Last spring I wrote a congratulatory letter in The Northern Star regarding the success of the NIU Men's Swimming and Diving Team.

As they begin their quest to improve upon last year's stellar performance, I wish them nothing but the best of luck.

With Dave Clark and Chris Chelich as head coaches, Andy Flodin as an assistant coach and Bill Zolna and Steve Sanders as co-captains this season promises to be exciting and competitive.

The team has been practicing since early September and the season does not culminate until the beginning of March. NIU has finally built a strong and talented swimming and diving team.

Therefore, I believe we should show our appreciation for their diligent work by attending home meets and following results in The Northern Star.

This type of support can help the team psychologically, and psychological motivation is exactly what a swimmer or diver requires in order to endure the six month season.

This spring I know I will write another congratulatory letter regarding the success of the swimming and diving team, given the mental and physical preparation they go through.

These athletes will perform to the best of their ability, and this is all anyone could ask of an athlete. Their accomplishments should not be ignored. Good luck!

Paul Moniak

NIU Alumnus

Debate team earns honors

The NIU debate team won the novice division at the University of Wisconsin-LaCrosse debate tournament last weekend.

Tony Einweck and Ali Nizimuddi defeated Wheaton to take first place. Cathy Logeson and Frank Tonoli placed second. The NIU teams were the only two teams to advance to the final round. The better score between the two NIU teams determined the overall winner since the two teams were from the same school.

Art classes offered

The NIU Recreation Center is offering art classes for students and area residents from the week of February 6 through April 21.

Classes offered include: print and dye, jewerly, woodworking, ceramics, photography, calligraphy, stained glass and drawing. The fee for students and rec center members ranges from $25 to $35; other participants pay $30 to $40, depending on the class.

One can register at OCR's service window or by calling 753-9424.

Scholarships available

Bowman Scholarships, designed to encourage educational programs and service projects in Asia, Africa and Latin America, will be awarded in April.

For more information write to: Council on International Street, New York, NY 10017.

International internsips

International Internship Program is offering students and faculty the chance to live in Japan for one month with a Japanese "host" family.

A fee of $1,500 will cover the cost of living with a family, two daily meals, orientation in Tokyo, medical and accidental insurance, and support material. A refundable deposit of $250 is required.

For more information, call toll free: 1-800-333-2225, ext. 937.

Interpreters sought

Kishwaukee Community Hospital is compiling a directory of individuals interested in acting as foreign language interpreters for patients.

Interested people knowledgable in foreign language should call Mary Goldman at 756-1521, ext. 3379.