A1 WCC welcomes its students
VOICE THE
September 23, 2013
Volume 20, Issue 4
A8
washtenawvoice.com
The student publication of Washtenaw Community College Ann Arbor, Michigan
Faculty union boss: Keep our students at heart
President of the Washtenaw Community College Education Association Union, Jennifer Baker, talks about how educational unions are different from others and reflects on the importance of a strong and stable union that is focused on student needs in an interview with Voice Editor Maria Rigou.
Syrian conflict not so distant for some Washtenaw students
Aleppo
Latakia Hamah
Some want U.S. intervention, others not so sure
Homs
Damascus
ILLUSTRATION BY PETER HOCHGRAF THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Fast facts on Syria
Cool Facts: Syria is roughly the size of Florida. The average summer temperature is 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the desert and 10 degrees cooler along the coast. Aleppo, the largest city, and Damascus, are two of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Syria has been led by many different rulers, including: Alexander the Great in 33 BC, the Roman Empire in 64 BC, the Sources: International Monetary Fund, Ottoman Empire in 1516, and France from World Bank, National Geographic, Culture about 1920 until 1945.
Capital: Damascus Population: 22,530,746 Primary Export: Oil Top Religions: Sunni, Alawite, Druze Largest Cities: Aleppo, 2,132,100; Damascus, 1,711,000; Homs, 652,609; Latakia, 383,785 Life Expectancy: 70 Monetary Classification: Lower middle income Washtenaw Voice: What is the state of the faculty union today? If you had to complete the sentence, the faculty union is. . . what? Jennifer Baker: Well, I would say that the faculty union is very strong currently. I am privileged to work with a really talented group. They’re very student-focused, they’re a dedicated group of people. . . You know, we are the largest full-time employee group at the college, and we are also the most stable. It’s pretty rare when a full-time faculty member moves on to another position. Most of us dedicate our entire professional lives to instruction. So yeah, it’s a great place to be… (I would say it’s) strong and stable. It’s good for the college.
Grams and the Syrian Census
you,” he said. “That’s not fair. That’s not right.” But when a dictator launches a chemical attack on his own people – as Bashar al-Assad was accused of doBy DAVID FITCH ing on Aug. 21, when more than 1,400 Staff Writer Syrians died – somebody has to do something, Alazem says. Omar Alazem is no stranger to the “If someone is being killed, I don’t atrocities of the Syrian conflict. And think it’s right just to stand by for 2½ he says that it is not solely the respon- years when a whole country is in civil sibility of the United States to be of war and innocent people are being help to those suffering. killed and women being raped and “Some people say, ‘It’s none of our children are being gassed,” he said. “I business. We’re not the world’s police,’” don’t think it’s right to stand by and said Alazem, 17, the son of Syrian-born watch like the whole world has been parents and a math and science ma- doing. . .” jor at Washtenaw Technical Middle Nor does Fahad Ottaifa, 17, an auto College. “But as humans we should body repair major and native of Yemen help each other.” who has close ties to those under atClint Ward, a 43-year-old business tack in Syria. major, is no stranger to fighting those “I know a few friends that live in battles when America has gone to war Syria, three of them moved out of Syria in that part of the world in recent years. and went back to Egypt,” said Ottaifa, The former Marine and veteran of the a WTMC student from Ypsilanti. “But Gulf War in 1991 says that the cycle of two of them are still in Syria and one of United States intervention is one that them is completely paralyzed because cannot indefinitely continue. of the bombings.” “You can’t go around picking all these fights and keep expecting the SYRIA same people to do your dirty work for CONTINUED A6
WELCOME DAY
WV: Last academic year was a year of tense relationships. How is the relationship with the administration today? JB: I would say that it’s pretty stable right now. In our meetings with the administration we’re encouraging transparency in college initiatives and we’re hoping to see more of that. Obviously inclusion of faculty input on things that are meaningful and important to students, anything that has to do with students. I mean, the faculty are the group that faces off to students and has the most direct impact. WV: How does the current relationship differ from the relationship with other, previous administrations? I imagine that no relationship is perfect… JB: Sure, sure. It’s interesting… I would say that, historically, our union has had a pretty non-traditional relationship with the administration and by that I mean… a lot of management-labor relationships are characterized by kind of an adversarial approach, and it’s not been our history at all at Washtenaw. We’ve had a very good cooperative and collaborative relationship historically with the administration. So it’s been always a lot about sitting down and problem-solving and focusing together on student success. I think that’s one thing that ideally differentiates educational unions from perhaps other unions in the private sector, is that we absolutely can and should have the common goal of the student at heart. BAKER Q&A CONTINUED A6
CJ SOUTH THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Hundreds of students strolled Community Park during Welcome Day, sponsored by Student Development and Activities on Sept 10. Here they line up for pizza, one of many freebies offered up by dozens of college departments and local businesses.
Windows 8 upgrade: frustration, confusion By ALAINA O’CONNOR Staff Writer
If you walk into the Computer Commons and log on to one of the PCs, you may notice something different. “When I first came in here I was confused,” said Danielle Sataya, a 24-year-old business student from Ypsilanti. “I’m not really good with computers, so there’s definitely been a learning curve for me.”
Sataya’s sentiments are typical among students, faculty and staff members who are confused, and in some cases frustrated, by WCC’s migration to Microsoft’s Windows 8 operating system. “I’m not a fan of Windows 8,” said Tyler Brown, 20, a liberal arts transfer from Ann Arbor. “I don’t really use it except in some of my classes.” When asked if the operating system affected his ability to do class work, Brown said, “at first it was kind
of confusing. I’m a Mac person, but I haven’t had any major issues so far.” Others wondered about the timing of the transition. “I’m surprised they upgraded when they did,” said math instructor David Wilson, 37, of Ann Arbor, also a Mac user. “Personally, I would have waited on the conversion. “A major issue for me is the way Windows 8 handles .pdfs. When I save a .pdf from a Mac and try to open it here on a Windows 8 computer, it just
isn’t happening. So, that’s frustrating,” said Wilson. “Most people get a little nervous when using something new, especially when it comes to technology,” said David Robinson, a 41-year-old IT contractor from Ann Arbor. “But, like anything else, the more you use it the easier it gets.” One of the main complaints of the WINDOWS 8 CONTINUED A5
A2
News
Sept 23, 2013
The Washtenaw Voice
Walsh grads see great old brands up to new tricks. We love our pets. In 2012, Americans spent $53 billion on pet food, supplies, over-the-counter medicine, vet care, and designer products like Paul Mitchell dog shampoo, Omaha Steaks pet treats, and Harley Davidson collars. What pets are most popular? Freshwater fish, then cats and dogs and birds, oh my. Walsh grads see business in everything, and impact great companies everywhere. See more at livebreathebusiness.org/DogTreat. Classes start September 25. ®The yellow notebook design is a registered trademark of Walsh College. And the campaign is a creation of Perich Advertising + Design. Thanks to the fine folks at Walsh for letting us say so.
Making Strides: Breast-Cancer Awareness Walk Raise money and awareness for breastcancer research. Sign-up for our team: WCC Wolfpack. The walk will take place on WCC’s campus on Saturday, October 26 at 9 a.m. http://tinyurl.com/WCCMakingStrides2013
Ticket: Miss Saigon
At Fisher Theatre October 3 8 p.m. Only $30! Available at the Cashier’s Office, 2nd floor of the SCB, MF, 8:30 am.-4:00 p.m.
Talent Show Auditions
Wednesday, October 9 6 p.m.-9 p.m. Towsley Auditorium Do you have talent that you want to show off? Prove it as the Talent Show auditions! Sign up at: http://tinyurl.com/WCCTalentNOV2013
Free Cider and Donuts Celebrate Fall with this tasty treat! September 26 Noon-1 p.m. SC Community Room
Moving Planet Day Pledge to ditch your car in lieu of earth-friendly transportation. Pledge here: http://tinyurl.com/MovingPlanet2013 And then drop by Student Activities on Tuesday, September 24 to receive a free goodie bag if you have followed through on your pledge.
Lunch with the President Win lunch with WCC’s President, Dr. Bellanca. Lunches will be at various times throughout the semester. Sign-up here: http://tinyurl.com/wcclunch contest
Ticket: Greenfield Village and Henry Ford Museum Trip
Friday, October 18 Only $15 Go back in time and learn about important milestones in our history! Ticket includes van transportation, both museum admissions, and lunch at Mongolian BBQ!
Upcoming Sports Opportunities! Tryout for a team: -Basketball (men’s and women’s) -Ice Hockey (coed) -Running (coed) -Wrestling (coed) Or register for various intramural sports: -Sand Volleyball -Kickball -Ultimate Frisbee -Quidditch -Badminton -Golf -AND MORE!!! For all information and registrations stop by SC116, call us at 734-973-3720 or email elemm@wccnet.edu
News
The Washtenaw Voice
Sept 23, 2013
A3
SNIPS KELLY BRACHA THE WASHTENAW VOICE
The Health and Fitness Center needs a new temperature control system— soon.
HFC faces shutdown without new $150K temperature control system there are only two of these technicians trained on the building’s particular Features Editor system, which is “becoming functionally obsolete.” The Health and Fitness Center So when something goes wrong, could see “downtime” if a new temper- it can be hard to get a visit from them ature control system is not installed right away. If the issue is not addressed soon, warns Damon Flowers, vice soon, the building may have to be shut president of Facilities Development down temporarily at some point, he and Operations. said. The building’s Honeywell system The proposed solution is to install is programmed to restrict the college’s a new system by Siemens – a system facilities staff from making necessary that the WCC’s staff can control. This changes and requires a billable visit system, which is already installed in by one of the company’s technicians, several other buildings on campus, Flowers explained to Washtenaw’s is accessible and changeable, and the Board of Trustees at its Sept. 10 facilities staff is already trained on it, meeting. Flowers said. The pressing issue, he said, is that T h e p r o j e c t ’s $ 1 5 0,0 0 0 By NATALIE WRIGHT
budget would come out of the Deferred Maintenance Fund. When asked by the board why administrators didn’t foresee these issues when the system was installed seven years ago, Flowers said that they had relied on the “expertise of the builders” in choosing a system. The switch between systems would be gradual, so as not to interrupt the building’s activities, he said. Siemens would work in three phases, replacing seven different systems within the building, including the boiler system, air-handling units and the hot-water system, according to the company’s proposal. The contract will be presented to trustees for action on Sept. 24.
Not all high school graduates are ready for college, ACT says By MARIA RIGOU Editor
Percentage of 2013 ACT-tested high school graduates meeting college readiness benchmarks by subject 100
80 64 Percent
A third of this year’s high school graduates are not ready for collegelevel classes, as reported by American College Testing, the testing company that administers ACT and ACT Compass tests nationwide. But according to Linda Blakey, vice president of Student and Academic Services at Washtenaw Community College, this is nothing new. “We’ve always had a fair number of students who come to enroll to college and aren’t ready for college (level) classes,” Blakey said. The company’s annual report showed that 31 percent of all high school graduates tested were not ready for any college coursework requiring English, science, math or reading skills. The other 69 percent of test-takers met at least one of the four subjectarea standards.
60
57 44
44
37
40
33 36
35
21
20
26
0 English
Reading
Mathematics
Science
All Four Subjects
ILLUSTRATION BY MARIA RIGOU THE WASHTENAW VOICE
ACT CONTINUED A6
WTMC in full stride this fall By DAVID FITCH Staff Writer
As the Washtenaw Technical Middle College charter program heads into its next year of operation, spirits are high. If you have ever seen students on campus who looked too young to be in college, then they probably were one of the about 500 WTMC students enrolled this fall. WTMC, a charter school on campus operating out of the TI building, offers an alternative to “regular” high school for area students. Washtenaw Community College provides space for and works with the program as WTMC’s chartering agency. WTMC seeks to prepare students for and eventually transfer them into WCC courses. Traditionally, WTMC has accepted students who are entering into either 10th or 11th grade. But that has changed. A new program for ninth-graders launched last year. Carl Covert, the dean of WTMC, expressed satisfaction with some “great results” from the program. He reported that after a year in the program, 30 percent of ninth graders are ready for college work, compared to the only 7 percent who were ready at the beginning of the year. Sam Rosewig, longtime WTMC
councelor and teacher, is one of four teachers assigned to the ninth-graders. “We have ninth graders who are very mature, and they are ready within a year to start taking a college class or two,” he said. He reported no major disciplinary issues in the initial year. This year, the ninth-grade program has nearly doubled in size from 28 students last year to 56. The larger WTMC program is also doing quite well, according to Covert. Covert reported that the program was acknowledged for the reading and writing skills of the students. Students demonstrated higher than 90 percent proficiency, one of the highest rates in the state, according to Covert. “Our students are really all doing well,” he said. The program continues to put trust in students to make right decisions on campus. It seems to be paying off. “I really enjoy being in a college setting rather than in a high school… It’s a better learning experience,” said Mimi Olsson, 16. Olsson, a liberal arts major from Ypsilanti, is in her third year in the WTMC program. Ethan Rodgers, 15, is in his first year at WTMC. Rodgers, of Saline, is undecided in his major. He expressed satisfaction with the program thus far, “It’s great, he said. “I love how it’s really respectful.” So far, so good.
WTMC’s mentality towards students is, potentially, one reason for the success. “Something that we’ve known for a long time at WTMC is that your chronological age doesn’t directly or necessarily relate to your academic age or to your social age or to your maturity,” Rosewig said. “We want to have an education for people that takes them at the pace that they need.” Additionally, WTMC’s relationship with WCC is “excellent,” according to Covert. “They work to support us. They work to help us… They’re really working with us to support our growth,” he said, adding that he attributes this to the fact that WTMC students are a positive part of WCC. “Of any cohort on campus, WTMC students are the most successful, said Covert. “Students have a success rate between 95 and 97 percent in their college classes… I think it’s a very positive relationship in both directions.” “I’m also proud that we are able to be open to all students. This isn’t a program that’s just for the advanced student or the elite student,” said Covert, adding, “It’s a heterogeneous group of students, and they are all successful here.” David Fitch is a third year WTMC student. Contact him at drfitch@wccnet. edu, and follow him at @DavidFitch2.
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Free dental services for students The Taft Clinic held at University of Michigan Dental School offers free limited dental services to students. Taft Society has partnered with the Dental Assisting Program at WCC to help obtain pre-screened patients. The next screening day will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 2, from 1-5 p.m., and will serve as an opportunity for determining eligibility for the Taft Clinic. Appointments are required and can be obtained by calling Tina Sprague at 734-973-3337. Foundation Scholarship deadline The WCC Foundation Scholarship deadline for the 2014 Winter Semester is Oct. 10. Applications are to be submitted online under MyWCC account. Students must have a completed application submitted by the deadline. In addition to the application, students must submit a letter of recommendation. For more information on these scholarships, visit www.wccnet. edu/foundation .
Even though the MOUs are “loose letters of agreement between the colleges,” the college is hopeful that this will open a new window to opportunities for students, staff and faculty, said Julie Morrison, executive director of Planning, Institutional Effectiveness and Accreditation. The two colleges that signed the agreement are similar in programmatic details to WCC. Morrison explained that it made sense to have exchanges with those colleges, if the opportunity presents itself. “This is a positive thing for the college,” said Morrison. “The options are there, there are a lot of things we could do (if this develops further).”
Willow Run Airport receives grant The Wayne County Airport Authority will receive a $12 million federal grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation that will go towards renovating part of the runway at Willow Run Airport. The airport has already been awarded with $9 million to begin work on the renovation. This additional funding will be used to complete the runway repaving, according to a joint news release from U.S. Senators Carl Levin and Debbie Stabenow and U.S. WCC/Chinese colleges sign agree- Reps John Dingell and John Conyers, Jr., all ments Michigan Democrats. The Chinese delegation visit in late Willow Run Airport is a leading air carJune ended with the college signing go and general aviation facility and contribtwo “memorandums of understanding” utes $85 million to the regional economy with Rizhao Polytechnic and Zhengzhou and supports 1,500 jobs across the state. Railway Vocational Technical College in China, college officials told Washtenaw’s Board of Trustees recently.
CAMPUS EVENTS
TODAY
2
MONDAY, SEPT. 23 WEDNESDAY, OCT. 2 LinkedIn Workshop will cover the Fall Transfer Fair basics of building a LinkedIn profile. View The Fall Transfer Fair will take place on examples of profiles and learn from their the second floor of the Student Center from success. From 10-11:30 a.m. in ML 124. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. It will have representatives from over 50 colleges and universities from TUESDAY, SEPT. 24 around the country. Resume Development Workshop will help students develop a resume that Friends of Bill will project a positive image of them to This AA group geared toward WCC stuan employer. From noon-1:30 p.m. in dents takes place every Wednesday in LA ML 120. 268 from noon-1 p.m. and is open to anyone. Students are encouraged to share their WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 25 stories of strength and hope with other on Interview Skills Workshop pre- the path to recovery. For more information, pares students on how to successfully contact Eleanor Brundage at ebrundage@ interview using appropriate skills and wccnet.edu. behaviors. From 10-11:30 a.m. in ML 120. FRIDAY, OCT. 4 THURSDAY, SEPT. 26 Highway to High Demand Jobs Job Search Workshop provides Workshops will take place from noon-2 information on the job search process p.m. in the Towsley Auditorium. The and how to approach it. Participants workshop will feature a panel of profeswill be provided with information about sionals who will discuss the fields of WCC’s online job search. From 3-4:30 welding and fabrication, among other p.m. in ML 124. things. To reserve a spot, call the Student Resource and Women’s Center at 734TUESDAY, OCT. 1 677-5105 or stop by the front desk, SC University of Michigan-Flint 287. Visitation From 10 a.m.-2 p.m. a representative Passionately Pink Discussion/Box will be on the first floor of the Student Lunch Center to provide information and anIn support of Breast Cancer Awareness swer questions for students interested Month, WCC’s Student Resource and in transferring to this university. Women’s Center will host a discussion featuring experts and a breast cancer survivor to discuss breast health and healthy lifestyle choices, among other things. From 11:45 a.m.-1 p.m. in SC 316. Free lunch to the first 30 people who RSVP by calling 734-677-5105.
SECURITY NOTES From redacted incident reports provided by Campus Safety and Security, and interviews with Director Jacques Desrosiers. Motor Vehicle Theft A car belonging to an instructor and parked near the BE building was stolen at about 6 p.m. on Sept. 9, according to Campus Safety and Security. The case has been reported to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department.
Lewd Behavior A couple caught having sex at about noon on Sept. 11 was asked to stop and leave the campus, according to CSS. Larceny A student reported the theft of a textbook after leaving it momentarily on a bench in the lobby of the BE building near Room 158. The incident was reported at 6 p.m. on Sept. 17.
A4
Voices
Sept 23, 2013
EDITORIAL
Where is our outrage about children and guns? Why is it, we wonder, that people are still dying in mass shootings in the United States? Inspired by a student’s response for this issue’s Take 5 (please see page A5), we suddenly had to ponder. Why is it that the U.S. is so intent in showing Syria that it did wrong when there are still Navy Yard shootings and kids dying in a Connecticut elementary school? Every single thing on this planet can be fixed, except for senseless death. According to a study conducted by the American Journal of Public Health, the United States has higher rates of firearm ownership than other developed nations, and also higher rates of homicide. In 1995, it was estimated that the number of firearms available in this country was 223 million. Most recently, in 2007, it was estimated that of every 100 people, 94.3 had guns. The United States leads the world in that ranking. Next is Serbia, with 58.2 guns per 100 people. Serbia was involved in a seriously harmful civil war recently. How is it possible that gun ownership in the United States outnumbers the second country in the ranking by almost double? And how is it even possible that Congress is not doing anything to fix things? Innocent people are dying every day. Just last week, 13 were killed at the Navy Yard in Washington, D.C. In December, six adults and 20 children died in Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn. And in 1999, 12 students and one adult were killed at a Colorado high school. All of this is happening because there are lax controls on gun ownership in the United States. This doesn’t necessarily mean that people are using guns irresponsibly. This means that virtually anyone can get a gun in this country, and can use it in any way. Are these shootings not enough for Congress to look for a tougher control? Are the lives of countless civilians not important enough? It doesn’t seem so, because Congress is still debating whether or not the U.S. should go to war with Syria over 1,400 killed by chemical weapons, of which 400 of those were children. Did they ever stop to think how many children die in this country every year to bullets fired from guns of irresponsible gun owners? The answer is shocking: More than 4,000 individuals aged 19 and younger die each year in gun-related cases. What do we do? Do we go to Syria and condemn those who kill 400 children, risking killing even more innocent lives? Or do we start at home, working on legislation that will even begin to address responsible gun ownership? We think the answer is easy. It starts at home.
CORRECTIONS In our Sept. 9 Q&A on Page One, Dr. Bill Abernethy should have been identified as a former Marine corporal. Also, we failed to credit several photos we used to preview fall TV shows and music releases. Credit should have been given to: http://www. popsecret. com; http://www. einsrevolver.com; http://www.dallasobserver.com; http://www. nydailynews.com; http://www. beyondhollywood.com; http://www. totalfilm.com; and http://www. stuffpoint.com.
I E VO C THE
On how to park, or else of weeks of the semester, just go home. It is practically impossible to find a reasonably close parking spot, and if you do you probably have to walk to class and risk being really late, because that spot is so far way. WCC has had parking problems for a while now, or so I hear. With the peak in enrollment a few years ago after the economic decline of MARIA RIGOU 2008, WCC saw a huge amount of cars coming to campus. In 2011, the Board I am an angry driver. Very angry. of Trustees unanimously approved And I am not ashamed of this, be- plans to build a parking structure right cause for other people it is quite amus- behind the LA building. ing. I curse, yell and scream. In some The structure is now home to occasions, I honk. Really loudly. 473 parking spots and the Campus But I have gotten better with the Safety and Security office. Maybe this years, and now I don’t mind it as much was a temporary solution to a bigger when the driver in front of me is a total problem. idiot about driving. You see, I think the biggest problem I now have a new perspective be- area is something I like to call “mediohind the wheel: I’ve become an angry cre parking.” parker. What happens when people don’t Especially at WCC. know how to park? Or when motorWashtenaw Community College is cycles park in the car-parking areas? not a place you can just pull into and In a place where the supply of prepark comfortably. If you are running mium parking spaces is extremely late to class, especially the first couple low and the demand surpasses the
supply, you need to start thinking of your neighbor. I recently encountered a parker that had tried to park backwards and failed, horribly, in the attempt. She was occupying more than one space, making it impossible for another car to park in the space that she had left between her car and the one to her right. Fortunately, I was able to find another space nearby, but I left a nasty note, because she only thought of herself. What I am trying to say is: Please, when you are parking, think of the person who is running late and would greatly appreciate it if you parked in your designated areas. And if you don’t know how to park, there are plenty of videos on YouTube that explain the concept extremely well. Do good to your community and learn how to park. Or else. . . You might meet my wrath.
them all is Facebook. Facebook rules the world. It has the power to bring people together and rip them apart (as we have seen in the media). It can be used as a tool to share news and keep in touch with loved ones far away. It also pulls people into what seems addictive behavior—posting the most mundane things—like every move they make. I recently deactivated my account because I found myself in that state of compulsion to troll other people’s lives. Sometimes this is a very bad thing—especially when you see things you don’t want to see. After about a week, I told a friend about what I’d done and she said, “I’m not brave enough to do that.” I thought about her response for a while. What does being brave have to do with it? What about it makes it so addictive that we spend hours and hours on end with it? I asked friends, students, and teachers, but no one had a solid answer. I got responses like, “keeping in touch with family and friends,” “playing games,” “passing time,” “venting,” and my favorite “I hate Facebook,”— even though that person still has an
account. Then it hit me. All of these things still give us a sense of connection. When my friend said she wasn’t brave enough, what she was really saying is that she was afraid to be disconnected. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, a French philosopher and Jesuit priest, said: “We are one, after all, you and I. Together we suffer, together exist, and forever will recreate each other.” There is truth in his statement if we can be open enough to see it. It’s true that we are interconnected through the web of signals called the Internet. We can reach anyone in the world, but it is important to realize the necessity of face-to-face interaction as well. While we are connected in cyberspace, we miss out on the things that make us smile and warm our hearts far too often, like the touch of a hand, the sound of laughter or the pleasure of someone’s physical company. What I’m trying to say is, unplug and renew relationships. Go for a walk or learn something new. Be brave.
ALLIE TOMASON The ways in which we interact with each other have changed significantly in the last five years. Instead of picking up the phone or going over to someone’s house, we now have virtual relationships, rather than personal ones. When I had this realization, it made me scream with my hands raking through my hair in frustration: “We are in social media hell!” Take Twitter, for instance. Please. Everyone from celebrities, politicians, journalists and anyone else with a keyboard is tweeting, and in 140 characters or less the world goes crazy. And incidentally, whose bright idea was the hashtag, anyway? Like we care. I could go on and on about the various social networking sites available, but we all know the granddaddy of
MANAGING EDITOR Allie Tomason atomason@wccnet.edu FEATURES EDITOR Natalie Wright nkwright@wccnet.edu
ONLINE EDITOR Alaina O’Connor alainamo@gmail.com ADVERTISING MANAGER Becky Alliston ealliston@wccnet.edu STAFF WRITERS David Fitch Eric Garant
VIDEO EDITOR James Saoud jsaoud@wccnet.edu
DEPUTY ONLINE EDITOR Christina Fleming cfleming@wccnet.edu
PHOTO EDITOR Kelly Bracha kbracha@wccnet.edu
DEPUTY DESIGN EDITOR George O’Donovan godonovan@wccnet.edu
DESIGN EDITOR Peter Hochgraf phochgraf@wccnet.edu
CORESPONDENTS Mary Donaldson Robert Conradi CJ South ADVISER Keith Gave kgave@wccnet.edu
Contact Managing Editor Allie Tomason at atomason@wccnet.edu, and follow her at @alliethekat.
Voice Box
4800 E. Huron River Dr. TI 106 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 (734) 677-5125 thewashtenawvoice@gmail.com
EDITOR Maria Rigou drigou@wccnet.edu
Contact Editor Maria Rigou at drigou@wccnet.edu, and follow her at @mariarigou.
Having the courage to disconnect – to reconnect
Volume 20, Issue 4
The Washtenaw Voice is produced fortnightly by students of Washtenaw Community College and the views expressed herein will not imply endorsement or approval by the faculty, administration or Board of Trustees of WCC. Student publications are important in establishing and maintaining an atmosphere of free and responsible discussion and in bringing matters of concern and importance to the attention of the campus community. Editorial responsibility for The Voice lies with the students, who will strive for balance, fairness and integrity in their coverage of issues and events while employing the best habits and practices of free inquiry and expression. The Washtenaw Voice does not represent or endorse the accuracy or reliability of any of the information or content in advertisements contained in the newspaper or its website, www.washtenawvoice.com, nor the quality of any products, information or other materials displayed or obtained as a result of an advertisement or any other information or offer in or in connection with the services or products advertised. The Voice is committed to correcting all errors that appear in the newspaper and on its website, just as it is committed to the kind of careful journalism that will minimize the number of errors printed. To report an error of fact that should be corrected, phone 734-677-5405 or email thewashtenawvoice@gmail.com. A copy of each edition of The Washtenaw Voice is free to everyone. Additional copies are available at The Voice newsroom, TI 106, for 25 cents each.
The Washtenaw Voice
Interviews and Photographs Alaina O’Connor Staff Writer In light of the conflict in Syria, we were curious to know exactly what people on campus think. So we asked. What are your thoughts on the conflict in Syria? Do you think the U.S. or Russia should intervene? Ashley Parker
Ali Alshemani
Paulette Davis
Jeff Godbey
23, liberal arts transfer, Westland
16, WTMC student, Ann Arbor
67, former WCC student, Saline
50, business/finance, Howell
“I think we should intervene in Syria. They’re using chemical weapons on innocent people and I think that it’s our duty to bring it to an end.”
“I don’t support U.S. involvement in Syria. In my opinion, this is just another Iraq. It’s not about the chemical weapons, it’s about the oil. Syria is a strategic country in an oil-rich region of the world. Americans only want what they can’t have, that’s why we support radical regimes.”
“It would be great if they got rid of the chemical weapons, but we’re up to our ears in debt. I don’t think that we can afford to get involved in another conflict.”
“That would be great if Assad handed over the weapons to Russia, but it’s a touchy subject. The U.S. needs to stay out of it. The Russians might turn on us if we send troops to Syria.”
Andrew Burton
Dana Allen
Spike Larr
LaToya Thomas
34, AHA rep, Ypsilanti
20, liberal arts, Battle Creek
20, psychology, Ypsilanti
21, health sciences, Ypsilanti
“I do think the U.S. should intervene in Syria. I was overseas in the aftermath of 9/11. Being immersed in other cultures taught me that what makes America great is that we act on behalf of others. We need to stop asking, ‘What’s best for us?’ Instead, we need to do the right thing. The Russian option would not have appeared if we had not threatened action.”
“We should have a hand in certain conflicts, especially when they involve attacks on innocent people. But, I don’t support the military getting involved in another war. I think we need to work with other countries to come up with a solution. Possibly the U.N.”
“From what I’ve read, I think it’s better that we tread lightly. I’m not a war supporter. I prefer diplomacy, but what happened was devastating. Not sure that military intervention is the best choice. We should handle things at home first. With Russia’s intervention, we may have averted an open-ended conflict.”
“I’m torn. No matter how it works out, if it goes badly we’re creating more problems in the Middle East. I just don’t see anything good coming from this. Based on what I’ve heard about our budget situation, we really don’t have the money for another conflict even if it is just drone strikes.”
News
The Washtenaw Voice
Sept 23, 2013
A5
In the market for a new computer? Read this
CHRISTINA FLEMING I get this question a lot from family, friends – and people I just met when they find out what I do: What kind of computer should I buy? So I thought I would put it down in writing. It’s actually a pretty big question because everyone uses their Mac or PC a little differently. Sure there are many common tasks we all do, but there are enough variations that for a lay person it can be a bit intimidating selecting a product. First, determine your budget. That will define pretty quickly what you can buy. In my experience, a PC or laptop is really only good for four years at best. I have PCs that go beyond that, but as they age, you do begin to replace hard drives and memory. Furthermore, the latest software will not run well on an aging PC. If you are able to set aside $500 a year for your computer fund, then a $2,000 budget will get you a very nice computer now with all the newest accessories. So no matter your budget, keep in mind that you’re going to need to average that over about four years. Do you need to be mobile? Are you a laptop or desktop kind of person? Laptops will cost more because of the miniaturization, and they tend to get pounded on more because we can carry them wherever we want. If you really just need to check your email wherever you go, then your mobile device will probably be sufficient – and you can go with a desktop. If you are a traveler, then a laptop may be more your style. Do you prefer a Mac or a PC? Macs still tend to be a bit pricier than PCs, but I sure do love mine. As a techie, I’ve got all the flavors between Macs and PCs, desktops and laptops. But you need to know what your comfort level is with usability. If you use a PC at work, then a PC at home makes sense. Not everyone can switch back and forth between the interfaces. I tend to catch myself trying to remember different functions between the platforms. If you are set on a laptop, whether Mac or PC, my general recommendation is for you to buy as much processing power as you can as well as the biggest screen size you can afford. The motherboard of a laptop is very hard to replace over time. If you want to extend the life of your laptop buy as much processing power available today because you can always add memory and change the hard drive later on. Also, it’s impossible to upgrade your screen size. I recommend you buy as much as you can afford. I always get at least a 17-inch because I’m one of those people who have multiple apps and windows open. The larger
real estate will be better for you if you are a multi-tasker. For many others, though, a 15-inch screen may be fine. If you are a gamer, then there really is nothing better than a desktop. You will always be able to buy more processing power and have better cooling for running high-end games. As far as brand names go, you do have choices. For a Mac, however, there’s only one choice: Apple. My favorite laptop in a Mac is the 17-inch MacBook Pro. You can upgrade hard drives and memory in Macs, so buy as much processing power as you can afford now. For a PC, I have brand loyalty to Dell. I’ve just always had the best of luck with them. I’ve used many brands, from HP to Sony to Acer and others. I keep coming back to Dell. Yes, I have had a stinker in the past from Dell, but thankfully the company quickly recognized the problem and got rid of that model from its product line. For a laptop I have always had a Latitude or Precision from the business-class line. I tend to choose those because they are powerhouses for what I do. I have also had Inspirons, but remain partial to the Latitude or Precision. I have emphasized here the need to buy as much processing power as you can from the start. I would also add to my recommendation that you buy a genuine Intel. You want at a minimum the i5 by Intel, but an i7 Quad Core sure would be sweeter. It will again depend on your budget. Also, a Quad Core (four processors) is better than a Dual Core (two processors). Buy Quad if you can. So what do I have, you ask? All of them, it seems. My house is a hotel of various Macs and PCs, laptops and desktops. I like to be mobile, so I primarily use a laptop. I have a MacBook as well as a Dell PC. My husband has a Dell Mini, which is perfectly fine for Web browsing and email. If I had an unlimited budget, keys to a candy store and could ride a unicorn pooping rainbows, I would buy a new MacBook Pro with Quad Core i7, because I could always install VMWare Fusion to run Windows and do my developer work on it. For the home office, I would buy a new Dell XPS with the latest i7 processor and a sweet 24-inch flat screen. But that’s just me. Christina Fleming is The Voice’s assistant online editor. Contact her at cfleming@wccnet.edu. When looking for a bargain computer the best finds are refurbished units direct from the manufacturer. At Dell.com, look for the link called “Dell Outlet” here: http://goo. gl/iy482R The Apple shop has a category called “Certified Refurbished” as seen here: http://goo.gl/KbeoPs
COURTESY PHOTO YORGONESTORIDIS.COM
WINDOWS 8 FROM A1
new Windows 8 operating system is the interface. Microsoft replaced the traditional menu with a more metro-style interface upon start-up, which is confusing for some. “Microsoft designed the Windows 8 operating system with tablets and mobile devices in mind,” Robinson said. “The touch-screen interface is definitely cool, but it’s confusing for traditional PC users.” Even director of user-support services Kimberly Tom, who is overseeing the college’s migration to Windows 8, was apprehensive to the new operating system. “When I first saw it, I thought it was too big a learning curve for what you get, but the more I delved into it, the more I liked it. “Our first big push of upgrades came in July. Then our mass upgrade was on Aug. 9, right before the UA came to campus. It was the only date that a lot of the rooms became available.” What changed Tom’s mind about the new operating system? “The main feature that makes Windows 8 much better than Windows 7 is the security,” Tom explained. “Before, if there was a virus that infected the master boot record, you were screwed. Now, the MBR is protected.” There’s more. “Windows 8 boots much faster than 7, which is great in a classroom setting. You don’t have to wait forever for the machine to start-up.”
Take Five By ALAINA O’CONNOR Staff Writer
The Student Center has a relaxed vibe on Friday afternoons. The hustle and bustle that generally characterizes this central hub of Washtenaw Community College student life was winding down from a long week. Here at The Voice, we are always listening and always looking for answers. Who is out there? What is on their minds? In an effort to get to know the students of WCC a little better, we find random students to “Take 5” – and ask them a few questions. When we spotted secondary education student Yared McGheeTefera, 19, from Lansing, joking around and making weekend plans with friends, we immediately knew he’d have something to say. Washtenaw Voice: What do you think your life will be like 20 years from now? Yared McGhee-Tefera: Better than today. Married with two kids and teaching a class of 30 in the field of high school physics. Go on a couple of vacations around the world – I love to travel. Probably a master’s degree.
Tom points out that the college did a lot to prepare faculty, staff and students for the change. “We had the IT computing expo event last April to try to prepare everyone for some of the changes,” said Tom. “We made sure to let people know what was coming and what they needed to do to prepare.” The college also added quick start guides next to computer terminals and offers training sessions for faculty and staff. When asked why WCC doesn’t offer these same training sessions for students, Tom said, “students tend to be more resilient.” For those still mourning the loss of the desktop start-up, there may be a solution in sight. Microsoft plans a Windows 8 update scheduled for Oct. 17, in what its calling Windows 8.1. Some of the old features will return. “I think that Microsoft realized that Windows 8 had certain shortcomings,” said Robinson. “One of the things I know for sure is that they are allowing users to chose to have their computers load the traditional desktop upon start-up.” This is great news for some PC users like Marlena Calmeter, 24, of Ypsilanti. “I’d like to see a return to the old start-up,” said Calmeter. “The new one is just too much. It’s hard to navigate.” The college is prepared for Windows 8.1 and has already started testing out the latest features. “There are always good things and bad things about upgrades,” said Tom. “But, we’re a higher education
institution and we need to keep up with what’s going on out there.” For more information of upcoming Window 8 training sessions, visit: http://www4.wccnet.edu/departments/ its/usersupport/training/trainingschedule.php Windows 8 Keyboard Shortcuts Windows key
Windows key+ C Access the Charms Windows key+ Tab Access Start Taskbar Windows key+ Q Access the Apps Search onscreen Windows key+ Z Brings up the App Bar when you have a Windows 8 App running Windows key+ E
Open Computer (File Explorer)
Windows key+ X Access Windows Tool Menu Windows key+ D Show/Hide Desktop Windows key+ L
Lock Computer
ESC
Close a Charm
Control + Mouse Activate the Semantic Zoom on the screen
WV: It’s been 12 years since the 9/11 attacks. What do you think the U.S. has learned? YM-T: I think the U.S., when it comes to terrorism, has really cracked down. I know that they’ve stopped a lot of attacks, but at the same time, the U.S. hasn’t been able to stop attacks from the inside – a lot of school shootings. They focus a lot on foreign affairs and it feels like they’re missing what’s going on at home. A lot of resources need to be focused at home instead of overseas. If we have a strong infrastructure and strong security in this country, then we can start worrying about other countries. First, it starts at home. WV: What’s your favorite movie? YM-T: My favorite movie is “Blood Diamonds” with Brad Pitt. (Editors note: Actually, Leonardo DiCaprio starred in that movie.) I also like “The Help” with Viola Davis.
Switch between Start screen and the last accessed application
JAMES SAOUD THE WASHTENAW VOICE
I’m alright. My favorite class is English and writing. I like a lot of poetry, too. WV: What’s one thing you’ve learned so far this year? YM-T: This year? To save more money (laughs). Tuition just keeps getting worse and I want to transfer to Eastern, so I’ve got to save a lot of money.
WV: What is your favorite class or teacher at WCC? YM-T: Favorite teacher is Aaron Anderson for English 111 Composition I. He’s just a really good teacher, very WV: “Star Wars” or “Star Trek?” personable. He just helped me to deYM-T: “Star Wars” all day! That’s velop my writing. Before I came to this my stuff. I know everybody and everyschool I was just an OK writer. Now… thing about “Star Wars.” I’m not going to say really good, but
Add the Washtenaw Voice on Facebook KELLY BRACHA THE WASHTENAW VOICE
One lane of Huron River Drive near the front of the TI building was closed briefly on Friday when a car was hit as it pulled out of the parking lot. There were no injuries.
A6
News
Sept 23, 2013
ACT FROM A3
SYRIA FROM A1
The escalating conflict left Ottaifa and others hungry for news from friends regarding their safety and what they are enduring. “The last time he heard from him was 4-5 months ago and he was OK. I’m still waiting on a call from him just see how the situation is there,” Ottaifa said. “I’m still not sure how he’s doing.” A solution in sight? Meantime, the world awaits a potential diplomatic solution, with Russia stepping in to help negotiate a way for Syria to give up its chemical arsenal to avoid an attack by the United States. Bombs aren’t the answer, said A.S., an 18-year-old Syrian who just moved here from Damascus in July. “This is not a way to help,” said A.S., who asked that his name not be used because he is fearful for his safety and that of family members who remain there. Still, he wrestles with the same feelings that most Americans have about U.S. intervention. “What I see in the future is that we should wait,” he said. “We are so close to 2014. We could stop all the bloodbath that is happening.” In 2014, he notes, Syrians hope they can affect change in a democratic election. Until then, A.S. said, rebels and government forces will continue to fight – and it will be hard to tell the good guys from the bad guys. Both are violent and corrupt. And the troubles of the Syrian people did not begin under Bashar al-Assad. The situation was arguably worse regime of al-Assad’s father, Hafez. Then-President Hafez al-Assad was the leader of Syria during the time of the “Hama massacre” in which 10s of thousands of people were killed (numbers vary widely) when the government quashed a rebellion. “And it was never talked about, not documented, none of that,” Alazem
BAKER Q&A FROM A1
WV: What is your role? What are the responsibilities of the president of the faculty union? JB: Well, the key role of the president of the faculty union is to be the spokesperson for the faculty and to facilitate communication in both directions between the faculty and the administration. It’s a role of addressing problems that come up and creatively try to sit down and solve problems with members and the administration, again, with the forefront being student focus: what’s best for the student in this given situation. WV: How does your role as an educator benefit the role of president of the faculty union? JB: That’s a good question. That’s a really good question. I guess I think that my role as an educator is to always figure out how to serve my students best. And so that has to do with taking the time to understand who they are and what their needs are and how to help them reach their goals as students. I think there are similarities there in taking time to understand the membership, understand the concerns or the problems that the members face in any given area, to help the members stay focused on student success, to help them stay focused, even when there are problem, to stay focused on why they are here. Why they love their jobs. . . And that’s really about being with students, about spending time and getting to know them and figuring out how to serve them best. WV: What are the benefits of having a faculty union? What are the challenges? JB: The benefits to the faculty are, I think, pretty obvious in terms of job protection, in terms of good compensation, in terms of… We have a very
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said. “And if anyone ever talked about troops was not a logical solution, and that afterwards, they would get in probably not even the full truth. “You don’t blow up somebody’s airtrouble.” Neither side is without their sins, port and not take it, not put boots on the ground,” he said. A.S. says. The proposed solution being nego“I’m not saying that the regime is good. I’m not saying that there weren’t tiation by largely by the United States innocent people killed, women. I’m and Russia for Syria to surrender its chemical weapons is only a partial one, not saying that at all,” he said. “What we built in 30 years is gone Ward contends. “They might get some of the real in two years,” A.S. said. “I’m not saying that there is not corruption of the bad stuff. They might get a percentage regime… There is corruption every- of the (nerve agents),” he said. “That’s where. (Both sides) should look at a pretty big deal,” he said. That’s a good start, he added, but themselves before looking at us.” Meanwhile, he keeps in close con- it doesn’t fix the problem and it might tact with his family in Damascus, talk- end up making it worse. “That’s my worry—that you are ing to them nearly every day. “It’s not safe… but it’s better than poking the wasps’ nest. And at the end before in Damascus. They are taking of the day, it’s not the politicians that control,” he said. A.S. even speculated, are going to be pulling out their draft as many have, that the rebels actu- number,” he said. Whatever the solution, it cannot ally used the chemical weapons and blamed it on the Assad regime to in- come soon enough. That was evident spire the world’s reaction against the in the grim tone when Ottaifa, usually jovial, spoke of the Syrian conflict. Syrian government. “One attack where they did it was So a conflict that began “with a true call of freedom ended up with when they were praying. Another attack was during a conspiracy of one of the proterrorism,” A.S. “I think the whole U.N. tests,” he said. “A said. “To me, as a Syrian, I believe (United Nations) or world lot of people died. that all Syrian should be a part to help in A lot of people p e o p l e a n d whatever way because it were injured. “When they use even the world doesn’t matter that it’s a difshould support ferent country,” -Omar Alazem (chemical weapons) they’re not the Syrian Arab just aiming for a Army against certain gender. It’s everyone. You see terrorism.” Which is why people like Ward a lot of casualties among children. It’s – American soldiers who wind up really inhumane if you ask me.” Who should lead the effort to stop fighting these battles on behalf of, or against, corrupt Middle Eastern re- it? “I think the whole U.N. (United gimes – wonder why. “At the end of the day, it pains me Nations) or world should be a part that we will be the international police to help in whatever way because it when it suits us, and we won’t be when doesn’t matter that it’s a different it’s genocide through rape,” Ward said. country,” Alazem said. “In the case of Syria,” Ottaifa said, “Why don’t we go into Rwanda?” “it’s the military and the government against its people. I don’t know about ‘It’s really inhuman’ Ward believes that the proposed you, but I can’t defend myself against U.S. plan to strike without deploying chemical weaponry.”
strong contract that provides us with excellent compensation for the work that we do with students. I think that one of the things that is a huge benefit to students, and to the college in general. is that our contract protects members in a way that allows them to speak out on behalf of student interests, and so that’s an important piece that helps keep the institution very strong and very healthy in terms of its growth, it’s movement forward with new technologies, new learning modes, new learning time frames. All of those things we are currently in the process of seeing change in. It’s important for the faculty who face off to students every day to be able to contribute positively to those changes, and that sometimes means speaking Ruth Hatcher critically about things that they may not see in being in the best interest of students. I think it’s pretty fair to say that the right-to-work legislation has been a pretty big blow to unions in general in Michigan, and so we have concerns about how that will affect our membership. It won’t affect our membership until our next contract; it’s when the right-to-work will kick in for us. So I think that’s one challenge. I guess kind of hand-in-hand with that I would say that the right-to-work legislation has come out of a perception of unions that is so counterproductive to the positive things that unions provide, especially in educational environments. Because the… kind of preconceived notion that unions are simply out for their own good, their own… there’s a lot of kind of what I would consider misconceptions about unions in general, that, for
us, I mean we don’t see ourselves in that way whatsoever, and we haven’t operated that way historically in this institution. So those perceptions are challenges that we face. I think that there are always challenges in terms of the issue with resources… that any institution faces, and really coming to grips with how to best use the resources in the college for the best benefit to students. WV: Michigan is now a right-towork state. How has this affected union membership to date, if at all? How do you expect it to change in the future? JB: It hasn’t yet, and we don’t really know how it will affect the membership. It’s hard to tell at this point. I would like to believe that it won’t affect us much, but I don’t know… It’s important, regardless of the right-towork legislation, it’s going to be important for us to… We have a responsibility to keep our membership strong and represented in the ways that they and to be represented. I think Washtenaw is an incredibly good example of how unions can work productively with administration or with management to make an institution stronger. I think that, in a nutshell, is what we’ve done and who we are. I hope that we will see a stronger movement in our ability to do that again, in light of the difficulties we had last year, the incredible amounts of change we’ve had in administrators. I hope we can move back to that position of cooperation and working together on students’ behalf.
In the state of Michigan, how- test met all benchmarks, which means ever, scores are significantly lower that only 21 percent of the graduating class of 2013 is ready for college-level than in the rest of the country. “Michigan is one of the 12 states courses. “The readiness of students leaves a that test every high school junior whether they have college aspira- lot to be desired,” said Jon Erickson, tions or not,” said Katie Wacker, president of ACT’s education division to the Associated spokesperson Press. for ACT. “The Only 21 percent of the 120,451 However, for results are going to be lower Michigan students who sat for the students at WCC, because (al- test met all benchmarks, which it isn’t hard to most) every- means that only 21 percent of catch up. “We have deone is tested.” the graduating class of 2013 is T h e r e - ready for college-level courses. v e l o p m e n t a l reading, writing port’s findand math classings suggest that many graduates will struggle es… or what would be considered bawhen taking college-level courses sic skills,” said Blakey. “We also offer and sometimes have to take reme- classes that … are not college-level. dial classes – often without earning We have a chemistry class that, if you credit – to catch up with their peers. haven’t taken chemistry in high school, WCC, however, has a fairly large there is a class that preps you for takdevelopmental program that helps ing the college class. We have a few students with their remediation in classes like that as well.” WCC also offers free tutoring in all order to succeed in the classroom, subjects, not only for those that are explained Blakey. “Four-year universities… don’t considered basic skills. There is also generally offer classes to help stu- a writing center on campus, that helps dents get college ready,” said Blakey. students who have writing questions, “They assume that students are go- regardless if they are taking composiing to come in and be ready for col- tion classes or not, explained Blakey. “An indicator if a student is going lege classes.” Under ACT’s definition, stu- to be successful (in college) are the dents are ready for college-level soft skills,” said Blakey. “There is the classes if they have a 75 percent knowledge but then the soft skills are chance of getting a C or a 50 per- a key component.” Blakey defined soft skills as the cent chance of getting a B, based on the results of the ACT test, which ability to maintain a college class deare measured on a scale from 1 to spite of the knowledge of the content. For example: Is the student going to 36 points. In Michigan, a little more than class? Is the student getting to class 120,000 students took the ACT, on time? Are they taking notes? Do representing nearly 100 percent of students know how to study, manage the graduating class. Of these stu- their time and take responsibilities dents, 57 percent met the English for their assignments? “There are a lot of students that benchmark, 33 percent met the benchmark for success in science, come out of high school that don’t 35 percent of the graduating class have soft skills,” said Blakey. “(These met the mathematics benchmark scores are) only part of the story. “(It is a) combination of… not just and in reading, 37 percent met the the score (of the ACT) but (if ) you benchmark. Only 21 percent of the 120,451 have the other skills that make you Michigan students who sat for the successful in college.” Instruction is absolutely a critical role and, ideally, the vice president of Instruction doesn’t mediate, he facilitates and leads the deans and the faculty to perform their best work. He recognizes each individual’s area of expertise, their experience, their commitment to the college, and ideally he is motivating all of those individuals to do their best work, to serve students in the best way we know how. So I see it a lot around facilitation and motivation. I think those are really important roles. The leadership role is important in setting the direction of where the college is going programmatically for students, that’s a key issue. I think that the biggest thing that a very strong vice president does is, he recognizes and uses the expertise of the faculty and the deans. Bill’s working very hard to understand the position that he is in. We’re meeting weekly to address ongoing things that are coming up, and that’s been productive.
Stuart Blacklaw
W V: H o w does the fact that Abernethy was once a faculty member here influence his relationship
with the union? JB: I don’t know, you’d have to ask him I guess. I think it is a huge advantage to have a vice president who has had strong experience in instruction.
WV: You are the second consecutive woman to lead your union WV: From the faculty’s perspec- (and perhaps there were more tive, what is the importance of the before your predecessor, Ruth role of VP of Instruction? How has Hatcher). How do you feel the colthe relationship evolved in the lege is doing in terms of preparing transition from Stuart Blacklaw and mentoring women – including to Bill Abernethy? students and employees – for leadJB: The role of the VP of ership positions?
JB: I think that I would like to see the college community encourage more discussion and professional development and leadership in general. It’s a really interesting question because I don’t spend a lot of time thinking about the differentiation between women leaders and men leaders even though there are certain key differences… There have been strong Bill Abernethy women leaders as I am thinking – across the faculty, across the administration, in the union. There have been strong women leaders running throughout the college, I think. And I’m happy and pleased to see that, but I do think that we could, as a college, probably do a better job of looking at how to encourage and promote strong leadership skills in women and men, among the faculty, among the administration, among the support staff. In all areas… And I think about this in terms of the most important skills that students really need to take away from any degree, any educational endeavor that they get into, they boil down to similar things and those things have to do with … those things are being able to communicate well in person and in writing, being able to work in a team environment, being able to respectfully have difficult conversations, being able to think critically and problem solve and be open minded. These are the things that I think women leaders do, perhaps maybe more naturally… I don’t know, I would hesitate to say it, I don’t know if it is a female-male trait. Those are strong skills that we want our students to have, and they are strong skills that more leaders have.
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PLEASE HAVE MY CREDITS COUNT
January 14, 2013
A7
Make your credits count – Transfer Transform
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A8
Et Cetera
Sept 23, 2013
Another in a series on local farmers markets
M.M. DONALDSON THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Michigan apples are easy to find at farmers markets this time of year.
By M. M. DONALDSON
Voice Correspondent
This installment of reviews of local farmers markets gets out of the city and visits the further reaches of the county. Chrysanthemums are starting to show up at the markets, and pumpkins will be next. There is a plentiful selection of produce in the summer, but in the fall there is an abundance of wonderful things that can be canned, frozen or dried to last through the winter months.
The Washtenaw Voice
up taste buds fatigued by pounds of plain ole hummus). For omnivores, there are meats, eggs and cheeses to go with simple tomato salads or peach pie.
Chelsea Saturday Farmers Market
120 Park St., Chelsea Saturdays, 8 a.m.–noon http://goo.gl/O5IGA7 Located in the First United Methodist Church parking lot across the street from the Purple Rose Theatre, there is plenty of street parking. This market has a street fair vibe with the live music and a few booths Bushel Basket Farmers Market of antiques and pottery for sale. Chelsea Community Hospital Watching a guy juggle a watermelon 14700 E. Old US 12, Chelsea while he is riding his bike is unexpectWednesdays, 2-6 p.m. ed entertainment. http://goo.gl/QLKzjG Plenty of fresh fruits and veggies The weekday market is located on are available, along with meats and the Chelsea Hospital grounds. Follow cheeses. A selection of baked goods is the signs to the Professional Building also available, with a package of home& Wellness Center (the little famers made madeleines, too cute to pass up market signs have been known to hide as a walking treat. behind bigger things). About a dozen vendors offer a vaDexter Farmers Market riety of vegetables, but one booth offers a vegetarian’s delight. Locally 233 Alpine St. and Main St., Dexter hand crafted hummus and seitan, a Tuesdays, 3–7 p.m. wheat-based protein seasoned with Saturdays, 8 a.m.–1 p.m. meaty flavors, are available for samhttp://goo.gl/Yg1iko pling (the curry lime hummus woke Just east of the bridge crossing
M.M. DONALDSON THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Honey bears optimistically wait in line at various local markets.
Mill Creek, a covered sidewalk protects market-goers from rain or too much sun, but leisurely strolls have been pleasurable with this summer’s weather. In its eighth season, the weekday market hosts approximately half-dozen vendors who offer locally grown sweet corn, tomatoes, summer squashes and baked goods (the zucchini bread looks delicious). On Saturdays, the market offerings triple in size, with the addition of locally created chocolate (the rustic chili pepper chocolate bar is the ticket to my new happy place), homemade breads and pastas, granolas paired with jams, and locally grown nursery stock also available with a large selection of produce.
and out of. A word of caution, as it is adjacent to the Saline Middle School, which lets out at 2:45 p.m. There are about a dozen vendors with large selections of produce, fresh breads and sweets. One vendor is dedicated to garlic, while another one hawks giant kohlrabi. Normal size of this root veggie is similar to a baseball, while half of this particular cultivar, averaging about eight inches across, fed a family of four (in cheese sauce, of course). A very extensive assortment of honey offered a taste-bud numbing selection of flavors. The idea of chocolate honey is intriguing (I didn’t dare try after coming down off a sugar bender earlier in the day). On Saturdays, the Saline farmers market is located downtown, in the Saline Farmers Market parking lot on the southwest corner of U.S. 12 and Ann Arbor-Saline Road. Saline District Library The market hosts over a half-dozen 555 Maple Rd., Saline vendors who are strictly produce. If Tuesdays, 3-7 p.m. the apples and peaches coming into Ann Arbor Street and season aren’t tantalizing enough, Michigan Avenue fresh flowers liven up the tables full Saturdays, 8 a.m.–Noon of tomatoes and summer squashes. http://goo.gl/TpO9HA Huge heads of cabbage begging to be Watch for the Burma shave signs turned into sauerkraut dwarf the reguleading to the farmers market on lar sized cabbages good for coleslaw. Tuesdays. Non-produce items include fresh Located in the parking lot behind roasted coffee beans, coffee cakes and the Saline District Library, there is maple syrup to tease the taste buds plenty of parking that is easy to get in via the olfactory system. Handmade
soaps and fun aprons are great accompaniments.
Manchester Farmers Market First block of Adrian Street, south of Main Street Thursdays, 3:30-7p.m. http://goo.gl/ZhUaBa Challenges have developed for this market in this first year of having its ownership being transferred to the Manchester Chamber of Commerce. Ruth VanBogelen, farmers market committee member, is very apologetic for the confusion in advertised schedules, but cites the growth of the market has created issues for which they were not prepared. She said the committee’s goal is to provide more outreach and advertising of schedules for next year’s market. The Manchester farmers market has received funding from the Chelsea Wellness Foundation to provide $1 coupons for produce at the market. Coupons are passed out at various events, senior dining sites and also at the market. About half of the vendors provide produce with the other half providing baked goods and crafts. Music and assorted festivals also attract shoppers. Parking near the market is plentiful. Contact M. M. Donaldson at mmorrisdonaldson@wccnet.edu.
CJ SOUTH THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Students enjoyed Welcome Day festivities even in sweltering heat on sun drenched late summer day.
CJ SOUTH THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Students had the opportunity to make interesting wax molds of their hands
CJ SOUTH THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Businesses and organizations from all over Washtenaw County came to meet students.
The Washtenaw Voice • B Section • September 23, 2013
We’re at a crucial moment in human history, says climate ‘de-crocker’ By ROBERT CONRADI Voice Correspondent
Videographer Peter Sinclair entertained, informed and challenged a room full of enrapt listeners recently at the University of Michigan. Sinclair is a spokesman for global climate change, perhaps best known for his website, Climate Denial Crock of the Week. His Sept. 11 presentation was sponsored by the Erb Institute at U-M, which regularly features forums on creating sustainable societies and businesses. Many of these meetings relate to the threat of global warming. Sinclair became involved in the climate debate when he realized that science was losing in the forum of public opinion. Sinclair, with experience in communications, graphics, animation and cartooning, has energetically applied his skills to communicating the reality of climate change. His videos combine humor and folksiness with scientific fact to create short, poignant messages that are accessible to all. He chose to debunk the pseudoscience of climate-change deniers one “crock” at a time. The website Climate Progress calls him “our favorite climate de-crocker.” The message Sinclair wants people to understand is that climate change is real, it is ongoing, and it is primarily caused by humans. To call attention to the message, he applied the wisdom of P. T. Barnum. “If you want to draw a crowd,” said Barnum, “start a fight.”
ROBERT CONRADI THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Videographer Peter Sinclair answers questions from audience members at the Sept. 11 Erb institute forum at U-M.
Sinclair chose for his foe Anthony Watts, a prominent spokesman attempting to cast doubt on climate science. He posted a video on YouTube gently poking fun of Watts with background music reminiscent of Inspector Clouseau. Within 36 hours, YouTube took down the video in response to a protest by Watts. It then became known as “the video that climate deniers don’t want you to see.” The number of viewers soon skyrocketed. In a debate on Fox news, Sinclair’s opponent attempted to undermine certainty in global warming with the humorous line, “Where do you stick the thermometer to take the
temperature of a planet?” Sinclair realized that there really is an Earth thermometer. It’s the ocean. Just as fluid in a thermometer rises and falls with temperature changes, so does the ocean. The ocean level has been steadily rising. In fact, the ocean absorbs more than 93 percent of the excess heat trapped by CO2 and other greenhouse gasses. Sinclair also spoke of the Arctic Sea ice as an indicator of warming. Satellites can track both the area and depth of sea ice, and it has shrunk in volume by 75 percent in the last several decades. A further indicator of global warming is an increase in extreme weather
events. The insurance industry has been closely following this and sees a distinct upward trend. Sinclair pointed out that while frequency of geophysical events like earthquakes and volcanoes have remained fairly constant, climate events like storms, droughts and floods are increasing dramatically. The greatest near-term threat of climate change may be its destabilizing effect on societies. Existing animosities are increased by climate catastrophe. “Extreme events like this in the developing world where the infrastructure is fragile and people are more exposed are going to cause instability,”
Sinclair said. “Climate change is a threat multiplier.” In spite of the doom and gloom, Sinclair remains an optimist that many of the more severe effects of climate change can still be avoided – if we act quickly. Alternative energy technologies already available can have a positive impact. But people and governments need to act. “We are at an unprecedented moment in history when the things that we do, the decisions that we make now in our lifetime will crucially impact generations for the next 100,000 years,” he said. “There’s never been a moment in human history like this.”
Unintentional garden Rejected wood gets new chance in Gallery One event sprouts, meets its end By DAVID FITCH Staff Writer
When Washtenaw Community College Recycling Manager Barry Wilkins decided to begin composting food scraps from around campus, he didn’t realize that the soil would be that good. The stash of rich dirt that was created by the addition of a composting program on campus has yielded some unexpected crops, including melons, gourds and pumpkins. Wilkins says that the composted material contained the seeds that produced the plants. No one would have predicted that the produce would grow with such vigor. “Any time you can get plants to grow out of stuff that’s laying on the ground, that’s some pretty rich stuff,” Wilkins said with satisfaction. And he has good reason to be happy. The newly established food scrap composting program, organized by Wilkins, has been a success, and is not only keeping food out of the waste
stream, but also yielding rich, nutritious soil that can be used across campus. The process is simple: collect and throw extra bread, lettuce, banana peels, etc. as well as a “bulking agent” (woodchips) into an enormous “Earth Tub” composting bin, turn, wait, let bacteria work and collect the soil. Wilkins and Recycle Technician Leslie Gibson are the sole operators of the program. However, the unintentional garden was not to last forever. Wilkins said that the garden surrounding the compost was recently cut down. There was really no use for the melons, according to Wilkins, who was wary of eating them. However, the garden was a source of food for one – a chubby groundhog that Wilkins spotted at times. “He ate up one pretty good-sized melon,” Wilkins said. The groundhog will have to find something else to eat, but the fact remains: The composting efforts are working well – at least well enough to grow some accidental produce.
DAVID FITCH THE WASHTENAW VOICE
An unexpected garden containing melon, gourd and pumpkin plants sprouted up around a stockpile of composted soil.
KELLY BRACHA THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Above: WTMC students James Smith, 17, and Joe Kennedy, 17, both from Ann Arbor took an interest in the various wood samples brought in by the Urbanwood Project, a partner of the Southeast Michigan Resource Conservation and Development Council. Below: Trevol’s Wood Products, in North Adams gave a unique demonstration on how salvaged lumber is cut using a specialized and portable sawmill in front of the SC Building.
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The Washtenaw Voice
September 23, 2013
‘Cars and Bikes’ funds education By ALLIE TOMASON Managing Editor
KELLY BRACHA THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Automotive repair student Andy Renton, 20, from Bloomfield Hills, showcased his 1998 Cadillac with a swapped engine for a 1JZ-GTE Toyota.
Car and motorcycle enthusiasts came from all over Washtenaw County Sept. 14 to participate in the Tenth Annual Cars and Bikes on Campus Show. Awards were presented in 15 categories overall, and the turnout was pretty good according to Justin Carter, automotive service instructor and coordinator of the event. Originally, Bill Figg, a former Washtenaw Community College welding instructor, started this event for the WCC Foundation’s Vocational Education Excellence Fund. “We wanted to keep the tradition going. We didn’t want to let the show die,” Carter said. The event, normally held on the first Sunday in October, was moved this year in hopes of better weather. Along with the various autos and bikes on display, the show provided activities for everyone. Face-painting and a craft table for children, a silent auction, pin-striping demonstrations and classes, a motorcycle dynamometer shootout and
demonstration, and a live band were all part of the event. WCC’s Orchard Radio was also on hand to provide mood music. The pin-striping demo was a new addition to the show and was provided by Jeremy Seanor, 26, of Pittsburg, Pa. As an expert in the art of pin-striping he was invited to show off his skills and provide education. “I was asked to come and do some panels to auction off for the Foundation and for students to come up and see what I do and ask questions,” he said. The Childcare Professional and Early Childhood Education program provided the craft and face-painting tables. “This is our second year doing this. We get our craft supplies from the Scrapbox, located in Ann Arbor,” Sally Adler, childcare professional and early childhood education instructor, said. “We like to stick with the theme.” “Along with fun for the children, we also have educational materials for the parents in the form of printed CARS & BIKES CONTINUED B6
A ‘free lunch’ can be the meal of a lifetime By DAVID FITCH Staff Writer
For 21 year-old Azzam Aziz, a computer science major, the Washtenaw Community College Foundation scholarships he received provided the financial boost that launched his career. Aziz, of Saline, says that the money let him put time that he would have forced to work to make ends meet into building skills for his career. In fact, those scholarships went even further. Aziz was able to accept an unpaid internship working on building a website for Quicken Loans. His work on the project was noted, and he was offered a paid position at a sister company of Quicken Loans, called TitleSource. Aziz excitedly recounted getting the call from the CEO of TitleSource, the company for which he still works. “When the CEO calls you, you know there is something there!” he said. Aziz has received funding from the foundation for the past four semesters and is now completing his degree and
working full-time. For many students like Aziz at Washtenaw Community College, coming up with tuition is a challenge. Many must balance career, classroom and family. Paying for college is a burden most cannot handle alone. The WCC Foundation strives to give students the money that they need to get through college. The foundation operates as the college’s “fundraising arm.” Last year alone saw 1,300 students apply for scholarships, of which, 988 received funding, which came to a total of just less than $600,000. Applications are accepted for scholarships in all semesters. According to WCCF Scholarship and Alumni Coordinator Alicia Schuster, the evaluation of applications involves several elements including financial need as well as academic merit. Students’ financial need information is provided via FAFSA, or the Free Application for Student Aid. GPA information as well as students intended major are examined, as well as a statement of why a student needs
aid. Finally, a letter or recommendation is required. The applications are reviewed by a team of people comprised of Schuster and representatives from the Student Resource and Women’s Center, the counseling department, Student Development and Activities, as well as one from the Financial Aid department. After being reviewed by the team, applications are then evaluated by a committee comprised of WCCF board members, two community liaisons and a member of the WCC Board of Trustees. Justin Furman, 21, of Canton, also received help from the WCCF, and it impacted him in big ways. Furman, a technology management major from Canton, received multiple WCCF scholarships over the course of his years at Washtenaw. “That has been a tremendous help,” he said. “Yeah, it’s nice that I don’t have to pay for tuition and whatnot. That does help, but on top of that, there’s room and board. There’s gas that keeps on increasing…”
The help from various people and departments, including, in no small part, the WCC Foundation, helped nudge Furman closer to his career. Furman was hired two weeks ago by a company called Rausch Industries for a full-time position doing something he loves. “I get to paint parts for the new Mustangs, work on Disney World stuff… It’s been a blast.” Furman now hopes to become an automotive refinishing instructor. Surprisingly, the only thing standing between many students and being considered for school funding often is the application. Schuster estimates that she receives around 1,600 applications, but of those, hundreds are incomplete. And the application, according to Schuster, isn’t anything too difficult. “I think that it’s a really easy application. If you went onto your MyWCC and you went to apply, the application would take you maximum of 10 minutes if you write your essay beforehand,” she said. “So, why not apply?” And Furman would agree.
“It is so easy! It’s unbelievable and it’s sad how people just don’t want to take a half an hour out of their day and get an $800 scholarship… It’s just amazing,” he said. Schuster says that the essay can be the key to being awarded a scholarship. “Write a really compelling essay. The essay is weighted and can be the deciding factor of a ‘yes’ or a ‘no,’” she said. “It’s amazing how many essays I see that have the text talk or no capitalization or something as inane as ‘I’m a really good student.’ You know, I see a lot of really good students. I’m sorry.” Application Deadlines:
June 10 for Fall Semester Oct. 10 for Winter Semester Feb. 10 for Spring/Summer Semester Letter of Recommendation Deadline:
Oct. 15, 2013 To apply, visit: goo.gl/YF2z9q
‘Lite Bike’ event highlights ‘bike culture’ in A2 By ALAINA O’CONNOR Staff Writer
Despite the rainy, dreary weather, as many as 30 cyclists decorated their bikes and themselves with strings of bright lights and participated in an event designed to bring awareness to bike safety when riding at night. “Even with the rain, I still had people calling me wanting to be a part of the event,” said event organizer Krysia Hepatica, a 29-year-old graduate student and Bike A2 executive director from Ann Arbor. “We started Bike A2 in March with the intention of helping the city grow its biking culture,” Hepatic explained. “Now, we see ourselves as a public relations group for biking and the people who ride them.” Bike enthusiasts, casual riders and curious spectators gathered in front of the Washington Street parking structure on Sept. 15 to witness something completely illuminating. “We have a good turnout,” said Ann Arbor resident and Bike A2 board member David Goldwyn, who moved from Chicago 11 years ago. “Ann Arbor has such a strong biking community, and we have a great group of people here.” Bonnie Lynn Paige, a 21-year-old violin teacher from Ann Arbor, decorated her bike with white Christmas lights. She wore glow-in-the-dark bracelets and bright red lipstick. “So the cars can see me better,” she joked. “I’m not a huge cyclist, because I’m slow. But, I love to ride.” The most colorful of the bunch came from a group of three women with glow-in-the-dark painted faces,
neon wigs and brightly colored lights strung around their bikes. “We’re not really bike enthusiasts,” said Carol Charles who owns a cleaning business in Ann Arbor. “We’re light enthusiasts.” Ann Arbor bike shop Wheels in Motion kicked off the event with a bike safety demonstration and Monterey, Calif.-based company Lights and Motion donated its micro-USB bike lights for the event. The group was careful to balance a critical mass style ride, where cyclists flood the streets in an effort to make motorists think about traffic on public roadways, while at the same time obeying traffic laws. “We don’t want to piss off the city council,” Hepatica said. After an hour riding the streets of downtown Ann Arbor, the tired cyclists returned to the kick-off location for a beer sponsored by Arbor Brewing Company and a musical performance by Lights Out for the Territory. Hepatica was inspired by Dlectricty, a contemporary light art festival featuring artists showcasing illuminated works of art. “There was a small part of the festival where cyclists decorate their bikes with these amazing lights,” Hepatica said. “I really liked the idea and thought it would be really cool to do something like that here.” Hepatica admits she was nervous to try something like this, but found Bike A2 board members supportive of her efforts. “When it came time to do this, I LITE BIKE CONTINUED B6
ALAINA O’CONNER THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Above: Colorful bikes like this one lit up Ann Arbor to promote the cities growing bike culture.
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Flip Side
The Washtenaw Voice
September 23, 2013
New math instructor Dave Wilson brings it ‘home’ to his students) to organize such an event? His answer was simple and forthright: These students needed the help – and he once walked in their shoes. After graduating from Huron High School in 1994, Wilson enrolled at WCC unsure as to what his future might hold. “I graduated with a 2.0,” he said. “I was bottom of my class, a struggling student.” Community college seemed like a logical next step. “I enrolled in Washtenaw Community College because I had no idea what I was going to do, what I By DAVID FITCH wanted to be. I mean I knew I wanted Staff Writer to do chemistry,” Wilson said. “I liked the idea of engineering, so I thought, Volunteering to host an “Algebra ‘Hey chemical engineering! Why not?’” and Trig. Boot Camp” on a late-sumWilson recalled first entering WCC mer Saturday morning wouldn’t be the unaware of what was in store for him first choice for most people to spend there. a chunk of their weekend. “When I got here, I sort of thought But there was a need and Dr. Dave of it like high school 2.0, to be honest, was there for the students. and I realized pretty quickly it wasn’t,” Newly minted Washtenaw said Wilson. “I sort of went from enCommunity College instructor Dr. rolling in school to committing to David Wilson once walked the halls college, and when that change hapof WCC as a student. He returned last pened, I realized that I could pretty May to stand at the front of the class much do anything – and for me that as a teacher. was phenomenal.” At his boot camp, students worked After attending Washtenaw, Wilson intently at the boards on the walls of transferred to Michigan Technological LA 276, searching for ‘x,’ factoring, and University, where he majored in physdiscussing problems. The vibe in the ics and math. room was surprisingly positive. “I was nervous when I went up there Wilson bounced around the room that I wasn’t going to be ready. And I helping confused students factor and ended up pulling a 4.0 for a while,” said divide. His neatly braided ponytail Wilson. “I was excited that WCC had swung at his back. A classy tie chain prepared me to go on.” From Michigan Tech., Wilson completed the visage of professionalcontinued on to the University ism with individuality and care. So what inspired Wilson (Dr. Dave of Washington, and finally to the
mentor
Once a struggling student at WCC, now he’s ‘Dr. Dave’
KELLY BRACHA THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Math instructor David Wilson helps students with an equation during his Saturday algebra and trigonometry boot camp.
University of Michigan, where he earned a master’s degree, and then a PhD in physics. After working for a time on post-doctoral research at U-M, Wilson craved a change. “I realized that I wanted off the academic treadmill,” he said, adding, “When I really, critically evaluated what I enjoyed about the past decade of my life, it was about teaching.” When Wilson saw the openings for a part-time teaching position at Washtenaw, he was excited. He applied and was soon teaching at his alma mater. “In many ways, being here at WCC now feels like coming home. I’m loving it,” he said. “NLF…Numbers, letters, function,” Wilson explained to a boot-camp student, “Numbers cancel numbers, letters cancel letters, functions cancel
functions.” “He’s very energetic. He’s very Wilson was encouraged when his enthusiastic,” Dean of Math, Science, Algebra and Trig Boot Camp drew a and Health Martha Showalter said crowd of about 30 students instead of Wilson. “I found him to be someof the 12 or so he expected. one who was very passionate about “I feel like he teaches math in a teaching.” unique way,” said Tegwyn John, an Wilson hopes to return the fa18-year-old math and science major vors that he was done while at WCC from Ann Arbor. and studying under instructors like “I see that he’s passionate about Mohammed Abella and George Kapp. students learning calc(ulus),” said “The instructors took time to talk 20 year-old exercise science major, to me,” said Wilson. “Because they Deyanco Hardwick of Ann Arbor, who took the time to work with me, I’m is taking Calculus I with Wilson. now trying to take the time to work Wilson has been teaching math with the next generation.” at WCC since May, and he has to say And for that next generation, he is enjoying his homecoming is an Wilson has words of encouragement understatement. and admonition. “I love it here. I love the students “Deciding to go to school is a great here. Because this is where I was,” he said. “I was 18. I didn’t know what I DR. DAVE wanted to do.” CONTINUED B6
Art from reclaimed wood
JAMES SAOUD THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Crytal DeVee’s ‘Mother of Trees,’ created from scavenged wood. JAMES SAOUD THE WASHTENAW VOICE
By ALLIE TOMASON Managing Editor
Gallery One and the Urbanwood Project of Ann Arbor have joined together to bring a unique art exhibit to Washtenaw Community College. The exhibit displays a variety of artisan pieces made from reclaimed wood and will run from Aug. 28 to Oct. 18. About 10 artists are featured, as well as some example pieces of tree damage and an educational video depicting damage done by the emerald ash borer, according to Anne Rubin, director of Gallery One. “The thing that I am very pleased about with this show is that there’s is a huge variety of experience from students to really experienced woodworkers,” said Rubin. There are various types of objects such as a utilitarian table, a turned bowl, carved sculptures that give the show an interesting appeal. And different methods and tools, such as wood turners, chainsaws and chisels, create all. One particular piece, sculpted by the artist Amy Yamasaki, which Rubin described, is made from the trunk of a walnut tree and carved with a hammer and chisel. “She goes in and she takes out all the diseased parts, after she does that she takes a look at some of the sound parts and starts making decisions about
form,” Rubin said pointing at the piece. “You can see the chisel marks, here.” Another piece, near the gallery entrance, is called The Music of Chance, It is reminiscent of something out of Alice’s Wonderland. It’s made with reclaimed piano keys, playing cards and a real butterfly, which gives it its whimsical flair, contained in what looks like a shadowbox with two doors. “He is thinking in terms of musical things,” Rubin said, of the artist. This is the first time that an exhibit has been sponsored at Gallery One in collaboration with a community organization. And it has brought a positive, sustainable vibe to the college, Rubin said. “In my opinion, this is an outstanding opportunity for us to showcase some excellent work, and I appreciate the partnership that we have developed with the Urbanwood Project,” WCC President Rose Bellanca said. As part of the exhibit, Jeff Tervol, owner of Tervol’s Wood Products located in North Adams, conducted a wood cutting demonstration. Wednesday afternoon Tervol brought his portable sawmill to the campus and reduced an entire spruce trunk into lumber. “We are one of seven sawmills that participate in the Urban Wood Project,” Tervol said. “Some of our products (ellipses) are even used in the exhibit.”
The Urbanwood Project is part of Recycle Ann Arbor and the Southeast Michigan Resource Conservation and Development Council’s efforts to encourage more recycling of dead urban trees, especially those killed by the emerald ash borer, according to the project’s website. Jessica Simmons, coordinator of the Urbanwood Project, said that the hope is that this project will inspire people to create new markets for this natural resource.
JAMES SAOUD THE WASHTENAW VOICE
Jonathan McMurray’s ‘Mother Universe,’ Maple, mixed media.
Amy Yamasaki’s ‘Longitudinal Resilience,’ carved from Walnut with a concrete base.
Gallery One introduces ‘Exquisite Corpse’ game game players draw a picture. Then they fold the paper over so that just a small amount of the drawing shows. Gallery One will open a new ex- The next person does the same. hibit at the end of October called The written game is done similarly, “Expanding the Line.” except with words. “Every year we choose a particuRubin sad that the drawings will be lar topic, and we do a series on that. revealed every Friday during the show This year we are going to be talk- and the writing will be revealed two ing about drawing,” Anne Rubin, days before the closing of the event director of Gallery One, said. on Dec. 11. The artists featured will be Gerome Kamrowski, Larry Cressman, and Charlie Kanwischer. Exquisite Corpse Rubin said that the game What: Part art exhibit, part “Exquisite Corpse” would also be game show introduced to the gallery this fall. Who: Featured artists Gerome “The Exquisite Corpse was actuKamrowski, Larry Cressman and ally started as a poetry movement. Charlie Kanwischer. Then it turned into a visual arts Where: Gallery One, ground movement as well,” she said. floor in the Student Center “So we’re going to have a sort of When: Oct. 30-Dec. 11 mini-studio set up where people Info: 734-477-8512 can come in and play Exquisite Corpse, either verbally or by Gallery One Hours drawing.” Mon.-Tue. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. The game is played with paper Wed.-Thur. 10 a.m.-8 p.m. and a drawing or writing utenFri. 10 a.m.-noon sil. For the drawing aspect of the By ALLIE TOMASON Managing Editor
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The Washtenaw Voice
September 23, 2013
MGMT: Self-titled and self-conscious By JAMES SAOUD Video Editor
COURTESY PHOTO EASYASTHEOCEAN.COM
Mainstream pop music is recurrently referred to, with clichéd branding, as “ear candy.” Surprisingly, this timeworn terminology fits psych-pop duo MGMT’s new self titled album almost faultlessly, except this candy is drenched in LSD. MGMT, best known for 2007’s mega hits “Time to Pretend” and “Kids,” established with its second outing, 2010’s “Congratulations,” that it was treading new water. “Congratulations,” an album as colorful and bubbly as it was sad and confusing, was hardly a step forward for the duo – more of a step sideways. For their new album, the band teamed up with producer David Fridmann, the psychedelic-rock icon best known for his work with The Flaming Lips, for a second time after Fridmann led them to success with their debut, “Oracular Spectacular.” However, with “MGMT” the band once again takes a step to the side, forgetting entirely about the mainstream aspirations it (supposedly) never had. “Alien Days,” the album’s opening track, acts like a logical next step after “Congratulations,” giving us a
temporary moment of familiar outlandishness from the band. With “Alien Days” and the bands cover of Faine Jade’s 1960s hit “Introspection,” we get what may be the highest highs the first half of “MGMT” has to offer. That is until we reach the album’s single “Your Life is a Lie,” a song as fun, noisy, and despondent as anything the band has ever created. The two-minute psychedelic pop/punk number acts as the grand finale for the first batch of songs, as well as a fleeting inauguration for the album’s second, much stranger, half. Side B opens with “A Good Sadness.” The song lacks much dynamism, while just sort of floating in the empty space between your speakers and your ears. The pop tendencies are obvious and reminiscent of “Kids,” but lacking the hook that made that song memorable. With the album’s next track “AstroMancy,” it’s hard to dismiss a huge influence from MGMT’s peers and critically acclaimed indie-rock outfit Animal Collective. Thankfully, the next song, “I Love You Too, Death” is unmistakably an MGMT song. It starts out sounding remote and cold, but somewhere this six-minute long track morphs into a
color-pop song with harmonies chanting in the distance that sound like The Beach Boys from hell. “Plenty of Girls in the Sea” is a doughty rainbow of a song right when things start getting heavy on this album. Its placement may seem strange, but after a few listens you’ll be singing along without question. The album’s closer, “An Orphan of Fortune,” is sprawling and transcendent of anything else present on this album, but leaves the listeners wanting more. MGMT has yet to write its great album. The duo has proven again and again they are destined for greatness, but some mysterious force continues to stand in their way. If “Congratulations” was a step too far to the right, “MGMT” is a step too far to the left. Hopefully with its next album the band will finally take their leap forward. Genre: Psychedelic-rock/ Synth-pop Length: 44 Minutes Grade: B-
Gervais tastelessly misses the mark with ‘Derek’ By ERIC GARANT Staff Writer
“Derek,” the new straight-to-Netflix series by “The Office” creator Ricky Gervais, represents a pretty dramatic and not very successful departure for the British comedian. Gervais, as Derek Noakes, plays a mentally challenged man who works in a nursing home. It is not made clear what exactly is wrong with Derek. One character suggests he might be autistic. At the very least, he seems to have learning disabilities. Gervais’ portrayal includes walking in a hunched way, taking small, rapid steps and opening and closing his mouth without apparent reason. It’s hard to say whether Gervais wants us to think that this is funny. The lack of quality dialogue for Derek and the way that his odd mannerisms are shot, seems, at times, to
suggest that he does. If that is the case, it’s a miscalculation, and a tasteless one. “Derek” is not just a simple comedy. That’s important to the show being even mildly watchable, because it isn’t all that funny. Derek is an extremely kind person, a true innocent. The show uses him to highlight how important kindness is: Derek might not be a rocket scientist, but he’s still a good and valuable person that others enjoy being around. In this aspect, “Derek” is often sweet, though its messages are never particularly deep. Its sweetness does help the viewer get past some of the show’s more sophomoric humor, though, of which there is quite a bit. Derek rooms with Dougie (Karl Pilkington), whose friend, Kev (David Earl), is disgusting in just about every way that a person can be. I have no problem with crudeness, but
crudeness in and of itself is not funny. Earl’s character is written with no wit, given no opportunity to bring his gross material to life. Pilkington, as Dougie, is the show’s saving grace. Dougie is 40 years old, wears nerdy glasses, and is completely bald except for the edges of his head. His relentlessly bleak attitude is fertile comic ground, and almost all of the first three episodes’ best jokes are Dougie’s. The third episode ends with a montage set to Radiohead’s “Bones.” And after roughly 70 minutes of the continuously disappointing “Derek,” some Radiohead sounded pretty good. Genre: Comedy/Drama Length: ~25 minutes Grade: D
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Ricky Gervais as the mentally challenged Derek Noakes.
Affleck, strong performances keep ‘Bodies’ afloat
COURTESY PHOTO STUFFPOINT.COM
Rooney Mara and Casey Affleck as doomed lovers Ruth Guthrie and Bob Muldoon.
By ERIC GARANT Staff Writer
“Ain’t Them Bodies Saints” both suffers from and yet depends upon the inevitable comparisons it draws to the early work of Terence Malick. Malick’s first two films, 1973’s “Badlands” and 1978’s “Days of Heaven” were both about people trying to live while on the run from the law. Both included prominent shots of the wilderness and featured stories that moved ponderously. This gave the films a strangely powerful effect wherein their human dramas were simultaneously both enhanced and rendered kind of trivial by the scope of nature. I don’t know if that makes any sense in print, but it makes sense on the screen. “Ain’t Them Bodies Saints” follows in a lot of these footsteps, and it depends upon these past films to lay the groundwork for the viewer. Without them as touchstones, this film could not exist. It suffers from the comparisons because its central relationship is never as compelling as those of the Malick
films. In Malick’s work, the couple is on the run, and we see their dependency on each other. In “Ain’t Them Bodies Saints,” it’s just Bob (Casey Affleck) who is on the run. He took the heat for Ruth (Rooney Mara) when she shot officer Patrick Wheeler (Ben Foster) during a standoff after a robbery. Bob asks her to wait for him, and writes tender letters from jail. Just before the stand-off, Ruth had told Bob that she was pregnant. Bob soon escapes and begins a perilous quest to reconnect with her. This is occasionally poignant stuff, and Affleck’s performance is a strong one. He has a way of suggesting great depths of feeling with his rather unique delivery. That Bob needs Ruth is not hard to accept. But what of Ruth needing Bob? When Bob goes away, Skerritt (Keith Carradine), a shopkeeper who seems like he’s got his hands in a good amount of dirt, begins taking care of her financially. And the extremely decent-seeming Patrick begins stopping by. He has recovered from the gunshot, and he doesn’t seem to be holding grudges.
It’s possible that he’s just interested in putting Bob back behind bars, but Foster’s performance suggests a genuine interest in Ruth and her young daughter, Sylvie. Why does Ruth need Bob? Better yet, why should she want Bob? Bob is charming, and his letters are achingly romantic. But he’s nothing but trouble, and as sensible as Ruth is in other ways, she should know it. In “Badlands,” Sissy Spacek’s Holly is young and dim, and has no place in the world. Martin Sheen’s Kit is handsome and exciting, and acts like he knows what he’s doing. When she goes with him on their doomed trip, it makes sense. I never had the same feeling with “Ain’t Them Bodies Saints.” Still, it is not a bad film. There are some memorable moments, and the performances are exceptional. Affleck is one of the most interesting character actors in the business right now, and his work in this film is worth seeing. Genre: Crime/Drama/Romance Length: 96 minutes Rating: R Grade: B-
COURTESY PHOTO ACESHOWBIZ.COM
Bob’s letters stoke Ruth’s romantic fire.
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Sports
The Washtenaw Voice
September 23, 2013
Booming numbers bolster club baseball team
years coaching high school baseball in Bloomfield Hills and Ann Arbor, and three years in the college ranks After struggling to keep enough at Shawnee State University in Ohio. players to field a team in 2012, “At the beginning, when I got hired Washtenaw Community College’s club on, there weren’t going to be any cuts,” baseball team found itself with a large Rhein said, adding that it would have surplus this semester. been impossible to predict that so In a reversal of its initial stance, many students would come out for the club sports department recently the team. allowed the team to make cuts, trim“We started out with like 13 guys,” ming its roster from a logistically im- veteran player Alex Aldridge, 24, an possible 41 to a more manageable 24. engineering major from Milan said in “Talking with Erica, I would have reference to last year’s squad. loved to keep them all, but not even Rhein said he believed the team fina big-league team carries that many ished the year with just eight players. guys,” coach Jeff Rhein said, referNo one seems to know what caused ring to Club Sports Coordinator Erica such a spike in enthusiasm for baseball Lemm. over the summer, but there are high Rhein previously spent three hopes for this year’s team, both from By ERIC GARANT Sports Writer
within and without. “This is the most talented team I’ve ever seen at WCC,” Lemm said. “They definitely have the talent, knowledge and work ethic to be very successful this year.” “There’s always strength in numbers,” Rhein said. “We’ve got good hitters, good pitchers, good fielders.”’ “I’ll think we’ll be good, as long as we really come together as a team,” centerfielder Haddon Pakala, 19, a business major from Ypsilanti, said. WCC’s team is not affiliated with any conference, which allows it to play a diverse schedule that includes several universities’ club teams. The team began its season on Sept. 21, away against Lourdes University. Its first home dates are Sept. 25, at 5:30 p.m. against Eastern Michigan University, and Oct. 2 at 4:30 p.m. against the University of Michigan. With so many students interested in playing baseball, would the college consider carrying two teams in the future? “No,” Coordinator Erica Lemm said. “We’ll just have one team per sport.”
Body, Welding, Automotive Service, Mardi Gras is in February at the Motorcycle, Childcare Professionals, ML building and showcases the colbrochures about car and bike safety Music and Advanced Manufacturing. lege’s culinary students’ work. The for children,” said Briana Rolfe, 24, Additional events held to raise golf outing is annually in August at and a childcare professional student funds for the WCC Foundation are Fox Hills, located in Plymouth. And from Ann Arbor. the annual Mardi Gras dinner, golf the silent auctions run through the Instructor Shawn Deron per- outing and silent auctions. month of September. formed the Dyno Shootout in the motorcycle lab. “As long as a rider or owner operator has a motorcycle and they signed up for the show, we do a free dyno run or dyno shootout, which qualifies them for a trophy in one of four classes,” he said. The trophies were all custom made with contributions from the various programs, and were sponsored by 2013 Car Winners community businesses. The participating programs that Best in Show: Jeff Matauch, 1954 Chevrolet 3100 Pickup, sponsored by helped to pull it all off were Auto Hagerty Best Truck: Ken Weddington, 1952 Ford Pickup, sponsored by Extang Best Import: Marty Gibson, 1966 Volkswagon Beetle, sponsored by Painters Supply Best Domestic: Al Johnston, 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, sponsored by Collex Collision Best Street Rod: Rocky Santavy, 1937 Ford, sponsored by The Weavers Best Custom: Ron Christ, Dodge Humpback Panel, sponsored by Gene Buttman Ford Best Interior: Jim Lake, 1937 Willy’s Coupe, sponsored by Auto Value Best Paint: Al Rose, 1960 Ford Ranch Wagon, sponsored by Transtar CARS & BIKES FROM B3
Cars and Bikes show award winners.
2013 Motorcycle Winners Best Custom: Dwayne Henderson, 2012 Harley-Davidson Road Glide Best American: Roy Finley, 2009 Harley-Davidson Street Glide Best Metric: James Kern, 1998 Suzuki GSXR 600
2013 Dyno Shootout Winners American Stock: Sam Ayyash, 2013 Harley-Davidson Road Glide, 75.45 Hp American Unlimited: Dwayne Henderson, 2012 Harley-Davidson Road Glide, 136.15 Hp Metric Stock: Dennis Grimard, 2011 Honda CBR 1000RR, 149.98 Hp Metric Unlimited: Matt Sproll, 2007 Honda CBR 1000RR, 187.7 Hp KELLY BRACHA THE WASHTENAW VOICE
The awards were created by a collaborative effort of the Welding department and Automotive department.
COURTESY PHOTO ANNARBOR.COM
Gardner fumbles during last season’s game against Ohio State.
Michigan, QB Gardner faces a crossroads after Akron debacle
ERIC GARANT
conference a few days after the game. “Everyone is good.” This, it would seem, is a message the team could have used before the Akron contest. “We let (the expectations) get to our head,” tackle Michael Schofield said. “Every team that we face, they’re playing Michigan. They’re going to bring their best.” It was clear that the team has taken the near-loss to heart. Hoke put his players through a padded and helmeted practice on the Sunday following the game. “We want to improve every time we take the field,” Hoke said. “Since we missed that day (the day of the Akron game), we made up for it (on Sunday).” “We were all upset,” linebacker James Ross III said. “We didn’t give our best effort throughout the week. We want to go back out there and show what we’re really made of.” These are the types of things Hoke and his players have to say, and they represent the types of things they’ll need to do. There is no ambiguity about the expectations at Michigan; winners are glorified, losers are cast aside. But improving its preparation and effort will not guarantee the team success if the man under center plays as he did against Akron. It is easy to believe that the team will do better in most aspects of the game than it did against the Zips; the opposite is barely possible. Assuming that Gardner will make similar strides requires a bit more faith. His mistakes against Akron stemmed from trying to do too much. Will he be more patient and trusting as the schedule gets harder? For the winningest program in the history of college football, this is a key question; the fate of its season hinges on the answer.
After a huge, prime-time victory over Notre Dame, the Michigan Wolverines were flying high. They appeared to be clear favorites to win the Legends division and strong contenders to reach a BCS bowl. Quarterback Devin Gardner was gaining steam as a Heisman trophy candidate. Then Akron came to the Big House. Favored by 37 points, the Wolverines needed the Zips to fail to score on two plays from inside the 5-yard line in the game’s final seconds to escape with a victory. Though no Wolverine will remember the game proudly, none should be as anxious to forget it as Gardner, whose decision-making was nothing short of disastrous. What to make of this team, and especially its starting quarterback? Was the near-catastrophe of Sept. 14 an anomaly or an omen? And how many times does this program need to learn the lesson that it cannot just show up at Michigan Stadium on Saturday and roll over its opposition? True, the regime has changed since the unfathomable loss to Appalachian State in 2007 and what would have otherwise been an unfathomable loss to Toledo in 2008. Coach Brady Hoke and Co. should still have learned from their predecessors’ mistakes. “This isn’t high school,” AllContact Sports Writer Eric Garant America tackle and team cap- at egarant@wccnet.edu and follow him tain Taylor Lewan said at a news at @garanteric.
and check it back in at any station location,” said Hepatica. told her, ‘Go for it!’” said Goldwyn. So, what’s next for Bike A2? “She’s been kicking butt and taking “We want to strengthen and grow names ever since.” the biking community in Ann Arbor Hepatica is optimistic about the that already exists and make it a betimpact that the bike community is ter place for everybody,” said Hepatica. having in Ann Arbor and the sur“We’re not trying not to duplicate rounding areas. She points to the other groups’ efforts. We just want community bike-sharing program to work with everyone for the comthat was approved by the Ann Arbor mon good. “ City Council in early August. “It’s really cool. You just check For more information, visit http:// out a bike by swiping your credit www.bikea2.org card, do your business around town, LITE BIKE FROM B3
DR. DAVE FROM B4
KELLY BRACHA THE WASHTENAW VOICE
WCC automotive repair student Fedel Amer, 27, of Detroit, rode in on his 2007 Suzuki GSX-R 750 to the Car and Bike Show.
washtenawvoice.com The Voice, online.
first step, but committing to your education is essential,” he said. “And that really is a big difference… It’s a lifestyle change that you have to be willing to make.” And, as in the classroom, Wilson values honesty at the risk of wounded pride. “A lot of people have an idea that this is what they want to do, or maybe they want to do this,” he said. “They kind of keep buried inside. They don’t tell people because they are afraid of ridicule.” As one who began without much direction at Washtenaw, Wilson can speak to the “major-less” student as well. “I would say talk to your friends about what you want to do. Talk to your family about what you want to do. Be honest,” Wilson said. “You’ve got to take that risk. Talk to your instructors about you want to do. “Get out there instead of just keeping it as this dream in the distance and then never knowing why you don’t attain it. Start at a place like Washtenaw.”
KELLY BRACHA THE WASHTENAW VOICE
LA 276 was transformed into a trigonometry and algebra haven for students to come and practice their math skills, on a recent Saturday.
The Washtenaw Voice
September 23, 2013
Subaddo Pyramid 3D Each triangle connects a set of three numbers. Two numbers must add or subtract to equal the third. All numbers must be between 1 and 12 and no number can be repeated either in a horizontal or diagonal row.
Play
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Crossword
Across
printable-puzzles.com
Sudoku
1. Ornamental border 5. Like draft beer 10. Sound state 14. Scandinavian king 15. College near Albany, NY 16. Speed: Ger. 17. “Porgy and Bess” setting 19. Noel reversal 20. Sudden twitch 21. Game show player 23. Type of foil 26. Ornament in relief 27. Murmur “a good badweather race horse” 32. British rocker Brian 33. Ammonia-derived compound 34. Do one’s roots 38. Bee Gees surname 40. “Have ___ day!” 42. Barely passing marks 43. Up to this point 45. Storehouse 47. Female singer’s 2001 album that debuted at #1 48. Nov. 11 commemoratives 51. Verbally abuse 54. Greek letters that resemble pitchforks 55. Price for a pound, say 58. Channel with cameras in the Capitol 62. Chemical formula for sodium hydroxide 63. Title setting for a Neil Simon play 66. Hun leader 67. Songstress Gorme 68. Carolina college town 69. Challenge 70. Egg sites 71. British sand hill
Down
1. Holliday and others 2. Gain ___ (get ahead in a race) 3. Crunched numbers 4. Compensate
printable-puzzles.com
5. CIA’s forerunner 6. Biomedical research org. 7. University of Maryland player 8. Forest ox 9. Hocked 10. Of good upbringing 11. All-vowels song refrain 12. Inge’s “___ of Roses” 13. Periods of penitence 18. Chinese-born American architect 22. Ret. 24. First name in wit 25. Oscar winner for Best Song in “8 Mile” 27. Prefix with byte 28. Etats-___ 29. Shakespeare’s Sir ___ Belch 30. Pull together 31. Flee 35. “It was ___ vu all over
again” 36. “Gimme an A...”, e.g. 37. Those, in Mexico 39. Wear the latest styles, say, slangily 41. Major poetic effort 44. Skin powder 46. Stoltz and Idle 49. Start the bidding afresh 50. Distributed 51. Move rapidly toward 52. Mother’s brother, e.g. 53. Six-stringed instruments 56. Cowboy Rogers’s real last name 57. Tiny bits 59. Big stack 60. Loads and loads 61. Baltimore oriole : Maryland :: ___ : Hawaii 64. Clearasil target, slangily 65. D.D.E.’s political rival
Answers
printable-puzzles.com
Sudoku
Crossword
Subaddo
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Students and WCC employees: Classified ads in The Voice are free. Local business owners: Looking for help? Post your free help wanted ads in The Voice. Send ads to thewashtenawvoice@gmail.com. Note: Deadline for the Oct. 7 issue is Tuesday, Oct. 1, at 5 p.m. SERVICES seeking part-time team members who are apply for the openings. VOLUNTEER TUTORS: Washtenaw friendly, outgoing, motivated, who can lift Package handler. Part-time position Literacy needs volunteers to tutor adults in 50 lbs., have basic math and organizational located in Saline, work assignments can basic reading, writing, math and English as skills, have reliable transportation, and are include lifting, carrying, pushing and pulla Second Language. If in Help change lives available to work nights and weekends. ing packages up to 100 pounds in weight, – one word at a time! Contact info@washt- Retail experience a plus. Please apply in and up to 150 pounds with a helper in a enawliteracy.org or call 734-879-1320. person at Pet Supplies Plus at 2224 S. Main standing position. All package handling NEED HEALTH CARE? Are you St. Ann Arbor. is done manually, without the use of fork between the ages of 12-22? Contact the Seeking assembly/production trucks, pallet jacks or other mechanized Corner Health Center at 734-484.3600 or workers for opportunities in the Ann equipment. “Hand-to-surface” methods visit online at: www.cornerhealth.org Arbor/Saline area. Openings on all 3 shifts. are mandatory. FOR SALE $9.75-10 hourly depending on the shift. 4HELP Computer Consultant. Harley-Davidson Road King, 1994 – the This is a temporary position with the pos- Information and Technology Services (ITS) first year this model was produced. This is sibility to go permanent after 90 days, de- Service Center/4HELP is looking for students an instant classic with ridiculously low mile- pending on attendance, attitude and job to support faculty, staff, students, alumni age: 7,500. Completely original except for performance. Send resumes to terraceta. and guests on the 4HELP hotline. The cona few really nice add-ons. $11,900 or best love@adeccona.com sultant will be responsible for effectively offer. Serious only, please. 989-390-9860. Outdoor yard and barn helper. and efficiently handling requests by enHELP WANTED Feed horses, fix fence, muck stalls, wash cars, suring quick and responsible resolution of Childcare help wanted: Care for weed garden, trim bushes and sometimes issues. The position starts at $8.25/hour. a 5-year-old for a full-time professional houseclean. $11/hour. Part-time, long term. Maintenance/Light Service mother who will be moving within a month Flexible hours, but must be reliable and Technician. Expanding Ford dealer lookfrom the Ypsi/Bellevue area to Ann Arbor on time. North side of Ann Arbor, 15 min- ing for motivated, state-licensed auto technear Ellsworth/Stone School. Great oppor- utes from WCC campus. References. Own nicians to perform maintenance and light tunity for an Early Childhood or Elementary transportation. 734-904-3106, or email: repairs. Ability to perform effective and Ed student to get some experience. Up to riverbendfarm@comcast.net. accurate inspection based selling is crucial. 10 hours per week, no nights or weekends. Below is a sample of recent emAssistant Teacher. IXL Learning Resume, cover letter and references needed. ployment want ads which have Center of South Lyon is looking to hire an For more information, contact jeclous@ been posted with WCC Career assistant teacher for multiple classrooms. wccnet.edu, or visit: http://annarbor.craigServices. Students are invited to Job duties will include lesson planning, imslist.org/kid/4055877978.html read these ads and to contact plementing strong classroom management, Stock/Cashier: Pet Supplies Plus is Career Services to find out how to and maintaining a clean and safe learning
environment. Looking for someone who is caring, loving and patient. Must work well with others and have early childhood experience. Grout Technician. Immediate full/ part/flex-time positions available for tile and grout trades people. Responsibilities include cleaning and sealing, staining, regrouting, recaulking and tile replacement. Experience desired, but not necessary. Office/Sales Position. Office and sales position for small wedding/banquet operation. Includes working with brides and grooms in planning their events, conducting Saturday tours of the wedding facility, simple accounting and data entry for events. Need to have computer skills including Word, Excel, etc. Because this is a small business, it includes many facets of running a business. A degree is not as important as common sense and the ability to work well with clients. Hours: Monday, Thursday, Friday and Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. ToysRUs Team Member. Holiday seasonal positions available. The positions are part-time and limited to September though the first part of January. Looking for friendly, goal oriented people who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment. Flexible scheduling. Sales team and night stocking crew positions available. CNC Machinists. Opportunity for a
CNC Machinist with five or more years of experience in CNC milling, CNC Turning, or CNC Mill Turning. The successful candidate will have high attention to detail, excellent problem solving skills and the ability to work in a team environment. Office Assistant. The Center for Automotive Research, a nonprofit research organization based in Ann Arbor, has an entry-level opening. This is a full-time (40 hours per week), temporary position. Work hours are 8 a.m.-5 p.m., with an hour for lunch. Under general supervision, this position is responsible for providing excellent customer service as the company’s receptionist and to the administrative staff. Radio Disney Road Crew. Represent Radio Disney and The Walt Disney Company brand. Maintain familiarity with Radio Disney programming, music, local hosts, national promotions, Disney Channel, Disney XD, Disney Junior and other partners. Review event details prior to event and upon arriving on-site. Load/unload station vehicles. (requires lifting). Complete on-site event setup. (sound system, signage, backdrop, prize table, ensure cords are safe and taped down, table is neat, perform sound check, etc.). Engage audience (invite select audience on stage for activities, administer contests, distribute prizes, assist guests with register to win prizing, etc.)
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Transfer. Transfer. When you transfer to UDM, you’ll discover a path that will take you further than you ever imagined. Our faculty are committed to developing your talents. And with a bachelor’s degree in one of our 100+ majors, you’ll go all the way to success. And beyond. UDM’s table at WCC’s College Transfer Day, Oct. 5 receive a free gift. Learn about takeyou another When you transferto to UDM , you’ll discover a pathUDM that and will take look at the great things Detroit. to developing your further than you ever imagined. Our faculty areincommitted
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talents. And with a bachelor’s degree in one of our 100+ majors, you’ll go all the way to success. And beyond.
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