Spikers’ stressing teamwork
Local art marks REO Town
Enjoy First Fridays specials
Sports >> Page 6
Features >> Page 4
A&E >> Page 9
thelookout
Sept. 16-29, 2013 Volume 55, Issue 2 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
Semester kicks off with Business Fair
Nathan Wilson Editor In Chief
Students couldn’t resist seeing what all the commotion was about as hundreds of students packed into the Washington Mall in front of the Gannon Building Sept. 4. Businesses, restaurants, universities, student clubs and more were represented during LCC’s Registered Student Organization (RSO) and Local Business Fair as a part of Welcome Week 2013. According to LCC Director of Student Life Al Nowak, Welcome Week is designed to acclimate students to campus in a fun and informative way. During the fair, Student Life volunteers distributed literature, handed out free popcorn and promoted LCC’s Start Here, Get There program.
Amy Keel, assistant director of Siena Heights University at the University Center, handed out free T-shirts and provided students with information about the college’s transfer options. “We have a great partnership with LCC, where as far as Siena, we are very transfer-friendly,” Keel said. “If students have an associate’s of an applied field from LCC or any institution, that associate’s transfers to Siena as their major. So we don’t make them repeat any of those classes.” Some of the programs offered at Siena Heights through the University Center include a bachelor of business administration in Accounting, bachelor of arts degree in Community Counseling, a Health Care Leadership M.A. program and more. Students interested in
Photo by Suzanna Powers
Pharmacology major Joshua Payne has his caricature drawn by Humorous Illustration Professor Dennis Preston during the Registered Student Organization and Local Business Fair Sept. 4.
taking courses through Siena Heights at the University Center can contact Keel at (517)
483-9726 or akeel@sienaheights.edu. During the fair, LCC teacher Molly Cryder-
man-Weber drew attention to the college’s music programs by playing a marimba. A marimba is
a set of bars that resonate when struck by a mallet. See Business, page 2
Open house welcomes prospective students Nathan Wilson Editor In Chief
Photo by Suzanna Powers
Universiyt Center Academic Adviser Tonjala Eaton (left) speaks with Todd Lake of Northwood University and student Marraiyah Black about enrollment at the University Center Open House Sept. 11.
LCC’s University Center invited students to learn about their transfer options during a fall open house from throughout the day on. Sept. 11. Conveniently located across the street from the TLC Building, the University Center offers courses and programs from Ferris State University, Lawrence Technological University, Northwood University, Siena Heights University, University
of Michigan-Flint and Western Michigan University. Representatives talked oneon-one with students as they explored the various bachelor degree programs offered just across the street from LCC. “(Northwood University) is a business school,” said Todd Lake, admissions adviser from Northwood University at the University Center. “We have nine different degrees that we do here in the Lansing area … Students can meet with an adviser or they can meet
with me so that we can put the right plan together for them.” According to Lake, Northwood University offers a Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) that can award college-level credit for specific degree programs based on a student’s professional experience. A maximum of 30 semester hours of credit may be awarded through a PLA portfolio, which must be submitted within the student’s first term See Open House, page 2
2 NEWS
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Business Continued from page 1
Photo by Suzanna Powers
LCC History Professor Jeff Janowick addresses an issue during the Academic Senate in the University Center Sept. 6.
Academic Senate discusses change Jaimie Bozack News Editor LCC’s Academic Senate met in LCC’s University Center Sept. 6. The meeting was focused on the Academic Senate’s tasks, which included topics such as innovation, student success, community engagement and resource management. The two-hour meeting also touched on late-add policies and waitlists. One of the more urgent topics was the upcoming renovations in the Gannon Building. According to Dean of Students Evan Montague, the renovations will start taking place now. Many of the classes will be moved to the TLC Building. With the new renovations comes the stress of new rooms, miscalculations and the switching of buildings in the middle of a semester. Other topics of discussion included the rise in online classes and LCC’s efforts to keep updated and prepared
for the change. LCC is now offering more online classes and will continue to offer more throughout the semester. The Academic Senate meeting concluded with a plan to change the culture at LCC to involve faculty more with students and to get LCC on track. For more information, students can attend the next meeting held Friday, Sept. 20 in the University Center.
“A lot of students really enjoy music so it’s great that they can take a music class for their MACRAO transfer Humanities class to satisfy that,” Cryderman-Weber said. “We want to have more of the wider campus know about us and know that you can take a music class and have it count toward something. You can also take it for personal interest.” When students weren’t visiting the booths from various organizations, they checked out some of the activities offered on campus. Students were encouraged to test their strength against the rock-climbing wall, which was provided by the U.S. Army. Free food is always a crowd pleaser, and many students gathered around the table hosted by Jimmie John’s employees to pick up free sandwiches. The Grand Traverse Pie Company was also present with pie samples ranging from apple to blueberry and cherry. Other campus activities included a “Keys to Leadership” scavenger hunt, where students went from one LCC department to the next, learning about the various resources available to them. Around 3 p.m., students and staff gathered in the out-
Open House Continued from page 1
Photo by Suzanna Powers
LCC Professor Jim Luke answers questions during the Academic Senate Sept. 6.
at Northwood University. Patty Spagnuolo, director of the University Center and Transfer Initiatives, explained the benefits of attending a course offered through a major university in a smaller setting. “A lot of students aren’t prepared to go into a lecture hall with 500 students,” Spagnuolo said. “Here they go into a major university and you have maybe 20 to 30 students in your class ... It’s individualized so the instructor can actually know the students.” Spagnuolo highlighted the
Photo by Suzanna Powers
LCC student Sandra Yang scales the U.S. Army rock-climbing wall during the LCC RSO and Local Business Fair Sept. 4.
side amphitheater for a magical comedy show presented by Josh McVicar “The Trickster.” LCC Student Anthony Baker said he didn’t realize how much LCC had to offer until he saw the RSO and Local
Business Fair. “There are a lot of interesting clubs here at LCC that sound like fun,” Baker said. “I also had the chance to look at some of my transfer options after I finish my education at LCC.”
University Center’s 3+1 Program, which allows students to spend three years at LCC while they earn an associate’s degree in their field of choice. The student then spends an additional year earning his or her bachelor’s degree at the University Center. During the open house, students were invited to the second floor to partake in refreshments, sandwich wraps, chips and cookies. Video testimonials from students’ experiences at the University Center played in the background. Students could also enter a contest for an iPad mini to help
with their studies. LCC sophomore James Djikstra said he visited the open house to get some ideas about where he would like to take his education after LCC. “The Health Care Leadership program at Siena Heights definitely appeals to me,” Djikstra said. “When I finish up my program at LCC, I’m definitely going to talk to an adviser (at the University Center) about my options going forward.” For more information about registration and the programs offered at the University Center, visit http://www.lcc.edu/uc/ programs/ or call (517) 4839700.
3 NEWS
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout
IN BRIEF News
Develop skills with LCC club LCC’s Future Teachers’ Club will help aspiring education teachers improve their professional development, help the community and reach their goals. The first club meeting will be held Wednesday, Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, contact Adviser Mary Brown at (517) 483-1115 or brownm@lcc.edu.
Connect to jobs with workshop Unsure which career to pursue in life? The Job Connections Workshop set for Tuesday, Sept. 17 will help students idenPhoto by Nathan Wilson tify career paths and where to focus their job searches. Former Michigan Republican spokesman Matt Davis (middle) debates voting rights issues with Ingham County Clerk For more information about the Job Barb Byrum (left) while Michigan Public Radio reporter Rick Pluta moderates Sept. 9. Connections Workshop, call (517)-4925579.
Start Here, Get There visits CMU Students who are interested in transferring after LCC can take advantage of Start Here, Get There College Visits. The trips will let students explore different college campuses, meet the people there and find out more about the school. Some of the colleges that will be included for visits include Central Michigan, Ferris State and Michigan State. The next Start Here, Get There trip will take place Saturday, Sept. 21 at Central Michigan University. For more information about signing up, visit www.lcc.edu/ studentlife.
Join music fiesta at Capitol steps Music with a Mission brings together music, activities and volunteering Sept. 19, 20 and 23 at the State Capitol steps. This event is a benefit for the Lansing Volunteers of America (VOA) Homeless Shelter. There will be a number of activities taking place, including a VOA shelter donation and food drive, musical performances, drum circles and open mics, speakers, a raffle, a silent auction and more. For more information, visit allevents.in/ Lansing/Music-with-a-Mission-Fiesta.
Panel debates voting rights Nathan Wilson Editor in Chief
LCC observed U.S. Constitution Day in the Administration Building with a panel discussion about voting rights Sept. 9. LCC hosted the panel in partnership with Jackson College. The panelists included former Michigan Republic spokesman Matt Davis, former Michigan Democratic Party Chair Mark Brewer, Ingham County Clerk Barb Byrum and American Civil Liberties Board member Sally Wallace. The discussion was moderated by Michigan Public Radio reporter Rick Pluta. Some topics of discussion included voter ID laws in Michigan, voter coercion, no reason absentee voting and the possibility of online voting. “If you look at the history of voting rights in this country … voting rights legislation and voting rights practices have been used as a political tool generally by the group in charge to suppress the vote or advance the vote of their supporters,”
Brewer said, wasting no time getting to the heart of the matter. “We’re just now seeing the latest … incarnation of this two-centuryold battle.” Wallace echoed Brewer’s thoughts, telling the audience that voter fraud generally doesn’t exist and it is very difficult to carry out. She added that the current voter laws in Michigan suppress the vote. Pluta went on to ask the panelists what is wrong with asking someone for their state ID before being allowed to vote. “It’s expensive in many cases to get an ID or not easy,” Brewer said. “In some of these states, they require you to get … an original birth certificate to get an ID … That’s a real problem.” Byrum expressed concerns about the restrictions placed on no-reason absentee voting, which would allow Michigan residents to vote early without providing a reason. “We should be focused on affording people the opportunity to vote and have their voice heard rather than focusing on suppressing the vote, and
that’s what we’ve seen in our state,” Byrum said. Audience members were also encouraged to ask questions of the panelists. Dedria Humphries, who teaches writing at LCC, asked the panelists, “What interests are served when voters are disenfranchised? And where is the Republican agenda coming from that’s affecting Michigan?” “I don’t think anyone’s interests are served,” Davis said. Byrum debated the point with Davis. “It’s creating all these steps in order to vote,” Byrum said. “It’s all these steps added up that make it more and more difficult for people to vote. It disenfranchises lower income individuals, it disenfranchises minorities, (and) it disenfranchises students.” Davis still maintained that no one’s interests were served by denying someone their vote. The panel wrapped up within an hour, and the audience thanked the panelists for their participation.
— Just Jaimie —
Transitioning from high school to college When I started college at LCC, this is how I expected things to happen: party every night, sleep all day and somehow manage to cram my homework in the night before it’s due. Nope. I quickly learned the first week of school that college is no joke. It’s actually homework all day, study all night and somehow cram sleep in when I can. I’m not going to lie: the first two weeks of college have been stressful for me, as it has been for probably a lot of you. Coffee has become my new best friend, sleep has been nonexistent, and
homework has been piling up. College life has definitely met and even exceeded my expectations. The transition from high school to college can be difficult. As I’ve learned, you have a lot more free time and independence. I spent the other day sitting on a bench for two hours watching video clips of Conan O’Brien during my two-hour break, laughing to myself. Probably not the best way to meet new friends. Independence is another thing I’ve had to get adjusted to. I now have a debit card, probably the
worst and best decision I’ve ever made. Being in college, you have to make a lot of tough and important decisions by yourself, which can sometimes be the hardest; from the small decisions like yesterday when I decided on M&M’s instead
of a salad for dinner, to the larger ones like moving out and getting a job. Balance is something I’ve lacked physically in gym for a while, but it’s also something I’ve lacked with my lifestyle. With the start of college, I’ve tended to put some things off — like homework — to focus on meeting friends and socializing. Sometimes it’s so easy to get caught up in work and schoolwork that you never have time for the people around you. Or sometimes it’s the other way around and you have a little too much fun with your friends the night before class.
Making time for fun is important and is the only way you’ll be able to enjoy college to the fullest. But making sure you have time for homework is also important. Whether you just started out in college, have been in college or are going back to college, managing your time and adjusting is the most important thing. Everything is new. New campus, new people and new classes. I’ve learned college is amazing and fun but it’s also really easy to make poor decisions. Staying on track and keeping focused is the key to getting through it.
4 FEATURES
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Lansing area presents First Fridays Jeremy Kohn Staff Writer In association with Lansing Inc., the Greater Lansing area presents First Fridays. Various bars, restaurants and novelty shops, in cooperation with Lansing’s First Fridays, run discounted specials, have extended hours and provide special entertainment events during the first Friday of every month. Lansing’s First Fridays has also teamed up with the public transportation service CATA. CATA offers free bus and express trolley rides that run every 30 minutes between Lansing and Downtown Lansing. Nikki DuJardin, a representative for Lansing’s First Fridays, talked about how she got involved with volunteering for this event. “I had a contact management class with a former intern who recommended the posi-
tion,” DuJardin said. “I also received an email from my professional writing adviser on open internships and Lansing’s First Fridays was among them.” DuJardin said she wanted to get involved with an event that would familiarize her with some of Lansing’s hotspots. “Being new to the Lansing area, I wanted to get involved with Downtown Lansing, Old Town and East Lansing businesses,” DuJardin said. “That sense of community Lansing’s First Fridays promotes is integral to our economy and I’m glad to be a part of it.” As well as havig advertisements through newspaper outlets, Lansing’s First Fridays is using social media to spread the word about this event. “We have things like Tuesday Trivia where Facebook followers can participate and win
Photo by Jeremy Kohn
Some of Clara’s regular customers enjoy a meal during Lansing’s First Fridays in downtown Lansing Sept. 6.
prizes, and we also have hashtag contests on Twitter as well,” DuJardin said. Places running specials for Lansing’s First Fridays range from restaurants to night clubs, art galleries and salons. Crunchy’s in East Lansing is offering a buyone burger, sandwich or wrap and receive anoth-
er at half price deal. Katalyst Art Gallery in Old Town is featuring a new artist every month and is offering wine and hors d’oeuvres between 6 and 9 p.m. Tavern of the Square, located in Downtown Lansing, is running happy hour from 3 to 6 p.m. as well as half off draft specials.
Cindy Jubeck , a manager at Clara’s Restaurant in Lansing, talked about the relationship her establishment has with Lansing’s First Fridays. “Clara’s is a part of the downtown association,” Jubeck said. “We support the local economy and we are a member of Lansing Inc.
who helped organize the event.” Students in need of a break from studying or finding themselves sick of doing absolutely nothing on a Friday night should let Lansing First Friday’s be the cure. For more information, visit http://lansingfirstfridays.com/
Hole in the Hall provides snacks, supplies for students Chelsea Allen Freelamce Writer
Almost every college student would agree there just isn’t enough time in between classes to get everything done. Tasks such as using the bathroom, making a phone call or simply grabbing a bite to eat are now a part of one’s to-do list because of having to walk from class to class. Some are luckier than others where they give themselves a break in between classes, but if you’re not one of those people and you’re rushing to get to your next class while your stomach is screaming, then the Hole in the Hall is right for you. Not only does the American Marketing Association’s Hole in the Hall offer snacks, it provides drinks, school supplies, designated course packets and more. It is quick and easy to purchase whatever one needs in a short amount of time. Since the ’80s, the Hole in the Hall has
Photo by Suzanna Powers
LCC Graphic Design student Alexandrea Arens purchases a pop from Hole in the Hall student-employee Brent Bos.
been located in several different places around LCC’s campus, according to student employee Brent Bos. Students can currently find it on the first level of the Gannon Building room 133. The Hole in the Hall is entirely student-run by Bos and Dominique Vaughn. However, LCC’s AMA is managed by student adviser Bill Motz. “Our number one seller, I’d have to say, is popcorn,” Bos said. LCC sophomore Rick Tanner said he often goes to the Hole in the Hall to purchase his snacks and drinks throughout the day.
“I would rather come here than anywhere else on campus because they are cheap and have everything I want,” Tanner said. Even professors agree the Hole in the Hall is a must-have on campus. “It’s necessary to have and it’s perfectly located,” said Accounting Professor Susan Reed-Quinlan. “I love the Hole in the Hall. I don’t know what I’d do without it.” Whether in need of snacks or supplies, student can stop by the Hole in the Hall if they haven’t yet and say hi to the guy behind the counter.
5 FEATURES
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Writing Center now open and ready Amber Glomb Freelance Writer
Armed and ready to revise with boxes unpacked and students waiting to gain writing assistance is LCC’s Writing Center. The Writing Center, prior to Arts and Science Building (A&S) renovations, was located in A&S 251. The center is now open in A&S 202 Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. According to Kimberly Cole, LCC’s lead writing assistant, the move yielded improvements. “I would say that the biggest improvement would be the natural light,” Cole said. “Before, our windows were very small and only in half of the space. There wasn’t a whole lot of natural light.” The writing center’s new location is an open floor plan, according to Cole. Students can see any part of the room from any position. “There is more opportunity to plug in your own laptop at different stations,” Cole said. “We went from a
ing. It’s not our role to judge them or to grade them, just to help them.” LCC student Amy Zesiger said she shares Cole’s belief regarding the Writing Center’s helpfulness. “Sometimes writing is something that students really struggle with,” Zesiger said. “We all have our different areas of struggle and I think that if students are given the opportunity to get help from people who are willing to help them, then I think that’s definitely a good thing.” As a new space on campus, Cole said she encourages students to check out the Writing Center and see the many opportunities the location provides. “A lot of people feel that they’re pretty solid writers and they can’t get Photo by Suzanna Powers help,” Cole said. Peer writing assistant Eli Klein (left) helps student Paula Esch (right) on an assign“A new eye is always going to give ment in the Arts and Sciences Writing Center on Thursday, Sept. 12. you something. Even the most qualibank of computers for students use to about ideas, outlines, rough drafts, etc. fied authors have an editor that gives a bank of laptops.” with students from any stage of writ- them feedback. There is always an opportunity … There’s always room for Although there have been changes ing. made on material things, the services “Some of them (peer writing assis- improvement.” For additional information about the Writing Center provides haven’t tants) are still students at LCC,” Cole the Writing Center, call (517) 483changed. The center remains to be a said. peer-based tutoring service. Peer writ“Generally, that helps students feel 1907. http://www.lcc.edu/as/writinging assistants are willing to converse more comfortable sharing their writ- center/
CES JobLink assists students with careers As a student of Lansing Community College, there are many resources available to you that can help make your educational pursuit more successful. If you haven’t heard of the Career & Employment Services Department (CES), you are missing out. The CES staff is committed to your success as a student and beyond. The advisers and professional staff will assist you with career planning and facilitate development to help you become career ready when you graduate or transfer.
Through the use of an interactive four-step process that includes various career assessments, they can help you understand how your interests, skills, values and personality can guide success in a particular ca-
reer field. The end goal is to prepare all LCC students to handle the challenges of today’s complicated and ever-changing marketplace. In addition to career advising, CES manages student employment, assists with resume and cover letter development and provides various workshops on networking, social media and job search skills. CES also provides students the opportunity to participate in mock interviews. And let’s not forget CES JobLink, your employ-
Visit LCC in St. Johns Valerie Benjamin-Glover Freelance Writer
Traveling along U.S. Route 27 in Clinton County, many people tend to think fondly of Uncle John’s Cider Mill or the emerald green acres of mint farms tucked behind dusty side roads. St. Johns’ region is comprised of strong rural communities. For 15 years, it has housed one of the most eco-friendliest, ecocommercial community … LCC’s Clinton County Campus. This satellite community college campus is not landscaped next to a Japanese garden or towering among a 10-story glass structured Health Care facility on main campus. The St. Johns campus is not nestled next to the highway with a new, high-tech, sleek campus such as East and West Campuses. The St. Johns Campus blends in with the downtown business district. LCC’s St. Johns is small, well-integrated and accommodating for residents of the northern region of Michigan. Rose Klein, LCC part-time Support Services staff, fondly described the campus as
a one-stop shop center and hi-touch. “Right now, we offer 30 to 40 course sections this semester,” Klein said. According to Klein, many professors usually teach multiple siblings from the same family at the St. Johns Campus. “Our campus has several strong assets,” Klein said. “It’s convenient for residents who live mostly north. Students would love to attend the main campus; however, that commute is not economical. Secondly, the staff is hands on. “While we certainly encourage the students to be self-sufficient, they do not have to visit five offices to take care of enrollment registrar, financial aid, academic advisement, testing or career development. “We provide more support. We are a one-stop shop center. Finally, our campus performs the highest academic success rate of all the LCC campuses.” Clinton County’s LCC campus track record for academic excellence, eco-friendliness and economic development is pristine, hi-grade and hi-touch, according to Klein. This campus is more than just a satellite; its future looks astoundingly bright.
ment super highway, a one-stop job posting board similar to CareerBuilder. The CES JobLink website, lcc.experience.com, allows you access to student
employment jobs as well as part-time, full-time, seasonal, temporary, internship and apprenticeship opportunities. Visit the CES Office and
explore all the services that will help you in developing a successful career. CES is located on the second floor of the Gannon Building in room 218.
Fall 2013 Events and Services Offered by Career & Employment Services Tel.: (517) 483-1172 www/lcc.ces/ Career & Employment Services (CES) provides a variety of resources, services, and events to assist LCC students and alums with choosing a career, preparing resumes/cover letters, preparing for interviews, and job /internship searching. Career/job search, internship, and apprenticeship advising appointments may be scheduled . In addition, CES offers career assessments via an online module and 24/7 access to on-campus and off-campus job listings via CES JobLink at lcc.experience.com. Sign-up (register) in advance for all events and services below, except for Walk-In Advising Days slots. (Walk-ins are welcome at workshops, space permitting.)
Workshops:
Thurs.-Sept. 5 Fri.-Sept. 6 Mon.-Sept. 23 Wed.-Sept. 25 Tues.-Oct. 8 Fri.-Oct. 11 Tues.-Oct. 15 Thurs-Oct. 17 Fri.-Oct. 18 Tues.-Oct. 22 Wed., Oct. 23 Fri.-Oct. 25 Tues.-Nov. 19 Wed.-Dec. 4 Fri.-Dec. 6
MAIN CAMPUS: 4:00pm-5:00pm 11:00am-12:00pm 4:00pm-5:00pm 11:30am-12:30pm 12:00pm-1:00pm 11:00am-12:00pm 12:00pm-1:00pm 12:00pm-1:00pm 11:00am-12:00pm 12:00pm-1:00pm 11:30am-12:30pm 12:00pm-1:00pm 11:00am-12:00pm 11:30am-12:30pm 11:00am-12:00pm
Career Planning Career Planning Career Planning Career Planning Resume Writing Resume Writing Cover Letter Writing Career Planning Cover Letter Writing Interviewing Career Planning Interviewing Career Planning Career Planning Career Planning
GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134 GB 134
Career/Job Search Advising Appointments at the LCC Library (1/2 hr. or 1 hr. appts. during 4-7pm)(sign-up in advance.)
Wed.-Sept. 4 Wed.-Oct. 2 Tues.-Oct. 15 Tues.-Nov. 12 Wed.-Nov. 20 (In a Group Study Room----- you will be informed which one when you schedule.)
Tues.-Nov. 26
Also, individual career/job search advising appts. and internship/apprenticeship assistance appts. are available at CES during regular business hours; sign-up in advance.
Walk-In Advising Days (walk-in 1 hour advising slots for all career/job search advising needs, including resume and cover letter critiques) at CES-218 Gannon or temp. location: Wed.-Oct. 16 Thurs.-Nov. 21
Workshops:
Tues.-Sept. 24 Tues.-Oct. 1 Tues.-Oct. 8 Tues.-Dec. 3
Events:
(9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm) (9am-12pm & 1pm-4pm)
WEST CAMPUS: 4:00pm-5:00pm 4:00pm-5:00pm 4:00pm-5:00pm 4:00pm-5:00pm
IT Resume Writing IT Cover Letter Writing IT Interviewing Career Planning
WC/M124 WC/M124 WC/M124 WC/M124
(Designed for IT-related majors) (Designed for IT-related majors) (Designed for IT-related majors) (Open to all academic majors)
Tues.-Oct. 29
8:00am-5:00pm IT Resume Critique Appointment Day WC/M103 (Check-in) (particularly for preparation for the event below)(sign-up in advance)
Fri.-Nov. 8
12:00pm-3:00pm IT Speed Networking Event (To be held on West Campus)(sign-up in advance)
6 SPORTS
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout
No panic for spikers Richard Schenck Sports Editor Fresh off a Sept. 10 victory against the Redhawks of Lake Michigan College, the LCC volleyball team has raised its record to 2-1 in the MCCAA and 5-8 overall. As cliché as, “don’t judge a book by its cover” may sound, a sub.500 record isn’t fazing this group. LCC Head Coach Emily Quintero doesn’t see 5-8 start as a reason to panic because there are many positives to be taken away up to this point in the season. “We’ve played some tough teams, so (we’re) just building up the confidence and getting the girls to know that they are very capable,” Quintero said. Quintero was quick to point out that sophomore Carly Darrow is alone at top of the conference for blocks this
season. Despite a less-thanstellar start to the season, Quintero and her players are on the same page as to the direction they want the season to go. “We are gelling pretty well,” Quintero said. “We have a pretty solid balance of technique and team building. So hopefully I am developing a well-rounded group of girls, not only on but off the court.” With the freshmen outnumbering the sophomores two to one, leadership will be heavily relied on to have the success the team hopes. Sophomore outside hitter Camri McCoy has caught the attention of Quintero with her elevated play during this tough beginning stretch. “Last year as a freshman I felt like I didn’t step up to the plate,” McCoy said. “As a sophomore this year I
felt like I needed to step up, lead the team, and show them what college volleyball is all about.” Tough losses to strong opponents can physically and emotionally wear down on those not accustomed to college athletics. With a young group of players it is crucial to maintain a balance to get the job done. “We have worked on a lot of communication; that really helps with the game and being emotionally there,” McCoy said. “Physically we are there I think. It’s just emotionally overcoming the obstacles.” A mantra of perseverance and strong will is being preached to the newcomers by McCoy and the other sophomores. “It’s about being tough through the entire match,” McCoy said. The spikers continue their three-game road
Photo by Suzanna Powers
Carley Darrow (middle) spikes the ball in the third set against Ancilla College Sept. 5.
trip on Tuesday, Sept. 17 against the Bruins of Kellogg Community College. Their next
home game is Sept. 24 in the Gannon Gym against Muskegon Community College.
Scheduled game times and match results can be found at www.lcc.edu/athletics.
Top-flight running propels harriers to first place Richard Schenck Sports Editor
Strong performances to start off the season are what every athlete and coach envision as the building block to a solid season. It wasn’t so much a vision as it was reality for the LCC men’s and women’s cross country teams at Jackson Community College’s Jets Invitational on Sept. 6. Having at least six runners out of the top 10 propelled both teams to first place overall. Top-three finisher Chris Gantt of LCC said he has no doubt this dominating performance has prepared his team for greater things down
the road in 2013. “Definitely, we’re more prepared this year than last year,” Gantt said. “We’ll have more individuals coming in one after another very closely, and giving us good times.” With the men’s side having a bigger squad than previous years, Gantt said points will be earned much easier by LCC. Being one of the leading runners, Gantt seems to have a good finger on the pulse of the team and can tell when teamwork during meets brings out the best in his fellow runners. “If one person doesn’t do well, the next person will step up and help that person. We are all here to
Athlete Spotlight Chris Gantt
help each other out,” Gantt said. Not to be outdone, the LCC women’s team turned in an equally impressive showing, matching the men’s first overall finish. As the season goes on, short-term initiatives are used to springboard to the ultimate prize, according to first-year LCC runner Allison Dible. “We are already setting goals to be number one in regionals, to be top 10 in the nationals; pretty big things to start off with in the getgo,” Dible explained. With a good amount of runners, particularly for the men, LCC Head Coach Chuck Block said he sees a strong group, but also a group that has close-knit feel to it.
“The camaraderie is great, and we have a lot of great runners,” Block said. “So depth-wise, if someone gets injured, I’m not worried.” All the success individually and across the board has the team in good spirits. For Block, in the grand scheme there is a lot more to take away than just results. “I think it’s great for the college, that we’re bringing a lot of kids in from out of the area,” Block said. “I think it’s just a win-win for everybody.” The Stars were scheduled to take their talents to East Lansing for the Spartan Invitational on Sept. 13 and come home for the Lansing Invitational on Oct. 4. For more information go to www.lcc.edu/athletics.
The Lookout recently spoke with second-year LCC runner Chris Gantt. The graduate from Dowagiac Union High School is looking to build on a stellar 2012 season in which he earned All-Region XII, All MCCAA and MCCAA All Freshmen team honors.
Q. What is your major at LCC?
A “When I came to LCC it was elementary education. It’s been on my mind ever since I started high school and I always love helping people and teaching, from sports to even school work. I just love helping people.”
Q. What are your plans after LCC?
A. “I would like to stay in the state of Michigan. I do have Grand Valley on my mind, Ferris State, Saginaw, of course, but I’m also having Western (Michigan) on my mind which doesn’t have a running program ... I want to continue running. If all that doesn’t work I might stay here for a third year and help coach out and get a scholarship and focus more on my schoolwork; get my associate’s and then go on to a university in the state of Michigan.”
Q. When did you have the moment when you knew you wanted to run?
A. “It was right after my junior year, I went to state (finals) and didn’t really perform well but I figured I wanted to be one of the best. My senior year I won regionals for my school, I was the first person ever to do it in my school. I went to states and I got All-State, just barely made it and I figured, ‘Well hey; I feel that I can just continue to go up, I haven’t even touched the surface yet.’ I figured I could go to a college or university for my school and for running to be a bonus. I didn’t know I was going to come here until less than a month before school even started. It’s one of the best decisions I’ve ever made in my life.”
7
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout
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8 ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT DeLong dazzles at The Loft
Sept. 16-29, 2013
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Brooke Burns Freelance Writer Loud music, people dancing and bright lights. If you experience those things, you might be at a Robert DeLong concert. DeLong performed live at The Loft Sept. 4 with special guest artists Ghost Beach and Flint Eastwood. The performance was a part of DeLong’s Global Concepts tour and to promote his first album. DeLong grew up in Seattle. He said he was a involved in many different bands while he was in high school. He studied
drums at Azusa Pacific University. “My dad was a drummer,” DeLong said. “Growing up around him was my first introduction to music.” DeLong started out as a drummer, but he added more electronic instruments later on. “(I started out) listening and playing music all the time,” DeLong said. “Some of my favorite artists were Brian Eno, Boards of Canada, Radiohead and Flume.” Now DeLong plays solo. He produces his own music, sings, puts his own
electronic sounds into his music and plays drums. Among the cool things that DeLong also uses are video game controllers like a Wii remote and joystick connected to a computer to put different sounds into his songs. “I do not know any artist who uses Wii and Xbox remotes to create different sounds in their music,” said LCC student William Smith. “DeLong had something special. Overall, the concert was great.” The night of the concert, DeLong definitely wowed the crowd. He brought en-
ergy, he danced, sang and played drums all while entertaining the crowd. “It’s an amazing experience playing live,” DeLong said. “It’s cool, and you get to feed off the energy of the crowd, and you jump around and have a good time.” Some of LCC’s students attended the concert. “I thought the concert was pretty exciting,” said LCC student Nick Cook. “Robert DeLong was a cool guy, and he seems to know how to put on a show.” Making people dance and bringing energy to
Photo by Jaimie Bozack
Electronic musician Robert DeLong performs at The Loft.
the show is definitely a big part of DeLong’s concerts. “To me, it’s what it’s all about, as long as people are having a good time and getting down at the show,” DeLong said. When DeLong was singing, dancing and doing all
of his tricks on stage, everyone else was having a great time. “His music does make you want to dance,” Cook said. “It’s composed well and it is very catchy. He’s like a one-man music machine!”
Explore a LAND of opportunity for young writers Jeremy Kohn Staff Writer
Attention, LCC creative writers. Do you think you have the writing skills to become the next Robert Frost or H.P. Lovecraft? Then put your writing prowess to the test and enter LCC’s LAND Writing Contest. The LAND Writing Contest is open to all LCC students
Who wants soup?
who wish to compete. Winners will be chosen in three different categories, including poetry, short stories and essays. “Any student is welcome to submit their work into the contest,” said LCC Professor Dedria Humphries. “You don’t have to be a writing student to enter. The only thing necessary to enter is to be enrolled as a student at LCC.”
Students who wish to participate in the contest must write original stories; no previously published work will be accepted, only real names can be used and no pseudonyms will be allowed for the competition. Students who write short stories or essays are limited to using up to 2,000 words, and poems must be 50 lines or less. All applicants must submit
their final writing by email. “Those who enter can write as many as six different entries; two from each category, two short stories, two essays and two poetry entries,” Humphries said. Poetry and short stories will be judged on imagination, sensitivity to language and control of formal elements. Essays are judged on originality, purpose, audience aware-
ness, organization, style and mechanics. The first-place winner will receive $150, second place will receive $100 and third place will receive $50. Winners of this contest go on to compete at a statewide competition. For more information about the LCC LAND Writing Contest, contact Humphries at 267-5848 or humphrd@email.lcc. edu.
by Vincent Mata
Lansing Community Squirrels
by Maranda Zimmerman
9 A&E
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout
IN BRIEF Local talent at Art Attack! Arts & Entertainment
Performing Arts presents Agnes of God LCC Performing Arts will present Agnes of God, a dramatic mystery exploring the meaning of faith and the power of love. Court psychiatrist Dr. Livingstone must assess the sanity of a young novitiate accused of murdering
her newborn. The play is directed by Paige Dunckel. Agnes of God runs from Oct. 4 to Oct. 12 on Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. in GB 168. Tickets are $10 at the door. For more information, call 517-483-1488.
Tom Green stops in Lansing for laughs America’s long-lost funny man Tom Green is coming to Lansing’s Connxtions Comedy Club with his stand-up act. The shows take place Friday and Saturday, Sept. 27 and 28 at 8 and 10:30 p.m. Tickets cost $24.50 each.
Green is known for his self-titled show during the early 2000s, his MTV personality and comical, unpredictable roles in Road Trip. For more information, visit http://www.connxtionscomedyclub.com/lansing/ shows
Art exhibition opens at Broad Museum Michelle Handeman’s new multi-channel video installation will be on display at MSU’s Broad Museum following an opening ceremony Friday, Sept. 20. The exhibit, “Irma Vep, the last breath,” opens at 7 p.m. following the artist
conversation at 6 p.m. This event is free and open to the public. Handeman’s exhibit is based on the 1915 silent film Les Vampires. For more information about “Irma Vep, the last breath,” visit http://broadmuseum.msu.edu/
Sarah Spohn A&E Editor
The third annual Art Attack! Festival in REO Town proved to be a successful event despite a chance of showers. The festival took place Sept. 7 from noon to 8 p.m., offering free live music, food, an art competition and hands-on activities. Put on by the REO Town Commercial Association (RTCA), the festival displayed locally-made products, art, music, brews and food. REACH Studio Art Center was on deck, providing free activities for kids, across from the Michigan brews beer tent stage. Vendors sold locally-made clothing, crafts, paintings, photography and various art pieces. Artists could participate in the art showdown, which allowed enthusiasts to show their creative side during the “Face-off” theme of the art contest. They were provided with building materials like lumber, paint, concrete, pipes, etc. and six hours to construct their masterpiece within a 10 x 10 foot space to display to viewers and judges. Held in the heart of REO Town, Art Attack! Festival brought out distant artists as well as local talent. LCC Criminal Justice major Wendy Dalton teamed up with her partner,
Photo by Jaimie Bozack
LCC student Wendy Dalton (right) and artist Armando Fernandez paint for a contest during the Art Attack! Festival in REO Town Sept. 7.
Armando Fernandez of Flint, to participate in the art competition. Their piece’s theme combined the old REO Town with the new facelift. Dalton said they wanted to tear an old face off and show the new one from underneath, reflecting all the revitalization work that was recently done along the street. She said this was her first year taking part in the competition, and she enjoyed the event despite the midafternoon rain showers. “My favorite part was getting dirty,” Dalton said. “Seriously, I don’t mind at all because it means I’m working … and accomplishing something.” Jeffrey Barker has been volunteer-
ing with RTCA for over a month, but he has lived in REO Town for the last three years. Barker said the goal of the event was to bring everyone to the heart of REO Town. The third annual Art Attack! Festival offered some changes compared to prior years’ schedules. The event was brought back to the original commercial district location, alongside the former Art Alley and Cadillac Club. “We wanted to highlight the major facelift,” Barker said. Unlike last year, entertainment was free to all. The event also featured its own official after-party at the REO Town Pub, one of Art Attack!’s sponsors.
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10 A&E
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Downtown’s hottest place for cool treats Sarah Spohn A&E Editor I wouldn’t say I’m a connoisseur of frozen confections, but I do certainly love a good scoop every now and then. And when I say every now and then, I mean every … time. During summer, it only gets worse. The month of July was practically just one big brain freeze. That being said, I get around the ice cream joints in town. And if you’re blissfully unaware of the parlor perfection that just started serving scoops this past June, then you’re in for quite a treat. Capitol City Scoop, an ice cream parlor owned by Felix Compos at 625 E. Michigan Ave., officially had its ribbon cutting on June 28. Ever since, it’s been downtown’s hottest place to cool off.
Photo courtesy of Capitol City Scoop’s Facebook
Capitol City Scoop is currently offering 50-percent off on Groupon.
I know what you’re thinking, it’s nearing fall. We’re talking retiring the flip-flops, wearing
sweaters, jumping in leaves, apple cider and doughnut weather, but hey—it’s ice cream. And
any time is a good time for ice cream, if you ask me. This place knows all about local. The Capitol can be seen from the doors, and the staff serves products from the MSU Dairy Store. Currently, 12 flavors are offered from the MSU Dairy Store, as well as cheese products and soon-to-be grilled cheese and soup for the new fall menu. I tried the sesquicentennial swirl, a cake batter ice cream, thick green fudge swirl frosting and cake pieces. It wasn’t as heavy as some cake batter flavors that leave you thinking you might just die from salmonella poisoning from licking the batter bowl. The cake bits were a nice twist, compared to other cake batter imitations that only in-
clude sprinkles. Like any parlor, samples are offered and rarely turned down. I tried the Blue Moon, which has never been my thing, but my face reaction wasn’t nearly as bad as it’s been at other taste tests. I also sampled the Buckeye Blitz (yeah, Ohio State, sorry) with peanut butter ice cream, fudge swirl and peanut butterfilled chocolate pieces. It was super rich, and it seemed like your four-legged friends would be in heaven if they licked it. But in no way am I encouraging giving this flavor to your dog, because it does contain chocolate. Just too peanut buttery for me. Also “on scoop” are the frozen four slap shot, chocolate chip cookie dough, orange sherbet and the classic vanilla bean. Downtown Lansing’s only ice cream parlor is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
The Last of Us delivers beautiful story experience Nathan Wilson Editor In Chief I may be a little late jumping on The Last of Us bandwagon, but at least I got there. It’s probably the only worthwhile video game I’ve experienced this summer and I took my time to absorb the story from beginning to end. Despite coming out this past June, The Last of Us continues to make news on gaming sites
and garner rave reviews. The premise behind The Last of Us puts a clever spin on the zombie, post-apocalyptic cliché that has been played out to no end. In The Last of Us, an outbreak of mutant Cordyceps fungus has spread across the United States, infecting the general populace and turning once sane humans into savage, cannibalistic hosts. Cordyceps fungus actually exists, but it only attacks the host bodies of ants and other insects,
altering their behavior and causing them to commit suicide. The fungus then lives inside the exoskeleton and reproduces. The Last of Us picks up 20 years after the Cordyceps outbreak, where we find a smuggler named Joel residing in a policed quarantine zone in Boston. He is tasked with delivering a girl named Ellie to a group of scientists in Colorado. Ellie eventually reveals she was infected by the fungus, but she is immune to the behavior-
altering symptoms. She is believed to hold the secret to producing a vaccine to reverse the tide of the mutant strain that has decimated America. The interaction between Joel and Ellie is the true gem of the game as they become an inseparable family that has survived so many trials and tribulations. Despite the engrossing plot, the gameplay can be a bit repetitive at times. I can only sneak around so many zombies and kill so many bandits before my atten-
tion starts to drift. As I said before, the narrative is where The Last of Us truly shines. The last hours of game-
play are especially gutwrenching as the end goal lies within reach. Here’s hoping a sequel is in the works.
King Crossword
Nine Inch Nails most mature work Jeremy Kohn Staff Writer After completing a full-fledged U.S. tour in 2009, Trent Reznor, lead singer of the band Nine Inch Nails, made the announcement this would be the band’s final tour. It was hard for fans to fathom that a band which had won countless Grammy’s and was such an influential force in the alternative music movement would be calling it quits. After releasing a musical side project How to Destroy Angels, featuring Reznor’s wife Mariqueen Maandig, the world didn’t hear from the enigmatic frontman for a while. Rumors began to spread in early 2013 that Reznor had been recording new Nine Inch Nails material. Reznor would come clean on the band’s website confirming this rumor that he had in fact, been work-
Photo courtesy of pitchfork.com
Nine Inch Nails released its eighth studio album Hesitation Marks Sept. 2.
ing tirelessly for the past year on a new Nine Inch Nails record. The new album, released on Sept. 2, is entitled Hesitation Marks and may be Reznor’s most introverted work to date. Musically the album is sound, capturing the essence of previous albums like Pretty Hate Machine and Downward Spiral while also exploring new
territory for the band. Older fans of the band, however, may be quick to judge this album. Reznor is not as loud and angsty on this record compared to the band’s early work. I wouldn’t say the lyrical content on Hesitation Marks is happier, but Reznor definitely delves into some emotional territory on this record. This can be seen in songs such as “Find My Way,” where Reznor sings, “I have made a great mistake, Pray my Lord my soul to take” and on the song “Copy of A” with the lyrics, “Always trying to catch up with myself, I’m just an echo of an echo of an echo, listening to someone’s cry for help.” This album took me a couple listens before I started to enjoy it. Although I don’t think this album is on the same level as the band’s previous works, I have come to respect the growth and maturity of Reznor’s lyrics and appreciate the album for exploring new grounds.
Solutions to puzzle at lcc.edu/lookout
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11 OPINION
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout — Staff Editorial —
Voting rights: use them or lose them LCC recently celebrated Constitution Day with a panel discussing voter rights, especially as they relate to students. The panel raised a number of issues that interested The Lookout. For example, some of the panelists discussed the idea of expanding the period during which people can vote. We believe a week would be a reasonable time period to allow American citizens to vote in state and federal elections. As students, many of us spend anywhere from six to eight hours on
any given day in class. Sometimes we can’t even find enough time in between classes to grab lunch as we race from one classroom to the next. It’s unfair to limit voting to a single day, given students’ hectic schedules. This is made even more difficult when juggling classes with the part-time jobs we need in order to survive. Non-students who stick to a busy schedule can also benefit from an extended period for voting.
— I am invincible! —
Classified Advertising CITY PULSE NEEDS INTERNS The City Pulse, Lansing’s alternative weekly newspaper, is seeking interns for fall semester. The position involves writing news and A&E stories, photography and entering events in a listings calendar. The position is unpaid, but can be for academic credits. Roughly 10-15 hours a week; flexible. Contact Andy Balaskovitz at andy@lansingcitypulse or call 517-999-5064.
The Lookout staff’s opinion is split when it comes to voter requirements. Some of us believe it isn’t unreasonable to ask a voter to show his or her state ID in order to vote, while some of us think this targets low-income families or minorities. However, we all agree Michigan and other states could make it easier for residents to obtain a state ID. There’s no doubt, more needs to be done to increase access to voting instead of suppressing the vote.
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Syria strike helps no one Last year, U.S. President Barack Obama reflected on the civil war raging in Syria. He said if Syrian President Bashir Assad used chemical weapons against his own people, he would cross “a red line” that would result in enormous consequences. On Aug. 21, 2013, a chemical weapons attack near Damascus left over 1,400 civilians dead, 426 of whom were children, according to the U.S. Now Obama is faced with the grim reality of following through on his promise, and he is pushing ahead with plans for a punitive military strike. Assad has been slaughtering his people for over two years now as he clings to power by brute force alone. We passively sat by and condemned it. Why is it that we are complacent with the Assad regime slaughtering over 100,000 of his people by bullets and bombs, but suddenly we are outraged when he uses chemical weapons? In other words, we won’t intervene if Assad uses more conventional means of slaughter? What occurred on Aug. 21 is a tragedy, but I don’t believe it is our
What is your favorite part about the fall season?
role to intervene. First, a military strike would accomplish nothing. Obama said we will not oust Assad from power and this attack will be limited in scope. If we aren’t killing Assad or crippling his military, what’s the point? Is this just a slap on the wrist; then we let Assad go back to killing his people by conventional means? We’ve seen time and time again what happens when we try to “liberate” countries under dictatorships. Our military actions stoke the flames of extremism, birthing a new generation of terrorists. The public overseas views us as an empire invading their lands. We will not be welcomed with open arms if we fire missiles into Syria. Furthermore, such an attack has the potential to inflame a regional war. Syria may retaliate
by attacking Israel. Gen. Mohammad Ali Jafari of Iran’s Revolutionary Guard said a U.S. attack on Syria would result in “the immediate destruction of Israel.” Russia, a staunch ally of Syria, has already dispatched two warships in the Mediterranean where five of our destroyers are in position to strike. Can we really afford another war after the debacle in Iraq and Afghanistan? No doubt, I will sound callous saying we should not act, but I stand by my judgment. I’m all for sending humanitarian aid and providing support for moderate rebels, but a limited missile strike with no intention of removing Assad would be insane. I don’t believe Obama wants to authorize military action. If anything, I believe he feels forced to act. His promise from last year is coming back to haunt him, and if Obama doesn’t fulfill it, he will look weak and cowardly on the world stage. This isn’t about punishing Assad or lifting the pressure off the Syrian rebels. It’s just politics, plain and simple.
thelookout Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
Nathan Wilson
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Larry Hook
Sports Editor Photo Editor A & E Editor News Editor/Paginator Staff Writer Paginator Advertising Manager schen1@mail.lcc.edu spohns1@mail.lcc.edu bozackj@mail.lcc.edu kohnj2@mail.lcc.edu nicolaon@mail.lcc.edu powerss5@mail.lcc.edu petersl8@mail.lcc.edu
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Richard Schenck
“Lions and Saints football.”
Sarah Spohn
Jamie Bozack
“Burning my au“Busting out the tumn leaves candle.“ sweaters.”
Jeremy Kohn
“Oktoberfest and pumpkin beer.”
Nikki Nicolaou
“Hot caramel apple cider.”
Suzanna Powers
“Apple picking and cute clothes.”
“Leaves changing colors.”
“Watching lots of football.”
12
Sept. 16-29, 2013 www.lcc.edu/lookout