Health fair to offer help and information
The Wildcat Wellness Health Fair will be held in the Great Lakes Rooms on Tuesday, Feb. 10 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. As an event sponsored by the Health, Physical Education and Recreation (HPER) Department, in conjunction with several other campus programs such as nursing and cosmetology, the health fair is intended to increase awareness in the student body about current health issues and ways to live a healthier life. The fair will include 30 interactive displays by not-for-profit community organizations and campus groups, free healthy food samples and a chance to either leave with a small prize or be put into a drawing for a larger prize. Free screenings are also available for cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels to name a few. “The screenings are not going to be as accurate as going to a lab, but they will be close enough to let you know if there is something you should look into,” said Barb Coleman, an associate professor of the HPER who has helped run the fair for almost two decades.
– Greg Nielsen
UP 200 staff in search of race volunteers
In past years, Northern Michigan University student volunteers have greatly contributed to the smooth operating of the UP 200. With this year’s race fast approaching (Feb. 20th) Cori Bodeman, the race volunteer coordinator is wondering where all the students are. “Usually I get quite a few student groups, sororities, fraternities, athletic groups and houses to volunteer their time, but I haven’t heard from many this year,” she said. Groups of students are helpful additions to the volunteer list because of their large numbers and contagious enthusiasm. “Individuals or small groups are also encouraged to participate,” said Bodeman. “We would love for anyone to come out and help.” There are a variety of ways to help out at this year’s race. There is a need for crowd control and road crossing monitors Friday night at the start, and Sunday at the finish. These positions are of utmost importance because they ensure the safety of the mushers, dogs and spectators. In addition there are a few positions open for overnight volunteers at the Deerton and Munising checkpoints. “Here is where you really get an inside look at the sport. So much time is spent with the mushers, it’s awesome,” said Bodeman. For students interested in volunteering at the start or finish lines, there is a volunteer sign up link available at www.up200.org. Those interested in the overnights in Deerton or Munising, contact Bodeman directly by sending her an e-mail at [email protected] or calling (906) 361-5449.
– Cori LaChance
FAFSA workshop offered at Northern
On Sunday, Feb. 8 from 2 to 4 p.m., one-on-one assistance in completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) will be offered in the Ontario and Michigan Rooms of the University Center. This event, known as College Goal Sunday, is expected to ease the FAFSA application process for students. There has been a recent rise in applicants this year, according to Wilma Porter, president of the Michigan Student Financial Aid Association: “The key to getting aid is filling out the FAFSA, and the sooner the better.” With the current economy, many students will need more financial aid, and those who apply early are more likely to receive financial aid. Pointer added that while financial aid is getting harder to find, those who submit the FAFSA now can be considered for millions of dollars in scholarships and loans available for college. For more information on College Goal Sunday, visit www.MiCollegeGoal.org. or for financial aid questions visit www.EduGuide.org.
– Jaci Bjorne
