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Class Section for Monday, April 12, 2021

All classes are 1-hour unless otherwise noted.

9 a.m.

Senior Grief and Loss – Causes, Effects and Interventions

Duration: 3.5 hours

Description

Topics of Presentation and for Discussion:

  • What is Loss?
  • What is Grief?
  • What is Bereavement?
  • What is Mourning?
  • Grief vs Depression
  • Symptoms – Emotional / Behavioral
  • Symptoms of grief and grieving
  • The grieving process
  • Grieving among older adults
  • Complicated grief reactions
  • Treatment choices
  • Components of grief counseling
  • Family Support
  • Resources

10 a.m.

All Things Financial Aid

Duration: 1 hour

Description

WCC financial aid experts will present an overview of the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), financial aid myths, tips on paying for college, and more! Plenty of time will be reserved for questions, as well.

The Financial Planning Industry NEEDS YOU!

Duration: 1 hour

Description

As President of the Michigan FPA, we are in need of more financial planners. Many people think that Financial Planning is a pure numbers career, when in fact my psychology degree plays the most important role in what I do daily. The industry needs diversification as more people are being left to create their own retirement, with few skills to do so. A 401k or 401A are not pensions with guarantees. The wrong moves can destroy someone's dreams. Americans also live with debt and high interest rates, robbing them of their future. Getting on a budget, planning where your money goes is paramount to a successful future, no matter what income a person makes. Jobs in this field can be quite lucrative, and empowering. Para Planners, with an associate's degree, can make between $40,000 and $100,000. Income for an advisor can be unlimited, with the average being around $80,000.

1 p.m.

Community Art Project: Our Layers of Identity

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Working with your hands and creating art is truly a therapeutic process. The “Our Layers of Identity” project prompts us to explore with materials and reflect on our experiences that make us unique. Each participant signed up for this session will be mailed a box of art supplies and project directions celebrating the work of world-renowned artist Mark Bradford. Williams will lead participants through the steps to create a one-of-a-kind art piece. All completed pieces will be displayed in downtown Ypsilanti, with a reception co-sponsored by First Fridays Ypsilanti on May 7. Let’s break down those physical walls and connect to one another again. Sign up to be a part of this fun and uniting project!

Exploring Smartphones and Tablets

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Whether you are thinking about purchasing your first one, or upgrading an existing smartphone or tablet, this session is for you! Get to know your device better and how to use it to its full potential.

The Amazing Great Lakes and Their Islands

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Nowhere else on Earth are there freshwater lakes so large they are considered inland seas. Dotting these waters is also the world's largest collection of freshwater islands. Over the millennium humans have built lighthouses and endured shipwrecks while navigating the Great Lakes. The islands have been sources of inspiration, hazard, and respite. Come learn about these lakes, islands and coastal resources in a lake-by-lake photographic journey with time for questions and discussion. You will receive a handout (PDF).

2 p.m.

Job Search Bootcamp

Duration: 1 hour

Description

The founder and president of local human resource and recruiting service provider Amy Cell Talent, Cell will lead a session that covers all of the fundamentals of planning and managing a job search for your organization.

3 p.m.

Who Are We?: A Creative Writing Workshop

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

"Who Are We?" is a hands-on creative writing workshop. Attendees will get the opportunity to read and discuss poems and short prose, do some freewriting of their own, and share this writing with others. If there is interest, we will publish selected works from workshop attendees.

4 p.m.

Yarn-Making DIY (upcycle things from your closet)

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Save money, save the earth and save a trip to the store! All ages can practice crafting skills using items already in your home. Join other "upcyclers" to transform a t-shirt, jeans, button-down shirt, and/or general fabric scraps to make one-of-a-kind yarn/twine. Then, take creativity to the next level by using your "upcycled yarn" as a foundation for other projects! Supplies required: T-shirt, jeans or cotton fabric scraps to cut; washable marker; yardstick or ruler. Optional: Clipboard with clamp.

Note: You can use the "upcycled yarn" created in this session in these other sessions offered throughout the week: Gloves into Stuffies, Woven T-Shirt Headband, Finger Knitting, Re-Make Market: Plant Hanger, Re-Make Denim: Dog Toys.

5 p.m.

Shoulder Tote DIY

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Got t-shirts? Turn a tired, out-grown t-shirt into a one-of-a-kind bag you can use again and again for shopping, sleepovers, or toting all your things! This no-sew method will give you practice measuring, cutting fabric, and tying knots. Be prepared to get requests from all your friends who will want one too!
*Adults welcome...Best suited for ages 10+ (or younger with adult assistance)

Supplies to have ready:

  • T-shirt to "upcycle"
  • Yardstick or ruler
  • Washable marker
  • Fabric shears

Using video to grow your business

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Video has become a popular method for businesses to connect with their customers. This session examines different video formats, techniques to build an audience, resources needed to create content, and additional items to consider in today's digital landscape. Discover how to leverage video no matter where you're at in your business journey.

Activities: Presentation (60 mins) and a dedicated Q&A session (30 mins) to provide additional insights for the participants.

6 p.m.

Italian desserts

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Blueberry Tarts and Chocolate mousse

Stay Safe: Preventing ID Theft and Financial Fraud

Duration: 1 hour

Description

How common is identity theft? Even if you haven't been victimized, when you hear news of another significant data breach or a friend tells you a story of an ID theft issue, you may wonder if you're next - or if it's something you need to worry about at all. This workshop will teach you the essential steps and actions you need to take to protect yourself, tools available to help consumers, and you'll leave with an action plan to implement immediately. Core topics:

  • How ID theft happens
  • Common financial scams
  • Protecting your Credit
  • Best practices to deter criminals and scammers

7 p.m.

Yarn-Making DIY (upcycle things from your closet)

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Save money, save the earth and save a trip to the store! All ages can practice crafting skills using items already in your home. Join other "upcyclers" to transform a t-shirt, jeans, button-down shirt, and/or general fabric scraps to make one-of-a-kind yarn/twine. Then, take creativity to the next level by using your "upcycled yarn" as a foundation for other projects! Supplies required: T-shirt, jeans or cotton fabric scraps to cut; washable marker; yardstick or ruler. Optional: Clipboard with clamp.

Note: You can use the "upcycled yarn" created in this session in these other sessions offered throughout the week: Gloves into Stuffies, Woven T-Shirt Headband, Finger Knitting, Re-Make Market: Plant Hanger, Re-Make Denim: Dog Toys.

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Class Section for Tuesday, April 13, 2021

All classes are 1-hour unless otherwise noted.

9 a.m.

Coping with Isolation and Loneliness During the Pandemic

Duration: 3.5 hours

Description

This class will focus on important elements related to isolation and loneliness during the current pandemic, including:

  • Effects of Isolation on Children and Adolescents Adults / Older Adults
  • Pre-existing Conditions
  • Self Care
  • Risks
  • Health Effects
  • Coping and Treatment
  • Resources

The Financial Planning Industry NEEDS YOU!

Duration: 1 hour

Description

As President of the Financial Planning Association of Michigan, instructor Nadine Burns will describe why the industry is in need of more financial planners. The industry needs diversification as more people are being left to create their own retirement, with few skills to do so. Jobs in the field can be lucrative and empowering. Para planners, with an associate degree, can make between $40,000 and $100,000 annually. Income for an advisor can be unlimited, with the average being around $80,000.

10 a.m.

Furnace Component Identification and the Sequence of Operation (How a Furnace works).

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Join in as Martindale shares a PowerPoint presentation of the different parts that make up a furnace. He will also explain how a furnace works, which is also referred to as the “Sequence of Operation.” A question and answer session will follow the presentation.

GrieveWell: Self Care Isn't Selfish

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Self-care is critical for healing. Yet when you're grieving it is hard to know where to start. This virtual workshop will provide some background on the natural process of grief and help you with strategies for meaningful self-care. The workshop will include hands-on activities. You will leave with a plan for how to engage in self-care on both a short-term and long-term basis, cultivate a positive mindset, and join a community of hope and healing that understands what you are going through. This virtual workshop will be delivered by Christy Miller, LMSW, the program director of GrieveWell, a local nonprofit that provides resources and support to adults in grief, as well as those who surround them, in order to build a community that promotes healthy grieving and healing. Learn more at GrieveWell.com.

Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Learn the basics of estate planning from a practicing attorney. Having an estate plan in place will allow you to plan for your own disability, pass your assets to your beneficiaries free from probate, and simplify the process of administration for your loved ones. This class will give you the knowledge to decide what estate plan will be right for you.

11 a.m.

A Hypnosis Teaser

Duration: 1 hour

Description

An exploration into the history, tools and techniques of hypnosis. Learn about methods that engage the mind, body and emotion. Explore the difference and similarities to meditation. Develop relaxation exercises and explore altering habits.

Desktop Broadcasting

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Desktop Broadcasting Tips and Tricks

Using video to grow your business

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Video has become a popular method for businesses to connect with their customers. This session examines different video formats, techniques to build an audience, resources needed to create content, and additional items to consider in today's digital landscape. Discover how to leverage video no matter where you're at in your business journey.

Activities: Presentation (60 mins) and a dedicated Q&A session (30 mins) to provide additional insights for the participants.

1 p.m.

An Urban Forest at WCC

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Did you know WCC is one of the five college campuses in Michigan that is designated as a Tree Campus Higher Education facility? The Arbor Day Foundation gives national recognition to college campuses that promote healthy urban forest management and engage the campus community in environmental stewardship. In this class, learn about WCC's tree preservation and management efforts on campus that the Landscape & Grounds Department use to preserve our campus trees.

Learning to Draw the Human Figure

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

In this quick session, students will be introduced to drawing the human figure. Not a stick figure, but an honest-to-goodness actual human! Students will learn to see and quickly capture the pose on paper, learning what kinds of things to watch for to make their figure more believable. This fun session will encourage participants to check their judgment voices at the door and enjoy the process of getting to know the amazing human figure and appreciate their drawings.

Marbling with Acrylic Pastel Colors and Shaving Cream

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Anyone can create marbleized works of art with acrylic paint and shaving cream. We’ll explore the fundamentals of color mixing and marbling. You will expand your artistic vocabulary and will develop as an artist as you learn about this unique medium.

Qigong & Tai Chi for Kids: Movement Fun with Animal Spirit

Duration: 2 hours

Description

With mindfulness, kindness and a bit of swagger, Tai Chi for Kids brings unforgettable energies into play. The icons of power and poise are all around us, and kids can embody them. Nature is a marvelous thing. Get out of the digital realms and into the magic of our living world! We will move like animals, root-like trees, and come to our center in the spark of life.

Session will include:

  • History, Theory and Exercise/Practice
  • Warm-ups: Stretching, joint revolutions, loosening/fluidity exercises
  • Qigong set: 5 Animal Frolics
  • Tai Chi set: 10 Animal Spirits by Tai Chi Love
  • Question/Answers

2 p.m.

A Peek into Brazilian History

Duration: 1 hour

Description

This class brings information and interesting facts about Brazilian history. You will have a general view, from the time Brazil was discovered by the Portuguese to the present days.

An Introduction to Google Drive and Docs Basics

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Learn how to use your Gmail account to access a free service from Google that allows you to store files online and access them anywhere on any of your mobile devices. Google Drive also gives you access to free web-based applications for creating documents, spreadsheets, presentations and more.

Financial Fitness for College Students

Duration: 1 hour

Description

This workshop focuses on the top tips college students need to know as they prepare for adulthood on their own. Topics include themes surrounding plans for spending, saving, borrowing and planning for your finances. These tips will help students during college and beyond.

Rapid Collaborative Development of Complex Vehicle Controls and Software

Duration: 1 hour

Description

This presentation will include a video demonstration of how complex vehicle control systems and software (e.g. for EVs with ADAS features) can be developed collaboratively from anywhere in the world, leveraging modeling and simulation together with intelligent centralized management (via the cloud or server). This disruptive technology enables absolute consistency in development, which, in turn, resolves the apparent dichotomy between fast development embracing change as well as assuring conformance with safety standards.

3 p.m.

Who Are We?: A Creative Writing Workshop

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

"Who Are We?" is a hands-on creative writing workshop. Attendees will get the opportunity to read and discuss poems and short prose, do some freewriting of their own, and share this writing with others. If there is interest, we will publish selected works from workshop attendees.

Zooming Grandparents

Duration: 1 hour

Description

We're all looking for fun ways to connect right now. Zoom videoconferencing offers a free version that is easy to use and will allow you to virtually visit anyone in the world. Participants will leave with a free Zoom account, and learn how to send invitations, upload backgrounds, use filters, and navigate the features needed to connect to family and friends. Join the Learning Commons for a hands-on session! Please attend with all computers and mobile devices that you use to connect with others.

4 p.m.

Gloves into Stuffies

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Handsew a stuffed creature with needle, thread, and just one glove! Using the running stitch, we'll practice seams, knots, and decorations to create an original softie creature. Keep practicing and soon you'll have a whole family of them!
*Best suited for ages 6+ who are comfortable threading a needle and knotting (adult assistance always welcomed!)

Supplies needed:

  • 1 clean knit glove: any size or color, toddler to adult
  • Handful of stuffing (cotton balls would work too!)
  • Thread (any thread will do)
  • Hand sewing needle
  • Fabric shears
  • Optional: Felt bits, yarn bits, buttons
  • Optional: fabric glue (or hot glue gun)

6 p.m.

Harness Your Mind: Turn Runaway Thoughts and Emotions into Poetry

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Learn the basics of free-writing to capture your thoughts and emotions. Then, practice turning your writing into poetic expression through creative exercises following some basic guidelines for structuring evoking poetry.

Homebuyer Education

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Buying a home is one of the most important emotional and financial decisions you'll ever make. So, shouldn't you be prepared with all the information you need to make it a smooth, stress-free, and financially sustainable process? Of course! That's why so many financial experts recommend that you take a homebuyer education course before buying your first home. Core topics:

Renting or Buying - which is best for me?
Preparing your credit for the mortgage process, and determining an affordable home price
Choosing the right loan and evaluating various loan terms and fees
Understanding the various roles in the home buying process (realtors, lenders, inspectors, appraisers, and underwriters)
Organizing your finances and preparing for successful long-term homeownership

Woven T-shirt Headband

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Start with a retired t-shirt, and create a simple headband with a touch of classiness. With a pair of fabric scissors and a hot glue gun, we'll cut, stretch, weave, and then size it just for you. This is a great starter project that could lead to more complicated styles--bet you can't stop after making just one!
*Best suited for ages 10+ who are comfortable with a hot glue gun Supplies to have ready:

  • t-shirt to cut (preferably no side seams)
  • Optional: additional coordinating color t-shirt
  • Fabric shears
  • Hot glue gun

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Class Section for Wednesday, April 14, 2021

All classes are 1-hour unless otherwise noted.

10 a.m.

Financial Aid Parent Session

Duration: 1 hour

Description

WCC financial aid experts will discuss the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid), special FAFSA situations for dependent students, financial aid myths, tips on paying for college, and more! Plenty of time will be reserved for questions as well.

The new office: success strategies for working remotely

Duration: 1 hour

Description

While working from home may be a dream come true for some, for others it is challenging and can lead to increased stress. Explore some of the common stressors that remote workers experience. Learn strategies to help cope with the stress to maintain your well-being.

The Financial Planning Industry NEEDS YOU!

Duration: 1 hour

Description

As President of the Michigan FPA, we are in need of more financial planners. Many people think that Financial Planning is a pure numbers career, when in fact my psychology degree plays the most important role in what I do daily. The industry needs diversification as more people are being left to create their own retirement, with few skills to do so. A 401k or 401A is not a pension with guarantees. The wrong moves can destroy someone's dreams. Americans also live with debt and high-interest rates, robbing them of their future. Getting on a budget, planning where your money goes is paramount to a successful future, no matter what income a person makes. Jobs in this field can be quite lucrative, and empowering. Para Planners, with an associate's degree, can make between $40,000 and $100,000. Income for an advisor can be unlimited, with the average being around $80,000.

11 a.m.

6 Steps to Digital Marketing

Duration: 1 hour

Description

A review of digital media, tools and linkage for modern marketing. Digital is a new way of offering content for users and connecting with customers for marketers. Understand the resources need to effectively utilize popular social media platforms for business outcomes.

Event Planning 101

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Learn the basics of event planning from identifying key collaborators, creating a budget, to thinking about small details.

12 p.m.

Financial Fitness for College Students

Duration: 1 hour

Description

This workshop focuses on the top tips college students need to know as they prepare for adulthood on their own. Topics include themes surrounding plans for spending, saving, borrowing and planning for your finances. These tips will help students during college and beyond.

Good, Better, Best: Tips for Efficient Studying

Duration: 1 hour

Description

This presentation from the WCC Learning Commons will briefly discuss myths about studying and describe how students can use careful planning to make short study sessions effective. The presentation will include a planning guide to help attendees develop their own "Study Cycles" and links to effective productivity apps!

1 p.m.

Cybersecurity in the Home: Best Practices

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Due to the pandemic, people are spending more time at home than ever before. They are also spending more time online working from home, attending classes, shopping, connecting with friends on social media, and using "Internet of Things" devices. All these things create risks that could impact personal safety and privacy. In this class, we will be covering best practices to keep us and our data safe including creating strong passwords, identifying scams, data breaches, locking down and protecting our devices, and more.

Qigong & Tai Chi for Teens: Internal Power, Focus & Cool

Duration: 2 hours

Description

Calm and powerful as a Jedi Knight.. you will be... in just an hour of Tai Chi. Come participate in ancient, mind-body action that was designed to keep warriors and monks in top condition. Learn the "8 Brocades" energy embodiment exercises designed to move the body as smoothly, and as beautifully, as Chinese silk robes. Create and move balls of energy, push and strike like martial arts masters, stomp and make the earth vibrate like the Last Airbender. Yes, Qigong and Tai Chi cultivate this kind of cool.

Session will include:

  • History, Theory, Practice and Movement
  • Deep breathing techniques
  • Meditation in motion
  • Qigong: "Eight Pieces of Brocade" c. 1000 AD, Ancient warrior form. 8 separate exercises with each piece set to a particular theme.
  • Tai Chi: "Ba Fa Wu Bu" aka "Eight Method and 5 Steps" Newest form out of China to promote the fun and thrill of the oldest and most athletic style of Tai Chi: Chen style
  • Questions/answers

2 p.m.

Painting with Water Mixable Oils on Miniature Canvas

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Anyone can paint using Water-Mixable Oils, even without prior oil painting experience. We'll explore the fundamentals of painting on miniature canvas, color mixing and paint handling. You will expand your painting vocabulary and will develop as an artist as you learn about creating strong compositions. 

4 p.m.

An overview of psychological disorders

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Psychology has become part of our everyday language. We use terms like “OCD” to describe someone who needs their pens in a row, we use “bipolar” to describe someone who has quick mood changes. OCD and bipolar are both life-changing disorders. This course is designed to gain a better understanding of common psychological terms, what they truly mean, and the disorders they are associated with. Hopefully, by the end of this session we will understand why we should be more careful using psychology terms in everyday speech.

"Can You Do the Voices?" -- Children's Storytelling for Maximum Engagement

Duration: 1 hour

Description

We join our haphazard hero squeezing into his poorly laundered crime-fighting costume while trying to remember to open the window before flying through it (Spoiler: He forgets... again). In this high-energy, interactive storytelling performance, we are introduced to improvisational storytelling. Then, together, we'll explore strategies to make storytelling and oral book reading more engaging for children. Whether you're age 5 or 500, you'll get some entertainment, some tips and time to practice your newfound superpowers! Kids, educators, parents, babysitters, nannies and people who just love to read are all invited!

5 p.m.

Finger Knitting Basics

Duration: 1 hour

Description

A delightful way to use leftover yarn, this sensorial activity is a favorite for even the youngest ages. Using only your hands as tools, this simple knitted cord can be used in a variety of projects for your home, wearable accessories, or even little softies. In this class, we'll turn your desired strand into a necklace so you can practice all the techniques you'll need to know. Get ready to be hooked! Psst...makes a great Mother's Day gift!
*Well-loved by all ages! Suited for ages 6+ (adult assistance needed at start)

Supplies to have ready:

  • Yarn (or use handmade t-shirt yarn from Monday's class)
  • Optional: coordinating colors or yarn
  • Scissors (to cut yarn)
  • Optional: 1/2" wooden beads

5:30 p.m.

ReConnect Info Sessions

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Now is the time for Michigan residents over the age of 25 to attend college! The state of Michigan announced a new scholarship program, Michigan Reconnect, to make a college education more affordable and accessible to adults age 25+ who don’t already have a college degree. Learn about eligibility requirements, the application process and other next steps.

6 p.m.

DIY Mini Plant Hanger

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Create beauty with things that may be headed to your recycle or donation bins. We'll practice skills like cutting, measuring, and knotting, which all provide a great start to projects involving sewing or macrame. Fill your hanger with an air plant to make a darling gift!
*Best suited for ages 10+ (or younger with adult help)

Supplies to have ready:

  • 8-12oz Small glass jar (i.e.: jelly jar, Oui yogurt, Twine, yarn, or thin rope (or use "upcycled yarn" from Monday's class)
  • Yardstick or ruler
  • Cutting shears
  • Optional: clipboard with clamp

Great Lakes Today

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Michigan is surrounded by the world's largest collection of freshwater lakes. This session focuses on the environmental condition of these lakes, how they were formed, why they go up and down, whether they are healthy, and who studies and manages them. We cover resilience, eutrophication, and tipping point and review of each lake with photographs, facts, and stories of the people working to protect the lakes. You'll find out what you can do to stay informed and help conserve the Great Lakes. You will receive handouts (PDF).

Meet Adobe After Effects

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Curious about animation? Adobe After Effects has been an industry-standard in creating motion graphics and visual effects. Learn about the principles of animation, navigating the interface, using keyframes, and explore additional techniques. Join us as we demystify this application.

Activities: Review of sample animations.
Demonstration: Walk-through of the After Effects application.

So you want to write a movie... Screenwriting Structure and Style

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Have an idea for a movie or short? Learn the proper structure, formatting, and voice to bring your story to life on film.

7 p.m.

Hanging Kitchen Towel

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Sew by hand or by machine...brush up your sewing skills and practice the art of gathering! This simple project turns a basic towel into something practical and personal when fashioned by you! Make one to keep, and make one to give away; what a great Mother's Day gift, teacher gift, or hostess gift when you personalize it!
*Beginner sewing project designed with adults in mind, but suitable for ages 10+

Supplies needed per project (available at Dollar Tree or elsewhere):

  • 1 Kitchen towel
  • 1 Potholder
  • Thread to coordinate
  • Ruler
  • Washable marker
  • Working sewing machine (pre-threaded) or strong hand-sewing needle
  • Button (if you need button practice, join me again for "Mending: Attach a Button!"

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Class Section for Thursday, April 15, 2021

All classes are 1-hour unless otherwise noted.

10 a.m.

An overview of psychological disorders

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Psychology has become part of our everyday language. We use terms like OCD to describe someone who needs their pens in a row, we use bipolar to describe someone who has quick mood changes. OCD and bipolar are both life-changing disorders. This course is designed to gain a better understanding of "common psychological terms," what they truly mean, and the disorders they are associated with. Hopefully, by the end of this session we will understand why we should be more careful using psychology terms in everyday speech. I will use slides for this presentation

Software Building Blocks with Low-Code

Duration: 1 hour

Description

A simple story of a small business problem that needs solving and how low-code technology can be used to save time and money in solving it.

  • Intro to the software industry
  • Intro to low-code building blocks and it's cast of characters
  • The problem
  • The building blocks to consider
  • The solution

Description

 

11 a.m.

5 Ways to Stay Calm in a Crisis

Duration: 1 hour

Description

An exploration into the tools and techniques offering to calm the mind in conflicting times. This session will provide an overview of meditation, breath work, self-hypnosis, message and yoga. The interrelation ships and differences will be discussed, along with links to the practices for trial.

Desktop Broadcasting

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Desktop Broadcasting Tips and Tricks

ReConnect Info Session

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Now is the time for Michigan residents over the age of 25 to attend college! The state of Michigan announced a new scholarship program, Michigan Reconnect, to make a college education more affordable and accessible to adults age 25+ who don’t already have a college degree. Learn about eligibility requirements, the application process and other next steps.

Use YouTube to Grow Your Business

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Get best practices for creating a YouTube Channel and compelling video content that promotes your products and services and drives engagement with your brand. Plus, learn how to reach more customers with YouTube Ads.

This course will be taught by Spencer Field of the Michigan Small Business Development Center hosted at Washtenaw Community College. Spencer has been working in the digital marketing field for nearly two decades as he team-ups with over 500 local and national businesses to help them level up their digital marketing game.

1 p.m.

Financial Fitness for College Students

Duration: 1 hour

Description

This workshop focuses on the top tips college students need to know as they prepare for adulthood on their own. Topics include themes surrounding plans for spending, saving, borrowing and planning for your finances. These tips will help students during college and beyond.

Qigong & Tai Chi for Adults: Stretch, De-Stress & Empower with the 5 Elements

Duration: 2 hours

Description

Learn and perform the internal empowerment arts of qigong and tai chi. No matter your age or fitness level, the practice of meditation, mind-body seated and standing energy exercise can improve your flexibility, balance, motor skills, and mental focus. Calm your mind while you create emotional balance and personal power. Reduce your stress and increase your vitality through these natural, yet mysterious, movements.

  • History, Theory, Practice and Movement
  • Deep breathing techniques
  • Meditation in motion
  • Qigong: "5 Elements Qigong" - Cultivate and embody the 5 elements of the natural world: Fire, Water, Wood/Wind, Earth and Metal
  • Tai Chi: "5 Elements Tai Chi" building on the qigong set, experience and learn 2 different sequential movement sets, one stationary and one with moving feet.
  • Questions/answers

 

2 p.m.

Keeping Talent in Michigan

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Participants will learn about the talent retention initiatives in place at Global Detroit, including GTRI and 60x30, and navigate different resources to help them launch their careers from community colleges. Global Detroit advocates for and executes strategies to drive equitable local, regional and statewide economic growth through immigration inclusion.

Painting with Water Mixable Oils on Full-Size Canvas

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Anyone can paint using Water-Mixable Oils, even without prior oil painting experience. We'll explore the fundamentals of painting on full-size canvas, color mixing and paint handling. You will expand your painting vocabulary and will develop as an artist as you learn about creating strong compositions. 

The Flavors of Brazilian Cuisine

Duration: 1 hour

Description

In this class you can compare Brazilian and American eating habits and food preparation. Learn about various types of Brazilian traditional dishes favorite to visitors. Easy-to-make recipes will be provided.

5 p.m.

Careers in the Building Trades

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Not everyone has to have a four-year college degree to be successful. A trade school or apprenticeship learning a trade is a great career path-building project you can be proud of. In this one-hour class, you will learn from a successful licensed builder and State of Michigan Building Inspector some career options in the building trades. Footnote: I'm speaking from experience, not as a recruiter or expert on programs offered by colleges for the trades.

Furnace Component Identification and the Sequence of Operation (How a Furnace works).

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Join in as Martindale shares a PowerPoint presentation of the different parts that make up a furnace. He will also explain how a furnace works, which is also referred to as the "Sequence of Operation." A question and answer session will follow the presentation.

Re-Make Denim: Dog Toys

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Denim is one of the strongest fabrics which makes it perfect for playing with your fur baby! It is highly washable, made of natural fibers, and can be easily made into a safe toy for vigorous play. Go grab an old pair of jeans and let's create some no-sew fun!
*Best suited for ages 10+ (or younger with adult assistance)

Supplies to have ready:

  • Strips of denim precut about 1" wide (or use strips from Monday's "upcycled yarn" class)
  • Cutting shears
  • Optional: a partner to hold an end for you (or a weight or clamp)

6 p.m.

Creative Jazz and Music Improvisation

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Steve Somers will discuss and demonstrate music improvisation concepts and also give an overview of what students cover in the WCC’s Creative Jazz and Improvisation classes. He will also show how the history of jazz music is relevant to the music of today, as well as the importance of understanding basic musical concepts when creating your own songs.

Cybersecurity in the Home: Best Practices

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Due to the pandemic, people are spending more time at home than ever before. They are also spending more time online working from home, attending classes, shopping, connecting with friends on social media and using "Internet of Things" devices. All these things create risks that could impact personal safety and privacy. In this class, we will cover best practices to keep us, and our data, safe. This includes creating strong passwords, identifying scams, data breaches, locking down and protecting our devices, and more

7 p.m.

Mending: Attach a Button

Duration: 1 hour

Description

If you didn't learn this skill at a young age, it's not too late! It's a practical mending skill that you will use time and again for shirts, waistbands, stuffies, or multiple crafting projects. Sew along during class or just watch...the skills will be demonstrated on fabric scraps to make a wearable pin. No one is too young or too old to learn...now is the time!
*Suited for anyone who can thread a needle (6+)

Supplies needed:

  • A button (2 holes or 4 holes)
  • A project to mend OR...a scrap of felt, denim, or other to make a wearable pin
  • Handsewing needle
  • Thread (100% polyester is best)

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Class Section for Friday, April 16, 2021

All classes are 1-hour unless otherwise noted.

9 a.m.

DiSTRESS / De-stress

Duration: 1 hour

Description

The workshop presents a quick overview of what stress is and how it affects our bodies, minds, and spirits, then moves on to a highly interactive portion where we come up with a plan on how to de-stress. Participants come away with a roadmap to finding their way back from stress and overwhelm.

10 a.m.

An Urban Forest at WCC

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Did you know WCC is one of the five college campuses in Michigan that is designated as a Tree Campus Higher Education facility? The Arbor Day Foundation gives national recognition to college campuses that promote healthy urban forest management and engage the campus community in environmental stewardship. In this class, learn about WCC’s tree preservation and management efforts that the Landscape & Grounds Department use to preserve our campus trees.

11 a.m

Desktop Broadcasting

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Desktop Broadcasting Tips and Tricks

Great Lakes Today

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Michigan is surrounded by the world's largest collection of freshwater lakes. This session focuses on the environmental condition of these lakes, how they were formed, why they go up and down, whether they are healthy, and who studies and manages them. We cover resilience, eutrophication, and tipping point and review of each lake with photographs, facts, and stories of the people working to protect the lakes. You'll find out how what you can do to stay informed and help conserve the Great Lakes. You will receive handouts (PDF).

1 p.m.

Qigong & Tai Chi for Seniors: Balance, Mindfulness & Mobility Maintenance

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Enjoy slow, low-impact mind-body exercise that strengthens muscles, improves balance and motor control and facilitates mindfulness and concentration. Practice simple, smooth whole-body movements that can improve your quality of life when you added to your daily routine. Light, fun, refreshing warm-ups include stretching, joint revolutions, loosening, and silk reeling exercise. Learn simple, yet profound, Qigong and Tai Chi forms that you can practice on your own.

Session will include: 

  • History, Theory, Practice and Movement
  • Deep breathing techniques
  • Meditation in motion
  • Qigong: "Seven Movements of the Sky Fisherman" 7 thematic exercises designed to open the energetic meridians, lift the spirit and create calm
  • Tai Chi: "Symmey 13" - Traditional Yang style, 13 Dimensions, done on the right and left side, packed with principles and power. Great for beginners, yet suitable for advanced.
  • Questions/answers

Windows Computer Basics

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Learn about Windows 10 and develop confidence by increasing your computer skills with understanding Account settings and Start Menu. Explore the Windows Store to find and install new apps, and learn about Microsoft features including OneDrive and Microsoft Edge.

4 p.m.

Chanel Stitt, WCC Alumna, Journalist
Detroit Free Press,
Business Reporter

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Chanel Stitt is a Business Reporter at the Detroit Free Press where she covers businesses and nonprofits in Detroit that are owned by people of color. Stitt is a graduate of Washtenaw Community College and University of Michigan-Dearborn. She will share her experiences finding success in media as a young journalist.

6 p.m.

Cybersecurity in the Home: Best Practices

Duration: 1.5 hours

Description

Due to the pandemic, people are spending more time at home than ever before. They are also spending more time online working from home, attending classes, shopping, connecting with friends on social media and using “Internet of Things” devices. All these things create risks that could impact personal safety and privacy. In this class, we will cover best practices to keep us, and our data, safe. This includes creating strong passwords, identifying scams, data breaches, locking down and protecting our devices, and more.

Shoulder Tote DIY

Duration: 1 hour

Description

Got t-shirts? Turn a tired, out-grown t-shirt into a one-of-a-kind bag you can use again and again for shopping, sleepovers, or toting all your things! This no-sew method will give you practice measuring, cutting fabric, and tying knots. Be prepared to get requests from all your friends who will want one too!
*Adults welcome...Best suited for ages 10+ (or younger with adult assistance)

Supplies to have ready:

  • T-shirt to "upcycle"
  • Yardstick or ruler
  • Washable marker
  • Fabric shears

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