Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Volume 57, Issue 15
may 2 - June 1 , 2016
Photo by Brian Wells
Cityscapes Lansing, an avant-garde design challenge, is on display in the second floor of the Gannon Commons as part of StarScapes. LCC, in conjunction with The Runway, hosted an avant-garde fashion show featuring students from ERESA and college programs on Thursday, April 28. See story on the Starscapes on page 6 of this issue of The Lookout.
LCC founder Gannon recalls college’s start
Softball aiming to claim western conference title
StoopFest offers show-stopping performances
Features >> Page 3
Sports>> Page 7
A&E >> Page 10
2|NEWS
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Finals Frenzy offers students a break from stress and tests Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief Finals. The mere uttering of the word can make students shiver. LCC officials realize the stress that revolves around finals week. That is why the LCC Library and the Office of Student Life have teamed up to bring Finals Frenzy back to LCC’s campus. Student Life’s Student Organization Specialist and Office Manager Renee VanDeventer spoke about the activities that Student Life is sponsoring for Finals Frenzy. “What we are trying to do is provide school supplies and stress relieving activities,” VanDeventer said. “We will have grab-and-go snacks and there will be activities going on in the Centre for Engaged Inclusion, such as coloring for students, to get their mind off of finals.” Other activities and events, according to VanDeventer, will include Na-
tional Truffles Day on Monday, May 2, and Bubble Day on Tuesday, May 3, when students can unwind from finals pressures by grabbing a bubble wand to blow bubbles. LCC Library Communications Manager Victoria Meadows spoke about the library’s contribution to the Finals Frenzy event. “Monday through Wednesday we have some really low-impact craft activities … make a stress ball and make a magnet,” Meadows said. “Every day, we also will have board games, LEGOs and coloring pages as well.” Meadows said she encourages students who participate in Finals Frenzy to fill out a survey, not only to help improve the event, but also for a chance to win one of three $20 Amazon Gift Cards. For a full list of the Finals Frenzy week activities visit the website www.lcc.edu/finalsfrenzy/
are “What do you do to prep for finals?”
“I go over all my old practice tests and exams and make flash cards.” Delaney Malhado, 20, Business and Accounting
“I go over my reviews and videos in D2L, but it seems like teachers don’t cover all the material.” Courtesy photo
A woman plays with LEGOs in the LCC Library as a part of Finals Frenzy Week.
Ryan Smith, 20, Psychology
LCC Trustees honor students, teams, faculty Aaron Emerson News Editor The LCC Board of Trustees spent over half an hour honoring several student groups, faculty and teams at its latest meeting April 18. The meeting was regularly scheduled, but four resolutions and special recognitions on the agenda made it a festive night. The board honored the LCC men’s basketball team, retiring faculty member Elva Revilla, Phi Theta Kappa members, and the winners of the 2016 Science Olympiad held at the college in March. The men’s basketball team was honored for finishing in fifth place at the NJCAA Division II National Tournament, its highest finish since placing fourth in 1991. Coached by Mike Ingram, the Stars finished the year with a 31-5 record and won the Michigan Community College Athletic Association’s Western Conference championship. “We had great assistants, a great team, a fun team,” Ingram told the
Photo by Brian Wells
The LCC men’s basketball team is recognized at the LCC Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, April 19.
board. “We also had a great group of sophomores that won back-to-back conference championships.” The two winning teams from the
Michigan Science Olympiad regional competition were present to accept recognition, as well. Holt Junior High School and St. John’s High School
won their respective groupings to advance to the state championship. The Science Olympiad is nationally sanctioned and represents components of STEM education. “The Science Olympiad students put in a lot of work toward their projects,” LCC Trustee Alex Azima said. “People don’t realize how talented they are and how much they prepare for this.” Also honored at the meeting was Revilla, who recently retired from her position of associate vice president of external affairs at LCC. She held the position for six years and was instrumental in securing funding for a renovation of the Arts and Science Building. The Mu Tau Chapter of Phi Theta Kappa was honored for winning two international awards at the PTK National Conference at the beginning of April. The group won the Distinguished Honor National Project Award and the Distinguished Chapter Hallmark. A total of 1,200 chapters were represented at the conference.
3 NEWS
may 2 - , JUNE 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Gannon talks about beginnings College’s founder slated to speak at LCC May 11 Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief The year was 1957. Elvis was tearing up the Billboard charts. Russia had just launched Sputnik into space. The first Frisbee was produced. And a 34-yearold man named Philip Gannon was starting a community college in Lansing. Mich. Now 93, Gannon plans to return to the college he helped establish during a 60-year commencement speech. The event will be Wednesday, May 11 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. inside The Gannon Commons on LCC’s main campus. Gannon recently reminisced with The Lookout about the events that led to the creation of Lansing Community College in 1957. “I was working on my doctor dissertation at MSU, I was employed there as a research assistant at Kellogg Center,” Gannon said. “Lansing General Motors and the Civil Service Highway Department wanted technical programs developed … they wanted to set up a committee at MSU and (MSU) didn’t want to do it … so they asked Lansing Public Schools if they would be interested.” Gannon said the superintendent of Lansing Public Schools, Dwight Rich, and the director of the Kellogg Center, Dr. Harden, were two individuals who were influential in LCC’s beginnings. “They called me up from downstairs and gave me an interview and said, ‘Would I like to make a study for a new college in Lansing?’” he said. “I accepted the job and they gave me the title special assistant to the superintendent … to which they said, ‘No one knows what that means but it will look good on your resume.’”
Gannon proceeded with his three-month study and the Board of Education approved his offer, allowing Lansing Community College to open its doors to the public in the fall of 1957. Gannon spoke about some of the early struggles he had starting the college. “One of the first questions we faced was, ‘We have a major college with Michigan State and Lansing Business College … why do we need another university?” Gannon said. “I wanted to set up a technical institute instead of a community college … the idea of a community college was just starting to blossom anyways.” Gannon said he was out to prove doubters wrong. He said he tirelessly campaigned his dream of starting a college by sending out flyers to grocery stores, advertising on the radio and mailing every high school graduate in the metropolitan area. When classes finally started in fall of 1957, there were 77 fulltime students and only three classes available: mechanical technology, civil technology and electrical technology. Gannon spoke about the atmosphere of the college during its inaugural year. “We had two secretaries, seven full-time faculty members and myself as dean, registrar, counselor, admissions director, accountant and everything else,” Gannon said. “We were family, we knew all the faculty and I knew all the students by name. “I knew all their educational problems and sometimes their personal problems. I would say from my personal standpoint that was the most enjoyable time
File photo by Larry Hook
Dr. Philip Gannon (right) chats with then-LCC Board of Trustees member Chris Laverty during a visit to LCC in 2007.
of all my years at the college.” As LCC began to grow, the time came to adopt leaders for the college. In December of 1964, LCC’s first board of trustees was announced and Gannon was named LCC’s first president. It was a position he held until retiring in 1989. Gannon spoke about the initiative of the college’s first board. “They came in with only one thought in mind: ‘What can we do to build a college here that would fit the community and fit the needs of students,’” Gannon said. “Politics was not a part of the agenda at that time.” LCC continued to flourish, and Gannon and the board started to establish unit colleges. Thus, the Arts & Sciences, Technical and Business divisions were adopted in 1968. Lansing Public Schools also donated its Old Central building as a sign of goodwill to the college.
“As a faculty we agreed we were going to be a student-centered college,” Gannon said. “That means our budget, our time and efforts were going to be centered on students and learning.” Gannon talked about which improvements he found most important during his presidency. “I think buildings are somewhat important,” Gannon said. “You can have old bricks or new bricks, but what goes on in relation to learning is the key factor.” Gannon said he is proud LCC had one of the first college libraries to have access to the Library of Congress. He also said he praised developing a relationship with the black colleges in Atlanta, a program started by The LCC Foundation. “The creativity, the intellectual drive, commitment and dedi-
cation of the faculty that set up these programs are things that I treasure,” Gannon said. After stepping down as LCC’s president in 1989, the forefather of LCC moved out of Lansing and lives with his wife, Lois, of 65 years. They split their time living in a cabin in Long Lake, Mich., and a home in Fort Myers, Fla. Former LCC English Professor and Vice President Emeritus Dale Herder, who worked with Gannon for many years at LCC, spoke about their relationship. “Dr. Gannon and I remain in fairly close contact yet today,” Herder said. “I am honored to still consider him a respected colleague and friend. I am impressed by his energy level, crisp intellect an unchanged ‘can do’ demeanor.’” For more info on Gannon’s upcoming speech at LCC, go to www.lcc.edu/about/gannon_event/
4 NEWS
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Fostering STARS Program enlightens Program co-coordinator and life skills coach. “We try to create a network so that the students that we work with have an easier time navigating the college system and are less likely to fall through the cracks.” Munley and Gregg meet with students in the Fostering STARS Program face-to-face on a regular basis depending on the level of need, according to Gregg. Face-to-face meetings are held monthly at minimum, but they are also connected through email, texting, Facebook and other means of communication. In addition to college navigation, students are taught life skills such as financing, job-hunting, time management, getting a checking account and more. Fostering STARS even has a fund called, “Specific Assistance.” It allows for $300 per student per year that can be used for rent, food, clothing for job interviews or any other needs the student may have, according to Gregg. “All of our students’ goals, when they articulate their goal for school, that becomes our goal,” Munley said. “Their goal is our goal and we want to
Shelby Schueller Associate Editor May is National Foster Care Awareness month and LCC’s Fostering STARS Program, which became active in August 2015, exists to help foster care youth succeed not only in school, but in life. According to J. Munley, Fostering STARS Program co-coordinator and life skills coach, 50 percent of foster care youth graduate from high school. Of those, 20 percent go to college and the college graduation rate is a staggering 3 percent. Fostering STARS, located behind Campus Resources in the Gannon Building Star Zone, is designed to assist students who were in foster care overcome the statistics. It does this by offering support and connecting students with resources to help them succeed in college. The program is one of the first of its kind at the community college level, Munley said. “We try to create a support network throughout the college with financial aid and the advisers, and the CSR in the Star Zone,” said Carrie Gregg, Fostering STARS
Courtesy photo
J. Munley, Carrie Gregg and Raven Jones pose next to Batman.
help them be successful in whatever that means; even if it means there is a point where maybe they feel like school isn’t for them. Even in that, we want to help them transition to whatever that will be.” The Fostering STARS Program also allows students to experience “Emersion Days” as a group, such as going to sporting events, in an effort to provide the students with opportunities they may not normally have, Munley said. Fostering STARS is a free, voluntary pro-
gram, according to Gregg. Eligible students include those who have experienced foster care after their 14th birthday and are between the ages of 14 and 21. Authorization from the Department of Health and Human Services is also needed, as the student’s foster care case must have been supervised by the department. According to Gregg, the program currently serves 14 students, but can accommodate 25. Dually enrolled students are also eligible. “I believe that programs like this are important because when students come to college for the first time, they really don’t know what to expect,” said Raven Jones, Fostering STARS support services specialist and former foster care youth. “I think these programs are important because they’re helping students who don’t necessarily have anyone in their corner; they’re helping them to succeed in college.” For info about Fostering STARS, students may stop by the Campus Resources desk, contact Carrie Gregg at (517) 483-1028 or J. Munley at (517) 483-1051. Or visit www.lcc. edu/supportservices/fosteringstars/
Centre art exhibit will showcase female artwork ries,” will feature five to eight themed original works from the selected artist, with one piece permanently displayed in The Centre. According to Ana Woehr, co-chair of the Selection Committee for “The Woman Artist Series,” the winning artist will be announced during the first week of May and
Shelby Schueller Associate Editor An art exhibit, featuring works from a female LCC student, will be held during the months of May and June in The Centre for Engaged Inclusion in the Gannon Building. The exhibit, titled “The Woman Artist Se-
if you could be reincarnated as anything possible what would it be? Jeremy Kohn
Shelby Schueller
Editor in Chief
Associate Editor
“Tardigrade (water bear).”
“Housecat.”
kohnj2@lcc.edu
schuels1@lcc.edu
Jaimie Bozack
A&E Editor
bozackj@lcc.edu
“Pizza. I would be invited to all parties.”
Rich Schenck
Sports Editor
Brian Wells
schen1@lcc.edu “Premier league footballer.”
Photo Editor
wellsb6@lcc.edu “A big bird.”
EMMA SCOTT
Nicole Cade
Aaron Wilton
Lurah Peterson
lead PAginator
assistant paginator
Staff Writer/AD Sales
Advertising Manager
“A dog.”
“A puppy.”
“Mantis Shrimp.”
“Large fluffy dog.”
scotte8@lcc.edu
caden@lcc.edu
wiltona@lcc.edu
petersl8@lcc.edu
will receive a $500 scholarship. “The exhibit is designed to support a student artist; offer an artist the opportunity to have their own exhibit in the hopes of raising their visibility and commercial potential, as well as provide them funding to pursue their art,” Woehr said. The exhibit was inspired by the legacy of the Zimmerman family that has supported artists over the years at LCC, according to Woehr. The decision to allocate funding to support the LCC student artist was a collaboration with the Aaron Emerson Women’s History Collective and The Centre for Engaged Inclusion. Last year, submissions reviewed were primarily paintings and illustrations. This year, however, the committee looked at more diverse offerings, Woehr said. News Editor There is no cost to view the exhibit, emersoa@lcc.edu according to Woehr. The exhibit will be “A lazy indoor dog.” available for viewing during the CenLarry Hook tre’s hours of operation: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday. Anne Heutsche, faculty coordinator at The Centre for Engaged Inclusion and member of Women’s History Collective, said the Women’s Art Exhibit falls in line with the mission of The Centre by Adviser hookl@lcc.edu inspiring dialogue on women in the arts. “Alan Trammell.” “We support student arts and the
larger performing arts community,” Heutsche said. “Performing arts are a vital and necessary part of any healthy and vibrant community. “(The exhibit) specifically addresses the gender disparity currently in public institutions, museums and exhibits. Women, as artists and subjects, are often omitted, ignored or marginalized.” Woehr expressed the importance of showcasing the work of emerging artists. “Emerging artists may have limited resources or pieces when exploring opportunities to exhibit,” Woehr said. “This solo show, will illuminate an emerging LCC artist and encourage the LCC community to connect and engage with art. “Since the exhibit will be in a public space on campus, people can wander through the show and interact with the art in their own way. “’The Woman Artist Series’ also allows for the emerging artist to experience seeing their art on display and support work that might otherwise be marginalized or unrecognized.” The Centre for Engaged Inclusion is located in room 252.04 of the Gannon Building on LCC’s main campus. For more information about the Women’s Art Exhibit, contact The Centre for Engaged Inclusion at LCC-TheCentre@lcc.edu/
5 NEWS
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
NEWS Activity day will raise awareness The Campus Resources for Student Support and the Campus Compliance and Programming Team at LCC will be holding an activity day to help raise awareness about stress, sexual assault and substance abuse. To be held Monday, May 2, workers will be serving ice cream, holding activities and offering prizes on the Washington Square corridor in downtown Lansing from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Students can learn about stress management, sexual assault prevention, and alcohol and drug abuse prevention. For more information, contact the Office of Student Compliance at (517) 483-1261.
Board of Trustees to meet twice in summer
Photo by Aaron Wilton
A 1932 lime and dark green convertable Oldsmobile F-32 roadster is one of the many classic cars on display at R. E. Olds Museum in Lansing.
Olds Museum a local treasure Aaron Wilton Staff Writer From REO Town and Lansing’s baseball stadium, to several city streets and roads across mid-Michigan and the name of a 1980s rock group, the name of Ransom Eli Olds is everywhere. His memory has lived on in the R. E. Olds Transportation Museum (REOTM) since 1981. REOTM is located at 240 Museum Drive in downtown Lansing. Executive Director Bill Adcock has been working with REOTM for 16 years. “35 years ago, when we opened the doors, there were very few cars in here,” Adcock said. “Maybe eight, and the museum didn’t even own them. We now have over 70 cars that we own and display.” Adcock explained there are still a few extremely historic cars the museum has on display that it doesn’t own. “We happen to have here, on display, the very first of four 1897 motor
wagons that were built right here in Lansing, Mich. on River Street,” he said. “That (car) belongs to the Smithsonian. Olds Motorworks gave it to the Smithsonian in 1915. (The Smithsonian) won’t give it to us, but it’s been on loan for 20-some years.” Another of the loaner cars is an 1899 electric car made by Olds himself. This is most likely the only one in existence in the world. “It’s quite an interesting museum,” Adcock said. “It’s all Lansing built transportation, whether it was an Oldsmobile, a Reo or a Durant. We even have an airplane; the Driggs aircraft.” Adcock gave his thoughts on the museum. “It’s a great, great museum,” he said. “It’s an absolute Lansing treasure. There have been people that come in here every day that said, ‘I’ve lived here my whole life and I’ve never been here,’ which is sad.” The REOTM is open Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5
p.m. and Sunday from noon to 5 p.m. Admission is $7 for adults; $5 for students (college students must have a valid I.D.); $5 for seniors (age 65 and up); and $15 for a family (two parents and three children under 18). For more information on REOTM go online to www.reoldsmuseum.org or call (517) 372-0529. Kristi Schwartzly is the office manager at REOTM. “People keep calling us a ‘hidden gem,’” Schwartzly said. “But we don’t want to be hidden!”
Photo by Aaron Wilton
A wall of 73 different Michigan license plates from all different years is displayed at REOTM.
The LCC Board of Trustees will meet twice during the summer before reconvening in September. The board has meetings scheduled for Monday, May 16 and Monday, June 20. Members are not scheduled to meet again after that until Monday, Sept. 19. All meetings are held at 6 p.m. in the board room of the Administration Building. For more information on the board or to stay updated during the summer, visit www. lcc.edu/trustees/
MBS on campus to give cash for books Officials from MBS Online Bookstore will be on campus for three days to give cash in exchange for reusable textbooks. They will be accepting appropriate college textbooks, regardless of where they were purchased. MBS will be in the main corridor of LCC’s west campus on Tuesday, May 3 from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Officials will also be in the Gannon StarZone on the main campus on Wednesday, May 4 and Thursday, May 5 from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. each day.
‘Centre’ prepares to end spring events The Centre for Engaged Inclusion will conclude its spring semester events during the final week of classes. On Tuesday, May 3, it will host a study break for global students from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. Then, on Thursday, May 5, the conclusion of the book discussion on “The New Jim Crow: Mass Incarceration in Age of Colorblindness” will take place from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. For more information on the Centre for Engaged Inclusion, located in room 252.02 of the Gannon Building, visit www.lcc.edu/resources/ the_centre/
6|Features
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Mu Tau honor society wins big awards Aaron Emerson Staff Writer LCC’s Phi Theta Kappa chapter took a trip to Maryland in early April and came home with two international awards. Mu Tau, the LCC chapter of the Phi Theta Kappa honor society, took part in the NerdNation Annual Convention in National Harbor, Md., April 7 through 9. LCC was one of 1,200 chapters represented worldwide. Six students and two advisers from the LCC group attended the convention. According to the group’s president, Jerod Clover, it was a successful trip. LCC won an award for being a Distinguished Chapter and also earned the Distinguished Honors in Action Project Award. Distinguished Chapter awards were given to the top 10 percent of chapters in the “Honors in Action” and “College Project” categories. The Honors in Action Project Award was given to LCC for an ongoing research project on how telepresence robots can be used to reduce barriers to education. “When our Phi Theta Kappa chapter won the Honors in Action Project Award, all the hard work over the year was worth it,” Clover said. Clover said it was the first time the Mu
Photo by Brian Wells
LCC Phi Theta Kappa Mu Tau Chapter was recognized at the LCC Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, April 18. The Chapter recently won multiple awards at the national NerdNation convention.
Tau chapter has won an international award in at least nine years. He said it was not a one-person job and gave credit to several people. “Huge thanks to our advisers Emerson Sheffey and Margo Whalen, our Honors
in Action Coordinator Andre Menke, the Chair of the Honors in Action Committee Shanaz Mohamed, the entire Mu Tau officer corps and, of course, the chapter members,” Clover said. Phi Theta Kappa is an internation-
al honor society for two-year colleges. Membership is by invitation only to students with at least a 3.5 grade point average. “I’m excited to see what we’ll accomplish in the future,” Clover said.
‘Starscapes’ allows LCC students to shine Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief Innovation was the name of the game during LCC’s third annual Starscapes, held April 20 and 21 in LCC’s Gannon Building. Students displayed an array of innovative projects ranging from experiments matching DNA samples to students showcasing their films and original written works. Co-chair of the Innovation Team Jeff Janowick and Molecular Biology Professor Mindy Wilson talked about organizing the event for the third year. “One big difference is it is a lot bigger; it’s about twice as big as last year with number of entries,” Janowick said. “We have a lot of presentations and performances to go along with the posters and demonstrations.” Added Wilson: “It’s kind of a radical idea in education to let people get out of the classroom and share their innovative work. It’s taken three years to really catch on.” Psychics 252 student Hunter Erickson spoke about his group’s experiment on dis-
Photo by Brian Wells
Joseph Nevius reads “Obstacles,” a piece of short fiction he wrote for the 2016 edition of “Washington Square,” a collection of works written by students. “Obstacles” is about a young man trying to overcome an obstacle on a nine-hole miniature golf course.
play in the Gannon Commons. “It’s a sterling engine,” Erickson said. “How it works is there is a flame on the bottom and there is a piston in the cylinder and, based on the temperature of the flame, it will spin.” Erickson talked about how inexpensive it was for his group’s experiment. “Three tin cans, a balloon, the only thing we had to buy was a PCP pipe,” Erickson said. “So money out of pocket, I’m saying 30 cents.” This year’s Starscapes also had events located in LCC’s Centre for Engaged Inclusion. Experiments at the Centre included a musical presentation of the Theremin, as well as the Washington Square reading. Wilson said she hopes for Starscapes to grow in the years to come. “We are actually talking about finding ways to involve all of the classes and west campus and have a big Starscapes festival,” Wilson said.
7|sports
may 2 - JUNE 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC softball charging toward postseason Rich Schenck Sports Editor With just under a week left in the 2016 season, LCC Head Coach Marc Kibby and the LCC softball team are in good shape. They sit atop the MCCAA Western Conference standings with a five-game cushion over Kalamazoo Valley CC. The Lady Stars continue to tear through their schedule, having lost only twice in their last 27 games. “We’ve been playing defense well,” Kibby said. “We had one little oopsie against Kellogg, but our defense has carried us through the year.” Since March 21 LCC has held 14 opponents to a total of 39 runs while scoring 220. “What helped us with our hitting was we worked on some basic swings,” Kibby said. “We were playing four, five days in a row and some of the kids started picking up some bad habits.” No hot streak is without its hiccups, however. LCC (22-2 MCCAA West, 31-13 overall) suffered from miscommunication in the outfield and gave up easy runs in its April 22 doubleheader against Ancilla College. Kibby explained that this late in the
season, mistakes like that can be reason to worry as a coach. “Well yes and no,” Kibby said. “We’re trying to get some of the younger players some playing time and experience to help us out. The little things that we work on, like how the communication should be there, evidently we’re still having problems with our younger players. But hey, they’re working at it and we’re getting better.” The Lady Stars close the season with some of the toughest teams in both the MCCAA East and West. Kibby, however, said the confidence floating around the dugout is at an all-time high and the play of the team is reflecting that. “The run that we’ve had here, our confidence is solid, the team believes in each other,” he said. “Even if someone makes a mistake or strikes out, someone’s there to pick them up.” Kalamazoo CC (16-6 MCCAA West, 22-8 overall) and Kellogg CC (17-1 MCCAA West, 27-9 overall) who LCC will play at home April 29 and 30, sit in second and third place behind the Lady Stars in the Western Conference.
Photo by Brian Wells
LCC sophomore third baseman Nichole Numerich bats during the first game of the Stars’ doubleheader against Ancilla College on Friday, April 22 at Ranney Park in Lansing. The Stars won the first game 3-1 and the second game 8-2.
Your on campus Credit Union! We are conveniently located in the Gannon Building on LCC's Downtown Campus. At this branch, LCC students, faculty and staff can open an account, register for our free online banking, conduct daily transactions, and apply for credit cards and loans.
We have ATMs located all over campus, including two in the Gannon building, one in the TLC building, and one on East and West campus. Plus, because we are a Co-Op Shared branch, you have access to 30,000 surcharge-free ATMs nationwide.
Federally Insured by NCUA
www.casecu.org
Our service. Your success.
8 SPORTS
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Playoffs in sight for baseball squad Rich Schenck Sports Editor The stakes are high in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association after the LCC baseball team split its doubleheader on the road against Mott CC (4-10 MCCAA, 10-19 overall) April 28. The Stars lost game one 12-2 in six innings and won the second by a score of 2-1. The Stars sit in a tie for second with Kellogg CC (12-4 MCCAA, 25-15 overall), two games back of Jackson College (14-2 MCCAA, 26-11 overall) with just over a week left in the season. “Our goals have always been to make the playoffs and then regionals,” LCC Head Coach Andrew Merchant said. “We are on track to do that.” After being swept for only the second time all season by Kellogg CC on April 14, Merchant explained that those games don’t necessarily define the rest of the season. “There are ‘nice to have’ games and ‘need to have’ games,” Merchant said. “They were ‘nice to have’ games that we didn’t get.” Throughout the season the sophomore class has carried the bulk of the load for LCC, but Merchant acknowledged freshman shortstop Chris Lowe and pitcher/ outfielder Andrew Brighton as newcomers who have made an impact in 2016. “We’ve got some contributions from some different guys,” Merchant said. “Our sophomores are definitely carrying the squad.” With so few games remaining in the
Photo by Rich Schenck
Jordan Hadley (2) and Austin Klapko (9) celebrate a home run hit by teammate Jake Pendred (center) against the Washtenaw Community College club team April 24 at Westside Park. The Stars won both games of the doubleheader, 10-0 and 14-4.
season, Merchant explained that the margin for error is becoming increasingly slim in order to make it to the postseason. “Really it’s just trying to fine tune things,” Merchant said. “A lot of it is
the ability to make in-game adjustments where I think we do a lot of things right. At this point, to compete with the top teams like Kellogg, it’s important to make those adjustments.” The Stars were scheduled to host St.
Clair CC at Westside Park April 30 and begin a six-game road trip beginning at Washtenaw CC May 1. LCC returns home for its season finale against conference-leading Jackson College Tuesday, May 10.
Lagenfeld provides pitching stability for LCC & QA
The Lookout Sports Editor Rich Schenck recently Nate spoke with LCC Lagenfeld sophomore pitcher/ outfielder Nate Lagenfeld. The Grand Ledge High School product had a 3-2 record with a 4.39 ERA through April 27. He also had 49 strikeouts in 41 innings pitched. What drew you to play baseball? “It was mostly my dad. He played baseball in high school and it has been
Lagenfeld
a big part of his life so he brought me up into baseball. He made me a fan and then got me into the sport.” What convinced you to come to LCC? “Just an opportunity for me to get better and an opportunity to try to move on to another school. It’s an opportunity to play every day.” Is there an aspect of this game that is a favorite? “Hitting is definitely the most fun for me.” Can you remember the greatest moment of your career?
“Probably for me was winning two Diamond Classics in high school. Just nothing better than winning a tournament of some of the best teams. Winning it twice was the cherry on top.” Any plans after LCC? “I’m committed to Northwood (University) next year for two years of baseball.” How do you spend any free time you have? “Play video games and watch a lot of baseball, basketball and football.”
9 Sports
may 2 - june 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout —laces out —
It’s the fourth quarter; I leave with no regrets Rich Schenck Sports Editor Now I don’t expect a Ziploc bag full of air from my final production day to go for $15,000 on eBay, and I don’t have enough pairs of shoes to sign to give to my Lookout colleagues. But I do plan to walk away from my position as sports editor with no regrets. This is my second go at LCC. I returned with the jokes of “Last Chance College” I heard in high school ringing in my conscience. I had no direction and no idea what I wanted to do. Then one fateful night at a friend’s home, I was convinced that my pas-
sion for sports would be my calling. Three years ago, I was assigned my first story for The Lookout as a clueless freelancer about the LCC hockey team … which I never knew existed. Like many students, I was pretty oblivious to LCC athletics and the caliber of people and student-athletes who ran onto the court, field or track. I now feel ingrained in the fabric of what these programs stand for, albeit only being a small fiber. The thrill of victory, the agony of defeat and the tragedy of losing
school legends has been the name of my game. In my opinion, there is nothing more powerful than the impact sports can have on an individual and a community. I have seen it firsthand at this school and in this city. But these emotions have translated seamlessly into my experiences at The Lookout. I have met some pretty incredible people who have seen their work grace the pages of our paper. I have seen some of those people rise, through growing pains, to turn into some pretty fantastic writers. I can’t possibly fit onto the page my experiences at this school and at this publication. What I can say unequivocally is it has shaped me into the person I am today. Going after something
you thought wasn’t possible can lead you to water. But it is up to you to decide to drink. It hasn’t been an easy road by any means. I haven’t been able to cruise through the schedule without my share of pitfalls. I won’t make six figures doing what I’m doing, but who cares. You can’t buy the people you meet and the memories you make. To all of those who have taken me under their wing and to you, the readers, for taking time to pick up a paper and read my rants, I will forever be indebted to you. As Ernie Harwell once said: “It's time to say goodbye, but I think goodbyes are sad and I'd much rather say hello. Hello to a new adventure.”
wmich.edu/GoWest Download the free Layar App Scan this page for interactive content
PEOPLE COME HERE BECAUSE THEY’RE LOOKING FOR SOMETHING. What they find is a challenge—something unexpected— that opens up new frontiers. Go West. Discover. Explore. This is one of America’s great universities. A lot of people who have become successful—skilled, happy, wealthy and influential—started by heading West. Western Michigan University. It’s your turn to GRAB THE REINS.
GO WEST.
The Lookout’s print edition will take a break during the summer semester. However new stories will be published weekly on our website, www.lcc.edu/lookout. Check it out all summer!
10|ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
may 2 - june 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
First-ever StoopFest a big success
Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor Cramped spaces, sweaty people, loud music and smiling faces were in abundance during the first-ever StoopFest on April 23. StoopFest took place in six participating houses in Lansing’s east side community, in the neighborhoods along Michigan Avenue. People donated their time and homes to host over 50 bands and 30 comedians. The six houses were in walking distance of each other. Bands included The Plurals, Gifts or Creatures, Stefanie Haapala, Lights & Caves and more. Comedians included Robert Jenkins, Brad Wenzel, Dan Currie and Mark Roebuck. Festival planning committee member James Radick said the festival capped attendance at 220 tickets sold. He said the event was highly successful. “It was a day of positivity and community,” Radick said. “Everyone I talked to had a great time. We sold out of tickets a week in advance.” Radick said the event ran smoothly. He said he would like to make StoopFest an annual event. “I think StoopFest is really good for the area to not only showcase the possibilities of having such an involved and active mu-
sic and comedy scene, but hopefully (to) encourage traffic to the great local businesses in the area,” Radick said. Radick said the idea of the fest was to foster a sense of community in Lansing’s east side. “We wanted to show off our community and get people out enjoying an incredible day of music and comedy, “Radick said. “We wanted people to be proud to call Lansing home.” Radick said there was zero profit made by the festival. Ticket prices covered expenses and supplies needed to host bands and comedians. “We used the last bit of money we had to buy pizza at the end of the night for everyone at the shows to thank them for being so respectful and awesome,” Radick said. “This community is beautiful and we love the people in it for helping us have such a cool event.” Local musician Krissy Booth said she heard about the event through a friend. She said she enjoyed playing at StoopFest. “Everyone attending cared about the arts and are involved,” Booth said. “When my set ended I got to go see other great artists and comedians for the entire day.” “Events like this show that Lansing has a ton going for it. There are so many talented people here. It’s growing more every day and that’s so exciting.”
Photo by Jaimie Bozack
Lead singer of local alternative band Lights & Caves Dillion Gorden performs during StoopFest on April 23.
Lansing resident James Vanguard said he had fun house-hopping during the event. “Man, this event is so cool,” Vanguard
said. “I get to see some of my favorite bands like Joe Hertler & The Rainbow Seekers in small intimate settings that I would never dream of.”
artist spotlight: Jason singer
‘Michigander’ looks to put its musical act on map Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor The Michigan music scene is thriving with up-and-coming, talented artists of all genres. There is one artist who works day and night with a guitar in one hand and a notebook in the other. That artist is Jason Singer. Singer is from Midland, and is all about creating an intimate experience for listeners. Singer started playing music at his local church. From there he played solo for four years before creating his current band, Michigander. “I started playing blues jam night at local bars,” Singer said. “It was me and a bunch of old dudes.” Since then, Singer has played in venues all over Michigan.
“I think I would describe my music as really hard, soft rock,” Singer said. “Writing comes in waves. I am either writing a ton of stuff, both good and bad, or I am not writing anything.” “It can be hard to be honest. I don’t want to hurt the people that are close to me, but you have to be real and honest. I am slowly learning how to do that.” Singer said he hopes to release a Michigander EP sometime this year. On Friday, April 29, Michigander released a new song named “Nineties.” “It is the first song that I wrote that I would personally listen to,” Singer said. “I am so proud of it. I wrote it based off of an Instagram post I saw from the drummer of Alt-J. He posted about how great New York City must have been in the ‘90s; pre-9/11.” Singer said that before shows, a mil-
lion things flow through his head. Once the lights dim down and he walks on stage, everything falls into place. “I am a nervous wreck on show days, ask my band,” Singer said. “I am awful leading up to the show. I worry about ticket sales, whether or not my mic cable is tangled and if the sound guy knows what he is doing. “All of that goes away the minute we walk out. Then I am comfortable.” Singer said he would like to hit the road this year. “I hope within the next year I get to tour with a national act,” Singer said. “We just got a van and it needs to be put to good use.” “I am really excited about the Michigan music scene and I am really excited about Michigander,” Singer said. “Big things are happening and I can’t wait.” Michigander fan Amanda Leksche
said she first saw Michigander when she went to see several other local bands at a three-stage show. “Michigander happened to be playing and they turned out to be one of my favorites of the night,” Leksche said. “I love how they surprise the audience with random instruments. I also really like their charming stage presence.” Leksche said she hopes to see Michigander live again soon. “My favorite song is ‘Safe,’ because of the humble yet powerful lyrics,” Leksche said. “Jason Singer has such an honest voice and you can really feel the emotion there. “It is refreshing to hear a well-written, simple sound when we are usually surrounded with meaningless chatter in our busy lives.” To hear Michigander music head to www.michiganderband.com/
11 A&E
may 2 - JUNE 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Mac’s marks four years of comedy Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor In 2012 Mac’s Monday Comedy Night included a few local comedians performing stand-up for three audience members. Now it is four years later and anyone who walks into Mac’s Bar, 2700 E. Michigan Ave., would have no idea it was the same venue. Three audience members turned into many audience members, leaving some shows standing-room-only. The few local comedians turned into a stacked lineup full of out-of-state and in-state comedians. Mac’s Monday Comedy Night will celebrate four years of keeping locals laughing on Monday, May 9 at 10 p.m. The show is free but donations are suggested. Comedy night regulars including Dan Currie, Mark Roebuck, Robert Jenkins, Jason Carlen, Pat Sievert and Brad Wenzel will perform. Local musicians will play after the comedy show. Currie, co-host of Mac’s Monday Comedy Night, said he is excited to celebrate four years of comedy at Mac’s Bar. “We wanted to have music after the show so people could hang around and celebrate,” Currie said. “The musical performers were some of our earliest fans.” Currie said he is always excited for Mondays, but this show will be special.
Photo by Jaimie Bozack
Hosts Dan Currie (left) and Mark Roebuck perform at Mac’s Bar April 25.
“When we started Mac’s was just a place to get up and do comedy,” Currie said. “We are very happy and proud of the show we have created. Our regulars are super important. It really shows they enjoy the show and support our local comics.” Currie said he thinks stand-up comedy is important for the community. “I think comedy is such a cool art form, especially in Lansing,” Currie said. “Laughing is important. Coming together as an audience and laughing is cathartic.” Currie encouraged people to come to the anniversary show. “If you have been to our show before we would love to have you there to cel-
ebrate with us,” Currie said. “If you have never been before, this is a good time to hop aboard.” Roebuck, the other co-host, has been doing stand-up comedy for seven years. “I have gotten to travel, have an absurd amount of fun and work with a few of my favorite national comedians,” Roebuck said. “Hands down the best part of comedy for me comes every Monday night.” Roebuck said the show’s fans are the most important part of comedy night. “This comedy show will be a celebration and also a giant ‘thank you’ to everyone that has been a part of this,” Roebuck said. Local comedian Sievert has been doing stand-up since 2012. He said Mac’s is where he got his start. “I think it helped me grow as a performer,” Sievert said. “I remember when we were lucky to have a handful of non-comedians there to watch us. Now we use every chair.” “I am looking forward to having a slightly larger line-up with some of the best people we have put on over the years,” Sievert said. “There are people who are excited to come out late on a Monday night to laugh. That is when it feels like all of the effort in stand-up comedy is worth doing.”
‘Improv!’ to bring comic relief to LCC Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor What do a pitchfork, snow and a radio have in common? Well, nothing at all. LCC students will find a way to combine items like those above during Improv! directed by Andy Callis. Improv! will take place Tuesday, May 3 at 7:30 p.m. in The Black Box Theatre. The event is free. Students will dive into improv by creating stories and characters in the spur of the moment with the hope of making audience members laugh. “We do some improv exercises that are fairly difficult, like scenes with rhymes or without morals,” Callis said. “They have to be very spontaneous and open. The hard
thing is that the students have to be the actor and the playwright at the same time.” Callis said the show will be similar to the TV show, “Whose Line Is It Anyway?” He said he hopes the students will create funny stories the night of the show. “Improv is easier once you get over the tension,” Callis said. “Getting up in front of people, not knowing what is going to happen next and not being afraid is a hard thing to do.” Callis said he enjoys watching the students perform. “I love the hilarious stories that happen,” Callis said. “I also enjoy all the bizarre things that happen and the laughter, too. “I think improv teaches
students about creativity and storytelling. You can either advance your story or kill your story.” Improv student Ndegwa McCloud has been in theater since high school. “I didn’t like doing improv much in high school,” McCloud said. “Whenever I did it I felt like my scenes went to weird places that weren’t very funny. “I like improv at LCC because some of the people are in my other theater classes. … It’s cool to know people actually want to participate and people are more open. I feel more free to do whatever.” McCloud said he has been in several shows at LCC. He said he likes being on stage and looks forward to a
crowd. “I am never nervous doing improv because I feel like my whole life is random scenes,” McCloud said. “I am pretty comfortable being on stage. I like the crowd because there is interaction and so much more energy. “I have known since I was young that I wanted to be an actor because I get more joy out of acting than anything else,” McCloud said. “I loved how going to the movies and watching TV made me feel. It helped me out in life. “I have always wanted to be able to entertain someone and bring them to feel emotion. … That is what I value most.” For up-to-date information on the event head to www.lcc. edu/
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Free Comic Book Day to make a ‘pow’ Comic book lovers will soon be rushing to their nearest shop. Free Comic Book Day is a national event celebrated by local comic book stores all across the country. The event will take place on Saturday, May 7 from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. Summit Comics and Games, 216 S. Washington Square, will be one of the participating locations. Employees there will hand out thousands of free comic books, including new children’s comics, a special “Avengers Civil War” issue and a kickoff issue for the DC Comics “Suicide Squad.” For more information head to www.summitlansing.com/
Celtic musician coming to Mid-Michigan The Crosaires Foundation, in partnership with the Meridian Senior Center, will present nationally known Celtic musician Patrick Ball on Saturday, May 14 at 7 p.m. at Chippewa Middle School, 4000 Okemos Road. There will be a second performance on Sunday, May 15 at 2 p.m. at the McGoff Auditorium, 3939 Vanneter Road in Williamston. Tickets are $15 per ticket and can be purchased through the Meridian Senior Center by calling (517) 706-5045.
E.L. Art Festival to get colorful in May The streets of downtown East Lansing will soon come to life as hundreds of tents filled with local crafts, art, food and music will decorate the area. The East Lansing Art Festival will take place Friday, May 20 through Sunday, May 22. It is a free and family friendly event. Musical acts will include the East Lansing High School Jazz Band, Off The Ledge, Side Crunch and more. The event is located on East Lansing’s main strip on East Grand River Avenue. Local shops and restaurants will be open for festival goers’ enjoyment. For more information head to www.elartfest.com/#intro/
12 A&E
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
reviews
‘Jungle Book’ movie an artful retelling Shelby Schueller Associate Editor After successes with “Alice in Wonderland,” “Cinderella” and “Maleficent,” Disney opened a new chapter of live action renditions of cartoon classics with “The Jungle Book,” which hit theaters April 15. “The Jungle Book” tells the story of a young man-cub named Mowgli, played by Neel Sethi in his first role, who was raised by wolves in the jungle. He is forced to flee his home when a man-hating tiger named Shere Khan (Idris Elba) discovers Mowgli’s existence and vows to hunt the boy. Aided by his panther friend Bagheera (Ben Kingsley), Mowgli travels toward the man village while trying to avoid the wrath of Shere Khan. Along the way, Mowgli meets a wild cast of characters including a hypnotizing snake named Kaa (Scarlett Johansson), giant King Louie (Christopher Walken) and
Photo from www.Youtube.com
Baloo, the ever-hungry bear (Bill Murray). However, while the overall plot is the same, the new “Jungle Book” is not the goofy, kid-friendly story the cartoon was. This version is much scarier, even though it is rated PG.
The amount of violence in this movie was surprising to me. Mowgli is constantly running from danger and has several visible cuts during the entire movie. Additionally, the battle scenes with Shere Khan even made me jump a few times.
Shere Khan is probably one of the most ruthless villains in Disney animation. His ruthlessness, power and cunning shines through in every scene, and he murders without a thought. He not only acts scary, he looks scary with a scarred face and one dead eye. Besides the more adult plot, one of the reasons the film is scarier is because of the realistic CGI. The jungle and every animal look so real; I cannot even imagine the amount of work it took to render and make the characters move perfectly for every scene. It is seriously impressive. Despite its dark tones, the film also has its fair share of lightheartedness. A few songs, such as “Bare Necessities” and “I Wanna Be Like You” are reimagined in the film and there are some cute moments. “The Jungle Book” is a beautiful, entertaining, well-made movie, but maybe not for the whole family.
Punk legend Pop sells out Detroit homecoming Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief The Fox Theater may be Detroit’s architectural equivalent to the Taj Mahal. What better venue for punk royalty and Detroit native Iggy Pop to hold his Post Pop Depression tour on April 7. Rock and roll lives in a person’s blood. It doesn’t wither away with age. Pop proved this. This time around the 68-year-old icon brought an all-star backing band, which included lead guitarist Josh Homme and keyboardist Dean Fertita from Queens of
the Stone Age, as well as Arctic Monkeys drummer Matt Helders. Opening his set in theatrical fashion, Pop strolled out decked in a black suit and belting out one of his classic tunes, “Lust for Life.” It wasn’t long after this song that the Motor City legend threw his jacket off, jumping and kicking across the stage. Pop has always been known for his highly energetic shows, and having such a stellar backup band only catapulted his energy. Homme and crew provided plenty of powerful punches from several eras of
Pop’s career such as “The Passenger” and “Sixteen,” and newer songs like “American Valhalla” and “Break Into Your Heart.” The song that really turned up the Fox was the song “Funtime,” during which Pop took a stage dive into the Detroit crowd. “Repoman” really showcased all of the band’s incredible musicianship as the stage lights flickered with every high intensity riff. Not all of the songs were in your face. Pop played some groovier lounge-like songs such as “Gardenia” and “Baby,” as well as a tribute to his friend David Bowie, “China Girl.”
The acoustics at the Fox were perfect. You could hear every minute detail of every song. Some artists lose the ability to sing well live when they get older. This was not the case for Pop. He sounded just like the album. His backup band is probably the best band he has ever played with (and yes, that even includes The Stooges). When it was all said and done Pop had performed 22 songs in front of his hometown crowd, to which he boasted: “There is not a f**ing place on earth like Detroit, Michigan.”
‘Ratchet & Clank’ kick some asteroid and gather bolts Aaron Wilton Staff Writer The galaxy-saving duo has made its debut on PS4. “Ratchet & Clank” was released on April 12 for PS4 only. “Ratchet & Clank” is a reimagining of the original game made in 2002. Due to the fact that it is a reimagining of an old game, this new game only costs $39.99, versus the normal new-game price of $59.99. “Ratchet & Clank” has been a nostalgic trip for me. I played the first four
games in the series all those years ago. I even purchased a PS4 purely to be able to play this game. The game has stunning graphics, hilarious voiceover, interesting new weapons and the feel of a classic game. New weapons include the pixalizer, the bouncer and the groovitron. The pixalizer makes enemies go back to a time when resolution was much lower. The bouncer was not available in the original game, but was created in
“Ratchet & Clank: Deadlocked,” and was available as a pre-order weapon DLC for “Ratchet & Clank.” The groovitron creates an instant dance party at the target location. The temporary dancing leaves enemies open for attack. All of the revamped cut-scenes featured in the game are taken from the movie, which was released on April 29. The game is now set as if Captain Qwark is telling the story of his downfall to a cellmate in prison.
The game has the same sense of humor for which the original is known. Plus a couple of new lines were added, which reference reality and the fact that this game is a remake. Overall, this game delivers a long overdue nostalgic trip for “Ratchet & Clank” fans. Those who played the original and liked it will not be disappointed with this newest installment. For those who haven’t played a single “Ratchet & Clank” game, it is never too late to start.
13|distractions
may 2 - JUNE 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Hold newspaper up to a mirror to get the answerS to this week’s King Crossword puzzle.
14|opinion
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — The Kohn Effect —
Looking back, and beyond, The Lookout Once upon a time there was a 32-year-old man who decided it was time to change the direction of his life. He was tired of limiting himself to the physical and emotional drain of the everyday corporate restaurant world. He returned to LCC after a long hiatus to focus on a career in writing. Frequently, he would pick up LCC’s newspaper, The Lookout, and think to himself: “Hmm, I wonder if I could write for them.” After poking his head in The Lookout office for several months, he was given his first story to write, about the LCC employee picnic. Not the most thrilling of stories, but he had to start somewhere. Soon they were utilizing him more. He started to write stories he actually had interest in, such as movie and music reviews. After several stories and acquiring a significant pile of Gibson’s gift cards as freelancer pay, he made the transition to staff writer. He met colorful people during his
official first semester at the newspaper. There was Nathan, the low-key workhorse editor in chief; Sarah, the sarcastic snarky A & E editor; Joe, the loud and boisterous sports editor; Nikki, the sassy page designer; and Jaimie, the quiet and reserved girl. After a semester of working as a staff writer, he was asked to fill the shoes of all-star Editor in Chief Nathan, as it was Nathan’s last semester at The Lookout. For two and a half years after Nathan left, our man worked as editor in chief of the newspaper. Writing stories and planning out the newspaper became as essential to him as breathing. He wrote about every topic under the sun: movies, music, Ice Bucket Challenges, one-armed climbers scaling Mt. Everest and the Flint Water Crisis. Deadlines and AP style also became an embedded part of his life, as did his relationship with his staff. When you spend nearly four years with people in an office you feel an array of emotions toward them.
When a story falls through there is anger and frustration. When your staff wins 15 MCCPA awards you are proud of them. When you break out the ping-pong table on deadline night you realize that although each staff member is different, they can co-exist and always find a way to have a good time. Now it is time to bid adieu and close the chapter on four years of his life. What’s next for our protagonist? Well, I’ll say one thing: writing is his passion and he will continue to be a writer in his post-Lookout life. Of course our protagonist is me. So here is where I’ll insert the sentimental and emotional thank yous. First off, thank you Adviser Larry Hook for taking a chance on an eager and possibly annoyingly persistent writer. Thank you for seeing something in me to appoint me editor in chief, a positon that has both challenged me as a writer and a leader. Thank you to my staff, which I have seen grow over the years. Sarah, thanks for adding a snarky millennial flair to the paper. Nikki, thank you for your diligent work on page design. You were the
glue that held the paper together. Jaimie, you have come a long ways kid. Keep writing what you love, no matter what. Brian, you are a gifted photographer and will go far, I know it. Rich, your rants and character voices are as good as your colorful sports commentary. Shelby, you are another person I saw grow tremendously this year. From safe kitty columns to someone who wrote The Lookout’s best columns and reviews this year: good work, skillet biscuit. Lurah, thank you for the brownies - you made for us each production night. Aaron W., you are more than just an “ad-boy.” Your willingness to help out whenever will go far working for the paper. Team page design – Emma and Nicole – you were a welcome and witty addition to the staff this year. Finally, Aaron E., I can tell by your stories that you are built for journalism. You are such an inspiring and dedicated person. So here’s a big peace-out to my time at The Lookout. I’ll see ya on the flippity. Kohn out.
— sights & sounds —
Finding my beat in the entertainment writing field “I walked into the newspaper room for the first time eager to get to work as news editor and meet the other staff members, only to find five blank stares with them all pointing me in the direction of the actual newspaper room down the hall.” That was the first paragraph I had ever written during my career at The Lookout. Three years later, one year too many, I might add, I am sad to be writing my last. When I started at The Lookout there were certain things I expected. I expected to write, play a small role on staff and to meet a couple of new friends. What I never would have expected was to be writing seven or eight stories per issue, being the arts & entertainment editor, and preparing to move on to MSU in the fall. Below are some things The Lookout has taught me: You are not as good as you think
you are: It was two issues ago when I spent hours writing a story that I considered a masterpiece of journalism. It was my piece on a professor at LCC who had been paralyzed by a drunk driver. I sent it to my adviser, Larry Hook, who in the first paragraph found three things to edit. It can be difficult for me to not get frustrated as I watch my adviser suggest tons of small changes, especially to my “masterpiece of journalism.” I have learned that it is best to stay humble and take all the constructive criticism I can get. A planner is a women’s best friend: I work two jobs, write six to eight stories per issue and am a fulltime student. Yeah, I don’t know how I have a social life either. A planner and good time management skills are a good start.
Being a writer I hold three things closest: coffee, a notebook and my planner. The Lookout has taught me to manage my time well because hitting deadlines is one huge part of the job description. Just be yourself: Part of my daily routine is to talk to random strangers. That can be extremely challenging for someone with social anxiety like myself. Part of dealing with that anxiety is learning to be myself. I wear bow ties, say awkward things and make bad jokes. The key is to feel comfortable with that. Be kind, work hard and good things will happen: Most importantly I have learned that if I work hard and be kind to people, amazing things
will happen. Life can get hectic and there are times where I want to hide away from the world. The key is to keep going, keep working hard and keep being kind to people even if they don’t treat me with the same respect. Amazing things have happened, and continue to happen to me. I am blessed to have spent three years at The Lookout. I have met some of the most amazing people, I have gained experience and I have been able to cover so many fun events. I wouldn’t have asked to spend the past three years anywhere else. Thank you to anyone who has ever supported me, let me interview them and shown me kindness.
15 opinion
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — Staff Editorial —
Tubman on $20 bill a step in right direction “We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men should be created equal.” Thomas Jefferson penned these famous words as part of the Declaration of Independence in 1776. Yet, diversity and equality continue to be problems facing not only the United States, but the entire world.
The United States made significant changes in the name of diversity on Wednesday, April 20. The National Treasury Department announced the image on the $20 bill will soon be switched from Andrew Jackson to African-American slave abolitionist Harriet Tubman. According to an article in USA Today, Treasury Secretary Jacob
Lew made this decision based on reading a biography of Tubman by Catherine Clinton called, “Harriet Tubman: The Road to Freedom.” “I think people are unaware of the full dimensions of her Civil War career,” Clinton said in USA Today. “I am a Civil War historian and I was unaware.” The Lookout staff wholeheartedly
agrees with this change. It is an important step not only for AfricanAmerican equality, but also for woman’s equality. This will be the second time (the first was a short instance in which Martha Washington appeared on a paper silver dollar in 1886) that a woman appears on a United States bill.
— Emerson’s insights—
Tennessee governor was right to veto ‘Bible Bill’ Tennessee has official state symbols for rocks, trees, flowers and even amphibians. And if a bill passed by its state legislature this month had been signed by Gov. Bill Haslam, Tennessee would have had an official state book: the Holy Bible. Haslam vetoed the bill April 14, however, and he was wise to do so. There is no sane reason any state needs an official book, especially one that would bring such controversy along with it.
There was plenty of uproar among people from all walks of life after the state senate passed the bill April 4. Tennessee’s attorney general argued the bill violated a provision in the state’s constitution that says, “No preference shall ever be given, by law, to any religious establishment or mode of worship.” That could have been argued in court, but the issue runs much deeper than that. Even if an individual doesn’t like the
iris – Tennessee’s state flower – they can probably understand the significance it has to the state. The Bible, however, is a religious book that many believe is inspired by the word of God. For many people in Tennessee, it’s more than just a state symbol. Simply put, designating the Bible as a symbol would trivialize it. It could also make thousands of people in the state uncomfortable. I know if I – a Christian who grew up the son of a minister – lived in a state whose government designated the Quran or Torah as the official book, I would feel disrespected.
There’s just too much that could have gone wrong if this bill was signed into law. The Bible does not deserve to be labeled as a symbol, or placed side by side in a museum next to a flower or a rock. Lawsuits would have been filed if it was signed by Haslam, as well, most likely costing state taxpayers millions of dollars. People who don’t identify as Christian would not agree – and rightfully so. Tennessee was wrong for trying to pass this bill. It just does not fit, for many reasons. Kudos to Gov. Haslam for not signing it and the state house for not overriding the veto.
— if the schue fits —
Flowers are blooming; lives are changing quickly and, hopefully, I will be changing schools in the fall. As I think about all of these changes, I find there is some symbolism for the time of year the school year ends. Spring is a time of new growth. Life is breathed back into plants and animals as the sun grows warmer and the days are longer. The academic year ends just as soon as new life begins in nature, and for many of us, spring is a time for new beginning. This week’s comic sponsored by:
I’ve been thinking a lot lately about why the school year ends in the spring. We start the New Year on Jan. 1, and then end the school year a few months later. The juxtaposition of beginnings and endings has really kept me up at night (not really, just in a metaphorical sense). I’m at a point in my life of great change. I have changed my major (for like the third or fourth time), I’ve changed jobs, hobbies
I know I’m not the only one who is changing this spring. So many other students like myself, and nearly all of The Lookout staff, are going to have very different lives by the time fall occurs. And maybe that’s a little scary. For the past three years, I’ve studied at LCC. I know the best places to find parking, have made friends with teachers and students, have gone to countless LCC events and eat lunch in the commons frequently. For the past two years, I’ve worked for The Lookout, writing stories about endless amounts of topics. I have made friends with some of the best co-workers I’ve ever had and have made countless connections to LCC students, faculty and programs. It is weird for me to imagine that by this time next year, my life will be completely
different, and so will the lives of many other students who are graduating, transferring or simply taking their next step in the journey of education. Sure, it’s a little scary, but it’s also exciting. Just like the buds on the trees and plants, and the animals who have overwintered in holes and burrows, the time has come for us to take that next step, to bloom, to explore the world. I’m a little sad to go, but change is happening all around us. The time is now, and I’m also a little excited for what the future has in store. The LCC chapter of my life has ended just in time to open a new chapter, which will hopefully be filled with just as many adventures, connections and memories. I’m ready for it.
16|LAST LOOK
may 2 - June 1, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Photo by Brian Wells
Juicebox poses at the fence of the play area at the Ingham County Animal Control Shelter in Mason on Tuesday, April 26.
Paws, people come together for Woofer Walk Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor Come take a walk on the wild side during the seventh annual Woofer Walk and 5K on Saturday, May 16. The walk begins at 11 a.m. at the Michigan State University Auditorium, 542 Auditorium Road in East Lansing. Ingham County Animal Control will host the event. People and dogs alike will be making strides to end animal cruelty. Attendees can either walk leisurely with a dog leash in hand or compete in a timed competitive 5K. Tickets are $30 for the non-timed race and $35 for the competitive race. Volunteer coordinator Ashley Hayes
said money raised will go to help fight animal cruelty, aid incoming animals and pay for ICAC’s cruelty investigator. “We always encourage people to bring their dogs,” Hayes said. “We are the only competitive 5K walk that allows people to run with dogs. We kind of just let the dogs run anywhere they want.” Plenty of water will be available to keep dogs hydrated during the walk. According to Hayes, there will be kiddie pools on the course in which dogs can take a break. “There will be super cool activities set up prior to the event,” Hayes said. “We will have dog agility setup for dogs to try, the MSU Canine Team will come and do a demonstration, and Sparty will be there.”
The Woofer Walk is a rain-or-shine event. Hayes said she hopes to have a good turnout. “We want to get the community involved in our mission of saving lives and helping animals,” Hayes said. “We want to make people aware that what we do is not just adopt out cute little animals, but we actually do investigations and help animals that are in an abusive situation. “We want people to understand that animal abuse is a huge problem that can correlate with spousal abuse and child abuse,” Hayes said. “The more people involved in the event, the more knowledge there is out there about animal cruelty.” Hayes said she enjoys working with the animals and volunteers.
“It is just really cool to see all of the different dogs and hear all of their cool stories,” Hayes said. “I love it when people say they got their dog from our shelter. It is so cool to see them living this awesome life and seeing them in these really great homes.” Lansing resident Sara Eastman said she adopted her dog, May, from ICAC four years ago. May was found as a stray. Today May is a happy and healthy dog. “I didn’t rescue my dog, she rescued me,” Eastman said. “I will be participating in the Woofer Walk to show my support for local animal shelters and fight against animal cruelty.” For more information head to www. ac.ingham.org/Adoptions.aspx/