Month: September 2017

“Laughter Should Go Where Needed.”

Posted on by Jacqueline Perez

On Saturday, September 23rd I was asked to help out and take photos at a school event. I honestly had no idea what it was about. I just remember my family was excited for me when I told them about it, and the gentleman’s name that would be hosting the event. My mother told me she remembered hearing about how this man toured with Frank Sinatra, so my mind quickly assumed that there would be singing involved. After that, I did not bother to do any research and figured that it wouldn’t really be something I was interested in.

Tom Dreesen would soon become someone I could say showed me that great acts still exist. Once the night finally came, I found myself swept into a comedy act that I wish would’ve never ended. My assumption of Mr. Dreesen being a musical sensation slapped me in the face as his jokes caused me to stop taking photos from time to time, because I was laughing so much. I can’t even begin to put into words how amazing that night was and my only regret was not getting a picture with Tom Dreesen himself.

Many may question my knowledge of Tom Dreesen, but I am not writing to claim I am his number one fan. I am trying to expand my taste in the arts that came before my time, and having someone like him who grew up in Harvey, only fifteen minutes from my home, and also a former student of Thornton Junior College (now SSC) helps me to believe that everything is reachable in life. Just keep pushing forward.

Another interesting piece of information about the night: The money everyone spent on the tickets never really left the school. It was donated to the South Suburban College Foundation for students (like me) to receive scholarship. Tom Dreesen still holds a special place for SSC in his heart and I appreciate that.

I know he will probably never get a chance to read this blog, but I cannot thank this man enough for sharing his personal life stories to a packed house, and also giving us an inside look into a portion of Frank Sinatra’s life. I am now on a mission to watch as many of his acts that I can find and share them with everyone I know. Mr. Dreesen, to me, is truly a comedy legend.

Steve Sherrell Art Exhibition Coming to South Suburban College’s Thiel & Photo Four Galleries October-November

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SOUTH HOLLAND, IL –The Art & Design Department of South Suburban College is pleased to present a solo exhibition entitled 25 Years of Computer Art Exploration by Steve Sherrell. The exhibition will be on display in both the Dorothea Thiel and Photo Four Galleries October 23-November 17. On November 1, Mr. Sherrell will deliver a lecture at 12:15 in room 4431 with an artist reception to follow.

After studying at the School of the Art Institute with Ray Yoshida, Sherrell began exhibiting on a regular basis at many of the city’s great galleries: locally, nationally and internationally. In the early 1990’s he began doing digital artwork on an Amiga computer and taught Computer Art for 20 years. His experimental nature has led him to explore ways that hand-made techniques could merge with computer generated visuals to create unusual and original hybrids.

Sherrell stated, “I studied painting at the School of the Art Institute but became enamored with making computer based artwork. Soon I was showing my digital work alongside my paintings. As an artist, I have always followed the paths that most interested me; the ones that I felt gave back the most fulfilling results. I have little concern for markets, trends, or pressure from peer groups to conform. To me, the notion of discovery has held my interest more than the notion of production.”

He add, “Overall, I have produced a great amount of work in my long career and continue to find new things that excite and interest me. The challenge of art is one that has always been a great motivator for me. To wake up every morning and face something interesting and exciting has been the joy of my life.”

The public is welcome to visit art exhibitions and receptions at no charge. The Dorothea Thiel and Photo Four Galleries are located on the college’s fourth floor and are open Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. They are closed on weekends and holidays. The galleries are supported in part by the SSC Foundation. SSC is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois. For more information contact (708) 596-2000 ext. 2316.

“Splork” by Steve Sherrell
“Splork” digital print – 1996 by Steve Sherrell

Cafeteria and Food Vending Services

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South Suburban College is interested in receiving proposal for the provision of cafeteria and food vending services, for a term of five (5) years, as per the attached requirements and specifications.
Full cafeteria service must be in place no later than December 4, 2017.

Mandatory Pre-proposal meeting
October 5, 2017 — 10:00 AM — Board Room

Proposal submittal and acknowledge deadline
October 18, 2017 — 10:00 AM — President’s Conference Room

Award
A five year contract for the provision of cafeteria and food vending services was awarded to Good Burger, Calumet City, Illinois on November 9, 2017.

SSC Celebrates National Information Literacy Month

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SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – On October 1, 2009, President Barack Obama issued the first National Proclamation establishing October as “National Information Literacy Awareness Month.” This was the first time this important 21st century skill set received federal attention at the National Level. In today’s digital world, people who are information literate know how to find, access, and evaluate information to improve their health, their environment, their education and workplace performance. Having this skill set empowers them to interpret and make informed decisions about their lives, in essence, taking more responsibility for their own individual welfare and that of our nation.

The South Suburban College Library began celebrating October as “Information Literacy Month” in 2014 and this year marks our 4th Annual Celebration. Our opening day event will be held on Wednesday, October 4, 2017 at 2:00pm in the Library. The agenda will include Guest Speaker Representative William Davis (D) 30th District. His many committee assignments include: Higher Education, Labor & Commerce, Health & HealthCare, and Trade & Commerce. He was also instrumental in helping resolve the budget crisis in the State of Illinois this year with bipartisan support. In addition to this significant accomplishment, he is a founding member of the Better Funding for Better Schools Coalition and has been recognized as “Legislator of the Year” by numerous associations. Also included will be Opening Remarks, an Overview of the Month’s events, and the beginning of the Student Essay Contest.

The Closing Day Event on Tuesday, October 24, 2017 at 1:00pm in the Library will be a “back by popular demand” Genealogy Workshop conducted by two members from the Afro-American Genealogical & Historical Society of Chicago: Ms. Angela McGhee and Mr. Paul Holmes. It will be followed by the announcement of the Essay Contest Winners with prizes awarded. Refreshments will be served.

For more information on the South Suburban College Library visit: http://libguides.ssc.edu/libguideshome or Marilyn Wells, Librarian and Coordinator of Information Literacy Month at mwells@ssc.edu. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740. For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office (708) 210-5718. The college is located at 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, IL.

Photo of Hon. Will Davis
SSC National Information Literacy Month speaker Representative William Davis, 30th District.

Casting Call for Rapunzel at SSC

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SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – The Children’s Theatre Company of South Suburban College announces open auditions for Michele L. Vacca’s “Rapunzel and the Frog Prince.” It’s a uniquely comical mashup that cleverly blends the two Grimm’s tales into one story. This isn’t your standard fairy tale!

The auditions will take place on September 28 and 29, 2017 beginning at 7:00 p.m. Readings will be held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on the main campus at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, IL.

Director Ellie Shunko of Lansing will cast 12 actors between the ages of 18 and 70 of all ages, colors and sizes. Being fairly physically fit, a willingness to try anything, a sense of fun and loads of energy are big bonuses.

Performances are scheduled for January 13 and 16-20, 2018 and will be held during the day for local grammar school aged children. Cast members are required to attend all dress rehearsals and performances.

Auditions are open to all community members as well as SSC students. Appointments and prepared audition materials are not necessary. Auditioners will read from scenes which will be available at the time of auditions. Copies of the script are on reserve in the SSC library. Everyone is welcome to attend both auditions. Be prepared to list all conflicts with the rehearsal schedule.

For character descriptions, rehearsal schedule and more information, visit the Kindig Performing Arts Center’s website at http://learn.ssc.edu/theatre/ or email ssctheatre@ssc.edu. For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718.

South Suburban College’s Fall 2017 Welcome Back Celebration

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SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College’s Fall 2017 “Welcome Back Celebration” proved, once again, to be successful. Students, faculty, and staff from diverse backgrounds gathered in the newly remodeled SSC Courtyard for great food, good times, and relevant information to begin the school year.

Students were treated to a bevy of giveaways including White Sox game tickets, sunglasses, refillable water bottles, key chains, discount coupons to Subway and other nearby restaurants and stores, along with information on our new Reading Center hours, Writing Center, Math 1:40 Club, Academic Assistance Center, and various clubs and organizations.

Representatives from UPS, PACE Bus Service, MIX 101.9 FM, BMO Harris, and Aunt Martha’s rounded out Student Life, Student Leadership, and Academic Support data so that our students have all that’s needed to begin a successful fall semester. To get your success underway, there’s still time to “Weigh More Options” and register for “Late Start” courses.

For more information about all of SSC’s programs, admissions and registration, please visit www.ssc.edu or contact the Admissions Office at (708) 210-5718.

South Suburban College’s Fall 2017 Welcome Back Celebration.

Community Alert on DACA Decision

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Dear Community Members,

In light of President Trump’s decision on the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA), South Suburban College remains committed to serving and protecting our students.

As always, we safeguard the privacy of our students, within the guidelines of the law.

Please feel free to contact the South Suburban College Latino Help Center, with any questions or concerns.

Don Manning
President, South Suburban College

Update: September 14, 2017

South Suburban College Offers Free Citizenship Classes

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SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – Free Citizenship Classes will be offered at South Suburban College’s main campus in Room 1243 on Thursday evenings October 5 to December 14 from 6:00 to 9:00pm. Registration will be held September 25, 26 and 27th at 6:00pm in Room 1243.

You will learn how to:

  • Interview for the Citizenship Exam
  • Study for the Civics Test
  • Practice for the English Exam

You qualify if:

  • You are 18 years or older
  • You have not committed a crime
  • You read, write, and speak basic English
  • You have had a green card
  • Your spouse is a US citizen and you have had a green card

The information provided will be kept confidential in accordance with the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act of 1974 (Public Law 93-380). For the purpose of compliance with Section 511 of Public Law 101-166 (the Stevens Amendment) Federal Funds of $395,020 provides approximately 38% of the support of these programs.

For more information please contact the Department of Adult Education at (708) 596-2000, ext. 2385. Para Información En Español Llame: (708) 210-5740. The college is located at 15800 S. State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

South Suburban College Fall PAC Music Performances

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PLEASE NOTE: This calendar is correct at the time of publication and is subject to change. All events are held in the Kindig Performing Arts Center (PAC) on SSC’s Main Campus and admission is FREE for these events. (Donations are appreciated to benefit the Music Scholarship Fund.)

Tuesday, October 10, 2017, 7:00 p.m.
Jazz Combo, Jazz Orchestra Concert

Friday, October 20, 2017, 7:00 p.m.
Orchestra, Chamber String Orchestra, SSC Voices and Symphonic Band concert

Wednesday, October 25, 2017, 12:00 p.m.
Lecture Recital: Featuring Jim Konsbruck, SSC Guitar and Music Technology Faculty

Saturday, October 28, 2017, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Choral Festival

Wednesday, November 15, 2017, 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Orchestra Festival with clinician Phil Bauman

Monday, December 4, 2017, 7:00 p.m.
Orchestra & Chamber String Ensemble Concert

Tuesday, December 5, 2017, 7:00 p.m.
Student Recital

Wednesday, December 6, 2017, 7:00 p.m.
Jazz Combo & Jazz Orchestra Concert

Friday, December 8, 2017, 7:00 p.m.
Holiday Concert featuring the Symphonic Band, PAC Rats Theatre Company, and SSC Voices

For more information or to confirm dates and times, call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2316. South Suburban College is located at 15800 South State Street, South Holland, Illinois.

Pictured: South Suburban College’s Symphonic Band.

Goodbye Spring, Hello Fall!

Posted on by Jacqueline Perez

I hope the first couple weeks of the semester were amazing. I have noticed the vast amount of new faces and excitement in some students as they pass by one another to find their classrooms. It brings back memories of when I first started. Finding classes became a piece of cake after the second day. I hope everyone is buckled in and ready as new opportunities begin to emerge.

One thing that I realized, as I am finishing my journey here, is that I have yet to attend any sporting events. I have tons of great stories from many of the other activities that are held here, but none of being up by two with only a few seconds left in a game. I am disappointed that it took me this long to realize my love for this school and wanting to take part in cheering on fellow classmates, which is why I must share everything I can about SSC’s talented sports teams.

SSC is home to seven teams: men’s and women’s soccer, volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, and softball. The soccer teams have already begun their seasons and the first home match for volleyball is quickly approaching. To keep up to date with what teams are playing and when/where their games will be held, check here: http://www.ssc.edu/calendar/2017-09/ and make plans to attend. The cost for sporting events are as follows: adults $5, seniors and students $3, and children 10 and under are free. Just remember, students must bring their IDs to prove that they are actually enrolled at SSC for the discount! For any other information about SSC’s teams, please visit: http://www.ssc.edu/services/student-services/student-life/athletics/.

If you miss any of the action from the sporting events, don’t forget to watch Noah Nowicki as he gives us the highlights on “Home Game Heroes”. Here is a link with his previous recaps: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLACSRwWBQgt99AU4vSj64rdHTSUXaeids. If you are interested in getting involved with helping Noah on the “Home Game Heroes” crew, do not hesitate to e-mail 360@ssc.edu. There’s a women’s soccer game against the Trinity Christian College JV team at home (Bulldog Stadium at the south end of the main campus) this evening at 4 PM. Come out to support our Lady Bulldogs and converse with fellow classmates!

PAC Rats Spoof Hitchcock with “Wrong Window”

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SOUTH HOLLAND – The PAC Rats Theatre Company of South Suburban College will present the comedy whodunit, “Wrong Window.” Performances will take place in the Kindig Performing Arts Center on the main campus on September 15 and 22, 2017 at 7:30pm and September 16, 23 and 24, 2017 at 2:00pm.

“Wrong Window” is the work of former television writers Billy Van Zandt and Jane Milmore (“The Wayans Brothers, “Suddenly Susan,” “Martin”). The pair has created several popular off-Broadway farces like “You’ve Got Hate Mail” and perhaps their best-known opus, “Love, Sex and the I.R.S.”

Loosely based on Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic movie, “Rear Window,” the play centers around estranged couple Jeff (Charlie Furtek of Lansing) and Marnie Elbies (Jennifer Crick of Homewood), who are getting back together after a brief separation.

Like the main characters in the Hitchcock’s movie, the Elbies enjoy spying on the neighbors who live in the apartment across the way. But that innocent fun quickly turns into pure chaos when the Elbies and their good friends, Robbie (Martell Jefferson of South Holland) and Midge Smith (Ashley Orendorff of Thornton), hear the neighbors, Lila (Heather Young of Chicago) and Thor Larswald (Robert Smagacz of Calumet City), fight and then see what they think is a murder.

Once Lila goes missing, the Elbies and Smiths play amateur sleuths and become involved in hilarious shenanigans to try to find out what really happened. Marnie and Midge swipe the master keys off of Loomis (Kevin Hathaway of Park Forest), the building’s handyman, while Jeff and Robbie are near suspects to the sharp-eyed Detective Doyle (Catherine Hundt of Thornton).

Just when you think you’ve guessed who did what, the show takes a completely different turn. With mistaken identities, extramarital affairs and a corpse popping up, two questions remain: Who killed Lila Larswald? And if she’s not dead then who is?

“Wrong Window” is directed by Homewood resident Pat Nevins. Set design is by Dean Scalzitti of Hegewisch. The costume designers are Joanna Tassin of Park Forest and Angela Martin of Midlothian. Sandra Wagner of Lansing is the stage manager. Jordan Swierczyna of Robbins is both the lighting and sound designer.

Tickets are just $8 for adults, $6 for seniors 55 or better, $6 for students. South Suburban College staff and students will enjoy a buy one, get one offer with an I.D. Call the 24/7 box office voicemail line at 708-210-5741. You may also reserve tickets by e-mail at boxoffice@ssc.edu. Group rates are also available.

South Suburban College is located at 15800 S. State Street in South Holland, Illinois, between Sibley Boulevard and 159th Street. The campus is convenient to Routes 94, 80, 57, and 294. Free, ample, well-lit parking is available.

A photo of some of the cast of "Wrong Window"
Pictured left to right: Wrong Window cast – Martell Jefferson, Ashley Orendorff, Jennifer Crick and Charlie Furtek.

Still Time to Register for Non-Credit Classes at South Suburban College

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SOUTH HOLLAND, IL – South Suburban College’s Office of Continuing Education is offering a variety of non-credit classes for friends and family of all ages and interests.

Registration is still in progress for a wide range of classes including but not limited to: SAT/ACT Preparation, Grant Writing, Firearms Training, Dialysis Tech Basic Training, Spanish for Retail Personnel, and Business Website with WordPress. Also being offered are Yoga, Computers for Beginners, Computers for Seniors, Crocheting, Drawing, Line Dancing, Basic Knitting, Conversational Spanish, Let’s Plan It, Wellness Workshop and How to Organize and Self Publish Your Book.

For a more complete list please visit www.ssc.edu or call (708) 596-2000, ext. 2231 for further information or to sign up. South Suburban College’s Main Campus is located at 15800 S. State St., South Holland, Illinois. SSC’s Oak Forest Center is located at 16333 S. Kilbourn, Oak Forest, Illinois.