Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Volume 57, Issue 10
#FlintWaterCrisis Protesters gather at the Michigan State Capitol building on Tuesday, Jan. 19 to show their displeasure with Gov. Rick Snyder and the Flint Water Crisis. The protest occurred shortly before the governor’s annual State of the State address. See our editorial concerning the issue on page 14. Photo by Brian Wells
Reporter offers message of hope, recovery
College set to celebrate Black History Month
LCC Fitness Center offers stress relief
News >> Page 3
News >> Page 4
Feature>> Page 5
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016
2|NEWS
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Many scholarships available for students Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief College expenses can put a damper on students’ wallets and bank accounts. The solution to this dilemma for students may be as simple as filling out an application for scholarship money. Peggy Hellwig, scholarship and operations coordinator at the LCC Foundation, said there is plenty of scholarship funding available. “Every year the college and the Foundation give out close to $900,000 for scholarships,” Hellwig said. Information for how to apply can be found at www.lcc.edu/scholarships. The deadline for 2016-17 is Feb. 12. “If (students) need any more help (they) can go to the StarZone,” Hellwig said. “People in the StarZone are experts at getting people in and out of the scholarship application.” Hellwig said not all scholarships require high credentials. “Every scholarship has its own gradepoint average, but they vary all over the place,” Hellwig said. “The main criteria is you have to be in good standing and you
have to be enrolled at LCC. The money also cannot be used when transferring to another school. It must be used while attending LCC.” Student Life and Leadership Academy Coordinator Patti Ayers explained what the qualifications are for the Leadership Academy Scholarship, available to current high school seniors coming to LCC. “The Leadership Academy Scholarship is a two-year student service scholarship for students who are interested in developing introductory leadership skills and also have a passion for community service,” Ayers said. “When they submit their scholarship application we ask what type of leadership roles and community service they have done,” Ayers said. “The GPA criteria is
only a 2.5 average … this isn’t an academic scholarship, it’s a community service scholarship. “We do understand in your life you have a family … you have other obligations … you have a job … you may not be a 4.0 student, but you are a well-rounded student that is actively engaged in the community.” Hellwig said there are common misconceptions about applying for scholarships. “I think a lot of (the students) think that they have a Pell Grant, (so) why should I apply for a scholarship,” Hellwig said. “Well, the scholarship will go in and pay for your tuition first and then your Pell Grant will make the difference … the effect of the scholarship is more of your Pell Grant can be used for other educational expenses.” Students who apply will receive scholarship notifications direct to their LCC email address sometime in May, according to Hellwig. She encouraged students to look over different scholarship options and apply. “We have scholarships across the board that can help all LCC students,” Hellwig said. “So go for it and apply.”
ing What is your favorite th about fall?
“Not at the moment, but I’m looking to apply for some for next semester.” Jose Prieto, 27, Sociology
“No. I didn’t apply for any.” Sherwin Soroushian, 19, General Education
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3 NEWS
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
‘Cafe Scientifique’ seminar examines brain Aaron Emerson News Editor Many people have a fascination with the human brain, how it works and how it is studied. That fascination was evident on Tuesday, Jan. 19 at Schuler Books and Music in Eastwood Towne Center. Michigan State University neuroscience professor Dr. Mark Reimers was on hand as part of Lansing Community College’s “Cafe Scientifique” series. He gave a presentation on the brain and answered questions for over an hour and a half to a crowd of about 60 people. Reimers illustrated just how complex the brain is when he broke down how it works. “There are about 100 billion neurons in the brain and each of those neurons has anywhere from five to 10 thousand connections with other neurons,” Reimers said.
Photo by Aaron Emerson
Dr. Mark Reimers, a neuroscience professor at Michigan State University, was on hand at Schuler Books and Music on Tuesday, Jan. 19. Reimers discussed how the brain works at the latest Cafe Scientifique event.
Reimers talked about several different topics within current brain studies. Brain basics, wiring in the human
brain, communication, parts of the brain, memory and technology used to study it were the main talking points.
“A message can get from one side of the brain to the other in about one-twentieth of a second,” Reimers said. “We can have a full conversation in our brain in as long as it takes to say five words.” Reimers also encouraged people to educate themselves on the BRAIN Initiative, a collaborative initiative proposed by the Obama Administration. He said he hopes the initiative will get support from Congress, as it would provide funding to create new brain studying technology. “Cafe Scientifique,” which is organized by LCC professor Alan O’Keefe and the science department, is scheduled to meet again during February. The topic will be on Charles Darwin, but a date has not yet been posted on the LCC website. To find out when the group will meet next, visit www.lcc.edu/calendar/ all-calendars/
Addiction, recovery, hope, message of reporter’s book Shelby Schueller Associate Editor When he is not going to school, LCC student Aaron Emerson spends time as news editor for The Lookout and a reporter for Mason Today. He also works to spread awareness about addiction by sharing his story of a personal experience. This experience is documented in Emerson’s new book, “To Hell And Back: Heroin And Recovery,” which he published as an e-book on Jan. 6. “To Hell And Back: Heroin And Recovery” tells the story of how Emerson’s use of marijuana at 14 led to an addiction to painkillers, and eventually heroin at age 19, when the painkiller addiction became too expensive to support. Emerson, now 24, said the book covers everything he went through, including jail, overdoses and his journey during his first year of recovery in rehabilitation centers at age 22. The book is written in the form of journal entries he wrote while he was experiencing these events. “I looked through all these journals and I had a bunch of crazy situations, things that I went through in my addiction (and) recovery, all documented,” Emerson said. “I thought that would be a unique memoir to put those to-
Photo by Shelby Schueller
Aaron Emerson shows his ebook, “To Hell And Back: Heroin And Recovery,” which came out on www.amazon.com Jan 6.
gether in a timeline fashion and make it into a book.” According to Emerson, the journal entries are mostly unchanged from when he originally wrote them. “I didn’t really have to edit much because I didn’t want to take away from anything,” he said. “I wanted it to be like what it’s like being in the mind of an addict trying to find recovery and I felt like if I edited some of my journals it would have taken away some of the
authenticity.” The e-book is now being sold on www.amazon.com for $4.99. In this form, it is 91 pages long, but that could change once it is published as a softcover book, according to Emerson. Emerson said he wrote the book on and off for about a year, mostly during breaks from school and when he found time. He then used the Amazon publishing program called “Kindle Direct Publishing,” which allows authors to upload a manuscript for free as long as certain guidelines are followed in regard to dimensions. Emerson said a friend designed the cover for his book. According to Emerson, the e-book format is not limited to e-readers. It can be read on any smartphone, tablet or computer that can download the Kindle app. Emerson said he is using the profits from the e-book to publish it as a softcover book, a goal he believes possible in the next few months. In the future, Emerson said he plans to continue trying to make a difference through his writing and journalism career. Rhonda Emerson, Aaron’s mother, said she thinks the book can spread awareness and help people understand addiction.
“We’ve always heard that as hard as it is for the family, it’s even harder for the addict and I don’t think that a lot of people get that or understand that,” she said. “I think by reading his actual journals and what he was actually thinking at the time … (it is) really helpful and really good. It was sad at times, but enlightening at the same time.” Aaron Emerson said in addition to his book, he spreads awareness by sharing his story at area high schools, serving as an advisory board member for a support group called Families Against Narcotics and sharing parts of his story and other inspiring works in his blog. Emerson said in addition to spreading awareness, he wants his book to send a message of hope. “I think that no matter how far somebody is in the dumps with anything in life, even if it’s not an addiction … anything that brings people down, no matter how far or low you think you are, there’s always hope,” he said. “I always say if you’re alive, hope is alive, so no matter what is going on and how low you are, there’s always an opportunity if you’re still living.” To purchase “To Hell And Back: Heroin And Recovery,” visit amzn. to/1KrzkNy. To read Aaron’s blog, visit www.aaronemersonblog.com/
4 NEWS
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Black History Month events educate, celebrate Shelby Schueller Associate Editor A jazz concert, a Black Film Festival, spoken word poetry and difficult dialogues are just a few of the many events planned for LCC’s 2016 Black History Month celebration in February. This year, the celebration follows the national theme, “Hallowed Ground: Sites of African-American Memory.” Participants will have the opportunity to visit one of these sites during the LCC Underground Railroad Tour event on Friday, Feb. 26. The event is open to the public and will involve visiting the Second Baptist Church of Detroit, which played a role in helping slaves use the Underground Railroad system to escape north. “That’s something really historical … Michigan played a significant part in the Underground Railroad,” said Robin Moore, LCC Black History Month Committee chair. “We’ll be taking a field trip there so students, faculty members, community members, all people will be able to experience that.” File Photo According to Moore, all of the events Black History Month takes place all through the month of February at Lansing Community College. for Black History Month are free and open to the public. The majority are Other events include a Black Film “We decided to be involved (with located on LCC’s main campus. Festival, with the Spike Lee film these events) because we felt it fit our The first event for Black History “School Daze” on Monday, Feb. 8; mission at the Black Student Union,” Month, a jazz concert called, “Lady and an installment of the Difficult Di- said Savannah James, LCC student Sings the Blues,” was scheduled for alogues series titled “H-Hair” on Fri- and Black Student Union president. Sunday, Jan. 31 at 4 p.m. in Dart Audi- day, Feb. 19. Both of these events will “Our mission at the Black Student torium. It was to feature singer Betty be held in the Centre for Engaged In- Union is to educate those about our Joplin and the LCC Faculty Jazz Quar- clusion and are hosted by the student rich, historic history and to engage tet. organization, Black Student Union. in community service and to promote
student unity.” James said an important aspect of Black History Month is to help educate the public about significant events in history that are sometimes left out, or are not covered in-depth, in general education. A Taste of History Spoken Word Poetry event, “Celebrating and Honoring Black Voices,” will be held on Thursday, Feb. 25 in the LCC Library. According to Moore, students, faculty and community members are welcome to read work from an African-American voice. For information on how to get involved, visit www.lcc. edu/blackhistorymonth. The last event for Black History Month will be held on Wednesday, March 2 and is called, “Where Spirit Rides.” According to Moore, “Where Spirit Rides” will be held in conjunction with Women’s History Month (March) and will be a solo theater performance by Lisa Biggs. Moore expressed the importance in learning about the history of others. “We’re an academic environment, so it’s about learning,” Moore said. “Knowledge is power. When we know more about each other then we can respect each other. “I think it’s important that we learn about each other, about our cultures, so then we can respect the culture and each other and grow.” For more information about LCC Black History Month events and to view a complete list of events, visit www.lcc.edu/blackhistorymonth/
Book discussion focuses on mass incarceration, racism
Aaron Emerson News Editor A book discussion group at LCC kicked off an eight-week forum Jan. 28, creating a dialogue around mass incarceration and racism in the U.S. “The New Jim Crow,” a book written by Michelle Alexander, is the center of attention for the group. It is being presented by the LCC Centre for Engaged Inclusion. The initial meeting drew roughly 15 students and faculty members, who ran through the introduction of the book study. Dr. Matthew VanCleave, a philosophy professor at LCC who is helping organize the discussions, said he
hopes the group will draw a wide range of LCC members. “My idea for this would be to have students and faculty come together and discuss these chapters,” VanCleave said. The group will meet two times a month until May to discuss the book’s chapters. VanCleave said he is seeking to start conversation about the book; not necessarily prove a point or to present an argument. “I envision this, not for me to point to the screen and give a presentation, but for us to each read the chapters and come to the group to discuss them,” VanCleave said. “The New Jim Crow” discusses
race-related issues in the U.S., specifically African-Americans and mass incarceration. The author’s main message is that mass incarceration is the new Jim Crow, stating racism still exists as it did during the Jim Crow era, just in a different way. The group will meet again on Thursday, Feb. 11 from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. in the Centre for Engaged Inclusion, located in room 252.05 of the Gannon Building. Students and faculty can also join an online forum that discusses the book. To join the online forum, visit www. goo.gl/forms/O02NuXdL0j/
5|Feature
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Students can reenergize at fitness center Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief Students who want to reenergize can use the fitness center on the second floor of the Gannon Building on LCC’s main campus, as well as an additional center at the west campus location. Director of Fitness and Wellness Operations Mari Croze said the main campus fitness center has been around since the early 1970s. She said the look of the fitness center has changed quite a bit over the years. “I heard where they used to be in cubicles,” Croze said. “So each piece of equipment was tucked inside a cubicle for privacy so people couldn’t watch other people work out … We know now for safety purposes that we need to see our faculty and our students work out.” As program manager, Croze schedules fitness and wellness courses; supervises the staff; and maintains the weight, fitness and aerobic studio in the Gannon Building. Hours for the main campus fitness center are Monday to Thursday from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Sunday noon to 3 p.m. The west campus fitness center has been open since 2004. West campus hours are
Photo by Brian Wells
Elena Greer does leg lifts in the LCC Fitness Center on main campus. Members get access to the fitness center on main and west campus with memberships.
6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday. Croze said there are two ways students can gain access to the center. The first is enroll in the total fitness classes, either A, B, C, or D, or the introduction to fitness class. The other is to purchase a semester membership. Memberships are $50 for students and $60 for staff and alumni. A mem-
bership gives a person access to both main and west campus facilities. “The fitness center is always staffed by an instructor,” Croze said. “There is always someone there regardless if you are student or a member that can spot you or design a workout plan for you.” Fitness center instructor Tiller Landick
said she enjoys being an instructor. “Working with the students is so rewarding,” Landick said. “They are in here eager to get healthy and feel good and strong … as they feel better they feel so grateful, but I haven’t done anything except put something together … they have done all the work.” The center has a variety of equipment for a student’s workout needs: bikes, treadmills, elliptical machines, stair steppers, resistance bands, weight machines and free weights. Croze spoke about the basic rules of using the fitness center. “Students and faculty must bring their StarCard or picture ID to gain access to the fitness center,” Croze said. “Students are encouraged to rent a lock and a locker to keep personal belongings safe. “We ask you respect one another and the equipment and that you use cellphones only for listening to music.” Croze said there are benefits to getting a membership at the center instead of a gym. “Our facilities are staffed with instructors with years of experience,” Croze said. “We have people with Masters and P.H.D’s… we have nationally certified instructors.” For more info, go to www.lcc.edu/ hhs/programs/fitness/
Alumnus Spotlight: Kelli ellsworth-etchison Long-time employee’s loyalty to company leads to promotion Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief According to a study by the Wall Street Journal, the average person will have seven jobs within their lifetime. LCC Alumnus Kelli EllsEllsworth-Etchison worth-Etchison, however, has remained a loyal employee to the Lansing Area Federal Credit Union for 27 years. She is now the company’s senior vice president of marketing. The 52-year-old Ellsworth-Etchison took classes at LCC starting in the 1970s. She continued taking classes off and on until, eventually, she received a general associate’s degree in 2007. Of all the classes that Ellsworth-Etchison took, she said she enjoyed taking interior design the most. The interior design instructor, Joann Col-
lins, and the director of the program, Arlena Hines, were the people she felt connected with the most during her time at LCC. “The passion Joann had for the program … the passion she had for students to gain knowledge … she was constantly finding real-life situations for us to go on field trips,” she said. “She and I have continued our friendship after my time at LCC.” While working for LAFCU, Ellsworth-Etchison worked with LCC on several corporate sponsorship events, including the LCC Foundation Golf outing and the LCC Foundation for Success sponsorship. Ellsworth-Etchison is now an active member of the LCC Foundation Board herself. She said she enjoys giving back to a school that has given her so much. Dan McKean, executive director of the LCC Foundation, spoke about the relationship Ellsworth-Etchison has had with the LCC Foundation over the years. “Kelly is one of the most authentically community minded people I have met,” McKean said. “We have worked
together on scholarships that LAFCU has offered to community members who write an essay every year … we have worked with her on scholarships at LAFCU for W.H.E.E.L. scholarship.” After receiving her associate’s degree at LCC, Ellsworth-Etchison enrolled in the online business degree program at Northwood. “I loved that program,” she said. “I wasn’t sure I would, but I was amazed how the online portal skills were integrated into the class.” The dedicated LAFCU employee talked about starting out with the company and the promotions she has gained over the years. “I started at LAFCU as a lone interviewer in consumer loans division, then I went into the home equity department,” Ellsworth-Etchison said. “In 1997, I moved into what began to catapult me to the position I have now, where I was going out into the community.” Her hard work in the community paid off, as she was soon promoted to vice president
of community and business development. “Anything you see with our name in the community; that was done under my umbrella,” Ellsworth-Etchison said. In October of 2015, Ellsworth-Etchison was promoted to senior vice president of marketing. Her new duties consist of public relations and communications through digital media, television and radio. “It’s unique in that sense, there aren’t too many corporations where you can move up to a management level without your degree,” Ellsworth-Etchison said. “But I moved up to the vice president level before I had a degree and now I have two,” She spoke about how important it was to finish her degree at LCC. “LCC has its principles of basically helping those gain a college education where they can go on and get a fouryear degree,” Ellsworth-Etchison said. “When I got my LCC degree what was so important about that for my family was that I was the first person from my immediate family to receive a degree.”
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Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Brewing Co. gets new events flowing Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor It has been about three months since the Lansing Brewing Company, 518 E. Shiawassee St., opened its doors Oct. 22, 2015. The brewery has already made a mark in the Stadium District by providing ice cold beer, labeled merchandise, food of all kinds and many events for area residents. One of the events was the Brew Run on Jan. 20. The Brew Run was a 5K course mapped along the Lansing River Trail. The run kicked off at 6 p.m. and more than 300 people came to show support for the company. Sales and Marketing Manager Keri Brown of the Lansing Brewing Company said the business will host 12 more brew runs through 2016. “While the race is a free event there is the option to donate to a different charity each month,” Brown said. “This month we raised money for Volunteers of America.
Photo By Brian Wells
Runners brave the cold to participate in a Brew Run sponsored by the Lansing Brewing Co. The Brew Runs are held each month and are the length of a 5K.
“Our goal is to engage the community in fun ways,” Brown said. “We love seeing the community interact with
one another for a fun event, enjoy some great food and beer, in addition to raising funds for such worthy causes.”
According to Brown, business at the brewery has been steady since it opened. “We are excited to kick off 2016 and continue to bring delicious craft beers and fun unique experiences to Lansing,” Brown said. The next brewery event will be the Winter Warrior Patio on Saturday, Feb. 6 from 2 to 6 p.m. The event will include bonfire pits, frosty iced mugs, winter cornhole games, $1 pints, brats and more. Patio entry fee is $5 and will benefit the Cupid’s Undie Run charity. LBC employee Isaac Sprague said he has worked at the company since it opened. “What made me want to work here was the idea of working for a real brewery,” Sprague said. “As a craft beer fan I found it to be a great opportunity for myself and Lansing as a whole.” Follow the Lansing Brewing Company on social media to stay up-to-date on latest events and information.
‘Strength in Numbers’ hits the ground running
Billboy
Photo courtesy of Emily Springer
The Strength in Numbers Studios’ development team poses after playing the “Tuebor” alpha for the first time.
a co-founder of the A.I. project at MSU. Hintze will be building code to bridge the gap between the existing A.I. code and the game code, which is on the Unreal Engine. “This is a great opportunity for us,”
Hintze said. “Typically academic developments remain in the ivory tower much too long, but the game development scene and culture was always a driving force behind innovation.” “This is a win, win, win situation,” This week’s comic sponsored by:
By Maranda Zimmerman
Aaron Wilton Staff Writer Strength in Numbers Studios (SiN Studios), a new video game developer in Lansing, is fortifying its ranks. SiN Studios is currently developing a game called “Tuebor,” which is Latin for “I will defend.” The game has already passed some major developmental milestones. CEO and Lead Developer Scott Reschke said, “We’re now approaching alpha two and we’ve got some pretty stable builds going. We’re about to release it to where people can test the first few parts of a few levels. … It’s easy to sign up (to be an alpha tester) on our website.” SiN also partnered with Michigan State University in December to begin collaborating on an evolving artificial intelligence system. Professor Arend Hintze is
he said. “My A.I. system gets deployed in an awesome game title, players get a very new and hopefully ever-surprising experience, and we can study how this system changes to become smarter.” The A.I. is planned to be implemented on enemy bosses and non-playable characters. “Tuebor” is set to release in late spring of this year. SiN intends it to be a game for any type of player. “The game is designed to be very modular,” Reschke said. “We blended some things between MMOs (and) RTSs. We’ve blended a little bit of stuff in from quite a few different genres.” For more information on SiN Studios, “Tuebor,” or to sign up for alpha testing go to www.strengthstudios.org or www.tueborgame.com/
7
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8|sports
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Davison powers male Stars over Chargers Rich Schenck Sports Editor Freshman reserve Curtis Davison had a game to remember, as his team-high 22 points led the topranked LCC men’s basketball team (7-1 MCCAA West, 19-2 overall) to an 85-76 over Ancilla College (6-2 MCCAA West, 16-5 overall) Jan. 27 in the Gannon Gym. “Curt likes to play; Curt wants to play,” LCC Head Coach Mike Ingram said. “He’s one of our competitors. I was surprised he played as well as he did, but I’m glad he did.” LCC sophomore Jimmy Kodet added a double-double with 16 points and 12 rebounds. After losing their first game since Nov.6 to Muskegon Community College Jan. 25, the Stars started the game against Ancilla by shooting lights-out from beyond the arc. Led by Davison, the Stars hit three in a row and jumped out to an early 16-4 lead. “It was really big for us,” Ingram said. “I had told the guys ‘Hey, we just won 18 games in a row, one of the best streaks in my career and we were going to lose sooner or later.’” Ingram said he had to do some lineup rearranging due to player illness and injuries. “I didn’t know how the team was
Photo by Rich Schenck
LCC sophomore Javon Haines goes up for an off-balance layup against two Ancilla College defenders as teammate Cullen Smith watches for the rebound Jan. 27 in the Gannon Gym.
going to respond to that,” Ingram said. “But they came out and really got after it defensively.”
Ancilla’s overzealous defense was continually taken advantage of by LCC’s perimeter shooting (8 for 17).
Davison and Kodet shot 62 percent from three-point range for the night. “This was a tough game,” Davison said. “Coach (Ingram) was preaching to us before the game that this was the biggest game of the year.” At the beginning of the second half both teams’ offense went dormant, scoring three total points in the opening minutes. The Chargers’ offense broke through, going on an 8-0 run and forcing Ingram to call a timeout to get his squad out of a lull. “Keep composure,” Davison said. “Basketball is a game of runs and he said that everyone is going to have their runs. Manage the runs. Don’t let them go from 10 to 20 (points).” Ancilla benefited from three quick LCC fouls late in the second half, coming within four points of the lead. But a key steal from LCC sophomore Brian Morton killed the Chargers’ momentum to close out the game. “The goal is to stay ahead of the pack and we’re right there,” Ingram said. LCC was scheduled to travel to seventh-place Jackson College (2-6 MCCAA West, 11-10 overall) Jan. 30. The Stars will return to the Gannon Gym Friday, Feb. 5 to host fourth-place Lake Michigan College (5-3 MCCAA West, 15-6 overall).
Lady Stars earn hard-fought victory over Ancilla Rich Schenck Sports Editor The LCC women’s basketball team (3-5 MCCAA West, 7-14 overall) toughed out a much-needed 59-50 victory over visiting Ancilla College (4-4 MCCAA West, 14-7 overall) Jan. 27 in the Gannon Gym. The win gave the Lady Stars two wins in their past three contests. “It serves several purposes for us to pull this out,” LCC Head Coach Ervin Brunson said. “There were sequences where we were able to maintain a lead and be able to still learn about each other.” LCC sophomore Nariyel Purches’ first career double-double of 16 points and game-high 14 rebounds led the way against the visiting Lady Chargers. LCC freshmen guards Morgan Neeley and Courtney Wolf
chipped in 11 points each. Sophomore Mackenzie Geister scored 13 points for LCC and again showed off her range, shooting 50 percent (3 of 6) from three-point range. “They played so aggressive,” Brunson said. “The girls stepped up and were just as aggressive.” Lack of height has been an issue all year long for the Lady Stars, which made its 49-rebound effort against a much taller Ancilla a watershed moment for the team. “They attacked the basket every chance they got, especially in the rebounding department,” Brunson said. “Our girls were just able to go in there, mix it up and realize that we can compete with some of these teams.” Ancilla stayed in a full-court press
for nearly the entire game, testing Neeley’s ability to control the floor. Smart passing and opportune positioning made the visitors commit timely fouls to stop the momentum. LCC made the most of its trips to the charity stripe, hitting 60 percent (15 of 25). Ancilla struggled mightily at the line all night, converting only 25 percent (4 of 16) and missing key free throws late. “There are a lot of good teams in our conference,” Brunson said. “We need to be able to make runs when necessary and be disciplined when teams are coming at us. It was a calming effect for the girls and they were relieved about the victory.” The Lady Stars were schedule to travel to Jackson to face struggling Jackson College (1-7 MCCAA West, 3-17 overall) Jan. 30.
Photo by Rich Schneck
LCC freshman guard Courtney Wolf drives against an Ancilla College defender Jan. 27 in the Gannon Gym. The Lady Stars won 59-50.
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LCC Cheerleading Club provides spirit
Aaron Emerson News Editor For the first time since 2007, Lansing Community College has a cheerleading squad. Considered a registered student organization (RSO), the LCC Cheerleading Club is in its second semester and is hoping to continue growing. Elaine Miles, who co-advises the club with Roshanda Donald, said the students are learning a lot and have been improving throughout the year. “They are doing really well,” Miles said. “They are learning a lot and learning new skills ... We are moving forward.” Miles said one of the squad’s goals is to improve academically as well as athletically. The club is setting up a workshop to help the students to better balance their academic success. “So far so good,” Miles said. “We are raising the bar. The students did a lot of fundraising on their own to get their uniforms. We are trying to set up advising and counseling for them to help them have success in that area, too.” The LCC Cheerleading Club cheers at LCC basketball games and is made up of 14 students. Members raise their own money through fundraising. They are currently organizing a car wash, to be held this summer, to help fund the program.
Photo by Brian Wells
Brittanie Guilbeaux performs with the LCC Cheerleading Club during the men’s basketball game vs. Lake Michigan College on Saturday, Jan. 9.
Miles said she is hoping more students will join the club next fall. Ideally, registering and joining the club this summer
will help new members best prepare, she said, but added it’s never too late. For more information on the pro-
gram or to inquire about joining, contact Elaine Miles at (517) 483-9658 or Roshanda Donald at (517) 492-5580.
Match fixing in tennis? You better believe it, people A big part of what journalists do revolves around timing. When would be the best time to produce the most eye-catching and informational piece for readers? The BBC and BuzzFeed News managed to steal the show Jan. 18 when they broke reports of tennis authorities blissfully ignoring evidence of match fixing. The reports involve 16 athletes who have belonged to the top 50 ranking for the past 10 years. With doping in cycling and track & field, steroids in baseball and the ongoing conglomeration of charges being racked up against FIFA officials, it was only a matter of time until tennis would be dragged into the abyss of damaged integrity. Novak Djokovic spilled the beans about being approached to throw a first-round match for $200,000
in 2007. The Serbian, ranked No. 1 in the world, said this: “For me, that’s an act of unsportsmanship, a crime in sports honestly,” Djokovic said. “I don’t support it. I think there is no room for it in any sport, especially in tennis.” He couldn’t be more right. But for each organization, there will be people lurking in the shadows to inject the poison that ruins it. It goes back in sports as long as there have BEEN sports. In The Best American Sports Writing: 2004, there is a story written by Don Van Natta Jr. called Match Maker. It details the legendary “Battle of the Sexes” between Billie Jean King and Bobby Riggs, held in 1973.
Hal Shaw, who worked at the Palma Ceia Gold and Country Club in Tampa, Fla., experienced mob bosses talking about Riggs’ $100,000 gambling debt. Riggs’ wanted to throw the match and make his mob buddies look like geniuses going against the obvious choice. Now is the time for Association of Tennis Professionals Executive Chairman and President Chris Kermode to do what the cycling world couldn’t do, MLB did halfway and FIFA refused to do. Clean house. Along with Kermode it is up to the players who belong to the ATP to take initiative and weed out these poisonous leeches. They need to restore the name of one of the few major sports
associations that hasn’t had this serious of an affliction. It will probably seem like a witch hunt or the tennis version of McCarthyism, but without the proper effort and desire to clean up tennis by all involved, Grand Slams won’t be worth peanuts. Wimbledon will lose its aura, Nadal’s domination at Roland Garros will forever be questioned. There is too much at stake and too many legendary talents in the game today to let this go without throwing the kitchen sink at any lead. I’ll be the first to admit that I am not the most avid tennis fan in any way. But there is one thing I will always be a fan of … knowing that people in the right places care enough about the sport they represent to do something about it. Chris, you’re on the clock.
10|ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
‘Threepenny Opera’ hits all the right notes Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor The LCC theater department is back at it again with “The Threepenny Opera,” a musical that will leave audience members enchanted as they watch the night unfold. The musical is written by Berlot Brecht and Kurt Weill. It is directed by Professor Connie Curran-Oesterle. The show is Fridays and Saturdays, Feb 19, 20, 26 and 27, at 8 p.m. in Dart Auditorium. There will be an additional showing on Sunday, Feb. 28 at 2 p.m. Tickets are $15 for general audience, $10 for seniors and staff, and $5 for students. This show is not recommended for children under the age of 14. The Threepenny Opera is a vicious satire on the bourgeois capitalist society in London as told through beggars, thieves and whores during the coronation of Queen Victoria. The story focuses on a criminal and womanizer named Macheath, who marries Polly Peachum. Director Curran-Oesterle has taught at LCC since 2002. She said she is excited to present the musical. “I love the biting satire of ‘Threepenny Opera,’” Curran-Oesterle said. “There is so much humor in the show, especially if you understand the idea that man is out for himself.” Curran-Oesterle said she hopes for a good turnout. “One always hopes for a large audience to view the show (that) you, your actors and colleagues put so much time and effort into,” Curran-Oesterle said. “There is nothing more exciting than having a large, attentive audience to respond to your play.” LCC student Travis Williams will play Jonathan Peachum. His character is a businessman who runs a firm called, “The Beggar’s Big Brother,” where he trains the poor in the “art” of begging. Peachum is working on starting an uprising on the day of King George’s coronation. “What I enjoy most about Jonathan’s personality is that although he is a con man, he is a loving father, intelligent, philosophical and quite the charmer,” Williams said. This is Williams’ first performance
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT Old Town meeting to inform members Students who are looking to get involved in the Lansing community have an opportunity to weigh in and meet the people who represent Old Town’s planning of events and initiatives. The Old Town Winter Mixer and Annual Meeting will take place Wednesday, Feb. 3 at the Old Town Marquee, 319 E. Grand River Ave., from 6 to 8 p.m. The evening will include discussions of Old Town’s future events and ways to improve the growing area of Lansing. Attendees can enjoy free food and beverages from Old Town businesses. The meeting will be informal, fun and is open to everyone. For more information head to www.iloveoldtown.org/
‘Reel Big Fish’ land on stage at The Loft Reel Big Fish is an American ska punk band that has been taking over airwaves since 1991. The band has sold out venues throughout multiple cities and is best known for its hit “Sell Out.” The band is now making its way to The Loft in Lansing, 414 E. Michigan Ave., on Wednesday, Feb. 10. It will be joined by openers With Suburban Legends and The Maxies. The show is all ages. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $20.50 in advance and $23 at the door. For tickets go to theloftlansing.com/
LCC Black History Month features film
Photo by Brian Wells
Sarah Lynn, left, and Kelley McNabb rehearse for “Threepenny Opera” on Tuesday, Jan. 26 in Dart Auditorium. The play opens on Feb. 19.
at LCC, but he has been involved in theater for years. “The most difficult part of being in a musical is learning to be your character both while acting and singing,” Williams said. “I have to be careful that when I am in a show I am behaving as my character all of the time and not letting my personal mannerisms show through.” Williams encouraged students to come and see what the musical has to offer. “This show is not your stereotypical toe-tapping musical,” Williams said.
“It’s not a show with a hero and villain. It’s a show that deals with people and we see them as realistic people.” Williams said he looks forward to presenting the show to a large audience. “Actors are story tellers and every time we step on the stage a new audience gets to hear the story we have to tell,” Williams said. “Hearing them laugh, gasp or applaud tells us we are doing our job right. I audition for shows because I love the rush I get when I am on stage.” For more information head to lcc. edu/Calendar/
LCC will celebrate Black History Month by offering students free fun events through the month of February. One of the events is the Black Film Festival, starting on Monday, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. The film festival will feature Spike Lee’s film “School Daze.” The film will be showed in the Centre for Engaged Inclusion, room 252.04 in the Gannon Building. The event is hosted by the Black Student Union. For more information head to www.lcc.edu/blackhistorymonth/
An evening of poetry at MICA Gallery MICA Gallery, 1210 Turner St., will host the 21st annual “Burning Desires: An Afternoon of Love in Performance and Art,” on Sunday, Feb. 7 from 1 to 7 p.m. The event is a celebration of poetry that highlights aspects of love, comidy and more. It is a good event for lovers young and old and is just in time for Valentine’s Day. Students interested in performing poems are invited to participate in the open microphone event. The first 10 to sign up are invited to read one poem that is three to five minutes long. Suggested donations are $5. For more information go to www.micagallery.org/
11 A&E
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Old Town to provide a sweet stroll Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor The third annual Chocolate Walk in Old Town will take place Thursday, Feb. 11 from 3 until 7 p.m. The Chocolate Walk will allow participants to get up to two free pounds of chocolate with the purchase of a ticket. Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 the day of the event. Participants will be given a box that can hold two pounds of chocolate. Then they can walk and explore Old Town businesses and pick up sweet treats along the way. As if free chocolate was not enough to reel people in, many businesses will provide deals and promotions for the day. Executive Director of the Old Town Commercial Association Austin Ashley said the Chocolate Walk is a promotional event that helps bring people to the area. “We have sold out for two consecutive years,” Ashley said. “I would encourage people to buy in advance.” Ashley said a warming station has been added this year. It will provide participants with hot chocolate by Confectionately Yours to keep them warm during the chilly February day. The warming
station will be sponsored by Preuss Pets. “When we have events like the Chocolate Walk we are bringing people down here to support and experience the businesses and energy that
personifies Old Town,” Ashley said. Proceeds from the event will go to the Old Town Commercial Association. “We want to continue to take care of our community and make sure every-
thing looks nice,” Ashley said. Ashley said he enjoys being involved with Chocolate Walk and loves working in Old Town. “It is a really fun and creative event that not too many others have done,” Ashley said. “I love chocolate and Old Town businesses.” “My favorite thing about Old Town in general is the people,” Ashley said. “It is a place where everyone in the community looks out for each other and everyone works together to make sure the place stays as special as it does.” Ashley encouraged people to purchase tickets in advance and attend the event. “The event is fun, especially in the winter,” Ashley said. “It gets you out doing something that is not sitting at home. (It) allows people to experience Michigan winter for the nice aspects rather than just whining about the cold.” Lansing resident Sam LeVene attended last year and said she had fun. “I live in Old Town area so it was fun getting to walk down Turner and enjoy many businesses,” LaVene said. “What I liked most was obviously the chocolate.” For tickets head to www.iloveoldtown.org/
is definitely going to sell out. I am more afraid of the folks who are going to be angry because they procrastinated and didn’t get to join us.” Wert said the chefs from both Saddleback BBQ and Good Truckin’ Diner are culinary-school trained and have worked in a variety of upscale eateries. “The event is a good chance for the chefs at both restaurants to put their skills to good use and stretch beyond what they would normally serve,” Wert said. “It’s sort of an everyman’s take on high cuisine,” Wert said. “The menu is all stuff that’s somewhat familiar but prepared in a really interesting way.” The restaurants will offer a variety of dining options that including vegetarian, Wert said. “Both restaurants have incredibly good reviews online,” Wert said. “Good Truckin’ Diner is currently the number two restaurant in Lansing on Yelp. This is going to be a really unique experience.” Wert encouraged people to buy tickets in advance for the Super Fancy Pop-
Up. “I hope that folks who come to the Super Fancy will hang out in the neighborhood for the evening,” Wert said. “The REO Town Pub will be doing something special for Valentine’s Day and AA Creative Corridor hosts salsa dancing on Friday night.” Wert said the goal of the event is to spread awareness of the transformation of REO Town. “I think every time somebody new ventures into REO Town for the first time they tend to walk away pretty impressed,” Wert said. “This area has made huge leaps forward in the last few years and there’s a really strong community of dedicated creative folks who put stuff like this together.” LCC student Mike Rashard said Good Truckin’ Diner is one of his favorite places to eat in Lansing. “I think that diners that can only be found in one city are the most special,” Rashard said. “Good Truckin’ Diner is just that. My favorite dish is the pulled pork.”
Saddleback BBQ and Good Truckin’ Diner, both located on South Washington Street in REO Town, will be featured during REO Town’s Super Fancy Pop-Up Eatery event hosted by the Robin Theatre, 1105 S. Washington St. The event is Friday, Feb. 12 and Saturday, Feb. 13.
The Lookout file photo
Craving’s Gourmet Popcorn employees Holly Burke (left) and Ciara Hines served free bags of chocolate-covered cherry popcorn to attendees of last year’s Old Town Chocolate Walk. The 2016 event will again include Craving’s. It will be held on Thursday, Feb. 11 from 3 to 7 p.m.
REO Town will offer super fancy dinner date Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor As love lingers in the air with Valentine’s Day approaching, so do thoughts about what to do for that special someone. REO Town in Lansing is offering a great date idea for those looking to impress their Valentine: The Super Fancy Pop-Up Eatery. The event is a collaboration between the REO Town Commercial Association and REO Town restaurants Saddleback BBQ and Good Truckin’ Diner. It will be hosted by REO Town’s Robin Theatre, 1105 S. Washington Ave. The event will have four fixed seating times: at 6 and 8:30 p.m. on both Friday, Feb. 12 and Saturday, Feb. 13. Tickets are $80 per couple for a nine-course, fixed-menu meal that will include two adult beverages. REO Town Executive Director Ryan Wert said all proceeds from the event will benefit the REO Town Commercial Association. “So far we have sold 41 tickets and each ticket is two people,” Wert said. “It
Photo by Brian Wells
12 A&E
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
reviews
Bowie’s ‘Blackstar’ doesn’t burn out
Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief David Bowie was more than just a singer and musician. Every album he crafted was theater. Bowie’s albums changed like the seasons, each filled with an array of emotions, new personas and musical genres. Bowie’s latest and final album, “Blackstar,” is of no exception. Bowie’s unfortunate death came Jan. 10, after an 18-month battle with cancer. His death came just three days after his album was released. “Blackstar,” which consists of seven songs and runs 41 minutes, is the foreshadowing of Bowie coming to grips with his own death. Produced by Tony Visconti, the album takes an introspective look at the artist saying his farewells. The production on this album, Bowie
Photo from Wikipedia.org
said, was heavily influenced by Kendrick Lamar’s album, “To Pimp a Butterfly,” as well as the experimental essence of the group “Death Grips.” The album begins with a haunting chant-like cadence of the title track “Blackstar.” Repetitious drumming and a saxophone accompany this harmonious track. “In the villa of Ormen, in the villa of Or-
men stands a solitary candle. In the center of it all, in the center of it all. Your eyes,” Bowie bellows. Tinges of synthesizer and saxophone lead into serene piano keys as Bowie’s eerie distorted voice is replaced with the more theatrical sounding Bowie. “Something happened on the day he died. Spirit rose a metre and stepped aside. Somebody else took his place and bravely cried, (I’m a black star. I’m a black star.),” he sings. “Lazarus” starts with light saxophone playing in the background accompanied by soothing string arrangements. “Look up I’m in heaven, I’ve got scars that can’t be seen, I’ve got drama, can’t be stolen everybody knows me,” Bowie sings as a guitar lick of heavy distortion chimes after his words. The song “Dollar Days” begins with the soft tickling of the ivories as Bowie sing the words: “If I never see the English
evergreens I’m running to, it means nothing to me.” In the chorus of this song, Bowie uses a possible allusion to express to his fans that he may not be able to keep fans guessing what he will do with another album. “I’m dying to push their backs against the grain and fool them all again and again; I’m trying,” he sings. Although this album’s content is somber in nature, not all the instrumentation reflects this mood. There are moments on the album with upbeat rock, funk and experimental jazz. Bowie expresses a different emotion with each song on “Blackstar.” This can be heard through the insightful lyrics and the change in voice on each of his songs. “Blackstar” is a powerful and revealing album and a perfect curtain call to sendoff the performer that was David Bowie.
Saddleback BBQ in REO Town has delicious eats
Shelby Schueller Associate Editor Whenever school and work leave me with a little free time, one of my favorite things to do is explore the Lansing area to find stores or restaurants I have never been to before. Believe it or not, there are actually some pretty awesome places in Lansing. One of those places is Saddleback BBQ, which opened in June of 2015 at 1147 S. Washington Ave. in REO Town. During this visit to Saddleback BBQ, I decided to do something crazy and pay for my boyfriend’s dinner, instead of him paying for mine.
Besides the giant painting of a pig on the brick wall inside, the most noticeable attribute of the restaurant is the smell of freshly cooked meat that hit us as soon as we walked in the door. The space is small, but is made up for with minimalistic yet interesting décor and nothing but rap music playing over the speakers. We both ordered the recommended dish, a smoked pulled pork sandwich and fries, which came to just under $20 altogether. As the waiter brought out our freshly made sandwiches, it was love at first sight. The pork came on a large sweet Hawaiian roll (which is honestly the best kind of roll
in the universe) and was snuggled next to a side of fries and a jalapeno corn cake. Some of my favorite parts of the meal included the Hawaiian roll bun, the jalapeno corn cake and, of course, the delicious pulled pork. The meat was juicy and perfect and the jalapeno corn cake had the perfect amount of moisture with real corn bits inside. We were surprised to learn that the sandwich came with coleslaw on top, which I’m sure would be great for someone who loves coleslaw, but it did not go over that well with us. After it was scraped off, the sandwich was much improved. I would also have
liked to see seasoning on the fries and an option for honey barbeque sauce. The barbeque sauce we were provided was a little too spicy for my taste. However, the overall meal was delicious, the atmosphere was unique and the staff was friendly. They knew when to leave us alone to enjoy the meal and when to stop by to ask how we were doing or clear our trays. Saddleback BBQ is a fantastic place to eat, especially if you’re looking for something different and fun. For more information about Saddleback BBQ, visit www.saddlebackbbq.com/
Adam Sandler’s ‘Ridiculous 6’ is ridiculously funny Aaron Wilton Staff Writer To paraphrase Vanilla Ice, “Stop! Collaborate and listen, Adam Sandler is back with a brand new edition.” “The Ridiculous 6” is a Netflix exclusive movie. It was released Dec. 11, 2015. The movie follows a band of six half-brothers, all with different mothers, as they attempt to save their father, Frank Stockburn (Nick Nolte). Rob Schneider and Taylor Lautner are
among those who play brothers to Sandler. Sandler starts a journey to save his father by himself, but quickly encounters his brothers, one by one. Hilarity comes around every turn as each brother reveals some “special talents.” Sandler’s character, White Knife/Tommy, was raised by Apache Indians and is very good with knives. Schneider’s character, Ramon, is a
donkey “whisperer.” Lautner’s character, Little Pete, has a strong neck. Each brother is able to help the gang get out of sticky situations via their own talents. Tommy is the only one who has met Frank, his father. Many laughs come as the others fantasize about meeting their father. The plot of this movie isn’t just a string to tie the punch lines together, though.
The story manages to keep you guessing and attentive. As you near the end of the movie more big names come in: Vanilla Ice, Jon Lovitz and many others. Each new character who steps into the story makes it more ridiculous. The movie truly lives up to its name. If you don’t have Netflix or can’t afford it, don’t worry. Go online to www.netflix. com, sign up for your FREE month, cancel the autopay feature and enjoy.
13|OPINION
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Seeking a parking space is exhausting I have a confession to make. There are days I arrive at LCC when I find myself tempted to accept an inevitable $10 ticket rather than seeking out a free parking space. I’m willing to bet there are many other students who attend morning and afternoon classes that have had similar thoughts. Instead of arriving on campus 10 minutes early to park and walk to class, I usually take my first loop around the Gannon ramp
at least a half hour before my class is supposed to start. And even that has made me late to class a couple times. Let me point out that there are probably very few colleges that have comfortable or ideal parking situations – especially one with 15,000 students in an urban setting such as downtown Lansing. Lansing Community College offers the atmosphere of a university and a solid education for an affordable price. I have always thought Lansing area
residents are lucky to have such a college. On top of that, the parking arrangement is actually a pretty good deal, economically. Since last year, parking at LCC has been covered in tuition, something I look at as a positive. But the scramble to find a free spot has become overwhelming. There have been times when I’ve taken three circles in the ramp and multiple dashes through the three lots only to come up empty. It is an exhausting experience during the peak class times. Sometimes I even find myself a little reluctant to take a corner in the lots for fear of someone else smashing into
me while whipping through the lot while racing for a spot. What can the college do about it? I don’t know. I have grown so much as a person and a student here at LCC. I would be willing to go out on a limb to say that LCC is one of the top two or three community colleges in the state. I can’t complain. The parking is sometimes scary, though. I am confident the administration here is aware of the situation and is working on a fix. In the meantime, be safe while searching for a spot, and give yourself the proper amount of time to arrive to class on time.
The Oscar nominations are in: Is this Leo’s year?
It is almost that time of the year where I sit down with a few of my closest movie-buff friends and we treat the Oscars much like others treat the Super Bowl. The Oscars will be aired live ABC Sunday, Feb. 28 at 8 p.m. My squad will order pizza, bet on the winners and cheer when someone does a winning dance. After seeing a total of 45 movies in theaters over the course of 2015 I am ready to recap my top five and pick some of my Oscar winners. Top five movies of 2015: “The Big Short”: Despite an all-star cast that included Steve Carell, Ryan Gosling, Brad Pitt, Christian Bale and Selena Gomez, I walked into the theater with low expectations. The movie is based on the true story of four groups of people who predict the credit and housing collapse of the mid-2000’s and take on the big banks for their greed. I thought “The Big Short” would go over my
head with talk about finances, business and stock: three things I struggle to grasp. It did the opposite and was nothing short of amazing. It offered humor, a unique directing style and great performances by every actor. “Sicario”: If this movie was a book, I wouldn’t be able to put it down. I could not let my eyes leave the screen during this action-packed, high-intensity drama. “Sicario” featured Emily Blunt, Benicio Del Toro and Josh Brolin. It was about an FBI agent who was enlisted by a government task force to help aid in the war against drugs at the border between the U.S. and Mexico. “Straight Outta Compton”: This was the most underrated film of 2015. It is only up for one Oscar nomination, but deserves
to be up for many more. The movie is about the individuals who make up the powerhouse rap group, The NWA. What makes the movie special are the performances given by the seemingly unknown actors: O’Shea Jackson Jr., Corey Hawkins, Jason Mitchell, Neil Brown Jr. and Aldis Hodge. “The Hateful Eight”: Maybe my love for “The Hateful Eight” comes from my love of all Quentin Tarantino films. The movie is about a bounty hunter and his prisoner who find shelter in a cabin inhabited by a collection of evil characters. It features Samuel L. Jackson, Kurt Russell and Jennifer Jason Leigh. The picture is beautiful with actors you love to hate. “The Revenant”: My eyes may have been
covered for about 40 percent of the movie but “The Revenant” opened them to history, beautiful pictures and riveting performances. The movie is about a frontiersman on a fur trading expedition in the 1820’s who fights for survival after being mauled by a bear. The movie features powerful scenes of lynching, fighting and evil that makes it hard to watch at times. If Leonardo DiCaprio doesn’t win an Oscar based on his performance I am giving up on the film industry. How has this man not won an Oscar yet? 2016 Oscar top picks: Best Picture: “The Big Short.” Actor in Leading Role: Leonardo DiCaprio for “The Revenant.” Actress in Leading Role: JBrie Larson for “Room.” Actor in Supporting Role: Christian Bale “The Big Short.” Actress in Supporting Role: Jennifer Jason Leigh for “The Hateful Eight.”
It may not be true just because it’s a documentary
After hearing several people continue to talk about it, I decided it was time to watch the Netflix documentary, “Making a Murderer,” the story about the controversial cases involving Steven Avery. I have to admit this documentary made for compelling TV. I found myself watching all 10 episodes of the series in two days. “Making a Murderer” revolves around Steven Avery from Manitwoc County, Wisc., who was wrongfully accused of the sexual assault of Penny Beernsteen and sentenced to 18 years in prison. After Avery was released from prison a $36 million lawsuit was filed against Manitwoc County for his wrongful arrest. Coincidentally around the same time as
the lawsuit, evidence of a missing woman named Teresa Halbach is found on Avery’s property. An investigation of Avery’s property takes eight days and, due to Avery’s lawsuit, is conducted by Calumet County Police. As the investigation continues, however, Manitwoc County Police become involved. It is during this time the police discover evidence for the case against Avery. Police find Halbach’s burned bones in a fire pit on Avery’s property, the key to Halbach’s SUV in his bedroom and the SUV itself in Avery’s salvage yard. Avery is eventually put on trial for the murder of 25-year-old Teresa Halbach. The trial goes back and forth with each
side presenting evidence. The documentary tries to persuade the viewer that Manitwoc County Police planted evidence and were involved in framing Avery and coercing Dassey into a confession. The makers of this documentary do everything possible to depict that Avery was not guilty of this crime. But what facts about the case has the documentary left out? According to an interview in The New York Times with former Manitwoc County district attorney Ken Kratz, key evidence was omitted from the documentary.
Kratz said Avery’s DNA from sweating was found under the hood of Halbach’s SUV. Also found, in Avery’s garage, was a bullet with the DNA of Halbach. Kratz added Avery’s violence was downplayed, as he lit a cat on fire to torture it and had a history of domestic violence with his ex-girlfriend and sister-in-law. The next time you watch a documentary, remember it is designed to sway your opinion and probably doesn’t present the whole story. Do some outside research to find out how credible the story really is.
14 opinion
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — staff editorial —
People of Flint deserves better than this
At Gov. Rick Sny- address on Jan. 19, he ty for the much-publiIt isn’t nearly enough, der’s State of the State accepted responsibili- cized Flint water crisis. however. Though accepting responsibility is a step, what is your favorite it’s a baby step when SONG right now? you are ultimately responsible for poisoning Jeremy Kohn Shelby Schueller Jaimie Bozack Rich Schenck Aaron Emerson Brian Wells children with lead. Snyder didn’t personally contaminate the water of Flint residents, but he was the man who Associate Editor A&E Editor Sports Editor News Editor Editor in Chief Photo Editor appointed the emergenschuels1@lcc.edu schen1@lcc.edu kohnj2@lcc.edu bozackj@lcc.edu wellsb6@lcc.edu emersoa@lcc.edu “ ‘Alright’ “ ‘Painting By Chagall’ “‘Mad World’ “ ‘Walking On A Dream’ “ ‘Gonna Know We Were Here’ “ ‘Grief’ cy manager who got - Kendrick Lamar.” - The Weepies.” - Hardwell Feat. Jake Reese.” - Empire Of The Sun.” - Jason Aldean.” - Earl Sweatshirt.” the ball rolling on this Aaron Wilton Lurah Peterson EMMA SCOTT Nicole Cade Larry Hook disaster. It’s also widely believed that Snyder knew about the danger of the water long before he acted. Staff Writer/AD Sales Advertising Manager Adviser lead PAginator assistant paginator After Flint switched wiltona@lcc.edu petersl8@lcc.edu scotte8@lcc.edu hookl@lcc.edu caden@lcc.edu “ ‘When We Were Young’ “ ‘Little Toy Guns’ “ ‘Cry Baby’ “ ‘Adventure Of A Lifetime’ “ ‘March To The Sea’ its water supply from - Adele.” - Carrie Underwood.” - The Neighbourhood.” - Coldplay.” - Twenty One Pilots.” Lake Huron to the Flint
River in 2014, many residents complained of foul smell and poor quality. Sadly, they were told it was still safe to drink. If there is solid proof that Snyder knew about this, he needs to resign. Until then, Snyder needs to do everything possible to not only fix the water system, but to give retribution to anyone affected. Flint didn’t ask for this, but they received it, and children are now poisoned. It is time for everyone who played a part in this fiasco to be held responsible.
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15
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016
Black History Month 2016 Hallowed Grounds: Sites of African-American Memory
Lady Sings the Blues
Difficult Dialogue Series: “H- Hair”
A jazz celebration featuring singer Betty Joplin and the LCC Faculty Jazz Quartet, presented in collaboration with LCC Performing Arts and LCC Student Life.
Join us in a conversation about the complexities and stereotyping of Black Hair. Presented in collaboration with LCC Black Student Union and The Centre.
Sunday, January 31 4 p.m. | Dart Auditorium
One Book #OneLCC Book Discussions
Tuesday, February 2 & Wednesday, February 3 12:15 p.m. – 1 p.m. | The Centre for Engaged Inclusion (GB 252.04) Eat and engage in a discussion focused on the connections between “The Autobiography of Malcolm X” and “The True American” by Anand Giridharadas. Lunch is provided with pre-registration and seating is limited.
11th Annual Community Health Fair
Wednesday, February 3 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. | Gannon 3rd Floor Lobby Free Services Available: Health and fitness testing, back alignment assessment, chair massages, blood pressure checks, free Poker Walk at 2:00pm, and more!
Black Film Festival: Spike Lee’s “School Daze”
Monday, February 8 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. | The Centre for Engaged Inclusion (GB 252.04) Hosted by Black Student Union
Current Conversations Series: “History and Memory”
Tuesday, February 9 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. | The Centre for Engaged Inclusion (GB 252.04)
Black Business Expo
Wednesday, February 17 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. | Gannon 2nd Floor Hallway The inaugural Black Business Expo showcases a variety of local black entrepreneurs!
All events are FREE. Full details at lcc.edu/blackhistorymonth
Friday, February 19 11 a.m. – 12 p.m. | The Centre for Engaged Inclusion (GB 252.04)
Malcom X Celebration: African and Caribbean Connections Monday, February 22 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. | Gannon Room 244
Taste of History – Spoken Word Event “Celebrating and Honoring Black Voices”
Thursday, February 25 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. | TLC Building 3rd Floor Library
Underground Railroad Tour Friday, February 26 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Join us in visiting this historical site in Detroit, Michigan as we examine the significance of active resistance to slavery and learn about our local history. Space is limited; contact Student Life at 517.483.1285.
Where Spirit Rides
Wednesday, March 2 4:30pm | Black Box Theatre (GB 168); Reception to follow in The Centre for Engaged Inclusion (GB 252.04) A powerful and imaginative solo theatre performance created and performed by Lisa Biggs. Weaving historical speeches and modern interpretations with period song and dance, this show tells the haunting true story of two women in the 1800s — one living, one dead — who struggled to end slavery and won. Presented in collaboration with Black History Month and Women’s History Month committees, and LCC Performing Arts. *Mature content, reserved for audiences 18 years and older.
16|LAST LOOK
Feb. 1 - 14, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Anthony Moore, 9, slides sideways down the Gier Park hill aboard “Ant Man.”
Kevin Goodwin speeds down the hill on his sled, “Zoom A107.”
Drake McKaig (left) and his brother, Oscar, push their sled, the “Twin Rocketship.”
Caleb Reynolds, 11, slides down the hill on his sled, “Trupple.”
Ashley and Hyatt Bateen slide toward the finish line on their sled, “The Minimal.”
Photos by Brian Wells
Scooby Doo and the Mystery Machine break down about halfway down the hill.
Colin Bates and Robby Fraze struggle to get their sled, CC Rider, pointing downhill.
Doug Brubaker and Garret Geiger push their sled, modeled after a P-47 Snow Speeder from Star Wars, down the hill.
Cardboard Classic creates downhill delirium Jaimie Bozack A & E Editor Sleds ranging from a Star Wars-inspired battleship to a sled barely held together by duct tape raced down an icy hill at Gier Community Center, 2400 Hall St. on Jan. 23. The event was the 10th annual Cardboard Classic Sled Contest. The race was hosted by LCC Radio WLNZ 89.7 and the Lansing Parks and Recreation Department. The event featured over 50 contes-
tants of all ages. Event organizer and WLNZ employee Michael Steibel said participants competed for various awards, including: best wipeout, most creative and best design. “People got cardboard and they made sleds out of it,” Steibel said. “They put it together with duct tape or glue and paint it up. Some people spent months getting the detail just right.” WLNZ employee Tony Monge helped organize and judge the event. Despite
the lack of snow, Monge said the event had a great turnout. “Coming from a small town to watch 400 people watch a bunch of cardboard go down a hill was actually cooler than I thought,” Monge said. “It’s unique and it’s awesome. Some of the designs would blow your mind.” First-year participant Fred Engelgau works in the LCC printing services department. “My sled was like a retro race car,” Engelgau said. “Low to the ground,
brightly colored and most importantly, roll-over proof. Engelgau said his sled placed second fastest in his race class. “The idea of using nothing but tape, cardboard, glue and paint really sounded challenging but what appealed to me most was the community aspect of the event,” Engelgau said. “The single-minded involvement of all the sledders, young and old, with one purpose in mind, to have fun and enjoy what living in Michigan has to offer.”