Volume 61, Issue 4
Oct. 14 - 27, 2019 Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
www.lcc.edu/lookout
‘Sunset Baby’ shines on stage Scooters return to area; LCC police hesitant to offer endorsement Page >>> 4
Cross country teams set new personal records at recent home meet Page >>> 8
LCC student Miah Nash points a gun at Ndegwa McCloud during the production of “Sunset Baby,” directed by LCC’s Deb Keller. The cast consisted of Nash as Nina, McCloud as Kenyatta, Trvyn Friar as Damon and Ny’keria Blocker, who sang the songs of historic musician Nina Simone. The play is about black revolutionary Kenyatta Shakur and his daughter, Nina. The cast of “Sunset Baby” performed at the Black Box Theatre Sept. 27-28 and Oct. 4-5. For more information, see the story on page 11.
Professor professes her passion for life through her music Pages >>> 11
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Photo by Julie Newell
2|News
oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
LCC crime reports released By Robin Morales Associate Editor In compliance with the Federal Clery Act of 1990, LCC’s Office of Police and Public Safety released the college’s crime and security reports on Sept. 30. The reports tabulate how many rapes, burglaries, incidents of fondling and other crimes occurred on campus property from 2016 to 2018. They also provide information regarding drug violations and how LCC’s police handles reports of sexual misconduct. According to the reports, there was an average of 16 burglary incidents on campus property from 2016 to 2018. There were 70 reported incidents, during this time, of domestic violence as categorized under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA). Domestic Violence is defined in the security report as, “a felony or misdemeanor crime of violence committed.” Any individual subjected to violence by someone whom they were once in an intimate relationship with, whom they share a child with, whom they cohabit (or cohabited) with, or whom they are
protected from by domestic violence laws, would be considered a victim of domestic violence. According to Bill French, LCC’s director of Police and Public Safety, students can practice good crime prevention strategies to protect their personal belongings from larceny. “I’ve been here 39 years and over the years, 90 percent of your larcenies could be preventable,” French said. “Hold on to your stuff, lock your stuff up … if you leave stuff in your car, put it in your trunk, out of sight.” French said another component of his department, in addition to handling crime, is to create and promote a safe environment for everybody on campus. “Public safety’s not just us, it’s everybody’s responsibility,” French said. “See something, say something.” According to the security report, any student can file a crime report anonymously if they choose to do so. “Anyone who is a victim of a crime and does not want to be identified may make a confidential report with LCC Police,” the report states. “LCC Police will
NEWS BRIEFS Register now for fall ‘StarScapes’
Registration for the fall semester “StarScapes” showcase is now underway and runs until Wednesday, Nov. 6. “StarScapes” is a showcase of creative work and innovation produced by LCC students or groups of students. The event is scheduled for Monday and Tuesday, Nov. 25 and 26, in the Gannon Building. In prior years presentations have included work produced for LCC classes and work developed through students’ independent study and research. For more info, visit the “StarScapes” website at https://www.lcc.edu/starscapes/. Photo by Julie Newell
Bill French, LCC’s director of Police and Public Safety, offered safety tips for students and staff.
take a report of the details of the incident without revealing the identity of the reporter.” The crime reports and statistics can be viewed online at http://lcc.edu/campuslife/ safety/.
— Japanese Club seeks new members —
LCC to host College Night Oct. 17 LCC students, high school students, parents and community members are welcome to join college representatives at LCC’s College Night. On Thursday, Oct. 17 in the Gannon Gymnasium. This year’s College Night will include representatives from 50-plus colleges and universities throughout Michigan. Registration is required for the event which runs from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Event parking is free in the Gannon Ramp. Register in-person for the event or online at, https://www.lcc.edu/.
West campus offers diversity expo LCC’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion will host the Black Business Expo and Entrepreneur Pitch Competition Friday, Oct. 18. The event will be held at west campus from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. This free event and competition are part of LCC’s celebration of the 400 years of the African America History Commission Act. All students and community members are welcome to attend, showcase and/or enter the pitch competition. To register visit the website, https://www. lcc.edu/news/2019-black-biz-expo.html.
‘On and Poppin’ with Tonya Bailey
Photo by Julie Newell
Members of LCC’s Japanese Club sold baked goods and played games with students at the club’s recruiting booth, Wednesday, Oct. 9 in the Gannon Building. Club members, from left, include President Hiroko Taniguchi, Public Relations Head Officer Peter Damerow and club member Ben Wernette.
Meet with LCC Chief Diversity Officer Tonya Bailey to discuss issues, ask questions and share ideas for change. No topic or subject is “off the table” at the monthly sessions, held from noon to 1 p.m. The next event will be Wednesday, Nov. 20 in the Centre for Engaged Inclusion in Gannon Building room 2204. Future meetings are scheduled for Jan. 15, Feb. 26, March 25 and April 29, 2020.
3|News
Oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Writing contest provides opportunities By Robin Morales Associate Editor LCC’s creative writers have until Nov. 21 to submit original work in the short fiction, poetry and essay categories for the collegewide phase of the Liberal Arts Network for Development (LAND) writing contest. Any student enrolled at LCC during the 2019 calendar year is eligible to submit up to two entries per category. Monetary prizes will be awarded for the top three finishers in fiction, essay and poetry writing. First place wins $75, second place wins $50 and third place wins $25.
“I think it (the contest) gives students a chance to be heard and a chance to get their creative work out there,” said contest coordinator Rosalie Petrouske, an English professor at LCC. Entries will be judged by LCC English faculty members. The judging criteria for essays will examine an author’s ability in execution of style and in choice of content. Factors in judging fiction and poetry include imaginative insight and sensitivity to language. First- and second-place winners in the college’s contest are automatically
Go Further
entered into the statewide contest. In this final phase, the pool of submissions is extended to students across two-year public colleges in Michigan. At the state level, the first place entrant is awarded $150, second place wins $100 and third place earns $50 per category. Additionally, students who earn a placement at the state contest will have their work published online by LAND and in pamphlet form. Petrouske said that recognition in writing contests, such as the LAND contest, is a great way for aspiring writers to introduce their work to a
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wider audience. “Participating in different competitions teaches them (students) a little bit about what it’s like to send your work out for publication,” said Petrouske. To enter, students can pick up an information brochure from an English instructor or by visiting the Integrated English Area in room 1106 in the Arts & Sciences building. Poems must be 50 lines or less. Short fiction and essays must be fewer than 2,000 words. “It (the contest) provides a lot of opportunity and experience,” Petrouske said.
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4|news
Oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Scooters popping up around campus By Maddy Warren Staff Writer The electric scooter is a modern mode of transportation growing in popularity among college students and other adults. While the scooters appear to be an effective, and even eco-friendly, way to cruise around campus and the downtown area, LCC officials sent out a memorandum recently advising everyone against operating them while on school grounds. “(We) remind all employees and students that electric scooters can be dangerous,” the memo stated. “For safety and liability reasons, the college prefers employees and students refrain from using electric scooters while on campus.” The notice also included a list of seven safety precautions such as
“wear protective gear. In addition to a helmet, that means wrist guards; knee and elbow pads; and close-toed, lowheeled shoes. Obey all traffic rules (and) do not text and ride.” LCC freshman Delaney Torrey said he has never used a scooter, but would give one a try. “I know about them but I’ve never used them,” Torrey said. “(I would) if I needed to. My friends at MSU use them a lot to get them to classes and stuff.” The scooters can be rented through multiple companies. In the past, companies such as Lime-S and Bird have been available in the area. But according to an article published by the Lansing State Journal in August, a new company, Gotcha, signed a contract with Lansing and East Lansing.
Photo by Julie Newell
A group of scooters is shown parked near the Capitol building in downtown Lansing.
Therefore fewer scooters from other companies will be in use, the article stated. Gotcha has an app available for download in the App Store and on Google Play. Riders can connect their cellular devices to a scooter and can pay for the ride through the app via debit or credit card. “I know that you need to download an app on your phone that connects you to a specific scooter and you need to pay for it” said Hope Schneidewind, a police cadet for LCC Public Safety. Although LCC advises against operating the scooters on campus due to safety concerns, Schneidewind said Public Safety has not yet received any accident reports. “We’ve had no complaints about them,” she said.
Breakfast celebrates scholarship donors, recipients By Chloe Gregg Staff Writer LCC hosted what it termed as a “Scholarship Breakfast” at the Lan-
sing Center on Friday, Oct. 4. Scholarship donors and recipients sat together to enjoy a warm welcome into the fall semester and learn a little
Photo by Kevin Fowler
Speaker Katie Belles addresses scholarship recipients and donors at the Lansing Center on Oct. 4.
bit more about where their scholarships came from. After a welcome announcement from Lansing Community College Foundation’s executive director, Toni Glasscoe, scholarship recipients and their donors were served breakfast at their tables and mingled. Several guest speakers told stories related to scholarships, including LCC Chief Diversity Officer Tonya Bailey. “Tonya came on to talk after we ate and her story was incredible,” said freshman Nora Laukkanen, recipient of the Honors Scholarship. “She talked about this moment of realization she had during Christmas that there are endless opportunities for her in the future. It made me really feel like I could do anything, too.” Freshman Emma Hancock, a fellow recipient of the Honors Scholarship, said, “Tonya brought in a small box. Inside was a door handle with keys that she got when she was a kid during Christmas. It represented that there’s only one door between you and your dreams.” Katie Belles, a young mother, came out to talk after Bailey. She presented her story as a recipient of the Larry and Arlene Sierra Scholarship. Belles
emphasized just how honored she felt to receive the award and how much easier life is because she got the financial help she needed. Glasscoe, who is a donor, also spoke, as did Lansing Exchange Club Youth Scholarship recipient Brina Williams. Laukkanen said her favorite part of the morning was hearing Bailey’s story. “It was so emotional and inspiring. Her story really spoke to me because she had been brought up poor and she recognized this and saw her strengths and moved forward.” Hancock’s favorite part was also Bailey’s speech. “She pledged $1,000 to the LCC Foundation to give back because they helped her so much to get where she is now. … I think that’s incredible.” At the end of the breakfast, scholarship recipients and attendees were able to put money into an envelope to go toward the LCC Foundation and give back to the students who need the help. If interested in donating to the LCC Foundation, go to the page titled “Give Now” at https://www.lcc.edu/ foundation/.
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oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Pinball wizards gather at The Avenue By Kari Eastway Staff Writer On most Tuesdays at The Avenue Café, follow the colorful lights, gaming music and the sound of friendly competition, and you will find yourself amongst The Lansing Pinball League and 27 pinball machines. Located at 2021 E. Michigan Ave. in Lansing, the establishment hosts pinball events throughout the year. Colleen Kelley, the owner of The Avenue, and Derik, a member of The Lansing Pinball League, serve as hosts for the events. “The pinball league was started seven years ago by a guy named Matt Priess,” Derik said, as he told the history of the pinball league. “They were a super casual league. “Now it’s not as casual, meaning there are fees and (the) IFPA (International Flipper Pinball Association) is involved, so there are points to be had at the tournaments. “Matt Priess told me that he lived close by here and wandered in here one day and saw there were a couple pinball machines,” Derik continued. “(He) decided he wanted to make it his mission to start a pinball league.” This officially created The Lansing Pinball League, which plays two seasons per year, with eight league nights per season. Currently, the Lansing league is in its 14th season. “A girl named Heather Kendrick stepped
up and took over the league when he (Priess) moved away,” Derik said. Kendrick, with the help of her husband, manages The Lansing Pinball League and has four charity tournaments a year, Derik said. “Basically, for the Lansing Pinball League … we get together every other Tuesday … we get divided into groups, and depending how many people show up, it could be up to five groups; could be more,” Derik said. “Those groups go off and we play a set of five machines … and we write down our scores.” At the end of the night, the scores are uploaded to Facebook, Derik said. “Every other Tuesday, (Kendrick) also does a thing called the ‘smack down tournament,’” Derik explained. This “mini-tournament,” as Derik calls it, involves everyone playing a single chosen pinball machine. The scores are recorded and then Kendrick reports the top four player scores to the IFPA. Anyone is welcome to play pinball and join the league if interested. Kelley mentioned that many students from the Lansing area come to The Avenue to play pinball. Kelly noted that the pinball league meets every other Tuesday at 7 p.m. For more information, call The Avenue Café at (517) 492-7403 or visit http://www.lansingpinleague.com/.
Photo by Kari Eastway
League pinball player Joseph Nebus tries his skill at the Indiana Jones game at The Avenue Cafe.
CLUB SPOTLIGHT
Students can find their role in LCC Filmmakers Club By Kari Eastway Staff Writer Learning the entirety of creating a production and having it released can be a thorough, intense and rewarding project. The LCC Filmmakers Club can assist students who are interested in the filmmaking world. Kasey Bailey, a student at LCC and the president of the Filmmakers Club, said this club has officially been active for a year. However, this does not lessen the experience and goals that the club has to offer. “A student went to one of his success coaches and requested it (Filmmaking Club),” Bailey said. “I heard about it and immediately joined. As soon as the club started, I was at the first meeting.”
The club’s mission statement reads, “To represent Lansing Community College and its student body by displaying our skills and bringing education and inspiration to the world through the films we create.” Bailey explained the varying opportunities the club has to offer, regardless of a student’s major. “We involve students in every aspect of filmmaking, from being in front of the camera to being behind the camera,” she said. “It can be acting … running lights, running sound, they can be doing grip work … everything,” Bailey said. The Filmmakers Club provides members with experience, while providing the community with locally produced short films and support for others.
Courtesy photo
Filmmakers Club members last spring included (l. to r.) Bonnie Sumbler, Meg Schartzer, Kasey Bailey, Will Jones, Daron MacKinder and Dennis Therrien.
“We have a goal of creating at least one short film each semester … and encouraging students to participate in the film festivals that we have in the area,” Bailey explained.
“With each film you have pre-production, which involves the script writing and concept development. Then you have the actual production aspect, which is the filming. And then there’s post-production where you have to edit it, and then you deliver it to your source.” When the short-films are produced, Bailey said, “It could be something that LCC shows, or it could be something that is shown at a film festival, or both. It all depends.” The club’s Facebook page, “Star Productions Filmmakers Club,” updates club members on meeting dates and times, along with upcoming events. Those interested in joining can email Club Adviser Bonnie Sumbler at sumblerb@lcc.edu.
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oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Artist delivers his message with signs By Shauna Stocken Editor in Chief Walking along the Lansing River Trail, creative street signs instruct the public to do more than merely stop or yield for pedestrians. “The installation is called ‘Sign Language,’” said Lansing artist Ben Graham, who also owns the company, Ben Graham Group, Inc. “The signs are based on kind of a philosophy I have; communication defines conscience ... this is my way of communicating my messages to the public, very simply.” On a Saturday in 1974, Graham graduated from Northwestern University, earning his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. The following Monday, he began working for an advertising agency and has con-
tinued creating artwork ever since. “With my ‘Sign Language’ piece, I wanted to convey living a good life, and it’s really that simple,” Graham said. “The first sign is ‘Inspire,’ and it’s on a caution sign; that’s intended to tell people to dream big.” “The next sign is ... ‘Smell The Roses’ on a stop sign that is about gratitude to pay attention to your surroundings and appreciate it. “Just down the way from it is ‘No Whining,’ and that is pretty self-explanatory: stop complaining.” Tori LaDuke, 30, a Lansing eastside resident, said she has noticed the signs, and even photographed Graham’s work, while walking the Lansing River Trail along Rotary Park. “Art brings diversity and culture that at-
tract people to visit and stay,” LaDuke said. “I think Ben’s work is multigenerational … community members and visitors explore the river trail, see those signs and feel inspired.” Graham said he is continuously creating new content with no plans on slowing down or retiring. “People ask me that (about retiring) all the time and I say, ‘for Christ sakes, I’m coloring, why would I quit doing that?’ I’m getting paid for it and I enjoy it … I think people retire way too early when they have a lot of value, and a lot still to add to our culture, our society … old people and young people alike.” For additional information about Graham’s work, visit, http://outstandinginhisfield.com/.
Courtesy photo above; others by Shauna Stocken
Ben Graham stands near some of his unique artwork.
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
High school student enjoys dual enrollment at LCC By Chloe Gregg Staff Writer Every weekday, LCC student Paris Losey wakes up in the morning and goes to Laingsburg High School for the first half of the day; not as a teacher or a faculty member, but as a high school student. Losey is participating in LCC’s dual enrollment program in the criminal justice division. For half of the day, she is in high school taking classes. In the afternoon she is at LCC earning college credits, delving into a field she may be interested in pursuing. “I love the dual enrollment because I can get a head start on what I want to do for my career and enjoy my senior year at the same
time,” Losey said. “Just the other day, they took the class on a field trip to the State Police Department and it was so fun and interesting. I got to ride in a cop car as they sped through their practice course, and eat lunch with all of the state officers and officers in training.” According to Losey, many students opt to take a dual-enrolled course with LCC because of its cost efficiency. As a high school student, many high schools will cover the cost of a student taking an LCC class at least partially, if not fully. Although Losey’s class requires her to come into LCC every day, high school students are also able to sign up for online
classes, which they can participate in while in high school. “I’m hoping to be able to find what I want to do in my future through learning in this class,” Losey said. “I will be continuing to attend LCC after graduation to save money on college. “If someone asked me if they should do this, I would definitely suggest doing it because even if it’s not something you want to do, it’s an awesome experience,” she added. “I’m super grateful to LCC and my high school for giving me this opportunity.” Olivia Sivak, a friend of Losey’s from Laingsburg, has taken multiple dual-enrolled classes through LCC.
Courtesy photo
Paris Losey enjoys a criminal justice class field trip.
“I think Paris and I can agree that taking classes at LCC has helped us financially tremendously,” Sivek said. “I already have 15 credits going into my freshman year at college.”
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Oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Campus Comments Editor in Chief Shauna Stocken and Photo/Sports Editor Julie Newell asked LCC students:
What was your favorite childhood Halloween costume?
Caitlin Pennoni, 17 Pre-Med
Travais Hoskins, 19 General Associate
Nisreen Hammab, 17 Associate in Science
George Kabambe, 21 Marketing
“Rosie the Riveter,” age 10
“Hot dog,” age 9 or 10
“Winnie the Pooh,” age 7
“Vampire,” age 9
8|Sports
oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Stars earn back-to-back v-ball wins By Julie Newell Sports/Photo Editor The LCC volleyball team left the fans on the edge of their seats during its match on Tuesday, Oct. 1 against Grand Rapids Community College in the Gannon Gym at LCC. The Stars won in four games, 27-25, 2522, 17-25 and 25-21. Sophomore left-side hitter Mackenzie Winger commented on the team’s win. “They (Grand Rapids) are number 10 in the nation, so that’s a big win for us,” Winger said. LCC Head Coach Emily Quintero talked about the strengths the team showed during the match. “I’m proud of my girls,” Quintero said. “First line of defense, blocking at that net, that was really prime for us, and trying to keep our serves in.” In total, the Stars had 43 kills in the match, with sophomore middle hitter Maya Ferland delivering 14 of those kills. Sophomore setter Allison Couturier led the team with 37 assists.
There were 88 digs during the match for LCC, with freshman defensive specialist Harley Roe leading the way with 18. “I think that game just changed the rest of our season,” freshman middle hitter Lana Thompson said. “It really pushed us over the edge to make us really come together the most we ever have. … that really sets off a good tone for the next games coming up.” The tone was set and continued into another win for the Stars’ on Tuesday, Oct. 8 in Benton Harbor against Lake Michigan College. This win brought the Stars’ record to 18-6 for the season, and to 7-3 in the MCCAA’s Western Conference. The Stars lost in the first game 25-27, but came back in the next three games, winning 25-19, 25-18 and 25-15. There were a total of 48 kills in the match for LCC, with Ferland delivering 10. Couturier led the team with 41 out of the team’s 50 assists. There were 106 digs in the match for LCC, with Couturier leading the way with 26.
Photo by Julie Newell
Freshman defensive specialist Jacquelyn Rollins (2) delivers a pass as teammate MacKenzie Winger (10), a sophomore, waits for action. Looking on in the background is LCC Head Volleyball Coach Emily Quintero.
The Stars were scheduled to play at Kalamazoo Valley Community College on Thursday, Oct. 10. The next LCC home
match is on Tuesday, Oct. 22 against Glen Oaks Community College. Action starts at 6:30 p.m.
Runners beat personal records at home meet Men place second; women earn fifth
Photo by Julie Newell
Aaron Holburt (right) of LCC leads a pack of runners at Grand Woods Park Oct. 4. Andrew Whitney of LCC (864) is close behind.
By Julie Newell Sports/Photo Editor The LCC cross country teams competed in the Lansing CC Invitational at Grand Woods Park in Lansing on Friday, Oct. 4. “Both teams ran really well,” LCC Coach Jim Robinson said. “We beat all the two-year colleges.” This was the second MCCAA meet of the season. Overall, LCC finished fifth in the women’s 5K race and second in the men’s 8K race. More than 20 teams competed in each race. Coach Robinson had an upbeat attitude after the races were over. “I’m in a very good mood,” Robinson said. “I think all our women either ran their lifetime best time or their season best.” Sophomore runner Claudio Baryo was in high spirits after the race. Baryo finished seventh in
the women’s race with a time of 19:02. “This is the fastest time I’ve run in two years so I was super excited,” Baryo said. Freshman Deziree Shaw was the second Star to cross the finish line, placing 42nd in 20:16. Sophomore runner Dillan Haviland finished second in the men’s race with an 8K time of 25:34. “Dillan ran a huge race, he was second behind a varsity U of M guy,” Robinson said. Sophomores Jacob Ferguson and Chris Davis placed 11th and 12th, respectively, for the Stars with times of 26:05 and 26:08. The Stars’ cross country teams were scheduled to race at the Raider Invitational in Waterford on Friday, Oct. 11. The next meet will be on Friday, Oct. 25 in Dexter for the EMU Fall Classic.
Photo by Julie Newell
LCC freshman Kayla Crawford crosses the finish line at Grand Woods Park as freshman teammate Angela Jaycox follows.
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Oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Couturier sets tone for v-ball squad LCC sophomore setter has cousin with college hall of fame status
The Lookout Sports Editor Julie Newell recently talked with volleyball setter Allison Couturier about her role on the LCC volleyball team. Ally is a sophomore who is studying kinesiology at Lansing Community College. How long have you been playing volleyball? “I’ve been playing volleyball since the seventh grade.” What made you start playing volleyball? “My cousin (Cristi Curtis). She played for Winthrop University in South Carolina and she is in the hall of fame there.” Who inspires you the most? “That cousin, actually.”
Q& A
What types of challenges do you face as the setter for the LCC volleyball team? “It’s a lot of work, but in the end its worth it … it’s kind of hard to get the ball perfect for your hitters to hit.” Do you have any embarrassing moments in your career? “I set the ball over the net on accident instead of setting it to a hitter.” What are your personal goals for the rest of the season? “I’m trying to be first-team all-conference.” What are your future volleyball and life plans? “Hopefully to go and play for another two years at a university for volleyball and schooling.”
Photo by Julie Newell
Allison Couturier sets up a teammate for a spike during recent action in the LCC Gannon Gym.
— Julie’s jukes —
Pro sports are full of mischievous mascots What is the best thing about watching sports? The energy of the players and the fans? The overpriced stadium food? Watch-
ing the sport itself? Well, if you think any of those is the answer, you are wrong. The best thing about
Photo from Zimbio.com
Benny the Bull, mascot for the Chicago Bulls, prepares to slam dunk at an NBA basketball game.
watching sports is the crazy mascots, of course! Here are my top five funniest professional sports mascots. My number one favorite mascot is Benny the Bull from the NBA’s Chicago Bulls. Benny is known for his mischievous shenanigans, crazy trick shots and, of course, his messy popcorn spills that cover the fans. My second favorite mascot is from Major League Baseball’s Philadelphia Phillies: the Phillie Phanatic. This large, green, furry creature is one of the most famous and recognizable sports mascots there is. Phillie Phanatic is known for his extendable tongue and hilarious antics. My next favorite mascot is also from MLB: the Houston Astros mascot Orbit. Orbit is this funny little green alien that is known for his tomfoolery and wicked dance moves. He often challenges players, umpires and security guards to a dance battle. The next mascot on the list is Iceburgh, the penguin from the National Hockey
Julie Newell sports/photo editor newellj1@lcc.edu
League’s Pittsburgh Penguins. I like Iceburgh because penguins are one of my favorite animals. Incidentally, Pittsburgh originally had a real penguin as their mascot in the late 1960s and early ‘70s, before they changed to a costumed one. The last mascot in my top five is Steely McBeam from the NFL Pittsburgh Steelers. He is a newer mascot, being introduced in 2007. Steely McBeam is a big, burly steel worker who carries a steel beam around and wears a hard hat on his head. Next time you’re at a sports contest, keep an eye out for these loony characters.
10|Arts and entertainment
oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
‘Sunset Baby’ offers powerful message By Ali Williams A&E Editor The cast of “Sunset Baby” held its last performances on Oct. 4 and 5 in the Black Box Theatre on LCC’s main campus. LCC instructor Deb Keller directed Dominque Morisseau’s play and had the chance to bring the characters to life. The cast consisted of Miah Nash as Nina, Ndegwa McCloud as Kenyatta and Trvyn Friar as Damon. Performing arts fan Joe Tuchinsky said he comes to LCC performances whenever one is staged. He said he has seen many, and is always impressed with the amazing casts and LCC faculty working at the plays. “Amazing cast and amazing performance,” Tuchinsky said. “Sunset Baby” focuses on black revolutionary Kenyatta Shakur and his daughter, Nina. The pair has a troublesome relationship. Nina views him as an absentee father who only wants to see her to get something: letters from her dead mother that were not sent to him while he was in prison.
Kenyatta struggles with being a father and figuring out his place in 2011 America. His daughter’s mother, Ashanti, is dead. He is now living in a modern world with different problems than he faced before. Nash, who played Nina, said she found power in her character. “(I enjoyed) stepping into that character and finding the power behind it,” Nash said. “I did struggle for a little bit trying to find her, ‘This is who I am and I don’t care and I’m not sorry for it.’” Nash said she liked being able to take her character’s confidence and applying it to herself. She said many people have noticed that she is bolder and stronger. Ny’keria Blocker sang the songs of historic musician Nina Simone in the play. Kenyatta named his daughter, Nina, after singer Nina Simone, as she was an icon during the revolution. “It feels very powerful and it feels so good to portray someone like Nina Simone,” Blocker said. “She is an icon, a legend, a rebel. It feels so powerful being up there portraying her.”
Photo by Julie Newell
Nina, played by Miah Nash, has a heated discussion with her father Kenyatta, played by Ndegwa McCloud.
Student works backstage for play IN BRIEF By Ali Williams A&E Editor LCC sophomore Keeley Robinson had the opportunity to work behind the scenes for the play “Sunset Baby.” Robinson, 19, was the stage manager for the play. The studio theater major acted as the communicator between the production team, the cast and the director, Deb Keller. “I come in with the director to all of our production meetings,” Robinson said. “I take note of all of these things and make sure they are sent out to members of the production team.” Robinson also coordinated between the set designer and costume designer. She helped them understand what Keller needed. She said working backstage allowed her to be more artistic. She had the opportunity to help collect and build props, she said. Before the show, Robinson said her tasks include checking on the cast and confirming they are prepared and in the correct costumes. “During the show, I have kind of helped design lights and I am calling lights,” Robinson said. “I’m running the light board for the show.” During “Sunset Baby,” Robinson said she would sit in the sound booth with the sound and projection assistants. Robinson said she made sure the lights were set up
correctly during the performances. Robinson volunteered to be stage manager for the play. Keller said she picked Robinson due to working with her before. “I got the opportunity from Deb, and Deb is one of my favorite directors here,” Robinson said. “I was very happy for the opportunity to work with her again, even if it wasn’t on stage.” Keller said she needed someone who was able to ask for help and be independent. She said Robinson fit this description well.
“She’s creative, she cares and she has integrity,” Keller said. Keller and Robinson have worked together many times before “Sunset Baby.” Keller said she knew Robinson would be good for the job due to her leadership skills. “Learning how to work together in a way that benefits both of us (is important),” Keller said. “Where both needs can be met, where it’s a win-win situation. And so, once you work with somebody like that … you can brainstorm together.”
Arts and Entertainment
Apple Butter Festival is Oct. 19 Join Fenner Nature Center’s 46th annual Apple Butter Festival on Saturday and Sunday, Oct. 19 and 20. The event lasts from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. each day. Admission is free. There will be chances to stir the apple butter and use the cider press. Attendees can also play heritage games. The festival will also feature local musicians, including LCC instructor Marilyn Tennant. More information can be found at https:// mynaturecenter.org/programsevents/festivals/ applebutterfestival/.
Halloween fun at Towne Center
Photo by Ali Williams
Keeley Robinson uses the light board system after a showing of “Sunset Baby” on Friday, Oct. 4.
Eastwood Towne Center is hosting a free Halloween event on Tuesday, Oct. 29 from 4 to 6 p.m. There will be trick-or-treating at many of the stores and restaurants in Eastwood Towne Center. There will also be haunted treats and giveaways. Attendees can enjoy family entertainment and games. There will also be ghoulish music by Tim the Music Man. The rain date for the event is Oct. 30. For more information, go to https://www. shopeastwoodtownecenter.com/event/Halloween-at-Eastwood-Towne-Center/2145462375/.
11|arts and entertainment
oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Teacher tells life stories through song By Ali Williams A&E Editor LCC nursing instructor Marilyn Tennant, a singer/songwriter, will perform at the Apple Butter Festival on Oct. 19 and 20 at the Fenner Nature Center in Lansing. “I’ve never played there before,” Tennant said. “You’ll definitely hear some of the new songs that I haven’t recorded yet that I’m working on.” One of the songs she will perform is “The Quilt,” which was inspired about a life-threatening event that occurred when she was 28 years old. Tennant is a former LCC student, originally enrolled in the college’s photography program. After she moved to Nashville, Tenn., she transitioned into a nursing student. She received her nursing degree and license there in 2008. A year after completing these milestones, however, a flood changed everything. “There was a flood warning,” Ten-
Courtesy photo
Marilyn Tennant will perform Oct. 19 and 20 at the Fenner Nature Center, 2020 E. Mt. Hope Ave.
nant said. “Not every time I hear of a flood warning do we (my family) evacuate because there’s so many. Especially in Tennessee, in the area I was living in. It just so happened that this was one of those times that we should have.” Tennant said she woke up on a Sunday morning nd there was an inch of water on the street. That was the first warning sign that this was serious. Tennant and her family ended up in the attic as the floodwaters were rising to as high as three feet. She said she and her ex-husband wanted to get their baby to safety, and relied on her neighbor for help. “A neighbor was going by in a canoe,” Tennant said. “We were waving to them for help.” There was a hill nearby, which Tennant said they planned to escape to. Tennant said the neighbor came to help them, but the canoe capsized due to the group of five’s combined weight.
“There was a chain-link fence that didn’t wash away like the wood fences,” Tennant said. “The canoe capsized but I was right at the perfect spot. It was a miracle that I was able to sit on this chain-link fence.” Tennant said she was holding the baby in her arms above the water while sitting on the fence to keep him alive. The group she was in made it to the hill, out of harm’s way. Years after surviving the flood, Tennant wrote her song “The Quilt.” Tennant is recording her next album at Troubadour Recording Studios in Lansing with the owner and sound engineer, Corey DeRushia. “She is a joy to work with, and continues to hone her songwriting skills,” DeRushia said. “I look forward to hearing the rest of what she has in store for this record.” To hear Tennant’s music, go to https://www.marilyntennant.com. To support her next album, go to https://www.indiegogo. com/individuals/22449067/campaigns.
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12|Arts and Entertainment
Oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
reviews
Ding Tea has authentic Taiwanese drinks By Ali Williams A&E Editor I have a confession to make: I am addicted to milk tea. My friend introduced me to it one day, and since then I go buy a drink almost every week. There are not many shops in the Lansing area that have milk tea. However, the same friend that introduced me to milk tea introduced me to Ding Tea, a few doors down from Korea House. Ding Tea, located at 970 Trowbridge Road in East Lansing, has a large menu.
It offers fresh tea, flavored tea, milk tea, fruit juice, Yakult, hot drinks, coffee and lattes. The restaurant also offers a multitude of flavors for all of its drinks. I have tried the shop’s peach milk tea and the classic taro milk tea, my go-to order. Another friend of mine enjoys Ding Tea’s strawberry milk tea. Ding Tea also offers vegan drink options, such as a strawberry slush. Toppings can also be added to the
drinks, such as Ding Tea’s coconut jellies and rainbow jellies. Ding Tea is a more authentic version of milk tea compared to other shops in the Lansing area. The company is originally from Taiwan but also has shops located in China, Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Canada and elsewhere. Ding Tea is open from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. The menu for the East Lansing location can be found at https://dingtea. myrestaurantops.co/.
Photo by Ali Williams Ding Tea offers many flavors for its milk tea, including the taro milk tea (left) and strawberry milk tea (right).
Netflix series has familiar faces, cliffhangers By Maddie Warren Staff Writer Ryan Murphy’s debut Netflix original series, “The Politician,” is bound to leave you wanting more. “The Politician” puts a unique spin on the typical high school “dramedy.” It goes beyond the juvenile teenage TV scenarios such as dating, the desire to be popular, etc. (although it does include its fair share of it). The series digs deeper into more adult topics, such as gun violence, suicide, mental health, relationships and the environment. The show mainly has a veteran cast, in-
Photo from Google Images Ben Platt and Gwyneth Paltrow are among the stars in the new Netflix series, “The Politician.”
cluding many familiar faces, such as Ben Platt (from “Pitch Perfect”), Gwyneth Paltrow (from “Shakespeare in Love”), Lucy
Boynton (from “Bohemian Rhapsody”), and Zoey Deutch (from “Set it Up”). Platt’s performance as Payton Hobart is particularly tasteful and inspiring. Hobart is an ambitious, clever and confident teen, who has had his heart set on becoming the President of the United States since he was 7 years old. Now a senior in high school, he’s caught up in an intense race for student body president. Hobart’s opponent is his Mandarin tutor River Barkley (played by David Corenswet). But not long into the show tragedy strikes and the stakes for the
presidency get even higher. In Murphy’s first show on the streaming platform, the “Glee” creator stays true to his roots as “The Politician” is also complete with plenty of solo and full ensemble musical numbers. Thankfully, a handful of cast members (including Platt) have singing, and even Broadway, experience, so the performances are quite enjoyable. Overall the series is dramatic with a cliff-hanger ending thus far, but it is well written and rather entertaining. The first season of “The Politician” can be viewed on Netflix.
New movie ‘Hustlers’ does not live up to its hype By Chloe Gregg Staff Writer In a nearly two-hour long display of drugs, nudity and capitalism, the new movie “Hustlers” showcases its star-studded cast in a mediocre tale about one stripper named Destiny, played by Constance Wu. And yes, that is her real name. Based off of a scam perpetrated by a group of exotic dancers at a New York club, “Hustlers” shows a realistic view on the world of strippers, especially after the stock market crash in 2008. Without wealthy Wall Street men coming in to unload thousands of
dollars on alcohol and women, strip clubs all around the New York area begin to suffer the effects of the stock market crash. After taking a break from stripping in order to have a child, Destiny decides to go back right after the crash. She ends up joining a crew of strippers led by Ramona (Jennifer Lopez). The ladies have mixed up a concoction of ketamine and MDMA in order to drug rich men, take them to the club and run up their credit cards without them any the wiser. As to be expected, the girls - Destiny, Ramona, Mercedes (Keke Palmer) and Annabelle (Lili Reinhart) - run
Photo from The Nevada Sagebrush
into a load of different problems trying to complete this illegal act. This movie is similar to the likes of other comedies that are overloaded with stars and guest stars. The pur-
pose is to pull in an audience, then give them a not quite horrible, but also not good, movie. Cardi B and Lizzo were both strippers at the same club, for instance, but they didn’t really add anything to the story other than their presence. Although, Cardi B’s past as a stripper and as someone who readily admitted to drugging and stealing from men during difficult times, is an interesting cast choice. “Hustlers” is, at its core, is a representation of stripper life in a capitalistic world with a few comedic turns, boobs galore and a whole lot of J.Lo thrown in.
13|distractions
OCT. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
King Bob
Girls in Sports
By Alex Riley
By Justin Borus and Andrew Feinstein
This week’s Sudoku puzzle is sponsored by:
Hold your newspaper up to a mirror to get the answers to this week’s Sudoku puzzle.
14|opinion
Oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout — Stocken speaks —
Grab your ‘Gold Pass’ to Cedar Point I recently stumbled upon a deal so great. I felt like Charlie Bucket from Willy Wonka, as I received my “Gold Pass” to Cedar Point. Cedar Park amusement park in Sandusky, Ohio is celebrating its 150-year anniversary with a celebration throughout the remaining 2019 and the entire 2020 season. The season pass, known as a “Gold Pass,” allows guests access to Cedar Point and Cedar Point Shore Waterpark, free parking, exclusive discounts and more. My fiancé and I purchased two passes for only $99 each, a steal when regular admission cost is nearly $50 per person, and
Shauna Stocken editor in chief
stockens@lcc.edu
the cost of parking is $20 per vehicle. I grew up visiting Cedar Point, Michigan’s Adventure and Kings Island with my family and friends, so I’m happy to continue the tradition as an adult. As a kid, my family called me “the rollercoaster queen.”
As an adult, rollercoasters have been known to make me sick as I exit a ride, but I still find them amusing. Cedar Point has something for all thrill levels and ages to enjoy, which is why I believe purchasing a “Gold Pass” is the best way to experience the massive park. I used my “Gold Pass” with friends and family, Sunday, Sept. 29, as I visited Cedar Point during “HalloWeekends.” “HalloWeekends” is Cedar Point’s annual Halloween event that dresses up the park in scary decorations, pumpkins, trick-or-treating for kids and a selection of haunted mazes and outdoor scare zones. The cooler weather made the spooky
attractions more festive and kept me from overheating, as I have done during summer months at Cedar Point. Although guests are not permitted to wear masks or carry fake weapons, makeup and costumes are encouraged. I stuck to wearing orange jewelry and a shirt with a witch on a broomstick that reads, “Where my witches at?” The drive to Cedar Point was a fun threehour road trip on Saturday evening. I used the free reservation site, Expedia, to purchase a hotel for $65 with an indoor pool. With my “Gold Pass” in my wallet, I’m ready for my next exhilarating adventure to Cedar Point.
— Robin’s Rant —
The juxtaposed scenes of downtown Lansing Amidst the foot traffic, parking meters, streetlamps and shops that make up downtown Lansing, there is an interweaving of poor and rich, beautiful and ugly, sacred and profane. There are luscious and vibrant gardens adorned by greasy McDonald’s bags. There are drug deals made behind garbage dumps while Jehovah’s Witnesses hand out pamphlets before Lugnuts games. There are people who live in the colorful apartment buildings and people who shiver through the night atop the cold concrete in their alleyways. I can walk along Washington Avenue and smell roasting Spanish peanuts blend with
the heaviness of cigarette ash. I can walk along Capitol Avenue and hear business calls of entrepreneurs who ignore the homeless man’s plea for $3 in a Mississippian accent. On Monday, the Capitol lawn might be the stage that a group of angry middle school students use to protest flax gun laws. On Tuesday, the same steps might be utilized by a group of elders to protest the legality of abortion. This social and economic duality is integrated in every facet of the downtown district. So many people enjoy the fruits of lavish jobs and materialistic possessions. Many others devote the majority of a day looking for their next meal.
Robin Morales Associate editor
moraler4@lcc.edu
It would be easy to label the vulnerable in our city by any variety of descriptors that would suggest self-responsibility for their position. So easy, in fact, that so many of us are prejudiced to think this way already. Labeling the vulnerable gives many people who work hard and do the right thing a
delusional sense of comfort that they have earned everything they have by their own merit. Perhaps one of the largest human challenges in the routine of daily life is to be aware and compassionate toward the poor – in terms of both economic and emotional poverty. The widespread attitude of oblivious indifference has long been crippling the thin fabric of our communities. We should care about the homeless, the mentally ill, the lonely, the unloved, welfare recipients, teen mothers, simply because they are fellow human beings. I hope downtown Lansing will cease to abandon these people.
— LCC is family —
Anti-vaxxers responsible for lives of our children Vaccinations have been a common medical practice for over 200 years. Edward Jenner is credited as the founder of vaccinations after he inoculated a young boy with cowpox in 1796, creating an immunity to smallpox. According to The Immunisation Advisory Centre, the first official smallpox vaccine was developed in 1798. The invention of the smallpox vaccine saved millions of lives and eradicated the deadly disease altogether throughout not just the United States, but the entire world as well. However, diseases that were once thought to be eliminated have become more common due to the trend of anti-vaccinations.
Chloe Gregg Staff Writer
greggc3@lcc.edu
A journal called The Lancet by Dr. Andrew Wakefield suggested that “... the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR) vaccines caused autism in some children.” The study was widely reported and the information spread like wildfire among parents. Parents have chosen to not vaccinate
their kids, increasing their chances of getting diseases, carrying diseases and/ or dying from the diseases, rather than have autistic kids. However, the study by ex-physician Dr. Wakefield proved to have faulty results. Moreover, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) discharged an examination, demonstrating that an aggressive vaccination schedule does not increase autism incidences. There have been multiple cases of outbreaks of diseases that previously were considered eliminated. For example, California had the worst whooping cough outbreak the nation has had in over 50 years back in 2010, despite there being a work-
ing vaccination for it. Getting children vaccinated not only protects them, but can also protect kids who aren’t able to get their vaccinations due to medical reasons and/or poorly-working immune systems. All public schools within the 50 states of the U.S. require updated vaccinations for children trying to enter them. Given that there are scientifically proven methods of keeping children from contracting diseases, there is no reason to not vaccinate a child who is healthy. The idea of not vaccinating kids due to autism or religious reasons has been proven time and again to be an unsafe decision for children.
15|opinion
oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout — staff editorial —
The state of impeaching ‘Mr. President’ Only two presidents have been impeached in the history of the United States. The first was Andrew Johnson in 1868 and the second was Bill Clinton in 1998. Both impeachments occurred under dubious circumstances, and neither president was convicted of any crime. Evidence suggests that Richard Nixon, in the wake of Watergate, would have been convicted and removed from the presidency for obstruction of justice. Perhaps because of this, he formally resigned in 1974, before a trial could occur. He is the only president
to resign from office. On Sept. 24, Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) moved to open articles of impeachment against President Donald Trump. Several committees within the House were formed to examine the claims that Trump allegedly conspired with the Ukrainian government to track personal information concerning former Vice President Joe Biden and his son Hunter. The anonymous CIA “whistleblower,” who first provided evidence of any potential wrong-doing, reports that Trump abused his presidential
powers in an effort to gain an advantage in the 2020 presidential election. Inquiries are ongoing and will likely continue to garner national attention for months. At The Lookout, we believe any public official who engages in illegal activity ought to be impeached and removed from office. However, while the claims against Trump are undoubtedly serious in nature, there is no guarantee he will be convicted if a trial ever reaches the Senate. Impeachment, as detailed in the constitution, is a long and complex process
rife with potential political stagnation. If an impeachment successfully moves out of the House, the accused is put on trial in the U.S. Senate with the Supreme Court presiding. From there, two-thirds of the Senate must vote to convict the accused. The Lookout staff does not believe Trump will be removed from office as a result of the impeachment charges brought against him. This opinion reflects the nature of impeachment, not Trump’s supposed innocence or guilt concerning the current investigations.
— Your Right to Know —
Public notices belong in public places, like newspapers The Leaders of the Republican Caucus in the Michigan House of Representatives want to pull public notices from newspapers and allow governmental entities (cities, villages, township, counties, etc.) to satisfy notice requirements by putting them on their websites. This is an unprecedented blow to governmental transparency and due process. A version of this legislation has been introduced in each legislative session for the past 12 years and has failed. Why? Because then, as now, it is a bad idea. From the very start, Michigan law has required that notices of governmental actions be provided to citizens by publication in newspapers, an independent source of information about the actions of government. Now, legislators are proposing to end this important check
on governmental power. The Michigan Press Association has been told this issue is in the top five priorities of the Speaker of the House. With crumbling roads, failing schools and escalating health care costs, we fail to see government control over messaging as being on any citizen’s list of priorities. The legislators in support of this movement say that this will save money … but how? Is this the one exception to the Republican’s embrace of privatization? It defies logic that government can do this better and cheaper than newspapers, who have provided this valuable check and balance for over 150 years. A quick glance at some local government websites doesn’t give one comfort that things will be done well under this new scheme. A couple of shining exam-
Dirk Milliman Public policy committee chair, Mich. Press Assoc. ples: one township website lists among its elected officials a Congressman who has been deceased for several years. Another has not updated meeting agendas since 2014. Public notices belong in a public place, like a local newspaper, not on a government website, which can also disenfranchise certain users, like low income individuals who do not have access to the Internet, or the elderly who are not comfortable using the Internet.
What IS your favorite ScarY movie of all time? Shauna Stocken
editor in Chief
Robin Morales
Associate editor
Ali Williams
Julie newell
A&e editor
sports/photo ed.
stockens@lcc.edu
moraler4@lcc.edu
willa156@lcc.edu
“The Craft”
“Psycho”
“Sinister”
—
Bayelee Hodge
Page Designer
Having to look for notices on each individual government site would be laborious at best and a good way to conceal information at worst. We at Michigan newspapers take the responsibility of keeping you informed very seriously. Whether it be making sure Freedom of Information and Open Meetings laws are being followed or proper notice of things like zoning that might put a landfill in your neighborhood is happening. We remain the vital watchdogs in our communities. If knowing an independent, reliable source is watching what elected officials are doing with your taxpayer dollars is important to you, contact your state representative and senator to tell them you want to keep seeing your public notices where you notice … in a newspaper.
the lookout staff
Kari eastway
ad manager
Chloe Gregg
staff writer
Maddie Warren
staff writer
larry hook
adviser
newellj1@lcc.edu
hodgeb9@lcc.edu
eastwak1@lcc.edu
greggc3@lcc.edu
wareem13@lcc.edu
hookl@lcc.edu
“Never seen a full horror movie”
“The Cabin in the Woods”
“The Shining”
“Midsommar”
“Get Out”
“The Birds”
16|LAST LOOK
oct. 14 - 27, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Photo by Julie Newell
Guests at this year’s Blocktober Party in Old Town enjoyed a free game of Hammerschlagen, an authenic German drinking game dating back to 1940.
Photo by Julie Newell
Austin and Victoria Raithel wear German clothing.
Blocktober takes over Old Town By Shauna Stocken Editor in Chief Lansing’s Old Town Blocktober Party, formally known as Oktoberfest, celebrated German heritage and community fellowship Oct. 4 and 5.
The two-day event on Turner Street brought guests 21 and older out for German-inspired food, beer and yard games. “We always featured some games when we were Oktoberfest, but we decided to expand it more this year with
Photo by Julie Newell
For $3 guests received wristbands for unlimited throws from Bull’s Eye Axe Throwing of Lansing.
the Blocktober Party,” said Shannon Murphy, secretary on the Board of Directors for the Old Town Commercial Association, which hosted the event. There were free games of giant Jenga, beer pong with buckets, ring toss into a hula-hoop and the German drinking game hammerschlagen. A corn-hole tournament and axe throwing were available for small fees. Khristina Kauffman from the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitor Bureau spent this year celebrating the event as a volunteer. In past years, Kauffman has attended with family and friends. “I definitely like it better; it’s more relaxed and not as intense, more people are coming,” Kauffman said. “The free games are a lot more fun for people to participate in, so you don’t need a whole lot of money to come out.” According to Murphy, Oktoberfest is one of the most significant fundraiser events of the year, benefiting the revitalization of Old Town. “We are thrilled with the turnout this
Photo by Shauna Stocken
Ayden Morton of Morton’s Fine Catering prepares a bratwurst during the Blocktober festival.
year,” Murphy said. “We always have a lot of community support. I think having that block-party feel makes people feel like it’s more of a party. “Some people may not have wanted to go to a traditional Oktoberfest … now it’s just a party on your street in your town.”