Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Volume 57, Issue 11
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016
Photo by Brian Wells
LCC Police Dispatcher Ryan Frisbie monitors security cameras on campus on Tuesday, Feb. 9. The LCC Police Department recently started offering a cell phone app to be used to contact its dispatchers in emergency and non-emergency situations.
Learn more on page 6 >>
LCC community pitches in to aid with Flint crisis
Lansing student goes viral with piano talents
LCC hoopsters easily defeat conference foe
News >> Page 3
A&E >> Page 11
Sports >> Page 7
2|NEWS
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Heath Fair offers tips, information
Aaron Wilton Staff Writer Health and welfare were the focus of the Community Health Fair held Feb. 3 at LCC. The event is hosted every year as an official part of Black History Month at LCC. This year the fair was held on the third floor of the Gannon Building on LCC’s main campus. Dr. Ivy Tagger, head of the kinesiology department, has been organizing the event since it began 11 years ago. “The point of the fair is to educate people about their health and their wellness,” Tagger said. “Throughout the years we’ve had so many different organizations that come.” The Community Health Fair had 23 different organizations and businesses present. Each table at the fair provided free information and some sort of free goodies. The businesses included Young Living Essential Oils, Walmart Vision Center and Sam’s Club. The organizations varied from Creative Wellness of Lansing, which offered free massages, to LCC’s Fitness Center.
This year the fair offered opportunities for free HIV testing, free vision testing, free blood pressure testing and more. It was also possible for any Ingham county residents to apply for free health and dental coverage. Attendee Jonathan Lawrence shared his thoughts on the fair and his free massage. “I think the health fair is … an awesome experience,” Lawrence said. “It’s a variety of resources. “(The fair) can guide you in the right direction for anything that you may need: from Medicaid to fatherhood programs, to programs for mothers, to massage therapy. “My massage was awesome, but it was over too soon,” he added. The health fair also featured the second annual Poker Walk, which encourages students, faculty and staff members to get moving. People formed into teams and walked laps around the gym for an hour. As each team member completes a lap they draw a card. At the end of the walk the team that puts together the best poker hand wins a prize.
Photo by Larry Hook
Federico Licini, 20 (left), an LCC student-employee, and Laurie Bates, support specialist for LCC Campus Resources and Student Support, assist a student with information about counseling during the Community Health Fair held Feb. 3 on the third floor of the Gannon Building at LCC.
“(The Poker Walk) is something new and it’s added some excitement,” Tagger said. “Phil’s (Spirit Shop) … donated some prizes to us this year.
So, we’re really happy about that “It’s free and it’s something for people to do. (The Poker Walk) gets students involved and gets people involved.”
Upcoming EVENTS Black History Month
Now through March 2 Schedule and details at lcc.edu/blackhistorymonth
LCC Basketball
Check out the LCC Men’s & Women’s Basketball schedule at lcc.edu/athletics
Performing Arts: The Threepenny Opera
February 19 – 28 | various times Dart Auditorium A milestone of 20th century musical theatre, its raw music and biting commentary on capitalism and morality are a perfect match for the futuristic steampunk London setting of LCC’s production. Full details at lcc.edu/showinfo
Job & Internship Fair
Tuesday, February 23 | 2pm – 5pm West Campus Meet with employers from a variety of industries hiring for full-time, part-time, internship, and apprenticeship positions! Open to all LCC students, alumni, and the general public. Learn more and register at lcc.edu/jobfair
Where Spirit Rides
Wednesday, March 2 | 4:30pm LCC Black Box Theatre (GB 168) 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 by Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and Performing Arts. Mature content, reserved for audiences 18 years and older.
3 NEWS
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC community pitches in to help out with Flint crisis Shelby Schueller Associate Editor The LCC community showed generosity and compassion for the people of Flint by donating $920 and 38 cases of bottled water (approximately 912 individual bottles) during the “Water for Flint” fundraiser Jan. 25 to 29. The donations were collected by Student Life employees and online, according to Dean of Student Affairs Tanya McFadden. “I volunteered with the Red Cross to deliver water door-todoor in Flint and I can tell you that these donations are making a huge difference for the residents of Flint,” McFadden said. McFadden coordinated the “Water for Flint” fundraiser between Student Life, the LCC Foundation, Centre for Engaged Inclusion and administration. LCC President Brent Knight, the LCC Board of Trustees and several faculty members felt strongly that Lansing Community College should help the city of Flint and Mott Community College during this crisis, McFadden said. Since she lives near Flint, McFadden was asked to help coordinate LCC’s response. “There is so much need, and you do not even think about how often you turn on the tap in your home until one day it is not safe,” McFadden said. “I am so heartened by LCC and the community’s response to
Courtesy Photo
Mott Community College Baseball Coach Roger Christensen (left) accepts delivery of “Water for Flint” from LCC Dean Tanya McFadden on Feb. 3.
this crisis, and by the response of the wider Michigan community. “So many people are taking their time and their money to help the residents of Flint.” McFadden said “Water for Flint” was a team effort for everyone involved, including Student Life employees, who helped collect the donations at a table in the Gannon Building; and Dan McKean of the LCC Foundation Office, who helped set up the online donation option and collected monetary donations. Monetary donations were to be given to the American Red Cross,
McFadden said. Donations of water and filters were delivered to Mott Community College in Flint on Feb. 3 by McFadden and her staff. LCC student and Student Life Employee Mulki Sheikh-Omar helped answer questions and collect donations during the “Water for Flint” fundraiser. “It felt nice; the fact that I’m helping people that are in need,” Sheikh-Omar said. “People don’t realize that sometimes just because it didn’t happen to you doesn’t mean that you don’t have to be part of it. You can always give back to people in need.” Added McFadden: “It is nice to know that efforts such as this can go to help so many individuals who are affected by this crisis. The bottled water is definitely needed; however, without the monetary donations, children and others affected by ingesting lead could not get the necessary medical tests and attention that are so desperately needed.” McFadden expressed her thanks to all who helped make the fundraiser a success. Those still wishing to help can donate to the United Way of Genesee County Flint Water Fund by visiting bit.ly/1n9KvWf. The American Red Cross also accepts donations for Flint and volunteers to help. For more information on getting involved with the American Red Cross, visit rdcrss.org/20tV6gp/
Over 120 employers to attend job fair Aaron Emerson News Editor For the third straight year, LCC will host a job and internship fair for area students and residents seeking employment. The fair has grown each year and is expected to draw over 500 job seekers this year. It is scheduled for Tuesday, Feb. 23 on the LCC west campus, 5708 Cornerstone Drive in Lansing. Rebecca Sowa, internship development manager at LCC, has helped organize the event each year. She said
the fair will feature a wide range of employers hiring at all levels. “We have employers attending representing a wide variety of industries,” Sowa said. “Many (are) hiring for multiple positions, ranging from entry level to positions requiring advanced degrees.” There are 120 employers registered to attend, according to Sowa. She said they will be looking to fill full-time, part-time, internship and apprenticeship positions. “The event is a great opportunity
for students of all levels and degrees to network with local employers while learning about great internship and job opportunities available,” Sowa said. The job fair is open to students, alumni and the general public. Job seekers are encouraged to show up dressed professionally with updated copies of their resumes. To register or find out more information about the fair, including a list of some employers, go to www.lcc.edu/jobfair/
NEWS LCC Black Business Expo set for Feb. 17 Local black entrepreneurs and their businesses will be showcased on Wednesday, Feb. 17 as part of the Black Business Expo at LCC. The event, part of LCC’s Black History Month, will allow students and faculty to stop by and learn about various businesses. The expo will take place on the second floor of the Gannon Building from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Child Care awards deadline is Feb. 19
The deadline to apply for spring semester child care awards is Friday, Feb. 19. Help for LCC students in need of child-care assistance is available through the Women’s Resource/Returning Adult Program. The assistance will help defray the cost of child care with any licensed child-care provider. To be eligible, students must meet income guidelines and other eligibility criteria. For more information on submitting an application, contact the Women’s Resource/Returning Adult Program at (517) 483-1199.
Difficult Dialogues continue with ‘H-Hair’
The next ‘Difficult Dialogues’ series will address the complexities and stereotypes of black hair. All students and faculty are invited to attend the conversation, scheduled for Friday, Feb. 19 from 11 a.m. to noon. ‘Difficult Dialogues’ are held at the Centre for Engaged Inclusion, located in room 252.04 of the Gannon Building. The talks are presented in collaboration with “The Centre” and the Black Student Union.
LCC Board of Trustees to meet Feb. 22
The LCC Board of Trustees will meet for the first time this year on Monday, Feb. 22. The meeting is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. and is open to the public. The Board of Trustees meet once a month in the board room of the Administration Building. For more information, visit www. lcc.edu/trustees/
Academic Senate to meet Feb. 19 The LCC Academic Senate is scheduled to hold their next meeting on Friday, Feb. 19. They will be meeting from 9 to 11 a.m. in the Administration Building board room. The Academic Senate is made up of 43 members, comprised of LCC faculty, administration members and students. For additional information, visit www.lcc.edu/ provost/senate/
4 NEWS
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Students recognized for writing talents Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief LCC has captured two state Liberal Arts Network and Development (LAND) awards. Winners were selected from 28 Michigan community colleges. The winners will be invited to read their submissions at the LAND awards luncheon on Friday, Feb. 12 in Grand Rapids. The LCC Foundation gave both Emma Houle and Cruz Villarreal $350 for the upcoming conference. Both winners will be awarded prize money at the conference in Grand Rapids. Villarreal will receive $150 for his winning essay and Houle will receive $50 for her third-place entry. Villarreal spoke about the experience of winning first place at the state level. “To win first place – that was something … and the foundation was kind of enough to give us each of some walking money for my wife and I stay to be able to stay and eat out there,” Villarreal
said. “It speaks well of the foundation and LCC’s desire to have their students participate in this conference.” Emma Houle, who took third place for her poem, “The Fall of Man,” spoke about her poem and how it felt to be recognized for her work. “It’s about Adam and Eve,” Houle explained. “I wrote it last spring semester because I had a writing assignment about form poetry … (Teacher Barbara Clauer ) mentioned shape poetry and I thought about the shape of the apple. “I always thought that Eve is given a bad rap and I wanted to tell her side of the story … so I thought the apple was a way to make the poem more interesting and give it more power.” Houle had this advice to students who are afraid to enter their work. “Just take the chance,” Houle said. “I was scared about it and I actually got an email from Barbara Clauer. … She said that she thought I should enter and that was the push I needed.”
Photo by Jeremy Kohn
LCC students Cruz Villarreal and Emma Houle gather with their winning LAND contest entries.
Early LCC offers quality care, education for children Shelby Schueller Associate Editor Students, faculty and community members looking for quality child care have the option to utilize the Early LCC center, located near Schoolcraft Drive on LCC’s main campus. Lydia Saldivar, center director for Early LCC, said Early LCC is considered an early education and child care center, not just a day care. All of the head teachers at Early LCC have bachelor’s degrees in child development and the other teachers have associate degrees or are working on a bachelor’s degree. Saldivar said some aspects that make Early LCC a quality program are its accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children and its five-star rating from the Tier Quality Initiative Rating System. “We see this as a very important profession for providing quality education for young children,” she said. “From the time children come into the program and when they leave the program, there’s constant learning that’s going on. “We make sure to set up our envi-
Photo by Brian Wells
The Early LCC center, located near the north side of the main campus in downtown Lansing, offers early learning and child care for faculty, students and staff of Lansing Community College.
ronment in each classroom to provoke thought and curiosity so that children can be problem solving; they can be interacting with other children and gain that social development.” The Early LCC center is open from 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. It has three main programs: Infant Room, Toddler Room and Preschool Classrooms. The Infant Room is for children
ages birth to 18 months old, and accepts up to eight children. There are two toddler rooms for children ages 18 months to 3 years, each accepting 12 children. According to Saldivar, the infant and toddler programs pool curriculum from the Program for Infant/Toddler Care (PITC) and Resources for Infant Educarers (RIE).
There are also three preschool classrooms at Early LCC, which have spots for 16 to 18 children ages 3 to 5. All curriculums at Early LCC are play-based and are taught in respect to children’s interests and development level, Saldivar said. The cost for preschool is $240 per week. It is $285 per week for the infant and toddler programs. This price includes diapers, wipes, sunscreen, breakfast, lunch and snack, Saldivar said. According to Saldivar, there are no eligibility requirements for the infant and toddler programs. However, because the preschool programs are partnered with Head Start and the Great Start Readiness Program, there are some requirements based on income and parent needs. Early LCC is a full-time program, but families and parents are encouraged to visit the observation booth to see what their children are doing. “The idea is that for students, we’re here to support their success in school by providing quality care for their child to eliminate stress,” Saldivar See Childcare, page 6
5|Feature
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
One Book #OneLCC honors talented students Marisa Hilts Freelance Reporter One Book #OneLCC acknowledged several rising Stars during “The True American” awards ceremony on Jan. 26. Students were encouraged to explore the different themes presented in this year’s book choice and to express their thoughts on the heavy concepts. In “The True American,” author Anand Giridharadas tells the true story of how American Mark Stroman went on a rampage, killing two men and badly wounding another days after the 9/11 attacks. While Stroman was living out his final years on “death row,” he learned of a man who would go to considerable lengths to protect Stroman from the death penalty. The survivor of the attacks, Raisuddin Bhuiyan, would exhaust all efforts in order to keep his attacker alive and to offer him a second chance. The heartwarming story of two Americans’ astonishing encounter inspired great writing from the LCC contestants. First-place essay winner Emilee Wilcox said she wanted to emphasize the differ-
Photo by Brian Wells
Emilee Wilcox was the first place winner of the One Book #OneLCC Contest.
ent aspects that make up a person besides where they are from. “I started thinking about all the things
that form us as people and make us who we are, such as family, religion and attitude about life,” Wilcox said. “I wanted to share my essay because it’s important for people to recognize other facets of a person before jumping to a conclusion about their character.” Second-place essay winner Elizabeth Asman wrote how a person’s past should not be a credible factor in deciding one’s punishment for crimes against humanity. “Mark Stroman’s childhood and background was discussed at length during the trial when deciding whether or not to sentence him to death; it didn’t seem right to me,” Asman said. “Many people overcome their rough pasts and never use it as an excuse for their behavior.” Bhuiyan’s bravery and forgiveness was a key factor in third-place essay winner Guadalupe Gonzalez’s piece of turning a horrific attack into a beautiful life lesson. “My essay was focused on how Rais Bhuiyan turned a tragic event in his life into an opportunity to make a difference in the world, and he did so by attempting to save the life of a man who nearly ended
his own life,” Gonzalez said. Several other entries were highlighted as well, each tackling equally important aspects of “The True American.” Sophia Cooper’s first-place Flash Fiction piece, “Untitled,” and Briannea Mansfield’s first-place Poetry piece, “Why?” gave interesting perspectives on the topics mentioned in “The True American.” “Untitled” featured an intense battle of a woman offering amnesty to a man who accidently took the life of her beloved brother. “The theme was forgiveness,” Cooper said. “Forgiveness brings life and joy to someone’s heart, while anger and bitterness only hurt people more.” Mansfield’s winning poem, “Why?” took a stand and questioned why societies cannot come together as a whole. One Book #OneLCC Program Coordinator Victoria Meadows said she was pleased with the overall success of the contest. “Both entries and winning pieces featured a diversity of perspectives about the themes and story profiled in “The True American,” which is something we had hoped to accomplish,” Meadows said.
Alumnus Spotlight: Barb Byrum
County Clerk got her start at LCC Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief On March 22, 2014, the U.S. District Court overturned Michigan’s ban on samesex marriage. Within hours, history was made as the first same-sex marriage in the state was performed by LCC alumnus Barb Byrum, the clerk of Ingham County. Byrum, 38, attended LCC from 1994 to 1997 while she was still attending Leslie High School. She said she remembers especially enjoying computer programming and Spanish classes. “There was always a group of us that would have similar classes together and we would find ourselves in the computer lab before class,” she said. “There was a lot of camaraderie … I assume there still is a lot of camaraderie amongst the students at LCC. I feel it when I go back and visit campus. “It was an extremely pleasant experience and I am so glad I got my start at LCC, because it really helped pave my way for success later on.” Byrum worked for her parents’ business, Byrum Hardware in Leslie, while she at-
tended LCC. “I grew up in a family business, so hard work and honesty has always been instilled in me,” she said. After LCC, Byrum attended Michigan State University, where she studied agribusiness with an emphasis on crop and soil science. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1999. She returned to Michigan State to earn a degree in law in 2004. Shortly after, she refinanced her house and bought a hardware store. She said she has been the proud owner of Byrum Hardware in Charlotte since 2004. “Owning your own business is an incredible risk, but it also holds such incredible rewards,” she said. Byrum entered politics in 2007, running for state representative. She was following in the footsteps of her mother, Dianne Byrum, a former state representative and state senator. A lack of candidates with her own values, plus the encouragement from the community, led Byrum to enter politics, she said. Byrum, a Democrat, served three terms
as state representative. At times she was chair of the local government committee and vice chair of agriculture. She also served on commerce, education and health policy committees. “Politics was something I didn’t think I would ever pursue,” Byrum said. “My mom was a county commissioner, a state rep (and) she ran for congress, so politics somehow runs in my blood.” One of Byrum’s most notable acts involved her and Michigan State Rep. Lisa Brown being silenced on the House floor during an omnibus abortion debate. “I was silenced for saying the word ‘vasectomy’ and she was silenced for saying ‘vagina,’” Byrum said. After this occurred, Byrum recruited the writer of The Vagina Monologues to perform the show on Michigan’s Capitol steps in a sign of protest. After serving as a state representative, Byrum ran for Ingham County Clerk, where she has served for three years. Her duties as clerk include conducting all elections in Ingham County. She is also in charge of the county’s marriage, birth and
BARB BYRUM
death certificates. All military discharges and concealed weapons licenses are also handled under her watch. Ingham County Chief Deputy County Clerk Jennifer Shuster spoke about working with Byrum. “I am very honored to work for Clerk Byrum on a daily basis,” Shuster said. “She is a very engaged county clerk and passionate about serving the residents of Ingham County.” Byrum said she plans to run for re-election after her term is complete. Byrum is married to Brad Delaney and has two children. They live in Onondaga Township. To learn more about Byrum and her duties, visit the Ingham County Clerk’s website at cl.ingham.org/
6 feature
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Rave Guardian app provides protection Shelby Schueller Associate Editor LCC students, faculty and staff have the opportunity to protect themselves on campus through a mobile application called Rave Guardian. The app connects users to LCC Police with the click of a button. LCC Police Department Director William French said the Rave Guardian application was brought to the attention of LCC Police from the same source as Rave Alert, which LCC Police use as an emergency notification system to students. The app was reviewed and members of the LCC Police decided it would be a useful tool for the LCC community. “We’re always looking to add safety to the campus, so it was just another tool that we put in our toolbox,” French said. The app is available for any smart phone, including Apple and Android devices, and is free for students, staff and other affiliates of Lansing Community College, according to French. Some of the features available through the Rave Guardian app include calling and texting LCC Police in emergency situations. “The beauty of (texting) is that, let’s say something is going on in your classroom or in your office,” French said. “If you pick up the phone and call the police, somebody is going to know that you’re doing it. But there’s lots of people always sitting on their phone texting so you could easily anonymously just text us and we would know.” At the dispatch center, which is monitored by police 24 hours a day seven, days a week, there is a monitor dedicated to the Rave Guardian system. When someone calls or otherwise alerts the system of an emergency, it has a flashing and audible alarm, according to French. The Rave Guardian app also includes a safety timer in the form of an electronic escort. Users can set the timer for the amount of time it takes to walk to a destination and shut off the timer upon arrival. If some-
Childcare Continued from page 4
said.“We do encourage students to utilize the time that we’re open so they can get things accomplished.” Early LCC is also partnered with the LCC child development program as the lab school component. Students from MSU and other schools around the area
Photo by Brian Wells
LCC Police Dispatcher Ryan Frisbie demonstrates different features of the LCC Rave Guardian App. The app offers several ways for students to reach the police dispatchers in emergency and non-emergency situations.
thing happened to the user and the timer is not shut off, Rave Guardian will send an emergency alert to LCC Police, who would then dispatch officers to the location and try to contact the user through the phone. Users also have the option to set up the safety timer to alert a family member or friend instead of police. All of the reports from Rave Guardian come with the profile of the caller and the GPS location of the phone, French said. According to www.raveguardian.com, users may customize their profile to include
personal information that emergency responders should know, such as “medical conditions, allergies, disabilities and more.” French expressed the importance of downloading the app. “I think that anything that helps us with our safety and security is always important,” French said. “You never know when something could happen. It doesn’t have to be an attacker or a crime, it could be someone having a heart attack; it could be somebody slipped and fell. “There’s a myriad of reasons why some-
one might need help and you never know when this could occur. So it’s good to have the tools with you.” To make a profile on the Rave Guardian application, visit the app store, download the free app and create a profile with your LCC email. For more information, visit www.lcc.edu/ police or stop by the dispatch center, located on the second floor of the Gannon Building on LCC’s main campus. Those who need help downloading the app can call the LCC Help Desk at (517) 483-5221.
also come to observe and teach the children, Saldivar said. Saldivar said one of the best parts of Early LCC is that it is designed to incorporate imagination with learning. A few features that help achieve this goal are the playscape that includes nature, a motor room with a rock wall, a sound garden and more. Early LCC also has events that cele-
brate children’s imagination and learning, such as the display called “Our Discoveries.” The grand opening of “Our Discoveries” is scheduled for 4:30 to 7 p.m. April 5 in the Health and Human Services Building on LCC’s main campus. “We definitely focus on the children. It’s child-centered care and learning," said Abhirami Gunasingam, head teach-
er in the Infant and Toddler Program at Early LCC. “As part of our curriculum, the daily caregiving routines like diaper changes, mealtimes and helping children rest, everything is part of the learning process. That's what I love about it.” For more information about Early LCC or to check for availability, visit www.lcc. edu/elcc or email lcc-earlylcc@lcc.edu/
7|sports
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Men’s hoop routs Kalamazoo Valley CC 96-69 Rich Schenck Sports Editor LCC sophomore Jimmy Kodet scored 22 points and took down 10 rebounds to lead the LCC men’s basketball team to a 96-69 rout over visiting Kalamazoo Valley CC Feb. 10 in the Gannon Gym. The win helped the Stars rebound from only their fourth loss of the season, 91-80 in overtime at Lake Michigan College on Saturday, Feb. 5. The Stars have not lost at home since Jan. 3, 2015, including a perfect 11-0 home record so far this season. “After losing to Muskegon (CC) and Lake Michigan (College) we had a bad taste in our mouths,” Kodet said. “We just wanted to get in here and get a quality win.” The LCC (9-2 MCCAA West, 20-4 overall) offense distributed the ball all game long, having four players scoring in double figures. “Everyone just had a hot hand and we played together,” Kodet said. “Just getting the open man the ball.” The Stars defense struggled early as the shorthanded Cougars (5-7 MCCAA West, 9-15 overall) kept the game with-
in four points for the majority of the first half, trailing only 41-37 at halftime. “I wasn’t very happy in the first half,” LCC Head Coach Mike Ingram said. “We had been playing like that for several games and I didn’t go in and holler at the guys. I just said ‘Who wants to come and watch you guys play?’” Since his 22-point outburst against Ancilla Jan. 27 LCC freshman Curtis Davison has been averaging just over 11 points per game. His 14 points off the bench sparked the offense to grab a 53-43 lead early in the second half. “We’re a team that’s fast and aggressive and exciting,” Ingram said. “(Our players) were coached that way, so we made a couple little adjustments.” LCC sophomore Javon Haines (21 points, three steals) put defenders in the spin cycle for the rest of the night, helping the Stars keep a double-digit lead until the final whistle. “I had a smile on my face because I had been looking for that team for a couple weeks now,” Ingram said. The Stars sat a half a game back of Muskegon for first place in the MCCAA
Photoby Rich Schenck
LCC sophomore Javon Haines goes for a layup against Kalamazoo Valley’s Donnovan Lewis Feb. 10 in the Gannon Gym. Haines scored 21 points in the 96-69 victory.
Western Conference prior to their scheduled road game at Grand Rapids CC (210 MCCAA West, 9-13 Overall) Feb. 12.
They will return to the Gannon Gym Wednesday, Feb. 17 against Kellogg CC (2-9 MCCAA West, 9-13 overall).
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.
8 SPORTS
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Morton uses Lansing roots as inspiration
Q&A
The Lookout Sports Editor Rich Schenck recently spoke with sophomore basketball player Brian Morton. The Lansing Eastern grad is averaging 9.4 points per game for the LCC men’s basketball team and shooting just over 43 percent from the field so far this season.
Brian Morton
What gave you the itch to play basketball? “I played football at first with my brothers in Kansas and they play football big time. I guess just when I moved here with my dad it just became a passion of mine. I used to play in the snow (or) rain; it didn’t matter. I just played basketball.” What brought you to LCC? “Just having the school in my hometown. In high school people would say ‘LCC basketball program? You can’t succeed there’. For me I always go against
the odds so I just wanted to prove to people that you can go to LCC and succeed.” Can you remember the best game you ever played? “My best game was my senior year at Lansing Eastern playing against our rival Lansing Sexton. I scored 37 (points). After the game they interviewed me and my whole team came up behind me. I’m real big about the team and it was great to have my team behind me while I was getting interviewed. I still have a picture of it on my phone to this day.” Did you have any educational goals coming to LCC? “Right now my major is sociology. I did that just because I want to help (kids), I work at the YMCA. I want to help the kids and other youth and give them good leadership. Nowadays kids aren’t getting good education in that. I want the youth to grow up to be good people.”
Photos by Rich Schenck Sophomore Brian Morton drives to the basket against Kalamazoo Valley CC Feb. 10 in the Gannon Gym.
Who do you aspire to be like on and/ or off the court? “Stephen Curry. It’s more off the court than on because of faith in God, and that’s who I play for.”
What do you do in your downtime? “Hang with friends and chill. Most of the time I’m watching basketball highlights while I’m trying to study ... I love laughing.”
9 sports
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC Volleyball Club offers weekly fun Aaron Emerson News Editor Every Thursday night, a group of LCC students and their friends get together to play pick-up volleyball. The activity has caught on so much this year that the club has added another time for students and staff to play. The LCC Volleyball Club, registered as a Student Life Activity Club, started meeting at the beginning of the fall semester. Players have been meeting each Thursday from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Gannon Building Gymnasium. Sheila Johnson, the club’s adviser, said the club averages anywhere from 12 to 20 players on a given night. “They are just students and people that like to get together and play volleyball,” Johnson said. All students and staff at LCC can participate upon signing a waiver at the door. Additionally, anybody from the community is welcome as long as they come with an LCC student or staff member. Johnson said the players range greatly
LCC Volleyball Club members enjoy a spirited game during a session on Thursday evening, Feb. 11.
Sam Zdunic and Wade Ballmann attempt to return a spike during action n the Gannon gym.
in skill levels. “We have some people that played volleyball in high school and some that played other sports,” Johnson said. “But they just all like to play volleyball for
“It’s a lot of fun,” player Wade Ballmann said. “I had just found out about it two weeks ago and it’s a fun pastime.” For more information, contact Sheila Johnson at johns471@lcc.edu/
Photos by Aaron Emerson
fun.” The volleyball club added a second section of volleyball games on Wednesday mornings from 10 a.m. to noon. That session began Feb. 10.
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10|ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Trail blazers are appreciated during Black History Month Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor Black History Month is a time for people to look back on history and appreciate those who have paved the way to equality. LCC is helping to provide people with information with weekly events hosted by the Black Student Union during February. One of those events was the Black Film Festival on Feb. 8 in the Centre for Engaged Inclusion in the Gannon Building. The event was free to the public. Pizza and popcorn were passed out as students shuffled in. The feature film was “School Daze” by Spike Lee. Black Student Union President Savannah James said the movie was chosen because it fit best with the theme. According to James, it highlights the biases and focuses on the different types of black people that one may encounter. “I hope that people grasped a better understanding of different things that go on within the black community,” James said. James said she enjoyed teaching people about the African American culture and heritage. “It is important to educate people to come out because the more people know about different people’s heritage, the less ignorance, more understanding and diversity we have in the world,” she said. “If we don’t learn about our history
What are your thoughts th? about black history mon
"It is getting interesting perspectives you might not get at other times of the year. There are kind of histories we are more comfortable with ... then there is what happens when you peel the onion back a few layers."
Richard Monroe, 37, Faculty
"I think it is just a month out of the whole year for us to remember the important people that have sacrificed their lives for different kind of events so that black people can have the freedom that they have." Kalbaidan Befekdu, 24, Sonography Photo by Aaron Wilton
Around 20 students gathered in the Centre for Ingaged Inclusion Feb. 8 for a showing of the movie “School Daze.” This movie was a part of the Black Film Festival, which is a Black History Month event.
then we are trapped in a cycle where we are doomed to repeat.” Students who are interested in joining the Black Student Union can attend a meeting from 10 a.m. until noon in
the Centre for Engaged Inclusion every other Friday. For a list of other Black History Month events at LCC, go to www.lcc. edu/studentlife/bhm/
"I think Black History Month is really important because we get a chance to appreciate the things that black people have contributed to our history." Kumoke Shoneye, 18, General Associates
Women’s Expo provides food, fashion, fun Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor Over 12,000 women attended the 16th annual Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo in the Lansing Center Feb. 5, 6 and 7. The expo featured over 275 vendors, guest speakers and a musical performance by local artist Taylor Taylor. The expo covered featured topics including women’s health, lifestyle, food, fashion and crafts. The information and services were provided by women, for women. Show producer Denise Kolesar said the expo has had steady attendance for 16 years. “It is the largest women’s event in the Lansing area,” Kolesar said. “We had lots of cool stuff and all kinds of exhibits, from exercise and fitness offerings to herbal exhibits to jewelry and purses. If it pertained
to women, it was here.” McLaren Greater Lansing had over 20 booths available for women to browse. Women could get assessments and talk face-to-face with health professionals. Kolesar said this was her favorite exhibit. “I like the health aspect because I always have a health question, whether it’s for me or my son,” Kolesar said. “I think it is great that I can consult with an expert.” The women’s expo is special because it gives women a chance to learn new and important information, Kolesar said. “There are not many places where you can get that first-hand, face-to-face expertise,” Kolesar said. “I hope women had fun, pampered themselves and gained some information. “Women deserve this,” Kolesar contin-
ued. “We work hard. We run households. We have day jobs and we deserve a day to come and take a break.” Women’s Expo attendee Julie Rivendale has attended the event since 2013. She said it is one of the few times she gets to spend time with both of her daughters. “The expo is special because it allows me and my daughters to bond,” Rivendale said. “They are rarely home but we make sure we all get together for this and a couple other area events every year. It’s a tradition and a nice break from all of the everyday stuff.” Lansing resident Katherine Mills said this was her first time at the expo. She had a cart full of scarves, bracelets, soap and cheeses. “It was very fun,” Mills said. “I walked away with a lot more than I came in with … literally.”
Photo by Brian Wells
The Lansing Women’s Expo was held Feb. 5-7 at the Lansing Center.
11 A&E
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
High school pianist is viral sensation Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor Lansing Everett High School senior Monntel West was just like most other high school seniors. He plays saxophone in the school band, participates in after-school activities, watches anime and studies hard working his way toward graduation. Unlike any other high school student, West recently became a viral sensation. He currently has over a million Facebook views on a video taken of him playing piano in the Lansing Mall on Jan. 22. Since the video was posted, West has been offered scholarships from colleges, has had multiple interviews on live television, has gotten offered to be on daytime talk show, “The View,” and has received a shout out from Grammy Award winning singer Chris Brown. West said he was waiting for his cousin at the mall when he spotted a piano on display. He sat down and began playing the song “River Flows in You,” by South Korean pianist Yiruma. At first, West said, only a few people started watching him. As he kept playing the few turned into many. West continued playing the song with headphones in, no experience reading music and no lessons. Most of
Courtesy Photo
Monntel West (center) shown with family members, has become a viral sensation after a video surfaced of him playing piano inside of the Lansing Mall on Jan. 22. West performed the song “River Flows in You,” by South Korean pianist Yiruma, for people passing by.
the piano skills West had were through practice and watching YouTube videos. One of the passersby was Lansing native Sara Hadley, who captured West’s performance in a short video. Hadley saw West playing after she walked out of a store in the mall. She said she was surprised to see a young man playing with headphones in. “I take photos of everything, so it wasn’t abnormal for me to start the video,” Hadley said. “I was very impressed and thought he was great; especially knowing what I know
now about him, not ever having lessons.” Hadley said she never imagined her video would allow West to have the viral fame he did. “I had no idea that the video would blow up like it did,” Hadley said. “I just posted it on my Facebook and the next day it was going crazy. I am happy for him. I am hoping to see that he has made his dreams come true in the music industry.” West said he started playing piano at the end of eighth grade and put a lot of time into practicing.
“I watched a lot of anime and a lot of the songs in anime were on the piano, so I wanted to learn those songs,” West said. “I just kept practicing and practicing.” West said he has been overwhelmed by the support he has gotten from people. “I woke up Saturday and one my friends had tagged me in a post and it was her (Hadley) video,” West said. “Later in the day the views started climbing and then once it hit 100,000 it blew up. It all happened so quick.” West said the video has brought him many opportunities. Those opportunities include receiving scholarships from colleges such as LCC. West said he would like to study music in college. “I am getting scholarships from all of these universities and it makes me feel surprised and happy,” West said. “People are offering to pay for my college and help me further my career.” The most rewarding thing about his viral fame, West said, is being able to reach out to people through music. “It means a lot to me that people I know and don’t know are supporting me and have faith in me; not just from Lansing but around the world,” West said. I like making people smile and making them feel something through music.” To watch the video of West head to www.youtube.com/watch?v=RxidtYBBN40/
Wenzel’s one-liners bring success on ‘Conan’ Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor Imagine a room packed with people all waiting in anticipation for you to speak; a room so silent that if a pin dropped it could be heard from across the room. A room filled with hecklers, skeptics and fans. That is a familiar setting for local comedian Brad Wenzel. Wenzel has performed over 300 sets in cities all over the country, including Lansing, during 2015. He has had the opportunity to open for nationally known comedy powerhouses including Patton Oswalt, Pete Holmes and Louie Anderson. One of Wenzel’s biggest accomplishments came Jan. 27 when he performed on “Conan,” a late-night talk show on TBS starring Conan O’Brien that has up to a million viewers per night. Wenzel started his stand-up career when he was 17 in Monroe, Mich. “I wanted to go onstage because I was a big fan of comedy and I wasn’t particular-
ly good at anything else,” Wenzel said. “I loved watching stand up, ‘Saturday Night Live’ and late-night talk shows.” Wenzel said his comedy focuses on one-liners. “I try to put as much of my personality into it so that I am not a total robot on stage,” Wenzel said. “I try to make sure the audience gets a sense of who I am in addition to the weird thoughts that I’m sharing.” Performing in front of audiences like the one during his set on “Conan” makes him happy, Wenzel said. “The bigger the show, the funnier it is to me that I am even up there,” Wenzel said. “It feels like I snuck on stage or that the theater full of people is mistaking me for someone else.” According to Wenzel, the process for being on “Conan” took five months. It started with a 10-minute tape that he and his manager submitted to the Conan crew. “Conan told me that he loved my Pee Wee Herman joke and that he watches a lot of comedy,” Wenzel said. “He said my jokes
had turns that he can’t see coming, which he enjoyed.” Wenzel said he hopes to be headlining within the next year. “The most rewarding part is the feeling I get when people laugh,” Wenzel said. “It’s a natural high and it makes everything worth it.” Local comedian and host of Mac’s Comedy Night Dan Currie has known Wenzel since 2010. “He’s funny on and off stage and one of the nicest people I have ever met,” Currie said. “A lot of comics have big egos or can be really cynical. You don’t get that with Brad.” Currie said many people in the Michigan comedy scene were excited to see him on “Conan.” “It was great to see someone that is so funny and works so hard to get recognition,” Currie said. “A lot of comics all over the state had viewing parties. It was kind of surreal seeing him walk on that stage.” “I think it’s important to support local comedy,” Currie said. “You get to see
Courtesy Photo
Comedian Brad Wenzel performed on Conan on Jan. 27. Wenzel is from Michigan and has performed regularly in Lansing.
something that is special in your city, state or region. And you never know when they might be on ‘Conan.’” MSU student David Zheng, who has attended Mac’s Comedy Night in the past, said Wenzel did very well on ‘Conan.’ “I enjoyed watching him deliver one-line jokes,” Zheng said. “It is very inspiring to see a local comedian make it big.” To watch Wenzel’s set on Conan, head to teamcoco.com/video/
12 A&E
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
reviews
Good Truckin’ Diner delivers meals
Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief Hidden along the beaten path of Washington Square Avenue in REO Town lies the Good Truckin’ Diner. Located at 1107 S. Washington Square Ave., the diner offers a wide variety of choices for its hungry customers. Good Truckin’ Diner is open Tuesday through Friday from 6 a. m. to 2 p.m., as well as Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. The diner features an open kitchen, so guests can view cooks at work and smell different aromas of food being prepared. Street signs and license plates adorn the walls of the diner, while seating is available either at the bar upon leather seated stools, or at colorfully painted tables. My server was very attentive and friendly. She asked if this was my first time at the diner. She went over the extensive menu and explained that breakfast was served until 2 p.m. After eyeing several menu options, I decided I wanted something more lunch
Photo from the Good Truckin’ Diner Facebook page
appropriate. The menu items had clever names such as the “Tony Montana,’’ “The Hillbilly,” and the “Supertrooper.” The “Supertrooper’s” ingredients caught my eye. It had me at the words “mac n cheese and bacon.” After about a 10-minute wait my meal was served. Thick-cut, crisp, seasoned fries deco-
rated the red and white checkered basket next to pulled, smoked pork, which was situated with ham and creamy macaroni and cheese. It was topped with two strips of bacon on grilled bread. The fries were thick-cut steak fries seasoned with a dash of spice, which wasn’t overpowering. The pulled pork melted
in my mouth; it was so tender. The macaroni and cheese was also flavorful. All of the ingredients in the sandwich mingled together nicely and left my palette very satisfied. I had an opportunity to speak with the owner of Good Truckin’ Diner, Nicholas Sinicropi, who also happened to be head cook for the day. Sinicropi said his business started as a Good Truckin’ Food truck in May of 2014. After the success of the food truck, Sinicropi opened the diner Nov. 12, 2014. He talked about the meals customers seem to enjoy the most. “Breakfast and a lot of stuff; my menu is pretty different from most people’s,” Sinicropi said. “Breakfast tacos are popular and lunch tacos are really popular. I have very unique tacos.” Sinicropi also mentioned that during events such as the REO Town Beerfest, the diner stays open until 10 p.m. For more information log onto the Facebook page or follow on Twitter @goodtruckinfood.
‘The 5th Wave’ derives themes from dystopia stories For some reason, the world’s government does nothing as the extraterrestrial visitors attack the earth with four waves. The first wave knocks out all forms of power and the second involves strong earthquakes. In the third a deadly virus spreads throughout the world. And in the fourth wave, the extraterrestrials, nicknamed “The Others,” possess the bodies of humans. Now, citizens of earth anxiously await the fifth wave and prepare for the unknown. Meanwhile, Cassie gets separated from her younger brother, Sam (Zackary
Arthur). She then faces alien snipers, injuries, an uncertain fate, and, yes, potential romances while she tries to find him. Overall, the movie is OK. It’s entertaining enough but is kind of predictable. The ending left me with more questions than when I started, heavily implying the possibility of a sequel. “The 5th Wave” book series currently has three books, and I suspect that if the others become movies, the last will be split into two films. The storyline reminds me of a mixture of “The Hunger Games,” by Suzanne ColThis week’s comic sponsered by:
Shelby Schueller Associate Editor The trend for teenaged dystopia movies began a new chapter of its never ending book when “The 5th Wave,” based off the novels by Rick Yancey, hit theaters on Jan. 22. “The 5th Wave” stars Cassie Sullivan (Chloё Grace Moretz), a normal high school teenager who has only one discernable friend, is awkward with boys and loves her little brother. Everything changes when an unidentified object enters Earth’s atmosphere.
lins, and “The Host,” by Stephenie Meyer. In all honesty, it’s a pretty average story. The plot has all the aspects of a trendy, marketable book and film: a semi interesting female lead with a passion for family, inhuman antagonists and a potential love triangle. For those who enjoy teenage dystopias, “The 5th Wave” is worth a watch. For everyone else, maybe wait until it comes out on DVD to rent it. To watch a trailer for “The 5th Wave,” visit www.youtube.com/watch?v=kmxLybfGNC4/
13|distractions
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
14|opinion
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — sights & sounds —
Fangirls, guitars & late-night clock watching Music has always been a big part of my life. As a kid it would be hard to find me without my big blocky headphones blasting music into my ears. During my first year at LCC in 2013 I discovered the Lansing music scene. As a college student it would be hard to find me anywhere but at a local concert. A year later I met my boyfriend, Jason, at one of those local concerts in REO Town. Jason plays guitar in an alternative rock band named Lights & Caves. Since meeting Jason, I have had the opportunity to attend shows out of state, in cities all over Michigan and locally. This opportunity has opened me up to new people, places, music and experiences. Being in a relationship with someone who is in a band has given me a look into the other side of music. It has
allowed me to go deeper than those blocky headphones I used to wear. Being with a guy in a band is fun, but it does have its challenges. A band means late nights of practicing and playing. It means waiting for Jason to get home and watching as the clock ticks from 1 a.m. to 2 a.m. A band means arguments. I have seen Jason come home almost in tears from a disagreement between band members. When four talented people try to voice musical opinions it can be stressful. A band means fans – girls, girls and more girls. After a successful show sometimes a fangirl comes forth. This is a girl who pushes her way to the front, wearing nothing but tight pants and a bra. These girls make me feel weird as I stand there in my nerdy sweater. Auto-
graphs, pictures and girls were something I had to get over. A band means nights where I am invisible. Accomplishing a dream is a slow process for my boyfriend and involves hard work. Some nights I feel like I am just a small part of his life, compared to a bigger dream. Most nights I am OK with that. Despite the challenges the rewards are overwhelming. It blows my mind every day when I think about how much fun I have had since being involved in the local music scene. A boyfriend in a band means I am able to listen to one small guitar part ,which Jason spends days on, as it
transforms into a song. It means watching Lights & Caves play every month and seeing the band grow in popularity. It is about being involved in the process of making music. It is about watching people at the shows feel the music, sing along and dance to the rhythm. It is seeing the smiles on the band members faces as they walk off stage knowing the show went well. Following a band means meeting new people and making new friends. Music is a special thing. It can be felt through those blocky headphones I used to wear and it can be seen through watching someone I love do the thing he loves to do.
— THE KOHN EFFECT —
Don’t we all have a little bit of hipster in us? Yes, you read the headline right. Today, I am going to be talking about a little word that has crept into the world of pop culture. The word is “hipster.” You usually see the word used negatively in television shows and movies, but is being a “hipster” really that bad? After doing an internet search I found several definitions for the word hipster. The urbandictionary.com defines a hipster as the following: “Hipsters are a subculture of men and women typically in their 20’s and 30’s that value independent thinking, counter-culture, progressive politics, an appreciation of art and indie-rock, creativity, intelligence and witty banter.”
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Are these facets of a personality such a bad thing? Let’s start with independent thinking. This means a person forms his or her own opinion based on personal beliefs. What is so wrong with that? Progressive-politics. Hmm, this could be open to interpretation. However I think it means that you are well informed on topics of politics and don’t necessarily lean to the right or the left with your views. Next on the list is an appreciation of art and indie-rock. OK. There are probably millions of people in the world who this applies to. Everything from the Beach Boys to Arcade Fire have been called indie-rock.
READ THE STORY, ‘TO HELL AND BACK’ Read the new e-book by The Lookout News Editor Aaron Emerson about his lengthy heroin addiction, which started as a teenager, and his amazing recovery that followed. To buy the book at a cost of $4.99 go to amzn.to/1KrzkNy.
The appreciation of art? That is even less defined. Art can be music, movies, paintings, sculptures, books and poetry. Creativity, intelligence and witty banter? I don’t know about you, but these are all qualities that I look for in all my relationships. Now, let’s look at how “Time” magazine defined hipster in 2009. “Hipsters are friends who sneer when you cop to liking Coldplay. They’re the people who wear T-shirts silk-screened with quotes from movies you’ve never heard of and the only ones in America who still think Pabst Blue Ribbon is a good beer. “They sport cowboy hats and berets and think Kanye West stole their sunglasses. Everything about them is to give off the vibe that they don’t care.” The common thread I see in both the
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urbandictionary.com and “Time” definitions is strongly opinionated people. How often do you find yourself in a conversation like this with someone: “I loved the movie ‘Gravity.’ I thought it was shot really well and the music added to the suspense.” Then your close friend’s response is “You loved ‘Gravity?’ It was just Sandra Bullock floating around space for three hours; it was so boring.” The main point I am making is almost all people have displayed characteristics of a “hipster.” They enjoy an independent movie or listen to music that isn’t played on the radio. We all have had moments where we have acted pretentious or judgey toward another person. Perhaps a better definition for a hipster should be a person who is comfortable being in his or her own skin.
PLACE YOUR AD HERE Advertising in The Lookout’s classified section is inexpensive and effective. The cost is just $8.50 for 20 words or less. Additional words are 50 cents. Call 483-1295 to place an ad, or for more information.
15 opinion
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — staff editorial —
Academy Awards needs actor equality “Irony,” according to dictionary.com, is the use of words to convey a meaning that is the opposite of its literal meaning. This year’s Academy Awards has zero nominations for persons of minority despite being hosted by a black comedian: Chris Rock. Prominent actors and members of the African-American community have gone as far as boycotting the Os-
cars this year. Will Smith and his wife Jada Pinkett Smith are some actors leading the boycott. Director Spike Lee is another celebrity who has shown distaste with the Oscars nominations. The hashtag #Oscarsowhite is even being used on social media. Some of the minority actors snubbed from nominations include Will Smith for his performance in the movie
“Concussion,” Idris Elba for the critically acclaimed Netflix movie “Beast of No Nations,” Michael B. Jordan in “Creed,” Jason Mitchell’s performance for “Straight out of Compton” and Benicio Del Toro for the movie “Sicario.” It appears that even the host himself, Chris Rock, has taken to Twitter to refer to the Oscars as the “White BET Awards.” Whether he is making a joke or not, the lack of minority actors nom-
inated has certainly created a statement about equality amongst the acting community. The Lookout staff thinks this is a highly disrespectful move by the Academy to overlook some of today’s great minority actors as considerations. Their performances are just as good and should be considered in the same vein as the white actors who have been nominated.
— If the schue fits —
Vote for candidates, not immature children Anyone who has social media or has watched the news recently probably has heard something about the drama unfolding in the 2016 presidential election. This year, radicalism combines with traditional politics on both sides. But the one who has been getting a lot of attention (and not always the good kind) is acting more childish with each passing debate. I’m looking at you, Donald Trump.
Throughout his entire campaign, Trump has screeched and gone red in the face while utilizing similar methods and ideas that Hitler used to take power in Germany. While most people have rolled their eyes and some agreed with his ideals, Trump took his campaign to a whole new level of immaturity after the Iowa Caucus on Feb. 1. Even though he did not attend the
debate, Trump seemed confident about winning the caucus and made his surprise clear on Twitter when Ted Cruz was announced the winner. “Ted Cruz didn’t win Iowa, he stole it,” Trump tweeted early in the morning on Feb. 3. “That is why all of the polls were so wrong and why he got far more votes than anticipated. Bad!” Later that morning, Trump accused Cruz of fraud and demanded an election recount. Cruz responded by calling Trump’s outburst a “Trumpertantrum” and questioned his temperament if put in office.
— Letter to the editor —
What are your thoughts ABOUT valentine’s day? Jeremy Kohn
Nicole Cade
Shelby Schueller
Editor in Chief
assistant paginator
Associate Editor
“I like the sarcastic candy hearts.”
“It’s nice.”
“It’s a Hallmark holiday, but I like spending time with my boyfriend.“
kohnj2@lcc.edu
caden@lcc.edu
Aaron Emerson
News Editor
emersoa@lcc.edu
“I love it. It’s a great day for my girlfriend and it’s also my Mom’s birthday.”
schuels1@lcc.edu
Jaimie Bozack
A&E Editor
bozackj@lcc.edu “I get gifts so I’m happy.”
Rich Schenck
Sports Editor
schen1@lcc.edu
“It means half off candy on the 15th.”
EMMA SCOTT
Aaron Wilton
Lurah Peterson
lead PAginator
Staff Writer/AD Sales
Advertising Manager
“I think it’s cute.”
“I haven’t had a reason to celebrate in years.”
“Candy is 50 percent off the day after.”
scotte8@lcc.edu
This is exhausting. We do not need potential presidents of the United States getting into Twitter fights. This is an election, not high school. Candidates should treat it, and each other, with respect. I encourage others who have not already registered to vote to do so; then actually vote when that day comes. We have a say in our politics, and your vote DOES make a difference. Voting is important and, ideally, it will help keep children out of the White House. To see Ted Cruz’ response to Trump’s outburst, visit fxn.ws/1KqXfC1/
wiltona@lcc.edu
petersl8@lcc.edu
Brian Wells
Photo Editor
wellsb6@lcc.edu
“I miss getting all the cards in elementary school.”
Larry Hook
Adviser
hookl@lcc.edu
“It’s a day to have a nice dinner out with my wonderful wife.”
Student would rather see repairs than artwork I have been a student at LCC for three years now and I have seen the process of “beautifying” campus, starting from tearing it all up and putting down new things. I personally don’t see the point in putting up pieces of artwork that make no sense to the majority of the population, along with making the sidewalks look gorgeous when there was nothing wrong with the old sidewalk. I would rather see the money going toward improving the old buildings, updating the equipment the students use, or modernizing the way students request transcripts by making the request elec-
tronic, and many other things. I know I am not the only one with this opinion because I have talked with students, college employees, and even alumni. I had believed that as a student I didn’t have any say on what happens on campus. But now I realize that I do have a say and if I don’t voice my opinion, many others with the same opinion won’t voice theirs because many think “my opinion doesn’t matter or won’t make a difference” when it does. Sure, the art looks nice, but what real benefit is it to all of the students? Meagan Hepfner LCC Student
16|LAST LOOK
Feb. 15 - 28, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Over 750 people attended the Art & Craft Beerfest on Jan. 29 and 30 in Lansing’s REO Town. Attendees received drink tickets and a commemorative glass. Ryan Shadbolt and the Weathermen perform at The Robin Theatre during the Art & Craft Beerfest on Saturday, Jan. 30.
A group of friends enjoy drinks outside of The Cadillac Room on Saturday, Jan. 30.
Brian Wells Photo Editor The fourth annual Art & Craft Beerfest, sponsored by “I’m A Beer Hound,” was held in REO Town Jan. 29 and 30. The event, which brought in around 750 people over the course of both nights, was held in four venues: The Cadillac Room, AA Creative Corridor, The Robin Theatre and REO Town Pub.
Each venue offered various craft beers and wines, live entertainment and different styles of art. The artwork included sculptures, paintings and photographs. “I feel really good with the number that came out,” stated “I’m A Beer Hound” creator Paul Starr. With admission, attendees received multiple drink tickets and a commemorative glass.