sporting world to the area. Early indications for the economic value of the race can be found in a similar race held in California last year, which brought in $100 million dollars in revenue. The 745-mile race will run through both Vermont and New Hampshire, with one of the tour legs ending in Nashua. The race is expected to bring a greater national spotlight to cycling, and is also scheduled to be a springboard for more area events.

Three Lawrence men were charged with trafficking cocaine and conspiracy to violate drug laws on Tuesday after their monitored car was stopped by vice detectives. The men were driving the same car as someone who had been stopped just a day before for possession of cocaine. Over 14 grams of cocaine and crack-cocaine were found after one of the men threw a bag containing them out of the car. The bust happened at 7:15 PM after police had been watching a residence on Middlesex Avenue, to which the car pulled into the parking lot of.

National News

Pakistani cricket coach Bob Woolmer was declared murdered in Kingston, Jamaica last night, following his death on Monday. The incident happened less than 24 hours after the Pakistani National team lost to the extreme underdog, Ireland, on St. Patrick’s Day. This loss prompted an immediate backlash from hardcore fans, and even promoted some effigy burnings in the streets. Woolmer was apparently strangled, but team members were aloud to leave the country without suspicion. Police have many leads as to the source of the murder, but the most likely one at this time, is that it was in connection to sports betting.

The Afghan government freed five Taliban terrorist suspects on Monday in order to free kidnapped Italian reporter, Daniele Mastrogiacomo (Dan-yil Mas-tro-zhee-a-co-mo). Mastrogiacomo was held in captivity for two weeks when the car he was in was ambushed. The driver was beheaded and the location of the second passenger in the car is unknown. This kidnapping happened in the Afghan province of Helmand, which is infamous for its lawlessness. The United States has publicly protested this deal, as it risks the security of every reporter or otherwise peaceful diplomat in the area. State Department spokesman Sean McCormack said, “Given the increased threat created for all of us who have people on the ground in places like Afghanistan, we expect that concessions will not be made in the future.”

Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards announced on Thursday that his wife’s cancer has returned. A small tumor was found in Elizabeth Edwards’ right rib, and was said to be treatable, but not curable. Both Elizabeth and John expressed optimism about the cancer in a press conference on Thursday, noting that the tumor had “relatively little presence.” This announcement will not affect Edwards’ candidacy for president however, as Elizabeth had convinced John to keep running, despite her illness. Edwards said, “You can go cower in the corner and hide or you can go out there and stand up for what you believe in. We have no intentions of cowering in the corner."

Investigations have begun at the Armed Forces Retirement home in the nation’s capitol following complaints of rising death tolls in the facility, and complaints of rooms stained with blood, urine, and feces. One patient was found with a bedsore that was festering with maggots. This scandal comes just weeks after the mistreatment allegations at the Walter Reid Army Medical Center in Washington which forced many high level officials to resign. Officials at the retirement home said that these complaints were indicative of a typical rest home, but several workers were fired following the scandal.

Wednesday, March 21, 2007

Campus News
Auditions are being held Tuesday March 27th from 4:00pm - 6:00pm in the Mahoney Auditiorium for "One Act Comedies" by David Ives. The show will be directed by UML's own Richard Snee and will feature 7 one act comedies. The show will run May 3rd, 4th and 5th!

Marty Meehan was chosen as the next UML Chancellor yesterday. Meehan was selected from 80 candidates by promising that he would dedicate his time to fundraising teaching and scholarship on nanotechnology. When on Capitol Hill Meehan raised over $200 million for UML and hopes to continue his efforts for the university.

Local News
Two school busses collided yesterday on Andover street leaving 19 Middle School students injured with whiplash and other minor injuries. All but two students were taken to the hospital. All of the injuries were head, neck, and shoulder injuries. Officials are now contemplating on whether or not the safety belts should be installed on busses to prevent further injuries.

A protest of sorts was held in Kearney Square yesterday to bring home the troops from Iraq. One of the organizers, Chris Offerman said the goal for the protest was to remind people that the war is now 4 years old and more than 3,000 soldiers have perished while thousands and thousands more have been injured. This protest was one of several thousand that took place yesterday and last weekend marking the war's 4th anniversary.

Popular News
Apple Inc. stated on Wednesday that it is going to start shipment on the new Apple TV Box which lets viewers take music and video stored on their computer and run it on the television. The box can store up to 50 hours of video, 9,000 songs or 25,000 photos, or a combination of the three formats. Apple said its suggested retail price for the device is $299.

Monday, March 19, 2007

News Update 3/19/07

Campus News
Welcome to the new UMass Lowell Chancellor, Marty Meehan! On the recommendation of UMass President Jack Wilson, the UMass Board of Trustees selected the congressman to be the next chancellor. Meehan is a UMass Lowell alumnus, who received his bachelor's degree in education and political science. Meehan is expected to begin his duties as chancellor on July 1 this summer.

Get ready for baseball season with the UML Riverhawks! This April, the baseball team is hosting a four day baseball clinic for boys and girls ages 6 to 12. The kids will get to practice and play at LeLacheur Park, and the team hopes the week will be both fun and instructional.

UML is helping to sponsor a new Cambodian opera, "Where Elephants Weep." The opera, which is the first known contemporary Cambodian production, makes its debut this April. Lowell has the country's second largest Cambodian population, so UML joined with groups throughout the city to provide support. The opera is a love story following Cambodian refugees returning to their country after a 30 year absence.

Local News
The first Lowell resident to lose his life in Iraq died this past weekend. Pfc. John Landry Jr., 20 was killed while on duty. He was a graduate of Lowell Catholic High. The flags throughout the city have been lowered in his honor.

As many UML students are finding out, the university is cracking down on parking issues by instating a monthly parking fee, beginning this fall. However, UML isn't the only school to have problems. The city of Lowell and Middlesex Community College have come to an agreement that will double what MCC must pay to use city parking garages. The new agreement also requires students at MCC to purchase monthly parking permits, so UML students should no longer feel lonely in the fight for cheaper, convenient parking.

Popular News
Fashion model Naomi Campbell has begun to serve her sentence of community service for assaulting her housekeeper. Campbell was ordered to mop floors and clean toilets at a New York garbage depot. She apparently wanted to muck garbage in style, since she showed up in stilettos.

Emma Watson, who is famous for her role as Hermione Granger in the Harry Potter films, has reportedly refused to sign a contract to continue her role in the remaining films. Watson, who was recently stalked at her high school, has said she is tired of being only known as Hermione Granger, and would like to pursue other projects.

Friday, March 09, 2007

Friday, March 9, 2007

Campus News

The UMass-Lowell baseball team will be travelling to St. Petersburg, FL this weekend to take on Dominican College. The team enters with a 2-2 record after sweeping Adelphi University in a double-header last Sunday in which Junior Anthony Santos drove in 6 runs on three hits and scored 3 times. The Hawks were swept on Saturday by Adelphi, but evened the score with great play on Sunday.

UMass-Lowell senior Nicole Plante was named the Division II Northeast Region Women's Track Athlete of the Year by the United States Track and Field and Cross Country Coaches Association on Monday morning. This is the fifth straight Athlete of the Year award that the standout Plante has recieved, and follows her second best time in 5000m. UML head coach Gary Gardner also earned the honor of Northeast Region Women's Coach of the Year for the fourth consecutive time.

Local News

A three car wreck in Tyngsboro sent four people to the hospital on Thursday morning, one of whom was in critical condition. Two students of the Greater Lowell Technical High School were driving away from the school when they narrowly avoided the SUV of a councilor at the school and crashed head on into another car. The SUV rolled off of the road after a swerve, and both other cars were totalled. The students were not believed to be wearing seatbelts, which may have cause their injuries to be greater than need be. There were no other serious injuries as a result of the crash, but traffic was disrupted for about 2 hours.

A bomb threat emptied the Tsongasa Arena of all workers late Thursday morning. Employees had stay out of the building until just before 2 PM, when police determined that there was no bomb in the building. The arena's general manager, Craig Gates, was cited saying' "This is the first time in the eight years that I've been here that it's happened." The threat is still under investigation, but the Arena will be functioning as normal over the weekend.

National News

Zach Arend, an 18 year-old baseball player from Bluffton University, died on Friday morning as result of injuries follwing the crash of the teams charter bus. This death raises the toll to 7 following the crash off of a highway overpass last Friday. The crash happened early in the morning on an urban Atlanta highway, and the cause of the crash is yet to be determined. Memorial services for the driver, his wife, and the four other baseball players were held on Thursday in Ohio, as hundreds gathered to mourn the loss.

Eddie Van Halen, famed axe man of the band Van Halen, checked himself into rehab on this past week for unspecified reasons. Van Halen was quoted saying, "...at the moment I do not feel that I can give you my best." This recent development furthers the already dim possibility of a reunion tour with original lead singer, David Lee Roth, and also makes his appearance at Van Halen's induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame seem doubtful.

Wednesday, March 07, 2007

Local News

Lowell Women's Week - UMASS Lowell is participating in Lowell's Womens Week. The annual event takes place from March 3 through March 11 and is themed “Women of the World: “Lifting as We Climb.” Tonight the MEISA sponsored MOTHERS OF ROCK concert will take place in the Durgin Concert Hall with half the proceeds benefiting Girls Inc., of Lowell. For more information on the upcoming events and to learn more about Lowell Women's Week in general go to http://www.lowellwomensweek.org/.

UML 'NANO QUEENS' - The three women who run the nanomanufacturing center are going to overhaul the program. First off, UMASS Lowell and the state are planning on building a $80 million nano- and biomanufacturing center each splitting the cost. The building will give the center labs large enough to do large scale manufacturing. The trio of women, Chen, Mead and Barry have been dubbed the "nano queens" for being able to put together a plan that will benefit the program immensely.

Local News

A virus of some sort has been plaguing the city of Lowell and its surrounding areas for the past few days. Suspected of being norovirus, the virus infects the tissue of the intestines causing cramping, diarrhea and fever. Though the virus is said to last only a few days, schools in the area are taking extreme caution towards this infectious virus. One Dracut school had a "disinfecting day" a few weeks ago and numerous other schools are posting signs to contstantly remind students to wash hands and keep clean.

Yesterday the House of Representatives put the okay on a parking plan that was requested by the Lowell National Historic Park. With this they are able to purchase five small properties in order to make parking easier for Lowell residents. All the properties combined amount to a little less than an acre and are valued at $200,000.

Popular News

Captain America has died. The venerable superhero of the comic books completed his last mission in issues that hits news stands today. The hero was created in 1941 to portray a patriotic mascot for the soldiers of World War 2 and since then has estimated over $210 million dollars in sales. Though the hero has had his last stand, Marvel says that it may not be the last for Captain America. Works are in progress to develop a movie based on the superhero.

Monday, February 26, 2007

News Update 2/26/07

On Campus
Meehan Speaks on Iraq- This afternoon, Congressman Marty Meehan, who graduated from the UML Political Science program, will be presenting his views on the situation in Iraq. The event is open to all students on campus, and questions are encouraged. Meehan, who has always played a very active role in the University community, has also recently been named one of the candidates for school chancellor.

Distance Team Races to Top- UML's distance medley track team recently placed fourth, setting a school record at 11 minutes and 56.31 seconds. The team went on for the NCAA qualifying match, with results TBA.

Local News
Fire at Franco American School- Over 300 students get an early vacation this week at the Franco American school, located on Pawtucket Street. Over the weekend, a fire started in a second floor closet, quickly destroying a computer lab, spreading to a nearby classroom and causing smoke damage. Firefighters got control of the blaze after only half an hour, and no one was in the building at the time of the fire. Investigators are still looking for a cause.

Man Fined for Housing Drugs- Kevin McIver was recently ordered by a judge to forfeit $200,000 and pay a $10,000 fine for housing marijuana in his warehouse in Billerica. From 2002 to 2004, McIvers allowed his warehouse to be used in offloading truckloads of marjuana. He spent three months in jail and will now remain under house arrest for three years.

Popular News
Academy Award Results- For everyone out there who missed the Academy Awards, here are some of the highlights. "The Departed" won Best Motion Picture of the Year, Achievement in Directing, Achievement in Filming, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Pan's Labyrinth also received a number of awards, including Achievement in Art Direction, Achievement in Cinematography, and Achievement in Makeup. As expected, Helen Mirren won for best actress, and Forest Whitaker won best actor for his role in "The Last King of Scotland."

Razzie Awards- To counter the glitz and glam of the Oscars, we have the Golden Raspberry Awards, which award the worst of Hollywood. This year, the Razzie award for worst actress went to Sharon Stone for her work in "Basic Instinct 2." M. Night Shyamalan won both worst director and worst supporting actor for his work in "Lady in the Water." Robin William's movie, "RV" won the award for worst excuse for family entertainment.

Friday, February 23, 2007

Campus News

The Independant University Alumni Association gave away $125,000 in scholarships in grants this past week at an awards banquet at Princeton Station. Among these awards is the prestigious Alumnus Award, which this year was given to Dr. Robert S. Smith. Dr. Smith graduated from Lowell Technical Institute in 1961 in its first graduating class of mechanical engineers. He then worked at Army Quartermaster Research and Development Center where he became the youngest laboratory director in the center's history at 40. He retired from the Army Natick Laboratories at 48 and worked at reasearch jobs subsequently.


The Office of Student Activities and Multicultural Affairs, The Council on Diversity and Pluralism, and the Association of Students of African Origin are offering several events on campus in honor of Black History Month. These events will be concluded on Wednesday, February 28th with "A Night of Soul," a night of music, poetry, and thoughts in Fox Hall on East Campus.

Local News

A former executive at a trust fund firm has allegedly laundered 58 million dollars from the descendants of a 19th century local mill owner. The descendants of Fredrick Ayer have filed a civil suit against the firm, which the accused is said to have spent on private jets and upscale condominiums. The former executive, his wife, his son, his mistress, and several of his extended family members are listed as defendants in the case. The family members allege that his high status at the firm was how he gained access to the money. The executive was fired and escorted from the Beverly business last year following the accusations.

14 illegal immigrants were taken into custody on February 6th when the truck that they were in broke down on Interstate 93. One of the men driving the truck shouted out "My friends, My friends," in Spanish as a tow truck was pulling away with their vehicle. Upon examination, the state trooper who had pulled over to assist found 12 illegal immigrants in the bed of the truck, 6 from Mexico, and 6 from Guatemala. The two men in the cab of the truck were also illegal, and all were held in custody without bail until trial.

Popular News


A 13 year old boy who was abducted at gun point at a bus stop on Friday morning has been found. Clay Moore of Parrish, Florida was allegedly found on a ranch 20 to 30 miles away from the bus stop. An extensive manhunt of the area is being conducted to find the would be kidnapper. Police say that Moore was not targetted specifically, and that this was a random abduction. The boy was discovered without serious injury and was reunited with his parents on Friday evening.

An 80 year old law prohibiting dancing in New York City ordinary bars and restaurants has been upheld by a New York court. The law does not prohibit dancing in establishments with dancing liscences. The law came into question when several individuals and one club sued for denying free expression, but the the appeals were denied as the dancing causes safety hazards during an emergency, and disobeys noise ordinances. The law was enacted in the 1920's to battle speakeasies during prohibition.

Wednesday, February 21, 2007

Campus News

Contact: Robert P. Connolly, 617-287-7073

SEARCH PANEL NAMES THREE FINALISTS FOR UMASS-LOWELL POST

The UMass-Lowell Chancellor Search Committee today named three finalists, concluding a key phase in the process of selecting a permanent leader for the University’s Lowell campus.

Selected as finalists were: David C. Chang, chancellor of the Polytechnic University; Nabil A. Ibrahim, vice chancellor for academic affairs and chief academic officer at Purdue University, Calumet; and Martin T. Meehan, who represents the 5th congressional district of Massachusetts in the U.S. House of Representatives.

The search committee conveyed the slate of finalists to UMass President Jack M. Wilson, who will ultimately appoint a new Chancellor, subject to the approval of the University’s Board of Trustees.

William T. O’Shea, chairman of the 21-member search committee, said: “We are very pleased to be advancing the names of these three candidates, any one of whom could be a distinguished and dynamic new leader for UMass-Lowell.”

O’Shea added: “This search attracted candidates from across the nation and the quality and depth of our candidate pool is indicative of the high esteem in which UMass-Lowell is held. Candidates were clearly aware of UMass-Lowell’s nationally prominent academic programs and its impressive and burgeoning research agenda. In the end, our distinct challenge was to narrow a very strong field of candidates to this small number of finalists.”

The committee began its search process last September after receiving its charge from President Wilson and then held six business meetings and a series of interviews of candidates. The charge was to produce for the President’s consideration a slate of finalists comprised of candidates possessing a passion for higher education, an understanding of the public research university, and the experience and ability to lead the campus and community.

President Wilson lauded the committee for its “diligence” and “unselfish service to the University.”

“For the past six months, the members of this search committee have spent countless hours studying the Lowell campus and forming a vision for its future, and evaluating the candidates who seek to be UMass-Lowell’s new leader. This committee has worked efficiently and effectively and the entire UMass System is in its debt. In particular, I would like to express my gratitude to Bill O’Shea for his distinguished service as chairman. Bill is a UMass-Lowell alumnus and a member of our Board of Trustees and guided the search committee with great skill and with an abiding commitment to the task. This stellar slate of finalists is reflective of the singular commitment Bill O’Shea and his colleagues made to the search process,” President Wilson said.

It is expected that the finalists will come to UMass-Lowell for campus visits as the search process moves forward. The search will culminate with President Wilson recommending a candidate to the 22-member UMass Board of Trustees, which must vote on the President’s recommendation.

The new Chancellor will be the permanent successor to William T. Hogan, who retired last year after leading the Lowell campus for 25 years. David J. MacKenzie has been serving as Interim Chancellor since Dr. Hogan’s retirement.

ABOUT THE FINALISTS

David C. Chang is chancellor of the Polytechnic University, located in Brooklyn, NY, and has also served as president of that institution. Additionally, Dr. Chang has served as dean of the College of Engineering and Applied science at Arizona State University and held several academic positions at the University of Colorado. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the National Cheng-Kung University in Taiwan, as well as a master’s and a PhD from Harvard University.

Nabil A. Ibrahim is vice chancellor for academic affairs and chief academic officer at Purdue University, Calumet. He previously served as chief research officer and dean at San Jose State University, and also held academic positions at Bradley University and the University of Manitoba. Dr. Ibrahim holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Cairo and a master’s and PhD from McMaster University.

Martin T. Meehan represents the 5th congressional district of Massachusetts in the U.S. House of Representatives, an office he has held since 1993. He has also served as First Assistant District Attorney in Middlesex County and as the Commonwealth’s Deputy Secretary of State for Securities and Corporations. Rep. Meehan has taught at UMass-Lowell and at Harvard University Law School. He holds a bachelor’s degree from UMass-Lowell and MPA and JD degrees from Suffolk University.

Local News

A New Hampshire man is accused of abusing his son after the baby was found with 24 broken bones. The incident, which happened six months ago has been under investigation and the man was indicted last week with 5 counts of assault. The baby suffered fractures of the spine, arm, leg, rib and skull that were not the result of shaking, but of assault.

A routine drug bust led to Lowell Police Officers to uncover 8 pounds of marijuana, $4000 cash, 28 grams of what is believed to be opium, psychadelic mushrooms and a loaded .22 caliber pistol. The man was taken under arrest and charged with drug trafficking and intent to distribute in a school zone.

Popular News

Tom Brady is happy to becoming a father. After the recent split with his longtime girlfriend Bridget Moynahan rumors started to buzz about pregnancy however Brady has been spotted with supermodel Gisele Bundchen. Despite the new woman in his life, Brady's publicist released this statement:
"Tom and his family are excited about the pregnancy, and want to thank everyone who has shown support, and particularly for their consideration of Tom's privacy."

Want MORE Grey's Anatomy? A spin-off pilot episode of the award winning series will air in May featuring the neonatal surgeon Dr. Addison Shephard. ABC is hoping the spin-off will add millions of dollars in revenue for the company however a spokesperson for the company could not be reached.

Thursday, February 15, 2007

News Update for Friday, February 15, 2007

Campus News

UMass Lowell will be presenting Jack Kerouac with a posthumous honorary degree this June, in coincidence with a three month long exhibit marking the 50th anniversary of the publishing of "On The Road," thought to be his most famous work. During this time, the original manuscript of the book will be on display at the Boott Cotton Mills. Kerouac, a Lowell native, died 37 years ago in St. Petersburg, Florida from liver damage.

Jerry Beck from the Revolving Museum, along with professors John Warner and Amy Cannon, landed in Cape Town, South Africa on January 16th in order to meet with over 50 scientists from the continent. This meeting is intended to instill what is known as "green chemistry" in up-and-coming countries, such as those in Africa. Green chemistry aims to direct scientists toward using cleaner methods of chemistry in industrial processes. Beck is also setting up public art projects in order to bridge the gap between science and art in the African nation.

Local News

A 50-year old man was arrested in Tyngsboro on Tuesday night for publically exposing himself through the front windows of his house. Police set up surveillance equipment following complaints by neighbors. The man was arrested on seven counts of open and gross lewdness, fourteen counts of indecent exposure, one count of accosting/annoying a member of the opposite sex, and one count of criminal harrassment.

Schools reopened across the area on Thursday following a heavy Nor'easter that swept most of the country. Plows ran all day on Wednesday in order to clear out the ever falling powder. The storm dumped several inches of snow on the area, which quickly turned to sleet. Officials advise caution when driving, as road are still very slippery.

Popular News

Two passengers on an Air Mauritanian flight subdued a would be hijacker on Thursday night. The Boeing 737, which was intended to fly from the capitol city of Mauritania, Nouakchott, to Nouadhibou, also in Mauritania. The plane landed in the Canary Islands after the hijacker had directed the plane toward Paris, France. The plane was reported to be carrying 71 passengers and 8 crew members.


Tainted peanut butter could be the cause of a massive outbreak of Salmonella poisoning. The outbreak has been reported in nearly 300 cases in 39 states since last August. No one has yet died from the infection, but about 20 percent of the people afflicted have been hospitalized. The brands affected are Peter Pan and Great Value peanut butter with the product code beginning with the numbers "2111." These products have been recalled, and the company is overseeing inspections on its entire, Georgia based production plant

Friday, February 09, 2007

News Update 02/09/2007 1:55 PM

Campus News

Members of the UMass Lowell Chancellor Search committee recently met with representatives from Korn/Ferry International, an executive recruiting firm, in order to narrow the search for the next Chancellor. It has been reported that the recruitment field has been reduced to about 100 candidates. While they are currently decreasing the field of elligible candidates, the committee is still accepting applications from hopeful's both in and outside of academic fields. Following the retirement of Chancellor Hogan, interim Chancellor David J. McKenzie has held the post until a new, permanent replacement can be found.


The UMass Lowell Men's Hockey team chalked up another win on Thursday night against Northeastern University at the Tsongas Arena. Senior Clive Kinley scored the only goal of the night as freshman goalie Nevin Hamilton recorded a shutout to end the game at 1-0. The River Hawks improved their record to 5-19-6 on the season, bringing them within two points of Providence College who currently hold the final spot for the Hockey East Tournament. The River Hawks' next game is on Friday, February 16th against Merrimack.


Local News

In Nashua, a severed gas line forced many residents to leave their homes early Thursday morning. A Nashua native crashed her car into the side of a local machine shop at around 1:45 AM, severing the gas line, which also caused traffic delays into the morning commute. The woman was arrested on charges of leaving the scene of an accident and resisting arrest.


Contractual disputes with teachers at the Greater Lowell Technical High School have finally been resolved. School Committee members approved a draft that would allow for a three percent retroactive raise for this years contracts, and another three percent raise for the next three years. The contract will be singned once all of the legalities have been ironed out.

Popular News


Former television star and Playboy Bunny, Anna Nicole Smith, died on Thursday at the age of 39. Smith was found unconscious in her hotel room in Hollywood, CA at 1:38 PM. She was taken to Memorial Regional Hospital, where she was pronounced dead at 2:10 PM. Smith had allegedly been suffering from flu-like symptoms for the past few days, and an autopsy is scheduled for Friday.

Harvard University is expected to name its first female president, following an extensive search. Historian Drew Gilpin Faust has been the Dean of Havard's Radcliffe Institute for Advanced Study since 2001, and is also a teacher in the history department. If selected, Faust will succeed the controversial Lawrence Summers, a former Treasury Secretary under President Clinton. Faust obtained her doctorate degree from the University of Pennsylvania, where she had taught for many years.

Friday, January 26, 2007

News Update 1/24/07 4:15 p.m.

On Campus
Well, it's the start of the Spring semester and there have been a few changes. If you haven't noticed, parking lots have changed designations, so make sure you check the sign before parking. Ticketing will begin in the next few weeks. The new parking garage on UML East has opened up, but make sure you have your ID. It is open to all students and faculty and is first come first serve.

If you've found you have way too much free time on your hands, or if you're already ripping out your hair from too much homework, the last day to add or drop a course without a permission number is January 29th. February 5th is the last day to add/drop with the instructor's permission.

The UML track team had a very successful season, and five of the teammates were recently awarded for their wins in the New England division. Lawrence Aidoo won "Male Track Athlete of the Week," Nichole Plante won "Female Track Athlete of the Week," Toni-Marie Henry won "Female Field Athlete of the Week," Robert Liekweg won "Men's Track Freshman of the Week," and Jacqui Barrett won "Women's Field Freshman Athlete of the Week." Dashon Harper was also named "Northeast-10 Men's Basketball Player of the Week." Congratulations!

Local News
In Dracut, a 4 year old boy who played with matches is to blame for a serious fire. The boy accidentally started a fire on his bean bag chair, which quickly spread throughout the Princeton Reserve Apartments. Eventually, firefighters were able to control the fire, but not before there was over $100,000 dollars in damage done.

Nashua is dealing with the first reported murder of this year. Ian Delmore, 21, was reportedly being held at an unnamed medical facility Thursday after stabbing his 57 year old father. Delmore then stabbed himself. Police are still collecting evidence.

Popular News
A 65 year old woman named Nell Hamm saved the life of her husband, Jim, when he was attacked by a mountain lion. The couple had been hiking in the Prairie Creek Redwoods Park, when a lion pounced on Jim. Nell started beating the lion with a stick, but when it wouldn't release her husband, she grabbed a pen and tried stabbing the lion in the eye. The lion let go, and Jim was taken to a hospital where he is recovering from multiple injuries.

Legendary blues artist B.B. King has been hospitalized with a fever after recently battling the flu. Although fans have been worried and anxiously awaiting his return to the stage, doctors say he is in stable condition and is recovering.

New York City health officials are debating on printing city maps on condoms which would be handed out for free. They believe people would be more apt to use the condoms if they have interesting and useful things printed on the package.

Wednesday, December 13, 2006

News Update- 12/13/06 2:30 p.m.

Another slow day in the world of news...

On Campus:
The Amazing Kate Watt Gets MEISA Grant- WUML's own Kate Watt won a large grant for MEISA, the Music and Entertainment Industry Students Association. Don't forget to show your support by checking out the MEISA Gingerbread House fundraiser at McGauvran on Thursday from 6-8 p.m. Congrats Kate!

Deval Patrick to Speak on Campus- Governor elect, Deval Patrick, will join Representative Marty Meehan this Saturday to present "Climate Change: Local Solutions to a Global Crisis.” The event is Dec. 16, 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., in the Mahoney Hall Auditorium. All are welcome!

Local:
Merrimack River Body Search Postponed- The Lowell deputy Fire Chief decided to postpone the latest scheduled search for the bodies of Ron Wetmore, the UML student who fell into the river on November 26, and Helena Fells, who went missing on November 28 and is believed to have fallen into the river. A valve had been opened up, diverting some water from going over the Pawtucket Falls in the hopes of lowering the water level enough to explore the rocks below the bridge. Unfortunately, the water has yet to go down enough to safely bring divers, dogs, and boats close to the rocks.

Groton Teens Caught Dealing Drugs- Three teenaged boys from the Groton-Dunstable High School were caught dealing drugs in the school parking lot by the school's assitant principal. The boys were detained and are being referred to Juvenile Court in Lowell. The issue has prompted police officers to resume surprise searches using drug-sniffing dogs.

Popular:
Another Ripper In England? England is experiencing yet another "Ripper" case, this time 5 prostitutes have already been found murdered in only 10 days. This latest killer, dubbed the Ipswich Ripper, has caused the biggest manhunt since the Yorkshire Ripper's killing spree 20 years ago. The biggest difference is the Yorkshire Ripper took 6 years to kill his 5 victims. The speed of the latest murders has police frantically looking for information, but they fear the killer will be striking again soon. Both of these modern Rippers have been named after the infamous Jack the Ripper, who killed five prostitutes in 1888.

Arctic Ice Will Disappear Much Sooner Than Expected- Scientists once predicted that the Arctic would lose its summer ice by the year 2080, however, recent studies show it is melting much faster and will be ice-free by the year 2040. The loss of the ice will result in thousands of indigenous people losing their home and source of food, and there is a big fear that the change will disrupt the North American current and effect climates around the world.

Monday, December 11, 2006

News Update- 12/11/06 3:30 p.m.

Sorry this took so long, everyone! Changed the format again slightly, let me know if you have any better suggestions!

On Campus:

Online Tutoring Comes to Campus- For the first time, UML students can use an online service to get help with physics and math. From 7 p.m. to midnight, Monday through Thursday, students who are having trouble with late night homework or studying can receive assistance from one of the live tutors. Physics and math are the first two departments to try out the new program, since they have been identified as the two biggest problem areas for students. All of the tutors have a minimum GPA of 3.5 and have been recommended by professors, so ask all the tough questions you need to!

Cardboard City Event Raises Money- 14 UML students recently participated in an event to raise awareness about the needs of the homeless. Phi Kappa Sigma organized the on-campus event, which raised $1200 to go towards the city's Hunger/Homeless Commission. Students had to spend the night out in front of the rec center, with cardboard boxes as their only shelter. It got so cold that they resorted to trash can fires to keep warm. PKS has been organzing the event for 16 years.

College Bowl Winners- This year's results for the College Bowl are in. Individual winners were: Paul Nutter, Steve Holstrom, Martin Gray, Damon Orsi, James Blatchford, Ryan Beaven, Tiffany Avilla and Ryan Grant. The first place team was: "Team SGA," whose members were Damon Orsi, Steven Holstrom, Francis Cannata, James Blatchford and Louis Devito.

Riverhawks Tie Things Up With St. Lawrence- This weekend, the Riverhawks men's hockey team made a 3-3 tie with St. Lawrence. UML goals were scored by Jason Bergeron, Paul Worthington and Barry Goers. This was Goers' first goal of the season. Keep it up Riverhawks!

Local News:

Teens Arrested For Attempting to Rob Pizza Shop- Why you would want to rob a pizza shop is beyond me, but Ariel Hernandez and Juan Ramirez, both of Lowell, were arrested after someone caught them hiding in bushes near a Lowell pizza shop. The two had just placed bandannas over their faces and were preparing to run in with a BB gun. The arrest took place after a brief chase into a wooded area. Some people just really like their pizza.

Lowell Police Make $300K Drug Bust- This weekend, Lowell officers busted three men in possession of over $300,000 in marijuana. Police believe the marijuana was imported from Canada. The three men were caught Friday night, after a month-long investigation and surveillance of the area, a municipal parking lot on Leroy Street. The police also confiscated a number of firearms, including automatic handguns, and several cell phones they are now using as part of the investigation.

Man Dies After Barfight- After being punched in the head once, William Peters died at Captain John's on Westford Street last Wednesday. This was the second death from a fight at the bar since May. The man who did the punching, Alexander Adorno, apparently had some long-term money issues with Peters. The issues escalated to the fight at the bar, which ended in Peters being knocked unconscious by a single punch, and later being pronounced dead by emergency personnel.

Popular News:

Gibson's Newest Movie Ranked #1- 'Apocalypto' brought in $14.2 million after opening this weekend. Critics are surprised, since Gibson's movie has subtitles and has a very unique storyline- it explores the final days of the Mayan civilization. Reviews are good, but it has been called a very "gory" and "brutal" film.

Mariah Carey Sues Porn Star- Singer Mariah Carey is suing the porn star Mary Carey, trying to prevent the busty woman from trademarking her name. Mary Carey is best known for running for California governor against Arnold Schwarzenegger, and of course for her roles in movies like "Double Air Bags 11" and "Boobsville Sorority Girls."

Wednesday, December 06, 2006

Campus Crime Report

November 22

IPI Lot. 12:56 am. Officer called to report slashed tires. While filing the report, another car with slashed tires was found.

Rec Center. 2:58 pm. Report of stolen wallet with money in men's locker room. Wallet was found two lockers down without the moeny

November 25

Donahue Hall. 9:09 pm. Domestic Disturbance. Shade Bello, student, reportedly stabbed her boyfriend, Nicholas Shay, after he hit her in the face.

November 26

University Ave Bridge. 1:28 am. Call to assist LPD in blocking off the bridge after a male went over the side.

Friday, December 01, 2006

News Update

On Campus:

The UMASS Lowell Technology, Engineering, and Math-Science Academy are part of a project that will help test potential courses for TEAMS Academy next year. The courses are going to be such topics as crime scene investigation, and robotics in hopes to get students excited about math and science. The schools participating are Those participating in the experiment are from Andover, Bedford, Billerica, Chelmsford, Dracut, Haverhill, Lawrence, Littleton, Methuen, North Reading, Reading, Tewksbury, and Tyngsborough.

UMASS Lowell is granted a $21, 500 scholarship from The Shaw Group in Stoughton Massachusetts. Through this scholarship the company hopes to promote the company's growing nuclear engineering and design operations in Massachusetts.

UMASS Lowell has received a $130,000 grant to promote after school engineering programs. The California-Noyce Foundation, who sponsored the program hopes to support the development of invention workshops' course materials and curriculum. Private donations of $95,000 are also to be used for the program.

Local News:

Joann Weber, the co-owner of the Lowell Spinners has died. Weber, who was only 58 years old had pancreatic cancer and was diagnosed in the spring of 2004. A beloved member of the community, people remember Weber for her generosity and fun-loving spirit. The Weber’s also own a minority share of the New Hampshire Fisher Cats, a Manchester, N.H.-based affiliate of the Toronto Blue Jays.

In Ayer, a mother, with her baby next to her crossed the double yellow lines and collided head on with a tractor-trailer truck. Sarah Bonaldi, 21 died in the crash and her 6 month old son Tyler Brooks seriously injured. They were both taken to Nashoba Valley Medical Center, and Bonaldi to UMASS Medical Center in Worcester where she was later pronounced dead, and her son to Children’s Hospital in Boston where he was listed in critical condition.

Pop Culture:

One of Norman Rockwell’s most famous paintings was found behind a fake wall in a house Vermont. The painting was then auctioned off and sold for $15.4 million dollars. A neighbor purchased the painting; entitled “Breaking Home Ties” from Rockwell while the two were neighbors in Arlington, VT. The price set a record for Rockwell, breaking the previous sale of $9.2 million last May.

Two weeks after this Friday’s release of “10 Items or Less,” it’ll be available for download on a website called Clickstar. Morgan Freeman’s production company teams up with Intel to bring movies to the website for people who do not live close enough to cinema’s. Freeman, who also stars in the movie, says that his town does not have a movie theatre, thus being his reason for being so avid.

Eva Longoria is now officially off the market. She and beau basketball player Tony Parker announced that they were engaged after two years of dating. The couple plans for summer 2007 wedding in France with friends and family. How’s that for some happy news? =D

Wednesday, November 29, 2006

News Update- 11/29/06 3:30 p.m.

On Campus:
UML student, Folashade Bello, was arraigned in Lowell District Court on two counts of assault and battery when she stabbed her boyfriend in Donahue Hall Saturday night. Bello's boyfriend, who is not a student here, was visiting when the two got into a fight. Bello stabbed the boyfriend twice, and when police arrived at the dorm room, they found the room covered in blood. The boyfriend was treated at Brigham & Women's Hospital. Bello is due back in court Jan. 26.

There is still no sign of the body of Ron Wetmore, the student who fell to an assumed death from the University Ave. Bridge this past weekend. With the fifth student death of the semester, some administrators and members of the University community are beginning to wonder if the school is providing students with enough support and anti-drug/alcohol prevention. The closest comparable state school, UMaine Orono, has a staff of 9 full time counselors. UML only has 2 full time counselors. There is also now a push for more alcohol-awareness programs, since a recent report shows 50% of UML students participating in regular binge drinking.

UML head field hockey coach, Shannon Hlebichuk was named the National Field Hockey Coaches Association North Region Coach of the Year for 2006. She was also named Northeast-10 Coach of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. After only five years coaching the team, Hlebichuk has led the women to 81 wins, four Northeast-10 tournament titles and the 2005 Division II National Championship.

Local News:
As part of the city's Jackson/Appleton/Middlesex Urban Renewal Plan, Middlesex Street will be returning to the two-way road it used to be previous to 1986. The change is set to happen on April 1, 2007. Some local businesses fear that the two-way version will cause traffic backups, while other businesses are rejoicing, hoping that it will make it simpler to travel around Lowell and give directions. Flyers will be hung up and placed on cars to inform people and police will help direct the new traffic for the first few weeks.

The owner and an employee of North Chelmsford Auto Parts have been charged with receiving stolen property, including two Bobcat construction vehicles and a truck. The investigation has been going on for over two years now.

18 year old Sari L. Lelchook from Acton is facing charges for killing 13-year-old John Martin of Wayland. Lelchook allegedly did not see the boy as she was driving along, and as he was crossing a crosswalk on his bike, she hit him.

Popular:
The Yellow Wiggle will no longer be with the Wiggles, the popular music group that caters to children. The Yellow Wiggle, also known as Greg Page, is suffering from a mystery illness that causes him to faint and lose his balance. He will be replaced by his understudy, Sam Moran.

Verizon Wireless and YouTube struck up a deal Tuesday that will allow Verizon users to upload their videos from camera phones onto YouTube.

Monday, November 27, 2006

News Update- 11/27/2006 4:30 p.m.

On Campus:
There is still no new information regarding the death of Ronald Wetmore, the UMass Lowell junior who fell to his death from the University Avenue Bridge early Sunday morning. For the latest information, see the previous news update or visit www.lowellsun.com.

The UMass Lowell Physical Therapy Club raised $400 through a wheelchair-basketball-a-thon to help fund a new gazebo at the Lowell Health Care Center. The gazebo was the wish of Phyllis Gimbel, the sister of one of the patients. The project raised $6000 in total for the new gazebo.

Local News:
11 were left homeless after a fire broke out in their Princeton Boulevard home. Four adults and seven children were staying with family when an electrical problem between the two floors of the home sparked a fire. No one was injured, but the home was damaged from the smoke and water.

A 17-year old girl has been cited for crashing into a house in Westford. She was driving a Honda Accord and stopped at a stop sign. She did not look both ways before proceeding, and was hit by a carpet-cleaning van before veering into the side of a three story home. No one was seriously injured.

63-year old Daniel Mullane of Nashua is to be arraigned today on charges of child endangerment. Mullane was arrested this past Friday for attempting to lure a 13-year old girl to his home with the intent of having sex with her. Police say that he tried convincing her he would get her into modeling. Mullane was already convicted back in 1992 for kidnapping a child under the age of 18.

Popular:
To balance out all the negative news (I really did try to find some happy stories, but there are none!), here is a whole slew of some "pop culture" news, pick and choose!

-US marine scientists have found out that humpback whales have a type of brain cell that is also found in human brains.
-Princes William and Harry are planning a huge concert to commemorate the death of their mother, Princess Diana. The concert is going to mark the 10th year anniversary of her death, there is talk of Elton John, Sting, Beyonce, and other royal friends singing.
-Pamela Anderson is divorcing Kid Rock. This is just four months after they did their around the world weddings- 3 weddings in all.
-A flaw in Firefox may allow hackers to get log-in information and passwords from unknowing users. Hackers set up fake websites and when the users log in, the information is sent right to those sneaky hackers.
-Britney Spears went out in a mini skirt and no skivvies, and the press got some photos when she stepped out of her car and lifted a leg a little too high. A cry for attention, no?

News Update- 11/27/2006 11:30am

The UML Community mourns the loss of 21 year old, Ronald Wetmore, a junior at the university majoring in Business Administration. According to Police, Wetmore fell from the University Bridge early Sunday Morning. Foul play has been ruled out, and the incident is being investigated by Lowell Police, with assistance from the University Police. As of 10am Monday morning, his body is yet to be recovered. For more information, visit www.lowellsun.com.

As of this morning, The Dean of Students Office and the University's Counseling Center are identifying Ronald's friends on campus and will offer support services as needed. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to call the Counseling Center at extension 4331 if they or anyone they know needs assistance in coping with this painful experience. Employees seeking confidential counseling services also may contact the Wellness Corp., offered through the University's Employee Assistance Program, at 1-800-828-6025.

Wednesday, November 22, 2006

Crime Report

Thursday- November 9

Bourgeois Hall: Room 316 reported a stolen IPod.

Tuesday- November 14

Rec Center: Stolen items from men's locker room.