Daily Pioneer News

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Department of Fine Arts presents the 35th annual UW-Platteville Jazz Festival on Friday and Saturday, Feb. 6-7. The festival is made possible by a grant from the Mary Barnes Fund.

"This year's festival looks to be an exciting one featuring talented public school jazz ensembles and combos," said Joe Capole, director of percussion and jazz at UW-Platteville. "Performing with the UWP Jazz Ensemble will be guest artists and head clinicians drummer Terence Higgins and pianist Tom Reynolds. As festival director I hope you will join us for this year's festival."

New Orleans is known for it's great music and culture, it is also known for spawning some of the greatest drummers in the world. Higgins is no exception, as the next generation continues the musical heritage of New

Orleans. His professional career has taken him all over the world and his unsurpassed skills on the drums has allowed him to play with an eclectic group of musicians. Higgins credits George Porter Jr. of the Meters for taking him under his wing and introducing him to the vast repertoire of New Orleans music. Higgins has performed with artists like Dr. John, Allen Toussaint, Norah Jones, John Scofield, Widespread Panic, Fats Domino and many other New Orleans artists. He is now touring and recording with one of New Orleans' premier groups the Dirty Dozen Brass Band as well as his own group Swap Grease.

For a number of years, Reynolds lived in Nashville, Tenn., performing with jazz artists ranging from Bela Fleck, Victor Wooten, Jeff Coffin, Chester

Thompson and Boots Randolph, to smooth jazz artists Kirk Whalum and Denny

Jiosa. He was also the musical director for the Grammy Award winning vocal group, Take Six. He has toured with pop and country artists like Crystal Gayle, Shania Twain, Ty Herndon, Max Carl and Glenn Frey, and was musical director for Engelbert Humperdinck. Residing in Green Bay since June of 1999, Reynolds performs regularly with various jazz groups throughout the Fox Valley area. He also is religious studies professor at St. Norbert College in DePere.

On Friday, the UW-Platteville Jazz I Big Band and the UW-Platteville Faculty Jazz Combo will perform in the UW-Platteville Center for the Arts Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall at 8 p.m.

On Saturday, area high school bands will have a chance to show their talent. The following is a tentative schedule of class warm-up performance times.

Concert Hall

• Lancaster H.S. Combo B 10-10:30 a.m.
• Darlington M.S. C 12:30-1 p.m.
• UWP Jazz II non comp 1-1:40 p.m.
• Big Foot H.S. A 1:40-2:30 p.m.
• Clinic w/guest artists 3:15-4:15 p.m.
• Sun Prairie H.S. I A 4:30-5:10 p.m.
• Beloit Memorial H.S. I A 5:10-5:50 p.m.

Theater

• Galena H.S. B 10-10:30 a.m.
• Brodhead H.S. B 11:50 a.m.-12:20 p.m.
• Beloit Memorial H.S. II B 12:20-1 p.m.
• Sun Prairie H.S.II B 1-1:40 p.m.
• Markesan H.S. B 1:40-2:30 p.m.
• Clinic w/guest artists 3:15-4:15 p.m.
• Southern Door H.S. B 4:30-5:10 p.m.
• Wisconsin Dells H.S. B 5:10-5:50 p.m.

From 6:45-7:45 p.m. the UWP Jazz I will be performing in the Richard and Helen Brodbeck Concert Hall with guest artists, Higgins and Reynolds, followed by a presentation of festival awards. Admission is free for all attendees. For more information contact the university box office at 608-342-1298.

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Foundation has welcomed a new employee as Deb Hoppenjan has joined the staff as an accountant.

Hoppenjan has previously worked as plant controller of power stations in Dubuque and Cassville for Alliant Energy. Accepting the position with the UWP Foundation and moving to Platteville not only offers opportunities for her, but also for her six-year-old son Zach.

"I built a house and moved to Platteville four years ago. It's where I wanted to raise my child," Hoppenjan said.

The city of Platteville is unique in that it's small enough to offer the comforts of a small town but large enough to offer some of the opportunities of a larger city.

"It's got the university in town which adds another element, but it's still a small town," Hoppenjan said.

The fact that she has family in the area didn't hurt either.

"That backup day care is a big deal," she said.

Hoppenjan has never ventured far from the region she calls home. Raised on a farm in Belmont, Hoppenjan herself attended UWP and graduated with a degree in business administration in 1985. She has always enjoyed the campus.

"The ratio of students to faculty is great. You have all the greenery. You're outside and it's not just cement," Hoppenjan said. "It's a great campus."

In her new position, Hoppenjan will manage accounts payable and staff payroll and handle financial reporting.

"We're extremely fortunate to get a person of her high caliber in this position. Expectations for Deb are very high, to take our program to new levels of productivity and efficiency," interim director of the UWP Foundation Dennis Cooley said. "Her outstanding work ethic make it possible for us to achieve great things as we move forward."

PLATTEVILLE - Kim Crippes enjoyed her time at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville as a student. So much so, in fact, that she's come back to UWP. Crippes has rejoined the UWP community as assistant alumni director.

"I always felt at home here," she said.

In her new post, Crippes will help plan and organize alumni reunions and events and assist with other alumni operations. She's uniquely qualified for the position, having experience working with people in the state government as legislative assistant to representative David Ward.

"I am much more informed of state politics after working there," she said. "It was a very interesting and positive experience for me. I enjoyed learning all that I did there."

But Crippes decided politics wasn't her true passion.

"I came back to UW-Platteville because I know this will be a position that I will enjoy getting out of bed in the morning to come to," she said. "This is another positive step. I get to come back to campus and work with people I've worked with in the past."

While a student at UWP, Crippes worked at both dining services and conference services, experiences which helped here develop an interest in public relations. She graduated from UWP in May 2002 with a degree in communication technologies with an emphasis in public relations.

One thing that Crippes liked about UWP as a student, and helped her come back to the community, is the close-knit environment.

"I liked the small classes," she said. "I liked knowing everyone in my classes and having professors that were easy to talk to."

And it's that sense of community and the prospect of visiting with alumni and hearing their stories that Crippes is most excited about as assistant alumni director.

"I like to meet new people. I'm a positive person, and I enjoyed my time at UWP," Crippes said. "I'm anxious to work with other people who really enjoyed their time at Platteville."

PLATTEVILLE - One way that the University of Wisconsin-Platteville funds some of its events, activities, and scholarships is through donations. One of the ways that this is accomplished is by the efforts of students working at the phonathon.

Adrian Phillips is a sophomore majoring in political science who works at the UWP phonathon and she is in her second year of calling. The phonathon is a department on campus located in the Alumni/Foundation Office in the Ullsvik Center that contacts alumni and fundraises for events, activities, and scholarships. One of the goals of the phonathon is not only to raise money for the campus, but also to build communication with the students and alumni.

The phonathon employs approximately 25 students who work about two nights a week for three hours. On a typical night, they attempt 45 - 75 calls from a list of about 33,000 living alumni. In the spring semester, they also focus on contacting the parents of all freshmen through senior undergraduate students. One of the goals of the phonathon is not only to raise money, but also to get a lot of alumni involved in the campus.

"We try to maintain a strong relationship with the alumni," said Phillips. "They have a lot to offer in their experiences."

Phillips has had a pleasant experience at the phonathon. She said that many alumni are very receptive to their calls, and that most of them enjoy talking with the students and sharing stories and memories of their time at UW-Platteville.

Phillips said that one of the biggest keys to being successful at the phonathon is just to simply be positive and polite when making a call. This crosses over to the work environment as well. Phillips said that one of the reasons that the work environment is positive and upbeat is because that is how they act when making calls.

Phillips concluded, "Alumni are very willing to give back to the campus. Their experiences here were very positive and they are proud to promote it."

PLATTEVILLE-Tyler Young is a fourth year student at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville where he is majoring in social science with a history emphasis. He attended UW-Madison for one year, following in his sister's "foot-steps," however, he preferred the academic prowess UW-Platteville extends to undergraduates and returned to his hometown to finish his degree. Young recently returned from Twickenham, England on Jan. 6.

Young's history interest and love of travel enticed him to check into the study abroad program. He said, "As a child I traveled throughout the United States with my family, and my desire to travel grew extensively." He said his heritage and foreign language limitation helped him choose the exchange UWP has in England.

As the date of departure grew near, Young had many questions about the trip, which he addressed to the College International Exchange Program office and was more than pleased with the help he received.

Departing on Sept. 2, 2003, for Twickenham, England started a semester of educational experiences. Young arrived at his destination two weeks early, enabling him to travel before the fall semester at St. Mary's College commenced.

"St. Mary's College rests in a beautiful setting along the Thames River, just far enough from London to be a relatively safe community," Young said.

Living accommodations were set up with a family of four where Young could watch television, have breakfast and share Sunday dinner with his host family. He was very pleased with the hospitality extended to him by his host family.

Young's course selection consisted of Britain Transformation, History, Stylists English and Creative Writing. According to Young, the professors taught in a style similar to UWP professors but the content and structure were quite different. He said, "Students are expected to do more on their own. There are no interim quizzes or tests given. At the end of the semester a 3,000 word paper is due or a comprehensive test is given."

Some exciting activities took place for Young in Twickenham. He listened to the Rolling Stones, and observed rugby at the field where the game was invented.

At the close of the semester on Dec. 13, 2003, Young and another UWP student took two weeks of travel time to return to Europe on their own. They went to Brussels, Amsterdam, Munich, Vienna, Italy (Venice, Rome, Florence) and Paris. When asked what he remembered most about the trip he told about the incredible scenery. He made reference to Berlin being "poised for the future," as they lay to rest World War II and to honor it with the Holocaust memorial being built in the heart of Berlin next to the Brandenburg Gate. "One of the most amazing sites was in Belgium where we visited cemeteries with up to thousands of gravesites and they were groomed nicer than a golf course. We also went down in a tiny little church basement at Ypre where 14-year-old Adolph Hitler hid out for two months," Young said. The beauty, cleanliness and size of Amsterdam surprised Young, as he described being able to walk to either end in a half-hours time.

He emphasized the study abroad program for everyone, as participants obtain a much more rounded wealth of experience and education from the complete process.

PLATTEVILLE - On Jan. 25, University of Wisconsin-Platteville sophomore Kelsey Klug will leave Platteville to perform in a concert with Peter Nero and the Philly Pops, in Philadelphia, entitled Broadway Showstoppers. Klug will perform with five Broadway stars including Tony Award winner Sutton Foster, Donna McKechnie, William Michals, Matt Bogart, and Dee Hoty. With two days of rigorous rehearsals, the show features scenes from Broadway's most popular musicals including "West Side Story," "South Pacific," and "A Chorus Line."

As a soprano member of Kids from Wisconsin Klug has experience performing for sold out crowds. The auditioned group of 20 male and female singers/dancers and a band of 13 members perform daily during the state fair's 11-day run each summer in Milwaukee. The "Kids" also perform at county fairs, festivals, and conventions throughout the state for a total of 70 shows during June, July, and August. Klug was selected to perform in Philadelphia through an audition process where Steven Haines, a former "Kid", chose one male, one female, and one band member to participate in Broadway Showstoppers.

Aside from "Kids" stage experience isn't new for Klug who has played a myriad of characters including Kim MacAfee in "Bye, Bye Birdie," Cinderella in "Cinderella," and last year Sandy in the annual UWP musical, "Grease." Aside from production numbers, she is also a member of the UWP Chamber Choir and women's choir, Coro d'Angeli.

"This is a huge honor. It's an opportunity for her to perform with professionals who are at the top of their field," commented UWP Music Professor Bob Demaree. Added Klug, "I'm incredibly excited and honored to have been selected for this event. It's another step toward the dreams I've always wanted."

Klug is a music education major with a double emphasis in piano and voice. She is the daughter of Al and Janet Klug from Sun Prairie.

PLATTEVILLE – The United States military is constantly improving its technology and weaponry. For one recent project, they enlisted the help of the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

Several UWP students assisted engineering professor Osama Jadaan with a research project testing the reliability of ceramic gun barrels for the U.S. Army. Not only are ceramics lighter than the metals traditionally used in firearms, but also they may be more durable.

"Ceramics can take extremely high temperature, and they are resistant to wear," Jadaan said. The army was interested in the prospect of using ceramics in gun barrels of all sizes.

"From an M-16 to an M-1 Abrams," Jadaan said.

The army was also interested in the prospect that a ceramic gun barrel could fire a bullet at a higher rate of speed. Recent UWP graduates Bryan Peterson and Jessica Meulbroek were among the student research team.

"Ceramics have much better high temperature properties and thus hotter propellants could be used to give the projectile higher kinetic energy," Meulbroek said.

The research team didn't use tangible models for the experiments, but rather computer models to simulate a firing mechanism.

"The Army Research Laboratory (ARL) in Aberdeen, Md., sent us relevant experimental data such as heat flux and temperature profiles that were used as loadings on the computer models," Peterson said.

Jadaan said it is more cost-effective to use computer models than actual prototypes to test the variables. The team successfully completed their research goals, however, more research still need to be done to finalize the project.

Both Peterson and Meulbroek graduated from UWP in December with degrees in mechanical engineering. They said coursework at UWP prepared them for the research, and for their future careers.

"Mechanical Engineering 4800, finite element methods, gave me a good background in the theory involved with such an analysis," Peterson said. Meulbroek herself had worked with the software used in the computer modeling while doing project work in Darmstadt, Germany.

Peterson even parlayed the research with Jadaan into a position at the Army's research arm, where he will work on ammunition systems.

"I was in the process of working on Dr. Jadaan's research when I received the job offer from the Army," Peterson said. "I believe that the biggest thing that helped me was not necessarily the work I was doing, but the interest I have in the field."

Meulbroek herself was interviewing for jobs in mid-January, and hoped to land a similar position.

For Peterson, using his engineering skills to develop technology for the military is not only fulfilling professionally but also personally.

"I have friends stationed in Iraq right now, and anything I can possibly do to make them safer, more effective, and (help them) complete the mission as soon as possible so that they can return home is of great importance to me," he said. "I believe in America, and I believe that developing new military technologies must be a constant undertaking in today's political climate. It is fulfilling to know that I'll be a part of that."

PLATTEVILLE - The hogs at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneer Farm are taking up a new residence, and they've promised not to stink it up.

Described by Chancellor David Markee as a "state of the art" facility, the new Pioneer Farm Swine Center is designed to provide better working conditions for students and staff, drier pig conditions and decreased odor.

"We're pretty excited about the opportunities that we've got not only from the education standpoint-the ability to really teach students hands-on, but also from the research component, the ability to do a lot of environmental research," said Alicia Prill-Adams, assistant farm director.

The facility is really one-of-a-kind in the state. Utilizing a "high-rise" composting concept, the pigs are housed in an upstairs level. Waste products fall through slats to a pit below, and air holes in the floor dry the waste.

An air pressure system powered by fans in the lower levels pits is designed to move air, and odor, down and out of the building. The high-rise concept was pioneered by Thomas Menke, an Ohio farmer, and patented by EnviroLogic.

"We've been planning this facility for almost 10 years," Prill-Adams said. "We're thinking out of the box. We're trying something non-traditional."

The public was introduced to the new facility during an open house Jan. 15.

"Liquid manure is just a real pain. It's dangerous to the people working around it, and this here is going to eliminate that problem, or a lot of it," Platteville farmer Rich Lange said.

"I think it's important to have it for the university," Lancaster pork producer Doug Wolf said. "It's something new, cutting-edge. It's something unique for this area of the country."

Although pork prices have been down, UWP's investment in the Swine Center shows a commitment to pork production.

"You see a new structure going up and you see the state and the university investing in the future of your industry-that builds excitement," College of Business, Industry, Life Science and Agriculture Dean Duane Ford said. "The research activities and the training that will happen for students as well as for youth and professionals that we can do in that building will all help contribute to a more prosperous and lively hog industry."

"Pork production is still alive in Wisconsin. Despite prices, despite dwindling numbers, pork producers have got a great attitude and they're optimistic about where they can go and what the future holds for them," Prill-Adams said.

Replacing the old swine center that was erected in 1960, the new state-of-the-art $1.4 million facility was built without state tax dollars. The UW-Platteville Foundation uniquely funded the building itself with a loan from four local banks: Anchor, Clare, First National and Mound City.

"We're very thankful to the UWP Foundation for stepping up and saying, 'This is a project that we can take on,'" Ford said.

Bob Clare of Platteville donated 30 acres of land for the site and the UW-Platteville Foundation is searching for additional donations. Some revenue will be generated from sales of pigs, and farm operators are examining the possibility of selling compost as an additional revenue source.

"We hope to have students managing the business selling the compost," School of Agriculture Director Mark Zidon said. "This will give them unique opportunities to learn and be involved in a hands-on experience."

The Pioneer Farm Swine Center will give students the opportunity to learn the most about the pork industry in a facility that's ahead of its time.

"We've got a good facility. We've got great teachers here, and we've got a lot of great students," state representative Gabe Loeffelholz said.

"It's a proud day for us," Zidon said. "It's a great day to be a Pioneer, and it's even better if you're a pig."

PLATTEVILLE - On February 3, the Aquila Theatre Company will be performing "The Man Who Would Be King" on the University of Wisconsin-Platteville campus.

Written in 1888 at the height of British Imperialism, "The Man Who Would Be King" is one of English author Rudyard Kipling's finest stories. Kipling spins a fantastical, adventurous yarn about two rambunctious ex-British Army sergeants who dream up a scheme to single-handedly conquer the kingdom of Kafiristan.

Aquila's trademark adventurous and innovative production style brings this exciting story to life, delighting audiences with one of Kipling's most magnificent works.

The Aquila productions are made possible by a grant from the Bert Glanz Endowed Fund for Classical Performing Arts in the UW-Platteville Foundation. Support is also graciously received from the Wisconsin State Arts Board and student fee dollars.

At 7 p.m. there will be a free pre-show discussion with members of the ensemble in the Center for the Arts. The performance begins at 8 p.m. in the Brodbeck Concert Hall of the Center for the Arts.

Reserved seats are $19 for the general public, $17 for UWP faculty/staff and senior citizens, $5 for UWP students and $8 for children under 18. Tickets are on sale now and can be obtained by calling the university box office at 608-342-1298.

PLATTEVILLE- Patch Adams, a doctor, a clown and a social activist who wants to change the health care system will address University of Wisconsin-Platteville students in an interactive/live broadcast through the efforts of the Society of Leadership and Success and Campus Relations and Programming (CPR). Adams's lecture, entitled "Having Fun Working for Peace, Justice, and Care: A Medley of Interests and Adventures," will take place Tuesday, Jan. 27 at 6 p.m. in the Platteville Rooms of the Pioneer Student Center.

This leadership lecture program is part of a seven or eight program series. The lectures will continue through April. January's leadership lecture will feature a message concerning charity work, helping others, and taking chances. Other leadership lecturers have addressed issues such as eating healthy, following dreams no matter what others say and it is o.k. to be different/diverse.

The leadership lecture program was created to offer students the opportunity to attend these lectures and at the end of the year receive a leadership certificate.

"This looks fabulous on resumes and it is signed by Chancellor Markee," CPR event manager Theresa Sanderfoot said. "The leadership certificates will be presented in March or April."

According to Sanderfoot, CPR works through a company, the Society of Leadership and Success, that does live broadcasts from colleges across the country and provides interactivity where students can call in questions and have them answered as they are watching the broadcast on TV.

"This speaker is one of the most recognizable among students, as most of us have seen the movie, or at least heard of Patch Adams," said Sanderfoot. Robin Williams played Patch Adams in the self-entitled movie.

"People should attend this event to see an amazing person, who has changed the health care system and who has an amazing sense of humor or to learn something new about the man behind the story or about themselves," said Sanderfoot. "Those in attendance can look forward to hearing his inspirational words and perhaps instill some kindness and laughter into our hearts."

PLATTEVILLE-Since introducing the American Red Cross Standard First Aid Program into the University of Wisconsin-Platteville educational system in December 2003, Ernest Stracener, director of safety and risk management and certified American Red Cross instructor, was excited to prepare the schedule of sessions for 2004. The two-day course includes both first aid and adult CPR training.

Stracener said, "The purpose of the training at UW-Platteville is to increase the number of people on campus that have the skills and knowledge to assess an emergency situation, and provide basic care if they choose to become involved and it is safe for them to do so."

The objective of the American Red Cross is to enable individuals to provide basic care during an emergency until advanced medical personnel arrive and take over. UW-Platteville neither requires nor expects any employee to provide emergency assistance to any other person, except when such action is explicitly specified within an employee's official position.

Many times individuals fear becoming involved in a situation where aid is required, and understandably with lawsuit prevalence so rampant in our current age. However, in Wisconsin we have the "Good Samaritan" Statute ¤895.48, which enables a person to extend care in good faith and be immune from civil liability for his or her acts.

With that said, the opportunity to become certified in first aid and CPR now exists monthly at UW-Platteville in the East and West Rooms of the Pioneer Student Center. Stracener can accommodate 10 students. He involves his students in class lecture and encourages everyone with the hands-on training, while expressly promoting the necessity of earning a standard first aid certification.

The spring semester schedule is offered on Jan. 22 and 23, Feb. 3 and 11, March 3 and 11, April 29 and 30, and May 3 and 11. The summer schedule is on June 3 and 11, and July 6 and 12. All dates run from 8 a.m. to noon with the first date covering the first aid training and the second date the CPR training.

Employees and student employees can enroll free of charge, while students not employed by UW-Platteville are required to pay $3.

PLATTEVILLE-Discovering the plight of the non-traditional student at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, and what enticed them to return to academia will be a topic of continuing coverage. Ed Deneen, registrar of UWP, said that the university experienced the first influx of non-traditional students in the early part of the 1970s, and has remained consistent to date. Yearly economic changes have determined the attendance level of non-traditional students at UW-Platteville.

The federal standard defines the non-traditional student as a person age 25 years or older that has been absent from school two years or more. They may be partnered or single, with or without children and may be returning to school on a part or full-time basis. Many different criteria determine the financial eligibility status for this populace. Furthering one's education under any category can be extremely difficult for students in terms of financing, however, aid is available and should be utilized to the betterment of ambitious non-traditional students.

Having witnessed an eroding economy in the 1970s, and again in the early part of the 1980s employees were forced to shift their employment perspective, which included returning to school for a complete change of pace or obtaining higher education in an already existing field. Other reasons for non-traditional student growth are advances in technology and employers promoting upgrading in fields such as health and education, to name a few. Enrollment has also increased due to companies such as Advance, the Dubuque Pack and John Deere downsizing or closing their doors.

Each semester UWP registers approximately 450 non-traditional students, taking a variety of classes anywhere from a one-credit self-improvement course, to a full load. Statistically, 98 percent of all non-traditional students graduate.

UW-Platteville is available to provide non-traditional students with assistance to overcome any hurdle they may encounter on the path to furthering their education, from lack of finances to child-care. UWP strives to help adults return to the classroom.

Deneen concluded, "The non-traditional students are a wonderful group of people that bring added value to the class. I see them as driven and objective people and genuinely pleasant to work with."

PLATTEVILLE - The second half of the 2003-2004 Center for the Arts Performing Arts Series at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville will begin on Feb. 2 when the innovative and dynamic Aquila Theatre Company begins a two-day residency in the Center for the Arts. Widely known as one of the foremost producers of touring classical theatre, the Aquila Theatre Company will perform the Shakespeare classic "Othello" on Feb. 2.

Drawing from the company's expertise, Aquila's production of "Othello" finds a unique setting capable of bringing relevance and clarity to this great Shakespearean tragedy. An original musical score with an epic and filmic quality heightens and intensifies the experience.

Set in a hotbed of racial hatred, jealousy and mistrust, this great Shakespearean masterpiece explores the destruction of a noble spirit. Othello, a Moor and mercenary for the Venetian Army, secretly marries Desdemona, the daughter of a high-powered senator. Othello's ensign, Iago, enraged at being passed over for promotion and envious of Othello's conquests, begins his revenge.

This production of Othello, combined with Aquila's national reputation for retelling classics in a vibrant and visual way, brings new life to this dynamic and enlightening story of human nature. This presentation is part of Shakespeare in American Communities, a national theater touring initiative sponsored by the National Endowment for the Arts and The Sallie Mae Fund in cooperation with Arts Midwest.

Before the performance, there will be a pre-show dinner, which begins at 6 p.m. in the Velzy Commons of the Ullsvik Center and will feature British cuisine for $12 a person. Dinner tickets should be purchased three days in advance of the show by calling the university box office.

At 7 p.m. there will be a free pre-show discussion with members of the ensemble in the Center for the Arts The performance begins at 8 p.m. in the Brodbeck Concert Hall of the Center for the Arts.

Reserved seats are $19 for the general public, $17 for UWP faculty/staff and senior citizens, $5 for UWP students and $8 for children under 18. Tickets are on sale now and can be obtained by calling the university box office at 608-342-1298.

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville hopes to expose young women to possible careers in math and science with an Expanding Your Horizons workshop. The one-day event, sponsored by the Office of Continuing Education, will be held on Saturday, Feb. 21, on the UWP campus. The event will begin at 8:30 a.m. and conclude at 2 p.m.

Participants from sixth, seventh and eighth grades will be able to attend two of 12 workshops available. These hands-on workshops and interactive sessions explore a variety of careers which will be presented by women on campus in the related fields and UWP alumni.

Students will explore a variety of fields including sessions titled:

• So You Want to be a Vet?
• TV Production
• Technology Tidbits
• Picture Yourself Plastic
• You Can Make a Difference: Preventing Workplace Injuries, Illness and Fatalities
• Make a Fern
• Start Your Engines
• Is Your Water Safe?
• Why Am I Me?
• New Adventures in Health Care
• Rocks and Minerals
• Tantalizing Tool Workshop

"We need to encourage girls to continue their studies in mathematics, science and technology so as they move forward in their education, they do not miss opportunities in careers that might interest them in the future," commented Kerie Wedige, community education coordinator for continuing education. "The curriculum for Expanding Your Horizons is designed to give the girls a flavor for what professional careers would be like.

Registration for the workshop is $20 and is due by Jan. 30. For more information about the Expanding Your Horizons workshop contact the Office of Continuing Education at 608-342-1314, toll free 1-888-281-9472 or visit the website http://www.uwplatt.edu/cont_ed/.

PLATTEVILLE - Ralph Bjork used to teach students how to operate computer systems. Now, he can't even use a keyboard.

The deadly disease multiple sclerosis forced University of Wisconsin-Platteville professor emeritus Ralph Bjork out of teaching two and a half years ago, but it hasn't damaged his religious beliefs. In fact, the former computer science professor has examined the deity of Jesus Christ with a book, "God's Name is Jesus."

"People have felt really good about using the book to strengthen their faith," Bjork said.

With his wife Kathy by his side, Bjork's 14-year struggle against multiple sclerosis (MS) has done nothing but strengthen his own faith.

"It makes me realize, I'm in God's hands. I may not know what his purpose is, but I know he has a reason for it," Bjork said. "Without that-my faith in Christ-my MS would be very depressing."

The book examines how verses from the Bible suggest that Jesus Christ was not only a man but, as Christian doctrine asserts, was imbibed with the Holy Spirit. Bjork began studying scripture verses 20-25 years ago.

"After a while, I thought I should start writing this out, and this developed into a book," he said.

Bjork obtained permission to reprint Bible verses from the New American Standard Bible and secured a small publisher, Anundsen Publishing out of Decorah, Iowa. Over many years, and through three editions of "God's Name is Jesus," 1,200 copies have been printed. Bjork is currently working on the fourth edition, a computer version that utilizes Internet-style hyperlinks. It will be disseminated by floppy disk and through email.

Fourteen years ago, Bjork noticed the first signs of MS when his foot went limp while he was running. Diagnosed with progressive MS, his condition has worsened over the years. The disease first attacked his legs, and now Bjork is confined to a wheel chair. He still has some movement in his hands, but, unfortunately, cannot use a keyboard.

"The first year I started working on it (the book)-I used to type pretty fast. Now-I can't type anymore," Bjork said. When working on the book he uses a mouse and a special computer program where he can point to letters and keyboard operations.

His condition got so bad that he was forced to retire from UWP two and half years ago. But he continues to keep a positive outlook on life.

"Faith is what keeps me going," he said.

In his book, Bjork explores things like the connections between the Old and New Testament and use of specific phrases related to both God and Jesus. The purpose of the book is to not only prove the deity of Jesus Christ but also help show people how to use Bible scripture.

"There's a lot of people who go to church but don't know how to defend their faith. They don't know their Bible. A lot of people will say, 'I just don't believe in the Bible,'" Bjork said. "I go places in the Old Testament where they predict what happens in the New Testament. It's just another way to show the truth of Christ."

The book sells for $10. For sale in a few bookstores, Bjork has given many copies away for free to family and friends.

"I pretty much just give it too people. I don't use it to make money," he said. In fact, he's probably spent $5,000 on the project. "It's been a ministry for me."

What's important for Bjork and his wife is that people study the teachings of Jesus Christ, and use them to find peace in their own lives. They think "God's Name is Jesus" can help do that, and they're hoping the book can reach more people through a larger publisher.

"That's what we're really praying about," Bjork said.

Those interested in a copy of the book can contact Ralph Bjork via email (bjork@uwplatt.edu) or telephone, 608-348-5644.

PLATTEVILLE - Innovation fuels U.S. business, and when an individual or company creates something entirely new, they often help protect their interests with a patent. This month people can learn a little more about patents and the law behind them with a presentation at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

Hosted by the UWP Alchemist Club, patent lawyer Theodore Anderson will talk about his experiences in intellectual property law during a presentation Tues., Jan. 20.

A senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers, Anderson has dealt with a wide variety of intellectual property cases, from those involving the video game industry to international patent infringement. He has worked in the field for more than 50 years.

The presentation titled "Intellectual Property Law as a Career; Why it is a Rewarding Experience" will begin at 6 p.m. in Room 144 of Ottensman Hall on the UWP campus. For more information, contact UWP assistant professor of chemistry Tim Zauche via phone at 608-342-1678.

PLATTEVILLE-Every year hundreds of prospective students visit the University of Wisconsin-Platteville campus and this year will be no exception. Whether one chooses to participate in an individual campus visit or a Pioneer Preview, UWP and its tour guides will have a fun-filled day planned.

A campus visit offers a variety of activities for a prospective student and their family. The schedule for the day starts at 10 a.m. with a welcome session and the distribution of informational packets. A tour follows between 11 a.m. and noon. Lunch is from noon to 1 p.m. at the Pioneer Student Center, where menu choices abound in a comfortable environment. Following lunch, visitation is concluded after guests meet a dean within the student's area of interest, to fulfill their academic information expectations.

Campus visits are available on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays when classes are in session. During summer session, visits are offered on Mondays and Wednesdays. Campus visits are designed for individual student participation, with a scheduling request at least two weeks prior to the selected date.

For prospective students looking for the complete experience, attending a Pioneer Preview enables group interaction between incoming freshmen, as well as transfer students from other universities. Activities include the campus tour, which starts at 10:30 a.m., lunch at the fast-pace, innovative student center, shopping at the University Bookstore, meeting with a panel of current students, and attending a faculty member presentation.

Upcoming Pioneer Previews are Jan. 30, Feb. 21, and March 26. For more information or to schedule a visit, call the UWP Visitor Center at (608) 342-1068, toll free at 1-877-897-5288 or visit online at http://www.uwplatt.edu/admission/info request.html.

PLATTEVILLE-In honor of Martin Luther King Jr., a celebration will be held Wednesday, Jan. 21 at 7 p.m. in the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's Ullsvik Center in the Velzy Commons. The event will feature the Rev. Dr. Alexander Gee Jr. and the choir of the Fountain of Life Family Worship Center from south Madison.

"The gathering will give students the chance to celebrate the life of one of America's greatest leaders," said Carlos Wiley UWP director of Multicultural Services.

Gee is president and founder of the Nehemiah Corporation, a non-profit agency founded in 1992, and the pastor of the Fountain of Life Family Worship Center in south Madison. The primary goals of the Nehemiah Corporation are spirituality, reconciliation, cultural relevance, consistency, structure and empowerment. UW-Platteville's partnership with the Nehemiah Corporation was established in 2000 in an attempt to increase the number of students of color attending UWP.

"It gives UWP an avenue to reach students of color at an early age and encourages attending college. It also gives an opportunity for UW-Platteville to increase its students of color population," said Wiley.

Supplementing the event, the Boxes and Walls Tolerance Museum, an interactive exhibit showing what it is like not to be in the majority, will be located in the lower level of the Ullsvik Center. The exhibit is separated into four different minority groups. The groups are summarized through history, struggles and experiences. The exhibit includes a women's room, a gay/lesbian/transgender room, Native American room, African American room, a racial profiling area and other resources. The exhibit is designed to make people aware that racism and hate crimes still exist. This is the third year the exhibit has been sponsored by UWP housing staff. The exhibit changes yearly to portray a variety of rooms. The initial experience was created as part of a mid-year training session that the student housing residents are required to attend.

The Winterim session of the 1130 Introduction to Women's Studies Class, taught by Professor Laura Wendorff, contributed to the women's portion of the exhibit.

The Boxes and Walls Tolerance Museum is available to view after the address by Gee Wednesday evening, Jan. 21 and Tuesday, Jan. 27 from 6 to 9 p.m.

PLATTEVILLE - Students can learn a lot from reading textbooks and listening to lectures, but it is when they are able to apply their knowledge in a hands-on environment that education might be most effective.

In University of Wisconsin-Platteville biology classes, students can measure brain waves, breathing, pulse rates and other biological activity using devices that measure electrical impulses in the human body. The biology department has begun using iWorx interactive physiology teaching kits for experiments in an array of classes.

"We can pick up real minor electrical variations that happen in the body," professor Wayne Weber said. "They provide a hands-on application of concepts in anatomy and physiology. Instead of hearing about what an EKG (electrocardiogram) does, they can actually do an EKG on one of their classmates or on themselves."

The "state of the art equipment" is similar to devices one would find in a doctor's office, but unlike such equipment that is tailored to a specific activity within the body, the iWorx bioamplifiers can measure an array of electrical impulses.

"These can do more than that what you have in a doctor's office," Weber said. "Here we have a piece of equipment you can utilize for a number of things, and in many cases it's more sensitive."

The biology department has already incorporated five of the learning kits in their classes, purchasing them with dollars from the UWP Foundation Opportunity Fund and other resources. A sixth teaching kit has recently been allocated through the opportunity fund.

"Over time, we've been building up our resources, and now we've got enough that it would serve a lab course very well," Weber said.

In addition to independent research, the bioamplifiers have been utilized in anatomy, physiology, human biology and zoology courses. The machines might be used in agriculture classes as well.

"The opportunity fund is just an awesome, awesome resource," Weber said. "To help us with our lab needs and our departmental needs for education, it's just been absolutely phenomenal."

The UWP Foundation Opportunity Fund awarded more than $43,000 for 17 grants this year. Since its inception in 1988, the opportunity fund has offered a total of $454,000 through 103 grants.

PLATTEVILLE - Ensuring its quality of higher education, the University of Wisconsin-Platteville is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, which reviews its member institutions on-site every 10 years. UWP is gearing up for its 10-year review, and Chancellor David Markee has announced that Dr. Thomas Nelson and Dr. Machelle Schroeder will serve as co-chairs of the accreditation effort.

Though a team from the HLC isn't expected until 2006, most of the work for the accreditation is done ahead of time. Nelson and Schroeder will develop and coordinate committees that will assess various aspects of the university - from academics and technology to diversity and student services - and will ultimately develop a report to deliver to the HLC.

"It's very important. To be an institution of higher learning, you need to be accredited, otherwise your degree doesn't mean anything," Nelson said.

Schroeder is an associate professor of business administration, and has been at UWP since 1990. Nelson, a professor of civil engineering, joined the UWP faculty in 1993. He has worked on the academic review committee the past two years.

The co-chairs will be attending a workshop Jan. 16 and will travel to an HLC conference in March.

"We need to get up to speed on our last report, what our strengths are, what are weaknesses are, where we have to improve," Nelson said.

The HLC has new criteria for accreditation. Nelson said the organization has shifted the focus of their assessment, emphasizing "outcome-based assessment plans."

"They are looking more at the continuous improvement in our education, what we are producing as a finished product, as a graduating student," Nelson said.

The Higher Learning Commission is part of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Committed to developing and maintaining high standards of excellence, the association was founded in 1895 as a membership organization for educational institutions.

Assessing numerous programs and coordinating multiple committees over the next two years while continuing academic work will surely be a challenge, but Provost Carol Sue Butts feels the co-chairs are up to the task.

"Both Machelle and Thomas are veterans on this campus. They are highly respected and regarded by their colleagues and by administrators," Butts said. "They know the campus well. They are both very organized and personable, and people enjoy working with them. I know they'll get the job done well."

"It's going to be a lot of work but I think we can do it. It's all about selecting good people," Nelson said. "And we have a lot of them here."

PLATTEVILLE - University of Wisconsin-Platteville students Rebecca Gill and Travis Heller have been selected to attend the fourth system-wide Student Ambassador Advisory Council.

The Student Ambassador Advisory Council is composed of more then 30 students who are named by UW chancellors based on their student leadership contributions and outreach skills. The purpose of the advisory council is to offer student perspectives to university leaders.

Gill, a senior, and Heller, a junior, were both very excited when they heard that they were chosen to represent UWP.

"I hope to be able to get the opinions of students on this campus to senators and other state level leaders," Heller said. "I believe that the students opinions of campus life are key to getting improvements on campus."

Gill said "being able to serve as a System Student Ambassador representing UW-Platteville is not only an honor, but an excellent opportunity to observe and learn about the university system."

By taking part in special projects and conveying student viewpoints about university issues, the Student Ambassadors help keep the UW system connected with the students they serve.

The students provide input, assistance and feedback on projects and special events. One event Gill and Heller have already attended is the Wisconsin Economic Summit in Milwaukee on Oct. 27 and 28. The summit featured numerous thought provoking sessions involving hundreds of statewide leaders in business, labor, government, education and the non-profit sector to inform participants of Wisconsin's economic position.

Because these student representatives are also informed about system-wide issues that could affect their home campuses, Student Ambassadors are also an important resource to the student body by relaying pertinent information to them.

Since 2000, UW System Student Ambassadors have communicated with state legislators and assisted the Board of Regents in sharing the importance of higher education with the state of Wisconsin. They have also consulted with chancellors, the governor, the president of the United Council of UW Students, and the student member of the Board of Regents.

Their next meeting will be Friday, February 6-7 in Wisconsin Dells.

PLATTEVILLE - Enrolling in an academic institute of higher learning for non-traditional students transpires from a desire to "return to school sometime."

In his late 30s, Walter Fletcher started surfing the Internet for a plausible college that would work for him. Having worked in areas related to engineering, Fletcher decided to fulfill his ambition to receive his engineering certification. Locating the University of Wisconsin-Platteville on the top of many Internet websites of engineering possibilities was appealing, especially due to campus size. Fletcher said, "After researching UW-Madison, I thought the size of UW-Platteville would be less intimidating and best suit my needs." Fletcher noted the extensive and informative website as a clear guide to reach his goal.

Fletcher is from New Hampshire and had always associated Wisconsin with engineering, due to the extensive mining history of the state. Fletcher was pleased to receive an invitation from UW-Platteville to tour the campus and visit the Platteville area. He rode the train to Chicago, the bus to Madison, and hitchhiked to Platteville. He was very determined to reach UW-Platteville having already set his sites on attending the university.

Fletcher moved to Platteville in May 1997 and proceeded to fulfill his dream. His wife, Debbie, and two daughters, followed in 1998 after the youngest daughter graduated from high school. She followed in her father's footsteps by attending UWP and declaring her major in psychology.

Living in the dormitory for one year was an experience Fletcher would not forget. In doing so, he was able to get off to a great start in his education. After fulfilling his pre-requisites, Fletcher declared his mechanical engineering major and history minor.

David Kraemer, assistant professor of mechanical engineering, enjoyed teaching a non-traditional student. Kraemer noted that life experiences gave Fletcher an intuition for physics. "He enrolled with limited mathematical preparation, but caught up and kept at it," Kraemer said. Kraemer did not alter his style or content of teaching for Fletcher, and was able to incorporate some of Fletcher's life experiences into class situations.

Kraemer and Fletcher commented on the traditional, verses the non-traditional social gap within the classroom environment. Kraemer said, "If the gap could be bridged, the younger students would benefit more from having non-traditional students like Fletcher in their class."

Fletcher concluded, "I had an enjoyable, challenging six and a half years at UWP and would recommend it to anyone. The professors were great. My last semester was the hardest."

Fletcher proudly received his degree in mechanical engineering from UW-Platteville on Dec. 13, 2003.

PLATTEVILLE-Students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville will test their knowledge in a test of wits at the College Bowl Tournament, Friday, Jan. 23 at 5 p.m. The event, sponsored by Campus Programming and Relations (CPR), will be held in the Pioneer Student Center in the University Rooms. The College Bowl Tournament pits teams against each other in a 14-minute game of questions.

"It's pretty simple," said Andy Myers, CPR event manager. "The moderator asks questions and the first team to buzz in gets a chance to respond."

If the team responds correctly, points plus a chance at a bonus question for additional points are awarded. If the first team incorrectly answers, the opportunity to answer the question is then offered to the second team.

"It's a game of fun and trivia, providing an opportunity for students to compete in a sport of brains that is educational," said Myers.

Any student is eligible to compete. Students wishing to compete must form a team of at least three people with a maximum of five people with four individuals being the maximum number that can actually compete at one time per team.

Questions will be asked from a variety of subjects ranging from fine arts to science to history. There are two types of questions that are asked. A toss-up question is asked first to both of the teams. If the team answers correctly they will be asked a bonus question.

The winner of the tournament at UW-Platteville will advance to the regional tournament to be held in February.

PLATTEVILLE - Educators who are looking for a way to further their education and careers without leaving their hometown can now do so thanks to a new partnership between Gateway Technical College in Racine and the University of Wisconsin-Platteville.

UWP will now offer its off-campus Master of Science in Education (MSE) degree program on the Gateway Technical College campus. The two-year program offers an adult education emphasis with a human services concentration.

"This is an opportunity that most of these students probably wouldn't get without this program," said Carol Sue Butts, the Provost and Vice Chancellor for UWP.

Because these students are working adults, they do not always have the availability of coming to Platteville and finishing their masters degree on the UWP campus.

Butts said that this program is designed to meet the educational needs of working adults. Class times are also designed with the working adult in mind, meeting Friday nights and Saturdays.

Classes are taught by instructors both in person, and via ITV (interactive television).

"For one class, the instructor may be located in Milwaukee, and for another class, the instructor may be here in Platteville," Butts commented.

By utilizing the 2 + 2 + 2 model, students can now receive their associates degree from Gateway, finish their degree and receive a bachelor's degree two years after that from Upper Iowa University, and then spend two more years completing their masters from UWP, all without leaving Racine.

Gateway is not the only campus that is taking advantage of the high quality program that UWP has to offer. Approximately 60 students are already enrolled in the course. Milwaukee and Madison provide this program in conjunction with UWP to students, and UWP also offers this program in Platteville as well.

"This program is one way that the university is able to reach out to working adults," Butts said.

"The benefits of this program are great for those students who are enrolled in the program. By earning their master's degree, they not only become better teachers, but they are also able to open the door to better jobs that will further their career."

PLATTEVILLE-Every fall University of Wisconsin-Platteville students contact alumni to keep them informed on what is happening on campus, update their current phone, address and place of employment and ask if they would be interested in donating to a scholarship or department on campus.

Twenty-five students work at the phonathon two or three nights a week calling between 45-75 of the 33,000 alumni. The phonathon is a department on campus located in the Alumni/Foundation Office in the Ullsvik Center. The department contacts alumni and fundraises for events, activities and scholarships. One of the goals of the phonathon is to build communication with students and alumni.

The phonathon provides the university with additional funds that are added to the requested scholarships and departments on campus. This year the phonathon has raised $150,000.

"Many of the alumni didn't pledge over the phone, but are sending in a donation," said Gina Udelhofen, coordinator for annual giving and donor relations. "Most donors know which area of the 450 available that they would like their money to go to and many are very willing to give to the university."

This coming spring phonathon student employees will be contacting parents of current students to see if they would be interested in donating to a scholarship or department of the university.

"Our main focus this year is to get more alumni involved. Not just pledging money, but coming back UWP to visit, be at an athletic event, play or reunion," Udelhofen concluded.

PLATTEVILLE-Ginger Levin, Ph.D., adjunct professor for Project Management 701 and 784 at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville, has focused her attention on project management for the better part of the last two decades, making it more than just an academic subject for her.

Levin holds a master of science administration degree, and her doctorate in public administration and information systems technology from George Washington University in Washington, D.C. She also holds a bachelor of business administration degree in economics and in business administration from Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, N.C.

Levin's years of experience enable her to empathize with her students on their projects as she recalls one of her own assignments that did not go well. Levin said, "My worst project was one that my small company...bid on and won for a government agency. In this project, we really didn't have the technical expertise for the job, but we needed work...from the beginning the atmosphere was less than cooperative...the client was only partially satisfied with the end result. What I learned was to not over promise and to be careful not to take on an assignment that is really over my head."

She has taught graduate level courses in telecommunications, data base management systems, and management information systems as an assistant professor at the American University in Washington, D.C.

Not satisfied with merely teaching about the subject, Levin has developed nine courses for the Project Management Institute. She has created other PM courses for such companies as BellSouth, IBM, Honeywell, Delta, GTE, Baan and Arthur Andersen, as well as a PM curriculum for The Weather Channel. Since 1992, Levin has been actively managing a virtual team concerned with milk safety for the Food and Drug Administration.

When not teaching or creating new programs, Levin enjoys writing. She is a co-author of many books with her latest being, "Achieving Project Management Success with Virtual Teams," published in 2003. In her book, "People Skills for Project Managers," she encourages managers to develop their softer side. Levin notes, "We tend to focus on our technical skills, but we also can develop and cultivate our people skills."

Of her many varied experiences, Levin has discovered that teaching online has become one of her favorite activities. "I really like the online teaching at UWP...trying to be as responsive as possible to students. To that end, I live on e-mail," Levin said.

Generally busy herself, Levin recognizes that students are often struggling to balance family, work, and studies. She knows first hand that meeting project deadlines can be frustrating. When burnout sets in, she says it is time to do something enjoyable, like swimming. While facing deadlines, Levin recommends talking with a friend, journaling about feelings and trying to focus on the big picture. She also advises people to review their journal entries monthly.

Levin is a member of PMI and is a frequent speaker at seminars, chapters and at Project World. UWP expects a visit from Levin around the time of her speaking engagement at the Madison PMI chapter on April 21.

PLATTEVILLE-As a full-time police officer, permanently working the midnight shift, Greg Koehle's work schedule is anything but routine. Then add to it the occasional job-related court appearances he attends during the day, and it makes it difficult for him to attend a traditional on-campus master's degree program. Despite this, Koehle knew he wanted to earn a master's in criminal justice. He found exactly what he needed in the University of Wisconsin-Platteville's online master's in criminal justice program.

Totaling 30 credits offered entirely online, the master of science in criminal justice program is a comprehensive, highly interactive solution for professionals who want a graduate degree and are looking for skills to advance to higher-level positions in their profession. Students are able to tailor the program to fit their knowledge and skills and meet their individual career goals.

Balancing school, work and a family was difficult, especially when Koehle's daughter was born during the semester. But, the flexibility of the program made it possible. Koehle offered a bit of simple advice to potential students. "Be very organized at the start of a course and remain that way."

Currently working in his fifth year as a police officer, Koehle said the online format worked well for him. "I was not the most computer literate person when I began the program, and initially I was worried that this would be too hard," he said. "After getting into the course and checking things out I realized that navigation through the course was easy and computer literacy came with the more courses I took."

Koehle, who hopes to use his master's degree to teach part-time and may eventually pursue a doctoral degree, said the personal attention he received throughout the program was incredible. "My advisor, Dr. Cheryl Banachowski-Fuller was great; she always responded to e-mails in a very timely manner and would call whenever it was convenient for me. All of the other instructors were very helpful and understanding too."

Koehle said, in comparison to traditional on-campus courses he's taken, this online program required him to be more independent and active as a student. It also greatly improved his communication skills and provided him with valuable information that he is able to use in his job.

"A large part of my job is written communication, and this program obviously involved a great deal of that. Because of this program, I am able to articulate better and also write more precisely. Also, the last class I took was a criminal procedure course which covered case law, and I did use some of the case law at court to defend my actions."

"Obtaining a master's degree has been a goal of mine since I completed my undergraduate degree, and UWP made the experience very challenging and rewarding," he said.

Those interested in learning more about distance education at UWP can visit the website (http://www.uwplatt.edu/disted) for a complete list of degree programs and available courses. Persons can also call 608-342-1468 or toll-free 800-363-5460 to request an informational packet about UWP distance education.

PLATTEVILLE-The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will offer a class entitled, "Special Topics in Philosophy: Biomedical Ethics in the spring semester of 2004.

According to the course syllabus, 2940 Biomedical Ethics, which will be taught by assistant professor Mary Lenzi, will provide students with an in-depth critical examination of some of the philosophical and ethical issues that typically confront both individuals and society regarding health and disease in the life cycle.

The class is divided into two main parts. The first eight-week curriculum will focus on theoretic frameworks, professional codes and core ethical principles. The second eight weeks of the semester will center on controversial biomedical issues including: the doctor patient relationship, should doctors be able to refuse demands of patients and their families for "futile" treatments, the rationing of Medicaid Health access and/or services, the allocation of resources and the rationing of health care.

"I have taught similar courses in biomedical ethics and I have found that the students have been very engaged and enthusiastic about theses ideas and outcomes. This sort of philosophy course applies well not only to a major and growing field of employment in health care, but also directly to human life concerns. My past teaching experience at both private and state universities has been that Biomedical Ethics is well-received by both majors and minors in health care, as well as by undergraduates seeking to learn more about the discipline of philosophy in the context of a major part of being human," said Lenzi. "After all, individuals seem genuinely concerned about how philosophy and ethics can be beneficial and necessary for making wiser choices about something as intimate and important as health and living better, healthier lives."

According to Lenzi, Biomedical Ethics and other such philosophy courses provide undergraduate students the necessary knowledge, exposure and training to reason ethically through the problems in the human life cycle, from birth, maturation and dying. All stages of human life are related to pertinent issues of health, well-being and disease in relation to one's genes, environment and life-style choices and those targeted habits promoting health rather than disease and disability.

PLATTEVILLE - As University of Wisconsin-Platteville senior Michael Lange thought about the December graduation ceremony, the broadcasting student surely had a different perspective than most. Working for the university's television services department, Lange has helped broadcast the ceremony for local cable many times in the years past.

"I'll be in front of the cameras this year for graduation instead of behind it," Lange, a December graduate, said. "I'll kind of feel out of place."

Michael Lange has been selected as one of this semester's Super Seniors at UWP and will receive a lifetime membership in the UWP Alumni Association. He is the son of Rod and Debbie Lange of Green Bay.

A communication technologies major with an emphasis in broadcasting, Lange got much experience in television and video production as an employee of the university's television services department, producing video promotions and training videos and helping broadcast basketball, volleyball and football games, as well as other ceremonies.

"Pretty much from the beginning I was working with television services. We try to do a lot of different events," Lange said. "I've gotten to do a lot of things through television services."

One of the most rewarding things has been working on UWP's annual holiday telethon to raise money for the Wisconsin Badger Camp, a summer camp for individuals with developmental disabilities. Lange has been a member of the core production team for the telethon the last three years.

This year, as assistant producer, he edited video that was to be used during the telecast and trained new personnel on video equipment. He was able to visit the Wisconsin Badger Camp during the summer to shoot video for the telecast.

"Once you go up there and shoot, it makes the telethon so much better. You get to see what telethon is all about," Lange said.

The telethon is a great thing for the campers as well.

"They just love being up there," Lange said. "And they love seeing themselves on TV." This year's telethon raised more than $66,000.

Lange decided to come to UWP because of the personal interaction between students and professors in the broadcasting program.

"It's a really hands-on program. Right away as freshmen they throw you on the equipment. You learn just as much from other students as you do from professors. That's the best part of it." Lange said.

For one promotional video he produced, Lange won a Telly award, given to recognize outstanding non-network commercials and video productions. In addition to classes and work at television services, Lange has also been involved with the UWP chapter of the National Broadcasting Society.

Diversifying his education, Lange earned a minor in computer science to complement his broadcasting talents.

"Broadcasting is becoming a lot more dependant on computers," Lange said. "Being able to trouble shoot and just having those skills to do your own computer support-the more you know the more valuable you are."

In his free time, Lange enjoys skiing and bicycling, and is working on his certification to be a scuba diver. Now that he has graduated, he is looking to work in television or video production and feels UWP has given him that opportunity.

"UWP is a great college for a lot of different majors, not just engineering," Lange said.

PLATTEVILLE - Traveling abroad and student teaching are just a few experiences that University of Wisconsin-Platteville student, Erin Kavanaugh, was able to enjoy prior to her graduation.

Kavanaugh, a December graduate originally from Kaukauna with an English education major and a psychology minor, traveled to Malvern, Jamaica, to take part in a three-week student teaching experience. This program was offered for the first time at UWP following its establishment through the efforts of Wally Iselin, director of clinical experience at UWP; Dave Chellevold, professor in the School of Education; and Dr. Larry Kenney, associate dean of the College of Education at UW-Whitewater. Kavanaugh, Kim Rupp (another student from UWP), Chellevold, Kenney and three students from UW-Whitewater each attended the trip.

"I had always wanted to travel to Jamaica, but the opportunity had never presented itself," Kavanaugh said. "I thought this would be a great opportunity to experience teaching in another country and see Jamaica."

While teaching in Malvern, Kavanaugh stayed with a host family whose house was located nearby in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Kavanaugh also traveled and stayed with two other students, Rupp and a UW-Whitewater student.

"I think an experience like this is so valuable because not only do we get to meet with and live with people from another country, but we got to know other students from Wisconsin as well," Kavanaugh explained.

Kavanaugh spent two weeks student teaching at Hampton High School for Girls, where she taught seventh grade language arts. During this time Kavanaugh taught over 160 students between four classes. Each class lasted approximately 35 minutes.

"A big part of the experience is to show us how schools in other countries operate," explained Kavanaugh. "We toured various schools in the area and got to really see the differences in the U.S. educational system and the Jamaican education system."

During her student teaching experience, Kavanaugh also had the opportunity to travel through other parts of Jamaica. One day was spent traveling to Kingston to visit the Bob Marley Museum. Kavanaugh also took time to visit the white sandy beaches of Negril and Montego Bay.

Reflecting back on her experience, Kavanaugh feels her travels were very beneficial to her both professionally and personally.

"One thing I realized is how lucky we are to have all the resources we do," Kavanaugh replied. "While in Jamaica, the Internet service was only usable for a week and the school library consisted mostly of outdated textbooks and magazines. It was a challenge to work with these limited resources and I think it will make me a stronger teacher in the future."

In preparing for the trip, Kavanaugh found the resources provided by UWP and UW-Whitewater to be extremely helpful. In response to recommending this program to other students, Kavanaugh replied, "I definitely would suggest to students to participate in this program. It was one of the best things I have done. I really found out a lot about the way I teach. Also, it is a great way to explore and learn about a different culture. I think it is a great way for a student to grow as a teacher and as a person."

PLATTEVILLE- Willard Pulkrabek listed "doing a proper job" as one of the biggest challenges about teaching at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. After doing that for nearly 24 years as a professor of engineering department, he looks towards retirement and new interests. "UWP has a very good mechanical engineering department and we have a good staff. I'm proud to have been a part of it."

Pulkrabek came to UWP in 1980 because he wanted to work at a teaching orientated university, as opposed to a school with an emphasis on research. A Minnesota native, he also wanted to stay in the midwest. Pulkrabek attended the University of Minnesota where he received his bachelor of science degree in 1961 and his master's degree in 1963. He earned a PhD from the same university seven years later. Prior to coming to UWP, he worked with the 3M Company in St. Paul, Minn., and taught at the US Naval Academy and the Colorado School of Mines.

Pulkrabek has also authored a book, "Engineering Fundamentals of the Internal Combustion Engine," that is used in several countries throughout the world. He says writing is something he'd like pursue in his retirement.

EMS Dean Richard Shultz says, "Pulkrabek has been a long-term member of the department of mechanical engineering. He has taught both mechanics and thermodynamics. He is our resident expert on engines. He has always been a strong contributor to our department and has authored a textbook. The only reservation I have about him is that he cheers for the wrong football team."

Pulkrabek and his wife have three children, John, who is a student at UW-Madison, Timothy, who is a swim coach at Grinnell College and a daughter, Rebecca, who works at a day care center at a college in Rochester, Minn.

Pulkrabek plans to stay in Platteville and would like to get involved in volunteer work.

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville's 12th annual employee recognition luncheon and awards ceremony took place on campus Dec. 3, in the Velzy North Room at the Ullsvik Center.

After lunch, Chancellor David Markee presented a gift to each employee. Markee commented, "It takes a team effort for the university to meet its mission."

Of the 119 employees accepting recognition and appreciation for their service, the years of employment ranged from five to 40 years with accumulative years adding up to 1,540. The names of the recipient's are:

40 years-Thomas Hickey

35 years-Vera Geaheart, Diane Hamann, Kenneth Kilian,William Miller, Jesse Reinstein, Marilyn Tufte

30 years-Steven Becker, Joyce Clifton, Joyce Ebert

25 years-Carol Beals, Debra Becker, Joyce Clark, David Langkamp, Lang-Wah Lee, Robert Leighty, Harv Schwab, Richard Waugh, Leon Winkler

20 years-Robert Calcaterra, Bernard Harris, Mary Larson, Ellen Lindner, Jeremy Meek, Tina Osterholz, Paula Stauffacher, Myron Tranel, David Wood

15 years-Jean Bascom, Barbara Daus, Daniel Fiedler, Judith Frain, John Ifediora, Christine Jentz, Stan Lukowski, Chetna Narayan, John Nkemnji, Billidine Penisten, Madonna Perkins, Arlene Pickel, Jeanne Pint, Milton Place, Susan Price, John Runde, Debra Schulman, Linda Tucker, Kimberly Tuescher, Cynthia Vondra, Carol Witzig, Richard Zink

10 years-Karen Averkamp, Jack Borchers, Michael Brecker, Connie Busch, Jerry Copus, Rebekah Demaree, Janet Frederick, James Hamilton, Douglas Hartz, Cathy S. Hastings, Sheri Kratcha, Gerald Larson, Daryl Logan, Marian Maciej-Hiner, Mary Nechvatal, Thomas Nelson, Julie Phillips, John Rink, Kathleen Tigerman, Diana Trendt, Cindy Trickel, Steve Vance, Laura Wendorff, Marc Wruble

5 years-James Almquist, Sandra Baker, Phyllis Bratton, Marc Brogley, Carol Sue Butts, Jonathan Coleman, Dennis Cooley, Terrence Cullen, Denise Dunbar, Trudy Farra, Carmen Faymonville, Kari Frederick, Joseph Guenther, Helen Hadorn, Molly Hoeper, Kimberly Hurd, Roger Jones, Jerome Joyce, Colleen Kaiser, Judy Kaiser, Deborah Kinder, Travis Lahey, Laura Ley, Kyle Metzloff, Sally Moss, Zehra Muslu, Greig Olney, Philip Parker, Thomas Pavick, Rebecca Peters, Karen Poller, Joanne Ragon, Arthur Ranney, Roger Reed, Pete Reif, Cathy Riedl-Farrey, Robert Schmitt, Kelly Sullivan-Soley, Molly Thelemann, Jason Thrun, Janet Timmerman, Anthony Valentine, Jane Ware, Kenneth Wiegman, Cristina Winkler

PLATTEVILLE - Working together on a community service project for Family Advocates in Platteville is what four students at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville recently completed for their senior design class.

Each of the four students will be graduating this month with a degree in civil engineering. These students include Wendy Coyne, originally from Fond du Lac, and Krista Puttkammer, originally from Tomah, each with an emphasis in structural engineering and geotechnical engineering. Dan Erickson, originally from Vadnais Heights, Minn., has an emphasis in transportation engineering; and Dan Schilling, originally from Dubuque, Iowa, with an emphasis in environmental engineering and construction engineering.

To complete the project, the design team worked with approximately 40 education students from the "Working with Families" class taught by Rea Kirk, associate professor of education.

According to Kirk, the experience provided the students with a unique opportunity to aid Family Advocates by filling various roles such as answering a crisis line, working with children and completing assorted home improvements to the Family Advocates house, which is able to accommodate up to six families at a time.

The design team aided the project by designing and constructing an eight by 10 foot storage shed to be used by Family Advocates. In designing the shed, the team worked with the city of Platteville to follow the proper ordinances and zoning laws. The design team also developed a cost estimate plan to replace all the current windows in the Family Advocates building.

The design team remarked that during the stages of the project they improved their organizational skills, time management skills, communication and coordination skills through contacting the client and city, and gained hands-on experience. The design team added that working on the Family Advocates project not only benefited each of them for future employment, but also benefited the community.

Throughout the course of the project, the design team was aided and advised by Dr. Christina Curras, assistant professor in geotechnical engineering, Dr. Matthew Roberts, assistant professor in structural engineering, and Dr. Yuan-Ling (Dave) Wang, professor in structural engineering.

PLATTEVILLE- On Nov. 18 the University of Wisconsin-Platteville crops judging team competed at the National Crops Contest in Kansas City. They also competed in Chicago on Nov. 20.

In the Kansas City contest the team placed second overall. Team members also excelled individually, with members Ian Prust placing fourth overall, Gretchen Brewer placing fifth and Kate DePauw placing seventh. According to the UWP Aggie, Prust placed third in grain grading and identification and seventh in seed analysis, Brewer placed fourth in grain grading and sixth in both seed analysis and identification and DePauw placed second in identification, fourth in seed analysis and ninth in grain grading.

At the Chicago contest the team took second place again, placing first in grain grading and second in both seed analysis and identification. DePauw placed third overall, placing second in identification, third in seed analysis and fourth in grain grading. Prust earned fourth overall, placing first in grain grading, sixth in identification and seventh in seed analysis. Brewer took sixth place, with third in grading and 10th in seed analysis and identification. The team's finishes earned them a trip to the North American Colleges and Teachers in Agriculture contest this spring.

The team is coached by Dr. Roger Higgs and includes alternates Bob Berkevich and Brad Lewke. While on the trip the team visited the Underground Storage Caverns, Agriculture Hall of Fame, Kansas City Board of Trade, Chicago Board of Trade, Sears Tower, Anheiser Busch and Monsanta/Pfizer.

PLATTEVILLE - Erin Walter will be a spring graduate with a degree in criminal justice. In 2002 Walter enacted the UWP chapter of Drunk and Drugged Driving Month or 3D Month, recognized annually in December.

Due to Walter's interest in alcohol awareness programs, her research led her to the information about 3D Month through Bacchus & Gamma, a peer education network. Bacchus & Gamma was founded in 1975 at the University of Florida in response to a need on campus. Bacchus is the acronym for Boost Alcohol Consciousness Concerning the Health of University Students, and Gamma is the acronym for Greeks Advocating Mature Management of Alcohol.

When asked if there was a particular event or situation in her life that spurred her initiative in 2002 to start the chapter, Walter said, "No, I've just watched and seen what can happen to people. I have too much respect for my parents to put them through unnecessary anguish."

Lights on for Life is a nationwide remembrance on Dec. 12, of those killed or injured in impaired driving accidents, and the UWP chapter recognized this day by handing out information and key chains with a mouthpiece to the breathalyzer test on it; a reminder when picking up the keys to give them to someone that has not been drinking.

In closing Walter said, "When a person is drinking they get an increased feeling of invincibility; a feeling that nothing can happen to them. Couple this with a marked decrease in inhibitions and you've got a volatile mix. The time to deal with these feelings is NOT after having had a few, but to plan ahead for a safe holiday season."

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville will host a three-man comedy troupe as part of its CFA Family Events and Concerts.

The Arrogant Worms are a Canadian musical and vocal group on a mission to make their audience laugh. Their instruments consist of a guitar and bass; combine those with a great stage presence, tight harmonies and sharp wit, and it all adds up to a performance worth seeing. While their songs and banter will split sides, it is the musicianship and vocal prowess that is utterly amazing.

Canada self-proclaims the Worms as Clowned Princes of Humor, Purveyors of the Absurd, and Ambassadors of Fun. They have humored audiences throughout North America, from Disney to Central Park, into the Grand Canyon and as far away as Australia.

Sit back and be entertained with great music, clever lyrics and hilarious interaction with the Arrogant Worms. This comedy troupe performance is best suited for mature audiences.

The performance is on Thursday, Jan. 22 at 8 p.m. at UW-Platteville Center for the Arts. Tickets are available through the university box office. Ticket prices are: UWP students free (ticket must be reserved with student ID) and general admission is $10. The university box office is open Monday-Friday, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and the telephone number is 342-1298.

More information on CFA Family Events and Concerts can be found at http://www.uwplatt.edu/arts/cfa. This event is co-sponsored by Campus Programming and Relations (CPR).

PLATTEVILLE - The University of Wisconsin-Platteville Pioneer Farm has been undergoing many noteworthy changes in the last several years. Last October the $1.6 million Agriculture Technology Center opened. Now the new Swine Center is ready for operation and an open house will be held on Thursday, Jan. 15.

Tours of the new Swine Center will run from 1 until 3:30 p.m. beginning at the Agriculture Technology Center every half hour. Visitors will be able to walk through the facility although they will not be able to see the swine in their new home, as they are expected to arrive after Jan. 15.

Pioneer Farm had been looking for a way to modernize the 35-year-old swine building. Funds had been sought for the past eight years. "The project became a reality when the board of directors of the UW-Platteville Foundation voted to secure a $1.4 million loan to fund the swine center building project. The UWPF partnered with area financial institutions Clare Bank, First National Bank, Anchor Bank and Mound City Bank for the financing. This is a very progressive venture," said Dennis Cooley, interim director of the UWP Foundation.

Alicia Prill-Adams, assistant director of Pioneer Farm, and several students participated in a study tour to Ohio sponsored by the Wisconsin Pork Producers Association. While in Ohio Prill-Adams and the students toured a high-rise swine facility. Members of the Pioneer Farm worked diligently with the Wisconsin Agriculture Stewardship Initiative (WASI) to help make this unusual example a reality at UWP.

"Not many high-rise composting swine facilities exist in the country. There is one in Ohio and Indiana. The one at Pioneer Farm will be the first in Wisconsin. This facility will also be the first of its kind to be directly affiliated with a university," Prill-Adams said.

The 16,000 square foot high-rise Pioneer Swine Center will hold a 60-sow herd which will be group penned, have 1,400 swine wean to finish each year, and feature artificial insemination and manure composting.

The complex also includes a walk-in demonstration area, as well as views into various production rooms to show firsthand the facility design. The technology and management practices evident in the high-rise swine facility design work to solve key issues in the industry.

From left to right: Bottom - Father Charles Schulter, Jon Stevens, Mike Wiczek and Greg Siebers. Top - Joe Malenofski, Jacob Franzmeier, Angel Doty, Justin Dahlberg and Dr. Robert Schmitt.

PLATTEVILLE - Helping the community and gaining hands-on experience for students from the University of Wisconsin-Platteville are just a few of the benefits that came from the work provided by the student chapter of Associated General Contractors (AGC) to St. Mary's Catholic Church of Platteville.

Thirteen student members of AGC along with their faculty advisor, Dr. Robert Schmitt, united together to construct a fully functional concrete ramp leading up to the parish offices of St. Mary's Catholic Church.

The students first expressed an interest in a community construction project to their faculty advisor. Schmitt then took the initiative to contact Father Charles Schluter of St. Mary's Catholic Church and learned of the parish's need for a ramp. To gain funding for the supplies, Schmitt contacted Bob Barker, vice president of the Wisconsin AGC Chapter, for financial support. Following a donation of $1,200 from the Wisconsin AGC Chapter, the students were able to purchase the supplies needed for the project.

"The offer to build a ramp for the parish offices came with perfect timing," Schluter said. "There are several senior citizens in our parish who will benefit from this project. We are very appreciative of the time and effort put forth by the students and the contributions given by the Wisconsin AGC Chapter."

The project also offered the students valuable hands-on experience. In October, the students began the initial design work, obtained a proper building permit and researched the correct codes and regulations in designing a handicap accessible ramp. During the month of November and into December, the students completed the design work and constructed the concrete ramp. Throughout the course of the project, the students also improved their communication skills between Schluter, Schmitt and themselves.

"Working on the ramp project was an excellent opportunity to gain experience in project management and aid the community all in one," replied Jon Stevens, a UWP student originally from Madison, earning a degree in building and construction management.

"This project offered a positive hands-on learning experience for the students, while providing a valuable resource to both the church and community," Schmitt said.