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Sept. 6-19, 2010 Volume 52, Issue 1 www.lcc.edu/lookout
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Spikers Season
Starts
thelookout Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
Island flavors on campus
Photo by Courtney Baker
Early Learners: Adrianna, 3, and Adoara, 4, work with Pre-School 4 instructor Aubrey Kostka on drawings at LCC’s Early Learning Childhood Center. Early LCC is a full-time program for children to prepare them for kindergarten, located on LCC’s main campus.
Child care center opens Kaitlin Lutz Associate Editor The fall term marks the beginning of the Early Learning Childhood Center (Early LCC) at LCC. Heading the start-up is Rebecca Stoessner, who said she is excited to help provide childcare for LCC students and the community. Melissa Myers, a parent
and LCC student, said she used to take her child to the center across the street from LCC. “It’s a lot nicer, and now it’s within walking distance,” Myers said of the new center. Stoessner had worked six years for Gretchen’s House when she was approached by officials to get involved with the center. “Professionally I have
been doing this for 16 years,” Stoessner said. “This gives me a chance to do something new.” Early LCC is a full-time, five-day-a-week program designed to prepare children for kindergarten. The program also integrates the Reggio Emilio philosophy to allow children to communicate well about needs.
Photo by Michael Caterina
Elevated experience: A stilt dancer from the Zulu Connection performs body contorting stunts at the 16th annual Caribbean Festival Aug. 28 at LCC’s downtown campus. Stilt dancing was one of the many forms of entertainment featured at the event. See page 16 for a photostory on the eventw.
See Child care, page 2
Lansing ranked among top 10 cities for next decade Dominick Mastrangelo News Editor LCC business student Nathan Stone said he was surprised Lansing made the grade in a recent ranking released by editors of the awardwinning personal fi-
nance magazine, Kiplinger. Kiplinger recently ranked Lansing as one of the Top Cities for the next decade. “I never thought Lansing would be a place that would draw so many people in,” Stone
said. According to the survey, released in May, Lansing has what it takes to set itself apart from other mid-sized cities. According to its website, Kiplinger’s latest search for top cities focused on places that
specialize in out-of-thebox thinking. “New ideas generate new business” said Kiplinger’s numbers guru Kevin Stolarick, who this year evaluated U.S. cities for growth and growth potential. Stolarick is the research
director at the Martin Prosperity Institute, a think tank that studies economic prosperity. The ranking cites a youthful population, downtown renewal projects and emergency technology centers as major contributors
in earning Lansing the distinction. Employers such as the state of Michigan, Michigan State University and Sparrow Health System add to the appeal. The ranking also gave See Top 10, page 2
2 NEWS
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Child care Continued from page 1
“Children can initiate learning. They can let us know what they’re ready for,” Stoessner explained. “We are able to use their (children) natural curiosity and a great environment to know what children need to be ready for kindergarten.” The environment also plays a key role in a child’s learning, she said. “We incorporate a lot of nature into the classroom,” Stoessner said. “Bringing nature in and getting kids outdoors a lot.” They often take walking field trips outside and soon will be able to play on a unique
Top 10 Continued from page 1
high marks to cities with an educated population, citing “smart people, great ideas and collaboration” as the most important factors in placing Lansing as one of the top
playground funded by auto owners insurance, Stoessner explained. Another advantage is the classroom size. Classes will be small, with up to 16 children in a classroom. “We have a one-toeight ratio, with one adult to eight children,” Stoessner added. There will also be LCC students in the classrooms, which lowers that ratio even more; plus all teachers have degrees in early childhood or other related fields. “The teachers are there to be the researchers and they’re there to be the documenters,” Stoessner said. The center is a lab school where LCC stu-
dents studying early childhood can come and observe teachers and their interaction with the students. The center is also a great place for parents who want their children to have a positive attitude about learning. “We want them to be actively engaged in meaningful work and play,” Stoessner said. “That will keep their attitude of learning open.” Early LCC accepts DHS childcare support and also has limited space right now.
cities. With such a positive indicator, the future seems bright for LCC and the city of Lansing, which has a population of approximately 114,000. A wide variety of people, cultures and oppor-
tunities are available to any young professional looking to make the best out of his or her degree. Stolarick agreed. “In the places where innovation works, it really works,” Stolarick said.
Downtown campus erupts
For more information visit their website http:// lcc.edu/elcc/ or give them a call at 483-1100.
Photo by Michael Caterina
Eyesore eliminated: A new piece of art appeared on campus Aug 30. This volcano sculpture sits overtop of a vent that spews steam, making the volcano appear to erupt in between the Gannon Building and Dart Auditorium.
3 NEWS
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
— NEWS BRIEFS — The American Marketing Association is hosting Polishing Your Professional Image Wednesday, Sept. 8th from 5 to 6 p.m. in Gannon Building room 134. The event will be hosted by Shelley Davis Mielock; a certified business image coach. Looking to volunteer this semester? A mentor is needed to work with students, grades three through six, throughout various schools in Clinton County. The time commitment is once a week for two hours a week. Interested individuals should contact Christine Sisung at 989-224-5239 or sisungch@msu.edu LCC East campus will hold Boomers & Beyond: Improving Your Life through Technology. The event runs Friday, Sept. 10 and Saturday, Sept. 11. Cost is $59. Students who attend will gain a better understanding of technologies and their implementation. Several students from Lansing Community College teamed up and won the Build up! Building a Brighter Michigan Competition. The 16-member team, consisting of students from five different academic programs, competed against schools from all over the state of Michigan. By winning the competition the students have earned the right to construct their energy efficient home design. This home will be built among the historic homes along the west side of Mackinac Island. The project also provided $10,000 in scholarship funds awarded collectively to the participants. The Lansing Community College Board of Trustees will hold a meeting Monday, Sept. 20. The meeting will be held in the Paula D. Cunningham Administration Building Board Room. Lansing Community College is offering Scholarships to individuals who are eligible for WIA Dislocated Worker services. Individuals must be interested in Certified Nurses Assistant (CAN) training. The program begins Friday, Oct. 15 and ends Tuesday, Dec. 9. Students in the program attend Friday and Saturday classes for classroom training, as well as clinical hours at a long-term care facility. Interested individuals are required to attend one informational session, held at 1pm on either Thursday, Sept. 9 or Thursday, Sept. 16 at LCC West Campus. This session will determine eligibility. Participants selected for this training must take an Employable Skills class offered Oct. 4 to-7 as well as an orientation program on Oct. 8. Selected trainees also must have negative 2-step TB skin test prior to clinical experience. Contact the Business & Community Institute (BCI) at 517-483-1857.
Students pinch pennies are so programmed into believing (I am a legitimate human being; I must have my It is said that when own car!) But the curtimes get tough, the rent economic realities tough get going. make scrimping every When college stupenny an absolute nedents are faced with cessity. the reality that money David Rowse said, they thought would be another LCC stuthere for college has evaporated, The average college fresh- dent looking for ways to save. they have to man spends about $900 for “I plan on make the best of books each year, according to bringing my own that reality. They can find them- a survey by the University of lunch to school every day; it’s selves thinking California at Berkley. much cheaper.” about things they Can you say Ziploc never dreamed would Berkley. Those costs be important. For ex- reflect shelf prices at bags? ample, LCC student college book stores Cody Shaw learned around the country. Buying used books first-hand just how valuable taking good is an obvious way to save a significare of books can be. “I take good care of cant amount of my school supplies,” money. HowShaw said. “You never ever it is not know when your old the only way. “I carpool to school stuff can turn school every day; into cold hard cash” Shaw is an employee it’s quicker and less at the Lansing Com- expensive,” said munity College book- Casey Rouse, store, Gibson’s Books an LCC stuand Beans. He said he dent looking knows in these hard for other ways economic times, the to cut costs. It may seem best alternative for saving money is to buy difficult to give up the freedom Michiganders textbooks used. Dominick Mastrangelo News Editor
“I buy all my books used, because it’s easy to see how much cash you can save” Shaw said. The average college freshman spends about $900 for books each year, according to a survey by the University of California at
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4 FEATURES
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Spotlight on LCC tutoring services: part one Bob Chaphalkar Guest Writer Dara Monajemi, an electrical engineer with a master’s degree from the University of Michigan, has been tutoring at Lansing Community College for a year and a half. Bob Chaphalkar, an LCC student majoring in the alternative energy program, met with him to discuss the tutoring services at LCC. What is so special about tutoring at LCC? I think we have the finest tutoring program in the nation for a two-year college of our size. We provide tutoring for as many courses as possible. I worked with a diverse group of students including older adults, recent high school graduates, students with disabilities, as well as students with different skill levels and backgrounds. It is quite refreshing and rewarding when you help someone with math, physics, or other science related courses and you are able to communicate your thoughts to them and allow them to comprehend more easily. How did the communication experience play a part in your interview for a new job? It not only enabled me to tutor about 150 students over the time period I was here, but it also helped me in getting a professional engineering job with a major automotive company. What else did the interviewers look for that you had used in tutoring? They liked my experience in teamwork. In “SI” (Supplemental Instruction) groups we use a teamwork approach to solve problems. Do you have different approaches to tutoring for different students?
Students all have different ways of cognition. Some appreciate visual instructions or diagrams, some use aural cues, and some use written verbiage to get the point. Therefore, the challenge is being able to determine which method is suitable for a particular student and incorporate a specific technique to help them understand the material better. I do need to emphasize the fact that students are mainly responsible for their success. The students who were hard workers, and showed ambition, reached their goals and succeeded. Tutoring services can help students achieve their academic and in some cases, life goals. Did you have any unique situation you remember? One of my students received an “Academic Achievement” award and I think he is graduating this year as well. Do students come to you just to get better grades? Mostly they need help with basic concepts and procedures. Yes, they can benefit by asking advised questions and improve their grades. What else is different about LCC’s tutoring service? Here at LCC, we have a large pool of tutors under one roof, in a centralized location that can help students in a variety of courses. This helps in logistics and response for the students in need. The tutors are well qualified to tutor in the subjects in which they have expertise and specializations. We have “one on one” as well as “walk-in” service. Also, we have the SI service for students who would like to learn and ask questions in a classroom setting. What improvements would you like to see in tutoring services? I think we need to improve our communication to the students on a global level. I mean that we need to
Photo by Bob Chaphalkar
Talented tutor: Dara Monajemi is an electrical engineer with a master’s degree from University of Michigan. He was a tutor until last spring, when he took up an engineering job at GM proving grounds. Manajemi also tutored science and math.
raise awareness of the services we provide to the students. Also, some students are not aware that our services are free. I think we should hand out a sheet with our information at registration or pre registration. Students should know that we can work around their schedule and give them an appointment that fits well with their work/life schedule. We have tutors for almost every subject and we enjoy being able to assist students.
Criminal Justice Club empowers
Nathan Wilson Staff Writer
For students interested in law enforcement, the Criminal Justice Club at LCC is a great opportunity to adopt a leadership role and learn more about the field. James Bender has been an adviser to the club for over 10 years. In addition to teaching criminal justice at LCC, he has 11 years of police experience and 26 years of military police experience. According to Bender, the Criminal Justice Club provides students a fun outlet to grow and develop a portfolio as they pursue their criminal justice education. He explained the club offers students hands-on experience and a chance to get involved in outreach activities. In the past, club members participated in a bike rodeo where they purchased 100 bike helmets and gave them to disadvantaged people in the community.
Students also assisted in fundraising activities to buy the helmets. Bender said a lot of planning goes into fundraising activities. This gives students a chance to take on important leadership roles. For example last fall, members of the Criminal Justice Club put together a basketball tournament to raise funds. They successfully raised $700 for trips. “In the past we’ve taken some fun trips, spring break trips together, and that’s just to give students an opportunity to know each other,” Bender said. “Doing educated, criminal justice trips is a bit
more difficult, but it’s always been a dream of mine to go to the FBI Academy.” Bender advised that students who would like to pursue a career in criminal justice should explore the whole career field, diversify their skills and not set limits to one aspect of criminal justice. “Look at the three major areas,” Bender said. “You have: law enforcement, corrections, and the court systems.” Several other areas emerging in criminal justice include homeland security, computer security and forensics, he added. For information about the setting and time for Criminal Justice Club meetings, contact James Bender at (517) 483-1655 or benderj@lcc.edu.
5 ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Sept. 6-19, 2010
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Take a break; grab some grub on campus
Lee Rumler A&E Editor
It is your first day of college courses and you are prepared. You bought your books two weeks early, you have had your notebooks and pencils ever since you saw that sale at OfficeMax a month ago, and you know all your professors will be awesome (You checked them all out on ratemyprofessor.com a week before registration, so how couldn’t they be?) Or maybe that’s not you. Maybe you meant to do all those things, but we all mean to do so many things. However, you had parties to attend and movies to watch. Before you knew it registration deadlines were coming up and you grabbed a seat in whatever classes you could. Yeah, that sounds more like it. Either way, you get into your first classes of the semester, and as your new professor babbles endlessly on about some vague, abstract idea called a “syllabus,” that bubbling anxiety in your stomach slowly transforms into a gnawing craving only one thing can satisfy: food. And lots of it. Here is where all your preparation (or lack thereof) falls to pieces. In the thick of all your planning (partying), scouting (sleeping) and inquisition (more sleeping), you
Photo by Michael Caterina
Fresh food: Located on the second floor of the Gannon Building, Blimpies offers subs, salads and wraps to students.
Photo by Michael Caterina
Tasty options: Kennedy Cafeteria, located on the third floor of the Arts and Sciences building, gives students a choice at meal time. Pizza, burgers, tacos and salads are all on the menu here.
forgot about your second and soups; Freshens’ demost important bodily licious smoothies, frozen function. Fortunately, yogurts, and ice creams; Lansing Community and Java City’s CappucciCollege has you covered nos, Lattes, muffins, cook– unless you are on East ies and iced drinks; you’ll Campus. Sorry about that find everything you need to satisfy your hunger and one. more. ChancUnless es are if you are you are a feeling new stuAll campus dining dent, you restaurants take StarCards r e a l l y p i c k y. are most as payment! In that familiar case, you with the might want to go next Gannon Building. Many introductory door, because as any vetclasses are held there and eran LCC student will tell it’s the place you pick up you, the Kennedy Cafyour StarCard. The Gan- eteria in the Arts and Scinon Building does not ex- ences Building is the place actly have the greatest va- to eat on campus. It has riety in terms of places to just about everything you eat, but between Blimpies’ could want: Grille Works, a burger fresh subs, wraps, salads
Short on cash?
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joint featuring sirloin, breaded chicken, and chicken breast sandwiches that you can top with just about anything you would want to. Home Zone, a restaurant serving all of those delicious dishes your mother used to make, only a little better. Kettle Classics, the place on campus to find all your favorite soups Montague’s Deli, a deli where wraps are “made to order, just the way you like them.” Bene Pizzeria, the only pizza place on main campus – also featuring calzones and delicious bread sticks. And, that all time favorite, the Taco Bell Express, which is just a slightly
condensed version of a normal Taco Bell. The Kennedy Cafe also has a salad bar and a “Grab and Go” section that features healthy, premade wraps, sandwiches, and salads. Paying for food in the Kennedy Cafe is easy too; just order or grab anything you want and take the receipt or food to the main register. Of course, these are not the only places in LCC to eat. The Health and Human Services Building has a restaurant called The Recovery Room, which features healthy
wraps, salads, fruit cups and snack foods. West Campus has its own cafeteria too, with its own Freshens, Montague’s Deli, pizzeria and Grab and Go section. All campus dining services take cash, credit, and StarCard as payment and tend to have shorter lines than off-campus restaurants because only LCC students eat there. So do not worry, firstyear students, LCC has everything you need to sate that craving and ease your hunger pangs. Now if only it had free parking ...
King Crossword
An idea. A simple idea. Inception Lee Rumler A&E Editor In the mind of a genius, even the simplest ideas can mature into spectacular creations. By transforming the simple concept of a shared dream-space, into the complex concept of entering the other person’s subconscious through their dreams and implanting an idea that will grow into a life-altering philosophy, Inception illustrates the true depth of Christopher Nolan’s genius. It may have taken him 24 years to bring his idea to the big screen, but the movie was well worth the wait. Undisputedly one of the best movies of the year, Inception sails
viewers headlong into a hurricane of hypotheses, twists, and secrets. The background story is, at best, confusing, and at worst, completely indecipherable; however, that fact manages to add intriguing complexity
without detracting from the principle storytelling. Any simple viewer could effectively repeat the main events in the story, but I doubt even the most scholarly of movie-goers could ex-
plain the necessity of an “architect,” and don’t even get me started on dreams vs. reality – sometimes I wonder if I should “take a leap of faith.” In short, when you go to see Inception, which you will do for the sake of your continued happiness, bring a brain bag. It will make your head explode, with continuous guessing and arguing among you and your friends for years to come. Imagine a mix of Fightclub, The Matrix, and The Thirteenth Floor; add a dash of Leonardo DiCaprio, Ellen Page, and Christopher Nolan; and that is Inception. It has humor, action, and intrigue bubbling out of every pore.
Puzzle solution can be found at www.lcc.edu./lookout
This week’s puzzle is sponsored by:
6 A&E
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC media collaborates with Gibson’s Sarah Sanders Editor in Chief
The LCC amphitheatre was filled last Wednesday, as three bands powered out a variety of music for LCC TV and LCC Radio’s first ever Books and Beats concert. The event was co-sponsored by Gibson’s Books. According to Nicole Sclafani, the station manager of LCC TV, and Karen Love the development director of LCC Radio, one goal of the event was to make students aware of the fact that LCC has TV and radio programs. “We were shooting the event, asking students if they were even aware of the TV and radio stations,” Sclafani said. She added that, like she had thought, many students were in fact unaware. The three music groups were Cloud Magic, a funk/ rock band, Atrium, a rock band, and p.h.i.l.t.h.y., a positive hip-hop artist. Sclafani
said they were chosen in order to showcase music genres that students do not necessarily know about, but would enjoy all the same. “The event was designed to open up students to some new types of music they wouldn’t normally listen to,” Sclafani said. This is something that the radio station also claims to do with it’s programming in general. “We wanted a variety of music that would appeal to the students,” Love said. While the radio station attempts to broaden the variety of music students are listening to, Sclafani said the content of the TV station focuses not solely on campus events, and students and faculty, but encompasses life in Lansing as well. Sclafani said, “The TV station attempts to cover things that are real, relevant and, above all else, something people really would like to watch.”
When touching on LCC, Sclafani said, “This campus and the students are so diverse,” which is why therer is a variety of content displayed by both the radio station and the TV. If you missed this final summer concert on campus, do not worry. When speaking with Love, she expressed the radio station is interested in making this event an annual occurrence. Sclafani said, “The footage shot from the event (was posted) Thursday, Sept. 2, and will be available for viewing via youtube.com/lcc1957.” For more information about LCC TV and links to their affiliate sites, including Facebook, YouTube and Twitter, visit the website at www.lcc. edu/tv.
in Lansing is just getting warmed up. The year 2010 founded two teams that are getting underway in the traditional grassroots style: The Mitten Mavens and the Lansing Derby Vixens. Christy Warn, aka Rough Byte-R, has been a skater for the non-profit Mavens since February. “It’s fun,” she said. “You have to get used to the fact that you’re gonna get knocked down.” With names like: Rogue vs. Wade; Rock ‘Em Shock and Decapi-
tate, these girls put on a thick skin after their day jobs. “I was really intimidated at first,” said Warn. “It’s a rough sport; we’ve had some injuries.” Started in January with just a handful of members, The Mitten Mavens are now well beyond 50. Newcomers are always welcome. In fact, all around campus are flyers encouraging anyone to join. Their first bout is Oct. 9 at their home rink, Demonstration Hall. Their mission state-
For more information about LCC Radio, including events scheduled for the coming months, visit the website at www.lcc. edu/radio.
Photo by Joe Vermillion
Outdoor show: Atrium’s drummer Derek Vaive rocks out during Books and Beats, a concert put on by Gibson’s Bookstore and LCC’s Radio and TV on Sept. 1 at the outdoor Amphitheatre.
Mitten Mavens roller derby hits Lansing where it counts Zach Bellingar Sports Editor Wherever there are hips thrown, you will find them. Wherever there is heavy traffic three and four deep, they will be there. Wherever jammers are passing pivots, you will find … The Mitten Mavens. Past the borrowed reference, there is a brief introduction to the action that is roller derby. To say it is making a comeback means it went away, when in all reality, roller derby
ment: “The Mitten Mavens are a diverse group of fun, energetic, adventurous, amateur athletes based in Lansing, Mich. We are a community conscious organization bringing the exciting sport of roller derby to life in Michigan’s Capitol City. We encourage community spirit with safe and healthy competitive sportsmanship everywhere we go.” For more information, check out The Mavens on Facebook. Or visit their website, http:// www.mittenmavens.net.
Photo courtesy of Karah Keller
Derby divas: The Mitten Mavens are a non-profit roller derby team in Lansing. The Mavens are always looking for new skaters. No experienceis necessary.
7 SPORTS
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Bump, set, spike; LCC volleyball is back Long before the gym is clear of venerable bicyclists and badmintoners, a group of women congregate. As they put on their pads and pull up their long socks, the atmosphere is that of a business meeting. And it’s all business here. The 2010 volleyball season is still young, but the optimism is radiating. The 2009 season ended with a 53-62 (2328) record. It is, however, a new season and a fresh slate. Whether it’s one of the five returning sophomores or the half a dozen freshmen, each member of this team has one thing in mind. “We’re looking to get as many wins as we can and come out on top,” said leftside hitter and returning sophomore Jamie Pung. “I feel good. I can see a lot of stuff we’ve been working on coming into action.” Sophomore middle hitter and captain Ca-
mille Harris agrees. “We’re making a lot of progress from last season-offense and defense,” Harris said. “Overall, we’re making good adjustments. “There is still lots of room for improvement. It’s mind over matter. We need a sense of urgency; not wait until the last minute to get things done. “I’m just really excited for the season,” Harris added. “A lot of the girls have really high expectations.” Among those is freshman and co-captain Kimberly Schmid, who puts her faith in her teammates as well as the coaching staff. “We have a great staff,” said Schmid. “Our volleyball IQ has gone up so much and together we’re going to learn a lot from them.” Returning for his 11th season as head coach is Lansing native Dennis Richardson, backed again by a solid supporting staff. Richardson puts just as much
stock into his girls. “We have a strong blocking team,” said Richardson. “Our leadership is strong and a lot of our girls have played together in the off-season. They have good chemistry.” The greatest indication of the season to come was Aug. 27 and 28 when the team traveled to Ohio to compete in the Columbus State Invitational. There they went 3-2, losing one of those to Columbus, last year’s number one team. For coach Richardson, the matchup was a powerful motivator. “I’m excited,” he said. “It’s a good non-conference schedule and we get to play them again for a chance at redemption. We just got to keep pushing.” Over the weekend of Sept. 4 and 5, the team traveled to Toledo to play in the Owens Invitational. There they matched up against Columbus once more. Those results will be posted in the next issue.
Cross Country 2010 Schedule · JETS CC Invitational Jackson CC Fri., Sept. 10 Jackson, MI 4:30 p.m. · Spartan Invitational Forest Ackers East Golf Course Fri., Sept. 17 East Lansing, MI 1:00 p.m. · Kirtland Community College Invitational Roscommon Fri., Sept. 25, MI 4:00 p.m. · Lansing Invitational Grand Woods Park Sat., Oct. 2 Lansing, MI 12:00 p.m. · Michigan Intercollegiate Oakland University Fri., Oct. 8 Rochester Hills, MI 3:30 p.m. · Falcon Invitational BGSU Golf Course Sat., Oct. 16 Bowling Green, OH 10:45 a.m. · NJCAA REGION XII TOURNAMENT GRAND WOODS PARK Sat., Oct. 30 Lansing, MI 12:00 p.m. · NJCAA Championship Meet Sat., Nov. 13 Spartanburg, SC 9:00 a.m.
Photo by Michael Caterina
Superstar: Returning sophomore Camille Harris goes up during a 2009 game against Lake Michigan. With 83 blocks last season captain Harris brings experience and leadership to the team.
Women’s Volleyball 2010 Schedule
Zach Bellingar Sports Editor
Kellogg CC Thurs., Sept. 9 Battle Creek, MI 6:30 p.m. Muskegon CC Invitational Fri.-Sat., Sept. 10-11 Muskegon, MI 4 p.m. Jackson CC Tues., Sept. 14 Lansing, MI 6:30 p.m. Muskegon CC Thurs., Sept. 16 Lansing, MI 6:30 p.m. Ancilla College Tues., Sept. 21 Donaldson, IN 6:30 p.m. Grand Rapids CC Thurs., Sept. 23 Lansing, MI 6:30 p.m. Lake Michigan CollegeTues., Sept. 28 Lansing, MI 6:30 p.m. Kalamazoo Valley CC Thurs., Sept. 30 Kalamazoo, MI 6:30 p.m. Lindstrom Invitational (OCC)Fri.-Sat., Oct. 1-2 Waterford, MI 4:00 p.m. Kellogg CC Tues., Oct. 5 Battle Creek, MI 6:30 p.m. Jackson CC Thurs., Oct. 7 Jackson, MI 6:30 p.m. Muskegon CC Tues., Oct. 12 Muskegon, MI 5:00 p.m. Ancilla College-Dig For The Cure Thurs., Oct. 14 Lansing, MI 6:30 p.m. Grand Rapids CC Tues., Oct. 19 Grand Rapids, MI 6:30 p.m. Lake Michigan College Thurs., Oct. 21 Benton Harbor, MI 6:30 p.m. Kalamazoo Valley CC Tues., Oct. 26 Lansing, MI 6:30 p.m. MCCAA State Tournament Fri.-Sat., Oct. 29-30 Kalamazoo Valley CC, Kalamazoo, MI TBD NJCAA Region XII Tournament Thurs.-Sat., Nov. 5-7 Grand Rapids, MI TBD NJCAA National Championship Thurs.-Sat., Nov. 18-20 Wisconsin Dells, WI TBD
8SPORTS
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Decade begins with new athletic director
LCC enters the 2010-11 sports campaign with innovative leader Scott Latham
Dan Miller Sports Writer The Lansing Community College Athletic Department’s 2010-11 year brings with the new season a new decade, new athletes and new Athletic Director Scott Latham. Latham is a graduate from Wahoo High School in Nebraska. He was part of back-to-back state championship basketball teams (19891990). He also played in 52 games of a 114-game winning streak with Wahoo High. It is a record currently ranked third in the National High School Sports Record Book 2010.
Latham was inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame twice, once for his part in the state championships and again for his team’s winning streak. Latham has spent the last eight years at Marshall High School in Missouri in the athletic department, three year’s as assistant men’s basketball coach and two as the assistant athletic director. His last three years there he worked as the athletic director. Latham said academic success is high on his agenda for the Stars. He said he understands, however, he has stepped into a program with high expectations of winning
Latham and being successful. “I want to do it the right way by making sure the kids have a quality education,” he said. “(However), I told the coaches and some of the athletes that I like trophies and big banners. That’s my kind of thing.” Lansing Community
College has faced some issues in the past, dealing with academic ineligibility, scholarship violations andother problems at sporting events. Latham said he has not been AD long enough to figure out all the kinks in the athletic department. He said he plans on exploring ways to avoid conflict in the future. “I haven’t really had the chance to sit down with the coaches yet,” Latham said. “We are going to talk about all those issues. “Right now without knowing the ins and outs, I cannot give you any answers. I plan on looking into it and fig-
uring out what needs to be done, but it is going to take some time.” Latham said he has thought about advertising LCC sports, hoping to improve the program’s exposure to the public. “I and the athletic department are just trying to kick around some ideas,” he said. “We haven’t come up with any ideas yet; it is still in the works.” When Latham was introduced to the coaches he said they were welcoming. He said he would like to familiarize himself with the school before making any abrupt changes to the department.
“I have no intentions of making any coaching changes,” he said. “I’m the type of person who has to see and evaluate what is going on. I want to go to some practices to (analyze) coaches and players there.” Players and coaches who have met Latham said they are excited about the energy and enthusiasm he brings to the job. “I think we have made a splendid choice,” LCC Head Softball Coach Bob Every said. “I believe he is going to do a great job. “He obviously loves sports and likes the community. He is a delightful person.”
9SPORTS
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Gannon third-floor banners showcase sports Zach Bellingar Sports Editor
Greeting students on the third floor of the Gannon Building this fall are 10 banners hanging from the ceiling. Eight of the banners depict action shots of LCC’s varsity sports, with one on each end representing the Physical Fitness and Wellness Department. Hung early last month, officials said the banners were a long time coming, and they do more than just hang there. Assistant Athletic Director Barb DeLeeuw said she believes the new banners will “improve that particular lobby, and hopefully will get the students to appreciate the fact that we do have athletics and encourage students to participate, both in the clubs and the varsity programs.” While four of the original six banners in representation of the Physical Fitness and Wellness Department were temporarily removed, fitness oriented classes cannot be forgotten.
The intent of the banners, according to Department Chair Jeff McCarty, was to outline the programs of the department. “The idea behind it was to help people realize what we offer in terms of sports and athletic type classes,” McCarty said. “We have close to 25 different (programs). Many students don’t know we have a pool.” For those who don’t know, LCC has a 25-yard, six-lane pool with a onemeter diving board. It is located on the first floor of the Gannon Building. It is open Monday through Friday, from noon to 2 p.m. Admission is free with a StarCard. On the weekend, it only costs a $1 and students can bring family members. DeLeeuw and McCarty said credit for the banners goes to a number of LCC staff, including part-time administrators Tiller Landick and Linda Koning for their efforts to hang the banners, as well as photographers Kevin Fowler and Michael Caterina, who took most of the images.
Photo by Michael Caterina
Hangin’ out: Ten new banners on the third floor of the Gannon Building showcase LCC’s varsity sports and fitness programs. The banners were hung to promote the activities and add aesthetic appeal to the seating area in front of the gym.
10 OPINION
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Existentialism gives me goosebumps — Everyone should read George Orwell—
I have always laughed at conversations brought about through the medium intoxication never fails to supply. From cigarettes lit the wrong way by underage females, well over any state’s legal limit, to my own idiotic blunder, thrashing Hemingway’s “unique,” and frankly undemanding, style. That being said, I choose to leave meaning in, and more so than to merely imply via simple nouns and clichés. And this is precisely what I plan to do through my newfound journalistic medium. My mind’s various occupations bleed with an unending supply of topics for consideration. For instance, I have found as a new, yet surprisingly seasoned member of the “real world,” that the true application of high school algebra, is its practice in my growing rationale and
reasoning skill sets. I understand the ferocious importance of the mind’s freeness, how relative it is to have every individual become the victim of mass self expression. Perhaps this is why I am known to throw out a slanderous sentence or two, trash authority and deny its applicability to my life. I suppose that the only true goal and dream I have both, for myself, and my generation at large, is for all of us to grow as intellectual and expressive individuals; for there to be an unending amount of care which, I feel is there yet, remains unrecognizable due to our social upbringing. I feel that we are stuck in a slump;
— Fully Flippin’ it—
Another year lookin’ out My very first column! I guess I should introduce myself, huh? I am Michael Caterina. I am the returning photo editor of The Lookout. I finished the photography program here at LCC in May but I still felt like I had one more year to dedicate to this wonderful campus. Not really, I just need a science credit! But I figure I should make the best out the situation and work on a graphic design certificate of achievement while I’m here. I have to say I am actually very excited to work at The Lookout again. Last year went
by in a blur as I learned the ropes of photographing LCC. With a year of experience I feel like I am ready to “do work” and make some great images this year. Along with the photos I will be splitting the page designing duties with our brand
new associate editor, Kaitlin Lutz. Last year’s editor/designer, Rachel Harper, left us some big shoes to fill, but I figure our four feet can trace her footsteps without tripping too much. Speaking of shoes to fill, The Lookout has six new staff members this year. I am eager to see what a brand new editorial staff will bring to our bi-weekly paper. So keep your eyes on the newsstand, get ready for some tweets, and hook up with our Flickr photo stream because The Lookout is going to be dope-tastic this year. Fa-LIP!
— The Collected Klutz —
Finding my footing First and foremost I feel I should let you know that I am a klutz. No, really. When you put the first letter of my first name in front of my last name you get “klutz.” Anyway I am the new associate editor of The Lookout staff and, am very excited to fulfill my life-long aspirations of becoming the next Rory Gilmore from “Gilmore Girls.” I have to admit being a freshman on campus can be a tad frightening and I’ve got to say it feels kind of weird to go from being an upperclassman in high school back to a lowly freshman. Now instead of feeling like I know everything, I feel a bit unsure. I don’t know where
the cool places to hang out are or what teachers to avoid. I don’t know where all the good parking spots are or the quiet areas for studying. I remember now what it felt like walking into a high school where, I didn’t know anybody. I mean, I even feel guilty that I ever made fun of freshmen. They can’t help it. As I walked around campus mapping out my schedule I tried to look “collected,” like I owned the place, but I would have been completely lost had it not been for the signs every other step I took telling me that room 108 of the Gannon Building was on the first floor, not the third. And by the way, what floor is actually the first floor? It
seemed like every door into the building put me on a different floor. The act of me looking at a sign to tell me where to go made it known that I was new around here without having to say a single word, and that to me was letting go of being collected and allowing people to know that I didn’t have it all together. I don’t know everything and that’s OK. I’m just a klutz trying to keep herself collected.
both intellectually and expressively. I’m sick of having the thinking done for me, and yet not for me. The remedy to this feeling of apathy, ever present in our republic driven society, is actually quite simple and easy to grasp. Though it is much harder to enact on such a large scale, if each individual were to set aside goals for their personal character, self-accountability would become ever-present. It is this self accountability that I believe our society lacks considerably. It is this same principle that I strongly believe would help reorder our society in a way that people would feel much more engaged and important in.
By separating our past mistakes from future occurrences, we transcend our past by not living as a reaction to it! I believe our elementary teachers called it thinking “outside of the box.” I would enjoy a society however, where the box is so insignificant as to have no determination in the assessment of our ideals and our personal character. Although the plight of our social state seems to be one held with passionate regard by nearly everyone, it truly has a rather simple remedy: an intense effort led by self reliance and perseverance. May we all begin to grow our individual selves into a more conducive group of “selves.” Thereby structurally inducing society, as opposed to the societal structure determining just what type of self we are.
Letter to the Editor
Thanks goes to Books and Beats supporters
Thank you to everyone who came out and celebrated the start of the school year during Gibsons Books and Beats Wednesday September 1st at the outdoor ampitheater. Thanks to Gibsons Books & Beans for sponsoring. Thanks to the bands; Cloud Magic, Atrium and Philthy. A big Thanks goes out to the technical crew for set up, and those who ran sound and worked to stream the show live at lcc.edu/tv. The staff at LCC Radio 89.7 HD1
11OPINION
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
2010 - 2011 Lookout Staff Meet
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Sarah Sanders, Editor in Chief Hometown: Eaton Rapids Hobbies: Reading, writing and chain smoking. Weird Quirks: Proud owner of three frisky felines.
Sarah Editor Associate , tz u L n Kaitli Ledge n: Grand Hometow ying guitar, draw : Pla . ls ir G Hobbies re o hing Gilm like the ing, watc n’t o d I : s k uir , like Weird Q and fruit s le b ta e g e v skin on ples. rs and ap cucumbe
Michael Dominick Mastrangelo, News Editor Hometown: Utica, New York Hobbies: Music and pro sports. Keeping up with the news is fun too. Pet Peeves: I really don’t like bad writing. If it can’t hold my attention, I’d rather stare at the wall.
Lee Nat h Hom an Wil s Hob etown on, Sta : ff b L exer ies: W ansin Write g r ritin cisin arts , list g, prac g nove ls, ticin enin Wei r g g belt d Quir to hea marti al ks in ta v ekw : I hav y meta eab l. ond o. lack
Zach nen, Kelly Lehto anager M g n si ti Adver Okemos : n w o et m Ho design, otography, h P Hobbies: d sewing. art, music an I’m clumsy; ks: Weird Quir . sy really clum
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Kaitlin Pho t Hom o Edito r Hob etown: b L i e s: Ro ansing with ing the mu llin’ aro n frien ew peo sic bum und tow p flipp ds, wea ple, chil in’, me n ring lin’ w etWer in’ it. c razy i i sung th “Flip d Quirk lasse ” far s: Sa s, ying too ofte the w n. ord
In our own words | Staff Editorial
Welcome back!
A new year begins at LCC, and The Lookout has gained many new staff members. Each of us hopes to bring something unique and exciting to the newspaper as we get situated. Our goal is to bring a new perspective that holds our readers’ interest and educates them. We hope to create a more visually interesting newspaper. Our staff is committed to reporting facts about relevant issues at LCC. As more people turn to the Internet for news, we will step up our efforts to hook your in-
terest in The Lookout. We look forward to this challenge and we are motivated to bring you the best possible source for LCC news. We will gradually be upgrading our website ( w w w. l c c . e d u / l o o k o u t ) and we are glad to continue as a printed newspaper. If you are interested in submitting stories or photos, do not hesitate to contact The Lookout at 483-1288. We are located in room 208 of the SPS Building on LCC’s main campus. We welcome any feedback you would like to share with us.
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Dominick Editor Lee Rumler, A&E e sli Le n: Hometow Dungeons & Hobbies: Parkour, t of Being. Ar the d an s, Dragon en people wh it te Pet Peeves: I ha r, ma am gr er op pr e don’t us in ing ell sp d capitalization an s. ge ssa text me
Nathan Zach Bellingar, Sports Editor Hometown: St. Johns Hobbies: Misspelling names, bringin’ home the bacon and devouring it. Pet Peeves: Sweatin’ the small stuff.
Policies: All letters should be 400 words or less and signed with a name, address (email or otherwise) and phone number. The Lookout reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, spelling, length and clarity. Mail: 1000 – The Lookout Lansing Community College P.O. box 40010 Lansing, MI 489401-7210 Email: Thelookoutstaff@gmail.com Fax: (517) 483-1290 The Lookout is the independent, biweekly student newspaper of Lansing Community College. All opinion/editorial articles are the sole opinion of the writer and may not reflect the views of the staff, students, faculty and college as a whole. Opinion/editorial articles may or may not be located exclusively on editorial pages and may appear on news, sports and arts & entertainment pages. - The Lookout Staff
Classified Advertising
Kelly Larry Hook , Hometown Adviser : sing; I now Originally from Lanliv Hobbies: C e in Leslie. ol chines, base lecting pinball maba Softball, bask ll cards and antiques. Pet Peeves: etball and bowling. R spell names eporters who do not correctly.
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12 LAST LOOK
Sept. 6-19, 2010 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Festival marks 16 years of success By Michael Caterina Photo Editor LCC’s downtown campus was filled with island festivities Aug. 28 during the 16th annual Caribbean Festival. According to Caribbean Festival Consultant/ Producer Denise Harris, there were approximately 20,000 guests at the festival this year. Visitors enjoyed a variety of music from the bands Trinidad Tripoli, Mocko Jombi, Universal Expressions, Fyah Wyah and Glen Ricketts and the Universal Roots Band The musical array was paired with a food selection including Jamaican jerk chicken, curry chicken and Cuban sandwiches. Vendors lined the walkways of campus selling jewelry, clothes and perfumes, all with an island
flare. A children’s activity tent brought face painting, arts and crafts, balloon animals and real animals from Potter Park Zoo. Performing three times during the festival, the Zulu Connection brought its towering stilt dancers and island drumming to campus. The 12-hour festival is put on each year by LCC’s Student Life and Leadership Department as a part of the welcome week kickoff for fall semester. Student involvement is a key part of the success of the festival, Harris said. “The best way for students to get involved in future Caribbean Festivals is to join our volunteer squad,” Harris said. “We couldn’t do this festival without the support of our student and community volunteers.”
Tapping time: Imani, 6, Amadi, 5, and Dneya, 7, keep the beat on a drum at the Caribbean Festival.
Island grooves: Zulu connection drummers and stilt dancers dazzle guests while interacting during the 16th annual Caribbean Festival Aug. 28. The Zulu connection has been a part of the festival for the past 11 years.
Clown creations: Antwon, 11 (right), gets his face painted by a clown in the children’s activities tent. Tall talent: A Zulu Connection stilt dancer towers over guests during the Caribbean Festival Aug. 28 on LCC’s downtown campus.
Smooth dance moves: Andrzei and Ewa Kardaszynska show their skills on the dance floor as Mocko Jombi fills the air with Latin dance music.
Photostory by Michael Caterina