Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE-"Music is a gift that God has given me the ability to play," said Amanda McFall, graduating UW-Platteville student. McFall, a native of Platteville, and daughter of Larry and Marilyn McFall, will graduate from UWP with a major in music with an emphasis in piano in May.

McFall has been involved in a variety of different performances and solo events. She was secretary of the University Singers, a member of the chamber choir, contributed to the Heartland Festival, performed with the Pioneer Singers, concert choir and various senior solos.

"I became interested in music because of the emotion that one can express, the option of being able to teach lessons and being able to accompany people," said McFall.

She took piano lessons for 14 years and was involved in solo ensemble in high school. McFall chose UWP because she felt the opportunities would be plentiful by attending a smaller campus.

Her future plans are to teach and accompany students in a freelance setting. She plans to marry Nick Carnahan in August and live in Platteville. McFall currently instructs and coaches 10 students ranging in age from 5 to 15 years. She hopes to have a building someday where she could give lessons and students could come and her goal is to one day expand her piano studio.

She began teaching piano lessons when she was a sophomore in high school and a family at her church suggested that she begin teaching. She has now been teaching piano lessons for more than 6 years. It has been a challenge for her to balance her musical performances, being a full-time student, and encouraging her own piano students.

McFall felt that the biggest challenge for her in college-because there were so many opportunities for her to perform in ensembles or in the music department in general- was trying to pick and choose and limit the amount of involvement. challenge. However, she said this was the best thing about UWP as well.

The person who impacted McFall most on campus was Dr. Bob Demaree.

"He wasn't my advisor, but he has always thrown new challenges at me and helped me become more mature in my music," said McFall. "Paul Thurmond also helped me to look past notes and look into the music."

"This is a major that you get to have discussions about what people are all about and bring that out in your work," said McFall.

Other hobbies that interest McFall are running, downhill skiing, picnics and being with family.

McFall performed her senior recital on March 13. At her recital she performed Papillons by Robert Schuman. The piece told a story about some butterflies at a masquerade ball. The piece was 12 movements. Eleven movements were about the different butterflies at the ball. The 12th movement was how they were leaving and heard the clock chiming.

PLATTEVILLE - Following the Sept. 11 terrorist attack and now the war in Iraq, issues of national security weigh heavily on the minds of many Americans. As the U.S. hopes for the best, but prepares for the worst, University of Wisconsin-Platteville associate professor David Krugler looks at how our nation's capital prepared for a nuclear attack during the Cold War.

Awarded fellowships from the National Endowment for Humanities and the White House Historical Association, Krugler will continue his research entitled "The D Minus Scenario: How Washington, D.C. was Prepared for Nuclear War." Funded in part by a Scholarly Activity Improvement Fund (SAIF) grant, Krugler began his research in 2000.

"I've been conducting research and working on a book for three years about how Washington, D.C., prepared for a nuclear attack between World War II and the Cuban Missile Crisis," Krugler said. "I began with the question - How did the Cold War affect our nation's capital? - which led me to focus on nuclear weapons. The existence of those weapons resulted in a home front threat with our seat of government, Washington, D.C., being the obvious target. I then became equally interested in Washington, D.C.'s conflicted identities as a city and a symbol."

The fellowships will provide Krugler with $9,000 to continue his research in Washington, D.C., this summer. Funds will cover travel and living expenses, a temporary residence and Krugler's research time. Through his research, he hopes to gain a sense of how the U.S. responded to changes following World War II and where priorities of national security laid within the federal government.

"Measures to protect the seat of government resulted in a widening gap between capital and city, as national security planners advocated the dispersal of vital government offices from the city center to suburban sites," Krugler said in a synopsis of his project. "Dispersal also encouraged white flight, while the district's local civil defense office perpetuated Washington's racial segregation ... Analysis of these varied responses to the imaginary war shows how postwar national security measures reshaped the national capital and how a racially divided urban population responded to doomsday fears."

A native of Wauwatosa, Krugler joined the faculty at UWP in 1997. He has taught courses in modern American history, the Vietnam War, European history and imperialism. He will be offering a course this fall on U.S. foreign relations. Prior to coming to UWP, Krugler earned his bachelor's degree at Creighton University in Nebraska and his master's degree and Ph.D. from the University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana.

Left to right: Gregg Hamm, Jason Laue, Traci Satterfield & Chris Nies

PLATTEVILLE - Recent complaints regarding inadequate parking on campus at UW-Platteville has motivated one senior design team to investigate further by conducting parking inventory and usage analysis.

This senior design team consists of four civil engineering students each graduating this May. They include Chris Nies, a fifth-year senior from Patch Grove with an emphasis in transportation and construction engineering; Jason Laue, a fifth-year senior from Juneau with an emphasis in transportation and construction engineering; Gregg Hamm, a sixth-year senior from Rudolph with an emphasis in transportation and construction engineering; and Traci Satterfield, a transfer student from Dixon, Ill., with an emphasis in transportation engineering.

The team has been working with the UWP Campus Planning Commission to research the parking issues at UWP and determine if improvements should be made. So far the team has conducted numerous parking surveys on- and off-campus. The on-campus research has focused on the number of parking permits sold in comparison with the number of parking spots available. They have also contacted other schools in the UW System of comparable size to gather information regarding how each school handles its parking situations.

The next step for the team will involve completing the collection of parking data and analyzing what is found. The team will be looking at the turnover rates for each lot and how efficient the lots are currently being used. Each parking lot is labeled for use by either faculty, commuter students, resident hall students or visitors. The team will decide if each parking lot is adequately labeled and being facilitated in the best way based on their research and studies. Following its conclusion, the team will make a recommendation to the UWP Campus Planning Commission.

While completing the project, the team has run into numerous challenges. Gathering detailed data and conducting studies is both time consuming and tedious. The team has also had to work with a long semester of inclement weather. Snow cover makes parking lines hard to see, while cold weather makes data gathering a long, slow process. Despite numerous challenges, though, the team has found those people whom they have been in direct contact with throughout the project to be extremely helpful and willing to share their time.

The team members feel their classes have prepared them well for this project. Being able to use AutoCAD and having past experience gathering data and conducting research has been key to the team's success with the project. The project has also provided opportunities to learn new things and improve on past abilities. The team members feel their communication and organization skills have grown immensely. Scheduling times and keeping in contact with one another have provided a hands-on approach to learning about transportation. UWP professors Sam Owusu and Tom Nelson have also helped the team throughout the course of the project.

PLATTEVILLE-Stepping up to health and fitness, 35 University of Wisconsin-Platteville students are logging 10,000 steps. The steps are clearly just for starters.

The students are enrolled in an intensive four-week exercise and education program, 10,000 Steps, headed by adult education graduate student Corrie Knutson.

Participating as individuals or on teams of four, the students are coming down to their last lap, said Knutson, who started the program as a seminar in health education project.

Students wear pedometers, a measurement tool that logs the number of steps taken. They are encouraged to participate in educational sessions such as nutrition, exercise, self-esteem and motivation.

Prizes are awarded based on the number of steps and educational sessions attended, said Knutson. These prizes include tanning sessions, footlong subs, manicures and pedicures (for those aching feet).

Knutson, who plans to earn her master's degree from UWP in health and physical education, did a lot of groundwork before the program started. Besides getting donations from businesses, she has lined up speakers for the educational sessions and calculates the number of pedometer steps.

"I have a passion for health and exercise," said Knutson, who has formerly advised UWP football and basketball cheerleaders. Currently, she teaches aerobics for UWP's Office of Continuing Education.

Healthy lifestyles should be part of everyone's lifestyles, added Knutson. "People need to care about their health," said Knutson. "Busyness should not interfere."

Knutson, who met her husband, Blake, as an undergraduate at UWP, plans to move to Phoenix after graduation. "I really like that area," she said.

During her rare free time, Knutson spends time with Blake and walks their two boxer dogs, Rosco and Lulu.

After the 10,000 Steps program concludes at the end of April, Knutson will give a report along with her reflections to classmates. "This has been a really great experience," she said.

The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneer Farm recently hired Matt Komiskey as an associate research specialist. Komiskey implements research activities, develops sampling procedures, analyzes data, records field measurements and writes reports.

Komiskey grew up near Tomah where he spent the majority of his childhood helping his grandparents on their dairy farm. While attending high school he also worked at a sawmill. Komiskey obtained a bachelor of science degree in water resources from UW-Stevens Point in May 2002, with an emphasis in water chemistry.

As a student, Komiskey was the student manager of the UW-Stevens Point's Environmental Tasks Force (ETF) Trace Organics Lab. In the trace organics lab, he developed record keeping skills, new sampling techniques and used EPA methods to evaluate water, soil and plant tissue. He worked on a wide variety of projects including phytoremediation work (the use of plants to remove toxic substances from soil and groundwater).

In another position as a student, Komiskey coordinated a groundwater study that tested local wells for water quality impurities due to farming in the Stevens Point area. He employed the method of age-dating groundwater to help identify its source and helped improve and develop procedures for new instrumentation, organized sampling times and collected and analyzed samples.

Komiskey also assisted in additional research activities where he helped develop new sampling and analysis techniques for analyzing water for its apparent age-date. He participated in and coordinated sampling trips to evaluate surface and groundwater in areas including the Little Plover River, the Tomorrow Waupaca Watershed and in Crandon.

He was also a student coordinator of a DNR pilot study that evaluated the water quality and the water's apparent age-date in public and private supply wells found throughout the state. Komiskey organized sampling and analysis times with the Wisconsin State Lab of Hygiene and the ETF Lab, collected and analyzed samples, kept records and presented the data.

During the summers Komiskey worked as a fisheries technician in Fort McCoy where he aided the monitoring and sampling of freshwater ecosystems. There, he studied habitat evaluation of coldwater streams and lakes as well as habitat improvement techniques. He learned the different fish species and their requirements in terms of habitat and water quality. Komiskey developed skills related to surface water evaluation, sampling techniques and water quality interpretation. After graduation, Komiskey moved to southwest Wisconsin with his wife, Michelle, and volunteered with the Natural Resource Conservation Service.

Subsequently, in October 2002, Komiskey began working at Pioneer Farm, bringing his knowledge and skills to the job as he collects runoff from Pioneer Farm's local watershed, using the newly installed flumes. In cooperation with the USGS, he upgraded existing flumes and installed three new flumes. Komiskey also collects samples used to determine the farm's mass balance and is developing protocols for compost and grazing research.

Komiskey sees his work at Pioneer Farm as a great opportunity to be involved in cutting-edge research that has the potential to benefit the future of agriculture in Wisconsin.

"Matt is a great addition to Pioneer Farm. He's got an inquisitive mind, an eagerness for hard work and an ebullient personality. That's a rare find," states Pioneer Farm director Tom Hunt.

Left to Right: Clark Benson, Alana Berczy
Photo by Andy McNeill, UWP Public Relations

PLATTEVILLE-It's a case where the dead teach the living. University of Wisconsin-Platteville biology majors and pre-professional students are learning more about the human body than textbooks or models could possibly provide. Four cadavers, two of each gender, are providing practical experience in Russell Hall.

Eight UWP students are doing independent study dissecting the cadavers this semester under the tutelage of biology department chair Wayne Weber and Amanda Trewin, assistant professor of biology.

"This is a unique opportunity that will help students work in greater depth," said Trewin, who teaches anatomy and physiology and comparative anatomy. "It's unusual for a school of this size."

Trewin, who earned her Ph.D. at UW-Milwaukee, did her undergraduate work at UWP. Cadavers would have facilitated learning, had they been available, said Trewin. "They provide hands-on, real world experience."

Weber and Trewin, who worked with College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture dean Duane Ford and agriculture professor Michael Mee to bring a cadaver laboratory to UWP, are pleased with the three-dimensional experience their students are receiving.

A proposal for a laboratory modernization project, approved last spring, included funding for storage tanks, the cadavers and preparation fees, storage and delivery.

The cadavers are kept immersed in tanks of alcohol when not in use. A white cloth covers parts that are not being dissected, and the face is kept covered, out of respect, said Weber. "This is an absolutely remarkable learning experience for them."

This fall, a four-credit human gross anatomy class will be offered. There are eight students enrolled to date, said Weber.

Learning aside, have there been emotional or personal obstacles for students to overcome? Not really.

Students worked intently and asked questions as they worked in teams on a recent spring afternoon.

Junior Rachel Schmitt from Beaver Dam said her first encounter with a cadaver made her "excited and nervous." But after a few strokes with the scalpel, Schmitt calmed down. "When we got into it, all my apprehensions dissolved."

Clark Benson, a junior from Belmont, plied his scalpel as he dissected leg muscles. Working on a cadaver is far superior to using a model, said Benson, who will attend Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, this summer.

Biology major April Laufenberg from Mount Hope, who dissected the male reproductive system, agreed.

There is a world of difference between looking at a picture in a book and working on a cadaver, said Laufenberg. Dissecting a human body is not a problem, she said. "There is no blood."

PLATTEVILLE-As the final choral performance for the spring semester, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Choir will perform a mixed concert. The concert will be held at 3 p.m. on Sunday, May 4, in the Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall in the Center for the Arts.

The first group performance will include works about "a matter of life or death" sung by the Chamber Choir. Robert Demaree will direct the group.

Greg Dennis will direct the other two performances. The Concert Choir will be performing spirituals such as "Ride the Chariot" and "Calm as the Night." The group will also perform a piece composed by Pierre LaPlante, a native of Blanchardville, entitled "Pinery Board." The selection is about a man who rides logs down the Mississippi River and drowns.

The University Singers will perform the spirituals "Let Me Fly" and "Give Me Jesus." The highlighted piece for the group is about the poem written by UWP faculty member, Dr. David E. Miller, called "Towers" which is in reference to the Sept. 11 tragedy.

This event is free and open to the public.

PLATTEVILLE- A Mariachi band will be the featured entertainment at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Cinco de Mayo celebration from 5 to 7 p.m. Monday, May 5, in the Ullsvik Center Robert I. Velzy Commons (formerly the Beaux Arts, Galleria and Touche Rooms).

Tickets for a free dinner are available at the Office of Multicultural Services in Warner Hall.

Although Cinco de Mayo is not known as a big holiday in the U.S., people should be aware of its importantce to one of its nearest neighbors, said Suzanne Grebe, president of UWP's Student Organization of Latinos.

Grebe, a Minnesota native, said although she is not of Latino origin, she has lived in close proximity with students from Spain and Mexico while she was growing up. "I have also traveled to Mexico and am very interested in the Latino culture," said Grebe. "There are quite a few Latinos on campus here," she added.

The public and University community are cordially invited to the celebration, said Grebe. "You don't have to be Latino to be involved."

Cinco De Mayo commemorates the defeat of the French army by the Mexicans at the Battle of Puebla May 5, 1862. It is primarily a regional holiday celebrated in the state capital city of Puebla and throughout the state of Puebla, but is also celebrated in other parts of the country and in U.S. cities with a significant Mexican population.

PLATTEVILLE - Expanding awareness of international business and the global economy, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville has been awarded a $168,250 Business and International Education (BIE) grant from the U.S. Department of Education. Louis Nzegwu, associate professor and executive director of the International Business Resource Center at UWP, spent months preparing the application for this prestigious grant.

"It took me about six months to put the application together, submitting more than 30 letters of support from state officials such as senators Russ Feingold and Herb Kohl," Nzegwu said. "This is a highly competitive grant that many people don't apply for because there is so much work involved."

UWP Chancellor David Markee said he was very pleased Nzegwu was awarded the grant. "This grant will give us an opportunity to explore future possibilities," Markee said. "It will also be a way for us to stretch our boundaries and foster international thinking."

The grant will be received over two academic years and will fund the "Global Competencies Project: Expanding International Education and Business in Southwest Wisconsin." The project has three primary initiatives: to provide opportunities for faculty, students and business people from southwest Wisconsin to engage in study tours and attend trade missions; to develop a "global competencies" international business certificate program for K-12 educators and businesses in southwest Wisconsin; and to enhance the development of an interdisciplinary curriculum and expand the collaboration of businesses, state and local officials, liberal arts faculty and students as it relates to international business and the global economy.

"This grant ranked among the top 5 percent of awards made this year and will help us continue the work we're doing now with international communications, allowing us to expand awareness of international business," Nzegwu said. "For example, we're planning trips to China and Brazil with students, faculty and area business people to study businesses and do networking research."

Nzegwu said the grant will benefit smaller businesses in southwest Wisconsin by providing the resources necessary for those businesses to engage in international business. The grant will also enable students and educators to gain hands-on experience in international business through attending workshops, seminars and other training opportunities.

"Both K-12 educators and college-level educators - particularly in liberal arts and business - have not been able to partake in opportunities that would aid them in internationalizing their courses," Nzegwu said. "Consequently, students are not developing the global competencies necessary to participate meaningfully or effectively in international business in the global economy."

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has been the home to Sun Prairie native Jodi Jung for the last four years. Jung, the daughter of Larry and Judy Jung and Fern Jung will be finishing her academic career at UWP this May.

Jodi Jung, who had originally planned on attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison, which was closer to home, decided that UWP would be more satisfying to her needs. Jung attributes most of her success to the way classes are set up at UWP.

"I loved the size of UWP. There is also a very friendly atmosphere throughout the entire campus and the community," Jung said.

"I had a lot of classes where we worked in groups on a project. It's easy for me to work hard on something on my own, but to have to work with an entire group on something helped me to be more patient and compromising. I think that this will help me a lot in the workplace," Jung said.

After changing her major to public relations after her first year at UWP, Jung will be able to graduate in four years without having taken any summer or winterim classes.

It's important that even if you don't know what you want to do, don't put off looking for a major. Talk with an undecided advisor or job shadow," Jung recommended.

While at UWP, Jung was involved with many organizations. Last year she was the president for the Public Relations Organization (PRO) and this year she was elected the recruitment manager for the organization.

Through PRO Jung was able to become a member of the Professional Convention Management Association (PCMA). She attended the annual convention, which was held this January in Anaheim, Calif.

"Going to the PCMA convention was great. It helped me to understand the professional aspect of public relations. I was able to meet some of the best public relations practitioners in the country and hear what they have learned. I was also able to do a lot of networking," Jung said.

Jung did her internship last summer with the Dubuque Humane Society. An internship is required for all communications majors to graduate. Although her internship is over, Jung still continues to volunteer there.

After graduation, Jung hopes to get a job with the Dane County Humane Society or near the Madison area. Jung will also be getting married this summer.

PLATTEVILLE- The comedy "Two Ridiculous Young Maidens Ridiculed," will be performed Wednesday and Thursday, May 7-8, at 8 p.m. in the UW-Platteville Center for the Arts Theatre.

Molière who lived in France under the reign of Louis the Sun King and is known commonly as the "prince of comedy," wrote "Two Ridiculous Young Maidens Ridiculed" before writing "The Miser" and "Tartuffe."

The plot of "Two Ridiculous Young Maidens Ridiculed" starts with two maidens, Patos and Magdelon, who live their lives like a romance novel. They drive every man they date crazy. Eventually, their ex-lovers, Mascrelle and The Count, decide they are sick of the maiden's antics and hire two other men to pose as dukes. Many of Molière's plays are based on the idea of attempting to convince the audience and other characters in the plays that someone is something they are not.

The cast is comprised of 11 actors and actresses who will travel on the road to six different high schools in the area including Iowa-Grant, Cuba City and Lancaster. Traveling will provide an opportunity for recruitment and more performance opportunity.

"Usually, performers practice for six weeks and then perform four times, while in the professional world, plays can be performed up to a thousand times. In my time here, I have tried to provide opportunities for students to perform more than four times. In this case, they will be performing eight times, " said McCaslin-Doyle.

While visiting these high schools, cast members will work with the students in half-hour workshops. The students will be taught concentration and dramatic motivation techniques, as well as be introduced to pantomime work and creative dramatics.

"UWP students will be able to see a classic text, performed in a variety of ways," said McCaslin-Doyle, director of theatre studies. "We haven't had a classical play performed at UWP for two years. People shouldn't be afraid to see a classical work."

Admission to the performance is $2. Tickets can be attained at the UWP Box Office at (608) 342-1298.

McCaslin-Doyle described "The Two Ridiculous Young Maidens Ridiculed," as "over the top" and "a riot."

PLATTEVILLE-An annual University of Wisconsin-Platteville spring arts festival, Schwetzingen Day, is rich in history, tradition and German lore.

The origins of Schwetzingen Day began in the 18th century in the German village of Schwetzingen, a rural community about the size of Platteville, when an English music historian named Charles Burney heard the royal orchestra practicing.

Impressed, Burney wrote an account of his musical encounter, "The Present State of Music in Germany … 1775 London."

The late Roland Anfinson, then chair of the UWP music department, brought the spirit of that German town to Platteville 26 years ago.

Don't let the hard-to-pronounce name - Schwetzingen Day - stop you from having fun at this year's Wednesday, April 30, spring blast with music, food and fun.

Just purse your lips like you're getting ready to kiss someone, say "Schwetz" (rhymes with "Fletch") and the rest will follow. Things will get rolling at 9:30 a.m. at the northwest patio of the Pioneer Student Center.

This free and open to the public event, sponsored by the UWP Department of Fine Arts, will feature 10 musical ensembles, including wind ensemble, symphony band, two jazz ensembles, two jazz combos, University singers, chamber choir, pep band and concert choir.

The UWP music department invites everyone to join in the spring tradition, said Fine Arts Chair Department Daniel Fairchild. Campus organizations join in each year selling a wide variety of food and more, he added.

In case of rain, the event will be held in the PSC Pioneer Crossing. For further information, please call 608-342-1123.

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville welcomed German professor Heinz Schmiedel to campus for the spring semester to teach in the electrical engineering department. Schmiedel is on sabbatical leave from the University of Applied Sciences in Fachhochschule Darmstadt, Germany, one of UWP's partner schools in Germany.

"When Rich Shultz (Dean of the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science) was in Darmstadt visiting the University of Applied Sciences, we met and talked about me spending my sabbatical at UW-Platteville," Schmiedel said. "My wife, who is a teacher, and I arrived in February and will be here through mid-June."

Schmiedel is team-teaching two courses this semester, advanced analog electronic circuits with assistant professor Phil Sealy and microstrip circuit design with professor Dave Drury. Schmiedel said experiencing the differences between universities in the U.S. and in Darmstadt is one of the benefits of spending his sabbatical at UWP.

"It's interesting to see how the different systems of the universities work, how the university is run, the class sizes, teaching methods and curriculum content," Schmiedel said. "There are pros and cons to both, but generally I'd say the class sizes here are smaller, which I think is good for the students. Students at UWP, on average, seem more motivated than the students in Germany, perhaps because in Germany the students don't have to pay tuition."

In addition to gaining insight into the differences between teaching in the U.S. versus teaching in Germany, Schmiedel said he hopes to strengthen the relationship between UWP and the University of Applied Science and encourage students to seize the opportunity to study abroad and visit other countries.

Before returning to Germany, Schmiedel plans to work on several research projects involving transmission lines and may revisit several of the Wisconsin state parks.

"Over spring break, my wife and I took a road trip throughout Wisconsin and we really enjoyed the state parks," Schmiedel said.

Mesut Muslu, chair of the electrical engineering department, said having Schmiedel spend his sabbatical at UWP is an excellent opportunity for students and faculty members

"Heinz brings his views on electrical engineering into the classroom and shares them with the students," Muslu said. "It's also a good opportunity for our faculty to share ideas with him, and we hope to send one of our faculty members to Darmstadt in the future."

PLATTEVILLE-Indian history, culture and traditions of Wisconsin tribes will come alive at a University of Wisconsin-Platteville Connections luncheon series for women at 11:30 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, at the Park Inn Convention Center, Platteville.

Presenter will be Fay Stone (Oginliquay), elder member of an Ojibway tribe. The program is the last in a spring series sponsored by the UWP Office of Continuing Education in partnership with the UW-Extension.

Registration for the luncheon and program, which costs $10, may be made by contacting the UWP Office of Continuing Education, 608-342-1314, or toll-free, 1-888-281-9472, or by visiting the website at http://www.uwplatt.edu/cont_ed/

PLATTEVILLE-A University of Wisconsin-Platteville panel of Hmong students will educate students and the public about their culture at a panel discussion at 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 22, in the Doudna Hall Little Theater.

Six Hmong panelists -Ger Vang, Sheng Vang, Fue Xiong, Ong Xiong, Yeng Yang and Zer Yang - talk about their Hmong heritage and the challenge of dealing with native and American cultures.

Wisconsin has one of the largest Hmong populations in the United States, along with California and Minnesota.

There are 23 Hmong students at UWP, said Pusaporn Tabrizi, who serves as both Hmong Club and Asian Students In Action Club adviser.

A native of Thailand, Tabrizi works closely with Hmong students on campus. "This is a new generation," said Tabrizi of UWP's Hmong student population. "They were either born here or came here as infants."

According to the Hmong Cultural Center, Inc., the Hmong people are survivors of a horrific history. Fleeing their native China in the 19th century, they settled in the mountainous regions of Indochina, specifically Laos, Thailand, Burma and Vietnam.

The long road to Indochina was fraught with danger and starvation, with many deaths and burials along the journey. Despite overwhelming hardships, many Hmong survived.

The Hmong endured further hardships when they fought in support of the United States against communism from 1960-1975. They then became a target for North Vietnam and the Pathet Lao when Laos fell to the communists after U.S. troops were pulled from Southeast Asia.

Pro-American Hmong were persecuted and many fled through the jungles of Laos to Thailand where they endured refugee camps to be placed in the United States, Canada and France.

PLATTEVILLE- Students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville enrolled in the school of education are taking a course, "Middle Level Block II," to apply service-learning projects.

Service learning gives students opportunities for hands-on and innovative learning, personal growth and reflection, interpersonal skills, a practical approach to learning and community improvement and involvement.

Dr. Bill McBeth and Dr. Dave Braun y Harycki teach the course, which has only been offered twice before, and is only offered during the spring session each year. The class is taught in a 4-hour block, which contains two courses, advising, interaction and communication, and teaching transescents.

"This is a real innovated program," said McBeth. "Service learning is important to be part of schools."

The course allows students to work with a middle school they select, which allows them to work with teachers and administration to develop ways for middle school improvement, while gaining hands-on experience. Students in the course are divided into teams and decide on a project that was identified directly from the middle school.

The professors prepared curriculum aids for the students to give them some knowledge of their topics selected. The students were also given a curriculum to show what professional skills they needed to present their report and research conclusions.

"Students presented their service learning project at the Wisconsin Association for Middle Level Educators." McBeth said. "The students presented to principals or whomever their contact persons were for their middle school."

Throughout the semester students had to hand in weekly reflections on how their research or project was going. This helped the students and the professors understand how their service learning process was working.

For students who are pursuing a young adolescents (ages 10-14) license, service learning will be offered as an 8-hour block that will be team-taught and consist of many service learning projects through the semester. Students who are planning on teaching middle or high school will take the traditional course that is currently offered.

McBeth and Braun y Harycki designed a longitudinal study on previous students to find out if they are implementing the service leaning process in their own teaching methods.

PLATTEVILLE - Following a fruitless search for a new director of the school of agriculture at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, professor Mark Zidon has stepped forward to fill the position.

As the new director of the school of agriculture, Zidon will be responsible for coordinating meetings, curriculum development, budgetary issues, working with program directors for the six majors offered in agriculture at UWP and the day-to-day operations of the department.

"I'm still going to teach part-time in agricultural education and agricultural mechanics, but will now be taking on a leadership role in the school of agriculture as well," Zidon said. "I'm excited to take on the position and am looking forward to providing leadership for the school and facilitating communication."

Zidon will officially take on the position June 9. As the new director, one of the biggest challenges he faces will be maintaining quality education in the school of agriculture despite tight budget constraints.

"Maintaining a strong teaching program in the majors we have and providing faculty members with the resources they need will be my biggest challenges," Zidon said. "Keeping our undergraduate programs connected with the Pioneer Farm will also be a challenge."

Zidon will also be working in conjunction with Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture Dean Duane Ford regarding the direction of the Pioneer Farm.

Zidon obtained his bachelor and master's degrees from North Dakota State University in agricultural education. He continued his education at Iowa State University where he received his Ph.D. in agricultural education. Prior to joining the UWP faculty in 1990, Zidon taught agricultural mechanics at Iowa State University and high school agriculture in North Dakota. He was the 2002 recipient of the Underkofler Excellence in Teaching Award and he and his wife, Twila who works in food service at the Platteville Middle School, have four daughters.

PLATTEVILLE - Hard working and dedicated are just a few words one could use when describing senior UW-Platteville student Elizabeth Blair. Blair, from Ripon, will be graduating this May with an outstanding grade point average and a degree in electrical engineering.

Blair originally grew up in Lake Wales, Fla., near Orlando, and then moved to Ripon when she was 13. Following high school, Blair started her college career at Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE). After the first year, Blair transferred to UWP due to the exceptional lab opportunities and hands on experience available at an affordable tuition.

Since transferring to UWP, Blair has become involved in numerous activities and organizations both on and off campus. Her personal love for math has inspired her to be a tutor for calculus, along with tutoring students in circuits. Blair has been a member of the organization Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) where she has served two semesters as publicity communications chair and two semesters as secretary. She has also been a member of the electrical engineering honor society, Eta Kappa Nu.

When she is not working with engineering, Blair spends time playing her trombone in the UWP Wind Ensemble. She has also served as a mentor for a German exchange student. While the German student was here, she showed him around campus and helped him with his lab studies.

Blair is also an active participant in Intervarsity. She has spent numerous hours taking part in bible studies and community programs. Each year for Christmas, Blair has helped with buying gifts for underprivileged children. She has also participated in the Milwaukee Urban Plunge during spring break 2001. During this time, Blair and other Intervarsity members traveled to a community church located in inner city Milwaukee to perform community service such as fixing up old houses, working with children and teaching others about racial reconciliation.

Following graduation, Blair will be taking a job at Alliance Laundry Systems in Ripon. She has interned at Alliance for the past four summers and will continue her work on Palm Pilot programming for infrared communication. Blair also has plans to attend graduate school sometime in the future.

Blair's parents still reside in Ripon with her 11 year-old brother, Jake. Her sister, Jen, is currently a freshman at UW-La Crosse majoring in Spanish.

UWP janitor Tim Noyce is a clog dancing veteran.

PLATTEVILLE-Once a week, University of Wisconsin-Platteville janitor Tim Noyce changes his blue work uniform for casual clothes and tap shoes to go clogging.

No, clogging is not a class in cleaning drain pipes.

Inspired by folk music, clog dancing was brought from Scotland into the Tennessee and Kentucky region 18th century pioneers and coal miners. The movement is mostly from the waist down, on the order of Irish dancing.

Today, according to clogging enthusiasts, there are more than 450,000 North Americans breaking out the dancing shoes and into a sweat.

Noyce and a friend, Gail Bridge, started the Dubuque Rhythm Cloggers in 1989. The group, which practices weekly, has grown to about 30, and regularly puts on performances at fairs, parades and weddings.

Noyce, a former square dancing enthusiast, got hooked on clogging after winning a jitterbugging contest in Milwaukee, then joining the Cripple Creek Cloggers in Madison.

As his passion for clogging grew, so did Noyce's talent for choreography. He writes much of the choreography for the Dubuque Rhythm Cloggers. His future plans include giving lessons and workshops. He also plans to attend a workshop in May to learn new steps.

Today's clogging - a type of line dance style - still evokes powerful hand-clapping emotions and speaks of Appalachian Mountain dancing. The dance was passed down from father to son in pioneer times; today it is generally passed from friend to friend.

Coal miners beat out rhythms on a wooden board with their heavy work shoes. Now dancers wear tap shoes instead.

The Dubuque Rhythm Cloggers women wear gold glitter tops with black pants and the guys dress in white shirts, ties and black pants, said Noyce. Both sexes wear white tap shoes.

Besides the obvious benefit of exercise, clogging is good for mental and emotional health as well.

Clogging helped Noyce stay focused when he was going through a painful divorce several years ago. "It helped me keep my mind busy," he said. "It's very therapeutic."

Besides dancing, the group offers friendship and is supportive, said Noyce. "We celebrate weddings and birthdays and have a great time in general."

Clogging is great fun for all ages, said Noyce. "It's for young to old. The age range in our group is from 13 to 81."

The cost? A mere $2 per lesson. "All you need is a desire to learn how to dance and clog," said Noyce.

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Block and Bridle Club will be hosting its third annual open steer and heifer show, as well as the fourth annual open lamb jackpot show. The "Pioneer Showdown" will be held at the Grant County Fairgrounds in Lancaster.

The open lamb show will be held on Saturday, April 26. Awards will be given to grand champion lamb ($400) and reserve grand champion lamb ($300). There is a $20 entry fee per animal. This is a fundraiser for the UWP Block and Bridle Club.

The open steer and heifer show will be held on Sunday, April 27. The entry fee is $25 for pre-entry and $35 for a late entry. Awards will also be given to grand champion steer and heifer ($500 a piece) and reserve grand champion steer and heifer ($250 a piece).

Sheep come from as far away as Eastern Indiana and Nebraska, and cattle from Ohio will be shown at the event.

"The event has always been well-received and the shows continue to grow year after year. It is a great networking tool for students, plus it gives them the opportunity to work on their leadership and organizational skills. The students do most of the work and planning associated with the event," said Alicia Prill-Adams, Block and Bridle Club advisor.

"The entire Block and Bridle Club is involved. While there are chairs for different areas, it is truly a team effort. It has to be or it couldn't be pulled off," stated Prill-Adams.

There is also a $200 scholarship awarded to a high school student participating in the show.

For further information email pioneershowdown@hotmail.com or Alicia Prill-Adams at (608) 342-1326.

PLATTEVILLE-The sweet, hot sounds of jazz warmed the cool spring air Wednesday night at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Center for the Arts Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall.

It was the first visit to UWP for the 23-member Mississippi Valley State University jazz band, directed by Kenneth Milton. The MVSU jazz combo and jazz ensemble cut loose with funk, classical and blues, playing numbers such as "The Best of Earth, Wind and Fire," and "I'll Always Smile in Spring."

The performance, which included the UWP Jazz Ensemble II, directed by Gary Leopold, was part of a two-day exchange program that was the result of a relationship begun one year ago at Itta Bena, Miss. UWP's jazz band performed concerts at MVSU and area schools.

"It was exciting to hear what another university like MVSU is doing, and to see and hear what other students are playing," said Leopold.

Part of a multicultural education and partnership project, the exchange is deemed successful by UWP Fine Arts Chair Dan Fairchild.

"We've been working on this for a year," said Fairchild. "It is a delight for us. Musicians always like to play together."

The MVSU musicians went to classes with UWP students and also performed at a noon concert in the Pioneer Student Center.

The exchange is a great opportunity for both schools, Leopold added. "Even though music is a universal language, the schools have different approaches."

UWP's jazz ensemble played five selections, including "Ballad for Jenny," "In Her Family," "Scoot" and "Oops There!"

Matt Schrader, parliamentarian for UWP's music fraternity Phi Mu Alpha, said the concert was a great opportunity. "We get to hear people from another part of the country. Any part of a cultural exchange is great."

Schrader understands cultural nuances. "When I was a freshman in high school we moved from upstate New York to Wisconsin, and of course it was somewhat of a culture shock."

The exchange, part of the "Strengthening the UWP, UW-Richland and MVSU Partnership" includes not only the jazz music exchange program between students enrolled at the three universities, but student and student teacher exchange programs as well.

PLATTEVILLE-As an attorney in an evolving wrongful death case, opening and closing statements are crucial. Though Judy Williams is not an attorney yet, she plays one on the UW-Platteville mock trial team, and after graduating in the spring from UWP will pursue her education further at Drake Law School. This spring, Williams, a native of Bloomington, will graduate from UWP with a degree in criminal justice and political science with a pre-law emphasis.

Being involved in the Pre-Law Club's Mock Trial competition is only one of the many activities that Williams, has been involved with at UWP. She has also been a member of the UWP Student Senate, a member of Alpha Lambda Delta, and involved in musical groups including pep band and Marching Pioneers.

Williams works in Platteville at Kopp, McKichan, Geyer, Skemp & Stombaugh, LLP, about 10 hours per week.

"I appreciate that Sheila Stuart Kelley at Kopp, McKichan, Geyer, Skemp & Stombaugh, LLP, essentially took a chance on me. She said I could volunteer at the law office," said Williams. "Eventually I was hired as a law clerk. She has been a role model and someone to look up to. She took me under her wing."

"Dr. John Rink has been highly influential in my life. He shows excitement in his class. In the class constitutional law, he celebrated the 200th anniversary of Marbury v. Madison. The case established the power of judicial review. He brought in a cake and we had a little 10-minute party in class. It just shows how excited he is about the subject and that he really cares," said Williams.

Williams initially chose to attend UWP because it was close to home and she grew up in a small area. Williams offered some words of wisdom and advice to undergraduates.

"Go into college with an open mind. I met my best friend here. In college you can meet people who have the same interests and build strong friendships," said Williams.

Williams will be attending Drake Law School in the fall. She plans on pursuing a trial attorney position and learning all she can about trial advocacy.

PLATTEVILLE - The Center for the Arts (CFA) has been providing students, faculty and community members with a professional environment to learn and experience the performing arts for over 20 years.

In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the CFA will be the site for a festivity April 25, 2003. The night will begin at 7 p.m. with a dessert reception located in the CFA Theatre. Following the reception will be a concert featuring the Rountree Ensemble at 8 p.m. in the Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall. The concert will also include a performance on the Robert and Myrtle Velzy Concert Organ, originally donated to the CFA in 1984.

The CFA first opened March 22, 1983, with Moliere's "The Miser" performed by The National Players from Washington, D.C. The director of the CFA at the time was John Mominee. Originally from Evansville, Ind., Mominee arrived in Platteville in 1980 as artist-in-residence and director of the Harry and Laura Nohr Art Gallery. He was appointed director of the CFA July 1, 1982, in concurrence with the completion of the $5.2 million CFA complex and continued to fill various roles in music and art throughout his time at UWP.

The first full semester that the CFA was in use during the fall of 1983, more than 20 musical performances alone were presented in the newly constructed complex. Since that time, the CFA has hosted numerous performances and events over the years.

The Wisconsin Shakespeare Festival was held in the CFA in 1985, along with performances by pianist James Barbagallo, violinist Stephanie Chase, the American Ballet Theatre II and the "The Pirates of Penzance" by the Skylight Comic Opera. The CFA has also been home to several theatre performances such as "The Nutcracker" in 1985, "Joe Egg" and "Anything Goes" in 1986 and "The Good Doctor" in 1988. More recent events include "Cornell Gunter's Coasters" in 2001 and the "James Sewell Ballet" in 2002. Along with these pieces, the CFA has also been host site to countless performances throughout the summer months including the "Music Festival" and the current "Heartland Festival."

The CFA is still a hub of musical and artistic excitement for students, faculty and community members. John Hassig, current program coordinator for the CFA and Harry and Laura Nohr Art Gallery, has worked hard the past few years to continue bringing a diverse variety of performances to UWP. Presently more than 150 events, including campus orientations, Pioneer Previews and Campus Programming and Relations (CPR) sponsored programs, are held in the CFA each year. For more information regarding the CFA or the 20th anniversary celebration, contact the CFA Box Office at (608) 342-1298 or John Hassig at (608) 342-1267.

Left to right: Roy Forsyth, Brad Peterson, Travis Feltes, Jeremy Thomas, Sara Wolfert, Michael Rice.

PLATTEVILLE - One UW-Platteville senior design team will learn first-hand about working under the rules and regulations of the United States Army Corporation of Engineers (USACE) while completing a floodwall project for Grand Forks, N.D.

Every spring as the snow melts, the Red River of the North floods the town of Grand Forks, destroying large residential areas. The project is a unique one considering the Red River of the North is one of the few rivers that flow north in the United States. This project is also unique because the solution has already been determined by the USACE. The goal for the senior design team is to solve the problem correctly given the appropriate information and following the codes and regulations from the USACE.

The Grand Forks team consists of six civil engineering students with an emphasis in structural and geotechnical engineering who will each be graduating this May. This includes Michael Rice, a sixth-year senior from Wausau; Jeremy Thomas, a fourth-year senior from Oshkosh; Travis Feltes, a fifth-year senior from West Bend; Roy Forsyth, a fifth-year senior from Arcadia; Brad Peterson, a fifth-year senior from Westby; and Sara Wolfert, a transfer student originally from Chilton.

The project consists of building a section of levee and a section of floodwall to protect the residential area of Grand Forks that runs along the Red River of the North. So far the team has analyzed the soil data and plotted the area along the river. The team has also designed a section of levee and floodwall and looked into different alternatives that the USACE did not use.

The team's next step will include writing a report and presenting its solutions to one of the USACE specialists. Upon hearing the report the specialist will critique the team's analysis and provide feedback on the results.

The team has met many challenges during the project. The area along the river consists of a weak soil structure with a stronger soil structure on top, making it difficult to design and construct a solid levee and floodwall. The team has also been challenged while designing solutions that follow the engineering methods used by the USACE. Since the project takes place in North Dakota, the team has also learned how to proceed with long distance client communication.

Among the challenges, the team has learned about the glacial make-up of the Grand Forks area and its effects on the Red River of the North. The team members have also been able to implement the knowledge attained in their classes here at UWP.

Each of the team members has already arranged plans following graduation. Rice will be working for CGC, Inc. in Madison on the 151 Project and the Platteville bypass. Rice said the 151 Project is one of the largest earth moving projects in the history of Wisconsin. Thomas has chosen to continue his education by attending graduate school at the University of California, Davis. Feltes has accepted a position as a municipal engineer at MSA Professional Services, Inc., out of the Galena office. Wolfert will travel to Omaha, Neb., to work as a design engineer for Kiewit Engineering Co. Peterson will be working at Bonestroo Rosene Anderlik & Associates, Inc., in Mequon. Forsyth has accepted an underwater engineering position with Collins Engineers, Inc., in Cudahy.

PLATTEVILLE - On the University of Wisconsin-Platteville something is always going on related to residence life. Graduate student Ardell Sanders got a quick reminder of what residence life was all about when he became the resident director of Pickard Hall three years ago.

Sanders will be graduating this May with a master's degree in counselor education and a focus on leadership. He is also completing a research paper entitled "An Examination of the Correlation Between Leadership and Charisma."

Sanders, a native of Chicago, received his bachelor's degree in marketing from Clarke College in Dubuque, Iowa. He then moved to Atlanta to work in marketing.

"After a year of working in Atlanta and living on my own, I realized that this wasn't what I wanted to be doing," Sanders said.

Sanders heard about the resident director position open at UWP from David Nevins, leadership development coordinator for the Pioneer Involvement Center, and his wife Sherry, assistant director of student housing. Sanders met the two while attending school at Clarke College.

Being a resident director, Sanders is able to be in contact with students on a day-to-day basis.

"The work I do every day has a direct effect on the classwork. It makes it a lot easier," Sanders said.

In his spare time at UWP, Sanders volunteered to coach soccer for youth in the Platteville summer recreation program.

After a year off from classes, Sanders hopes to further his education with a doctorate degree from either the University of Minnesota or the University of Michigan. Afterward, he plans to work in some aspect of higher education or student affairs.

PLATTEVILLE-UW-Platteville's Mentor Program has been encouraging women in the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Science for more than five years.

Briana Brunkow, a junior majoring in industrial engineering, became a mentor after participating in the program as a mentee last year. She oversees two mentees and there are two other mentors in her group. Brunkow heard about the program as a member of The Society of Women Engineering (SWE).

"I found that it was very rewarding experience and I wanted to share it with other people," said Brunkow. "The benefit of being a mentor is the ability to reach out to the students in lower classes. It also gives me the chance to share my engineering experiences with others. I really like being there for the girls if they have any questions or worries about school or life in general."

Brunkow, having been a mentee herself, said the benefit of being a mentee is the chance to meet other female engineering students. By being in a major that is predominantly male, it is nice to have some female friends in your class she said. The mentors are able to answer questions about making resumes, applying for co-ops and interviewing techniques.

Brunkow and her mentees have participated in a variety of activities as a mentor group. Her group gets together for weekly suppers throughout the year. These suppers give the mentees a chance to ask any questions they may have about their classes.

"We have also made very close friendships within our mentor group, so it gives us the chance to catch up on what one another has done the past week," said Brunkow. "We have also attended programs put on by campus, such as Dinner with Ms. Manners."

Examples of mentor program activities include attending athletic events, visiting a jobsite and discussions on a variety of topics.

"I would strongly encourage someone to become either a mentor or a mentee. Being a part of the mentor program gives you the chance to meet new people and to share your engineering and college experiences with each other," said Brunkow.

The mission of the mentor program is to provide the women in the College of EMS an opportunity to partner with other students who will provide friendship, guidance and support.

"The biggest accomplishment of the program is the networking and recognition that these women receive," said Tammy Salmon-Stephens, director of the UWP Women in Engineering Program and advisor to SWE.

A mentor center, located in Ottensman Hall, with a central location, is used to coordinate activities and house industry resources that students can check out and use. These resources are issues on gender equities, hands-on activities, information on technical skills and serves as an office for SWE. The area will also serve as a lounge area, and will have an area that will have up to five computer workstations as furniture and technologies become available.

"It's important to highlight that if UWP didn't support and value these programs, then we wouldn't have this comprehensive of a program. It [the program] distinguishes UWP from the rest," said Salmon-Stephens.

Christy Kelly explains her research project at the UWP Research Poster Day on campus earlier this week.

PLATTEVILLE-University of Wisconsin-Platteville students and area residents crowded into the Beaux Arts Room of the Ullsvik Center to view 32 exhibits at the ninth annual UWP Research Poster Day.

The event was a chance for the public to appreciate the strong commitment that faculty, staff and students have to these research projects, and a chance for the public to view the results of their hard work, said Kathy Lomax, UWP's director of sponsored programs.

The day was also created to recognize the research and scholarly and creative activities and facilitate an exchange of information between departments and colleges within UWP.

The significance of poster day is also an opportunity for faculty and students to display and talk about the research they have been working on, Lomax added.

Bright pink fluid floated in clear plastic flasks at the "Effects of 5-Azacytidine" display manned by graduate student Christy Kelly of Hortonville and Danielle Davis, a junior biology major from Mukwonago.

The semester-long research project has implications for future cancer cures, said Kelly. The pink fluid is a nutrient medium keeping alive a strain of mouse tumor cells and contains the chemical 5-Azacytidine.

The chemical changes the tumor cells to muscle cells, said Davis. "It's amazing to watch the transformation," said Kelly. An inverted microscope was set up for viewing the cells, which adhere to the side of the flasks.

According to website information, 5-Azacytidine is currently in experimental use for refractory acute myelogenous leukemia. In addition, there are trials testing it with a variety of cancers.

Several students gathered in front of a psychology department display, "Effects of Parental Conflict on Children." The research, done by students Molly Zuehlke and Jay Scholtz, asserted that fighting parents, and not necessarily divorce, creates greater suffering for kids.

The study addressed attitudes towards marriage among midwestern college students. Marital conflict and its influence on the number of sexual partners was one of the study areas.

Observer Brad Manlick, a freshman mechanical engineering student from Wisconsin Rapids, said he thought the display was well-organized and informative. "This is what happens in real life," said Manlick.

Research projects from a variety of departments within UWP's three colleges were displayed, including photographs, slide shows, videos, computer displays, published articles and equipment demonstrations used in the research.

The UW-Platteville Center for the Arts Performing Arts Series will present the exceptional musicianship of Burning River Brass on April 16 at 8 p.m. Composed of 12 of the country's finest brass and percussion players, Burning River Brass is an ensemble on fire! The expanded instrumentation provides a broad palette of colors for works written for brass as well as fresh arrangements of classic literature.

Quickly becoming the most respected brass ensemble in the United States, Burning River Brass has been dazzling audiences since 1996 with "power and virtuosity," "harmonious blend," and "consistently stirring performances." Members of BRB have appeared with The Cleveland Orchestra, the Boston Symphony, the Boston Pops, the Philadelphia Orchestra, the Cincinnati Symphony, and the Pittsburgh Symphony. They can also be heard on movie soundtracks, commercial recordings, television and radio.

On the same evening of this performance, a pre-show dinner will be served in the Ullsvik Center at 6 p.m. During the meal, diners will get the first look at the events planned for the 2003-04 Performing Arts Series. All dinner tickets are $12 and must be reserved three days in advance.

Following the dinner, a pre-show conversation will be held with a member of the ensemble at 7 p.m. in the CFA. The pre-show discussion is free and open to the public.

Reserved seats for Burning River Brass are $20 for general public, $18 for UWP faculty/staff and senior citizens, $10 for UWP students and $12 for children under 18. Tickets for Burning River Brass are available through the University Box Office in the Center for the Arts. The box office is open Monday through Friday 9 a.m. to 5.p.m. and can be reached at 342-1298. The University Box Office is located in the lobby of the Center for the Arts on the UWP campus at 700 W. Main St. More information on the Performing Arts Series can be found at http://www.uwplatt.edu/arts/cfa.

PLATTEVILLE- Setting "young imaginations on flights of adventures," the University of Wisconsin-Platteville will host Camp Invention, a weeklong day camp for student in grades two through sixth, June 16-20.

Camp Invention offers hands-on learning opportunities that combine math, science, history and art to encourage children's curiosity and creativity. Rick Morgan, UWP credit outreach program manager for continuing education, said this will be UWP's first summer hosting Camp Invention.

"In the past, camps of this caliber were only available in big cities. Why should kids in metropolitan areas have an advantage over kids whose parents choose to live in a rural area?" Morgan said. "Bringing enrichment activities into the area is what UWP and UW-Extension are all about, so we're very excited to be able to offer such a top-notch camp to area kids."

The camp will offer three main activity themes. With "Marbleous Inventions," campers will learn about motion through the use of marble games, designing and testing their own marble machines and experiencing the art of "marblization." Campers will have an opportunity to modify some of their favorite games - changing rules, equipment and players with "Amazing Games." Lastly, discarded appliances will be used for the "I Can Invent" activity, where campers are given the opportunity to take a part appliances to see how they work and to create their own fantasy inventions.

In addition to UWP and UW-Extension, 20 school districts in the tri-state area are involved with camp invention. The camp will be staffed by certified, area teachers and UWP students. Participants will attend the camp from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. For an additional cost, daycare will be available from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 3:30 p.m. to 5 p.m. Camp fees are $190 per child through May 31 and $199 per child after May 31. To register, contact Camp Invention at (800) 968-4332 or www.campinvention.org. For more information on UWP's involvement with the camp, contact Rick Morgan at (608) 342-1347.

PLATTEVILLE- The comedy "Two Ridiculous Young Maidens Ridiculed," will be performed Wednesday and Thursday, May 7-8, at 8 p.m. in the UW-Platteville Center for the Arts Theatre.

Molière who lived in France under the reign of Louis the Sun King and is known commonly as the "prince of comedy," wrote "Two Ridiculous Young Maidens Ridiculed" before writing "The Miser" and "Tartuffe."

The plot of "Two Ridiculous Young Maidens Ridiculed" starts with two maidens, Patos and Magdelon, who live their lives like a romance novel. They drive every man they date crazy. Eventually, their ex-lovers, Mascrelle and The Count, decide they are sick of the maiden's antics and hire two other men to pose as dukes. Many of Molière's plays are based on the idea of attempting to convince the audience and other characters in the plays that someone is something they are not.

The cast is comprised of 11 actors and actresses who will travel on the road to six different high schools in the area including Iowa-Grant, Cuba City and Lancaster. Traveling will provide an opportunity for recruitment and more performance opportunity.

"Usually, performers practice for six weeks and then perform four times, while in the professional world, plays can be performed up to a thousand times. In my time here, I have tried to provide opportunities for students to perform more than four times. In this case, they will be performing eight times, " said McCaslin-Doyle.

While visiting these high schools, cast members will work with the students in half-hour workshops. The students will be taught concentration and dramatic motivation techniques, as well as be introduced to pantomime work and creative dramatics.

"UWP students will be able to see a classic text, performed in a variety of ways," said McCaslin-Doyle, director of theatre studies. "We haven't had a classical play performed at UWP for two years. People shouldn't be afraid to see a classical work."

Admission to the performance is $2. Tickets can be attained at the UWP Box Office at (608) 342-1298.

McCaslin-Doyle described "The Two Ridiculous Young Maidens Ridiculed," as "over the top" and "a riot."

PLATTEVILLE - One of UW-Platteville's senior design teams has recently paired up with Tom Bragg of Panltek, manufacturers of steel building systems in Platteville, to help design the walls and support beams to hold and connect 16 roof panels measuring 65 feet by 12 feet each without support columns taking up space in the middle of a building.

Panltek's primary market currently lies in agricultural buildings, but the company is looking to expand its market into small commercial clear span buildings. Having a design system to attach more free standing roof panels will allow Panltek to build larger, more versatile, buildings to attract a larger customer base.

The senior design team consists of three civil engineering students who will each be graduating this May. The team includes Kristine Palmer, a fourth-year senior from Two Rivers, and Brian Elskamp, a fifth-year senior from Kieler, each with an emphasis in structural and geotechnical engineering. The third team member is Adam Teuissen, a fifth-year senior from Sheboygan with an emphasis in structural and construction engineering.

Thus far, the team has designed the rafters and the two 65-foot beams that will extend to the center of the roof connecting the roof panels. The team has also worked on the crossbeams that will connect the beams throughout the panelized roof system.

The next step for the team involves designing the connection for each of the panelized frames. In doing so, the team must make sure the connection is strong enough to support the roof panels, insulation and possible snow loads.

The team has been challenged throughout the project due to its uniqueness. Since the roof system is panelized and needed to be free standing, the group has spent a lot of time and energy designing alternative solutions to complete the project.

Throughout the course of the project the team has learned a lot about beam and steel construction. They have learned how to analyze a beam, which beams are strong enough to support certain loads, and in-depth information regarding steel design. The team has also learned about step-by-step interpretation and expectations of the project through a client.

Classes at UWP have also prepared the team for the project. Previously, the team has learned about steel design and how to test steel sections against failure and different weight loads. Civil engineering professor Matthew Roberts has also been a big help to the team and an excellent resource for information.

The team agrees that this project has been a wonderful real-life experience that has encouraged team members to think outside the box.

Following graduation each of the team members has continuing plans. Palmer will be attending graduate school at Iowa State University in Ames. Teuissen has already accepted a position with Donahue & Associates in Sheboygan. Elskamp is currently interviewing and seeking a position for future employment.

PLATTEVILLE-Katie Vaassen, daughter of Terry and Bonnie Vaassen of Platteville, will be graduating from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville this spring.

Vaassen grew up and attend school in Platteville her entire life.

"UW-Platteville has a great relationship with the community. The two are always working to make the most out of events," Vaassen said.

Vaassen chose to go to UWP for many reasons.

"I liked the size of the campus and I like knowing people when I walked down the mall from one class to the next. Mostly I chose Platteville because it was close to home," Vaassen said.

Vaassen, who has a heart condition, wanted to be sure that she would be close to her parents so that if she need anything or something were to happen they would be close by.

While at UWP, Vaassen was involved in many extra-curricular activities. She has been a student ambassador for two and a half years. Through student ambassadors she has helped organize the tuition raffle, organize the homecoming parade, help with Pioneer Preview days for incoming freshmen, and attend leadership conferences. Vaassen was also on homecoming court her junior year.

Vaassen's most time consuming activity on campus was as a manager for the men's basketball team. She attended all games (home and away) as well as most practices. She was even able to go to Florida with the team.

"I had to make sure that I stayed caught up on my homework throughout the season. Fortunately I was able to work my schedule around the games and practices.

Vaassen encourages all students to get involved in one of the 170 organizations on campus.

"It's a great way to meet people. You don't have to make UWP a suitcase college. The organizations will help make connections that can be very helpful when getting ready to graduate."

"I've been interviewing a lot," Vaassen said. "After graduation I would like to work in the Madison area."

Vaassen has also been nominated for the UWP "Super Senior" Award, which acknowledges seniors who have gone above and beyond.

PLATTEVILLE-- The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Habitat for Humanity chapter is hosting a coed double elimination softball tournament that is open to the public, on April 25-26 at the Morrow softball fields. The games will be held at 5 an 6 p.m. on Friday, and resume on Saturday at 8 a.m. until the tournament is complete.

The tournament will be limited to 10 teams, and costs $25 per team. Concessions will be available, and prizes will be awarded. If interested in entering a team, please pick up an entry form at the Pioneer Student Center Information Desk. Any questions contact Brian Reed at 608-348-6697.

PLATTEVILLE-At almost any time of the day, one can turn on the television and see pictures of the Middle East via war coverage, yet to many Americans, little is known about this region, its people and the cultures there. In an attempt to shed some light on the subject, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville will host a spring policy forum entitled "Israeli-Palestinian Basics," at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 16, in Room 103 Doudna Hall. The focus of the forum will be geography, history and politics behind the Iraqi conflict.

"Many students have never studied the Middle East and this is a big issue where a large amount of misinformation is found," said Thomas Waters, chair of the department of social sciences and organizer of the forum. "One of the responsibilities of the University is to try to make sure our students are informed."

Speaking at the forum will be instructor Naim Paris Zeibak who will discuss the geography and demographics of the area. Associate professor David Krugler will discuss the history behind the United States' involvement with the Middle East and Waters will discuss the decision-making structures of the two political groups.

Each spring, the department of social sciences hosts a policy forum to discuss current issues. The "Israeli-Palestinian Basics" forum will be the fifth forum held by the University and will be co-hosted by the UWP History Club and the Students for Peace and Justice. All are welcome to attend the forum.

PLATTEVILLE - When several members of the Society of Plastic Engineers Board of Directors came to the University of Wisconsin-Platteville April 8, UWP professor Majid Tabrizi expected members to participate in the student chapter meeting. He didn't, however, expect the board to bestow upon him international recognition for his contributions to the Society of Plastic Engineers.

"I was completely caught by surprise when they presented me with the award," said Tabrizi, who is a professor of industrial technology and the director of the Center for Plastics Processing Technology at UWP. "I thought the board was just coming for a visit, but it turned out that one of the reasons they came to UWP was to present me with the award."

The Society of Plastic Engineers, a technical society with professional and student chapters located throughout the world, recognized Tabrizi's involvement and contributions toward the advancement and benefit of the plastics industry and the Society of Plastic Engineers. Tabrizi will be formally recognized by the society at the American National Technical Conference held in early May in Nashville, Tenn. Plastic industry professionals from around the world will attend the conference and present awards, gaining international exposure for UWP's plastics program. Tabrizi said plastics is a $9.8 billion industry in Wisconsin.

"According to statistics I have, 53,000 people are working in the Wisconsin plastics industry." Tabrizi said. "We're known for our dairy, but only 20,000 people work in that industry. Wisconsin ranks eighth in the nation for producing plastic, so plastics is big business in Wisconsin and UWP is the only school in the state with a plastics program."

Tabrizi is in his 16th year teaching at UWP. Originally from Iran, he came to the United States in 1977, earning a second bachelor's degree mechanical engineering technology from Southwest State University in Minnesotta. He earned his master's degree from UW-Stout and his Ph.D. from the University of Northern Iowa. After working for a laser company for several years, Tabrizi began teaching at the University of Northern Iowa and eventually came to Platteville. Tabrizi's wife, Pusaporn, also works for UWP as an advisor for multicultural services.

PLATTEVILLE -The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Distance Learning Center announced that enrollment is open for summer 2003 online courses.

UWP offers a variety of degree and certificate programs designed to meet the educational needs of working adults statewide. The programs are offered online so students can take them from the comfort of their own homes - whenever it is convenient for them.

Degree programs include: a master of engineering (100 percent online); a master of science in project management (100 percent online); master of science in criminal justice (100 percent online); and a bachelor of science in business administration (available as both online and print courses).

Certificate programs at the undergraduate level include: human resource management, international business and leadership and human performance. Certificate programs at the graduate level include project management and a graduate diploma in criminal justice.

For more information on any of these programs, including dates and specific courses offered, please visit www.uwplatt.edu/disted, call toll-free (800) 362-5460 or send an e-mail to disted@uwplatt.edu.

PLATTEVILLE - Most people walk into a building without a thought as to whether the building is safe - a sign that the safety engineer has done a good job. For occupational safety management students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, doing their future jobs will become a step easier with the opening of a new safety and compliance study lab on campus.

A grand opening event was held Friday, March 28, in Room 05 of Russell Hall, to welcome students, faculty and staff to the new lab and to recognize the generosity of the Keller Foundation for donating the majority of the materials available in the lab.

"The Keller Foundation of J.J. Keller and Associates, Inc., donated a list of materials for the lab such as manuals, videos, computer software, access to J.J. Keller and Associates' online program and a computer," said Linda Bouck, assistant professor of industrial studies and the faculty supervisor of the lab. "The gift totals around $70,000, and as our curriculum changes, J.J. Keller and Associates will continue to make donations like this to our program and the University."

Based out of Neenah, J.J. Keller and Associates, Inc., produces an array of training materials related to safety and compliance. Each year, Bouck said, the company donates materials to one school to set up a safety and compliance study lab. To receive the donation, UWP had to meet certain criteria such as offering a program related to risk management and designating a university faculty member to oversee the lab. Bouck volunteered to oversee the lab and two students will be paid to supervise the lab - which is also funded through the donation from J.J. Keller and Associates.

"I became aware of this opportunity through the risk management program at UW-Stout, which had received a similar donation from J.J. Keller and Associates," Bouck said. "I could see what a bonus it would be to our students to have a safety and compliance lab, so I contacted J.J. Keller and Associates. At that time, the Keller Foundation was considering another university, but because UWP showed so much enthusiasm and interests in the lab, the foundation chose us."

Students now have access to the most up-to-date materials used in the field of safety and compliance. With educational systems throughout the state feeling the constraints of budget cuts, the donation couldn't have come at a better time, Bouck said.

"During these difficult times, when we know student tuition will increase despite cutbacks, it's nice to receive something at no additional cost to the students or the University," Bouck said. "So we're very excited about the lab and appreciative of the generosity of J.J. Keller and Associates."

PLATTEVILLE-From the halls of Dobson at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville to hall director at Marquette University, UWP alumnus Tonya Schmidt will share the secrets of her leadership success at the Student Leadership Recognition event. Chosen as the keynote speaker, Schmidt will discuss the importance of "Confidence in Your Leadership Abilities," at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 24, in the UWP Center for the Arts.

"It's so important to have confidence in yourself and then apply that confidence to leadership experiences," Schmidt said. "This is what helps you grow as a person, so it helps you and those around you."

Schmidt graduated from UWP in 1998 with a degree in English and a minor in communications. As a student at UWP, she was a member of the concert, symphony and jazz bands, as well as the women's choir. Schmidt served on the Resident Hall Council, wrote for the student newspaper, The Exponent, and was a resident assistant and program assistant for Dobson Hall.

Schmidt's active involvement on campus, along with her study abroad experience in London and the student assistant position with the UW-Platteville Alumni Association and the UW-Platteville Foundation made her a good match for this year's leadership event.

"I knew Barb Daus (former director of UW-Platteville Alumni Services and currently the special assistant to Chancellor David Markee) through my student assistant position with the alumni and foundation offices," Schmidt said. "She knows of my involvement, personality and my study abroad experience so she asked me to speak at the event. When I was asked to speak, I was very flattered and extremely excited."

After graduating from UWP, Schmidt continued her education at UW-Whitewater, obtaining a master's degree in counseling and serving as assistant hall director for UW-Whitewater's Residence Life Department. Schmidt, her husband, Todd - who graduated from UWP in 1996 as the valedictory speaker with a degree in political science and a minor in accounting - and their daughter are currently relocating to Milton where he will be serving as the city administrator. Schmidt said UWP had a tremendous impact on her life.

"I was given so many opportunities at UWP to participate in leadership positions to learn and grow as a person," Schmidt said. "I really don't think I would have gotten all of this at just any college. Students can get involved in everything from sports and music to Greek organizations and professional associations. UWP students are given endless opportunities and if they take them, their lives will be enriched forever."

PLATTEVILLE-A University of Wisconsin-Platteville spring tradition, the 26th Annual Schwetzingen Day, will bring music, food and fun to the northwest patio of the Pioneer Student Center Wednesday, April 30, from 9:25 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

This free and open to the public event, sponsored by the UWP Department of Fine Arts, will feature 10 musical ensembles, including wind ensemble, symphony band, two jazz ensembles, two jazz combos, University singers, chamber choir, pep band and concert choir.

The annual event, a UWP tradition for the advent of spring, is named after the German town of Schwetzingen. A music historian, Charles Burney, arrived in Schwetzingen several years ago where he was delighted to learn the streets were filled with music.

The late Roland Anfinson, then chair of the UWP music department, brought the spirit of that German town to Platteville 26 years ago.

The UWP music department invites everyone join in the spring tradition, said Fine Arts Chair Department Daniel Fairchild. Campus organizations join in each year selling a wide variety of food and more, he added.

In case of rain, the event will be held in the PSC Pioneer Crossing. For further information, please call 608-342-1123.

PLATTEVILLE -At the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, students are encouraged to be involved in activities and clubs as early on as being admitted to the University.

Ryan Weiskircher, a fifth-year senior from Mineral Point who will be graduating this May, has followed this advice. Weiskircher, an animal science major with an agriculture business minor, is well known throughout the agriculture department at UWP as well as the entire campus for being involved with many clubs and organizations.

This year alone, Weiskircher was the UWP student representative to the Wisconsin Economic Summit III conference, chosen to represent UWP at UW Day, UWP System Student Representative for UWP, a member of the UWP Dairy Club, Pioneer Farm Ambassador, an Agri-Ambassador and a member of the University Singers. Although Weiskircher has been involved in various activities, he is very find of a few in particular.

Weiskircher is the president of the Block and Bridle Club. Being a part of this unique club that takes care of animals at the Pioneer Farm and shows them at competitions, has allowed Weiskircher to be able to travel all over the Midwest and southern states. One of Weiskircher's most memorable journeys was to Oklahoma City. There he and other students were able to visit the Cowboy Heritage Museum and the Oklahoma City Bombing Memorial site.

"It added a new perspective on the realization of the tragedy to actually be there and see it first-hand. It's a lot different then just watching it on the TV or reading about it. Everyone in our group was really quiet the entire time, just taking it all in," Weiskircher said. "We also went to Fort Worth, Texas where John F. Kennedy was assinated. I feel really lucky to be able to have seen so many significant places."

When Weiskircher isn't traveling, he works at the Pioneer Farm as a tour guide. He has given tours to two governors, legislators, perspective students and faculty, Japanese exchange students and elementary students.

"The elementary students were probably the most fun. Many of them had never been to a farm before. The one group got to see newly born baby pigs and a few groups got to get in one of the big tractors at the farm. They loved it," Weiskircher said.

Weiskircher is not only involved with agricultural activities at UWP, but he also appeared in this year's sold-out production of Grease at UWP, as a chorus member.

"I was in plays and musicals in high school and I didn't want to leave UWP without trying one. I think it helps make me a more well-rounded person," Weiskircher said.

"I've done a lot of things on campus and went on different trips, but the one thing I regret not doing was to study abroad. I always thought that would be interesting, I just never had the time to do it. If I could give advice to those still in school I would tell them to take advantage of all of the opportunities and activities that UWP has to offer. You have to have the drive and the desire to try new things and do that little bit extra."

After graduation, Weiskircher plans to work in Lincoln, Neb., for six months in a feedlot management program through continuing education. After that he plans to look for a job in sales and work his way into the production area.

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville engineering club, the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), sent 14 students to participate in the Clean Snowmobile Challenge March 19-23 in Houghton, Mich. The purpose of the challenge is to reengineer a stock snowmobile and reduce emissions and noise while retaining or improving performance.

This was the fourth year the challenge was held and the second year UWP competed there. There were 12 teams that competed in the 60-mile endurance test, which involved temperatures in the high 30s and rain. Out of the 12 teams, seven completed the endurance run, including UWP.

"We're thrilled that seven competitors passed the endurance event in these challenging conditions," event organizer Jay Meldrum said.

SAE members worked on their snowmobile since the beginning of the collegiate year to get it ready for the competition. UWP placed eigth in this year's completion, and received a plaque for the snowmobile with the best acceleration overall and scored high in the handling competition.

"We were a strong competitor throughout the competition, but then the Cadillac converter fell off, which hurt our emissions and place in the overall standings," said Jonathan Copeland, co-captain, and vice president of SAE.

The SAE members are already preparing for next year's competition. "We had a lot of fun, and it was a lot of work." Secretary of SAE Dan Bell said, "The knowledge we learned from this competition helped us understand what needs to be improved for next year."

Currently SAE members are updating the snowmobile and getting it ready for next year. The snowmobile will be on display for the public at Midwest Motor Sports in Kieler from April 14-18.

PLATTEVILLE - The parks and recreation department and the chamber of commerce of Muscoda have joined together with the help of four senior design students from UW-Platteville to design a new bathhouse for the community park and campground in Muscoda.

The four-person senior design team consists of Ben Ploederl, a senior from Appleton majoring in civil engineering with an emphasis in transportation and construction engineering; Brian Danielson, a fifth-year senior from Spooner majoring in civil engineering with an emphasis in transportation and construction engineering; Barry Larson, a fifth-year senior from South Wayne majoring in civil engineering with an emphasis in transportation and geotechnical engineering and Jason Hribar, a fifth-year senior from Union Grove majoring in civil engineering with an emphasis in environmental engineering.

The Muscoda bathhouse will feature bathroom and shower stalls for men and women along with a pavilion that includes kitchen facilities. The team's role in the project includes designing a foundation, drafting plans using a computer program called Micro-Station, structural work, site layout, cost estimation and determining material quantities.

The team has faced several challenges throughout the project. One of these challenges included locating the proper codes and regulations needed to ensure that the bathhouse is handicap accessible. The team has also been responsible for calculating the number of bathrooms and showers in comparison with the number of campsites and finding the correct regulations that need to be met.

Thus far the team has learned numerous skills from the unique real world experience provided by senior design projects. Communication and understanding the client has been one of these skills along with researching and locating the correct codes to meet regulation standards.

The team also feels well-prepared for the project because of information gained from previous classes. Many skills have been learned through classes that focused on structural, foundation and technical design and now the students have a first-hand opportunity to apply their knowledge. Organization skills within the group itself and with the client have provided sufficient and have been practiced throughout the project.

The team agrees that the senior design project is a unique one that provides something new in a potentially once in a lifetime experience.

Each of the team members will be graduating this May. Ploederl has already accepted a position in the transportation department at Omnni Associates Consulting Firm in Appleton. Hribar will be working for MSA Professional Services out of the Rhinelander office following graduation. Danielson and Larson are currently interviewing and seeking future employment.

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville hosted a Pulse 200 Demonstration at the Pioneer Farm on Thursday, March 27. The Pulse 200 is a revolutionary needle-free injection system for use on animals. Frank Kruse, vice president of the animal products for Felton International, gave a demonstration on pigs and cattle. 4-H students then held a cattle clinic, which was concluded by the National Agri-Marketing Association presentation.

"This new technology will make vaccinating herds a much simpler and quicker task by eliminating the needle from the entire process," said Kevin Bernhardt of the UWP School of Agriculture.

This technology helps to increase bio-security and cut spreading of disease because it does not use a needle (usually one needle is used to vaccinate potentially dozens of animals spreading disease rapidly.) The Pulse 200 injects medicine with air instead of a needle.

The product looks like a vest with carbon dioxide tanks attached to the back and a hose with an air gun attached to it.

The National Agri-Marketing Association (NAMA) here on campus is using the Pulse 200 product for its competition this month. The students in the club thought that a demonstration could benefit the University as well as the entire community. The demonstration will also help the students of NAMA see the product, which they will be marketing, in action.

NAMA, along with the Pre-Veterinary Club and the Block and Bridle Club invited nearly every producer and veterinarian in the animal agriculture in the surrounding counties.

"This event is being held to bring the community together with the students and to showcase some of what the Pioneer Farm has to offer," said Jamie Williams, NAMA president.

PLATTEVILLE - The one-time, one-stop, all-purpose shopping event for May 2003 University of Wisconsin-Platteville graduates was a hit. Of the estimated 650 fliers that were sent out to seniors, 407 graduating students attended and took advantage of all there was to offer at this year's UWP Senior Salute.

On March 5, prospective graduates lined up in the Touche Room of the UWP Ullsvik Center to have their final graduation check completed and to pay graduation fees. Graduating seniors ordered announcements, caps, gowns, tassels and college rings. Sue Lindholm, event coordinator, was very pleased with this year's salute.

"We tried something new this year and asked seniors to come at different times according to the first initial of their last name," Lindholm said. "This helped eliminate long lines and kept things moving along quite smoothly."

Seniors also had a chance to win prizes by signing up for the Senior Salute drawings. The winners of the one-year membership to the UWP Alumni Association and free t-shirts were Tim Kotloski, a mechanical engineering major from Berlin, Heather Olson, a biology major from Onalaska and Melissa Wiegel, a business administration major from Argyle.

When asked about the salute and how well it was run, Wiegel stated, "Since I was at the end of the alphabet, I didn't have to stand in the lines very long. That was really nice."

The winner of the cap and gown drawing, donated by the UWP bookstore, was Daniel Wolf, an electrical engineering major from Appleton. Erica Loeffelholtz, an elementary education major from New Glarus, won a Josten's class ring.

Besides crossing things off their checklists and signing up to win prizes, seniors also used the time to collect information about distance education, counseling services and graduate school. Another useful resource lending a hand at Senior Salute was University Placement Services. University Placement Services helps students gain experience through internships, co-ops, summer jobs and helps students secure full-time positions upon graduation. Dennis Pratt, interim director of University Placement Services, noted a number of seniors who attended were not involved in e-recruiting, an online web recruiting tool.

"This is a free service and all students should get involved in it [e-recruiting]," Pratt said. "Make placement your new best friend."

Overall, this year's Senior Salute was a great success, preparing May 2003 graduates for their long awaited walk across the stage and for their upcoming future endeavors.

PLATTEVILLE-At the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, more and more students are getting the opportunity to study abroad and participate in educational internships. Louis Nzegwu of the UWP Department of Business and Accounting hopes to make it possible for faculty to be able to experience these great opportunities as well.

On Thursday, April 17, the Business and Accounting Department will hold a conference for those interested in attending. The purpose of the conference is to increase faculty awareness of the demand of the local marketplace, help faculty achieve additional skills needed to manage and adapt to the changes of the global environment and help to facilitate inter-business learning by building links between universities and businesses.

The conference will be held in the Ullsvik Center. The morning of the conference attendees will be able to hear opinions and ask questions to a panel. The theme is "Faculty Exchange and Internships: Challenges and Opportunities." Some of the panel members include W. Randall Folks of the University of South Carolina-Colombia; Amanda McCorkle Laird of the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill and Andrea Poehling, of the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

After the luncheon speaker R.D. Nair of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, there will be workshop sessions on business and education in China. There will also be another panel discussion, "Leading a Short-Term Course Abroad-The Case of Japan." The panel for this discussion consists of Scott R. Johnston, Claudette McShane and David A. Block, all associate professors at Carroll College in Waukesha.

"Unlike our previous conferences, there will be no formal paper presentation of research findings at this conference. Instead, there will be lively, interactive workshop-like sessions, with lots of ideas and experience sharing," said Nzegwu.

PLATTEVILLE - On Thursday, March 27, students from the southern part of Wisconsin and northern Illinois participated in the FFA Skills Contest. The University of Wisconsin-Platteville has been holding this event, in conjunction with Appleton, for the last 27 years.

This year, 67 schools participated in the event, bringing 358 teams made up of 1,314 high school students. Students began the day with an open session in the Ullsvik Center. After the large group session, the FFA chapters broke out to attend their respective contests. The contests were held in the Pioneer Student Center, Russell Hall and at the Pioneer Farm.

There were many categories in which students could show their knowledge. Some of the events included agronomy, farm business management, meats, poultry, sales, livestock and dairy cattle and products.

Four students from Waunakee came to UWP to judge dairy products. In this event students are asked to evaluate different types of cheeses and milks. The students consider the texture, taste and smell to determine what type of cheese or milk was presented. The team placed 12th of 33 teams in the event.

"This is the third time I've been to UWP," said Jared Acker. "It's the first time I've been in the new student center, though."

The School of Agriculture was closed for the entire day so UWP students would be able to help facilitate the large number of students and events.

"I am very pleased with how the events were run. I am grateful for the help of the UWP faculty and students for the time that they spent preparing and hosting these events. This couldn't have happened without their cooperation. I'm so happy UWP has the facilities like the Pioneer Farm and the new student center to host these events," said Dr. Mark Zidon, professor in the School of Agriculture.

If students scored well at the competition they could earn a chance to compete at the state FFA skills contest. Six events qualify students to compete at the state level. They include agricultural mechanics, dairy cattle, livestock, horses, floriculture and wild life. The state contest will be held in Madison on Friday, April 25.

To see all of the results or further information about the contest go to www.uwplatt.edu/ffa/cde.

PLATTEVILLE - Outstanding faculty advising at UW-Platteville has not gone unnoticed. Cheryl Banachowski-Fuller, associate professor of criminal justice, was recently selected as a 2003 National Academic Advising Association (NACADA) Outstanding Advising Award winner in the faculty academic advising category.

Banachowski-Fuller was nominated by Tammy Salmon-Stephens, director of the women in engineering program and engineering advising, and the remaining members of the UWP advising team. The team members include George Smith, professor of communications and computer science; Jolene Wilson, professor of general engineering department; Sharon Pink, student support services counselor; Victor Levy, school of education; and Helen Hadorn, director of advising and career exploration services (ACES).

Every year one advisor from each of the three colleges is recognized with an award. From those three recipients, one is chosen by the UWP advising team to be nominated for the NACADA awards.

This year, Banachowski-Fuller received the advising award for the college of Liberal Arts and Education (LAE) at UWP and was chosen by the advising team to be nominated for the national award. Banachowski-Fuller went on to receive one of the most prestigious awards in NACADA for faculty advising. This award is only granted annually to approximately 6-8 individuals in the entire nation.

Banachowski-Fuller was chosen to receive this award based on numerous skills and attributions to the advising field. She has been advising graduate and undergraduate students for more then 20 years at the university and community college levels and currently advises more then 65 criminal justice undergraduate students. Banachowski-Fuller also fills the positions of program coordinator for the criminal justice distance education program in the College of LAE and is the sole advisor for approximately 125 graduate students involved in the program.

Another aspect of her advising is the uniqueness of her advisees. Banachowski-Fuller not only advises on-campus students, but she also advises a variety of non-traditional students enrolled in online classes. These students often require unique methods of communication via email and intranet to answer all questions and complete the advising process. Banachowski-Fuller's set of advisees range from incoming freshmen to non-traditional students returning to college using online services. This vast array of individuals has a variety of different needs to be fulfilled and questions to be answered.

Along with being an advisor for a wide variety of students, Banachowski-Fuller has also proven to be a strong, supportive advisor who has had countless positive results amongst her advisees.

As Banachowski-Fuller states in her philosophy for academic advising, "The most important factor in determining advisee satisfaction with the advising process is the quality of the advisor/advisee relationship."

The UWP advising team received several letters from Banachowski-Fuller's advisees recommending her nomination for the NACADA awards. These letters contained numerous glowing remarks regarding how extremely accommodating and encouraging Banachowski-Fuller has been as an advisor, supporting her well-deserved award.

The recognition plaque for the award will be presented to Banachowski-Fuller during the special awards presentation and reception at the NACADA conference in Dallas, Oct. 2-5. Salmon-Stephens and Hadorn will be attending the conference to give a presentation and will be accompanying Banachowski-Fuller to the awards presentation and reception.

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's men and women's choir will be coming together to perform one last time before the end of the year. At 8 p.m., on April 15, in the Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall of the UWP Ullsvik Center, the UWP men and women's choir will be performing a dual concert. The concert will run for an hour or more and is free to the public.

The women's choir will be performing a series of pieces based on the elements earth, air, water and fire. The men will be performing a few new pieces based on the work of David Dickau from Minnesota and Gyorgy Orban from Hungary. Each choir will perform separately.

PLATTEVILLE - It's National Library Week, a time to "get connected @ your library" and rediscover all that the Karrmann Library has to offer.

During National Library Week (April 6-12), as throughout the year, the Karrmann Library will be promoting the abundance of online resources available through library subscriptions and the wealth of printed resources available in many collections.

"The library is your passport to the world," says John Krogman, assistant vice chancellor for Information Services. "In fact, we offer the best of both worlds - extensive printed resources and some of the finest electronic resources available," Krogman explains. "National Library Week is a great time to come check us out."

Regina Pauly, library publicity chairperson, reminds the UWP community that the library is an essential part of the learning community, especially as a place where faculty and students come together to collaborate on projects. Most importantly, there are librarians to help students, instructors, administrators, alumni and others find what they need, whether it's in a book, journal, government document or database. Librarians also work in partnership with faculty, students and researchers to offer new perspectives, develop curricula, facilitate innovative research and advance learning and new knowledge.

"The library may be the only place on campus where you're not expected to know the answer," says Pauly. "Librarians are the ultimate search engines. Our job is to help you find the answers."

To help students sharpen their research skills, the library offers one-on-one assistance with research needs nearly 100 hours each week - plus email and live chat sessions with librarians, access to more than 130 subscription databases (for journal and newspaper articles, online encyclopedias, and much more), librarian-taught classes for research strategy; up-to-date web pages and pathfinder guides to specific research topics.

"Using the Karrmann Library has never been faster, easier, or more comfortable," adds Krogman. "In addition to web access, our library offers more than 50 workstations with internet connections, areas for quiet study and group work, reading lounges near current books, magazines, and newspapers, and food and beverages in the Table of Contents Café."

For more information about the Karrmann Library, visit www.uwplatt.edu/library or call 342-1668 (toll free 888-450-4632). Library hours are Monday-Thursday 7:45 a.m. to midnight, Friday 7:45 a.m. to 8 p.m., Saturday 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday 1 p.m. to midnight. The email service to librarians, as well as the library web page resources are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

St. Johns Church Left to Right: Jeremy May, Craig Hindal, Mike Brenner

PLATTEVILLE - Originally built in 1896, St. John's Church in Muscoda looked to UW-Platteville's senior design class for aid in restoration design. Parish President Marty Blankenship has been working with three UWP students to stop further deterioration of the base plates and to elevate the settling of the structure while maintaining the use of the church.

Each majoring in civil engineering, the three-person team includes Mike Brenner, a senior from Durand with an emphasis in geotechnical engineering; Jeremy May, a senior from Evansville with an emphasis in structural and geotechnical engineering; and Craig Hindal, a senior from Sheldon with an emphasis in construction, transportation and geotechnical engineering.

The team's role in the project is to analyze the flooring system to determine its adequacy. Upon doing so the team will propose to the church leaders the various solutions for improvement or the option to take no further action.

Thus far the team has analyzed the drainage system, taken photos of the deteriorating structures and measured the structural capacities of the current joist system. Solutions to the project must be economically sound for the church while keeping the church useful during construction. Throughout research and measurements the team has meet twice with Blankenship to discuss the scope of the project.

The team's next step involves a progress meeting with the church board members to discuss a full report based on their analysis. The proposals reported will include leaving the church as is and designing a new foundation to hold the floor system.

Throughout the project the team has met challenges in determining the effects that rotting has had on the structural support systems. Locating the actual problem of the deteriorated sill plates and rotting floorboards has also posed a challenge.

So far the project has taught the team the steps involved in a rehabilitation type project. They have learned the thought processes needed to search for the problem in order to determine a solution while maintaining historical preservation and usage.

The team feels well-prepared to complete its project. Numerous written reports inside and outside of lab assignments have provided the team with writing experience, structures and foundations classes have given the team background knowledge and individual work experiences from each team member have supplied adequate resources and skills to the project.

The team has enjoyed working on the project and the challenges of approaching a final solution with the church's economical best interest in mind while providing practical solutions.

Each of the three team members will be graduating this May. Brenner has accepted a commercial development position working with R.A. Smith & Associates, Inc., in Brookfield. Following graduation, Hindal will be working for Northeast Asphalt, Inc., out of Ladysmith. May is currently interviewing and seeking a position for future employment.

PLATTEVILLE-A spring career day for young women in grades 8-12 who may be interested in an engineering career is set for Friday, April 25, at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

The career day, which begins at 8:30 a.m. and runs through 3:30 p.m., is designed to provide information for young women and their guests about the engineering profession.

UWP engineering faculty and students, alumni and professional engineers will be on hand to facilitate discussions and activities. The program was begun in 1993.

Women in Engineering Program Director Tammy Salmon-Stephens is pleased with the enrollment thus far. Despite budget cutbacks, schools are still making UWP's spring career day a priority, she said.

La Crosse usually sends about 40 students, Salmon-Stephens said, but this spring the number has doubled to 80. "In this budget crisis, this is a compliment." The La Crosse middle schools will pool their money and rent buses to participate," she said.

Despite a growing enrollment for the career day, there are still openings, said Salmon-Stephens.

There is a $10 registration fee per person. The fee includes a continental breakfast, lunch and a T-shirt. Parents, counselors and teachers may attend at no cost, but must pre-register.

Registration deadline is April 13. Checks should be made payable to UW-Platteville College of EMS and sent to Tammy Salmon-Stephens, Director, Women in Engineering Program, 1 University Plaza, Platteville, WI 53818. For further information, please call 608-342-1563.

PLATTEVILLE - Residents of southwest Wisconsin will have the opportunity to voice their opinions on the Governor's 2003-05 Biennial Budget Bill-Senate Bill 44, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 8, at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Center for the Arts (CFA) building.

The Joint Committee on Finance is holding a number of public hearings throughout the state, providing Wisconsin residents with a venue to express any concerns or issues regarding the budget bill.

"This is an opportunity to see our government in action," said Barbara Daus, special assistant to the Chancellor at UWP. "People don't need to feel obligated to testify. They can just come and observe and listen."

The 16 members of the Joint Committee on Finance, consisting of both democratic and republican representatives and senators, are scheduled to attend the hearing. Also in attendance will be representatives of the Legislative Fiscal Bureau. Participants and attendees of the hearing will be asked to register at the hearing. Parking will be available in the CFA parking lot for those attending the hearing. The lot will be closed to campus that day.

UWP gospel choir director Katie Kinjerski leads the group during a recent rehearsal at First English Lutheran Church. The choir practices from 4 to 6 Sunday afternoons at the church.

PLATTEVILLE- A hand-clapping gospel choir is springing up where none was heard before at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

The newly organized choir is dedicated to gospel-style music and more. UWP's Gospel Choir is also a place of rich spiritual growth and ministry to others, said choir director Katie Kinjerski.

While most members are part of InterVarsity, a Christian student organization, the choir is open to non-Christians as well, Kinjerski said.

Gospel choirs usually embrace the challenge of racial diversity that testifies to God's love, Kinjerski added. "We welcome all people to join our group. We're relaxed and free, and this is a great way to meet new friends."

Gospel choir officers meet weekly for prayer and bible study and also offer a bible study during rehearsal times. During a recent planning session, students gathered for prayer in the Pioneer Student Center, holding hands while they prayed.

A Denmark, Wis., native majoring in public relations at UWP, Kinjerski is a transfer student from UW-La Crosse where she was involved with a gospel choir there. "A gospel choir is a great way to express yourself, no matter what your musical ability is," she said.

Choir member Audrey Lange is making her singing debut with the new group. "I've always loved to sing, but this is my first organized group," said Lange. Being part of the group enhances Lange's spiritual dimension as well.

Brent Boorsma, who sings tenor, said being part of the choir is not only unique but also enjoyable.

Alan Bago enjoys the movement and style of gospel music. Bago serves as bible study coordinator "We bring messages that strengthen our faith," he said.

Choir treasurer Ahna Henderson sings alto in the choir and brings a rich and varied experience to the group.

The choir meets for practice Sunday afternoons from 4 to 6 p.m. at First English Lutheran Church in Platteville, working on contemporary, traditional and spiritual style music.

For further information on getting involved, call Kinjerski at 608-348-8947.

PLATTEVILLE-Striving to provide students with the most up-to-date facilities and equipment without burdening taxpayers or using student tuition, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is pleased to announce that ground will be broken for two new facilities at the Pioneer Farm.

A groundbreaking ceremony will be held at 4 p.m., Monday, April 7, at the Pioneer Farm to commence construction of the new living and learning center and the new swine center.

"Several speakers from the University including Chancellor David Markee, myself and UW-Platteville Foundation Board Chair Frank Friar will speak at the ceremony," said Duane Ford, dean of the College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture. "We'll be recognizing Bob Clare, the Wisconsin Pork Producers Association and several other major contributors and supporters of the building projects. Refreshments will be available following the ceremony."

The living and learning center, a joint venture between UWP Student Housing and Dining Services, will be located between the bull-testing and education centers at the farm. The facility will provide lodging for students, faculty, national and international guests of the University, as well as youth groups and producers in agriculture.

The new swine center will be built on the 30 acres of land donated by Bob Clare, across from the current dairy center and machine shed. The new facility will replace the swine center built in 1960 and will accommodate a number of student research projects and classes such as animal science management, farm animal reproduction and meat animal evaluation.

"Both of these buildings will support our educational programs as well as the efforts of the Wisconsin Agriculture Stewardship Initiative (WASI)," Ford said. "These facilities will enable us to better conduct applied systems research to help understand how farming practices impact the environment."

The estimated cost of both projects is $2.6 million. Funding for the $1.2 million cost of the living and learning center will be provided by program revenue generated through UWP Student Housing and Dining Services. The $1.4 million cost of the swine center will be funded through the UW-Platteville Foundation."

"No state general program revenue dollars will be spent on these projects," Ford said. "We are deeply grateful to donors like Bob Clare and the Wisconsin Pork Producers Association, as well as the UWP Foundation, which stepped forward when the University didn't have the money for this much-needed facility. Such generosity is truly appreciated and quite unexpected given the tight fiscal resources and the struggling economy."

Construction of both facilities is expected to be complete this December. The Pioneer Farm is located several miles south of Platteville, off Highway 80/81.

PLATTEVILLE- Eight UW-Platteville female engineering, mathematics and science students presented a tool workshop to Platteville Middle and High School students on Thursday and Friday, March 6-7. The workshop series was implemented by the Women in Engineering Program at UWP and the Society of Women Engineers with the purpose of providing female students useful skills and establishing a mentoring relationship with a college student.

"Schools are recognizing the need for role models for girls and experience," said Tammy Salmon-Stephans, director of UWP's Women in Engineering Program.

Activities included in the tool workshops were taking apart and putting together some common items such as hairdryers, toasters, can openers and lamps, wiring an outlet or light switch and doing some programmable logic controls. In addition to taking apart and putting together common items, the high school and middle school students will learn to identify tools and describe tools.

"I am very excited about getting girls involved, so they're not afraid to try and do new things and can show the abilities they posses," said Leah Halkin, activities coordinator for the Society of Women Engineers. "I wish I had something like this in high school, I was intimidated to get involved. If I had become more familiar with tools early on, I'd probably have more skills with them now."

Tool workshops are sponsored by American Tool, Cooper Tools, Heiser Hardware, Parallax, Inc., Sears, Stanley-Proto, UW-Platteville Opportunity Fund, UW-Platteville Society of Women in Engineering Program and Weygant's Appliance.

"We are branching out of the University to reach high school and middle school students to make connections and teach our knowledge to them," said UWP student Lisa Cemke.

Left to right: Anne Lucas, Becky Bieganski and Angie Peterson

PLATTEVILLE - Eight UW-Platteville students, who will be graduating this May, have divided themselves into three groups to work on the Four Mounds Property in Dubuque, Iowa, to satisfy the requirements for a senior design project in the engineering department.

The Four Mounds Property consists of four Indian burial mounds located on 54 acres along the scenic banks of the Mississippi River. Home to the Youth Empowerment Service (YES) to guide and counsel young teens, the Four Mounds Property is also a historical site that is in need of restoration and preservation of the properties natural resources. The senior design team from UWP was called upon to fulfill these needs.

The first group comprised of three students has been responsible for redesigning the septic systems for three different buildings on the property while maintaining the aesthetic beauty of the property. The three buildings consist of a bed and breakfast, a house currently being rented and a building containing offices that will eventually be renovated into another bed and breakfast.

The three students include Kristy Ketcher, a fifth-year senior from Waconia, Minn., majoring in environmental engineering; Marie Hull, a fifth-year senior from Portage, majoring in environmental engineering; and Nick Huettl, a fifth-year senior from Oregon, majoring in civil engineering with an emphasis in geotechnical and environmental engineering.

So far the group has dedicated the majority of its time to research the different alternate septic systems that would solve the problem and preserve the natural beauty of the property. In doing so, the group must also meet the needs of the client and follow the correct ordinances to install a septic system. The next step for the group is to meet with the client and present its recommendations. Although the group has met challenges while finding information and maps of the property, members feel generally well-prepared for the project by their classes.

The second group, also consisting of three students, is in charge of expanding the parking areas and assessing options for erosion control of the hiking trails and lookout areas. Each majoring in civil engineering, the three group members include Angie Peterson, a fifth-year senior from Blooming Prairie, Minn., Becky Bieganski, a sixth-year senior from Greenfield, and Anne Lucas, a fifth-year senior from Appleton.

Currently the group has completed survey work of the property and has begun initial research on different permeable pavement and retaining walls. The group's next step includes putting together the survey points on a map using a computer software program called Land Development. The group members have been challenged in organizing their schedules, making deadlines and finding solutions that will meet the client's needs and wants. Thus far, the group has learned a great deal about working with a client along with the notion that not everything engineers do is pure engineering.

The final group consists of two students working on various solutions to solve the drainage problems that are washing out one of the current driveways on the Four Mounds Property. The duo consists of Cody Austin, a fifth-year student from Lancaster, majoring in civil engineering with an emphasis in transportation; and Douglas Ball, a fifth-year senior from Sparta, majoring in civil engineering with an emphasis in construction management.

The group has surveyed the site, researched different materials and options and designed drawings and layouts based on survey results. To complete the project the group still needs to design different erosion control methods and prepare a written report for the client. Despite being challenged with weather and time issues, the group has enjoyed working with the client and learning first-hand about time management in the work field. The group members feel their classes have helped them out immensely and the professors have done whatever they have been able to do to provide assistance and guidance with the project.

The eight-member team has worked with client John Gronen and project professors Christina Curras, Phillip Parker and Lisa Riedle to complete the work on the Four Mounds Property.

Left to Right: Cody Austin and Douglas Ball

Left to Right: Marie Hull, Kristy Ketcher and Nick Huettl

PLATTEVILLE-Now that spring is here, many high school juniors are looking ahead to college. At the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, juniors can get a jump-start on college life during an annual April event called Student Shadow Day.

Currently in its third year, UWP's Shadow Day has proved to be an effective way to connect high school students with college living. Plans for this year's shadow day, set for Wednesday, April 9, include pairing high school juniors with UWP student-mentors for the day.

Students eat meals with their mentors and attend classes during the morning. New this year will be a tour of the Pioneer Farm. Afternoon breakout sessions include a UWP student panel, choosing careers and majors and an overview of college life.

The day ends with a wrap-up session, student survey and the distribution of goodie bags to take back home.

High school guidance counselors who accompany their students will be involved in campus tours, an assistant dean's panel and a relaxation session in Williams Fieldhouse.

Boscobel High School guidance counselor Rhonda Scallon had high praise for the shadow day program. Scallon brought 15 Boscobel juniors to campus last spring. "They absolutely loved it," said Scallon.

"It's a great way to introduce college life to high school students," said Scallon. "It's not just a routine tour. They get to see college life with another student."

The majority of those who participated in the shadow day last year plan to attend UWP this fall, said Scallon. It's not too surprising UWP is the college of choice for Boscobel students. The shadow day was an eventful, positive experience, Scallon said. "It's an automatic connection for them."

The event has grown in popularity, according to Kia Jorgenson, UWP student recruitment advisor. There were 11 school districts participating in 2001 and 13 last year. This year 17 districts will be involved, Jorgenson said, but schools are limited to bringing five students.

Scallon said Boscobel's five-student selection was not easy. "We had so many - about 14 - interested in attending the shadow day we made the choice by drawing names out of a hat."

Student Shadow Day was inaugurated with the assistance of a UW-Platteville Foundation Opportunity Grant. Jorgenson is justifiably proud of its success.

The assistant deans of the three colleges on the UWP campus work closely with the admission and student recruitment offices to provide a day that the high school students college students and guidance counselors will enjoy but also will walk away with new information about UWP and it's programs services, said Jorgenson.

PLATTEVILLE-Plastics are the future, especially for University of Wisconsin-Platteville students Mike Schubert and Kristada Saochakun, who each took home a $500 scholarship after attending a conference for the Society of Plastic Engineers in Milwaukee.

The scholarships, sponsored by Ticona - a high-perfomance thermoplastic engineering company - were available to students enrolled in two-year and four-year universities throughout the state.

"Even though the scholarships were open to students throughout the state, UWP students received both of the scholarships - which we've done several times in the past," said Majid Tabrizi, professor of industrial technology and director of the Center for Plastics Processing Technology at UWP. "To receive the scholarship, not only are qualifications such as grades and backgrounds factors, but the committee also looks for someone who is unique and can contribute to the area of plastics."

Schubert and Saochakun attended the conference with Tabrizi and six other UWP students. Saochakun is a gradate student at UWP with an emphasis in plastic processing technology. He is one of the University's international students from Thailand. Schubert is a senior at UWP with a major in industrial technology and a minor in plastic processing technology. He is the son of Christine Stewart of South Wayne and Gene Schubert of Warren, Ill. Receiving the scholarships not only benefits the students financially, but also gains exposure for the students and UWP in the field of plastics processing.