Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Volume 59, Issue 9
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017
H C A O C red o n Ho LCC Men’s Basketball Coach Mike Ingram will be inducted into the National Junior College Athletic Association Hall of Fame on April 29 in Las Vegas. For more, see the Q&A with Coach Ingram on page 9.
StarZone makes life easier for LCC students
Climate change to be examined starting Jan. 23
Streaking Stars roll to sixth straight victory
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2|News
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
StarZone helps students succeed By Haneen Hammad Staff Writer The StarZone is a great place for students to receive any information or services they are looking for at LCC. The StarZone is located in the Gannon Building on the second floor. Services at the StarZone include new student admissions, testing services, academic advising, campus life, campus tours, career & employment services, counseling and financial aid. "The StarZone is a hub for student information," said Zach Barclay, interim associate dean for student affairs. "The StarZone can serve as a general stop for students that need help with anything, our employees are well certified and willing to help." He said the front desk is occupied with friendly student employees who will navigate students to different places on campus. All of the employees are very familiar with all the services provided at LCC, Barclay added. In addition, any student needing to obtain or replace a StarCard can now go to the StarZone instead of to the police department, which handled those chores in the past.
“what do you think is most helpful about the starzone?” SPECTIVES
ER CAMPUS P
"The people here are always willing to help." Sean Nastase, 19, General Studies
"The people ... they're helpful and they are very nice." Destinee Stuard, 19, Communications Photo by Nick Thompson
LCC employees assist students with issues such as class registration and financial aid in the StarZone, located in the Gannon Building, on Wednesday, Jan. 19.
Ayne Jeilani, a student at LCC, said the StarZone serves her well. “The StarZone has helped me many times, with payments and questions that I needed answered,” Jeilani said. “It is a great
"The StarZone attempts to conglomerate student necessities in one place. In this respect it is successful."
tool they provide here at LCC.” StarZone hours for spring semester are: Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Friday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. It is closed on weekends.
Aura Fluere, 22, DMAC
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3|News
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC selected for national study By Aaron Wilton Associate Editor Lansing Community College was selected, along with 50 other postsecondary institutions across the U.S., to participate in an experimental project to help students understand student loans and make more informed decisions about debt. The project is called the Loan Counseling Experiment and is run through the Department of Education’s Experimental Sites Initiatives. This project will study the effectiveness of providing additional loan counseling to student borrowers beyond the standard entrance and exit counseling. LCC Chief Financial Officer Donald Wilske said in a press release that LCC is proud to be selected to participate. “We’re keenly aware of the importance of offering financial literacy opportunities, and are committed to ensuring each student has the resources they need to understand their options and obligations when it comes to student loans,” Wilske said. Wilske added the additional counseling will help strengthen LCC’s financial literacy efforts that include default prevention services, partnerships with local financial institutions, etc. Josh Babin, an LCC transfer studies student, gave his insights on the national study. “I think it is a step in the right direction
NEWS
Apply for child care assistance at LCC The deadline for LCC students to apply for child care awards for the spring semester, through the Women’s Resource/Returning Adult Program, is Wednesday, Feb. 1. In order to be eligible for this award, students must meet income guidelines and other eligibility criteria. This award will help defray the cost of child care with any licensed child care provider. Students who are interested in receiving assistance with child care expenses should submit an application with all required documentation by the deadline. Call (517) 4831199 for more information. Dogsleds, skiing offered in Okemos
Photo by Nick Thompson
The Lansing Communtiy College main campus as seen from Grand Avenue on Jan. 14.
and has been a long time coming,” Babin said. “There are a lot of people who take out loans … not knowing full well what they’re getting themselves into despite entry counseling.” Babin said he is hopeful the experimental project will bring change in the mindset of first-year college students in regards
to financial responsibility. “Hopefully they’ll benefit from this little experiment and after they tweak it, and make it better, it will become a thing that everybody does,” he said. For more information, visit www.lcc.edu/ news/2016/121916educationnationalstudy. aspx/
Black History Month events scheduled Idman Gabayre Staff Writer The LCC community is celebrating Black History Month by hosting several informative events around campus in February. The national theme of the 2017 Black History Month is “The Crisis in Black Education.” “We have different events that will support the national theme,” said Robin Moore, the chair of the Black History Month. “For example, today (Wednesday, Jan. 18) we’re hosting a learning lab for our students that will teach them how to interpret or how to read a historical document.” Several classes recently attended the first informative event regarding Black History Month. “We have several classes that have participated,” Moore said. “They are
IN BRIEF
learning how to read the “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” from Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. “This is a way that it would benefit the students; they are learning how to read historical documents.” There will be several events throughout the month. The introduction to Dr. Cornell West will be held in the TLC library on the Tuesday, Feb. 7 from 2 to 4 p.m. This will be a discussion about the philosophy of West, and also a great opportunity for the students and community members to learn about one of the African-American philosophers, Moore said. A unique part of these events is the involvement of community members and scholars who are willing to share and spread their knowledge to the students. Another event will be held pertain-
ing to Black History will take place Feb. 20 from 4 to 6 p.m. in Gannon Building room 244, and again on Feb. 21 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the TLC Library. “We have a visiting scholar coming in,” Moore said. “Sarah Silkey will do a presentation on Ida B. Wells. The title of the presentation is ‘Why the History of Black Lives Matter.’ We will explore how Ida B. Wells relates to the Black Lives Matter movement.” Moore encouraged everyone to become engaged and participate in these events. “We’ve got a lot of wonderful events that will educate, but yet celebrate African-Americans and their contributions to the United States,” Moore said. “So come, come. Enjoy and celebrate Black History Month with us.” For a complete list of Black History Month events, go to www.lcc.edu/
Dog sledding and cross country skiing will be the focus of an upcoming event at the Harris Nature Center in Meridian Township. The center is located at 3998 Van Atta Road. This event is scheduled for Saturday, Jan. 28 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will go on as scheduled, regardless of weather or lack of snow. Dogsled demonstrations, kids’ activities, winter hiking, cross country skis and snowshoes will all be available at the event. For more information, call (517) 349-3866. ‘Cardboard Classic’ slides into Lansing The 11th annual Cardboard Classic sled building competition is coming to Gier Community Center in Lansing on Saturday, Jan. 28. Sled registration begins at 1 p.m. The event is presented by the LCC Radio, 89.7FM and the Lansing Parks & Recreation Department. Sled entrees will require a $5 fee to benefit Lansing’s community radio station and the Gier Advisory Board Youth Fund. For more info visit www.lcc.edu/ calendar/event_view.asp/ First LCC board meeting for 2017 set The LCC Board of Trustees is holding an organizational meeting on Monday, Jan. 23 at 6 p.m. Board meetings are held in the Board Room of the Administration Building on LCC’s main campus. For more details, call the Board of Trustees’ office at (517) 483-5252.
4|News
Jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Paper, advertisers help Salvation Army By Larry Hook The Lookout Adviser The Lookout, LCC’s twice-a-month student newspaper, raised $300 for the Capital Area Salvation Army with a special full-page advertisement featuring 12 local business. The ad appeared in the Dec. 5 edition of the paper. Each of 12 local advertisers paid $50 for ad space in The Lookout. Half of the proceeds from the ads was donated, by staff members from The Lookout, to the Salvation Army on Wednesday, Dec. 14 at the organization’s local headquarters on Pennsylvania Street in Lansing. The $300 was set aside by the Salvation Army to purchase personal-needs items for area low-income families, according to Brooke Barrett, social services director for the Capital Area Salvation Army. “When a family goes through a financial crisis, often they go without everyday basic needs, such as toilet paper, soap and feminine hygiene products,” Barrett explained. “Every 30 days every adult in the household may receive a personal-needs bag with about a dozen hygiene items from the Salvation Army.”
Photo by Larry Hook
The Lookout Editor in Chief Aaron Emerson (from left) and Associate Editor Aaron Wilton present a check for $300 to Capital Area Salvation Army Social Services Director Brooke Barrett and Outreach Coordinator Jeff Prisner on Dec. 14. The funds were raised through advertising sold by The Lookout staff.
Jeff Prisner, outreach coordinator for the Salvation Army, said the $300 donated by The Lookout can go a long way toward assisting local families during the holiday season, and throughout the year.
“Around 400 people will get personal-needs items from this $300,” Prisner said. “We really appreciate The Lookout organizing this fundraiser, and all the advertisers who participated.
“These donations have helped to spread Christmas cheer around the holiday season by helping needy people who otherwise would not have received help.” The Salvation Army is best known for its volunteer bell ringers who collect funds to assist the needy during the holiday season. But there is much more to the organization, according to the organization’s mission statement: “The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.” The Lookout staff is grateful to the following businesses for their participation in this project: Kewpee Restaurant, Pablo’s Old Town, The Peanut Shop, Gibson’s Bookstore, Lansing Auto Connection, ChouPli Wood-Fired Kabob, Insty Prints, EJ’s Alignment, Sir Pizza, and Volunteers of America, all of Lansing; Art Unlimited in Okemos; and New Life Fellowship Church in Leslie.
LCC students help create Malcolm X mural By Aaron Emerson Editor in Chief With race relations and equality on the minds of many across the U.S. recently, LCC students decided to use art to honor a civil rights legend. Fifteen students from LCC instructor Aliza Robison’s sociology classes teamed up with the REACH Studio Art Center to meet with 10 high school students. Robison’s students led discussions on civil rights, social inequality and Malcolm X. They then teamed up to make a lifesized Malcolm X mural, which is made out of tiles with words that highlight his life. The artwork also features a casting of a hand so visitors can shake his hand. The mural was unveiled Dec. 8 in the LCC Library, where several students spoke about what they learned. The high school students were part of REACH’s Teen Open Studio. REACH, located in REO Town, collaborated with LCC’s Centre for Engaged Inclusion to start the process. “With all of the things happening in our
Photo by Aaron Emerson
The recently-created Malcolm X mural is currently on display in the TLC Library on LCC’s main campus.
country with race, we thought Malcolm X would be a good person to feature and discuss,” said Joy Baldwin, REACH’s program director. Baldwin said the students discussed Malcolm X for a couple of weeks, then spent roughly six weeks making the artwork. “Each person just put their own message on to their tile, whether it was ‘peace,’ ‘equality,’ ‘love’ or whatever they wanted,” Baldwin said. Tahsha Hardeman, an LCC student who attended the unveiling, said it was a special occasion. “Thirty or 40 years ago, this wouldn’t have happened,” Hardeman said. “So to be able to take part in it is amazing.” She also talked about what Malcolm X stood for. “He was just a powerful person, “Hardeman said. “He was very compassionate, very strong minded and organized,” The artwork will be in the LCC Library in the TLC Building through February. It will then be transferred permanently to Shabazz Public School Academy in Lansing.
5|News
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Clock project on hold for now By Aaron Wilton Associate Editor LCC’s main campus has been encompassed in construction projects, landscaping changes and beautification installations over the past two years. In early 2017, students, staff and faculty can expect more of the same. The clock tower project, which was hoped to be complete before the snow flew, is on hold until spring.
TLCC Executive Office Project Coordinator Tonya Vandermeer spoke about the projects on campus. “We’re really not on a delay … the weather is just prohibiting the workers from working,” Vandermeer said of the clock tower project. “So, as soon as spring hits they’re back at it. It just costs more (to work through winter). There’s more involved and we’re trying to be as economical as pos-
sible,” she said. Vandermeer added the project is on track to be completed around midsummer. Other ongoing projects on campus include the wayfinding mini tower that will be located near the LCC seal on the Washington Square Mall; new lockers being installed on the second floor of the Gannon Building; and a mysterious new project near the outdoor theater.
Photo by Nick Thompson
Though originally intended to be done by the beginning of the winter, the clock tower project has been delayed due to winter weather and the ventilation tower still stands.
Group rallies to ‘Make Lansing a Sanctuary Again’ By Nicole Cade Lead Paginator BAMN! “By Any Means Necessary” is an organization that started in 1995 in California and has made its way to Lansing. On Jan. 9, a BAMN rally was held at the Lansing City Council building for the Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) youth who live in Lansing. This was a program started by President Barack Obama in 2012 to give rights and protection from deportation to undocumented people. Those rights are renewable every two years. Specifically this BAMN rally was to urge the Lansing City Council to make Lansing a sanctuary city. The rally was titled “Make Lansing a Sanctuary Again.” Gregory De Vries, a part of the protest group and a resident of the Lansing area,
said this was a very important rally to him. He said he was an illegal immigrant who just recently acquired his citizenship. “I empathize with these young people because, even if they are here under different legal circumstances … they are no different than I am when it comes down to it,” De Vries said. “Unfortunately they stand to lose everything if nothing is done for them. I can't sit by thinking that so many people could be condemned to being sent somewhere they really don't belong, and are only connected to because of their parents.” There will be another BAMN rally at the Lansing City Council building on Monday, Jan. 30 when the council makes its decision on whether or not to make Lansing a sanctuary city. For more information visit www. bamn.com/
Photos by Nick Thompson
Caroline Wong (left), leader of the Detroit BAMN chapter, makes posters for the rally at Lansing City Council. Below, Seth Kalis, leader of the BAMN Lansing chapter, chants with other rally members.
6|features
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Students show off portfolios in Gannon By Hannah Anderson A&E Editor After an entire semester of working on projects and refining old work, creative students brought all of it together to display for the portfolio showcase on Thursday, Dec. 8. As part of the Arts 269 portfolio class taught by Susie Antcliff, the work was displayed in the Gannon commons. The showcase was from 5 to 8 p.m. Friends, family and future employers attended to support the students. The class is for students who are preparing to graduate, and the showcase is a sort of capstone project, according to Antcliff. She said the showcase is a recurring event with a pretty good turnout, which helps students toward their professional goals. “What’s great about this class is that the students are able to finalize their work and put together a portfolio that they can use for multiple things,” Antcliff said. “They take what they’ve got here to their job interviews … or they
LCC Star
Photo by Hannah Anderson
Heather Thielking shows off her work from her line "Thielking Creative” as part of the portfolio showcase at LCC on Dec. 8
can get scholarships based on portfolios they’ve already established.” Students from graphic design, web de-
sign, animation and multimedia majors participate in the event. Christi Lopez, a student in the port-
- Alumnus Spotlight -
folio class, said she’s been working on a résumé, cover letters, an online portfolio and business cards throughout the semester. She said the class and the instructors were really helpful for her goals and getting her ready for future employment. “I really wanted to walk out of LCC with a really polished final product that I can take to potential employers,” Lopez said. “This class really helped me weed through the classwork that I’ve done through all of the years.” Dalton Twychell, another student in the class working with web design, said the course is fun and beneficial. “It’s been a blast, working with everyone in the class – everyone’s helpful.” Twychell said. “I would highly recommend the course for anything you do. Either programming, art design, fine art design, anything that deals with 3D … It really helps.” For more information on the portfolio class or the art, design and multimedia program, call Susie Antcliff at (517) 4835256.
LCC Star
From LCC, to state career, to mayor of Mason By Aaron Emerson Editor in Chief LCC has launched countless careers and pathways to success. Sometimes, however, it provides the spark that helps ignite someone’s passion to serve the community. That is definitely the case for Mike Waltz. Waltz got his start at LCC in 1979 and graduated from the college in 1983. He went on to work for the state of Michigan for many years while also serving the public for decades, eventually becoming the mayor of Mason. While studying and graduating from LCC with a degree in Electronics Technology Communication, Waltz developed a specialty in two-way radio repair. Right out of college, he landed a job repairing radios, stereos and televisions with a Mason company. He said his education at LCC helped him to jump into the emerging technology industry right away.
Courtesy photo
Mike Waltz, seen here representing the state of Michigan at a national wireless convention inside M&T Bank Stadium in Baltimore in 2012, graduated from LCC in 1983.
“At LCC, we were encouraged to bring in things to fix in the labs,” Waltz said. “It was a hands-on experience that helped me in my career right away.” From there, Waltz took a job at Dart Container in Mason as an electronics engineering technician. That lasted a
year and a half, until his dream job came calling. “My dream was always to work with the state of Michigan with twoway radios,” Waltz said. That dream became a reality and he developed a lengthy career with the state. He started out working in the Department of State Police. After the state created the Department of Technology Management and Budget, he started working there. Working with the state, Waltz had many job titles and responsibilities. Over the span of 28 years, some of his duties included keeping 911 call centers up and running, writing programming for state police radios, overseeing mobile computing in patrol cars and connecting those cars to state networks. Waltz said if it wasn’t for LCC, he wouldn’t have been able to have such an important job. “LCC was instrumental in prepar-
ing me for real world employment and for a career in my chosen field,” Waltz said. “What they prepared me for was what I actually encountered on the job.” Waltz jumped into civil service in the 1980s. Serving on many boards and commissions in Mason, he worked his way up to being voted in as a Mason City Councilman in 2007. He was mayor pro-tem from 2011 to 2012 and was chosen as the mayor for the 2015-16 term. Mason City Councilwoman Rita Vogel had great things to say about Waltz. “The Waltz family has been in Mason since its founding,” Vogel said. “The legacy of their contributions is felt even today. He has been a dedicated public servant on council, as mayor and on other boards and commissions.” Waltz is currently living in retirement while still serving on the Mason City Council.
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jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
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8|sports
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Women stumble in fourth By Brodee Gillam Sports Editor The women’s basketball Stars fell on the road to the Lake Michigan College Red Hawks, 72-67, on Jan. 18. The loss dropped the Stars’ record to 8-7 overall, and to 2-3 in January. Lake Michigan College’s freshman guard Hailey Maas was the main thorn in the Stars’ side, scoring 34 points and making 16 of 18 free throws. LCC Head Coach Ervin Brunson said her ability to drive was the key to her success against the Stars’ defense. “She got to the (paint),” Brunson said. “She was able to convert some threes in the second half that ignited them against us.” Freshman Kelsey Finch kept the Stars close though, with 25 points of her own. Freshman Sarah Schultz chipped in 14 points and eight rebounds for LCC. Brunson said the offensive focus on Finch was based on her matchup. “We try to mix it up; change things around based on talent level and who
we play,” Brunson said. “That particular night I tried to emphasize certain things … but when you have young players sometimes they see things different, so it’s a learning process.” LCC sophomore Chasity Potter, who contributed nine rebounds, said the team needs to stay away from foul trouble to be better on the defensive end. “That’s been a big problem in all of our games,” Potter said. “Therefore we can’t play the defense we want to play. We really want to be playing a man defense but (because of foul trouble) we’ve been playing a zone, and that really affects us.” LCC still forced the Red Hawks to turn the ball over 21 times. “We were playing them in a man (defense) until we got in foul trouble, and that pressure when there isn’t that many good ball handlers really kills teams,” Potter said. The Stars were scheduled to play at home on Saturday Jan. 21 against Ancilla College.
Photo by Nick Thompson
Sophomore forward Isaiah Green wins the tipoff at the beginning of a game against Glen Oak’s Gabe Strugis, Jan. 14 in the Gannon Building Gym at LCC.
Defense sparks men
Photo by Nick Thompson
LCC Freshman forward Khadajah Williams makes a two-point shot over Jazmin Blue from Glen Oaks Jan. 14. The LCC women’s basketball team went on to win the game, 80-35.
By Brodee Gillam Sports Editor Grit ‘n’ Grind. That Memphis Grizzlies mantra now is starting to apply to the LCC men’s basketball Stars after the Jan. 18, 98-92 road win against Lake Michigan College. This was LCC’s sixth victory in a row, with the team averaging 96 points a game and outscoring opponents by an average of 11.5 points during this stretch. The 16th-ranked Stars rotation is piecing itself back together over the last few games after losing three players to academic ineligibility after the fall semester. With players like freshman Brandon Dingman and sophomore Claude Finley stepping up over the past few games, Head Coach Mike Ingram said he feels confident with this roster moving forward. “We’re playing better. We weren’t playing that good when those guys
were here, for whatever reason,” Ingram said. “I think we’re playing a lot better, we’re playing more together; we’re playing more fundamental; we’re playing more skilled.” Finley scored 15 points against the Red Hawks. He averaged 14 points a game in his last six starts, including a 28-point outburst against Jackson College on Jan. 4. He echoed Ingram, saying the team is clicking because of its unity. “I think we have been playing so well because we have been playing as a team; unselfish and playing together,” Finley said. “Defense is the main thing. Defense turns over to offense; gets to easy fast breaks.” Dingman has been another component in recent wins, scoring 54 points over the last three contests. The Stars were scheduled to play at home on Saturday Jan. 21 against Ancilla College. The team is 12-3 through Jan. 18.
9|sports
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Michigan sports lead fans into winter blues With snow and frigid temperatures looming over Michiganders, the Red Wings, among other Michigan sports teams, usually provide a distraction or outlet for excitement. This year, no Detroit team is providing any sort of mood booster. The Red Wings were in last place in the Atlantic Division as of Jan. 12, and are looking like they will miss the playoffs for the first time in 26 seasons. The 1989-90 season was the last time they missed the playoffs, and also the last time they finished in the bottom of their division. The offense looks less like offense and more like “keep the other team away from the puck.” Most of the Wings’ losses end with the team only managing one goal.
brodee gillam sports editor
gillamb@lcc.edu
After making the playoffs last season, the Pistons looked very hopeful to contend for a top-five seed in the weak Eastern Conference. Though the team is playing better than in recent years, they are still only fighting for the eighth seed and have left fans disappointed with its inconsistency. Starting point guard Reggie Jackson returned from injury in December,
giving fans a hopeful thought the play was bound to improve. However the team has stayed mediocre or even regressed since his return. College basketball in the state of Michigan has not been a bright spot either. With Michigan State losing five out of the first 14 non-conference games, the team went from 13th-ranked in the AP poll to unranked in the first few weeks of the season. Michigan basketball is doing even worse, dropping three of its first four Big Ten games and struggling on the road all year. Even the teams now in the offseason are in disarray. Referees ensured the Lions were not making it into the second round, and
it is hard to see them becoming a top team in the NFL right now. Without precise player development and drafting or making a big free-agent splash, this team looks built to fight for a fifth or sixth seed for another couple of years and fall apart once again. Miguel Cabrera and the Tigers look to be the same team heading into next season after the biggest signing in the offseason so far being Alex Avila. Without a trade or an insertion of young talent, the Tigers looks to be a slow, power-hitting offense that will need great pitching to keep the games close. As winter drags on, let’s hope at least one or two of our local teams can inject some much-needed excitement and energy to the sports scene.
COACH’S SPOTLIGHT
Ingram to be enshrined into Hall Of Fame
Q&A
The Lookout Sports Editor Brodee Gillam recently spoke with LCC Men’s Basketball Coach Mike Ingram. The LCC and CMU alum was recently named a 2017 inductee for the National Junior College Athletic Association Hall of Fame. He has spent nearly 30 years coaching at LCC and also was a standout player for the Stars while he was a student. Why did you begin playing basketball? “We played everything when we were young. Playgrounds were really big at that time so we did it all, and we did it all every day during the summer. We played baseball in the morning, football in the afternoon and basketball and horseshoes, you name it. … Basketball just became the sport that I kind of fell in love with.” How did you react to hearing the news that you were inducted into the NJCAA Hall of Fame? “I was stunned, there was no doubt about it. I was speechless. I was coming back from a game with a friend. I would even say I was a little emotional for a minute; it was hard to talk. They didn’t want me to tell anybody. I was with Terry (Harris), my longtime assistant … I did tell him because we were togeth-
er and we’ve been want to coach at such good friends LCC after being a for such a long time. player and going Then we rode in sito CMU? lence for about 10 to “I always had (a) 15 minutes while I great relationship let it soak in.” with (former LCC Being involved Coach) Art Frank. in so many great I came back, got moments as a playmarried and I had er and a coach, some great jobs, but what is your most I don’t think they memorable mowere my destiny ment from LCC … And Art always MIKE INGRAM basketball? thought that I was “I have so many of them, but I think going to be a good coach one day, and I my favorite one was just being hired came in and was talking to him one day here as an assistant and then as the and next thing I know I was one of his head coach. … Growing up on the play- assistants.” grounds, you always have a playground What do you think has been the most director. There was always a person that essential factor to your success as head gave a lot to the kids, and then I found coach? myself in the situation of being able (to “I have always had great players. I be) someone similar. … So I would say came in with the idea that I was going just being hired here has always been a to make LCC a place to play for the big thing to me and it still is. I still feel kids from Lansing and I did that. … the same way 30 years later; 27 years lat- I’ve gotten a couple younger assistants er as the head coach, as I did when I first and, even Terry, have made me go with got the job. Nothing has changed, I still some kids outside of the city and it’s reenjoy this job as much as I did when I ally worked for us. … I’ve always had first took it.” great assistant coaches that believe in What made you come back and what I believe in. I think we’ve stayed
with the same things that we’ve done, and just tweaked them a little bit every year I’ve been here. We haven’t changed anything. It’s really funny with fans that have seen us play, they know all our plays. Even the other coaches know them. Even my players (will) be saying, ‘Coach they know what’s coming’ and I say, ‘Well everybody knows what’s coming, they still have to stop it.’ I take great joy in watching the fans when I call a play and the guys don’t run it right and you can look in the stands and see 15 to 16 people grab their head and put their hands in the air like ‘Don’t they know that play?’” What do you want the players to take away from their time here? “Having success helps them in the job market when they’re applying for jobs. I think when people see that they’ve been on a championship team, they know that here’s a guy who knows about a team environment; here’s someone who knows how to win; here’s somebody who knows how to work hard because you can’t be a champion without that. That is going to help them get jobs. Employers want people with great character and people that have been champions. Champions breed champions in the job world.”
10|arts and entertainment
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Bands compete at ‘Homegrown Throwdown’ By Hannah Anderson A&E Editor The lighting was dim and chatter from the crowd just barely rose over the steady rock music in the background. Fans of music and local bands stood around waiting for the competition to start. To them, it may have been just another show. But to the bands competing, it could be an opportunity to advance in the music industry. Week two of the “Homegrown Throwdown” took place on Friday evening, Jan. 13 at The Loft on Michigan Avenue in Lansing. The competition pits 24 bands against each other for a cash prize of $1000. There are a total of $3,500 worth of prizes, as well as a professional photo shoot and more. Six bands played a short set of songs for week two and were given feedback from a panel of judges right after the performances.
The competition spans over five nights with the finals happening Feb. 17. Jerome White, the creator of the event, said the competition has been full of energy so far and the turnout has been great. “Tonight, we’re expecting a capacity crowd before it’s all said and done,” White said Jan. 13. “Last week we had a great crowd for the first one. The atmosphere has been electric every night. “It’s more than just hearing your band play — it’s sharing in either your band’s success or their failure.” Richard Avers, a member of the crowd and supporter of local bands, also appreciated the energy of the event. “I like the ability of the crowd to come together during the shows,” Avers said, “whether it’s a big band or a small one.” The event has been going on for 14 years, and this is the eighth year at The Loft. For more information, call (517) 913-0103 or go to http://www.theloftlansing.com/throwdown/
Photo by Hannah Anderson
The band Tallon Weatherby performs at The Loft during the “Homegrown Throwdown” competition on Jan. 13. The judges said they liked that the band ended its performance right on time, which is rare.
Upcoming Women’s Expo to enlighten lives in Lansing By Aaron Emerson Editor in Chief If you are a female living in the Lansing area, there’s a good chance you have at least heard of the Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo. The expo, which showcases women’s fashion, fitness, health and more, is returning in February for its 17th year. To be held at the Lansing Center from Friday, Feb. 3 to Sunday, Feb. 5, the expo will feature many exhibits, services and seminars to inspire women of all ages. There will be 275 exhibits and seminars. The event is promoted by Grand Rapids-based Kohler Expos, which produces six different consumer events each year.
Courtesy photo
A salon employee applies makeup at the 2013 Expo.
Pam Glass, who has worked with Kohler Expos for 17 years, recently purchased the company. This is in her first year leading the
Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo. “We want women of all ages to come out and enjoy a day out,” Glass said. “We will have anything that is geared toward women and their families, but mainly for women of all ages.” Exhibits and seminars at the expo will be centered on shopping, vacations, financing, cooking, health, fitness and more. McLaren Greater Lansing is sponsoring the event and will have over 20 booths at the expo. It will provide free health screenings and assessments. There will be two speakers at the event. Betty Huotari will be on hand two times Friday to talk about how to orga-
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nize cupboards and pantries. On Saturday, Martina Hahn will speak three times and demonstrate speed painting. “The show will be promoted to women of all ages, to spark them a little bit in their lifestyle and let them have a girls’ weekend away,” Glass said. The Lansing Center is located at 333 E. Michigan Ave. in downtown Lansing. On Friday, the expo will run from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Saturday, it will be held from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission at the door is $9 for adults and $7 for children ages 6 to 14. For more information, visit www.kohlerexpo.com/
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11|a & E
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Jazz kicks off Black History Month By Hannah Anderson A&E Editor The “Legendary Ladies of Jazz” concert will start the events for LCC’s Black History Month on Sunday, Jan. 29 at 4 p.m. The event is free, but donations are accepted. The concert will take place in Dart Auditorium. Ramona Collins, a singer originally from Lansing, will be singing for the faculty band in this event that celebrates jazz and female singers. Collins was invited to sing by Mike Daniels, a part-time instructor at LCC and a member of the faculty band. Collins, who lives in Ohio, said she is excited for the concert because it is always nice to come home to Lansing. “I think students should come not just because it’s Black History Month, but also to support jazz,” Collins said. “I think it’s good to widen your horizons.” Collins chose to sing in the concert because she liked the theme (“Legendary Ladies of Jazz”) and thought it would be an educational piece. Daniels agreed that students could learn something by attending. “(Students should come) not only from the entertainment aspect but even from the historical aspect,” Daniels said. “If they’re interested in the history of Black America, they should come check out the music scene from back then. African Americans have contributed so many things to their life.”
Arts and Entertainment
Loft hosts ‘Homegrown Throwdown’ The Homegrown Throwdown, a battle of the bands type performance, is progressing to week three of the event. Six rock bands will compete for a cash prize of $1,000 and additional prizes at The Loft on Michigan Avenue at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27. Tickets are $10 in advance or $12 at the door. The event is all ages. For more information, call (517) 913-0103 or visit http:// www.theloftlansing.com/
Art & Craft BeerFest takes REO Town
Courtesy photo
Ramona Collins, the singer for this performance of the faculty jazz band, grew up in Lansing.
Every member of the band is a professional musician. The band will perform songs by Ella Fitzgerald, Nina Simone, Diana Washington and more. Robin Moore, the chair of the Black History Month committee, said the concert will be a great time for attendees. “Who does not like music?” Moore asked. “I think it’ll be a great way to educate and introduce jazz to our students, and
they may even find an interest in looking more toward our music program. “It will give them an opportunity to hear the musicians that come out of LCC. Come and get involved, and celebrate Black History Month with us.” For more information, call Performing Arts Production Coordinator Melissa Kaplan at (517) 483-1488 or go to http://www. lcc.edu/cma/events/
Centre will examine climate change By Hannah Anderson A&E Editor Combining a variety of climate-change related events into one series, “Climate Change: Film, Fact, and Fantasy” is coming to The Centre for Engaged Inclusion and the Black Box Theatre (GB 168) for a week. It will start on Monday, Jan. 23 and run until Saturday, Jan. 28. Richard Monroe, who came up with the idea of the event, said he is excited about the opportunity for students to hear so much about the important issue in such a welcoming environment. “Climate change is a really important issue,” Monroe said. “I don’t think there could be a more important issue in my mind … Regardless of the conclusions people come to, it’s important to know the science behind it.”
IN BRIEF
The series will include a couple of films, opportunities to discuss the issue, and theatrical performances by LCC alumnus Scott Crandall. Meg Elias will lead the main talk Monday, Jan. 23 at noon. Crandall will allow time to discuss climate change and his performance on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at 4 p.m. Elias said she is excited to talk about scientific literacy during the event. “It's so difficult, sometimes, to tell the difference between scientific research and biased interpretation,” Elias said. “That is especially true, I think, when discussing issues surrounding climate change.” Crandall will perform his original piece, “Visions for the End of the World,” on Wednesday, Jan. 25 at 4
p.m., as well as on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 27 and 28, at 8 p.m. in the Black Box Theatre. He describes his performance as a poetic set of visions from a prophet that look at the end of the world from “a kind of emotional, imaginative standpoint.” Crandall added the theme of the series is important to think about and discuss. “I think a lot of people are scared about climate change and about collapse,” Crandall said. “Those (fears) are worth facing, acknowledging, and assessing; both for our own well-being and for our ability to come together as a society and face these challenges.” For more information, call Performing Arts Production Coordinator Melissa Kaplan at (517) 483-1488 or go to http://www.lcc.edu/cma/events/
A two-day event celebrating art and beer is coming to REO Town Friday, Jan. 27 from 6 to 10 p.m. and Saturday, Jan. 28 from 5 to 10 p.m. Participants will be able to view art displayed in four venues, listen to live music, enjoy samples of beer and wine at each venue and try food from the vendors. All the venues are on the same block, and by purchasing a ticket for $30 in advance participants gain access to each venue. For more information, go to http:// www.artandcraftbeerfest.com/index.php/
Old Town celebrates Valentine’s Day Fans of chocolate will be pleased to hear that a chocolate walk is coming to Old Town on Thursday, Feb. 9. To celebrate Valentine’s Day, the event will kick off at 3 p.m. and run until 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. For more information, call (517) 4854283 or visit http://iloveoldtown.org/events/ chocolate-walk/
‘Snow Queen’ casts spell on stage “The Snow Queen,” a fairytale by Hans Christian Andersen, is being performed at LCC Fridays and Saturdays, Feb. 17-25 and Sunday, Feb. 26. The play will start at 7 p.m. Fridays and 2 p.m. on Saturdays and Sunday. Tickets are $5 for students. The play will be performed in Dart Auditorium. For more information, call (517) 483-1488 or go to http:// www.lcc.edu/cma/events/
12|A & E
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
reviews
Mario runs smoothly onto app store By Aaron Wilton Associate Editor Over the holidays, “Super Mario Run” released on the app store. It quickly received thousands of downloads. The app gets people hooked by offering the first three levels for free. Players can then pay $10 to unlock the remaining 21 levels. “Super Mario Run” features two ways to play: “tour” and “rally.” Tour follows the classic journey to save Princess Peach. Rally mode pits player against player to gather coins and impress the Toads with Mario’s acrobatics. The winner of the Toad Rally adds the impressed Toads to his/her kingdom. Having a lot of Toads of each color (red, green, blue, yellow and purple) allows play-
Photo from flickr.com
ers to build more structures and decorations to fill in the kingdom. The kingdom was destroyed when Bowser attacked, so there is a lot of rebuilding to do. The two modes are nice because they give players an option. If I get tired of saving the eternal damsel in distress, I can take a break to focus on decorating my kingdom. Overall, the phone game is worth the free download to try the first three levels. The $10 price tag to extend the game is a little steep, but it is understandable when you consider that it is the first phone game to feature the jumping juggernaut, Mario. The game has also been promised for the Google Play store, but it does not yet have a release date.
Colorful flick ‘La La Land’ is fun, relatable By Hannah Anderson A&E Editor “La La Land” is a movie that brings whimsical dances, extravagant sets and original songs into two hours of comedy, romance and a quest to follow dreams. The first scene of the movie, full of gusto, shows a huge, flamboyant song and dance on a crowded highway. I had bought my ticket knowing full well that I was paying for a musical. However, upon seeing that first scene I almost looked at my ticket again and wondered, “What did I get myself into?” Surprisingly enough, however, the first dance number has little to do
Photo from flickr.com
with the rest of the movie. As the plot progressed, I enjoyed “La La Land” more and more. The musical tells the tale of two people, Mia (Emma Stone) and Se-
bastian (Ryan Gosling). In the process of chasing their seemingly unattainable dreams, they struggle to keep their love for each other and be part of each other’s lives. The characters are very relatable in their attempts to overcome the trials and monotony of life while reaching out to grasp their dreams; dreams that can seem so close and yet are so very far away. I found that it was easy to care about what happened to both of them immediately because they were so funny and real. While my favorite part about the mov-
ie was the characters, my favorite scene was when Mia and Sebastian first get to know each other at a party. It’s funny to see how they start out disliking each other when Mia asks Sebastian’s band to play a song that he hates as a joke. Like Mia and Sebastian’s relationship, I found myself liking the movie more with each scene, song and dance. The movie is funny and emotional. It whisks viewers away on a journey that is relatable to a lot of people in some way. I would recommend this movie to anyone with an open mind toward musicals who wants to see something different than traditional films these days.
‘For Crépe Sake’ serves French cuisine downtown Idman Gabayre Staff Writer For Crépe Sake café is located within walking distance from LCC at 221 S. Washington Ave. It opened in June of 2014 in the Lansing City Market and moved to downtown Lansing June 4, 2016. The owners are Deborah and Mark Owen. This café is open seven days a week. It is a great place for studying, working on group projects, or hav-
ing a peaceful and quiet conversation with others. It has a traditional atmosphere that is very friendly and welcoming to all. “This café is an American café steeped in French Tradition and it’s delightful, delicious and delectable,” according to co-owner Deborah Owen. The menu includes seven categories: savory crepes, sweet crepes, salad selections, breakfast size crepes,
quiche & croissants, smoothies and beverages. The prices range from approximately $1 to $8.50. “Our best seller is the Hunchback of Notre Dame,” Deborah Owen said. The “Hunchback” sells for $8 and includes turkey, bacon, avocado, spinach, Swiss cheese and red pesto. She said the Fraise smoothie is also a popular selection, as are the cappuccino and latte drinks. I ordered a pot of French Press cof-
fee, which I shared with my sister because it turned out to be two to-go cups for only $5. However, it was too bitter for me. Then I ordered a latte for $3.25, which I liked and recommend. What sparked my interest the most was that gluten free and vegan options are available at this café. For Crépe Sake is open Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.
13|distractions
Jan. 23 - FEB. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
This week’s Sudoku puzzle is sponsored by:
Hold your newspaper up to a mirror to get the answer to this week’s Sudoku puzzle:
14|opinion
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout — emerson’s insights —
College journalists should be applauded True journalism is often the glue that holds a society together. Without news, citizens cannot make informed decisions. However, many view journalism as a dying industry. Therefore, a lot of potential journalists are scared to spend thousands of dollars on an education for such a future. In 2016, job search website CareerCast. com ranked a newspaper reporter as the worst job in the country. It listed the annual median salary at just over $37,000 and stated the growth outlook to be minus-9 percent.
Aaron emerson editor in chief
emersoa@lcc.edu
When I think about the future of the news business, I am always reminded how much passion most student journalists have for
their career choice. As a college journalist myself, I know how frightening it can be to think about the future when publications are constantly saying my career is dying. However, news is needed, and a new generation of reporters are needed with it. Student reporters are obviously the future of news, and they should be encouraged. Most people who get into reporting don’t do it for the money. It is usually pure passion for writing or wanting to make a differ-
ence. For me, it is both. It is always rewarding to know that a story I have written has made even a slight difference in someone’s life. I am certain every other writer feels the same. Whether or not journalism is heading downhill, it has to be kept alive somehow. It is too important to fall apart. College journalists are the future of the business. Facing an extremely uncertain future, they should be applauded for wanting to make a difference in the lives of others.
— as seen by haneen —
Being ‘white’ in the U.S. without its privileges What do all the Arab Americans have in common? The U.S. Government says they are white. According to U.S. demographics, there are between 2 and 4 million Arab Americans in the U.S. who hail from 22 different countries. However, according to the box they are asked to check on the U.S. Census, and other applications, they are Caucasian, or “white.” Let us set aside the fact that the last time Arab Americans went through TSA securi-
ty, they did not necessarily gain any of the white privilege. Arabs are regularly victims of discrimination at airports, in courts, by the government and by the police. Many of them feel they are not being treated as full American citizens, let alone as white. That is why Arab Americans should have their own box on the U.S. census and other government applications. Many people might ask, “Why does a box on the census even matter?” My answer to this is:
haneen hammad staff writer
hammadh@lcc.edu
1. Having better data on the U.S. population gives a complete picture of how diverse the country is. 2. The Arab-American population has
been invisible and has not gotten the benefits of having federal minority status. 3. Why should Arab Americans associate themselves with whites without receiving the benefits? Many people agree, and in 2013 Arab-American organizations and academics sent the U.S. Census Bureau a letter to include a Middle Eastern or North African category for the next census in 2020. The government is considering that today, so hopefully future Arab Americans will no longer have to check “white.”
— if you wil —
Debut as music major brings sharp realization Over the summer, I finally decided to commit myself to getting my degree in music education. The first step is earning my associate in music at LCC. Last semester, I took my first music class at LCC: Rudiments of Music. This semester, I am going all out. I have three courses and all of them are music program requirements. Music Theory I, Aural Skills and Beginning Piano I are my three courses. So far my biggest challenge is Aural Skills.
Aaron wilton Associate editor/ ad. sales
wiltona@lcc.edu
Aural Skills requires students to be able to conduct tempo with one hand and tap
rhythms with the other simultaneously. Basically, the major reason I never became a percussionist is back to haunt me. Aural Skills will also require me to sing parts while conducting, which should be easier, but I am definitely not a vocalist. That, of course, means mastering solfeggio (do, re, mi, etc.). On top of learning the aural skills, I never learned how to play the piano, but I am now.
Music Theory I is the one class from which I know exactly what to expect. It involves all of the structure, nomenclature, modes and technical comprehension components for understanding music. It might help to keep me in your thoughts and wish me luck in this crazy endeavor. I’ll do the same for my fellow students because I know others of us must be having a similar crisis. Good luck out there and knock ‘em dead.
Publication dates for the lookout Issue 9 – Jan. 23, 2017
Issue 11 – Feb. 20, 2017
Issue 13 – March 20, 2017
Issue 15 – April 17, 2017
Issue 10 – Feb. 6, 2017
Issue 12 – March 6, 2017
Issue 14 – April 3, 2017
Issue 16 – May 1, 2017
15| opinion
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout — STAFF Editorial —
Another shooting, more sadness for America In 2017, Americans are more than used to mass shootings. Each time one happens, it seems the country barely had enough time to get over the last one. Not that people ever get over mass violence. But still, they seem all too common in today’s society. On Jan. 6, yet another one happened. Esteban Santiago, 26, opened fire at a Fort Lauderdale airport, killing five people and injuring six more. According to a criminal complaint
filed in federal court, Santiago entered an airport bathroom stall, loaded the gun, and came out firing at the first people he saw. The act was sickening and horrifying. Videos showed people running for their lives in fear, taking cover and crying. It was despicable, but it seems like this is what we say every time this happens. When looking at facts, one has to wonder if this could have been prevented. Just this past November, Santiago en-
What is your new year’s resolution? Aaron Emerson
editor in Chief
idman gabayre haneen hammad
staff writer
emersoa1@lcc.edu
gabayrei@lcc.edu
“Do well in school”
“Manage my time better”
Aaron wilton
lurah peterson
—
can a man who tells the FBI something of that magnitude get his gun back, or at least not be monitored. Whatever your views on gun control are, something should have been done. This attack was heinous and America is yet again forced to pick up the pieces. It is sad to think that something like this will probably happen again. No matter our beliefs, however, we have to stick together and heal. Sometimes it feels like that is all we can do.
the lookout staff —
brodee gillam
sports editor
Nick Thompson
nicole cade
hannah anderson
A&e editor
larry hook
staff writer
Assoc. ed. /ad. sales wiltona@lcc.edu
petersl8@lcc.edu
gillamb@lcc.edu
thompn12@lcc.edu
photo editor
lead paginator caden@lcc.edu
anderh13@lcc.edu
hookl@lcc.edu
“Write more opinion columns”
“Continue being myself”
“Read more books”
“Explore Lansing”
“Graduate from LCC”
“Make healthier choices”
“Use my time well”
“Lose some weight”
hammadh@lcc.edu
ad. manager
tered an FBI office in his home state of Alaska. He told agents his mind was being controlled by U.S. intelligence and that he had thoughts of joining ISIS. In addition, the same gun he used in the airport attack was detained that November day when they found it in his car. The FBI eventually returned the gun to Santiago. It seems there were many signs, documented by the government, indicating something like this was possible. How
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16|LAST LOOK
jan. 23 - feb. 5, 2017
Cleaning up nature
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Fenner Nature Center Program Manager Jenny Mensch (center) directs volunteers on cutting back overgrowth and clearing trails during the Martin Luther King Day of Service at the park, located in eastern Lansing, on Jan. 16. During the event, dedicated to honoring King through community service, nearly 50 volunteers cut down dead trees, cleared new walking trails and prepared for children's workshops. "It's on par with what we usually get year after year," Mensch said of the attendance number.
Nicholas Reynolds and Jack Walch work on clearing branches to make way for a new trail on Jan. 16 at the Fenner Nature Center in Lansing.
Nick Yadloczky, a senior in the MSU Forestry Club, removes unwanted dead trees near a walking trail at Fenner Nature Center Jan. 16. Both the MSU Forestry Club and the Mid-Michigan Environmental Action Council contributed to the volunteer effort. Volunteers working indoors assemble materials for educational workshops, which are held throughout the year.