Chocolate Walk in Old Town
Lady Stars battle with Kalamazoo
Features >> Page 5
Women’s Expo offers lots of fun Last Look >> Page 12
Sports >> Page 6
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 Volume 55, Issue 11 www.lcc.edu/lookout
thelookout Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
LCC retiree wins esteemed award Jeremy Kohn Co-Editor in Chief
Mary Brown was a teacher of Introductory Science for 35 years at Lansing Community College before retiring last year. Brown received a generous parting gift. She was selected as the 2014 Michigan College Teacher of the Year by the Michigan Science Teachers Association. Brown recently spoke about her 35-year tenure at LCC with much admiration. “I loved teaching the students at Lansing Community College,” Brown said. “I’ve taught at other institutions and I really believed these students were among the best I’ve ever been honored to teach. “Many of those students of mine are now teachers themselves. Some have gone on to advanced degrees. I am very proud of each of them,” Brown said.
Photo courtesy of LCC’s Facebook Page
Retired LCC professor Mary Brown earned the Michigan College Teacher of the Year award for 2013.
The former LCC teacher talked about the honor of winning the 2014 College
Teacher of the Year Award. “I feel humbled as I know there are many exception-
al college science teachers across the state of Michigan. Michigan is nationally recog-
nized for science education. To be so honored by my colleagues is truly humbling. “There are many science educators in the state (whom) I regard with awe.” Brown attributed her students as the true winners of the award. She said her students have accompanied her to many state and national conferences over the years. They have also helped Brown with such projects as Future Teachers’ Club, Reading is Fundamental and many other outreach events. Brown also spoke adamantly about the science faculty at LCC being an inspiration in her teaching style. She explained how the teachers would regularly read article on how to better their teaching craft. The science faculty also held Brown in high regard as a teacher, including longtime peer Lu Anne Clark. See Award, page 2
Board gets update on student organizations Jeremy Kohn Co-Editor in Chief
Student organizations were represented in a big way at the Board of Trustees meeting Feb. 18 in the Paul D. Cunningham Administration Building. Student Life Director Al Nowak spoke about the importance of LCC Student Life and other student organizations, which help shape students. “The office of Student Life works to provide meaningful leadership opportunities that not only enhance the academic experience for students, but also assists them to grow professionally and personally,” Nowak said.
Nowak also mentioned LCC’s newspaper, the Lookout, as a stepping stone for students. He referred to students who have left the Lookout to pursue careers on professional newspapers as reporters and successful page designers. Meg Pratt, an LCC Student Leadership Academy student, spoke about the fellowship and skills gained from entering the scholarship program. “I could talk for hours about how this whole experience has been for myself,” Pratt said. “But to sum it up, by participating in this scholarship it has given me opportunities I could not See Board, page 2
Photo by Brooke Burns
The LCC Board of Trustees conducts business Feb. 18 in the Administration Building.
What are your plans for spring break? “Spend times with my friends and girlfriend.”
Aalin Askew, 19, General Education
“Probably just working a lot.”
Tara Cox, 23, Education
“Going up north and skiing.”
Tyler Sochor, 19, Prosthetics
“Extracurricular activities.”
Kenneth Oldham, 19, General Education
CAMPUSPERSPECTIVESCAMPUSPERSPECTIVESCAMPUSPERSPECTIVES
2 NEWS Board
Continued from page 1
receive from other universities,” Pratt said. Student Life Event Coordinator Joshua West spoke about how Student Life has strived to bring great events to campus; such as Homecoming, Starfest and the upcoming concert featuring Pia Toscano and Jared Lee. Phi Theta Kappa President Markus Davis talked about the significant growth his organization has achieved with LCC’s chapter achieving five-star status as well as a 27 percent increase in participation. “I do want to say that I have been exceptionally blessed to be able to come to Lansing Community College,” Davis said. “Through the opportunities supported by Lansing Community College, I will be able to campaign for the International President for Phi Theta Kappa, which will take place in Orlando in April.”
Award
Continued from page 1
“Mary Brown is the ultimate example of a science teacher and really cared about her students. I loved working with her over the years,” Clark said. Another colleague of Brown’s, Steve Carlson, also had kind words to say about the 2014 Michigan Science award honoree. “Mary Brown is indeed an exceptional teacher who has promoted science education in the class room and in the community,” Carlson said. “This honor is well deserved.” Brown will receive her prestigious award next month as the Michigan Science Teachers Association will host a banquet March 7 and 8 at the Lansing Center.
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC radio hits milestone Sarah Spohn A&E Editor
The ‘90s are known for many things: “Saved by the Bell,” NSYNC, Nirvana, “Jurassic Park” and Giga Pets. The era of the VHS tape also brought LCC Radio to the airwaves. LCC’s own WLNZ 89.7 FM started as a closed circuit channel in 1994. Feb. 11 marks its 20th birthday. What originally began on the cable channel has now spread to the entire Lansing area and beyond, thanks to worldwide online streaming. Station Manager Daedalian Lowry spoke about his earlier involvement at the station. “I actually started back in 1998, on the internet only station, as part of the workshop that the college had, a radio workshop,” Lowry said. Lowry went on to be employed as a student in 2000, and a year later was promoted to assistant pro-
Photo by Brooke Burns
Cecilia Major, one of WLNZ’s volunteers, works in the radio station studio in the basement of the TLC Building.
gram director. Over time, LCC Radio has seen its fair share of changes, but continues to celebrate diversity in its music. “As far as the music goes, it’s a pretty big change,” Lowry said. “It was originally Lansing’s jazz, blues, and news station.” Since then, the station has gone to a AAA format, playing adult alternative albums. This community station makes it a priority to focus on local music.
Lowry credited much of the station’s successful changes to former Station Manager Dave Downing. Downing managed the station from 1980 to 2012. “It’s not just limited to students, it’s community members. That’s kind of what this is all about,” Lowry said. “Dave got that started, kind of making it a community radio station, which is something I know he’s proud of and he should be. My goal is just to expand on that.”
GO WEST. PeoPle come here because they’re lookinG for somethinG. It’s not about packing up the
car and going to a different town. For them it’s about discovery. 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.
wmich.edu/GoWest
INTERACTIVE PRINT
Download the free Layar App
Scan this page for interactive content
While LCC Radio has seen changes over the years, the station’s many volunteers, show hosts and employees continue to expand on the original idea of WLNZ being a community station. With the new habits of listeners streaming music online, everything is on demand now. Technology has brought in internet radio and sunken the ships of many previously popular radio frequencies. WLNZ sets itself a part from the others, by playing songs music lovers couldn’t find anywhere else, Lowry said. “We’re basically playing stuff that you will not be able to find as easily on the internet or on your radio dial on a commercial station,” Lowry said. “It’s your community, so it’s important.” The future looks bright as WLNZ 89.7 continues to shine a light on the local talent the Great Lakes State has to offer.
3 NEWS
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout
IN BRIEF
LCC re-energizes with mobile charging stations Jeremy Kohn Co-Editor in Chief “Students on the go” can get caught up in their hectic schedules and forget about charging their electronic devices. The LCC Information Technology Services (ITS) came up with a solution to this problem and brought mobile charging units to LCC’s campus. Kevin Bubb, the chief information officer of ITS, was a key figure in bringing this new technology to LCC. “I was at a conference last fall where I saw several of these stations being used, and thought it might be of some value,” Bubb said. “I checked with Dr. (President Brent) Knight who said to give it a shot to see what students would think.” After getting the go-ahead from Knight, Bubb contacted a company called Kwikboost, which gave LCC three stations for a 30-day trial. Stations were then placed in the TLC and the Arts & Sciences (A&S) buildings. In the TLC building, students were able to charge their electronic devices
in the library. In the A&S, charging stations were in the learning commons and fourth floor studying area. “We didn’t really do any marketing, we just asked the employees in those areas to keep an eye on them and see if they were getting any use,” Bubb said. Students soon became aware of the stations and began using them more frequently. With the stations becoming a success, an additional 20 stations were bought and placed throughout various campus locations. LCC students Zaire Chisem and Nestor Naire talked about the convenience of having the stations on campus. “I think it helps out the campus ... like if you forget your charger, you can easily come to the library and easily charge it up while you do your work,” Chisem said. Added Nare: “I saw similar ones at MSU; I think they are a good idea. They are convenient. It is better to have them then not to have them.” The charging stations are now located in the following locations:
A&S Building: Learning commons; collaboration/study lounges (rooms 201, 301 and 401). HHS Building: Garden level along the garden wall – two units; first floor SE entrance sitting area; second SE floor sitting area. TLC Building: Lobby; library second floor near student seating; library third floor center of student study area; library fourth floor student study area. West Campus: Cafeteria – two units; computer lab; second floor ARC; second floor Atrium; second floor student commons. East Campus: First floor student commons; second floor outside of computer lab. St. Johns: Main lobby outside of LCC office. Livingston: Second floor student commons. Gannon Building – TRIO office (room 142). Charging stations will be installed in the Gannon Building once renovations are complete. Locations are yet to be decided. Any questions or concerns about the charging stations should be directed to the Help Desk at 483-5221 or lcc1@lcc.edu.
News
Celebrate Black History Month with trip to museum Students looking for something fun to do to celebrate Black History Month will have that chance on Friday, Feb. 28. Students can take a trip to the African-American Museum of History in Detroit for a chance to learn more about black history.
This event will give students a visual and hands on experience of Black History. To sign up, visit the Student Life office inside of the Continental Building. For more information, contact Curlada Eure-Harris at (517) 483-9618.
Informational session set for Line Worker Program Anyone interested in being in the Line Worker Program at LCC can now sign up for one of the newly announced informational sessions. The next session will be held on March 17 in West Campus Atrium, second floor. Attending one of the sessions is required if students
would like to be considered for the utility line worker program at LCC. At the session students will be provided with an opportunity to get an application. Each session will last about two hours. For more information go to www.lcc.edu/utility/ lineworker/apply.aspx.
Encore Expo for Plus 50 people slated for March 4 The Encore Expo is for anyone who is over 50 who wants to decide what is next in their life. It will be held Tuesday, March 4 from noon to 5 p.m at the LCC East Campus. This event provides a professional job search and an opportunity to update skills. There will be
guest speakers from AARP and Capital Area Michigan Works. There will also be resume workshops and interviewing tips. There will be a financial aid workshop and lessons on how to use social networking. For more information, go to www.lcc.edu/ lifelong/encore/expo/.
Tickets on Sale Now!!! Visit www.lcc.edu/duo to purchase
Tickets in Advance General Admission
$10 VIP
$25
Tickets at The Door General Admission
$20
4 FEATURES R&B star Jared Lee returns to campus with Pia Toscano
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Sarah Spohn A&E Editor Come this spring break, R&B pop artists Jared Lee and Pia Toscano will be gracing the stage at LCC’s Dart Auditorium. Friday, March 7, the duo will perform on campus for a special audience. Okemos High School student Taylor Taylor will open up for the two. Last year’s Starfest celebration brought Lee to Michigan for the first time to perform on campus. This year, the spring break concert is shaping up to be even bigger and better. Andrew Lathrop, manager of LCC Alumni Relations, helped put on last year’s concert in April, and is working hard to make sure this year’s is even more special. Lathrop has remained in constant communication with the artist ever since last April. He has invited the artist to return, this time with another big name, Pia Toscano, an American Idol Season 10 contestant. Lathrop spoke about how
the timing was everything in enabling the Idol to come to town. “He (Lee) started forming this more formal relationship with Pia Toscano as far as a music group and we just got them at the right time. They just recently named themselves as a group, Duo, like literally a month ago,” Lathrop said. “It was just good timing.” Currently, the two are recording songs in Nashville for their upcoming EP and playing shows in the NY and LA areas. While tickets to one of those shows would usually cost close to $50, Duo’s concert at Dart Auditorium will only be $10 for general admission and $25 for VIP tickets. VIP ticket holders will be able to get into the show an hour before doors open at 6:30 p.m. The artists will be available for a meet and greet, signing memorabilia, CDs and ticket stubs. The VIPs will also have a chance to win some signed items. Last year’s free concert was performed in front of about
180 people. “For the people who were at the show in April, Jared was pretty flawless on stage. He didn’t make a lot of mistakes and his range is incredible,” Lathrop said. “And Pia is the same way. They complement each other well.” With the help of numerous sponsors, the word is buzzing about the upcoming community concert. LCC Radio will have Jared and Pia on the Coffee Break Show the morning of the concert. Fox 47 has attached its name to the event, and is running a few commercial spots during American Idol. Sponsor Studio C! will be putting goodie bags on all the seats. Hungry Howie’s will be providing coupons on the back of ticket stubs for concert goers. Tickets can be purchased online at www.lcc.edu/duo. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Like the concert page on Facebook (www.facebook. com/PiaJaredMichigan) to keep updated on event details and for a chance to win tickets.
File photo by Suzanna Powers
Boston native Jared Lee performed last April in Dart Auditorium during LCC’s Starfest celebration. He will return Friday, March 7 with Idol contestant Pia Toscano to Dart Auditorium.
New dining options coming soon to campus Jeremy Kohn Co-Editor in Chief For those who have wondered what new food options will be present on campus after the Gannon Building construction is complete, the wait is now over. On Feb. 20, LCC announced on its Facebook page some of the exciting new dining options that will be available to students such as Pizza Hut, Subway, and Einstein Bros Bagels. Other meal options will include Angus burgers with hand cut fries, breakfast burritos and breakfast sandwiches. Those who wish for a healthier option, the new facilities will include a WildGreens, where people can assemble their own salads. Snack food lovers will enjoy the Retail Market Outtakes station which will feature such treats as frozen yogurt, popcorn, pretzels and cherry & cola ICEEs.
Student Kelley McNabb shared her excitement for the new eating options. “It’s awesome that we’re getting new food back on campus, but I wish there were some healthier options because everything sounds like a lot of bread and not a whole lot of healthy,” McNabb remarked. Director of LCC Affairs Ellen Jones spoke highly of the new choices that will soon grace the Gannon Building. “We are confident our students will be pleased with the dining choices in the newly renovated Gannon Building come fall,” Jones said. “A variety of options, including some healthy choices, will be available in a space so compelling and inspiring, it will draw everyone on campus to spend time there.” These new eateries will come to campus once the Gannon construction is completed this summer. A & E Editor Sarah Spohn contributed to this story.
5 FEATURES
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Old Town gets sweet for the holiday Sarah Spohn A&E Editor
While love birds were busy making reservations for dinner dates, many local residents were pursuing the streets of Old Town as an early Valentine’s Day celebration. The Old Town Chocolate Walk took place on Feb. 12. A total of 177 tickets were sold to the event and 18 businesses signed up to pass out various homemade delicacies, and local Michigan-made candies to the sweet tooth strollers. For $10, chocolate walkers were given a one-pound box to collect chocolates and goodies from 18 local businesses, mainly up and down Turner Street. Craving’s Gourmet Popcorn, MICA Gallery, Aggie Mae’s Bakery, Preuss Pets, Old Town General Store, Grace Boutique, Bella Rio Salon and other businesses were on board for the first ever event. Local business owner of Tallulah’s Folly, David Gregware has been in business for three and a half years in Old Town. Also on the Old Town Promotions Committee, Gregware spoke about where the idea came from. “It actually came from MSHDA (Michigan State Housing Development Authority). We’re part of the Main Street program with MSHDA, and other main
street communities have done this and had great success with it,” Gregware said. “We were just trying to get some people motivated to come out in the winter months.”
Motivated they were, as the event sold out despite the cold temperatures. “We were hoping to sell 100(tickets),” Gregware said. “The promotions committee has really done a good job work-
ing with this … We sold 177 tickets,” Gregware said. The event brought out couples, friends and family alike. Sarah Spencer, LCC alum and current MSU student, spoke about why she partook in the event. “My boyfriend actually told me about it. We decided we weren’t going to celebrate Valentine’s Day,” Spencer said. “And so we were like, ‘well, let’s just do something that’s a little out of the norm,’ so we decided to do the chocolate walk.” While Old Town is known for many of its warmer weather festivals including Bluesfest, Jazz Fest, and even Oktoberfest in the fall, this is a new winter activity. The Chocolate Walk proved beneficial for both participating businesses and the walkers. Old Town Commercial Association Executive Director, Louise Gradwohl, said the event went very well. “I feel like we hit a new pocket of people ;several folks that attended the event had never been to Old Town -- and they were commenting on how it was a great way to be exposed so many of the shops they had never been in before,” Gradwohl said. To keep updated on future Old Town events, visit www.iloveoldtown.org.
Sanchez’s art has taken him all around the world, from Beijing to New York and recently back to his hometown of Lansing. “I live in New York now but I used to live in Lansing,” Sanchez said. “The gallery approached me about doing this and I was happy to come back to my home.” Sanchez’s display will run for the entire month of February. His works,
called “Homebound,” includes several of Sanchez’s pieces. The work includes mediums of oils, paintings, pastels and charcoals. Sanchez went to LCC for two years and he said that LCC helped him prepare for his career now. “Attending LCC was the perfect place for me to grow and take chances,” Sanchez said. “I learned a lot as a person and as an artist.”
Sanchez has been creating art for awhile now. He said it’s what he loves more than anything. “I’ve been doing it all my life; there’s nothing else I can do,” said Sanchez. All of Sanchez’s works will be for sale through February. To check out his work visit the gallery located at 1212 Turner Street in Old Town. Or visit Sanchez’s website at http://nicolasvsanchez.com/.
Photo by Brooke Burns
Craving’s Gourmet Popcorn employees Holly Burke (left) and Ciara Hines (right) served free bags of chocolate covered cherry popcorn to Old Town Chocolate Walkers.
Former LCC student displays art in Old Town Jaimie Bozack Co-Editor in Chief All different kinds of art fill the room in Lansing’s Old Town art gallery, Gallery 1212, including paintings, glass and jewelry. While walking among all the art some might stop and notice paintings done by LCC 2003 graduate Nicolas Sanchez.
Market has discounts Chelsea Allen Staff Writer Merchants from the Lansing City Market are offering discounts that give students the chance to keep more money in their pockets. These discounts are available every Tuesday at the market, located at 325 City Market Dr. across from the Lugnuts’ ballpark. They are provided by a select few within the market. According to Colleen Synk, Nutrition Specialist, Tuesday is one of the market’s slower days, so the discounts are a way to get more people in the doors and to help those students who cannot afford expensive groceries. Students are able to find discounts such as free natural peanut butter with a $3 purchase at Sweet Seasons Orchard. Fifteen percent off food at the Waterfront Bar and Grill is offered. Ten percent off everything at Hickory Corners is another deal. Students can also receive a 15 minute massage for $12. In order to receive the special deals, students must present his or her College Student ID. Not only does this offer extend to LCC students, but to MSU and Cool-
ey Law School students as well. “There are so many student populations around here that are able to use the City Market and it is a great location for people to access it especially LCC, it’s just a short walk away” Synk said. LCC student Rebecca Guenther expressed her opinions about the opportunity of the discount at the market. “I can’t wait for the warm weather to come so that I can enjoy the walk to the market on my breaks in between my classes on Tuesdays,” Guenther said. “I think it’s a great way for students to check out what the market has to offer and save money at the same time.” The market is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Waterfront Bar and Grille within the market is open 7 days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. For more information on Student Discount Days, visit www.lansingcitymarket.com or call (517) 483-7460 “It can be a nice walk and then you get to kind of have a nice little market feel,” Synk said. “It’s a great study location, we have free Wi-Fi and everything.”
6 SPORTS
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Lady Stars fall to Kalamazoo Valley CC Jaimie Bozack Co-Editor in Chief The LCC’s women’s basketball team fell short against Kalamazoo Valley Community College, 76-63, on Wednesday, Feb. 19 in the Gannon Gym at LCC. The Stars went out in full force wearing the color pink to bring awareness to the breast cancer disease. Sophomore Robyn Robinson led LCC with 18 points. Robinson hit the court floor and snatched multiple rebounds throughout the game. Freshman Katie Santi added 14 points for the Stars. Sophomore LaTonya Shade helped The Stars out with another 12 points. LCC came out scoring points early. Robinson scored a couple early threes and Shade grabbed a couple key rebounds. At halftime LCC trailed 40-28 and couldn’t come back de-
Photo by Brooke Burns
Sophomore Robyn Robinson of LCC shoots a free throw Feb. 19 against the Kalamazoo Valley Community College Cougars in the Gannon Gymnasium.
spite valiant efforts. Robinson said after the game it was a tough game.
“We tried to play to the best of our ability, we got a couple bad calls and a couple no-
calls,” said Robinson. The Stars received a technical against them right before halftime,
allowing Kalamazoo to shoot free throws and extend the lead. According to Robin-
son that affected the way the Stars played. “I think it made us play stronger,” she said. “The second half we came out strong but we just couldn’t get it done in the end.” Freshman Mallory Sewell led all scorers in the game with 20 points for Kalamazoo. She was followed by sophomore Selena Martinez with 13 points. Robinson said she’s looking forward to the Stars’ next game. “I think this was one of my better games,” Robinson said. “Next game we’re just going to come out harder and play our best.” With the loss to Kellogg Community College the Stars fell to 7-6 in the Michigan Community College Athletic Association and 15-10 overall. LCC is scheduled to play against Kellogg Community College in the Gannon Gym at LCC Monday, Feb. 24 starting at 5:30 p.m.
InformatIon SecurIty and other degreeS wIth Secure futureS. Ferris State University offers degrees that align educations with occupations in growing career fields. And with 19 locations, online programs and affordable tuition, there’s an opportunity near you. Learn more about what we offer at Lansing Community College at ferris.edu/lansing.
/ LANSING
7 SPORTS
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC men’s hoop team lets one slip away Jaimie Bozack Co-Editor in Chief
Photo by Brooke Burns
LCC freshman guard Tracy Edmond fires up a short jumper during LCC’s loss to Kalamazoo Valley Community College Feb. 19.
The LCC men’s basketball team lost to Kalamazoo Valley Community College, 9891, on Wednesday, Feb. 19 in the Gannon Gym at LCC. Sophomore shooting guard Drake Harris and freshman point guard Tracy Edmond led LCC with 18 points each. Sophomore Cameron Sanchez added 14 points and also had a teamhigh six rebounds. LCC Coach Mike Ingram said after the game he thought his team played well but failed to finish. “It was a game we should have won,” said Ingram.
“We were up 86-81 and then a guy didn’t get a rebound and we missed some key free throws toward the end.” The Stars trailed at the half 56-53 but came out the second half with a lot of momentum. They fought back and at one point took the lead, 65-62. Freshman Davonte Harris scored 27 points to lead KVCC. Sophomore Jaylen Harris added 16. Sanchez said he thought the Stars played well, but have some improving to do. “We started off kind of slow,” Sanchez said. “We rebounded well, but we didn’t play great team de-
fense. We could have done better on that.” With the Michigan Community College Athletic Association loss to Kalamazoo, the Stars fell to 18-8 overall and 8-5 in the conference. LCC is scheduled to play at home against Kellogg Community College on Monday, Feb. 24. The action begins at 7:30 p.m. Freshman guard Nate Lafayette said he hopes the next game goes better than this one. “We plan on coming out with a lot of energy and getting off to a good start by playing hard,” Lafayette said.
Athlete Spotlight: Nate Lafayette The Lookout Co-Editor in Chief Jaimie Bozack recently spoke to 6-foot-5 men’s basketball freshman and Okemos graduate Nate Lafayette.
Q. What has helped you transform as a player throughout the season? A. “My coaches encouraging me throughout the season and also my teammates keep me going.” Q. What were athletic accomplishments before LCC? A. “Before coming to LCC I made all-state my senior year. On top of that I just kept playing and we had a successful basketball
team.” Q. What’s your favorite thing about what you do? A. “I like having good team chemistry and being able to play with all my teammates. I also really like to go out there and win.” Q. What’s the most challenging thing about what you do? A. The hardest thing is being able to come every day and play
............................................................ ............................................................ ............................................................ ............................................................ ............................................................ ............................................................ ............................................................ ............................................................ ............................................................ OPEN HOUSE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Earn your bachelor's degree from ............the ................................................. University of Michigan-Flint in Lansing. ............................................................
Q. What inspires you to play basketball? A. “My day played for Michigan State so I just like following in his footsteps. Basketball is also a big passion for me. I just love doing it.”
Nursing (RN to BSN) • Health Care Administration
Thursday, March 13 1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Lansing Community College University Center RSVP at lcc.umflint.edu or call (517) 483-9727 for more information.
your best no matter what else is going on around you. There’s a lot of pressure being able to score and be the all-around player. Q. What are you studying? And what are your plans after leaving LCC? A. I would like to be a paramedic. I plan on moving on – hopefully somewhere with basketball – maybe applying to MSU.
Photo by Brooke Burns
Stay f cused! Picture yourself as a CMU grad! Complete your bachelor’s degree at CMU’s East Lansing Center, online, Mt. Pleasant or any combination.
l Centra an Michig sity Univer ed #1 is rank on ati in the n e in onlin r ’s Bachelo s. program
Bachelor’s degrees in: • • • •
Elementary education Organization Administration Community Development Leadership for entrepreneurs, military, & government • Political Science • Psychology
Transfer
your credits today!
Central Michigan University’s Global Campus in East Lansing & Online CMU is an AA/EO institution (see cmich.edu/aaeo). CMUglobal@cmich.edu 38787 2/14
Call 517-337-8360 or 877-268-4636 now! cmich.edu/EastLansing
8 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014
www.lcc.edu/lookout
IN BRIEF Here, there and everywhere — The Unknown Spohn —
Arts & Entertainment
‘Bob & Tom Comedy Show’ coming to Wharton “The Bob & Tom Comedy Show” returns to Wharton Center for one night only. This year’s show features comedians Drew Hastings, Greg Hahn and Dave Dyer, all regulars on the syndicated Bob and Tom morning show (heard locally on Q106). The host for the evening will be
Chick McGee. The comedy show will be performed live on Saturday, March 1. The show is at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Recommended for 18 years and older. Tickets are $26. One dollar of each ticket will be donated to American Red Cross. For more information, visit www.whartoncenter.com
Then and now photography on Display at MSU Revisiting Verger’s Dahomey: A Photographic Contrast is on display until the end of April at the MSU Museum. The exhibit presents a photographic contrast between the images of Pierre Verger, the French photojournalist who immersed himself in the lives, customs,
and beliefs of the people of Dahomey (now Benin, West Africa). Some of the photographs he took in the 1950s are displayed side-by-side with images made in many of the same locations in 2012 by Darcy Greene. The MSU Museum is open seven days a week. Admission is free.
Basic Vacation will appear at The Loft Feb. 27 Fusion Shows and 94.1 Alternative Radio are combining forces to once again bring one of the hottest names in alternative rock to Lansing. This NYC three-piece indie pop band will perform for their first time in the area on Thursday, Feb. 27. The first 100 buyers will receive a special
2-for-1 deal on tickets, regularly priced $9.41 per ticket. DeWittbased band Chemical Edge and Detroit’s Shapes and Colors will open for Basic Vacation. Doors open at 7 p.m. Tickets are $9.41 in advance and $12 at the door. All ages welcome. For tickets, visit www.fusionshows.com
The date was Feb. 9, 1964. A record-setting audience of 73 million Americans tuned their black and white television sets to “The Ed Sullivan Show.” Four young lads from Liverpool were introduced to America for the first time, and music was changed forever. Fifty years later, the two surviving members, with some help from their friends, reunited on stage to salute the iconic rock and roll group, The Beatles. It’s no lie I’m a Beatles fan. Fanatic. Freak. Although I wasn’t around the first time to watch the band’s first appearance on American television, you can bet I tuned in for the second time history was made. “The Beatles: The Night that Changed America” special aired on Feb. 9, 2014 on CBS. The tribute brought together plenty of well-known musicians to honor the legendary music of John Lennon, Paul McCartney, George Harrison and Ringo Starr. John Mayer, Joe Walsh, Maroon 5, Imagine Dragons, Eurythmics and other musical artists came together to honor
the Fab Four. While I’m a fan of the original material, when I hear that current artists and names in the industry are going to cover the sacred songs, I get nervous. Something I’ve come to know and love as one way, untouched, is now at the hands of some sugary pop star. Enter Katy Perry. Now, I certainly wouldn’t go as far as to call her the anti-Christ, but who on God’s green earth decided she should cover “Yesterday?” You had one job. FAIL. I muted the television after she sang a few words. And unfortunately, after that performance, now I needed a place to hide away. Perry altered the song completely by
changing the lyrics from “she to “he” when she should have probably just have “Let It Be.” I will say kudos to Stevie Wonder, his popular rendition of “We Can Work It Out” has been successful with audiences since the single was released in 1971. Once again, his live rendition of the song was upbeat, fresh and did not make Lennon or Harrison roll over in their graves. While I’m not a huge fan of Ed Sheeran either, his stripped down simplistic take on “In My Life” earned a thumbs up from me. The Beatles live on. Paul McCartney is still selling out giant arenas with his twoand-a-half-hour live concerts. Ringo Starr is still performing alongside some of the biggest names in the biz with his All Starr Band. Kids in junior high are wearing T-shirts with the word “Beatles” scrawled on the front, and Yellow Submarine lunch boxes and coffee mugs can still be spotted on college campuses. The Beatles were, and continue to be, one of the biggest and best names in the history of rock ’n’ roll.
9 A&E
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Flappy Bird app flaps its final wings Chelsea Allen Staff Writer The popular game, Flappy Bird, flapped its wings all the way to the top of the App Store recently. Flappy Bird was a free game where one simply taps the screen to keep the bird flapping long enough to reach the pipes and attempt to go through each one.
Each pipe one makes it through, a point is given to the player. If reached over 10 points, the player will receive a medal. Most know how frustrating this game can be. One tap of the finger can plummet the bird’s beak into a pipe or missing a tap cause the bird to perform a nose dive to its death. Luckily (or unluckily) I had downloaded the game before it was taken off by the creator, Dong Nguyen.
King Crossword
Let me say first that I have a love/hate relationship with this app. You could imagine how maddening it is to only get up to 15 and not be able to go any further. However, the game was re-
cently taken off for the same reason why I play it. IT’S ADDICTIVE. Although many are raged at the fact that Nguyen took it off the App Store forever, I feel sorry for the poor guy. I wouldn’t want death threats either if I created a simple game that wasn’t meant to go to number one on the charts. Yes, I do still have it downloaded on my phone, but only for the reason that it is no longer available and in a weird twisted way I
feel special. Especially since people are going to the extent of selling their smart phones with the app still on it for loads of money. I don’t know who in their right mind would buy that, but to those who did not hear the trend of Flappy Bird, I would not recommend to buy it or feel that you missed out. The only thing you missed was a teasing bird and a lot of your time wasted. R.I.P. Flappy Bird.
Local band rocks Lansing Jaimie Bozack Co-Editor in Chief Undeniably catchy tunes, stellar live performance, and more than one Weezer cover in one night are just some of the things that are making the Lansing based band “Lights & Caves” one of my favorites. Lights & Caves is made up of 4 guys which include Jason Marr, Dillon Gorden, Stefan Wiseman, and Evan Rudman. I’ve always been in to the local band scene but none seemed to impress me as much as Lights & Caves. They’ve played with some well-known bands like MGMT, AWOLNATION, Twenty One Pilots, and Langhorne Slim, each time becoming more and more wellknown themselves. Lights & Caves are one of the best local bands with a feel of a band that isn’t so local. I’ve seen them play live probably more than five times now and each time their fan base and performance level grows. They light up the room by using lights that are synced with the music, they use highenergy performance and get
Photo by Jaimie Bozack
The lead singer of Lights & Caves, Dillion Gorden, and guitarist Jason Marr perform “Carry me Home” at the successful headlining show at Mac’s Bar on Dec. 21.
the room dancing. They also involve the crowd in songs like “Carry me home” where the entire crowd joins in by going “Whoa!” Their first 10-track album “In Satori” came out in August 2013 and has done well. It has upbeat tracks like “Manchy” and “Carry me Home” as well as some not so upbeat tracks like the title track “In Satori” and “The Shape” Recently Lights & Caves released their first music video for the song “Carry me home,”
and is on YouTube now. The video had over 600 views the first day and is doing very well. Just a start for this up and coming local band. Lights & Caves are scheduled to play in Lansing at The Loft on Feb 28 at 8 p.m. I think everyone should come and check out this local band. They’re doing big things and I believe will one day be headlining in stadiums and arenas. I’m lucky to know them and have seen them as many times as I have.
Nut Job fails to crack up editor Sarah Spohn A&E Editor
This week’s puzzle is sponsored by:
If animated movies are your thing, do not, I repeat, do not go see “The Nut Job.” The story line isn’t farfetched, besides the whole talking squirrels thing … but mouthy mammals has been in movies since what seems like forever. The movie focuses on Surly, a selfish squirrel who is exiled from his nuthouse community after destroying the winter food supply. On the outskirts of town, Surly is forced to fend
for himself, and meets plenty of lackluster adventure along the way. Here’s the thing; maybe I’m spoiled by Pixar’s animated films. They continue to melt hearts year after year, heck, even their digital short with the lamp is better than this blah flick. The movie features voices from some notable names, but still falls short of a memorable film. Even Will Arnett as the lead character still fell short. With a voice like that, I could listen to him read a shopping list and make it sound important, or at least make me crack up. Other voices include Bren-
dan Fraser, Liam Neeson, Katherine Heigl and Maya Rudolph. I can’t remember a single one-liner, a memorable moment or a time when I regretted sitting in a movie theater seat anymore than I did that day. Even the usual jokes aimed at adults didn’t even seem to bring a smile to my face. The movie is rated PG so don’t expect any nut jokes either. Honestly, this movie isn’t even worth writing any more harsh words about it. Plain and simple, it sucked. It wasn’t worth my money, and I didn’t even pay. My advice is to stay far, far away from “The Nut Job” and go see “The Lego Movie.”
10 OPINION
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout — The Kohn Effect —
Wage increase could wane Mitten’s woes The city of Detroit was once a booming industry giant for the state of Michigan; that is until the 2008 economic crisis hit, nearly wiping out the auto industry’s “Big Three.” It wasn’t just Detroit, however, that felt the sting of the economy. The automobile industry was the essential “keystone” that held the state of Michigan together. Since the economic downturn of 2008, Michigan has seen tiny positive shifts in the unemployment rate. Unfortunately, none of these increases
have made a huge impact. According to the United States Department of Labor, Michigan’s current employment rate is at 8.4
percent. Our state is ranked 48th out of 50 for the highest unemployment ranking in the nation. With tax cuts doing little to help bandage a wounded budget, I think it’s time to stop taking baby steps and take a giant leap toward progress. Yes, ladies and gentleman, it is now time for Michigan to increase its minimum wage. The opposition says shelling out more money will lead to more layoffs at companies. The naysayers also believe this change will make it harder for
first-time employees to find a job. Here is what I know: Right now Michigan’s minimum wage is $7.40 per hour. If an employee works 40 hours a week at the current rate, he or she will only end up making a little over $15,000. Making $15,000 a year is considered living in poverty. To counter this, if Michigan increases its minimum wage rates, the citizens of Michigan will spend more money, which will help boost its economy. The proposed increase is
not an immediate one, rather, occurring steadily over three years. The plan is to raise the wage from $7.40 to $8, followed by $8 to $8.60, and finally from $8.60 to $9.50. These are defining years for Michigan. I would like to see Michigan move away from the stereotype of the “struggling” state. It is time for Michigan to start leading the way for other states to follow suit in the race toward higher wages and a better cost of living.
— Just Jaimie —
Stepping out of your comfort zone can be beneficial I’ve never really been good at trying new things. I would always want to try something new but then break under the pressure of something familiar. Lately I’ve been trying a lot of new things. I’ve tried sushi, Thai food, wearing leggings as pants (mistake) and, most recently, doing stand-up for a comedy charity event that I was asked to participate in. I’ve always loved watching stand-up specials, going
to live comedy shows, and writing sketch comedy. But I have never actually attempt-
ed doing what I’ve always watched. When I was first asked to do stand-up I said no. Then after some thinking and some preparing, I decided I would try it. I got together a pretty solid list of jokes and started feeling confident. But as the day of the show grew closer that confidence began to go away. I sat in my room practicing jokes on my dog, who was actually a tougher critic than you
would think. The day of the show came and I walked into a room with over 100 people. For a moment, I contemplated running away. But before I could actually take that plan into action my name was called and I was up. At first I didn’t know how to really start. I thought back about ways on how to not be nervous. I remembered a saying my mom used to say “Imagine the crowd naked.”
I did but then got distracted because the crowd was mainly good looking men. Toward the end I looked into the crowd to see smiling faces and laughter echoing throughout the room. I realized I had nothing to worry about. It was the fear of what would go wrong that has always prevented me from doing new things. Now I know that if you just go out and do things, it will turn out alright.
WANTED: ENGINEERS, ARCHITECTS, SCIENTISTS, AND HIPSTERS. Lawrence Technological University isn’t for just anyone. We want the future designers, engineers, scientists, and entrepreneurs who will create the innovations of tomorrow. If you believe that everything is possible, and that possible is everything, we want you at LTU. Explore these programs at Lawrence Technological University at the UC: BS in Engineering Technology BS in Information Technology BS in Psychology Master of Educational Technology Dual Master of Engineering Management and MBA Also offering sophomore architecture studios
POSSIBLE IS EVERYTHING. 2014 AMERICA’S BEST
UNIVERSITIES U.S. News & World Report®
2014 AMERICA’S BEST
UNIVERSITIES Lawrence Technological University at Lansing Community College Center U.S. News & World Report® 210 West Shiawassee, Lansing, MI 48901 | 517.483.9724 | lansing@ltu.edu | www.ltu.edu
2014 AMERICA’S BEST BEST COLLEGES
201 4
1
NATION’S BEST BEST COLLEGES UNDERGRAD ONLINE in the Midwest STUDENT ENGAGEMENT
2014
1
NATION’S BEST MILITARY UNDERGRAD ONLINE FRIENDLY STUDENT ENGAGEMENT O O L& S C HNews U.S.
UNIVERSITIES in the Midwest Princeton U.S. News & Princeton U.S. News & Review ® ® G.I. Jobs ® ® World Report Review ® ® Visit www.ltu.edu/lansing World Report World Report for more information.
22001144 AMERICA’S BEST BEST COLLEGES
UNIVERSITIES in the Midwest U.S. News & Princeton World Report Review ® ®
2014
1
NATION’S BEST BEST COLLEGES UNDERGRAD ONLINE in the Midwest STUDENT ENGAGEMENT Princeton U.S. News®& Review World Report®
20 14
1
NATION’S BEST MILITARY UNDERGRAD ONLINE FRIENDLY STUDENT ENGAGEMENT S C HNews O O L& U.S. G.I. Jobs ® ® World Report
22001144
MILITARY GREEN FRIENDLY COLLEGE SCHOO L Princeton G.I. Jobs®® Review
22001144
MILITARY GREEN FRIENDLY COLLEGE SCHOO L Princeton G.I. Jobs®® Review
11 OPINION
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout — Staff Editorial —
Olympic hosts not hospitable The Olympic Games are a spectacle. Every four years, the Olympic Games showcase the greatest athletes from nations all around the world. When a country is chosen to host the Olympic Games, it is considered a great honor. That nation has an opportunity to show the world what makes the country so special. What has occurred this year in Sochi, Russia, however, has shown the public that Sochi is anything but a suitable choice to host the Olympic Games. We here at LCC’s The Lookout are appalled at the living conditions that have been reported by the visitors and media who have traveled to Sochi. Sochi has been reported to look more like a slum than the proud host of the Olympics. Squalor accommodations in the
Write a Letter to the Editor
Russian city have included unfinished roads, unsanitary toilets, dilapidated hotel rooms and undrinkable water. Reporters have taken to social media outlets like Twitter to display pictures of the neglected areas. Pictures have included signs such as “Don’t flush the toilet paper, place the paper in this bin,” pictures of stray dogs, and honey packets complete with a bee still intact. The hardest thing to grasp about this story may be that Sochi officials knew for eight years they were chosen to host the 2014 Olympics, and even given $50 million in preparation money. Hopefully, future hosts of the games will use Sochi as a lesson, and work to have the home of the Olympics a more hospitable environment for the athletes and media.
Policies: All letters should be 200 words or less and
The Lookout is the independent, biweekly student newspaper of Lansing Community College. All opinion/editorial
signed with a name, address (email or otherwise)
Classified Advertising ROOMS FOR RENT 1151 Michigan Ave., East Lansing. Three miles from downtown LCC campus. Four bedrooms available, $669 per person, per month. Price includes air conditioning, dishwasher, furniture, parking, washer, dryer, internet and cable. Smoking allowed. No pets. Fitness center, yoga room, tanner, computer lab and more. Contact Jamie Russ at 517-337-1700. PLACE YOUR AD HERE Advertising in The Lookout’s classified section is inexpensive and effective. Cost is just $8.50 for 20 words or less. Additional words are 50 cents. Call 483-1295 to place an ad.
RED WIDOW This is the second published book from Nathan Wilson, former editor in chief of The Lookout. It is a crime thriller about a young streetwalker being extorted by a homicide detective. Call 517-8969504 or go to nrwilson. com to purchase a copy for $8.
and phone number. The Lookout reserves the right
to edit letters for grammar, spelling, length and clarity.
Mail: 1000 - The Lookout Lansing Community College P.O. Box 40010 Lansing, MI 489410-7210 articles are the sole opinion of the writer and may not reflect the views of the staff, students, faculty and college as a whole.
COOL CAR FOR SALE 1991 Mercury Grand Marquis. Maroon. Less than 85,000 actual miles. Luxury car driven for past decade by a little old lady. Runs but needs muffler and some engine work. $1,800 or best offer. Call 517-525-0706.
Email: Thelookoutstaff@gmail.com Fax: (517) 483-1290
Opinion/editorial articles may or may not be located exclusively on editorial pages and may appear on news, sports
If you could travel anywhere, where would you go?
and arts & entertainment pages. -The Lookout Staff
thelookout Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
Jeremy Kohn
Jaimie Bozack
Sarah Spohn
Nikki Nicolaou
Brooke Burns
Chelsea Allen
Lurah Peterson
Larry Hook
Co-Editor in Chief kohnj2@mail.lcc.edu
Co-Editor in Chief bozackj@mail.lcc.edu
A & E Editor spohns1@mail.lcc.edu
Design Editor nicolaon@mail.lcc.edu
Photo Editor burnsb8@mail.lcc.edu
Staff Writer allenc31@mail.lcc.edu
Adviser hookl@lcc.edu
“Australia”
“Conan’s Studio”
“Liverpool, England“
“Egypt”
“California”
“Paris, France“
Advertising Manager petersl8@mail.lcc.edu “United Kingdom”
“Tarpon Springs, Fla.”
12 LAST LOOK
Feb. 24 - March 16, 2014 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Stone House Bread employee Debbie Janney (left) cuts and serves bread samples at the MidMichigan Women’s Expo at the Lansing Center Feb. 8. Stone House Bread is in Traverse City.
Photos by Brooke Burns
Women’s Expo enlightens at Lansing Center Jaimie Bozack Co-Editor in Chief Over 12,000 women came out to the Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo at the Lansing Center Feb. 7 through 9. This was the expo’s 14th year in Lansing. Over 250 vendors were in attendance, and a fashion show was presented for women to shop and enjoy. “We have booths that give information out on everything from finance, to learning to eat healthy, to free samples of cupcakes,” said Denise Kohler-Kolesar, president of Kohler Expos. “Basically we have booths that cover almost every topic.” According to Kohler-Kolesar, the
women’s expo is getting larger each year. She said it actually has a waiting list for some vendors to get into the show. The key to the popularity of the event, she said, is the ability for women to walk away feeling better about themselves. “The Women’s Expo is based on something to feel good about,” KohlerKolesar said. “It brings the community together and combines education and fun.” Some women who attended said fun and education were exactly what they came for. “It was a great bonding experience for me and my daughter,” said attendee Chelsea Dean. “She lives in
North Carolina and is visiting so this is something we’ve been looking forward to. We learned things together and had fun together. This is what it’s all about.” Many students from Lansing Community College also attended this event, including student Sarah Snyder. She said she’s been attending for the past four years and plans to keep going. “They always have entertaining activities, vendors and products to see,” Snyder said. “My favorite was the Metro PCS money booth where you try and collect flying fake cash for prizes. “I would say that overall it’s a fun setting that is entertaining, educational and just a good time. I will definitely
be attending next year.” Vendors at the expo came out in full force armed with free samples, sales pitches and positive attitudes. “I’m very happy to be here and bring attention to our business and provide free samples of our bread for anyone who wants some,” said Debbie Janney, employee of Stone House Bread in Traverse City. The Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo was a success in its 14th year, according to Kohler-Kolesar. “The women’s expo brings the community together and allows women to shop, live and learn,” Kohler-Kolesar said, “which is also our motto for this whole event.”
Mid-Michigan youth model Emma Rose (left) shows off her blue sparkle dress in the masquerade fashion show.
At right, Bake N' Cakes employee Chelsea Scheblo (Rrght) serves women samples of cupcakes that were available for purchase.
A variety of jewelry is displayed for purchase at the Women's Expo on Feb. 8.
All different smells of Scentsy wax filled the air at the Scentsy booth. The goods are available for purchase online at www.scentsy.com