Hail and farewell grads prepare for life after wcc
VOICE A3
Finding our Voice
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washtenawvoice.com
A A NATIONAL NATIONAL PACEMAKER PACEMAKER AWARD AWARD NEWSPAPER NEWSPAPER
THE
May 5, 2014
The student publication of Washtenaw Community College
Volume 20, Issue 19
‘ no confidence ’ Ann Arbor, Michigan
after resignations, majority of dean jobs now vacant
Three of Washtenaw Community College’s five academic deans announced recently, within one week of each other, that they will be leaving their positions at the end of this academic year. This means that four out of six total academic dean positions will be vacant at the end of the semester. DEANS CONTINUED A3
trustee’s votes called into question Trustee Richard Landau’s votes at the board of trustees meeting on Tuesday, April 22, have been called into question. The board recently revised its bylaws for members who could not attend allowing a “virtual attendance.” The bylaws state in article 1 TRUSTEES CONTINUED A3
concerns raised over faculty union voting rules Several sources have raised concerns that the faculty union recently changed its bylaws regarding voting. The bylaws, sources said, were changed so that the ratio that determines the outcome of a vote is calculated from the number of members who voted, VOTING CONTINUED A3
Maryam Barrie, faculty union president. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE
Rose Bellanca, president of WCC. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE
Faculty: ‘WCC is in crisis’ Trustees: Vote ‘unfortunate distraction’
Despite vote, Bellanca ‘happy with the direction we are going’
represents nearly 300 full-time and adjunct faculty members. And MARIA RIGOU Over the past 18 months, the Editor union leadership has been outspoken about its concerns, speaking After 18 tumultuous months, about them often at meetings of Washtenaw Community College’s fac- the WCC Board of Trustees. ulty union overwhelmingly passed a “In no way is this a win for our vote of no confidence in President Rose union, or for the school,” faculty Bellanca’s leadership last Thursday. union President Maryam Barrie Of 181 votes cast, 158 members voted “yes,” 22 voted “no” and one memNO CONFIDENCE ber abstained from voting. The union CONTINUED A6
unions to show displeasure over change. Just like in her address at last year’s standing-room only board Washtenaw Community College meeting on March 26, Bellanca said President Rose Bellanca said she that change can be uncomfortable to was “disappointed” by the facul- some and that it is human nature to ty union’s vote of no confidence resist to change. Thursday, but undeterred in her “Some adapt better to change than commitment to the college and the others,” she added in an interview with community. The Voice. Bellanca said that the vote of no confidence has become a popular BELLANCA tool used by community college CONTINUED A3
By NATALIE WRIGHT Managing Editor
By MARIA RIGOU Editor
Robotics showcased at annual open house major Bob Nahas, 47, of Milford. The two are studying at WCC to help expand their career horizons. From the outside, passersby may “We landed an apprenticeship not be able to conceptualize the me- program with our employers,” chanical wizardry that takes place Nahas said. “We were just machine in Washtenaw Community College’s operators (at Heller).” Industrial Technology Lab. However, The two chose to study at WCC last week, the doors of the building because they “heard from word opened up, inviting everyone to come of mouth the program here was inside and take a look. exceptionally better than any And there was a lot to see at the surrounding community college,” annual Automation Open House last Anderson said. Wednesday. Another team of students from “It’s a showcase for friends and the Robotics Four class created family and potential employers to something that resembles a mesee what kind of learning opportu- chanically-operated carnival game. nities are here at Washtenaw,” said The group included robotics maautomation technology major Justin jor Luke Bradley, 24, of Grasslake; Anderson, 33, of Hartland. automation technology majors Anderson is an employee of A.B Heller Precision Machining, along AUTOMATION with fellow automation technology CONTINUED A3 By JAMES SAOUD Staff Writer
Robotics major Luke Bradley, 24, of Grass Lake, worked with a team for the semester to create a mechanically operated game using a modified NERF gun and mechanical obstacles using programable robotic arms. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE
Washtenaw Community College Board of Trustees during a meeting in March. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE
College skirting Open Meetings Act? citizens to know what goes on in government by requiring public bodies to conduct nearly all business at open When Washtenaw Community meetings.” College’s Board of Trustees met on Based on the April 22 meeting, April 22 and approved the budget of discussion of financial matters, like nearly $100 million for the next fiscal budget, is happening at additional year, it did so without discussion and committee meetings that are not open without so much as a briefing by any of to the public or haven’t been posted the college’s financial administrators. on the trustees’ website. Actions like these have raised conIn January, board Treasurer Pam cerns that discussions of such issues Horiszny recommended the creation are taking place behind closed doors of a three-member financial commitand away from the public, which could tee that would deal with financial and be construed as a violation of the Open audit responsibilities. This way, she Meetings Act, some say. said, the committee could review the On Feb. 25, the board announced financial reports submitted to the that, beginning the week of March 10, board and look at the overall finanthe members would split into two com- cial position of the college in detail. mittees: the Curriculum, Personnel Jason Morgan, WCC director of and Student Services committee and Government and Media Relations, the Finance, Audit and Facilities com- initially said the three-board-memmittee. Its two monthly meetings have ber committee does not constitute a since been reduced to one meeting a quorum of the seven-member board. month. “Since there is no quorum of board According to the Open Meetings members on either committee, they Act of 1976, “the basic intent of the act are not subject to requirements unis to strengthen the right of Michigan der the Open Meetings Act,” Morgan By MARIA RIGOU Editor
said. “These committees are meant to be flexible for the board members and to provide them with a less formal setting to hear more in depth information about the topics of which they will be making decisions at the monthly board meetings.” The OMA defines a public body as including a committee of a political subdivision of state government, which includes community colleges. A committee within the board is a formal, recognized public body and does not meet the quorum requirements that the full board has to follow, according to the Act. Morgan later said that the college is still working on the interpretation of the Open Meetings Act, and it is trying to decide what to do in this case, after speaking with the college’s attorney. “The college is working on defining operating procedures,” Morgan said, “to define what they can and cannot do at the meetings. “They will make a decision on what they want the committees to discuss.”
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May 5, 2014
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Traverse City Weekend Getaway Only $115
June 13th-15th 7a.m. (6/13) – 5pm (6/15) Traverse City, Michigan Included in price: Two-nights lodging, motorcoach transportation, 2 dinners and 1 breakfast, Sleeping Bear Dunes Hike, and adventures at Pirate’s Cove! Purchase your tickets at the Cashier’s Office!
Upcoming Sports Opportunities!
Relay For Life Join team WCC in the fight against cancer!
Drop in Sports!
Date: June 21st 22nd Time: 10am (6/21) – 10 am (6/22) Location: WCC Community Park Sign-Up: http://tinyurl.com/relay-wcc All proceeds go to the American Cancer Society Tour de Cure Saturday, June 7th Help WCC raise money to fight diabetes by educating the community and join our team! Join here: http://tinyurl.com/WCCTourDeCure2014
Stay active this summer and enjoy some drop-in sports! Drop-ins include: Sand Volleyball (Co-ed): 3-5 p.m. at the Athletic Fields on Monday and Wednesday Soccer (Co-ed): 3-5 p.m. at Community Park on Tuesday and Thursday
Drop-in sports are free for anyone to play, so bring your friends and have some fun at WCC! A parent-signed waiver is needed for anyone under 18 years of age. If you have any questions, comments or concerns please contact the WCC Sports Office by calling 734-973-3720 or emailing elemm@wccnet.edu. You can also come into the office and see us and sign up in SC 116.
News
The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
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Michigan legislators propose to fund GED programs in community colleges By MARIA RIGOU Editor
State legislators are working on getting more students into community colleges by helping them commit to education. The House Community College Appropriations Subcommittee approved an amendment in March that would put a placeholder in the budget for a GED incentive program that would allow more students to sit for the test at community colleges around the state. Rep. Adam Zemke (D-Ann Arbor) said that this incentive would “have the state offer to pay for the test if there was a commitment from the student to pursue post-secondary education.” Zemke explained that there are about seven community colleges that have GED programs, and that the test has been revamped in the last year, making it harder for students to sit for it. “The test is pretty expensive,”
BELLANCA FROM A1
Despite a tumultuous 18 months and a strained relationship with the faculty union, Bellanca said that as a president, she needs to hear and make decisions based on all of the constituents’ needs. “As a president, my job is to listen to a variety of constituents,” she said, “students, the community, faculty and university presidents … CEOs because that’s where the jobs are … older students. I also listen to my board.” Bellanca also mentioned some of the college’s accomplishments, including the relationship with the High Learning Commission, the board’s Equity Award and the college’s standing as a finalist for the Emerging Leadership Award. “Students are expecting to have a strong leader that cares about their
Zemke said. “In the state of Michigan, it is $150.” Bonnie Truhn, adult transitions manager at Washtenaw Community College said that this would benefit the community greatly. “We want our community members to be educated,” she said. “The GED is a jumping off point and it gives you access to enroll in the college.” Once students have their GED, she said, students are qualified for financial aid. “It’s going to encourage students who are socioeconomically disadvantaged to be able to take the GED test,” Zemke said, “and to pursue higher education … They are going to be better off.” Truhn concurred. “People would have access to higher education,” she said. “It benefits them in a way that allows a student to actually enroll in the college.” Zemke’s proposal will go to conference committees after the House and Senate votes on this year’s budget’s for community colleges. success,” she said. “And I’m that person.” WCC’s president also highlighted the college’s recognition at a local, state and national level, saying that she is “happy with the direction we are going as I college. “I respect our faculty,” she said. “I understand they are not happy, but I will continue to keep improving collaboration.” Bellanca said that she is “excited” to work with students, staff, faculty and community members, adding that it is important to her that students have the best that they can have. She explained that keeping tuition low means that the college is doing things differently, and that the college is making progress. “We have outstanding programs, faculty and staff,” Bellanca said. “I’m sorry the union feels this way, (but) I’m not going to stop trying.”
Fitness Fellowship starts chapter at WCC The mission of the Fitness Fellowship chapter here at WCC with a significant is to combine physical fitness with spiri- student representation. tual health. All are welcome. Faith in God or Sessions are held weekly and last religion is not required. This organizaabout an hour. A session includes a tion is open to everyone. scripture reading, followed by a halfhour work-out (consisting of cardio and More more information, please light strength training), concluding with contact Woodrow Williams (Club a deeper delve into the scripture. Representative/Exercise Leader) at They are currently on MSU and U-M wood.williams.ww@gmail.com or 734campuses and hoping to establish a 340 7106 (please leave a message).
attended via speakerphone, failed to identify himself during any of the roll section 5(f ) that “All votes taken dur- call votes in that session. ing a session where a board member A spokesman for the college said is attending virtually shall be taken that even if Landau’s votes do not by roll call and the member attend- count, the board still had a physical ing virtually must identify himself or quorum present, so the overall vote herself verbally before each roll call.” is still valid. But some in attendance at that meeting noted that Landau, who Staff Writer James Saoud
TRUSTEES FROM A1
AUTOMATION FROM A1
Garrett Layman, 21, of Canton and Brendan Herpic, 21, of Brighton. “We were brainstorming ideas and these two gentlemen (Layman and Herpic) do a lot of dart-gun modification,” Bradley said. The team’s creation features two yellow robotic arms operated by the teammates. One has a NERF gun attached to the end shooting toward a box with several numbered targets, the other with a styrofoam panel covered in duct-tape designed to block the NERF darts. Bradley, who was operating the arm
with the NERF gun, said their teacher raised the question, “Why don’t you have the robot control the firing?” Bradley jokingly responded referencing the Terminator films: “I just didn’t want a Skynet situation on our hands, you know? We didn’t want to end humanity.” Dale Petty, an instructor of electrical courses, was among the crowd of family, friends and employers enjoying work the students had created. “It’s a chance for students to show off all they’ve learned,” Petty said. “This program is one of the sources of good jobs for people, and that’s what WCC specializes in.”
security notes
the condiments bar at The Spot in the Student Center shortly after noon on April 21. Upon turning around to reFrom redacted incident reports provid- trieve the backpack, it was gone.
ed by Campus Safety and Security and interviews with Director Jacques Desrosiers.
Larceny A student left a rolling backpack out of sight momentarily while using
Larceny A phone left charging in a classroom by a student turned up missing when the student returned in the ML building at 3 p.m. on April 22.
Enough blame to go around, but it’s probably us M.M. DONALDSON
Wal-Mart’s latest radio ad encourages busy moms to relate to the female narrator who relies on the superstore to help her get a meal on the table with great deals. This week offers a rotisserie chicken, salad and soda pop. Last week’s advertised meal was pizza and soda pop. Wait. What? Fast-food retailers have long promoted soda as the beverage in their meals, so maybe we Americans find this normal. Yet, soda has never been included as an integral part of a balanced meal, much less healthy nutrition. “Live better” is Wal-Mart’s current advertising message, but it is full of contradictions. And so are we. Statistics show that we talk the talk and spend our money where our mouth is, but what really goes into our mouths is a completely different. Traditional health care costs may be a controversial topic, but Americans willingly spend $33.9 billion on complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) according to a 2007 survey by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Acupuncture and chiropractic services, vitamins and nutritional
VOTING FROM A1
not the total membership of the Washtenaw Community College Education Association. While the bylaws state that the outcome is calculated by the number of members who voted, the ratio necessary varying from two-thirds to a majority, WCCEA President Maryam Barrie said that this is not a recent revision. The confusion might be because the WCCEA recently changed its understanding of the size of a quorum necessary to vote, she said. The bylaws state that a quorum of at least 20 percent of the union’s membership must be present to hold a vote. Barrie said that the union had been calculating the number of members that constitute 20 percent incorrectly until recently. Managing Editor Natalie Wright
supplements are included under the CAM umbrella. This does not include dollars spent on fads, such as trendy, name-brand blenders to the tune of $500. In the quest for spending money on becoming more healthy, the contradiction of Americans becomes apparent when reviewing the National Cancer Institute’s research of the National Healthy and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-06. The survey lists the top five items consumed by children and adults as: • Grain-based desserts • Yeast breads • Chicken dishes • Soda/energy/sports drinks • Pizza The survey lists the 30 most popular items, and fruit, of any sort, did not place in the ranking. Vegetables in the form of potatoes did, but only as a chip or fried. Wal-Mart, and all other grocery stores, have aisles and aisles of food in cardboard, plastic and glass containers, but we buy it. Then, we eat it. Then, we come up with funny names like “muffin-top” or “cankles” to describe the effect of eating processed foods and way too much food in general. No one is laughing at the other words to describe what a bad diet does to our bodies, like heart disease, high blood pressure or cancer. These diseases are not exclusive of poor nutrition, but the National Institute of Health states that these effects of obesity on mortality is considered second in preventable deaths.
Are the processed-food manufacturers to blame? Are the grocery stores who peddle this to us to blame? Are fast-food marketers to blame? Are we to blame? Anyone who dares to point the finger at “us,” is in a dangerous spot. A guilt trip is really the last thing anyone needs, but there is a difference between taking the blame and being responsible for our actions. Part of being responsible for our own health includes deciding what our priorities are. Try creating a statement such as, “I will learn to make a delicious and healthy meal that my family can be a part of and share,” or, “I will park a little farther from the front of the store and eventually have enough energy to play with my kids.” Changing our attitudes to make our health a priority will also teach our family and friends to do the same. I should apologize for making WalMart an example, but they are an excellent mirror to see what too many of us take for granted. Author note: This last column of this school year’s Healthy Voice and all of its cliches are dedicated to WCC journalism instructor Dave Waskin. M. M. Donaldson is a journalism student at WCC. She has a bachelor’s degree in family and community services from Michigan State University and has several years’ experience with nutrition issues affecting infants to adults. She can be reached at mmorrisdonaldson@wccnet.edu. Follow on Twitter @ MMDonaldson1.
college spokesman said that Wilson is also stepping down for personal Martha Showalter, dean of reasons. Math and Natural Sciences and Faculty members have expressed Health, is retiring, a spokesman for concerns over the sudden departure the college said; Rosemary Wilson, of the deans. The position of dean of dean of Business and Computer Health Education has also been vacant Technologies will return to teach- for three years, and Showalter had ing in the business department; been filling in for those responsibilities. and Jim Egan, dean of Distance “That means that the college needs Learning will return to teaching to find four deans soon,” said Maryam in the math department. Barrie, president of the faculty union The deans’ contract with the in an address to the board of trustees college stipulates that they can on April 22. “As you can imagine, this return to teaching at any time adds a great deal of uncertainty to the and maintain their seniority and alarm faculty are already feeling.” benefits. “It seems that our best and brightEgan said that he is stepping est are jumping ship,” English instrucdown from his position to spend tor Stephanie Gelderlooos wrote in an more time with his family, adding email to adjunct faculty. that he has known since he became dean in 2008 that this move would Managing Editor Natalie Wright come eventually. Wilson and Showalter could not Additional reporting by Staff Writer be reached for comments, but a David Fitch DEANS FROM A1
calendar may 5 – july 31 Monday, May 5 Winter Semester ends
College Visitations
potential employers. Blackboard Training From 3:30-5 p.m. in GM 230A.
Thursday, May 8 Tiger’s baseball game 11:30 a.m.Monday, May 26 Eastern 5 p.m. Students will get the chance to College closed for Memorial Day Michigan University see the game for $26. Transportation All visits in SC 206 and outfield seats included. Buy tickets Tuesday, May 27 From 1-5 p.m. on May 7, 14, 21, 28, at the cashier’s office. Second set of 10-week courses June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Blackboard training begins. From noon-4 p.m. on May 8, 15, 22, From 3:30-5 p.m. in GM 230A. 29, June 5, 12, 19, 26, July 3, 10, 17, June 13 – 15 24, 30,31. Saturday, May 10 Traverse City Getaway: An Up North Financial aid funds available in break for the weekend for $150. Students Concordia University the bookstore until May 23. can buy tickets at the cashier’s office. All visits in the first floor of the SC. Monday, May 12 Monday, June 23 May 14, June 10, July 8 and 22 from Spring/Summer Semester begins. First six-week session ends. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Thursday, May 15 Tuesday, June 24 Spring Arbor University Biannual Honors Convocation Second six-week session begins. All visits in the first floor of the SC. Saturday, May 17 Friday, July 4 May 15, June 4 and July 24 from 11 Commencement College closed for Independence a.m.-2 p.m. Day. Thursday, May 22 IT Career Fair, 1-4 p.m. in ML Monday, July 21 103-121, will connect students with First 10-week session ends.
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Voices
May 5, 2014
editorial
The Voice will not be silenced We don’t usually print rumors, but a recent widespread rumor hits so close to home that we can’t help but address it: Someone at Washtenaw Community College is intent on shutting down The Voice. Several concerned sources came to us with this information last week. We asked administrators up our chain of command – Vice President of Student and Academic Services Linda Blakey and Director of Student Activities Pete Leshkevich. Both told us that they’ve heard nothing of the sort. But, if this rumor were true, it would be done by simply putting a red line through our budget, and we wouldn’t know it had been done until after the trustees approve the budget. So, we would never have a chance to defend ourselves. And that is the reason we’re writing about a rumor – because we need to take the time to stand up for ourselves right now. This newspaper is a success by any measurement. We win awards for WCC, a lot of awards, including a national Pacemaker award (the Pulitzer Prize of college journalism) last fall. The Voice also provides people with jobs. Reporters have left this newsroom with so much experience that they can forgo a four-year school and go straight to work at daily newspapers. Some reporters have gotten work at other newspapers while still on our staff. Others have moved to four-year schools and quickly risen to the top in their newsrooms. And, this year, one of our designers got a job on a national advertising campaign because the company was so impressed with the pages he’s created for us. We are also successful in terms of keeping the campus community and the broader community informed. Local news outlets including the Ann Arbor News, the Ann Arbor Chronicle
and Heritage Newspapers often pick up our stories. And, lastly, this newspaper is a huge success for the college because it keeps students here. At least four of our six staff members returning in the fall are only continuing to take classes at WCC so that they can work for The Voice. We’ve seen this again and again. Anyone who spends a good amount of time in this newsroom understands why people stay here for it. It’s a powerful experience doing this work. It’s important work. When our staff had lunch with WCC President Rose Bellanca a few months ago we had a great conversation about the lack of student government on this campus. We said we were concerned about the lack of representation for the students’ voice. That’s what the newspaper does, she told us. So, if this school loses the newspaper, there will really be no representation for the students. That’s terrifying, especially with the tremendous decisions facing the college right now. So ultimately, what we want to say is this: If our funding is cut, that doesn’t mean the end of The Voice. We will exist in some form next year, no matter what. It might mean we don’t get paid, but we don’t do this for the money. It might mean a smaller print edition, or no print edition, but our website isn’t going anywhere. It might mean no office, but we’ll manage. Be concerned, friends and readers, that this college is in a place where a rumor like this is even believable. But don’t be worried that this newspaper will disappear, becauseThe Voice will not be silenced.
VOICE A NATIONAL PACEMAKER AWARD NEWSPAPER
THE
The student publication of Washtenaw Community College Ann Arbor, Michigan
Volume 20, Issue 19
4800 E. Huron River Dr. TI 106 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 (734) 677-5125 thewashtenawvoice@gmail.com 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. EDITOR Maria Rigou drigou@wccnet.edu MANAGING EDITOR Natalie Wright nkwright@wccnet.edu PHOTO EDITOR Kelly Bracha kbracha@wccnet.edu GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Brian Auten bgauten@wccnet.edu EJ Stout estout@wccnet.edu ONLINE EDITOR Christina Fleming cfleming@wccnet.edu VIDEO EDITOR James Saoud jsaoud@wccnet.edu
ADVERTISING MANAGER Becky Alliston ealliston@wccnet.edu STAFF WRITERS M. M. Donaldson mmorrisdonaldson@wccnet.edu David Fitch drfitch@wccnet.edu Jon Price jprice18@wccnet.edu Adrianna Velazquez Vivian Zago CONTRIBUTORS Jessica Blackford Marian Harris Erik Morris Tiera Pitts Michele Sweeney Aron Turner COPY EDITOR Nina Di Mauro ADVISER Keith Gave kgave@wccnet.edu
The Washtenaw Voice
Bidding farewell, with pride, gratitude and appreciation college into my work, and was hardly ever trained into doing something different. I learned myriad things about the music industry, but I am almost MARIA certain that I hardly developed in my RIGOU profession. The exact opposite happened at After 19 issues and what seemed to The Voice. Everything that I know tobe a very long year, it is finally time to day, I know from practicing the trade. Journalism is not a science, but rather say goodbye. I knew this moment was going to an art that needs to be practiced and come eventually, but it kind of took me practiced – to never reach perfection, by surprise. I feel like I am not ready but to do a great job. to say goodbye and move on, because This last year I did so many things I I could do so much more and get so can’t even remember how it started. I much better. Yet I feel like maybe it took a ride on a Vietnam-era helicopis time to move on. ter, went to many events, met amazing My time as editor of The Voice was people, and had the honor to be a part one of the best things that happened of the team that covered President to me professionally. Before moving Obama’s recent visit to Ann Arbor. I to Ann Arbor, I was working at a large have had talks with very important corporation, and I was just a num- people in the state, I have the personal ber. I applied everything I learned in cellphone of a state representative,
and I know people who are worth multi-billions of dollars. The experiences that I take with me after this year are priceless, and the portfolio that accompanies them doesn’t hurt my resume, either. It is amazing what this newspaper has given every single person who has been fortunate to be a member of its staff. We are talking about opportunities and hands-on work that could only be compared to “real life.” It is hard to say goodbye, but it is great to leave and go on to the “real world” with my experience. The Voice is just a steppingstone for bigger and greater things for many of us who have occupied its newsroom. But it is for all of us a huge steppingstone. And probably the most important. Thank you, Voice, for all you have given me, and thank you for these years. I wish you well.
Like falling in love all over again, it’s been a wild ride KELLY BRACHA
I remember my first byline. I remember the rush of seeing my name in print for the first time. I remember the first interview I conducted having no prior experience, having barely taken a journalism class … I remember the day this grabbed me and didn’t let me go. It has been nearly three years since that first byline, and I can’t believe what it has sprouted. I have learned more about life, the world and The Associated Press Stylebook in these last few years than I even thought possible, and nearly all my insecurities about being a journalist slowly diminished. That fear of writing and reporting? Get over it. You have a deadline to follow.
First time in a helicopter? Better strap in, there are no doors on this thing, and you better get some damn good photos. Want to see a cadaver? Several? Well, you just might after knocking on the right (or wrong) door. President of the United States 15 feet away from you? No big deal, it’s the third time. Front row tickets to a Michigan football game? Try on the field with a photojournalist’s pass. This job has given me more than just a nice chunk of resume real estate to fill up; it’s been an amalgamation of life experiences that cannot be found working in a cubicle. It was like a “choose your own adventure” book in which every chapter you can pick the next path the protagonist will take. With every issue of this paper, I had a world of choice: Did I want to write about politics or about the stupid Student Center revolving door being broken again? Sometimes, the choice wasn’t entirely up to me. Like in every job, there’s a bit of grunt work that needs
to go in before you are given more responsibility. Even so, every fluff piece or silly movie review became a chance to challenge myself and turn even the most mind-numbing stories into something I can be proud of. After writing for two years, I switched to the position of photo editor. For a while, I loved being free of the five-story minimum per issue shackles. Then I found myself missing being a reporter, chasing the news. I envied my teammates, watching them reporting on these amazing stories and seeing journalism slowly grab them like it did me. In a way, it was endearing. I got to experience falling in love all over again vicariously through the new reporters. It has been a wild ride, to say the least. I have made a second home out of a little room on the first floor of the TI building. My grades have suffered; I’ve had major sleep deprivation; tears have been shed countless of times and even my relationships have been hurt here and there. But damn if it wasn’t worth it.
Looking ahead – anxiously – to another eventful year questions surrounding the college. How will the board of trustees react to the faculty’s vote? Will they extend Bellanca’s contract again? And if so, how will the community react? NATALIE How will the administration hanWRIGHT dle the challenge of finding reinforcements for three highly respected deans who suddenly resigned their positions With me at all times, in my back- recently? Or for the vice president of pack, on my desk, never more than an instruction position? arm’s length away is a small notebook After a tumultuous summer, how filled with small notes that add up to will voters react at the polls when big plans for this newspaper. I started they’re asked to renew a millage – and writing down my ideas months ago, to decide who they want to elect to when I decided against transferring run the college with three seats up to a four-year college to remain with for grabs on the board of trustees, and The Voice as editor – an opportunity some notable challengers running I couldn’t turn down. against the incumbents? I’ve written before about the high As I think about these questions, standards our predecessors set for us, one thing is clear to me: The Voice is the great reputation this paper has in as important now as it’s ever been – if our community, in our state and, more we do the kind of work readers expect recently, on a national level. It can be from us. We’ll need to rise to the occaintimidating trying to live up to that. sion – because the stakes have never Even more daunting is knowing that been higher. we have an opportunity to raise the But there are also many great, exbar higher. citing stories around this campus to With a massively experienced and tell – less controversial, but no less passionate staff returning in the fall, important. we have high hopes and expectations One of the stories I’m most excited for the work we will do. to follow up on: WCC’s community And we know, even now, that there garden is moving to a much bigger will be no lack of news to write about. space over the summer and will yield The faculty’s recent vote of no its first crop in the fall. confidence against President Rose What’s amazing to me about the Bellanca is only the start of what’s community garden is that people sure to be a monumental year at from every corner of this college have Washtenaw. pitched in. This summer, there are a lot of The business department helped
set up social media accounts and a website for the project. The culinary program is helping decide what to grow, and the construction program has offered to donate lumber and time to help build a hoop house. This project should serve as a beacon to everyone on this campus for what it means to be a community. Positive stories like these deserve equal attention in the midst of so much turmoil. And we’re equally committed to seeking them out and telling those stories, too. Next year, The Voice will continue to write the difficult stories, to hold ourselves as accountable as those we write about and to inform our readers about serious issues happening on this campus. We will do what all great newspapers seek to do: Comfort the afflicted, and afflict the comfortable. Our mission is simple: We write the news. We write the truth. We don’t take sides, but we hold everybody accountable. When we write opinion pieces, we take the side of the students. We are the student voice, and will continue to advocate for what’s in their best interests. As we move forward, I’ve never been so excited and nervous in my life as I am now, thinking about the summer and the year that lies ahead. We have a lot of responsibility on our shoulders and a lot of people counting on us, but I know with the people who stand by my side in this newsroom, there are no standards too high.
we’re open all summer at washtenawvoice.com
Voices
The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
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Returning to the hallowed halls Trending now in the environment ... participated in our events for the “Year of Energy.” Thanks to students for attending and professors, counselors, managers and students in the following departments for working to make our “Year of Energy” a success: Anthropology, Automotive, Biology, Business and Computer Technologies, Culinary Arts, Counseling, Electricity/ Electronics, Energy Services, English, Environmental Sciences, Facilities Management, Gallery One, Graphic Design/Media Arts, Bailey Library, Math, Media Services, Public Relations, Student Development Activities, Visual Arts Technology, the Writing Center and The Washtenaw Voice. A special shout out to Vice President of Instruction Bill Abernethy, whose generous funding made these events possible. Don’t forget to attend our final “Year of Energy” event, a poetry reading called “Student Energy Works,” with popular professors Maryam Barrie and Tom Zimmerman on June 11, from 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. in Gallery One. And, students, faculty and staff, please contact us with your ideas for events on the topic of sustainable food for next year, which is the “Year of Food.” Send them to: ethompso@ wccnet.edu, mbarrie@wccnet.edu, jdavis@wccnet.edu, or agannon@ wccnet.edu .
EMILY THOMPSON
First, it was water. Now, it’s energy. And next it’s food. Put it together and what do you get? The past, current and future themes of Washtenaw Community College’s committee on sustainability (the Sustainability Literacy Task Force). The SLTF has run more than 16 events on the topic of sustainable energy in the Fall and Winter semesters for students, staff and faculty to take part in. We offer these events to enrich the academic life at WCC, and they ranged from a panel discussion on sustainable energy to a sustainably made, locally sourced dinner to a talk on how to get decreased emissions for your car and lower your bill at the pump at the same time. We also hosted a talk on the math of saving energy (including how to read your gas bill), a tour of geothermal facilities at WCC and a presentation about the community garden project on campus. We organized book clubs, low carbon diet workshops, a Moving Planet Day competition, a poetry reading and Dr. Emily Thompson is on the facmany more activities. ulty at WCC and is a member of the The SLTF would like to give a Sustainability Literacy Task Force shout out to the departments that committee.
essay
Motherhood Visualizing my biggest goal – and seeing it through to the end By MARIAN HARRIS
Voice Correspondent
I was a teenage mother with high hopes and dreams of being successful. I didn’t use this as an excuse to quit school. I managed to attend school, live out my teenage years and be the best mother to my child. This grown-up experience was my motivation to carry on and put an end to being an everlasting statistic. I changed my major once or twice, but at this age many people are undecided as to what they want to do after high school. I was one in the bunch. Prior to my first time entering college, I had just graduated high school, but unlike many people my age, I had a 3-year-old looking and staring at my every move. After walking across one stage, it was now time to jump back on that track, handle the hurdles and win this obstacle course, choosing the easiest degree of choice to help expedite my exit from college. I ended up taking a break. And another one. So many breaks that I was now a mother of three and had become a familiar face in the adviser’s office trying to persuade and plead with reasons as to why my financial aid should be restored. I had some college education, but I felt I should return once I found a desired career. I grew tired of watching life pass me by, you know, like those commercials on television that will make you feel even more guilt. At Washtenaw Community College, to obtain financial aid after termination, I was responsible for going through an appeal process that included a letter stating why I failed in the past and what will I do differently this time around. Also, I obtained a letter of support from an adviser regarding why my aid should be restored. I was determined to make this my last trip to the adviser’s office, driven with determination, with a degree plan. I was proud to know that (counselor) Diana Clark saw the potential in me, and I was so moved by the letter I asked her to print me a copy. “First of all, I am very impressed with this young woman,” she wrote. “She has excellent verbal communication skills and has a strong belief in the necessity of women to be educated and independent.” It took time, and a few failed
employment interviews, for reality to sit in. I have had only a handful of jobs, so when I got the word that a temporary agency was seeking to hire people for Google, I attended the interview, and the manager would check my references and get back with me. That’s what I was told. I would still be waiting if I didn’t have the common sense to know that my job history isn’t up to standards. In my view, the only way for a person who is lacking job skills is to return to school to gain the necessary skills and tools. I told myself it was time to get back in school to finish what I started. I did just that so I can also become a stable provider for my family. I started 2014 with one semester left. I was a smart girl who gained credits throughout my journey at WCC (my second home), so I wasn’t just taking up space. So one day in May, I will accomplish something great. I will stand in line with many of my peers, anxious with joy while awaiting my name to be called to accept my associate degree. The place will be packed. I’m pretty observant so I can envision looking up into the stands to see my dearest family and friends in one section of the arena. Seeing my loved ones reassures me that they are proud. I see the flashes of many proud spectators capturing the magic moments. I can feel a tear fall as my life flashes before my eyes, and I hear my inner guide saying, “Through all the trials and tribulations of your struggle, Marian, you understood the meaning of setting and accomplishing the goals you had made towards a better life.” The very thought makes me smile. And, as my row of soon-to-be grads stand to approach the stage, I can feel the adrenaline. And then, I hear my name: “Marian Virginia Harris.” That’s me. I say to myself. As I approach the stage, I hear roars of joy, people shouting, my daughters yelling, “That’s our mom!” I look over and glance at my loved ones, and I blow them all kisses as I approach the end of the stage with degree in hand. I did it. I am an educated woman who soon will be seeking her bachelor’s degree in mass communications. And I stand as living proof that when we visualize – and get a little help when it’s desperately needed – our hopes and dreams can come true.
MICHELE SWEENEY
Not as old as dirt, but I’ve seen a half century come and go. It’s a good group though. We’ve not only read about history, we’ve lived it, tasted it. We are the alien beings that prowl the college hallways that leave you wondering: faculty, staff or student? In my 20s, I was halfway to an associate degree in computer information systems, but when divorce loomed on the horizon, my full-time, part-time and freelance job won out over my two classes a week at Palomar Community College in San Marcos, California. Sound familiar? Now, here I stand at the doors of Washtenaw Community College, looking to complete a degree in technical communication. And, wow, it’s good to be back! Higher learning was for the
young, night classes for the old. In the 1980s, I can’t remember seeing anyone over 30 who didn’t work for the college. Now, our presence is commonplace. But, when did it happen? Was it gradual, or, like a dagger, were we thrust into the academic culture? Well, upon approaching Student Connections, workers there were more than happy to put facts to my rantings. As of Fall 2013, the average age of WCC students was 27.1 years. And, although most students fell between the ages of 18-20 years at a whopping 29.9 percent, the 45-59 year range came in at a not-so-close fifth place at 7.4 percent. It may not seem like much, but kudos to the older generation. Liz Mennick, a 48-year-old from Ann Arbor who is looking forward to graduating May 17 with an associate degree in technical communication, had this to say: “WCC is a good launching pad, a good place to start whether you’re just coming out of high school or doing a mid-life change.” Mennick tried in 1983 to attend Central Michigan University, but ran up against the financial aid wall. When she returned to school two years ago,
she found WCC to be among the best in the country – as community colleges go – in that she wasn’t treated any differently than the next student and found affordable, quality learning. Gage Franchek, a 23-year-old business student, made the observation that older students attend more electives, as opposed to core classes. He also believes that some younger students, like himself, feel they have to come to college either due to parental or peer pressure or that ever-looming push to prepare for a better job. But older students, Franchek said, seem to be here because they want to be here. “You shouldn’t stand out (agewise),” he said. “Everyone should be here for the same purpose, for self-enrichment.” When it comes down to it, the academic culture has definitely changed. But, are we a product of technology? A society racing long and hard to keep up and secure jobs in a world stumbling over yesterday’s obsolete? We can all see – whether fresh out of high school or sitting in a nursing home – that seniors rock when it comes to learning.
english instructor julie kissel sent this letter to the washtenaw community college board of trustees on april 23 Dear Board of Trustees, support. With the support of the administration, a group of us led by Dean Taylor, started a number of initiatives to directly support students. My initiative was the Supplemental Instruction Assistant program that places trained Writing Center tutors in writing courses to offer direct support. From August 2011 to April 2013, the English department received funding to develop this program and have found that student success and persistent rates increased. Sadly, this program was not funded during Fall 2013. It was only after being denied support through the strategic plan request for funding that VP Abernethy helped secure meager funding for Winter 2014. However, the department continues to fight to secure funding for next school year. This is maddening since we are requesting $10,000 that can’t be found in the budget, yet the As a co-chair for the Strategic Plan Priority 2A, I have administration can find the funds to support consultants and not received nor been a part of any decision or discus- another vice president of something. sion since April 2013 when I presented at the BOT meeting. Meetings were scheduled since then, but they were When faculty come to the board with examples of our great scheduled at the last minute or during times that I was work, we are applauded. Now that we are seeking your help, teaching. I did ask for feedback from the meetings mul- we are ignored. We understand that your choices are neither tiple times, but I never received any information. In fact, comfortable nor convenient, but neither are our choices. If the only real thank you was noted in On the Record from you continue to bury your heads in the sand and hope that it April 7, 2014, but please understand that I have done will get better, it is time for you to leave the board. We need nothing with this priority in a year. action, not blank stares. Now is the time to be bold. Now is the time to be brave. In 2010, WCC joined forces with the Achieving the Dream initiative to work on improving student success, Julie Kissel English department especially for those students who are in most need of Over a year ago, faculty, in an emotional plea, hoped that you, the Board of Trustees, would help us work through serious communication issues with the president. At that time, I was struck by the blank stares and wondered if you were really listening, or if you really cared about the health of the institution and its employees. A year later, we are still asking for help, and those blank stares still exist. As WCCEA President Maryam Barrie so eloquently asked during the April 22 Board of Trustees’ meeting, we hope that you are listening and aware of a deepening divide. If you are not fully aware, I will give you two personal examples to help you understand.
Maryam Barrie’s remarks at the Washtenaw Community College Board of Trustees meeting on April 22 Rumors are probably a part of every work environment. Over the last several years, there has been an increasing climate of distrust and fear throughout all levels of the college. There is an increasing sentiment that speaking up puts people at risk of losing their jobs, or face petty repercussions. I say this to you not to say that it is justified or accurate but just to clearly tell you – this is how many people feel. I’m sure if you had taken any of the suggestions Jennifer Baker made to you in the last year about having an external climate survey (a la the Detroit Free Press “best places to work”) or a 360 evaluation (with staff and faculty evaluating their supervisors without fear of repercussion), you would have discovered this for yourselves. Because I’m the elected representative of the full time and adjunct faculty here at WCC, I see my job in reporting to you each month as an important way to speak up on behalf of those I represent. Those that I represent find it deeply unsettling that many valued, long-term employees have left the college recently. We used to have a climate where people loved their jobs, and generally had a healthy working environment. I want to make you aware of what the faculty are aware of: That has changed. There has been a nearly complete turnover in our Web Services staff over the last 18 months, making it nearly impossible for this group to be responsive to faculty needs. We are on our third Director of Marketing in the last three years. Faculty are alarmed at the departure of key members of the DL (Distance Learning) staff critical to the completion of the Department of Labor grant. Joanna Elliott, of the Center for Distance Learning, announced her plans to leave the college this week, and last week, Diane Fine, who was working specifically on that same DOL grant, resigned. Faculty throughout the college are alarmed that a grant that faculty were not consulted about prior to its being granted could fall through, and that those staff members left standing will be left to bear that burden on their own. As I hope you know, WCC faculty learned last week that three academic deans are leaving their positions. Jim Egan, dean of Distance Learning, will be rejoining the Math department in the Fall 2014 term and Rosemary Wilson, dean of Business and Computer Technologies, will be rejoining the Business department at that time. Martha Showalter, dean of Math and Natural Sciences for many
years, and for the last three years, Health, is retiring. While some efforts have been made toward finding a permanent dean for Health Education, as of yet, there has been no progress with this. That means that the college needs to find four deans soon. As you can imagine, this adds a great deal of uncertainty to the alarm faculty are already feeling. I’d point out to you that while we’ve not been able to hire a Health dean over the last three years, we are working in an environment that has gone from having two full-level vice presidents (VP for Instruction, VP for Finance) to having seven full-level VPs. We are also slated to hire another new associate VP. Faculty are aware of these changes … and I can’t tell if you, as board members, are aware of them or not. If you are not, please pay attention. The choices you make are affecting the current and future school that we are all proud to serve. There are problems with communication here at WCC. I know Jennifer worked hard last year to tell you that. I don’t know if you have been hearing that or not. I urge you to hire an independent audit to do some sort of work climate survey that WCC employees throughout the college could respond to accurately without any fear of repercussions. We want to be a part of helping the college navigate through these changing waters. Urge your employee, the president, to find ways to slow down her plans enough to include thoughtful faculty engagement with her initiatives. A rumor that I’ve heard several times this week is that faculty were called to a meeting and told to get on board with a plan to update their curriculum or to get out of the way. That is not collaboration. It isn’t good communication either. I hope we can come up with better ways of communicating together so that as rumors fly and alarm faculty about the DOL grant, about a new Advanced Manufacturing grant and building, about the point of a publication that looks like a newspaper (“On the Record”), but isn’t a newspaper, that purports to be the “official” vehicle of communication between the college and its staff and faculty, we can calm things down. But we can’t help to make anything better, if the only communication happening is top down. That is what needs to change – as I know we have said many times. Editor’s note: These remarks were transcribed from the hard copy that Barrie read from. There may have been slight language changes in the actual reading. For the exact language, see the video online at washtenawvoice.com.
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bargaining agreements.” Oakland Community College’s fac“WCC, especially in student out- ulty union issued a vote of no confisaid in a written statement distrib- comes, is a story of success,” Landau dence in Chancellor Timothy Meyer uted to reporters. “It is an affirmation said. “This tarnishes that success.” in February. Mary Ann McGee, presithat there is a problem here.” The faculty has expressed concerns dent of the faculty association, said To some it may appear that the leading up to this vote that the trustees that the vote of no confidence sends union is “agitating dissent,” Barrie are not listening to them. They hoped a strong message to the board that it said, adding that is not the case. “We that this vote would be a way to get the is not doing their job in communicatare simply using the limited resourc- board’s attention. ing with the faculty. es we have to communicate to the Barrie addressed the trustees at “Every institution is different,” board of trustees and to McGee said. “But rethe community at large search shows that (althat things at WCC are most) half the time, in crisis.” the board will support Bellanca said she was their administrator.” sorry that this is how the According to union feels, but it will McGee, OCC’s Board not stop her from lookof Trustees almost ing to the future. immediately en“Personally, I underdorsed the chancelstand why they did this, lor following the vote, and I am disappointed and explained that … because I respect our these “things rarely faculty,” she said. “But, result in job changes.” I am excited with the diMcGee also said rection we are going as that, from the reada college.” ing she has done, she While votes like this feels like most of the are often the result of current concerns of faculty concerns over WCC’s union align to salaries or job securithose of OCC’s union, ty, that is not the case including lack of apat WCC, Barrie said. A propriate communilack of transparency cation, abandonment and communication in seeking the facultop the list of the faculty when making imty’s concerns along with portant decisions an increase of adminisand making decisions trative involvement in without consultation. curriculum. “Community col“This vote makes leges, like higher eda feeling that’s been ucation, are facing a lot of challenges,” she rumbling through the college for the last two said. “There is a lot of Faculty union President Maryam Barrie at the last board of trustees years manifest and conpressure on our instimeeting last month. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE crete,” Barrie said. tutions, both at the The vote of no confidence acts as their monthly meeting on April 22 federal and state level. a symbolic statement with which the and pleaded with them to “pay attenWe always make better decisions union hopes to influence the actions tion” and to address the growing at- when we are working together.” of the board of trustees, but, as of right mosphere of alarm and fear among Barrie said that she doesn’t have high now, it does not change Bellanca’s em- the faculty. expectations for the trustees to take ployment status. The next day, English instructor action or even acknowledge the vote. And the vote doesn’t appear to have Julie Kissel sent an open letter to “I wish that things were better, and fazed the trustees. the trustees passionately reiterating I wish we felt we had a leadership in “The faculty union’s vote of no con- Barrie’s sentiments. place that we could trust,” Barrie said, fidence against Dr. Bellanca, although “If you continue to bury your heads adding that the faculty will continue well-intended by the union, is an un- in the sand and hope that it will get to try to work with Bellanca as best fortunate distraction,” WCC Board better, it is time for you to leave the they can. Chair Anne Williams said in a press board,” Kissel wrote. Michael Duff, first vice president release. “Faculty unions from several But not everyone in the union of the union, said he hopes the vote other community colleges and uni- agrees with the union leadership. Sally will open up communication beversities in Michigan and across the Adler, WCC’s only full-time instruc- tween the faculty and the trustees country have used the same strategy tor in early childhood education was and administration. to show displeasure over change – to one of the 22 members who voted ‘no.’ There probably won’t be an immewhich some have difficulty adapting. “I disagree with many of my col- diate reaction, Kissel said, but she also “Such action will not dissuade us leagues. I support the administra- hopes the vote will lead to a conversafrom proceeding with our responsi- tion,” Adler said. “I may not like all of tion, at least. bility to WCC students and the com- the things going on, but I support my “If not, we will explore other avemunity as a whole.” leadership – the president, the admin- nues to make our voices heard,” Kissel In an interview shortly after the istration and the trustees. In a large said. “We’ll collect ourselves as best vote, Trustee Richard Landau, who organization there’s always going to as possible and leave ourselves open said he spoke on behalf of the entire be things you’re unhappy with.” for what comes next. And we will not board, said he is deeply disappointed WCC’s faculty union is following be dismissed.” that the faculty took this step. suit of many in the state. Since the Additional reporting by Staff “It only polarizes parties,” Landau beginning of the year, three colleges said. “The appropriate way of resolv- have passed votes of no confidence in Writers James Saoud, David Fitch and Photo Editor Kelly Bracha. ing disputes is through the collective their administrators.
The Washtenaw Voice
NO CONFIDENCE FROM A1
faculty union members speak out, some reluctantly, about the vote Most faculty members entering and leaving the no confidence vote meeting were not willing to speak about the issue. Some were willing to speak only if their names were kept anonymous. Some of the responses The Voice was able to get are below. “It says a lot about the atmosphere of fear here that people are afraid to talk, doesn’t it?” Anonymous
“I think it’s sad that it came to this. It’s sad that we have a president who has allowed it to come to this.” Anonymous
“The fear is that after the vote of no confidence, she (Bellanca) will take action against those who voted.” David Fitzpatrick, history
“I hope that something positive comes from both sides, something that is good for the college, because the college is above everyone.” Mohammed Abella, math
“I feel we’re exercising our right to democratically voice our opinion. We’re holding up one side of the picture and Bellanca, the administration and the trustees can hold up the other side. We’re all fighting for the same objective – bettering WCC. “ Ann Jones, psychology
“Today’s vote was out of obligation, not gratification. We’re not happy we’re here.” David Wooten, biology
“It’s tearing us up.” Cristy Lindemann, construction “A year ago, we voiced concerns, and they were ignored and this is the next step … Nobody in there wanted to do this. No one’s cheering or singing union songs … This is a work environment. We’re professional people. We have a lot of knowledge, and we’d like to be consulted, or at least involved, in decisions that are made. We’ve asked and asked and asked, and that’s not happened.” Russ Ferguson, automotive services “They’re a bunch of idiots!” Anonymous faculty member who stormed out of the meeting 15 minutes after it started “I’m abstaining from voting because I don’t have enough information from both sides. I just heard one side of the story in there. I haven’t heard the rebuttal.” Anthony Perkins, history
“I disagree with many of my colleagues. I support the administration. I may not like all of the things going on, but I support my leadership – the president, the administration and the trustees. In large organizations, there’s always going to be things you’re unhappy with.” Sally Adler, early childhood education “I am sad that this is where we’re at. None of us want to do this, but we have to make the community and the board of trustees know how serious a concern we think this is. Something shocking needed to happen to open up communication.” Michael Duff, automotive services “We don’t want it to affect the students.” Laurice “Noonie” Anderson, performing arts It is sad; things have never been worse … Faculty input has been shut out of the conversation for two years.” Anne Heise, biology Reporting by Editor Maria Rigou, Managing Editor Natalie Wright and Staff Writers James Saoud, Kelly Bracha and David Fitch
RESOLUTION FOR VOTE OF NO CONFIDENCE Whereas, in the three years of President Bellanca’s tenure, the College has gone from having two full vice presidents and four associate vice presidents to having seven full vice presidents and is now in the process of hiring a new associate vice president, even as budgets for areas across the college are being cut, most disconcertingly positions that support students and instruction are being eliminated or are left unfilled, as evidenced by the reduction in counselors and in college lab support staff (among other examples), and Whereas, even as President Bellanca saw fit to increase the number of Vice Presidents and their compensation, the Nursing Program and the Allied Health Program were moved to Dean Showalter’s division with the promise that that move would be temporary and that a Dean of Health Sciences would be hired. Yet, three years later, no Dean of Health Sciences has been hired and, after a brief aborted search, there has been no effort to hire one, and Whereas tactics of intimidation and isolation, up to and including threats of dismissal have become commonplace during President Bellanca’s tenure, creating a hostile and toxic workplace environment throughout the College. The most recent occurred during a meeting conducted by President Bellanca on April 18 regarding the creation of a Center for Advanced Manufacturing where she made threats to faculty and told them to “get on board or get out of the way,” and Whereas, when concerns were raised about the tone and message of a recent meeting between occupational education department chairs and President Bellanca, her response was to call urgent and impromptu meetings with faculty members and their deans where President Bellanca addressed them in a hostile and unprofessional manner, and Whereas, the College no longer conducts business in a transparent manner and, in so doing, has created a pervasive environment of distrust, as evidenced by promotions at the vice presidential level that did not appear in board packets or announcements and which were never disclosed to the College community or to the community at large. Moreover, it appears that the hiring of consultants and contracted services has been hidden from the Board of Trustees by issuing multiple contracts under $50,000 to the same vendor or vendors, thereby avoiding the need for WCC Board of Trustees’ approval, and Whereas, during President Bellanca’s tenure, there has been unprecedented turnover in middle- and upper-level administration and in critical support staff (in Web Services; in IT; in Distance Learning; in Marketing, where we are on our 3rd director in three years; in the academic divisions, where three highly regarded deans have resigned or retired in the last week). If “running a college is like running a business,” as President Bellanca told the Board of Trustees at its April 22, 2014, meeting, then this is an unmistakable sign of leadership failure, and Whereas the Faculty have been trying, without success, for more than two years to convince President Bellanca to collaborate with the Faculty as required by WCC Board of Trustees Policy 5085 (“Staff Collaboration and Governance”), the initiative to create and teach high school level Spanish and sign language in Ypsilanti Community Schools being a recent example of her administration’s failure to undertake such collaborative efforts (discussions about it were underway between WCC and Ypsilanti for nearly one year and agreements were signed before the appropriate academic department and Faculty committees were notified), and Whereas WCC’s “Strategic Plan” was presented to the board one year ago yet, despite numerous requests, its details have not been briefed to the faculty nor, despite numerous requests, have the faculty been presented with the plan’s measurable outcomes, and Whereas, under President Bellanca’s tenure, the relationship between the College and the WCCEA has gone from one that emphasized problem-solving to one that emphasizes confrontation, as exemplified by the fact that currently there are three grievances pending arbitration where, in the previous eight years, the WCCEA had filed for arbitration in but two grievances, both of which were settled before the arbitration took place, and as exemplified by the “take it or leave it” approach taken in negotiations for the adjunct contract in summer 2013, and Whereas one vice president has been hired in a manner that violated both College policy as well as the contract between the College and the WCCEA, while another vice president was fired in a thoroughly unprofessional and disrespectful manner, and Whereas rather than undertake true efforts at communication with the faculty, the College chooses to “communicate” through On the Record, The Water Cooler, and expensive postcards, and Whereas, two years before President Bellanca’s arrival, the College was awarded a ten-year accreditation, but today the institutional health of the College is in serious doubt, and Whereas, over the past eighteen months, the leadership of the WCCEA, individual faculty, and concerned retirees have reached out to the Washtenaw Community College Board of Trustees on multiple occasions, both publicly and privately, seeking its help and guidance in resolving these issues, yet the Board has shown little to no interest in investigating the issues repeatedly brought to its attention, and its only official response to the expressed concerns has been an undated open letter on the Board of Trustees website that expresses unalloyed and unfaltering support for President Bellanca. Be it therefore resolved that the Board of the Washtenaw Community College Education Association approve the motion that a Vote of No Confidence in President Bellanca’s leadership be conducted during the Membership Meeting on May 1, 2014. Be it further resolved that the Board of the Washtenaw Community College Education Association urges its members, in the strongest possible terms, to provide a vote of no confidence in President Bellanca’s leadership.
The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
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May 5, 2014
The Washtenaw Voice
The Washtenaw Voice • B Section • May 5, 2014
JAMES SAOUD Staff Writer
Most artists don’t pursue their crafts to win awards, but as Digital Media Arts instructor Matt Zacharias notes, the awards certainly don’t hurt. Washtenaw Community College’s Digital Video Production program received nine nominations when the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences student production nominees were announced on April 17. Nominated students were James Militzer, Mike Chu, Jeremy Liesen, Mike Kelly, Shane Law, Ben Armes and Justin Erion. Liesen and Erion are both nominated in two categories. “For students to even get nominated is huge,” Zacharias said. “Everyone in the television and film industry knows what (Emmy) means, so they’re going to pay attention to it.” Kelly is nominated in the “PSA” category for a piece he produced about the dangers of texting and driving. “I got the idea when I found this horrific video of an accident from a police dash cam,” Kelly said. “It was gut-wrenching.” Liesen, who won the Student Emmy for editing two years ago, is nominated in the “Animation/ Graphics/Special Effects” category putting him up against his classmate and friend Shane Law. “It’s really cool. I actually hope Shane’s wins,” Liesen said. “And the thing is, I helped him shoot his, and he helped me shoot mine, so we’re both involved in either of them.” While Liesen may be rooting for Law’s piece to win, Kelly said he will be rooting for both of them, as well as
A still from WCC digital video production student Jeremy Liesen’s Emmy nominated short film ‘Head Cat Banana.’ JAMES SAOUD | WASHTENAW VOICE
other students nominated. “They’re all very talented,” Kelly said. Liesen is also nominated in the music video category for a piece he directed, and for which he produced music. But for Liesen, producing videos is about much more than just winning
an award. “It’s awesome, and it does give people a confidence boost and polishes up a resume,” Liesen said, “but I’m kind of over the award thing, and now, it’s time to find a job.” While Liesen tries to make a career
in the industry, Kelly recently graduated from the program and is planning on finishing the advanced certificate before pursuing a career in marketing. Regardless of the winners, Zacharias said, this group of students has “set the bar” at WCC and
recommends all newcomers in the program to watch their work. “Those guys are all-star students,” Zacharias said. The winners will be announced on May 17 at the Detroit Public Television studios in Wixom.
WCC alums get animated Student filmmaker documents work of an animation studio founded by two former WCC students By DAVID FITCH Staff Writer
COURTESY ILLUSTRATION
Comedic dreams take root in Washtenaw classroom By ARON TURNER
“A lot of our ideas weren’t going to get paid
Voice Correspondent attention to because they seemed a little too
Deshawn and Quentin Bailey always thought they were funny, and they occasionally thought about putting their sense of humor to work for them. That dream began coming true when they enrolled at Washtenaw Community College. For Deshawn, 22, and Quentin, 19, brothers from Ypsilanti, dreams are beginning to become reality with the creation of “The Minority Show,” a sketch-comedy group that consists of seven current and former WCC students. It’s a humble showbiz beginning for a brotherhood of humble beginnings. Both Deshawn and Quentin credit their Uncle Jeremy as the inspiration that got them interested in exploring their funny bones. But it wasn’t until Deshawn became a student at WCC when things really began to come together. “The Minority Show” started as a comedy duo of the two brothers. Motivation for the group came watching sketch-comedy shows such as “In Living Color,” “MADtv” and “Saturday Night Live.” During a video production class, Deshawn met fellow classmate Addison Thomas, 25, which led to the duo becoming a trio. Thomas and Deshawn shared the same challenge when having to choose topics for class assignments.
comical,” Deshawn said, adding that many of the students in this class gravitated more towards a dramatic feel. “Since everyone wanted to do things more dramatic, I felt like our mindsets weren’t going to be paid attention to, let alone appreciated,” Deshawn added. This would continue to weave between friends and classmates until the group grew to the seven-member crew that exists today. It also includes Kyle Barr, 20, Sonny Simany, 20, and Erik Herrera, 21, residents of Ypsilanti, and Aaron Belin, 19, a resident of Canton. And sticking true to its name, “The Minority Show” is comprised of people of many different racial backgrounds, including AfricanAmerican, Caucasian and Asian. Going back to the roots of what made shows such as “MADtv” popular, this remains as the drawing point that many of their fans love about the group. “We wanted to show there were funny people of all nationalities,” Deshawn said. Coincidently, the video production class harbored their big breakthrough. A short film, an MINORITY SHOW CONTINUED B5
Jordan Lemanski knew what he wanted to do for his thesis video project: a documentary on a crew of three wacky, creative and drastically different storytellers known as The Blank Frame. An animation studio founded by two college alums, The Blank Frame has gained international attention, and what the guys would chock up to “weird luck,” others might call skill, dedication and professionalism. Meet the gang. Randall Manetta, 26, the group’s executive director, Travis Tessmer, 25, the group’s main artist and Eric Kirzmack, 25, the technical and physics brains – and the tax guy. High school pals Manetta and Tessmer separated during college, but stayed in touch. While attending Savannah College of Art and Design, Tessmer met Kirzmack and struck up a friendship. Lemanski chose to do a film on them after knowing Tessmer for several years. He said that cartoons made up a big part of his childhood. Then came a six-month period of talking about the prospect of starting a studio. The Skype conversation initially included close to 20 people, and from there, the field narrowed. The group came together in 2012 and all moved into a house that Manetta had purchased in Bay City. So, with a house and some equipment, they kept animating. They did commercial work for small companies and worked on their own creation, “Rough Cuts.” Eventually, they got a job working for Pixo Group, a Southfield-based technology and art company. They were tasked with several projects, including creating a portion of the animated version of Grant Morrison’s “18 Days” comic, a series that was released as part of YouTube’s Geek Week in 2013. They also worked on Stan Lee’s “Chakra the Invincible,” which aired on Cartoon Network in South Asia. Their work won the praise of Pixo project manager Nick Timmerman. “Their dedication, work ethic and keen sense of organization has been phenomenal,” he said, adding, “Their commitment to the project was BLANK FRAME CONTINUED B5
From top, cartoon versions of former WCC students Randall Manetta, 26, and Travis Tessmer, 25, who joined up with Eric Kirzmack, 25, to form The Blank Frame animation studio in 2012. TRAVIS TESSMER | COURTESY ILLUSTRATION
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Flip Side
May 5, 2014
The Washtenaw Voice
Music grad says flashing degree isn’t nearly enough was unable to continue playing, he was faced with a choice. “I had the choice to either give up Professional bassist Graham Lapp on music or to honor what had already says that simply going to Washtenaw been done. I noticed that a lot of peoCommunity College, as he did, isn’t ple let what they have worked on die,” enough to make it in the real world. he said. “The problem is that when Working in the field, especially his, you are at a young age, and you keep takes more than simply showing up letting everything that you do die, you to class or flashing a degree at a studio. end up having nothing.” Lapp, 22, of Ann Arbor is not your So he kept at it, picking up the chrotypical tall, lanky college grad. Two matic harmonica and writing music minutes with the man will reveal that on the computer while focusing on he is humble, but immensely talent- music theory. ed. He will casually shred out an imThen came Washtenaw, where possibly complex bass line and then Lapp began to focus on music produccontinue a candid conversation. He is tion under the guidance of instructors attentive and present, and he seems like John E. Lawrence, Michael Naylor, like a man on a mission. Bonnie Billups and Mechial White. A former WCC student who went The program taught him the basics, through the Washtenaw Technical but that wasn’t enough for him. There Middle College high school program, were some courses which simply are Lapp said he gained a greater under- not long enough to cover all that needs standing of what it takes to be a pro- to be covered, he said. He continued fessional in his chosen field. to feed his appetite and expanded his And it isn’t just showing up for class knowledge and resources. and doing the necessary work for a He eventually regained his ability degree. to play bass. After graduation, a joke Lapp is already working full-time landed him a show. Lapp paid visits to in music: doing studio gigs, record- some of his old instructors and preing in his apartment, disk jockeying, tended to be looking for a job. playing at churches and giving lessons. “I put on a real fancy shirt that I The secret to got from a fancy success, he said, thrift store. It’s is simply maklike a $120 shirt ing yourself into and some tight a product. And, jeans, and I went to make yourself back, and I asked into a marketMechial if there able product, you was a band that I need to focus on could join on bass,” helping people as he said. the goal. As it turned out, “Those who White was looking wish to come first for a bassist and must come last, had already audiand those wish tioned 13 others. to serve must The demanding serve all,” he said, gig didn’t scare paraphrasing a away Lapp though. Biblical verse. “I was like, ‘I’m But he didn’t your guy.’ He was arrive at this selflike, ‘Really?’ I Lapp’s collection of bass guitars in his product philosowas like, ‘Yep,’” restudio. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE phy on his own. membered Lapp. It was only his first year of high He got the audition. He got White’s school, when Lapp was kicked out of album and learned the songs, and after school after being falsely accused of arriving at White’s house two hours bigotry, he said. The mark was erased early and practicing on White’s porch from his record after a law scuffle. until being let in, Lapp got the job. Then followed a year of sitting at White, from the beginning, could home and playing the bass, honing tell that Lapp was “hungry to learn.” his craft. After seeing the young bassist’s work When chronic pain struck, and he ethic and skills, he let him into his By DAVID FITCH Staff Writer
Former WCC student and professional bassist Graham Lapp created his own music studio in his Ann Arbor home, where he records his music. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE
band which was preparing to go on tour. He was pleased to find that Lapp was extremely dedicated to the project, helping to find replacement musicians and offering to practice extra. “He’s a great impressionist, expressionist,” said White. “He just wants to play. And that’s what I was looking for.” He continued to learn, to connect with other musicians and to soak up all he could. White’s faith in him, he said, shaped him. From White, Lapp said that he learned the “avenues through which money could be made” via music, a task not for the faint of heart. “The music career is one of those things where you have to be working all the time,” he said, “and people who want to pay you fall into place.” Easier said than done. Lapp said that he had to learn some tough lessons in the process. LESSON ONE: Michigan has a “dead season” that ranges from January through March in which many people stop recording and performing. “I think that it’s just massive seasonal affective depression,” said Lapp. Have money tucked away or another job
lined up for those months, he said. LESSON TWO: “If something feels wrong at a gig, address it immediately.” Don’t let problems (emotional or other) fester. LESSON THREE: People aren’t buying primarily your musical skills. “There’s a certain functionality element that is the music, but the majority of it is your personality,” he said. “It comes down to not motivating or inspiring the person who is paying you to do so.” LESSON FOUR: “How you’re dressed determines how you get paid,” he said. “If you’re wearing all black, and you’re running live sound, you’re going to get an extra $20 at the end of the night.” LESSON FIVE: Despite common belief, “internships (in studios), unless you’re already friends with the studio, don’t necessarily happen.” He may not have decades of experience under his belt, but his philosophy has gotten him somewhere. Songwriting instructor Spencer Michaud said that not only did Lapp’s bass lines add to his project, but also, practicing what he preached, Lapp “lit
a fire” under Michaud’s ideas. “He’s the type of person who would rather do something rather than just sit around and talk about it all day,” said Michaud. But Lapp’s fearless questioning is what he credits with his getting gigs and even the connection needed to get his newly finished record signed by Ann Arbor-based Megawave Music. He asked so many questions in Naylor’s music class that students started to laugh at him, Lapp remembered, laughing. “I loved it because Graham has a passion for learning,” said Naylor. “In many cases, people laugh because they are not used to being in a class with somebody who actually cares, I mean really cares. He set the bar higher.” All this bar-raising and productmaking has paid off. Lapp now has work doing what he loves, and it keeps coming. And he doesn’t know why. Strictly logically speaking, he reasoned, he shouldn’t have all the attention. He doesn’t advertise. He simply serves his customers well. “I like working with them,” he said, “and they like working with me.”
Rising country artist auditions for ‘The Voice,’ booked for Detroit’s annual Hoedown By ADRIANNA VELAZQUEZ Staff Writer
Homegrown country singer-songwriter Paulina Jayne recently headed to Nashville to audition for NBC’s starstudded show, “The Voice.” The 18-year-old songstress, who has opened up for noteworthy musicians, such as Chase Rice, Sheryl Crow and Jerrod Niemann, holds close to her Detroit roots. Especially some of its legendary performers who came before her. “I love me some Aretha Franklin,” Jayne said. “I actually performed her song ‘Natural Woman’ at ‘The Voice’ audition that I had, and it reminded me of just how much I love her sound. I love her music; I love her voice; I love everything about her.” Influenced by her mother, who was in a singing group for as long as she can remember, it was only a matter of time before she found her place in the music world. “I was initially forced to take piano lessons,” Jayne explained. Taking piano lessons eventually led her to begin writing classical music around age 9. It wasn’t long after she turned 13 and picked up the guitar that she began singing. “My freshman year, I got signed to a management deal, and the rest is history,” she said. “I’ve been playing ever since.” To celebrate the launch of her first EP at the end of her junior year of high school, Jayne played at St. Andrew’s Hall, a popular music venue in Detroit. She is also one of few artists, aside from Eminem, to play for a sold-out crowd at The Shelter, also located in St. Andrew’s Hall.
“I love playing for Detroit people. There is nothing like the crowd here. They are accepting, and they are welcoming to every genre,” Jayne said. “This is the crazy part: Detroit has one of the largest country music markets in all of the nation, and here we are, up in Michigan. “You’d expect it to be Nashville,
Tennessee or somewhere down in Texas, but Detroit’s diversity of music is so cool, and I think that, combined with Detroit’s music history – with Motown and all the talent that has come out of it – I think that that kind of sets me apart from all the other country music people who are coming out of Texas or Georgia or Alabama or
Tennessee.” Last year Paulina Jayne released her EP, “Girl Who Would Be King.” “It was basically inspired by a little bit of the feminist side in me,” she explained. “I think that it was a combination of my teenage years and then starting to have to sort of exit them. There’s a song on there called ‘Times
Fans can see local country star Paulina Jayne at The Bling Pig on May 24 and at the Hoedown Detroit on May 30. TIM MEEKS | COURTESY PHOTO
Like These,’ and I wrote it basically because I wanted to recognize the times that I’m having right now, the times that I’m experiencing with all these amazing people in my life and how appreciative I am. “I’m realizing that they’re going to pass. I’m going to have to move on. I’m going to have to grow up, and I’m going to have to move to places that are unfamiliar. And I think that the feminist side in me and the experiential side in me really came out in that EP.” While Paulina Jayne has been busy managing a full-time music career, the high school senior hasn’t lost sight of the importance of a good education. “Homework and school is kind of number one in my household, right next to music. So it’s extremely important to me and to my parents for me to do well and hold a 4.0, if I can,” she said. “And, you know, sometimes it’s tough. I wanna go play my guitar, but I have to go do some AP Bio instead. My parents have instilled in me a very good work ethic, and my teachers have really respected what I love.” Following graduation, Paulina plans to attend Belmont University in Nashville, where she will study music business and continue to work as a full-time singer-songwriter. That, of course, is if she isn’t called back for Season 8 of “The Voice.” Then, if she manages to win over judge Blake Shelton, she will be on her way Los Angeles to compete on one of America’s most popular singing shows. Until then, though, you can see her perform at the Blind Pig in Ann Arbor on Saturday, May 24, and at the Hoedown on Friday, May 30.
Flip Side
The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
B3
At WCC, a sweet dream comes true By VIVIAN ZAGO Staff Writer
As a young woman growing up in Flint among her four siblings, Karen VanWagnen saw her dream of attending college disappear when her father said he would not send his daughters to college because they didn’t need to get a degree. The reason? Her father believed that women should stay at home and have babies. Fast forward to 2007, when she visited Washtenaw Community College with her son, Dan VanWagnen and noticed the college offered culinary classes. Before starting classes at WCC, VanWagnen was an aid on the Napoleon Community School board for nine years. Despite a busy life caring for her family and tending to other jobs, the 50-something VanWagnen decided to take a few classes at WCC “just for the fun of it. “And they were so much fun that I decided to get my degree,” she said. VanWagnen didn’t know what she was going to do with her degree. She was just excited in doing it. “It was one of the things on my list
that I would’ve done, but never thought that I would do it,” VanWagnen said, “and I got it.” VanWagnen’s son got his degree in animation at WCC. And in 2010, she earned her associate degree in culinary arts. Before the ink had dried on her diploma, VanWagnen was hired to be an assistant to the chefs. Two years later, WCC invited VanWagnen to become a part-time instructor of Bake Management in Marketing. Today, she teaches and helps run The Sweet Spot, located on the first floor of the Student Center building. The fact that the students accepted her despite being an older student was one of the things that kept her going. “Everybody was always so nice and accepting me, instead of making me feel like, ‘Get out of here, old lady,’” VanWagnen said. “That makes you feel good, that your help is accepted.” Her special moments as a student at WCC were spent together with her team in group projects. “We get along really well. We would end up going to have lunch together,” she said. “When we had breaks outside, we would make people pyramids and stuff marshmallows in our mouths…
we just had a very fun bonding time!” VanWagnen defines herself as a helper, always ready to support and assist everyone in need. “The place where I could help is where I wanted to be,” she said, “so when I was involved in the culinary classes, and we would have projects, I would work on my project and then I would ask the others if they need some help.” Every semester VanWagnen says she Karen Van Wagnen, front, instructor of Bake Management in Marketing, surrounded by some of her gains more knowl- students. From left, Kyle Purcell, 20, Kevin Miller, 31, Thomas Howells, 23, all pastry and baking majors. edge from the groups KAREN VAN WAGNEN | COURTESY PHOTO of students coming in The Sweet Spot is the place where For her, Washtenaw has been a “because they are always showing you students learn how to run their own dream come true. She got her dea different way to look at things.” This bakery and how to run a business. gree and found a use for it – before makes her committed to growing and And VanWagnen could not be more retirement. keeping the classes and students suc- proud. As for the future? ceeding at the bakery. “In that class, they have to learn “I am still excited about what I am “We are always learning,” she said. how to display it, how to figure out doing,” she said. “I don’t want to re“Even though I’ve graduated, I don’t the cost, so they know how to price it gress with the economy and be caught. just learn from the instructors, I learn and how to market the whole Sweet I am thrilled to have a part-time job from the students as well.” Spot,” she said. now and enjoy that.”
Here’s ‘accounting’ for success at Washtenaw says she’s awfully impressed by what her daughter has accomplished at such a young age, despite the challenges of motherhood. “I couldn’t be more proud of my little girl,” Cesnick said. “She has become such a responsible person. She is very driven, and I can’t wait to see her graduate.” Desjardins will graduate with her master’s after two more semesters at EMU. Little wonder she’s an inspiration to others. Among them are Lauren Coffman, Desjardins’ friend from a previous job in high school. “I think she inspired me to stick with things and try new things I might not think I like,” Coffman said. “Amber never really liked math. I mean, she was good at it, but never really liked it. Now, she has a career and she hasn’t even graduated yet. She is an excellent mother, and she juggles it all wonderfully.” Desjardins’ younger brother, Zach Cesnick, 19, also sees her as a role model. “I found it pushed me to go to school when she didn’t take any time off for her pregnancy,” Zach said. “She only took off the day she was in labor and
a week of classes after. Then, she was right back in school.” Desjardins did her assignments and tests before she took her week off so she wouldn’t fall behind. Now, she’s closing in on a graduate degree. “I just can’t believe I am going to be graduating so soon with a degree in something I love,” she said. “If I hadn’t taken that first accounting class, I could still be trying to figure out what I want to do.” For that, she remains indebted to Washtenaw Community College and its faculty. “The teachers at WCC really helped me during my pregnancy,” she said. “They were understanding, and I was able to get my work done early before I went into labor, and they were just super accommodating.” Desjardins’ “I can do anything” attitude helps her to manage her time and work around her schedule and the schedules of the family. She is working in her dream field – and building a brighter future with a graduate degree. And none of it would have been possible, she knows, if she hadn’t taken that first accounting class at WCC.
the kids, it often means more. “I felt like when I was doing community service with her, that she was somebody to talk to,” Rachael said. That made a profound difference to Rachael, and, to Grohman, that is an important part of the program, as hand-drawn art and colorful photo- record. well as getting the kids to understand graphs. But these images are created A stipulation for Rachael was that what they did wrong. But telling them by teens looking to divert from a crimi- she had to write essays that pertained isn’t always enough, so Grohman takes nal record. to her specific problem and perform another approach. The pictures are a form of positive community service as well as weekly Knowing Rachael and her friend reinforcement, which is a big part of office visits with Grohman. had a child in their care at the time YAP, Grohman said. Community service is standard in they were found drunk, Grohman had Another part of the program is a any juvenile program, but it is differ- Rachael write an essay on another lengthy entrance interview, one that ent with YAP. Grohman joins the kids young woman who killed her friend Grohman performed on Rachael to see in their community service, working while drinking and driving. The essay if she was a good fit for the program. right alongside them, instead of ship- still influences Rachael’s decisions. At first, Rachael was combative ping them off to someone else in the “I would be in a situation, and I and reluctant to open up to Grohman. community. would think about her, that I don’t Even with the initial reluctance to take To her, it is a way to get next to them want to be like the girl I wrote the espart, she was given the opportunity for and learn more about them, while get- say on,” Rachael said. a second chance without a juvenile ting the kids to open up more. But, to The Youth Assistance Program is more than teens cleaning up and writing essays. There is a growing list of programs making up the YAP, allowing for terms tailored to each teen’s needs. The programs within YAP vary in purpose. Some take teens into jails to teach them what life is like for inmates, or bring adult offenders to juveniles to give speeches. The Victim Impact Panel, currently looking for victims to speak to youth offenders, provides firstperson insight on what it feels like to be the victim of a crime. The Restorative Justice Program, still in its infancy, brings victims and their offenders together. Run by volunteers, victims and the offenders of the crime meet in an attempt to agree on restitution, and it serves the secondary purpose of A courtroom in the Livingston County courthouse. ERIC WADE | WASHTENAW VOICE
an attempt for closure for the victims. Because it’s a new program, Grohman is still looking for volunteers to help mediate during the sessions. All of the programs, when put under one umbrella program, have proven successful. With roughly 400 youth offenders in the last year, Grohman had 49. Only two were removed from the program and placed in a more traditional juvenile probation, said John Evans, the Livingston County Circuit Court Administrator. “I can promise you it works, because that’s what the data shows,” Evans said. “If we have 80 percent of the kids going through the program not having a record, then the proof is in the pudding.” The program is so successful that the courts are talking about opening the system as a learning court, allowing for more volunteers and internships None of the youth who make it through YAP have records, and none have returned to probation since the start of the program a year ago. For the first youth to go through the program, success is judged differently. Rachael’s success is in getting the life of a normal teen back. She now drives and works, something that she admits she really wanted to do, but wouldn’t have been able to do if she went through a normal juvenile program with a record. She’s a productive teen instead of sitting in jail with a juvenile record. Her impressionable adolescent years won’t haunt her forever. “I was happy I got a second chance,” Rachael said. “I thought if they’re giving me a second chance, then I might as well use it.”
in business at WCC, but after taking an accounting course, I think it was my second semester there, I fell in love with accounting,” Desjardins said of the change in her career pathway. The key to her success so far: hard work. “Amber is always working,” said Nicholas Kassouf, her fiance and father of their two children. “She goes to school full time and has a full-time accounting job. Plus, when she comes home, she takes care of the kids because, after a day with me, they want her attention.” Desjardins, 22, is mother to a 3-year-old daughter and a 1-year-old son. She is the economic support for her family; Kassouf stays at home to watch the children so she can finish her degree. “The plan was always that we would Amber Desjardins, 22, holding son Braylon, 1, with partner Nicholas Kassouf, holding have her finish school, and then I their daughter Brooke, 3. Amber is a WCC grad working on her master’s degree in accounting at Eastern Michigan while working full time as an accountant. would go if I wanted because she had JESSICA BLACKFORD | COURTESY PHOTO a career in mind,” Kassouf said. “I love being able to raise the kids and By JESSICA BLACKFORD graduation from Howell High School be there for them, so it really is a blessVoice Correspondent in 2009. ing. She got an accounting job before Today, she is pursuing her mas- graduating. Before this, I was working Amber Desjardins attended ter’s degree in accounting at Eastern full time, and we had to find babysitWashtenaw Community College Michigan University. ters all the time.” for two years following high school “I was originally going for a degree Stacy Cesnick, Desjardins’ mother,
Local second-chance youth offender program makes good first impression By ERIC WADE
Staff Writer
Tailored to the individual needs of Livingston County’s at-risk youngsters, the Youth Assistance Program gives teens new options in lieu of criminal records. It’s a relatively new program, and it came just in time for Rachael. Last year, Rachael, 16, of Howell, was at her best friend’s house next door helping her babysit when her friend’s parents came home and discovered they both had been drinking. The neighbor’s parents notified Rachael’s dad, Edward, a probation officer who felt what his daughter needed was to be scared straight. He called a police officer to come and arrest Rachael, and she was ticketed with a minor in possession of alcohol. Edward knew that in the juvenile system there would be little chance for a record, but felt it was the best option to bring his daughter back to a healthy course. At the time, neither Edward nor Rachael – pseudonyms to protect their identities – knew of the Youth Assistance Program. Nor did anyone else. Rachael was the first teen to take part in it. Sue Grohman, the Diversion Coordinator for Livingston County, leads YAP. Grohman’s office is decorated as any proud parent’s, with
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The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
Tangled web far from ‘amazing’ By James Saoud Staff Writer
Just over a decade ago, Sam Raimi’s “Spider-Man 2” was released in theaters, and since then, a lot has changed in the film industry. The silver screen has become an appendage of comic book lore over the past 10 years, which has led to just as many great films as it has total disasters. Unfortunately, “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” falls into the latter category. The film, directed by Marc Webb and starring a cast of A-listers, manages to be even worse than its predecessor. Before I go any further into the review, I’d like to warn those of you who would like to see it that there will be serious spoilers about the outcome of the film. That said, I’d also like to encourage those who would like to see it to stay far, far away from this devastatingly awful superhero movie. “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” starts out bad and only gets worse. The opening scene, a flashback featuring Peter Parker’s parents, is an inexcusable rip-off of the opening scene of “The Dark Knight Rises.” It leads into an over-the-top chase scene in downtown Manhattan that contains some of the messiest camera work ever put into a professional motion picture. Then, we’re off to Peter Parker’s high school comGrade: F mencement ceremony. Genre: Action/Sci-Fi However, Andrew Garfield, Rating: PG-13 who plays Peter Parker, is 30 Runtime: 142 minutes years old. He cannot pass for a high-schooler anymore. The film is littered with silly performances from nearly the entire cast as well as a script that ends up being about pretty much nothing. It tackles themes of love, death and
heroism. But it doesn’t hit nearly as hard as Raimi’s SpiderMan films did. The film doesn’t cover any ground that the previous films didn’t. It seems, just as the first “Amazing Spider-Man” did, the film was just created to generate hype for whatever the next Spider-Man sequel may be. Which, I assure you, is not far off. The film’s major villain is Electro, played by Jamie Foxx. His backstory is virtually the same as all of Spider-Man’s villain’s, an innocent scientist who gains extraordinary powers when things go wrong in the lab. However, Electro has no motive whatsoever in wanting to kill Spider-Man. He just wants to kill him. However, like many of the worst superhero films, the filmmakers chose to focus on a handful of bad guys instead of trying to really flesh out one. Spider-Man also has to deal with the Rhino and the Green Goblin. That’s right. The Green Goblin. The same villain we’ve seen Spider-Man fight in two of the five Spider-Man films produced. I understand that he is the Spidey’s arch-nemesis. But seriously? The worst part is that the movie closes with him coming up with even more menacing master plans, implying he will be the lead villain of the next Spider-Man movie. The death of Gwen Stacy, one of the most iconic deaths in comic book history, even manages to feel underplayed, dull and emotionless in the film “The Amazing Spider-Man 2” is occupied with bad jokes, boring characters and entirely meaningless subplots. Even the music was distractingly bad. The worst part about it is that it really seems like the filmmakers were trying. It’s easy to see in nearly every single scene what they were trying to do and trying to say, but it was just executed so poorly. Don’t see this movie. MARVEL-MOVIES.WIKIA.COM
‘Orange’ you glad we’re all going back to prison? By EJ STOUT Design Editor
The traditional model of cable TV has been on the decline for some time now, due largely to the popularity of online streaming options – legal or otherwise. Netflix has capitalized on this growing separation by introducing its own original – and convincing – content. Political drama “House of Cards” has garnered a devout following over its two introductory seasons, and favorite “Orange Is the New Black” returns June 6 to a similarly eager fan base. The series, created by Jenji Preview Kohan of “Weeds” fame, Network: Netflix is based on Piper Release Date: June 6 Kerman’s bestRun Time: 51-60 minutes selling memoir, “Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women’s Prison.” The series stars Taylor Schilling as the complex prison-misfit Piper Chapman as she navigates the HTTP://WWW.INFLEXWETRUST.COM transition from comfortable street
life to the intricate social structure behind bars. Kohan does an incredible job of balancing harsh prison landscapes with heavyweight characters that command a deeper level of introspection. Viewers are captivated as Piper transitions from a naive, innocent model citizen to a gritty manipulator with a strong footing in the convict community. Returning cast includes Laura Prepon as Piper’s lesbian lover, Alex; Taryn Manning as meth head turned bible thumper Pennsatucky and Jason Biggs as the fiance struggling to stay connected outside of prison walls. Unlike many legal-based dramas, “Orange” does not rely solely on sexually charged scenes and contraband references (though there are plenty of each), but upon the carefully crafted character development that provides viewers an organic connection to a largely unfamiliar setting. In anticipation for Season 2, viewers can binge-watch the entire first season exclusively through Netflix or purchase the DVDs when they are released on May 13 from Lionsgate Home Entertainment.
Great food doesn’t make up for subpar service at DiBella’s By M. M. DONALDSON Staff Writer
Dear DiBella’s: This is my breakup letter to you. I knew you weren’t good for me from the get-go. Salty, cured meat marbled with fat and shaved so thin; what harm would come of it? I was easily led astray by your sophisticated persona because I was so willing to look down on the generic feel of Subway, thinking it was too commercialized for my tastes. In the beginning of our relationship, I looked forward to spending time with you. There was an element of fun and a level of hip with the retro black-and-white tiled floors. But then, I started to notice that the tables were dirty, even when it was slow. You had to know I was coming, and you didn’t bother to tidy up.
Then, I would see staff cradling one too many sandwiches to the dining room, drop one on the floor and still deliver it to the waiting customer. Granted, I have yet to see anyone eat the bag the sandwich comes in, but you should know better than something like that is a relationship taboo. But this last time I visited, I just wanted a quick stop. Granted, it was after 1 p.m. on a Friday, but there were very few people in the dining room and I didn’t have to wait in line to place my order. My son ordered and received his submarine sandwich in a relatively short time. I waited 14 minutes and 39 seconds – from the time stamp on the receipt – and that is after placing the order. I was able to choke down a few bites before having to toss the rest of the sandwich into the trash, being that it is hard to drive and savor eating a sub. It just isn’t working for me to visit
you anymore. I am going to see others. I’m just being upfront in the event you see me on the other side of the parking lot at the Potbelly Sandwich Shop. Heck, I can even give Subway another chance, especially when it is cheaper for me to be in a relationship with them. At least I’ll know what to expect when I go there. I talked about you to my friends; I introduced you to my family, and I had high expectations that we would have a long and love-filled relationship. I needed you to Grade: D keep working at our rela- Address: 904 W. Eisenhower Pkwy, Ann Arbor tionship, but Phone: 734-997-9011 you quit – or just don’t care anymore. Sincerely, A customer
DiBella’s Old Fashioned Submarines is located at 904 W. Eisenhower Pkwy. in Ann Arbor. KELLY BRACHA | WASHTENAW VOICE
The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
SUMMER STAFF PICKS Maria
“Maleficent” with Angelina Jolie narrates the opposite of the Disney movie, the side of the villain. It would be interesting to see what actually happens.
Natalie
“S” by J.J. Abrams and Doug Dorst. In pure J.J. Abrams style, this book is a mystery inside of a mystery inside of a mystery. The story centers on two college students communicating via notes in the margins of a library book. It’s a time-consuming read, which makes summer the perfect time to lay back and enjoy it.
“Guardians of the Galaxy” I’m expecting this to be my favorite Marvel movie yet. With a cast of oddball characters, Chris Pratt in the lead role, and the tagline “You’re welcome,” it seems nearly impossible that this film will disappoint.
James
“Being There” by Jerzy Kosinski. This is one of my alltime favorite reads. On the surface it is a very light, fun read at only about 200 pages. However, this little story tackles some massive themes of politics, religion, sex and humanity. A perfect, quick summer read.
“Guardians of the Galaxy.” Marvel Studios is on a winning streak. They’ve been releasing blockbuster after blockbuster, each proving to be a solid standalone film. With “Guardians of the Galaxy,” Marvel Studios is taking a massive risk with some little-known characters, but I think the results will be great.
“Rascal” By Sterling North. This is the story of a boy who takes in a pet raccoon. It is a story of growing up, of loss and of summer adventure.
“Dawn of the Planet of the Apes” The followup to the incredibly revitalized “Rise of the Planet of the Apes,” this year’s “Planet” will test if motion-capture aficionado Andy Serkis can continue his performance.
“The Meditations” by Marcus Aurelius. It is written by the famous Roman Emperor and features his idealogy and philosophy. It is a record of his own guidance and self-improvement. This book helps readers develop a cosmic perspective.
“X-Men: Days of Future Past” I’ve always been a fan of the X-Men series, and I’m excited to see the characters from the past meet their future selves. The X-Men movies have always felt more epic than other superhero movies in my eyes.
“Chasing Utopia” by Nikki Giovanni. A collection of poems and essays from one of America’s most celebrated poets. Hint: The “Utopia” she’s chasing? It’s a beer.
“Boyhood,”directed by Richard Linklater. An anomaly by cinematic standards, Linklater followed one young boy and filmed him over the course of 12 years. With support from Ethan Hawke and Patricia Arquette, my expectations are high for this unique storyline.
Erik
“Hitchhikers Guide to the Galaxy” by Douglas Adams. The writing is fantastic, and, oddly enough, it shaped my view of how completely ridiculous everything in the universe is.
“Transformers: Age of Extinction” is interesting to me since it was shot locally in Detroit, and a few of my friends lived right by the locations.
Anything by Bill Bryson. I fell in love with Bryson when I read “A Walk in the Woods.” His latest book is “One Summer” about the summer of 1921 where all kinds of things happened, like the kidnapping of the Lindburgh baby. He is funny, witty and you will want to read more.
“X-Men: Days of Future Past” I loved the first movie, seeing the origin stories of the team, and how the professor and Magneto were friends. Both sides have a lot of moral gray; the lines between all-good or all-evil are not always clear. I thought it was well done, and I can’t wait for the sequel.
“East of Eden” by John Steinbeck, a magnificent, lifechanging book that gets better with each reading. If you’re looking for something lighter, try “Tortilla Flat,” “Cannery Row,” or its sequel, “Sweet Thursday,” all by Steinbeck.
“Tammy” because I like movies that make me laugh. And Melissa McCarthy always makes me laugh, especially when she teams up with her husband, Ben Falcone (the air marshal in “Bridesmaids”).
Emily
Kelly
David
“Atonement” by Ian McEwan. I’ve read this WWII book twice alread,y and everytime I read it, I discover new things.
Christina
MOVIE
Keith
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“Deshawn was definitely kind of the heart and soul of that project,” assignment for a production class, ti- Saoud said. “The end product was tled “Gangster Granny Meets a Dumb all him. It worked so well because he Robber,” became the launching pad for really put his heart, his soul and his humor in it.” them to showcase what they can do. For some, going so far against Deshawn played the lead role dressed as a grandmother who was the grain by wearing a dress would be intimibeing robbed by dating, but a thief, played Deshawn by Quentin, who never had didn’t know what doubt in he was doing. his talent The comedic and nevtwist began when er worried the grandma beabout just gan to show the being rerobber step-bymembered step how to rob a as the guy person correctly. who wore a “This was my dress. first time being on Deshawn Bailey Fence Jackson “There camera, and I got a good reaction from everyone who saw are other things that I have done that it,” Deshawn said. “That entire class I have got a better reception from,” he didn’t even know who I was before I said, siting his impressive impression of President Barack Obama. did that video.” Deshawn handles all the camera Fellow classmate James Saoud, 23, of Ann Arbor, also worked on this early work for the group. This includes comproject. Saoud recalls many disagree- ing up with the script, shooting the ments on the topic within the group scenes and editing the scenes into the and sites Deshawn as the driving force final product. Following the breakthrough of on the end result. MINORITY SHOW FROM B1
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Listen up: ‘Where It All Began’ begins now
By ADRIANNA VELAZQUEZ Staff Writer
Grade: A
“What You Do to Me,” is a perfect singalong that’s rhythmically engaging for new listeners and sure to attract loyal fans for the new duo. “Stop Drop + Roll,” continues the free-spirited vibe with catchy phrases that are hard to get out of your head. The spontaneous, carefree lyrics make you want to grab your lover’s hand and run wild. “First Time Feeling” reinforces the album’s country-pop groove with lyrics about young love that changed and faded away with the seasons. “Nothin’ Like You” is the most daring song on the album. With an electronic drum-loop in the introduction, it’s proof that the singers aren’t afraid to stray away from their country-pop roots and try something new. “Parking Brake” and “Somewhere Only We Know” seem to go hand-inhand. Telling the story of a couple who has dared to leave behind their ordinary lives and go somewhere off the map, eventually finding a special spot down by the river.
Genre: Country/Pop Runtime: 41:37
Country duo Dan + Shay may have only been together a year prior to the release of their first single “19 You + Me” and their debut album, “Where It All Began,” but the duo has undoubtedly created an album of one chart-topping hit after the next. Consisting of 26-year-old Dan Smyers and 22-year-old Shay Mooney, the pair delivered a series of infectious melodies that provide listeners with a fun, feel-good vibe that evades the daily troubles of life. The first single off the album, “19 You + Me,” made waves across radio nationwide last fall, setting a high standard for what fans should expect of their debut album. And the album didn’t fall short. “Show You Off,” the first song on the album, tells the story of young love and admiration for a girl, and the desire to show her off to the world. The unique track is characterized by a group of whistlers that bring alive the light-hearted melody that sets the scene for the album.
the grandma sketch, it was Quentin’s was dying laughing.” turn in the spotlight with his signature He gave his best rendition of this character. “The Minority Show” began scene with the first “Manly Breakfast” to start working on a sketch series that sketch in 2012. The popularity of the ended up putting them on the map sketch led to three more “Manly” sketchand put the little brother in the fore- es – still the show’s only recurring series. front. This sketch was titled “Manly “The Minority Show” has 211 subBreakfast” and is, still to this day, the scribers and a total of 3,557 views with most popa total of 20 videos on ular skit YouTube. It already has on “The become an inspiration Minority for many young aspirShow.” I’m ing film students who this sketch, see what can be accomQuentin plished with a little crep l a y s ativity and a lot of hard Brodus, a work. muscleAmong them b o u n d are Fence Jackson, bully who 20, from Westland. devours the Jackson met Deshawn breakfast in a film class, and he Quentin Bailey of anyone has worked with the enjoying a morning meal. Quentin Bailey brothers on a few projects. claims he drew the inspiration for this “It’s fun being around friends and character from “My Wife and Kids,” doing stuff that will make a differstarring Damon Wayans and Tisha ence,” said Jackson, a candidate to Campbell-Martin. become the newest member of “The “There was this character in the Minority Show.” show named Calvin,” Quentin said, To view “The Minority Show” vid“and he had a huge stack of pancakes, eos and subscribe to its YouTube page, and he squeezed an entire bottle of visit: https://www.youtube.com/user/ syrup and just open-palmed ate it. I theminorityshow/featured.
COUNTRYMUSICISLOVE.COM
Like most other country albums, this one also includes the typical story about heartache. The pair tells the story about love gone wrong with their song, “I Heard Goodbye,” adding deeper emotion to the album. Compared to other light-hearted tracks on the album, “I Heard Goodbye” seems out of place and isn’t fitting with the rest of the album’s theme. The song “Party Girl” is sure to make listeners crack a smile and is a song most listeners can relate to. It tells the story about a young couple’s date to a local bar to see a cover band, washing off the “under 21” marks on their arms and living in the moment. Dan + Shay reach back to folk roots in their song “Close Your Eyes,” which gives the album a perfect closing accompanied by the intersecting picking of a banjo and guitar that effortlessly complement each another. Overall, the album is a countrypop masterpiece that contains a perfect mix of sweet ballads and faster tracks that meld together nicely. It’s no doubt that “Where It All Began” is made up of summer anthems and chart-topping hits we’ll more than likely be hearing across radio airwaves all summer.
BLANK FRAME FROM B1
uncanny.” The group confessed there have been times when they stayed up for three days straight to finish a project. “Sometimes we need to have pow wows and pep talks,” said Manetta. But they always get through it. When we’re animating, it’s like finals every day,” said Tessmer. And, despite the old mantra of never going into business with your friends, Manetta said that working with the guys has been “weirdly easy.” They complement each others’ skills as well. “If it were up to me, I would be animating stand-up comedy, and Eric would be animating black and white blocks flying across the screen,” joked Tessmer. The future is open for these three artists. They plan to continue growing their work, eventually advertising. They still have to work other jobs to pay the bills when work gets thin, but they are doing what they love. And the biggest piece of advice? Take it from Kirzmack: “At least have a trustworthy tax guy.”
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Flip Side
May 5, 2014
Students celebrate art and creativity at year-end Gala By DAVID FITCH Staff Writer
Students, instructors and community members swarmed the Morris Lawrence building last Wednesday to witness the showing of student work at this year’s Digital Media Arts Gala. Representatives from the graphic design and photography departments stood at their display tables just off of the atrium. Across the building, 3-D animation student projects were screened. Meanwhile, digital video students and staff waited for a showing of selected student videos to commence. 3-D animation instructor Randy Van Wagnen said that the event is always bittersweet. He struggles to see his students leave, but marvels at the work they produce, saying that students shape a block of computerized stuff into things as complex as buildings or creatures. “The amount of work it actually takes to pull that off is insane,” he said. Graphic design and photography students’ work was evaluated and critiqued by professionals (and some potential employers) in their field. Graphic designer Zenab Labaran, 31, of Ann
Arbor, said that it was important to get the feedback. For her, it was mostly positive. “One of them came by and congratulated me, and told me that I have a future in the business,” she said excitedly. Some, though, received constructive criticism. “Nobody likes to be criticized … but it’s a way for you to grow,” said photographer Mike Charte, 43, of Milan. The evaluations took place earlier in the day while the artists were not present. After the doors opened to the public at 4:30 p.m., the crowd came by the hundreds. The digital video program wrapped up the event with its showcase screening in the auditorium. The atmosphere was jovial as the students celebrated the near end of a semester of staring through viewfinders and at computer screens. Alex Mojica, 17, of Ypsilanti, said that he spent 129 hours on editing his thesis project, plus around 18 hours of editing from others who helped. His production, “Kite,” was screened at the showcase. As for the entire project, he is unsure how many hours were spent planning, shooting and editing. “Easily 200. Probably 250,” he said.
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Photo student Vanessa Armstrong poses with her display of beautiful images at this year’s WCC Digital Media Arts Student Portfolio Gala held on campus at the Morris Lawrence building last Wednesday.
www.northwood.edu 800.622.9000
DAVID ARTUSHIN | WASHTENAW VOICE
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The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
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la times crossword
Washtenaw roads claim another. ANDREW REEBEL | WASHTENAW VOICE
sudoku
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CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING Students and WCC employees: Classified ads in The Voice are free. Local business owners: Looking for help? Post your free help wanted ads in The Voice. Send ads to thewashtenawvoice@gmail.com. Note: Deadline for the July 21, 2014 issue is Tuesday, July 15, at 5 p.m.
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Below is a sample of recent employment want ads which have been posted with WCC Career Services. Students are invited to read these ads and to contact Career Services to find out how to apply for the openings. Career Services is located in ML 104. For more information, phone 734677-5155, email careers@wccnet. edu, or visit www.wccnet.edu/ careerconnection/.
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is now hiring for seasonal part-time positions that start in April-June 2014. Western Michigan University? Positions may include: lifeguards, sumLooking for someone to take over mer camp counselors and supervisors, my 12-month lease starting August therapeutic recreation camp staff, spe2014 at The Centre, off-campus cial events coordinators, park laborstudent housing in Kalamazoo ers, Pheasant Run Golf Course staff, Michigan. 4bdrm/ba. Apartment; Canton Sports Center staff and more. If roommates not assigned yet, so HELP WANTED you enjoy a fast-paced, exciting work ask friends to join you. $379/ WEDDING CAKE DELIVERY: environment, don’t miss this opportumo.individual leases. Includes ca- Seasonal help from May through nity to join a great team this summer! ble/Internet, water, trash. For more October, weekends. Vehicle provided, Students, here’s your chance to gain information: For any questions or GPS in vehicle. For more information, valuable work experience in your field more details text or call 810-588- phone Gwen at 734-320-8019. of study. Apply today at www.cantonBARN AND YARD HELP: 10 hours/ mi.org/humanresources/jobs.asp. For 3327 or Email me at JDaratony@ week, some flexibility, north side of more information, call 734-394-5260 wccnet.edu
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personable, customer-focused receptionist for home decorating business. Multi-tasking and organizational ability, solid computer skills and retail-type experience. MARKETING ASSISTANT, create marketing materials, writes press releases, tracks program and marketing data, analyzes data and create reports
INSIDE SALES REPRESENTATIVE,
consultative selling, use salesforce-client relationships software to track and follow-up on all prospecting, phone calls, communications, and appointments. CONTRACTS ASSISTANT, organize, coordinate, and participate in the work of Contracts and Proposal Management department. Prepare and process standard forms and reports, maintain
operations of contracting system.
ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER,
sports and social club summer position. Bookkeeping, social media, train small staff in daily administrative duties, experience with HR functions including proper documentation of employee records. EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT, provide assistance to the president in running daily operations in Ann Arbor office. IT DESKTOP TECHNICIAN, three years of desktop support in a Windows environment; experienced in installation/troubleshooting all currently supported Windows operations systems. TIG Welder, welders at a Tier 1 supplier of automotive exhaust systems seeking candidates who are looking for a new career opportunity and are eager to grow with the company. These are full time, long-term, contract-to-hire positions located in Wixom and Brighton. HEAD PASTRY MANAGER, skilled and experienced individual to lead the pastry. Position provides an opportunity to be involved in a growing, changing and challenging organization that is doing pioneering work in food, service, management and training. SUMMER FELLOW, communicate with consumers about their new health coverage options. Great opportunity for candidates who are strong communicators, and passionate about expanding access to health coverage.
B8
Flip Side
May 5, 2014
The Washtenaw Voice
high praise
50 years later, Mustang fans are still in love with their ponies
Words and Photos by much money in those days,” said Pope. VIVIAN ZAGO “It was perfect for a husband and wife Staff Writer with two children. They fit in the back seat nicely, so it worked out very well.” DEARBORN – Fifty years ago, the Pope had a closer relationship than first of a new breed of sporty, stylish most Mustang lovers to the car. He cars was born – on top of the world. worked at Ford for 40 years – on the On April 17, 1964, from atop the Mustang program. Empire State Building during the The first Mustangs carried a stickNew York World’s Fair, Ford Motor er price of $2,360. Today, they start Company introduced the Mustang. at about $18,000. And the brand that Soon after, Gail Wise, then 22, a new- started a new breed of “pony cars,” ly minted teacher from suburban built with muscle and style, still gets Chicago, drove the first 1965 (tech- hearts racing. After five decades, more nically, a 1964 ½) Mustang – a baby than 15 models and 9.2 million problue convertible she drives to this day duced and sold, the Mustang is still forever changing automotive history. capturing the heart of the world’s moLast month, 50 years to the day, toring community. Ford launched the 2015 Mustang on And it seems like nearly everyone the Observation Deck of the Empire has a Mustang story to tell. State Building, after engineers carved Kimberly Shepherd, 41, a the car up into three pieces, took them Washtenaw Community College up to the building’s 86 floors by el- English instructor, has a 2005 baby evator, and put blue Mustang. the car back “I’ve loved together. that car since And today, I was 12,” she a new generasaid. “My fation of Ford vorite uncle technicians taught me how remain awed to drive on his by the effect Mustang. It’s a on the indusgreat memory try by a single that I have. It nameplate. is so much fun.” Murilo Duarte, 36, of Ann Arbor, Driving a Mustang is about freeis a vehicle dynamics structure en- dom and power, she said. gineer at Ford, and he is proud to see “I think it’s a beautiful car; it’s beauthe Mustang’s 50 years of history em- tiful to look at,” she said, “but it’s also bedded in the company’s own history. super fun to drive.” “It is a great idea to mark this speThough Shepherd said she would cial anniversary by paying tribute love having one of the new Mustangs to the model’s history,” he said. “It hot off the assembly line, her dream has such a deep connection with the car is “a ’67 Shelby. If I could have any American culture that it deserves to car I wanted, that’s what I would have.” be celebrated as such.” What makes the Mustang so And celebrate they did when doz- special? ens of Mustang aficionados gathered at “It’s traditional. It’s a symboliFord World Headquarters in Dearborn cal American car, like success, glamwith their cars. our and innovation,” Shepherd said. “The car made me feel young,” said “It typifies the person. To me, the Arthur Pope, of Birmingham, who Mustang is more for the everyday percalled it love at first sight the mo- son. You can be fun and stylish and fast ment he laid eyes on the Mustang 50 and still be a people’s person.” years ago. Tiera Pitts, 22, a WCC journalism “I was sitting in my living room student from Detroit, is the owner reading Time magazine, when I saw of a 1998 black convertible Mustang. a picture of its front,” said Pope. “I de“Almost all of my family members cided right then: that’s the car I want work for Ford, so it was the first car to buy.” that we had to have, a Mustang,” she He bought a brand new palomino said. “(My) car first belonged to two of brown Mustang, with 260 (horsepow- my cousins, and then, it was given er) V-6 engine, and kept it for 38 years to me.” before he sold it to a college student. What does she love most “It was small, sporty and economi- about her Mustang car? cal to purchase and didn’t cost that “It’s fast,” Pitts said,
“and it’s just the cutest. It’s great for boys and girls.” Standing next to his 1960 torch red Mustang at World Headquarters, Dave Cox, of Riverview, wore a look of pride. “This is the first car I’ve ever wanted,” Cox said, adding that he first fell in love with the car as a teenager many years ago. “When I was 16, I unexpectedly had to spend the summer in Kentucky, and they used to drag race. It was the first time I’ve seen one, and that’s when I fell in love with them,” said Cox. “So my goal was to get one, and I only got one 14 years ago. Now, I use it every year.” Mark Motowski, from Allen Park, a chassis designer at Ford for 25 years, was with his 2007 red Shelby, a tribute to one of the greatest muscle cars of all time, a brand of Mustangs beefed up by famed designer and racer Carroll Shelby. “It’s the first year back for the Shelby,” said Motowski. “Shelby Mustang stopped production in 1970. The Shelby came back to Ford to reintroduce this car in 2007. So this is the very first one.” Rob Mossel, 43, of Canton, has been an attorney at Ford for 18 years – and a Mustang lover for much longer. He owns a red 1965 Mustang. “It’s a classic, the first of its kind,” Mossel said. “It has such a classic look, and it remains relevant till today.” His car, Mossel explained, was a gift. “A wedding present,” he said. “It was my wife’s family’s car. And then, when we got married, they gave it to us.” It’s been in the family for 35 years, he added. “My son has not grown up, but he loves to be around the car. So I hope someday, it will passed on to the next generation,” said Mossel. “My wife’s grandfather won it originally. He gave it to his son, then passed to my wife. Now, we’ve got it, and I hope we have another generation with the vehicle.” Like most Mustang lovers, he’d probably shout his love for his car from the top of a very tall building. Just like its creator.
From top, a ‘corral’ of Mustangs lined up at Ford World Headquarters in Dearborn to celebrate a half century of love for the iconic muscle car. The iconic blue Ford logo. Mark Motowski with a 2007 Shelby, the first production model since Ford reintroduced the iconic muscle car in the late 1960s. The pony cars attracted a crowd of hundreds, all of them with a Mustang story to tell. Below, a 1966 convertible was one of the thoroughbreds on display.
VOICE
Voice ‘Last Supper,’ from left: Erik Morris, Christina Fleming, Jon Price, Brian Auten, EJ Stout, Keith Gave, Becky Alliston, Maria Rigou, David Fitch, James Saoud, Kelly Bracha and Natalie Wright.
ERIK MORRIS | WASHTENAW VOICE
FINDING OUR VOICE
May 5, 2014
Washtenaw Community College
the voice staff reflects on the past year
KELLY BRACHA
EJ STOUT
JAMES SAOUD
DAVID FITCH
p h oto edi tor
grap h i c desi gn edi tor
vi deo edi tor / staff wri ter
staff wri ter
I knew I had to leave WCC at some point, but As the school year comes to a close, I am filled I never came to terms with the idea of leaving with a sense of pride and enthusiasm as I reflect on the past few months. The Voice. Knowing this year was my last, I tried to take Unlike many Voice staffers, I did not join the advantage of every moment. I wanted to cherish group until after the New Year. After spendevery photo assignment and the rush of every ing a few months backpacking overseas, I was breaking news event. But, beside the adrenaline worried that I would return to school and feel from chasing the news, I think what I’ll miss most suppressed by the demands of homework and is my second home that is TI 106, the newsroom. socially approved career choices. I have spent more hours there than I care to Much to my surprise, my time away has inadmit, but always by choice. It became home stilled an even deeper focus and passion in all because of the people I shared it with, all hav- facets of my life. I came back to the States and ing common passions and goals for journalism eagerly dove into new opportunities – the most and our newspaper. meaningful of which being my role at The Voice. This last year has been insane, and that has Through this publication, I have found a commade it harder than ever to say goodbye. I’m munity of likeminded peers, a community that going to miss this paper; I’m going to miss my is captivated by new information, a community teammates, and, most of all, I’m going to miss that comes to life with the thought of sharing this job. It has taught me more than I could ever news with the students it represents, a commuask for, and I will never forget it. nity that laughs and loves and fights for its beliefs. I never thought I would introduce myself as a journalist. But working with this group of remarkable individuals has taken me far beyond just a designer. With much enthusiasm, I have finally found BRIAN AUTEN my Voice. grap h i c desi gn edi tor
Last fall when I enrolled at WCC, I had no idea I would end up working in a newsroom. I had no thoughts or desires to work for a newspaper. Then, I was approached by Julia Gleich in the Production Center and asked if I would be interested in designing pages for The Washtenaw Voice. At first, I was reluctant, but then quickly thought maybe I should give it a shot. I came to The Voice around Thanksgiving and designed the “Goodwill Hunting” special section. I was reeled in and hooked on the satisfaction of seeing the final product on newsprint. The experience I am gaining here at The Voice is invaluable. I don’t know where these experiences will lead, but I am excited to see where it goes.
NATALIE WRIGHT man agi ng edi tor
At the beginning of this year, I was not much more than The Voice’s camera guy. Sure, I wrote a bit here and there, mostly just doing reviews for movies I would’ve gone to see anyway. But, toward the end of last semester, things started to change. I started to write the news. Let me tell you, this journalism stuff is contagious. At first, I thought it may have just been my curiosity getting the better of me, but that curiosity soon turned into a genuine interest. At first, it was difficult to find stories to pitch to our news team, but after the first couple of weeks, the stories began finding me. The next thing I knew I was pumping out somewhere between 6-10 stories an issue, and that’s not including the videos I was producing for the website. Each new byline hit me like an injection of pure adrenaline. Suddenly, my videos began improving with my writing. I had learned how to tell a story and was able to apply that to the video content. Somewhere between traveling to the college media conference in New Orleans and standing in front of the President of the United States, I realized that this interest that had manifested from my curiosity had turned into something much more. It had turned into passion. I am eternally thankful for Keith Gave and the rest of The Voice’s staff for encouraging me to pursue this little curiosity of mine and helping that curiosity fully bloom.
CHRISTINA FLEMING onli ne edi tor
If I had to pick one word to describe this past academic year it would be “fast.” Where has the time gone? Was I not just registering for my fall classes and looking for a job? Well, here I am at the end of this year wondering where that time has gone. I blame it all on my time at The Voice. My time here has been filled with intensive fast-paced work, but most importantly laughter and fun. It really is true when they say time flies when you’re having fun. Never before have I had so much fun and excitement with a job. My experience here at The Voice is one I will cherish forever. It has become a model of sorts for what I will look for in the next phase of my life and career. The tone is the thing, and I promise to bring it wherever I go.
When I took my first journalism class two years ago, I was told not to trust anybody. A good journalist needs to be a cynic – it’s a well-known fact. This made me question my career choice right away because my first instinct is always to believe the best of people. So it was no surprise JON PRICE to me when I joined The Voice staff last fall, I staff wri ter was told by several people that I needed to, and I would, they assured me, become more cynical. Those people may look at me now and say they were right – I’ve become a cynic. Working for The Washtenaw Voice has been I say they were wrong. one of the most rewarding experiences I have I’ve found that this work made me more skep- had in my time here at Washtenaw Community tical, certainly. My first instinct now is to ques- College. tion everything, to distrust. But cynical implies I started as a contributor to the paper in pessimism, and the more I work as a journalist, September of last year when I was encouraged the more my optimism expands. by my journalism instructor, Keith Gave, the With every pure-hearted, honest, passionate adviser to The Voice, to pursue stories and work person I interview, my faith in human beings toward getting published. has grown. There are so many great things hapI followed his advice, and, in my short time pening at this college that most students never here at the paper, I have had the privilege to get to see, and I feel so blessed to be in a place cover the president’s visit to Ann Arbor and the where it’s my job to show them. first gay marriages in Michigan. There are brilliant and caring people who I have spoken with and done stories about devote their lives to this institution because politicians, athletes, college administrators and they care about students. They care about mak- genuinely interesting people from any and all ing lives better. walks of life. As media, sometimes we see the worst in Every day is a new experience working for people. We see them at their most guarded, their the paper. Constantly tracking down new stoleast human. Our challenge is getting past that, ries and sources lets me approach each day at and I believe, once you do, it’s apparent that most college with a certain excitement that is shared people are coming from a place of good intention. by few others.
M.M. DONALDSON staff wri ter
Doing a regular column sounded fun when I first discussed this with the editors. Thankfully, working on the Healthy Voice was fun. Writing an article requires a lot of work, but doing a column requires endurance. Writing for The Voice this past year has been rewarding with all the people I have worked with and interviewed. This school year, I have realized some people poo-poo the abilities of student journalists, but writing for The Voice has been a REAL experience. I think most college students would love a job where the work feels fun, no matter how hard it is. I feel lucky to experience this and cannot wait to make this part-time job a full-time venture.
The past year went by like lightning. Here’s a quick recap: Typing, staff meetings, chasing students, chasing instructors, more typing, corrections, mistakes, Jimmy John’s, more staff meetings. Cutlines, cutlines, headshots, more typing, more chasing people, email, more Jimmy John’s. The tough times turned out to be the best times. The people I love and consider my friends now were only strangers before as I awkwardly knocked on the menacing steel doors of the office. They took me in. We went through a year of ups and downs, of deadline woes, staff changes, being loved and loathed, of AP style arguments, roaming the streets of New Orleans and getting ink-stained hands from delivering papers on Monday mornings. In short, it has been an immense gift to work for The Voice, if only for a year. It has been an honor, a thrilling agony at times, an adrenaline rush and a stretch. In short, a huge blessing.
ERIK MORRIS grap h i c i llustrator
This year has been interesting, to say the least. Over the past nine months, I have created 13 illustrations (including the one on this page) that have been published in the paper, as well as nine more that, for various reasons, were never used. That totals to 22 illustrations total, which, at an average of about five hours per illustration, is a little over 4 ½ solid days’ worth of work, in total. I’ve had too many 3 a.m. frantic pen-tooling sessions for my own good, and “Midnight Bag of Goldfish” has become a fourth meal. However, whether it’s because of my lack of a social life, or because I actually manage my time well (I have doubts about the latter), I’ve handled it fine, and the satisfaction of seeing my work in the paper has been more than enough motivation. The rest of the staff has also been very enjoyable to work with, and I’m definitely looking forward to returning next year!
MARIA RIGOU edi tor
After a long and hard year, I leave The Washtenaw Voice with have a sense of compleBECKY ALLISTON tion and half a sense of unfulfillment. adverti si ng man ager My time at Washtenaw Community College has come to an end, and I am now moving to a different state to pursue other things, maybe in Every year has been such a different experi- journalism, and maybe not. But, whatever it is, ence and all very rewarding. I would not trade I don’t think it can compare to the comfort of these last 3 1/2 years working with The Voice staff walking in through those two gray doors, to that for anything, and I look forward to this next year. characteristic smell that I always complain about. Sitting at the advertising desk has given I firmly believe that The Voice has prepared me the opportunity to observe and learn from me for the real world, something that is absomany different reporters, photographers and lutely necessary in this trade, but that many designers. people don’t pursue. And I feel confident that I They have all been unique, and I learned leave the newsroom knowing much more than so much about the working functions of a real I anticipated two years ago. newsroom. I am now bound to a world of uncertainty. I It is always a challenge filling pages between don’t have a job, though I am confident that I advertisements, reporting and photographs, will get one soon. But the only thing that I can but watching the editors bring it all together say for certain is that you are in good hands beby planning pages has definitely been a job I cause the people who stay behind are passionate would not envy. about giving you what you are looking for: truth. It is with great pride I have watched all of the Thank you, Voice; thank you, staff; and thank accomplishments from this great team. And the you, Keith, for helping me achieve so much and awards keep coming. for making me a better everything.
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The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
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The Washtenaw Voice
May 5, 2014
Hail and farewell
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There will be 1,626 new success stories when Washtenaw Community College bestows degrees and certificates to its graduates on May 17. Here are a few: words and photos by aron turner
Michael Dumiter: A life-changing moment
MICHELE SWEENEY | WASHTENAW VOICE
Some students experienced life-changing events while attending Washtenaw Community College. Among those is 21-year-old Michael Dumiter, a resident of Saline. Dumiter changed his program numerous times while attending WCC, where he started in an engineering program. “I didn’t know what to expect at first,” he said. “I really ended up enjoying the freedom college offered as opposed to high school.” His signature moment came when he joined Chi Alpha, a Christian group on campus. “It allowed me to see change within this community college,” he said. “To go along with the changes, you begin to see within yourself. To share so many experiences with so many different people is something I’ll never forget.” This led him to changing his program of study to occupational
therapy. The change was much welcomed, Dumiter said, and has really boosted his confidence level to new heights. “Graduating is a relief, yet frightening,” he said. “But, overall, I feel way more confident now than when I first started.” Dumiter credits this to joining Chi Alpha, which allowed him to become a part of a tightly knit community that pushed him to excel in school and in life. He plans to continue his program a t Wa y n e S t a t e University in hopes of receiving his bachelor’s in occupational therapy. One day, he hopes, Dumiter will work with those who need him most at Mott Children’s Hospital. “I just want to help people out,” he said. “That’s my main goal.”
Angel Izaguirre: From one ‘homeland’ to another S t u d e n t s a t Wa s h t e n a w Community College come from all different lifestyles and walks of life. Many of them are international students. Among them is 19-year-old Angel Izaguirre. Izaguirre is a resident of Ann Arbor but originally from Venezuela. He is a psychology student who has enjoyed his experience here at WCC. “It has really been a fun experience for me,” Izaguirre said, noting that as an international student, learning in a secondary language can be a difficult challenge. “My instructors really helped me on with my English,” Izaguirre said. “It made everything a lot easier for me.” While times were filled with good
memories that Izaguirre shared with friends in the Student Center Community Room, he knows it’s time to get to work. “I was so happy with the time I spent here at Washtenaw,” Izaguirre said. “But I know now, it’s time for me to get serious.” By “serious” he means what lies ahead in the future: studying at the University of Michigan to earn his bachelor’s degree in psychology and sociology. After that, Izaguirre plans to continue his studies with the goal of receiving his master’s degree in criminal psychology. In the end, he hopes it will carry him to a career in Homeland Security.
Emily Rose: The long road to success For some students, a long commute can be challenging enough to fall short of accomplishing their goals. But for 21-year-old Emily Rose, traveling was only a small sacrifice that had to be made to complete her program. A resident of Toledo, Ohio, Rose will be graduating from Washtenaw Community College with her degree in photography. And, while she is excited about moving on, she admits to getting a little down when she realizes her time here is about to come to an end. “It’s really sad for me to leave,” she said. “This program was a tight-knit group. When you’re with the same people for two years, you become really close.” Her instructors played a big role in her accomplishment, she said, because they were there for her every step of the way.
AT r
sfe n a
r
“They were really a big help,” she said. The reality of graduating had yet to hit her as she was preparing her work for the big art show on April 30. But she is sure that once that time comes, she will be able to reflect on just how great her time here was. “I just love it here,” said Rose, who is a published writer and photographer in The Voice this year, too. “The biggest thing I’m going to miss is working in the photo lab.” She plans to continue her studies at Siena Heights University in Adrian to get her bachelor’s degree in fine arts. Her dream is to one day own her very own photography portrait business. “I’m not going to miss the drive from here to Toledo,” she said. “I can’t wait until I can start saving gas money again.”
Danny Shindorf: How one instructor made all the difference For some students, the road to success is very difficult at first, but they eventually receive that push they need to succeed. Danny Shindorf, 33, of Ypsilanti, is a living testament to this. His initial experience in the welding program at Washtenaw Community College was a rough one. “I ran into a lot of instructors that didn’t help me out at all,” Shindorf said. He admitted he was nearly ready to give up when he met the instructor who would motivate and push him to complete the welding program. That person was welding and fabrication instructor Coley McLean. “I failed my placement test at first,” Shindorf said. “She took me under her wing, and, anything you ever needed, she was more than happy to help you.” This gave him that extra push he needed to continue with his program. Shindorf has now completed the program and is anxiously awaiting graduation. “It’s a great feeling to graduate,
yet scary at the same time,” he said. Shindorf hopes to work in the field of X-Ray welding after graduating. He has aspirations to get into the field of art as well. “I want to go into sculpting,” Shindorf said. “I want to be able to make my own stuff.” In retrospect, Shindorf shares a usual piece of advice with future college students. “Find that one teacher that’s going to push you,” he said, “and change your life for the better.”
Carissa Sturdivant: Knowledge for a lifetime Carissa Sturdivant, 19, from WCC makes available for students, Ypsilanti, is excited to finally be at such as tutors and financial aid. And the finish line here at WCC. she made good use of them. On the verge of completing her “There were a lot of resources that nursing degree, she felt as though helped me when times were hard,” she WCC gave her an abundance of said. “Graduating here is very motivatvaluable lessons that prepared her ing to me because it makes me want for a career – and for life. to achieve more.” “It’s a good school,” Carissa said, Sturdivant hopes to continue her recalling her times as a student. “I studies in the nursing program at a learned a lot.” major university, adding that UCLA She praised the many resources is at the top of her wish list.
what you need to know about wcc’s graduation commencement when:
Saturday, May 17, students should arrive at 8:15 a.m., guests should be seated by 9:20 a.m.
where:
EMU Convocation Center 799 N. Hewitt Rd., Ypsilanti where to park:
Park for free, either in front of the EMU Convocation Center or across the street on the west side of Hewitt Road.
what to wear:
Graduation attire – the required cap, gown, and tassel must be purchased in the WCC bookstore by 3 p.m. on May 16 ($40.98 price includes all three items). Purchase only a tassel if you are borrowing a friend’s black cap and gown, so you’ll have the correct year on your tassel. Purchase your green, gold, and white tassel ($5.98 plus tax)at the Bookstore by 3 p.m. on May 16.
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May 5, 2014
The Washtenaw Voice