Schuler’s hosts talk of science News>> Page 3
Men’s hoop team KO’s Muskegon CC
Modern art takes spill down a hill
Sports>> Page 5
Last Look >> Page 12
thelookout
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 Volume 56, Issue 10 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
Bernero offers vision Dispute addressed at board meeting
Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief
The Gannon Commons at LCC was filled with about 300 people as Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero made his State of the City address on Jan. 29. LCC President Brent Knight welcomed Bernero and the guests to the newly renovated commons. “Any college or university in the nation would be proud to have this space,” Knight said. “We are not your father’s LCC. We invite you to visit our campus inside and out and see how LCC has become a college like no other.” City Council President Derrick Quinney then introduced Bernero. The mayor, who has led Lansing since 2006 spoke highly of the college hosting the event. “Dr. Knight has done a masterful job of polishing this gem which we call Lansing Community College,” Bernero said. Bernero’s speech revolved around a movement he called “Lansing 3.0,” which is the mayor’s vision to create a better Lansing. “Make no mistake, as we begin our 10th year together the state of our city and the Lansing metro is strong and getting stronger,” Bernero said.
Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief
Photo by Brian Wells
Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero discusses “Lansing 3.0” during the State of the City address on Thursday, Jan. 29. The address was held in the new Gannon Commons.
According to Bernero, unemployment has gone from 12.1 percent to 4.1 percent, which is the lowest rate in a dozen years. Some of Lansing’s economic improvements Bernero mentioned were an increase in home sales by 17 percent as well as foreclosures being down 23 per-
cent. Bernero also announced that LCC will soon unveil a new program called, “Get a Skill, Get a Job,” where students who enroll in a trade are guaranteed to obtain a job or get their money back. “As we move boldly and decisively into the next LanSee Mayor, page 2
director. Belt was overlooked and a new director was hired. Liz Duhn, a regional represenControversy surrounded the Jan. tative from the American Fed20 LCC Board of Trustees meeting eral Teachers Union, spoke about as members of the administration grievances the union has filed with union spoke on behalf of Professor LCC’s Human Resource DepartGordon Belt’s academic dismissal. ment concerning Belt’s dismissal. During the public comments “I am asking the Board of portion of the meeting, held in Trustees to meet in good faith, the Administration Building, Belt follow the collective bargainand the American Federal Teach- ing agreement and handle these ers Union addressed the board on grievances,” Duhn said. grievances filed against LCC’s HuLCC employee Anita Lees, a man Remember of sources. the local ‘On Nov. 20 at 7:14, I met AFT, said B e l t was emthere were with the provost in this ployed seven conbuilding In this meeting I tracts that at LCC for 15 was informed that my job were not years renewed a n d no longer existed . . . I left by LCC for served as the 2015shocked and confused.’ program 16 fiscal — Gordon Belt year. These director for the employees Technical Careers Division at LCC were not given a proper notice of West. He was escorted off campus these job changes as they should by campus officials Nov. 20. be according to their contract “On Nov. 20 at 7:14, I met with the union, Lees said. with the provost in this build“None of these employees ing,” Belt told the board. “In this have or had any form of discimeeting I was informed that my plinary records,” Lees said. job no longer existed due to a Following the meeting, LCC reorganization of the program. I Public Relations Director Devleft shocked and confused.” on Bradley gave the following Belt said during the reorgani- statement concerning the matter. zation meeting for the Technical “Due to the confidential nature Careers Division, a position was See Trustees, page 2 made available for a new program
Black History Month events foster knowledge Shelby Schueller News Editor
Students, staff, faculty and community members are encouraged to learn about and celebrate African-American history during LCC’s Black History Month.
Events are scheduled to occur throughout the month of February. Black History Month Planning Committee Chair Robin Moore said she is excited for the upcoming events. Each event is free and everyone is welcome, according to Moore.
“You’re going to educate yourself, you’re going to have fellowship with others … it’s going to be fun, it’s going to be uplifting,” Moore said. “(Black history) is part of history, and I think it’s important that everyone should be aware of our history.”
The Black History Month events opening ceremony was held on Jan. 30. An African dance and drumming performance, a presentation of the African-American National Anthem and guest speaker Dr. David Pilgrim, founder and curator of the Jim
Crow Museum at Ferris State University, were all featured at the ceremony. Events of all kinds are scheduled throughout the month of February, the first of which is the Community Health Fair on Feb. 4. The fair will offer a wide variety of health informa-
tion and is scheduled to be on the third floor of the Gannon Building on LCC’s main campus. It will last from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. On Feb. 8, the LCC Faculty Jazz Quartet and special guest Thornetta Davis See History , page 2
What are you thoughts on LCC’s parking situation? “I used to drive to campus, but it was so bad I started walking. Luckily I live nearby.” Amanda Yarger, 34, Photography
“I had to circle for about 20 minutes the other day before I found a spot in the ramp.”
Dianna Shaltry , 42, Photography
“It’s alright. The ramp could use an extra level, though.”
Matthew Erickson, 19, Marketing
“It took 45 minutes to park last Monday, and 30 minutes last Tuesday. I don’t know why it’s so bad this semester, but it wasn’t last semester.” Karen Haught, 18, Mechanical Engineering
CAMPUSPERSPECTIVESCAMPUSPERSPECTIVESCAMPUSPERSPECTIVESCAMPUSPERSPECTIVESCAMPUSPERSPEC
2 NEWS
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Parking troubles torment students Shelby Schueller News Editor
Finding a place to park on LCC’s main campus can sometimes be frustrating, especially in the morning. The Gannon Ramp, Parking Lot I on the corner of Grand Avenue and Saginaw Street, in addition to all three lots on Capitol Avenue, often fill very quickly. Sometimes it may seem as though there are no spots available. Some may conclude that parking is difficult due to an increase in enrollment, but according to Dana Cogswell, institutional research assistant at LCC’s Center for Data Science, enrollment numbers have not increased this semester. LCC Chief of Police William French said the cause of congested parking lots may stem from the cold weather.
“Everybody wants to park in the ramp because when its 11 or 12 below, we all want to park in the ramp,” French said. “The reality is the ramp isn’t big enough to hold all the students.” However, students who find themselves circling the block looking for parking spaces may simply be looking in the wrong spot. According to French, student parking lots P and K, located on Madison Street off of Grand Avenue, are seldom used. French said lot K has rarely been full and lot P always has available space. Madison Street is the first street on the left after crossing Saginaw Street heading north on Grand Avenue. French said the entrances to both lots are marked by large blue flags, which signify areas for student parking.
Photo by Brian Wells
Parking lots P and K offer more parking options for LCC students. They are located on opposite corners of Washington Avenue and Madison Street.
LCC Student Ashley Parker described the parking situation as “a little ridiculous. I think the free parking is nice, but some of the students here don’t know how to navigate parking lots.” Parker expressed concern about students going the wrong way in the ramp, crooked parking and speeding.
“I have seen a lot of almost-accidents,” she said. French advised students who are having trouble parking to “go to the other lots, carpool (and) show up early for your class … so you can give yourself time to find a space.” “Don’t go just to the ramp, maybe try one of the other lots first and in the future,
take classes that are earlier or later in the day or on Fridays,” French added. To view a map of LCC student parking lots, go to lcc. edu/parking. For more information about parking, visit LCC’s Police and Public Safety located on the second floor of the Gannon Building or call 517-483-1800.
University Center helps with four-year degrees Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief
The University Center, located across the street from the TLC Building, is a student’s answer to receive a local and less expensive four-year degree. Introduced in January 2008, the center was a part of a collaboration between Gov. Jennifer Granholm’s initiative and LCC. The center quickly developed partnerships with six universities.
These universities included Ferris State University, Lawrence Tech, Northwood, Siena Heights, University of Michigan- Flint and Western Michigan University. Director of The University Center Patty Spagnuolo spoke on the classes the University Center specializes in. “We kind of had an education gap, because of the automotive recession — now Michigan is turning to more knowl-
History Continued from page 1
will celebrate the musical side of history at the “Thornetta Sings The Blues” concert. The concert is scheduled to be at LCC’s Dart Auditorium at 2 p.m. LCC’s Black Student Union will host an installment of the Difficult Dialogues series Feb. 1. The installment, entitled “The N Word,” is at the Centre for Engaged Inclusion, located behind Campus Resources on the second floor of the Gannon Building. The discussion is designed to help participants understand the meaning and power behind the word. “The N Word” is scheduled to occur from 4 to 5 p.m. Other events include a workshop titled “Malcolm X: Civil Rights and Black Power”, a field trip to the Charles H. Wright Museum in Detroit, MI and a book
edge-based economies,” Spagnuolo said. “Knowledge-based economies are built more on health care, IT, education, professional and, financial businesses and if you look at our top degrees, they go hand in hand.” While there are several universities to choose from, some specialize in certain areas of expertise. U of M Flint specializes in nursing. Ferris State focuses on criminal
discussion of “The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.” Black History Month events will conclude with a Taste of History “Men of Color Initiative and Workshop” on Feb. 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the third floor of LCC’s Library. “I am really excited about all the events planned for Black History Month,” said Black Student Union Member Sarah Hardin. “I’m looking forward to the museum visits because people are able to visually see a small piece of what Black History looks like and it is more interesting than just reading about it in a book … Black history is American history!” For more information about Black History Month events, go to lcc.edu/studentlife/bhm. Those who have questions or wish to get involved may contact Robin Moore at caldwer@lcc.edu.
justice and elementary education. Northwood is geared toward business administration. Spagnuolo encouraged students to use the University Center’s website lcc.edu/uc to become familiar with what each university has to offer. The University Center also maintains a relationship with LCC’s academic adviser to give students the best option on where and which classes are necessary.
Trustees Continued from page 1
the college does not comment on personnel issues,” Bradley said. “However, we can confirm that all actions related to the restructuring of the Technical Careers Division were taken in accordance of contractual agreements and any grievances filed will be addressed accordingly. Our vision and focus is on student success. “The restructuring occurred to maximize efficiency, collaboration and to better serve our students.” In other business at the meeting, the board inducted its two newest members, Andrew Abood and Judith K. Ber-
“Each school has their own admission advising person, but they do know the LCC advisers,” Spagnuolo said. “They have to work back and forth with students; they are very conscientious of the student.” Spagnuolo said students with a four-year degree have a much more vital and competitive edge when applying for a job. LCC student and University Center employee
ry. Members of Abood’s and Berry’s family were in attendance to celebrate their inauguration. In addition, the LCC Foundation was awarded the Paragon Award for its excellence in advertisement. LCC’s entry was chosen from among 1,800 applicants. In March the Foundation will learn if the college received a bronze, silver or gold award. The board also recognized the retirement of Judge Charles Filice who is retiring after 43 years of service. Filice was known for being an active volunteer for the LCC Foundation in the past. The Board of Trustees next meeting will be Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 6 p.m. in the Administration Building.
Majidh Khalique, who is working toward a degree in business administration, said she would like new students to be aware of the center. “I would suggest for LCC students to come here first and take a look at the programs,” Khalique said, “to see if there is anything they are interested in. Because it there is a program here they like it would save them a lot of time in the long run.”
Mayor Continued from page 1
sing, ‘Lansing 3.0,’ I promise to keep dreaming big dreams for Lansing,” Bernero said. Prior to Bernero’s speech, LCC music students Amber B. Boyd, Jessica A. Brancheau and Danielle Lynch performed the Star-Spangled Banner in front of the commons crowd.
Photo by Brian Wells
Mayor Virg Bernero (left) shakes hands with LCC President Brent Knight before the State of the City address on Jan. 29.
3 NEWS
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Hole in the Hall’s last call Sarah Spohn A&E Editor
The hefty re-haul and renovations finally brought a return to food services on campus via the Gannon Commons, but also swept away a campus mainstay. The Hole in the Hall had been on the main campus of LCC for just over 30 years, but as of Friday, Jan. 30, it’s almost all cleared out. Student and LCC American Marketing Association (AMA) member Dominique Vaughn worked as a student employee in the Hole in the Hall for a year and a half. That is, until the business quickly closed up shop. Vaughn spoke about the loss of both an era, and in his case, a hands-on job. “Rumors had spread last May that it was going to be phased out,” Vaughn said. “Then, with the commons (construction) being backed up, that gave us a couple more months.” Right before fall semester, according to Vaughn, the writing was on the wall about the fate of the Hole in the Hall. Despite being a business major, Vaughn said he’s not in the business of starting rumors. “We kept pretty much everything in house,” Vaughn said. “Why cause all that unneeded ruckus?” According to Cynthia Rooker at Materials Management, though, the change is looked at
Then: 2012
Now: 2015
IN BRIEF News
Scholarship applications now accepted Scholarship applications for the 2015-2016 academic year are now being accepted by LCC’s Foundation Office. Students who wish to apply must do so before Monday, Feb. 16. Applications can be submitted to lcc.edu/schol-
arships/application. For more information about the scholarship process, contact the LCC Foundation Office at 517483-1985 or send an email to lcc-scholarships@lcc.edu. For the Financial Aid Office, call 517-483-1200 and select option 2.
Tax workshop will assist LCC students File photo
Photo by Brian Wells
At left, the Hole in the Hall in its hey-day was a go-to for students to buy snacks and textbooks. At right, drywall now covers up any remainder of the hole in the wall.
more of a redistribution of goods rather than the closing of the Hole in the Hall. Business supplements, nursing packets and textbook inventory were transferred to Phil’s gift shop in October. And a plethora of snacks and food choices are available at the commons. “It’s all focused for the benefits of the students,” Rooker said. Students have voiced their opinions and questions regarding the mysterious disappearing act of the Hole in the Hall though. Some blame the loss on the addition of franchised dining options. Monica Tanner, an LCC Theatre student ,said the Hole in the Hall was where she and her friends went for snacks in between classes. “It feels kind of like small businesses being
closed because a larger corporation came to town,” Tanner said. That large corporation is the newly introduced Commons Area sprawling two floors of the Gannon Building. And Tanner is not alone. “Every day, I have at least two people come up to me and ask what happened, why it closed, things of that nature,” Vaughn said. The loss is definitely felt among LCC AMA members, who relied on a large portion of their fundraising from running the shop’s popcorn machine. “On a good year, the end-of-the-year totals made anywhere from three to five grand in popcorn sales. The club is at a standstill for where they’ll raise that kind of money,” Vaughn said. While Vaughn was re-hired in a different
department, he said he still feels the loss of his former job at the Hole in the Hall and the experience he gained. “From a business student’s perspective, that hands-on experience is invaluable,” Vaughn said. “You just don’t get that type of experience in the classroom, as far as the daily interaction with customers, the hands-on experience, the accounting experience. “It took away the student management experience that most people didn’t recognize it for.” Having started in 1984 in the now-defunct Old Central Building, the Hole in the Hall is no longer open for business as of 2015. Perhaps former employee Vaughn summed it up best: “It’s kind of like an end of an era. It’s just disappointing that other students won’t get that experience or opportunity that I got.”
Tax time can sometimes be confusing and frustrating. To help make taxes a little easier, a Tax Assistance workshop is scheduled for Friday, Feb. 13 from noon to 1 p.m. in room 326 of the Gannon Building on LCC’s main
campus. Lou Adado, CPA, will introduce participants to the Affordable Care Act and other means of tax assistance. For more information about the workshop, contact Lisa Haston at hastonl@lcc.edu.
Discover yourself at Café Scientifique Dr. Mark Reimers, professor of Neuroscience at MSU, will present at this month’s Café Scientifique on Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 7 p.m. in Schuler Books at the Eastwood Towne Center. The presentation, called “Evolution of the Human Mind and
Brain,” will explore how the human brain differs from that of apes, including its capacity for culture. The presentation is free and welcome to all. For more information, contact Alex Azima at 517-483-1110 or email him at alex@lcc.edu.
Female artist’s work featured at Centre LCC’s Centre for Engaged Inclusion will be displaying artworks created by female artists during the “Weaving the Stories of Women’s lives” series beginning in early February. Michelle Detering is the first artist to be featured. Her art will be displayed from February
to March in the Centre for Engaged Inclusion, located behind Campus Resources in the Gannon Building Star Zone. All are welcome to come and enjoy her work. For more information about this series, contact Lisa Haston at hastonl@lcc.edu.
LCC science at Schuler’s Books charges minds Jaimie Bozack Staff Writer Students are invited to open their minds and learn about interesting science topics at the monthly Cafe Scientifique, held at Schuler Books & Music in Eastwood Towne Center. The event features one LCC professor each month who discusses a diverse science topic ranging from evolution to quantum mechanics. Cafe Scientifique Coordinator Alex Azima said he became interested in bringing this program to LCC after hearing about it during a National Science Teachers leadership meeting in Canada. “I have always been interested in promoting
public understanding of science,” Azima said. “I heard about Cafe Scientifique … and got very excited about the idea, which I then shared with science faculty at LCC.” Cafe Scientifique is open to the public and free of charge. Azima said the event is beneficial to students. “First I believe students will find the topics and conversations interesting,” Azima said. “Second students will find that some of the topics are closely related with what they are studying at LCC.” Azima said it is also important for LCC professors to get involved. “Presenting at the cafe events is a very rewarding experience,” Azima said.
Photo by Brian Wells
Dr. Laurence Tarini presented his lecture, “What Can Be The Matter?” at Schuler Books on Tuesday, Jan. 21. The lecture was part of Schuler Books’ Café Scientifique educational series.
“The audience is always very interested and actively participate by interacting with the presenter.” The goal of the event,
Azima said, is to promote public interest of science and have each person walk away learning something new.
“I personally really enjoy the questions that participants have and the interactions between the speakers and the audi-
ence,” Azima said. “It is gratifying when several members of the audience stop by to thank the presenters and LCC for sponsoring the events.” LCC student Kelly Olander said she came across Cafe Scientifique when she was shopping for books in Schuler’s. “I sat down and started listening and realized it was an LCC professor,” Olander said. “It was one of the most interesting times I have had listening to science and I would like to go back soon.” Students can go to http:// www.schulerbooks.com/ event for a complete list of dates and times of Cafe Scientifique. Students with questions can contact Alex Azima at alex@lcc.edu.
4 SPORTS
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Lady cagers struggle, fall to Jayhawks Rich Schenck Sports Editor
Photo by Brian Wells
Tristen Moore drives the ball past a player from Muskegon Community College during the basketball game at LCC on Wednesday, Jan. 28.
It was another rough outing for the LCC women’s basketball team (1-7 MCCAA 3-18 overall) as the Stars fell to Muskegon CC 64-45 in the Gannon Gym Jan. 28. LCC freshmen Tristen Moore and Kelsie Feldpausch and sophomore Morgan Kelso all led the Lady Stars with eight points each. LCC has seen its numbers on the bench dwindle in the last couple weeks. They got some much needed depth as LCC volleyball standout Hannah Smith suited up for the home team, chipping in six points and a game-high eight rebounds. “We have very small numbers,” Moore said. “She’s just a really good addition. She’s been a really big help and stepping up to be the leader we need.” The Jayhawks’ defensive formations
early gave LCC’s guards fits. The Lady Stars struggled to get the ball inside, and when they managed to squeeze in a pass the shots were routinely challenged. LCC and MCC struggled from behind the arc, with both teams shooting under 22 percent. But it was the Lady Stars’ shooting struggles from the field (18 for 58, 31 percent) that proved to be the difference as the visiting team (27 for 69, 39 percent) took advantage. “We’ve been talking about it all season long, confidence in the guards,” Moore said. “That’s something we have been working on and something we will continue to work on as the season progresses.” Full-court pressure was the theme for MCC’s defense all game long. The home team’s movement up the floor was hampered, being forced
into too many passes that were picked off and brought the other way. The Lady Stars showed some life, stringing together some offensive sets that cut the lead 29-13 at the half. The second half showed more of the same for LCC. Inbound plays and offensive plays were carbon copies of the first half, which the visitors read with relative ease, forcing turnovers. “It’s hard,” Moore said. “We’re a really young team and we have a lot of improvement we can do. We just have to keep pushing because it is teams like this that will make us better.” The Lady Stars were scheduled to travel to Ancilla College Jan. 31. They will come home to the Gannon Gym Feb. 4 and 11, looking to avenge early season losses against Jackson College and Lake Michigan College.
— Laces Out —
Dont be mad America; evil geniuses are still geniuses I am no New England Patriots fan by any means. The very thought of that flying Elvis logo and a coach that looks like a sith from Star Wars makes me cringe. First there was the “Spygate” hoopla in 2007, and now “Deflategate.” This is just another example of the Pats getting caught with their hand in the cookie jar. It never ends when it
& QA The Lookout Sports Editor Richard Schenck recently spoke with men’s basketball sophomore Mamadou “Mo” Ba. The Ypsilanti native has been a cornerstone for the Stars in 2014-15. He is averaging 15.8 points a game and 9.6 rebounds, food for third and first on the team, respectively.
comes to controversy for the Patriots and the NFL as a whole. But let’s put away the pitchforks and torches for now.
You can say that Bill “Belicheat” should be banned from the league, or they should get their 2015 draft picks should be taken away. But when you think about it ... they’re the only ones to get caught. In the court of public opinion, this team should be standing in the stocks at mid-day, but they just proved they aren’t good at covering up their shenanigans.
Former Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Brad Johnson said he threw some cash to his equipment guys to deflate the balls. If you’re not cheating, you’re not trying. Am I right? I can’t say I blame whoever DID mess with the balls on the sideline. I mean, you have a chance to go to your sixth Super Bowl in the last 14 years. Who wouldn’t want to give their team a slight advantage (grant-
ed when they have Tom Brady and Belichick, I don’t think they really need the help). People sometimes forget that giving your team an edge is one of the backbones of competition, whether legal or illegal. Scuffing baseballs, deflating balls, corking your bat, dropping your car closer to the pavement to increase downforce and failing post-race inspection, it all happens.
Athlete Spotlight: Mamadou ‘Mo’ Ba Q.
Q.
Q. What are your plans
Q. What do you do
A.
What advice and life lesson has Coach Ingram taught you?
A.
A. I have a few Division
I’m usually trying to study and get ahead, or I’m playing video games with my roommates.
What convinced you to choose LCC?
After going to Columbus State my first year, everything didn’t work out. One of my buds told me to come to LCC. He told me (Coach Mike) Ingram was a good a coach. So I just came, and he was good to me. Last year I sat out with an injury and now I’m healthy 100 percent.
He just tells me to stick in there; to make sure my grades are right, and make sure everything off the court is right. He just tells me to stay humble and keep working hard in everything I do in life.
after LCC?
II schools talking to me right now. I would like to continue playing basketball at a four-year university, for sure.
in your free time?
A.
Q.
Q. How have you embraced being a leader of the
A. My high school coach, Coach Brooks, just told me
A. My high school coach, Coach Brooks, just told me
You’re the member of the team synonymous with dunking in games. What’s behind that?
to go hard and if I’m by the rim, try and dunk it if I can. I do it to try to get my team going. It motivates them.
team this year?
to go hard and if I’m by the rim, try and dunk it if I can. I do it to try to get my team going. It motivates them.
Behind the fervor and feeling of betrayal, we should give these slippery minded men and women a little bit of commendation for their efforts. It takes some brains and guts to try to pull it off. Fans all want to believe that these game are pure and that toeing the line between good and bad doesn’t happen. Wake up people, it’s 2015. It’s only cheating if you get caught.
5 Sports
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC men win in high-scoring fashion Rich Schenck Sports Editor
It was a high-scoring affair in the Gannon Gym on Jan. 28 as the LCC men’s basketball team (5-3 MCCAA 13-8 overall) ran past the Jayhawks of Muskegon CC, 125-102. Six players for LCC scored double-digit points, led by sophomore Tracy Edmond with 26 and freshman Javon Haines with 23. Freshmen Brian Morton chipped in a doubledouble for LCC with 17 points and a game-high 11 rebounds. “It shows we are playing as a team,” said LCC freshman Colin Jones, who had 22 points. “It shows not one guy has to score all the time. We’re just getting better as the season goes on. It’s all coming together.” Both teams sprinted out of the gate to start, but it was LCC sophomore Mamadou Ba who got the scoring going early. Ba put in the game’s first two buck-
ets, helping the Stars establish a 10-4 lead early on. MCC looked to get its outside shooting game going early, but stout defense and a little bit of luck prevented it from materializing. That, coupled with Jones’ seven-point outburst, led to a 20-6 advantage for the Stars. “I think Colin is maturing a lot this year, I think he’s becoming a better and better player as the season goes on,” said LCC Assistant Coach Melvin White. “He’s starting to take this more serious, and the harder he works the better player he can be,” MCC caught fire from three-point range late in the first half, thanks to four daggers from the Jayhawks’ Marcus Tumblin, who scored 18 points for the visitors. MCC and LCC traded scores before a scrum broke out under the Jayhawks basket that culminated in technical fouls for each team. LCC led 60-53 at the half.
White and the rest of the staff had a simple message to keep the players calm and focused. “Just to keep playing hard and keep playing defense, because that’s what got us the lead,” he said. “As long as we focus on our defense we’re a pretty good team.” Coming out in the second half it was all LCC. Crisp passes in transition and nimble feet in the paint were the driving forces behind a lead that was never relinquished. Frustration was evident on the visitors’ bench as Head Coach Dave Schlump was hit with a technical foul that only added to their woes. To add insult to injury, Ba threw down a monstrous dunk that epitomized how on point the Stars were, stretching the lead 88-67. The Stars shot just under 60 percent from the field (46 of 77) and converted 79 percent (26 of 32) of their foul shots, enough to counter the Jayhawks pedestrian
Photo by Brian Wells
The Stars’ Brian Morton drives vs. Muskegon CC during the game at LCC Jan. 28.
47 percent (37 for 78) shooting from the field. The LCC men were scheduled to finish out
the month traveling to Ancilla College Jan.31. They are back home for a two-game homestand
against Jackson College Wednesday, Feb. 4 and Lake Michigan College Wednesday, Feb. 11.
6 FEATURE
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Old Lookout issues made fashionable Shelby Schueller News Editor
The phrase “reduce, reuse, recycle” takes on a whole new meaning at LCC’s Eco Scholars event, scheduled for April 22 and 23 of this year. During past Eco Scholars events, students and community members alike have created presentations about ecologic issues and posters about recycling techniques. Fashion students have made garments comprised of recyclable materials such as coffee filters and McDonald’s bags. “It started out as a way for students to show different projects they might’ve worked on across the campus that were ecologically based or areas that were interesting to them … and wanted to share that with the LCC community,” said Christine Conner, lead faculty for the fashion program at LCC’s West Campus. This year, Eco Scholars will combine with Starscape. During past Starscape events, students, faculty members, staff and community members were invited to view projects students had made, such as unique inventions or presentations about various topics. “Some of the projects (at
Starscape) actually were ecologically based, so there was a lot of crossover. We decided that combining the events would make it like one big event,” Conner said. Although the date for the Starscape and Eco Scholars event has been set, Conner said the location is still being determined. “Last year (Eco Scholars) was held in Arts & Sciences on the ground floor, and it just wasn’t enough room so they’re looking for a bigger venue,” Conner said. According to Conner, the official times for both days will be released once a venue is selected. This year, both LCC Fashion students and ERESA early college students will participate in the Starscape and Eco Scholars event under the theme of newspapers, according to Conner. “We try to do something different each year ... so it’s not the same old thing,” Conner said. “So we looked at different things we could do and one of my students walked by carrying a Lookout newspaper and that’s how it got started.” According to Conner, fashion students will be hard at work creating their recycled garments after Feb. 6. At least 25 percent of each garment
Courtesy photo
Garments made from recycled materials are displayed at the Eco Scholars Event in April 2014.
must be made of The Lookout newspaper. Conner has been collecting old copies of The Lookout since early fall, and her collection is already quite large. “I have two car loads full of newspaper … I would say we definitely have hundreds. We’re probably easily into a thousand. We could probably use another five hundred or
so,” she said. Many people are already looking forward to the Starscape and Eco Scholars event. “I love Eco Scholars,” said LCC Student Allison Ramos. “I think it makes people think about big issues from litter to pollution to oil spills.” Ramos said she took part in Eco Scholars in 2013 and
would love to participate again. “People seem to like fashion, and seeing fashion about world issues is inspiring,” Ramos added. For more information about Starscape, contact Jeff Janowick at 517-483-1023. For information about Eco Scholars, contact Kathy Shell at 517-483-9711.
Lookout Alumni Spotlight: Graham Couch Tenure at The Lookout helped pave path to success Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief Graham Couch works at the Lansing State Journal as a sports columnist, a job he once considered his” bucket list” job. He attributes acquiring his dream job to his time at The Lookout. Couch attended LCC from 1997 to 1999, taking general education classes. The LCC alumnus spoke about the academic value of the college. “I got serious as a student at LCC,” Couch said. “I still think that LCC is a better first two years than MSU.” During this time, the LCC alumnus read Keith Olbermann and Dan Patrick’s book “The Big Show.” He explained how this book was influential in his decision to be involved with The Lookout. “There was a chapter in the book talking
about wanting to be in the business and not wasting time,” Couch said. “And if you want to be in the student newspaper, to do it.” Bill Loewenstein was The Lookout’s adviser at the time. Couch was a freelance writer who was paid by the inch. Couch worked at The Lookout covering sports under Sports Editor Luke Veith. The two worked as a team. Couch would work on the writing and Veith would design pages. “I still see Luke,” Couch said. “I was in his wedding, I am the Godparent for one of his son’s — he has been a lifelong friend.” Veith had the same admiration for his former co-worker at The Lookout. “He was kind of my main sportswriter at The Lookout,” Veith said, “and I developed a close friendship with him and had a lot in common. I
Courtesy photo
Graham Couch covers the 2014 Rose Bowl game.
was lucky to have met him there.” One of the biggest stories Couch wrote during his time at the student paper was a column that criticized the Lansing State Journal’s coverage of LCC’s basketball. The former freelancer also remembers a time driving down to Dayton
to cover a regional basketball game in Ohio. “This was in 1999 — this was before laptops, so I had to find a computer lab to send my story,” Couch said. “There was no way to transfer photos so I raced back 80 miles an hour to submit the photos to make the deadline.”
After his stint at The Lookout, Couch attended Columbia College in Chicago for three years. “When I got to Columbia, I had enough clips to get in as assistant sports editor right away on their student newspaper, which helped me get on the radio right away,” Couch said. “Those newspaper clips led to internship opportunities that were critical in early employment. “The Lookout was a critical time in the beginnings of what has become a really awesome career for me,” Couch said. “I don’t know if I would have had taken the same path if The Lookout hadn’t been there for me.” Couch had several valuable internships including a Springfield, Ill. sports intern job and an investigative journalism internship with Pam Zekman at CBS Chicago.
He said his big break was landing a job at the Kalamazoo Gazette where he covered Western Michigan football and basketball. Couch’s dedication to learning the field paid off when he was hired as The Lansing State Journal’s sports columnist. Couch has rubbed elbows with the likes of NFL stars Greg Jennings, T.J. Duckett and Jerome Harrison. He has also covered Super Bowls and Final Fours. He said these stories are a dime a dozen. “I like getting a story that no one else had. I like writing a story that is relevant,” Coach said. “A lot of people are writing the same stuff. “When you are covering Western Michigan University or get to be a sports columnist for The Lansing State Journal, you are relevant to that community. That is the best part of the job.”
7 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Old Town prepares for sweet strolls Sarah Spohn A&E Editor Kids of all ages (including so-called “adults”) love trick or treating. What’s cooler (literally) than walking door to door for free candy in October? Strolling Old Town for chocolates in February! The second annual Chocolate Walk will take place Thursday, Feb. 12 from 5 to 8 p.m. in Lansing’s Old Town. This early Valentine’s Day activity invites participants to explore all of Old Town’s businesses, shops and restaurants and to pick up some sweets along the way. For a $15 ticket, chocoholics receive a two-pound box to fill with sweets, as well as
File photo
Craving’s Gourmet Popcorn employees Holly Burke (left) and Ciara Hines served free bags of chocolate-covered cherry popcorn to last year’s Old Town Chocolate Walkers.
a map of participating businesses. Last year’s first-time event was a success,
with 177 tickets sold — well over the goal of 100. Heather MuylleMossing, Old Town
Commercial Association communications coordinator, said she hopes this year’s event
will be even bigger and better. “Last year, we had 16 participating businesses, and this year we have around 20 and still counting,” Muylle-Mossing said. The goal of the event is to encourage foot traffic and hopefully bring returning customers to all of Old Town’s charming shops, all while indulging in a little sweetness. Given the timing of the event, it’s a great way to celebrate Valentine’s Day, but MuylleMossing assures it’s not just couples partaking in the walk. “I would recommend this event to anyone and everyone,” Muylle-Mossing said. “It is a fun event if you and your special someone, friends or family, want something fun
and different to do.” And while the event could be included in romantic celebrations of love, it’s not necessarily for the faint of heart. The event will take place no matter the weather. “There is obviously walking outside that is involved,” MuylleMossing said, “but the nice thing about Old Town is it is so closeknit that you won’t be outside for long before you get to the next stop.” Participants are encouraged to dress warm. Tickets can be purchased in advance by visiting the OTCA office at 1232 Turner St. or at www.eventbrite. c o m / e / c h o c o l a t e - wa l k tickets-14908288091. Advanced tickets are available for $15 or can be purchased the day of the event for $20.
Faculty Jazz Quartet welcomes famed blues singer Sarah Spohn A&E Editor As part of the Black History Month, LCC Student Life and the Music Department have pulled a few strings and scored an internationally known blues powerhouse to perform on campus. Legendary blues singer Thornetta Davis will perform with the LCC Faculty Jazz Quartet on Sunday, Feb. 8 at 2 p.m. in Dart Auditorium. While this isn’t the first year a jazz concert has taken place honoring Black His-
tory Month, according to LCC Fine & Performing Arts Coordinator Melissa Kaplan, it’s forecasted to be quite a memorable one. Previous years’ guest musicians have included saxophonist Tom Jones, Flint’s famous flutist Sherm Mitchell, and Lansing’s Tia Imani Hanna. This year, the idea for a blues singer to be featured during the jazz concert was brought up. LCC Faculty Jazz Quartet member Ed Fedewa got in touch with his friend Thornetta Davis.
Davis has opened for music legends Ray Charles, Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson, Etta James and Buddy Guy. She’s also sung back-up for the likes of Bob Seger and Kid Rock. The faculty quartet (Jon Gewirtz on sax, Dennis Therrian on piano, Ed Fedewa on bass) met Davis last year. Fedewa recalled meeting the blues singer. “I met her at the East Lansing Jazz Fest,” Fedewa said. “She sat in with the LCC Faculty Quartet at the afterglow party. That was the first time we played with her.”
Usually, the faculty group is just a quartet, but this performance will include the addition of guitarist Jeff Smith and vocals by Davis. “Typically, their focus is all instrumental,” Kaplan said of the quartet. “So I’m eager to see what they bring out from each other in terms of having this vocalist, and having a blues focus to the concert, not strictly jazz.” Faculty bassist Fedewa spoke about the honor of playing alongside Davis. “We’re looking forward to playing with her because she’s a renowned singer in-
ternationally,” Fedewa said of Davis, a Detroit resident. “We look forward to the opportunity to play with her, making music together.” And now, the reprisal performance will take place in the form of a free concert open to the public — something Kaplan is both proud of and excited for. “It’s always great when we’re able to offer something free to the community,” Kaplan said, “something of such quality.” The concert is free and open to the public. For more information call 517-483-1546.
Tripper’s opens new comedy club Jaimie Bozack Staff Writer Laughter ensued throughout Tripper’s Sports Bar in the Frandor Shopping Center as headliner Shane Mauss took the stage during the grand opening of Tripper’s Comedy Club on Jan. 2. The room was filled with dozens of people checking out Lansing’s newest comedy club. Now wrapping up its first month, Tripper’s Comedy Club Manager Jacob Burkhart said he is very excited to bring comedy to the bar. “It has been three weekends now and the turnout has been great,” Burkhart said. “People seem to love
it and there has been a positive attitude toward the club.” Burkhart, a student at LCC, said he looks forward to bringing another fun option to the Lansing area for students and community members. “With Connxtions closing down, Lansing was kind of lacking in comedy,” Burkhart said. “It’s good to have an actual venue where you can go and enjoy comedy.” Burkhart said the comedy club offers a special for students on Thursday. Tickets are $5 that night and include an open mic session before the headliner. Other shows are Fri-
day for $10 with two show times, and Saturday for $12 with two show times. Burkhart said local comedians are also getting time to shine in front of packed audiences and national headliners. Mac’s Bar’s Monday Comedy Night host Dan Currie has been helping book local talent for Tripper’s. He also was the host for the grand opening. “Being the host the first week was great; it felt like I was part of Lansing comedy history,” Currie said. “I got to be the first comic to perform on that stage. How cool is that?” Burkhart said he enjoys being involved ev-
ery week. “I love the experience of being able to set it up and run it while having a good time doing it,” Burkhart said. “I get to meet new people and comedians every week.” Burkhart encouraged people to come into Tripper’s, grab a bite to eat and watch some comedy. “I think that Lansing needs laughter and that the comedy club will bring even more entertainment to students and community members.” Burkhart said. For more information, including show times and a list of upcoming comedians go to http://tripperssportsbar.com/comedy/.
Courtesy photo
Steve Tripp, owner of Tripper's Sports Bar (left) gathers with headline comedian Shane Mauss (middle) and Ken Tripp, who helped cosntruct the club site, at the grand opening of Tripper's Comedy Club Jan. 2.
8 A&E
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout
IN BRIEF Student sounds off with label Arts & Entertainment
‘I Love Lucy Live’ coming to Wharton Center The brand-new hit stage show “I Love Lucy Live On Stage” is adapted from the most beloved program in television history! The show is coming to the Wharton Center Friday, Feb. 13-15. It’s 1952, and you are a member of the Desilu Playhouse studio audience awaiting the filming of two hilarious and oh-so-familiar I Love Lucy episodes. A charming host entertains and enlightens you to the behind-thescenes filming process of this brand-new thing called “television.” The Crystaltone Sing-
ers perform advertising jingles in perfect ‘50sstyle harmony; and the sidesplitting antics of America’s favorite foursome - Lucy, Ricky, Fred and Ethel - are presented live on stage and in color for the very first time. It’s a one-of-a-kind theatrical experience TV Guide’s William Keck calls “The most entertaining stage production I’ve seen in years - including Broadway!” The truth is in the title - whether young or old, everybody really does LOVE LUCY! For tickets and more information, visit http:// www.whartoncenter.com
Love Lansing Party to benefit art programs Sunday, Feb. 8 is the first charitable #LoveLansing Party. Local art and design company JiveOne5even and The Green Door Bar & Grill host the event. Local musicians, artists and volunteers who will all rally together to raise money for Lansing area art programs.
Doors will open at 2 p.m. A $10 admittance donation will be requested upon entry. Live entertainment will begin at 3 p.m. and a comedy show will commence at 8:30 to end the night. For additional information, visit the website www.facebook.com/ JiveOne5even
Tastes and Tea to be served at State Room Get swept away for this early Valentine’s afternoon tea. Celebrate with family, friends or that special someone as you join us for this fanciful holiday event. The State Room staff will prepare a special three-course menu of delicious finger foods,
sweet treats and specialty tea parings sure to please your pre-Valentine’s Day cravings! The tea takes place Saturday, Feb. 7 at 2 p.m. at the State Room in East Lansing. Admission is $18 per person. For more information, call 517-432-5049.
Women’s Expo coming to Lansing Center The Mid-Michigan Women’s Expo will be at the Lansing Center from Friday through Sunday, Feb. 6 to 8. With over 250 exhibits and seminars tailored to women and their families, the event has something for everyone. Bring your friends and family to explore all that the Women’s Expo has to offer. Health, fitness,
fashion, food, finance and fun await. On-site spa services, shopping, travel, gifts, health and wellness tips are just some of the activities and products available. The event is open to the public. Tickets are available at the door or in advance at Meijer. For more information contact Denise Kolesar (616) 532-8833.
Sarah Spohn A&E Editor
Music, business and creative writing are all majors offered at LCC. Many students studying in these fields go to school while working part-time. Many students are not Scott Nelson. The 25-year-old community college student has toured the country with his band Secret Grief (formerly Tiger! Tiger!) and has his own record label, Triple Deke Records. He is hoping to transfer to Michigan State University in the fall to study linguistics, but that’s not before his label releases three more albums. Nelson spoke about how the label came to be. “I don’t know when I got the idea of starting a label,” Nelson said, “but it was just something always prevalent in the back of my mind.” When the singer and guitar player had new music with his indie rock band, Tiger! Tiger!, Nelson created his own record label. Previous music had been released on other independent labels, but never Triple Deke. Nelson spoke about how he chose the name for his label. “I was just like, ‘I’ll come up with some random label name just to make it seem pseudoofficial,’” Nelson said. “I was thinking of stuff and that just kind of popped into my head.” Triple Deke is a nod to the iconic ‘90s Mighty Ducks movies, something Nelson, a hockey player, grew up watching. At this point, he admits the la-
Courtesy photo
Scott Nelson performs at the Triple Deke Showcase at Mac’s Bar on Jan.10.
bel is very DIY, with very little capital going into it. “It’s still in the very beginning growing stages,” Nelson said of his 5-year-old record label. “It’s very loose, but it is a record label” Nelson said. “I like to think of it more as like a collective almost – just a bunch of friends making similar music.” The creative collective thrives on making music versus dollars, with a focus on promoting the community and camaraderie of the bands. That’s not to say there aren’t plenty of bands sending music for Triple Deke’s listening pleasure. “I’d like to think that I can find a way to help them out because I am still a music fan,” Nelson said. “I still like finding new bands. It’s just when you hear your one-thousandth band, it’s just harder for something to catch your interest.” Perhaps the best thing about
this new and upcoming label is the freedom it allows its artists. “We all have our unique thing going, both within the group and within the larger music scene,” Nelson said. “No one’s really trying to be anything else.” And there are no contracts or major commitments required. “It’s more of like a handshake, and a ‘Hey, I like your band’ type of deal,’” Nelson said. While there’s no doubt about what the label stands for, the one-man-business has experienced some trying times with the company. “There are always times where I’m even questioning doing it,” Nelson said. “Apparently (I do it for ) the love for it, because it’s definitely not the money.” For more information, interested bands and fellow music lovers can contact the label at tripledekerecords@gmail.com.
— The Unknown Spohn —
More than a Miss America reply I always used to make fun of people who used the word “community” too often, like twice in one paragraph often. You know, like when you asked someone what they like to do on the weekends, and their reply was “help out in the community.” Then you spend the next few seconds zoning out of whatever the rest of their response is, thinking about all the possible crimes they could have committed in order to receive community service as a punishment. No? Just me? Well, for whatever reason, the word community and its use among my peers, coworkers, teachers, mentors, and even strangers always just read very “Miss America,” very phony, very … rehearsed. Like it was a good answer, but probably far
from the honest truth. I’ve met plenty of people who only partook in community service because it was required of them, whether a punishment/result of a mistake, or a requirement of a school organization/ solely for resume purposes. Who actually gave a crap about their community? So many talked about wanting to move up and on to bigger, better things: bigger cities with a lower crime rate, more jobs, safer communities, etc. But who ever actually stuck around and tried
to make a difference, a better change in their situations? They wanted out of their communities. And all that talk about the “greener side” of the grass made me question if I wanted out, too. Then, all of a sudden, I started meeting people. People who gave a crap. People who rolled up their sleeves, played in dirt and didn’t care about reputations or stigmas. They worked hard at something, even if there wasn’t much support around them. It’s not just realizing things could be better, it’s putting the effort into it when other people probably called them stupid for even trying. The naysayers would compare the “dreamers” and their visions of world peace to wellrehearsed Miss America answers.
The non-believers would call them stupid and everything else I’d call them after hearing the word community used three times in one sentence. I just didn’t believe it. Don’t get me wrong. The word itself still can ring very cliché given certain circumstances, but knowing there are genuine people out there who know the real meaning of the word gives me hope. Maybe the fact that I attend a college with the word community directly in the name, or perhaps I’m reluctantly growing up, but the word means something totally different to me now. And thank God. Because I seriously just said the word community way more than three times. So the old me would definitely have used some PG-13 language name-calling.
9 A&E
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Pizza Hut Express satisfies cravings Jaimie Bozack Staff Writer Many students are taking a break from busy school schedules by stopping into the new Gannon Food Commons and grabbing a bite to eat. Pizza Hut Express and Grand Avenue Market are the newest additions to make their debut in the Food Commons as of Jan 12. A look of curiosity filled the faces of some new student/visitors, while pizza, ice cream and burgers filled the faces of most. There is nothing I love more than biting into a cheese covered slice of pizza and watching the cheese extend a few inches from the pizza with each bite. When I
Photo by Brian Wells
Pizza Hut Express is located in the LCC Gannon Commons and is open Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. until 7 p.m.
heard Pizza Hut was coming to LCC I knew that was going to be the place I frequented most. I recently waited in a line that wrapped around the corner just to grab a bite to
eat at Pizza Hut Express. The pizza menu features four different miniature pan pizza flavors that include: cheese, pepperoni, supreme and specialty. Other menu items include
Sleater-Kinney: still rocking Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief There are probably many people who have never heard of the band Sleater-Kinney. This however, does not take away from the band’s prominence to the punk and indie rock movement. It has been 10 years since the all-girl three-piece band put out its last album. Upon listening to the group’s latest release, you wouldn’t know it’s been an entire decade. The band is as loud and angsty as ever. Their new album, No Cities to Love, runs a little over a half an hour, but it doesn’t seem short-lived. The opening track “Price Tag” is the band’s message about corporate America. The
10 years between albums hasn’t stopped lead singer Corin Tucker’s ability to belt out powerful choruses. “We never checked, we never checked the price tag. When the cost comes in, it’s gonna be high. We love our bargains. We love the prices so low. With the prices so low, with the good jobs gone, it’s gonna be raw,” Tucker sings. The song “Fangless “may make some punk enthusiasts cringe when they hear the synthesizer introduction. Although the song’s beginning may sound much like a Cure song, the lyrics are anything but. “Sharp Teeth and a broken jaw, hungry but I’ll hunger on and the outside wastes while I think of grace,” Tucker sings on this experimental track. The song “A New Wave” displays that the girls are more
than just a power-chord punk band as Brownstein and Weiss showcase intricate guitar and drum work during the track. The closing track may be the most experimental song Sleater-Kinney has ever done. Entitled “Fade,” the band slows down its trademark tempo punk chords in place for a droney, fuzzed-out guitar anthem. The song’s melody is as bleak as the song’s lyrics. “When the last strip of light is dimming, When the spotlight starts to fade, If there’s no tomorrow, you better live,” Tucker sings. This album is in your face Sleater-Kinney. The band finds a way to keep its signature sound as well as delving into new territory that works well. No Cities to Love is a triumphant return for the trio and marks a new chapter into the band’s history.
breadsticks, cheese sticks, wings and cinnamon sticks. The restaurant is set up on a grab-and-go basis, where you pick up your food on the way to the cash register. I walked up to the cashier while juggling four of my favorites in both hands. I got a pepperoni pizza, breadsticks, a small drink and cinnamon sticks. The total came to about $13, which isn’t bad for basically getting a four-course meal in the form of pizza items. The cashier was very nice and greeted me with a friendly smile. I thought to myself, “She must have had a slice of pizza.” That smile was the type of smile I get after eating a slice. I sat down with my pizza, pile of breadsticks and stack of cinnamon sticks ready to indulge. A half hour later I was left
feeling full and very satisfied with every menu item I had. Before heading to my next class I went to get a refill of my pop only to have the cashier tell me they do not offer refills. I had to buy a whole new cup just to get a “refill.” I think Pizza Hut Express and the other eateries inside the Food Commons should offer free refills instead of making students pay more money. My overall Pizza Hut Express experience was great. The food left me craving more but also feeling too full to take anymore. The workers were nice and the price was decent. For students looking to curb their pizza craving, Pizza Hut Express is the way to go. Pizza Hut Express is open Monday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. until 7 p.m.
King Crossword
‘Blackhat’ not worth the risk Shelby Schueller News Editor Sometimes when I go to the movie theater, I like to gamble. I will go to a theater and see the first movie that is about to play, armed with nothing but a brief glance over a Rotten Tomatoes review. There have been times I have won the “jackpot” and seen movies I sincerely enjoyed. Let’s just say seeing “Blackhat” was like losing it all. “Blackhat,” which opened Jan. 16, centers on a mysterious influx of cyber-crimes caused by advanced hackers led by an
unknown villain. The hacking geniuses use a malware program called a RAT (remote access Trojan) to cause a nuclear power plant in China to overheat and manipulate the soy stocks in the Wall Street Stock Market. Hathaway, a convicted hacker played by Chris Hemsworth, is temporarily let out of jail to help Chen Dawai (Leehom Wang), his sister Chen Lien (Wei Tang) and CIA Agent Carol Barrett (Viola Davis) find out who is behind the attacks. Hathaway’s tough-guy mixed with know-it-all hacker persona did not translate well. As the film progresses, Hathaway spontaneously develops a romantic relationship with
Chen Lien and spends many scenes staring melodramatically into the distance as he cracks the code. The worst part about “Blackhat” was the plot which was difficult to follow, and the ending left me with little closure. Poor character development could be forgiven if the plot was interesting enough. But alas, it was rather un-thrilling for a thriller. In addition to wondering what was going on and why, I was further confused when some characters spoke in Chinese and subtitles were absent. The moral of this story is that Hemsworth should stick to what he’s good at: playing Thor and walking around shirtless.
This week’s puzzle is sponsored by:
10 OPINION
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout — The Kohn Effect —
Offensive humor is no laughing matter Is it really worth artistic expression if the end result of your work offends a nation or a religious culture? In the past months, there have been two incidents to cause a stir in the media that made me contemplate this question. Sony pictures pulled the movie “The Interview” after receiving hostile threats from North Korea. The comedy satire movie features Seth Rogen and James Franco on a mission
from the CIA to assassinate Kim Jong-Un. The United States and North Korea have never been on the greatest of terms. Why fuel the fire ? Is it really worth a few laughs to anger a country full of nuclear weapons and an unstable leader? Charlie Hebdo is a weekly political satire French magazine. Over the years, the magazine’s portrayal of the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam, has
sparked controversy. On Jan 11 after the publication’s latest depictions of Muhammad hit stands, two men identified as agents of Al-Qaeda attacked Charlie Hebdo’s office. During the attacks, 12 people were killed and several were injured. To the Muslim world, Muhammad is sacred and any prophet depictions are considered a false idol. This isn’t the first time the magazine has experi-
enced protests over its satirical cartoons of Muhammad. According to Time.com, the first incident happened in 2006 when the magazine drew its first adaptation of the prophet. In 2011, Muslim extremists attacked the Charlie Hebdo offices after the magazine announced Muhammad as the magazine’s editor in chief. There are absolutely no innocent bystanders in
this story. Charlie Hebdo employees knew this story had potential to cause violence, but they went ahead and published it.
What point was the publication trying to make? Was the magazine saying freedom of the press is important, regardless of violence and threats made against its publication? This is where the responsibility of the creators should come into play. They should have put on the proverbial brakes and realized they were creating hostility. No creative expression is worth endangering the lives of others.
—Just Jaimie —
Being a journalist is rewarding, despite the stress When I tell people I work for a newspaper it automatically makes me sound cooler than I am. The typical response is: “That is so cool!” or “I want your job!” I still haven’t got the, “Can I have your autograph?” response yet, but I guess that will come in time. I was lucky to start working for The Lookout in 2013 and am now in my second year here.
When people ask “What is your job really like?” I can say it’s challenging sometimes, fun most of the
time, and stressful usually. The amount of cash I spend on coffee and work days until midnight weren’t in the job description when I started, but those things have become part of my daily routine. Since working here I have been placed in all types of situations. One of these was writing sports stories that included going to games, avoiding flying basketballs and pretending to know sports terms.
I have also been taught to treat the AP Stylebook like it’s my Bible. It is the guide to learning all journalism rules. Remembering all the rules can be difficult. Do this, don’t do that, too many words, too little words and the list goes on. I have come to hate the word “deadline” and love the feeling of hitting one on time. The feeling of being able to sit back and be proud of my work is the
most satisfying. When I tell people I work for a paper, most of them assume I don’t have much money. True. I don’t earn huge wads of cash doing my job, but it is worth it. I love writing and, after taking a job at a deli, I know that writing is the job for me. I’d be making a sandwich at the deli and thinking about how great it would be to bust out a pen and paper and start
writing about how much I hated that job. The most rewarding part that comes with working for a paper is the people I get to work with. Whether it’s the people on my staff or the people I interview, that is the greatest experience. Being a journalist can make me want to pull my hair out, it can mean long nights, but it also is one of the most rewarding jobs. I wouldn’t want to do anything else.
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11 Opinion
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout — Staff Editorial —
If you were stranded on a deserted island with one album, what would it be?
thelookout
Jeremy Kohn
Nikki Nicolaou
Sarah Spohn
Shelby Schueller
Editor in Chief kohnj2@lcc.edu
Associate Editor nicolaon@lcc.edu
A & E Editor spohns1@lcc.edu
News Editor schuels1@mail.lcc.edu
“OK Computer Radiohead.”
“In the Aeroplane over the Sea - Neutral Milk Hotel.”
“Abbey Road - The Beatles.”
“The North - Stars.”
Richard Schenck
Brian Wells
Jaimie Bozack
Vincent Mata
Sports Editor schen1@lcc.edu
Photo Editor wellsb6@lcc.edu
Staff Writer bozackj@lcc.edu
Paginator matav@lcc.edu
“Gold - Frank Sinatra.”
“My summer 2014 photo album.“
Lurah Peterson
“The Satanic Satanist “808s & Heartbreak - Portugal. The Man.” - Kanye West.”
Aaron Wilton
New FOIA law helps
The first amendment of the U.S. Constitution gives Americans several liberties. One of the freedoms Americans are fortunate to have is freedom of the press. Opportunities may arise in a reporter’s career where he or she may need to dig deeper to uncover the truth behind a story. This is where a Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) can be useful. Though FOIA is designed to help journalists, there are times when a reporter may have to jump through hoops to acquire said request. Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder has passed a new law statewide that will make the process of obtaining this type of information easier for journalists.
The FOIA Reform Bill, which was signed into law on Jan. 16, will set limits on the fees charged to obtain a FOIA. The new law will set stricter guidelines for responding and declining requests for information. This includes an allotted response time. If a subject fails to communicate during this time frame, they will be required to lower the fee they charge by 10 to 50 percent. A journalist’s job is to let the public know the “whole story.” We here at The Lookout are pleased the law is allowing for more transparency in the deliverance of truthful information to our readers. We hope other states will follow in Michigan’s footsteps.
Larry Hook
Classified Advertising
Advertising Manager petersl8@lcc.edu
Advertising Assistant wiltona@lcc.edu
Adviser hookl@lcc.edu
“Rise - Skillet.”
“The Grand Illusion - Styx.”
“Saturday Night Fever - Bee Gees and various artists.”
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12 LAST LOOK
Feb. 2 - 15, 2015 www.lcc.edu/lookout
WLNZ Cardboard Classic colorizes winter fun Sarah Spohn A&E Editor Warmer-than-usual temperatures and little snow meant for difficult sledding conditions at the ninth annual Cardboard Classic Jan. 24 at Lansing’s Gier Park. That didn’t stop the family fun, however. The event, put on by
LCC Radio and Lansing Parks and Recreation featured 53 entries, the largest number the annual event has ever included. This year’s highlights included: a Yellow Submarine; a giant Lego sled (the winner for the most unexpected theme); and a Radio Flyer (the best overall design winner for ages 18 and up).
James Grove rides his sled, the “Phoenix Michigan,” down the hill at the Cardboard Classic at Gier Park. Photos by Brian Wells
Kevin Goodwin and his sled, “Zoom A107,” make their eighth appearance at the Cardboard Classic.
Team Muttonchops pushes its sled, “The Grand River Phoenix,” down the hill due to a lack of snow.