Thursday, November 18, 2010

Black Friday Shopping Tips

If you must brave the crowds, be prepared. You’re really going to head out there? Then this isn’t a time for messing around. This is a time for strategizing! Get the Thanksgiving Day newspaper in your area and flip through all of those ads. You might be surprised to notice how many of the ads are time-sensitive — as in, deeper discounts may apply if you shop before 10 or 11 a.m. or noon. Other ads will let you know what time certain stores plan to open and close.

Shop with a list. You’ll feel more in control and focused if you head out with a list of the people you’re shopping for, the gift ideas you have in mind for them and the target price range for each item. Otherwise, a shopping day like this one could be so overwhelming that you might fail to accomplish as much as you had hoped.

Bring the ads you found. If you saw an advertised special that really impressed you, bring the ad along to avoid any disputes over how much an item is supposed to cost on Friday. Having the ad also could come in handy at stores promising “lowest-price” guarantees – especially if you find lower prices elsewhere.

Pick the right shopping buddy. Unless you want to bicker and feel frustrated all day, think hard about who would get into the spirit of a shopping day like this.

Make friends with people in line. A spirit of camaraderie will not only make the long, dark wait more pleasant — it also could prove to be a godsend if you must give up your place in line so you can run to the bathroom. You could offer to hold a place in line for your newfound friend in return.

Decide how early you’ll arrive, and plan accordingly. Can’t resist the urge to stand in line in the dark before your favorite store opens at 5 a.m.? Then remember to dress comfortably — warmly enough for the time you’ll spend outside, but with layers so you won’t collapse from heat stroke inside stuffy, crowded stores. Comfortable shoes are a must, and so are portable snacks and drinks. They’ll prevent you from having to endure low blood-sugar levels, dehydration or congested food courts.

Distinguish between deals and duds. To ensure you’ll be getting an actual bargain rather than a ho-hum or too-high price, visit Web sites such as BizRate.com, Shopping.com and PriceGrabber.com as you’re doing your research to get a sense of how much items should cost

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

A Message from your Default Manager: Financial Planning

Few questions are scarier than “Where did all the money go?”
Learn the secrets to sound financial management.

The sooner you learn how to manage money effectively, the sooner you can avoid the stresses that stem from living beyond your means. It’s easy to create a monthly financial plan, and it will help you make the best of your monetary resources.

Start with a simple formula:
Calculate your monthly income.
Estimate your monthly expenses-including your student loan payment, all living expenses, credit cards, insurance, etc.
Determine what you have left. This is your discretionary income-money you can use as you choose. If you have money left over it would be a good plan to open a savings account.

You’ll find that the simplest cost-cutting strategies can add up to considerable savings in the long run.
If you would like to learn more about creating a budget, please join me for a LUNCH and LEARN, on Wednesday, October 20th from 12:00- 1:00. The Lunch and Learn will be held on the first floor.

Friday, September 17, 2010

Upcoming Events in Dayton

Dayton SCORE workshop on Strategic Planning
Wednesday, Sep 22 6:00p to 8:00p
at Dayton Metro Library/Northtown-Shiloh Branch, Dayton, OH
Rodney Childs, SCORE counselor, will be instructor.
Registration required. E-mail: score@daytonscore.org.

Hispanic Heritage Month Show & Speaker Series
Wednesday, Sep 22 5:30p to 7:30p
at Benjamin and Marian Schuster Performing Arts Center, Dayton, OH
Features mariachi, children performing in Spanish and folks from the Hispanic community in native dress and playing native instruments. Call to RSVP. events@daytonhispanicchamber.com.

Diabetes Self-Management Program
Thursday, Sep 23 9:30a to 12:00p
at Mercy Siena Retirement Community, Dayton, OH
Six-week workshop offered by the Area Agency on Aging. Program is an interactive, small group workshop that focuses on solving problems common to those with Type 2 diabetes. Participants will learn how to control their symptoms through practical ways, eat healthier and improve communication with doctors and family about their health.

Computer Literacy Program
Thursday, Sep 23 6:00p to 9:00p
at Community Action Partnership, Dayton, OH
The program offers both beginner and intermediate course.

DAI Oktoberfest
Friday, Sep 24 7:00p to 11:00p
at Dayton Art Institute, Dayton, OH
Nonstop entertainment, domestic, craft and international beer, fine arts and crafts, international foods and more. Free kids art activities and games from noon to 6 p.m. both days.

Stilettos to Sneakers 5K Run for Women
Friday, Sep 24 7:00p
at RiverScape MetroPark, Dayton, OH
This event is dedicated to raise awareness for women who are victims of human trafficking, prostitution, and the sex industry. All proceeds support the programs and services of the Oasis House. This race is made possible in part thanks to Five Rivers MetroParks, Domino’s Pizza, Speedy-Feet, Northridge Sports Shop, Salem Band, and A.

Riverside Jaycees Haunted House
Friday, Sep 24 8:00p to Saturday, Sep 25 12:00a
at Riverside Jaycees Haunted House, Dayton, OH
Fridays and Saturdays 8 p.m. to midnight, Sundays 8 p.m. to 10 p.m.
1/4 of a mile west of the Air Force Museum.

Tuesday, August 31, 2010

The Southwestern Admissions Department is very proud to announce the rolling out of our new program Practical Nursing!! We started our first class in May 2010. We had a very energetic group of students that have now moved on to their 2nd quarter. This is what Cindy Campbell; Regional Director of Nursing Programs had to say;
“Twenty eager students entered the first class of Southwestern’s Practical Nursing program on May 17th. After many hours of reading, studying, and practicing skills, they’ve survived the first quarter of this very intense 48-week program. Sixty percent of these students have some medical background, either as a Nursing Assistant, Medical Assistant, or Medical Administrative Assistant, and their knowledge has been helpful to classmates with no previous experience in the healthcare field. During this first quarter, students studied chemistry, anatomy & physiology, microbiology, Nursing fundamentals, and professional ethics.
Moving in to their second quarter, the Nursing students are looking forward to beginning their clinical rotations and applying their new knowledge and skills to actual patient care. Their classroom content will include Medical-Surgical Nursing and Pharmacology.”
We here at Southwestern College are very glad to be offering such a program that is going to help aid in producing quality nurses. We are looking forward to many successful class starts and graduations. Help us in welcoming our new program and students to the Southwestern College Family!

Thursday, August 26, 2010

Dear Gabby answers student questions

Dear Gabby:
I am a student at Southwestern College and I have a problem that I need help with.  I have an instructor that I just do not get along with.  I am afraid that she is going to going to fail me.  Maybe I will just drop the class.  What is the best thing to do in this situation?
 
Gabby says: 
I am sorry to hear that you are not happy in your class!  Here at Southwestern College, we strive, to make you, the student, our first priority!  However, at times, the best thing to do is to face the issue rather than to run from it.  Here is what this means.  Instead of dropping the class, I would suggest that you talk with the instructor.  Tell her how you are feeling.  Ask for her help in being successful in the class.  It is likely that in your future job, you will encounter someone that you do not get along with or do not like.  You will need skills in problem solving to get you through this and future similar situations.  Even if you do not necessarily resolve all of your feelings about the instructor, it doesn’t mean you cannot be successful in the class.  You will truly get the grade you have earned.  Show up, do your work.  Be on time, and stay for the entire session. Be respectful and professional in your behavior.  Be the best you can be. See how you can turn this situation around to your benefit.  You will both be better for it in the end!  Good Luck!

Wednesday, August 25, 2010

Attention Medical Students: Certification Testing Information - IMPORTANT INFORMATION - PLEASE READ!

Medical Billing and Coding Certification test

Test Date: September 25, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m.

Application deadline: Friday, September 10, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m.

In order to complete an application, you must attend one of the following information sessions:

Saturday, August 21, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m. - Classroom #3

Saturday, September 4, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m. - Classroom #3

Phlebotomy Certification test

Test Date: Saturday, December 11, 2010 @ 8:30 a.m.

Application deadline: Friday, September 24, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m.

In order to complete an application, you must attend one of the following information sessions:

Saturday, August 21, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m. - Classroom #3

Saturday, September 4, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m. - Classroom #3

Saturday, September 18, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m. - Classroom #3

Medical Assistant Certification test

Test Date: varies (can take the exam 90 days after application is submitted, processed and approved by the certification agency)

Application deadline for testing to take place in January 2011: Friday, September 24, 2010 @ 4:00 p.m.

In order to complete an application, you must attend one of the following information sessions:

Saturday, August 21, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m. - Classroom #3

Saturday, September 4, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m. - Classroom #3

Saturday, September 18, 2010 @ 9:00 a.m. - Classroom #3

If you have any questions, please contact Mrs. McGhee via e-mail at amcghee@swcollege.net.

Featured Faculty: Sabrina Dean, Allied Health Program Chair


Southwestern Eagle (SE): Where are you from?

Sabrina Dean (SD): I’m from Dayton, Ohio.

SE: Where did you go to school?

SD: I went to Meadowdale High School in Dayton. For my undergrad I went to Wright State. My Master’s degree is from Central Michigan University.

SE: Did you always know you wanted to work in the healthcare field?

SD: Yes, when I was little my pediatrician was a female. She helped people and she was successful. My mother died when I was young, so I helped out around the house. I love helping people.

SE: What would you want to do if you were to change your career?

SD: I’d like to work in the community helping people.

SE: What is your favorite thing about Dayton?

SD: It’s small but still big enough to do anything you want to do. Bigger cities are still very easy to reach.

SE: What was your favorite class in school?

SD: I liked Math and any Science class. At Southwestern I like teaching Electronic Health Records.

SE: Who inspired you to go to school?

SD: My family, my pediatrician and myself. I love school.

SE: Do you have a favorite book or author?

SD: My favorite author is E. Lynn Harris.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

New Faces in the Business Office! Kathy Mills introduces herself to Southwestern’s students

What’s new?
I am!
My name is Kathy Mills and I am the Default Manager.
What does this mean to you?
Southwestern College knows how confusing it can be when receiving information regarding the repayment of your student loans and the options that you may have to choose from.
As a value added service, from Southwestern College I am here to assist you with questions you may have in regards to repayment of your student loans. This service is available to all students.
I can assist you in regards to your current student loans or loans you may have received previously. Also, once you graduate, you can still contact me for assistance.
Please feel free to contact me, at 937-224-0061, ext 44828, or you can email me at KMills@swcollege.net. I am located in the Business Office on Monday, Wednesday and Friday’s.

Friday, July 23, 2010

‘Meet Gabby’ addresses the Concerns of Southwestern Students!

Dear Gabby—
I am a student at Southwestern College and I have 3 children.  I am not working right now and am dependent upon my family and monies/food stamps that I get from the department of human services every month to make it.  It is nearing the end of the month and I am out of food.  I do not have enough money to pay my rent for the next month.   I don’t know what to do!  I can’t even afford to pay for parking at school!  Can you help me?  I won’t get another stipend check from school until next month either!  Help!
 
Dear Gabby says:
I am so sorry to hear that times are tough for you!  Making ends meet while going to school, raising children, and trying to better yourself is tough.  Thankfully, you can go to your student services department at school and ask Maren and Debbie to help you with a referral to area agencies that can provide food pantry services among other things to help you get by until you receive your funds for the next month.  You can also contact 211 or call 225-3000 which is the United Way’s Helplink line for referrals to agencies that may be able to provide additional financial assistance to you.  Budget your stipend checks to help you with school expenses, like parking.  Remember, the stipend checks are meant to help you with school and are made available to you for this reason, primarily.  They are “educational loans”.  Perhaps looking for a part time job would be in order as well.  Talk to the ladies in student services.  They will be more than happy to help you plan for success!  Good Luck!
~Gabby

For more information on the ‘Ask Gabby’ column, contact the Librarian.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

New in the Library: Rosetta Stone Latin American Spanish Edition


Do you speak a second language? Would you like to learn? The Southwestern College Library now has the Rosetta Stone Latin American Spanish edition available for use in the library. Rosetta Stone is the world’s number one language learning software.

This 26 CD-ROM set is one of the best electronic tools available for learning the Spanish language. It includes a headset with microphone that allows the language student to try out Spanish phrases and get feedback on pronunciation. Combining reading, listening and speaking, Rosetta Stone is a valuable tool. Employers in many fields (including those taught at Southwestern College) will value applicants and employees who are familiar with foreign languages. This free library resource is an excellent way to make yourself a more valuable employee. If you’ve ever been interested in learning a new language, this is the time!

This item cannot be checked out to be taken home; please ask the Librarian if you have any questions.

Monday, June 21, 2010

Which ones right for me? By Brianna Liming

One of the problems when getting a massage is that you do not know what to choose. There are at least 10 different options and you do not know the difference between any of them. If it is your first massage, it is important to first establish why it is you are going.

If you are in need of relaxing, your best choice would be a Swedish massage which is slow, light, and calming touch. Aromatherapy is when they add essential oils to your massage; it can be added to any of your massages. It enhances the experience while calming your nerves or boosting your self-esteem, whatever it may be that you need. If you are particularly sore all over, due to overuse of muscles, I would recommend a hot stone massage to help relax your muscles. This will help them to be more willing to be manipulated in such a manner that they have more of a potential to release most of the knots in them. A word of caution though, it can leave red marks from the heat and pressure of the rocks, but it is not painful.

Another massage you will find on the list is trigger point therapy. Trigger point therapy is used to relieve areas found in your muscles that have many nerves running through them; these nerves are irritated causing them to be painful when compressed. The trigger points tend to send pain to other parts of your body. For example you could have a trigger point in your gluteus maximus (buttocks), which will send a shooting pain down your thigh. “Similar to the ‘check engine’ light in a car, a trigger point is a warning of dysfunction and if left unchecked could represent very serious consequences,” says Fabian Fernandez in his book Deep Tissue Massage Treatment, “a trigger point is a very serious dysfunction and if left unchecked could represent very serious consequences.”

Last but not least, deep tissue therapy which is done really deep and can be painful. It is also done really slowly, which is why it can cost more than a Swedish massage. Deep tissue therapy is used to release knots found all over your body that can possibly be blocking some of your nerves and blood supply. According to Fernandez, “A knot is a combination of spastic and intertwined muscle fibers.” These knots do not send pain, like trigger points; they “hurt so good” when compressed. We are all familiar with muscle pain that feels good when someone is squeezing them.

Now that you know what the difference is, you can schedule a massage with confidence and get what will really benefit your body the most.

Friday, May 28, 2010

Time to quit smoking!

Would you like an extra $1460 this year? If you smoke a pack of cigarettes everyday, that is the amount that you could save in the next 12 months. We all know that it’s tough to quit smoking; here are some tips to improve your chances of success:

  • Write down why you want to quit (the benefits of quitting): live longer, feel better, for your family, save money, smell better, find a mate more easily, etc. You know what's bad about smoking and you know what you'll get by quitting. Put it on paper and read it daily.

  • Set a quit date. Decide what day you will extinguish your cigarettes forever. Write it down. Plan for it. Prepare your mind for the "first day of the rest of your life".

  • Talk with your doctor about quitting. Support and guidance from a physician is a proven way to better your chances to quit.

  • Begin an exercise program. Exercise is simply incompatible with smoking. Exercise relieves stress and helps your body recover from years of damage from cigarettes. If necessary, start slow, with a short walk once or twice per day.

  • Do some deep breathing each day for 3 to 5 minutes. Breathe in through your nose very slowly, hold the breath for a few seconds, and exhale very slowly through your mouth.

Find another smoker who is trying to quit, and help each other with positive words and by lending an ear when quitting becomes difficult.
Would you like more advice on quitting? Check smokefree.gov for resources from the United States government.

Thursday, May 20, 2010

Summer Movie Preview

The start of May always brings with it the beginning action-packed summer movie season and this year is no exception. 2010 is shaping up the be the year of the sequel, with several of the most anticipated releases being sequels to previous blockbuster. This year’s movie summer got off to an impressive start with the first big movie of the season, Iron Man 2, bringing in almost $130 million dollars in its first weekend. Courtesy of Yahoo! Movies, Here are some more movies which are sure to make a splash this summer.

Summer of Sequels

Shrek Forever After (May 21)
He has everything an ogre could want -- true love, good friends, a happily-ever-after life -- but Shrek longs to feel his mojo again, even for a day. An ill-advised deal with Rumpelstiltskin grants that wish, thrusting Shrek into a "Lost"-like alternate world where Donkey doesn't know him, witches rule the skies, and Puss in Boots has packed on the pounds. And Fiona? Having never met Shrek, she now leads a band of ogre outlaws. Can Shrek save Far Far Away and win back his true love?


Sex and the City 2 (May 27)
Get your Manolos ready! It has been two years since we last sipped Cosmos with the gals of "Sex and the City," and so much has happened: Carrie and Big's passion has fizzled, Charlotte and Harry are overwhelmed by the stresses of parenthood with a new baby in the house, Miranda and Steve are working hard on their relationship in Brooklyn, and Samantha, well, is still Samantha... sultry, single, and still trying desperately to hang on to what is left of her youth. Always on the quest for excitement, the ladies travel to Abu Dhabi in style, and Carrie's relationship is called into question when she unexpectedly runs into former fiance Aiden. Uh oh! Will this pose big problems for Mr. and Mrs. Big?

Toy Story 3 (June 18)
With Andy grown and college-bound, Woody, Buzz and the gang find themselves donated to a preschool. Woody stands alone in his belief that Andy would never have abandoned them -- and when things turn dark at Sunnyside, the others join him in a quest to return to Andy's room. When Andy discovers their absence, the wheels are set in motion for an emotional roller coaster for everyone who ever loved a toy.

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (June 30)
In the third and latest installment of the "Twilight Saga," "Eclipse" finds our heroine Bella Swan romantically torn between her brooding vampire fiancee Edward Cullen and her hunky werewolf best friend Jacob Black. Meanwhile, an evil threat in the form of fiery vampire Victoria looms ever-closer to Forks. Still reeling from the death of her partner James in the first movie, Victoria is full of vengeance and dead-set on killing Bella with her army of newborn vamps.

Synopses and photos: Yahoo! Movies
Other movies to look for this summer:
The A-Team, The Karate Kid (June 11)
Despicable Me, Predators (July 9)
Inception (July 16)
Salt, Ramona and Beezus (July 23)
The Expendables, Eat Pray Love (Aug. 13)

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

In Memory of Mr. Donald Abbott


Donald Abbott worked at Southwestern College from 2000 until this February. He died on May 10 of complications from lymphoma. During his years at Southwestern, Mr. Abbott taught a variety of classes, including psychology, government, and GED preparation. American Government was probably his favorite subject, and he was known as a caring and knowledgeable instructor. Former students’ comments at Ratemyprof.com are enthusiastic, saying, “Mr. Abbott knows more in his little pinkie than any other professor here at SWC!” and “The man knows his Gov! … He’s very open to discussion and answers questions thoroughly.” He was always eager to increase his knowledge: during his last days at Southwestern, he spent his spare time reading The Case for Goliath: How America Acts as the World’s Government.

Mr. Abbott was in charge of the library when it was located across the hall in the current GED classroom and in fact personally assembled many of the library’s current bookshelves. For the last two years, he helped students with computer and reference questions, kept usage statistics, and created a subject guide for GED resources. His former colleague, Medical Instructor Carole Bretcher, says, “I remember Mr. Abbott as a very private person of high intelligence and integrity. He cared deeply for all people over himself. He loved his students even though they, at times, exasperated him as all of us teachers know they can. He may have led an obscure life, but he touched the hearts of many as he touched mine.”

At Kent State University, Mr. Abbott was a football standout, playing defensive end on the All-MAC (Mid-Atlantic Conference) team in 1966 and 1967. In the above photo, he is #81. He was also a member of Kappa Alpha Psi fraternity. Later, he earned an MS in education from Northern Kentucky University, and he was working toward a PhD when he became ill. Before coming to Southwestern, he taught in the Dayton Public Schools. He is survived by his son, Donald, Jr., of Concord Township, Ohio, and two grandsons.

The library is collecting money to buy books on American government in Mr. Abbott’s honor and welcomes donations.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Recipe: Sausage and Summer Vegetable Sauté

Ingredients:

  • 4 (5-to 6-ounces) fresh pork sausages

  • 1/3 cup water

  • 3/4 cup chopped sweet onion

  • 1 medium fennel bulb, chopped

  • 1 cup grape tomatoes (5 oz)

  • 2 ears corn, kernels cut from cob

  • 1/4 cup coarsely chopped dill

Preparation
Prick sausages a few times. Simmer with water in a 12-inch heavy skillet, covered, over medium heat 7 minutes. Uncover and cook, turning occasionally, until water has evaporated and sausages are well browned and cooked through, 7 to 10 minutes more. (You may need to add 1 tablespoon oil to skillet, depending on sausages.) Transfer sausages to a plate and pour off all but 1 tablespoon fat from skillet if necessary.
Cook onion, fennel, and tomatoes with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper in skillet over medium heat, stirring and scraping up brown bits, until onion and fennel are crisp-tender and tomatoes are soft and beginning to burst, about 7 minutes. Add corn and dill and sauté 2 minutes.
Slice sausages and serve with vegetables.

For more instructions and recipes, visit: http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Sausage-and-Summer-Vegetable-Saute-354509#ixzz0lGoRkohI

Thursday, April 22, 2010

Arab American History Month

Each April, the United States celebrates the country’s Arab-American heritage. Some of the best known Arab-Americans include quarterback Doug Flutie, activist Ralph Nadar, and performers such as Paula Abdul, Shakira and Selma Hayek. Here are just a couple well-known Arab Americans from the state of Ohio:

Mary Rose Oakar
Mary Rose Oakar has consistently strived to represent the best interests not only of her fellow Arab Americans, but of all Ohioans. Not only was Mary Rose Oaker one of only a few Arab American members of the United States House of Representatives, but she is also the first Democratic woman from the state of Ohio to have achieved this position. Oakar has also served in the Ohio House of Representatives. Currently, Oakar is the president of the American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee.

Jamie Farr
Toledo-born Jamie Farr is best known for his career as an actor in the television sitcom M*A*S*H*. His character, Corporal Maxwell Klinger, frequently dressed in women’s clothing in an attempt to convince people that he was crazy. His character was known to love Toledo’s minor league baseball team and Tony Packo’s hot dogs, also from Toledo. He was also involved in a number of other projects including films such as: Blackboard Jungle, No Time for Sergeants, The Greatest Story Ever Told and For Love or Money. Other television appearances include guest visits to the Dick Van Dyke Show and panelist work on several television game shows.
For more information on famous and influential Arab-Americans in this country, visit:
http://www.aaiusa.org/arab-americans/23/famous-arab-americans

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

What is Really Valuable to Employers?

Some of the most desirable employee traits cannot be taught

Everyone knows that traits like intelligence, good training, and work ethic are important on the job. But are these the most important qualities that an employee can possess?
Although intelligence, training, reliability and obedience will always be critical to your success in the workplace, they are qualities that can be learned or acquired by most people. Employers are often going to be looking for characteristics that cannot be taught. For example:

Passion: A strong fondness or desire. Do you love what you are doing for a living? It makes a difference!
Creativity: The ability to transcend traditional ideas. Don’t just do your job; try to think of ways to do it better!
Initiative: Leadership, the ability to take action. Don’t always wait to be told to do things, take the first step yourself!

Combined with traditional skills, these other personality traits will help you to become a more valuable and successful employee!

Wednesday, March 24, 2010

Women’s History Month: Annie Oakley

How have Ohio women shaped history? Annie Oakley is the woman that most Americans remember when they thing of the Wild West. She managed to beat most men at the traditionally masculine sport of marksmanship.

Born in Drake Country, Ohio in 1860, a young Oakley shot rabbits and quails to help provide for her large family.
Later, she married fellow marksman Frank Butler and the two toured together on Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. Oakley was able to slice the thin side of a playing card from 30 paces away and shoot the cigarettes out of a man’s mouth.
She was beloved by many including Queen Victoria of England. She was charming and modest, as well as being devoted to charity in the community. She made charitable contributions to the educations of orphan girls.

She was mourned by many when she died in 1926.

Do you need a biography for class? The Library has great resources. For more information visit:
http://southwesterndayton.blogspot.com/2010/03/better-biographies.html
This information on Annie Oakley was retrieved from:
"Oakley, Annie (1860-1926)." Encyclopedia of World Biography. Thomson Gale, 1998. General OneFile. Web. 18 Mar. 2010.

Campus Announcements

From Financial Aid:
Have you completed your 2010-2011 Fafsa (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) yet? If you haven’t filled out this form, your financial aid may not be up to date. If you have questions or concerns, please see the Financial Aid office.

From the Business Office:
ATTENTION STUDENTS:
BOOKS FOR SPRING QUARTER WILL BE HANDED OUT ON THE THIRD FLOOR AT THE CAMPUS BOOKSTORE STARTING TUESDAY, MARCH 16th.

TIMES FOR BOOK PICK UP ARE AS LISTED:
Monday -Thursday
9AM – 12PM
1PM – 3PM
5PM – 6:30PM
Friday
9AM – 12PM
2PM – 5PM

From Career Services:
Southwestern College in Dayton is now on Facebook! Current and Former students are encouraged to become fans of Southwestern College on the web. To find our Facebook site, search for either: Username “Southwestern College—Dayton” or by using the email address mjohnson@swcollege.net. Contact Melanie Johnson in the Career Services office if you have any questions.
Are you Graduating this Summer?
Southwestern College’s next graduation ceremony will be held on July 23, 2010 at 7:00 pm in the Dayton Convention Center. For those of you who are not familiar with the Convention Center, it is located at:
22 E. Fifth Street
Dayton, OH 45402
We look forward to seeing you there!

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Has Someone you know been affected by Domestic Violence?

Domestic violence takes many forms. It can be physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, psychological abuse, financial deprivation, and or extreme forms of power and control. The violence can be towards anyone living in the household including a wife, husband, girlfriend, boyfriend, lover, or children.
Domestic violence does not discriminate! Its devastating effects cross over all races, socio/economic levels, religions, ages and occupations.
There are many different ways in which a relationship can be abusive. The following are some of the most common symptoms:

  • Minimizing, Denying or Victim Blaming
  • Verbal Abuse, Criticism and Humiliation
  • Abuse of Trust, Cheating, Lying and Jealousy
  • Isolation
  • Physical Violence
  • Sexual Violence, Forced sexual encounters
  • Threats
  • Irresponsible use of weapons, Using weapons for intimidation
  • Stalking
  • Disrespectful Behavior


Everyone is different, but there are many common risk factors for abusive behavior. These include:
  • Very strong beliefs/opinions about traditional gender roles.
  • Growing up in a violent family
  • Extreme Jealousy
  • Keeping you off-balance with erratic behavior.

If you are not a victim yourself, but suspect someone you know is, below are some suggestions that may be helpful:

  • Don’t be judgemental
  • Acknowledge her fear and be supportive
  • Offer to assist her in getting information.

Don't feel that you are alone! If you have questions or would like to speak with someone regarding domestic violence, please see Debbie in the Education Office.

The above was an excerpt from:
YWCA of Dayton, Women's Crisis Center/Safehouse and National Resource Center on Domestic Violence. Help End Domestic Violence: Domestic Violence : Putting the Pieces Together. Dayton, Ohio: YWCA of Dayton, Women's Crisis Center/Safehouse, 2000.

Wednesday, March 3, 2010

I Am From by Jennifer Flohre

I am from a broken home
Plaster walls, shattered.
I am from a bedroom fight
Eyes, black.

Alcohol and cocaine married my mother
I am from a father who needed help.
A late night drive to the west side
Us in the back seat, tired.

I am from courtrooms, therapy and custody battles.
Our grandparents’ living room forts,
Peter Pan and our lion.

I am from an AA meeting
Coffee and smoke.
A sponser named Mark,
My father struggles.

I am from a family of love and hope
But divorced and saddened
A twelve year token.

I am from a faith that won’t give up
Forgiveness has a name, in my heart it lays.
I am from a father, saved
Sober
Recovered.

Tuesday, March 2, 2010

IT Corner: Keeping your Computer Virus Free By Dan Jarrett

Your first line of defense is to have a current Anti-virus program. Even if you cannot afford to buy one, there are some free programs out there.
Here are the top three free options:

They may not have all of the features of the store-bought Anti-Virus programs, but they do the job. This will have to be kept up to date along with your operating system. By keeping everything up to date you will reduce the chance that a virus, spyware or malware will get through.
You will often see ads for SPYware Doctor Downloads and others similar to that. Those are Trojans with Adware that keeps popping up. Limeware is also filled with viruses. If you are looking for music to download, try Frostwire; it is better. And if you are not sure which Anti-Virus to get, I recommend McAfee Internet security with website safety ratings, which can be found at:
http://www.mcafee.com/us/

Tuesday, February 23, 2010

Starting School at Southwestern College: Current students offer advice to Southwestern’s Newest Pupils

By Danielle Reibel

When you start college as a new student, there are always some things you should expect to on your first day. Most first days are the same. You get your schedule and figure out exactly where all of your classes are. Most people end up changing their schedule. Next, you’ll go to every class and most teachers will give you a syllabus for that class. You’ll soon realize that classes aren’t as bad as you thought. You may even have a few teachers that you love and a few that you may hate. Don’t be so sure though because your outlook on these teachers will change as the quarter goes by.
By the middle of the day most people get a little shy about lunch time because you don’t know who you’re going to sit with. Don’t worry though because out lunch room only has three tables, so it’s better to get lunch somewhere else (possibly with some new people you have met from class). I go to Seafood Arcade next door and work on school work since I have two and a half hours between my first and second class.
After lunch, the day just zips by. You should remember to always ask questions when are you confused about anything, whether it be related to class or Southwestern in general. Most likely someone else wants to know the same thing. Finally, don’t be afraid to introduce yourself to someone. That new person could end up being your college buddy for the rest of the year. Good Luck!

Additional tips for success at Southwestern College
by Shannon Harrison and William Peagler


  • Always follow the dress code.

  • Attendance is a must or you will fall behind quickly.

  • Have open lines of communication with your instructors.

  • Find out about all resources at the school so you can utilize them.

  • Find out exactly where to park and how much it will cost you.

  • Be willing to learn basic computer skills and knowledge.

  • Do not be afraid to ask questions.

  • Work on time management skills in order to manage a high volume of classwork
    and homework.

  • Build relationships with fellow students for classroom purposes.

  • Be willing to make sacrifices to succeed.

Thursday, February 18, 2010

Featured Figure in Black History: Paul Laurence Dunbar

The Southwestern Eagle celebrates Black History month by remembering one of Dayton’s best known figures

February is black history month; how much do you know about Paul Laurence Dunbar? You may have more in common than you think. Born in Dayton and raised by a single parent, Dunbar is remembered as one of the best loved poets of African-American History.

Dunbar was born to former slaves on June 27, 1872 in Dayton, Ohio. His father was a veteran of the Civil War. Dunbar’s parents separated when he was very young, and his mother, Matilda, worked to support her children on her own. One of the families that Dunbar’s mother worked for was that of Orville and Wilber Wright.


Although they were very poor, Dunbar’s mother consistently taught her children to value poetry and storytelling. She encouraged Dunbar in his intellectual pursuits. Though he was the only African-American student in his class at Dayton Central High School, he was actively involved in many student organizations including the school newspaper.


Dunbar’s career as a literary figure can be dated to 1892 when he published his first collection of poems, Oak and Ivy, and also gave his first public reading. Although his work was reasonably popular, Dunbar still had to work as an elevator operator to support himself. He frequently sold volumes of his poetry to people that he met on the elevator.


While living in Toledo in 1897, Dunbar published his second book of poetry and became more widely known and respected. He married shortly after and began working for the Library of Congress in Washington D.C. During this time his health declined.


In 1902, Dunbar separated from his wife and returned to Dayton. Though he continued to work, his health steadily declined. He died of tuberculosis here in Dayton in 1906. His body of work included 12 books of poetry, and other books that included plays, novels and short stories.

Dunbar’s home in Dayton can still be visited today! Call 937-313-2010 for more information.
Dayton Public Library is home to a collection of Paul Laurence Dunbar publications, including many first editions.
Email history@daytonmetrolibrary.org for information.

Student Bus Passes

Bus passes will be issued in the Business Office at the follwing times effective 2/18/2010:

Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday
10AM – 11AM
2PM – 3PM
4:30PM – 5:30PM

Things to Keep in Mind:

Attendance will be checked
Issuance of bus passes will be based on
attendance
You must bring photo ID (State ID, Driver’s License or Student
ID)
You must bring your old bus pass to be issued a new one.
The cost is
$10.00/Weekly

.

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Do you know your Dress Code?

Allied Health Student Clothing:
SWC issued or solid color scrubs. Scrubs must match.
White lab coats must be worn in labs.
Scrubs and lab coat must be clean and in good condition
Students must wear suitable undergarments that do not show through scrubs.
Students may wear a solid colored shirt under their scrubs.
Light colored socks (preferably white) should be worn.


Allied Health Student Shoes:
Nursing shoes or mostly white tennis shoes should be worn.
Shoes must be closed toe and in good condition.

Allied Health Hair:
Hair must be clean and neatly groomed.
Hair should be pulled back off face. Long hair should be worn in a ponytail/bun/etc.
Hair should be a natural color.

Fingernails:
Trimmed to 1/4 inches from end of finger.
Only clear or natural color nail polish.

Jewelry for Allied Health students:
Earrings should be kept to a minimum.
Earrings should be simple studs or flat patterns in professional designs—No dangly or hoop earrings.
Only one ring per hand.
Only simple chain choker necklaces are allowed. Simple/tasteful charms or medallions are acceptable. No long chains or large charms/medallions.
The only bracelets allowed are medical ID bracelets.
A watch with a digital readout or second hand is recommended.

Other notes for Allied Health students:
No visible facial piercings other than earrings are allowed.
Facial or neck tattoos should be covered with makeup or clothing.
Facial hair (beards and mustaches) should be neatly trimmed.
Makeup and Perfume should be worn in moderation.
Students must be clean.

Notes for Business, Computer and Criminal Justice Students:
No Jeans are allowed.
Southwestern College Polo or Button front shirts are preferred. Other dress shirts are also acceptable.
Professional/Dress shoes should be worn.
Slacks/skirts should be professional and neutral.

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Stay Safe on the Roads! Be cautious when Driving in Snow and Ice

The season for snowy weather is upon us – don’t get stranded! Neil Dunlop and Edmunds.com have compiled some tips to help drivers in bad weather. If you are driving on snowy, icy roads, follow these tips to stay safe:

Slow down if the roads are bad!
Allow extra following distance between your car and the car in front of you.
If your car starts to loose control in a skid, turn into the skid and accelerate if possible. Even though it goes against your instinct to speed up in these situations, it can help you regain control of your car.


Their last bit of advice may be the most tempting to follow: “go slow in the snow. Or stay home and make hot chocolate” (Dunlop)


If you do get stuck in the snow, having proper supplies could help you get through the ordeal quickly and safely:

Bottled Water
Matches & Candles
Blankets
Kitty Litter, Gravel or Sand
A first Aid kit
Warm Clothes
A small shovel
Flashlights and batteries
Packaged food, such as energy bars or canned nuts
Paper Towels
Spare Wiper Blades
Wiper Fluid
Jumper Cables



Dunlop, Neil. “How to: Drive in the Snow.” Edmunds. 2009. Web. January 13, 2010.

Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Remember and Celebrate: Martin Luther King Jr. Day in Dayton

This year, Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday is being observed on January 18th. His actual birthday was January 15, 1929. This year would have been his 80th birthday.

Most of us already know about Martin Luther King Jr. and his involvement in the African American Civil Rights movement. He believed in using peaceful means of protest and conflict resolution. In 1964, he became the youngest person to ever be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize.

We can best honor King’s memory by remembering his message and mission. Southwestern College Library has many books that relate to racial conflict in America.

Many biographies and other articles related to King are available on Infotrac at Infotrac.galegroup.com.
Username: lesday
Password: Dayton

There are also many events taking place on January 18th in the Dayton area to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day:

Day of Service at Dayton International Peace Museum
Free for children K-12
1:00pm—3:00pm, call 937-227-3223
Children learn about applying non-violence in everyday life.

MLK March and Rally
Courthouse Square
March begins at 10:30am from each of the four corners of the city, for more information call (937) 424-1500

YMWA Piqua’s Martin Luther King Day Celebration
1:00pm—2:00pm, 937-773-6626
This event is free