DELTACOLLEGIATE
Volume 86 • Issue 10
STUDENT RUN SINCE '61
April 20, 2020
Coronavirus can’t stop Delta’s pride Pg. 4
Delta adds new programs Pg. 2
Get your live music fix online Pg. 5 Illustration by Lindsay Lang
2 NEWS
www.deltacollegiate.org
APRIL 20, 2020
Board of trustees discuss COVID-19 funding, new academic certificates Michael Piwowarski • News Director @DCMichaelFP UNIVERSITY CENTER – The Delta College board of trustees approved new certificates and planned for the Pioneers’ future, from the comforts of their homes. On Tuesday, April 14, the trustees held their second virtual meeting on Zoom in accordance with temporary revisions to the Open Meetings Act to allow for public bodies to meet via teleconference. College president Jean Goodnow announced in her administrative report that Delta has received federal grant funding from the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. The total amount allocated to Delta is $5.146 million. Education secretary Betsy DeVos announced on April 9 that more than $6 billion would be distributed to colleges and universities across the country to provide emergency funding for students whose academic lives were disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Under federal guidelines, at least half of the money Delta is receiving must be used as emergency financial aid for students, while the rest is to be used to prevent, prepare and respond to the coronavirus, as Goodnow elaborated. At the meeting, the Collegiate asked the board if Delta intends to reimburse or offer help to students who have had to spend money on supplies – such as webcams and laptops – to properly take online courses. In response, Goodnow stated that the college is looking into this issue and is discussing how to utilize their federal funds to offer help to students. "That is an item that we will be discussing with our administrative staff,” Goodnow said. “[...] All of the details have not been worked out yet." The board also approved two new certificate programs: Deaf Studies Advanced Certificate and Instrumentation Electrician - Associate in Applied Science, which will be effective fall 2020. The Deaf Studies program at Delta has recently collaborated with the Electronic Media program to create video content for American Sign Language classes, as
the Collegiate reported back in March. “This particular program has created a couple new courses and otherwise these are courses that have been running in other curriculums,” said Ginny Przygocki, dean of career education. The new Instrumentation Electrician program is seen as a welcome addition to Delta’s skilled trades offering. “This is an area where we had employers in the area that were asking Delta to put this program together [as far back as three years ago],” Goodnow said. Hemlock Semiconductor (HSC) was cited as a major employer that wanted Delta to implement an Instrumentation Electrician program, as up until now, people have had to go out of state to get training in this area. “This particular program had a large number of pieces of equipment purchased in prior years through grant money,” said Przygocki. “Currently, we are all set and we have offered some of the courses that will now lead to this degree.” More information on the Board of Trustees and their meeting schedule is available at their page on Delta’s website. Until further notice, future meetings will be held virtually on Zoom.
Michael Piwowarski • News Director Jean Goodnow, president of Delta College, gives her president’s report at the April 14, 2020 board of trustees meeting, which was held remotely via Zoom.
NEWS 3
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APRIL 20, 2020
Prisons make adjustments for COVID-19 Bill Badour Reporter @BadourBilly BAY CITY - As of Wednesday, April 15, Michigan’s prisons have had nine deaths and 429 confirmed cases of COVID-19. Chris Gautz is the public information officer for the Michigan Department of Corrections. “We have ramped up production of soap, increased our cleaning supplies and authorized daily bleach use for cleaning,” says Gautz. Adding to the cleaning measures, there have been changes made for visitors and employees of the correctional facilities, as well as social distancing measures. “As of March 15, we suspended visitation,” says Gautz. “We have also started screening employees with a questionnaire and a temperature check. We also cut class sizes in half, suspended basketball and encouraged all prisoners to not gather in large groups.” Social distancing in prisons can be difficult. Prisoners sleep on bunk beds and live in communal blocks with sometimes dozens of other prisoners. “We cannot practice social distancing with prisoners in their sleeping environment,” says Gautz. To better protect inmates and staff, the prison has made use of their facilities to increase the availability of protective garments. “We have utilized our
pxfuel prison factories to make [personal protective equipment] and masks,” says Gautz. “In a week, over 150,000 cloth masks have been made. This has provided every prisoner and staff member with three reusable cloth masks.” Even with all of the precautions being taken, there is still a chance for infection, as we have seen in other parts of the country. “If the prisoner doesn’t have many symptoms, they will be moved to one of two specialized units which are set up for those who have tested positive
but experience less severe symptoms,” says Gautz. “This is done to slow the spread at the facility that they came from.” Once the prisoner has recovered, they are not put back into the facility they were originally from right away. “After the prisoner has spent at least two weeks at the facility and tests negative, they are moved to Adrian to a facility with others that have tested positive and recovered,” says Gautz. “This is an extra layer of caution as we want to be extra careful
to not spread anything within our prisons.” News stories have been published about prisoners being released early from federal and state prisons around the country. “Due to Michigan’s ‘Truth in Sentencing’ law, all prisoners must serve 100% of their minimum sentence,” said Gautz. “We cross-referenced a list of 5,000 prisoners who have served their minimum sentence with those who either have a chronic health condition or are elderly.” There is a chance that some Michigan
prisoners, given their circumstances and availability of prosecution and victims to respond, could be released early. “In Michigan, there is a law [to be released early] which requires us to notify county prosecutors and victims and give them 28 days to respond,” said Gautz. “Due to the public health crisis, we have asked county prosecutors to get back to us as soon as possible but we are not asking any victims to do this.”
4 COLLEGIATE LIFE
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April 20, 2020
Coronavirus can’t hide the pride at Delta College Jordan Green Reporter @Jordan_Green6
UNIVERSITY CENTER – Pride Month for LGBTQ+ students and Unison is a chance for members to celebrate who they are and provide Delta College students and faculty with information regarding the LGBTQ community. In high school, Lynnterria Everett was scared to be anything outside of the social standards. When she came to Delta and joined Unison, Everett began to feel empowered to be her authentic self. “The most positive experience that came from Unison is the feeling of being part of a group that cares about each other all around; not just
during the meetings,” says Everett. Everett says the club has open conversational forums and helps enrich Delta’s population
Start a conversation with us. We are eager to help, no matter the question - Lynnterria Everett
on developments in the LGBTQ community. A primary focus of Unison is to include all
LGBTQ members and allies to promote a safe space and create education and awareness for the campus community. Everett remarked that Delta is an open campus and treats its LGBTQ students normally. She encourages those who may be timid and unfamiliar with the LGBTQ community to ask questions. “Start a conversation with us,” says Everett. “We are eager to help, no matter the question.” Despite having to rearrange events and switch to an online platform, Unison is continuing their work to provide a safe, fun and welcoming environment for LGBTQ students on campus, says Hannah Kinsman, president of Unison. With campus closed, Unison is meeting weekly on Zoom to plan events and find ways to engage
Photo courtesy of Lynnterria Everett
Unison member of four years and former President, Lynnterria Everett.
the community. The organization is even doing a dinner over Zoom, where members munch on their favorite meal while discussing plans for Unison. Kinsman says Unison is still planning the online events, but cool ideas are on the table to engage the community and spread awareness.
Delta College baseball players organize local sports equipment drive Bill Badour Reporter @BadourBilly Delta College baseball players Cam Floyd and Nolan Raymond are stepping up to bat for underprivileged youth athletes. Teaming up with Delta College’s athletic department and the Salvation Army in Midland, Floyd and Raymond are donating used sports equipment to those who need it. “I wanted to make an impact on those who couldn’t afford the equipment,” says Floyd. “Growing up, I played three or four sports.” Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, the drive has been impacted. “We originally planned to collect the equipment on a Saturday and Sunday in April at one of our games,” says Floyd. “However, we are likely going to have people leave their equipment that they want donated on their porch and have them contact us to pick it up, similar to a can drive.” The used equipment will be donated to the Salvation Army in Midland. Steve Smith,
the brother of Delta baseball coach Danny Smith, is a business manager for the store. “We were also originally going to participate in ‘Change Your World Week,’” says Floyd. “But since we can no longer do that, we’re starting a social media campaign.” On Saturday, April 11, the duo launched a social media campaign on Facebook. The description of the campaign reads: “Our main project for this semester was to come up with something that will benefit not only us as leaders, but the communities around us.” “We are just looking for any sports equipment in general,” says Floyd. “Any equipment, men’s or women’s, that is in decent enough shape to be passed on.” If you’re interested in donating to the used sports equipment drive, contact Cam Floyd at cameronfloyd@delta.edu or (989) 2464630. Another way to contact the duo would be through their Facebook page at Impact the Life of a Poverty Stricken Youth Athlete.
Photo courtesy of Jared Harris
A&E 5
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April 20, 2020
Photo illustration by Rebecca Roberts
Rebecca Roberts dances along to Griz’s live stream from the comfort of her bedroom, complete with rave gear such as kaleidoscope glasses and a rainbow fan, as well as some snacks, sweatpants and slippers. Saturday, Apr 18, 2020.
Quarantine: a music-loving homebody’s dream Rebecca Roberts Photo Editor @DC_rrv So I don’t think I have to even mention how messed up this pandemic culture is, but as scary as it all can seem, I have found a silver lining – MUSIC! Online! Many artists – including singers, DJs, authors and even painters – have started live streaming performances from their home, and the introvert in me is in heaven. Several large companies such as the Grammy Awards, Billboard.com and Vulture.com have compiled long lists of online performances by artists of all genres, including K-pop, opera, rock ‘n’ roll – to name only a few. Since everyone’s music taste is different, it may take a while to sift through the options, but the reward will be worthwhile. Besides, what else is there to do? The electronic dance music (EDM) scene has been thriving under these circumstances. The number of options to choose from to watch online is immense, as multiple sets and even entire music festivals are being streamed online. It has become common to the community to host watching parties on Zoom or Facebook, adding a socialization component during isolation. An Instagram account @detroitdotdance posts daily
livestream schedules catering to the EDM scene. One of the DJs taking advantage of this live culture is Griz, who is originally from Michigan. He mixes songs of all genres into sets of tech house (techno and house music), bass music, throwback themes and disco sets. He incorporates playing his own saxophone, a sliver from his concept of featuring full-size bands, which has grown his fame during some of his past in-person concerts. Tune in by finding him on social media to join in his spreading of good vibes during these circumstances. You can find him on Facebook @mynameisGRiZ, Instagram @griz, Twitter @Griz and Twitch at twitch.tv/mynameisgriz. Tori Kelly goes live on her Instagram @torikelly at 4 p.m. every day except Saturdays, called QuaranTEA With Tori. Kelly is a veteran of creating online content, gaining a following on YouTube for her acoustic covers. She then received larger recognition as a contestant on the ninth season of American Idol in 2010. She has since released a few albums, collaborated with several popular artists and has earned a label as a pop/ gospel singer. She takes multiple requests daily and her killer voice puts a gorgeous spin on any song. Check out the social media pages of your favorite, lesser-known artists to see if they are offering digital performances. Let us know what streams you have been watching or are excited for on our social media pages @DeltaCollegiate!
Stay connected FOLLOW US while staying distant! @DELTACOLLEGIATE
Why quarantine is probably the best thing to happen to me this 1. Do you ever wish a concert was just for you? The crowds get to me sometimes, especially if I am dancing and get overheated because of how closely packed in I am. But during this odd time, I get to STAY IN MY BED and jam out! 2. Online concerts are FREE, so I’m saving money on tickets, drinks, snacks, etc. 3. I get to see artists perform that I probably wouldn’t have before the pandemic. 4. There is a huge increase in the chance of hearing your favorite artists perform a song they wouldn’t normally perform. 5. Concerts always end too early and you’re always left wanting more. Online content, though, is never-ending. 6. You get to practice your time-zone conversion math! 7. Some artists have been hanging out with each other on the Live feature – again, sharing an experience fans at home would not normally get to be a part of.
6 A&E
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APRIL 20, 2020
Classic rock artists bringing new music this summer Michael Piwowarski • News Director @DCMichaelFP The COVID-19 pandemic has caused the delay of many album releases, but that doesn’t mean there isn’t some new music to look forward to this summer. In the classic rock scene, there are several artists that have been hinting at putting out new music for some time now, some of which have materialized to confirmed album releases. Here are five noteworthy albums that are slated to come out over the spring and summer months.
Deep Purple - “Whoosh!”
Back in 2016, long-lived English hard rock band Deep Purple first announced their “Long Goodbye” tour, which ran into 2019. Along with the tour, they released the studio album “InFinite” in 2017. Although it was previously announced that this might be their last big tour, they still hinted at making a 21st studio album. Earlier this year, the album was confirmed and given a name. “Whoosh!” was set for a June release, but later pushed back to Aug. 7 due to the coronavirus outbreak. The first single from the album, “Throw My Bones,” was released on March 20. “Whoosh!” is available for pre-order at Deep Purple’s website.
Rick Wakeman - “Red Planet”
Rick Wakeman, former Yes keyboardist and a prominent figure in the progressive rock scene, has remained active in recent years, putting out new music and playing live shows. In February 2020, Wakeman announced a new progressive rock album with his backing band, the English Rock Ensemble. The album, titled “Red Planet,” promises similarity to classic Wakeman albums like “Six Wives of Henry VIII” and “Criminal Record.” Teasers for the album featuring excerpts have been released to Wakeman’s YouTube channel. The album can be pre-ordered online. It was scheduled for release on April 3, but due to COVID-19, has been pushed back “closer to June,” as announced by Wakeman himself.
Dennis DeYoung - “26 East: Volume 1”
Ever since being ousted from Styx in 1999, Dennis DeYoung has continued to perform as a solo artist, and has toured with his own tribute band playing Styx songs. In 2019, DeYoung announced the album “26 East,” which he
stated would be his final album, hinting that the “Come Sail Away” singer might be sailing away to retirement. However, a decision was made in January to split the album into two parts. “26 East: Volume 1” will be released May 22 and is available for pre-order via Frontiers Music. Volume 2 has no release date as of yet. Two singles from the album have been released: “East of Midnight” and “To the Good Old Days,” the latter featuring John Lennon’s son Julian.
Kansas - “The Absence of Presence”
Kansas, the rock band of “Carry On, Wayward Son” fame, has continued to tour regularly and has maintained a steady fan base, thanks to its catalog of progressive rock music in the vein of Yes and Genesis. “The Prelude Implicit,” their first new album in 17 years, was released in 2016, sparking a creative resurgence for the band. A followup album, “The Absence of Presence,” will be released June 26 this year.
Pre-orders started at the official Kansas store on Friday, April 17; on the same day, the album’s first single, “Throwing Mountains,” was released. Preview snippets of other tracks have been compiled and featured in the album’s trailer video as well.
Todd Sucherman “Last Flight Home”
Long-time Styx drummer Todd Sucherman has emerged as a highly regarded name in the drumming arena, being recognized as one of the best rock drummers of all time. In 2020, Sucherman announced his debut solo album “Last Flight Home.” One notable thing about this album is it will feature Sucherman on vocals; something he has not tried before. As he told Blabbermouth.net: “I think most people would expect some sort of drumcentric record or some fusion record, but it's not. It's a vocal record — songs, melodies, stories; it's what I love the most about music.” The album is due May 2 and can be preordered at Todd Sucherman’s website.
FEATURE 7
www.deltacollegiate.org
APRIL 20, 2020
Richie Rich’s Deli continues to order up fresh food for Saginaw Kelvin Butler Reporter @KelvinButler19 SAGINAW – Richie Rich’s Deli is back. Owner Richie Rich felt like downtown Saginaw was the place to be, with recent revitalization efforts through the introduction of Delta College’s satellite campus, much like the University of Michigan did for Flint. Plus, Rich loves the feel of downtown and felt it needed a deli. The distinguishing factor with his deli can be described in one word: fresh. “I’m slicing meat and cheese daily,” says Rich. “Making everything in the morning, I think the customer can tell the difference between what I do and what a chain does. I also try to locally source as much product as I can.” Rich opened his first Richie’s in 1994 in old town Saginaw, ending up with more than five locations before closing after 11 years of business. Last year, Richie Rich’s Deli reopened. Everything he needs to know, he learned from his family and Northwood University. Besides knowledge, though, Rich stressed to just do what you love and the money will follow. You can’t have the passion necessary for success if you don’t love what you’re doing. Whether you're the cook or the recipient, food was essential to Rich’s family coming together. “My salad recipes come
Kelvin Butler • Reporter 5LFKLH 5LFK IROORZHG KLV SDVVLRQ IRU GHOL IRRG WR ¿UVW RSHQ KLV EXVLQHVV LQ +LV PRWKHU LQVSLUHG his love of food, and his education at Northwood University gave him the know-how to run a business. $SULO from [my] mom, aunts, uncles and grandparents,” says Rich. “I’m definitely not a chef. I just like food that tastes good, so I borrowed a lot of sandwich recipes from deli sandwiches I had throughout my travels.” It’s no secret that
COVID-19 and the stay-athome order are crippling small businesses. “Most small businesses start under-capitalized, so any fluctuations are felt deeper than a corporate entity,” says Rich. “This is greater than anyone
could have expected.“ That being said, Saginaw’s big businesses have stepped up to support the small business owners. “I hope every small business owner gets the same support from the big business in their town,” says
Rich. “Saginaw is tough and we stick together.” The deli is open from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Due to the pandemic, they’re only doing pick-up and delivery right now.
To-Do List
Written and Illustrated by Lindsay Lang
DISCLAIMER
Since 1961, the Delta Collegiate has been written and produced by Delta students for students without any input or oversight by administration. The paper does not represent the views of Delta College, its faculty, staff or administration. Stories are selected by the student staff members to bring reliable information and entertainment to our readers.
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Gov. Whitmer helps Michigan stay ‘MIndful’ while staying safe
UNIVERSITY CENTER – With the coronavirus affecting mental health of Michiganders, Governor Gretchen Whitmer has announced a new resource to help them cope. In partnership with mental health website and app Headspace, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, the Stay Home, Stay MIndful website has been launched. Whitmer stated in an April 17 press release that this science-based resource will be valuable for people in Michigan who are under the stay-at-home order. “This virus has taken a toll on Michiganders’ physical and mental health,” Whitmer stated. “While we all stay home and stay safe, it is so important [to] take the time to check in and take care [of] yourself.” The new website is touted as a curated collection of guided meditations backed by scientific evidence, as well as at-home workouts. “In 25 published studies in some of the leading mindfulness peer-reviewed journals, Headspace has been shown to have favorable outcomes of interventions including reduced stress, increased compassion, and decreased aggression,” the press release stated. The material available on Headspace’s new website is available for free and includes exercises, meditations for kids and sleep experiences. “We want to be there for the people of Michigan and do our small part in helping them cope with rising levels of stress and anxiety during this public health crisis,” stated Richard Pierson, co-founder and CEO of Headspace. “That’s why we're humbled to partner with Governor Whitmer on increasing access to mental health resources for folks across the state.” Other mental health resources available for Michiganders include a recently launched “warmline,” which seeks to connect people to certified peer support specialists. The number is 888-733-7753, and the hotline is open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. seven days a week.