To begin my community outreach I sat down with my friend and co-worker, Tom Zimmerman, and discussed the possibility of assisting him in his many publications for Washtenaw Community College. I asked him about how he thinks the literary publications he crafts help the college. His response included encouraging a literary environment at the college and giving the students as many chances as possible to see their work published through his press--Zetatarsus. I enjoyed hearing him revel in his literary construction and it impressed upon me the desire to see myself, one day, also creating a way for students to thrive creatively and to see themselves not just as onlookers to literature, but an active participant.
He then told me that I could spearhead his next publication. Usually once or twice a semester, Tom solicits the school for entry into a short zine with a focus. He has decided to take me on as an assistant and our first step in the processes is to select a theme for the zine and to distribute posters and handbills around the college asking for submissions, as well as doing class visits to creative writing classes and English classes.
I am very much looking forward to helping Tom create this zine and I am amazed by his dedication to WCC, the student body, and to the creation of art and literature. I'm nervous about the idea of leading this project, having seen many of Tom's zines. I only hope that as a teacher and guide, he will lead me to learning more about the craft of creating a journal.
Hours:
10/8/13
2 Hours discussing plan and execution
