Volume 61, Issue 2
Sept. 16 -29, 2019 Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
Colorful Cube on Campus
www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC’s new provost Sally Welch looks to improve student success Page >>> 5
Volleyball squad shuts down Kalamazoo Valley in the Gannon gym Page >>> 6
While walking to class, some students on LCC’s main campus may have passed “Newton’s Cube.” The six-sided rainbow art installation, created by designer Bruce Mackley and fabricated by Johnson Sign Company, was installed on LCC’s main campus in 2018, in front of the HHS building. The structure is a part of the “517 ARTsearch,” a mobile app that guides users to various artworks on LCC’s campus and throughout the Lansing community. The free mobile app is available for download on the App Store and on Google Play.
Disgruntled relationship is a focus in upcoming LCC play, ‘Sunset Baby’ Pages >>> 8
Check us out on
Photo by Julie Newell
2|News
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Rotary Park energizes Lansing River Trail By Shauna Stocken Editor in Chief Lansing’s newest downtown destination, Rotary Park, welcomed the public with a grand opening, Tuesday, Sept. 10 from 6 to 10 p.m. The Rotary Park project revamped the waterfront along the Lansing River Trail and Waterfront Bar and Grill. “We helped design the park, raised the money and contributed to over $1 million toward the park,” said Laurie Baumer of the Lansing Community Foundation. According to Baumer, in addition to the money the foundation contributed, a oneto-one match with donors was promised, totaling approximately $2.5 million overall. While parking is available for Rotary Park, most guests, of all ages, arrived on foot, bikes and skateboards for the event. “This is the first time I have actually ventured out of my dorm,” said Brooke Shankwiler, 19, a Lansing Canine Cosmetology student. “My dog had been locked up all day while I was at school, so I said, ‘Hey let’s go on a walk,’ and I ventured further then usual.” Shankwiler said she spotted the festivities near the water and wanted to check out the event and grab a snow cone with her dog. “It’s just beautiful and my dog loves the sand,” Shankwiler said. “It (the renovations) helps everyone out and makes everybody feel better about their surroundings and makes the place look nicer; it’s just
overall better in general.” Children and dogs played on the sandy beachfront, while others found entertainment in yard games, an electric forest of trees and live music. Savory and sweet food trucks and a cocktail bar by MP Social and The Waterfront Bar and Grill also served the event. “What we’re really trying to do is build a vibrant community that is attractive to (professional) talent,” Baumer said. “That was really the driver in looking at the riverfront as kind of a way we can make the community more vibrant and attractive to talent.” Among Rotary Park’s many donors is Delta Dental and its family of companies: Viewpoint and Red Cedar, which invested $250,000 toward the completion of the park, according to Special Projects and Public Relations Officer Lisa Ermak. “It is part of our mission at Delta Dental to create healthy, smart, vibrant communities and we know the Lansing riverfront is really a centerpiece of the community,” Ermak said. “It is a catalyst for economic development, so we really wanted to be a part of that.” Ermak said her hope is that LCC students will get out and enjoy Lansing. As an MSU graduate, Ermak said she never ventured out into the city while in college and wishes she had. According to Baumer, out of the $2.5 million raised by donors and contributed by the Lansing Community Foundation, the unspent funds will be allocated for future projects down the river.
Photo by Shauna Stocken
Hundreds of guests gathered for the grand opening of Rotary Park Tuesday, Sept. 10. The newly renovated destination now includes a sandy beach, a fire pit and an electric forest of trees.
Standoff near LCC puts students on alert
Photo by Shauna Stocken
Emergency rescue vehicles gathered in the LCC parking lot at the corner of Shiawassee and Lapeer Sept. 11.
By Robin Morales Associate Editor City of Lansing Police responded to an alleged domestic-violence situation around 6 a.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 11 near the corner of West Lapeer Street and Seymour Ave. LCC students received emergency alerts by phone and email to avoid the area, located just a couple of blocks west of LCC’s main campus. “It initially started out as a domestic violence call,” said LCC Director of Public Relations Marilyn Twine. “It
became a standoff situation and they updated us when the person had been taken into custody.” Twine said LCC police did not participate in the situation. “(Lansing Police) used our parking lot to set up some operations, but other than that LCC was not involved,” she said. Students were informed that the situation had been rectified at 9:30 a.m. The identity of those involved had not been disclosed as of Sept. 11 at noon, Twine said.
3|News
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
AMA to host conference Speakers to focus on entrepreneurial journeys By Robin Morales Associate Editor LCC’s chapter of the American Marketing Association is preparing to host the “Journey to Success” Regional Conference on Friday, Oct. 11 in the Gannon Building. The conference is open to all students and interested members of the community. Students can register for $10 in the Student Life office (GB 2202). Registration includes a continental breakfast and lunch. “I’m anticipating, honestly, a big crowd this year,” chapter President Kaleigh King said. “I’m expecting other chapters (from Midwest colleges) to be there.” Event speakers this year include Moneyball owner Desmond Ferguson, and a marketing leader from the Lansing Lugnuts, Stephanie Smigiel. “Speakers will be focusing on their challenges and successes they have faced throughout their career and offer students real-world experiences and advice on how
to be successful,” said LCC Chapter Adviser Adrienne Jenkins. King said attendees can expect to receive insight into specific struggles that accompany the journey of entrepreneurship from individuals who have overcome them. Other workshops and topics, which will touch on skills like marketing leadership, also form part of the conference’s schedule. One of the promoted highlights of the conference is the “Perfect Pitch” event. Competitors will hope to impress a panel of judges with their 90-second elevator pitches. Cash prizes will be awarded to top finishers. Thinking progressively, King said she hopes the event will serve as an introduction to the chapter’s year-long goals of helping students grow in their entrepreneurial skills. “I’m really excited to see people come to our regional conference, know about our club, and then we can help them obtain their goals and obtain their journey,” King said. “Last year we had an attendance of about
NEWS BRIEFS Free self-defense classes offered Participation is limited for a free self-defense class hosted by LCC Public Safety, Saturday, Sept. 21. The class will meet in the Gannon Building from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. There will be a break for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Students and employees are welcome to attend the class with children and grandchildren at least 10 years of age. To register, contact Kristy Derosia at rodgerk3@lcc.edu or Rodney Bahl at 483-1825.
Courtesy photo
Phil Zeller of Dale Carnegie Training speaks during last year’s AMA regional conference.
60 people … ranging from different schools from Ohio to Whitewater, Wisc.” LCC’s marketing chapter is open to all students, regardless of major. The chapter meets Wednesdays from 4:30 to 5:30 p.m. in Gannon Building 1240. “We’re a family,” King said.
Roma Bakery closing after 50 years
For over 50 years, Roma Bakery & Fine Foods has been a Lansing destination, located at 428 N. Cedar St. Business owners Mena and Sostine Castriciano can be found at their shop baking and saying goodbye to customers before they enter retirement at the end of this month. The couple plans to close the doors to their authentic family bakery, deli and grocery store on Friday, Sept. 30.
Transfer more of your credits! We pride ourselves on being one of the most transferfriendly universities around. We accept up to 90 transfer credits, including both classroom and work experience. We have programs that can help you earn your bachelor’s degree in as little as one year. And we offer generous scholarships and grants worth up to 20% off your tuition! Contact us today about earning your degree in business, technology or health! (800) 686-1600 | davenport.edu/apply
4|
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
MADE TO MOVE ONWARD AND UPWARD Your future, your opportunity, your next move. Find it all here. Ferris offers flexible, convenient classes in Lansing and online. Transfer up to 90 Lansing Community College credit hours. Meet with an advisor now to maximize your transfer credit and move Ferris Forward.
LANSI NG
Ferris State University is an equal opportunity institution. For information on the University’s Policy on Non-Discrimination, visit ferris.edu/non-discrimination. 20190906
5|Features
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Provost dedicated to student success Newly elected Sally Welch strives to strengthen academic culture
By Robin Morales Associate Editor The LCC Board of Trustees named Sally Welch the college’s newest provost in a 5-2 vote last July. According to LCC President Brent Knight, Welch enters the provost position well-experienced to handle her new responsibilities. “I think she’s great to work with,” Knight said. “I think she’s very approachable … glad to talk with students, faculty and staff.” Knight said the provost serves as the “chief academic officer” and is in charge of all academic matters. These include curriculum, courses and programs, he explained. Knight said the hiring committee was looking for “someone with a vision for student success … a leader who can collaborate with faculty and staff effectively.”
Welch said the interview process required satisfactory completion of multiple stages. The many phone and face-to-face interviews were “very tough, very thorough.” Prior to her hiring, Welch served LCC as the associate vice president for Academic Affairs for approximately nine months. Before working at LCC, Welch served in administrative positions at Marygrove College. “I’ve helped two schools now (Marygrove College and LCC) get through accreditation,” Welch said. “I’ve worked pretty hard on putting some student success initiatives together and to help with curriculum design and innovative pathways for students.” As LCC’s provost, Welch said she will focus on “student success and retention efforts.” She said that her vision of suc-
cess includes augmenting the capacity of students for graduating and earning jobs within their intended career fields. As a component of this goal, Welch said she wants to create an academic culture which will give transferring students “ease” as they apply to four-year institutions. Welch offered a pair of open community listening sessions on Thursday, Sept. 12, at LCC’s west campus. More are currently being scheduled. Anyone can attend to ask Welch questions they may have about the new academic direction for LCC. “The listening sessions are really my opportunity to get to know people in their different roles and what they’re interested in and … (hear) ideas that’ll help the college,” Welch said. “I’m very excited to be here. LCC is an amazing school.”
Courtesy photo Sally Welch became LCC’s provost this past July.
Campus Commentary Editor in Chief Shauna Stocken and Photo Editor Julie Newell asked students:
What is your favorite LCC class so far and why?
Zahrria Smith,18 International Business
“It’s either my economics class or my communications class. (I like) my communications class because … it’s stuff that I’m generally interested in.”
Tenaya Henderson, 19 Japanese Language “So far, it’s music production because the instructor is great and I am learning a lot about producing music. So it’s really exciting for me.”
Mason Kahn-Jacques, 19 Computer Programming “The programming class I just started because I’ve always had an interest in programming and I just always wanted to do it.”
Ahkeim Johnson,18 Business Administration “Diversity in the workplace, because it really teaches you a lot about life. It’s more than just in the workplace; it teaches you about life and cultures.”
6|sports
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Teamwork pays off in win over KVCC By Julie Newell Sports/Photo Editor The LCC volleyball team served another win during its game against Kalamazoo Valley Community College on Tuesday, Sept. 10 in the Gannon Gym at LCC. The win brought the Stars’ record to 10-3 for the season, and to 2-1 in the MCCAA’s Western Conference. In the first two games, the Stars won by identical scores of 25-16. In the third game they won 25-17. Before the game even started the Stars seemed to be energized and focused on what they had to do. “We had to bring big energy the whole game and I think we executed all of our plays really well,” said sophomore middle hitter Maya Ferland. Throughout the match, the team dominated the court. “We played strong at the net, so that first line of defense was very key and they shut down the first balls coming across,” said LCC Head Coach Emily Quintero.
Photo by Julie Newell
LCC freshman Libero Harley Roe (in white) bumps a pass to freshman middle hitter Lana Thompson during the Stars’ match against Kalamazoo Valley Community College on Tuesday, Sept. 10 in the Gannon gym.
The team, though victorious, still had a few struggles in the game, according to freshman defensive specialist Jacquelyn Rollins. “We missed a lot of our serves,” Rollins said. “Those points add up.” Added Quintero: “They focused on their individual skill which then gave to the overall team success.” In total, the Stars had 37 kills in the match, with Ferland delivering a team-high 14. Sophomore setter Allison Couturier led the team with 31 assists. There were 58 digs during the match for LCC, with sophomore hitter Mackenzie Winger leading the way with 12. Ferland said the team worked together well. “We couldn’t have done it if we didn’t play as a team,” Ferland said. “I think we really came together tonight.” The Stars were scheduled to play at home against Jackson College on Sept. 12. The next home game is Tuesday, Sept. 17 vs Kellogg Community College.
LCC runners set pace in opener at Charlotte By Julie Newell Sports/Photo Editor LCC’s cross country teams ran to victory in their first meet of the season at the Comet Open in Charlotte on Friday, Aug. 30. Seven area colleges competed in the non-league meet. “To have a really successful cross country team at the end of the year ... you have to have a good front runner and then you have to have your next four runners close to your front runner,” LCC Coach Jim Robinson said. Having that good front runner paid off in the first meet for both the men’s and women’s teams. In the women’s 5K run the Stars had six runners in the top 10 and three runners in the top five. LCC sophomore runner Claudia Baryo came in first in the women’s event with a time of 19:33. Next came teammate Deziree Shaw in fourth place with a time of 20:48 and sophomore Fatuma Jillo in fifth with a time of 21:16.
In the men’s race, the Stars had five runners in the top 10 and three runners in the top five of the men’s 5K run. Sophomore runner Dillan Haviland came in first place with a time of 15:59. Sophomore Christopher Davis came in right behind Haviland in second place with a time of 16:14. Sophomore Jacob Ferguson came in fifth place with a time of 16:21. “We have to keep getting better.” Robinson said. “The key is to get the other runners closer (to the front runner).” Robinson said he is optimistic about the rest of the season. “I’m pretty positive with how we are going to do this year,” Robinson said. The Star’s cross country teams were scheduled to run at the Auto Owners Spartan Invitational in East Lansing on Friday, Sept. 13. The next meet will be on Friday, Sept. 20 in Grand Rapids for the Knight-Raider Invitational.
Photo by Julie Newell LCC cross country team members practice during a mock meet at East Lansing High School in late August.
7|Sports
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Spiker Roe strives to give high energy The Lookout Sports Editor Julie Newell recently talked with volleyball player Harley Roe. A defensive specialist, Roe is a freshman at Lansing Community College. How long have you been playing volleyball? “(Since) the fourth grade.” What made you start playing volleyball and why? “It’s kind of funny. My next door neighbor – we were best friends since we were 2 months old – she talked me into it. (We) went to camp and (I) thought, ‘this is kind of fun.’ My first serve was over (the net) and I thought, ‘Alright, I guess I kind of like this. I’m doing pretty good.’ So I kind of just went from there.” Why do you love volleyball?
“I just love working as a team and having like a second family. It’s nice to have people who have your back.” Have you had any embarrassing moments in your career? “I went to pass a ball, I passed it with my eyes closed and went straight into the splits. That was (during) my junior year of high school.” What famous athlete inspires you the most? “The Rock (Dwayne Johnson). He is always super positive; he is always working super hard. It’s somebody you look up to, somebody you want to be and, like, mirror.” What struggles do you face as a volleyball player? “Keeping high energy until the end.” What are your goals or expectations
Q& A
Harley Roe
for this season? “To go out as hard as possible; go for every single ball. (To) know when we leave the court we put everything out on the floor and that we don’t regret anything and we just learn from mistakes verses keep making them. We are going to go to districts, we are going to win districts and take this into the nationals.” What are your future volleyball and life plans? “My future volleyball plan ... is to go out to another school, transfer out. I have a lot of backup plans. Hopefully end up down in … the south. “(For) business, my uncle works at Striker, so I’m going to either get an internship at Striker or do an internship through Two Men and a Truck and work my way up there.”
— Julie’s jukes —
Check out these three inspirational sports flicks Any sports fans out there having trouble finding something to watch during movie night? Fret no more, I have the top three must-see sports movies that will make you laugh, cry and give you a sudden motivation to persevere. The first movie on the list is a classic entitled, “A League of Their Own,” released on July 1, 1992. This movie was inspired by the real-life All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). Set during World War II, two sisters Dottie Hinson (played by Geena Davis) and Kit Keller (played by Lori Petty)
get recruited for the first women’s professional baseball league. Throughout the movie Dottie often butts heads with the manager of the team, Jimmy Dugan (played by Tom Hanks). The next movie is another blast from the past that will have you in tears from laughing so hard: “Cool Runnings,” which was released on Oct. 1, 1993. This movie is inspired by the true story of the first Olympic Jamaican bobsled team. Set in the 1980s, the movie centers on runner Derice Bannock (played by Leon Robinson). Due to an unfortunate accident, Bannock did not make it on the
Julie Newell sports/photo editor newellj1@lcc.edu
Olympic running team. Determined to do whatever it takes to get to the Olympics, Bannock, along with his best friend Sanka Coffie (played by Doug E. Doug), team up with Junior Bevil (played by Rawle D. Lewis) and Yul Brenner (played by Ma-
lik Yoba), two more athletes who didn’t make it on the running team. They convince disgraced two-time bobsled gold medalist Irving Blitzer (played by John Candy), to coach them in bobsledding. The last movie on my list is titled “42.” It was released on April 12, 2013. This movie is inspired by the life of Jackie Robinson (played by Chadwick Boseman). The story follows Robinson as he struggles as the first professional African American baseball player in the Major Leagues. The movie also stars Harrison Ford as Branch Rickey, the owner of the Brooklyn Dodgers.
8|Arts and Entertainment
sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
‘Sunset Baby’ comes to Black Box Theatre By Ali Williams A & E Editor Check out the LCC production of “Sunset Baby” on Sept. 27-28 and Oct. 4-5. The show starts at 8 p.m. each night at the Black Box Theatre (GB 1422). Tickets are $5 for students and $10 for others. The play is written by Dominque Morisseau and directed by LCC instructor Deb Keller. The play stars Ndegwa McCloud as Kenyatta, Miah Nash as Nina and Trvyn Friar as Damon. “Sunset Baby” focuses on Black Revolutionary Kenyatta Shakur, his daughter Nina and her boyfriend Damon. It is set in the Bronx in 2011 after Kenyatta is released from prison. “I love each character,” Keller said. “They have to make tough choices, they are smart and driven, passionate and raw, caring and also guarded because of their own life traumas.” Nina is known as a hustler in the Bronx. She helps her boyfriend sell drugs and robs men for their money, Nash said. Damon and Nina have a goal of raveling and seeing the world. Friar said they want to go to Paris or Brazil to flee the
area they live in. Nina is considering selling the letters she and her late mother, Ashanti, wrote to her father while he was in jail. Nash said the letters are worth a lot of money, and historians, reporters and her father want them. “It (the letters) is the only thing she (Nina) has left of her mother,” Nash said. “But, everyone wants them. They’re worth a lot of money and she knows this.” One of the plotlines in the play is Nina and Kenyatta’s negative relationship. Nina has grown up without a father. When Kenyatta is released from prison, he would rather get the letters instead of building a relationship with his daughter, McCloud said. “The relationship is very damaged,” McCloud said. “But, he wants the letters and will stop at nothing to get them.” Nash said that Nina is hurt because she believes her father chose the Black Liberation movement over her and her mother. McCloud said Kenyatta was in jail for armed robbery, which he committed for the Black Liberation movement. The movement lasted from 1965 to 1985, and Kenyatta was one of the leaders who helped organize the protests,
Photo by Ali Williams
Kenyatta (played by Ndegwa McCloud) arrives unexpectedly to the apartment of Nina (played by Miah Nash) in a scene from “Sunset Baby.”
McCloud said. The play is open to everyone. Tickets can be bought online on the LCC website.
Festival creates platforms for filmmakers By Kari Eastway Sales Mgr/Staff Writer The Threadbare Mitten Film Festival is a three-day celebration of various films for all people, genres and creativity. It took place this year at The Robin Theatre in REO Town from Sept. 5 to 7. Festival Director Dan Kofoed spoke Sept. 5, prior to the first night’s showing of documentary-based films. “It’s a genre film festival; we take an expansive view of what a genre film can be,” Kofoed said. “Really, we’re looking for the kind of films that might not fit into a traditional, independent film festival; the things that are a little bit odd.”
Photo by Kari Eastway
From left: Daniel Kofoed, Desiree Kofoed and Tara Alexander gather for a photo during the opening night of The Threadbare Mitten Film Festival.
He said these films could include surreal, noir, absurdist comedies or specific niche documentary films. This was the third year of the Threadbare Mitten Film Festival. It started in Charlotte in 2017. Kofoed revealed that he grew up in REO Town. “We started off down in Charlotte, based in the Windwalker Underground Gallery,” Kofoed said. “We decided to move (back to REO Town); this is a way that I can give back to the community.” Assistant Director Tara Alexander talked about the beginning of the film festival. “It all started when I decided to do a short film of my own, and Dan and I used to work together so I asked him … if he would direct it for me,” Alexander said. “We actually premiered it at the Robin (Theatre) three or four years ago … so we started thinking … what if we did something for filmmakers? Because a lot of bigger film festivals are pretty niche, whereas we are kind of like ‘send us anything you want.’” While the name of this festival mentions Michigan’s nickname, the “Mitten,” Kofoed explained that only a third of the films this year were Michigan productions. “We get films and program films from all around the world,” he said. “(But) it is important that we don’t lose site of the fact that we are in Michigan and there is a vibrant, independent film scene here.” This festival recognized artists and filmmakers from all ages and diverse backgrounds. In fact, this film festival was dedicated to local student productions, including students in LCC’s DMAC program. Desiree Kofoed, Dan’s wife and event secretary, said the festival helps create platforms for filmmakers. “We don’t have an excess (of) money, but we have creativity and fun, and we just want to bring that to the community.” Those interested in learning more about the festival can visit https://www.threadbarefilmfest.com/main.
IN BRIEF
Arts and Entertainment
Prime Music Festival is Sept. 20-21 The Prime Music Festival will take place at Adado Riverfront Park Sept. 20 and 21. The park is just east of LCC’s main campus. The event will be hosted by Black Magic. On Friday, Sept. 20, the festival will showcase RL Grime, Whethan, DaBaby, GG Magree, Kid Quill, WatchMeFloat, B2B and Haundroid from 4 to 11 p.m. On Saturday, Sept. 21, Rae Sremmurd, Galantis, Lil Mosey, What So Not, Valee, Dr. Fresch and more will take the stage from 3 to 11 p.m. More information on the other performing artists, tickets, policies and prohibited items can be found at http://primefestival.com.
MSU hosts ‘College of Music’ events MSU’s College of Music is having a year of celebrations as it celebrates upcoming anniversaries for some of the series and programs within the college. “A Season of Celebrations” lasts from September to April. It will feature a variety of classical and jazz performances from faculty, students, acclaimed visiting musicians and cutting-edge new music groups. Tickets, dates and more information about “A Season of Celebrations” can be found at http://music.msu.edu/newseason.
9|Arts and Entertainment
sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
reviews
Taylor Swift may be in love, but I’m not By Robin Morales Associate Editor Taylor Swift has said that her seventh and most recent album, “Lover,” is “a love letter to love.” Released on Aug. 23, the album’s lyrics touch on the peace of blissful love, friendship, break-ups and overcoming personal difficulties. While this central theme gives the album direction, Swift’s lyrics are poorly constructed and oftentimes superficial. They do not suggest any new ideas about love, or provoke the listener’s conception of relationships in a mature way. Lyrics from the song “False God” serve as one example: “Remember how I said I’d die for you? / We were stupid to jump / In the ocean separating us / Remember how I’d fly to you?” These words depict relationships in an
Photo from album cover
Taylor Swift’s new album is a “love letter to love.”
infantile light and are derived from cliched notions of love. However, there are a couple of songs on the album that show surprising emotional clarity and offer a more profound tone. In “Cornelia Street,” a physical setting is explored to demonstrate how something inanimate can be intertwined with complicated memories and future hopes of another person. Everyone who has experienced loss has a “Cornelia Street” they will “never walk again.” One of the most glaring flaws on the album is the reliance on computerized effects for musical anchors. The drum and bass tracks are simplistic, annoyingly persistent and unoriginal. They do keep a basic consistency in rhythm, but they do not augment the musicality of the repetitious bubblegum pop sound.
Occasionally, Swift diversifies the structure and instrumentation of her songs (such as incorporating trumpet in “It’s Nice to Have a Friend”). These instances are little spurs of definite genius, but they occur far too seldom. “Lover” works best when Swift doesn’t take herself too seriously and cuts loose in a purposefully cheeky song. In these cases (“Paper Rings” and “London Boy” especially) her heavily studio-polished voice lends itself well to the infectious fun-sounding grooves and bops. In recent years, Swift has undoubtedly departed from her earlier pop/country sensibilities into a more processed contemporary sound. However, this album sometimes alludes to an earlier sounding Swift. Though I am critical, the 18 tracks on “Lover” are sure to be treasured by long-time Swift fans.
‘The Perfection’ does not live up to its title By Ali Williams A & E Editor “The Perfection” is a good psychological horror-thriller film, but not a great one. The movie does have some unexpected twists and turns that the main characters discover as the movie continues. Cellist prodigy Lizzie (played by Logan Browning from Netflix’s “Dear White People”) and failed cellist prodigy Charlotte (Allison Williams from “Get Out”) meet at
a competition to recruit a new student for Bachoff, a prestigious music school. Charlotte dropped out to take care of her sick mother. Lizzie is famous worldwide and scores billboard ads for beer companies. Without spoiling anything, the trailer shows Lizzie extremely ill in the middle of nowhere in China. Charlotte hands her a random meat cleaver out of her backpack to get rid of the bugs Lizzie sees crawling
in her arm. From that moment forward, all of the dark truths are revealed. Now, onto the problems. Within mere hours of meeting, Charlotte and Lizzie are already flirting and making sexual comments. It is obvious that this flirting is setting us up for a very dry lesbian affair that is overly sexualized for the male gaze. Later on, once some random twists oc-
cur, sexual assault is used as a plot device. It does not do so in a respectful or sensitive way, either. It is almost uncomfortable at times to continue watching, with the movie’s deranged scenes and dialogue. The movie is also unsatisfying, with unnerving twists and poorly written relationships leading to an odd ending. “The Perfection” is rated TV-MA and can be found on Netflix.
‘The Heir’ proves to be a hard book to put down By Jocelyn Underwood Staff Writer “The Heir” is a 2014 romance novel written by Kiera Cass. All of Princess Eadlyn’s life, she has been told stories about how her parents met. Eadlyn always enjoyed hearing about the fairytale love story her parents had. Even though she found it romantic, she has no interest in following in their footsteps. If Eadlyn had a say, she would put off marriage for as long as she possibly could. Being a princess, though, one can never truly have a say. As much as she dislikes the idea, she can’t escape her very own selection process, no matter how much she tries to
protest with her father. The selection starts with 35 eligible men. Eadlyn doesn’t expect it to end in romance, but one of the selected might steal the young princess’s heart. This would prove to Eadlyn that “happily ever after” isn’t so impossible, as she believes. “The Heir” is the perfect young adult book to read. It has a strong female leading role and is filled with romance. Throughout the book I loved the confidence and independence Eadlyn shows, even though at times she thinks she is “all that.” This book will make it impossible for her fans to put it down, with all the interesting
twists and turns Cass puts in there for her readers. The book will make you both love and hate Eadlyn. At times she can be an amazing, interesting person; relatable and headstrong. At other times she can be hard to talk to, stubborn, entitled and maybe a little spoiled. As I read the selection part of the book, I started to love some of the men. “The Heir” is truly one of the best novels I have read in a very long time. It kept my attention and left me wanting to read more. This was fun for me because I am very stubborn when it comes to books. This story had the romance and fantasy that I’ve always found to be entertaining.
Photo from Google Images
“The Heir” by Kiera Cass was written in 2014.
10|Opinion
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout — stocken speaks —
Normalizing the family unit at work In high school, I stopped shaving my legs as an act of rebellion against those who viewed doing so as disgusting or unfeminine. In college, I continued to advocate stigmas such as the marijuana industry, not wearing a bra and equal pay for women. I’ll look down at my hairy legs in a floral dress or find myself at a rally or protest and know however small, my impact is vital. People need to stick up for their beliefs while allowing themselves to evolve, accept change and new ideas. These things could ultimately better our community.
With graduation nearing, I am beginning to plan for my future career and the possibility of having a child. Now, it’s time I start a conversation about normalizing the family unit and advocating for children in the workplace. Yes, I have a personal interest vested in this topic, but a photo posted by CNN on Instagram on Aug. 22 got me thinking. The New Zealand Parliament speaker Trevor Mallard was photographed bottle-feeding lawmaker Tamati Coffey’s 1-year-old during a parliamentary debate.
Shauna Stocken editor in chief
stockens@lcc.edu
Responses to the social media post were mainly positive comments on how more workplaces need to adapt and enable this behavior. Raising a family, running a household and maintaining a full-time job is not easy to do, especially for single-parent
households on a budget. As more mothers have entered the workforce in the past few decades, and the cost of living has increased, bringing a child to work has many positive implications. Depending on the environment of one’s job, bringing a child to work shows a first-hand look at a professional workplace – not to mention the money saved from forgoing childcare services. According to a study of 22 countries’ happiness levels completed by researcher Jennifer Glass, a child-friendly workplace is one solution to increased employee happiness.
— LCC is family —
The college life: we are on this trip together College holds a different purpose for everyone. For some, it’s all about the social aspect: figuring out how to make friends, where the next party is, being exposed to more ethnicities and cultures, trying to find a place to fit in and being thankful for just being out of the house for once in your life. This isn’t a bad thing. Anyone who says otherwise cares way too much about other people’s lives. Your reason for being here isn’t invalid just because it differs from mine. Even if
Chloe Gregg Staff writer
greggc3@lcc.edu
you feel the judgment of a thousand people, know I support you and it will always be your choice. For others, college is meant to expand
one’s knowledge on something, whether generally or specific to a field, or both. Coming in 20 minutes early because you’re terrified of being late, keeping to yourself during comments, making sure you have the very best notes possible and studying almost every day. Through all the stress and the pain and the tears, I support you. College is tough, especially juggling a bunch of other things along with it. Sometime this year you might feel alone and overwhelmed. This is your message
that you aren’t. You might feel lonely, but there’s almost always someone that you can rely on emotionally, whether that be a family member, a friend, or even a religion. Whatever it may be, it’s there for you when you need it. And if you can’t find someone, I’m here too. Whatever your reason for being here is, this is your college experience and you deserve the same awesome year as the rest of us. Here’s to a fantastic 2019-20 school year.
— ALI’S ORBIT —
Taking chances and creating new experiences My name is Ali Williams and I am the new arts and entertainment editor at The Lookout. I have been attending classes at LCC for almost three years. I was also a staff writer for The Comet’s Tail at Grand Ledge High School. I started my first year through the Early College program, which can be found in LCC’s Mackinaw Building. Essentially, I skipped my junior and senior years of high school. I traded them in for a year of stressful college readiness classes that pushed me to my limits. However, those classes prepared me well and I am now able to achieve
my best grades at LCC, so I will forever be grateful. I decided to leave my high school early and head straight to the college campus. I did this in hopes I would be academically challenged and break out of my shell. Most of the adventures I decide to go on have the goal of growing as a person. It is also the reason I applied to be the arts and entertainment editor for the newspaper. I enjoy discovering new music, watching shows I can never finish, and reading.
Ali Williams A & E Editor
willa156@lcc.edu
I also have a love for musicals and have seen a couple at the Wharton Center: “The Lion King,” “Rent,” “Wicked” and “Hamilton.” If I don’t push myself to gain new experiences, I will be stuck in the
same orbit my whole life. Therefore, I need to get myself out of my space by applying for a job, volunteer work or club, despite being nervous about the outcome. It is how I now write for The Lookout. Currently, I am studying hard to achieve my Transfer Studies of Arts degree at LCC. I plan on transferring to Michigan State University to major in International and Global Studies. I am also learning Japanese and plan on continuing Spanish in the near future.
11|opinion
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout — staff editorial —
Bringing authentic awareness to suicide The circumstances that lead individuals to commit suicide are undoubtedly complex, sensitive and immensely painful. At The Lookout, we strive to view suicide victims through humanistic eyes. September is suicide prevention awareness month. Suicide is a serious tragedy that affects and touches all of us. Every suicide results in the loss of a unique and preciously valuable hu-
man life. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, suicide is the second leading cause of death among individuals aged 10 to 34. In the United States, it is estimated there are more than one million suicide attempts every year. We must be consciously aware that anyone can be contemplating suicide and simultaneously exhibit an outwardly happy demeanor. However,
research has unearthed that certain characteristics can be indicators that someone is suicidal. These characteristics include sudden changes in personality, previous history with mental illness and withdrawal from loved ones. If you or anyone you know is contemplating suicide, or giving you cause to suspect they might be, we implore you to seek help.
LCC offers many free mental health resources, including counseling, to all students. Counselors are available to discuss any sort of personal issue, including relationship difficulties, substance abuse and depression. Let’s be mindful of the seriousness of this growing epidemic. Our attitudes and compassion toward others can sincerely make the difference between life and death.
— Bayelee’s BearingS —
Who thought this was where I would be today? Hi. My name is Bayelee Hodge and I am the lead page designer at The Lookout. I have only been working in journalism for the past two years of my life, but it has changed my life forever. I was first introduced to journalism my junior year of high school. I had an empty hour in my schedule, so my counselor threw me into journalism. I was not happy. At this point in my life I did not enjoy being thrown into new things. Walking into room 411 at Haslett High School, I already had a negative headspace, thinking I will not enjoy this. I was right. As Julie Price, the adviser of the Viking Longboat newspaper, was teaching
us journalism styles, I was bored and half asleep; wanting to get out of class as soon as possible. Eventually we got to the point where Price wanted us to write a practice short story. My first few were not good. I was worried, but once I got the hang of things my stories got surprisingly better. Seeing that excited me, and made me realize I might be good at something I thought I’d hate. Then, I finally got a chance to write my first story. One of my close friends, Maggi Regan, and I got handed the main center-spread story. Reminder: this was the first year of journalism for both of us.
Bayelee Hodge Page designer
hodgeb9@lcc.edu
The story, which was about a student council controversy, ended up winning a Michigan Interscholastic Press Association (MIPA) award, and was a hit at our school. That story opened more doors for my future.
what is your Favorite fall time activity?? Shauna Stocken
editor in Chief
stockens@lcc.edu
“Scary movies & trick or treating”
Robin Morales
Associate editor
moraler4@lcc.edu
“Watching the World Series”
Ali Williams
Julie newell
A&e editor
sports/photo ed.
willa156@lcc.edu
“Apple picking & haunted houses”
newellj1@lcc.edu
“Hay rides and hot apple cider”
Jocelyn underwood
Staff Writer
underwj9@lcc.edu
“Going to apple orchards”
—
After my first story I fell in love with the process of being in the know, and being able to be a source of useful information for my fellow students. I loved doing interviews and having to do some digging. The following year I filled the spot of being the editor in chief of the Viking Longboat. That experience gave me so many other skills besides just getting better at writing, editing and using InDesign. It also helped my leadership skills and my ability to work with other people. Now I want to be able to continue that and be able to give importance to a bigger crowd at The Lookout.
the lookout staff —
Kari eastway
ad manager
eastwak1@lcc.edu
“Going pumpkin picking”
Chloe Gregg
staff writer
greggc3@lcc.edu
“Haunted houses and costumes”
bayelee hodge
Page Designer
hodgeb9@lcc.edu
“Anything scary”
larry hook
adviser
hookl@lcc.edu
“Fantasy football”
Lansing Community College is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and equal education for all persons regardless of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, creed, ancestry, height, weight, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, familial status, marital status, military status, veteran’s status, or other status as protected by law, or genetic information that is unrelated to the person’s ability to perform the duties of a particular job or position or that is unrelated to the person’s ability to participate in educational programs, courses services or activities offered by the college. The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Equal Opportunity Officer, Washington Court Place, 309 N. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1730; Employee Coordinator 504/ADA, Administration Building, 610 N. Capitol Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1875; Student Coordinator 504/ADA, Gannon Building, 411 N. Grand Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1885; Lori Willett, Human Resource Manager/Title IX Coordinator, Administration Building, 610 N. Capitol Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1870; Christine Thompson, Student Title IX Coordinator, Gannon Building, 411 N. Grand Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1261.
12|Last Look
Sept. 16 - 29, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Celebration of the demented By Ali Williams A & E Editor The Festival of Oddities was a hit at the Turner-Dodge House in Lansing’s Old Town Sept. 7. Vendors, paranormal experts, podcasts, bands and an animal adoption event from Saved by Zade occurred at the festival. The Festival of Oddities was founded by Jenn Carpenter, owner of the Demented Mitten Tours. Carpenter is author of
“Haunted Lansing” and co-host of the “So Dead” Podcast. She also worked for The Lookout in the past. Last year, Carpenter held a book release party and had a small version of the festival. Carpenter said a lot of people attended that event, and she realized the festival could be an attraction for the Lansing community. “I’m kind of in that whole world of the creepy and the strange,” Carpenter said.
The event featured bands, photography sessions, tours of the historic Turner-Dodge House, authors and a paranormal investigation of the house in the evening. “We are leading the public haunt tonight,” Paranormal Investigator Ken Suminski, from the Portal Paranormal Society, said. “There’s a little bit of activity (at the Turner-Dodge House), but nothing outrageous. But, I guess we’ll find out.”
This Chucky doll scared visitors at the spooky festival. The Ghostbusters car was on display during the Festival of Oddities on Saturday, Sept. 7.
The Turner-Dodge House near Old Town was the site of the Festival of Oddities.
Photos by Julie Newell
CONVENIENT BANKING 101: CASE Credit Union is proud to serve LCC students, faculty and staff with easy, convenient access to financial products and services including: •
Numerous ATMs on campus
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Mobile banking
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Various checking and savings accounts
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Student VISA card
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...and a whole lot more!
Join CASE Credit Union today! LCC Branch Gannon Building, Room 222.04
Our service. Your success. casecu.org
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517.393.7710
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