Lookout volume 58 issue 3

Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959

www.lcc.edu/lookout

Volume 58, Issue 3

Sept. 26 - Oct. 9, 2016

r o f t s e t o Pr nimum i M age W

Employees in health care, fast food and other fields, including religious leaders, protested at the Michigan State Capitol on Monday, Sept. 12 in favor of a higher minimum wage. The protest was organized by the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and D15, a Detroit organization fighting for a $15 minimum wage. See editorial on page 11 of this issue.

Many student jobs are still available at LCC

Stars volleyball team’s potential shows through

Soundscapes to sweep listeners off their feet

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2|News

Sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

‘Tomatoland’ LCC’s ‘One Book’ for 2016-17

By Aaron Emerson Editor In Chief The Lansing Community College library recently kicked off the school year with a new title for the “One Book One LCC” program.

It hosted a gathering on Sept. 8 to introduce students and faculty to “Tomatoland,” which was chosen as the 2016-17 centerpiece for “One Book One LCC.” “We were hoping to introduce this book to the students who will be reading it in the classroom and the rest of the campus community,” said Victoria Meadows, library communication manager and program coordinator for “One Book One LCC.” At the event, students and faculty could grab a free copy of the book and enjoy snacks and refreshments. There was also a testing table with various kinds of tomatoes.

“I’m here with my class,” Writing 121 student Melissa Shuggars said. “But it

seems like an interesting book to read.

I’m excited.”

“Tomatoland,” written by Barry Estabrook, is a New York Times best-seller. It takes a look inside the modern industrial agriculture business and details how it has destroyed the quality and purity of tomatoes.

“We felt that, in comparison to last year and the year before, this book touched on some themes we haven’t touched on,” Meadows said. “There is also an interesting connection to Michigan, in terms of agriculture.”

“One Book One LCC” is in its third year at the college. A campus-wide committee selects each book based on a number of factors.

Factors include reading level, number of pages and type of book that is suitable for each particular year. Participants meet to discuss the book throughout the school year.

The first group of “One Book One

Photo by Aaron Emerson

Writing 121 students (clockwise from top right) Melissa Shuggars, Alivia Pulido, Raquel Adkins and Grace Sudinski check out “Tomatoland” at the “One Book One LCC” kickoff event on Sept. 8.

LCC” discussions will take place Tuesday, Oct. 11 and Wednesday, Oct. 12, with three different time slots designated each day.

For more information on “One Book One LCC,” “Tomatoland” and dates and times of book discussions, visit www.lcc. edu/library/about/events/onebook/

Photo by Brian Wells Graphic taken from Wikipedia.org

What is the last series you binge watched?

Aaron Emerson

Aaron wilton

editor in Chief

Assoc. ed. /ad. sales

emersoa@lcc.edu

“Sons of Anarchy”

lurah peterson

ad. manager

brodee gillam

sports editor

thelookout

hannah anderson

A&e editor

Brian wells

nicole cade

photo editor

lead paginator

wiltona@lcc.edu

petersl8@lcc.edu

gillamb@lcc.edu

anderh13@lcc.edu

wellsb6@lcc.edu

“Daredevil”

“White Collar”

“Real Husbands of Hollywood”

“Hunter X Hunter”

“Shameless”

caden@lcc.edu

“The Office”

staff

Tia Burch registers to vote Sept. 13 at the voter registration drive. The drive was held on LCC’s main, east and west campuses Sept. 13 through 15. According to Lansing Chief Deputy City Clerk Brian P. Jackson, 385 people registered over the three days. The deadline to register to vote for the Nov. 8 election is Oct. 11.

larry hook

advisEr

hookl@lcc.edu

“Mad About You”

3|News

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Five candidates; four trustee spots

By Aaron Emerson Editor in Chief The race for four spots on the Lansing Community College Board of Trustees will come down to five candidates on Nov. 8.

Voters in Ingham County will ultimately fill three six-year board seats from among current trustees Robert Proctor and Alex Azima and hopeful newcomers Ryan Buck and Angela Matthews.

Larry Meyer, another current trustee, is running unopposed for a four-year term.

Deborah Canja, an LCC trustee since 2007, is not seeking re-election.

Here is a look at the incumbents running: Robert Proctor Board experience: Trustee since 2003.

Has served in every leadership role on the board besides vice chair. He is currently the board’s chair.

Job/political experience: Retired administrative law judge for the Michigan Department of Civil Service. Served as legal counsel for the Michigan House of Representatives’ Labor Committee. Currently an attorney, arbitrator and mediator in private practice.

Why did you want to run again? “I enjoyed (my first term) and it encouraged me to run a second time. My colleagues encouraged me to run for a second term and, likewise, a third time. I think that reflects peo-

Photos courtesy of Lansing Community College

LCC Board candidates (from left) Robert Proctor, Alex Azima and Larry Meyer.

ple’s confidence in my abilities to carry out my responsibilities as a trustee.”

What have you seen the college accomplish in your time as a trustee? “I think the college has moved beyond being just an open access college to identifying that we need to be better than that. Those who come here ought to be going out on the other end having achieved something.”

Alex Azima Board experience: Appointed to the board in 2015.

Job/political experience: Was a professor of physics at LCC for 39 years. Served as president of the LCC Academic Senate. Was a nuclear defense physicist for the State of Michigan and a nuclear health physicist at Consumers Energy.

How has your time as an appointed board member helped you? “Having already served on the board, I will have a run-

ning start. I have learned about the issues and the challenges during the past year and will be ready to help the college move forward.”

What are your campaign themes? “Students deserve affordable, high quality education that helps them compete for high paying jobs. I will work hard to keep tuition affordable and classes small with personalized instruction and student support services to ensure a high rate of student success.”

Larry Meyer Board experience: Trustee since 2009.

Currently the treasurer and secretary. Was the chair from 2011 to 2015.

Job/political experience: Spent eight years on the Lansing City Council. Was head of the Michigan Retailers Association for 30 years.

Why do you want to run again? “I’m excited about the direction LCC is going in.

I’m 100 percent behind (Operation) 100 percent. We want every person that comes here, old or young or whatever they are, to make sure they are successful.”

What are your goals for your next term?

“We can’t price ourselves like MSU. We’ve got to make this affordable.”

The Lookout will run a follow-up story with profiles on Angela Matthews and Ryan Buck in the Oct. 10 issue.

LCC looking to fill 51 student work positions

By Aaron Wilton Associate Editor It turns out one of the best places with jobs that are plentiful and flexible is the very same school that students attend.

LCC has many jobs currently open for student applicants.

James Woolcock, the student employment coordinator at LCC, said 51 student jobs are available at LCC as of Sept. 22 “That’s across all campuses,” Woolcock said. “I keep getting new postings every few days and I try to get them out there for students as quick as I can.”

He said this is the largest number of job postings he has seen in his 14 years as employment coordinator. He said there are a couple factors causing this large number.

“There’s fewer students here and that in itself can create some challenges,” Woolcock said.

Photo by Aaron Wilton

Destiny Kyle, a student employee, works in the Student Life office in the Gannon Building.

“Compared to when we were in the recession … it was a totally different story because people were out of work and our enrollment numbers were up.”

He added another factor: the college has to compete with other Lansing area employers.

“Our positions are paying better than they ever have,” Woolcock said. “Student employees are at $8.90 an hour; that was increased from $8.50

in the previous year.

“But it is still tough to compete with some of the other employers locally, like the State of Michigan that pays student assistants, I think, $13.68 an hour.”

Woolcock said despite the challenges facing LCC, his office is still trying to get the word out about the positions available.

“The majority of student-employee positions are clerical in nature,” Woolcock said. “Beyond that there are positions like (those at The Lookout) that are more specific to a particular major.”

He said positions range from front-desk jobs to mailroom positions, with dozens more in between.

According to Woolcock, benefits for students working at LCC include gaining strong references for future employment, and convenience.

Ashley Fannon, a finan-

cial aid student staff assistant, has worked with LCC for over a year. She explained her favorite aspects of her student employment.

“I love the job because of the hours; they’re really flexible,” Fannon said.

“I can come straight from class to work and my boss works around my school schedule. The only bad part is that we can’t work more than 25 hours a week.”

Fannon said she would encourage others to apply for student positions.

Woolcock said the Federal Work Study program is another way for students who get federal financial aid to be employed.

For more information on student employment visit www. lcc.edu/ces/jobposting/. To find out more about Federal Work Study visit www.lcc.edu/finaid/ studentemployment/

IN BRIEF NEWS

‘Fall on the Mall’ set for University Center The LCC University Center will host its annual “Fall on the Mall” event Monday, Oct. 3 and Tuesday, Oct. 4 on LCC’s main campus near the Gannon Building.

The event will run from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. both days. It will acquaint students with the five University Center partner schools and highlight each school’s programs and transfer initiatives. Students will also have the opportunity to gather more information about the center.

The University Center is located at 210 W. Shiawassee St. Its five partner schools are Ferris State University, Northwood University, Siena Heights University, University of Michigan-Flint and Western Michigan University. For more information call (517) 483-9700.

Mall hosts first ‘CommUNITY Day’ The Lansing Mall, in partnership with MacDonald Broadcasting, is looking to bring the community and local first responders together with the first-ever CommUNITY Day on Saturday, Oct. 1.

It will be held from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the mall and will feature 13 area police departments and non-profit organizations. There will be personnel vehicles and patrol cars on display, as well as SWAT trucks, boats, motorcycles and rescue vehicles.

Bomb safety robots and K-9 officers will be present, and attendees can have a car safety check performed. Free, family-friendly activities will be available, such as inflatable obstacle courses, face painting, craft tables and photo vignettes.

The Lansing Mall is located at 5330 W. Saginaw Highway in Delta Township.

For more information, contact Paige Moreau at (517) 327-3707.

Centre to host open house Sept. 26 and 29 The Centre for Engaged Inclusion is scheduled to hold an open house on Monday, Sept. 26 and Thursday, Sept. 29.

The event will give students, staff and faculty a chance to find out more information on “The Centre” and learn about upcoming and scheduled activities it hosts.

The open house will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Monday and 10 a.m. to noon on Thursday. For more information, call (517) 483-1616.

4|distractions

SEPT. 26 - Oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Hold your newspaper up to a mirror to get the answer to this week’s Sudoku puzzle:

5|News

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Early College at LCC earns bronze medal

By Idman Gabayre Staff Writer The Early College at LCC earned recognition as one of the best schools in the country, according to U.S. News & World Report.

Schools are ranked on standardized tests and college readiness scores. In 2016, the LCC school ranked 163rd out of 500 schools honored and earned a bronze medal, according to the magazine.

“The Early College is a partnership between the Ingham Intermediate School District and Lansing Community College,” said Dr. Steve Rosales, director of the Early College at LCC. “So the two partners got together and wanted to provide one another opportunities for students around the area.”

He said the college is intended to assist many first-generation college students. “(These are) families that may be the first ones to have an opportunity to go to college and get some college hours without having to incur huge costs,” Rosales said.

The school recruits students entering their junior year of high school from the surrounding, participating school districts.

“We have 13 participating school districts,” Rosales said. “We currently have 78 new students. … They come here Monday through Friday. They basically leave their high schools to come to college campuses,

Courtesy photo

Graduates of The Early College program at Lansing Community College celebrate their many accomplishments.

so they get immersed into the college experience.”

Within the first semester, students take challenging STEM-focused courses to prepare them for the college world.

“You are going to be challenged when you are here; it’s not a cakewalk,” Rosales said. “We are not going to pass you on because we like you. It’s because you earned it

and you are doing everything that it takes to be a successful student.”

Early College recruits are trained on habits proven to help students succeed in college-level courses. These habits are a set of skills that Early College instructors expect the students to utilize.

“They get immersed to those study habits and study skills to help them become better

students and achieve success.” Rosales said.

Students agreed The Early College program is challenging but rewarding.

“Coming from a really packed schedule, I had to condense my schedule down to just work because I was in so many clubs, sports and things,” Tenaya Lanae said. “I had to readjust my whole schedule so that it matched up with what I wanted to accomplish.”

LCC hosts military personnel, veterans’ job fair

By Aaron Wilton Associate Editor Many National Guard members, reserve members, veterans and ex-military people struggle with returning to work as a civilian.

They find it difficult to get a career they are comfortable in and one that will work around their scheduled training periods.

The Office for Military and Veterans Affairs (VA) at LCC held a job fair for military personnel who are currently attending LCC or are members of the community. The job fair was held Friday, Sept. 16 at west campus.

Andrew Cosgrove, director of VA at LCC, talked about the fair and how it came to be.

“This is the first time that we’re doing something like this,” Cosgrove said. “My office put it together. Originally we were shooting for about 15 employers and it kind of exploded into 40 plus.”

He added that this fair is unique in Lansing.

“There’s not much of this stuff for veterans that happens in the Lansing area,” Cosgrove said. “In my previous job I used to do

Photo by Aaron Wilton

Micheal Welch, left, and Andrew Cosgrove were present to welcome attendees to the first-ever Military Job Fair on LCC's west campus.

this kind of stuff. So, I wanted to bring that to my office, now.”

Among the several booths at the fair was one for Employer Support of the Guard

and Reserve (ESGR). Beth Gillette, the employment coordinator for Heroes to Hire at ESGR, spoke about what ESGR does.

“We work with guard and reserve

members if they are having issues with their current employer,” Gillette said, “whether it’s with their drill weekends or their two or three weeks of advanced training during the year.

“If they’re having issues going on deployment and their employer doesn’t understand federal law, then we help facilitate a conversation between the employee and the employer.”

She added that guard and reserve members can be a great addition to any workforce because of the soft skills that they learn in the course of their training.

Gillette offered her thoughts on the job fair as a whole.

“I think as a first job fair for LCC of this type, it’s a wonderful turnout of employers and I see enough job seekers initially,” she said.

“I think Andrew (Cosgrove) did a great job of putting things together.

To establish something like this at LCC will really benefit LCC because I know you have a huge veteran population … here in Lansing.”

6|sports

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Volleyballers prosper despite star’s absence

By Brodee Gillam Sports Editor The LCC volleyball team secured a much-needed 25-18, 25-19, 25-20 victory at home over the Jackson College Jets on Sept. 20.

The win improved the Stars’ record to 4-3 in the MCCAA West, and to 4-12 overall.

LCC Head Coach Emily Quintero said her team’s recent success is the result of team development.

“We’re just starting to develop our team camaraderie a bit more and learning how to win more,” Quintero said.

The Stars welcomed sophomore hitter Addie Pickelman back into the lineup after she missed the past two matches with a concussion.

Pickelman described the protocol she had to pass to get back to the court.

“Whenever I reached the point of no symptoms, I had to go 48 hours symptom-free,” Pickelman said. “Then I got to gradually go back into physical activity.

“So (on the) first day, ride a bike. Second day, I had to ride a bike and do lunges. Then the third day was an intense workout, and if I passed that, I got to practice.”

Replacing a key player such as Pickelman isn’t easy, but the Stars managed a 25-11, 25-23, 20-25, 20-25, 15-10 win

against Ancilla College on Sept. 13 without her.

Freshman McKenzie Kench stepped in to help replace Pickelman’s production.

Also stepping up were fellow freshman Brianna Mohn, who teammates describe as “scrappy,” and sophomores Hailey Baxter and Delaney Thompson.

Kench, Baxter and Thompson had a combined 35 kills against the Chargers, while Mohn contributed 16 digs.

Kench seems to be progressing and improving with every game, which Pickelman said simply comes down to control.

“She’s definitely improved (by) putting the ball in play rather than just going crazy,” Pickelman said. “Being smart … we’re seeing a lot more tips and roll shots from her. She’s actually trying to get her serve in play.”

Quintero also touched on Kench’s play and said how important she is for the team moving forward.

“She’s definitely stepped up,” Quintero said. ”She has a really strong serve and can put that ball down as well.”

After two wins in the last three games Pickelman credits one thing: focus.

“We’re playing as one – we aren’t six individual players on the court – we’re moving together as one person and that makes a huge difference,” Pickelman said.

Photo by Brian Wells

LCC Head Volleyball Coach Emily Quintero addresses the team before the third game against Jackson College on Sept. 20. The Stars won 3-0.

Even though the record doesn’t show it, Quintero and her team have watched film and feel very confident moving forward.

“With our play … the losses are purely because of our errors, which we can correct, not because of anyone outshining

us,” Quintero said. “With us continuously improving I definitely have high hopes for the rest of our season.”

The Stars were scheduled to play two games against Alpena CC in Alpena on Friday, Sept. 23.

Harriers continue to flourish in Spartan Invitational

By Brodee Gillam Sports Editor The LCC men’s and women’s cross country teams ran in the Spartan Invitational, hosted by Michigan State University, on Sept. 16 and both thrived on the big stage.

The meet was held at Forest Akers East Golf Course in East Lansing.

The Stars competed with five NCAA Division I and two Division II teams, along with 14 other schools. Michigan State, Central Michigan, Eastern Michigan and Grand Valley all participated in the competition, which was not officially scored.

LCC Cross Country Head Coach Jim Robinson said he was pleased with his teams’ performance, but understands some of both team’s struggles.

“Historically we’ve gotten mixed results, where we end up with one or two runners doing well, but overall we don’t do well,” Robinson said. “That’s

Photo by Brian Wells

Kaitlin Beyer runs at the Spartan Invitational on Friday, Sept. 16 at Forest Akers East Golf Course.

partly because … in the early part of the season, you’re really focused on training so your legs are tired for racing.”

The Lady Stars were led by freshman Casey Mossholder for the second meet in a row. Mossholder finished 52nd out of 361 athletes, racing to a 23:13 finish in the women’s first 6K race of the season.

The other women weren’t far behind, with freshman Melissa Ricci finishing 88th with a time of 23:41 and sophomore Kaitlyn Beyer placing 140th in 24:29.

Robinson said he sees this group succeeding this season, thanks to the perspective they take on cross country.

“I like the group of athletes we have; very positive attitude, good team camraderie and good support among the athletes,” Robinson said.

The male harriers saw five runners place in the top 215 and finished with

five runners within 30 seconds of each other. Freshman Deion Feldpausch was the first Star to cross the finish line in the team’s first 8K race, finishing 169th out of 410 with a time of 27:46.

Sophomore Dylan Rocha, who led the men in the Olivet Invitational, was nine spots behind Feldpausch with a 27:56 finish.

Rocha said he has high goals for this team, and he sees this team as greatly improved compared to last season.

“We will improve our standings at nationals,” Rocha said. “Last year we did well but this year we have a much better team, so the podium is the goal at nationals.

“A team goal is to have as many people to the 25’s (minutes), whether they are in front of me or behind me.”

The next meet scheduled for both teams is the Greater Louisville Invitational on Saturday, Oct. 1, starting at 12:45 p.m.

7|sports

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — off the glass —

Tom Izzo: Hall of Fame coach and human being brodee gillam sports editor

gillamb@lcc.edu

Michigan State Men’s Basketball Head Coach Tom Izzo has accomplished almost every accolade possible as a coach.

He has earned an AP College Coach of the Year award, three Big Ten Coach of the Year awards, seven Big Ten regular season championships, five Big Ten tournament titles, seven Final Four appearances and one NCAA Division 1 national championship.

Now he has another achievement to be placed in his shrine after retirement: Naismith Basketball Hall-of-Famer. He was inducted into this prestigious club Sept. 9 in Springfield, Mass.

In a career that is almost scripted for TV, Izzo has continued to create the hard-nosed culture of Michigan State basketball for the past 21 years.

The program has been consistently successful because of the extreme emphasis Izzo places on scrappy play and rebounding. This is well represented by the infamous “war” drill, in which his players wear football pads and helmets, with all 10 players on the floor attempting to rebound the ball.

Last season the Spartans reciprocated these ideals in their play, being top 10 in the country in total rebounds and rebounds-

Photo courtesy of wikimedia.org

Michigan State Head Basketball Coach Tom Izzo is shown during a practice before the Carrier Classic in 2011.

per-game, while also being first in rebounding margin.

Izzo has also produced two National Player of the Year’s: NBA rookie Denzel Valentine and NBA champion Draymond Green.

Green has always credited his college coach for helping him advance in the sport.

“I say I appreciate him more in the person that he helped me realize I needed to be rather than the basketball player because that goes a much further way in life than basketball does,” Green said in a September 2015 press conference after donating $3.1 million to MSU athletics.

Outside of the basketball program, Izzo has given so much back to the community of Lansing and has represented himself and the area with respect and honor.

During the 2005 and 2006 offseason Izzo also traveled to Kuwait with other college head coaches to coach American service members for a three-day basketball tournament named “Operation Hardwood.”

He donated $1 million to Michigan State athletics in 2011 and, in 2013, also donated $15,000 during the Dick Vitale Gala to support cancer research.

Last February, all of his players volun-

teered to accompany Izzo and help at the Boys & Girls Club in Flint after the water crisis.

He ventured back to Flint in May, along with Spartan alumni Mateen Cleaves and Morris Peterson, for the “Hoop 4 Water” charity event.

The guy has even won the Lansing Rotary Community Service award, which signifies “service above self” or being involved in unselfish volunteer service.

Izzo has been a selfless public figure for 21 years and continues to be the standard of excellence for coaches across the nation.

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Mossholder looks to carry successful family tradition

Q&A

The Lookout Sports Editor Brodee Gillam recently spoke with LCC freshmen harrier Casey Mossholder. The DeWitt graduate placed 52nd in the Spartan Invitational women’s 6K with a time of 23:13 and was the first Star harrier to finish.

What athlete inspires you the most?

“My mom. She was a runner and she did marathons and she was just insane. Every single morning I would wake up and she would be on the

Casey Mossholder

Photo by Brodee Gillam

Mossholder

treadmill or pushing us in the jogger.”

Why did you start running cross country?

“I was always fast but I never really applied myself in high school. Senior year at my last meet I realized that I never wanted it to end. Over the past year I have gotten into distance more and I’m really into it.”

What do you want to do after LCC? “National Guard and ROTC through Michigan State, so I’m transferring over. And after college I want to go to active duty.”

What is your most memorable moment in cross country?

“Just being around all of the cross

country people on every single team.

They just are a positive happy group. So going to practice every day isn’t dreadful. It’s fun and I enjoy the people I’m around and I enjoy what I do.”

What is your most embarrassing moment in cross country?

“In high school, I was so bad I would come in last almost every single meet.

I barely crossed that finish line. So that was always embarrassing.”

What are your goals for this season?

“I just want to keep getting faster. I want to not only meet expectations, but break them. I do want to try and run for MSU so I want to build my mileage and get faster.”

8|arts & entertainment

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Soundscapes offers variety IN BRIEF of musical performances Arts and Entertainment

Chris Webby to take stage at The Loft

By Hannah Anderson A&E Editor Combining many musical talents into just one event, Soundscapes is coming up at LCC. This event will take place at 3 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 16 in Dart Auditorium. Admission is free but donations will be accepted.

Soundscapes will include a wide variety of musical performances by various groups such as the faculty jazz quartet, the concert choir, experimental music ensemble, rock band and more. There will also be performances from the staff, which include jazz, piano and vocal music.

Kelly Stuible-Clark, the artistic director of Soundscapes and director of the concert choir, said the show is made up of both LCC students and community members and will run about 90 minutes.

“It's a great opportunity to not only hear what kind of music LCC is working on, but also to introduce audiences to music outside of their

Chris Webby, a hip-hop artist with a large online fan base, will appear at The Loft on Michigan Avenue in downtown Lansing at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 28.

Tickets are $15-$18. To purchase tickets or find out more information, call (517) 913-0103 or visit the website at http://theloftlansing.com/ event/1306507-chris-webby-lansing/

Photo by Brian Wells

Members of the Experimental Music Ensemble perform during last year’s Soundscapes.

normal listening experiences,” Stuible-Clark said.

For those who may be interested in one day being a part of either Soundscapes or just the music program in general, Stuible-Clark said all LCC ensembles are available to all, regardless of whether or not they major in music.

Many do not require auditions and can be taken as non-credit community enrollment courses, she explained.

“Music and the arts are such an important part of learning and cultural exposure,” Stuible-Clark said. “If you were involved in music in high school and would like to keep it up please come talk to us at the music department. … We'd love to have you join us in one of our groups.”

For more information, call Performing Arts Production Coordinator Melissa Kaplan at (517) 483-1488.

Art Attack decorates REO Town in style

By Hannah Anderson A&E Editor Art competitions, local vendors and live music were all combined in one event on Saturday, Sept. 10 in REO Town.

It was a downcast day for the sixth annual festival Art Attack in REO Town. Despite the bleak forecast of rain, Art Attack continued on as planned.

Art Attack is a festival in REO Town where residents of the Lansing area come together and compete in a small art competition. Festival officials award prizes to the top three submissions, according to the Art Attack website.

Those who participate in the competition have to paint designs on picnic tables and steam pipes. There is an adult competition and a youth competition.

In addition to the competitions, local vendors come out to sell merchandise and food, and musicians come out to perform during the all-day festival.

Aaron Gase was the first performer this year, and a wide variety of groups followed throughout the day.

Good Truckin’ Food and other restau-

Photo by Hannah Anderson

Aslynne Luter paints a steam pipe as part of the Art Attack competition.

rants on Washington Avenue drew in business from the Art Attack crowd.

Alaina Baker, an LCC student and a customer at Good Truckin’, said that she really liked the potatoes and eggs and the food was really yummy.

The art competition was also enjoyed by participants.

Aslynne Luter, in the competition for the first time, was painting a forest on her steam pipe with hands reaching out to each other.

“I’ve come to Art Attack (for) as long as I

can remember,” Luter said. “I’m super excited to paint something this time.”

Although the contest was continuing on as planned, the rain was definitely an obstacle to the competition, according to participant Chris Smith.

“The hardest part was the rain,” Smith said. “And then the tents started flying up in the wind, and everybody was helping hold them down. There was a good 30 minutes that we couldn’t get any work done.”

The sun came out around 6 p.m., but by then some of the vendors had closed up shop. The musicians continued on as scheduled and the participants all finished their artwork.

Upbeat rock music filled the air as people began to come out after the rain to hear Young Pioneer play, visit the Pie Hole Pizza Truck and see the finished products of the artists.

The night ended with a performance from The Patient Zero. The festival wrapped up a little early, around 9:15 p.m.

Tom Sherrin was announced as the winner of the adult competition at the end of the day.

Oktoberfest coming to nearby Old Town The 11th annual Oktoberfest is coming to Old Town in north Lansing on Friday, Sept. 30 and Saturday, Oct. 1.

All those age 21 and over are welcome to come enjoy a fun-filled weekend with live music, authentic German food and lots of beer. Tickets are $18 in advance or $22 at the door.

For more information on this celebration, call the Old Town Association office at (517) 485-4283 or visit the website http://www.oldtownoktoberfest.com/ Secret Grief will be playing at Mac’s Bar Secret Grief, an indie-rock band, will play at Mac’s Bar on Saturday, Oct. 1 at 7 p.m.

This will be the band’s final appearance before taking a break from live shows, according to the group’s Facebook page.

General admission is $5. To purchase tickets or for more information, visit http://macsbar.com/ ‘Mamma Mia!’ coming to MSU’s Wharton “Mamma Mia!” the Broadway show featuring the music of 1970s super-group ABBA, is kicking off a tour at the Wharton Center on Friday, Oct. 14. It will run through Sunday, Oct. 16.

Tickets are on sale for $41. The show will take place at Cobb Great Hall in the Wharton Center on the campus of Michigan State University.

For more information on this event or to purchase tickets, visit www.whartoncenter.com/events/detail/mamma-mia or call the Wharton Center at (517) 353-1982.

‘None of the Above’ comes to LCC The play “None of the Above” comes to LCC Sept. 30 through Oct. 8. For information, call (517) 483-1488 or go to http:// www.lcc.edu/Calendar/event_view.asp/

9|a & E

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

reviews

‘Rapture’ video game is beautiful and amazing

By Brian Wells Photo Editor “Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture” is the latest title from British independent video game developer The Chinese Room. “… Rapture” takes place in a small English village called Shropshire, where the inhabitants have mysteriously disappeared. The game was released on PlayStation 4 on Aug. 11, 2015 and on PC on April 14, 2016.

The game isn’t driven by action and it is hard to describe the story without spoilers. You move through the world, switching radios on and off, opening doors and exploring ghostly environments for any scrap of something

to tell you what happened.

The main mechanics of the game involve chasing balls of light and “tuning” them, or scrolling them from side to side to find the sweet spot, like a radio. Once you’ve found the spot, you’ll see a short scene to advance the story.

Wonderful graphics paired with a beautiful soundtrack help to play into the desolate, empty atmosphere of Shropshire as you pass through ghostly environments, much like a ghost yourself. While playing I was overcome with a feeling of loneliness and desperation, desperate to solve the mystery of everyone’s disappearance.

The game offers no way to re-

view information, which creates a sense of urgency just like what you will discover the inhabitants felt in their final days.

My biggest complaint is the speed at which you move through the world. There is a “haste” button, and while holding it you will slowly start to accelerate, but even at full-speed I felt like I was crawling. This does, however, help to make sure that you are fully taking in the environment and atmosphere. “… Rapture” is a wonderful example of what games can achieve narratively without guns and swords and blood. I didn’t want to finish the game knowing full well there would be no happy ending.

Photo of The Chinese Room’s game “... Rapture” courtesy of YouTube.com

Tavern and Tap cozy and delicious

By Hannah Anderson A&E Editor The lighting was dim but the candles on each table created a warm and cozy environment. The smells of good food drifted around the dining area and people were happily chatting as they waited for their meals.

As soon as I stepped into Tavern and Tap, I knew I had made a good choice.

Located at 101 S. Washington Square in downtown Lansing, Tavern and Tap is a longstanding, colonial-themed restaurant offering tapas and a wide variety of food and

drinks. I went there with my family to get a good selection of meals to try.

I ordered the blackened chicken tacos, which were well spiced and perfect for sharing. The second dish we ordered was the fish ‘n chips, which was my favorite because it was well cooked with great flavor.

And finally, we ordered the white cheddar and bacon mac ‘n cheese, which I didn’t care for as much as the other dishes. But I thought it was a unique spin on the traditional dish because it used couscous in place of noodles.

By Brodee Gillam Sports Writer An American hero.

A pilot who saved 155 people from a dangerous plane crash.

Also a man who was put on trial for 15 months after the crash, waiting to be told if he had made the right decision by saving those people.

That is Captain Chesley "Sully" Sullenberger and what he had to go through after the “Hudson Miracle.”

The movie “Sully,” directed by Clint Eastwood, is a biographical drama that tells what Sullenberger, played by Tom Hanks, and his First Officer Jeffrey Skiles, played

by Aaron Eckhart, endured during the trial.

It also shows signs of Sullenberger having posttraumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, when he continues to see visions of planes crashing into buildings, in dreams and while awake.

The color of the movie also helps set that tone.

The movie was very dark and gray until near the end, except for when the passengers were being saved from the plane.

Eastwood chose to make the movie very suspenseful, and it worked beautifully. As one of the

Overall, I enjoyed the experience. The decorations were simple and cozy yet modern, and the food had good flavor. The prices were fairly reasonable and the menu is made up of items that are easily shared among friends.

“Tappy Hour” is available from 3 to 6 p.m. every Monday through Friday, during which select tapas are half off. Tavern and Tap also offers a brunch on Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

I would gladly eat at Tavern and Tap again and would recommend it to anyone looking for a new place to try.

'Sully' lands its audiences smoothly

people who didn’t know how the trial ended, the movie shaped the court case in a way that made you support Sully.

However, as the movie progressed, I also understood why the National Transportation Safety Board was so unsure of why Sully felt his only option was a water landing, which almost always ends in death.

“Sully” tells the story of a privately criticized and publicly worshipped hero, while also portraying a lot of the trouble he and his family endured during the process of the trial.

This week’s King Crossword is sponsored by:

10|opinion

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — emerson’s insights —

My yearly debate to choose a career path Choosing a career path may be one of the hardest journeys the average American sets out on throughout the course of his or her life.

For some people, choosing a career is something that happens over the course of a few years, throughout high school and college. But for a lot of individuals, finding the one money-maker you want to do the rest of your life can take five or 10 years, and can change routes several times.

I am somewhere in between, but I have narrowed my choice down to two. Like a lot of students, that choice has gone backand-forth about three times now.

Aaron emerson editor in chief

emersoa@lcc.edu

Yes, I have changed majors three times. I enrolled at LCC two years ago as someone who wanted to get into the social work field. I love helping others and I have a particular interest in wanting to be a substance abuse counselor.

The only problem is that I have another career path that I would love as well.

Ever since I can recall, I have always had a passion for writing. In high school I was one of the few kids in my school who actually read the newspaper. I then took a job a few years ago as a small time reporter and I absolutely loved it.

It was a little later on when I changed my major to journalism. I got a job with The Lookout and never looked back. I truly love my job as the new editor in chief, and I want to continue working as a writer in the future.

Over the summer, however, I felt the

need to change my major back to social work. I have decided to embark on my journey to be a substance abuse counselor again, but to write on the side.

I don’t want to give up either passion.

To the best of my ability, I am going to do both as long as I can.

It will probably be challenging at times and I know there will come a time when I have to choose which career comes first.

For now, however, I am happy to be that one college student who never seems to make up his mind.

There’s a good chance you can relate, right?

—vertical division —

Is the United States’ democracy in danger?

What? Democracy in danger? I’m hoping that headline grabbed the attention of some. For those who just do not seem to care whether or not democracy is in danger; that may just prove my point.

Back up. This past week, I was doing a homework assignment for my one journalism class this semester.

The assignment had a short-answer question that asked if democracy was in danger of becoming obsolete, since citizens these days are not paying much attention to news or becoming well-informed on current issues.

And I have to admit, the question got me thinking. Is democracy really in danger? And why is it that so few people seem to take this issue seriously?

On the one hand, the assignment pointed out that maybe citizens are becoming “specialists” in certain issues while ignoring others, and that all the “specialists” can work together to make well-informed decisions.

However, I tend not to see it that way. From what I’ve seen, my friends that are my age have very little interest in what is happening in the world and what is in the news.

hannah anderson Arts and entertainment editor anderh13@lcc.edu

Even I have to admit that I sometimes have trouble getting the motivation to check on the news every day when I could be checking on Facebook instead.

But this is too serious an issue to

ignore. I believe that democracy is in danger if people truly are losing interest in the news and current issues.

We need well-informed citizens making decisions to preserve democracy.

One easy way to stay up-to-date on current issues is to sign up for email alerts from certain news outlets that offer a daily newsletter. Another way is to check the news at a certain time every day so it becomes part of a routine.

I’ve been challenged to pay more attention to what is going on around me and in the world, and I encourage everyone else to pay attention as well.

— if you wil —

Oh how we love to binge: a Netflix experience People have a tendency to overindulge on their most enjoyable things. Since the beginning of Netflix, binge watching an entire series has become commonplace.

Over the weekend people take in the equivalent of two solid days of episodes for one show. I have had this relationship in an on-again-off-again pattern with “Daredevil.”

During the spring semester I watched the whole first season and a few episodes of the second within a week. That many episodes of one show would normally air over the course of 14 months on regular television.

That’s the beauty of Netflix. It releases whole seasons all at once. Netflix creates

Aaron wilton Associate editor/ ad. sales

wiltona@lcc.edu

a binge watcher’s paradise. The service uploads full seasons of its exclusives and non-exclusives in this fashion.

As I write this column, I am on episode 12 of 13 in season two. I had started with episode three a mere seven and a half hours ago. I took in all nine episodes in one sitting and I loved every minute of it.

There is something so satisfying about saying “Screw it! Let’s watch one more!”

The feeling is akin to the feeling you get when you are reading a good book. You just can’t bear the thought of leaving the story hanging for even a second. You have to read on.

This is the show equivalent of that moment. “Daredevil” is an exceptionally good show and features some solid acting talents.

The former editor in chief of The Lookout, Jeremy Kohn, wrote a review of “Daredevil” in the fall of 2015. Even he gave it high praise and, for anyone who knows him, that is a significant accomplishment.

“Daredevil” has done nothing but grow in popularity since its debut.

It has love, drama, action, bad guys and ancient power struggles that continue in modern-day Hell’s Kitchen (a neighborhood in Manhattan).

“Daredevil” isn’t the first series that I have binged on and it probably won’t be the last.

Whatever show you like to binge on, I know we can all agree that nothing hits the spot better on an evening at home.

At the risk of giving you more pop culture homework, I would suggest that you give “Daredevil” a try. Now, if you’ll excuse me I have more episodes to watch.

11|opinion

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — Staff editorial —

Minimum wage hike risky Employees in the fast food and healthcare fields protested at the Michigan State Capitol on Sept. 12 in favor of raising the minimum wage.

Organized by the Service Employees International Union and D15, their end goal is a $15-an-hour minimum wage.

Though such a high raise sounds good, there are many negative consequences that would likely follow such a large bump. As it stands, the current Michigan minimum wage is $8.50, on which it would be almost impossible for anyone to raise a family.

A bill passed in 2014 will raise the Michigan minimum wage to $9.25 by 2018. Eventually raising it even higher than that is a realistic goal.

However a sudden increase to a $15 minimum would likely hurt small businesses state wide. It would also hurt the workers that such a hike is supposed to benefit.

“what is your opinion on the suggested minimum wage increase?”

S RSPECTIVE E P S U P M CA "It would be nice if it was ($15)."

Josh Chapman, 18, Kinesiology

Photo by Brian Wells

The Service Employees International Union (SEIU) and D15, a Detroit organization fighting for a $15 minimum wage organized a protest at the Capitol Sept. 12.

In a job market that already makes it hard for young and less-educated workers to land a job, raising the minimum wage to $15 could be detrimental.

Employers would be reluctant to fill such high paying jobs with someone who doesn’t have a college degree or much work experience.

For small business owners, a large hike means a high payroll increase, which in turn will mean cutting jobs

and/or having an already small workforce do more work.

It will also mean price hikes for all products or services offered by such businesses.

Raising the minimum wage sounds nice, and continuing to gradually raise it to help low-income workers is reasonable. However, hiking it to $15 would be a mistake that could backfire on the economy.

"I think it would be good and bad."

Kevin Rodriguez, 18, Surgical Technology

"I don't see fast food workers having to make $15 an hour."

Alicia McElroy, 18 Radiology

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12|Last look

sept. 26 - oct. 9, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

LCC welding heats up

LCC

Welding instructor Bill Eggleston, left, examines an outside corner weld with student Sari Eid.

Photostory

by Brian Wells

The welding technology program at LCC’s west campus offers students hands-on experience with welding equipment and technology while they pursue a degree.

The welding program offers an associate in applied science degree in welding technology, as well as a certificate of achievement and a certificate of completion.

LCC also has a transfer agreement with Ferris State University for students who want to complete a bachelor's degree. Students who complete the program will be prepared to work in a variety of different fields, including automotive and construction, according to welding instructor Bill Eggleston.

“There's a need for welders, whether it's on bridges or buildings or structural welding or pipeline welding,” Eggleston said. “It's a good job and jobs are available right now.”

Student Alan Hall, who is completing his first year in the program, said he likes the challenge.

“I've enjoyed (the program) a lot more than just taking regular classes,”said Hall. “I like doing things with my hands.”

Hall said he doesn't know what kind of job he hopes to get when he completes his degree.“There are so many out there it's hard to choose,”he said.

According to Eggleston, the associate degree takes two years for full-time students to complete. For more information on the welding program, visit www.lcc.edu/manufaturing/welding/

Welding instructor Bill Eggleston demonstrates a flat butt joint using gas tungsten arc welding in the welding lab on LCC's west campus Sept. 20.