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(C.O.D. Photo by Rich Malec)
Toddler Care
Teacher Kayla Chepyator (right) works with Graham (left) and Liza in the new full-time classroom for toddlers at the College of DuPage Early Childhood Center. The new toddler program, which serves children ages 15 to 24 months, joins the preschool and kindergarten programs currently being offered to the community. The toddler classroom will be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a maximum of 10 children and a teacher/child ratio of one teacher to five children. For more information or to schedule a visit, call Marsha Pobst, (630) 942-4223, or visit: www.cod.edu/childcare.
Community news for the week of Sept. 1, 2008, at College of DuPage:
Pace Offers Free Rides
To raise awareness about public transportation options in this region and improve air quality, Pace will be offering free bus service on Route 714 through Sept. 12.
Pace Bus Route
Pace Bus Route 714, which enables students and community members to travel to stops between Naperville, College of DuPage and Wheaton, has recently elminated evening routes after 6:30 p.m.
Escoffier Dining Room
C.O.D.'s Escoffier dining room will offer five evenings of fine dining on select Tuesdays this fall. Students of the college's International Cuisine and Services courses and local chefs will be preparing a variety of dishes, each served with wine or beer.
Poetry Submissions Welcome
Submissions are being accepted for the College of DuPage's Prairie Poetry Award contest, presented by the College's Writers Read Series. Amateur poets are invited to submit three unpublished poems by March 1 for a chance to win a 90-minute workshop with author Curtis Crisler.
Child Care Services for Students Available this Fall
College of DuPage will again offer quality, affordable Child Care Services for Students (CCSS) and part-time faculty at its main campus in Glen Ellyn this fall semester.
Book Exchange Lowers Cost for C.O.D. Students
About 60 College of DuPage students so far have taken advantage of an Internet web site started last October that allows C.O.D. students to buy and sell books more cheaply by dealing among themselves and bypassing higher costs at bookstores.
Earn a GED at C.O.D.
Individuals can earn a General Educational Development (GED) diploma at College of DuPage. Fall registration has begun.
New Full-Time Classroom for Toddlers
College of DuPage and its Early Childhood Center opened a full-time classroom for toddlers that serves children ages 15 to 24 months.
Career Program Offers Free Workshop
College of DuPage's Career and Technical Education Services program, which assists community members with career choices and educational information about occupational programs, is currently offering free workshops.
C.O.D. Naperville Center to Offer Cosmetology Classes
Responding to increased demand, College of DuPage will begin offering cosmetology classes at its Naperville Regional Center this August.
C.O.D. to Examine 'Nurture/Nature'
Beginning this September, College of DuPage staff, students and members of the public will participate in a year-long series of college-wide discussions of important social issues that will focus, challenge and advance the thinking of the participants.
Children's Play Center Expands at Carol Stream Center
Fall semester at the College of DuPage Carol Stream Community Education Center will usher in a number of new classes and an expansion of services in its Children's Play Center.
Preschool Registration at Early Childhood Center
There are still spaces available in the 3- and 4-year-old part-time preschool at the College of DuPage Early Childhood Center for classes.
Constitution Day Sept. 15
Constitution and Citizenship Day, a free event that includes "Interactive Constitution" prizes and a lively student debate, will kick off at 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15.
'Food for Thought' Series Opens Sept. 16
"Food for Thought," a popular series presented by the College of DuPage Counseling and Advising Services area, will get under way on Tuesday, Sept. 16, with "Listen to Your Heart to Find Your Direction."
Prison Chaplain to Present Free Lecture
Rev. Carroll Pickett, who served as Death House Chaplain for 15 years at the Walls Prison unit in Huntsville, Texas, will speak about his experiences at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at College of DuPage.
C.O.D. Adjunct Professor to Raise Awareness for DVT
College of DuPage adjunct professor James Durkin will run on a treadmill in the college's P.E. Building Aerobic Fitness Lab on Sept. 17 to raise awareness for Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT).
MSSC Certification Offered at C.O.D.
The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) certification program will again be offered at College of DuPage from Sept. 18 through Dec.17. Program courses run from 1 to 4 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays.
Hispanic Heritage Month
The College of DuPage's Student Support and Cultural Center will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month Sept. 22 with a performance by Michael Heralda. The songwriter, artist, storyteller and poet will present "Aztec Stories," a combination of traditional stories and music of the Mexica/Aztec people.
C.O.D. Foundation Golf/Tennis Outing Sept. 22
The College of DuPage Foundation Golf and Tennis fundraiser is scheduled on Monday, Sept. 22, at the Stonebridge County Club in Aurora.
Environmental Conference
The College of DuPage will host "The Language of Nature: Imagining a Sustainable World" Oct. 14 to 16 at the Student Resource Center. The three-day conference features a variety of speakers and a student and community environmental read-in on Wednesday, Oct. 15.
NIF Moderator and Issue Framing Workshops
The College of DuPage Public Policy Institute will host moderator training and issues framing for individuals interested in becoming a National Issues Forum moderator.
News Bureau
College of DuPage
Office of Public Information
OCC 143-45
425 Fawell Boulevard
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137-6599
Phone:
(630) 942-2480
Fax:
(630) 942-3737
Pace Offers Free Rides
By Jim Kozik
Director of Planning and Economic Development
City of Wheaton
To raise awareness about public transportation options in this region and improve air quality, Pace will be offering free bus service on Route 714 Sept. 2 to12.
Known as the C.O.D. Connector, Route 714 connects popular stops in Wheaton, Naperville and the College of DuPage, including the Wheaton train stations, downtown Wheaton, Danada shopping, College of DuPage, Edward Hospital and downtown Naperville.
The regular fare for this route is $1.50, but rides will be free Sept. 2 to 12, funded by a grant from the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning's Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Improvement program, along with DuPage County and the C.O.D. Connector team.
By using public transportation, riders can help reduce air pollution and save money on gas. The City of Wheaton encourages residents to help "Turn Wheaton Green" by making environmentally friendly choices, such as using public transportation.
For more information, call Kozik at (630) 260-2008.
Pace Bus Map (PDF File)
Pace Bus Schedule (PDF File)
Pace Bus Map (PDF File)
Pace Bus Schedule (PDF File)
Wheaton-C.O.D.-Naperville Bus Route
By David Hamilton
The PACE 714 Naperville-College of DuPage-Wheaton Connector has eliminated evening routes after 6:30 p.m.
The last northbound buses to leave the Glen Ellyn campus: 6:26 p.m. from West Campus and 6:30 p.m. from the BIC Building.
The last southbound buses to leave the Glen Ellyn campus: 6:01 p.m. from West Campus and 6:05 p.m. from the BIC Building.
New bus schedules that reflect the changes are available in Student Activities, SRC 1800, and at the Information Desk in the Admissions office, SRC 2046. Schedules may also be viewed online at www.pacebus.com/pdf/previews/714sched.pdf.
Pace Bus Route 714 is a direct link between Naperville and Wheaton.
At various points along the route, transfers can be made to more than 20 other Pace routes and two Metra lines. The route operates every 30 minutes during rush hours and every hour midday and evenings.
Route 714 offers student, faculty and community members a transit option to such destinations as Edward Hospital, the downtowns and Metra stations in both Naperville and Wheaton, the Danada Square and Ogden shopping malls and the College of DuPage Glen Ellyn campus.
Bus schedules are available in the college's Student Activities office and the Information Desk in the Admissions office, both of which are located in the Student Resource Center.
The Route 714 schedule and map are available on Pace's web site, www.pacebus.com. Travel information is also available by call the RTA Travel Information Center from any area code at 836-7000.
Enjoy Escoffier Dining This Fall
By Jen Duda
The Escoffier dining room at the College of DuPage Glen Ellyn campus, 425 Fawell Boulevard, will host fine dining on select Tuesday evenings through the college's Hospitality Administration Department.
Menu offerings include Tapas, Sept. 9; Middle Eastern cuisine, Sept. 23; an Austrian Oktoberfest, Oct. 7; Italian, Oct. 28, and an International tasting dinner, Nov. 18. Service begins at 7 p.m. each day and the cost is $35 per person.
All meals are prepared by students enrolled in the college's International Cuisine and Service courses and local participating chefs. Each dish is paired with wine or beer.
Reservations are required and can be made by contacting chef David Kramer at kramerd@cod.edu or by calling (630) 942-2868.
Poetry Submissions Welcome
By Jen Duda
Amateur poets are welcome to submit three unpublished poems to the College of DuPage's Prairie Poetry Award contest, which will culminate with a reading by author Curtis Crisler on Wednesday, April 29.
The contest, open to students and community members, is presented by the college's Writers Read Series. Poets may submit their poems to Liz Whiteacre, assistant professor of English, through the Liberal Arts office, Berg Instructional Center (IC) Room 3098. The deadline for submissions is March 1.
"The Writers Read Series has a great tradition of hosting professional writers," Whiteacre said. "The series encourages students and the community to engage with these professionals' work and talk with them about writing and publishing."
Crisler's "Tough Boy Sonatas" was selected for the International Reading Association's Children's and Young Adults' Book Award Notable Books List and as one of the School Library Journal Best Books for 2007. The book also appears on the Young Adult Library Services Association's Best Books for Young Adults 2008 list.
Crisler teaches creative writing at Indiana University-Purdue University and his work has appeared in the literary journals "The Fourth River" and "Black Arts Quarterly." His book "Burnt Offerings of a City" won the Kathryn Young Chapbook Award.
Prior to his April 29 reading, Crisler will lead a 90-minute workshop with poetry contest winners. Winners also will submit one of their poems to "The Prairie Light Review," the college's literary magazine.
For more information on the contest, call Whiteacre at (630) 942-2311 or e-mail whiteacre@cod.edu.
Child Care Services for Students Available this Fall
By Ken Reed
College of DuPage will again offer quality, affordable Child Care Services for Students (CCSS) and part-time faculty at its main campus in Glen Ellyn this fall semester.
The service is available for the children of students and part-time faculty while they are attending class at C.O.D. Children between 3 and 5 years old are eligible for CCSS. Hours are Mondays to Thursdays, from 7:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Fridays, from 7:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. during the fall and spring semesters.
Parents must register their children in person prior to the start of fall semester at the CCSS program located at the college's Early Childhood Center on Lambert Road. The items required for the child's registration are a copy of the parent's C.O.D. fall semester schedule and a copy of the child's birth certificate or passport. Proof of a health exam is required by the first day the child is in the center.
The children may only be in the center a maximum of five hours per day. Lunches (extra cost) are available if the child is at the center during lunch.
Parents must be registered for classes at C.O.D. prior to registering their children for the service. The cost is $6 per hour, with a $50 non-refundable deposit and the first payment (one-half of the total fees) due at the time of registration. The service contract is for the entire term - 16-, 12- or 8-weeks.
Parents interested in the service for future semesters should complete this online form: www.cod.edu/dept/Stud_Act/SPCO/spco_form.htm.
For more information on CCSS or to make an appointment to register, call Mary Wombold at (630) 942-2422.
Book Exchange Lowers Cost for C.O.D. Students
By Ken Reed
About 60 College of DuPage students so far have taken advantage of an Internet web site started last October that allows C.O.D. students to buy and sell books more cheaply by dealing among themselves and bypassing higher costs at bookstores.
Allison Schraub (Lombard), a C.O.D. sophomore and coordinator of Operations for the college's Student Leadership Council, was one of the driving forces to establish the Internet site, as well as a bulletin board across from the Center for Independent Learning (CIL) in the Berg Instructional Center (BIC), where students can post notices to buy and sell books.
"Books are very expensive," Schraub said, noting that she paid $700 for her books for four classes this semester. She said that many times books are packaged with other items that cost even more money. For example, a CD that contained interactive math information accompanied her math book. "If you take the CD out, you can't return the book. So while I would really like the great help from the CD, do I really want to spend $150 for the CD when I just wanted the book?"
In response to the high cost of books, the SLC formed a textbook committee that included Hope Whitten, the student trustee on the college's Board of Trustees.
As the committee began work, Meri Phillips, C.O.D. director, Student Activities, suggested the group look at a web site - www.tbxn.com - that enables students to buy and sell books.
"We looked at the site, found that it was simple and easy and they even gave the college a free account: www.dupage.tbxn.com," Schraub said. "We just wanted to cut out the middle man in the buying of books, but still allow a contact among the students. Now, students can decide on a price among themselves and exchange books.
"I am so happy about the success of the Internet site," Schraub said. "This is a great start. I wasn't sure that people would use the site at first. I am super happy. But considering how many students there are at the college, I would love to see the numbers increase."
Schraub said that one way students can make the book exchange project work is to get involved in the SLC. "The students need to be involved if this is going to work."
Schraub said that eventually the textbook committee would like to install several more boards across from the CIL so that students can post their notices according to category.
"I am hoping that by the end of spring semester, we have more boards up and more members on the textbook committee so that we can really get this project going next fall." "It is hard at a community college, especially when many students pay for their own tuition," Schraub said. "I work two jobs to pay for my C.O.D. education and it is hard to see the $700 that I pay for books just kind of go away and only get $100 of it back when I resell them at a bookstore.
"All I want to do is learn. It is disappointing and kind of disheartening, especially at a community college, when many people come here because of the high prices at a four-year school. Book prices are a hefty, hefty amount." For more information on the book exchange program, call the SLC, (630) 942-2095.
Earn a GED at C.O.D.
By Ken Reed
Like a passport, obtaining a General Educational Development (GED) diploma "opens a world of opportunity," according to Pat Coleman, College of DuPage associate dean, Adult Education/English as a Second Language.
This world of opportunity opened wide for 50 students at this year's annual College of DuPage GED graduation ceremony. The commencement event honored the students who passed the GED test to earn a high school diploma.
"Having a passport opens the world to you and having a GED opens a world of opportunity," Coleman said. "You never know where either will take you, but both allow you the freedom to choose. GED completers gain the skills and confidence it takes to go to college, get promoted and obtain better jobs."
Individuals who are looking for new opportunities by earning their GED at C.O.D. can participate in free GED preparation courses at the main C.O.D. campus in Glen Ellyn and at the college's Bloomingdale Center for Independent Learning (CIL), Naperville Frontier Campus, Naperville Regional Center, Carol Stream Community Education Center and West Chicago Community Education Center.
GED classes in Spanish are offered at C.O.D.'s Glen Ellyn campus and Addison Regional Center, Bloomingdale CIL, West Chicago Community Education Center, Henry Hyde Resource Center in Addison and Fenton High School in Bensenville. For more information on the GED classes in Spanish, call (630) 942-2551.
The first step in GED enrollment, however, is to take a reading and math Test for Adult Basic Education (TABE) to determine correct course levels. These pre-tests allow students to enroll in classes that concentrate on skills they need for the GED test.
Students can take the pre-test in the college's Testing Lab, located in the Berg Instructional Center (BIC), Room 100, on the Glen Ellyn campus. The lab is open on Mondays and Tuesdays, from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.; Wednesdays and Thursdays, 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.; and Fridays and Saturdays, 9 to 10:30 a.m.
Pre-testing and registration is also offered at the Bloomingdale CIL, (630) 942-4900; Naperville Regional Center (630) 942-4750; and the college's Westmont Regional Center, (630) 942-4850.
C.O.D. is the only site in DuPage County that administers the GED exam and 80 percent of C.O.D.'s GED course completers pass the GED test.
C.O.D.'s GED teachers help adult students of all ages overcome skill deficiencies and hurdle academic barriers so they can achieve their dreams.
For more information on free GED classes at C.O.D., call (630) 942-2551 or (630) 942- 3697, or visit: www.cod.edu/Academic/ABE_GED/GED.htm.
New Full-Time Classroom for Toddlers
By Ken Reed
College of DuPage and its Early Childhood Center has opened a full-time classroom for toddlers that serves children ages 15 to 24 months.
The toddler program joins the preschool and kindergarten programs currently being offered to the community, according to Diane Kubetz, associate professor/coordinator of Early Childhood Education and Care.
Kubetz said the toddler classroom will be open from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. with a maximum of 10 children and a teacher/child ratio of one teacher to five children.
The cost of the program is $280 per week.
"We are excited to announce the addition of the toddler program," Kubetz said. She emphasized that the toddler classroom will provide individualized care in partnership with families. "Educated and experienced teachers will provide a safe and healthy environment that promotes active exploration, discovery and the reinforcement of positive family relationships."
Kubetz added that college students enrolled in the Early Childhood Education and Care program "will be given the opportunity to observe toddler development and learn firsthand about high quality toddler care giving, including individualized curriculum and guidance."
For more information, or to schedule a visit, call Marsha Pobst, (630) 942-4223, or visit: www.cod.edu/childcare.
Career Program Offers Free Workshop
By David Hamilton
College of DuPage's Career and Technical Education Services program, which assists community members with career choices and educational information about occupational programs, will offer free workshops.
Located at 2525 Cabot Drive, Lisle, the program is made possible through a partnership with WorkNet DuPage and other community service providers. The program assists those who are unemployed or underemployed, as well as displaced homemakers, single parents veterans and career changers.
"Communicate with Assertion" will meet from 9 a.m. to noon Wednesdays, Sept. 3 and 10, also WorkNet DuPage. Participants in this session gain confidence by learning to communicate assertively.
"Listening…Priceless" will be offered from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursdays, Oct. 9 and 16, at the Lisle location. Participants will learn to listen to others more effectively by improving their listening skills.
For more information, call Janet Rand, career specialist, at (630) 955-2071.
C.O.D. to Examine 'Nurture/Nature'
By Ken Reed
Beginning this September, College of DuPage staff, students and members of the public will participate in a year-long series of college-wide discussions of important social issues that will focus, challenge and advance the thinking of the participants.
The activity is called Discover, Develop, Do (3D) and its focus for C.O.D.'s 2008-2009 academic year is "Nurture/Nature," an exploration of the relationship among humans and their environments. Through 3D, the college will present a different focus every academic year. Additional information on 3D can be found at: www.cod.edu/3D.
Linda Elaine, assistant professor, English, Steve Gustis, Service Learning coordinator, and Cynthia Johnson, Community Development specialist, are the co-chairs for the Nurture|Nature focus for the upcoming academic year.
The 3D concept uses as its model a campus-wide, civic engagement initiative created by Columbia College, which was presented at an American Association of Colleges and Universities conference.
Cynthia Johnson, C.O.D. Community Development specialist, said there is a need to develop engagement at C.O.D. in multiple layers, across diverse ethnicities, departments and hierarchical levels of management. "We need to create and renew an atmosphere of excitement and heighten expectations," Johnson said.
Johnson said that through 3D, the college and the public can address controversial social topics that encourage creative thinking and engage all constituencies.
While there will be planned events, Johnson said that "we do expect people to voluntarily put together programs, activities and promotions around the topic." She said C.O.D. faculty will be asked to incorporate a unit of study in their classes dedicated to Nuture/Nature.
The 3D launch committee at C.O.D. is comprised of Johnson; Chris Picard, vice president for Academic Affairs; Meryl Sussman, associate vice president, Community Affairs and Economic Development; Gustis; and Elaine.
For more information on 3D activities at C.O.D., to participate in the 3D blog, or to volunteer for the 3D Visionary Force planning committee, call Johnson, (630) 942-3872 or visit: www.cod.edu/3D.
Children's Play Center Expands at Carol Stream Center
By Ken Reed
Fall semester at the College of DuPage Carol Stream Community Education Center will usher in a number of new classes and offer an exciting opportunity for children and their parents who attend C.O.D. classes at several of the college sites.
Millie Jones, supervisor at the Carol Stream facility, said several new and exciting classes will be offered this fall, including a unique Spanish Introduction to the PC class, which will be delivered in Spanish.
Other new classes on the Carol Stream docket include Sociology 2251, Health and Illness; Math 1102, Math Health Sciences; History 1110, Western Civilization until 1600; and Philosophy 1110, Ethics.
Also coming to Carol Stream this fall is an expansion of the Children's Play Center facility. Jones said that C.O.D. students taking classes at C.O.D.'s Addison Regional Center, Bloomingdale Center for Independent Learning and the West Chicago Community Education Center can now make arrangements to take their children, ages 3 to 12, to the Carol Stream facility, while they are in class at any of these four college sites in the north portion of the college district.
Jones said the cost of the play center is $4 per hour. Two coordinators and one student aide will be available to care for the children. The center is equipped with an extensive assortment of age-appropriate materials. Nutritional snacks are also available.
"With the expansion of our Children's Play Center and the new classes being offered, we are just ecstatic," Jones said. "We are anticipating our largest enrollment this fall."
Jones said she is expecting an increase in the number of students enrolling in English as a Second Language courses. "Also, there will be an increase in the number of community organizations using our facility."
The Carol Stream center, located at 500 N. Kuhn Road, offers many of the courses that are available at C.O.D.'s Glen Ellyn campus. The center provides large and comfortable classrooms, a state-of-the-art computer lab, convenient parking and the Children's Play Center.
For more information, call Jones, (630) 942-4861, or visit: www.cod.edu/RegionalCtrs/Carol_Reg.htm.
Preschool Registration at Early Childhood Center
By Ken Reed
There are still spaces available in the 3- and 4-year-old part-time preschool at the College of DuPage Early Childhood Center for classe.
The center offers a play-based curriculum in its new facility on the college's Glen Ellyn campus.
The classes are taught by teachers degreed in early childhood education who model, for college students, an environment where young children grown and learn.
Part-time preschool classes for 3-year-olds meet on Mondays and Tuesdays from 8:45 to 11:15 a.m. Tuition is $136 per month for the nine-month school year.
Part-time preschool classes for 4-year-olds meet Tuesdays through Fridays from 1:15 to 3:45 p.m. Tuition is $272 per month for the nine-month school year.
"Our Early Childhood program offers a wonderful preschool experience," said Marsha Pobst, center manager. "Our play-based curriculum, experienced preschool teachers and beautiful new facility combine to provide a truly child-centered preschool program."
For more information or to arrange a visit to the Early Childhood Center, call Pobst, (630) 942-4223, or e-mail: pobstm@cod.edu. For more information on other programs offered by the Early Childhood Center, visit: www.cod.edu/childcare.
Constitution Day Sept. 15
By David Hamilton
Constitution and Citizenship Day, a free event that includes "Interactive Constitution" prizes and a lively student debate, will kick off at 10 a.m. Monday, Sept. 15, in the College of DuPage Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 1450, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.
Sponsored by the college's Constitution Day Committee and Criminal Justice and Political Science departments, the event will include prizes and the student debate "Heller vs. D.C. - Supreme Court Case: The Second Amendment and the Right to Bear Arms."
At 7 p.m., College of DuPage faculty members will host the open forum "Decision 2008: What if…National Issues Under a New Administration" in the McAninch Arts Center (MAC) Mainstage.
Forum participants will include Mitch Fisher, professor of Economics; David Goldberg, professor of Political Science; Deb Klein, professor of Criminal Justice; and Carol Riphenburg, professor of Political Science.
During the forum, the college's Library will also host a book and video display about the Constitution.
"We will be participating in a discussion on the challenges of facing a new administration," Goldberg said. "We think this will be a chance to help voters make informed decisions by contrasting the candidates across significant areas, including economic policy, judicial politics and foreign policy. The election provides a great opportunity to highlight faculty expertise in a variety of intellectually stimulating areas."
For more information about Constitution and Citizenship Day, call Goldberg at (630) 942-3722.
'Food for Thought' Series Opens Sept. 16
By Ken Reed
"Food for Thought," a popular series presented by the College of DuPage Counseling and Advising Services area, will get under way on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at 12:30 p.m. with "Listen to Your Heart to Find Your Direction." The fall semester series is free and open to the college community and public.
Presented by Michael Duggan and Sandy Werner, C.O.D. counselors, the Listen to Your Heart workshop will be repeated on Thursday, Sept. 18, at 7 p.m. Both presentations are scheduled at the Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 1450 AB.
Attendees will learn how values guide and influence their decisions. The workshop will also help participants discover how to find more meaning in their work and life.
"Food for Thought is a series of affective presentations designed and offered by C.O.D. counselors for students and community members," said Lynnette Arendt, professor, counselor. "Through these presentations, we provide topics that respond to what's on people's minds and allow them the opportunity for reflection and growth."
The Food for Thought series continues on Wednesday, Oct. 15, when Dennis Emano, C.O.D. counselor, explores "Understanding Mental Illness" from noon to 1 p.m. and 6 to 7 p.m. in SRC 1450 AB.
Emano will discuss depression, bipolar disorder and schizophrenia. He will also review steps that attendees can take to help support those who live with mental illness.
Just in time for the holidays, Ron Jerak, C.O.D. counselor, will present "Coping with Holiday Stress Using Guided Imagery." This session is scheduled on Tuesday, Nov. 11, from 12:30 to 1:30 p.m. and Wednesday, Nov. 12, from 6 to 7 p.m. Both sessions will be held in SRC 1450 AB.
For many, the holidays bring the stress of money, shopping, crowds and parties. Jerak will review how guided imagery can help attendees paint a more pleasant picture for the holiday season. The presentation will explore the principles behind guided imagery and conclude with an actual guided imagery session.
For more information on these Food for Thought sessions, call Counseling and Advising Services, (630) 942-2259 or visit: www.cod.edu/advising.
Prison Chaplain to Present Free Lecture
By David Hamilton
Rev. Carroll Pickett, who served as Death House Chaplain for 15 years at the Walls Prison unit in Huntsville, Texas, will speak about his experiences at noon on Tuesday, Sept. 16, at College of DuPage, Student Resource Center (SRC), Room 2800, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn.
Admission is free and open to the public. Pickett witnessed the execution of more than 95 prisoners. Following each execution, he would record an audiotape account of what he saw and felt.
Pickett never reviewed those tapes until he was contacted by Chicago filmmakers Steve James and Peter Gilbert - the documentary team responsible for "Hoop Dreams" - who featured Pickett in their film "At the Death House Door."
Pickett served as pastor of the First Presbyterian Church in Victoria, Texas, fron 1961 to 1967 and the First Presbyterian Church in Huntsville from 1967 to 1980.
He began serving as chaplain in the Huntsville prison in 1980 and spent most of the next 15 years working with prisoners facing execution. Since retiring, Pickett writes and speaks against the death penalty.
Pickett's appearance is part of the college's Living Leadership program. Free screenings of "At the Death House Door" will be held one day prior to his lecture at noon and 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 15, in SRC 2800.
For more information, call Chuck Steele, Student Activities coordinator, at (630) 942-2642.
C.O.D. Adjunct Professor to Raise Awareness for DVT
By David Hamilton
In order to raise awareness for Deep Venous Thrombosis (DVT), College of DuPage adjunct professor James Durkin will run on a treadmill in the college's P.E. Building Aerobic Fitness Lab, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, at 7 a.m. Wednesday, Sept. 17.
Durkin, who teaches political science part time, is the author of the novel "In My Dreams," as well as its recently released sequel "The Call of Angels." The first novel is about a young man from the Chicago suburbs who is elected president of the U.S. The second details his one term in office and explains the symptoms of DVT.
Durkin will hold a press conference on DVT and his new novel at 4 p.m. Sept. 17 at the Woodridge Park District, 2600 Center Drive.
"'The Call of Angels' is educational in nature by describing the symptoms of DVT," Durkin said. "This serious health condition kills more than 200,000 Americans each year. A blood clot forms in the deep vein of the leg and if it travels to the lungs, heart or brain, it may result in a pulmonary embolism, a heart attack or a stroke."
For more information about Durkin and his activities to raise awareness for DVT, call (630) 921-0118.
MSSC Certification Offered at C.O.D.
By David Hamilton
The Manufacturing Skill Standards Council (MSSC) certification program will again be offered at College of DuPage from Sept. 18 through Dec.17. Program courses run from 1 to 4 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays.
The program is available for individuals seeking entry-level positions in manufacturing fields or who are currently working in those fields and want to update their skills.
The certificate was developed by the MSSC, a council of business leaders, union leaders and educators in order to reflect real work needs in high performance manufacturing.
"MSSC certifications are portable, meaning they are recognized throughout the nation, and provide students with the basic skills that today's high-tech manufacturing industries are looking for," said Donna Claffy, the college's Right Start project coordinator.
"Safety is a major concern for both employees and employers and this certification provides intensive training in this area along with training in the areas of quality assurance, manufacturing processes and procedures and maintenance awareness."
The following courses are offered in a blended format so that the certifications can be completed in 12 weeks: Manufacturing Technology 1180, Quality Control; Manufacturing Technology 2200, Machine Tool Technology; and Manufacturing Technology 2280, Industrial Safety.
Students are required to purchase the textbook "High-Performance Manufacturing- Portable Production Skills."
"The cost of the certification program is $1,742, which includes the cost of nine credit hours, MSSC modules and certification tests," Claffy added. "College of DuPage also has funding available for students who need assistance after filing for standard financial aid."
A permit is required to register for the classes. For more information, call Claffy at (630) 942-2135 or e-mail her at claffy@cod.edu.
Hispanic Heritage Month
By Jen Duda
Songwriter, artist, storyteller and poet Michael Heralda will present "Aztec Stories," a mix of ancient poetry, narratives and stories, at 11 a.m. Monday, Sept. 22, in the lobby of the McAninch Arts Center (MAC) at the College of DuPage Glen Ellyn Campus, 425 Fawell Boulevard.
Heralda's presentation is sponsored by the college's Student Support and Cultural Center (formerly the Multicultural Center) as part of its celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month.
Using handmade indigenous-styled instruments, Heralda weaves traditional stories with contemporary poems to reflect the themes of the Aztec people. Heralda's presentation includes information on the history, philosophy, language, culture, ceremonies, traditions, foods and arts of the Mexica/Aztecs.
Heralda has performed in his home state of California as well as Minnesota, Connecticut, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Arizona, Colorado, Texas and Mexico. He is editor of the bilingual cultural magazine "Ketzalkoatl" and in 2002 led a two-day program at La Universidad Nahuatl in Ocotepec near Cuernavaca, Mexico.
"Aztec Stories" is one of a number of activities Student Support and Cultural Center staff is planning. Additional artists currently are being booked for September campus performances.
For more information, call the center at (630) 942-2848 or visit: www.cod.edu/advising/multicultural.htm.
C.O.D. Foundation Golf/Tennis Outing Sept. 22
By Ken Reed
The 26th annual College of DuPage Foundation Golf and Tennis outing, which raises scholarship money for deserving C.O.D. students, is scheduled on Monday, Sept. 22, at the Stonebridge County Club in Aurora.
Registration begins at 11 a.m. The driving range and putting green also open at 11 a.m. A delicious buffet lunch is set for 11:30 a.m. and a shotgun start for golf is scheduled at 12:30 p.m.
Meanwhile, a tennis clinic and doubles play get under way at 1 p.m.
Cocktails, dinner, an auction and raffle round out the day at 5:30 p.m.
Several packages are available. The golf package, which costs $425 per person ($250 tax deductible donation), includes the buffet lunch, driving range and putting green practice, 18 holes of golf, cocktails, dinner, and an attendee gift.
The tennis package, which costs $250 per person ($150 tax deductible donation), includes the buffet lunch, use of six upscale clay tennis courts, a golf clinic, doubles play, cocktails, dinner and an attendee gift.
A dinner package, which costs $150 per person ($100 tax deductible donation), includes cocktails, dinner and an attendee gift.
Sponsorships for the event are available at a variety of levels. For more information on sponsorship opportunities, call Tom Simandl at (630) 942-3848.
Stonebridge Country Club is conveniently located on the border of Naperville and Aurora. This premier club, established in 1989, features a Tom Fazio-designed championship golf course, six lighted clay tennis courts and a beautiful resort-style clubhouse.
For more information on this outing, call Madalyn McLean at (630) 942-2890 or e-mail: mcleanm@cod.edu.
Language of Nature Conference
By David Hamilton
The College of DuPage Creative Writing Committee, Honors Program and Library will host "The Language of Nature: Imagining a Sustainable World" Oct. 14 to 16 at the Student Resource Center, Room 2800, at the Glen Ellyn Campus, 425 Fawell Boulevard.
The free conference features nature writers, an environmental organization fair and a panel of area experts. Speakers on Tuesday, Oct. 14, include John Price, author of "Man Killed by Pheasant: Restoring a Kinship with the Land;" Mary Swander, author of "Farmscape: A Turn Toward Sustainable Agriculture"; and Donna Seaman, author of "The Nature Story."
A panel discussion on suburban sprawl is set for Wednesday, Oct. 15, with guests Lenore Beyer-Clow, Open Lands Policy Director; Scott Kobol, DuPage County Forest Preserve District ecologist; and Patrick Thrasher, Midewin National Tallgrass Prairie interpretive specialist.
In addition, an environmental read-in will take place from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Students and community members are welcome to sign up for five-minute slots.
Architect and urban designer Douglas Farr, author of "Sustainable Urbanism: Urban Design with Nature," will close the conference with a presentation at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, in SRC, Room 1450.
For more information, call Tom Montgomery-Fate at (630) 942-3291.
NIF Moderator and Issue Framing Workshops
By Ken Reed
The College of DuPage Public Policy Institute (PPI) will host moderator training and issues framing for individuals interested in becoming a National Issues Forum (NIF) moderator.
"Moderator Training: The Role and Practice of Deliberation" will take place on Friday, Sept. 26, from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Sept. 27, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the Student Resource Center, Room 1480. The session will be repeated on Monday and Tuesday, March 23 and 24, 2009, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at SRC 1480.
Participants will learn how to convene or lead deliberative forums in their communities and/or organizations. During this course, participants explore the role of deliberation in democracy and public policy; identify the skill sets needed to convene, lead and record deliberative forums; and receive an opportunity to use these skills to actively engage in deliberative forums.
"Issue Framing: Framing Issues for Community Deliberation" will take place Wednesday to Friday, March 25 to 27, 2009, at SRC 1480. The March 25 session begins at 9 a.m. and concludes at 6 p.m. The workshop on March 26 is from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. and the times for the March 27 session are 9 a.m. to noon.
Issue framing is a collaborative process that assists communities in defining a common problem and then developing a set of approaches for addressing the problem. This workshop is designed for individuals who have already completed the Moderator Training course and are interested in learning how to develop the framework used for deliberation in forums, such as issues maps, books and discussion guides.
The C.O.D. PPI is one of about 40 similar organizations in the United States that engages students and other community members in deliberative democracy workshops, forums and other activities based on an NIF approach to discussing critical community and national issues. NIF is a nonpartisan, nationwide network of locally sponsored public policy forums that provides venues for individuals to assemble, discuss, reason and share their beliefs and concerns about common challenges, problems and societal issues.
For workshop pricing information and to register, call Cynthia Johnson (630) 942-2802, e-mail: johnsncg@cod.edu, or visit www.cod.edu/ppi.
