See page B1
VOL. 21, NO. 2 The student publication of Washtenaw Community College
A NATIONAL PACEMAKER AWARD NEWSPAPER
MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2014 www.washtenawvoice.com
ANN ARBOR, MICHIGAN
WCC teacher doubts calling after rejection Gelderloos alleges gender discrimination in hiring process, sues college and administrators by NATALIE WRIGHT
Editor
Students sprawl out on the lawn in front of the Student Center on Thursday. Clockwise from bottom, James Hibbits, 17, a general math and science student from Ypsilanti; Alex Atkinson, 18, a welding student from Ann Arbor; Jack Floyd, 18, a web design student from Ann Arbor; Austin Holland, 18, a graphic design student from Fenton; Mason Opp, 17, a welding student from Pinckney; and Iam Felesky, 17, a music production student from Chelsea. SOFIA LYNCH | WASHTENAW VOICE
Bellanca, faculty members set aside differences, chat over coffee they had never met Bellanca, and aside from dis- “and we discussed many things.” cussing matters in the classroom, they wanted Alhussein, an Ann Arbor resident who to take the opportunity to meet the president formerly taught classes at the University of Amid long-simmering tension between face-to-face. See BELLANCA, Page A5 Washtenaw Community College administra“It was very nice meeting her,” Alhussein said, tors and the faculty union, Washtenaw President Rose Bellanca is making an effort to engage employees in a series of informal gatherings around campus. By meeting with employees at the Java Spot, as opposed to her office or the monthly meeting of the college’s board of trustees, the president said that she feels faculty members would be more likely to address specific concerns or give suggestions about their work environment. “Sometimes people don’t want to talk to the president in front of someone else,” Bellanca said, “or maybe they want to ask a question that’s really personal.” While the topics that were discussed varied greatly, the gathering, which was attended by four faculty members and a school secretary, was by all accounts a proactive and meaningful discussion for all parties involved. Two of the instructors in attendance, Arabic language professor Sabri Hummadi Alhussein and computer Sabri Hummadi Alhussein, left, brings his family to the Java Spot to meet President Rose Bellanca, far right, at the science Instructor Dan Ouellette, said coffee shop gathering last Wednesday. EJ STOUT | WASHTENAW VOICE by JON PRICE
Staff Writer
During her 10-year tenure at Washtenaw, Stephanie Gelderloos taught mostly developmental writing courses where she met a lot of “at-risk” students, students “whose lives are a little complicated,” she said. She encouraged these students to value and prioritize their education, even in tough times. “I teach them that … if you stick with this, and if you work hard, and you be a good student, and you graduate, you’re going to get the career. You’re going to get the job. You’re going to have the life that you want,” she said. “That’s what I believe in – I believe in the power of education to change people’s lives.” But when Gelderloos was not hired for a fulltime position, which she, and the hiring committee, thought she was a shoo-in for, her belief in See LAWSUIT, Page A7
WCC now home to new Ferris State students by M. M. DONALDSON
Staff Writer
Community college is usually considered a steppingstone to a four-year college or university that offers advanced degrees. But when a student’s life is rooted in the community surrounding the college, transferring elsewhere for a degree doesn’t make sense. Until this summer, Washtenaw Community College Business Management student Becky Alliston, 69, never considered going to Ferris State University an option for her education. She was not necessarily looking to complete a bachelor’s degree, until FSU partnered with WCC to bring classes to her community. Late this summer, FSU and WCC finalized a collaborative agreement to offer a FSU bachelor’s degree in Business Administration with Professional Tracks to WCC students. It is the inaugural university partnership and program for WCC’s University Center, according to Interim Vice President of Instruction Bill Abernethy in an interview with The Washtenaw Voice in March. This is part of WCC’s strategic plan to create university partnerships, Vice President of Student and Academic Services Linda Blakey said. Students interested in the program will See UNIVERSITY CENTER, Page A5
College ‘opens door’ to encore careers for older students by JAMES SAOUD
Managing Editor
An older demographic of students looking to expand careers and begin new ones have rooted themselves deep within the halls of Washtenaw Community College. And the college is welcoming them with open arms. The first ever Encore Career Open House was held on the second floor of the Student Center on Thursday from 4-7 p.m. “What we’ve tried to do is to reach out to a little bit older segment of students and talk about all the different opportunities at WCC,” said Evan Montague, associate vice president of recruitment and student enrollment. “Anything from our credit bearing courses to our non-credit offerings to our personal enrichment kind of courses.” The event, which was aimed towards students between the ages
40-59, was a way for the college to let those in that demographic know that they are more than welcome at WCC. “As a community college we are open to a very diverse range of students,” Chief of Staff Kate Thirolf said. “Wherever you’re from, whatever you’re background, we are an open door college.” And Thirolf stressed that because of the recent recession, students this age need an open-door college. “A lot of people who would’ve been working a job for a number of years were either laid off or realized they didn’t have growth opportunities anymore and found themselves maybe needing an encore career,” Thirolf said. Some of the most popular “encore” programs are health, business and IT, according to Thirolf. “We focused on where the jobs are,” Thirolf said. The open house featured a meetand-greet with faculty and staff members, which included a welcome
presentation led by WCC President either want to make a change because pursue their dream job,” Bellanca said. Rose Bellanca and several alumni. they no longer want the hours, or the “It’s like a whole new beginning.” “It’s to make students feel good and to pressure, or maybe they’ve retired hear their perspective and let them know from that job, and now they get to – Additional reporting by Sofia Lynch they can come here,” Bellanca said. C.J. Snow, one of the alumni speaking at the welcome presentation, spoke about losing his job as a music buyer at Borders when the company declared bankruptcy, and how he found solace in the classroom at WCC. “I had not been in a classroom in 25 years, and this was a very welcoming campus,” Snow said. “The instructors here are professional to the point where it’s almost ridiculous how much real-world experience they bring into their classrooms.” Snow graduated from WCC last year and is now a senior at Eastern Michigan University studying elementary education. “There are so many people that, Eleanor Brundage, left, welcomes older students to campus during the Encore Career at a certain part of their life, they Open House in the Student Center on Thursday. SOFIA LYNCH | WASHTENAW VOICE
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The Washtenaw Voice
September 8, 2014
Your improved service starts NOW. NEW Route 46: Service seven days a week in Ypsilanti
Welcome Day
Volunteer Opportunity: Free College Day
Tuesday, September 9th, 2014 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. WCC Community Park Swing back into fall with a FREE fun-filled day on campus. There will be freebies, wax hands and much, much more!
Saturday, October 11th from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (split shifts available). Give back to your campus by volunteering at Free College Day! Volunteers will receive dinner the night before the event, lunch at the event and a t-shirt for your service! Sign-up here: http://tinyurl.com/WCCFreeCollegeDayFall2014
Volunteer Fair
Walk to End Alzheimer’s
Sunday, September 28th 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Community Park Everyone has a reason to end Alzheimer’s Disease! Be a part of the nation’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research. JOIN OUR TEAM TODAY at: http://tinyurl.com/AlzheimerwalkteamWCC Who will you walk for?
Wednesday, September 10th 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Volunteering for area nonprofit organizations makes a big difference and impacts the lives of many. Learn how you can serve your community and build a better tomorrow.
Ticket: Annie! The Musical Thursday, October 2nd 7:30 p.m. Fisher Theatre in Detroit, MI Don’t miss the Tony Award Winning musical “Annie”! Bet your bottom dollar you’ll love it! Price: Only $25 – Includes FREE parking! TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
Blood Drive
Details at TheRideYourWay.org
ANN ARBOR
Ticket: Cedar Point’s “Halloweekends”
Saturday, October 4th 9:30 a.m. 10/4/14 to 12:30 a.m. 10/5/14 Join Student Activities with this spooktacular trip to Cedar Point during Halloweekends. Are you brave enough? Tickets include motor-coach transportation, admission, and unlimited drinks wristband! Price: Only $35! ON SALE SOON!
Thursday, October 2nd 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. WCC Fitness Center Your blood is urgently needed! Each donation saves up to three lives. Be a hero and save a life! Sign-up to donate: www.redcrossblood.org Enter sponsor code: WCC13 Walk-in appointments also accepted.
Talent Show Auditions Wednesday, October 8th 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
ML Towsley
Do you have an awesome talent? Try out for the talent show and show it off! Sign-up today at: http://tinyurl.com/WCCTalentShowNOV2014
WCC Sports
Join us for team tryouts! You must pre-register at the Sports office in SC 116 prior to the tryout date.
Women’s Softball: Wednesday, September 3 –Thursday, September 4 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at the WCC Softball Field
Running: Monday, September 8 & Wednesday, September 10 at 4 p.m. at the WCC Athletic Fields Storage
Men’s Ice Hockey: Wednesday, September 10 from 10-11:30 p.m., Monday, September 15
from 9:30-10:30 p.m. and September 17 from 10-11:30 p.m. @ Artic Coliseum Women’s Volleyball: Tuesday, September 16, Thursday, September 18, and Tuesday, September 23 from 9:15-11:00 p.m. at the WCC Fitness Center Men's Volleyball: Thursday, September 18th; Tuesday, September 23rd; and Thursday, September 25th from 9:15pm-11pm @ the WCC Health and Fitness Center Men's Basketball: Monday, September 29th; Wednesday, October 1st; Monday, October 6th; Wednesday, October 8th from 9:15-11pm @ the WCC Health and Fitness Center
Come Join the Concordia Family! • Growing Undergraduate Population • New Science Labs • Renovated Residence Halls • Updated Student Union • Upgraded Kreft Center for the Fine Arts • Three Schools to Choose from • HAAB School of Business Administration • School of Arts and Sciences • School of Education
.edu 734.995.7505 4090 GEDDES RD. ANN ARBOR 48105
NEWS
The Washtenaw Voice
September 8, 2014
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SECURITY NOTES: may 1–aug. 28 Information from incident reports provided to The Voice by Campus Safety and Security Director Jac Desrosiers.
reckless driving
An older male was driving a Corvette at a high rate of speed in Lot 3 on May 5 at 9:20 a.m. The subject driving the vehicle was not identified.
lewd behavior
Two underage individuals were seen engaged in sexual activity outside on the west end of the OE building on May 8 at 7:34 p.m. The incident was turned over to the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department. The disposition of the incident was unknown to WCC Campus Safety and Security.
larceny
A cell phone belonging to an employee was taken at the Harriet Street Center in Ypsilanti and reported to Campus Safety and Security on June 2 at 1:05 p.m. The incident was turned over to the Ypsilanti Police Department. The disposition of the incident was unknown campus security.
hit and run
A hit and run occurred in in Lot 7 on June 16 at 9:04 p.m. The Washtenaw County’s Sheriff’s Department was called to handle the situation. The disposition of the incident was unknown to campus security.
lewd behavior
An unknown subject was seen in the cafeteria of the Student Center touching himself inappropriately through his clothes on July 8 at 6:23 p.m. The man left the Student Center when approached by security officers.
larceny
A bicycle was stolen from outside of the Student Center on July 22 at 6:22 p.m. The victim was advised to contact the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department. The disposition of the incident was unknown to campus security.
larceny
A loaned graphing calculator was stolen larceny between July 7-9 while a student was sitting A student that left car windows open on in the lobby. It is unclear to Campus Safety the top floor of the parking structure had ciga- and Security whether the incident occurred rettes and small amount of cash stolen on June in the LA building or the GM building. The 2 at 3:22 p.m. incident was reported to Campus Safety and Security on July 25 at 11:35 p.m.
drug law violation
A student in the TI building was found in larceny possession of marijuana on June 5 at 9:13 a.m. A cell phone was stolen when a member Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department dep- of the Health and Fitness Center walked uties were investigating. The disposition of away from it in the workout area. The victhe incident was unknown to campus security. tim was advised to call the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Department when the incident was disorderly conduct reported on Aug. 12 at 6:46 p.m. The dispoA former WCC student was found using sition of the incident crime was unknown to the showers in the ML building after hours campus security. on June 5 at 11:33 p.m. When asked to leave, the person was belligerent to security officers. larceny A 2004 Ford in Lot 4 had its passenger side trespassing read window smashed out. A black, zip-up CD The same subject of the above crime was case was taken from the back seat on Aug. 12 found in the Health and Fitness Center using at 10:58 p.m. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s the showers on June 11 at 12:30 a.m. Department was contacted; disposition of the The Washtenaw County Sheriff ’s incident was unknown to campus security. Department was called to handle the situation. The disposition of the incident was unlarceny known to campus security. A backpack was stolen from a car in Lot 6 on Aug. 26 sometime between 12:30 p.m. and larceny 5:03 p.m. The bag contained camera lenses An instructor left their classroom in the TI and assorted property. The victim was advised building for 45 minutes on June 12, at 2:13 p.m. to contact the Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Upon return, she found that her laptop was gone. Department.
Developers, designers and photographers give back Give Camp, a 48-hour event for software developers, graphic designers, web developers and photographers will be at Washtenaw Community College from Sept. 19-21. The weekend-long event is held to create new websites and organize data for nonprofit community organizations. The call to arms is aimed specifically at developers with experience in PHP, Drupal, Python, ASP and NET. However, the event is also open to any photographers and graphic designers. While food, drink, shower and rest facilities are all provided by Give Camp, organizers ask that campers bring their own tents and sleeping bags. – James Saoud
Cody Strickland, left, and Jake Schroeder outside of the Student Center at WCC after calling for assistance for a young woman on Wednesday, Aug. 27. JON PRICE | WASHTENAW VOICE
Students become heroes by JAMES SAOUD
Managing Editor
Washtenaw Community College’s Student Center was relatively quiet the evening of Wednesday, Aug. 27, when Jake Schroeder, 20, and Cody Strickland, 20, both from Ypsilanti, met to hang out. Their hangout session in the Student Center soon turned into something a little more heroic than either of them had planned. “This girl was sitting next to us, she was on her computer, completely fine,” Schroeder said. Then panic struck. “She started shaking, her mouth was foaming up, and she was, like, spitting on the ground,” Schroeder said. “We didn’t know what to do, so I ran and got a paper towel.” After a few minutes, Strickland and Schroeder notified a security officer after they noticed the girl was pleading for assistance.
“She started saying ‘help, help,’ so we ran to get security,” Strickland said. Soon after that, medics pulled up in the emergency zone in front of the Student Center and they began to assist the woman. Campus Safety and Security officials say this is not an uncommon occurrence around campus – and Director Jac Desrosiers offers some guidance to those who, like Schroeder and Strickland, find themselves as necessary first-responders. “If someone on campus appears to be having a life-threatening medical emergency – 911 may be called first. Then, those present should immediately call Campus Safety and Security,” Desrosiers said in a statement delivered to The Voice through Susan Ferraro, director of media relations. “Our security officers are trained in first aid and CPR. If needed, our security officers will call for an ambulance.” – Additional reporting by Jon Price
campus safety tips Campus Safety and Security officials are encouraging students and employees to be proactive in creating awareness and staying safe around the campus community. CSS Director Jac Desrosiers said the following safety guidelines apply to any public place including shopping malls, special events and even places of worship.
general safety guidelines:
—Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. —Avoid isolated areas. —Try to avoid walking alone at night. Walk with friends if possible. —Call Campus Safety (734) 973-3411 or 3411 from one of the college house phones for an escort if needed.
—Notify Campus Safety immediately of suspicious or criminal activity. —If an emergency arises – a serious health issues, a crime, or any situation in which you feel endangered contact Campus Safety. There are phones located in all buildings across campus, as well as in several key areas outside.
if walking alone:
—Stay alert. —Keep your mind on your surroundings. Who’s in front of you and who’s behind you. Don’t get distracted. —Walk purposefully, stand tall and make eye contact with people around you. —Trust your instincts. If you feel uncomfortable in a situation, leave.
Insurance saves students from disaster
Medicaid a relief to some, but dental insurance not always guaranteed
by M. M. DONALDSON
Staff Writer
No geckos or cavemen advertise how Washtenaw Community College students take 15 minutes to save thousands of dollars. Rather an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer is ready to help with filling out the MI Bridges application used to apply for Medicaid benefits. With the high costs of health care, insurance coverage protects against incurring potential debt that can cripple educational plans, homeownership and credit ratings. “This simple application can save a lifetime of heartache,” Washtenaw Health Plan Community Resource Navigator Michael Randall said, which he estimates takes 15 minutes to fill out.
Part of the Affordable Care Act initiatives for 2014, many uninsured Michigan residents became eligible for Medicaid in April of this year due to the expansion, which had higher income eligibility limits. “I’ve never seen a policy impact society like this,” Randall said, relating how individuals are able to access health care coverage that has not been available to them in the past. “It’s a huge relief,” WCC journalism student Brandon Sheldon said. “Especially with having a health scare two months ago.” Sheldon, now 30, was 18 years old when he last had health insurance. He was able to qualify for Medicaid on the Michigan expansion, but could not enroll until last April 1. “I tried my best to not incur health care costs,” Sheldon said regarding the
years he did not have health insurance. Despite his best intentions and relying on urgent care when he needed treatment, he still had a few trips to the emergency room. He is still making payments for a $1,300 bill. Often, young people have gone to the doctor and the office tells them they are no longer Medicaid eligible, Randall said. The provider neglects to clarify that they are no longer Medicaid eligible as a child, but may be Medicaid eligible as an adult. “They may have had Medicaid as a child, but aged off at 19,” Randall said. “They need to reapply as an adult.” Working with people in financial emergencies, Randall said that when people come to him for cash or food assistance, he first asks if they have health insurance. He talks to them about prioritizing their health care.
Need help with paper? See Writing Center by VIVIAN ZAGO
Staff Writer
Students fill the Writing Center on the third floor of the LA building for a multi-class orientation session on Thursday, Aug 28. EJ STOUT | WASHTENAW VOICE
A group of students is gathered around a table with their books and pens in hands. One of the tutors approaches and starts to explain about the services and how they can assist the students in meeting the writing demands of their classes. It’s time for another Writing Center orientation. Students must listen to the presentation, complete the assignment and have it checked by a staff member. The Writing Center has been a huge resource available on campus since 1976. Tom Zimmerman has been the director of the center for about 11 years and he also leads some of the orientations. “A lot of students come here because they have a curriculum requirement,” said Zimmerman. “There are six different courses that have Writing Center assignments, which are checked in here by us.” Students enrolled in English 050, 051, 090, 091, 100 and 111 courses have to complete the
They may be in good health today, but tomorrow a health related emergency could be detrimental, causing them to owe thousands of dollars. Shelton recounted how he had incurred a $9,000 bill from another emergency room visit when he was 24. He would’ve had to declare bankruptcy if the hospital had not qualified him as low-income and forgiven the bill. Spending time on the WCC campus over the summer, Randall found many students who are still eligible for Medicaid, but do not realize it. “Can it give me dental coverage?” is a question many students have approached Randall. Medicaid has dental coverage, but there are few dental providers who accept it. There are only three dental See INSURANCE, Page A7
Writing Center assignments that count as much as 25 percent of their final grade. “If they want a good grade in their class, they have to come here,” Zimmerman said. “And I think the way we look at it is that the Writing Center provides students with writing practice, without a lot of grade pressure.” The center also gives students the opportunity to have multiple people look at their writing and get a lot of feedback about their work. “The Writing Center serves two purposes: the English classes that have Writing Center assignments all have workbooks,” said Simon Mermelstein, 26, one of the tutors at the Writing Center for almost six years. “And we administrate the workbooks, on a complete basis, but we don’t assign grades.” The Writing Center consists of English instructors on duty along with a staff of trained and skilled tutors. Writing Center tutors work with students on a range of college writing assignments and at any stage of the writing process. According to Zimmerman, all of the tutors who work at the Writing Center got A’s in their English classes, and many were recommended to him by their instructors. See WRITING CENTER, Page A6
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VOICES
September 8, 2014
editorial
Faculty departures bad news for students
Washtenaw has garnered a reputation as one of the best community colleges in the nation for a lot of reasons, but the most important, by far, is the quality of instruction the college provides. Good teachers lead to student success. Other things help, but without the teachers, the college has nothing. The defection of welding instructor Coley McLean to Schoolcraft College is worrying news for students, as is the departure of English instructor Stephanie Gelderloos, whether permanent or temporary. (See page A1) Both of these women were praised by their students and colleagues at Washtenaw. McLean taught here for 16 years, Gelderloos for 10. Both surely changed the lives of hundreds of students. They were fixtures in the college community and will be sorely missed. Washtenaw has always been a coveted destination for college instructors, drawing some of the best from nearby universities and
other community colleges around the state. Washtenaw has a reputation for luring the best of the best away from other institutions. Now, they’re being lured away. Some of our best are leaving angry and frustrated and going to colleges where they say they’ll be allowed to do the job they want to do – give their best to students. Despite how one might feel about controversies that have been simmering on campus, there is no denying that the loss of these instructors is a blow to student success. And if this is foreshadowing of a larger flight looming, everyone with an investment in this institution should be worried. It is not unthinkable, given what we’re hearing from so many employees about the climate of distrust and fear growing among them. If the best teachers leave, the best students will leave. Period. And this institution is too good and too important to go out that way.
If you want privacy, be private NATALIE WRIGHT nkwright@wccnet.edu
The recent iCloud scandal, in which hackers stole and leaked nude photos of various celebrities, has reminded us all, once again, that we can have no expectation of privacy when it comes to the Internet. Legitimate news sites and Buzzfeed and its ilk are now overflowing with advice to lock your phone down, to keep your stuff safe. With no industry standard for securing data, the burden is left on the consumer to read through the fine print of user agreements, learn each company’s policies and lock down their settings. And even if you do this, privacy is not guaranteed. With the iCloud scandal, celebrities’ usernames and passwords were stolen. Better privacy settings probably wouldn’t have prevented this. Perhaps the better solution is to just assume that nothing is safe. If it’s on your phone, if it’s anywhere online, it’s probably not private. A handful of skilled hackers hiding in their basements are not the only ones who can access your lives.
Infamous NSA whistleblower Edward Snowden told The Guardian that it is not unusual for NSA workers to find nude photos, of any unknown citizen (albeit, they must be attractive, he said) and pass them around the office. “Now in the course of their daily work, they stumble across something that is completely unrelated to their work in any sense,” Snowden explained. “For example, an intimate nude photo of someone in a sexually compromising situation, but they’re extremely attractive. “So what do they do? They turn around and they show their coworker … It’s never reported. No one ever knows about it because the auditing of these systems is incredibly weak,” Snowden said. The fact that government officials would participate in something like this is, of course, sickening. However, the lesson to be learned is that nothing in the Cloud is safe. If it’s out there, someone other than the intended recipient will get to it at some point. So next time you decide to put nude photos, or other compromising information about yourself out into the universe, think: Is this something I want a bunch of creepy guys passing around the office? Is this something I would share with the world? Because that’s what you’re doing – sharing yourself with the world.
The Washtenaw Voice
It’s a MAD, MAD world JAMES SAOUD jsaoud@wccnet.edu
Russia and the Ukraine at war. Ebola spreads through Africa. Police wage war on their own police. Their own citizens fight back. And extremists threaten the U.S., claiming that they want our blood, taking it in the gruesome killings of American journalists. Are you afraid yet? Because to me, these kinds of headlines look like they belong to a world that is falling apart. But really, headlines aside, we are probably living through the most peaceful time in human history. Mutually assured destruction, sometimes refereed to as MAD, has made it necessary for many countries at disagreement to solve things in a more civilized manner. At least at first glance. If you’re unfamiliar with this concept, it’s more or less the idea that everyone has nukes pointed at each other. If you shoot, we shoot. And nobody wins. Now, don’t get me wrong, there is plenty of chaos in the world today, obviously, but MAD has prevented any serious discussion of something like a third world war. Yes, we may be safe, but at what cost? What has happened to our modern civilization now that we’re all forced to get along and play nice with a gun pointed at our head? And what if your threat has no stake in this world? With information that has been released from U.S. leaders, it appears that The Islamic State of Iraq and Syria, commonly referred to as ISIS, appears to be missing that stake. Which has turned them into a major threat. “This is an organization that has an
apocalyptic, end-of-days strategic vision,” U.S. General Martin Dempsey said of ISIS. However, he spoke with confidence that the organization would eventually be defeated. ISIS, which was formed in 2006, went under the radar of most Americans for nearly 10 years until recent video surfaced showing the beheadings of U.S. journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff. Now, with a recent discovery of a Dell laptop that was seized in Syria, it has been discovered that the extremist group had planned to weaponize the bubonic plague by extracting the bacteria Yersinia pestis from infected animals. The document found on the laptop reveals plans to “use small grenades with the virus and throw them in closed areas like metros, soccer stadiums and entertainment centers.” Are you afraid yet? I’m not going to pretend like I understand the rationale or the science behind these claims, but they’ve been reported everywhere from The Huffington Post to International Business Times. We’ve pointed our guns and pulled the trigger in the direction of ISIS, even killing some of their leaders in a recent airstrike. But after murders, beheadings and crucifixions, it’s scary to imagine what the next play from ISIS will be. It is no doubt that the world is a scary and confusing place right now, especially with the U.S. media’s constant urge to find “comic bookesque” villains. But this is not the first time. Humanity has always found a way to carry on in such dark times, even in a world where the headlines tell us the world is constantly falling apart. We are constantly rebuilding the world that we tear apart. It is the growth and evolution of humanity Never stopping. Always marching on, even when the gun is pointed at our head. Maybe only because the gun is pointed at our head.
Writing Center: extra work or a way to improve your skills? However, what I noticed was the assignments were built in a way that every week we were able to improve our skills. Step by step, with no pressure, the essays were being written. And my VIVIAN ZAGO mistakes were steadily decreasing. vperiera@wccnet.edu I always had a one-on-one session with a different tutor, and all of them were really helpful. Without judging my errors, tutors provided me One of the first classes I enrolled in here at excellent feedback regarding my work: how Washtenaw Community College was English to organize it and how to create and revise 111, an English composition course that has a each draft. It always prepared me for the next required Writing Center component. assignment. I went to the first class with lots of doubts, Some students may think the Writing and I was a little confused about all the as- Center assignments are extra work that resignments I had to do. After class, with my quires a great effort. But I can’t count how workbook in hand, I walked into the Writing many times the tutors helped me to clarify Center room, located in LA 355, to do my my essay’s focus, develop my essay’s thesis or orientation. structure my essay’s argument. Moreover, they What I found there was a great space with helped me identify and correct my grammar a lot of other students just like me – confused and syntax mistakes. and also waiting for the orientation – and a I really enjoyed my experience with the staff ready and prepared to help us. As soon Writing Center. Everybody is there to help us as the tutor started to talk, my doubts were to improve our skills. And I still occasionally being left behind one by one. visit there to have someone review my papers Because English is my second language, and give me new ideas. I was still feeling really insecure about my I’m thrilled that our college has this huge writing (and all the grammar errors, spelling learning resource available to us, and I know mistakes and prepositions slips that I would I’m a better and more successful student becertainly make). cause of it.
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EDITOR
Natalie Wright
nkwright@wccnet.edu
James Saoud
jsaoud@wccnet.edu
CREATIVE
EJ Stout
emjstout@gmail.com
ONLINE EDITOR
Christina Fleming
cfleming@wccnet.edu
STAFF WRITERS
M. M. Donaldson Jon Price Vivian Zago Adrianna Velazquez
mmorrisdonaldson@wccnet.edu jprice18@wccnet.edu vpereira@wccnet.edu avelazq12@gmail.com
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS
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COPY EDITOR
Nina Di Mauro
CONTRIBUTORS
Sofia Lynch Paulette Parker Dan Riley Taylor Robinson Lydia Rudolph Allison Sherman Brandon Smith Lori Tackett
snlynch@wccnet.edu
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ADVERTISING MANAGER
Becky Alliston
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MANAGING EDITOR NEWS, FEATURES AND VIDEO MANAGING EDITOR
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 welcomes letters to the editor from its readers and will make every effort to publish them. We reserve the right to edit letters for space considerations, and ask that writers limit their comments to no more than 400 words. All letters must include a name and contact information, such as an email address or phone number, so the letters can be verified before they are printed. 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.
Volume 21, No. 2 4800 E. Huron River Dr. TI 106 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 (734) 677-5125 thewashtenawvoice@gmail.com
VOICES
The Washtenaw Voice
September 8, 2014
A5
‘Ice Bucket Challenge’
JON PRICE jprice18@wccnet.edu
Most people with a Facebook account, or even an Internet connection for that matter, are probably aware of the viral phenomenon known as the “ALS Ice Bucket Challenge.” Everyone from Ben Affleck to Ben Solis have been dumping buckets of ice cold water over their heads to raise money and awareness for the rare, neurodegenerative condition amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, more recognizably known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. For those of us who have taken residence underneath a large rock for the past few months, the “Ice Bucket Challenge,” was started by former Boston College baseball player Pete Frates. Frates was diagnosed with ALS on July 31. After doctors gave him the news, he challenged friends as well as celebrities to record themselves dumping a bucket of ice water over their heads or donate money to an ALS charity. He hoped the challenge would raise awareness about the incurable, yet relatively obscure, disease. According to the ALS Association, the disease affects approximately 30,000 Americans at any given time. Participants in the challenge would subsequently nominate or “call out” friends and relatives, who would are expected to donate or douse within 24 hours. Frates’ challenge far surpassed anyone’s expectations, and to date has raised more than $100 million and had approximately three million
participants, according to the ALS Association, the preeminent charity in funding a cure. Of course, the Internet has brought out its typical detractors and pessimists. Some believe it is simply another reason for all of us self-involved millennials to post yet another video of ourselves so that we might feed our massive egos. Others see the overwhelming mass of videos congesting their Facebook news feed as a nuisance and video evidence that people would rather dump cold water on themselves than actually donate to a charity. Contrary to this notion, evidence suggests that many have recorded themselves doing the challenge in conjunction with their monetary donations, simultaneously raising money and awareness for those affected by the disease. Some think that there are other pressing matters that would be more deserving of the funds and attention, yet their lack of effort to further those agendas suggests that while those individuals are happy to complain, they’re apparently reluctant to take action. While most of those who take exception to this cause are likely just using the veil of Internet anonymity to be cruel and spiteful towards others around them taking action and helping to raise money for a good cause, because you know, people can be generally terrible. While there are many diseases and afflictions, abuses and injustices that deserve to be in the national conversation and should be addressed, right now ALS is – and those suffering from the disease are grateful for that. If you happen to be one of those “trolls,” sowing the seeds of discord because you take pleasure in online
comment board discussions degenerating into profane arguments, I have one simple question for you: What’s up with that? See America, this is why we can’t have anything nice. There will always be pessimists, naysayers and downright rotten individuals who want nothing more than to argue for argument’s sake. I’m not saying that everyone has to be on board with every cause that comes knocking at your door. Lord knows there is no shortage of those these days. Nor do I believe that people should donate blindly before investigating the work that a charity does. I’m simply saying that in those rare moments, when something transcends all of the divisiveness that Americans seem to thrive on so much of the time, think about the golden rule and please consider shutting the hell up. Some people may have a legitimate reason not to take the challenge. Possibly you’re a wicked witch or a gremlin with a serious aversion to water. Others may simply choose, as I so often do, to ignore the latest Internet trend, and you know what? That’s okay. However, it’s unnecessary to be negative or spiteful to those who wish to participate, and I ask that instead of letting yourselves be polarized by such a non-issue, let yourself get polarized (aha, see what I did there?) for a good cause. To see the staffers of The Washtenaw Voice take the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and hear whom they have called out, check out the video at washtenawvoice.com
Real scare tactics for your health much greater. Diabetes is the leading cause of blindness, amputations, and kidney failure in the U.S. For 29.1 million U. S. adults, diabeM.M. DONALDSON tes is not only a disease but becomes mmorrisdonaldson@wccnet.edu a lifestyle change. Worse yet, are the 8.1 million individuals who have diabetes, but have not been diagnosed, Dare. according to the National Diabetes Poke your finger with a pin. Statistics Report 2014, recently reNow do it five more times. leased by the Centers for Disease Double dare. Control and Prevention. Poke yourself with a needle. Lets break that number down to Can you do it three more times? something we can understand. Think. One. Every time you eat something, calAnd that is you. culate the carbohydrates you are going “With modest weight loss and modto consume. erate physical activity, you can delay or What exactly is a carbohydrate? prevent type 2 diabetes,” the National Reality. Institute of Health lists on its website. Do this every day for the rest of For individuals over the age of 60, your life if you have insulin depen- making these two small changes redent diabetes. duce the risk of developing type II diWhile there are definite differences abetes by 71 percent. That is a huge between type I and type II diabetes, number. Just think how much you a combination of genetics and poor could increase that percent if you health can require individuals with started incorporating little healthy type II diabetes to do multiple finger choices at the age of 20, 30 or even pokes throughout the day to test the 40 years of age. glucose levels of their blood. With type Hope. II diabetes, insulin resistance can be Even little changes will make a difso severe that insulin injections may ference and enough little changes can be required. keep you healthy for a lifetime. Educating, informing, begging and pleading for people to eat a balanced diet and get exercise are still being M. M. Donaldson is a staff writer ignored. with The Voice and a journalism stuDo we have to resort to threats of dent at WCC. She has a bachelor’s depain? gree in family and community services It seems like a punitive approach, from Michigan State University and threatening that you will be punished has several years experience with nuif you don’t do the right thing for your trition issues affecting infants through health. But what you can lose is so older adults. UNIVERSITY CENTER, From A1
The Voice staff takes the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge. From left, Natalie Wright, Ben Ellsworth, Christina Fleming, EJ Stout, M.M. Donaldson, Erik Morris and Keith Gave. JAMES SAOUD | WASHTENAW VOICE
by EJ STOUT
Managing Editor
Monday, Sept. 8 WHAT: Greenflash Tap Takeover WHEN: 5 p.m. WHERE: Whole Foods Market Cranbrook, 990 W. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor
Friday, Sept. 12 WHAT: Founders Tap Takeover WHEN: 5 p.m. WHERE: Whole Foods Market Cranbrook, 990 W. Eisenhower Pkwy., Ann Arbor
Thursday, Sept. 11 WHAT: Beer Tasting: Michigan Made WHEN: 7-9 p.m. WHERE: ABC, 114 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor MORE: $25 advance/$30 day of; includes beer samples, appetizer buffet, program with tasting notes and entry in door prize drawing
Sunday, Sept. 14 WHAT: Halcyon Sundaze in the Beer Garden WHEN: 2-9 p.m. WHERE: ABC Microbrewery, 720 Norris St., Ypsilanti MORE: The last Sunday night of the year with live music spinning all night in the Beer Garden. No cover.
BELLANCA, From A1
campus,” Ouellette said. “She was empathetic. We agreed that there are really no rules in place to keep students from using bad language.” Although Ouellette concluded there wasn’t much that could be done to address his concerns about foul language, he left feeling optimistic about being able to have such conversations with Bellanca. “I’m really glad she’s available for these informal get-togethers,” he said. This was the fourth such meeting this fall, and the president said she plans to continue seeking out employees in this fashion, which she jokingly compared to a “cocktail hour except with coffee,” because of the informal atmosphere and a level of comfort for both parties. “It’s been wonderful,” Bellanca said after the 90-minute meeting. “The conversations have been very good.” Bellanca told The Voice she plans to host similar meetings in the future with other types of employees, such
Yemen, has been teaching at WCC for the past three years. He said the primary reason that he attended the meeting was to encourage the administration to consider the addition of a third Arabic language course. Alhussein said there is a demand for an advanced course among his students and invited the president to observe one of his classes, an offer that Bellanca said she was happy to accept. “If a faculty member invites me to a class, I’d love to go,” Bellanca said. “And, quite frankly, I would feel a lot more comfortable in Arabic than a math class,” she admitted. A plethora of topics were discussed by those in attendance, from offering more certificate programs, as suggested by Deanna Benyo, a secretary at the college, to addressing profanity being used by students. “I wanted to talk to her just about some of the language you hear on
Tuesday, Sept. 23 WHAT: Beer vs. Wine Tasting WHEN: 7-9 p.m. WHERE: Vinology, 110 S. Main St., Ann Arbor MORE: 2nd Annual Beer vs. Wine Throwdown, pairing beverages with four course tasting menu. $60 advance, or $70 day of, plus tax and gratuity
WEEKLY ROUNDUP TUESDAYS
WHAT: Take Away Tuesdays WHERE: ABC, 114 E. Washington St., Ann Arbor MORE: $5 off growler fills when you spend $5
THURSDAYS
WHAT: Dollar off pints of Michigan craft beer WHERE: Fraser’s Pub, 2045 Packard St., Ann Arbor
as support staff and skilled-trades workers. “Some had some very serious questions,” Bellanca said. “Some people just need to get to know me personally instead of this image of a president in an office.” Faculty members who attended agreed the meeting was a success. “I thought it was great,” Benyo said. “I was really impressed.” Benyo said she felt the president took her remarks seriously and assured her that preparing students to enter the work sphere and developing certificate programs were among top priorities for the administration. Those in attendance said they were hopeful that their conversations with the president could inspire real change and were happy to have their voices heard. “This is the first time we’ve met,” Alhussein said, “but I think that I will be seeing a lot more.”
need to apply to FSU directly. The arrangement is considered a 3+1 program, which allows for three years to be taken at WCC and one year through FSU. It is different from the MACRO or the Michigan Transfer Agreement, which allows students to transfer up to 30 general education credits. With the 3+1 program, students would earn 48 credits from WCC, at which point they can start with FSU and be dually enrolled, according to Justin Faris, FSU off-campus coordinator for the Capital and Central Region. The University Center arrangement allows 30 credits to be taken at the FSU tuition rate, but they do not have to be taken all at once. This allows for a gradual blending of student financial costs for tuition between the two colleges, Faris said. Once FSU accepts a student for the business program, financial aid is routed through FSU. Students are instructed to pay their WCC tuition balance from the financial aid refund from FSU. The gradual blending of classes through WCC and more intense classes through FSU also allows students to adjust to the workload and have a flexible schedule that works with their career and family. The FSU classes will be online until there is more interest, and there is an interest for face-to-face instruction, Faris said. Alliston was one of the first students to apply for this University Center program after reading an article in a spring issue of The Washtenaw Voice, where she works as the advertising manager. She had looked at other local colleges to transfer to, but felt the opportunity with Ferris was the best fit for her. She had started classes at WCC more than three years ago, after her employer eliminated her position, but she was not ready to retire. Needing the skills to create an event planning company with her daughter, she started in the culinary arts program, but moved to business management as a better choice for their goals. Blakey said that FSU at WCC is an opportunity for students who live
locally who want more options than the University of Michigan, Eastern Michigan University or Concordia University. “This really caters to non-traditional students,” Faris said. Not having to relocate for school can help alleviate some of the costs of college for some students who know they financially cannot move to FSU. For others, they want to stay home because they have a job and a family. Faris is pleased that a few students have already enrolled for fall classes through this agreement without any marketing to promote FSU at WCC. He estimates three students have applied through the University Center, but FSU will tally the official count after the WCC drop date. Blakey stressed that the University Center program is in its first semester and it remains a work in progress. Faris described how the Business Administration with Professional Tracks made the most sense to start the partnership with WCC. The degree is appropriate for those who might be pursuing culinary, accounting or finance and want the experience of business administration classes, human resources and finance. The FSU marketing team will work with WCC to develop marketing strategies to get the word out, using email blasts and postcards to let students know about the 3+1 program. Faris said it is also likely to be involved in college fairs, but to promote the University Center, “we like to do things bigger than just a table.” He envisions a tent with games, T-shirts and more information to resources online for students to find out more about FSU. Faris said FSU wants to see how many students are interested in the various programs it offers and what WCC would be able to support, but with the main goal to get students enrolled. He said the college will be recruiting at WCC during the fall and be available to answer questions for students. Blakey speculated that a FSU adviser would be available on the WCC campus once a month to answer questions. Alliston felt she had a better opportunity with FSU than any other college, especially if she could stay at WCC. “I can’t up my life and move,” she said.
A6
September 8, 2014
PLAY PAGE
excited to start classes and have her assignments reviewed at the Writing Center. “I also meet a lot of students. I see so many “I know it will demand more work for me, but good writers,” Zimmerman said. “They have I can’t wait to see my writing skills improving,” good skills, enjoy writing, and later I could ask said the 18-year-old from Ypsilanti. them to become a tutor here.” The Writing Center is a resource available C. J. Snow, 48, from Ypsilanti, has been a to help and support students with any aspects tutor in the Writing Center for four years, and of writing, from coming up with ideas, basic he’s glad to work with students and help them sentence structure, proofreading, to research to improve their skills. documentation. “Basically, what I do is to help students with “Any student can come in, at any time, for their writing when they come here and have anything that has to do with writing, whether it’s questions regarding their assignments, either for an English class, or just for personal writing,” for English classes or personal writing,” Snow Mermelstein said. said. “A lot of students bring their resumes, ap“I can have help with my grammar, my vocabuplication letters, and we assist them with any- lary, and lots of advice regarding my work,” said thing they need help on.” Dominick Anghur, a 19-year-old biology major Snow is a former WCC student and now at- from Ann Arbor. “I have lots of mistakes, and tends to Eastern Michigan University. He is an I need someone to fix it. That’s why I like the elementary education major, and he’s happy to Writing Center.” be part of the tutorial team. “When I first started here at WCC, this was a WRITING CENTER HOURS huge resource for myself,” said Snow. FALL 2014 Rachel Stephenson, 18, a medical field student from Ypsilanti, is confident about the supMonday 9 a.m. – 9 p.m. port she will get from the Writing Center this Tuesday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. semester. Wednesday 8 a.m. – 9 p.m. “I think the center will be very helpful for me Thursday 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. and other students, especially if I am writing a 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. paper,” Stephenson said. “Here they help us to see if it’s the proper format, to meet the style Friday 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. the teacher requires.” Saturday 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Amanda Peterson, a liberal arts major, was
The Washtenaw Voice
WRITING CENTER, From A3
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ACROSS 1. Pitchers’ illegal moves 6. “Get ___ of yourself!” 11. Camping grp. 14. Oil well firefighter Red 15. Private instructor 16. Barley bristle 17. Tool for a certain shark 19. Hula hoop? 20. And others, for short 21. Prefix for “way” or “wife” 22. Certain Major Leaguer (Abbr.) 24. Tool that’s a wicker basket 28. Soccer is football there 31. Skating figure 32. Medical pictures 33. Phrase in legalese 34. Veiled oath? 37. Ones in the fast lane? 39. Like newly pressed pants 42. Cry to a bullfighter 43. Use acid to cut 45. Joyous, in poetry 46. Draw a conclusion 48. Willows used in basketry 49. Tool used for those who serve 53. “Hop” or “sing” ending 54. Shooters’ org. 55. Expression of sorrow 59. Tillis or Torme 60. Tool used for good, strong slaps 64. Tiger’s org. 65. Pear and apple, e.g. 66. Small-minded 67. Author Rand 68. Spring purchases 69. Sooty residues
DOWN 1. Titular film pig 2. Mine entrance 3. Singer’s syllables 4. Party poopers 5. ___ Lanka 6. Indoor courtyards 7. Football-field conferences 8. How some stocks are sold (Abbr.) 9. Piniella or Rawls 10. Soak 11. Soothing salves 12. Like Georgia Brown 13. Diva Baker 18. Tahiti sweetie 23. Still and all 25. Church feature 26. A Cockney will often drop one 27. Hunchback of film horror 28. Large public show 29. River that flows to the Caspian Sea 30. Demolish, to a Brit 33. Daisy look-alike 34. Land in the ocean 35. Forest ruminant 36. Lofty works 38. Ring officials 40. Natural effortlessness 41. Stirs up trouble 44. Started the Model T 46. Small hotel 47. Monday-football times 48. Give the go-ahead 49. Neighbor of St. Petersburg 50. Song of lament 51. Legendary pitcher Ryan 52. Salad ingredient, sometimes 56. Suffix meaning “stone” 57. Entr’___ 58. “The ___ the limit!” 61. It’s found in a lode 62. Average grade 63. Relaxing resort
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FOR SALE providing personal care, socializing, trans- and Michigan State regulations, guidelines HARLEY-DAVIDSON ROAD KING: porting, cooking, and cleaning. Must be and laws. Fabricate, cement and removed 1994 with just 7,500 gently ridden origi- available to work weekends and holidays, temporary crowns, clean cement after final miles. Completely original except for have a valid Michigan driver’s license, reli- nal cementation of fixed prosthetics, dea few classy add-ons. Perfect condition. able transportation and pass a criminal his- liver bite splints, take final impressions for $10,500 or best offer. Call 989-390-9860. tory check. No experience required. This is fixed prosthetics, tissue pack, place sealSERVICES an excellent opportunity to learn new skills ants, place matrix bands and wedges (RDA). VOLUNTEER TUTORS: Washtenaw and make a major difference in someone’s ENTRY LEVEL WELDER: Steel fabriLiteracy needs volunteers to tutor life. Phone Lindsay at 734-485-1722 week- cating and erection company interested in adults in basic reading, writing, math days from 9 a.m.-2 p.m., or FAX resume to entry level welders for full time positions and English as a Second Language. If 734-485-4230. with onsite training. Must be a welding in Help change lives – one word at a Below is a sample of recent employ- program graduate. time! Contact info@washtenawliteracy. ment want ads which have been posted CNC LATHE SETUP/OPERATOR: org or call 734-879-1320. with WCC Career Services. Students are Work with programmers to develop maNEED HEALTH CARE? Are you be- invited to read these ads and to contact chining process, including work holding, tween the ages of 12–22? Contact the Career Services to find out how to apply programming, and tooling. Input and prove Corner Health Center at 734-484-3600 for the openings. Career Services is lo- out program and tooling through the manuor visit online at: www.cornerhealth.org. cated in ML 104. For more information, facture of a first piece. Submit first piece HELP WANTED phone 734-677-5155, email careers@ for process approval. Offset program, and CERTIFIED AUTO TECHNICIANS: wccnet.edu, or visit www.wccnet.edu/ make changes accordingly. Run producSpeedy Auto Service and Novi Firestone careerconnection/. tion as needed, or train and oversee maare accepting applications. Competitive DENTAL ASSISTANT (INTERN chine operators to ensure parts are made pay, medical/dental benefits and 401K. OR RECENT GRADUATE)/CDA/RDA: to specification. Maintain an efficient and Immediate openings available. Apply Greeting, seating, educating and dismissing clean work space. online at www.speedyautoservice.com. patients. Taking digital radiographs (Dexis) C O U N T E R S TA F F – B A R I S TA : DIRECT SUPPORT STAFF: Seeking and maintain computerized patient charts Counterstaff and baristas that enjoy caring compassionate individuals for all (Dentrix). Assisting doctor, hygienists and working with people in an elegant and shifts to provide services for adults with other assistant when needed. Taking algi- fast paced coffeehouse. Responsibilities indevelopmental disabilities and mental nate impressions, pouring up models, and clude taking orders, serving and preparing illnesses in their own homes in the Ann making bleach trays. Sterilizing instru- coffee drinks, teas, desserts, and pastries. Arbor/Dexter area. Services include, but ments, cleaning and setting up the opera- Must be available nights and weekends. are not limited to, passing medications, tory for treatment. Abide by OSHA, HIPPA, SECURITY AGENT: Entry level position.
Patrol of buildings and property. Protection of company assets and people. Monitoring of building security systems. Respond to emergencies. Incident reports and maintaining daily paperwork. Schedule flexibility (work around school schedules). SCOREKEEPER/ARENA OPERATIONS EMPLOYEE: Help needed scorekeeping nightly adult league hockey games along with light cleaning and general facility management tasks. Evenings and weekends required. TEACHER/INSTRUCTOR: Part-time position and could be 3-5 days per week with approximately a two-hour time frame each day. We work throughout Washtenaw County. Current locations available are Ann Arbor, Dexter, Chelsea, Manchester and Stockbridge. Must enjoy working with elementary-aged children. Must: Have experience and enjoy working with children ages 5-11; Be able to manage a class of 16 kids with enthusiasm and positive praise; Have reliable transportation and proof of auto insurance. Be able to transport materials to each job, and keep them safe while in your possession. Be on time and an excellent work ethic. Have great organizational skills. Enjoy math and science concepts. All materials and lesson plans will be provided to you. AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIAN/ MECHANIC: Responsible for diagnosing, servicing, and repairing vehicle issues related to: brakes, steering, suspension, engine, drivability and electrical components. You will be working with domestic and foreign Requirements: 5-10 years of experience as an automotive technician, mechanic or test technician, experience servicing and repairing European vehicles, ASE certified (current), preferably State of Michigan certified (brakes, steering, suspension, engine,
drivability, electrical), team-oriented and focused on maintaining a high level of customer service, willing to continuously learn new information and techniques. ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF/ CHILDCARE: Positions are available for both part- and full-time employment. Candidates should have a willingness to learn and a great personality. Responsibilities include: watching children in the childcare, cleaning the facility and administrative tasks in the client management and operational systems. MEMBERSHIP SALES REPRESENTATIVE: Seeking an energetic, self-motivated individual for their sales position. Sales experience is a must. Individual must be able to handle all aspects of the sales process, including prospecting, needs analysis, closing and capacity to manage client relationships. Administrative responsibilities. Coordination and planning of meeting and events related to members. Maintain database of prospects. Good analytical and organizational skills. Ability to work well with others and in a fast-faced environment. I N F O R M AT I O N C E N T E R SPECIALIST: Ann Arbor-based medical equipment company is seeking to fill a few part-time contract positions in its call center department. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday between 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with flexibility in scheduling. We are looking for a few candidates to help us keep our database up to date and this position will be a key role in that function. The primary goal of the Information Center specialists is to gather and verify information from hospitals, imaging centers and other various organizations via telephone.
NEWS
The Washtenaw Voice LAWSUIT, From A1 her teachings waivered. “I did everything I was supposed to do, and then it didn’t happen for me,” she said, sitting in her Ann Arbor home, choking back tears. “So how could I teach, and how could I continue to sell that to my students if I didn’t believe it anymore?” Gelderloos is now suing WCC, President Rose Bellanca and Vice President of Instruction Bill Abernethy, alleging that she was not hired because she is a woman. WCC officials declined to comment because litigation is still pending. Early on in Gelderloos’ tenure, two other full-time positions opened in the English department, she said, and she applied for them. But she admits, at the time, she wasn’t qualified. When she didn’t get those positions she set out to improve her skills so that eventually she could apply confidently. Over the next few years she taught more composition courses, and even went through the college’s training to teach online courses. This, she thought, would make her more marketable when a position opened up again. During the 2011-12 academic year, Gelderloos was hired for a temporary full-time job teaching composition. The position was not made permanent at the time for budgetary reasons, she was told. But when an identical permanent position opened in April 2013, she was confident that she was now well-qualified. And the hiring committee thought she was too. Gelderloos was unanimously recommended by the committee after interviewing six applicants, said Carrie Krantz, English department chair and a member of the committee. But after submitting its recommendation, the committee was asked to recommend two other candidates. Ernesto Querijero, the only male candidate of the three recommended, ultimately got the job. Querijero declined to comment on Gelderloos’ lawsuit. “Stephanie’s teaching demonstration was by far the best. She was the only one who expressly taught the lesson and stayed in teacher mode,” Krantz said, also noting that Gelderloos has been one of her “go-to”
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part time instructors. “I had no qualms with whatever class I put her in,” Krantz said. “Her SOQs (student opinion questionnaires), you’re going to find, are wonderful.” And they are. Her average SOQ score, for all classes Fall, Winter and Spring semesters in 2013, was 4.83 out of 5. The SOQ comments, provided to The Voice by Gelderloos, tell a story of a teacher beloved by her students. “Describe the strengths of this instructor,” the first question reads. “Too many to name,” one student wrote. “Just a wonderful person whose disposition is always bright with smiles all of the time. She is able to connect with us (students) like no other teacher that I’ve had,” another wrote. “Describe the weaknesses of this instructor,” the second question asks. “None” “No weaknesses.” “There aren’t any.” “Pretty much none.” And in the “Other comments” section students wrote: “Having her helped me be confident in my skills. Hire her full-time.” And “I love, love, love this class, and English is my most dreaded subject.” But despite the feedback from her students, Gelderloos began to doubt herself after the rejection. “I started to think that maybe I shouldn’t teach anymore. Maybe this isn’t the right field for me,” she said. “Maybe this isn’t what I’m supposed to do.” Gelderloos was devastated. “I swear I cried for days,” she said. But soon, colleagues started calling her, she said, telling her that something went wrong, that the process didn’t work the way it should have – that she should have gotten the job. “At first, I didn’t know what it was. I thought perhaps it was due to my affiliation with the (faculty) union, with the core group,” said Gelderloos, who had been an active union member and a part of the adjunct negotiating committee. But then, she said, at least two colleagues told her that they believed she didn’t get the job because she was female, and Vice President of Instruction Bill Abernethy has
September 8, 2014
allegedly been heard saying the English department needs more men. Gelderloos asked that The Voice not name the colleagues who told her this. “Because, with the current climate, there’s a lot of fear of retaliation for people who speak out,” she said. But their hunches led Gelderloos to file a charge of discrimination with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and seek legal representation. Anyone who wants to sue under the Civil Rights Act needs to first file a complaint with the EEOC, said David Blanchard, Gelderloos’ lawyer. The EEOC will then investigate the complaint and issue a finding. “Nine times out of 10, they conclude that we don’t have enough evidence and we need to go digging for more evidence to establish that there’s discrimination occurring,” Blanchard said. “But in this case, they didn’t do that. “They said quite clearly that they found cause that there is sufficient evidence to conclude that the law was violated.” After the EEOC found that there was a case for discrimination, they began to work with the college to reconcile the situation. “This process has been going on pretty much all summer,” Gelderloos said. “The EEOC has been trying to conciliate with the school, to come to some agreement that would make me whole, that would fix this for me.” But negotiations with the college did not work out how Gelderloos had hoped, and eventually the EEOC told her that they were not able reach a settlement. This is not typical, Blanchard said. Usually once the EEOC finds a problem, institutions work with them to make amends. “There’s just been a complete road block in this case,” he said. So the EEOC passed the findings on to the U.S. Department of Justice, which may decide to sue on Gelderloos’ behalf, Blanchard said. This could take up to three months to a year, he said, admitting that he really doesn’t know and has no intention of rushing the process. So in the meantime, Gelderloos filed her own lawsuit on Aug. 21 in the Federal District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. While the lawsuit
says that she is seeking damages in excess of $75,000, the actual amount is “much greater,” Blanchard said. “If you add up the lost wages and lost benefits over the next couple of years, what was taken from Stephanie adds up to the hundreds of thousands of dollars quite quickly,” he said. As an adjunct teaching three courses per semester, Gelderloos made about $27,000 a year, she estimated. In the full-time position, teaching four courses per semester plus three hours a week in the Writing Center, she would have expected a minimum of $60,000 a year. “So it’s not much more work, but it’s significantly more money,” Gelderloos said. Because of the pending lawsuit, Gelderloos chose not to return to WCC this fall, though she has not necessarily left permanently, she said. She is grateful to have found employment this year at another college, which she chose not to name for fear of negative attention following her there. But it’s not the same, she said. “I had really wanted this job at Washtenaw. This is my community. I live here. I go to the grocery store here, and I run into my students,” she said. “It’s not the same thing as getting the job that you worked for years, in basically a 10-year job interview,” Blanchard said. “You build up your resume, build up your skills; you get to know the people; you’re a hard worker and a good teacher, and when an opportunity finally comes along, to be undermined in this way really throws everything out the window.” Though Gelderloos admitted she does doubt whether she will ever be able to bring herself to return to Washtenaw. “If you have to sue someone to hire you, how are they going to treat you?” she asked. “I don’t know how welcome I can feel at this point. “I didn’t want it to come to this,” she said. “Ever since the beginning, I just wanted my job. I wanted to get back what was stolen from me and what was stolen from my family.” “You don’t file these suits unless you don’t have any other choice,” she explained. “I feel like they need to be called to the table for what they did to me. “This shouldn’t happen again.”
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INSURANCE, From A3 clinics that accept Medicaid for Washtenaw County. Washtenaw County residents will have another option in January 2015, through the newly formed Washtenaw County Dental Clinic. A partnership between Washtenaw County Public Health and Saint Joseph Mercy Health System, it will serve individuals with Medicaid, who have a low income or are without insurance. The clinics accepting Medicaid are within the urban area of Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti. Residents in rural areas will need transportation to access care. Randall finds there is a lack of access to dental care for students, as he has talked with many who have gone more than three or four years without dental care. Without the routine care, emergencies happen. “It’s difficult to find a dentist,” said Shelton, who lives in Wayne County and is still searching for a clinic that accepts Medicaid. Especially with a wisdom tooth that needs to be taken care of. All the places he has inquired with are “at capacity, or give erroneous information.” Randall sees his job as helping people navigate the system. People may have the information with best-case scenarios, but do not know how to look for a dentist who accepts Medicaid. “It’s a really insane game,” said Shelton, who is thankful to have health and dental insurance coverage, but frustrated at trying to find a place to accept him for care. “The more you play,” he said, “the more insane you are driven.” WHAT: Medicaid and Marketplace insurance information WHEN: Mondays 10 a.m.-noon, through the fall semester WHERE: WCC Student Center cafeteria FOR MORE INFORMATION: http:// www.ewashtenaw.org/government/ departments/public_health/whp
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For more information, go to: marygrove.edu/transfer or call (855) 628-6279 or email info@marygrove.edu • Speak to professors about Marygrove’s bachelor, associate and certificate programs • Explore our beautiful campus • Find out how your credits transfer to Marygrove • Learn about Financial Aid and scholarship opportunities • Meet with a Recruitment Representative to discuss your future plans
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The Washtenaw Voice
September 8, 2014
Work Your Body, Work Your Mind WCC students can join The Health & Fitness Center with three options: PEA 115
Sign up when you register for classes and earn half a credit*
Semester Membership Take advantage of the new lower student rate of only $140
Student Monthly Membership Just $43 per month
The Health & Fitness Center at Washtenaw Community College has all the latest exercise equipment, group exercise rooms, two pools, luxurious locker rooms and is right across the street! Register now. For more information call the Student Connection at (734) 973-3543. 4833 East Huron River Drive, Ann Arbor wccfitness.org
*must also be enrolled in at least 3 credits for the fall semester.
The Washtenaw Voice
September 8, 2014
TITLE AND LETTER ILLUSTRATIONS BY ERIK MORRIS | WASHTENAW VOICE
by M. M. DONALDSON
Staff Writer
Apple ard orch by NATALIE WRIGHT
Editor
When Rose Bellanca took the post of WCC president in 2011, she vowed to dedicate herself to her job. “I assure you that I will work my hardest,” she said after the WCC board of trustees voted unanimously to hire her. And the trustees have steadfastly supported her over the next three highly contentious years. For two years, the WCC Education Association – the faculty union – has been publicly criticizing Bellanca at meetings of the board of trustees and in the press. The union has pointed to a perceived lack of communication, an increasingly topheavy administration and curricular decisions made without faculty knowledge or consent. Faculty unrest culminated in an overwhelming vote of no confidence in Bellanca’s leadership on May 1. “This vote makes a feeling that’s been rumbling through the college for the last two years manifest and concrete,” WCCEA President Maryam Barrie said after the vote. “Personally, I understand why they did
As Michigan heads into another exceptional apple harvest, it is important to note that apple orchards have been an important part of the state’s heritage. A rarely noted fact for many is the Washtenaw Community College campus was originally the site of an apple orchard. The apple trees have since been replaced with decorative crab apple trees throughout the campus landscaping. Still existing are the rolling hills, pond and hardwood forest, remnants of the original orchard. Several landowners throughout proximity was crucial for a commuter Washtenaw County had offered to do- college. nate land to the college, but the 235-acre WCC purchased the apple orchard from Huron Valley Farms was ideally located. the Franzblau family in 1965 for $822,500. Three miles from Ann Arbor and three miles The board of trustees negotiated for a price from Ypsilanti, the board of trustees felt lower than $3,500 per acre, but agreed to it,
this, and I am disappointed,” Bellanca told The Voice. “But, I am excited with the direction we are going as a college.” Bellanca, her leadership team, the trustees and dissenting faculty members have defended the president’s leadership throughout the turmoil saying that she is a “change agent” and that’s what the college needs. Bellanca and her supporters say the college is heading in the right direction, pointing to her achievements: The college’s development of a strategic plan, a $2.9 million grant from the Department of Labor, and an improved relationship with K-12 institutions throughout the county. The fourth president in WCC’s history, Bellanca is the first female to hold the position. Before she was hired at WCC, Bellanca worked as the chief operating officer of Northwood University in Florida. Prior to that she was president of St. Clair County Community College, where she was met with unrest similar to what she has experienced at WCC over the past two years. “It was a very hard time,” Bellanca admitted of her tenure at St. Clair. But despite the circumstances she has worked under at both community colleges,
the community to bring families to the future site of WCC. Today, several family owned orchards still exist in the surrounding area of WCC. Michigan is second in the nation for producing apples, and orchards in the state have become a popular fall attraction, providing family friendly entertainment from watching apple cider being pressed to taking a hayride. The former Huron Valley Farms, however, traded in its cider press for a worldclass community college nearly half a century ago. In the last 50 years, the rolling landscape has witnessed BEN ELLSWORTH | WASHTENAW VOICE thousands of students who knowing the value of the land was likely to have come to WCC to find their passion, increase if they waited. In the 1990s, land in further their training and explore their the surrounding area was selling for more curiosities. It has welcomed them all and than $100,000 per acre. seen them move on to bigger and betCommemorating the purchase of the ter things. land, the college extended an invitation for And we all like them apples.
WCC President Rose Bellanca
FILE PHOTO | WASHTENAW VOICE
Bellanca’s past gives her faith in the good work community colleges can do. When she was young, Bellanca told The Voice, she was told that she wasn’t the “college type.” That pushed her to pursue her goals, and she started taking Macomb Community College, at which she became Vice President 20 years later.
“A community college to me has a very special place because they helped me make my dream come true.” Bellanca is especially fond of WCC, she said. “This college is a vibrant institution with remarkable people, beautiful facilities and tremendous opportunities to make a real difference in our region
and our state,” she said. In June 2012 and June 2013, the WCC trustees extended Bellanca’s contract, which is now set to expire in 2016. For the first time since she was hired, her contract was not extended this summer, but Board Chair Anne Williams said that it is still a possibility for fall.
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FLIPSIDE
September 8, 2014
The Washtenaw Voice
Core Garden Project by JAMES SAOUD
Managing Editor
Founded by campus counselor Kimberly Groce and WCC’s Garden Club, the community garden is brand new to the college as of just a few months ago. In May, the garden moved from a greenhouse atop the LA building to a newly constructed hoop house outside. “What I want to be able to do is to give away food, healthy food, to students, teach
Arbor, president of the Garden Club and a biology major. “A lot of people don’t know where their food comes from anymore.” But to Groce, as well as other members them how to grow,” Groce said. “Not only of the college’s faculty, the community garto teach them to grow, but to show them den is about much more than just teaching how easy it is to do at home.” a healthier lifestyle. It is an exercise in colThough Groce is the mastermind behind laboration for students as well as separate the project, without collaboration with the departments on campus. students of WCC’s garden club, the com“The produce could be given to disadmunity garden would have been impos- vantaged students. It could be sold or given sible to execute. to the on-campus Culinary Arts department,” “Not only are you building a sense of biology instructor Emily Thompson said. community, you’re learning how to take It’s really about helping to create a comcare of yourself in way a lot of people have munity around and within our community forgotten,” said Kady Maser, 25, of Ann college campus, Thompson said.
by JON PRICE
Staff Writer
Former Director of the Community Dental Center, Bonita Neighbors, helps a patient relax while receiving an X-ray. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE
The WCC Dental Clinic offers basic dental services like cleanings, X-rays and cavity filling, performed by University of Michigan students and supervised by community doctors. WCC dental assisting students help with screenings and pick up some real-world experience working with U-M students and the dentists who oversee the work being done at the clinic. “I really enjoyed it,” WCC dental assisting student Monica Bailey said, adding that all the clinical experience
by M. M. DONALDSON
helps when finals come around. Most services provided, other than tooth whitening, cost less than $15. Patients who need work that cannot be done at the WCC clinic are referred to the U-M School of Dentistry. “We love helping students,” Director Kathleen Weber said. “Sometimes we get students who have never been to the dentist. If we can help them brighten their smile, we love to do that.” The clinic, which is located in Occupational Education Building in room
events and others can be found at http:// www.sustainable.wccet.edu.
Staff Writer
Educate
Green has long been one of Washtenaw’s school colors. Since 1967, the official colors have also included gold and white. Now, green is the hue of the college’s environmental footprint. Below are five ways students can show their WCC pride by being green.
Students who are interested in pursuing careers focused on environmental issues with a global perspective can major in Environmental Science. Students can use the WCC associate in science to obtain a Bachelor of Science from Siena Heights University. WCC offers two environmentalism certificates. The Environmental and Society certificate looks at how the environment impacts society and the Green Building certificate teaches best practices for building and energy use.
Eat This year, WCC’s Sustainability Literacy Task Force will celebrate the “Year of Food.” Environmentally focused foodie events include a “Foraging Walk in the Woods” and a “Sustainable Dinner with First Annual Harvest from the CORE Garden.” These
Throw it away right
Environmentalism
Recycling bins for paper, cardboard, metal plastic and glass can be found throughout the campus. Thanks to the recycling efforts lead by WCC Recycling Operations Manager
WCC Foundation by VIVIAN ZAGO
Staff Writer
The WCC Foundation’s scholarship is a resource available to students who have the will and desire for a proper education. The scholarship program raises funds to support students based on leadership and by M. M. DONALDSON
Staff Writer
Class presentations may involve poster boards, Sharpie Markers and teamwork. For the students at Garrett’s restaurant, presentations involve appetizers, entrees and desserts with lots of teamwork to coordinated efforts from the front of the house to the back of the house. At this student-run restaurant, assignments include seating the public, taking orders, creating menu choices that would be found in high-end restaurants and serving a fine dining experience. Students working at Garrett’s show off their culinary and hospitality skills four times a week, Monday through Thursday. Located in the Student Center Building, reservations are highly suggested.
ERIK MORRIS | WASHTENAW VOICE
Chef Alice Gannon-Boss and her culinary arts student Dennis Glander, 58, of Gregory, plant basil in WCC’s Core Garden. NATALIE WRIGHT | WASHTENAW VOICE
OE 106, runs from Feb. 3, 2015 to April 16, 2015. The clinic is open on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Patients who wish to be seen at the clinic must be current WCC students. For more information, call the WCC dental assisting program at 734-973-3332 or visit OE 106 during the clinic’s business hours.
Dental Clinic
Barry Wilkins, committee member and avid bicyclist Dale the college Petty at petty@wccnet.edu. has saved Those looking to volunteer with the thousands of CORE Garden can contact WCC counselor dollars and and chief gardener Kim Groce at kgroce@ tons of recy- wccnet.edu. clable material from landfills. Have fun and learn Students can WCC celebrates Earth Day each April contribute by with entertainment, education and envimaking sure ronmentally focused displays in the Student SANAA NAEEM | WASHTENAW VOICE they think be- Center. Students can find opportunities to fore throwing anything away. get involved in local and national initiaSome commonly thrown-out recyclable tives while meeting others interested in items include: Subway bags, chip bags, plas- environmentalism. tic foam cups and cardboard coffee cups. “When in doubt, put it in any container other than the trash,” Wilkins said.
Volunteer Students looking to volunteer with the Sustainability Literacy Task Force can contact WCC instructor, environmental
academic excellence. Each year, WCC gives more than $500,000 in scholarships to 1,000 students. By assisting the students through scholarships and other philanthropic help, the Foundation creates a better educated workforce and a stronger community. Ana Barge is an example of how the Foundation can change lives. The former WCC student put some traumatic life experiences behind her and returned to college to restart her education. And it was here that
SANAA NAEEM | WASHTENAW VOICE
she found just the assistance she needed. “The foundation of everything, for me,” Barge said, “was WCC.” High school seniors and WCC students may apply for Foundation scholarships. Students must submit recommendation letter from WCC adviser or counselor and have a minimum 2.0 GPA. Scholarships are awarded three times each year, for Fall, Winter and Spring/Summer semesters. For more information, visit http://www4. wccnet.edu/foundation/.
Garrett’s offers students and staff an upscale option to the fast food and vending machines available at lunchtime. Serving global and American regional cuisine, other special events for the fall semester is the Sustainable Dinner with First Annual Harvest from the CORE Garden, empty soup bowl event, and “10-buck” Mondays.
Garrett’s Restaurant First floor of Student Center Building Opens for the semester on Monday, Sept. 22 11:30 a.m.–12:45 p.m.
Garrett’s A culinary student prepares a meal for guests at Garrett’s. ROBERT CONRADI | WASHTENAW VOICE
LOW COST VACCINE/WELLNESS CLINICS with Dr. John Hermann Dog Vaccine Combo: DHLPP, CV, BDT $43 Feline Combo: RCP, FELV $32 RABIES 1 Yr. $14 RABIES 3 Yr. $16 Heartworm Test $19 Saline Tractor Supply 111 Sage Court September 7th, 10am - 12pm
The Pet Spa 5260 Willis Road September 15th, 5 - 7pm
Ann Arbor Tractor Supply 7251 Jackson Road September 24, 3 - 7pm
Pet City Pets 1268 Ecorse Road September 8, 5 - 7pm
The Pet Spa 2 970 Belleville Road September 29th, 4 - 6pm
The Pet Resort September 28th, 3 - 5pm
Call (313) 686-5701 or check out www.mobilevetclinic.biz for additional locations and times.
FLIPSIDE
The Washtenaw Voice
September 8, 2014
by JAMES SAOUD
throughout the college. “She decorated the miles of hallways that were sterile and unattractive,” former WCC President Larry Whitworth said just a few days before Hommel’s passing. “She loves art and loves to learn. She has an incredibly active mind.” Homell also helped create the international travel programs for students at WCC and the “College Is My Future” program, designed to help disadvantaged youths. “She was the best, always looked at the positive in every situation, always had a smile on her face, and was always willing to help anyone out,” physical science instructor Rob Hagood said. “She had boundless energy and was involved in everything at the school.”
Managing Editor
Judith Homell was far more than just an educator who served WCC for 25 years. She was an artist, an innovator and ardent supporter of students. To all who knew her, she was a dear friend. “She’s touched many lives,” Wendy Lawson, former vice president of Advancement said, “She is always thinking about the college.” And she is missed. Last year, Homell lost a four-year fight with ovarian cancer at age 70. Some of Homell’s myriad contributions to the college include managing the WCC art collection and education displays that adorn the gathering places
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Judith Homell KATHY STADTFIELD | COURTESY PHOTO
International Student Center
by VIVIAN ZAGO
Staff Writer
The International Student Center is a resource that provides orientation, academic and vocational counseling, student involvement and a great number of activities for international students. The center presents the English as a Second Language Program and gives support not only for the F-1 visa students, but also for permanent residents, refugees and those with many others types of visas. Ala Hasan, 18, from Jordan, is starting her first year at WCC. She said she appreciated the attention she got at the center. “I got help with the financial aid and my counselor, and they also helped me with my schedule and everything,” said Hasan. which includes “students from all over the Nicole Diamond is the counselor of the globe,” she said. center, and one of her priorities is helping The center coordinates events for the the students planning their careers, start- international students to help them to get ing at WCC. connected and make friends. “We help the students to register for “Some of the international students classes, manage their schedules, and after that we have here on campus may not that, we offer them support with the fac- have family around here, so whether they ulty and everything else they need,” said are from the same country or not, they Diamond. are in the same situation,” said Diamond. Diamond is also the faculty adviser “That’s why it’s important for them to meet for the International Students Association, each other.”
by ADRIANNA VELAZQUEZ
Staff Writer
Jobs
Most college students are looking to discover a career path that leads to a promising future, but many students often overlook the office that links college academics to the real world: Career Services. A resource center that offers an array of resources such as resume help, workshops, career guidance, mentorship from alumni, internships, job listings and more, it also hosts career fairs throughout the year where students can connect with potential employers. According to Career Services advisor, Michelle Machiele, one important aspect that Career Services focuses on is teaching students how to brand themselves and
Unknown 4.5%
Carribean/ Islands 1.2% North America/ Oceania 6.8% Central/South America 7.7%
Asia 40.8%
Europe 10.4%
Middle East 14.3% Africa 14.6%
become active competitors in the job market while standing out to employers. “They look for students to be prepared with documents, their resume specifically. People who can network and get socially engaged,” said Machiele. “It’s sowing and reaping. It takes time to build your resume, to figure out your branding. It’s like growing a garden.”
Retail/Supply Chain Career Fair Who: Hiring managers from companies such as Old Navy, Shinola, Sears, Zingerman’s, and many more will be in attendance. Job seekers shouuld dress professionally and come prepared with copies of their resume.
Get Connected What: Career Services Office Where: Morris Lawrence Building, Room 104 Hours: Monday – Thursday 8 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Phone: 734-677-5155
When/Where: Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 1 p.m. in the ML building. Cost: Free to attend, pre-registration requested via wccnet. edu/careerfair.
‘What is your key to success in college?’
by NATALIE WRIGHT
What: Resume Development Workshop W h e n / W h e re : M o n d ay, September 22 from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m in ML 128 What: Interview Skills Workshop W h e n / W h e re : Tu e s d ay, September 23 from 1 pm. to 2:30 p.m. in TI 128 What: Job Search Techniques Workshop When/Where: Wednesday, September 24 from 1 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. in ML 128
Claire Dobry, 17, South Lyon, radiology: “Stay organized and on top of things. I split up my classes by a few hours to give myself time for homework in between.”
David Mazza, 17, Ann Arbor, applied science, Ann Arbor: “Managing my time effectively and avoiding distractions.”
Shelby Melton, 22, Ypsilanti, social work: “Drinking lots of coffee!”
Dwayne King, 22, Canton, business: “Never giving up and making light of the hard times and struggles I endure.”
Kaila McClish, 18, Ypsilanti, pre-veterinary: “Have fun with whatever you’re doing”
Vanessa Byrd, 18, Ypsilanti, business: “Dedication. If you want to do something really well, practice makes perfect. You can’t just do something once.”
Edgar Daggett, 18, Ypsilanti, business: “Always stay until the end of class because the teacher might say something important.”
Jasmine Edwards, 19, Ann Arbor, undecided: “Focus, stay motivated and try to just avoid the distractions.”
LIVINGSTON
Editor
Despite it’s previous life as an apple orchard, the piece of land on which WCC sits is uniquely suited for a college. Craig Rafail, a counselor at Dexter High School since 2007, is one of WCC’s biggest fans; he has recommended the college to countless high school students and to his own children. The location of the college, he said, is one of the reasons it is such a successful institution. Right on the border between Ann Arbor and Ypsilanti, WCC is able to pull students from a multitude of areas across Southeast Michigan. Students represent more than 32 zip codes, according to a college demographic report from fall 2012. (Only included are zip codes with at least 10 students.) Students come from the urban areas – Ypsilanti, Ann Arbor, and even the greater Detroit area – and also from many surrounding rural areas – Dexter, Saline, Chelsea, and Brighton.
More Help
Heather Rose,18,Dexter, liberal arts transfer: “Taking the time to take care of myself when I’m not scrambling; when I’m … just sticking to it and trying to keep myself motivated”
interviews and photos by contributor SOFIA LYNCH
Keys to success
BEN ELLSWORTH | WASHTENAW VOICE
Howell
334
Location South Lyon
Brighton
490
Pinckney
236
256
Whitmore Lake
312
Dexter
325
Chelsea
210
Ann Arbor
3048
Ypsilanti
3,514
Manchester
Saline Willis
493
112
174
WASHTENAW
Milan
290
BEN ELLSWORTH | WASHTENAW VOICE
This wide net allows for a rich diversity among the student body in terms of race, socioeconomic status and life experience. The college also benefits from being located in Washtenaw County because the community shows immense support for education, WCC Director of Government Relations Jason Morgan said. “I think anybody will tell you that Washtenaw County residents support education more than any other county in the state,” Morgan explained. “Washtenaw County is unique in that the people truly value what they’re paying for.” When most people who frequent campus think about its location, they’re probably just considering their commute. But 50 years ago, when the college’s founders chose this piece of land, they set the school up for success.
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September 8, 2014
FLIPSIDE
The Washtenaw Voice
plet- urge to park directly on the the satisfaction of a com us A pair of taillights winks ivio sidewalk. ed day of classes – obl servng The compulsive need bei in the morning sun, pre y’re the t tha to the fact class to g ivin arr of es rt in Row 4 and work sta hop to ing watched … hunted. as dge e rac ts bea east tramples the knowle on time. Heart Veteran vultures know k lot ared bac cle k is dar ay p taw dee igh the t now stra tha the that making a move nds vacancies. and the final corner rou futile; many vic- surely harbor be uld wo hun r the ts a vulture ano ven find pre to s y bebri r onl Hu ed, tims weave and wande the d extra four ime cla an g icle, from walkin gry vulture has fore locating their veh y. anc a timely vac ure ued ens val to s and be ute ld rce min sca and any false route cou g kin tead efpar ins ual ss; The perpet arrival in cla fatal at this point. d on frusre use mo foc be on, st rals k mu spi ts lur ze for to ma No, it’s better en ry we eve bet t ind spo beh g a s fighting for tration lurkin undetected in the shadow rits spi p kee to 5. d and har a2 s It’s tin n. Row des tur until a victim’s final re A set of rules and exBut up as menacing grills sta tion can be anticipated. t hou wit row r afte ions for lot etiquette on row tat k act pec bac you must be quick to t ek, tac con Eye k. e any builds from week to we breaking ran your instincts if you hav ers stalk, g off lon es tur one vul ing er dur oth sur il h the unt wit hopes of edging out m to ‘I’ve you sta rt to wr ite the no solace and only serves rounding population of n. itio pet ss com n: ed cla dow bre already been late for r Rule No. 1: Once you An overhead view retwice this week’ beasts. ivatme act of n ngs bee eri has att n y sm itio onl ls ign are vea The lucky few to king ed, you have one minute chanical vultures pic ted to hunt in late ega rel , pus you are If t. spo r you k, ate dus g vac through each lot on cam afternoon or evenin d e for with simply having a smoke, han desperate to find a hom as empty spots open to disd use be uld sho t als Bu . sign their weary vehicles. staggered frequency t es. ws All enter with hope. Bu perse any waiting vultur the morning crowd kno . ce you On 44: . No le r Ru eve are few emerge unscathed that very few spots , exit The true commodities have arrived and parked vacated before 10 a.m. unand pury skl bri icle nt veh r spe you rs of parking wars are the Weeks, even yea they that others may suspecting victims as dizzying maze un- posefully so the in ety r intentions. you ize e ogn ens rec int step foot outside the saf avoidably leads to cks kpa fraternizBac and rs. ing er- Lollygagg of campus doo bouts of self-doubt, sup se hibited. pro ctly stri l are ona ing asi still being stuffed with loo stition and the occ h wit ing ack sm papers, gum
S tious h e t i p t o l jagg e y across e s c a u a d face a k n e e white ro path of eyes. nd glaring j u s t h i g h g r a cks and S b s yet n he squint into her of th e y o n d t s l y i n g otice e par he c const able c s. A faint, stagn urb balan king an ockta a n t l c o i o s n t a i u p e r a t. Their l . n g m o H to it d sw f mer w ro d c h y act leads e r e e c t a t a ter he flo polle rs of t rowns o aring a smal ut th n w h l, we n k l e s a n h e r e e f in ro ri st wafts a en be d in the ng blosso m to g to classes udents ru e nch. thered wo a shm , test air. to m s odA I few f s, to friend eetings, acros warm gu tresse t s s u r f a eet aw s, a m s ere hair s her, tou t sweeps snow d from yea c e , d i s In th ay. and c sling r a s u e n o t ontin her nsee d b ak o rus d f rain i peeli s t , in n break n b i r d s ance, an tall t tle the lea uing up old fo g and fade g sun, is ves o quaw ing th rees rgott d f l t h i t h ke he orizo at fo e Sand For a e rhythm k s, r n pape n photogr an m . forg e . Close life i mom the aph. palm r aga t s r . just b s she is a ent she bee d bustling to her, has la While its inst her t . e i s t h hind a c a p o n d a n k l ances aro A small are st nguished, exterior un ol e s. H und its bo ill str s t h o u n d d e r i n g w leg e. It i e e g r mu nes r hten o s of n i She fe ng. s a i c n s a les ature t h t h e tranq ccele d he to tak r u r , yet a i e a se els welcom p l t . Sh pe es ul to let befor a it be, as she tr se a rson here e is the on it e her t. As she d ed g n ross the h i ;j o awa ly e d pond oes, lay a It winds ac y qui oping it w s sin dancin ust herse red geod g c l i an f l k y. n u d g ; its fluid rippling g l bees ing c To he ly. she’s read lue, yellow y b d ed b n m a i sa c eath e c o n a er o th r b h a n e c d tion d righ kling breez db y the ts ar pattern en t of She pulls crow as and a The studen clear- metric r, on e, ing f ee is delica t, a secfr ea eg ll in , an leave e. It carrie g e n t l e . co d et e fe in S f th l hair beh s sneakered lifeblood o here they sa m p owers, se tely kiss- that in h e i s f i n view to debr , stalks a s with it to the place emin her field of e wi ling is w g t is in is fal nd ot h th the entrance ledge for ad d i s re s an A h sp th gly each t m lbeit e as plant len f fe her o ow t e kn a m th r take in that sells a r o u ke s i n e v e n t , a s clot. plant small, the b l o o m . ml a g o o s surroun o m t h e nd h eryth s bob delic in their sto before her. t gs d ou n an t $200 a pop. p a st th e e P i c ee . n i r u m e n a T . g nder eds t te g As sh and hey g matte the here like tant eyes ec em xp th t E o b e h It w in d s e id a u d ” e gu l t s y p t? e ave ckle weigh bees’ e l l ow roach s p an of tin piles rem her in you wan , and o ay d , d at y h a f er t e ev m “W . , k y w h it e gl as ds of s a er y or gg h m i t o n fo kw h h ed i t n oc i a s e e h cl in s l l e r rk c a l on th y flu hoar ark-sk A to the lin e sur nds, buoy ent says a tall, d the glass, els that hide fely out f a r e w nees, bid tters at react l l t h e s e they latch on os. f ing sa d ding s in ce ions, e a eh fa b tw g l c d n l The s ace. ti an an t . m i o n s, back her feas She soun high p l ay i in ones ted the w un re ai ch w o se w h o e er th a p ’v d t f s c ey o w t i n ptoe fl ater, eyebro jagg e ross th hough th o f si gh t ing s rack. Th g to a T r. s so d vi y their warm ects off re d e ck ti n d la ound e scre path whit yet to sa sf ait a hu der his b e w n ing h i u av e t N e h a th o n c o e o m e h ed f d f l. r y v y th o er er ways painfu H e ’s c le a rl m a n y yond grass lyin cks and loud, meek, it e cicada. cravings. times, it’s al w a rm in g gh one the cu g just to o s son pierc e n o f o winds throu s on is s It i ft th ng lo a r g, a b ing m W b e o e f the p t. . st vein elody gonize th arkti m es to d ay ot is still of the bigge ing speed, is loaves anta g at their Sure cl ed in But the retur ly s campus, imp their way monster claw hs. Their n. he w on ts g. ac en ill growin ing stud empty stom k out tex-covered ee la t to h s ig s. E in as eg cl to pain b th o u g h ind the glass. e, in antsy E ff ic ie n t, hands fly beh t? a e to the surfac d disgrunM es churn h ? ic an Bread py, sandw op ? sl d e t movements lines that s a To py faces scan d Cheese? out, and hap umby spot tled looks an manently cr per Veggies? for the least- eir sustewill one day ow youthe flimsy th s th ll fi p n e ra r h S to unw crease thei cup given to ive in. d d ar d o an b rd ce s. ca an n ful face t others le eps st to t g n begins to dis en yi d ot u rr cl u st e Th her, h A lucky rist facw d e. er re h an s so p at vi s e co gl as pass, she solve and th u p to th e mber is up. Pepper. nu r. er D h in ly es soften. st al fa in F , the flow atter how er striped h m s o st N oi Until dinner h e t Sh o cl e er th h e, igher on th e y m o v has slowed. backpack h vous tick, er s. n n a ai s, m er re ld shou e’s here and showing sh
in ease as . r with ut e t o a k r w o the e lidaily w here, d , e e b in t to a rou gather p r ove s lderly people eir water y. An e ultiple rm in th M lm a fo r r b s e e d it v p n h il a to s . ir , e r le a t e ly b a f t r c f wa each a rush o ith cu world o a ing still A cool le man w as she is d o tt e n li ls w c a t o a n s f o ow dent’s ors d the p ws, ald hair is closed in a u e o n t r d o s y lo e e e o h h c B t s ht indo pot, eye erathroug izable w e lit with munity in one s nd almost th walks all of s b w Com ness w a to n a a e e t r d h tug the a relaxe of Was in and Fit w h nt of na lt . lo u a e o t e n g a m H a t a s in ’s t m n e s ic o isg t io te e v u w a pe Coll condit field is nger the gre soccer . The air h e is g A you A tering S . s in t . d li h b w n g Center e ie th ral li nce, sta al in t o v ef from ry, flor the dista mer green omes e c in is a reli m . le m t s ib u m is gas e is Augu h its su wearin uit. Her pac heat of t e m p e r a t u r e t out wit ol, o gs ea p r in e g as h The h t t a a b for vacant enters grass. r t a b le arm field is k as she the water as w all e is b l r h t a e b T r comfo k t s u do ete ba o be in r o t u t . N e erior give c t o yr n e k p o la r g u c p a o e w int is the m pt y arming of the n the e e. The ds he is w c O n s n a . t t if ia s colors r b u n m co ma ps. ard tan laxed a leg unds, a a stand some la ure of off a re ing gro se, one e left is h a coolo a mixt p m th e r o a o c a T , s in oth w it b o n w d e ll wall l z n e o a o y fr d lap po a r ahis hips iffly to u st a r d r c e a m v k -y o r d 5 b a n a 2 d a . e high out st an erature ting th ather etched ms to er temp dle-aged wom plemen rms str bby ’s le up a lo He see . e ly id e h w t m id s s lo A k s r e l ic e h p rm of t k mel of o se the ome fo a snor er, Her no ss which ticing s earing ough the wat c i Chi. a ’a w e r chairs. T n p s h e s p b thr e nof fre perha her t, r a l a propels sion of pure r ti m a scent s her, leading a azed mar he res dent is ize an exp preads across The stu of activities hypnot ce. ts ur nce variety ce around joymen to its so ypical fragra at the pla lp ld e u h o ’t . The t w n e taking l c a rea of fa calmly ing poo udent c actice t small a . s m ly e a n im h h o T w c t r u o p s n is us e in p of a s is h r S he aw cam der if th ter lorine. t anashten here, but won ling in a grea t be of ch int of that bu W s e d h t n a ah as the snorke comes s h e st h r t c what s n u fo e d smells A s c r , s a r the miliar ift tow f wate des r o fa u ff d y x r o s e e d t f s in o h r h e t g e b o wat thou ier Re g e hold st d. The at Barr alia. saltwae colle e e r fir h h t G r t to min e e m h ls r e the dor fro f Aust er for o o h in t y r s lt is a l. a fo o o s n c o e a p g ma st o r rinated ers A youn imming freeer. ter chlo altwater off l. sw semest , ll h e s g e w u e e s f o a r l r Th h o t ie o g k p in sil e is glid r and the style. H a softe er hand into e h h t g l, Dippin he poo ide of t right s
Computers lined up row-by-row, serious faces occupying multiple chairs. Sitting at this desk, see hard work through your peripheral vision. Determination thro ugh the eyes of many students gathered around; hear the clicks and clacks that fill the room . Focu sed faces at all angles ignore the mild, consistent pops of the keyboard. Focus in, hear the brushing of shoes drag across the shady floor as two men with heavy backpacks make way to their destination. Listen closely, hear every chair adjustment and sigh fill the room, sighs that relea se the stresses of the life of a student. Side conversations are not foreign to this
place, however. Three women behind seem to have taken this to a whole other level. Loud, childish, obnoxious come to mind, but the “Kool-Aid smiles” on their faces can make the saddest man’s day. You give in. Eyes flair open as the attractive woman across on the right, clicks and clacks pounding from her desk as a potential paper is being constructed. The look in her eyes so glossy, perhaps from the stresses of constructing something that is worth a lot to her? The young man to the far left with a look of noth ing less than determination. See the wrinkles on the side of his face appe ar relig iously. Determination, not frustration. Ahead, see multiple
sleeping screens awaiting a young soul to sit down to shake them for their light to glow once again. The chill in the air, skin begg ing for the warmth of cotton pressed against it. Many have light jackets on. Odd for summer, but the air is blasting. Cold faces staring at their computer screens, determined to get it right, determined to make their next move their best move. Feel the vibe, all the focused faces around, the quiet voices that whisper, and the students walking in, dragging their feet in search of that open computer at rest. Actio n notic ed in the most ente rtain ing of places, but here in a simple lab so much has taken place. Computer world.
The Washtenaw Voice
FLIPSIDE
son new per er as the h . n d o w p o u r c e hing the ected, h ls, she approac she exp n her hee g a y too ll g chiding fu in k c lf o e s R in k a e im h m th for rm grin sidered turned search ain con e same a s a wa d g r th e a e c t i e a h In the H Y p s . “ e d it . sh e ex wa r face d hideout, k dash to th e man ha ross his ut. She smoker’s ter of the thic split ac o ng look th ss their d ri e u ll s e a s c a f im o re he acro step, the per c hw o r k there!” r spread her atch his ive p a t given he caceded elcomed ried to m d n r w r o p r ot e c t te y c u e ia c t s a it th th in s s a y he e s tl d d e n n a c s a h ta fa s egular, green s scratche and he in ation about how rade, a r d. Scarlett m . y o rs m c e tr o v n is fr n e no as in th r legs sual co w frien on d on he n eryone w self, a ne r place bloome betwee er face iendly ev y H fr : a took he e w g e r h fu e S each re h d y g is n a n a w th s ti a p r u h d fig e r vo ing fo tucke n stum e, to her n s search a woode d out their nam the tree a screen way. e d c o ne ta is ll m e a e g c to e s n s s l’ o e e e b pers nd h mselv et hit latent re mind, a cing the e was inas her fe onintrodu that. f c c Sh As soon o a . n s ll a -u a s c io e in ll c a s nne of th r like ro ment ag e r e e c e h v s h a to the co t f e p n o in h e o t T th p in fr d easily to u donmen te n a n d e r a e k g b n ll o a te e p s ta s p sciou ced a neaked tuary o n, being she noti e sun s versatio nd. howie s her. Th quest -- hed over, head fr f y o p ld o o n uc like an the ca til 10 min ald man slo e emer through ound with incan tayed un t class, s th e s h d S r a im e gr e r nex ing tow a n ke d h ering th ng up th fore he t for o she fl r nd lighti utes be as tion tha w la r e lining, s nce. He had clea v e scence a h e re d e e r th fo me, e ti in B ta . g st e is lo ov in a lon rey hair from a d leaves ab area of chopped g – his g rst time und fi in fo g e f a d g o f th a o s in t h s e r sign akeshif ent lin a gathe like she er. perman ps and m n that she felt ed me feath and the ee stum a re etch c e tr of the sa h s w s d a t eauir a tr b b a t th r s n e e o th e h v u il m r o E e m as s th and m tables. d regula That wa place: r his eyes s emptie would around bout this the h manne as alway a is u w g y o o y in b g th a had tiful ethin s rebels, – yet he ly -- som one yet alway ere the w . e r , e y im d aws; yet r h h about e sorce , the outl ever see h a p p e n r ig h t k d n li te , elu ly c e n to pers Sudde wa r m , w parting seemed g g these to. n ve way, in d a ti ll e g e d e fa s e n e d m e e e d n the tr ople an e nd trod when it n d t h is a p s u e g a o r id w in a w a com raderie dg eed over Seated around d is cama an peer as a ho in th w m m e to r it r h p in e fo T path. d in h ooden er and eople in le h w p a t r t e a e n s r h e t e r s a ld wh f diffe u s wa cigconsid his shou podge o is camp hat and th c ond she heels t it c a h e c s th f a half her e. a buzz o ke. She fidgeted ning on f new hom tte smo at fell ered spin out in a heat o e r th a t h ig hing e spotl and das under th ssment. e a r h r t a b n m a e her th Ye t r a t
Here a t the co outsid e of th urtyard wonde e center ring ho , life slo student wt metal ws dow beams hose two It is a g n . r balanc eat esc e f f those o r Anoth e so tless ape for lookin archwa ly creating ward h er girl comes g for a ment t a y toer n . m o re oher writ Getting back stretch table with o busy sc lax during th to uted arm ing, he eir hedule r furro s. brow e stands s. A stu seated wed xp dent up from The girl at tration resses conc her pla t o peacefu a picnic tab g iv e en ah ce on eac le, ll h word exchan ug to her frie es the t y waiting, pa D . o nd, z g e in ns of ssime wr g e x c p it ings aft iting in ass thr peopl notebo er not s ed greete her o ok eeing e y a r d , b ugh the cou ot h e r there is . All around h ach r s u t in t e a fe the gir r no atte mester ce the last l ment in eling of excit p a y se. After ntion. s ethe air ag A stud is fran of catc semest a ent tically hing up reat deal er begin s a new rus , her fr a class soon le s. iend Feelin so he w hing to aves th g the w e il la b l a t n of the a c e o k . t be armth to her w girl to get While fternoo a grou r other s n her ba The we iting. p of tu ck, she sun upon ll-main t h r o u g dents meand scener can fin relax. tained er y of the h ally W courty lookin the courtya strong b r e e z e hile a cooli ard, r g , d t r f ng e sw e e p place t or the perfe with de es, each ring s le a v across o sit. T ct ed li c es the co a t e flowe hey fin find a s round urtyar mindin r s s u rally pot wit her. Tr d re g her h e t h a e shado nd gre e softes -shape th mer is ws pr enest t d almost at sumoduce the aft o fall wil The cr grass. e r n l be com ver, and oon su d b y is p s n a o ot e b o n danc round und o ing soo In or o f e t n. ing ec k p a p e r t u The ch h e c o u r t y a her tho der to gath rnhoes t rd. ir p er ughts, ing of h r t o t h s he tre ughou birds in he pau e cour from w es t t ses riting. r e a c h e yard as the g ous ton creates a jo S off int irl s of th e. yo the d he looks e b ott of the istanc miring With om e adpag e. t h e st t h e I ntense focuse her no shut rength the lar d on h ly of te ge s of er writ she do packs u b o o k , t h e g middle culpture in t in e irl g s p ; he n h of the o e t r e b v elongin an eye and le en blin courty to the gs aves t ard, loud b k h ing of a yard, uzzr et u r n e c o u r t cicada in the t i n b u sy w g to th rees. or e studen ld of a colle ge t.
September 8, 2014
B5
The a coffee g roma of fresh ro meet a fr sound o unds and droll ie fs lunch, o nd for a quick like chip tudent chatter r e , could lo philoso ngage first year p h et a m m u n k s o n a m ve . ph ines, a t ial disc ers in existen- in and out Others rush st u d e n t hamme u s s io rs away ns orders, , placing their whateve keyboar ea r they th about d with s on his T in m he youn ting, talking. k they ight kno u it seem w a t s as if h ch fury, such a te quiet, m g man remains der age. e break r notion ight thr might The ext less. Busy st ough to the table reme u d e und nts li is the w it h in only an stimuin c h e s come The brig erneath. r chor t e n o a h in f ru lity t red g ov e r o are a per ne anot n - draw , a clank or cra o fect matc walls e n g a in sh h g sleeples e ed in a s g h to his s, huffle th r, for jus their attentio appears n t He labo bloodshot eyes a lo t c . r them to ng enough for li ke c a r horeographed induced s in a caffeine r e , s a li n z a e how litt v ig a t in fr they car freeway g a le indicate enzy, his scowl e lo s that is im about the world each oth op, whizzing by joy the c he doesn’t en p e lo r d w in itho off g around him. acknow suggests ee, his posture ledging ut ever he need t s h ib T e le h p e d o s oom su sit. The s on the s n sets through of a coff sday scenario little ca urprisingly hip hop ee stain fe, the J t a o o ll windo through its n their n their n av is a hub e w d for stud a Spot, esigner te less freq ws, customers shirts. ents and faculty to e ue c c o loses his nt, the writer ngreg Steam discuss r is everyth ate and in g enjoys a notebook and cups all in school p br around f r o m olitics a g from s erenity ief moment of n , remiiscent o nd good reads to f s m o towards before heading ke in an in plans an their weekend th dustria stacks d the fin u l ity that e den of ineqt o boomwn. Tre er of disco s m b li unted, points ng ite beve erves his favor and wor b ott o m shelf bo rage. ried face hands oze. s were a strange Some s juxtapo T h e “S p t u d e their wo nts do sition to the and ot,” as known rk ro it is to others in in a classroom house alt gynous coffee quent th most who fre , t -r he e through ock mumbling T h e w library. is the p WCC campus t h r it e speaker er wor , erfect p where e This is s. ks lace to v taking a eryone else is is a p la his home, this b c e o n ly r e a k , the co feehous w r it e r fe his univ , the center of erse.
e To geth er wi th th In a little over er. ut mp co o als ls a bo ok s, th e gir In the middle of hour, no one stopped an s ne ho ellp lat ce y, eir nn th su to ok beautiful and her. to k tal to of nt fro e , th and placed in summer afternoon Behind the table with flip iley t, lef them. They began to the in rs, third floor of the Ba ute the comp s and fill on ge pa wn s Do . ok l iet bo qu tal the is of y e librar a rang peo- there is me papers, while the first floor, a few shelves, with sev- out so ok bo . to each other – go g d ey kin an tal Th me s. ple co eral types of book it’s se ing a surprise cau be n’t Maybe it’s m English clas- would be t left their fro ge ran s, sse if the girls jus the first week of cla ence fiction, to some still sics to sci , on class and were doing cti n-fi no when students are to es, zin ga ma s ve homework. trying to find themsel nces and finally und- to refere Near the girls, a small s. and learn their surro ok bo ide gu to ones e us man wearing headph in gs. M ay be , be ca Th er e we re a fe w m the m er fro s aft air ch ce o ni sat tw it’s su ch a s wo rk in g at nt de stu the t ou s ab e tos seemed not car noon, they ’d rather uters, but for parity the comp s wa noise the girls were ap dy bo a Frisbee in Commun no , ry ra lib a s wa t tha e d tim pre- ently doing. An Park than spend reading – or at least d. un aro s wa e els dy bo it, no b a book. indoors. d k- tending to gra ree girls One of the girls seeme But for anyone loo th ly, en dd Su the all , and iet ok qu bo d her an e of tired ing for peac e room. They d to be entered th paperwork, and starte th e lib ra ry sh ou ld and wearing d lou re we The e. on re lph He . cel r ce he pla at look their favorite ubs. scr e blu to d rte sta at ls gre s other two gir is absolute silence, a Ea ch of th em wa t res at e. nd sam mi l a do the place to put huge colorfu , rld pulling a After about 40 minutes eels. from the chaotic wo backpack with wh ish fin to d rte sta ls gir d the e green an outside. their e One red, on their work and pack In the middle of th e pink. They on er oth e th lithe y, le all tab fin g d lon An a . ’s room there a table with com- bags at t sa m cal d an e th iet brary was a qu with computers. In d each of them desk’ puters an m place to study again. fro ok bo right, there is a ‘help ge hu a rar- took lib e th e er wh le, s. tab pack the their back ian is sitting behind
their w rustles, it with lo d n fi . to g g in v in wa , hop shadows searching unds g the bus, proachin space. So n th e p o n A e t p o sa n le e a p o e took one p d , As sh n a rs p a y hillto e turned onking c ss sh h f ra f o g o s , Student k th e o smoo nce at th , a n d lo g uilding, la n g b ti st E u la O o as lit e ra sh nd agg ding; it w e outside th eration a e bus, sh enter buil C th sp nds s e r r’ ie d e fo fr v g o ri waitin eery. Tw n every d ruck by ch o st d n e n o w a olvti a v , a ss p v r a st re om the re glanced u merged fr ve her. e m a d e fo e ter o c h b g fa a u t h la g the si oor, their e. ad just d n h e g n sc in l y su a fu The lence. , as the d e TI lling the si now from B u t n ow n e a th th ks , the ea- fi g d n in e sunk be a rg n e a re m st E causing comes to me as one lm building, uilding w find a pri b ca to d E n O a ss e e k th rn in h e p it g s secut u w n p d ra m ce of vib off the e WCC ca des, repla ce th fa n f t u o o o to s that b sp y y e urgenc s. The ke yellow to Bright blu pressing rity guard s. e d nged th a u o cl cl lt y e wisp e. hed beg on his b ic m n o w u h d h t n d step. e n g sa ry u iliar so on sky was with eve The fam together ose, ajestic cott rm rp te e u p in th e h n it twee bus engin walked w arm sum e e w e for H th s f It th u o . s p ts the cam candy. A though her scanning brushed pted her e to s. ru z u e ly io re w b ic o r susp me way sl ees to anything made its ught the tr des rabbing face it bro p. Dirty si nset. turned, g o e su h st e S s u th b in e s g w n th o ci to keep d n s a in e d , w life the udg ed steel pip e y sm l th d d n a u oisted o l. Pr as she h r as usua d, its balance d, reeted he flag wave g s. re n p ti e ca re st ri e e d , a y h Am p th ghtl The sun herself u wing bri n e d th e tlights e n a re c ld s st stars sho u e o e w Sh ead tcausing th se th a t edding li e pty bus h li ke th o early em waken, sh her feet ut with th n a o ting e it to S m . o k c e bac soon guide e lowing for th e light to head, tl r s her gaz e A l. h . il d n h e o , y st o re m grass ng flag down, she the rippli down the arm rtable as ered from o n c e -w g as comfo almost e in e h tt th e T g n atly a o rned to r her gre it landed ze had tu ossible fo g lot. e p e. in s re it m b rk o a n h p o e s o d rid empty ; fall wa hours ag anticipate cool wind ted e re g Just a few s e ts o tre circling sp , way. The cars were a it in g w s, re u li k e v u lt
The early da ys of the fall semester h flapping in ave the un the breeze, ique makquality of be ing them ap ing both a thunk, skee pear to hav ee, thunk, sk beginning and e w in gs . eeee, A s an end: the the sleeves the wheels of ru bethe skateboa st ginning of le in th e currents, another sc rd w ar n it brings to the people hool year, and th mind the w walking e end of the along the pa in gs of m ul far ti-colth to move too short su ored butter out mmer fo of the way. flies prepar ing for flight. Thoughts th r most. at St sh ro ll ou ing through ld be turning Trees, standi the to studying Campus Gre ng as silent and en, also know sc h oo l w or sentinels, w n k, st il l li n as Commun it n es s th ge e dayity Park, seve r on wringin to-day acti ra g the last bi l ty vi pe ti es s of music ca without a t of fun out of n be heard: censorious summer be hip hop, co th ou gh t. T fo al re untry and l and it is over. P proud the li rock. uffy white The harsh mbs strain cotsounds of and ton-ball clou stretch to re the ds speckle m ac u si h c fo al r l th m th e sun ingle togeth e clear blue la and its war er te summer in m an th . amazingly The oncesky, casting ebon beautiful pi soothing y shadows al way. Two gr nk flowers on ou g that their path. ps of studen ring the tree ts face each ot s have seen her, both of better days. Deep emer the op ald strands po si n g si des lined u wave bravel T h ei r p et p to y beneath resemble th al s re se m the e armies of sliding shad ble melted old. ows. A clou st ra T h w e be qu rr ar y d quickly da terback, ca ice cream; they shes across lling out play struggle to cl the s like an old face of th ing to their frag gene sun, mom er il al, controls e be au ty en li ke a the battlefie tarily obscur child holdin ld. ing the brig The footba g its teddy be ll game wel ht yellow orb. ar. Some stud l unOnce again de en r way has dr ts ch oo se un covered, th not awn a crow to sit and re e warmth fr d. Cheers for ea lax, but inst om ch side rise ead the sun mas play Frisbee. and sages deep fa ll Sunshine, sp in w av in es to as the muscles the battle en arkling like di of students sues, soundi amonds, da sitng like a war nces ting in clust across the lo ped ers enjoyin al bu go m on . th e g di a picture perf sc. Looking ar ect day. The sharp ound, peo tangy smel ple rushin The cool br l of the crushe g to eeze with make it to d grass carr a h in t of cl as s on ied au tu m n se time look li on th e br eeze, belies ke ants, nds the studen busy hoard the fact ts’ shirt slee that autum ing supplies ves n is around for the winter. the corner, quic Thunk, skee kly followed ee, by winter.
Ben Ellsworth | Washtenaw Voice
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September 8, 2014
The Washtenaw Voice
by NATALIE WRIGHT Editor
MTA
Transferring to a four-year university just got a lot easier. That’s because, beginning this semester, the Michigan Transfer Agreement (MTA), is in place at every college and university in the state. The MTA replaced the 40-year-old Michigan Association of Collegiate Registrars & Admissions Officers (MACRAO) transfer agreement. Only a handful of universities accepted the MACRAO agreement. But, at the direction of the state government, every public college in the state must accept the MTA. Ben Ellsworth | Washtenaw Voice The MTA is a block of general education courses guaranteed to transfer to any college in Michigan. Universities can still require higherWhile the MTA will make the transfer process less confusing, it might be more challevel courses, but they must accept the credits earned under the MTA. lenging for some, said MACRAO President John Meldrum. “This means that when you transfer, hopefully you won’t have to With the MACRAO agreement, grades in all of the courses had to average at least take any more gen-ed classes. Your tuition dollars and time can go a 2.0. In the MTA, a student must achieve at least a 2.0 in each course, Meldrum said. to junior- and senior-level classes,” said Paula Welmers, a counselor Also, in the MACRAO agreement students could avoid math. In the MTA, they cannot. at North Central Michigan College and a member of the committee Students may have to work a little harder to achieve the MTA, but they can know that wrote the MTA. it’s guaranteed to count, Welmers said. For WCC students, the agreement means they will have all of the “If you feel like your feet are being held to the fire a little bit, that’s how it’s going information about what will or will not transfer up front, Vice President to be at the university level anyway,” Welmers said. “So you might as well adjust and of Student and Academic Services Linda Blakey said. learn at the community college while it’s cheaper.”
Michigan Transfer Agreement by M. M. DONALDSON Staff Writer
Students come to Washtenaw from all walks of life. This is not your typical college, filled only with 20-somethings working toward liberal arts degrees. Many come to WCC to develop skills, passions and hobbies, and they are often not pursuing college credit. With non-credit courses through the Economic and Community Development division, students find flexibility with shorter classes and lower costs.
WCC offers two types of non-credit classes. Through Workforce Development, the classes have entry-level instruction such as Word, Excel and Access and classes to keep professional licensing up to date. Community Enrichment offers an array of classes, some purely for fun and others offering more practical skills, such as motorcycle safety, sewing, sign language and learning to play the ukulele. There’s even instruction on how to build an earth oven. For more information, visit: http://www.wccnet. edu/economic-development/.
noncredit courses by JAMES SAOUD
John Eric, and “Live with Big B,” rock music from DJ Bryan Sweitzer. However, if you’re looking for something other With a mix of jazz, hip hop, oldies and alternative than music, Orchard Radio is also a home to sports rock, Washtenaw Community College’s Orchard Radio talk shows, Christian radio and the news. seems to have something for just about everyone. While Orchard Radio is broadcast entirely online, Broadcasting weekdays from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and with evolving technology in the broadcast industry it’s consisting entirely of student DJs, Orchard Radio is a easier than ever to tune in. fundamental part of WCC’s broadcast arts program. “You can actually download (the Orchard Radio “Orchard Radio is there so they can get the real life stream) to iTunes or any of those things like Web experience, so they can practice, so they are not go- Player, or Window Media, whatever is set as your deing into a radio station not knowing anything,” said fault music player,” Andy Claydon, system engineer Orchard Radio’s Station Manager Mary Helen Ciaravino. for IT Services said. Students who volunteer as guest DJs are given the While Orchard Radio, located on the second floor of opportunity to build their own show and broadcast the TI building, is a great opportunity for all broadcast whatever they’d like, sans racial slurs and profanity, arts students, anybody taking a class at WCC and has of course. at least a 2.5 GPA can get involved as a guest DJ to A few shows radio station has to offer include “You build their own radio show. Noon Fix,” contemporary hits from DJ Nick Nulsance, For more information, or to get involved: call 734“Digital Vintage,” featuring electronic music from DJ 477-8922 or go to wccnet.edu/activities/orchard-radio. Managing Editor
Orchard Radio
Erik Morris | Washtenaw Voice
Production Center
Photo Lab
by EJ STOUT
Arts instructors to make these supplies available to students at cost on their own campus. Many schools don’t offer their stuFunding, Gleich said was a “no-brainer”. dents a place to print, mount or bind their In addition to providing supplies, the artwork. Production Center in GM 016 serves “Students come back from the big four- as real-world exposure to print jobs. year colleges and tell us they have nothing,” Students must run drafts through classsaid Julia Gleich, expert lab assistant at the room printers and instructor eyes before WCC Production Center. sending a final draft. Art supply stores are a dying breed as “I have to see a sign-off, as if from the industry has moved almost exclusively the client, saying this is ready to print,” online. Many teachers, however, still require Gleich said. specialized supplies. But once their final is sent, students Roughly six years ago, Gleich started are eager to see their pages delivered working in coordination with Digital Media hot off the press.
Managing Editor
Open Digital Labs
Production Center GM 016 – 734-677-5121
Monday–Thursday: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Closed: Friday, Saturday and Sunday
Monday: GM 015 Tuesday: GM 015 Wednesday: GM 011 Thursday: GM 011
4-6 p.m. 11 a.m.-6 p.m. 4-9 p.m. 4-9 p.m.
One of the most unique and celebrated corners on WCC’s campus is the Photo Lab in GM 012. Not only does it house an expansive and well-stocked room – a gold mine by all standards – it also boasts the ability to check out toptier camera equipment like library books. Students enrolled in photography courses at Washtenaw have, with instructor approval, access to an array of cameras, lenses and accessories. In 2008, the Photo Lab was on the receiving end of a hefty “loan” from Canon. “Canon loaned us a lot of cameras
Photo Lab GM 012 – 734-973-3435
Open Photo Labs
EQUIPMENT CHECK OUT/IN:
WHAT: Open studio/darkroom WHEN: Wednesday 6-10 p.m.
Monday – Thursday: 10 a.m.-noon 1:30-4 p.m. 6:30-9 p.m. Friday: 10 a.m.-noon
WHAT: Open digital lab/Lightroom
and Photoshop tutoring
WHEN: Wednesday 6-9 p.m.
*Checkout times are subject to change
EJ Stout | Washtenaw Voice
Where can I find a park?
and lots of lenses,” said veteran lab assistant Gloria Wilson. The result, she said, was a “huge boom to the program” as it provided equipment the school would not otherwise have for students. The well-oiled system for checking out photo equipment allows students to test different products early in their careers. Between the supplies, services, and expert veteran staff, students consider both the Production Center and Photo Lab as incentives to enroll in DMA classes.
WHERE: Both located in GM 010 WHO: Tutor Amira Larora Givens EJ Stout | Washtenaw Voice
How do I have fun without a lot of money?
What if things are not going my way?
is canceled?
responsibilities on the WCC campus?
While the parking structure and lots in front of the Student Center and the Gunder Myran building Check out the Student Development and Activities The Counseling and Career Planning office can usually fill up by 9 a.m., students may be shocked to department to find out more about attending WCC help assist students who may be struggling with the know that it really isn’t hard to find a parking space sponsored trips, participating in club or intramural demands of school and life. Having someone to talk on campus ... if you’re willing to walk for a minute. sports or working for The Washtenaw Voice. Student through the stresses can be very helpful. Students Lots by the Morris Lawrence and Occupational Activities, which also can direct students to myriad can find more information on the second floor office Education buildings almost always have plenty other clubs and student organizations, is in SC 112, in the Student Center building or visiting the followof spots. WCC sports office is SC 116 and The Washtenaw Voice ing website http://www4.wccnet.edu/studentservices/ The parking lot in front of the Facilities is in TI 106. More information is at the following web- otherservices/advising/counseling/cou_personal.php Management and IT buildings always has vacant site http://departments.wccnet.edu/sda/ spots and is a well-kept secret among veteran stuWhat are my rights and dents. Shhhh! How do I find out if school
Questions by M. M. DONALDSON Staff Writer
How do I get good grades? Learning Support Services offers free tutoring. Visit the tutoring centers in LA 104 or GM 201/203. Also: http://www4.wccnet.edu/resources/learningassistance/ learningsupport/tutoring.php
Sign up with WCC Alert at http://www.wccnet.edu/ services/security/emergency-notifications/ students and employees can be notified via phone, email or TTY/ TDD devices. Also check the WCC website.
Instead of relying on what others think a rule is, especially the no-smoking policy, students can consult the board of trustees policy manual at http://www4. wccnet.edu/academicinfo/studentrights/
FLIPSIDE
The Washtenaw Voice by NATALIE WRIGHT Editor
Richard W. Bailey
Just like its namesake, the Richard W. Bailey library is a wealth of knowledge. In 2005, the library took its name from then-WCC trustee, Richard Bailey. A trustee at the college for 34 years, Bailey held deep passion for the English language, education and dictionaries. He was elected the president of the American Dialect Society in 1987, and president of the Dictionary Society of North America in 2001, and was eventually named a fellow of the Dictionary Society. Bailey, who also taught English at the University of Michigan from 1965-2007, wrote more than 20 books in his life and published more than 100 scholarly articles. Bailey “had always believed in the integral role that the library plays in the college’s teaching and learning landscape,” Dean of Learning Resources Victor Liu said after Bailey died in 2008. He was “a consummate scholar with a heart for WCC students,” Liu said. “Bailey exuded a love of learning and dedication to service.” Bailey’s memory lives on at WCC and beyond through those he mentored. Besides countless students, Bailey helped guide community leaders who continue to pay tribute to him. In a eulogy for Bailey published in The Washtenaw Voice, State Rep. David Rutledge wrote about meeting
September 8, 2014
with his mentor days before his death. “I thanked him for being my mentor and asked if he understood the magnitude of the impact of his life on the lives of countless others – including me,” Rutledge wrote. “All of us who were blessed to be indelibly touched by his life will carry a part of him with us for the rest of our lives. And, we will all be better because of it.” Former faculty union president and candidate for the WCC board of trustees Ruth Hatcher also called Bailey her mentor. He was “very influential and wise,” Hatcher said, and she and admired his dedication to students as a trustee. Hatcher distinctly remembered Bailey giving a voice to both students and faculty in the trustee meetings. “When it was appropriate, when there was a proposal or an issue … if there were faculty or students sitting in the room, he’d ask them,” Hatcher said. “He’d interrupt the meeting and say, ‘What do you think about that?’” Long after WCC said goodbye to Bailey, his mark on the college is apparent, former WCC President Larry Whitworth said. “Richard Bailey was truly the heart and soul of the college and insured continuity of mission and purpose for more than three decades,” Whitworth said. “He cared deeply for the students and often referred to the college as ‘Democracy’s College’ because it provided an opportunity to many who would otherwise be unable to pursue higher education.”
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WCCNET.EDU | Courtesy Photo
M ission : by NATALIE WRIGHT
“Our college strives to make a positive difference in people’s lives through accessible and excellent educational programs and services.”
Editor
In 2012, more than 20 administrators, deans, faculty and staff members, trustees and consultants saw months of work and planning come to life when Washtenaw published its first strategic plan “Shaping Our Future.” The plan, which covers 2012-2015, is the result of a “comprehensive examination of forces that will influence the development of the college in the foreseeable future,” WCC President Rose Bellanca wrote in the plan’s “Executive Summary.” It explains the college’s mission, values and vision statements and outlines eight strategic priorities for the future of the college.
by JAMES SAOUD Managing Editor
Though most WCC students and employees may never see or hear from them, the trustees are some of the most important people in their lives. The board of trustees is elected by Washtenaw County voters to set policy and ensure that the school is run effectively. Between working with President Rose Bellanca and reaching out to the community, the trustees take care of the logistical responsibilities of the college. The board members are Anne Williams, chair of the board, Patrick McLean, vice chair, Mark Freeman, secretary, Pamela Horiszny, treasurer, and trustees Stephen Gill, Richard Landau and Diana McKnight-Morton.
S trategic P riorities :
WCC Trustees Mark Freeman, Stephen Gill and Anne Williams at a board meeting in ML 150. file photo | Washtenaw Voice
by NATALIE WRIGHT Throughout its history, Michigan has always been a union-friendly state. But since the right-to-work legislation passed in 2012, unions – especially in education – have become increasingly divisive. This August, right to work was put to the test.
The Washtenaw Voice has been the student newspaper of WCC since shortly after the college’s doors opened in 1966. In December of that year, Gary Owen founded The Voice and named it after The Village Voice, a groundbreaking alternative New York City newspaper. Owen, an illiterate high school dropout from Alabama began to love learning when he enrolled at Washtenaw Community College, and at the college he met Fred Wolven, an English instructor who encouraged him to fulfill his potential. “You have the kind of leadership and charisma that can get things off the ground,” Wolven told Owen. So, with a handful of students, a trailer-housed newsroom and Owen as the editor, The Voice began to take on big issues of the turbulent 1960s. Owen graduated in 1968, and in 1970, the board of trustees put restrictions on the student publication, including the establishment of the editorial board which still exists today.
-Strengthen and enhance student success.
-Increase institutional agility and responsiveness to external needs, forces and trends.
-Place a concerted emphasis on institutional visibility and branding.
-Pursue workforce development in partnership with business and industry employers and community organizations.
-Leverage and pursue academic partnerships with K-12 districts and four-year colleges and universities.
-Optimize existing and potential sources of funding with a focus on priorities and core mission.
-Become a key player in community development.
However, that list will change on Nov. 4, community members Eric Borregard, of when an election is held. Dexter; William Campbell, Ann Arbor; Running for the board are Tony Derezinski, Ann Arbor; David
Editor
by NATALIE WRIGHT
-Sustain and enrich organizational culture and health with an emphasis on building and leveraging a learning community.
Strategic Plan
Unions
Editor
The trustees said that the paper did not properly differentiate fact from advocacy and that it had a “dirty word syndrome.” The paper, they contended, was damaging the college’s reputation. The Voice passed hands from one student editor to another, each building upon the work of their predecessors and leaving their own mark on the publication. But in 1980, The Voice went silent for 14 years. Though the reasons have become vague over the years, Catherine Arcure, who was head of WCC marketing and communications at the time, said a combination of factors led to the newsroom shutting its doors, including difficulty finding advisers, student apathy and economic concerns. In 1994, The Voice rose from the ashes, renamed The Student Voice. When Larry Whitworth was appointed WCC president, The Voice gained a supporter. Whitworth, who had been a part of his own college newspaper, advocated for support of the paper and increased its funding. Since then, The Voice has taken off, launching countless careers – sending
Trustees
The Michigan Education Association (MEA) is the largest public-sector union in the state, according to the Associated Press, with 112,000 active members. In August, many of those members were given a month to decide if they would opt-out of union membership, and lobbyists on both sides didn’t hold back. The MEA reported 95 percent of its members remained. But last week administrative law judge Julia Stern ruled that the MEA members should be able to leave the union at any time. This means that the MEA would have to eliminate or alter the bylaw that says members could only opt-out between Aug. 1 and Aug. 31. MEA officials said Thursday that they would appeal the decision, according to The Detroit Free Press. Two chapters of the MEA are present on Washtenaw’s campus: the WCC Education Association
DeVarti, Ann Arbor; Christina Fleming, Dexter; Mark Freeman, Ann Arbor; Ruth Hatcher, Ypsilanti; and Alex Milshteyn, Ann Arbor. According to Washtenaw County’s records, this is the largest group of candidates since 1980. Among the eight candidates, there are two former faculty members, Hatcher and Campbell, as well as two WCC students, Fleming and DeVarti. Freeman is the only current member of the board running for re-election, while both Williams and McLean are opting out of the race. Regardless of the outcome, it is sure to make an interesting fall with these candidates doing whatever they can to prove themselves worthy of voters’ approval.
(WCCEA), which represents 279 full-time and adjunct faculty members and the Office Professional/Technical Association (OPT) which represents clerical staff. The WCCEA’s contract is set to expire August 2015 and the OPT’s contract is set to expire in August 2017. A third union also has a presence on campus – the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME). All Facilities Management Custodial and Maintenance staff are a part of AFSCME Local 1921, which has 69 members in all. The union includes 29 custodial employees, 11 building maintenance workers, one design and construction worker, 11 grounds crew members, five warehouse workers, 11 mechanical systems employees, and one recycling operations manager. Local 1921’s contract is set to expire in 2016.
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students to take over professional and college newsrooms across the state and beyond. In recent years, Voice staffers have won hundreds of awards from national and statewide competitions, in which they compete against other community colleges and four-year colleges. Last year, The Voice solidified its reputation by bringing home a national Pacemaker award, often referred to as the “Pulitzer Prize of college journalism.”
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September 8, 2014
The Washtenaw Voice
WTMC
by JON PRICE
college. Each student gets a syllabus; we consistently talk about the skills you need to be successful in college.” Many students leave WTMC with more than a high school diploma, some receive certificates and job training and others may not looked at as a pure revenue stream for them, as some autho- even earn an associate degree before finrizing agencies seem to be.” ishing their studies at the middle college, Covert said WTMC looks beyond the high school experience like 17-year-old Megan Michael of Ypsilanti, when making curriculum decisions, to prepare his students for the who is working towards a liberal arts denext step in their education. gree while attending WTMC. “We’re on a college campus,” Covert said, “so our students begin “It costs less for me in the end,” Michael to feel like college students. When we teach our high school courses, said. “I don’t have to pay out of pocket for we design them like college courses. So we use the language around my classes.”
Staff Writer
Washtenaw Technical Middle College is the sole public charter school authorized by WCC. With about 500 students, WTMC was recently rated the number one public charter school in the state by the Michigan Department of Education, with performance of the school rated in the 99th percentile. Dean of WTMC Karl Covert attributes the success of WTMC largely in part to the school’s partnership with its authorizing agency, WCC. “The only school that WCC charters is us,” Covert said, “so they are mindful of what we’re doing. We’re by JAMES SAOUD
X-ray -ray X
Managing Editor
For nearly 15 years, WCC’s radiography classes have been going on annual Peruvian adventures to study and X-ray the remains of ancient civilizations. “It introduces students to using skills they’ve learned in our classrooms,” radiography instructor James Skufis said. “It introduces them to forensic imaging.” These escapades open a door for different departments at WCC to collaborate. This summer, anthropology instructor Christopher Barrett and a team of anthropology students traveled with Skufis and his radiography department to collect data and information through the skeletal remains.
Students X-ray a mummy in Peru. JAMES SKUFIS | COURTESY PHOTO
Health and Fitness Center (HFC)
‘You lost, bro?’ by NATALIE WRIGHT
Editor
Business Education building (BE) Industrial Technology building (IT) The Industrial Technology building is home to vocational studies in machine tool, robotics and fluid power. It also houses storage and receiving.
Gunder Myran building (GM)
Henry S. Landau Skilled Trades building (HL)
Housed on the ground floor, graphic design, Internet professional, animation and photography courses all bring students to the building. The Production Center and photography lab are also on the ground level. The first floor holds the Richard W. Bailey library. The second floor contains the computer commons, the Academic Skills Center, Media Services, Library Tech Services, Distance Learning classrooms and the bridge to the Crane Liberal Arts and Science building.
The Henry S. Landau Skilled Trades building houses one of the oldest programs at Washtenaw Community College – the residential construction/construction technology program.
Student Center (SC) The Student Center building is the bustling heart of the WCC campus. With a food court on the first floor containing Subway, The SC Spot and The Java Spot, and Garrett’s restaurant, run by the college’s culinary arts program, the SC is the place to go for a bite between classes. The first floor also houses: • Barnes & Noble • Student Activities and Club Sports • The Community Room (a game room) • Gallery One (an on-campus art gallery). The second floor holds: • Counseling and Career Planning • Enrollment Services • Student Connection • Financial Services • Cashier’s office • Student Resource and Women’s Center • International Student Center • Veteran’s Center • Campus Safety and Security and photo ID office. The third floor holds: • The Testing Center • Student Orientation • Information Technology Services, • WCC Foundation • Public Relations and Marketing
Music often echoes through the first floor halls, as students play in class and in the north stairwell. Down the hall from the music classes, the Voice newsroom (TI 106) is often bustling with staffers. On the second floor, video students utilize the computer lab, editing lab and video studio, and broadcast students make their voices heard at Orchard Radio. Washtenaw Technical Middle College (WTMC), a charter school housed at WCC, also has offices on the second floor.
Great Lakes Regional Training Center (GL) A year-round site for the United Association, which has held it’s summer Instructor Training program at WCC every August for 25 years, the GL Center awards more than 170,000 college credits to UA members each year and accommodates more than 27,000 UA apprentices and 3,000 instructors and journeymen.
Larry Whitworth Occupational Education building (OE)
Morris Lawrence building (ML)
WCC’s vocational programs, including automotive technology, motorcycle technology, auto body repair, dental assisting, radiography, HVAC and welding technology all live in the OE building.
Family Education building, a.k.a. ‘The Children’s Center’ (FE) Student parents can find affordable, accredited child care on campus at the Family Education building, also known as the Children’s Center. The center provides childcare and educational programs for the children of students, staff and faculty for oncampus activities only. A $10 non-refundable registration fee is required each semester. Students pay $3 per hour, per child, for children of any age. Staff pay $4 per hour, per child.
by VIVIAN ZAGO
Crane Liberal Arts & Science building (LA) The LA building houses the most common general education classes – English, math, art, foreign languages and natural sciences. Faculty who teach courses in these subjects have offices on every floor of the building, and the part-time faculty commons is located on the first floor. On the second floor, bridges extend to both the Student Center and the Gunder Myran building, providing safe passage across campus on rainy or snowy days. And for those struggling to keep up with English classes, or who just want some help with their writing, the Writing Center is housed on the third floor in LA 355.
Campus Green Parking Structure (PS) The 473 parking spaces in the structure fill up quickly on weekday mornings. The second floor of the structure also houses the Campus Safety and Security office.
The 470-seat Towsley Auditorium makes the ML building the best place on campus for large gatherings. High school plays, recitals, concerts and church services are just a few of the community events held in the auditorium. The building also contains exhibition, conference and special-event space, classrooms, and areas dedicated for public service, business, industry and contract training. Organized students or community groups may secure rooms for meeting by calling the Office of Conference Services at 734-644-5034.
comfortable with the space and about sharing their work, especially with someone they don’t know. Tom Zimmerman has been the Zimmerman is aware that many director of the Writing Center at students have anxiety about their WCC for 11 years. He’s been an writing. English teacher for at least 30 years. “I know it’s a pretty high-anxiety Zimmerman has lived in Ann activity,” Zimmerman said. “And it’s Arbor for about 23 years – 22 teachreally important to me to try and ing at WCC. He’s also the editor of make sure the students feel safe the award-winning Huron River coming here to get help with their Review and the faculty sponsor for writing.” the WCC poetry club. Zimmerman wants the Writing “I’ve taught just about all of the Center to be as friendly as possible, English classes at some time or anbesides being helpful. He knows other,” said Zimmerman, “so I’m that writing is really important. In pretty familiar with the curriculum fact, he said, “younger students will they offer here.” have to write more than any other Before he came to WCC, English Instructor Tom Zimmerman addresses a full Writing Center orientation on Thursday, Aug. 28. generation because of our technology.” EJ STOUT | WASHTENAW VOICE Zimmerman was a high school And he’s happy to be here helpEnglish teacher. He kept hearing good the college. make this a great community resource,” ing them. things about the college, so he applied to “From the student newspaper to every Zimmerman said. “I really like my job,” Zimmerman said. work here. And he’s proud of what he has class that we teach here, student clubs, Regarding the Writing Center, what “It’s a wonderful department to work with, seen of the good work by students around everyone is doing a really good job to matters most to him is that students feel and this is a great school.” Staff Writer
Tom Zimmerman
Primarily home to business classes, the building also houses computer labs, Human Resources Management offices, and faculty and staff offices. If you’re looking for faculty members in the Nursing, Business or Digital Media Arts departments, their office is probably in BE.
Technical and Industrial building (TI)
The youngest building on campus, the HFC draws not only students, faculty and staff, but also hundreds of community members. Any workout can be accommodated in the HFC. It has cardio, circuit and free-weight equipment, a full-sized gym, a tennis court and four group classrooms. Classes in low-impact aerobics, step and tone, cardio kickboxing, circuit training, Zumba, Pilates, yoga, group cycling are offered for members. Personal training and health education seminars are also available. A child-care center and Primo Fitness Café are conveniences for HFC members, as well as state-of-the-art locker rooms with steam rooms, saunas, massage rooms and digital lockers.