LAKELAND COLLEGE NEWS

Mosaic Concert to feature unique performances from faculty, students (Click Here to View) Three Lakeland College faculty members will combine their talents in a unique collaboration, highlighting the college's third annual Mosaic Concert on Thursday, Feb. 16. The Mosaic Concert allows students and faculty members from each of the departments within the college's Creative Arts Division an opportunity to perform or show their work. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Bradley Theatre. It is free and open to the public. Previous mosaic concerts have featured collaborations involving students, but this program will see faculty members from three disciplines - Associate Professor of Music Arthur Johnson, Associate Professor of Art Bill Weidner and Assistant Professor of Writing Nate Lowe - perform a collaborative work. Weidner gave one of his recent paintings, "The Edge of Evolution," a 30-inch by 22-inch acrylic on illustration board, to Johnson, who composed an original, four-and-a-half-minute work for solo piano based on his interpretation of Weidner's work. Then it was Lowe's turn, and he's written a narrative based on Weidner's painting and Johnson's music. At the Feb. 16 concert, the audience will see the painting for a few minutes, and then Johnson will play his piece, followed by Lowe reading his piece. WeidnerWeidner initially proposed the idea for the collaboration. It's the first venture of its kind for all three, and they're enjoying the flow of creative energy. "When I first heard Arthur perform his completed composition, I was stunned with the rich complexity and effort he put into this work," Weidner said. "It has such a broad range of feelings that I had to immediately ask him, 'Did you really base that piece on my painting?' It is the highest compliment anyone has ever paid to my artwork in my life. I could barely hold back my tears." Johnson, a noted scholar and performer of improvisational music, said composing music based on an image was a refreshing challenge. "I started the process by writing down my thoughts about the painting - what did I see in the painting, and how might that be reflected in music? What moods did I get from the painting?" Johnson said. Johnson"The answers to these questions dictated the instrumentation, tempo, thematic material, texture and other expressive elements. I saw extremely focused lines and edges in the painting, so I thought that translated into a melody and an accompaniment with lots of staccato and little pedal. "To me, the painting had an overall lightness to it, but also a taste of sobriety, and I tried to capture these two moods proportionately while also depicting the many other moods and meanings I got from the painting." Lowe said his writing strikes a balance between what he's seeing in Weidner's painting and hearing in Johnson's music. "The images, lines, space, and color in the artwork have triggered particular associations in me, little windows through which I can access the world as I've experienced it," Lowe said. "But, then, another layer (of music) offers space, tempo, notes and motion that creates another set of associations. Lowe"So far, the art is pushing the content for me while the music is offering particular tones; in other words, the art is what I'm seeing, and the music is how I'm seeing it." Lowe said he isn't merely transcribing what is being said by the art/music, he's adding his own take to the creative mix. "There are three voices here, which means there are at least three stories," Lowe said. "And while one thing has maybe inspired another, and there may be tangible connections between them, the unifying voice and story is that of the creative process itself, not of any one individual piece of art within it." The three faculty members hope to offer the audience a glimpse inside the creative process. "Hopefully, if Bill, Arthur and I have offered them inspired work, audience members will take with them notes, images and words that will stick to them when they go on with their lives," Lowe said. This year's effort is setting in motion ideas for more collaboration next year. Johnson and Weidner have discussed reversing their roles, with Weidner painting a work based on Johnson's music. The concert's program also includes: The Lakeland band performing "Variations on America" by Charles Ives/William Schuman and "The Big Cage," a piece by famed circus music composer Karl L. King. Theatre students performing Genesis 1. A reading of "The Really Bad Word," by Lakeland writing student Alan Fairchild. Vocal music from Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro" and Rossini's "La Cenerentola" performed by students Fabian Qamar, Kristal Klemme, Stephanie Wasmer and Cody Linder. The Schilcutt Handbell Ensemble performing an arrangement by Lakeland Professor of Music Janet L. Herrick of music by the rock group Queen, including "We Will Rock You," "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "Another One Bites the Dust." "The Mosaic Concert is a collaboration of the departments within the Creative Arts Division," said Russell Pettitt, a member of the division and director of bands. "This is a great opportunity for our division to showcase the fine work of our students and faculty, including talented artists, composers, actors, musicians and writers."

 

OTHER LAKELAND COLLEGE NEWS

Muskies- Crusaders softball game rescheduled for April 5
SHEBOYGAN, Wis.- The Lakeland College softball game against Maranatha Baptist Bible College originally scheduled for Friday, March 30 has been postponed due to inclement weather and poor field conditions. The Muskies and the Crusaders have rescheduled the game for Thursday, April 5 at 3 p.m. in Sheboygan, Wis.


This week in baseball
This week the Lakeland College baseball team opens Northern Athletics Conference play against Maranatha Baptist College and Marian University. The Muskies (8-3) began the week splitting a non-conference doubleheader with NAIA foe Cardinal Stritch University. Lakeland will host Maranatha Baptist on Saturday, March 31, at noon in Lakeland's NAC opener before traveling to Marian University for their first true road game of the season on Sunday, April 1, a 1 p.m. doubleheader. The Muskies have continued to play well, winning four of their last five games, including outscoring Finlandia 24-2 in 14 innings. Lakeland got two strong pitching performances, as Andy Chitwood and Derek Loomans combined to throw 14 innings, allowing two unearned runs on nine hits, while walking five and striking out nine. The Lions hit just .176 in the two games. Mike Ruzek led the Muskies at the plate, batting .571 (4-for-7) with five RBIs and four runs scored. David Cherney had a big game as well, hitting .667 (2-for-3) with four RBIs, and one run scored. In the split with Cardinal Stritch, Lakeland got a strong pitching performance from Ruzek who allowed just two unearned runs over seven innings, earning a 6-2 victory. In game two, Garrett Morris was plagued by defensive miscues, allowing five runs, four earned, in six innings. The Muskies scattered 10 hits, but scored only two runs, losing 5-2. See what head coach Michael Bachar says his team needs to do to win this week: http://youtu.be/uFqouXGSPDI


Tilleman finishes 2011-12 as Division III's assists-to-turnover leader
Lakeland College senior point guard Becca Tilleman finished the 2011-12 women's basketball season as the most efficient ball handler in the nation, leading the nation's Division III programs with a 2.74 assist-to-turnover ratio. It is the fourth-best mark amongst all three NCAA divisions. "It was a much unexpected accomplishment," said Tilleman. "I knew I was having a good season when I broke the assist record in a game thanks to my teammates stepping up and knocking down shots. It was my senior year and I wanted to do everything I could to help the team win. It's nice to go out with a bang." The Green Bay, Wis., native finished the season with 129 assists to just 47 turnovers in 26 games. She finished just ahead of Devin Beasley of Thomas More who had a 2.63 assist-to-turnover ratio, with 126 assists and 48 turnovers in 28 games. Tilleman also had the third highest single-season assist total in Lakeland history, behind 1985 graduate Helle Stokke (132) and 1990 grad Lynn Holguim (140). She surpassed 2004 Lakeland grad Casey Thousand for most assists in a game with 12 against Rockford College. Tilleman finished her career at Lakeland with 285 assists, the sixth-best mark in school history. "It was a privilege to coach Becca," said Lakeland head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef. "She did such a wonderful job learning my system in one year and becoming the leader and coach on the floor. She was the biggest reason for our success this season. It's going to be hard to replace her."


Muskies of the Week: Mike Ruzek and Alec Redlich
Senior Mike Ruzek and freshman Alec Redlich have been named Lakeland College's Muskies of the Week for their performance in action last week. Read about their success below. Mike Ruzek Senior Mike Ruzek garnered Muskie of the Week honors after helping lead the Lakeland College baseball team to a sweep of Finlandia University in Lakeland's home opener. Ruzek was the catalyst in game one, going 3-for-5 with three RBIs and three runs scored in the 15-1 rout. In game two he was just as effective, going 1-for-2 with two RBIs, one run scored and his eighth hit-by-pitch. The Manitowoc, Wis., native leads the team in hitting with a .421 average and 11 RBIs and 13 runs scored. He also has a team-high six doubles and a .531 on-base percentage. Ruzek looks to lead Lakeland to its first Northern Athletics Conference tournament. Lakeland's last conference tournament appearance was in 2004, the last year of the Lake Michigan Conference. See what Ruzek says about his performance: http://youtu.be/_Z7P8u5Bzy4 Ruzek is currently studying to receive his master of business administration degree. Here's a look into Mike's personality: Favorites: TV: "Swap People" Movie: "Liar, Liar" Music: Country Q. What was your favorite memory from the trip to Fort Myers, Fla.? A: Hanging with the team in the nice weather. Q: What do you need to improve to be a better player? A: My speed. Q: What are you looking forward to most this season? A: Making the conference tournament. Q: If you could meet any player, dead or alive, who would it be and why? A: Ken Griffey Jr., because he's a good all-around player, has a smooth swing, and great swag.   Alec Redlich Freshman Alec Redlich garnered Muskie of the Week honors after helping lead the Lakeland College men's volleyball team to a 7-2 mark last week, including a 6-2 mark in the MIVA Championships. The 6-foot-1 outside hitter set a single-match record on Thursday in the Muskies 3-1 victory over Marquette as he tallied 27 kills, hitting .537. The Wauwatosa, Wis., native continued to shine in the MIVA Championships as he totaled 69 kills, 12 aces, seven blocks and 20 digs in the Muskies eight matches. For his efforts he was named to the Midwest-10's second team All-Conference. Redlich has been the offensive force for Lakeland all season and will need to play at a high level as he helps the team in its quest for a National Championship. See what Redlich says about his performance: http://youtu.be/1rb0w9q7tn8 Redlich is majoring in Accounting. Here's a look into Alec's personality: Favorites: TV: "Seinfeld" Movie: "Christmas Story" Music: Hardcore Q. What is your favorite memory as a Muskie? A: Doing well and getting through my first semester. Q: What do you need to improve to be a better player? A: I'm a terrible blocker and I can get lazy in the back row sometimes. Q: What is the strongest part of your game? A: I can hit the ball very hard. Q: If you could play volleyball anywhere in the world, where would you play and why? A: Hawaii, because it's nice every day and I've never been there before.


Women's Volleyball announces summer camp dates
This summer, the Lakeland College women's volleyball team is hosting two volleyball skills camps for girls in grades 4-12 who want to improve their skills and have fun doing so. The Lakeland College women's volleyball staff strives to teach athletes the skills necessary to compete in volleyball in a fun and educational manner. The camp philosophy provides solid fundamental volleyball skills in a relaxed atmosphere. We cover all phases of the game and allow the necessary repetition time to see improvement in every skill. The skills camp will also include various competitive drills to incorporate skills that have been learned. An individual skills camp (grades 4-12) is set for Aug. 3-5. It is designed to strengthen the fundamental skills of volleyball for all positions and levels of players. The skills camp provides players with an opportunity to develop necessary skills through quality instruction from Lakeland College's coaching staff and current players. Campers will also receive specialized instruction including skills for defensive players/liberos, setters and hitters. Cost is $185 for overnight campers and $130 for commuters. A varsity team camp (grades 9-12) is set for Aug. 6-8. It is designed to help high school teams get a head start on the season. Each team will have a Lakeland Camp coach who will work with them on team strategies and competition against other teams. The camp coach will work closely with their team and focus on areas of improvement specific to that team. The camp will focus on team defense and team offense drills, and includes competitive team drills. The last day of camp includes a tournament. Teams will have the opportunity to play against other schools from the area and demonstrate the skills they have learned. Parents and coaches are welcome to attend! There is an eight-person minimum for each team. Cost is $175 for overnight campers and $125 for commuters. For the overnight camp, four meals will be provided for the campers (breakfast, lunch and dinner on the first full day, breakfast on the last day). For the commuter camp, one meal will be provided (lunch on the first full day). Snacks are provided for both groups. For more information or to register for camp, click here.


This Week in Softball
The Lakeland College softball team opens Northern Athletics Conference play this week with its home opener on Wednesday, followed by a doubleheader against Maranatha Baptist Bible College on Friday. The 3-7 Muskies begin their 2012 NAC campaign when they play host to Alverno College on Wednesday at 3 p.m. Lakeland hopes to ride the momentum of a 9-7 win in its spring finale, powered by a grand slam by sophomore Chelsea Gile, into Wednesday's doubleheader against the Inferno (3-5). Last season, Lakeland split its doubleheader at Alverno, including a 9-1 win followed by a 5-4 loss. On Friday, the Muskies host Maranatha Baptist in the team's final game of the week. Lakeland holds a 13-1 record over the Crusaders since the 2005 season and hopes to extend the mark to 15-1 this Friday. See what head coach Chad Buchmann has the team working on this week to prepare for the NAC season: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iG5YVS3YLMs


Karl Elder receives Christopher Latham Sholes Award
Karl Elder, Lakeland College's Fessler Professor of Creative Writing, has been named the recipient of the Christopher Latham Sholes Award by the Council for Wisconsin Writers for outstanding encouragement of Wisconsin writers. Elder, a member of Lakeland's faculty since 1979, was honored for his long history of mentoring and showcasing the work of Wisconsin writers, especially in coordinating the college's Great Lake Writers Festival, which started in 1991 and will celebrate its 14th year in the fall. The award includes a $500 prize and a week-long writer's residency at Shake Rag Alley or Maplewood Lodge in Mineral Point. Awards were decided by out-of-state judges and will be presented at a May 12 Awards Luncheon at the Wisconsin Club in Milwaukee. The public is cordially invited to attend and celebrate Wisconsin's fine writers. In addition to the GLWF, Elder has logged countless hours nurturing and assisting writers from all over the world. He has been the editor of the literary publication "Seems" for more than three decades. "Seems," which was started in 1971 by students at Northern Illinois University, recently published its 46th edition. It collects essays, short stories, poetry and other works. A number of Elder's Lakeland students have served in leadership roles on the publication over the years. Elder has paved the way for numerous students to go on to graduate school, written dozen of letters of recommendation and provided independent editing and advice on numerous works. He has also worked with young teens seeking their communications merit badge from the Boys Scouts of America. Elder is a member of the National Eagle Scout Association and earned the prestigious Vigil Honor of the Order of the Arrow. Elder said his work with other writers is an extension of his devotion to helping people realize their potential and strive for excellence, and his personal theory of education that has imagination as its cornerstone. "We're trying to prepare persons for the future," Elder said. "Imagination is a survival tool they have to be able to anticipate problems. One way they can do that is through literature. It's efficient, portable and it forces people to make their own pictures, whether they're a writer or reader. The business of making pictures develops their imagination which can help people identify problems and live quality lives." Among Elder's previous honors are a Pushcart Prize; the Chad Walsh, Lorine Niedecker, and Lucien Stryk Awards; and two appearances in The Best American Poetry. His most recent collections are "Gilgamesh at the Bellagio" from The National Poetry Review Award Book Series and "The Houdini Monologues," appearing as a chapbook and accompanying CD from Word of Mouth Books, the imprint of his magazine, "Seems." Several of his poems, including audio recordings, may be accessed at the Beloit Poetry Journal and qarrtsiluni websites. He is also facilitator of the Mead Public Library's Poetry Circle. More about the winners, names of the out-of-state judges and information for reserving a place at the May 12 Awards luncheon ($28; reservations required by May 7) is at the Council for Wisconsin Writers website at www.wiswriters.org. CWW is a non-profit organization founded in 1964 to promote awareness of Wisconsin's literary heritage.


Weather causes Baseball to make schedule change
Due to weather concerns, the Lakeland College baseball team has moved the start time of tomorrow's doubleheader against Cardinal Stritch University to 2 p.m. The teams have also agreed to play two seven inning games. Live stats for the games will be available here.


Sen. Ron Johnson to deliver Kohler Business Lecture
Former Wisconsin businessman and current U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) will deliver Lakeland College's 11th annual Charlotte and Walter Kohler Distinguished Business Lecture on April 11 in the college's Bradley Theatre. Johnson's lecture, "From Wisconsin Business Owner to the U.S. Senate," will chronicle his days in business in the state and how he's used that experience in Washington. The lecture will begin at 7 p.m., and is free and open to the public. Johnson made headlines when he defeated Democratic incumbent Russ Feingold in Wisconsin's November 2010 senate election. Johnson was a political newcomer, and ran on a platform that included criticism on the size of government and government spending along with the need for better plans for job creation and economic recovery. In July of 1979, Johnson started a business with his wife's brother. The company - PACUR - began producing plastic sheet for packaging and printing applications. It was the beginning on a three-decade business career for Johnson, who was involved in all aspects, from operating the equipment, to keeping the company books and selling its products. Johnson gained early acceptance to the University of Minnesota and worked full time while obtaining his degree in business and accounting. In 1977, after graduating with an accounting degree, he started working as an accountant at Jostens. He also continued his education by enrolling in an MBA night program. Johnson serves on the committees on appropriations, budget, homeland security and governmental affairs and aging. He resides in Oshkosh with his wife, Jane. Johnson's appearance at Lakeland is made possible by a $1.5 million gift to the college from The Charlotte and Walter Kohler Charitable Trust. Lakeland annually brings a nationally-known business or economic figure to its main campus to speak with Lakeland students and the general public. Past lecturers have included former Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and current Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich, Forbes Media President and CEO Steve Forbes, a Federal Reserve Bank president and an executive with the Green Bay Packers. The Charlotte and Walter Kohler Charitable Trust is named for former Wisconsin Governor Walter Kohler Jr. and his wife, Charlotte. The Trust was established by Charlotte Kohler to preserve the society and culture that made their good fortune and success possible.


Muskies push back doubleheader
The Lakeland College baseball team announced this morning that it will push back it's scheduled doubleheader with Finlandia University. The Muskies and Lions will now begin at 1:30 p.m., not 11 a.m. as previously scheduled. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause.


Muskies of the Week: Chelsea Gile and Brent Steudel
Sophomore Chelsea Gile and Brent Steudel have been named Lakeland College's Muskies of the Week for their performance in action over spring break. Read about their success below. Chelsea Gile Sophomore Chelsea Gile garnered Muskie of the Week honors after helping lead the Lakeland College softball team to a 3-7 mark at the Tucson Invitational in Tucson, Ariz. Gile powered the Muskies to a 9-7 win over Nazareth College on March 16 when she hit a grand slam in the third inning. Gile went 2-for-3 and scored two runs to help lead the offense. The Grand Junction, Mich., native finished the Tucson Invitational with a team-best .391 batting average and a team-best .652 slugging percentage. She recorded nine hits, five RBIs and runs and three doubles. Gile looks to lead the Muskies' campaign in the Northern Athletics Conference as the team prepares for its NAC and home opener on March 28 against Alverno College. See what Gile says about her performances: Gile is majoring in criminal justice and business management. Here's a look into Chelsea's personality: http://youtu.be/0QqzQV-QQno Favorites: TV: "The Voice" Movie: "Love and Basketball" Music: Country Q. What was your favorite part about the Tucson Invitational? A: Being with the team. Q: What has been your favorite softball memory? A: Hitting a grand slam in Arizona. Q: What are you looking forward to most this season? A: The competition and being ready to compete. Q: Who would win in a homerun derby, you or assistant coach Elisa Waltz? A: Me, because coach E was a slapper. Brent Steudel Sophomore Brent Steudel garnered Muskie of the Week honors after helping lead the Lakeland College baseball team to a 6-3 mark at the Gene Cusic Collegiate Classic in Fort Myers, Fla. The 5-foot-9 catcher put on a hitting display in the season opener, going 4-for-4 with four RBIs to power Lakeland to a 13-2 victory. The Hortonville, Wis., native finished the week with a team-best .423 batting average, while slugging .462 with a .464 on-base percentage. He recorded 11 hits, one double, knocked in four runs and scored three times. Steudel will be a key to the Muskies success this season, as the Lakeland backstop must guide the pitching staff through a tough Northern Athletics conference schedule. See what Steudel says about his performance: Steudel is majoring in criminal justice. Here's a look into Brent's personality: http://youtu.be/5MtlbI-bpes Favorites: TV: "Archer" Movie: "Comebacks" Music: Classic Rock Q. What was your favorite memory from the trip to Fort Myers, Fla.? A: Catching for my roommate, Andy Chitwood. Q: What do you need to improve to be a better player? A: Catching fundamentals Q: What are you looking forward to most this season? A: Making it to the NAC Tournament and winning it. Q: If you could catch any pitcher, dead or alive, who would it be and why? A: Michael Boushley, because he's a great pitcher from my high school.


2012 spring break recap
As we head into the second half of the 2012 spring semester, here's a look at what happened in Lakeland athletics over the spring break. Baseball The Lakeland College baseball team returned from its annual trip to Fort Myers, Fla., as the Muskies took part in the Gene Cusic Collegiate Classic, March 11-17. The Muskies went 6-3 in their nine games, hitting .340, slugging .410 and scoring 60 runs. Meanwhile, Lakeland's pitching staff finished the trip with a 4.05 ERA, holding opponents to a .227 average and allowing just 39 runs. The Muskies struck out 47 batters against 39 walks. Leading the offensive charge was sophomore catcher Brent Steudel (Hortonville, Wis.), who finished the trip with a .423 average (11-for-26) with four RBIs and three runs scored. Sophomore outfielder Charlie Sparrow (Milwaukee, Wis.) was second on the team with a .414 average (12-for-29) with nine RBIs and seven runs scored. He had a .483 slugging percentage and stole three bases. Senior Mike Ruzek (Manitowoc, Wis.) did everything for the Muskies as he played third base, right field and pitched. As a hitter, Ruzek batted .387 (12-for-31) with six RBIs, nine runs scored, a .484 slugging percentage, .525 on-base percentage and he led the team with seven hit-by-pitches. The 6-foot-3 righty also went 1-0 in two starts with a 2.08 ERA in 13 innings. Ruzek allowed six runs, three earned, on seven hits while striking out a team-high 11 hitters. Opponents are hitting just .156 against him with four walks. Sophomore righty Derek Loomans was also impressive, going 2-0 in two appearances, with one start. The Brandon, Wis., native recorded a 2.45 ERA in 11 innings pitched, allowing three runs on eight hits. Loomans struck out eight batters while holding opponents to a .224 average. The Muskies hope to continue their solid play and make a run at the Northern Athletics Conference Championship this spring. Hear what first-year head coach Michael Bachar has to say about his team's performance here. http://youtu.be/PHTLVU80m9c Softball The Lakeland College softball team recorded a 3-7 record at its annual Tucson Invitational spring break trip in Tucson, Ariz., on March 10-16. Sophomore Chelsea Gile led the Muskies with a .391 batting average. The Grand Junction, Mich., native powered the team to a 9-7 win over Nazareth College on March 16 when she hit a grand slam in the third inning. She finished the Invitational with nine hits, five RBIs and runs and three doubles. Juniors Heather Haeflinger and McKenna Wenzel also posted solid performances for the Muskies. Haeflinger recorded a team-high nine hits, while recording six runs and three triples. The Shawano, Wis., native posted a .321 batting average and stole four bases on four attempts. Wenzel led the team in RBIs with nine, while recording three doubles to go along with a .381 batting average. On the mound, junior Erin Henk posted a 3-3 record and eight strikeouts. Offensively, Lakeland had 66 hits and 14 doubles, but defensively gave up 81 runs on 112 hits. See what head coach Chad Buchmann thought about the team's efforts in Arizona: http://youtu.be/S6tYeLkOcLc Lakeland opens Northern Athletics Conference play on March 28 as they host Alverno College in a doubleheader.


Water advisory lifted
(Update March 20, 2012) The boil/bottled water advisory has been lifted. Students, employees and residents of Prof Row can return to normal consumption and use of campus water. Thank you for your cooperation and patience during the advisory. (Update March 18, 2012) The break with our underground piping that supplies the water system on Lakeland's main campus has been repaired and water on the main campus has been turned back on. It can now be used for washing, bathing and bathroom needs. The boil/bottle water advisory for all people on campus and Prof Row is still in effect. You should boil or use commercially bottled water for all consumption including drinking, food preparation and making ice. If you choose to boil water, it must be heated to a rolling boil for at least five minutes before use. Ice should be made from bottled or boiled water. You will receive an email when the boil/bottle water advisory has been lifted. To all Lakeland students, staff and faculty: Due to a break with our underground piping that supplies the water system on Lakeland's main campus, we have been forced to implement a boil/bottle water advisory. All people on campus ' including Prof Row ' must use boiled or bottled water until the system is repaired and testing confirms its safety. The advisory is in effect from today, Friday, March 16, 2012, until further notice. Please follow these guidelines: You should boil or use commercially bottled water for all purposes ' including drinking, food preparation, making ice, washing and bathing. If you choose to boil water, it must be heated to a rolling boil for at least five minutes before use. Ice should be made from bottled or boiled water. Any food, ice or beverages made with the contaminated water cannot be used and should be discarded. Portable bathroom facilities will be provided, as the entire water system must be shut down for repair. We anticipate the water system will be repaired and turned back on later today (Friday). Once that happens, water can be used for bathing and bathroom purposes only. The boil/bottle water advisory will remain in effect for drinking, food preparation, making ice and other water consumption. You will receive another email when you can resume normal water consumption. If you have any questions, please contact Rich Haen, director of facilities management and planning, at (920) 565-1213.


Lakeland Theatre to stage "Fiddler" March 22-25
"Fiddler on the Roof," with its timeless message of acceptance and one of the most memorable scores in musical theatre history, will come alive March 22-25 at Lakeland College's Bradley Theatre. A cast of Lakeland students are joined by some special guests from the area to create a talented ensemble for this Lakeland College Theatre production. David Neese, who previously starred in Lakeland productions of "Camelot" and "To Kill a Mockingbird," plays Tevye. The role of the fiddler is Tevye's conscience, which advises him without the use of a single word. "We're using improvisation techniques to create symbolic action to portray the laborious lives and hardships these characters endured," said director Charlie Krebs. "In spite of their plight, an unflappable hope drives these characters. Their constant devotion to God and their faith guide them in how to treat others and raise their families. "The oppressed in this play are Jewish, but the message of acceptance applies to any group we could think of. It's a testament to the poignancy of this enormously popular story." Most of the stage is a roof, and the aged shingles symbolize how these resilient characters - and all of us - can weather life. There's also a hand-made back drop of a quilt depicting a hopeful sunset, lit by five shades of like colors. "A quilt is an appropriate way to sum up this production," Krebs said. "The lives of these characters are stitched together by tradition, which produces a sense of warmth and comfort, just like your favorite quilt." The production features all the songs "Fiddler" fans love: "Sunrise, Sunset," "If I Were a Rich Man," "Matchmaker," "Tradition" and the piercing "Anatevka." Accordianist Stas Venglevski, who performed with the Sheboygan Symphony Orchestra, will play the accordion in the pit, accented by mandolin. Additional professionals on clarinet, flute, violin, cello, bass, piano and percussion will join an onstage fiddler to propel the powerful music. Musical Director Becky Haen and choreographer Jessica Mueller are also lending their talents to assist the cast. The actors have been studying Yiddish and Russian dialects for nine weeks, and Krebs said those dialects are used each night during rehearsals. Performances will be Thursday-Saturday at 7:30 p.m., with a Sunday matinee at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for non-Lakeland Students. To purchase tickets, order online at http://lakeland.edu/theatre or call Deb Fale at (920) 565-1536. Cast Tevye: David Neese Golde: Clarissa Dimel Tzeitel: Holly Helmer Hodel: Kayann Botana Chava: Brittany Beckmann Sprintze: Alexandra Mitchler Bielke: Ruby Jesion Yente: Rachel Hakala Motel the Tailor: Ian Johanson Perchik: Ben Johnston Fyedke: Todd Szymuszkiewicz Lazar Wolf: Arthur Johnson Rabbi: Matt Troyer Fruma Sarah: Rachel Siehs Constable: Dan Zea Innkeeper: Tim VanZeeland Fiddler: Dan Ognavic Junior Fiddler: Drew Kittelson Chorus Allison Mitchler, Drew Kittelson, Emma Dehne, Eddie Currin, Grace Pirillo, Heather Berry, Ian Haen, John Breaux, Kevin Lampe, Lindsay Kleckner, Manami Hasegawa, Miranda Miller, Rae Siehs, Tom Kloiber, Tony Haen, Vivienne Johnson, Willow Dodgson Russians: Andy Crivellone, Kyle Mortenson, Rick Dodgson Music Director: Becky Haen Choreographer: Jessica Mueller Costume Designer: Della Jahnke Stage Manager: Emma Drake Assistant Choreographer: Holly Helmer Assistant Director: Erica Ebertch


Students showed off skills at Lakeland's Engineering and Science Fair
Several students from around Wisconsin took home honors at the 2012 Lakeland College Engineering and Science Fair. Dhaivat Pandya of Appleton North High School won Best in Fair and will be competing in the Intel International Fair 2012 in Pittsburgh on May 13-18. His project on the optimization of information logging systems won the Mu Alpha Theta Math Award and the Intel Excellence in Computer Science Award. He also won an Air Force Award. Josh Feng of Sheboygan North High School won second place. His project on multi-talker background noise won the American Psychological Association Award. He also won an Air Force Award. Alexandra Gephart of Bayfield High School won third place. Her project on the currents in the north channel of the Apostle Islands won the NOAA: Taking the Pulse of the Planet Award and the Stockholm Water Award. She also won an Air Force Award. Sophia Howk of Bayfield High School won Honorable Mention. Her project on the carbon/nitrogen stable isotope ratios in bald eagles won the Association for Women Geoscientists Award. She also won an Air Force Award. Noelle Metoxen of Oneida Nation High School won the Materials Education ASM Specialty Award for her project on niacin in corn. She also won an Air Force Award. In the middle school portion of the fair, students from Holy Family School in Sheboygan swept the top three awards. Katie English and Maddie Clarke of Holy Family School in Sheboygan won first place with their project on salt water and electricity. Evan Dahle and Joseph Bettag won second place with their project on hydrogen peroxide and liver. Ellie Revelis won third with her project on oil spills. Greta Humke from Holy Family won the Innovation in Engineering Award for her project on amplifying sound.


300 attend Lakeland business, science panels
Lakeland College invited nine successful alumni back to campus to share their stories, offer advice and provide the college's business majors with networking opportunities during the college's third Business Colloquium and the first Science Colloquium in March. The business group included: Bonnie Graff, a 1984 Lakeland graduate who is the managing partner of Provident Financial Consultants, LLC, in Oshkosh, Wis. She has been a financial advisor since 1985 and specializes in the areas of retirement planning, portfolio management, tax planning and pre- and post-divorce planning. Bruce Lammers, a 1978 Lakeland graduate who is the chairman and chief executive officer for Ridgestone Bank, with branches in Brookfield, Wis., and Schaumburg, Ill. Lammers' extensive work in the banking industry focuses on commercial banking, asset management and corporate strategy. Lammers previously served as the president of the Green Bay and Northeastern Wisconsin Region of U.S. Bank (formerly known as Firstar Bank), and the senior vice president and senior commercial loan officer of the Sheboygan office of U.S. Bank. Bob Loffredo, a 1970 Lakeland graduate who is vice president of industrial for Snap-on Incorporated in Kenosha, Wis. Snap-on is a leading global innovator, manufacturer and marketer of tools, equipment, diagnostics, repair information and systems solutions for professional users performing critical tasks. Loffredo directs the entire North American region with gross volume sales in excess of $200 million. Dennis Reimer, a 1974 Lakeland graduate who is the owner and president of Midwest Specialty Products in Winneconne, Wis. Midwest Specialty Products is a converting manufacturer that concentrates on the specialty napkins and wiper markets. He and a partner purchased the company in 2005 and, despite of the difficult economic environment, have nearly doubled the size of the company. Lola Roeh, a 1973 Lakeland graduate who is general manager of the Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake. The Osthoff is considered one of the premier resort destinations in the Midwest and has earned the prestigious AAA Four Diamond rating. Under her leadership, the resort has experienced tremendous growth. In 2002, the Wisconsin Innkeepers Association presented her with the coveted "Innkeeper of the Year" award. The science group included: Debra Gander, DDS, a 1977 Lakeland graduate who is an oral and maxillofacial radiologist with emphasis in imaging for dental implants. In 2010, she was elected president of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology. In addition to her practice, Gander shares her knowledge on advanced imaging with national organizations and study clubs. Ben Kosewski, a 2009 Lakeland graduate who is a genetic counselor with Bellin Health in Green Bay. He has specialized training in genetics and counseling with special interest in oncology, hematology, prenatal and pediatrics. In his current role, Kosewski works with patients, families and health care providers to identify and explain genetic risks and hereditary disorders. Bruce Stockmeier, a 1975 Lakeland graduate who is an environmental health, occupational safety and occupational health (ES&H) professional of more than 35 years experience. Since 1991 he has worked at Argonne National Laboratory, and his primary assignment is with the Lab's Center for Nanoscale Materials (CNM). He participated in the four most recent National Nanotechnology Initiative workshops held to review the U.S. strategy for ensuring that proper attention is devoted to ES&H concerns posed by the emerging technology. Anne Vechinski, PharmD, a 2000 Lakeland graduate who is a board certified pharmacist practicing at Walgreens in West Bend. In addition to filling prescriptions and counseling patients, Vechinski specializes in compounding unique prescription formulations that are customized to the needs of patients or animals. Each group started the day with a panel discussion. The business discussion drew nearly 200 current and prospective students, while approximately 100 current and prospective students attended the science discussion. After lunch, the alumni led breakout sessions on a variety of business and science topics, allowing students a better opportunity to ask questions and network. The alumni offered practical advice and information, and helped students to understand the value of a Lakeland education.


2011-12 Winter Sports Recap
Now that we've had a taste of spring and anticipate warmer days ahead, let's take a look back at the 2011-12 winter sports season at Lakeland. Wrestling The Lakeland College wrestling team wrapped up its season with a share of its fifth straight Northern Wrestling Association Tournament team title and sent its fifth straight grappler to the NCAA National Tournament. Junior Ryan Renon, who wrestled at the 165-pound weight class, led the Muskies after becoming just the second wrestler in program history to win a regional title at the NCAA Great Lakes Regional on Feb. 25 in Minneapolis, Minn. The Wrightstown, Wis., native just missed becoming an All-American at the NCAA Division III National Wrestling Tournament on March 9 in La Crosse, Wis. He had a tremendous season, marked by a 32-6 record. Renon won his third consecutive Northern Wrestling Association Title on Feb. 18, placed first at the Muskie Invite on Nov. 12 and the Milwaukee School of Engineering Invite on Dec. 3. His six technical falls this season tied for ninth in the nation, and he was ranked seventh by both d3wrestle.com and the National Wrestling Coaches Association Division III Brute - Adidas Individual Ranking. Senior Robby Frias also posted an outstanding season with a fifth-place finish at Regionals and a 33-15 record. The Oak Lawn, Ill., native capped off a prolific career by winning his third NWA title at 149 and being named a National Wrestling Coaches Association Division III academic All-American. Frias was named the NWA's Outstanding Wrestler of the Year, which marked the second-straight year a Lakeland grappler won the award. The Muskies' season was also highlighted by several top finishers at the NWA Tournament. Freshman David Galarno (New Holstein) won his first NWA Title at 174 and turned heads when he recorded six straight pin falls in just one day. Senior Miguel Luis (Oak Lawn, Ill.), sophomore Grant Franson (Lindenhurst, Ill.) and freshmen Juan Diaz (Park Ridge, Ill.) and Vince Cardarelle (Saukville) finished second at 157, 125, 141 and 184, respectively. Men's Basketball The Lakeland College men's basketball team had one of its best seasons under fourth-year head coach Aaron Aanonsen. The Muskies finished 12-4 in the Northern Athletics Conference and tied for second in the North Division with NAC Tournament champion Edgewood College. Lakeland finished with an impressive 21-7 overall record, which tied a school record for wins since becoming an NCAA institution in 1997. The Muskies ended their season in the NAC Tournament championship game with an 80-72 loss to Edgewood in Madison, Wis. Senior Josh Regal scored a game-high 29 points and helped the team erase an 18-point deficit at halftime, but the Eagles used an 8-0 run in the final minutes to earn the NAC's automatic bid to the NCAA Division III Tournament. Lakeland's up-tempo and high-scoring offense proved to be a leader in the NAC as well as in the nation. Lakeland's 88.5 points per game average led the NAC and ranked seventh nationally. The Muskies also led the league in assists per game (16.1), turnovers per game (12.0), rebounds per game (37.8), free throw percentage (74.3), 3-point field goal percentage (38.1), 3-point field goals made per game (9.8) and field goals made per game (30.2). Nationally, Lakeland was tied for sixth in 3-point field goals made per game, eighth in assist-to-turnover ratio (1.35), 21st in turnover margin (+4.6), 28th in free throw percentage, 29th in 3-field goal percentage and 30th in assists per game. Regal finished a standout four-year career averaging 21.7 points per game, 6.3 rebounds per game and 4.7 assists per game in Lakeland's NAC Tournament run. For his efforts, Regal was named second team All-NAC for the second straight year. The Suring, Wis., native finished his basketball career with 1,439 career points, which ranks 11th all time, and 521 career assists, which ranks second all time. He led the NAC in assists (172) and steals (66) and posted an impressive 2.4 assist-to-turnover ratio. Coming off a knee injury didn't slow junior Jake Schwarz as the 6-foot-5 forward posted his best season yet. Schwarz led the NAC in scoring with 23.4 points per game, good enough for eighth in the nation. The Sheboygan, Wis., native also led the NAC in rebounds per game (8.9), free throw percentage (86.7) and points (655). Schwarz joined the 1,000-point club when he scored 36 points en route to a 110-79 win over Maranatha Baptist Bible College on Nov. 29. He sits at 1, 578 career points and is on pace to become Lakeland's all-time leading scorer. Schwarz was named first team All-NAC for the second time in his career and was named NAC Player of the Week five times throughout the season. Sophomore Justin Ward had a breakout season and was a big reason for Lakeland's success. The 6-foot-10 forward averaged 16.8 points per game, which ranked third in the league. His 2.5 blocks per game led the NAC and ranked 11th nationally. Ward recorded 70 blocks on the season and was the only sophomore to receive first team All-NAC accolades. Senior Eric Vandivier represented Lakeland on the All-Sportsmanship team after providing valuable minutes on the court this season. Vandivier appeared in 27 games and started in five, while acting as a sparkplug off the bench. He averaged 3.9 points per game. Women's basketball With a new head coach and new system, the Muskies got off to a rough start, but finished strong, falling just short of their goals. Lakeland was 3-4 in its first seven games, before winning 15 of 17 to make a return trip to the Northern Athletics Conference tournament. Lakeland posted a 13-6 record in the NAC and an 18-8 overall mark, which was good for second in the North Division. Lakeland ended its season with a 56-44 loss in the NAC Tournament quarterfinals to Concordia University Wisconsin, a team they had beaten twice earlier in the season. The Muskies finished the season second in 3-point field goal percentage (32.5) and second in steals per game (10.7). Senior Becca Tilleman was the team leader, etching her name in the record books with 62 steals and 129 assists. Her steals are the sixth best in school history, while her assists are third. She joins Lynn Holguin as the only two players to ever record 60 or more steals and 125 or more assists in a single season. She finishes her career sixth all-time in assists (285) and second in steals (207). The Green Bay, Wis., native also averaged 5.7 points and four rebounds per game, while leading the nation in assists-to-turnover ratio (2.74). For her efforts, Tillman was voted All-NAC Honorable Mention. Sophomore Jessica Genke led the team with 12.1 points and nine rebounds per game. The Kiel, Wis., native was a valuable leader on the floor and helped key the turnaround this season. Her 234 rebounds this season is the eighth best mark in a single season. Her 45.9 field-goal percentage was eighth best in the NAC. She also received second team All-NAC honors. Junior Allison Davis represented the Muskies on the NAC's All-Sportsmanship Team. The Sheboygan, Wis., native averaged 4.8 points and 3.6 rebounds in limited minutes. She was a strong team leader on and off the court and gave the team the spark they needed off the bench. Davis appeared in 24 games, starting three.


Water main break at main campus
To all Lakeland students, staff and faculty: Due to a break with our underground piping that supplies the water system on Lakeland's main campus, we have been forced to implement a boil/bottle water advisory. All people on campus ' including Prof Row ' must use boiled or bottled water until the system is repaired and testing confirms its safety. The advisory is in effect from today, Friday, March 16, 2012, until further notice. Please follow these guidelines: You should boil or use commercially bottled water for all purposes ' including drinking, food preparation, making ice, washing and bathing. If you choose to boil water, it must be heated to a rolling boil for at least five minutes before use. Ice should be made from bottled or boiled water. Any food, ice or beverages made with the contaminated water cannot be used and should be discarded. Portable bathroom facilities will be provided, as the entire water system must be shut down for repair. We anticipate the water system will be repaired and turned back on later today (Friday). Once that happens, water can be used for bathing and bathroom purposes only. The boil/bottle water advisory will remain in effect for drinking, food preparation, making ice and other water consumption. You will receive another email when you can resume normal water consumption. If you have any questions, please contact Rich Haen, director of facilities management and planning, at (920) 565-1213.


Schwarz honored by NABC and D3hoops.com
Junior Jake Schwarz was selected to the 2012 National Association of Basketball Coaches Division III All-District second team, and was selected to the D3hoops.com All- Midwest Region third team, the publications announced today. The 6-foot-5 forward finished eighth in the nation in scoring with 23.4 points per game, a mark that also led the Northern Athletics Conference. He finished first in the league in rebounds per game (8.9) and free throw percentage (86.7) and ranked third in 3-point field goal percentage (45.2). The Sheboygan, Wis., native helped led the Muskies to a 21-7 overall record and a tie for second place in the NAC North Division. The team's 21 wins tied a school record for wins in a season since becoming an NCAA institution in 1997. Schwarz scored 655 points and moved into sixth on the college's career scoring list with 1,578 points. For his efforts this season, Schwarz was named NAC Player of the Week five times and received first team All-NAC recognition. Concordia University Wisconsin's Luke Doedens, the NAC's Player of the Year, was selected to the NABC All-District first team, and was selected to the D3hoops.com All- Midwest Region second team. Edgewood College's Ben Wisniewski joined Schwarz on the D3hoops.com All- Midwest Region third team. Schwarz was named to the D3hoops.com All-Midwest Region first team in 2010. The NABC Coaches' Division III All-America team will be announced later this week at the NCAA Division III championships in Salem, Va. To see the complete list of D3hoops.com All-Region winners, click here: http://d3hoops.com/awards/all-region/2011-12/index


Frias named NWCA academic All-American
Senior Robby Frias was named a National Wrestling Coaches Association Division III academic All-American, the association announced on March 9 at the NCAA National Wrestling Tournament in La Crosse, Wis. Frias, a marketing major, garnered the prestigious award after posting a 3.43 grade point average. On the mat, the 149-pound grappler finished his season with a 33-15 record, including winning his third Northern Wrestling Association individual title. Frias was named the NWA's Outstanding Wrestler of the Year, the second straight year a Lakeland wrestler has earned the award.


Lakeland's main campus closed March 13
Lakeland College's main campus will be closed on Tuesday, March 13, due to electrical work on the front entrance which will require the campus' main electrical power to be shut down for several hours. This is occurring the week of Lakeland's spring break to minimize disruptions to classes. The main campus will re-open on Wednesday, March 14. If you will be on campus for any reason Tuesday, be aware that a section of South Drive from the new bridge past W.A. Krueger to the Campus Center may be closed for periods of time to facilitate the electrical switch over and removal of the old power lines and telephone poles.


Live video streaming available at Nationals
Live video streaming is available on all mats at the NCAA Division III National Tournament on March 9-10. You can follow junior Ryan Renon as he contends at the 165-pound weight class here: http://www.ncaa.com/liveschedule/2012/03/09. Renon will wrestle on mat six. Renon and head coach Mike DeRoehn are on the attack during warm-ups. Check it out here: http://youtu.be/hsHfxuFNmxk


2012 Season Preview: Leadership key to NAC run
If last season is any indication, the Lakeland College baseball team is prepared to make some noise in the Northern Athletics Conference this spring. The Muskies plan to build off their late-season success - the team won its last eight conference games - in hopes of returning to the NAC Tournament for the first time since 2006. Lakeland finished 16-19 overall in 2011, 11-11 in the NAC. First-year head coach Michael Bachar is excited to get the season underway. "The guys have started talking about last season's success and want to see how far we can extend that win streak," said Bachar. "We lost some key components from last year's team, but our guys are ready to carry the load." The Muskies enter the season with just seven upperclassmen on a team of 32 athletes, meaning Lakeland will be looking to the seniors and juniors to lead the way. "I couldn't ask for a better group of leaders," said Bachar. "These guys have come in with a great work ethic and done an excellent job leading by example. I'm excited to see how the young guys develop with such great leadership." Pitching remains a strength for Lakeland with the Muskies top three pitchers being upper classmen. Leading the Muskies' staff is redshirt senior Mike Ruzek. The Manitowoc, Wis., native returns as the team's ace with a 4.15 ERA and a team-high 51 strikeouts, while also pitching a team-best 56.1 innings. The 2011 All-NAC Honorable Mention posted a 2-3 record while appearing in nine games. Senior Garret Vincetich-Morris will be asked to take a bigger role on the mound this season. The Janesville, Wis., native appeared in just four games last season, posting a 1-2 record with a 5.79 ERA, while striking out 18. Junior Andy Chitwood (Muscoda, Wis.) looks to improve on his 2011 campaign, which saw him go 3-4 in eight appearances, posting a 4.43 ERA in 44.2 innings with 20 strikeouts. After the top three, the rotation is less clear, and some sophomores and freshman will be asked to pitch some big innings. Derek Loomans, a sophomore from Brandon, Wis., and freshman Trent Schwalbach (Escanaba, Mich.) will be asked to fill in the four and five spots in the rotation. Other freshmen will be asked to step up throughout the year, including Austin Pflager (Wisconsin Rapids, Wis.) and Max Kramsky (Milwaukee, Wis.). In the infield, the Muskies return three players that saw the majority of the playing time last season, led by sophomore Ryan Boettcher, who started every game at shortstop last season. The Bonduel, Wis., native looks to improve his offensive numbers from a year ago and continue his solid defensive play. Morris and Chitwood will also man the infield, playing third and second respectively. When Morris is on the mound, A.J. Dollinger (Ashwaubenon, Wis.), Ruzek, Alex Christman (Racine, Wis.) and Tim Green (Hager City, Wis.) will be asked to man third base. When Chitwood takes the hill, senior Jess Nickel (Waupun, Wis.) or sophomore Andrew Tague (Racine, Wis.) will play second base. At first base will be junior Matt Krueger, who saw limited playing time last season. The Medford, Wis., native turned some heads in the fall and has continued his impressive showing in this winter. "We have a solid infield, no matter who is in the game," said Bachar. "Krueger has really impressed me so far this season. His bat should play well in the middle of the order and his defense has improved tremendously. I'm excited to see what this group can do." The outfield is young for the Muskies, with freshman Nate Soley (River Falls, Wis.) getting the call in center field after an impressive fall season. "Soley has all the tools to be an outstanding player. He played great in fall ball; he just needs to transfer those skills to the field this spring." Left field remains an open competition with three sophomores competing for playing time: Tim Kuchenbecker (Brillion, Wis.), Frank Pietrantonio (Kingsford, Mich.) and David Green (Marshfield, Wis.). In right, Ruzek will start, however, when he's on the mound or in the infield, sophomore Charlie Sparrow (Milwaukee, Wis.) will take his spot. "Sparrow has outstanding speed and a good arm. When he's out there our outfield will be very fast," said Bachar. Lakeland heads to Fort Myers, Fla., March 9-18, as the Muskies take part in the Gene Cusic Classic. "This will be a learning trip for us," said Bachar. "We should come back over .500, that's a realistic goal for us. I'm excited to see where we are and finally get out of the gym and see what we can do on the field." The Muskies home opener is Saturday, March 24, against Finlandia University. NAC play starts a week later, March 31, as Lakeland hosts Maranatha Baptist Bible College.


Muskies volunteer at special olympics tourament
On Saturday, March 3, the Lakeland College women's basketball team traveled to Sheboygan South high school to volunteer their time at the Special Olympics basketball tournament. The Muskies took part in the tournament as referees and score keepers. The team enjoyed its time with the youngsters and head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef is excited to continue the team's active role in the community. "It was exciting to be able to give back to the community," said Vande Hoef. "We were able to provide volunteers to make the tournament a success. The look on the youngster's faces, just enjoying the game they love, was awesome. The athletes are so passionate about the game, it was a great experience to see the girls interacting and making it a fun time for everyone." The Muskies are looking forward to the chance to host a free clinic for special needs students in the near future. "I want to give these athletes the opportunity to come to campus and be a part of our team and to further their skills," said Vande Hoef.


Chippewa Valley Summer 2012 Course Schedules
Please see below for the Summer 2012 undergraduate and graduate course schedules - Registration opens on Monday, March 26th - Classes for Summer semester will begin on Tuesday, May 29th Locations: CVC - Chippewa Valley Center 770 Scheidler Road, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 　 CVTC - Chippewa Valley Technical College (Business Education Center (BEC)) 620 West Clairemont Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701 　 WITC - Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College 1900 College Drive, Rice Lake, WI 54868 Undergraduate Schedule Course # Title Credits Location Begin Time End Time Days of Week Begin Date End Date BlendEd BUS 340.Y1 Principles of Business Finance 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm T 5/29/12 8/14/12 Y BUS 350.Y1 Marketing Principles 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm T 5/29/12 8/14/12 Y BUS 465.Y1 Human Resource Management 3 CVTC 6:00pm 9:15pm T 5/29/12 8/14/12 Y 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 ACC 471.Y1 Advanced Accounting I 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:30pm W 5/30/12 8/15/12 Y BUS 384.Y1 New Product Management 3 CVTC 6:00pm 9:30pm W 5/30/12 8/15/12 Y GEN 311K.Y1 CORE II: Ideas of Human Nature 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:30pm W 5/30/12 8/15/12 Y HIS 102.Y1 World History II 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:30pm W 5/30/12 8/15/12 Y 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 ACC 355K.Y1 Federal Income Tax II 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm TH 5/31/12 8/16/12 Y BUS 455.Y1 Entreprenurial Management 3 CVTC 6:00pm 9:15pm TH 5/31/12 8/16/12 Y CPS 200.Y1 Introduction to Computer Programming 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm TH 5/31/12 8/16/12 Y GEN 112.Y1 Persuasive Writing 3 WITC 6:00pm 9:15pm TH 5/31/12 8/16/12 Y 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 GEN 102.Y1 Mathematics Workshop 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm M 6/4/12 8/20/12 Y BUS 410.Y1 Business Law I 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm M 6/4/12 8/20/12 Y GEN 110.Y1 Expository Writing 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm M 6/4/12 8/20/12 Y Master of Business Administration Schedule Course # Title # Crdts Location Begin Time End Time Days of Week Begin Date End Date BlendEd BA 770.Y1 Legal and Regulatory Environments of Business 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm T 5/29/12 8/14/12 Y 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 BA 781.Y1 Fundamentals of Project Management 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:30pm W 5/30/12 8/15/12 Y 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 BA 700.Y1 Business Research Methodology 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm TH 5/31/12 8/16/12 Y 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 　 BA 775.Y1 Human Resources Management 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm M 6/4/12 8/20/12 Y Master of Arts in Counseling Schedule　 Course # Title # Crdts Location Begin Time End Time Days of Week Begin Date End Date BlendEd CN 724.Y1 Counseling Methods and Ethics 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:30pm W 5/30/12 8/15/12 N CN 778.Y1 Internship II: Community Counseling 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm TH 5/31/12 8/16/12 N CN 710.Y1 Introduction to Counseling and Ethics 3 CVC 6:00pm 9:15pm M 6/4/12


Women's basketball announces summer camp dates
This summer, the Lakeland College women's basketball team is hosting two basketball camps for fourth-12th grade girls who want to improve their skills and have fun doing so. The Lakeland College women's basketball staff strives to instill the skills, teamwork, dedication and positive attitude in their athletes which are necessary to becoming a better basketball player. The program's accomplishments prove that the staff has been successful in promoting such behaviors and they are offering this same instruction to youth basketball players. A high school camp (grades 8-12) is set for July 20-22. It is designed to be an intense camp for young players who wish to prepare themselves for playing competitive high school and/or college basketball. This camp will emphasize all aspects of becoming a better offensive player. Focus will be put on how to develop proper shooting form, footwork, moving with and without the ball, and free throw shooting. Whether you are a post or a guard, our goal is to help improve your overall offensive game & maximize your skills at the offensive end of the court. Both individual and team play development will be improved by attending this camp. Many of the same drills and techniques used by Coach Vande and her staff at Lakeland will be taught. Cost is $180 for overnight campers, $125 for commuters. A middle school camp (grades 4-7) is set for July 27-29. It is designed to cater to both the beginner and experienced basketball player. This camp will emphasize the development of correct fundamental skills, and an overall love for the game. Each camper will experience a learning environment that will challenge them and provide positive motivation to continue improving. Lowered hoops will be used for the lower grades to ensure proper form. Development on offense, defense and conditioning principles for all positions on the floor will be stressed. Cost is $165 for overnight campers, $110 for commuters. For the overnight camp, four meals will be provided for the campers (breakfast, lunch and dinner on the first full day, breakfast on the last day). For the commuter camp, one meal will be provided (lunch on the first full day). Snacks are provided for both groups. The camp staff is comprised of Lakeland's women's basketball coaches and players. With a one-coach-to-eight-camper ratio, the goal is to help each camper become a more successful basketball player. For more information or to register for camp, click here.


Live updates available for National wrestling tournament
Junior wrestler Ryan Renon will look to become Lakeland College's third All-American tomorrow as he begins competition at the National Tournament at the La Crosse Center in La Crosse, Wis. Renon, who wrestles in the 165-pound weight class, will take on Joseph Hambleton of Cornell College in round one. The winner between Renon and Hambleton will take on the winner between No. 2-seeded Landon Williams of Wartburg College and William Painter of Ohio Northern. A full bracket of the 165-pound weight class is available and can be found here: http://c4266110.r10.cf2.rackcdn.com/wrestling3/F1EE18F99958FE8D758BEE86A3D7F224/DIII%20Wrestling.pdf Courtesy of the NCAA, a digital program is available for the National Tournament and can be found here: http://www.ncaa.com/DIIIWrestling Live in-match updates are available on Facebook at the Official Lakeland College Muskies Page and the Lakeland College Muskie Wrestling Page. Be sure to like us on Facebook first! https://www.facebook.com/messages/69205348#!/LCMuskies Post-match video interviews and match clips will be posted on Lakeland's athletics website.


Six students' art in senior exhibition
Lakeland College will spotlight the work of six senior art students when the final Lakeland Senior Art Student Portfolio Exhibitions opens on Friday, March 9. Jenni Heinrich, Cindy Short, Ross Soukup, Zhiheng Gu, Brooks Haas and Mai Lee will discuss their work during an opening reception beginning at 4:30 p.m. in the Bradley Gallery, located in the Bradley Fine Arts Building on Lakeland's campus. The exhibit, which will feature works created by these students during their time at Lakeland, will run through April 6. The Bradley Gallery is open from 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Monday through Friday, when the college is in session. Attendance at the reception and admittance to the Bradley Gallery are both free and open to the public. The senior art show is a requirement for all Lakeland art majors. Students gain the experience of having their own exhibit, and are responsible for planning the show, putting the public relations together, hanging their work and any other details. Gu hails from China, and is pursuing a bachelor's degree in art with both a studio and graphic art emphasis. He is a Lakeland Presidential Scholarship recipient, is a member of Lakeland's Conversation Partner program and is vice president of the Global Student Association. "Color and emotion are two major reasons for me to create art," Gu said. "Art helps me to enjoy my life more, because I can do something with in my mind that is not always realistic. Because I like to read stories, I like to make my illustrations to tell stories. In my illustrations, I express my emotion and thoughts." Haas, of Howards Grove, will finish at Lakeland after starting college at Carroll College. He will earn a bachelor of art with a graphic art and studio emphasis. He is serving an internship with Dynamic, a digital agency in Sheboygan. "I've always liked to dabble in a little bit of everything in my life and hobbies; this carries over artistically as well," Haas said. "Drawing has always been a strong point for me, but my love for digital art is growing. At the same time, I find myself somewhat sad that technology is overtaking many forms of art. "I very much enjoy black & white film photography. Developing the film yourself and physically making the prints seems to have a more rewarding feeling attached to it. There seems to be a certain quality you get with a film print that a digital print doesn't have without a bit of doctoring." Heinrich, of Sheboygan Falls, is also on track to graduate this May with a bachelor's in art with a graphic design emphasis. She has worked at the Lakeland College Mirror designing pages for the student newspaper and illustrating comics, and she designed updated menus for Bourbon Street Pub and Grill in Sheboygan. "My favorite programs to work with are Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign," Heinrich said. "I love taking pictures, and now that I have been working with Adobe Photoshop, I have learned some astounding ways to manipulate photos and make them more eye-catching." Short, of Plymouth, is also on track to graduate this May with a bachelor's in art with a graphic design emphasis. She also took interior design coursework at Mt. Mary College in the 1990s. She is the recipient of two scholarships at Lakeland, including a Presidential Scholarship. She served a graphic design internship with Lakeland's career development office, and was commissioned to paint a watercolor of the Intergenerational Center in Plymouth. "My life experiences have influenced my work and have become my method of expressing myself," Short said. "I have a hard time getting started on a piece, but once I get started it feels like it flows onto the paper. I like my work to be light and have a happy feel to it so that it can bring joy into a room." Soukup, of Plymouth, is pursuing a bachelor's in art with a graphic arts emphasis. He worked as an intern at Two Fish Gallery in Elkhart Lake, and has worked for Lakeland's art department. He has been awarded two scholarships, and the Kuehn Achievement Award. "My technique is based around very rough, hard strokes," Soukup said. "I apply a medium deliberately, and in many layers. I press the mediums hard into the paper, almost as if I am angry. After I have completed a satisfactory piece, my objective is for my audience to immediately enjoy the piece."


2012 softball preview: Returners and newcomers right mix for NAC run
After making its fifth-straight Northern Athletics Conference Tournament and nearly eliminating top-seeded Benedictine last season, the Lakeland College softball team is eager to begin its 2012 campaign. The Muskies, who finished fifth in the NAC last year with a 14-10 record, 15-26 overall, look to surprise their competition this year with an experienced group of returners and a talented freshman class. Eighth-year head coach Chad Buchmann is enthusiastic about this year's team and is eager to begin competition. "This is the most diverse team I have ever coached," said Buchman. "We have multiple players who can slide into any position and makes plays. That versatility makes us a threat." With seven of last year's nine starters returning, the Muskies are shooting for a 20-plus win season and return to the top of NAC. Lakeland opens its season on March 11-16 at the team's annual Tucson, Ariz., trip. The Muskies struggled at the Tucson Invitational last year, but the trip always gets the team ready for NAC play. "The majority of the Arizona trip is gaining experience with live pitching," said Buchmann. "Defensively, we look to be athletic and have fun, while finding a lineup that works for us. This trip is a chance for the freshmen to show what they've learned and were we stand as a team." The Muskies biggest challenge this year is consistency. "We had too many splits with the middle of the NAC teams last year, and we can't afford those mental lapses this year," Buchmann said. "We need to make the plays and keep focused in our doubleheaders." Buchmann's approach consists of continued growth throughout the year that focuses on learning the mechanics of the game before focusing on the mental aspects. Buchmann is hopeful the freshmen will buy into his system and become students of the game. Last year, Lakeland was second in the NAC in triples (11), third in doubles (80) and fourth in home runs (16) and slugging percentage (.449). The team ranked fifth in batting average (.306), runs scored (215), hits (320) and runs batted in (197). Buchmann said he's less concerned about statistics than the importance of having a solid lineup. "If you look at the top teams in the conference, they are strong in every position and that's exactly what we have this year," said Buchman. "This year, our focus isn't on just one or two players leading the team. Instead, every player we have is competitive and will be depended on." The Muskies return four All-NAC players, including senior Leah Sheahan, juniors Jenny LaLuzerne and Heather Haeflinger and sophomore Sammy Rieder. LaLuzerne returns as the team's leading hitter. The Sturgeon Bay, Wis., native posted a .424 batting average, which ranked fifth in the NAC, and a .586 slugging percentage. She led the team in triples (four), which was second in the NAC. LaLuzerne is expected to return to the outfield, but could play second base when needed. "Jenny has turned into a great player for us," said Buchmann. "She continues to learn the game and knows when to take advantage of a situation." Sheahan garnered first team All-NAC honors last year and returns as the team's only senior. The Salem, Wis., native hit recorded a .330 batting average and led the team in runs (31). "Leah is the most unselfish player," said Buchmann. "She's solid in the outfield and is always willing to help the underclassmen learn our style." Sheahan will return to the outfield and could see time at first base. Haeflinger also returns to the outfield. The Shawano, Wis., native led the team in stolen bases (13) and posted a .355 batting average. Her speed and agility give the Muskies an added dimension on the offensive end. Lakeland will also depend on junior pitcher Erin Henk and sophomores Chelsea Gile, Brittany Jurek and Reider to lead the team. Henk returns as the team's leading pitcher with 31 strikeouts and a 5.81 ERA. The Hoopeston, Ill., native pitched 78 innings last year and is the Muskies most consistent and confident pitcher. Gile (Grand Junction, Mich.), Jurek and Rieder (Fond du Lac, Wis.) are all expected to return to the infield and make an immediate impact. As freshmen, all three were play makers, and Buchmann expects that experience to help the team succeed in close games. "Last year, Gile and Reider were so coachable that they bought in right away and made an impact," said Buchmann. "Sammy's athleticism is outstanding and she's the type of player who is going to come up with big plays for us." Reider was named second team All-NAC and received All-Freshman team accolades last year. Jurek (Gladstone, Mich.) had a breakout performance at the 2011 NAC Tournament, hitting two home runs to power the Muskies past Dominican University in the opening game. Jurek, a versatile player, is expected to bounce between third base, shortstop and catcher. Junior McKenna Wenzel (Brillion, Wis.) and sophomores Kaylee Ninnemann (Marinette, Wis.) and Megan Lawson (Marshall, Wis.) also return to the Muskies lineup. Wenzel will compete at third base, while Ninnemann will contend at first. Lawson returns as the team's catcher. Five freshmen look to compete for playing time, including pitchers Elizabeth Zimmerman (Shawano, Wis.) and Amanda Graves (Clintonville, Wis.). Buchmann likes the effort from freshman Kate Wallen (Mundelein, Ill.) and believes Kaitlyn Hoffman (Plymouth, Wis.) has the right mix to compete for third base. "Kaitlyn has a great arm and has shown promise at third base," said Buchman. "Kate is a competitor and has gone above and beyond in practice." Freshman Celena Perez, a native of Kenosha, Wis., is expected to contend at second base. Lakeland opens its 2012 campaign on March 10 against McKendree University at the Tucson Invitational in Tucson, Ariz. Lakeland plays 10 games in five days in Arizona before heading into NAC play on March 28 against Alverno College. The Muskies host NAC powerhouses Benedictine University and Aurora University on April 22 and 29, respectively. The NAC Tournament begins on May 3 in Milwaukee, Wis. "The conference isn't expecting us to do much, but we are preparing to win every game," said Buchmann. "We will surprise teams, but we need to play good defense and be prepared for whatever comes at us."


MIVA Midwest 10 Play Day and Championships Cancelled
Due to poor weather conditions in the area this weekend, the Midwest 10 Volleyball Conference Play Day and Championship has been cancelled. The teams will play two more round robin contests at the MIVA Championships next weekend, March 24-25, at Northern Illinois University, with the best record being deemed the champion. For the latest news and updates check the MIVA website here.


Three Lakeland faculty awarded tenure
Three Lakeland College faculty members have been awarded tenure and promoted to the rank of associate professor. All three joined Lakeland's staff in 2006. Paul Pickhardt has provided high quality applied learning for students in ecology, forestry, botany and environmental science. An example of his energy and engagement is the highly-regarded field experience course in Belize, co-taught and developed with Greg Smith. Pickhardt has served as chair of the Professional Standards Committee over the past three years. He has been named to the steering committee of the Association of College and University Biology Educators (ACUBE) and is partly responsible for this group's decision to host its annual conference at Lakeland in the near future. He is a key link between Lakeland and several environmental organizations (including Maywood). He holds a Ph.D. in biology from Dartmouth College. Krista Feinberg has been a central organizing force for the history department. She is known for her caring, proactive advising, and for engaging students through hands-on research in history. Examples of the latter can be found in her development of two May Term classes focused on active historical study - one focusing on genealogy and the other on archaeology. She has been a frequent contributor to the Core curriculum, and she designed an online tutorial for students taking online courses for the first time. Professionally, she participates regularly in regional history organizations and as a reader for the AP World History unit. She holds a Ph.D. in history from Indiana University. Christopher Moore has established good rapport with students and advisees, with commendation for his one-on-one advising and support. He teaches courses in research methods, social psychology and the social aspects of communication. Moore has served on the Assessment Committee for five years, and has been selected as chair of that group. He has also served as an advisor to the Safe Space group and has maintained an active research agenda. He holds a Ph.D. in sociology from the University of Georgia.


Muskies of the Week: Ryan Renon and Josh Regal
Senior Josh Regal and junior Ryan Renon have been named Lakeland College's Muskies of the Week for their performances in action last week. Read about their success below. Ryan Renon Junior Ryan Renon garnered Muskie of the Week honors for the fifth time this season after becoming just the second wrestler in Lakeland College history to win a NCAA Division III Regional title. Renon, who wrestles at the 165-pound weight class, finished first at the NCAA Great Lakes Regional hosted by Augsburg College in Minneapolis, Minn., on Feb. 25. The No. 1 seeded Renon earned a 14-0 major decision over Casey Kenealy of Concordia University Wisconsin in the first round and recorded a 16-3 major decision over Josten Coleman of Concordia College-Moorhead in round two. In the semifinals, Renon took a 7-2 decision over Matt Burns of Augustana, and in the championship match he earned a 12-6 decision over Tom Teigen of No. 4-ranked Augsburg College. The Wrightstown, Wis., native became the seventh wrestler in program history to qualify for the National Tournament and will look to become the college's third All-American at the NCAA Division III Nationals on March 9-10 in La Crosse, Wis. Renon enters the National Tournament with an outstanding 31-4 record. See what Renon says about his performance at the Great Lakes Regional: http://youtu.be/OopC78NrQPo Renon is an exercise science major. Here's a look into Ryan's personality: Favorites: TV: "Man vs. Wild" Movie: "300" Music: Skilet Q: You are now Lakeland's seventh grappler to qualify for Nationals. What does the feat mean to you? A: I am proud to be amongst the great wrestlers of the past and hope to continue at that level of greatness. Q: What was the best part about traveling to Minneapolis, Minn., to participate in Regionals? A: Being able to accomplish my goal of qualifying for the National Tournament. Q: Do you have any superstitious pregame rituals? A: I like to eat the same foods before competition. I go through the same type of warm ups and I like to wear mismatching socks, sometimes inside out. Q: What's your favorite WWE wrestling move? A: Stone Cold Stunner Josh Regal Senior Josh Regal garnered Muskie of the Week honors after leadingthe Lakeland College men's basketball team to the Northern Athletics Conference Tournament championship game on Feb. 25. Regal finished a standout four-year career averaging 21.7 points per game, 6.3 rebounds per game and 4.7 assists per game in Lakeland's three games last week. He helped lead the Muskies to a 21-7 overall record, the team's second 20-plus win season since becoming an NCAA institution in 1997. The 5-foot-10 point guard lifted the Muskies in an 85-83 overtime victory over Concordia University Wisconsin in the NAC Tournament semifinals with a game-high 25 points, nine rebounds and eight assists. He shot a perfect 14-for-14 from the free throw line and hit clutch shots down the stretch to send the Muskies into the championship game against Edgewood College on Feb. 25. In the NAC championship game, Regal scored a game-high 29 points and helped Lakeland erase an 18-point halftime deficit before the Muskies fell short in a thrilling game. The Suring, Wis., native finished his basketball career with 1,439 career points, which ranks 11th all time, and 521 career assists, which ranks second all time. He led the NAC in assists (172) and steals (66) and posted an impressive 2.4 assist-to-turnover ratio. For his efforts this season, Regal was named second team All-NAC. See what Regal has to say about his success: http://youtu.be/SN_V76A0vj4 Regal is majoring in business management and minoring in sports management. Here's a look into Josh's personality: Favorites: TV: "The Office" Movie: "The Mighty Ducks Series" Music: Anything Q. What has been your favorite basketball memory at Lakeland? A: The 2011-12 NAC Tournament Q: What are your plans after graduation? A: Trying to get into coaching Q: If you could play basketball against any professional basketball player who would it be and why? A: Steve Nash, because he's one of my favorite players. Q: What's the best job you've ever had? A: Working for David Gallianetti in the communications department.


Tilleman, Genke and Davis collect postseason awards
Seniors Becca Tilleman and Allison Davis and sophomore Jessica Genke of the Lakeland College women's basketball team have been recognized by the Northern Athletics Conference for their play during the 2011-12 season, as the league announced its all-conference basketball teams on Tuesday. Genke, a 5-foot-11 forward, was named second team All-NAC. The Kiel, Wis., native led the team in points per game with 12.1 and she averaged a team-high nine rebounds per game. Genke appeared in 26 games this season, starting 23. "Jess has been a great addition to our program," said Lakeland head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef. "She has fit seamlessly into our offense and her ability to get back into the game after a year off speaks to her great athleticism. I'm excited to see her grow these next few years. She is very deserving of this recognition." Tilleman, 5-foot-4 guard, was selected All-NAC Honorable Mention after a career year. The Green Bay, Wis., native led the team in assists with 129 and steals with 62. Her assists are the third highest total in a Lakeland single season, while her steals were sixth best. Her 2.74 assists-to-turnover ratio was the best in the NCAA Division III, as she finished the season with just 47 turnovers. Tilleman averaged a team-high 32 minutes per game, scoring 5.7 points and grabbing four rebounds per game. She appeared in 26 games this season, starting 25. "Becca is a true point guard and I believe she deserves more than an honorable mention," said Vande Hoef. "Her contributions to the team are the reason we finished second in our division. Without her, we are nowhere near the same team. She was our leader on and off the court and is going to be extremely hard to replace." Davis, a 5-foot-11 forward, was one of 13 players named to the NAC's All-Sportsmanship team, her second selection. The Sheboygan, Wis., native averaged 4.8 points and 3.6 rebounds per game, while averaging 12.8 minutes per game. Davis appeared in 24 games, starting three. "Allison has been a joy to have in the program," said Vande Hoef. "She has a tremendous work ethic and always has a smile on her face. She is a very coachable player and extremely deserving of the sportsmanship award. She will be missed next season." Senior center Carol Cayo of the Milwaukee School of Engineering was named NAC Player of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year, while Jessica Ott of MSOE garnered Coach of the Year accolades. To see the complete list of 2011-12 All-Northern Athletics Conference award winners, click here.


Regal, Schwarz, Ward and Vandivier tabbed All-NAC
Seniors Josh Regal and Eric Vandivier, junior Jake Schwarz and sophomore Justin Ward of the Lakeland College men's basketball team have been recognized by the Northern Athletics Conference for their play during the 2011-12 season, as the league announced its all-conference teams Tuesday. Schwarz, a 6-foot-5 forward and Ward a 6-foot-10 forward, represented Lakeland on the NAC's first team. Schwarz received first team recognition for the second time in his career after helping lead the Muskies to a 21-7 record. The Sheboygan, Wis., native had a tremendous junior year, which included leading the NAC in scoring with 23.4 points per game, good for eighth in the nation. He also grabbed 8.9 rebounds per game. Schwarz scored a remarkable 655 points, which ranks ninth in program history, to increase his career tally to 1,578 points, which ranks sixth all time in the program's history. His 86.7 percent free throw percentage led the league and ranked 25th in the nation, while it marked the seventh-best percentage in program history. Schwarz joined the 1,000 point club on Nov. 29, 2011, after a 36-point performance against Maranatha Baptist Bible College and he set a career high with 42 points on Jan. 4 against Finlandia University. He tallied 10 double-double performances this season and was named NAC Player of the Week five times. His 45.2 percent 3-point field goal percentage was third in the conference and eighth in the nation. "Jake had a great junior year," said head coach Aaron Aanonsen. "Coming off a knee injury you never know how a player is going to respond, but he worked extremely hard, stayed focused and did a tremendous job helping our team win." Ward, a Wisconsin Dells, Wis., native, was the only sophomore recognized on the first team and had an outstanding year for the Muskies. He started in all 28 games while averaging 16.8 points per game, which ranked third in the NAC, along with 7.3 rebounds per game. He led the NAC in blocks (70) and ranked 11th in the nation in blocks per game (2.5). Ward's first team honor marks his second-straight NAC recognition as he was named to the All-Freshman team last season. "Justin was our X-factor this year," said Aanonsen. "He really improved his game and became more a more confident player. He was a great threat from both the inside and outside. On the defensive side, he's turned into a better rebounder and is great shot blocker and post presence for us." Regal, a 5-foot-10 guard, was one of six players named to the NAC's second team. The Suring, Wis., native led the league in assists (172), assists per game (6.1) and steals (66). He was third best in assist-to-turnover ratio (2.42) and free throw percentage (82.5). Nationally, Regal ranked 11th in assists per game and 20th in assist-to-turnover ratio. Regal finished his standout four-year career with 1,439 career points, which ranks 11th all time, and 521 career assists, which ranks second all time. His second team All-NAC recognition marks his third all-conference award as he earned second team All-NAC last year and All-Freshman team accolades in the 2008-09 season. "Josh has been the cornerstone of our program the past four years," said Aanonsen. "He is one of the best players to ever put on a Lakeland College uniform, and his contributions on and off the court are immeasurable. " Lakeland was represented on the All-Sportsmanship team by senior guard Eric Vandivier. The Mt. Prospect, Ill., native appeared in 27 games and started in five. Vandivier was a spark off the Muskies bench and gave valuable minutes while being a play maker on the court. He averaged 3.9 points per game and 2.1 rebounds per game, while dishing out 53 assists and shooting 43.6 percent from the field. "Eric is one of the most unselfish student-athletes I have ever coached," said Aanonsen. "He does all of the little things to make our team better on and off the court, and his passion and dedication to our program and Lakeland are second to none. " Senior Luke Doedens of Concordia University Wisconsin was named the league's Player of the Year while Edgewood College head coach Todd Adrian, a former Lakeland assistant coach, garnered Coach of the Year accolades. To see the complete list of 2011-12 All-NAC award winners click here: http://northernac.org/sports/mbkb/2011-12/releases/20120228nc86qp


Chippewa Valley Center is closed today (Feb. 29), classes canceled
Due to the winter storm, Lakeland College's Chippewa Valley Center is closed today (Feb. 29) and all classes at the center are canceled.


Muskies in pursuit of NAC Tournament championship Saturday
The Lakeland College men's basketball team will be playing for the program's second trip to the NCAA Tournament when the Muskies travel to Edgewood College in Madison Saturday for the Northern Athletics Conference Tournament championship game. Tip is at 2 p.m. The winner of the game between the fifth-seeded Muskies (21-6) and the third-seeded Eagles (21-6) earns the NAC's automatic bid to the NCAA Division III Tournament. Lakeland is hoping the third time will be the charm on Saturday. Lakeland and Edgewood met twice during the regular season with Edgewood earning the upper hand in both contests. The Muskies suffered an 86-68 loss on Dec. 7 and an 86-81 setback on Jan. 31 in Madison. Junior Jake Schwarz led Lakeland in both contests with 13 and 26 points, respectively. The third time was the charm in the NAC tournament semifinals on Thursday as the Muskies upended tournament top seed and host Concordia University Wisconsin, 85-83 in overtime. CUW had beaten Lakeland in both regular season meetings. The Muskies snapped the North Division champion's seven-game win streak behind a huge effort from senior point guard Josh Regal, who finished with a game-high 25 points while grabbing nine rebounds and dishing out eight assists. Lakeland is seeking its first NCAA Tournament berth since the 2003-04 team won the Lake Michigan Conference Tournament. Lakeland is also seeking its second NAC Tournament title. The 2007-08 team won the NAC crown, beating the top three seeds all in overtime games on the road. Current head coach Aaron Aanonsen was an assistant coach for that team, and Regal's older brother, Aaron, was that team's starting point guard. A win tomorrow would give the Muskies 22 for the season, the most since becoming an NCAA institution in 1997. Saturday's matchup has the makings of an up-tempo affair. The Eagles shoot 49.9 percent from the field, which leads the NAC, and hit 37.8 percent from 3-point range, one spot behind the Muskies, who rank first with 38.7 percent. Lakeland, which is sixth in the nation scoring offense (90.2 points), looks to push the tempo tomorrow and make its goal of winning the NAC Tournament a reality. Defensively, Lakeland will have to shut down Edgewood seniors Ben Wisniewski and Kent Faurote who combined average more than 30 points per game. Live video streaming and live stats are available for tomorrow's game and can be found here: http://client.stretchinternet.com/client/edgewood.portal#


Pack the Bus
ATTENTION MUSKIE FANS - there will be a FREE fan bus for people interested in traveling to Edgewood College in Madison tomorrow to support our Men's Basketball Team as they play in the 2012 Conference Championship Game! There is a sign-up sheet today outside of Nate Dehne's office door - first come, first serve. If you're interested, you can also email Nate to reserve your spot dehnend@lakeland.edu or call him at ext. 1588. The bus will pick fans up outside the campus center tomorrow morning at 10:30 a.m. Game time is 2 p.m. We hope to see as many Lakeland fans at this game as possible! Admission is $5 adults, $3 for students (college and K-12) and $3 for senior citizens. GO MUSKIES!!!


Muskie of the Week: Robby Frias
Senior Robby Frias has been named Lakeland College's Muskie of the Week for his performance in the Northern Wrestling Association Tournament last week. Read about his success below. Robby Frias Senior Robby Frias garnered Muskie of the Week honors after capping off a prolific performance at the sixth Northern Wrestling Association Tournament on Feb. 18. Frias, who wrestles in the 149-pound weight class, won the NWA title and finishes his career as a three-time NWA title winner. He took titles at 133 in 2009 and 2010, and placed second at 141 last year. The Oak Lawn, Ill., native earned a 7-2 decision in the 149 title match over Jake Narveson of the Milwaukee School of Engineering, who was a national qualifier and beat Frias in the NWA championship match last season. In round one, Frias earned a 5-1 decision over Josh Wengerter of MSOE, and in round two he slid past Eric Steingruber, last year's 149 title winner, of Knox College in a 3-1 decision. For his efforts, Frias was named Outstanding Wrestler of the Year. He has tallied an impressive 27-11 record this year. Frias hopes to carry the momentum from the NWA Tournament to a top-two finish at the NCAA Division III Great Lakes Regional on Feb. 26 in Minneapolis, Minn., for a chance to compete at the National Tournament on March 9-10. See what Frias says about his big day: http://youtu.be/wUgM47pfCPs Frias is majoring in marketing. Here's a look into Robby's personality: Favorites: TV: "Prison Break" Movie: "Fight Club or Lord of War" Music: Pandora Q. What are you looking forward to most at the Great Lakes Regional? A: The opportunity to do what I've been doing my entire life and make it to Nationals. Q: What has been your most memorable match this season? A: The Concordia Invite when I wrestled eight matches and the NWA championship match at the NWA Tournament this year. Q: What's the hardest part about making weight each week? A: It's not an issue for me this year because I worked and trained hard in the off season. It's one less thing to worry about. Q: Who is your favorite person to wrestle with at practice and why? A: Brent Steudel because he's a bulldog and he doesn't stop. He pushes the tempo for me and it gives me a real life stimulation of how a real meet goes.


Muskies hopeful third times the charm in NAC Tournament semi-final
With a 20-win season under its belt, the Lakeland College men's basketball team pursues the chance to play in the Northern Athletics Conference Tournament championship game when they face No. 1 seed Concordia University Wisconsin in the semifinals tomorrow. The fifth-seeded Muskies (20-6) and the Falcons (21-5) will square off for the third time this season, and Lakeland is hopeful the third time is the charm. Tipoff is slated for 7 p.m. in the R. John Buuck Fieldhouse in Mequon, Wis. Lakeland dropped two heartbreaking losses to the North Division Champions, including a 106-102 double overtime loss on Feb. 8. Falcons standout Luke Doedens hit a running 3-pointer to send the game into overtime. Doedens also hit a pair of free throws with two seconds left as CUW edged Lakeland, 70-69, on Jan. 17. His clutch free throws snapped Lakeland's five-game win streak. Doedens leads CUW with 16.5 points per game, which is fifth in the NAC, and he shoots 44.4 percent from 3-point range. As a team, the Falcons average 77.3 points per game, which is second behind Lakeland's up-tempo style. Senior Josh Regal, junior Jake Schwarz and sophomore Justin Ward will help lead the Muskies, who look to snap the Falcons' seven-game winning streak. Ward posted a double-double performance with 24 points and 10 rebounds and a pair of big buckets late to lift the team past Concordia University Chicago in a 68-62 thriller in the NAC quarterfinals on Tuesday in River Forest, Ill. Defensively, the Cougars held Lakeland, sixth in the nation in scoring offense at 90.2 points per game, 22 points below its average, and held Schwarz, eighth in the nation in scoring at 24.7 points per game, to seven points. The Muskies hope to push up the tempo Thursday night and make their goal of winning a NAC Tournament Championship one step closer to reality. Live video streaming with commentary is available for tomorrow's game and can be found here: http://www.ustream.tv/channel/cuw-falcons Live stats are also available and can be found here: http://dl.dropbox.com/u/46422793/XLIVE.HTM


Gabriela Garcia Medina brings spoken word to Lakeland on March 6
Gabriela Garcia Medina will bring her unique spoken word artistry to Lakeland College on Tuesday, March 6. Her 11 a.m. performance in Lakeland's Bradley Theatre is free and open to the public. Few spoken word artists can speak of Revolution and do it with style. Garcia Medina is one of them. Born to Cuban parents, she has seen the world through eyes that most haven't. As an international spoken word artist and award-winning poet, her poetry has taken her to places such as South Africa, Cuba, Brazil, Switzerland and all over the United States. Her poetry ranges from topics as serious as the social injustices we all face to talking about her lingerie. Garcia Medina has been relentlessly touring colleges, festivals and churches since 2007. And now her words have found a permanent home on the walls of Eva Longoria's new restaurant "Besos" in Los Angeles. Most recent are her national commercials for Dove and Toyota, which features her poetry and performance. Audiences have found her inspirational and educational. She graduated from UCLA's School of Theatre, Film and Television with a major in theatre. She mixes her classical training with her cultural knowledge and political consciousness to enhance the empowerment potential of her poetry, her performances and her art. Garcia Medina has worked with colleges, universities and high schools on creating an alternative curriculum that uses spoken word, hip hop theatre and poetry as a way to redefine history.


This week in track and field
This week, the Lakeland College track and field team will travel to Kenosha, Wis., to compete in the Northern Athletics Conference Indoor Championship at Carthage College on Saturday, Feb. 25. Last week Lakeland competed in the UW-Stevens Point Eastbay Invitational and scored their first points of the season as the men's 4X200 meter relay team placed eighth with a time of 1:38.9. The Muskies will look to continue improving on their times and hope to make some noise in the conference meet. The events on Saturday begin at 9 a.m. See what Lakeland head coach Peter Hahm will be doing to help the Muskies improve their times by clicking here.


This Week in Men's Basketball: NAC Tournament Preview
The Lakeland College men's basketball team begins competition in the Northern Athletics Conference Tournament Tuesday as the Muskies vie for NAC's automatic bid to the NCAA Division III Tournament. The fifth-seeded Muskies (19-6, 12-4) travel to River Forest, Ill., to take on the fourth-seeded Cougars (10-15, 10-6 NAC) of Concordia University Chicago in a 7 p.m. tip at the Geiseman Gymnasium. The two teams met once in the regular season with Lakeland posting a 94-72 win in the Moose and Dona Woltzen Gymnasium on Dec. 10, 2011. Junior Jake Schwarz led the team with a game-high 26 points, while sophomore James Oshkeshequoam recorded a career night with 25 points on 8-for-11 shooting. The winner of Tuesday's quarterfinal will take on the winner of a game between No. 8 Marian University and No. 1 Concordia University Wisconsin on Thursday at the home of the higher seed. The Muskies enter the postseason on a three game win streak, including a 103-69 win over Rockford College on Feb. 18 in the NAC Challenge Game. Lakeland finished tied for second in the NAC North with Edgewood College and a win on Tuesday would net the team's first 20-win season since the 2005-06 season when the Muskies went 21-6. Lakeland enters its third-straight NAC Tournament seventh in the nation in scoring offense (89.6) and the Muskies also leads the NAC in nearly every statistical category. Lakeland ranks first in field goals made per game (31.0), 3-point field goals made per game (9.9), 3-point field goal percentage (39.1), free throws made per game (18.2), free throw attempts per game (24.7), free throw percentage (73.9), assists per game (16.7), turnovers per game (12.1) and rebounds per game (37.8). In its two previous NAC Tournament appearances, Lakeland has fallen in the quarterfinals, but this team's goal is bringing home a NAC Tournament Championship. Head coach Aaron Aanonsen is excited for tournament play to begin and has high expectations. Lakeland will use the depth of its roster and depend on senior Josh Regal and junior Jake Schwarz to help lead the team in the postseason, much like they did in the regular season. Schwarz is the nation's sixth leading scorer (25.2) is sixth in 3-point field goal percentage (48.2) and is 14th in free throw percentage (88.2). He leads the NAC in scoring, 3-point field goal percentage, free throw percentage, rebounds per game (9.2) and points (618). Regal averages 12.5 points per game and is sixth in the nation in assists per game (6.4).He is 22nd in assist-to-turnover ratio (2.47), while sophomore Justin Ward is 12th in blocked shots per game (2.5). Ward is third in the NAC in scoring with 17.0 points per game. The Cougars enter the tournament as South Division Co-Champions with Benedictine University and carries the No. 4 seed despite having a losing record overall. Concordia Chicago is led by Issa Avery and Charles Gordon. The two average 32 points per game and have been the reason behind the South Co-Championship. As a team, Concordia Chicago averages 65.0 points per game and gets to the free throw line 22 times per game, which ranks second in the NAC behind Lakeland. Concordia Chicago shoots 41.5 percent from the field and hits 66.1 percent from the free throw line, which is second to last in the NAC. Defensively, the Cougars average 9.2 steals per game and hold their opponents to 68.4 points per game. See what Aanonsen has the team focusing on in practice: http://youtu.be/PPBDPOTWzf8 Live stats are available for Tuesday's game and can be found here: http://www.sidearmstats.com/cuchicago/mbball/xlive.htm . Live video streaming is also available and can be found here: http://www.cuchicago.edu/live .


This week in women's basketball: NAC Tournament Preview
The Lakeland College women's basketball team plays host to the No. 5 seed, rival Concordia University Wisconsin, in the quarterfinals of the Northern Athletics Conference Tournament on Wednesday, Feb. 22, at 7 p.m. The Muskies (18-7, 13-5 NAC) enter the tournament having won nine of their last 10, but lost their most recent contest, a 60-53 setback in the NAC Challenge game against the Milwaukee School of Engineering. The Muskies will look to regroup and make a run at the tournament championship and the NAC's automatic berth into the NCAA Division III national tournament. This season, Lakeland is 2-0 against their NAC North rivals from Mequon, Wis., with the two contests being decided by a combined six points. Both teams feel they have a legitimate chance to win the tournament, having tied for second in the NAC North behind No. 1 seed Wisconsin Lutheran College. In the first meeting, back on Dec. 12, Lakeland defeated CUW, 53-51, in Mequon. The game was a back-and-forth battle as the teams tied 10 times and the lead changed hands seven times. Lakeland used 50 percent (12-for-24) shooting in the second half to secure the victory. The defense was also solid, holding the Falcons to 30 percent shooting for the game. The Muskies were able to win inside, outscoring the Falcons 30-14 in the paint and winning the rebounding battle, 37-35. Sophomore Jessica Genke (Kiel, Wis.) had a team-high 14 points and seven rebounds, while fellow post players senior Alyssa Schuttenhelm (Waterford, Wis.) and sophomore Leah Eisner (Stevens Point, Wis.) scored 12 and 10 points, respectively. In the second meeting on Feb. 7, Lakeland won 54-50. The Muskies dominated in the first half and never trailed. Lakeland held CUW to a season-low 19 first-half points and led by as many as 19 points. The Falcons made a run in the second half, but the 16-point halftime deficit was too large to overcome. The Muskies won the game from the 3-point line, where they were 5-for-11, and the free throw line, where Lakeland went 13-for-15. The Falcons were 2-for-16 from behind the arc and were 6-for-7 from the charity stripe. Lakeland used a balanced attack as no player scored in double figures. Genke led the way with eight points and 12 rebounds, while Eisner and junior Dana Henrichs (Fall Creek, Wis.) each added eight points. In the two contests, Lakeland shot 37.5 percent from the field, 36 percent from the 3-point line and 80 percent from the free throw line. The Muskies also hold a +1.5 rebounding margin and have outscored the Falcons in the paint, 52-36. Lakeland's bench has been the key, contributing 52 points, compared to just 17 from the Falcons reserves. The focus on Wednesday will be ball security and post play. The team that can excel in both areas will have the upper hand. The winner of Wednesday's contest will face the winner of the quarterfinal between top-seed Wisconsin Lutheran College and No. 8 Benedictine University. In the other bracket, No. 3 Milwaukee School of Engineering hosts No. 6 Concordia University Chicago, and No. 2 Dominican University hosts No. 7 Marian University. The semifinals will be hosted by the higher seed at 7 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 24, with the championship game hosted by the highest remaining seed on Saturday, Feb. 25, at 7 p.m. For up-to-date coverage and results of the tournament visit the NAC website here. See how Lakeland head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef is preparing her team here.


Schmidt to take the plunge
The Northern Athletics Conference Student Athlete Advisory Committee is organizing a team for all NAC student-athletes and fans at the 2012 Polar Plunge in Madison, Wis., in support of Special Olympics. The NAC's SAAC team will be "Freezin' for a Reason" on Saturday, February 18, at Olin-Turnville Park on the shore of Lake Monona. Lakeland College SAAC is sponsoring senior Dana Schmidt, a member of the women's soccer team who will represent the Muskies and takes the plunge. The Polar Plunge is for everyone. There are two ways to participate and support Special Olympics, including something for people who prefer to keep their feet on dry land. Event participants can register to take the Plunge or sign up as "Too Chicken to Plunge". "Chickens" can still raise donations and join a team. They will even get their own t-shirt proclaiming "I was Too Chicken to Plunge". If you want to register online, the team name is listed under "Northern Athletics Conference SAAC". Additionally, NAC SAAC will be providing a meal for participants after the event at Edgewood College. Interested parties should contact SAAC advisor Lindsey Vande Hoef at VandeHoefLK@lakeland.edu or 920-565-1564 for additional information on participation and transportation.


Muskies tabbed eighth in coaches' poll
The Lakeland College baseball team has been selected to finish eighth in the Northern Athletics Conference by the league's coaches, as the NAC preseason poll was released Wednesday. Aurora, which placed second in the league last year and won the NAC Tournament and the bid to the NCAA Division III Championship Tournament, was tabbed to finish first in the league this year. The Spartans receive seven first-place votes and 139 total points. Concordia University Chicago, last year's NAC Champion, was selected to finish second, earing four first-place votes and 133 points. Benedictine University was selected to finish third with 115 points, while Rockford College received the final first-place vote and tallied 104 points. The Muskies finished seventh in the conference in 2011 after posting a 11-11 record in NAC play to go along with a 16-19 overall mark. This season first-year head coach Michael Bachar hopes to return the Muskies to the conference tournament for the first time in five years. Lakeland returns five starters including senior Mike Ruzek (Manitowoc, Wis.) who was named All-NAC honorable mention in 2011 and led the team with a .402 batting average. The Muskies also return two other seniors, Garrett Vincetich-Morris (Janesville, Wis.) and Jess Nickel (Waupun, Wis.) Lakeland opens the 2012 season at the Gene Cusic Classic in Fort Myers, Fla., on March 11 against Nichols College. To hear Lakeland head coach Michael Bachar's thoughts on the poll, click here. Poll points were compiled on a 12-11-10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 basis, with the 12 head coaches voting for all 12 teams. For the complete conference release, click here. 2012 Northern Athletics Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll First-place votes in parentheses 1. Aurora (7), 139 2. Concordia Chicago (4), 133 3. Benedictine, 115 4. Rockford (1), 104 5. Edgewood, 97 6. Concordia Wisconsin, 76 Marian, 76 8. Lakeland, 54 9. Wisconsin Lutheran, 52 10. Dominican, 47 11. MSOE, 31 12. Maranatha, 12


Lakeland senior awarded Air Force Commendation Medal
Lakeland College senior Ryan Kuntze, a veteran of the Iraq war from Manitowoc, was recently honored by the military for the fourth time for serving his country. But this time, it was for service behind a keyboard. In January, Kuntze, who works as a public affairs journalist in the Air National Guard, was awarded an Air Force Commendation Medal for his contributions to the 128th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs office. The honor acknowledged his work on authoring a 40-plus-page manual on English grammar, professional writing tips and journalism standards. The manual is actively being used by dozens of military public affairs offices across the country. Kuntze, who served for eight years in the Air Force, including a six-month deployment to Iraq in 2006, credits what he's learned as a double major in English and writing at Lakeland College, along with his experience as a public affairs journalist, for inspiring him to produce the manual. He wrote the initial 20 pages, which focus on grammar and journalism standards, in early 2011. He wrote an addendum that offers additional grammar training along with insight into professional writing standards during Lakeland's Christmas break. The document displays Kuntze's love of working with words, and resulted from suggestions from co-workers who have benefitted from Kuntze's guidance and appreciated his talents. "A lot of people struggle when it comes to writing," said Kuntze, who writes stories and uploads content to the base's public website. "The addendum is intended to offer guidance to anyone whose primary occupation does not rely on or regularly use the written English language." News of the award came during a regular Saturday morning meeting of the 128th Air Refueling Wing in Milwaukee. When the vice wing commander, the second highest ranking officer at the base, entered the room, Kuntze said everyone knew something unusual was happening. Kuntze was asked to step to the front of the room, and he was awarded the commendation. "He was smiling, so that's usually a good indication that it's not the end of things," Kuntze said. "It was a surprise. It felt good." Kuntze's three previous achievements were for the duration of his deployment to Iraq and his overall contributions to the Wisconsin Air National Guard and to the Naval Air Station Pensacola in Pensacola, Fla. After leaving active Air Force duty in 2008, Kuntze settled in Manitowoc and enrolled at Lakeland based on the recommendation of a high school friend who was also in the area and had graduated from Lakeland. He is on track to graduate this May. Kuntze said Lakeland's writing faculty has influenced his development as a writer and his appreciation for his craft. "I've enjoyed many classes, but especially the advanced composition course, which has impacted my approach to all my other classes," Kuntze said. "If everyone could take that class, we could do away with a lot of the horrible posts on Twitter and Facebook. Working with Lakeland's faculty has taught me information that is enormously useful to my career and the document I've been able to share." The native of Cedar River in Michigan's Upper Peninsula said his enthusiasm for writing was fostered and encouraged by his mother. He lists Dean Koontz, Andrew Vachss and R.A. Salvatore as his favorite authors. In addition to his classwork, Kuntze writes 10-20 pages a week, anything from personal essay to short stories to poetry. The Air Force Commendation Medal was authorized by the Secretary of the Air Force on March 28, 1958, for award to members of the Armed Forces of the United States who, while serving in any capacity with the Air Force, have distinguished themselves by meritorious achievement and service.


Muskies face Eagles in pivotal matchup
Tonight, the Lakeland College women's basketball team travels to Madison, Wis., to face Northern Athletics Conference North Division foe Edgewood College in a pivotal matchup. Tip is scheduled for 7 p.m. With a win Lakeland can tie Concordia University Wisconsin for the second spot in the North Division, while the Eagles are currently tied for fourth in the North with Marian University. The second spot in the division is the difference between hosting a NAC tournament game and having to open on the road. You can support the Muskies and catch all the action by following the Muskies on Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/LCMuskies) and on twitter (@LCMuskies). Edgewood College has also made live stats and video available at their website, www.edgewoodcollegeeagles.com.


NAC Challenge game preview: Tournament seeds on the line in Milwaukee
Seeding in the conference tournament is on the line when the Lakeland College women's basketball team travels to the Milwaukee School of Engineering on Saturday in a Northern Athletics Conference challenge game. Tipoff is at 2 p.m. in Milwaukee. The NAC challenge games match up NAC North and South Division teams in the order in which they finished the regular season conference standings. Lakeland (18-6, 13-5 NAC) and MSOE (15-9, 11-6) both finished second during the regular season, so they'll square off on Saturday. The winner will receive the No. 3 seed in next week's NAC Tournament and host Concordia University Chicago (9-15, 7-10 NAC). The loser will be the No. 4 and host Concordia University Wisconsin (14-10, 13-5 NAC). Those games will begin at 7 p.m. In their first meeting this season, host Lakeland beat MSOE, 86-69, on Jan. 28. In that contest, sophomore Aimee Thrune (Prairie Du Sac, Wis.) led the Muskies with a career-high 20 points, aided by a 4-for-7 performance behind the 3-point line. Fellow sophomore Leah Eisner (Stevens Point, Wis.) added 14 points and six rebounds. Since its inception in 2009, the Muskies are 3-0 in NAC Challenge games, including a 1-0 record against MSOE. To see the schedule of all of Saturday's challenge games and their effect on seeding, click here. See what Lakeland head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef has to say about the game here.


SAAC "Pink Out" a rousing success
The Lakeland College Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), in association with the Lakeland College Student Association, sponsored a "Pink Out" on Feb. 11 as part of the NCAA "Play 4Kay" initiative, a week-long event dedicated to raising money and awareness in the fight against breast cancer. Fans lent their support through the purchase of t-shirts, 50/50 raffle tickets and pink cookies. SAAC held a "Shoot for a Cure" initiative, and fans made pledges for each 3-point basket made in the men's and women's basketball games. Lakeland College athletics donated 50 percent of all fan admissions and the Student Association also made a monetary donation. Several raffle prices were donated for the event, and the following sponsors made contributions: Applebee's, Aurora Women's Health, Chili's, Lakeland College bookstore, Lakeland Student Association, Lakeland SAAC, Sheboygan Chevrolet, Scheels, Subway, Sweet Memories Bakery and Zanders Press. The annual event was once again a rousing success. If you would like more information about the Kay Yow Cancer Fund or how you can support the cause, click here.


This Week in Wrestling: NWA Tournament Preview
The Lakeland College wrestling team hopes to make its goal of winning a fifth straight Northern Wrestling Association Tournament a reality this Saturday as Lakeland hosts the five-team tournament in the Todd Wehr Center Fieldhouse. The Muskies will depend on seniors Robby Frias and Miguel Luis and junior Ryan Renon to lead a squad of young grapplers. Renon and Luis placed first in the 165- and 174-pound weight class, respectively, at the 2011 NWA Tournament and hope to repeat that success this Saturday. Frias finished second in a tough 141 weight class and will be on the attack to earn a title at 149 in his final NWA Tournament appearance. Sophomores Grant Franson and Tom Phalin and freshman David Galarno are expected to make title runs at 125, 285 and 174, respectively. Phalin finished second at the NWA Tournament last year, while Franson finished fourth. Lakeland had four grapplers take titles in their respective weight class to accumulate 102 team points and edged MSOE's three first-place finishes and 94.5 team points. The Raiders return all three title winners this Saturday, including senior Jake Narveson at 141, junior Caleb Staub at 184 and junior Steve Nguyen at 285. Concordia University Wisconsin returns its two title winners from last year, including sophomore Alec Silva at 125 and junior Marcus Lubner at 133. The Falcons finished third with 69 team points. Knox College finished fourth in 2011 with 55.5 team points and had one first-place finisher. Sophomore Eric Steingruber earned the title at 149 and is poised to take the 2012 title. Steingruber along with seniors Alex Faulkner at 184 and James Wagner at 285 will lead the Prairie Fire. Maranatha Baptist Bible College struggled at last year's NWA Tournament with 9.5 team points and one fourth-place finisher. Sophomore Josiah Brendemuehl led the Crusaders and returns as the team's top wrestler. Fans can follow their favorite wrestlers throughout the day using Track Wrestling: http://www.trackwrestling.com/opentournaments/VerifyPassword.jsp?tournamentId=55076. Lakeland will also be live video streaming the championship matches and can be found here: http://lakeland.edu/Athletics/muskies_live.asp


Zach Voelz hired to lead Kellett School
The director of the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay's adult education programs has been hired by Lakeland College to lead its adult programming. Zach Voelz, director of adult degree programs at UW-Green Bay, has been named vice president for Lakeland's Kellett School of Adult Education. He will lead all facets of Lakeland's adult learning program, which was established in 1978 and currently serves more than 2,500 students. "What attracted me most to Lakeland College was its history - the story of Lakeland," Voelz said. "Adult students who return to school do so with life experience and a story they like to share. The opportunity to promote a program and institution that holds such a rich history certainly stood out to me. "I quickly looked to the four-year institutions in the UW system and I tried to find an equally intriguing story. Aside from UW-Madison and its state-supported inauguration in the 1800's, it is difficult to find an institution like Lakeland College with an alluring, 150-year history that sprung from the tethered soles of immigrants who valued education. A great way to get the attention of adult students is having history, tradition and your own story - a story of passion, challenge, hard work, and prosperity." UW-Green Bay's adult degree program enjoyed tremendous growth in enrollment under his direction, including a 450 percent increase in students and a 650 percent increase in enrollments over the past seven years. In announcing Voelz's hiring, Lakeland President Stephen Gould said, "Zack Voelz brings to his appointment here the right combination of relevant experience, forward-looking market insight and technical expertise. These, and his passion for adult and continuing education, will serve Lakeland well in the current, quite challenging, environment." Voelz joined Green Bay's staff in 2003 in a role that included advising adult students and providing instructional design support to faculty. In 2005 he was named coordinator of the UW-Green Bay adult degree program, and in 2009 was promoted to director. He was responsible for academic planning and leadership of all facets of UW-Green Bay's adult program, which currently serves more than 900 students. The program had fewer than 200 students when he was named coordinator in 2005. His UW-Green Bay tenure was marked by creativity and innovation, and included direct support for the creation of a bachelor of applied studies degree, which led to a seamless transition for Wisconsin Technical College graduates to earn a UW-Green Bay bachelor's degree. The applied studies degree - currently offered only through UW-Green Bay and UW-Oshkosh - continues to be used as a model by other UW institutions. He also led the establishment of several partnerships with other programs and institutions, and played a lead role in implementing new processes and technologies leading to improved recruitment, retention and overall student support. Voelz noted that Lakeland was a pioneer in offering one of the state's first alternative degree-completion programs for working adults when it debuted 34 years ago. That visionary approach is a good fit for his own leadership style. "Obviously leaders at Lakeland were thinking about adult education prior to establishing the Kellett School in 1978," Voelz said. "They were on the mark, and well ahead of the game. They were true visionaries. Today, Lakeland holds one of largest student followings in adult education, a following that will only grow as the institution moves forward. This is definitely where I need to be, and I am thrilled to be here. "When I look at the Kellett School, it is clear it represents a cornerstone of the larger institution. That cornerstone is about to get much larger." Today, Lakeland serves nontraditional students at seven centers in Wisconsin, with many classes available online or through Lakeland's BlendEd® format. Voelz earned a bachelor's degree with honors in psychology from UW-Madison in 1998, and a master's in clinical psychology from Florida State University in 2002. His attraction to adult education stems from his personal commitment to life-long learning. "The needs of returning adult students will play a critical, growing role in the future of higher education as individuals seek personal and professional fulfillment through a continuing process of life-long learning," Voelz said. "Lakeland College is well-positioned to be a leader in adult education for years to come."


Muskies of the Week: Ryan Renon and Becca Tilleman
Junior Ryan Renon and senior Becca Tilleman have been named Lakeland College's Muskies of the Week for their performances in action last week. Read about their success below. Ryan Renon Junior Ryan Renon garnered Muskie of the Week honors for the fourth time this season after once again showcasing his dominance on the wrestling mat. Renon, who wrestles in the 165-pound weight class, recorded his sixth technical fall of the year, this time a 17-1 fall over Casey Kenealy of Concordia University Wisconsin in a Northern Wrestling Association dual on Feb. 8. The Wrightstown, Wis., native has tallied a 21-4 mark this season, including a 75-25 career record, which ranks eighth all time at Lakeland. Renon holds the career record for most near fall points (310) and he holds the single season record for near fall points (133) set in 2010. Renon looks to claim his third NWA Title at 165 this weekend as Lakeland hosts the sixth NWA Tournament. The Muskies are vying for a fifth straight team title. See what Renon says about his dominant season so far: http://youtu.be/vNzTacHccmc Renon is an exercise science major. Here's a look into Ryan's personality: Favorites: TV: "Man vs. Wild" Movie: "300" Music: Skilet Q. Six technical falls in a season is a huge feat. What do you look for in your opponents? A: I look to take advantage when they get tired and attack every opening they give me. Q: What has been your most memorable match this season? A: When I earned by sixth technical fall on senior night. Q: What's the hardest part about making weight each week? A: Saying no to Mountain Dew. Q: Who is your favorite person to wrestle with at practice and why? A: Head coach Mike DeRoehn and David Galarno because I know they always give me their best to get the best out of me.   Becca Tilleman Senior Becca Tilleman garnered Muskie of the Week honors for the second time this season after a memorable week. The 5-foot-2 point guard established two milestones last week, recording her 201st steal, moving her into second on the all-time list behind 2002 graduate Jill Dewane. She also became just the second player in Lakeland history to record more than 60 steals and 120 assists in the same season, joining 1990 graduate Lynn Holguin. The Green Bay, Wis., native averaged 4.7 points and 5.7 rebounds as the Muskies went 3-0 on the week. Tilleman tallied 13 assists and four steals bringing her career totals to 280 and 205 respectively. Tilleman will look to continue Lakeland's winning ways as they prepare for the Northern Athletics Conference Tournament. See what Tilleman has to say about her accomplishments thus far: http://youtu.be/b2SmKEyXL-g Tilleman is an exercise science major. Favorites: TV: "Phineas and Pherb" Movie: "White Chicks" Music: Niki Minaj Q. What does being second in career steals mean to you? A: I've never been a big stats person, but it means a lot to know I've been able to help the team. Q: What is your go-to shot in H-O-R-S-E? A: A no jump, NBA 3-point shot. Q: What has been your most memorable game this season? A: Giving Wisconsin Lutheran their first conference loss of the season. Q: Who's your favorite athlete and why? A: Sammy Phralis, because she's a really good point guard for Ohio State University.


Muskies picked sixth in softball preseason poll
The Lakeland College softball team has been picked to finish sixth in the Northern Athletics Conference preseason coaches' poll released Tuesday. The Muskies, who finished fifth last season with a 14-10 NAC record, 15-26 overall, totaled 105 points. "I don't put a lot of stock into the preseason rankings," said head coach Chad Buchmann. "Last year we surprised some teams and were one out away from a 2011 NAC Championship game. We return seven of our nine starters from last spring, and I think we're going to surprise more teams again this season. We're preparing to win, and it's not where we start, but where we finish." Defending NAC champion Benedictine University was tabbed to finish first with 10 first-place votes and 166 points, 10 points ahead of second-place Aurora University. The Spartans received two first-place votes and totaled 156 points, while Concordia University Wisconsin received the final first-place vote and 145 points. Buchmann, entering his eighth season, led Lakeland to its fifth-straight NAC Tournament and has hopes of competing atop the conference in 2012. The Muskies return four All-NAC players, including senior Leah Sheahan, juniors Heather Haeflinger and Jenny LaLuzerne and sophomore Sammy Rieder. LaLuzerne returns as the team's leading hitter with a .424 batting average and a .586 slugging percentage. As a team, Lakeland was second in the NAC in triples (11) third in doubles (80) and fourth in home runs (16). The 2012 NAC Tournament is May 3-5 at Alverno Field in Milwaukee, with the tournament winner earning the conference's automatic bid to the 2012 NCAA III Championship Tournament. The top six teams in the standings qualify for the conference tournament. 2012 Northern Athletics Conference Preseason Coaches' Poll 1. Benedictine (10), 166 2. Aurora (2), 156 3. Concordia Wisconsin (1), 145 4. Dominican, 124 5. Concordia Chicago, 109 6. Lakeland, 105 7. Marian, 88 8. Edgewood, 80 9. Wisconsin Lutheran, 61 10. Alverno, 55 11. Rockford, 46 12. MSOE, 33 13. Maranatha, 15 first-place votes in parentheses voted by the conference's 13 head coaches 13-12-11-10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-1 point scale used


Sophomore football player wins USA PL state powerlift
John Vercauteren, a sophomore offensive lineman on the Lakeland College football team, finished first in his weight class and second in team pound-for-pound at the U.S. A. Powerlifting State Powerlifting Meet in Milwaukee on Jan. 28. Vercauteren, who competed at the 242-pound weight class in the Teen Division, lifted a total of 1,480 pounds, including 600 pounds in squat, 501 pounds in the dead lift and a state-record 380 pounds in the bench press. Distinct from weightlifting, a sport made up of two lifts, powerlifting consists of three lifts: the squat, bench press and deadlift. Competitors get three attempts at each discipline with the highest lift counting towards the total. The USAPL is a drug-free powerlifting organization that is a member of the International Powerlifting Federation (IPF), the governing body of powerlifting internationally. The IPF is comprised of member federations from eighty-three countries on six continents. Vercauteren became interested in the sport in high school after realizing the importance for strength and mass on the football field. "I've always wanted to be strong," said Vercauteren. "I remember watching the 1998 World's Strongest Man competition and wanting to be like that, so I started to get active in the sport and its stuck with me ever since." Vercauteren was a senior in high school at his first competition and by the time he was ready for his second, he had invested in a squat suit and knee wraps. While there, he met Matt Gunville, one of Wisconsin's best raw lifters at the 242-pound class and a 2002 Lakeland College graduate. "It was by chance that I met Matt," said Vercauteren. "He's been helping me out ever since and spends a lot of his own personal time training me. If it wasn't for Matt, I wouldn't still be in powerlifting." The 6-foot-1 powerlifter will compete in his last Teen Division meet this June at the Badger Open Meet in Neenah, Wis. Vercauteren hopes to break the teen squat record of 625 pounds, extend his bench record to well-over 400 pounds, break the total weight record and even take a shot at the dead lift record, all before he turns 20-years-old on July 13. "I'm not concerned with where I place," said Vercauteren. "I look to break records and always strive for personal bests."


Muskies of the Week: Jake Schwarz and Leah Eisner
Junior Jake Schwarz and junior Leah Eisner have been named the college's Muskies of the Week for their performances in action last week. Read about their success below. Jake Schwarz Junior Jake Schwarz garnered Muskie of the Week honors for the fourth time this season after helping the Lakeland College men's basketball team stay in the race for a Northern Athletics Conference North Division championship. Schwarz averaged a double-double for the week, including 29 points per game on 18-for-34 shooting and 11 rebounds per game. He scored game-highs in both the Muskies' games last week, including 32 points and 12 rebounds in a 101-92 win over Benedictine University on Feb. 4. On Jan. 31, the 6-foot-5 forward scored 26 points and recorded 10 rebounds in an 86-81 loss to rival Edgewood College. Schwarz, who leads the NAC in free throw percentage (88.9) and is 11th in the nation, hit 18-of-19 free throws. The Sheboygan, Wis., has recorded eight double-doubles this season and leads the NAC in points per game (25.1), points (528) and defensive rebounds (147). Nationally, he ranks sixth in scoring and 3-point field goal percentage (48.3). For his efforts last week, Schwarz was named NAC men's basketball student-athlete of the week for the fifth time this season. See what Schwarz says about his performances last week: http://youtu.be/5BdUXhJ9HGo Schwarz is majoring in business management and marketing and minoring in resort management. Here's a look into Jake's personality: Favorites: TV: "Chappelle Show" Movie: "Law Abiding Citizen" Music: Rap Q. What has been your proudest basketball moment? A: Scoring over 1,000 career points. Q: Kobe Bryant or LeBron James? A: Dwight Howard. Q: It's almost NAC Tournament time, what's your favorite part about the tournament? A: The upsets. Q: What has been the best job you've ever had? A: Working for the family business. Leah Eisner Sophomore Leah Eisner garnered Muskie of the Week honors for the second time this season after two solid performances in crucial Northern Athletics Conference games. The 6-foot-1 center was one of four players to score in double figures against Wisconsin Lutheran College. Her 10 points and seven rebounds were a big reason the Muskies was able to hand the Warriors their first conference loss of the season. On Saturday against Benedictine Eisner scored 10 points, all in the second half, including six consecutive points that gave the Muskies the lead. The Stevens Point, Wis., native averaged 10 points and five rebounds in two games, while shooting 57.1 percent (8-for-14) from the field and hitting all four of her free throw attempts. Eisner is majoring in criminal justice. See what Eisner says about her performance: http://youtu.be/h0I2D0Gtf34 Here's a look into Leah's personality: Favorites: TV: "Law and Order" Movie: "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry" Music: Country and rap Q: What's been your most memorable moment this season? A: Beating the top competition in the conference and the Florida trip. Q: What is the most exciting part about the NAC tournament? A: The chance to make it to the NCAA tournament and play spoiler. Q: Who has influenced your game the most in your life? A: My grandpa. Q: Which coach would win in a game of knockout and why? A: Coach Fett, because she has the best shot and she shoots the most in practice.


Mosaic Concert to feature unique performances from faculty, students
Three Lakeland College faculty members will combine their talents in a unique collaboration, highlighting the college's third annual Mosaic Concert on Thursday, Feb. 16. The Mosaic Concert allows students and faculty members from each of the departments within the college's Creative Arts Division an opportunity to perform or show their work. The performance begins at 7:30 p.m. in the Bradley Theatre. It is free and open to the public. Previous mosaic concerts have featured collaborations involving students, but this program will see faculty members from three disciplines - Associate Professor of Music Arthur Johnson, Associate Professor of Art Bill Weidner and Assistant Professor of Writing Nate Lowe - perform a collaborative work. Weidner gave one of his recent paintings, "The Edge of Evolution," a 30-inch by 22-inch acrylic on illustration board, to Johnson, who composed an original, four-and-a-half-minute work for solo piano based on his interpretation of Weidner's work. Then it was Lowe's turn, and he's written a narrative based on Weidner's painting and Johnson's music. At the Feb. 16 concert, the audience will see the painting for a few minutes, and then Johnson will play his piece, followed by Lowe reading his piece. WeidnerWeidner initially proposed the idea for the collaboration. It's the first venture of its kind for all three, and they're enjoying the flow of creative energy. "When I first heard Arthur perform his completed composition, I was stunned with the rich complexity and effort he put into this work," Weidner said. "It has such a broad range of feelings that I had to immediately ask him, 'Did you really base that piece on my painting?' It is the highest compliment anyone has ever paid to my artwork in my life. I could barely hold back my tears." Johnson, a noted scholar and performer of improvisational music, said composing music based on an image was a refreshing challenge. "I started the process by writing down my thoughts about the painting - what did I see in the painting, and how might that be reflected in music? What moods did I get from the painting?" Johnson said. Johnson"The answers to these questions dictated the instrumentation, tempo, thematic material, texture and other expressive elements. I saw extremely focused lines and edges in the painting, so I thought that translated into a melody and an accompaniment with lots of staccato and little pedal. "To me, the painting had an overall lightness to it, but also a taste of sobriety, and I tried to capture these two moods proportionately while also depicting the many other moods and meanings I got from the painting." Lowe said his writing strikes a balance between what he's seeing in Weidner's painting and hearing in Johnson's music. "The images, lines, space, and color in the artwork have triggered particular associations in me, little windows through which I can access the world as I've experienced it," Lowe said. "But, then, another layer (of music) offers space, tempo, notes and motion that creates another set of associations. Lowe"So far, the art is pushing the content for me while the music is offering particular tones; in other words, the art is what I'm seeing, and the music is how I'm seeing it." Lowe said he isn't merely transcribing what is being said by the art/music, he's adding his own take to the creative mix. "There are three voices here, which means there are at least three stories," Lowe said. "And while one thing has maybe inspired another, and there may be tangible connections between them, the unifying voice and story is that of the creative process itself, not of any one individual piece of art within it." The three faculty members hope to offer the audience a glimpse inside the creative process. "Hopefully, if Bill, Arthur and I have offered them inspired work, audience members will take with them notes, images and words that will stick to them when they go on with their lives," Lowe said. This year's effort is setting in motion ideas for more collaboration next year. Johnson and Weidner have discussed reversing their roles, with Weidner painting a work based on Johnson's music. The concert's program also includes: The Lakeland band performing "Variations on America" by Charles Ives/William Schuman and "The Big Cage," a piece by famed circus music composer Karl L. King. Theatre students performing Genesis 1. A reading of "The Really Bad Word," by Lakeland writing student Alan Fairchild. Vocal music from Mozart's "The Marriage of Figaro" and Rossini's "La Cenerentola" performed by students Fabian Qamar, Kristal Klemme, Stephanie Wasmer and Cody Linder. The Schilcutt Handbell Ensemble performing an arrangement by Lakeland Professor of Music Janet L. Herrick of music by the rock group Queen, including "We Will Rock You," "Bohemian Rhapsody" and "Another One Bites the Dust." "The Mosaic Concert is a collaboration of the departments within the Creative Arts Division," said Russell Pettitt, a member of the division and director of bands. "This is a great opportunity for our division to showcase the fine work of our students and faculty, including talented artists, composers, actors, musicians and writers."


Galla named head men's and women's soccer coach
Adam Galla, a standout soccer player and top assistant coach at Central Methodist University in Fayette, Mo., is Lakeland College's new head men's and women's soccer coach. "I am thrilled to have the opportunity to work with everyone at Lakeland and take the programs to the next step," said Galla. "I look forward to taking over both programs and establishing them as top contenders in Division III, as well as in the conference." At Central Methodist, Galla helped established the women's program as a competitor, taking the Lady Eagles from a 3-12-3 overall mark in the 2010-11 season to a 14-3-2 record in the 2011-12 season. He led the Lady Eagles to a 4-2-1 record in the Heart of America Athletic Conference and a No. 3 seed in the HAAC Tournament. Galla brings seven years of coaching experience at various club soccer teams in Missouri. He served as head coach for the Columbia Pride U-18 Boys' team and an assistant coach for the 1996 Girl's Olympic Development Program (ODP) team. Gala holds his USSF "D" License, and in June 2010 he earned his NSCAA National Diploma. A native of St. Charles, Mo., Gala was a four-year letter winner at William Woods University in Fulton, Mo., and was the backbone of the Owls' defense. "Adam has a great mix of collegiate and club experience that will serve him well as he leads our programs," said Lakeland athletic director Jane Bouche. "He helped turn the women's program around at Central Methodist, and now we give him the reins of our programs as we look to make a move in our conference." At Lakeland, Galla inherits a women's program that has struggled over the past three seasons, including a 5-14 overall mark last season, including 4-8 in the Northern Athletics Conference. The Muskies haven't had a winning record since the 2008 season and haven't made post-season play since the NAC's inaugural season in 2006. On the men's side, Galla takes over a team that is on the steady rise. The Muskies finished last season with a 5-4-2 NAC record, 8-7-5 overall and just missed post-season play. Lakeland looks to return to the NAC Tournament after a two-year hiatus. Galla earned his master's degree of education from Central Methodist in 2011 and earned a bachelors in social work from William Woods in 2007. "I am thankful for the opportunity to be part of the Lakeland community and I am ready to get started," said Galla.


Schwarz named NAC Player of the Week for fifth time this season
Junior Jake Schwarz has been named Northern Athletics Conference men's basketball student-athlete of the week for the fifth time this season. Schwarz garnered the award after averaging a double-double, including 29 points per game on 18-for-34 shooting and 11 rebounds per game. He scored game-highs in both the Muskies' games last week, including 32 points and 12 rebounds in a 101-92 win over Benedictine University on Feb. 4. The Sheboygan, Wis., native finished 18-for-19 from the free throw line and led the Lakeland College men's basketball team to a 1-1 mark in last week's play and will look to help lead the team past Concordia University Wisconsin on Wednesday night. The 6-foot-5 forward has tallied eight double-doubles this season, which ranks 41st nationally. He is the nation's sixth leading scorer (25.1), is sixth in the nation in 3-point field goal percentage (48.3) and is 11th in free throw percentage (88.9). Schwarz has scored 1,451 points and currently sits at 11th all-time on Lakeland's career scoring list.


Mayo named District 6 CoSIDA First Team Academic All-America
Lakeland College women's basketball junior forward Becky Mayo has been named District 6 CoSIDA First Team Academic All-America. The Gladstone, Mich., native has been a major reason for the Muskies success this season, and she has also had great success in the classroom. Mayo averages 12.3 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, both second on the team, while maintaining a 4.0 grade point average as an accounting major. Mayo has two double-doubles this season and has scored in double figures in 13 of 19 contests. She is shooting 41.8 percent from the field and 37.5 percent from the 3-point line. "Becky is a great example of what we want our women to strive for," said Lakeland head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef. "Becky has done so much on the court and is an outstanding student in the classroom as well. We hold academics in high regard and this is a terrific honor for not only an excellent athlete, but a great student as well." With her selection, Mayo is also eligible to become a CoSIDA Academic All-American at season's end.


Muskies to host "Pink Out" to benefit the Kay Yow Cancer Fund
Lakeland College with be hosting a "Pink Out" on Saturday, Feb. 11, as the men's and women's basketball teams, in association with the Lakeland Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC), join over 1,800 participants across the nation to raise money and awareness for breast cancer. The fans, players and officials will be donning pink as part of the "Play 4Kay" initiative, which is committed to being a part of finding an answer in the fight against women's cancers. Nationally, the 2012 "Play 4Kay" initiative is February 10-20. Kay Yow, a Hall of Fame women's basketball coach at North Carolina State for the U.S. Olympic team, was diagnosed with breast cancer and led a national campaign against the disease. She died in 2009. At Lakeland, the "Pink Out" centers on the basketball doubleheader against Marian University at 2 and 4:15 p.m. in the Moose and Dona Woltzen Gymnasium. SAAC has collected several raffle prizes, pink face paint will be available, along with pink t-shirts, pink cupcakes and information designed to increase breast cancer awareness. SAAC members will also be asking for fans to join in the "3-point shoot for a cure" initiative. Fans are invited to pledge money for every 3-pointer made in the two games. All proceeds from Lakeland's "Pink Out" will be donated to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund, a charitable organization committed to raising money for scientific cancer research, assisting the underserved and unifying people for a common cause. Members of Lakeland's women's basketball team will wear pink t-shirts during pre-game warm-ups. Coaches will wear pink, and the game officials will use pink whistles. The Lakeland College athletics website will also turn pink beginning Monday, Feb. 6, through Sunday, Feb. 12. Lakeland has a team page set up so fans can make a donation to help support the cause. It can be accessed here. The Kay Yow Cancer Fund was officially founded on Dec. 3, 2007, and has raised more than $1.3 million for scientific research focused on women's cancers. Kay Yow's goal was to one day raise $5 million through the "Play 4Kay" initiative. This year's goal is $1 million and everyone can help.


Catch all the action as the Muskies face the Warriors
Tonight, the Lakeland College women's basketball team travels to Milwaukee, Wis., as the Muskies face Northern Athletics Conference North Division leading Wisconsin Lutheran College. The Warriors are undefeated in NAC play and have already secured a spot in the conference tournament. The Muskies are looking to keep pace and solidify their standing in the North Division. Live video will be available via the Wisconsin Lutheran website here. Live stats can be found here.


Lakeland Mirror unveils new website
The Lakeland Mirror, official student newspaper of Lakeland College since 1936, unveiled a new website on Feb. 2, according to editor in chief, Danny Spatchek. In addition to standard content like news, features and sports, the new website features highlighted images in an automated slider, the newspaper's Twitter feed and links to the Mirror's Facebook and YouTube pages. "This is an exciting change for us," Dawn Hogue, Mirror adviser said. "The previous hosting site for the Mirror's online content was a corporate site where there was little control over the design and no control over advertising. We now own our own web space." The Mirror was able to retain its domain, www.lakelandmirror.com, with help from Larry Marcus, Lakeland's associate director of information technology operations, and Eric LaRose, the college's manager of interactive media. "We aren't trying to make our website identical to the print version of our paper," Spatchek said. "We're hoping our readers will find value in both." However, in order to better manage both of the 'papers,' he said, "we have decided to reduce the number of pages in our print editions." "One big change is the way we'll cover sports. Game stories will appear on the website so we can stay current. We'll use our print editions for sports features and in-depth reporting," Spatchek said. When the editors began working on the site in August, one goal was to be able to easily integrate multimedia content, like video and audio. "We are working on the video," Spatchek said. "It's going slowly, but we're learning." Another benefit of this new site is the ability to engage readers. "Readers can comment on articles and participate in polls," Mike Knaak, managing editor said. "Our readers can also follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook. We're excited about interactive journalism." Hogue said the new website allows for more flexibility and innovation with our content. "We're encouraging Mirror staff to write blogs, which is more of a 21st-century journalism skill," she said. "Right now, there are links to four staff blogs. We also have a new advice column blog called 'Guidance Gal,' which should be a lot of fun. We hope we'll get some responses right away." In addition to his editor duties, Knaak, a senior computer science major, is working as a tech intern for The Mirror. "There has been a lot to learn," Knaak said, "but the site is starting to look like what we imagined it would back in August when we started our planning. While there will still be revisions, we're pretty happy with it right now." The changes are opening doors to new opportunities for students to use their skills. "The Mirror is always looking for good writers, photographers and layout people," Hogue said. "But now we will also need web-savvy students to join our staff." Students who would like to join The Mirror staff should contact Spatchek or Hogue.


Lakeland College, Sheboygan Press co-sponsoring second Sheboygan Mayoral Debate
Lakeland College and The Sheboygan Press are partnering again to bring Sheboygan voters a chance to hear from the candidates in the city's historic recall election. In this March 23, 2009 file photo, mayoral candidates Terry Van Akkeren, right, and Bob Ryan, left, speak at the Elks Club during a forum. The two will debate next Thursday at the Weill Center. Photo by Gary C. Klein/The Sheboygan Press Sheboygan Mayor Bob Ryan and challenger Terry Van Akkeren will meet for an evening of discussion about Sheboygan's future on Thursday, Feb. 9, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Weill Center in downtown Sheboygan. Ryan and Van Akkeren face one another in Sheboygan's mayoral election on Tuesday, Feb. 21. Rick Dodgson, assistant professor of history at Lakeland, will moderate the interactive evening, which will include questions from audience members. The event is free and open to the public. The Sheboygan Press will live stream the event on its website, www.sheboyganpress.com, and WSCS will record the event for multiple airings. "The primary debate involved eight candidates and meant a more structured evening, although we received a lot of feedback from voters that they learned a lot about the candidates," Dodgson said. "This event will allow voters to ask their questions, and we'll listen to the remaining two candidates engage in a genuine discussion about topics that are important to Sheboygan voters. "We're happy to be partnering with The Sheboygan Press in one of Sheboygan's truly special venues to offer this opportunity for Sheboygan residents to get involved and become better informed."


First Annual Jr. Muskies Skills Camp a rousing success
On Saturday, Jan. 28, the Lakeland College women's basketball team hosted the inaugural Jr. Muskies Skills Camp in the Moose and Dona Woltzen Gymnasium. The Muskies and head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef invited local fourth and fifth graders to participate in a free skills camp sponsored by the women's basketball program. The (number of campers) campers learned valuable basketball skills in a no-pressure environment while interacting with members of Lakeland's basketball team. The campers went through several different drills and also participated in some relay races and 3-on-3 half court drills. Afterwards, each camper was given a signed team poster as well as free passes to watch the men's and women's basketball games against MSOE. During halftime of each game, the campers participated in the Jr. Muskies sock shot, with winners receiving a signed team basketball. On Thursday, Jan. 26, the women's basketball team also held an after-school skills camp at Sheboygan's Sheridan Elementary School. Fourth and fifth graders worked closely with the student-athletes and coaches to improve their game. "We are so grateful for all the work that the team invested in the basketball clinic at Sheridan," said Blanca Wick, after school/parent involvement coordinator at Sheridan. "The event was wonderful and the children had so much fun. They keep asking me when you are coming back. What a great group of ladies and helpers you brought. It was a delight meeting everybody." Each year, Vande Hoef plans to identify ways to get local students involved in basketball and show Lakeland's student-athletes that they can have impact beyond the court. To see Vande Hoef's thoughts about the teams community outreach, click here. To see videos from the event, click here.


Muskies of the Week: Josh Regal and Andrew Cheever
Seniors Josh Regal and Andy Cheever have been named the college's Muskie of the Week for their performances in action last week. Read about their success below. Josh Regal Senior Josh Regal garnered Muskie of the Week honors after helping lead the Lakeland College men's basketball team to a 2-0 record last week, part of the team's current four-game win streak. Regal averaged 16 points per game on 12-for-16 shooting last week, including 6-for-8 from 3-point range. He scored 20 points and dished out seven assists in a convincing 95-62 win over the Milwaukee School of Engineering on Jan. 28. The 5-foot-10 guard scored 12 points and recorded six assists as the team completed a season sweep of Maranatha Baptist Bible College on Jan. 24. His six assists in the 94-65 win moved him into second all-time in career assists (473). The Suring, Wis., native leads the NAC in assists (124) and steals (45), is fifth in 3-point field goal percentage (44.9), is sixth in assist-to-turnover ratio (2.6) and ninth in free throw percentage (77.3). Regal is seventh in the nation in assists per game (6.5) and is 29th in assist-to-turnover ratio. See what Regal has to say about his success: http://youtu.be/jGWzOJUg-RI Regal is majoring in business management and minoring in sports management. Here's a look into Josh's personality: Favorites: TV: "The Office" Movie: "The Mighty Ducks Series" Music: Anything Q. What has been your favorite basketball memory? A: Going to the WIAA State Tournament in High School. Q: What's your go-to shot in H-O-R-S-E? A: I start at half court with my eyes closed and do a layup. Q: Kobe Bryant or LeBron James? A: Kobe. Q: Who would win in a game of knockout on the team and why? A: Me, because I can get in everyone else's head.   Andrew Cheever Senior Andrew Cheever amassed 46 digs this week to lead Lakeland to 1-2 record in Wisconsin Volleyball Conference play. Against UW-La Crosse, the Greenfield, Wis., native recorded dig No. 1,334 of his career, breaking the all-time career digs record of 1,133 set by Joe Julkowski, the team's current head coach, from 2006-2010. Julkowski was quick to praise his senior libero for his achievement. "I had the pleasure of playing alongside Cheever in 2009 and 2010 and couldn't be happier for him to achieve this record." Cheever is an accounting major with a minor in international business. See what Cheever has to say about his record setting week: http://youtu.be/ut6nFiLsVuM Here's a look into Andrew's personality: Favorites: TV: "How I Met Your Mother" Movie: "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" Music: Foo Fighters Q. What is the best skill you have? A: My ability to read the hitters Q: What skill do you need to work on the most? A: Hand passing Q: Who has had the most influence on your volleyball career? A: My high school varsity coach. He convinced me to stay in the game and keep playing. Q: If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? A: I want to go to Australia. That's where my grandfather was born.


Freshman basketball player deals with challenges of Celiac Disease
Just before the start of his junior year at Wrightstown High School, Lakeland College freshman Kurt Jansen, a 6-foot-5 forward on the men's basketball team, was diagnosed with celiac disease and saw his pregame meal go from a dense carbohydrate dish to a Jimmy John's unwich. Celiac disease is a lifelong inherited autoimmune condition affecting children and adults. When people with the disease eat foods that contain gluten, a kind of protein that tends to exist in wheat, barley and rye among other carbohydrates, it creates an immune-mediated toxic reaction that causes damage to the small intestine and does not allow food to be properly absorbed. Even small amounts of gluten in foods can affect those with celiac and cause health problems. Jansen, along with his sister, Andrea, and mother, Rie-ann, inherited the disease from his grandfather, Peter. It wasn't until Peter was diagnosed that Jansen knew he also carried the autoimmune disease. "My grandfather was getting tests done and that's when they also discovered that I had the disease, too," said Jansen. "I had no idea what it was or how it was going to affect me, so it was frightening when I first found out. My mom got tested shortly after, and from that day forward our diets changed forever." There is no cure for celiac disease other than eating gluten-free foods. Even the slightest contamination with gluten can hurt a celiac and cause a list of health problems. Foods containing wheat, barely or rye are forbidden. It has turned Jansen into a master food label reader, and he knows exactly what he can enjoy. The De Pere, Wis., native makes three stops in his hometown to fulfill his snack-time urge. He'll order a hard shell bean taco at Taco Bell, then proceed into Burger King and order fries, and, for dessert, he tops it off with a McDonald's ice cream cone. "I can't eat at very many fast-food restaurants," said Jansen. "I have to be careful with how the food is prepared, because even a trace of gluten isn't good. I can't order fries at most restaurants because the same fryer is used for breaded items. Burger King is the only place that uses a different fryer for its fries." While awareness of celiac disease is gaining attention throughout the country, the availability of gluten-free foods is limited, making it hard for an athlete like Jansen to gain weight. "I lost weight in the beginning months of my diagnosis because there wasn't much I could eat," said Jansen. "I wanted to gain weight, but I had a hard time finding foods that were suitable for me." Products that are made gluten-free aren't cheap. For example, the average gluten-free bread costs $5 and is about half the size of regular-sized bread. "My mom buys gluten-free flour and spaghetti in bulk online because it's normally cheaper and actually tastes better than what's available in grocery stores," said Jansen. One of the reasons Jansen chose Lakeland over other schools that were recruiting him was Lakeland head coach Aaron Aanonsen's understanding and care for Jansen's unique situation. "We felt confident we could accommodate his needs," said Aanonsen. "We had him meet with our cafeteria staff to make sure we understood the situation and could deliver for him. We've used it to our advantage to have our whole team eating healthier and being mindful of nutritional needs better." When the team stops for pre- or post-game meals, Aanonsen choses gluten-friendly places such as the team favorite Jimmy John's. "Coach is really good about it," said Jansen. "He made me feel that I would be taken care of at Lakeland. This year we've gone to better restaurants for me because those are the only ones where I can eat." Jansen's go-to item at Jimmy John's is the unwich, which takes the normal ingredients of a sub sandwich and wraps them in lettuce instead of bread. While he orders only one unwich, you won't find Jansen without his signature gluten-free snack, two corn tortillas, spread with whipped cream cheese and stuffed with his deli meat of choice. "I have those as my sandwiches and I bring a couple with me to every game," said Jansen. "They are handy and give me the energy I need on the basketball court." Jansen also enjoys his mother's gluten-free cookies and has found a new appreciation for gluten-free pizza. The Bar, a restaurant and bar located in Northeastern Wisconsin, is a Jansen family favorite because of its extensive gluten-free menu, including chicken wings and hamburgers. Rie-ann, who is a registered nurse in the G.I. clinic at St. Mary's and St. Vincent hospitals in Green Bay, is heavily involved with celiac disease and its cause. She has traveled around the country to raise awareness about celiac disease and attends meetings throughout Wisconsin. A relatively new drug called larazotide acetate, a pill intended to help celiacs eat gluten foods, is said to have passed stage two of FDA testing, but Jansen isn't interested in taking it. He's comfortable with his new normal. "Now I think other food is gross," said Jansen. "When I was first diagnosed I was depressed I couldn't have much, but now it's my life and I like it." On the basketball court, Jansen has a bright future at Lakeland and Aanonsen likes the extra time he puts in outside of practice. "Kurt is one of our hardest workers," said Aanonsen. "He comes in multiple days of week outside of practice to get in extra work with myself and our assistants. He's got a bright future ahead of him. This year he hasn't seen the rewards as much because of our upperclassmen, but I think next year he'll have a break out year for us."


Live updates and streaming available at Pete Willson-Wheaton Invite
Wheaton College, host of the Pete Willson-Wheaton Invite, is offering live updates throughout competition on both Friday and Saturday. Wheaton is also live streaming the championship matches on Saturday, starting at approximately 12:15 p.m. Live updates can be found here: http://athletics.wheaton.edu/sports/2012/1/17/WREST_petewillson_2012_results.aspx?id=266 Live steam can be found here: http://www2.wheaton.edu/learnres/mediares/WETN/wetn_livewindow/WETN-TV.html


Muskies to face Division I champions UW-Oshkosh at Midwest 10 play day
The Lakeland College men's volleyball team has released its schedule for the MIVA-Midwest 10 Volleyball Conference play day on February 4. The annual play day is at the Helfaer Recreation Center at Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wis. The play day is broken up into three segments. In the first segment, the Muskies (0-1) face defending national champion UW-Oshkosh at 9:30 a.m., followed by a contest with UW-Milwaukee at 10:30 a.m. In the second segment, Lakeland faces Northern Illinois at 1:15 p.m., followed by a contest with Iowa State at 2:15 p.m. In the final segment, the Muskies face Illinois State at 5 p.m., followed by a match against Ball State at 6 p.m. This tournament provides Lakeland a chance to assess where it is as a team and what improvements the Muskies need to make to contend for a Division I national championship.


Improvised Shakespeare to Come to Lakeland College
One audience suggestion sets in motion a night of laughs in the spirit of William Shakespeare as The Improvised Shakespeare Company brings its unique brand of humor to Lakeland College's Krueger Fine Arts Series. The Improvised Shakespeare Co. will perform on Thursday, Feb. 2, at 7:30 p.m. in Lakeland's Bradley Theatre. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for non-Lakeland students and can be reserved by contacting Deb Fale at (920) 565-1536. You'll marvel as The Improvised Shakespeare Co. creates a fully improvised play in Elizabethan style right before your eyes. Each of the players has brushed up on his "thee's" and "thou's" to bring you an evening of off-the-cuff comedy using the language and themes of Shakespeare. The evening could be filled with power struggles, star-crossed lovers, sprites, kings, queens, princesses, sword-play, rhyming couplets, asides, insults, persons in disguise and all that we've come to expect from the pen of the Great Bard. The night could reveal a tragedy, comedy or history. Nothing is planned-out, rehearsed, or written. Each play is completely improvised, so each play is entirely new. The Improvised Shakespeare Company has been performing its critically-acclaimed show every Friday night at the world famous iO Theater for over four years and continues to entertain audiences around the globe with its touring company. The ISC has been featured at the Piccolo Spoleto Fringe Festival, the Bumbershoot Music and Arts Festival and the prestigious Just For Laughs festival in Montreal. It has been named Chicago's best improv group by both the Chicago Reader and the Chicago Examiner, and has received a New York Nightlife Award for "Best Comedic Performance by a Group". The ISC was recently honored by the Chicago Improv Foundation as its "Ensemble of the Year". Learn more, and watch videos of previous performances, at www.improvisedshakespeare.com. Follow them at Facebook.com/improvisedshakespeare.


Solas to Perform at Lakeland College
Solas, one of the most popular, influential and exciting Celtic bands to ever emerge from the United States, will bring its Irish folk music to Lakeland College's Krueger Fine Arts Series. Solas will perform on Tuesday, Feb. 21, at 7:30 p.m. in Lakeland's Bradley Theatre. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for non-Lakeland students and can be reserved by contacting Deb Fale at (920) 565-1536. Even before the release of its first Shanachie CD, the Boston Herald trumpeted the quartet, which formed in 1996, as "the first truly great Irish band to arise from America," and the Irish Echo ranked Solas among the "most exciting bands anywhere in the world." Since then, the praise has only grown louder. The Philadelphia Inquirer said they make "mind-blowing Irish folk music, maybe the world's best." The New York Times praised their "unbridled vitality," the Washington Post dubbed them one of the "world's finest Celtic-folk ensembles" and the Austin American-Statesman called them "the standard by which contemporary Celtic groups are judged." Solas is virtually unique in the new territory it has opened up for Celtic music. It has performed at all the major Celtic and folk festivals, including Philadelphia, Edmonton, the legendary National Folk Festival, and Milwaukee's Irish fest; but also at Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and the chamber music summer series at Steamboat Springs, Colorado. In New York City, where the band was based in its early years, it has played at the legendary Bottom Line folk club, but also at vaunted classical venues Town Hall and Symphony Space. Although Solas can play undiluted traditional Irish music as well as anyone, they are always varying the mix of fire-tested tradition and contemporary sensibility. As a result, they transcend musical genres into the realm of pure musical expression. The internationally-acclaimed supergroup has not only captured the hearts and ears of Irish music fans, but fans all around the globe with their blend of Celtic traditional, folk and country melodies, bluesy sometimes jazz-inspired improvisations and global rhythms. The Solas sound today is anchored by founders Seamus Egan, who plays flute, tenor banjo, mandolin, whistle, guitar and bodhran, and fiddler Winifred Horan. They are two of the most respected - and imitated - musicians anywhere in acoustic music. Mick McAuley from Kilkenny plays accordion and concertina; Eamon McElholm from Tyrone plays guitar and keyboards.


Muskie basketball programs reach out to community youngsters
The Lakeland College men's and women's basketball teams will be hosting the inaugural Junior Muskies Clinic for fourth and fifth graders from the surrounding communities. The Muskies will be running the camp for free for the first 75 students who register. The clinic will take place on Saturday, Jan. 28, from 8-10 a.m. Participants will focus on the fundamentals of the game including shooting, ball handling and passing. There will also be mini-games and contests to enhance the experience. Following the clinic, the Muskies will sign autographs and interact with the junior Muskies. All campers are invited to watch as Lakeland takes on MSOE with the women starting at 2 p.m. and the men to follow. "We want our girls to share their passion for the game with the students," said Lakeland head women's basketball coach Lindsey Vande Hoef. "This is a great experience for our girls and it's an opportunity we have to give back to the community. I want our girls to understand that being a Muskie is about more than just being an athlete." Vande Hoef plans to make the clinic an annual event. "I want this to be something that these students look forward to each year," she said. "I want them to get excited to play and learn from the Muskies and develop a passion for the game." The women's basketball team will also be going to Sheridan Elementary on Thursday, Jan. 26, for a free clinic for the fourth and fifth graders during their after school activity time. For more information, or to place your registration, contact Britni Fett at fettbj@lakeland.edu or 920-565-1442. Registration will also be accepted at the door. To see how Vande Hoef feels about this opportunity, click here.


This week in men's volleyball
This week, the Lakeland College men's volleyball team begins its quest for a national title with a home contest against Marquette University on Wednesday, followed by the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference Crossovers on Saturday. The WVC Crossovers will be held in Oshkosh, Wis., and the Muskies will face UW-Platteville and UW-La Crosse with times to be determined. Last season, the Muskies had a sub-par season, finishing 18-27, 8-10 in the WVC. Lakeland is looking for a stronger showing this season under first-year head coach Joe Julkowski. Against Marquette in 2011, Lakeland was 2-3 with one of the wins coming at Lakeland. The Muskies will be looking to some freshman to deliver some big points and help get the 2012 season started out right. To see what Julkowski believes will be key this week, click here.


Muskie of the Week: Justin Ward
Sophomore Justin Ward has been named the college's Muskie of the Week for his performances in action last week. Read about his success below. Justin Ward Sophomore Justin Ward averaged a double-double in action last week to help lead the Lakeland College men's basketball team to a 2-1 record in Northern Athletics Conference play. Ward averaged 26.3 points per game and 11.6 rebounds per game as Lakeland battled to stay atop the NAC North Division. In the Muskies' 92-79 win over Aurora University on Jan. 21, he scored a game-high 29 points and grabbed a career-high 18 rebounds. The Wisconsin Dells, Wis., native hit 60.7 percent from the field on 34-for-56 shooting and was named NAC student-athlete of the week. Ward leads the NAC in blocks per game (2.3), is second in points (297), is third in points per game (17.5), is sixth in free throw percentage (79.0) and field goal percentage (56.3) and is seventh in rebounds per game (7.1). The 6-foot-10 forward is tied for 16th in the nation in blocks per game (2.3). Ward is a business management major. See what Ward has to say about his tremendous week: http://youtu.be/VXENaK3gg1k Here's a look into Justin's personality: Favorites: TV: "Pawn Stars" Movie: "Space Jam" Music: Rap Q. Your presence in the paint gives the team an advantage, what do you look to do each game? A: I look to make the best of my match up and contribute as much as I can on offense and defense. Q: What's your biggest threat on offense? A: My length. Q: Kobe Bryant or LeBron James? A: Kevin Durant. Q: What's the best job you've ever had? A: Working for my family business in the Wisconsin Dells.


Football honors its own at annual banquet
The Lakeland College football team celebrated its 2011 season and looked ahead to the 2012 season at the program's annual banquet on Saturday, Jan. 21, at Bossard Hall on the Lakeland campus. Several individual awards, as voted on by the Lakeland players, were distributed by the coaches. About 125 players, family and friends attended the ceremony. Senior safety Tony Faller (Oostburg, Wis.) was named Lakeland's Defensive Player of the Year for the second consecutive season. Faller, who tied for third in the conference with 18 tackles for a loss, was also named to the 2011 Northern Athletics Conference first team. Faller, a co-captain, tied for 11th in the nation with four forced fumbles. Faller was also awarded the team's Fighting Muskie of the Year award, which is given to the player that best represents the Lakeland program. Faller was the heart and soul of the team and provided energy on both sides of the ball. He provided leadership and a will and desire to win that can't be replaced. Senior wide receiver Justin Groeneveld earned Lakeland's Offensive Player of the Year honor. The Kingsford, Mich., native led the conference with 86 receiving yards per game, was second in receiving yards (774) and third in receptions (45). The 6-foot-4, 200-pounder also garnered 2011 All-NAC first team honors. Senior defensive back Bill Hogan (Elkhorn, Wis.) was named special teams player of the year. He recorded five tackles and had four fumble recoveries this season, good for 10th in the nation. Running back Tarrel Jackson (Detroit, Mich.), who proved to be a weapon in both the running and passing game, was awarded the Offensive Rookie of the Year. Defensive back Yaphay Harvey (Milwaukee, Wis.) was named Lakeland's Defensive Rookie of the Year. Harvey registered 12 tackles and was an emotional leader on the field. Lakeland coach Kevin Doherty also recognized the team's seniors and all-conference award winners. "I thought it was a special night," said Doherty. "It's always nice to be able to say good bye to the seniors, but there was also an energy and excitement about what we have coming back. We are excited for next season and are looking forward to continuing our progress." The banquet concluded with the 2011 highlight film and a challenge to the returning players to "Rise up and win!"


Grapplers top four in NCAA statistical ratings
Junior Ryan Renon and freshman David Galarno rank fourth in the NCAA Division III in technical falls and pin falls, respectively. Galarno, a native of New Holstein, Wis., moved up six spots in the pin falls category and is tied for fourth with 12 pins. The 174-pound grappler recorded three pins at the Matman Invitational hosted by Cornell College on Jan. 14. Renon, who wrestles at 165, remained in the top 10 in tech falls after earning his sixth at the Matman Invite. The Wrightstown, Wis., native finished fifth in the highly-competitive tournament with a 4-2 record, including two pins. He has tallied a 17-3 record and ranks eighth in the nation in both the National Wrestling Coaches Association Division III Brute - Adidas poll and the d3wrestle.com rankings. See what makes Renon so effective on the mats: http://youtu.be/HMPgCuALyko To see the complete statistical leaders report click here: http://www.ncaa.com/news/wrestling/article/2012-01-17/doliscar-takes-pin-lead-division-iii


Muskies go 1-2 at Border Brawl
The Lakeland College wrestling team went 1-2 at the Border Brawl Duals hosted by the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater on Saturday. The Muskies fell to No. 8-ranked Olivet College, 34-13 and Harper College, 31-24, but recorded a 26-24 win over Trine University. Senior Robby Frias (Oak Lawn, Ill.), junior Ryan Renon (Wrightstown) and sophomore Grant Franson (Lindenhurst, Ill.) led the grapplers with a 2-1 finish on the day. Frias and Franson claimed Lakeland's only two pin falls of the day. Frias pinned Vince Gottardo of Harper College in 2:16, while Franson pinned Alfred McKeown of Olivet College in 2:11. Renon, who is fourth in the nation in technical falls, earned a 10-2 major decision over Rocky Cantu of Olivet. Lakeland returns to the mats on Jan. 27-28 at the Wheaton Invite in Wheaton, Ill. Competition begins at 11 a.m.


Familiar face hopes to lead Muskies back to national stage
With a former standout player in the program - Joe Julkowski - now the program's head coach, the Lakeland College men's volleyball team hopes to return to national prominence this season. The Muskies finished the 2011 campaign with a disappointing 18-29 record, 8-10 in the Wisconsin Volleyball Conference including a 1-4 finish in the WVC Championships. The Muskies struggled to finish their matches and are working to address those issues this season. "Last season, we had the leadership, we just couldn't put all the pieces together," said Julkowski. "We need some guys to step up into the leadership role and our defense should improve, which will enable us to do more with the offense." Lakeland lost junior outside hitter Dane Maier to transfer, but they return the core of last year's team and will look to learn from their mistakes as they enter a new era in Muskies volleyball. At middle hitter, fifth-year senior Beau Bradshaw (Oak Lawn, Ill.) and sophomore Ralph Kokoszka (Palos Heights, Ill.) are the keys for consistent offensive production and big blocks throughout the year. Bradshaw made an impact last year and hopefully he can continue to mature. Kokoszka will look to become a solid threat in the middle. "Kokoszka is a young talent that brings an excitement to the court. He works hard, and as he continues to learn the game he'll be a big threat this season," said Julkowski. At right side will be senior Dan Sheets-Poling (Plainfield, Ill.) who stepped into a larger role last year. "Sheets-Poling is starting to show leadership skills and becoming more consistent on the right side, and that should make us a stronger team," said Julkowski. Andrew Cheever, a senior from Milwaukee, Wis., returns at libero after earning is second straight WVC Libero of the Year award. "Cheever makes us a better defensive team because opponents are afraid to hit him the ball," said Julkowski. Freshman Jeremy Bolnius (Roselle, Ill.) will be asked to help lead the team's defensive efforts. "Jeremy is a talented defensive player who has a solid volleyball background and plays the game hard," Julkowski said. Other freshmen expected to make an impact this season include Cole Aiazzi (Yerington, Nev.), Dayton Erickson (Trevor, Wis.) and Alec Redlich (Wauwatosa, Wis.). Aiazzi comes from a volleyball family that has been taught the fundamentals and he brings a lot of excitement to the team. He will be asked to provide some backup at the setter position. Erickson and Redlich were members of the USA High Performance team that took the gold medal last summer. Erickson will be taking over for former setter Chris Kubacki and be the middle-man in the Muskies offense. "Erickson is going to make everyone better. He has great touch and should improve our offense from a year ago," said Julkowski. Julkowski believes that Redlich can be a go-to guy at outside hitter and give the Muskies a kill when needed. "Redlich has an aggressive serve and is as consistent as they come up front," said Julkowski. Lakeland's 2011 schedule is highlighted by some tough WVC matches, as well as Midwest 10 and Midwestern Intercollegiate Volleyball Association (MIVA) tournaments, which feature the top National Collegiate Volleyball Federation (NCVF) Division I teams from around the Midwest. "In the past, when we have played good teams we tend to be timid and play to not make a mistake," said Julkowski. "If we want to win against good opponents we have to play aggressively and know that when they get their kills, we have to answer back." The season is highlighted by the annual Midwest 10 Championships on Feb. 4 and March 3, with the second date possibly being held at Lakeland. "My goal this year is to finally win the two-part tournament," said Julkowski. "From 2006-10 we were always taking second, but I feel we can win it this season. Hopefully we are able to be a host and get the home-court advantage." The Muskies will also take part in the Hoosier-Illini Classic on Feb. 18-19, where they will face some of the nation's top teams. The NCVF National Volleyball Championships will take place on April 5-7 in Kansas City, Mo. Lakeland begins its season on Wednesday, Jan. 25, at home against WVC foe Marquette University. The match is scheduled for 8 p.m.


Spring 2012 Room Assignments
Rooms 107, 108, 301, 306, 307 and 309 are located at the Chippewa Valley Center 770 Scheidler Road, Chippewa Falls, WI 54729 Rooms 227 and 229 are located in the Business Education Center (BEC) at CVTC (Chippewa Valley Technical College) 620 West Clairemont Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701 Rooms 212, 213 and 214 are located at WITC (Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College) 1900 College Drive, Rice Lake, WI 54868 Spring 2012 Lakeland College Chippewa Valley Center　 Course Instructor Location Begin Time End Time Days of Week Begin Date End Date ACC 220.Y1 Managerial Accounting Principles Daniel Paulmier CVC Rm 306 6:00pm 9:15pm M 1/16 4/9 BUS 490.Y2 Leadership, Ethics and Decision Making Leon Schefers WITC Rm 212 6:00pm 9:15pm M 1/16 4/9 MUS 120.Y1 Music History and Appreciation Christopher Wilson EC BEC 229 6:00pm 9:15pm M 1/16 4/9 BA 703.Y1 Healthcare Management II David Kuehn CVC Rm 108 6:00pm 9:15pm M 1/16 4/9 BA 730.Y1 Organizational Effectiveness Jeff Mutschler EC BEC 227 6:00pm 9:15pm M 1/16 4/9 CN 777.Y1 Internship I: Community Troy Bruns CVC Rm 307 6:00pm 9:15pm M 1/16 4/9 CN 778.Y1 Internship II: Community Troy Bruns CVC Rm 307 6:00pm 9:15pm M 1/16 4/9 ACC 350.Y1 Federal Income Tax I Kristi Riemer CVC Rm 306 6:00pm 9:15pm T 1/17 4/10 BUS 300.Y1 Business Professional Rhetoric (WI) Heather Rothbauer-Wanish CVC Rm 309 6:00pm 9:15pm T 1/17 4/10 BUS 305.Y1 Survey of the U.S. Healthcare System Len Meysembourg WITC Rm 214 6:00pm 9:15pm T 1/17 4/10 BUS 330.Y1 Management Principles Kelly Childs EC BEC 229 6:00pm 9:15pm T 1/17 4/10 BA 750.Y1 Applied Marketing Management Susan Zukowski CVC Rm 107 6:00pm 9:15pm T 1/17 4/10 ART 264.Y1 Art History II Caira Benson WITC Rm 213 6:00pm 9:15pm W 1/18 4/11 BUS 280.Y1 Business Information Processing Steven Van Dam CVC Rm 301 6:00pm 9:15pm W 1/18 4/11 BUS 445.Y1 Logistics and Supply Chain Management Steven Redmer CVC Rm 309 6:00pm 9:15pm W 1/18 4/11 GEN 183.Y1 Natural Science Eric Gunderson EC BEC 229 6:00pm 9:15pm W 1/18 4/11 BA 790.Y1 Corporate Strategy and Decision Making David Lehmkuhl CVC Rm 107 6:00pm 9:15pm W 1/18 4/11 BUS 425.Y1 Retail Management Rich Gaertner CVC Rm 108 6:00pm 9:15pm TR 1/19 4/12 ECN 220.Y1 Principles of Macroeconomics Stephen Ivancic CVC Rm 301 6:00pm 9:15pm TR 1/19 4/12 CN 728.Y1 Psychometrics & Assessment Jay Dressler CVC Rm 306 6:00pm 9:15pm TR 1/19 4/12 GEN 130K.Y1 CORE I: Knowing the Self Jennifer Meyer EC BEC 229 6:00pm 9:15pm F 1/13 4/13 BUS 490.Y1 Leadership, Ethics and Decision Making Leon Schefers CVC Rm 301 8:30am 11:45am S 1/14 4/14 GEN 443K.Y1 Core III: Environment and Consumption (WI) Eric Gunderson CVC Rm 306 8:30am 11:45am S 1/14 4/14 CN 714.Y1 Multiculturalism and the Practice of Counseling Donna Shimoda CVC Rm 309 5:30pm 7:30pm F 1/13 2/17 CN 714.Y1 Multiculturalism and the Practice of Counseling Donna Shimoda CVC Rm 309 8:30am 1:00pm S 1/14 2/18 CN 744.Y1 Crisis Intervention and Conflict Resolution Rodney Wiemeri CVC Rm 309 5:


Muskies of the Week: Justin Ward and Leah Eisner
Sophomores Justin Ward and Leah Eisner have been named the college's Muskies of the Week for their performances in action last week. Read about their success below. Justin Ward Sophomore Justin Ward has helped lead the Lakeland College men's basketball team to an 11-3 record, including its current five-game win streak. In Lakeland's two wins last week, Ward averaged 16.5 points per game on 12-for-23 shooting from the field. He averaged five rebounds per game and went a perfect 8-for-8 from the free throw line. Ward scored a team-high 17 points in the Muskies' 97-77 Northern Athletics Conference win over rival Marian University on Jan. 11. The Wisconsin Dells, Wis., native leads the NAC in blocks per game (2.0), is sixth in offensive rebounds per game (2.0) and is 11th in 3-point field goal percentage (43.2). He averages 15.6 points per game and 6.1 rebounds per game. The 6-foot-10 forward is tied for 29th in the nation in blocks per game and has scored 534 career points and grabbed 187 rebounds in 36 games. Ward is a business management major. Here's a look into Justin's personality: http://youtu.be/V1WTNDw1Zpo Favorites: TV: "Pawn Stars" Movie: "Space Jam" Music: Rap Q. You lead the NAC in blocks per game. What's it like being one of the tallest players in the conference? A: It's nice because I have an advantage in the post because of my height and length. Q: What's your go-to shot in H-O-R-S-E? A: Left corner out of bounds. Q: What do you most want to work on? A: Ball handling and post defense. Q: Who would win in a game of knockout on the team and why? A: Josh Regal, because he wins at everything. Leah Eisner Sophomore Leah Eisner garnered Muskie of the Week honors this week for her performance in the Muskies' 89-67 win over Edgewood College on Jan. 12. The 6-foot-1 center had a break-out game and provided a much-needed spark to the Muskies offense. Eisner scored a season-high 18 points and grabbed seven boards while making all eight of her free throws. She added two steals and two blocks in 20 minutes of play. The Stevens Point, Wis., native is currently averaging 6.2 points and 2.4 rebounds in nine games. She is shooting a team-high 59.4 percent from the field and 85.7 percent from the charity stripe. Eisner is majoring in criminal justice. See what Eisner says about her performance: http://youtu.be/FSGGylATfnA Here's a look into Leah's personality: Favorites: TV: "Law and Order" Movie: "I Now Pronounce You Chuck and Larry" Music: Country and rap Q: What is the strongest part of your game? A: My post moves. Q: What do you want to work on the most? A: My outside shooting. Q: What's your favorite activity outside of basketball? A: Getting Chinese with Taylor Jandrin. Q: Who would win in a game of H-O-R-S-E on the team and why? A: Tills (Becca Tilleman), because she always makes weird shots during practice.


Early Child Conference to be held at Lakeland College, Feb. 18
The Sheboygan Association for the Education of Young Children will hold an Early Child Conference at Lakeland College on Saturday, Feb. 18. Following registration at 8 a.m., the conference will feature three sessions with topics including Conscious Discipline, sign language, art education and outdoor play. The keynote lecture, "Identifying Physical and Sexual Abuse of Children," will be given by Scott Neubauer, a lecturer at UW-Whitewater/Education Liaison Child Abuse Education Foundation of Wisconsin. The conference will be held in in Laun Center at Lakeland. It will conclude with a tour of the new Ambrose D. Deland Child Care Center at Lakeland. The conference counts as 5.5 hours of continuing education in registry certificates. N.A.E.Y.C. members and Friends of S.A.E.Y.C. will have their names automatically entered into a drawing for door prizes. Cost is $50 for N.A.E.Y.C. members or Friends of S.A.E.Y.C., $60 for non-members and $15 for college students. Lunch is included. Registrations must be postmarked by January 31. Walk-Ins are welcome, but lunch is not guaranteed. For more information, contact the SAEYC through their website at http://www.sheboyganaeyc.org/Welcome.html or through its Facebook page.


Prestemon to deliver Founders' Day Lecture, Feb. 8
Shari Prestemon, executive director of Back Bay Mission in Biloxi, Miss., will deliver the annual Lakeland College Founders' Day Lecture on Tuesday, Feb. 8. Prestemon will speak at 11 a.m. in the Bradley Theatre on the Lakeland campus. The lecture is free and open to the public. Founders' Day is an annual Lakeland event that recognizes the church's contributions to Lakeland and provides a time to reflect on Lakeland's strong tradition with the United Church of Christ. Prestemon has served in her current role since August 2000. She is ordained in the United Church of Christ and served local parishes in Wheaton, Ill., and Stevens Point before receiving the call to Back Bay Mission. She has received the Reinhold Niebuhr Award for Service by Eden Theological Seminary in St. Louis (2007), and the Alumni of the Year Award from Chicago Theological Seminary (2008). She received an honorary doctor of divinity degree from Heidelberg University (Ohio) in May 2010. Prestemon received her bachelor's degree in social work from Luther College (Decorah, Iowa) in 1989. She was awarded the master of divinity degree from Chicago Theological Seminary in 1993 and was ordained that same year. She currently serves on the Board of Trustees for Chicago Theological Seminary, as vice-chair of the UCC's Wider Church Ministries Board of Directors and on the executive council of the UCC. Prestemon is passionate about the responsibility of the church, communities and individuals to make a constructive difference in the world. She believes every person is a child of God with inherent dignity and worth.


Webcast and live blog available at Matman Invite
Cornell College is offering a live webcast and blog along with updated brackets throughout the Matman Invitational on Saturday. The Matman Invitational hosts 14 teams with over 250 wrestlers, including some of the nation's top 10 teams. Finals are anticipated to begin at 5:30 p.m. For all the latest updates from the Matman Invitational click here: http://www.cornellrams.com/fw/Matman_Wrestling_Invitational.php


VITA program back to help during tax time
For the eighth straight year, Lakeland College will help collect tax refunds for some area residents who need it the most. Lakeland provides free tax preparation and electronic filing for low income tax filers until April 14. This service is available through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program (VITA), which is designed to help low- to moderate-income people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Students in Lakeland's accounting program will be available at the Sheboygan Salvation Army, 710 Pennsylvania Ave. The students work under the supervision of members of Lakeland's business faculty. Students from Lakeshore Technical College will also be volunteering. The program is sponsored by Schenck Business Solutions. The free service will be open on Thursdays from 5-9 p.m. and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m.-2 p.m. starting January 26. Some dates are excluded due to school breaks. To ensure service, make advance reservations by calling 565-1543. Last year, Lakeland and LTC students prepared and filed over 1,080 returns that helped taxpayers collect over $1.7 million in refunds, with an average total refund of $1,300. In its first seven years, Lakeland's program has collected close to $7 million in tax refunds for low income earners in the area. People interested in taking advantage of this free service must have income under $50,000 a year. Applicants must bring a photo ID; social security cards for themselves, their spouse and dependents; W-2 forms; 1099 forms; rent certificate or 2010 property tax bill; and a copy of their 2010 tax return. Assistance will be given in preparing several forms including, Wisconsin Form 1 and 1A, Federal 1040 and 1040A, Schedule R (credit for the elderly and disabled) and Wisconsin Homestead Credit. Returns cannot be done for those taxpayers having income from outside Wisconsin sources, those having complex tax returns, and those who are non-US residents. For additional information about this program, please contact Brett Killion, Lakeland accounting instructor, at 565-1028.


Renon and Galarno among NCAA Division III statistical leaders
Junior Ryan Renon and freshman David Galarno are among the top 10 NCAA Division III statistical leaders in technical falls and pin falls, respectively. Renon, who wrestles at the 165-pound weight class, moved up one spot and is No. 3 in the nation in tech falls. Renon has recorded five tech falls on his way to an impressive 13-1 record. Galarno (174) had a breakout day at the North Central College Invite on Dec. 10, 2011, where he recorded seven straight wins after losing his first match. In his triumph, he tallied six straight pins, which puts him at No. 10 in the nation in pin falls. For the season he has recorded nine pins. To see the complete statistical report click here: http://www.ncaa.com/news/wrestling/article/2012-01-11/wunnicke-fleck-take-over-diii-leads


Muskies of the Week: Jake Schwarz and Allison Davis
Junior Jake Schwarz and senior Allison Davis have been named the college's Muskies of the Week for their performances in action last week. Read about their success below. Jake Schwarz Junior Jake Schwarz garnered Muskie of the Week honors for the second-straight week after posting one of his best weeks yet. Schwarz helped lead the Muskies to a 3-0 mark in last week's play as he averaged 30.7 points per game and 9.3 rebounds per game. He scored a career-high 42 points on 13-of-23 shooting in a 113-90 non-conference win over Finlandia University on Jan. 4. The 6-foot-5 forward recorded his fourth double-double of the season, including 21 points and 10 rebounds, in a key Northern Athletics Conference win over Rockford College on Jan. 7. For the week, he shot 57.3 percent from the field, hit 10-of-21 3-point shots and sank 18-of-19 free throws. The Sheboygan, Wis., native leads the NAC in scoring (27.6 ppg) and is the nation's third leading scorer. He is tied for sixth in the nation in 3-point field goal percentage (50.0) and ranks 24th in free throw percentage (89.3). For his efforts last week, Schwarz was named NAC men's basketball student-athlete of the week for the second straight week and fourth time this season. See what Schwarz says about his performances last week: Schwarz is majoring in business management and marketing and minoring in resort management. Here's a look into Jake's personality: http://youtu.be/dkrF8ZreEII Favorites: TV: "Chappelle Show" Movie: "Law Abiding Citizen" Music: Rap Q. Do you think you'll break Lakeland's single-game scoring record of 55? A: No. Q: What do you need to work on the most? A: Defense. Q: What is the most challenging part about balancing school and basketball? A: Balancing a lot of homework with practice. Q: If you could go anywhere in the world, where would it be and why? A: Prague, because it was the best week of my life and I'd go back in a heartbeat. Allison Davis Senior Allison Davis garnered Muskie of the Week honors this week for her performance in the Muskies' three games last week. The 5-foot-11 center played a major role coming off the bench this week. Davis averaged 11.3 points and 7.3 rebounds in three games while shooting 47 percent from the field. She also recorded a new career-high as she scored 18 points against Northland College. For an encore, Davis recorded her first double-double of the season, scoring 14 points and grabbing 11 rebounds to lead the Muskies over Finlandia. The Sheboygan, Wis, native is currently averaging 4.9 points and 3.9 rebounds in 10 games. She is shooting 36.8 percent from the field and 63 percent from the free throw line. Davis is majoring in sports studies with a minor in business administration. In addition to basketball and volleyball, Davis is an active member of Lakeland's Student-Athlete Advisory Committee. See what Davis says about her performance: http://youtu.be/GH2c8VGGUk4 Here's a look into Allison's personality: Favorites: TV: "Kourtney and Kim take New York" and "Jersey Shore" Movie: "Pocahontas" Music: L.M.F.A.O. Q. What is the strongest part of your game? A: My aggressiveness. Q: What do you need to work on the most? A: Executing the offense and finishing. Q: What has been your favorite memory as a Muskie? A: Making three NCAA appearances in two years. Q: What do you want to do after graduation? A: Get my master's in business administration.


Grapplers finish 1-3 at Maranatha Baptist duals
The Lakeland College wrestling team went 1-3 at the Maranatha Baptist Bible College Duals on Saturday. The grapplers recorded a 48-9 win over Maranatha Baptist, but fell to No. 17-ranked University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, 34-10, Wheaton College, 27-22 and the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, 31-16. Senior Robby Frias and sophomore Grant Franson led the team with a 3-1 record at the 149 and 125-pound weight classes, respectively. Freshmen Eduardo Orihuela (133) David Galarno (174), Jeremy Kroeger (184) sophomore Brent Steudel (157) and junior Joel Frias (141) went 2-2 on the day. Lakeland was without junior Ryan Renon, who is ranked ninth in the nation's most recent poll. The grapplers return to action on Jan. 14 as they travel to the Cornell Invite in Mt. Vernon, Iowa.


Schwarz NAC Player of the Week for second-straight week, fourth time this season
Junior Jake Schwarz has been named Northern Athletics Conference men's basketball student-athlete of the week for the second-straight week and fourth time this season. The 6-foot-5 forward garnered the weekly award again after averaging 30.7 points per game and 9.3 rebounds per game. Schwarz scored a career-high 42 points against Finlandia University on Jan. 4 and is the NAC's and nation's third leading scorer (28.2 ppg). Schwarz shot 57.1 percent from the field and hit 10-of-21 3-point shots to help lead the Muskies to a 3-0 record in last week's play. He hit 18-of-19 free throws and recorded his fourth double-double of the season on Jan. 7 against Rockford College with 21 points and 10 rebounds. The Sheboygan, Wis., native ranks fifth in the nation in 3-point field goal percentage (51.6) and 24th in free throw percentage (89.0). �


Lakeland elevates Brender to associate dean at Japanese campus
Alan Brender, a veteran of international higher education, author and former journalist, has been named associate dean at Lakeland College Japan (LCJ). Brender has been LCJ's interim associate dean for the last year. He has worked in several capacities for Lakeland since 2006, also serving as LCJ's director of external relations. He has scheduled classes, recruited teachers and assisted with student registration, recruitment and counseling for the college. As associate dean, Brender will lead the academic programs and the administrative operations for Lakeland's Tokyo campus. He is responsible for academic offerings and supervision of faculty, the day-to-day administrative operations of the campus and external relations with the Japanese government, the U.S. Embassy and other universities and organizations in Japan. As external affairs director, Brender negotiated an agreement with a Japanese university to exchange students, to coordinate faculty development and to cooperate in a number of other ways. As part of LCJ's community outreach program, he also established and manages a non-degree bearing continuing education program at LCJ called Open College and coordinates a monthly free lecture series. Brender has been involved with international education for most of his life. He has 25 years of experience in higher education, having taught at the University of Maryland, Temple University, Waseda University, Kyorin University, Hitotsubashi University and Lakeland. He has also held administrative posts in writing, recruiting and alumni relations at several of these institutions. Brender has taught or worked in education in Kenya, Swaziland, Lesotho, Botswana and Malaysia. The author and contributor to more than 20 books, Brender worked for The Chronicle of Higher Education as the Japan/Korea correspondent for five years, writing nearly 100 published articles and working with ministry of education officials and university presidents in both countries. Brender give presentations annually to American university administrators and students visiting Japan on Fulbright grants on the status of Japanese higher education. He also has been a judge determining which Japanese students should receive Fulbright grants to attend universities in the U.S. Brender has a bachelor's degree in English and a master's in teachers of English to speakers of other languages (TESOL) from Columbia University, where he also did graduate work in both the School Journalism. He has a doctor of education specializing in English as a second language from Temple University. LCJ is located in the central part of Tokyo and was formed in 1990. Prior to earning a two-year associate's degree, many LCJ students enroll in a one-year program that teaches English skills, including speaking, reading, writing and learning to study critically and analytically. Approximately 30 percent of LCJ students are non-Japanese, representing 25 different countries. Many LCJ graduates transfer to Lakeland's primary campus in Wisconsin to complete their bachelor's degree.


Pierce resigns as head men's and women's soccer coach
Tony Pierce, head men's and women's soccer coach at Lakeland College for the past two seasons, resigned this week. Pierce is leaving to pursue an opportunity closer to Green Bay, Wis., where he currently resides. "Coaching the men's and women's programs at Lakeland has been privilege and I am thankful for the opportunity," said Pierce. Pierce led the men's program to an 11-17-7 record, including an 8-8-6 mark in Northern Athletics Conference play, while leading the women to a 10-27 mark, 8-16 in NAC play. He coached 13 players who earned All-NAC recognition, including two first team All-NAC awards. Lakeland athletic director Jane Bouche said a national search will begin immediately to find the Muskies' next head soccer coach. "We thank Tony for his dedication to the program over the past two years and wish him all the best on his future endeavors," said Bouche. "Both programs have solid foundations, and I'm confident we will attract a coach that will help our programs continue to grow." Pierce is a familiar face in Wisconsin soccer for over two decades. He was inducted into the Milwaukee Wave Hall of Fame in January 2010 and was one of the winningest goalkeepers in the history of the National Professional Soccer League. He was a seven-year member of the Milwaukee Wave appearing in 178 games and remains second on the team's career list in games played (178), minutes played (9,393) and saves (2,401). He played college soccer at the University of Connecticut from 1980-84, and was a member of the Huskies' 1981 NCAA Division I Championship soccer squad and had a part in a pair of national semifinal appearances for UConn in 1982 and 1983.


Muskies reach out to community youngsters
The Lakeland College men's and women's basketball teams will be hosting the inaugural Junior Muskies Clinic for fourth and fifth graders from the surrounding communities. The Muskies will be running the camp for free for the first 75 students who register. The clinic will take place on Saturday, Jan. 28, from 8-10 a.m. Participants will focus on the fundamentals of the game including shooting, ball handling and passing. There will also be mini-games and contests to enhance the experience. Following the clinic, the Muskies will sign autographs and interact with the junior Muskies. All campers are invited to watch as Lakeland takes on MSOE with the women starting at 2 p.m. and the men to follow. "We want our girls to share their passion for the game with the students," said Lakeland head women's basketball coach Lindsey Vande Hoef. "This is a great experience for our girls and it's an opportunity we have to give back to the community. I want our girls to understand that being a Muskie is about more than just being an athlete." Vande Hoef plans to make the clinic an annual event. "I want this to be something that these students look forward to each year," she said. "I want them to get excited to play and learn from the Muskies and develop a passion for the game." The women's basketball team will also be going to Sheridan Elementary on Thursday, Jan. 26, for a free clinic for the fourth and fifth graders during their after school activity time. For more information, or to place your registration, contact Britni Fett at fettbj@lakeland.edu or 920-565-1442. Registration will also be accepted at the door.


Lakeland College, Sheboygan Press co-sponsoring Sheboygan Mayoral Debate
The Lakeland College History Club and The Sheboygan Press are co-sponsoring a Sheboygan Mayoral Debate as the City of Sheboygan prepares for a historic mayoral recall election. The debate is scheduled for Thursday, January 12, at the Sheboygan North High School Auditorium beginning at 7 p.m. Admission is free. All eight candidates on the ballot have been invited to participate in the debate: Roberta Filicky-Peneski, Asher Heimermann, Mark Hermann, Jean Kittelson, Erik Neave, Bob Ryan, Randy Schwoerer and Terry Van Akkeren. The primary election is set for Tuesday, January 17. Rick Dodgson, assistant professor of history at Lakeland and the history club's advisor, will serve as moderator. Students from the history club will be asking questions of the candidates. "There's a great deal of interest in this race locally, and our goal is to present an evening for Sheboygan voters to get a good look at these candidates before they vote," Dodgson said. "This should prove to be an interesting night." For those unable to attend, the event will be streamed live online at www.sheboyganpress.com.


Schwarz named NAC Player of the Week for third time this season
Junior Jake Schwarz has been named Northern Athletics Conference men's basketball student-athlete of the week for the third time this season. His recent win recognizes his performance during the 37th annual Purple and Gold Tournament in Defiance, Ohio. Schwarz averaged 32 points per game and 11 rebounds per game, including a 34-point performance against host Defiance College in the championship game on Dec. 30. In Lakeland's 88-75 win over Trine University, Schwarz scored 30 points on 11-for-16 shooting, including a 5-for-7 effort from the 3-point arc and secured a double-double with 13 rebounds. He also helped led the Muskies tie an 18-year-old tournament record by making 16 3-point shots as he hit 5-for-7 from 3. The Sheboygan, Wis., native finished 17-for-17 from the free throw line in the title game, and was 20-for-22 in the two-day tournament. He set tournament records for free throws made in a game and a tournament, and tied tournament records for free throws attempted in a game and a tournament.


This Week in Wrestling
After almost a month without competition, the Lakeland College wrestling team is eager to return to the mats for the 2012 season. The Muskies open 2012 with a series of duals at Maranatha Baptist Bible College this Saturday. The No-17 ranked University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Wheaton College, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and Maranatha are among the field of competition. See what head coach Mike DeRoehn thinks about this Saturday's duals: http://youtu.be/khsF4kcZ6Xg


Muskies of the Break: Jake Schwarz and Jessica Genke
Junior Jake Schwarz and sophomore Jessica Genke have been named the college's Muskies of the Break for their performances in action over the Christmas break. Read about their success below. Jake Schwarz Junior Jake Schwarz continues to impress on the basketball court. The 6-foot-5 forward had a tremendous showing at the 37th annual Purple and Gold Tournament on Dec. 29-30 in Defiance, Ohio. Schwarz averaged 32 points per game, including a 34-point performance against host Defiance College in the championship game. Schwarz finished 17-for-17 from the free throw line in the title game, and was 20-for-22 in the two-day tournament. He set tournament records for free throws made in a game and a tournament, and tied tournament records for free throws attempted in a game and a tournament. On Dec. 29, Schwarz helped Lakeland tie an 18-year-old tournament record by making 16 3-point shots as he hit 5-for-7 from 3. He finished with 30 points and 13 rebounds. For his efforts, Schwarz was named to the all-tournament team and was named Northern Athletics Conference student-athlete of the week for the third time this season. See what Schwarz says about performance at Defiance: http://youtu.be/3K5RvDZvmMU Schwarz is majoring in business management and marketing and minoring in resort management. Here's a look into Jake's personality: Favorites: TV: "Chappelle Show" Movie: "Law Abiding Citizen" Music: Rap Q. What are you looking forward to most about the second half of the season? A: Making a run for the NAC Championship. Q: Kobe Bryant or LeBron James? A: LeBron. Q: What did you like best about traveling to Defiance, Ohio? A: Spending time with the team. Q: Who would win in a game of knockout on the team and why? A: Josh Regal, because he makes a lot of crazy shots. Jessica Genke Sophomore Jessica Genke garnered Muskie of the Break honors for her performance in the 2011 Daytona Beach Shootout. The 5-foot-7 forward had a solid two games for Lakeland as she averaged 13 points and six rebounds. Against Hamline she scored eight points on 4-for-6 shooting and grabbed seven boards in a 67-48 victory. In a 66-55 win against Pacific, she was 8-for-12 from the field, scoring 18 points and pulling in five rebounds. She was named to the All-Tournament team for her efforts. The Kiel, Wis., native is currently averaging 14.7 points and 9.8 rebounds through nine games. She is shooting 53.7 percent from the field and is playing 27.7 minutes per game. See what Genke says about her winter break: http://youtu.be/xOmTaapIMXs Here's a look into Jessica's personality: Favorites: TV: "House" Movie: "I Love You, Man" Music: Anything Q. What is the strongest part of your game? A: Rebounding Q: What do you need to work on the most? A: Ball handling Q: What was your favorite memory in Florida? A: When we played games with our coaches. Q: If you played coach Fett one-on-one, who would win and why? A: Coach would probably beat me because she has a better post-game than me and teaches me everything I know.


Genke named NAC Player of the Week
Sophomore forward Jessica Genke has been named Northern Athletics Conference Women's Basketball Student-Athlete of the Week for her performance in the Daytona Beach Shootout, Dec 21-22. Genke averaged 13 points and six rebounds in two games. Against Hamline she helped the Muskies (5-4, 2-3 NAC) build an early lead, as she scored eight points on 4-for-6 shooting and grabbed seven boards in the 67-48 victory. In the 66-55 win against Pacific, Genke was 8-for-12 from the field, scoring 18 points and pulling in five rebounds. She was named to the All-Tournament team for her efforts. The Kiel, Wis., native is leading the team with 14.7 points and 9.8 rebounds per game, while averaging 27.7 minutes per game. She is shooting 54 percent from the field and has 11 blocks and nine steals through nine games.


Daytona Beach Shootout - Game two: Lakeland College vs. Pacific University
The Lakeland College women's basketball team plays their final game of the Daytona Beach Shootout today at 4 p.m. EST against Pacific University (Ore.). Live stats of today's contest can be found here. Updates of the contest as well as links to all stories in Daytona can be found on the Muskie facebook page.


Winter break hours at Lakeland College
To mark the Christmas and New Year's Day holidays, the majority of Lakeland College's offices will be closed beginning Friday, Dec. 23, through Tuesday, Jan. 3. The admissions office in the Nash Center will be open from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. on Tuesday through Friday, Dec. 27-30. Lakeland's Kellett Centers will be open from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Tuesday-Thursday, Dec. 27-29, and from 8 a.m.-noon on Friday, Dec. 30. The fitness center in the Wehr Center will be open from 3-7 p.m. on Dec. 27-30 and Jan. 2-6, and from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on Jan. 7. Lakeland College wishes everyone a merry Christmas and a happy and healthy 2012!


Niederjohn named a 2011 Wisconsin Financial Literacy Award winner
Scott Niederjohn, Lakeland College's Charlotte and Walter Kohler Assistant Professor of Economics and Business, Wednesday was named a 2011 Wisconsin Financial Literacy Award winner by The Governor's Council on Financial Literacy. The winners, which include individuals and organizations, are recognized for their work to advance the cause of personal financial knowledge among Wisconsin citizens. "The recipients of the Wisconsin Financial Literacy Award are helping Wisconsinites of all ages improve their personal finance skills in our schools, in the workplace and in communities across the state," Governor Scott Walker said. "These citizen leaders equip students, parents, peers and consumers with the necessary tools to make informed decisions about their own money, which improves individual quality of life, as well as the Wisconsin economy." Niederjohn was recognized along with Mark Schug, professor emeritus from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, for their work in creating and conducting a series of two-day seminars for teachers, journalists, clergy, non-profit managers and elected officials titled "Economics for Opinion Leaders Workshop." These workshops have been held over the past three years. The seminars introduce opinion leaders to the economic way of thinking which stresses choices, costs, incentives, rules of the economic system, trade and gains from trade. It includes supply and demand analysis, the basic institutions of a market economy including private property rights, profit motive, consumer sovereignty, competition and freedom of contract. There are a series of interactive exercises to demonstrate key points. "Economic and financial education helps opinion leaders understand how our market system works," Niederjohn said. "It can also help them to become more effective in their everyday work. A new level of economic understanding can help teachers, religious leaders and journalists prepare more insightful lessons, sermons and articles. It can help managers of non-profits understand how the missions of their organizations can be advanced through the operation of free markets." A member of Lakeland's faculty since 2004, Niederjohn also serves as chair of the college's business administration division, and is director of Lakeland's Center for Economic Education, which he created. His research has been featured in numerous academic journals, and his research and thoughts on public policy and other state issues regularly have him quoted by statewide media outlets. The financial literacy award recipients were selected from 45 nominations submitted for consideration. Criteria used in the screening process included innovative implementation, demonstrated measureable results, collaboration with partners, whether the effort was statewide or had the potential to be statewide and whether the effort was focused on needs-based groups. "Many of these efforts can be replicated in other parts of the state," Walker said. "The Governor's Council on Financial Literacy is eager to help facilitate the implementation of personal financial literacy programs in school districts and communities throughout Wisconsin." Created by executive order last spring, The Governor's Council on Financial Literacy is working to measurably improve the financial literacy of Wisconsin citizens.


Defiance College Tournament preview
The Lakeland College men's basketball team hits the road over the Christmas break to participate in the Defiance College Tournament on Dec. 29-30 in Defiance, Ohio. The Muskies will square off against Trine University on Dec. 29 at 5 p.m. EST and will face either Knox College or Defiance College on Dec. 30. Lakeland (5-2) is coming off an 87-59 non-conference win over Silver Lake College on Dec. 17. Junior Jake Schwarz leads the team in scoring with 25 points per game. The Muskies look forward to facing new competition and hope to leave Defiance as the Purple and Gold Tournament Champions. "We are looking forward to taking this trip and being able to get away for a bit," said head coach Aaron Aanonsen. " It's always fun when you can take your team out of state and get them away from what they've been used to for the past couple of months." The Trine Thunder are out of the Michigan Intercollegiate Athletic Association and has put together a 6-3 record, including a 79-64 victory over Northern Athletics Conference foe Aurora University on Nov. 18. On Dec. 19, Franklin College handed Trine an 82-75 loss and snapped the Thunder's five-game winning streak. Ian Jackson leads the Thunder in scoring with 21.0 points per game. Trine averages 75.1 ppg and holds its opponents to 68.8 ppg. The Muskies are averaging 84.4 ppg and have held their opponents to 73.1 ppg. "Trine has a couple of solid players and will be a good test for us," Aanonsen said. "These games will help us prepare for the second half of the NAC season." In game two on Dec. 29, Defiance College takes on Knox College at 7 p.m. EST. Defiance College's head coach, Kyle Brumett, is a familiar face to Aanonsen and some of the players. Brumett served as Lakeland's head coach for two years, and he led the Muskies to the NAC Tournament Championship in 2007-08. "Myself and some of the guys have a history with Coach Brumett," said Aanonsen. "That makes the trip a little more special." Defiance is out of the Ohio Athletic Conference and has compiled a 2-7 record, including losing its last five games from Nov. 30-Dec. 17. Logan Wolfrum leads the team with 17.7 ppg. The Yellow Jackets average 73.6 ppg and have allowed their opponents to score 79.3 ppg. Knox College is out of the Midwest Conference and is off to a rough start at 2-6, including losing its first five. Knox dropped its season opener to the NAC's Benedictine University, 69-63, but recorded a 63-58 win over the Milwaukee School of Engineering on Dec. 17. Lukas Shaw leads the Prairie Fire in scoring with 17.7 ppg and the team averages 60.9 ppg. Defensively, Knox gives up 69.9 ppg. Fans can find live stats online for all games at http://www.defianceathletics.com/mbasketball/tournament11/. All games being on Eastern Standard Time.


Daytona Beach Shootout - Game one: Lakeland College vs. Hamline University
The Lakeland College women's basketball team plays their first game of the Daytona Beach Shootout today at 4 p.m. EST against Hamline University (Minn.). Live stats of today's contest can be found here.


Faller caps off senior year in style
Senior safety Tony Faller capped off his Lakeland College football career in style at the All American Bowl on Dec. 17 at the Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minn. The Oostburg, Wis., native recorded four tackles, a pass break up and blocked a field goal attempt to help the Stars slide past the Stripes, 17-13. "It was a cool experience playing in the Metrodome," said Faller. "I've never been able to play on an NFL field before. I enjoyed getting to know and spending time with players from all over the country." Faller didn't miss many snaps during his four-year standout career at Lakeland, but had to share playing time with another safety, "I wasn't used to not being on the field every snap, so it was a little hard to watch some plays from the sideline," said Faller. "I just wanted to jump in and make a play." The All American Bowl was founded in 1996 to give athletes the opportunity to compete against the best at their level in an all-star game setting. The All American Bowl was created to fill the void of the lack of all-star games available to athletes in high school, DII, DIII, JUCO and minor league football. In April of 1996, the first All American Bowl was played in Minnesota. The All American Bowl also gives athletes the potential to be scouted by colleges and professional football teams. While Faller's career as a Muskie came to an end this fall, he has been asked to try out for the Green Bay Blizzard, a professional indoor football team, in February. "This was definitely a great experience and I was happy to represent Lakeland one last time," said Faller.


Daytona Beach Shootout: Day Two
On day two of its winter break trip, the Lakeland College women's basketball team held its second practice in Daytona Beach, Fla., as they prepare to play in the Daytona Beach Shootout. The Muskies practiced at Father Lopez Catholic High School in Daytona, Fla. While the facilities are similar to Lakeland's, the time constraints make having a full practice difficult. "I'm proud of the girl's effort and focus so far this week," said Lakeland head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef. "I can see the girls are enjoying the trip, but I know they want to win these games as well. They've done a great job adjusting to the shorter practices and getting their work in when its time." The team also had a team dinner at the Starlite Diner in Daytona Beach, Fla. It allowed the team some time to hang out together and bond. "I like to do things as one," said Vande Hoef. "The team has had a lot of free time, but I wanted us to be able to come together and spend some quality time as a team outside the gym." The Muskies will play their first game on Tuesday, Dec. 20, against Hamline University at 4 p.m. EST. To see clips from today's practice, click here. Live stats for both games can be found here: http://client.stretchinternet.com/client/sporttours.portal For all the latest updates on the teams travel, check out the Lakeland College Facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/LCMuskies


Muskies hold first practice in Daytona Beach, Fla.
On Sunday, the Lakeland College women's basketball team held their first practice in Daytona Beach, Fla. as they prepare to play in the Daytona Beach Shootout. The Muskies will be utilizing several area high schools for one-hour sessions throughout the week. They will play their first game on Tuesday, Dec. 20, against Hamline University at 4 p.m. EST. To see what captains Becca Tilleman and Becky Mayo had to say about their first practice, click here. Live stats for their games can be found here: http://client.stretchinternet.com/client/sporttours.portal For all the latest updates on the teams travel, check out the Lakeland College Facebook page here: http://www.facebook.com/LCMuskies


This week in women's basketball
Next week, the Lakeland College women's basketball team travels to Daytona Beach, Fla. to take part in the Daytona Beach Shootout. The Muskies will play two games during their five day trip starting with a contest against Hamline University on Tuesday, Dec. 20 at 4 p.m. EST Lakeland's second game of the trip will be Wednesday, Dec. 21, against Pacific University, tip is set for 4 p.m. EST. All games will be played in the Daytona Beach Ocean Center with live stats available here. Lakeland (3-4, 2-3) lost two tough games at home last week, but also got a big road win over Concordia University Wisconsin. On Dec. 6 the Muskies lost to Northern Athletics Conference North Division leaders Wisconsin Lutheran College, but rebounded on Dec. 8 with their road win, a 53-51 victory. On Dec. 10, Lakeland came out flat and couldn't rebound against Concordia University Chicago. For the week, Lakeland averaged 58.0 points and 36.7 rebounds while shooting 37 percent (64-173) from the field and .350 (21-60) from behind the 3-point line. The Muskies continue to struggle from the free throw line, shooting just 69.4 percent. Junior Becky Mayo led Lakeland with 12 points, while Jessica Genke added 10.3 points while both players grabbed 6.7 rebounds per game. See what head coach Lindsey VandeHoef has to say about the team's trip by clicking here.


Teresa Grimm joins Lakeland as distance education librarian
Teresa Grimm has joined Lakeland College as distance education librarian. She will work with Lakeland's Kellett School of Adult Education to assess the information needs of Kellett students and faculty, and build awareness in the centers of the resources available to them. Grimm comes to Lakeland from Waukesha County Technical College where she was senior library technician from 1995-2011. In that role she gained extensive experience teaching basic and advanced information literacy skills to diverse populations, and she designed and taught numerous specialized workshops, many of them focused on technology. She has also worked as a reference librarian at the Oconomowoc Public Library and a senior assessment technician at Waukesha County Tech. Grimm has a master of library and information science from the University of Wisconsin and a bachelor of arts in history and political science from UW-Whitewater. She is an active member of the Wisconsin Library Association.


Grapplers are "On the Attack" for 2012 campaign
The Lakeland College wrestling team will enjoy some time off during the holiday break, but will return to the mats before the new year to start its 2012 "on the attack" campaign. After an impressive showing by freshmen Jeremy Kroeger and David Galarno at the North Central Invite and the continuous leadership of the upperclassmen, head coach Mike DeRoehn is excited for the second half of the season. The Muskies resume competition on Jan. 7, 2012 at the Maranatha Baptist Bible College Duals. The grapplers will face the No. 17-ranked University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Wheaton College and Maranatha. Lakeland hosts the Northern Wrestling Association Tournament on Feb. 18 and heads to Minneapolis, Minn., on Feb. 26 for the Great Lakes Regional. The NCAA National Tournament is March 9-10 in La Crosse, Wis. See what coach DeRoehn has in store for the holiday break and 2012 campaign:http://youtu.be/oevDlp9ftD8


Schwarz nation's fourth leading scorer
Junior Jake Schwarz is the nation's fourth leading scorer among NCAA Division III institutions, the NCAA announced Tuesday. Schwarz, who averages 25.8 points per game, is no stranger to being atop the nation's leading scorers as he ranked sixth during his sophomore campaign with 23.1 points per game. The 6-foot-5 forward used a 36-point performance against Maranatha Baptist Bible College on Nov. 29 to become the 38th member of Lakeland's 1,000-point club. Schwarz has helped lead the Muskies to a 4-2 record, 3-1 in the Northern Athletics Conference. For his efforts this season, he has been named NAC men's basketball student-athlete of the week twice, along with Muskie of the Week honors. To see the complete NCAA Division III statistics leaders click here: http://www.ncaa.com/stats/basketball-men/d3


Muskie Softball Team Helps "Bundle up Buddies"
The Lakeland College softball program conducted a "Bundle up Buddies" coat drive on December 10. Members of the softball team gathered semi-new coats, mittens and hats to donate to two different non-profit organizations, the Boys and Girls Club of Sheboygan County and the River Food Pantry of Madison. The team collected 79 items, including 24 coats, 28 hats and 27 sets of mittens. "Our goal was to give back during the holiday season and make a difference," said head coach Chad Buchmann. "The ladies did a great job working towards a good cause, and they understand how much of a difference they all can make working together." The softball team also contributed monetarily to the Safe Harbor (domestic violence women's shelter of Sheboygan) drive held by Lakeland's ethics class.


Lakeland College Announces Winter Softball Skill Camp Dates
Lakeland College head softball coach Chad Buchmann has announced the program's 2011-12 winter softball skill camp dates. Each date is open to high school softball players that are interested in learning more techniques before their season begins. Hitting sessions are $25 and pitching sessions are $30. Catchers are not required to pay if they are catching for a pitcher. A registration form and more information is available online at http://www.lakeland.edu/Athletics/softball/softball_campinfo.asp. Please return a signed waiver and a check made out to Lakeland College Softball. The following high school softball camps are scheduled at Lakeland: • Sunday Jan. 15, 2012 : Hitting - 4 - 5:30 p.m. Pitching - 6 - 8 p.m. • Saturday, Jan. 21, 2012: Pitching - 10 a.m. - Noon Hitting - 1 - 3 p.m. • Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012: Hitting - 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Pitching - 1 - 3 p.m. Contact Buchmann at buchmanncp@lakeland.edu with any questions.


Kim Bukowski named new women's volleyball coach
Kim Bukowski, a Wisconsin native with Division I playing and coaching experience, is Lakeland College's new head women's volleyball coach. Bukowski comes to Lakeland after playing and coaching at Valparaiso University. She served as a graduate assistant coach this past fall, and helped the Crusaders finish 20-15 and finish fourth in the Horizon League. The program had two American Volleyball Coaches Association All-Region players. The Waukesha native was also an assistant coach for one season at the University of South Dakota. The team was runner-up in the Great West Conference Championship. "I'm excited to return to Wisconsin," said Bukowski. "This state has some of the top Division III programs in the country, which is a tribute to the quality of players at the high school and club level. I'm excited to bring this program back to the top." As a player, Bukowski was a four-year starting setter at Valparaiso. She helped the Crusaders to 91 victories (2006-2009), including four straight 20-win seasons. Valparaiso finished second in the league in three of her four years and advanced to the league title match on two occasions. Bukowski closed out her Crusader career with 3,543 assists, which ranks third in Valparaiso history. Bukowski is a two-time All-Horizon League selection and in 2008 received AVCA Honorable Mention All-Region accolades after leading the Horizon League and finishing sixth nationally in assists/set. She is a three-time HL Player of the Week that also helped the Crusaders lead the nation that season in both kills/set and assists/set. Bukowski takes over a young Lakeland team that struggled through inconsistent play and finished 9-21 overall, 6-6 in the Northern Athletics Conference. The program has made six NCAA Tournament appearances and won eight of its 10 conference championships in the last 10 seasons. "I come from a program both as a player and coach that are steeped in tradition with a history of winning records" said Bukowski. "I will need to evaluate the Lakeland volleyball program in order to determine areas of focus for improvement. To continuously perform at a high level takes hard work and dedication, and I am confident that is what I will get from this program." Lakeland athletic director Jane Bouche shared her enthusiasm for the hiring and her desire to continue to build on the tradition that exists within the program. "We're looking forward to seeing Kim's passion and enthusiasm for volleyball impact our program," said Bouche. "Her experience as a player and coach has been good preparation for her to become a head coach. She is, of course, aware of our program's strong tradition, and she embraces the opportunity to build on what we have already accomplished." Bukowski graduated from Valparaiso University in 2009 with a bachelor's degree in business administration. She earned a master's in kinesiology and sports science from the University of South Dakota in 2011.


Lakeland senior to take part in All American Bowl
Lakeland College senior safety Tony Faller will participate this weekend in the All American Bowl, played at Mall of America Field at the Metrodome in Minneapolis, Minn. The game kicks off at 10 a.m. on Saturday, Dec. 17. The Oostburg, Wis., native had a stellar season as he totaled a career-high 92 tackles, 16 for a loss, 13 passes defended, four forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and two blocks. He finishes a brilliant career with 290 career tackles, including 39 for a loss. He totaled 38 passes defended, five forced fumbles and nine recoveries. Faller received first-team All-Northern Athletic Conference honors for his efforts this season. His 16 tackles for a loss of 95 yards led the team, while his four sacks accounted for 40 yards of loss. Faller will be joined in this weekend's game by fellow NAC athletes Matt McWilliams and Andrew Taylor, senior football players at Benedictine University. The All American Bowl was founded in 1996 to give athletes the opportunity to compete against the best at their level in an all-star game setting. The All American Bowl was created to fill the void of the lack of all-star games available to athletes in high school, DII, DIII, JUCO and minor league football. In April of 1996, the first All American Bowl was played in Minnesota. The All American Bowl also gives athletes the potential to be scouted by colleges and professional football teams. The participants in the All American Bowls have been nominated for their outstanding performances throughout their season, their accomplished career, love for the game, a chance to be noticed and a last chance to play the game. For more information on the game and to watch play-by-play of the game, visit the game's website at http://www.allamericanbowl.com/


Muskies of the Week: David Galarno and James Oshkeshequoam
Sophomore James Oshkeshequoam and freshman David Galarno have been named the college's Muskies of the Week for their performances in action last week. Read about their success below. Muskies of the Week will take a two-week holiday break after this week and will return on Jan. 2, 2012. David Galarno Freshman David Galarno had a breakout performance at the 48th Annual North Central College Invite on Dec. 10. Galarno, who wrestles at the 174-pound weight class, won sevenstraight matches to place third. After losing his first match to the No. 1 seed, Trevor Tyler of Olivet, Galarno went on to record six-straight pin falls and a 7-5 decision over No. 4 seed Drew Songer of Wabash College in the final match. His six pins are believed to be the most in a single day in the program's history. The New Holstein, Wis., native has put together an 8-5 record. See what Galarno says about his performance on Saturday: Galarno is an exercise science major. Here's a look into David's personality: http://youtu.be/z223XgPyIT8 Favorites: TV: "Family guy" Movie: "Gangsters Paradise" Music: Hip-hop/ Rap Q. What style of wrestling do you prefer, Greco-Roman or Freestyle? A: Freestyle. Q: What has been your most memorable match this season? A: The third place match at the North Central Invite. Q: What's the hardest part about making weight each week? A: Nothing, I don't have to cut weight. Q: What is your favorite holiday tradition? A: Eating food. James Oshkeshequoam Sophomore James Oshkeshequoam used a career day to help lead the men's basketball team to a convincing 94-72 win over Concordia University Chicago on Dec. 10. Oshkeshequoam scored a career-high 25 points on 8-for-11 shooting and sank five 3-pointers to lead the Muskies. He sparked the team's takeover when he hit a 3-pointer at the 18:21 mark and ended the game a perfect 4-for-4 from the free throw line. The Keshena, Wis., native also recorded two assists, two rebounds and a steal. He is averaging 11.2 points per game and 2.2 rebounds per game. The 6-foot-3 guard has started in all six games for the Muskies and has played an integral role in the team's quick start. Oshkeshequoam is an exercise science major. See what Oshkeshequoam says about his performance: http://youtu.be/9hhBo3vHmos Here's a look into James' personality: Favorites: TV: "Sponge Bob" Movie: "Space Jam" Music: Rap Q. What's the strongest part of your game? A: Shooting Q: What's your go-to shot in H-O-R-S-E? A: Left-handed from the corner. Q: What has been your favorite basketball memory? A: Winning the gold medal at the 2011 Indigenous games. Q: Who would win in a 3-point shootout you or Lakeland assistant coach Marcus Conigliaro? A: Me, because I'm more of a pure shooter.


Renon ranks fourth in technical falls among NCAA Division III leaders
Junior Ryan Renon is No. 4 in the NCAA Division III Top 10 technical fall leaders, the NCAA Wrestling Committee announced yesterday. The NCAA Wrestling Committee has added nine different awards, three per division, which will be given to student-athletes with the most falls, most technical falls and a most dominant wrestler during the annual championships. Pins and tech falls will be added during the regular and post season to determine the annual winner. Renon, who wrestlers at the 165-pound weight class, has recorded five technical falls this season and has tallied an impressive 12- 1 record. To see the complete NCAA leaders click here: http://l.wbx.me/l/?p=1&instId=199512c2-c85a-4704-984a-53aa7b9fa528&token=1866fa8e23d6e2a614276962419a4d8d2993261e000001341de41088&u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ncaa.com%2Fnews%2Fwrestling%2Farticle%2F2011-12-07%2Fresults-based-wrestling-awards-tap


This Week in Men's Basketball
The Lakeland College men's basketball team continues Northern Athletics Conference play this week hosting a big early season game with Edgewood College on Wednesday and Concordia University Chicago on Saturday. The Muskies (3-1, 2-0 NAC) are coming off a big week where the team captured two convincing NAC victories. Lakeland recorded a 110-79 win over Maranatha Baptist Bible College on Nov. 29 and a 77-58 victory over Dominican University on Dec. 3. Edgewood heads to Woltzen Gym on Wednesday at 7-0 overall and is receiving votes in the d3hoops.com Top 25 poll. Wednesday's winner will be the last unbeaten team in the NAC North. Lakeland junior forward Jake Schwarz led the team in both games last week. He scored a game-high 36 points against Maranatha Baptist en route to joining the 1,000-point club. Schwarz became the 38th player in the program's history to earn the feat. He leads the NAC in scoring with 29 points per game. Lakeland returns home this week after shooting 49.3 percent from the floor and hopes to display its shooting abilities in this week's games.


Schwarz garners NAC Player of the Week for second-straight week
Junior Jake Schwarz has been named Northern Athletics Conference men's basketball student-athlete of the week for the second-straight week. Schwarz earned the recognition after leading the Lakeland College men's basketball team to two key victories in NAC play. He scored a game-high 36 points against Maranatha Baptist Bible College on Nov. 29 en route to joining the 1,000-point club. Schwarz became the 38th player in the program's history to earn the feat. On Dec. 3, Schwarz scored 22 points in just 19 minutes to lead the Muskies past Dominican University. The Sheboygan, Wis., native leads the NAC in scoring with 29 points per game and shot an impressive 73 percent from the floor last week. The 6-foot-5 forward also averaged seven rebounds per game, including 11 against Maranatha.


Muskies participate in WVC Pre-Season Kick-Off
On Saturday, the Lakeland College men's volleyball team took part in the WVC Preseason Kick-Off tournament in Oshkosh, Wis. The Muskies went 3-3 in pool play, sweeping the University of Wisconsin-Platteville in their first match, 2-0 (25-18, 25-22) followed by a 1-1 split with University of Wisconsin-Whitewater (25-27, 25-22) before being swept by University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh II, 2-0 (25-27, 14-25). In the playoff round, the Muskies lost to tournament runner-up University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse, 2-1 (22-23, 24-26, 19-21). UW-Oshkosh defeated UW-LaCrosse in the finals. The Muskies had several players with good tournaments. They were led by freshman setter Dayton Erickson who had 92 assists and fellow freshman Alec Redlich who had 33 kills. Seniors Beau Bradshaw and Andy Cheever contributed as well with Bradshaw collecting 27 kills while Cheever had 35 digs. "I am very proud of what the team showed me this weekend," said Lakeland head coach Joe Julkowski. "I found a few more things to work on at practices, but also found a higher level of competition that I am going to expect out of them from now on. "Cheever played a key role throughout the tournament defensively. He also used his effective serving that kept teams out of system at important moments. Although his stats may not reflect it, he was effective defensively because teams know he is an amazing defender and they try to hit away from him. As a result, this also allows our blocking to be more effective. " Middle blockers Ralph Kokoszka and Beau Bradshaw led the team with a combined 17 blocks on the day. The Muskies totaled 12 blocks in their quarterfinal match with UW-LaCrosse. "With a win in the first set, UW-LaCrosse came back strong offensively and they were just more aggressive in sets two and three," said Julkowski. "One thing I know we have to work on is staying aggressive when the game is on the line. If we're down one late, we need someone to step up and give us a powerful serve or make an aggressive attack. Right now, we just can't finish a game. This weekend hopefully showed the team what they need to do to beat an elite team like UW-LaCrosse and UW-Oshkosh. "Everyone made a contribution in one way or another. Jeremy Bolnius, Cole Aiazzi and Andre Glass all stepped up defensively, while Alec Redlich, Jeremy Mark and Dan Sheets-Poling led our offense. Sheets-Poling has improved immensely since last season and brings a lot of fire and emotion on the court. Erickson was also a main contributor to our successes all day by improving the ball when our passers weren't in rhythm." The Muskies will announce their roster and schedule later this month. Continue to check back for more updates.


Lakeland's new main entrance featured in college planning magazine
Lakeland College's front entrance project was featured in an article in the November issue of College Planning and Management magazine. The article, written by Christine Beitenhaus, profiles some colleges that transformed exterior spaces on their campuses. To read a pdf of the article, click here.


Muskies of the Week: Ryan Renon and Becky Mayo
Juniors Ryan Renon and Becky Mayo have been named the college's Muskies of the Week for their performances in action last week. Read about their success below. Ryan Renon Junior Ryan Renon garnered Muskie of the Week honors for the third time after once again showcasing his dominance on the wrestling mat. Renon, who wrestles in the 165-pound weight class, placed first at the Milwaukee School of Engineering Invite on Dec. 3. He used two major decisions, a pin fall and a technical fall to take the title. Renon's first-place finish helped the team finish fifth out of 11 schools. The Wrightstown, Wis., native, is ranked seventh in the nation and by d3wrestle.com. He has tallied a 12-1 record this season with his only loss coming to Landon Williams of No. 1-ranked Wartburg College in the championship match at the Concordia Open on Nov. 19. Renon looks to lead the Muskies in action this week against No. 12 Elmhurst College on Thursday and at the North Central Invite on Saturday. See what Renon says about his dominant season so far: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gFzVT4O730g Renon is an exercise science major. Here's a look into Ryan's personality: Favorites: TV: "Man vs. Wild" Movie: "300" Music: Skilet Q. What style of wrestling do you prefer, Greco-Roman or Freestyle? A: Greco-Roman. Q: What has been your most memorable match this season? A: The one I lost because it shows what I need to work on. Q: What's the hardest part about making weight each week? A: Saying no to Mountain Dew. Q: What is your favorite Holiday tradition? A: Baking cookies for Santa.   Becky Mayo Junior Becky Mayo garnered Muskie of the Week honors this week for her performance in the Muskies' 71-68 loss at Dominican University on Dec. 3. The 5-foot-11 forward did all she could in the three point loss. Mayo recorded her first double-double of the season has she scored 24 points and grabbed 16 rebounds in 35 minutes of play. "Becky did a phenomenal job inside," said Lakeland College head coach Lindsey Vande Hoef. "She plays really hard and has been willing to learn and improve her game." The Gladstone, Mich., native is currently averaging 16 points and 10.5 rebounds through four games. She is shooting 37.1 percent from the field and 66.7 percent from the charity stripe. See what Mayo says about her performance: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xwgME4PAYpE Mayo is majoring in accounting with a minor in resort management. Here's a look into Becky's personality: Favorites: TV: "Full House" Movie: "Mighty Macs" Music: Maroon 5 Q. What is the strongest part of your game? A: My ability to use both hands to dribble and score Q: What do you need to work on the most? A: Staying low and using my power more than my speed Q: What are you looking forward to most this season? A: To have a winning season and winning the NAC Q: If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go and why? A: I'd like to tour Europe because I like to experience new cultures and try new foods