Volume 59, Issue 1 AUG. 28 - SEPT. 10, 2017 Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959
www.lcc.edu/lookout
Welcome Week! Students get acclimated as fall semester begins
Dr. Chris Lewis assumes new position as Dean of Student Affairs for LCC Page >>> 3
Both men and women harriers finding success in Stars’ culture Page >>> 6
Students and faculty gather on campus to view partial solar eclipse Page >>> 12 Photo by Ashlee Buhler The StarZone was very busy at the start of the 2017 fall semester. Several students waited in line to meet with advisers before heading off to class on Aug. 24. See Welcome Week story on page 4.
Check us out on
2|News
Aug. 28 - Sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
IN BRIEF NEWS
Mall to show 9/11 quilt memorial The Capital Area District Libraries have collaborated with the 9/11 World Trade Center Memorial Quilt Project to bring a showing of the quilt to the Meridian Mall, 1982 W. Grand River Ave. in Okemos, from Friday, Sept. 8 through Monday, Sept. 11 in the southeast wing. The quilt will be on display Sept. 8 and 9 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., Sept. 10 from noon to 6 p.m., and Sept. 11 from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Grandparents’ Day at museum on tap
Photo by Ashlee Buhler
The Learning Commons, located in room 108 of the Arts & Sciences building on Lansing Community College’s main campus, is shown on Aug. 24.
Learning Commons offers wide variety of resources By Ashlee Buhler Associate Editor Without a doubt, the beginning of a new semester can be stressful. Luckily for LCC students, the Learning Commons offers a
Photo by Ashlee Buhler
Deb Kwaposz and TeAnna Tapehouse, employees in the Learning Commons at LCC, are available to help students with various educational needs.
wide variety of resources to ensure success. The Learning Commons is located in room 108 of the Arts & Sciences building on LCC’s main campus. “We like to say this is where the real learning happens,” said Deb Kwaposz, a support employee in the Learning Commons. Free tutoring is one of the many resources offered in the Learning Commons. There are currently over 100 professional tutors available to assist students with their coursework. “We have tutors with bachelor’s, master’s and Ph.D.’s in their subjects,” said Kwaposz. Students interested in tutoring can reserve a weekly appointment with the same tutor for the duration of the semester. Or they can stop by for walk-in tutoring with no appointment needed. The Learning Commons also offers Supplemental Instruction. This is a program where SI leaders facilitate group discussions about class content and help students develop the skills they need to succeed. Other amenities include private study rooms, printing stations and desktop
computers with access to ChemDraw, MATLAB and Photoshop. The salt- and fresh-water fish tanks add a nice touch to the relaxing environment. Students can also borrow items they might not personally own such as computers, calculators, headphones, textbooks and anatomy models. As a tutor, SI leader, and lead clerical support associate, TeAnna Tapehouse wears many hats in the Learning Commons. “I usually do a lot of the computer and Microsoft parts, but if somebody needs help with math or something I try to step in and help,” Tapehouse said. “If I can’t help, I will get another tutor who can.” Both Kwaposz and Tapehouse agreed their favorite part of the Learning Commons is the people they encounter every day. “It’s like a loving family — everyone is here to help and support,” Kwaposz said. During the fall and spring semesters, the Learning Common hours are as follows: Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information visit https://www. lcc.edu/tutorial/
AARP of Lansing is sponsoring Grandparents’ Day on Sunday, Sept. 10 from 1 to 4 p.m. This free event will take place along the Riverwalk from the Lansing Center to the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum. Many family-friendly events will take place simultaneously. This event is an opportunity for grandparents to have some fun with their grandkids.
‘The Lookout’ staff earns top honors The staff of The Lookout, LCC’s official college newspaper, earned a first-place award in the 2017-18 American Scholastic Press Association’s annual competition. The Lookout won in the category for college newspapers that are published less than weekly. This was the second straight year The Lookout earned a first-place award in the ASPA contest. Judges in the competition rated The Lookout very high in content, page design, art, advertising, illustrations and creativity. Overall, The Lookout earned 895 of a possible 1,000 points in the competition.
Advisers are needed for LCC clubs Are you a full- or part-time staff or faculty member interested in serving as a mentor, a team builder, a role model and a motivator to an LCC student organization as an adviser? If so, please contact the Student Life Office. Students are frequently looking for employees to help advise registered clubs and organizations. Be sure to include areas of interest so the Student Life staff can match you with an appropriate student group. To apply, email vandevr@lcc.edu or call (517) 483-1036.
3|News
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Dean brings new life to Student Affairs
Photo by Aaron Wilton
Dr. Christopher Lewis is the new dean of Student Affairs at Lansing Community College.
By Aaron Wilton Editor in Chief Lansing Community College recently filled the position of dean of Student Affairs with native Michigander Dr. Christopher Lewis. Lewis, age 42, has been working in the student affairs field for 20 years. He spent the last eight years at Western Michigan University as the director of enrollment programs & student services and the associate director of admissions. “I love being able to engage and work with students,” Lewis said. “And I’m really excited about what we’re doing here (at LCC) and the direction that we’re heading.” Lewis talked about his short-term plans for LCC. “I’ve been trying to get a feel for all the great things we’re doing here in the divi-
sion,” he said. “We’ve got some work that we’re doing right now to define our goals.” Lewis elaborated on the purpose of defining goals. “As you probably know, Student Affairs is a very large division and, because of that, we want to make sure that everybody is rowing in the same direction. I know that doesn’t say, ‘We’re doing these five things.’ We’re not there yet, but we’re going to get there.” Scott Skowronek, administrative assistant to the dean of Student Affairs, shared his perspective on the new dean. “(Chris) really brings a lot of energy to the job,” Skowronek said. “He’s bringing a fresh outsider’s perspective to LCC, which has been really nice. “We worked hard during the transition period to really prepare a lot of information, so that he would understand, coming
in, what some of the major challenges are for the college. … Those challenges are our opportunities to get better for students.” Skowronek said Lewis dove right into his responsibilities. “Once he reviewed that information, he immediately hit the ground running; making changes and thinking about how we’re going to better serve students, moving forward,” Skowronek said. Lewis said he enjoys interacting with students. “We’re in this profession because we enjoy working with students, we enjoy working in this type of environment and we want to have these connections with students,” he said. “The dean of Student Affairs, as a position, doesn’t have to be something that is (distant from students).”
LCC, Delta partnership prepares Stars to fly By Sarah Barney A & E Editor A new partnership is taking flight at LCC. The LCC Aviation Maintenance Program has partnered with Delta Air Lines, effective this past July. Selected as one of 43 out of 177 aviation maintenance programs nationally, LCC was the only community college in Michigan to be chosen. “They contacted a number of schools, so they reached out to us and asked if we were interested in possibly creating a partnership,” said Mark Bathurst, director of Aviation Technology. After the airline reached out to LCC, Delta officials sent an evaluation team to spend an entire day at the Aviation Technology Center in Mason. Ranging from equipment and facilities to quality of teaching, over 100 criteria were up for
scrutiny. “They looked at the facility to see if it’s up to the standards they would hope that a school would be, or that their own employment places would be,” Bathurst explained. “They looked at the faculty. ‘Are they highly qualified? … Were they fully engaged with the students during the time that Delta was here to evaluate?’ “They looked at our training curriculum. ‘Did it meet what they thought they wanted us to do and meet the requirements of the FAA?’ All those things combined are what Delta looked at.” The goal of the partnership is to provide real-world training and fill a need for maintenance technicians in the industry, Bathurst said. Airplane and power plant mechanics can earn a starting salary of up to $50,000, according to an LCC press release.
Courtesy photo
A crowd gathers for the announcement of the partnership between LCC and Delta Airlines in July.
Courtesy photo
The Lansing Community College Aviation Center is located at Jewett Airport in Mason.
“It’s a mutually beneficial relationship in the sense that what Delta is going to do for us is provide training assets, whether it be hard assets or training programs,” Bathurst said. “They’ll come in and spend some time with us here so that we can help our students be prepared for a career at a major airline like Delta. “For Delta, the advantage is that it will help them address what is currently, and will continue to be, a shortage of skilled maintenance technicians.”
LCC President Brent Knight said the partnership is great for both parties. “As our program continues to evolve, Delta will play a role in shaping our training to anticipate and meet the needs of the industry,” Knight said. “To have a partner as well-renowned globally as Delta Airlines is very powerful for our students and community.” For more information on the aviation center, call (517) 483-1406 or visit www. lcc.edu/locate/buildings/aviation/
4|features
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Exciting activities set for Welcome Week By Ashlee Buhler Associate Editor An eventful and exciting week of activities is set to take place on LCC’s main campus from Aug. 28 through Sept. 1. Welcome Week is a great opportunity for new students to get acclimated with the college, meet new friends and, of course, have some fun. The week will begin with the Student Life Open House on Monday, Aug. 28. Students can drop by the Student Life Office, Gannon Building room 2202, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. to learn about all the extracurricular activities LCC has to offer. This is also a good time to pick up a flyer for the “Keys to Success” scavenger hunt. “The scavenger hunt will run from Monday through Thursday, so students will have the chance to walk around and learn about all the services offered at each location,” said Renee VanDeventer, the Student Life office manager. “There will be a drawing on Sept. 1 for a chance to win prizes such as gift certificates and LCC Star Packs.” Students interested in working on campus will have the opportunity to meet with some of LCC’s hiring departments in the hallways of the Gannon Building from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Aug. 28. Tuesday, Aug. 29 is “Catch the LCC Spirit Day,” during which any students wearing LCC gear will have a chance to spin the
Photo by Ashlee Buhler
LCC Student Life employee Asia Wright stands near the department’s prize wheel.
Student Life Prize Wheel and win a prize. On Wednesday, Aug. 30 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., “Party with the Prez” will take place outdoors in the Washington Square Mall. This event is sponsored by CASE Credit Union and features free food, live music, raffles, and a special welcome from LCC President Brent Knight. The Campus Resource and Student Organization Fair will take place on Thursday, Aug. 31 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Washington Square Mall. This is another opportunity for students to speak with representatives from different areas on campus and learn how to get involved. “If you want to do more than take classes, student organizations are a great way to get to know other students on campus,” VanDeventer noted. Welcome Week will wrap up on Sept. 1 with “T.G.I. Friday.” The event will kick off at noon with the drawing of the scavenger hunt winners. Students can enjoy free refreshments and also pick up information on Substance Abuse Awareness. Asia Wright, a student at LCC and an employee in the Student Life Department, said she is looking forward to her third Welcome Week. “I enjoy putting snacks out on the table and informing students of the different organizations LCC offers,” she said. For more information on Welcome Week, go to www.lcc.edu/studentlife/welcome-week/
STUDENT SPOTLIGHT
LCC student to compete for Michigan chess title By Aaron Wilton Editor in Chief Tyler Booher, a marketing and graphic design student at LCC, is set to appear in the Michigan open chess tournament that begins Friday, Sept. 1. Booher has been playing chess since January and keeps up his competitive appearances. “Each player has an ELO rating for competitions and I’ve been trying to go to every tournament I can to get my ELO up,” Booher said. “I’m a member of the Lansing Chess Club, too. “My ELO right now is like 1,000, but that isn’t my actual skill level because in the club I’m playing against guys that are 1,700, 1,800 and I’m giv-
ing them a hard time. So, I know I’m like 1,600.” He shared how he got into chess competitively. “I actually competed in my first tournament back in 1998, but I basically stopped for a while,” Booher said. He went on to say he had fought competitively for some time and gave it up before discovering “chess boxing.” “Chess boxing is crazy,” he said. “Each person gets four minutes (to start a chess match) for their opening and then there’s a minute break, and you box for three minutes each round. And you do this for 12 rounds, maybe.” Booher said he hopes to get into chess boxing. He talked about his
other goals. “One of my big goals is to get up around 2,100 (ELO) and become a grandmaster,” he said. Studying for matches is a big part of the process, Booher explained. “I have like 46 flashcards with opens, mainline variations and grandmaster games,” he said. “I’ve got most of them memorized. I’ve got two (grandmaster games) memorized. “I work at The Avenue Café and I only work like two or three shifts there a week. … The rest of the time I’m here (at LCC) studying moves and practicing.” For information on the Lansing Chess Club, visit http://lansingchessclub.blogspot.com/
Photo by Aaron Wilton
Student Tyler Booher practices his chess manuvers in the third floor lobby of the Gannon Building on Aug. 24.
5|features
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
History Club encourages exploring past By Ashlee Buhler Associate Editor This fall, LCC’s History Club will return for a second year of exciting events. The club invites students from all areas of study to sign up, enjoy the activities and learn more about the community. “I like having students see more than the textbook version of history,” said Wade Merrill, adviser of the History Club. “I like for students to actually go out in our community and experience it.” With LCC being a few blocks from the State Capitol, there is plenty of history in the area. Last year, the History Club even took a tour of the Capitol Building. On Aug. 25, members of the club traveled to the University of Michigan-Flint to play a game of vintage baseball. The game was played with rules from 1867, which means no baseball gloves were allowed. Photo courtesy of Wade Merrill There are many exciting events Members of the LCC History Club visit the Capitol during 2016-17. Pictured (l. to r.) are Zach Booher, R.J. Williams, Patrick Sambaer, Aaliyah on the agenda this year. In No- Render, Megan Lawson, Austin Loomis and Le Nguyen. Standing is Capitol Tour & Information Service Director Matthew VanAcker.
vember, the club will take a tour of the Michigan Women’s Historical Center and Hall of Fame. Merrill, who is also a history instructor at LCC, emphasized the importance of students experiencing history in real life. “The focus of the courses that I teach are not the names, dates and lists – but the engagement with real stuff,” Merrill said. “That’s what I want our club to do, too.” The History Club, which typically meets every two weeks, is open to all students regardless of their major. “Anyone who has a slight interest in any of the activities that we do, there are no obligations,” Merrill said. “Come and go as you please.” Anyone interested in learning more about the History Club can check out the Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/LCCHistoryClub/ For additional questions contact Wade Merrill at merrilw1@lcc.edu/
Marketing Club to host business seminar Inspiring motivation and knowing the keys to successful business habits aren’t something people are just born with. These traits must be learned. That’s why the Lansing Community College American Marketing Association is presenting the “Manifest Your Life Empowerment Tour.” The event is an opportunity to bridge the gap between being a budding entrepreneur and becoming a thriving entrepreneur. The seminar is Saturday, Sept. 30 at LCC’s west campus, 5708 Cornerstone Drive, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The cost of the event, which includes breakfast and lunch, is $79, but students can attend for just $25. Participants will learn from prominent business leaders about the essential attributes in becoming a successful businessperson in today’s changing world. The event will be hosted by Chichi Njoku of ChiTV, a seven-time award winning film producer and entertainer. The keynote speaker, Dr. Princess Fumi Hancock, is a bestselling author of 11 books, four of which are best-
sellers. Hancock was a nurse practitioner who became the screenwriter of five films, including the award-winning movie, “Of Sentimental Value.” She is also the host of her own lifestyle show, “Princess in Suburbia.” The event will also feature local guest speaker Chris Holman, the founder and CEO of Michigan Business Network, a Michigan-based broadcasting company. Starting his professional life as a coach, Holman has since used his skills as an entrepreneur to successfully start businesses, launch magazines and run companies. He is the host of two popular talk programs on the Michigan
Business Network. The second guest speaker is Linda Hundt. She brings an inspirational message of faith, communication and business success to audiences across the country. After achieving her lifelong dream of owning her own pie shop in DeWitt, the award-winning Sweetie-licious Bakery Café, Hundt is now nationally recognized. Participants will hear how she utilized her grassroots public relations opportunities to accomplish her entrepreneurial goals. The third guest speaker is Dale Carnegie’s Servant Leader Phil Zeller. He started out his career working minimum wage jobs, but now coaches Fortune 500 executives and leaders to successfully produce results through improved customer relations. Breakfast, lunch and goodie bags will be provided to participants. The LCC American Marketing Association is a student organization that has also achieved national recognition. Registration and sign-up has begun and is
available on the official EventBrite page. For more info, visit www.lccama.com/ Article ubmitted by the LCC AMA Club.
6|sports
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Cross country women seek three-peat; men hoping to build on success of 2016 By Brodee Gillam Sports Editor Dynasties are uncommon on any level of any sport. This reign for the LCC women’s cross country team is nearing dynasty-levels of success. Before finishing as back-to-back NJCAA National Champions last year, the Stars had placed at least in the top 10 of the NJCAA National Tournament every year since 2005. As good as the LCC women are, the men are not far behind. With a national championship in 2007 to go along with nine other top-10 tournament finishes since 2005, the LCC men have also been consistent contenders every season. Culture and tradition play a huge part in any sports organization’s extended success. This is also the case for the Stars, according to Head Coach Jim Robinson. Robinson said one of the crucial things to the culture is runners who have passion for cross country. “We all really love running. When I talk to recruits I ask them, ‘Do you love running?’ because we run a lot,” Robinson said. “At
the end of the day you have to be passionate about the sport, you really have to love the sport itself, so hopefully that’s something that rubs off on the kids.” Robinson said freshmen women Kirsten McGahan, Emma Distelrath, Tori Moffitt and Autumn Tuck all have strong potential in their first season at LCC. On the men’s side, Robinson said he is extremely impressed by the whole freshmen class. A few names Robinson mentioned are freshmen Jacob Ferguson, Alex McCormick, Alan Baird and Jack Youngblood. Sophomore Ashley Lindeman said the two teams being around each other often builds team morale. “Our team is very close,” Lindeman said. “We’re together literally every day, anyways. The sport that we (do) it’s so tough, it’s so easy to just give up and slow down or walk. “We’re so together, and just working together and building each other up really brings us close together.” The first meet for both the LCC men and women is the Olivet College Invitational at Olivet College on Friday, Sept. 1 at 6 p.m.
Photo by Brodee Gillam
Men’s and women’s cross country runners warm up during practice at Fenner Nature Center Aug. 24.
Team chemistry headlines volleyball future goals By Brodee Gillam Sports Editor The LCC volleyball Stars had a roster filled with raw talent that put up great stats during the 2016 season. However, because of team chemistry issues or otherwise, that talent did not turn into the only statistic that matters: wins. The Stars finished the year with a 14-21 overall record. Even with only four returning sophomores, LCC Head
Photo by Larry Hook
Freshmen Silvia Strieff, Morgan Dailey and Alayna Mautei (l. to r.) set into defensive stances during the Blue and White scrimmage on Aug. 17.
Coach Emily Quintero said she has a good feeling about this season’s team. “Two-thirds of our team is incoming freshmen, which means it’s a huge learning curve for us,” Quintero said. “But I’m expecting … greatness out of them. We have a lot of talent and we’re very versatile and we’re really excited to use that on the court.” Captains had not been named yet as of Aug. 24, but Quintero said she sees all four returnees leading the team this season. The four sophomores are setter Brianna Mohn, right side hitter Samantha Stanton, libero McKenzie Kench and middle hitter Kaycee Richmond. “All four of the sophomores coming back; they have established themselves as leaders,” Quintero said. “They are ready for change and ready for something great. So they’ve all really put their best foot forward to make this (a) team as best they can.” The leadership of the sophomores shows in freshman libero Erin Cooper, who has already set high expectations for this season. “My expectations for the team is just pushing the bar one game at a time,” Cooper said. “Not necessarily looking at long term goals, just one game at a time.” The Stars were scheduled to play on Aug. 24 against Grand Rapids CC and will play on Tuesday, Aug. 28 at home against Muskegon CC at 6:30 p.m.
Photo by Larry Hook
Freshman Jazlynn Maxon (3) sets the ball for freshman Madison David (13) during the Blue and White scrimmage on Aug. 17.
7|sports
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Ball needs to stay in his own lane Before the 2016-17 college basketball season, the reign of LaVar Ball was just starting to bloom. Now heading into the 2017-18 season, Ball has already overstayed his welcome. With LaVar as the promoter for his three basketball-playing sons, Lonzo, LiAngelo and LaMelo, sports fans across the nation know the family well now. This does wonders for the independent “Big Baller Brand” that LaVar created. The brand and Ball’s overzealous, and at times pompous, behavior has had fans questioning his character. Big Baller Brand is founded upon LaVar’s three teenage sons, all of whom seem to be more laid back and prefer to be out of the spotlight. LaVar has used his mouth to garner national attention; so much so that he, along with LaMelo and Lonzo, appeared on the WWE program, “Monday Night Raw” in June.
brodee gillam sports editor
gillamb@lcc.edu
Ironically, LaVar’s best moments come out of WWE-inspired rants. Before Lonzo was drafted second in the 2017 NBA Draft by the Los Angeles Lakers, LaVar was asked if his son was headed for L.A. What followed was a speech that was reminiscent of WWE great, Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. “I told you, from the words of Zeus, Jesus, everybody said he going to be a Laker. They told me before they told y’all,” LaVar said in an interview with ESPN’s Jeff Goodman. Now it is clear that Ball is great at promoting himself and his sons. How-
ever he has crossed the line while doing so in this past year. Ball stopped by Colin Cowherd’s FS1 show, “The Herd,” for an interview in May, and things turned sour quick. Ball took offense to points made by Kristine Leahy, the co-host for “The Herd,” about making Big Baller Brand clothes for women to make it easier to collaborate with bigger brands. Photo from nicekicks.com Ball said Leahy is a “hater.” He fol- LaVar Ball (in red) gathers with his three sons (left lowed that by saying he did not have a to right) LiAngelo, Lonzo and LaMelo. “women’s company,” and told Leahy to “stay in yo lane.” and say, “Stay in yo lane” this year. Even after that, Ball didn’t learn from Your oldest son no longer needs your his sexist actions. In July, he somehow promotion. He has the great Magic ejected a female referee from his AAU Johnson, the Los Angeles Lakers and team’s game, because, “she trying to the NBA to do that for him. make a name for herself.” In reality, I have been supportive of LaVar Ball, she was just officiating a team with a for the most part, but the moment he rambunctious coach trying to make a starts calling out coaches and players name for HIMSELF and HIS brand. on the Lakers is the same moment that I will quote LaVar to condemn LaVar I will stop tuning into his antics.
ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT
Kench among top returnees for volleyballers The Lookout Sports Editor Brodee Gillam recently spoke with LCC sophomore McKenzie Kench. The Ithaca High School graduate is one of the four returning sophomores for the LCC volleyball team this year. Kench had 297 kills and 286 digs in the 2016 season. Why did you start playing volleyball? “I started playing (in seventh grade). I didn’t really even plan on it. It was just another sport to play and then I ended up really liking it … I kept playing year after year and now I’m here.”
What do you want to do after LCC? “I plan on getting my RN degree here and then going to MSU to get my BSN (bachelor’s degree in nursing).” What is your most memorable moment playing volleyball? “Finding out that we made the top four last year to go to districts, because it was very close there at the end.” What is your most embarrassing moment in volleyball? “This was two days ago. (Sophomore) Kaycee (Richmond) hit me in the face with a ball; like smashed me
McKenzie Kench
in the face.” What do you want to take away from your time at LCC? “The joy of getting to play one more year … having the team mentality and working together.” What are your goals heading into this season? “Our goals as a team this year are really to work together, just take it one game at a time and to get as far as we can. Individually, I would like to focus on being a better leader; and definitely serving.”
Publication dates for the lookout Issue 1 – aug. 28, 2017
Issue 3 – sept. 25, 2017
Issue 5 – oct. 23, 2017
Issue 7 – nov. 20, 2017
Issue 2 – sept. 11, 2017
Issue 4 – oct. 9, 2017
Issue 6 – nov. 20, 2017
Issue 8 – dec. 4, 2017
8|Arts and Entertainment
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
IN BRIEF
Arts and Entertainment
Auditions set at Dart Auditorium Auditions for “The Government Inspector,” adapted by Jeffrey Hatcher and directed by Mary Matzke, will be held Aug. 29 and 30 from 7 to 10 p.m. each day. They will be held at Dart Audtorium and will consist of cold readings from the script. For more information, call (517) 483-1488 or visit http://www.lcc.edu/ cma/events/
Bell’s Fest at The Loft is Sept. 8 Musical artist Desmond Jones will perform Friday, Sept. 8 at The Loft as a part of Bell’s Fest. Sponsored by Bell’s Brewery, there will be six handles of Bell’s brews as well as other canned and bottled options. The event is for those 18 and over and admission is free. For more information, go to http://www.theloftlansing.com/shows/ Photo by Haneen Hammad
Pat Zaleenka Line performs on the riverfront as part of the Grand Concert Series on Wednesday, Aug. 16 at the Lansing City Market.
Concerts on riverfront proving to be ‘Grand’ By Haneen Hammad Staff Writer Summer isn't over yet. So grab a lawn chair and enjoy a lovely evening of live music on the riverfront with friends and family as part of the Grand Concert Series. The free summer concert series, held at the Lansing City Market near Cooley Law School Stadium, is comprised of Jazz on the Grand, Blues on the Grand, and a new addition this year of R&B. The concert series, which ran throughout the summer, included a performance by Pat Zeelenka Line on Aug. 16. The event is sponsored by Lansing Entertainment and Public Facilities
Authority (LEPFA) in conjunction with sponsors. Scott Horgan, vice president of sales and services for LEPFA, was at the event. "The purpose of this event is to bring the community together in a nice, scenic atmosphere and get them to enjoy some great music," Horgan said. "It’s downtown. It's on the river. Guests get to enjoy the food and drinks from the city market, as well as enjoy the scenery." Scott Keith, president of LEPFA, founded the concert series. "I love the fact that we have kids (and) youth music programs as the
opening acts,” Keith said. “It gets the kids an opportunity to perform on a stage in front of people. "Through the generosity of our sponsors we are able to make a contribution to the youth music programs so that the youth arts education can continue." Future events will take place on Wednesday, Sept 6 with blues from Frog and The Beeftones; and Thursday, Sept. 14 with jazz artist Brandon Marceal. Opening acts start at 6:30 p.m., with headliners beginning around 7:30 p.m. Admission is free. For more information visit http:// lansingcitymarket.com/event/grandconcert-series-blues-grand/
Fledge Fest has skating, music All ages are welcome to join Fledge Fest for a celebration of music, art, skateboarding and more on Saturday, Sept. 9. There will be local bands, an indoor skate park and vendors of all sorts from the Lansing area. Tickets are $10 presale and $12 at the door. For additional information and ticket prices, visit http://www.fledgefest.com/
‘Party with the Prez’ is Aug. 30 Free food from Finley’s and live music from Great Scott are all part of the “Party with the Prez” event, taking place from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. outside on the Washington Square Mall on Wednesday, Aug. 30. The event will feature five giveaways, a free T-shirt to the first 100 students and a special welcome from LCC President Brent Knight. For more information, go to http://lcc.edu/ studentlife/welcome-week/
9|A & E
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
reviews
Common Ground has music for all By Haneen Hammad Staff Writer Each year since 2000, the Common Ground Music Festival in Lansing has hosted a wide variety of music genres, from country and alt-rock to rap, with a wide variety of well-known artists. Common Ground’s lineups have always stood out, with Grammy Award winners, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame members and top-level national and regional music performers. When Common Ground dropped its 2017 lineup, it appeared it would continue its impressive run. Big Sean, Toby Keith, Alessia Cara and Shinedown were headliners throughout the weekend. Also included were recent breakout stars like Fetty Wap and Kyle. The wide variety of music and unique headliners grabbed the attention of music fans all over. The 2017 festival continued its success by hosting 40,000-plus individuals from July 6 through 9. Although Common Ground was not
among the larger budget festivals, I think it was well worth the money. General admission tickets were $79 for
four nights of concerts. Being my first year of attending Common Ground, I didn’t know what to expect. But
my experiences on all four days were pleasant. By the end of the weekend, the bar had been set high for future music festivals. I have heard a lot of things about chaos in previous years, but this year it seemed well organized. The security guards greeted guests as they entered, and volunteers were very eager to help when needed. The one thing I didn’t enjoy was the amount of trash on the ground. It took away from the enjoyment, and was also a hazard for people walking. While some days the performances where not typically my genre of music, there was always something to do. Food trucks and drink venues were set up with chairs for participants to relax. There was also a hammock station for people to hang out. That was my favorite thing to do in between performances. The crowd seemed to happily enjoy the live music as artists played old favorites, as well as their latest hits. Common Ground is a can’t-miss weekend. I would recommend that locals attend it in the future.
By Haneen Hammad Staff Writer The film "Detroit,” directed by Kathryn Bigelow, opens with an animated explanation of the great migration, white flight and urban segregation in the United States during the 20th Century. Soon after, a live action scene, set in 1967 Detroit, depicts the moment an unlicensed bar was raided by Detroit police. From there, viewers understand "Detroit" is a critique of both institutional corruption and law enforcement. After this incident, looting and de-
struction increased, more cops were sent in, and the National Guard was called upon to protect the police. Within three days, Detroit was destroyed by the very people that called it home. On the third night of rioting, July 25, with the city hot and dangerous, Larry Reed (Algee Smith) and his reluctant buddy Fred (Jacob Latimore), a pair of black men, take refuge at the Algiers Hotel. It was intended to be a quick stop until things settled down. Soon, however, a long night's journey through hell begins when Larry and
Fred befriend two white teenage girls, Julie Ann (Hannah Murray) and Karen (Kaitlyn Dever), who invite them over to meet a friend they know. In the film's second act, the overwhelmingly white police force once again overreacts, raiding the hotel in the belief that there is a sniper inside. Once they commit, they believe they cannot back off, and instead exert maximum force and assault on the guests of the hotel. Throughout the night, multiple innocent teenagers are killed. The film that began darkly only becomes more so. Throughout the film there is a sense
of burning rage and a loss of hope. I felt helpless because there wasn’t anything I could do but watch. It left me to ponder whether things are now, a full half-century later, much different than they were in 1967. The filmmakers are sure to point out that violence only adds fire to the flame, and hatred adds hatred. There are times the film chokes the viewer of thoughts and words to express how anything like this could take place. If the intention of the director and filmmaker was discomfort, they succeeded without question.
Photo by Haneen Hammad
Big Sean performs during the 2017 Common Ground Festival in Riverfront Park in Lansing.
‘Detroit’ depicts significant historical event
‘Design’ your own pizza at two ‘Blaze’ locations
By Lauren Manzini Staff Writer The days of trying to get your family and friends to all agree when you ask them, “What do you want on your pizza?” have been laid to rest by Blaze Fast Fire’d Pizza. With franchise locations in both the Frandor Shopping Center and downtown East Lansing, Blaze is truly the place to go
to keep even the pickiest of eaters satisfied. Blaze entices customers with its popular “build your own” option. Not only is the selection of toppings limitless, but customers are also able to choose the type of crust and sauce they want as well (Yes, there is even a gluten-free crust option!). Also, as someone who doesn’t drink a lot of soda, the business’s
wide variety of flavored lemonades and teas is a plus as well. Call me a tree hugger, but my absolute favorite thing about eating there is the ability to easily recycle cans and bottles. All too often, I end up bringing my plastic home with me from restaurants to recycle later, because the option for recycling is simply not available on site. That alone is definitely enough to make
me go back. That, and the fact that the pizza tasted good enough that I didn’t have to smother it in ranch dressing, a trend for which I am ashamedly notorious. Both locations are open from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays. You receive my personal congratulations if you opt to go to the East Lansing location and are able to find parking.
10|Opinion
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout — as seen by haneen —
Confederate flag: hate, heritage or both? A peaceful rally in Charlottesville on Aug. 12 that protested the removal of a Confederate statue quickly became a tragic terror incident when a white male violently rammed his car into the crowd. The incident killed one and injured multiple people. Whether or not there is “blame on both sides,” as our president claims, the aftermath left the state of South Carolina flying flags to mourn the tragic event. Among the flags was a symbol: a Confederate flag. According to a 2011 Pew Research Center poll, roughly one in 10 Americans feels positively when they see the Confederate flag. The same study showed that 30 percent of Americans reported a negative reaction to seeing the flag on display.
haneen hammad Staff wrtier
hammadh@lcc.edu
I think not. In my opinion, those who are celebrating the heritage of the south are embracing the history that came with it, therefore promoting slavery and
The poll also showed that African-Americans, Democrats and the highly educated are more likely to perceive the flag negatively. Some argue the flag is a symbol of slavery and injustice, while others insist it is purely a symbol of patriotism and heritage for the south. But what does that actually mean? Can you simply embrace the flag solely for the history and heritage of the south without promoting racism?
racial injustice. My point is, there is no way someone can hold the flag without including the bad and ugly that comes with it.
Graphic by Nicole Cade
— if you wil —
Personal life has had ups and downs recently In the last few weeks, I have gotten some horrible news and some other news that has inspired me to push ahead. I received the good news first. This is never the order in which I want to hear news. A couple of weeks, ago I was mailed my official college diploma in recognition of my Associate in Arts degree in German. It felt great to have that finally accomplished. I am now working toward a degree in music education. Only a few days later, I got the bad news.
My Great Aunt Barbara (my Dad’s aunt) was diagnosed with late-stage colon cancer and a large tumor was found blocking her intestine. She now has a colostomy bag and a port for chemotherapy. To give some perspective, this is the great aunt who owns a lovely in-ground swimming pool. She has spent every warm summer day for the last 30 years, or more, sun bathing and swimming to her heart’s content. The installation of the colostomy bag means no more swimming. And once she
aaron wilton editor in Chief
wiltona@lcc.edu
starts chemo, any significant sun exposure will make her feel sick. Barbara is perhaps the heartiest person I know. She is currently 78 years old and hasn’t lost a single bit of her wit or her
independence. Barbara has been the pillar for my dad’s family for decades. Since before I was born, she has been hosting four family gatherings every year: the Memorial Day picnic, the Fourth of July picnic, the Labor Day picnic and our Christmas Eve party. I can never thank Barbara enough for the childhood memories or the years of free swimming. I will try my best to follow her example in life and do the things I really love to do as often as I can.
— through ashlee’s eyes —
Fall semester brings new beginnings for new reporter If this is your first semester at LCC, we have that in common. For many of you this might be your first semester of college ever. For others, like me, this might be your second or third time around. Whether you’re fresh out of high school or several years removed -- starting something new always brings a sense of excitement with a pinch of anxiousness. I’m looking forward to starting a new beginning here at LCC. Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Ashlee, I recently turned 22 years old, and I’m the new associate editor of The Lookout.
ashlee Buhler Associate editor
buhlera@lcc.edu
I grew up in a small town called Fowlerville, where I graduated from high school in 2014. I spent the year post graduation trying to decide what I wanted to do, because I honestly had no idea.
Eventually I began taking classes at Baker College in Owosso, aiming for a degree in human services. As time went on, I started to realize that, as much as I love helping people, it wasn’t a career I could actually picture for myself. Writing has always been a passion of mine from a young age, I just wasn’t confident in my abilities to make a career out of it until recently. As a kid I would write my own stories and create my own books. When I was in high school I started a blog, which now has over 8,000 followers. I’ve also been for-
tunate enough to write for my hometown newspaper, which has been an awesome experience. Becoming a writer seemed like a no-brainer at that point. After a lot of thought and consideration, I decided to change my major and transfer to LCC to study journalism. My dream is to someday work for a major news publication or magazine. I’m very excited to be starting this new chapter at LCC, which includes writing for The Lookout. I hope you enjoy reading my articles as much as I enjoy writing them. Here’s to a new beginning!
11|Opinion
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout — STAFF editorial —
Charlottesville fuels widespread aggression The turmoil in Charlottesville, Va. began late on Friday, Aug. 11 with a group of white nationalists marching through the University of Virginia’s campus. Tensions rose higher on Saturday, Aug. 12 during the “Unite the Right” rally held in Charlottesville’s Lee Park. The scene exploded into several cases of assault and one case of vehicular manslaughter.
The Lookout staff is shocked by the eye-opening, appalling events in Virginia and events across the nation that are part of the aftermath. Racism, ignorance and violence are co-mingling like they have done before all too often. Radical racists waving odious symbols claimed to be true patriots. Liberals stood against them, denouncing hatred, with both sides ready to fight to the death for their
beliefs. It was a recipe for disaster. To top it off, President Trump had a weak initial stance on the role the white nationalists played in the violence, which only served to boost tensions. Ignorance has affected people other than our leader. It has left people confused about who the Confederate leaders were, and what the rebel and Confederate flags represent. While the Confederate flag does
What was the highlight of your 2017 summer? Aaron wilton
ashlee buhler
editor in chief
Associate editor buhlera@lcc.edu
gillamb@lcc.edu
“Attended ‘Rock on the Range’ in Ohio.”
“Going to Chicago.”
“Going to Phoenix.”
wiltona@lcc.edu
brodee gillam
sports editor
Lauren Manzini
Ad. Manager
manzinil@lcc.edu
“Going to my sister’s wedding.”
—
haneen hammad
staff writer
spark tension, learning about Confederate figures usually does not. History requires context. Dredging up relics and throwing them around in present day isn’t supportive of history; it dooms us to repeat it. The Lookout staff believes violence breeds more violence, the destruction and suppression of history are wrong, and that intolerance cannot be tolerated.
the lookout staff —
sarah barney
nicole cade
hammadh@lcc.edu
barneys2@lcc.edu
A&E editor
lead paginator
“Going to Mackinac Island.”
“Visiting my sister in Hawaii.”
“A new job at Whole Foods.”
caden@lcc.edu
larry hook
adviser
hookl@lcc.edu
“Batted over .800 in softball.”
12|Last look
aug. 28 - sept. 10, 2017 www.lcc.edu/lookout
Here Comes The Sun The eclipse is shown taking place on Aug. 21. While it was a total eclipse in some parts of the United States, mid-Michigan people only saw about an 80-percent version of the sensation. Photo courtesy of David Shane, LCC physics instructor.
Paul Jurczak, a philosophy instructor for 20 years at Lansing Community College, takes a look at the Aug. 21 eclipse through a telescope located in the center of LCC’s main campus.
LCC students and staff, using specially made eclipse glasses, look skyward to view the solar eclipse on Aug. 21.
By Ashlee Buhler Associate Editor The LCC community was in awe of the solar eclipse that took place on Monday, Aug. 21. Hundreds of students and faculty anxiously gathered in the center of LCC’s main campus to catch a glimpse of the eclipse, which peaked around 2:22 p.m. Specially made eclipse glasses were passed out to onlookers and a telescope was available
for those wanting to get an ever closer look. In one’s lifetime, a total solar eclipse only occurs a handful of times. What was just as incredible as the eclipse itself was the sight of strangers coming together to share the experience on the LCC campus. If you missed out — don’t worry. The next total solar eclipse that will be visible in the United States is on April 8, 2024. Mark your calendars!