Orono exchange program with the Bronx continues

ORONO – The exchange program that began a year ago between Orono High School and Walton High School in the Bronx, N.Y., will continue Feb. 7-10 in Orono.

Walton students will arrive at 4 p.m. today from New York City.

Events Friday will include a school assembly at 9 a.m., a tour of the University of Maine, basketball, swimming and a dance at the Keith Anderson Community Center.

On Saturday, activities will continue with sliding, skating and a dance at Orono High School.

At 7 p.m. Saturday, the “Windows to Our Souls” exhibit will open in the Orono High School cafeteria. The community is welcome to attend the exhibit of black-and-white photographs and autobiographical pieces created by students from both schools.

At 8 p.m., there will be a keynote address by motivational speaker John Artis. Artis was imprisoned for 15 years after being wrongfully convicted of a triple homicide with boxer Ruben “Hurricane” Carter.

Artis now counsels youth in Norfolk, Va., on the dangers of drug use and gang membership, and on the importance of education.

On Sunday, students will perform during church services at 10:15 a.m. at the Church of Universalist Fellowship. The Walton students will leave Orono at 12:30 p.m.

Artis will speak again to Orono students during an assembly Monday. His visit to Orono is being organized by the Orono High School Diversity Team, comprising students and staff.

Connie Carter is the organizer in Orono for the visit by Walton High School. Margot Dale is the adviser for the diversity team.