The Lookout Volume 57 Issue 8

Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959

www.lcc.edu/lookout

Volume 57, Issue 8

SILVER BELLS RINGS IN THE HOLIDAYS PAGE 16

Volunteers help warm the community

Men’s hoop tops nation’s No. 1 team in OT thriller

Experimental music event slated in Dart

News >> Page 4

Sports >> Page 5

A&E >> Page 11

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016

2|NEWS

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

McKinney is new LCC marketing director

Photo by Jeremy Kohn

Eric McKinney is LCC's new director of marketing. McKinney has previous credentials in the marketing field. He was the director of marketing and communication for Rio Grande Community College in Ohio.

Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief Eric McKinney is LCC’s new director of marketing.

McKinney was hired on Nov. 16, 2015.

Before being selected for this position, the 36-year-old worked at Central Michigan University as a web content developer for CMU’s global campus.

McKinney brings previous marketing experience to the table as well. He was the director of marketing communications at Rio Grande Community College in Ohio.

LCC Sr. Vice President of Finance Management and Advancement Lisa Webb Sharpe spoke about McKinney’s credentials and character.

“He is a smart addition to our campus,” Sharpe said. “Eric’s expertise will be very

helpful with our overall branding, marketing and communication efforts.”

McKinney talked about the strengths of selling LCC to the public.

“One of the greatest strengths for LCC is the facilities here,” McKinney said. “It’s a campus that is not typical for a community college … its central location, its branch campuses (and) its online classes help to make convenience important.”

McKinney spoke about improvements he would like to make in marketing.

“I’m not looking to come in and make changes,” McKinney said. “I am looking at ways to make things more efficient and streamline some of the processes we do.”

McKinney said the LCC Marketing Department has a lot of potential and talent and he looks forward to utilizing those

talents.

Being relatively new to campus, the marketing director is meeting with department officials on campus to get a feel for each program.

“Every program has needs and every program has ways in which we can assist and help them,” McKinney said.

McKinney talked about the difference between being a marketing director at a university compared to a community college.

“A university is just a different level; a community college has a unique bond with its environment, which is the local community,” McKinney said. “Community colleges truly are an economic engine … we are the place that provides the work force … we are the place that helps people enrich their lives.”

Students step toward success with CTL support Shelby Schueller News Editor For some students, the hardest part about college is final exams.

For others, it is getting the placement scores to get into college level classes.

The Center for Transitional Learning (CTL) at LCC is designed to help these students.

The CTL is an academic department that offers classes to students in order to transition them to college, according to Jaime Grant, CTL Academic Coordinator. The classes are paid for through tuition.

Grant holds one of two administrative positions. The other is held by Cheryl Garayta, director for CTL. Eligible students include those who are transitioning from high school, returning to school and those who need an extra boost.

“Many of our students would not even get the opportunity to see what college was like if it were not for what we do here,” Grant said.

According to Grant, the main goal of CTL is to teach students what is expected of them and help them achieve college level readiness in academics, especially in reading and writing. Some CTL programs incorporate career and life readiness as well.

CTL has two tracts, according to Grant. The first is for students with English as a second language, which takes five semesters from the beginning. The second is for native English speakers, which can be finished in a year depending on if the student is full-time or part-time.

In addition to these tracts, CTL offers GED completion programs, an Arithmetic Boost Program (which involves one-on-one tutoring to help students increase math scores) and partnerships that connect students to resources such as academic advising.

According to Grant, 2,656 students were enrolled in one or more CTL classes in the 2014 academic year. Since then, the number of students has been approximately 2,500, with a success rate of about 70 percent overall, Grant said.

There is no application process, according to Grant. Usually students are referred to CTL through other departments, or after not placing at college level on academic placement tests, such as AccuPlacer or ACT. Some students take CTL classes in order to re-familiarize themselves with school.

Grant said these low scores often do not reflect reluctance to learn.

Photo by Brian Wells

Kathy Galbreath, right, helps Aseya Gebresilassie with a GED practice exam in the Center for Transitional Learning (CTL) on Wednesday, Dec. 2. The CTL is there to provide instruction and support for first-year college students in areas including reading, developmental writing, ESOL and more.

“These students, honestly, they want to come to school, they want to get degrees, but they’re not necessarily sure how to go about getting it,” she said. “They might not have the family support.”

LCC student Savannah Irby got her GED through CTL in the program that ran from March to October 2015.

Irby said the best part about taking classes with CTL was the supportiveness of the instructors.

“Emotionally, without them, I have no idea where I would be, I just know that they just helped

me out a lot,” Irby said. “Without the class, I wouldn’t have my job, I wouldn’t have the classes I do.

I wouldn’t be succeeding, pretty much.”

Irby began falling behind in school when she was in eighth grade due to family problems.

She dropped out of high school when she was 16. Irby said having two children encouraged her to return to school.

She entered the program without placing a college level on the math placement test and left the program with a score of 6.

“There was one thing that they told me that I want everyone to know,” Irby said. “Your brain is a muscle. It’s just like going to the gym. You work out and lift 50 pounds but say, ‘Oh my gosh; it’s too heavy. I need to put it down.’

“But you don’t give up; you go down a little bit more. You go down to 25 pounds and that’s comfortable. Then 25 pounds becomes light and so you go to 50 and there you are at your goal.

Your brain is a lot like that.”

Irby said she plans to take LCC classes in the spring, get an associate degree in Criminal Justice, join the police academy, and then get a bachelor’s degree with the goal of becoming a homicide detective. “(Students) come into contact with people who truly care and really work hard to help reach them and get them information that they need,” Grant said. “For those students who persist, I think that it makes a world of difference. I think that even for those students who don’t come back, at least not immediately … they get a taste of what the possibilities are.”

Students who would like more information about CTL are encouraged to visit the department, located in room 107 of the Arts and Sciences Building on LCC’s main campus.

3 NEWS

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Spoken Word hits stage in LCC Black Box Theatre Yolanda Cornejo Freelance Writer How often do you hear students say they would love to go to school on a Saturday?

Black Student Union (BSU) hosted the first annual Spoken Word Poetry Night on Saturday, Nov. 13.

This event provided a safe place for students, staff, faculty and community members to come together and express themselves through poetry.

Some students chose to recite their own work, while others chose to recite their favorite author’s poems.

The purpose of the event was, “To build a base for BSU so students can see themselves as being active on campus by putting together new and creative programs,” said Karrington Kerry, vice president of Black Student Union.

Despite it being on a Saturday afternoon, there was a good turnout. There were 20 people present, which included the poets and the BSU members.

The event was not advertised

Photo by Yolanda Cornejo

Curlada Eure-Harries, LCC TRiO Professional Counselor, performs a famous quote by Grantland Rice.

through mass media, but was able to attract enough people to encour-

age BSU organizers to host event again in the near future.

For those who missed this one, don’t worry. According to Kerry, there will be plenty more similar events.

The board members of the Black Student Union are planning to make Spoken Word Poetry Night a reoccurring program and maybe even have it as often as every semester, or even once a month.

One of the participating poets was LCC TRiO Professional Counselor Curlada Eure-Harris.

“It was an excellent initiative,” Eure-Harris said. “It was diversely appreciated.”

The poetry presented included pieces ranging from pure quality hip-hop all the way up to professional citations. “(The event) captured a real special place in the hearts of a number of students,” Eure-Harris said. “ She said she would like to see the event take place again, but in a larger venue to accommodate the large amount of students it may attract.

LCC Police Department offers students a wide variety of convenient services Aaron Wilton Staff Writer The LCC Police Department provides many services to students on campus for their safety and convenience.

LCC Police Sgt. Chad Beckett said the department offers the following services:* Free escort of students to their vehicles; * Helping to unlock vehicles (for a $1 fee); * Jump starting dead batteries (for a $1 fee); * Bicycle lock rentals (for a $1 fee); * Taking reports of stolen or lost property; * Taking reports of accidents or suspicious activity on campus.

“A lot of the complaints that come in from students are … (about) loss

of property,” Beckett said. “Lately it has been the cellphones.”

There are a few different ways to contact the police department, which is open 24/7. There are “emergency poles” on campus, which can be used to call the dispatcher.

The standard (517) 483-1800 phone number is also available 24/7.

The after-hours entrance to the police office, located on the second floor of the Gannon Building near the parking ramp, is open 24 hours a day, allowing students to talk to an officer directly.

Lastly, the police department has added a new option, the RAVE Guardian system, which allows anyone to text the dispatcher. Texts can be sent anonymously or with a signature.

Beckett suggested people pay attention to their surroundings and always remember where they are leaving their property.

“Remind yourself that your items are not secure,” Beckett said.

“You can also send a text to our dispatcher (via RAVE Guardian) that says, ‘I’m walking to my car in lot D’ and to check back with you in five minutes. And we will set a timer in dispatch and if we don’t hear from you … (we could) check the route in between.

“LCC campus is generally a safe place for students,” he added.

For more information about RAVE Guardian or to sign up for the RAVE Guardian texting system, contact the Help Desk at (517) 4835221.

NEWS Win cash with One Book writing contest Students who love writing can compete for cash prizes during the One Book #OneLCC Writing contest.

Participants are to express thoughts through essay, poetry or fiction writing about a theme from “The True American” by Anand Giridharadas. To view themes, visit libguides.lcc.edu/ onebook/ Essays must have 800 to 1,500 words and be a work of non-fiction, reflections, persuasion or a memoir. Up to three poems can be submitted and works of flash fiction may contain up to 1000 words.

Submit entries by Wednesday, Dec. 9 in rich text (.rtf) or Word (.docx) format by email to lcc-onebook@lcc.edu. For more information, contact Victoria Meadows at meadowv@lcc.edu/

Student childcare openings available Early LCC, LCC’s on-site childcare center, currently has an opening for a full-time 4-year-old preschool student and a full-time 18 months to 3 year-old toddler.

For more information or to schedule a tour, call (517) 483-1100.

Students voice opinions through course evaluations LCC students are encouraged to give feedback about fall classes and instructors through online course evaluations.

The deadline to give feedback is Monday, Dec. 14 at 11:59 p.m. To access the course evaluation sheet, visit www.lcc.edu/course_evals/

AIDS Awareness presentation offered Kirk Taskila from Lansing Area AIDS Network will host a presentation on Tuesday, Dec. 8 from noon to 1:30 p.m. in room 328 of the Gannon Building on LCC Main Campus.

The presentation will provide information about AIDS and AIDS awareness. Snacks will be available. For more information, contact Lisa Haston at hastonl@lcc.edu/

LCC Assessment Center changes name The name for the LCC Assessment Center has changed to Testing Services. This name change better reflects the multiple testing offices and services offered at LCC, according to LCC officials.

For more information about the location of Testing Services offices, call Matt Lemon at (517) 267-5507 or visit www.lcc.edu/assessment/

4 NEWS

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Volunteers make blankets for refugees Emily Pohl Freelance Writer Sun flooded into the LCC Gannon Commons on Saturday, Nov. 14 as volunteers gathered together to create fleece blankets for refugees who recently relocated to greater Lansing.

Now in its second year, the purpose of the Blanket the Neighborhood event is to provide the growing number of refugees with warm blankets to help them through winter.

In the past few months, 160 refugees relocated to Lansing, many from warmer climates, and the need for household items continues to grow.

Members of the LCC Centre for Engaged Inclusion and the Experience #starpower Employee Appreciation Group decided to address this need by partnering with St. Jude Catholic Church and St. Vincent Catholic Charities.

According to Melissa Kaplan, a faculty member at LCC, event organizers hoped to make as many blankets as possible in four hours with the help of at least 50 volunteers.

“It’s wonderful to see this turnout!” Kaplan said, smiling, as she looked at the hundred-plus people working toward the common goal.

Faculty members and their children worked in tandem with nursing students and volunteers from the community to create cozy blankets to add to the growing pile. In the end, volunteers assembled 81 blankets to donate to St. Vincent Catholic Charities – Refugee Services.

Anne Heutsche from the Centre for Engaged Inclusion helped organize this event with other faculty members. She expressed her appreciation for the size of the event and for the importance of outreach for a community college.

“The goal of community college is community engagement,” Heutsche said. “With that, we build a community and sense of belonging for everyone.

“It brings groups together that wouldn’t be together otherwise.

We have obligations to serve one another.”

Courtesy photo

Lansing Community College employees, students and community members create fleece blankets for refugee families relocating to Lansing on Saturday, Nov. 14. The blankets were donated to St. Vincent Catholic Charities Refugee Services.

Finals Frenzy

Now through December 11 Library (TLC Building) & The Centre for Engaged Inclusion (Gannon) Free food and fun to help you survive the end of the semester!

Visit lcc.edu/finalsfrenzy for more details.

Course Evaluations

Now until December 14 Course evaluations are available online at lcc.edu/course_evals.

Speak your mind.

Your feedback matters!

Now through December 11

Performing Arts: Experimental Music Ensemble December 8 | 7:30pm Dart Auditorium

Performing Arts: LCC Rock Band

December 11 | 7:30pm Dart Auditorium

Performing Arts: 1st Semester Studio Production

December 11 & 12 | 8:00pm Black Box Theatre (Gannon 168)

Performing Arts: Dance Open House December 13 | 4:00pm Dart Auditorium

Upcoming EVENTS

5|SPORTS

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

LCC tops No. 1 Schoolcraft College in overtime Second-year standout Kodet had 16 Rich Schenck points to go along with two blocks. The Sports Editor In one of the most anticipated early freshmen duo of Isiah Green and Curtis Damatchups of 2015-16, the fifth-ranked LCC vidson scored 13 points each.

Schoolcraft began the game in a fullmen’s basketball team (9-1 overall) topped the nation’s top-ranked team, Schoolcraft court press. The Ocelots’ overly aggressive defense landed them College (6-1 overall), 90with five early fouls and 80 in an overtime thriller. helped LCC sprint out to The game was played in a 22-9 lead.

LCC’s Gannon Gym. But Schoolcraft began “Oh God, we’ve been to live up to its top-billed practicing hard all week ranking, exposing LCC’s to play the number-one transition defense and isoranked team,” LCC’s lating the Stars’ backcourt.

Jimmy Kodet said.

This forced LCC into bad “Schoolcraft is a tough passes and Schoolcraft led team; and the fact that 40-33 at halftime. we beat them is exhila“Their organization rating. We worked hard hurt us a little bit,” LCC and it paid off.”

Head Coach Mike InReigning NJCAA Divigram said. “They got a lot sion II Player of the Week of easy buckets because Javon Haines scored a we didn’t rotate back.” game-high 30 points, With LCC down 63shooting 11 for 24 from 54 Ingram had seen the field and three for nine Photo by Brian Wells enough and called a timfrom three-point range.

A player from Schoolcraft College He joined four other Stars attempts to keep LCC’s Isaiah Green eout. Schoolcraft reduced in double digit scoring. (right) from scoring during the sec- LCC’s offense to one with “We felt like we had ond half of the game on Dec. 2 in the individual players trying to carry the team. to come in here and Gannon Gym. “I just told them they take care of business,” Haines said. “We feel like we are the weren’t passing the ball,” Ingram said.

“Guys were open and (LCC’s) Mike (Johnnumber one team.”

Photo by Brian Wells

The LCC men’s basketball team celebrates its victory against Schoolcraft College on Wednesday, Dec. 2 in the Gannon Gym at LCC. The Stars won 90-80 in overtime.

son) missed a layup, but it was a teaching moment.”

Benefitting from a few missed free throws (10 of 14) and a flagrant foul by Schoolcraft, LCC found itself down 74-72 with less than 20 seconds in regulation.

Haines desperation drive was tipped in

by Kodet with just over four seconds left, sending the game into overtime.

“The first thought that went through my head was to stop the ball,” Kodet said.

Schoolcraft’s foul trouble near the end of regulation came back to haunt the team as the Ocelots’ starting point guard fouled out one minute into overtime.

Ingram’s constant player rotation all

game long was just too much to overcome for the Ocelots’ patchwork offense, as they were outscored 16-6 in extra time.

“I’m not surprised because I got some really talented guys,” Ingram said. “I got the best player in the region, I think.

“I think I got maybe three of the top 10 players in the region and I think we have the best big guys. You got to win, and that’s what we are doing.”

LCC was scheduled to travel to Dearborn Saturday, Dec. 5 to face Henry Ford CC, which the Stars dominated 123-94 on Nov.4.

The Stars are scheduled to return to the Gannon Gym to take on the Northwood University JV team Monday, Dec. 7.

Michigan State University athletics has reached elite status

Michigan State University has quite possibly become THE elite power in college athletics this year.

As of Nov. 25, MSU’s football team sat fifth in the college playoff rankings. At the same time, the men’s basketball team was third in the Associated Press Top 25.

Everyone will have opinions about which college is a superpower and what it truly means to be one. Kentucky has its men’s basketball team and Alabama has its football program. But in all honesty, this has been a long time coming for the Spartans.

Let’s start with Michigan State football.

The Spartans have won 10 games or more in five of the last six years. In those years they have four straight bowl games, including the Rose Bowl and Cotton Bowl, where the Spartans were given little chance to prevail.

Mark Dantonio’s team finished fifth in the AP Top 25 in 2014, third in 2013.

Another top-five finish will be in the cards this year, because a 63-15 overall record since 2010 says so.

As much as Dantonio wants to call the 17-14 Nov. 21 thriller over Ohio State a program win, it is as big of a national calling out as any-

thing.

Big Ten football hasn’t been looked at with much respect for several years. But now America is forced to recognize what the Spartans are doing.

MSU, however, has an undisputed king of the campus, and that’s Tom Izzo.

Mr. March is fourth all-time with seven Final Four appearances, trailing only legendary coaches Dean Smith, Coach K and the Wizard of Westwood.

After taking over for Jud Heathcote in

1995, Izzo has brought Spartan basketball to new heights. His tenure as head coach includes a 2000 NCAA Championship, 2009 NCAA runner-up, 18 straight years appearing in the NCAA tournament, seven Big Ten regular season titles and four Big Ten Tournament titles.

Izzo has entered a college basketball season unranked in only five of his 21 seasons patrolling the Jack Breslin Center. The Spartans just recently knocked off fourth-ranked Kansas on the road, four days before the football team knocked off Ohio State in Columbus.

Michigan State, according to many pundits, hasn’t shown enough in either sport to deserve being called a college athletics superpower. This is because the last national title in either sport was won in 2000.

Those so-called “experts” are missing one thing, however.

With Duke, North Carolina or Kentucky, we know that school won’t become relevant until October. And you only see

true attention paid to Alabama, Oregon or Notre Dame from July to December.

Michigan State has become a yearround party crasher that cares only about its performances doing the talking.

The real kicker in all this is the fact that Dantonio and Izzo are coaching the right way. You don’t see a nonstop turnstile with rosters filled with McDonald’s All Americans or Scouts.com five-star recruits; anxious to “do their time” and then bolt for the pros.

You see high school boys turn into men with belief in themselves and one another.

It is easy to say Michigan State football or basketball is never going to take the next step. But what you do see are players that repay their coaches with the effort and loyalty that has become lost in the pursuit for improving their draft stock.

Michigan State has become a superpower in athletics in more ways than one. The past five years and future classes are proof of this.

6 sports

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Haines’ 55 breaks LCC scoring mark Rich Schenck Sports Editor During the Thanksgiving Classic Nov. 28 at Community College, Javon Haines added another milestone to his impressive LCC basketball career.

Haines scored 55 points in a 127-73 pasting of the Lumberjacks of Alpena Community College, breaking the LCC men’s basketball single game record of 54 set in 1975 by Paul Stoll Sr. “That performance when he scored 55, it was incredible,” LCC Head Coach Mike Ingram said. “He was hitting shots. I think one time he hit eight three-pointers in a row. I had to settle down and start coaching.”

This offensive outburst also earned Haines the NJCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Player of the Week honors for the week of Nov. 23-29.

He is the second player from the MCCAA to win this award. Schoolcraft’s Ja’Christian Biles earned the honor for the week of Nov. 16-22.

“I never knew about the record,” Haines said. “To have it now, it feels really good.”

His 2015-16 season is reason enough to be feeling good. Haines is leading NJCAA Division II in scoring with 30.2 points per game. He leads the nation in total points scored with 302.

“Javon is a great player,” Ingram said. “He is very fluid; he can penetrate.

He is like a running back with the ball.”

Haines is also making his opponents think twice about sending him to the charity stripe. He is second in the nation in attempted free throws with 82

Photo by Brian Wells

Javon Haines (left) of LCC tries to get inside position during the game Dec. 2 against Schoolcraft College. The Stars win 90-80 in overtime.

and is converting just under 83 percent.

Ingram has stressed that rotating his players has had great benefit to his team. Because of this, Haines has been able to stay fresh, which makes him

dangerous every second he is on the court.

“What we are doing is making sure he gets six or seven minutes of rest,” Ingram said. “Every time he gets rest, he

comes back with bursts.”

But Haines gave more credit to his teammates for his record-breaking performance. He explained that without their desire to see him in the record books, it would not have become a reality.

“Thanks to my guys; we all work hard,” Haines said. “Everybody was in position and that’s what got me the 55 (points).

“We were just playing together and I was feeling it, guys kept giving me the ball. They were supporting me, they wanted me to break the record.”

After former LCC floor-general Tracy Edmond moved on after the 2014-15 season, the team was put on Haines’ shoulders.

“It means a lot because this team has a lot of confidence in me,” Haines said.

“I also have a lot of confidence in them because I know they have my back just as much as I have theirs.”

Ingram said he had a feeling Haines had the potential to break Stoll’s record after he tossed in 45 points in a 108-104 victory over Owens CC on Oct. 31.

“Yeah, because when he had 45 (points) the first game, we thought he could have had 50 (points) if he wouldn’t have missed some shots,” Ingram said.

For Haines, regardless of the records and the accolades, he says the joy of playing the game he loves with his team is what matters most.

“Just to be on the court with the guys and to run the floor,’ he said. “It feels so good.”

Kodet emerging as all-around asset to men’s hoop & QA

The Lookout Sports Editor Rich Schenck recently spoke with men’s basketball sophomore Jimmy Jimmy Kodet. The Williamston High School Kodet alum is second on the team in scoring with 15.3 points per game.

He had 16 points in LCC’s 90-80 upset of No. 1 Schoolcraft College on Dec. 2. He also is second in the nation with 79 defensive rebounds and leads the nation with 44 blocked shots.

What got you started in basketball?

“I always liked the sport; it was fun.

I was always tall and lanky. Finally in seventh grade I got my first dunk and my parents were like, ‘I think he may have a little career in this.’”

What advice did your high school coaches pass down to you?

“You have to play hard every day.

You have to come hard every day.

When you play hard, practice hard and play good defense you’ll win championships. It’s exactly what Coach (Mike Ingram) is bringing here, too.”

What player do you try and emulate?

“On the court I want to be like LeB-

ron James. He works hard every day and never takes a play off. Off the court I want to be what Coach Ingram kind of told me, and that was a hard-working athlete.”

What do you do in your down time away from LCC? “Study, mostly basketball year-round and hanging out with a couple friends.”

Any plans educationally or athletically after LCC? “I am a criminal justice major, so I want to be a police officer if I can. But if I have a chance to go overseas and play professional, I want to do it.”

Photo by Brian Wells

Jimmy Codet shoots a three-pointer during LCC’s game against Schoolcraft College on Wednesday, Dec. 2.

7|feature

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

students in Gannon step out due to fire alarm

Photo by Brian Wells

At approximately 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 2, the Gannon Building on LCC’s main campus was evacuated due to a fire alarm. According to LCC Police, a kitchen employee went to toss a box into the trash, but instead hit the pull station and activated the fire alarm. Students were allowed to re-enter Gannon at approximately 10:15 a.m.

Complete your BACHELOR’S DEGREE with Siena Heights University on the LCC Campus!

Undergraduate programs available in: • Accounting • Applied Sciences • Community Services • Multidisciplinary Studies • Professional Communication

CONTACT US TODAY! Phone: 517.483.9726 • Email: lansing@sienaheights.edu INQUIRE ONLINE AT: www.sienaheights.edu/lcc

Your Dreams. Your Goals.

Your Education. YOUR SIENA!

8 feature

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Dummies Guide to the holiday SEASON in Lansing Students looking for holiday fun need to look no FURTHER. Below is a list that is Santa approved and guaranteed to provide SOME holiday fun. Santa has checked this list twice and is on the lookout for people who have been naughty or nice:

Christmas in the Village Christmas is a day of giving, family and tradition.

This year people are welcome to enjoy an old-fashioned Christmas during the Christmas in the Village event, 515 Marsh Road, Okemos. It will take place Sunday, Dec. 13 from 2 to 4 p.m. Christmas caroling, children’s crafts, musical performances and holiday refreshments will all be a part of this year’s Victorian-style Christmas. All of the historic buildings Meridian Historical Village has to offer will be open and decorated for the holidays. Celebrate Christmas past and present. For more information, visit www.meridianhistoricalvillage.org/

What students have to say: “Christmas in the Village is a tradition for me and my family,” Jose Lopez said. “It is fun to bring fresh faces into an older style village setting.”

Potter Park Zoo’s Wonderland of Lights Thousands of lights are illuminating pathways in Potter Park Zoo, 1301 S. Pennsylvania Ave. in Lansing, during the 22nd annual Wonderland of Lights. The event started Nov. 20 and will occur every Thursday through Sunday through Saturday, Dec. 27. The event is focused on getting people into the holiday spirit. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for kids, and free for kids under 3. All of the animals will be out and about for families to view.

What students have to say: “Going to Wonderland of Lights is a family tradition now,” John Forrester said. “It is almost like an escape from the busy holiday season and is a blast for me and the kids.”

Old Town’s Festival of Trees Friends of Turner-Dodge House, 100 E. North St. in Lansing, is hosting the annual Festival of Trees event starting Saturday, Dec. 5. The event will take place every weekend through Sunday, Jan. 3. Decorated trees ranging from spectacular to simple are donated to the Turner-Dodge House by businesses and individuals from all around Lansing. Entry to the event is $5 per person or $10 per family of four.

Students are welcome to get into a holiday mood by viewing tons of lighted trees. For more information head to www.lansing.org/includes/events/A-Festivalof-Trees/

What students have to say:

“It is so beautiful walking through the Turner-Dodge during the event,” Melanie Ruthman said. “Without Christmas lights there is less beauty behind Christmas.”

rite What’s your least favo Christmas song?

“I’m going to have to say ‘Baby It’s Cold Outside.’”

Jonathon Butler, 18, General Ed.

“’Santa’s Coming to Town’ is pretty annoying.’”

Walk in downtown Lansing Downtown Lansing is a hip place that provides music, Cooley Law School Stadium, restaurants, breweries and more. During the holiday season a walk through downtown is what some people enjoy most. The streets of downtown are decorated with holiday lights, big ornaments on Washington Avenue and one giant Christmas tree in front of the State Capitol. Exploring downtown Lansing during the holiday season brings people together by allowing people to discover what the area has to offer.

What students have to say: “I love downtown Lansing,” Nick Lantz said. “There is always something to do and I love the big Christmas tree.”

Information compiled by jaimie bozack

Mason Packer, 19, Sports Marketing

“’Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.’”

Adam Nelson, 18, Music Management

9 feature

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Alumnus Spotlight: Lucas Elder

Elder balances love of arts with volunteering Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief Carpe Diem. Seize the day. Many people are familiar with the phrase. Very few live it.

Former LCC student and current musician Lucas Elder is someone who strives toward that goal.

Elder’s relationship with LCC began as early as his Grand Ledge High School years. Now 33, Elder was then involved in a program called “Gifted and Talented.”

This program allowed high school students to be involved with LCC’s theater program.

In addition to being involved with theater, Elder also makes a living playing music. In high school he played with a band called Entrapment. He has gone on to play with several other bands, including Misguided Wheelchair, Dirt Road Logic and Last of the Old Machine.

After he graduated from high school in 2001, Elder found himself once again inside LCC’s walls, this time as a college student working toward a social science and English degree.

Elder said one of his favorite classes at LCC was an anthropology, archaeology and anatomy hybrid class.

“If you ever went to a dig site, you have to know each one of these schools of thought to identify what culture they were from … what city the people were from … how they died,” Elder said. “That’s what this class taught you. It was an awesome

Courtesy photo

Lucas Elder is shown volunteering for a tree cutting project in Laramie, Wyo. When Elder is not teaching students in music and dance, or touring in a band, he enjoys giving back to the community.

class.”

Elder said he showed real commitment to his education during one semester at LCC. “Something happened with my student loans and they had to be held over,” he said. “I only had enough money at the time to either go to school or fill out my lease. I ended up spending that whole semester at LCC living out of my truck. To

me, the education factor was much more important than living in a house.”

After LCC, Elder attended Northern Michigan as a part of an extension program with Grand Valley State. It was there he continued to work toward a teaching degree in social science.

While student teaching during this period, Elder realized that public schools weren’t what he expected.

“When I started to work in the public school systems I basically realized that their particular teaching style wasn’t going to work for me,” he said.

Determined to mentor kids in other ways, he went back to his first love – the arts, teaching music and dance – at the Boys & Girls Club in Traverse City during 2003.

One of his current dance students, Izzy Stellmacher, talked about being taught by Elder.

“As a teacher, Luke loves helping his students improve whether it’s breakdance moves, teamwork or self-esteem,” Stellmacher said. “As a friend he is always there for you and is helpful if you ever need something.”

Elder continues to volunteer to his community. In 2010, he trained at Arizona Wildfire Academy to become a certified firefighter. He has since moved to California, but still actively volunteers.

“We are seasonal so we volunteer six months out of the year, from May until

October,” Elder said. “That has always been really important … being a teacher … being a firefighter; giving some sort of service back and balancing that with being an artist.”

Elder has not given up on his love of music. He is currently working on finishing his first solo album.

“I decided the only way I am going to make it in music is rather than relying on a band, to do it myself,” Elder said.

The title of the album is, “True Story.” Although it is considered a solo album, Elder wanted to avoid it being a singer/songwriter album. He instead has recruited a highly talented group of studio musicians.

“What we came up with stylistically is blues,” Elder said. “It is this really unique blend of an old school sound but with a pop mentality.”

Earlier this year something tragic put Elder’s volunteer work and music on hold.

While on a cross country road trip he was involved in a motorcycle accident where he broke his thumb and collarbone as well as severing his AC joint.

“The doctors were amazed I was even conscious when I was brought in,” Elder said.

Although the healing process is a slow one, Elder is still working diligently on finishing his album.

Elder said the album should be finished and released early next year. People who wish to donate to Elder’s album can visit www.gofundme.com/lukeelder/

HAPPY HOLIDAYS from The Lookout STAFF

10|distractions

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

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11|ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Music Ensemble covers many different genres Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor Music can come in different styles, sounds and genres.

The LCC Experimental Music Ensemble is looking to cover it all during its show on Tuesday, Dec. 8 at 7:30 p.m. in the Dart Auditorium.

The Experimental Music Ensemble (EME) is a class dedicated to the performance of eclectic music. These range from works by composers that include John Cage to original compositions by LCC students.

EME Director Cesar Potes said the class has been experimenting with combining music and theater for the Dec. 8 performance.

“The common thread linking our repertory is the emphasis on improvisation and an open approach to instrumentation,” Potes said.

The EME started in 2006. Potes said the class started as an unofficial idea. However, as student interest grew, it became the class it is today.

“The class was made to offer a performance opportunity for students interested in music that would not quite fit the traditional styles of jazz, rock, Broadway or classical genres,” Potes said.

Potes said he has enjoyed experimenting with the combination of music and theater.

“Our main score is a script that we are in the process of mastering so that we can connect all the elements of improvisation, written pieces and comedy into a fluent, compelling and cohesive manner,” Potes said.

According to Potes, finding a connection with the audience is the most challenging aspect of an EME show.

Festival of Trees branches out to Old Town Friends of Turner-Dodge House, 100 E. North St., will host the annual Festival of Trees event every Saturday and Sunday through Jan. 3. Times are noon to 8 p.m. Saturdays and noon to 6 p.m.

Sundays.

Decorated trees ranging from spectacular to simple are donated to the Turner-Dodge House by businesses and individuals from all around Lansing. The event is $5 per person and $10 per family of four.

For more information head to www.lansing.org/ includes/events/A-Festival-of-Trees/

Photo by Brian

Members of the Experimental Music Ensemble perform during Soundscapes on Sunday, Oct. 18.

“The interaction between performers and the public is the main reason why we work so hard because it is one of the greatest challenges,” Potes said. “The experience of a powerful and successful performance is the most rewarding.”

Potes encouraged people to come to the show.

“It is a very energetic, funny and crazy show with lots of meaningful details to follow around,” Potes said. “I want to thank the students in the ensemble for their terrific work.”

For students or community members interested in joining the ensemble contact Potes at potesc@lcc.edu or (517) 483-1469.

Finals Frenzy gives students boost Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor LCC faculty members are providing students with the tools to help them succeed during finals week.

Finals Frenzy is an event focused on providing students with treats and activities that will help them destress. It kicked off Nov. 30 and will end Friday, Dec. 11.

Free hot cocoa, yoga, cookie decorating and more are available for students to take advantage of between exams.

During week one students were able to obtain free fitness center passes, school supplies and free massages.

Week two, which starts Dec. 8, let students get away from worrying about finals with free snacks and drinks along with other fun activities

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

like coloring and Legos.

Event coordinator Victoria Meadows said the event started in fall 2013 and has expanded and improved.

“The purpose is to provide students with low-time investment, stress relieving activities,” Meadows said. “We want students to feel less stressed and have an opportunity to take a break with something fun.”

Meadows said attendance has been steady and hopes to see large participation during week two.

“It is hard to gauge attendance at this point because there isn’t a central location and the current activity is very passive,” Meadows said.

“Students have been very grateful for the school supplies and fitness center passes.”

Meadows encouraged students to

take advantage of the free events.

“I hope Finals Frenzy makes students feel supported and that they understand LCC employees care about them and are here to help,” Meadows said.

LCC student Jax Halems said she will take advantage of the free fitness passes.

“I love working out because it lets me work out all of the stress I have built up,” Halems said. “This will be the first time I have ever been in the fitness center, so I am excited.”

LCC student Chase Killian said he is excited for week two.

“Last year during Finals Frenzy I remember reindeer and hot cocoa,” Killian said. “Those things were cool.”

For more information head to www. lcc.edu/library/about/events/finalsfrenzy/

‘The Force Awakens’ at NCG Cinemas NCG Cinemas, 2500 Showtime Drive in Eastwood Towne Center, will provide “Star Wars” lovers with a chance to watch all six films starting at 4 a.m. on the big screen Thursday, Dec. 17. Tickets are $45 per person.

The marathon will start with the first “Star Wars,” film and end with the new “Star Wars: The Force Awakens,” at 8 p.m. The theater will be open 48 hours in anticipation of the new film.

The marathon allows attendees to gather friends, relax, snack on popcorn and experience all six movies back to back. For more information go to www.ncgmovies.com/lansing/

Vaudeville Spectacle set for Dec. 11, 12 The Lansing Unionized Vaudeville Spectacle will host a night of yuletide-themed fun and mischief to help celebrate the holiday season Friday, Dec. 11 at 8 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 12 at 7 p.m.

The LUVS will perform in REO Town’s new Robin Theatre, 1105 S. Washington Ave. The band will provide a night filled with sing-along holiday classics, puppets, dancers and more.

Tickets are $10 in advance and $15 at the door.

For more information head to www.517luvs.com/

‘Cirque Dreams Holidaze’ at Wharton Cirque Dreams Holidaze will light up the 2015 holiday season with its newest holiday stage spectacular on Thursday, Dec. 17 through Saturday, Dec. 19 at the Wharton Center for Performing Arts.

The center is located at 750 E. Shaw Lane in East Lansing. Tickets are $35. The show is directed by Neil Goldberg and will include over 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30 performers from over 12 countries.

The show is a cirque show, Broadway musical and family show all in one. The show is for ages 5 and up. The show is sponsored by the Demmer Corporation and Physicians Health Plan. For more information go to www.whartoncenter.com/

12 A&E

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Tidal looks to ride the wave to success Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor Lansing band Tidal is looking to prove to listeners that all it takes is two to make a dream come true.

Guitarist and vocalist Mariette Heubel and drummer Cody Kuuttila formed Tidal in 2012.

After performing at dozens of cramped house shows and dive bars, the band is finally starting to make its name known in the Lansing area.

Heubel attended Lansing Community College in 2010 and graduated with her associate degree in fine arts.

“I took a few production and band management classes that were a helpful start,” Heubel said.

Tidal currently has a four-song EP named “With Love.” The band Photo by Brian Wells is in the process of reMariette Huebel, lead singer of Tidal, performs at The Loft on Friday, cording a new fullFeb. 27. Tidal was opening for the length album.

Heubel has been playDetroit-based band, Flint Eastwood. ing guitar for 11 years and said her passion for music started when she was young.

“My dad has a classical guitar and every night before we

Photo by Brian Wells

Tidal performs in front of a packed house at The Loft on Friday, Feb. 27. Tidal was opening for the Detroit-based band, Flint Eastwood.

went to bed he’d sit in the hallway and play guitar for me and my siblings,” Heubel said. “I always wanted to do that.”

Heubel said she hopes to play music as a career and thinks Tidal will be the first step in taking her toward her dream.

“Music is a life goal.” Heubel said. “My end goal is to play shows, tour around and make enough money to not have to worry.”

Heubel said she loves everything about music, but especially enjoys the crowds.

“People’s reactions are my mark of success,” Heubel said. “Even though I know I mess up it doesn’t matter as long as people are into it.”

For Kuuttila the rush of a live show is what keeps him going during performances.

“I like that when we get on stage nothing else is there,” Kuuttila said. “It’s just us and what we have been focusing on and practicing for months. I don’t have to worry about anything else like bills or drama.”

LCC student Carrie Stabes said she first heard Tidal during a local show at The Loft and has been in love with the band ever since.

“I am a huge fan of Tidal,” Stabes said. “Their sound is so unique and you can tell that the members are genuine and love their fans more than anything.”

To download “With Love,” head to tidal.bandcamp.com/

Tis’ the season for local music at The Loft in Lansing

Jaimie Bozack A&E Editor It is that time again when people dust off the Christmas sweaters that have been hanging in their closets for a year.

On Saturday, Dec. 19, local bands Lights & Caves and Secret Grief will co-headline The Loft, 414 E. Michigan Ave., and give people the opportunity to bust out the sweaters once again.

Lights & Caves is an alternative-rock band that is looking to perform new music with keyboards, synths and catchy vocals.

Lights & Caves bassist Aaron Dunn has been playing with the band since May of 2014. He said he is excited to co-headline with Secret Grief.

“I have never seen them live before but I have seen videos of them performing in the 10-piece,” Dunn said.

“It’s a cool idea and sounds great.”

Dunn said the band is excited to play new music in front of a new crowd.

“We will be playing mostly new stuff that was not from the first album,” Dunn said. “I love being able to see people who not only support Lights & Caves, but support the music of others come to one place and get into the music.”

Secret Grief lead singer Scott Nelson said the band has put out an LP and is currently working on a new album.

Photo by Jaimie Bozack

Lights & Caves lead singer Dillion Gorden shows off his Christmas sweater during a holiday show at Mac’s Bar on Dec. 21, 2013.

Nelson said he is excited to play as a 10-piece band.

“It is a little unusual,” Nelson said. “In the past we have performed anywhere from a two-piece band to a five-piece band to a seven-piece band. We are trying to get as many members on stage as possible.”

Nelson said he is excited to see how fans react to the 10-piece band.

“If we had it our way we would play with 50 people but I don’t think an orchestra would want some no-name band from Lansing playing with them,” Nelson said. “I think the 10-piece adds better sound and live element.”

Nelson is attending Michigan State University and studies linguistics. According to Nelson the balance between school and music can be hard, but he hopes to announce a tour soon.

“We hope to release some new music and tour as much as possible,” Nelson said. “Going to school makes it difficult to tour during anything but breaks. It is hard to stay relevant if you’re not touring and appeasing the fans.”

Nelson said the most rewarding thing about playing shows is performing in front of people.

“I do most of the writing and composing, so it is rewarding to hear my art come to life in different forms,” Nelson said. “It is cool to have a song you wrote transform into guitar parts and melodies.”

Student Kelsie Chapman said she is excited to hear both bands perform.

“I love live music,” Chapman said. “I love local music even more. I am excited to spend the first weekend of my winter break listening to live local music.”

Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door. The show starts at 7 p.m. and is for all ages. For tickets head to theloftlansing.com/

13 A&E

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout

‘Halo 5’ brings highly anticipated updates Aaron Wilton Staff Writer “Halo 5: Guardians” shows off new modes and features while retaining that classic “Halo” feel. It was released Oct. 27.

This highly anticipated game gives longtime fans another great chapter in a record-breaking franchise. Newcomers to “Halo” will find that it isn’t like “Call of Duty” and never will be.

“Halo 5” gave me hope that 343 Industries could maintain a believable and engaging storyline for Master Chief and the other characters.

The campaign mode is unique in the “Halo” franchise because it features a revival system that works in co-op or single player mode. The N.P.C.s that fight alongside you can be a bit thick headed, and often are unable to help you in single player.

In a co-op mission I found myself

reminiscing about “Gears of War” and the revival system that it is known for.

The “revives” work almost identically in “Halo 5” and “Gears of War;” walk up to a downed friend or N.P.C. and hold a button down.

Other new features include using left trigger to aim down sights (ADS), Spartan charging, a dash, and temporarily floating while using ADS in the air.

New multiplayer modes have been added as well. These include warzone

and breakout.

Warzone is full of non-stop action. It puts 24 players, N.P.C.s (Covenant, marines and Prometheans) and dozens of vehicles on the same map.

The two teams of 12 compete to score points by beating N.P.C. enemies, as well as by capturing and holding different zones.

Breakout is a game mode similar to elimination. Two teams of four players attempt to wipe each other out or score by capturing the flag.

Finally, big team battle (BTB) and forge mode have been promised a triumphant return via later updates.

BTB arrived in the update Nov. 18 and forge is expected in the December update.

Overall, “Halo 5” is a great new entry in the franchise. It has set records and redefined “Halo.” “Halo” has definitely regained its place on top of the heap of first-person shooters.

vides an old-school feel. It features pictures of the old brewery, and its walls are formed from the wood of old Michigan barns.

Don’t be fooled by the history, though.

The brewery is full of new energy and features a lively, upbeat setting.

Another plus that caught my attention was how open it is. The brewery has a lot of room between tables. There is plenty of room to enjoy your drink and food without feeling cramped.

Speaking of the food, the menu is stacked with a solid mix of traditional

and unique items. Some of the main entrees are meatloaf, mac and cheese, tacos, fish and chips, burgers and sandwiches.

I had a plate of the meatloaf, titled “Ma, The Meatloaf! Please” after Will Ferrell’s famous line in “Wedding Crashers.” It came wrapped in fresh, delicious bacon and was served with some of the tastiest mashed potatoes I have had in quite some time.

To go with it, I tried two different kinds of beer. The first I had was a rotational Black Velvet Ale, which is a black ale flavored with oatmeal porter and a

smooth taste of chocolate.

After that I tried one of the brewery’s signature beers, the Angry Mayor IPA, which is named after Lansing Mayor Virg Bernero. If you are a fan of IPAs, the Angry Mayor will please you with its tropical fruit characteristics.

Lansing Brewing Company does a fantastic job of combining a classic menu and setting with a unique and upbeat feel. If you haven’t yet, I would highly recommend stopping by Lansing’s newest gem. It has a lot to offer and features a lot more than just good beer.

Photo from gameondaily.com

Lansing Brewing Company lives up to expectations Aaron Emerson Staff Writer The long awaited reopening of Lansing Brewing Company was over 100 years in the making. It was certainly worth the wait.

Located on the corner of Cedar and Shiawassee streets near downtown Lansing, the full-scale brewery opened Oct. 23.

Its namesake was closed in 1914 due to prohibition, but a walk through the new doors will show its tradition still lives on.

Converted from an old auto warehouse, Lansing Brewing Company pro-

Marvel brings its dark and psychological noir to Netflix

Jeremy Kohn Editor in Chief When you think of the word “superhero,” what images come to mind? How about a sarcastic, liquor drinking female private investigator?

Probably not. But then again, Jessica Jones isn’t your normal superhero.

“Jessica Jones” (based on the comic “Alias” created by Brian Michael Bendis) was released to Netflix on Nov. 20. The second Netflix Marvel television series stars actress Krysten Ritter as the protagonist, Jessica Jones.

Jones works as a private investigator at Alias Investigations in Hell’s Kitchen, NY. When Jones was younger, she was involved in a serious car accident.

After the accident she developed super strength and enhanced agility.

The story unfolds when Jones investigates the disappearance of a woman named Hope Schlottman at

the request of her parents. While taking on the Schlottmans’ case, Jones’ past catches up to her as she believes Schlottman has been taken by a man named Kilgrave.

Jones confides in her foster-sister, Trish Walker (played by Rachael Taylor), about the case. Walker convinces Jones to help the Schlottmans find their daughter.

Kilgrave (played by David Tennant) is a man who possesses the power to control other people’s minds.

He has a past that is linked with Jones. He is obsessed with Jones and will go to any lengths necessary to have her in his possession.

During her investigation, Jones becomes romantically involved with a bar owner named Luke Cage. Cage helps Jones with her search for Kilgrave.

While Marvel’s first show, “Daredevil” was dark in a New York crime drama way, “Jessica Jones” is dark in a psychological way.

This series is memorable because of the emotions and

issues involved with each character. The show touches on post-traumatic stress disorder, abuse, addiction, grief and heartbreak.

“Jessica Jones” is relatable to even the non-Marvel comic book audience.

14|OPINION

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — sights & sounds —

Come together during this holiday season Alright. So I never talk about politics nor do I see myself being a political writer anytime soon. But there is one big issue that should be addressed.

That issue is ISIS and the rising terror threat in the United States.

CNN, Fox News, MSNBC and other news sites are spreading more and more news of the growing terrorism threat in the United States. That threat is increasing Americans’ tension, and causing

people to stay home from populated events.

People should not have to wake up every morning worrying that their day may be interrupted by a disaster.

As I go to sporting events or crowded areas I can’t help but think “What if?”

The question is “How do we get over this issue?”

To be honest, I have no idea. Like I said, I don’t pay attention to politics. I do know one thing that has helped assist

me through my paranoia, and that is to treat people with respect.

Our lives are dependent on connections with people. From going grocery shopping to attending classes, every day we interact with all different types of people.

In that “What if?” scenario people are at the center of it all. I think that we need to join together and get through the rising threat together.

People treat other people poorly on a daily basis. Now, more than ever, we need to treat people with love.

Every day I have customers at the movie theater where I work yelling at

me about how fresh the popcorn might be, or how small our buckets are.

It seems like there are bigger issues at hand than how many ounces are in a small popcorn bucket.

Treating each other better will help us all to feel safer and believe we are not alone.

No one likes to feel alone. So as the holidays arrive it is important to stay safe, take care of the people around us and give to people who need it.

People are what make up America. It is important to remember what is really important in this great country.

— THE KOHN EFFECT —

Can Abrams bring mystique back to Star Wars?

Dec. 18 … That’s when one of the most beloved movie franchises of all time returns to theaters with “Star Wars: The Force Awakens.”

The latest chapter in the franchise has fans once again speculating about rumors and theories surrounding the movie. Personally, I have avoided reading these various spoilers circulating “the Net” like I would avoid a nest of Gundarks.

The last “Star Wars” trilogy in the theaters (known as the prequel trilogy) lacked the mystery and mystique of the original movies. We knew what was going to occur before even seeing the movies.

We knew Anakin Skywalker was going to turn to the dark side and become Darth Vader. We knew Chancellor

Palpatine would become the Emperor and start the Empire. We knew the Jedi order would be extinguished. There were no shocking revelations.

Excluding the people that read “spoilers” on the web (shame on you), we don’t know much about “The Force Awakens.” Director J.J. Abrams has a reputation for keeping his projects tightly under wraps.

Mark Hamill, who plays Luke Skywalker, has recently stated in an interview that he receives a salary bonus for keeping everything about his character and the movie “hush hush.”

So what do we know about this mov-

ie? The iconic faces of Han, Leia, Chewie, C3-P0 and R2-D2 are back.

The newest additions to the franchise include a young female protagonist named Rey (played by Daisy Ridley) her droid BB-8 and male protagonist Finn (played by John Boyega).

A new evil has surfaced led by Kylo Ren, a man who admires the ideals of Darth Vader and wants to follow in his footsteps while starting a new order.

We know that George Lucas has a minimal role, if any, in the movie, as Disney, which owns the rights to “Star Wars,” neglected to use George’s story treatments.

We know that director Abrams, along with screenwriter for “The Empire Strikes Back” and “Return of the Jedi” Lawrence Kasden, helped pen the script for the latest movie.

We know that the CGI has been ditched, and the puppets and practical effects of the original trilogy are back.

I, for one, want to feel the Star Wars magic like I did as a kid. I want to feel the same awe I did watching “The Empire Strikes Back” for the first time, when I found out Darth Vader was Luke’s father.

I want to feel the same shock (pun intended) when I saw the Emperor shoot Luke Skywalker with Force Lightning from out of nowhere.

Come Dec. 18, I want to feel that strong “Force Awaken” inside of me once again.

— if the schue fits —

It is not offensive to wish someone ‘Happy Holidays’ As Peter Griffin from “Family Guy” would say: “You know what really grinds my gears?” It’s when people get upset about other people (specifically customer service workers) saying “Happy Holidays” instead of “Merry Christmas.”

I understand that a lot of people who live in the United States are Christian, Catholic or any other religion that celebrates Christmas. But here’s the problem: not everyone celebrates Christmas, so don’t be rude about it.

The United States was not founded as a Christian nation, so there is no real reason to force everyone to say “Merry Christ-

mas.” If you don’t believe me, Google it.

Additionally, December is a month filled with holidays that aren’t Christmas. Hanukkah (Dec. 6-Dec. 14) and Kwanzaa (Dec. 26-Jan. 1) are a couple of the more well-known ones that come to mind.

So the person who tells you “Happy Holidays” is not only very likely doing so because he or she is forced to by a boss, but also because it’s a nice sentiment that includes everyone who is celebrating during this time of year. It is illogical to get angry.

Please don’t misunderstand, I’m not

saying that people should only say “Happy Holidays.” I’m merely pointing out that to get offended for someone saying “Happy Holidays” is petty and detracts from the celebration for all.

This same idea applies to those who are offended by someone saying “Merry Christmas” instead of “Happy Holidays.”

If you celebrate Christmas, say “Merry Christmas.” If you celebrate Ha-

nukkah or Kwanzaa, say “Happy Hanukkah” or “Happy Kwanzaa.” If you celebrate something else, say whatever you want to spread holiday cheer. To include all of these, say, “Happy Holidays.”

It doesn’t matter what is being said, it’s the sentiment behind it. Next time you hear “Merry Christmas” or “Happy Holidays,” smile, thank that person and be happy that someone said something nice to you.

15 opinion

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout — staff editorial —

Whether ‘Merry Christmas’ or ‘Happy Holidays,’ enjoy the season As December is upon us and the temperatures are dipping, ‘tis the season for political correctness and

much debate, right?

We all know the narrative by now. There will always be a group of people getting

offended at a commercial or banner that says “Merry Christmas.” At the same time, there will be a differ-

What is your favorite holiday movie?

Jeremy Kohn

Nikki Nicolaou

Editor in Chief

Associate/Design Editor

nicolaon@lcc.edu “‘Elf’”

kohnj2@lcc.edu “‘Scrooged’”

Aaron Emerson

Staff Writer

emersoa@lcc.edu “‘Christmas Vacation’”

Shelby Schueller

News Editor

schuels1@lcc.edu “‘Olive the Other Reindeer’”

Jaimie Bozack

A&E Editor

bozackj@lcc.edu “‘Elf’”

Rich Schenck

Sports Editor

schen1@lcc.edu “‘Polar Express’”

EMMA SCOTT

Aaron Wilton

Lurah Peterson

PAginator

Staff Writer/AD Sales

Advertising Manager

scotte8@lcc.edu “‘Home Alone’”

wiltona@lcc.edu “Disney’s ‘A Christmas Carol’”

petersl8@lcc.edu “‘Home Alone’”

Brian Wells

Photo Editor

wellsb6@lcc.edu “‘Eight Crazy Nights’” Larry Hook

Adviser

hookl@lcc.edu “‘A Flintstone Christmas’”

ent group of people causing a storm over a business being politically correct with a “Happy Holidays” campaign.

In a world where something is always offending someone (i.e. Starbucks’ new cup), it can feel like we are living in a divided society. True or not, let’s at least try to make the most out of the remaining month and finish 2015 strong.

Whether you are using the holidays to celebrate the birth of Jesus, not religious at all, Muslim or Jewish, or just participating out of tradition, something can be gained.

There’s plenty to do – involving religion or not – and many opportunities to show our appreciation to those important to us. The holidays

KEEP GOING!

bring great food, shopping deals, beautiful trees, bright lights, family gatherings, gift exchanges, a chance to start fresh on the first and … a break from school.

Get out and do something.

Go sledding or ice skating.

Buy a Santa hat to take to a Christmas party. Watch some Christmas movies. Eat a bunch of candy canes. And watch the ball drop on New Year’s Eve. Whatever your beliefs, practices, or traditions – or lack thereof – let’s all lighten up this holiday season. Life is too short to bicker and argue over a cup, or about how someone worded an advertisement.

Enjoy yourself, and most of all, each other. The Lookout staff wishes you all a happy holiday season!

You’re headed in the right direction, now keep going!

Credits from your associate’s degree can easily transfer into an online, hybrid, or face-to-face bachelor’s degree program at Central Michigan University.

CMU in Mount Pleasant For a true residential experience, join the excitement on CMU’s main campus.

CMU across Michigan 11 centers across Michigan, local evening and weekend classes, and personal help from first questions to graduation and beyond.

CMU Online Ranked among the best in the nation in online bachelor’s programs.

Central Michigan University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. CMU is an AA/EO institution (see cmich.edu/OCRIE). cmich.edu/GlobalCampus 43557 11/15

Choose the format that works for you and keep moving toward your bachelor’s degree and a career that offers a solid future.

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16|LAST LOOK

dec. 7, 2015 - jan. 18, 2016 www.lcc.edu/lookout Fireworks explode over the Capitol building during the 31st annual Silver Bells in the City on Friday, Nov. 20.

Silver Bells event lights up Lansing

LCC President Brent Knight rides a Segway alongside the LCC float during Silver Bells.

Joshua Davis, grand marshal of Silver Bells in the City, leads the 19th annual Electric Light Parade.

The LCC float drives down Capitol Avenue during the 19th annual Electric Light Parade on Friday, Nov. 20.

Brian Wells Photo Editor The Christmas season has officially found its way to Lansing.

The 31st annual Silver Bells in the City was held Friday, Nov. 20 in downtown Lansing.

The event included the Silver Bells Village, a community sing-along led by the Steiner Chorale, the 19th annual Electric Light Pa-

rade, the lighting of the state Christmas tree, a musical performance by Joshua Davis and plenty of Christmas cheer.

Layna Anderson, communications and marketing manager for Downtown Lansing, Inc., said she believes attendance was higher this year than last year, when more than 70,000 people gathered for the event.

She said the warmer weather this year helped the attendance.

Photos by Brian Wells This year, the high temperature was around 38 degrees Fahrenheit, which is significantly warmer than last year’s high of 19, according to www.wunderground.com.

“We were lucky the snow held off until Saturday morning,” Anderson said. “It was a beautiful night for fireworks, and I think the tree looks great this year.”

The Electric Light Parade included nearly 60 participants, including entries from

Lansing Community College, Lansing Board of Water and Light, Capital Area District Libraries and more. The parade also had 11 high school marching bands, all competing to be the most illuminated band in the parade.

Silver Bells in the City is a Lansing tradition, coordinated by Downtown Lansing, Inc. For more information, visit www.silver-bells.squarespace.com/