The Lookout Volume 61, Issue 1

Volume 61, Issue 1

Sept. 3 -15, 2019 Lansing Community College’s Independent Student Newspaper since 1959

www.lcc.edu/lookout

Fall Semester Fever Main campus to get facelift with renovations underway on ‘The Hill’ Page >>> 3

Student Kyle Kulseth prepares for career in aviation technology Page >>> 4

LCC students get down to “Wobble”

by V.I.C. during the “Party with the Prez - Party All Knight” event on Wednesday, Aug. 28. The party was the final one presided over by LCC President Brent Knight, who is retiring next summer. Dancing was only part of the festivities. There was free food, games and music by “Hot Mess.” The party was one of many Welcome Week activities on the college’s main campus.

LCC cross country teams prepares for another award-winning season Pages >>> 6

Check us out on Photo by Julie Newell

2|News

Sept. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

College searches for president

By Chloe Gregg Staff Writter Current LCC President Dr. Brent Knight has announced that after over 10 years of dedicated service, he will be retiring from his position effective June 30, 2020.

“Well, I’ll be 73 years old this fall,” Knight divulged to The Lookout about his retirement plans. “I’ll retire and do some professional writing, but mostly I’ll just retire.

“I think the college has a great future and I’m very optimistic (LCC will continue to progress).”

Knight added he has confidence the board will choose a “fine president” and the process will be transparent.

In response to this revelation, the LCC Board of Trustees on July 15 unanimously voted to conduct a national search for the college’s succeeding president by July 1, 2020, according to an LCC press release.

With this motion, the board also approved the procurement of an executive search firm to assist the board with the process and have affirmed they are committed to “the highest degree of integrity and transparency.”

Purchasing Director Seleana Samuel stat-

Photo by Chloe Gregg President Dr. Brent Knight addresses the crowd at the “Party for the Prez” welcome week event Aug. 28.

ed during the meeting that the initial phase in the process is to follow the college’s standard Request For Proposal (RFP) procedure to connect with an executive search firm.

The LCC website has linked to another site for a Michigan bid system for more information on what the RFP entails.

LCC Trustee Robert Proctor, who made the motion to conduct the search, gave an update Aug. 29 on the search plans.

“Frankly, we haven’t started,” Proctor said. “All we’ve done is adopt the resolution that was presented in July, indicating that the board was desirous of engaging in a national search (for) the next CEO President of Lansing Community College, and in that effort would engage an executive search firm for assistance.

“We have not yet identified or selected (a search firm). RFPs were submitted, there were responses … staff members will be reviewing those RFP responses next week.”

Proctor added that once an executive search firm is chosen, there will be recommendations with the use of a screening committee to make the process easier.

He also confirmed the hopeful date for a new president to be in place by July 1, 2020.

He said he and his colleagues will more than likely have made a hiring decision before then.

The board is scheduled to meet again at 6 p.m. Monday, Sept. 16 in the Administration Building Boardroom. The public is welcome.

Public safety office lends aid to students The LCC Department of Public Safety is located at both the downtown and west campuses.

The campus police department is dedicated to protecting and serving students with an array of helpful services.

Dialing 911 from an on-campus phone will contact the caller to the LCC police department. Dialing 911 from a cell phone will contact the county dispatch center.

The campus escort program provides free escorts to all members of the LCC community. This 24/7 service is encouraged for late-night walks to parking in potentially unsafe locations.

Other useful services include vehicle lockout and battery jump assistance, as well as the Rave Guardian App to contact the LCC Police discreetly.

Former LCC student Anderson honored as a lifesaver

By Robin Morales Associate Editor Approximately 50 members of the Lansing community gathered Aug. 13 to celebrate the life-saving actions of former LCC student Martin “Marty” Anderson.

Anderson helped save the life of current LCC professor Dr. Mike Ball, who was suffering cardiac arrest this past January.

“I owe this man my life, literally,” Ball said during the recognition event.

The ceremony took place in the Gannon Building’s Grand River Room. Among the attendees were Lansing Fire Department Chief Michael Mackey, LCC Executive Vice President Dr. Lisa Webb Sharpe and various TV news reporters.

On Jan. 13 of this past year, Ball was in his home in the Okemos/East Lansing area when he suffered a life-threatening heart attack, which induced cardiac arrest. His wife, Pico Ball, notified authorities and began to perform CPR as Ball lost consciousness.

Anderson, an experienced LCC firefighter and Photo by Robin Morales paramedic since 2007, was off duty and driving Dr. Mike Ball (left) meets with former LCC student Martin Anderson home when he offered his assistance to the police during a ceremony at LCC on Aug. 13. officer searching for the location of the cardiac arAfter a short time, Meridian Township paramedics rest.

Once the situation was explained to him, Anderson arrived and augmented his efforts before transportrushed inside the Ball home and aided Ball’s wife in ing Ball to Sparrow Hospital in a medically induced coma. providing CPR and other critical aid to Ball.

Half a year later, Anderson’s efforts have proven instrumental in the miraculous saving of Ball’s life.

He not only survived against harrowing statistical and medical odds, but is continuing a rapid and incredible recovery.

“The Lifesaver Recognition event,” so aptly called, provided the two individuals the opportunity to finally meet and share their unbelievable story with their respective families and others in attendance.

“We thought you were a guardian angel for a while … (that you) saved me and went back to heaven,” Ball said, hugging Anderson. “To me, it’s a miracle that you had the expertise. … I’m just so thankful, Marty, for you and for your service and what you did.”

Towards the end of the event, Chief Mackey presented Anderson with a letter of recognition on behalf of Lansing Mayor Andy Schor. In acceptance, Anderson preferred to reflect all heroics to Ball’s wife and the other paramedics.

“I was at the right place at the right time,” he said humbly.

Anderson was an LCC student from 2017 to 2018 in the EMS Instructor Coordinator program.

Ball has been an LCC professor for 31 years, teaching a variety of courses in physical fitness, health and wellness, while also working in the fitness center.

“This man allowed me to have a second chance at life,” Ball said. “Not everyone can have that.”

3|News

Sept. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

NEWS BRIEFS Lansing’s newest addition a beach

Photo by Robin Morales

Construction on “The Hill” has been in full gear on LCC’s main campus during the first weeks of fall semester. Here a bulldozer moves dirt the afternoon of Wednesday, Aug. 28.

Courtesy graphic

Shown is an artist’s rendition of the new “Upward Bound” sculpture that will be built soon.

Pathway, artistic sculpture among upgrades for ‘The Hill’

By Robin Morales Associate Editor A 40-foot LED color-changing sculpture titled “Upward Bound” is scheduled to be unveiled atop “The Hill” on LCC’s main campus sometime in late October.

According to LCC President Brent Knight, the renovation project, which began last year with the flattening of The Hill, will also include a paved walkway.

This walkway is designed to make The Hill easier for students to use when walking throughout campus, according to Knight.

In addition to the walkway, a set of stairs will be added to The Hill and students will find room to sit outside and enjoy their surroundings, Knight explained.

“The number of students that will

utilize that space will increase dramatically,” Knight said.

The sculpture itself, designed from galvanized steel tubes, has been donated as a visual centerpiece for this project. All of the funds contributing to its construction were donated by LCC Trustee Andrew Abood.

“It’s a dedication to my mother,” Abood said.

Abood said he wanted to give back to LCC. He said the sculpture serves as his token of gratitude in serving on the board over the last six years.

“I thought it would be good if I made a commitment back to (LCC) and did so in a way that could benefit the student body and the campus,” Abood said.

Knight said with its night-time illumination of campus, the sculpture is also intended to function as an icon

for the college – a visible monument, much like the clock tower – proudly correlated with LCC and its opportunities for students.

“It’s very contemporary,” Knight said of “Upward Bound.”

Throughout his 11 years as he college’s president, Knight expressed a desire to see all of the campus space used.

The Hill, with its bareness and cumbersome peak, previously discouraged students from accessing it, according to Knight.

Knight said he envisions this renovation as an important addition in his goal to make LCC a welcoming atmosphere for students.

Thinking post-retirement, Knight said he is hopeful the renovations and sculpture will be enjoyed by students “for many years to come.

Only a short walk from LCC’s main campus, the Rotary Park is now available to the community.

Rotary Park is located on the banks of the Grand River between the Lansing Center and Shiawassee Street.

Lansing’s newest outdoor event space features a massive outdoor fireplace, sandy beach, lighted forest and concert space.

Following the opening ceremony of Rotary Park held Aug. 28, Delta Dental is throwing a party to celebrate the addition.

That party will be Tuesday, Sept. 10, from 6 to 10 p.m.

Parking options on main campus While attending or working at LCC, all students, staff and faculty members have access to convenient parking throughout every campus.

At the beginning of each semester, students are issued parking permits, allowing students to park in the college’s parking lots and the Gannon Ramp at no additional charge.

Parking decals are enforced Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Friday from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Tips for Michigan voters offered The League of Women Voters of the Lansing area encourages all U.S. citizens at least 18 years or older to register to vote.

The League of Women Voters supports the statewide campaign, “Promote the Vote,” ensuring all Americans have access to vote.

To vote in the federal, state and local elections, a mail-in voter register form must be completed at least 15 days prior to voting.

Voters can also register in person at one’s local county, city or township clerk’s office or by registering at any SOS branch office.

For more information on registration and polling locations visit, www.michigan. gov/vote.

Lansing Community College is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and equal education for all persons regardless of race, color, sex, age, religion, national origin, creed, ancestry, height, weight, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, disability, familial status, marital status, military status, veteran’s status, or other status as protected by law, or genetic information that is unrelated to the person’s ability to perform the duties of a particular job or position or that is unrelated to the person’s ability to participate in educational programs, courses services or activities offered by the college.

The following individuals have been designated to handle inquiries regarding the nondiscrimination policies: Equal Opportunity Officer, Washington Court Place, 309 N. Washington Square Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1730; Employee Coordinator 504/ADA, Administration Building, 610 N. Capitol Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1875; Student Coordinator 504/ADA, Gannon Building, 411 N. Grand Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1885; Lori Willett, Human Resource Manager/Title IX Coordinator, Administration Building, 610 N. Capitol Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1870; Christine Thompson, Student Title IX Coordinator, Gannon Building, 411 N. Grand Ave. Lansing, MI 48933, 517-483-1261.

4|features

SEPT. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

STUDENT SPOTLIGHT

Kulseth training in aviation technology

By Shauna Stocken Editor in Chief Burrowed behind rows of cornfields and farmland is the LCC Maintenance Technology Center, located in the Jewett Airfield in Mason.

It is there that LCC second-year student Kyle Kulseth is among 28 morning aviation students and 24 evening students working toward certificates and/or associate degrees.

The off-campus facility offers students the opportunity to train and earn a certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

The certification is necessary to become an aircraft maintenance technician throughout the country.

“We are a two-year program, five days a week most semesters for six consecutive semesters,” said Mindy Ray, program coor-

Photo by Shauna Stocken

Kyle Kulseth stands near a grounded airplane at the Jewett Airfield. The plane is used for educational training purposes.

dinator at the Aviation Technology Center.

In addition to earning an FAA certification, students can also earn two associate degrees in Airframe Maintenance Technology and Power Plant Maintenance Technology from LCC by completing five required courses.

Kulseth said the program is sort of a unknown asset to LCC. “A lot of people don’t know that the Mason campus exists,” Kulseth said. “Between the (LCC) west campus and the Mason campus, they (LCC) have a lot of cool tools and facilities. You just really get a wealth of knowledge here in airplanes and tools.”

After the passing of Kulseth’s father and business partner, Kulseth sold his insurance agency and decided to return to aviation last year.

“I started out restoring motorcycles,

then cars,” Kulseth said. “I’ve always had a desire to become a pilot every since I was young; I had model airplanes in my childhood bedroom.”

Kulseth said he is on track to completing his goals; he earned his pilot’s license in August.

“Life happens, and you go off to college, and you do other things for a while and then obviously I got back here somehow,” he said.

“For me, getting my pilot’s license and being able to work on my own aircraft really just saves me money in the long run,” Kulseth said.

Kulseth said with the knowledge he acquired from LCC he hopes to go into General Aviation and work as a private pilot.

For degree and program information on aviation technology visit the LCC website.

- CLUB SPOTLIGHT -

Club is ‘Empowering Women of Excellence‘

By Kari Eastway Staff Writer Lansing Community College is home to many clubs; 54 as of last year, to be exact.

During these last few years, LCC’s Student Life Office has grown tremendously in regards to student activities, community involvement and clubs.

One of these clubs is The Empowering Women of Excellence Club, which has been actively serving LCC and the greater Lansing area for almost a year.

Vice President Aida Rache quoted the club’s mission statement: “To inspire lifelong learning, advance knowledge, impact our community and strengthen our sisterhood.”

Members of the club said their goal is to create a safe community for women to feel welcome. This club focuses on helping women build their self-esteem, leadership skills and creating a stronger sense of community among women of all backgrounds.

Co-Adviser Andrea Lake said this is her first full semester of officially working with this club.

“I am really excited,” Lake said. “I know (we) can … offer great experiences

for the students.

“I think it is going to be critical for building that leadership piece, and then just knowing, that even as women, as they are progressing through their college career, they have a path that can make on their own.”

The other co-adviser of the club, Angela Hook, agreed.

“It is extremely important for all women from Lansing Community College of diversity to come and be empowered, strengthened, and developed,” Hook said. “Not only do we empower them academically, but we also empower them naturally.”

The club for Empowering Women of Excellence holds panel discussions often. It also brings in guest speakers, including one guest who came in earlier this year to speak about sexual assault.

The club holds regular group meetings every other Wednesday in Gannon Building room 3142 from noon to 1 p.m.

Those with questions, or who are interested in joining this club, may contact co-advisers Angela Hook at colemana@star.lcc.edu and Andrea Lake at lakea@star.lcc.edu.

Those interested in LCC clubs can visit https://www.lcc.edu/campuslife/clubs.

Photo by: Kari Williams

From left, Andrea Lake, a friend, Aida Rache and Angela Hook represent the Empowering Women of Excellence club at LCC.

5|Features

Sept. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Campus Commentary The Lookout Editor in Chief Shauna Stocken recently asked LCC students:

What was the highlight of your summer?

Charve Chappell, 17, Freshman

Alex Adams, 20, Engineering/Physics

“The only thing I’ve been doing is working out and working. I’ve also been training for the LCC basketball team.”

“I worked. I work four days a week, 10 hours a day for the Meijer warehouse.”

Kristen Cabrera, 18, Freshman “My cousins came over and they kind of annoyed me. They live in Florida, so we got to chill up here (in Michigan) for a little bit.”

Jackson Escobar, 20, Business “I worked, unfortunately, it’s pretty much all I did all summer.”

Senior lifter Buchin breaks world records

Photo by Julie Newell

Long time LCC employee Jeff Buchin lifts 270 pounds in the LCC weight room with a spotter’s aid.

By Ali Williams A&E Editor Long-time LCC employee Jeff Buchin broke world records on June 8 in Henderson, Ky., at the Masters World Drug Free Powerlifting Championship.

Buchin pressed 425 pounds in the 70- to 74-year-old division, beating the previous world record of 330 pounds.

He was inducted into the State of Michigan Powerlifting Hall of Fame in 2007.

Buchin has set multiple world records, his first one in 2011, and has continued doing so ever since. He has world records in two different weight classes. He is also a current nominee for the Greater Lansing Sports Hall of Fame for powerlifting.

Buchin said he has been training for years and plans on competing next year as well.

Buchin goes through a long sequence of training, including conditioning and work-

ing all of his auxiliary muscles.

“For powerlifting, you have to be trained by six months out,” Buchin said. “You train and then the week before (the competition), you take it off and rest up.”

The powerlifter said breaking records is not his greatest accomplishment. He said he is more proud of his work at LCC. Buchin taught weight training at LCC for 33 years and now works as a lab technician in the weight room. He has been an employee for a total of 43 years.

“My first achievement was being able to work here at the college and help students achieve what they want to do,” Buchin said.

“I’ve taught so many people over the years.”

Buchin also has his own scholarship for students at LCC. The Jeff L. Buchin Scholarship is for Kinesiology or Professional Fitness Leader program students who have completed PFKN 170 with at least a 2.5 GPA.

6|sports

Sept. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

Cross country teams look to improve

By Julie Newell Sports Editor Going into a new season of cross country, LCC Head Coach Jim Robinson said he is optimistic as he enters his 12th season of leading the team.

Last year, both the men’s and the women’s teams were regional and conference champions and both teams were in the top 20 in the nationals. Pushing to do better this year, Robinson said, “I want to get both teams in the top 10 in nationals.”

To help them get to the top 10 are returning runners and team captains for the men’s team, Dillan Haviland and Christopher Davis.

“I Expect Dillan and Chris to be two of the best runners we have ever had in the history of the school,” Robinson said.

On the women’s team, Claudia Baryo

and Fatuma Jillo are two runners to look out for, Robinson said. “(Claudia is) one of the hardest working runners I’ve ever had … (She) had one of the best times we have ever recorded,” Robinson said.

Jillo is a sophomore from Kenya.

“I think she is going to have a really good sophomore year,” Robinson said of Jillo.

“We have a really good group of runners. One of things I get excited about is seeing someone run fast, and run faster than they ran before,” Robinson said.

The team was scheduled to open the season Aug. 30 in the Comet Open in Charlotte.

The next meet for the men’s and women’s cross country teams is Friday, Sept.

13 in East Lansing.

Photo by Julie Newell

LCC cross country runners compete in a recent mock meet at East Lansing High School.

Volleyball team topples Henry Ford in opener Spikers hope to improve on last season’s 26-10 record under Coach Emily Quintero

Photo by Julie Newell

LCC sophomore Maya Ferland goes up to core with a tip against Henry Ford College on Aug. 27 at LCC.

By Julie Newell Sports/ Photo Editor The LCC volleyball team started off the season with a bang; defeating Henry Ford College in three straight games in the Gannon Gym at LCC Aug. 27.

LCC Coach Emily Quintero, now in her seventh season, said she is stressing teamwork as the 2019 season gets underway.

Returning Stars are sophomores Maya Ferland, Sophia Strieff, Mackenzie Winger, Mollie Winger and Allison Couturier.

Freshman newcomers are Jacquelyn Rollins, Harley Roe, Chyanna Caster, Brooklyn Witgen, Lana Thompson, Shelby Smyers, Amy Henderson, Miya Heinze and Carli Ross.

Quintero led last year’s team to a record of 26-10. “(We) took a few tumbles there at districts, but we did fairly well for the season,” Quintero said.

This season Quintero is focused on teamwork among the players.

“My number one goal is to really get them to work together as a team,” Quintero said. “To build the comradery so then we can get some victories under our belt and have a good season.”

The Stars were scheduled to play three matches in three day from Aug. 29 to 31.

LCC’s next home game is Tuesday, Sept. 3 against Mott Community College.

Photo by Julie Newell

Sophomore Ally Courturier blocks the ball as it grazes the net on Aug. 27 against Henry Ford College.

7|Sports

Sept. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT

Cross country runner Bayro has big goals The Lookout Sports Editor Julie Newell recently chatted with runner Claudia Bayro. Claudia runs for the women’s cross country team and is a sophomore at Lansing Community College.

How long have you been running cross country?

“I have been running cross country since seventh grade, so about eight years, roughly.”

Why do you love cross county?

“I love cross country because it is a good way to try and push yourself mentally and physically. The physical part is obviously the running, and the mental part is just

when you don’t want to keep going and you have to push yourself.”

Do you have any embarrassing moments in your career?

“Oh, there are so many. There was a girl during a race who was faster and she kept pushing me to go faster, telling me to keep up and go faster. I pushed myself so much that I ended up peeing myself; that was in high school.”

What famous athlete inspires you the most?

“Emma Coburn inspires me. In high school she wasn’t very fast and it wasn’t until she got into college at Michigan State that she got faster and she won several awards and ran in the Olympics.”

What struggles do you face as a cross

Q& A

CLAUDIA BAYRO

country runner?

“Mentally my struggles are when I can’t keep going, I’m hurting. I run the 10K, which is (about) six miles. You have to tell yourself that you trained for this. You can do it, you can keep going.”

What are your goals or expectations for this season?

“I want to run 18 minutes in the 5K, win the regional, and make the All American top 40 in nationals.”

What are your future cross country and life plans?

“I want to transfer to either Western Michigan or Northern Michigan to run there. For my life plans, I plan to get a bachelor’s (degree) in biochemistry then get my master’s and PhD.”

— Julie’s jukes —

New sports editor’s love of sports goes way back My name is Julie Newell. I am the new sports editor for The Lookout. I grew up in a small town in Michigan called South Haven. I went to a very small private Christian school in another small town nearby called Watervliet.

I have always been a fan of sports. My earliest memory of athletics is watching a basketball game on TV with my dad, grandpa and my two uncles.

Whenever my uncles and their families would visit, my dad, grandpa and uncles would go down to the basement and watch whatever sports event was playing on TV. They would all end up falling asleep, even

though they would claim they were “listening to the game.”

My sister and I would roll our eyes at that, considering all four of them snored rather loudly when they slept, so how they could hear anything on the TV was a mystery to us.

Around the fifth grade, I started playing softball in South Haven for the city league.

I played there for four years in a variety of positions.

I played first, second and third base, and even tried pitching. But then found my place in the outfield.

During middle school, I tried other

julie newell sports editor

newellj1@lcc.edu

sports. I tried basketball for a year, but didn’t like all the running. I played volleyball for two years and enjoyed it, but realized my favorite sport was softball.

I joined the varsity softball team at my school and played for three years. My se-

nior year we won districts, but lost at regionals.

I am not currently playing any sports, but I still love to go to baseball games with my family and watch the Olympics on TV. I am graduating from Grand Rapids Community College this fall with an associate degree in photography.

Now, I am starting a new degree at Lansing Community College in the sign language interpreter program. I love movies, books, and all things Disney. I am also a very talkative person.

I love people and I am very excited to be the sports editor at The Lookout.

Tigers’ Horton, EMU’s Oestrike enter ‘hall’

By Larry Hook The Lookout Adviser Detroit Tigers legend Willie Horton and long-time Eastern Michigan University baseball coach Ron Oestrike were inducted into the Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame on Saturday, Aug. 17.

The ceremony took place at Cooley Law School Stadium in Lansing, home of both the Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame and the Lansing Lugnuts. Willie Horton, who hit 325 homers and had 1,993 hits during his playing career, was unable to attend the cer-

emony due to commitments to the Detroit Tigers. The 76-year-old Horton has been a special assistant to the president of the Tigers since 2003.

A Detroit native, Horton played 1,515 of his 2,028 Major League games as a Tiger.

Horton was represented at the ceremony by his oldest son, Deryl, among other family members.

“This is a great honor,” Deryl Horton said during the ceremony. “On behalf of my dad … we just want to say thank you to the Michigan Baseball Hall of Fame, and thank

you to this beautiful city of Lansing and the state of Michigan.”

Ron Oestrike, who passed away in 2014 at the age of 82, was represented at the ceremony by several family members, friends and former EMU players.

Oestrike lettered in baseball and football at Eastern Michigan, graduating in 1954. He coached the EMU baseball team from 1965 to 1987, posting a 657-508-8 career record and winning four MAC championships.

His 1970 team won the NAIA national championship.

Photo by Larry Hook

Willie Horton’s grandson, Zion, and his oldest son, Deryl, stand by the plaque honoring Willie Horton.

8|Arts and Entertainment

sept. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

‘Below the Stacks’ promotes mural art

By Ali Williams A&E Editor Below the Stacks is a citywide mural festival happening at multiple sites across Lansing. “The Stacks” refer to the three smokestacks that can be seen near REO Town.

Featuring street artists from Lansing, Detroit, Chicago, New York and more, Below the Stacks will be transforming blank walls across Lansing into colorful works of art.

Below the Stacks lasts from Sept. 15 to 21, with family-friendly workshops, tours, artist lectures, live entertainment, and more.

All events are free to the public.

“There will be hands-on painting activities with the Broad Art Museum led by MSU instructors,” said Ozay Moore, co-director of Below the Stacks. “It will be fun for the whole family, with food trucks and DJs.” The following are some of the activities planned: * Sunday, Sept. 15: All of the Above Hip Hop Academy will offer workshops and the opportunity to collaborate on a graffiti piece from 1 to 7 p.m.

* Wednesday, Sept. 18: A world-renowned artist will talk process, style, inspiration and more at the Lansing Public media center at 6:30 p.m. * Thursday, Sept. 19: Painting activities led

by MSU instructors from 5 to 8 p.m. * Friday, Sept. 20: Detroit producer Tall Black Guy will be spinning an exclusive DJ set for an all-ages block party, during which artists will paint. * Saturday, Sept. 21: A culture clash from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. at the Avenue Café with special guest, Oddisee. This will include time-lapse footage of murals being painted throughout the week.

The activities on Sept. 15 and 19 will be in the Cadillac Room parking lot at 1115 S. Washington Ave. Below the Stacks will help give Lansing more art and join the mural movement occurring across the country. It is also supported by Lansing’s mayor, Andy Schor.

“It builds capacity, shows the vibrancy of Lansing, makes people want to work here, live here, visit here,” Mayor Andy Schor

said in a press release. “It’s all a part of the community, economic development and showcasing the City of Lansing.”

South Lansing resident Scott Losey, 56, said REO Town’s preservation and continued improvement is very important to him.

Once a year, Losey voluntarily cleans the entire Moores Park, located below the stacks.

“I’ve always been this way, wanting the town to improve,” Losey said. “I can’t see why people throw trash around when there’s trash cans everywhere to dump everything.”

Losey said he plans to attend the mural festival this year with his family and friends.

Ozay Moore of All of the Above Hip Hop Academy and Dustin Hunt of Muralmatics are co-directors of Below the Stacks. They are supported by Ingham County, the City of Lansing, the Arts Council of Greater Lansing, the Community Foundation and more.

Artists scheduled to be at the festival include Birdcap from Escatawp, Miss.; Imagine 876 from Boston; Max Sansing from Chicago; Sent Rock from Chicago; Wing Chow

Comical fairytale graces main campus

By Shauna Stocken Editor in Chief Once upon a time, there was a mean princess, a handsome prince, a wicked witch, a three-headed dragon and three fairy godmothers, all in one comical fairytale.

LCC’s outdoor amphitheater was filled with guests both young and old for the opening night of “Three Fairy Godmothers” on July 24.

“This is our first LCC production (we have seen),” said area resident Sara Savalli, who came to opening night with her five children, ages 5 to 17 years old.

“I was Googling around for things to in Lansing. I just think the kids need to get out and see things that aren’t animated and get off their phones.”

The all-ages production was free of charge, with additional

Photo by Shauna Stocken

The evil witch, (Keeley Robinson) threatens to cast a spell in the outdoor production of “Three Fairy Godmother’s.”

showings July 26 through July 28.

“Three Fairy Godmothers” was the second of three productions in LCC’s “Summer Stage Under the Stars” series during 2019. The others were “The Daily Life of Superheroes” and “Dance Lansing Summer Festival.”

LCC theater student Caleb Tracy played a female character in two of the productions.

“In the last show we did, ‘The Daily Life of Superheroes’ I played Poison Ivy – the female villain to Batman – but it was very short stage time,” Tracy said. “This time I get to be a woman the entire time, and it’s a lot of fun. It’s a challenge.”

Tracy played the role of the goofy and, at times, scatterbrained fairy godmother. She works alongside her fellow fairies to earn back their magic wands.

“I absolutely love the kids (in the audience),” Tracy said. “You get to be a part of a character that is larger than life. I always think to make it the performance you would want to see if you were a kid. Because if I were a kid watching this, I would want to see big characters.”

Among the larger-than-life characters, LCC student Keeley Robinson played the dark witch, Barabela, and briefly, a three-headed dragon.

Robinson said to prepare for her role; she worked together with Director Paige Tufford to form a witch that wasn’t cliché or cackling on stage.

“I kind of had to build a character that was powerful, yet she breaks and she has her weaknesses,” Robinson said.

According to Robinson, the performing arts department has something for everyone to enjoy, from plays to musicals and dance performances. Information about upcoming shows is available at https://www.lcc.edu/services/community-campus-resources/performing-arts/

Photo by Shauna Stocken

The REO Town smokestacks are a centerpiece for the upcoming “Below the Stacks” art festival.

from Richmond, Va., Sydney G. James from Detroit and Muralmatics from Lansing

IN BRIEF

Arts and Entertainment

LCC to offer play, ‘Sunset Baby’ The LCC Performing Arts Department’s first show of the 2019-20 season is “Sunset Baby,” a play by Dominique Morisseau.

Directed by Deb Keller, the play will appear Sept. 27 and 28, and Oct. 4 and 5, in the Black Box Theatre. Curtain time is 8 p.m.

The play centers on a lonely man named Kenyatta Shakur. His wife has died, and this former Black Revolutionary and political prisoner is desperate to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Nina.

If Kenyatta truly wants to reconcile his past, he must first conquer his most challenging revolution of all: fatherhood.

The Black Box Theatre is located in room 1422 of the Gannon Building. Cost for the show is $5 for students and $10 for all others.

For more info, go to www.lcc.edu/services/ community-campus-resources/performing-arts.

Wharton Center tickets on sale

Individual tickets went on sale Aug. 19 for two shows in the “Broadway at Wharton Center Series,” including “Les Miserables,” “My Fair Lady,” and “Come From Away.”

Details on these and other events can be found online at http://www.whartoncenter. com/events.

9|Arts and Entertainment

SEPT. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

reviews

Taco eaters: can you handle the ‘punk?’

By Chloe Gregg Staff Writer As the name might suggest, Punk Taco (located in Old Town Lansing and East Lansing) is a restaurant catering to a wide variety of people who love hard rock, inexpensive food and punk culture.

Punk Taco is open weekdays until 9 p.m. and stays open even later on the weekends, until 11 p.m.

It is closed on Sundays.

The restaurant serves alcohol all day. The walls are covered in posters and graffiti, and the staff is friendly and welcoming. But the true soul of the joint is in the food.

With around 20 main dishes to choose from on the menu, my family and I tried nine at the Old Town location. Everything was fantastic and still under $50.

Photo by Chloe Gregg

Chipotle Chicken Taco and Strawberry Pork Nachos at Punk Taco.

The food matched the atmosphere perfectly; from salsa that could send you into hot sweats and have your mouth on fire, to strawberry jam on pork nachos that somehow made the dish even better.

Things were kind of strange, but oh so delicious.

Not only does Punk Taco serve fresh meat and corn tortillas, they have plenty of yummy vegan and vegetarian options, such as the new black bean taco for only $4.

The mushroom poblano nachos are a terrific spicy option, and there are truly fantastic guacamole and salsas that come in different levels of “death.”

Although Punk Taco is not a place to take your significant other for a romantic dinner, or your conservative parents for a meal, the restaurant offers affordable and delicious food and a unique experience.

It is a must-try for those who can handle the punk.

New ‘Good Boys’ movie is hilariously perfect

By Ali Williams A&E Editor Three sixth grade boys, cutely named the “Bean Bag Boys” because they have bean bags, are trying their best to fit into middle school in the new R-rated movie, “Good Boys.”

Each of the boys wants something different.

Max (played by Jacob Tremblay) wants to kiss his crush Brixlee at his first kissing party.

Thor wants to fit in with the test kissing Thor’s parents’ cool kids despite them making “special” doll. fun of his love of singing.

The boys also spy on Max’s Lucas wants them to stay neighbor with a drone his fafriends as his parents go ther forbade him to use. through a divorce.

They somehow end up at a The rest of the Bean Bag frat house buying drugs for Boys help Max prepare for his their neighbor. This comes affirst kissing party so he can ter giving the neighbor’s drugs possibly kiss Brixlee. to a police officer, who they They decide to Google how Photo from Google Images locked in a convenience store to kiss, end up on adult websites and with a toy that Thor had found in his par-

ents’ room.

The movie features awkward moments between the group of boys and their families and friends.

The moments where the viewer cringes or laughs are why “Good Boys” shines.

It reminds us of how awkward middle school was and why we never would want to go back.

The movie was released Aug. 16 and is currently showing at NCG Cinemas in Lansing, among other locations.

‘Berlin’ masterfully delves into pre-Nazi Germany

By Robin Morales Associate Editor The From 1996 to 2018, American writer/illustrator Jason Lutes published a comics serial titled Berlin in which he explored the city during the Weimar Republic.

The series follows three distinct storylines that focus on a diverse cast of characters all subject to the same hyperinflation, new social and artistic movements, sexual infidelity and political fragmentation of their city.

First, is the difficult romantic relationship between Marthe Müller, a promising art student and authoritative nonconformist, and journalist Kurt Severing, a heavy-smoking intellectual weary of the

growing nationalist movement and tenuous social order that engulfs Berlin.

A second plotline follows Gudrun, a working-class woman who leaves her husband and son to take her two daughters to underground KPD meetings – meetings of Germany’s communist party – bound by the promise of an enriched life.

Finally, the series follows a group of African-American jazz musicians, and an Orthodox Jewish family. They serve as placeholders for larger racial groups who become increasingly aware of how Berlin systematically rejects them in the city’s vision of the future.

Drawn in tightly crafted black-andwhite panels, Lutes seamlessly weaves

these characters through compelling and key conversations. complex stories to form one massive narAdditionally, he gives each character rative. a unique vocabulary and tempo to their Furthermore, Lutes enables the reader phrasing, based on the character’s social to be a firsthand witness in key facts, making Berlin an authentic historical events, most notably in and thoroughly researched comic his brutal depiction of the masstory. sacre on International Workers With Berlin, Lutes has created Day: May 1, 1929. one of the pillars of the comics One of Lutes’ greatest strengths medium that simultaneously in Berlin is his keen attention to leaves no aspect of the city uncrafting well-written dialogue. earthed.

Unlike many contemporary Photo from Amazon.com As of March 2018, the entire writers, Lutes knows when to utiseries has been republished as a palize a sequence of wordless panels to ac- perback trilogy. The book is available oncelerate his story’s pacing, and when to line, and also at the Downtown Lansing shrink the size of his panels to focus on Library, located on Kalamazoo Street.

10|Opinion

Sept. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout — stocken speaks —

Alter the plan, but not the end goal Receiving your first degree after turning 28 is still an achievement. I repeat that to myself as I wake up each morning, striving toward my end goal.

For years, I have remained dedicated to graduating from Ferris State University with my business administration degree.

I’ve studied throughout fall, spring and summer semesters, passing one required course after another. Now, I can finally see the light at the end of the academic tunnel.

With the end lingering in sight, what will a business degree mean for my future?

Honestly, I’m not entirely sure yet, but I won’t let society rush my timeline.

Over the past few years, I have put a lot of energy into my family and friends; into making memories and experiences.

This is the way I live my life. It is what I think will make me happiest in a world filled with so much hate, racism and turmoil.

Shauna Stocken editor in chief

stockens@lcc.edu

My goal is to help radiate love and truth through my writing this year at The Lookout.

I look forward to the semester to come; to talking with new students and seeing what I can discover from my hometown of Lansing.

I might have had to learn the long and, at times, the hard way, but now I know: when your plan doesn’t work, change the plan, never the goal.

Plans can fail you, but my end goal remains the same, and I hold the power not to fail myself.

— robin’s ranT —

A (small) confession from no one in particular If you are burdened with anxiety, and perhaps feeling alienated, as a new or returning LCC student, I write my introductory column of The Lookout specifically to you.

When I was beginning at LCC, to protect my ego and in an effort to minimize my inconsolable angst, I subconsciously adhered to several obsessive behaviors: * Leaving my house every day about a half hour earlier than I legitimately needed to; * Spending about five minutes parking perfectly within the lines due to my unwavering belief that I would receive a ticket; * Quadruple-checking my pockets for my keys before closing the car door; * Sitting on the ground a safe distance

Robin Morales Associate editor

moraler4@lcc.edu

from the classroom door, reading a book, as I waited for my professor; * Burying my face in my notebook all period; * After class, speed-walking to the library, studying for a couple of hours in isolation, and then hurrying home.

If the fearful individual described above sounds like you, I hope you find some solace, however small, as I write now to ex-

press that the familiar maxim “all things pass” offers genuine truth.

After progressing through a bundle of lonely blues-filled weeks to begin my first year at LCC, I made intimate friends, joined a folk band and entered and won a college-wide poetry contest. And, with the help of a newly made lifelong mentor, comfortably picked my major.

Additionally, after one year, I find myself as associate editor of The Lookout.

Please do not regard me as condescending for sharing my redemptive story. I describe it not to exalt myself as someone who supposedly acted correctly and reaped the rewards, but rather in an effort to offer an authentic account of one individual’s experience as he began college.

As you become more comfortable

around campus due to your growing familiarity, I hope you will likewise choose to put yourself in positions of vulnerability.

What I mean by this is that you will choose, despite the difficulty and natural fear of rejection, to discover, immersed in joy and sorrow, the fullness of what LCC is.

I firmly believe that the commencement of a new school year offers everyone – faculty and students alike – the opportunity for reflection on the summer holiday, and subsequent renewal to set new and challenging goals for this academic year.

I am humbly one of the numberless students among you carrying my own personal aspirations. I am hoping, despite all of the unpredictability, for a successful year.

— Kari In the city —

New job gives student a chance to get involved My name is Kari Eastway. My role at The Lookout is advertisement sales manager and part time staff writer.

I moved to the Lansing area roughly two years ago; attending Lansing Community College right away in the fall. I have consistently worked toward earning my degree in secondary education with a focus in English.

My backstory begins in my hometown, which is located two hours north of Lansing.

Like any small town, mine has the infamous single-blinking stoplight and the reality that there are more cattle than humans.

I attended a K-12 school that left me with more than just a textbook education. It showed the importance of community, ed-

ucation and the significance of agriculture.

After completing my bachelor’s degree at Grand Valley State University, my ultimate end-goal is to settle in a northern Michigan town.

Credited to the environment I was raised in, my love for nature and education continues to grow. My favorite pastimes include hiking (especially through the national parks), camping and kayaking trips on a river, and venturing through abandoned sites.

Speaking of my more relaxed hobbies, I enjoy listening to audiobooks, as well as reading physical novels and walking my dogs.

Kari Eastway Sales Manager/ StaffWriter

eastwak1@lcc.edu

As Hellen Keller once said, “Life is either a daring adventure, or nothing at all,” I do my best to live a life that commits to making my soul thriving and happy.”

In regards to The Lookout, I am excited to dive head-first into this new adventure with a welcoming community. As the ad

manager, I am eager to build connections with local and national businesses to further their relations with Lansing Community College and its growing community.

As a staff writer, I look forward to becoming more involved with student life. I fully intend on observing the many clubs and activities that are often a center for students coming together.

I believe this academic school year is going to be nothing less than another fulfilling experience.

If you would like to contact me with any questions, interests, or suggestions, please feel free to contact me via email: eastwak1@ lcc.edu.

11|opinion

Sept. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout — staff editorial —

Now and then in the newspaper business Over the past 60 years, The Lookout has served Lansing Community College and the Lansing community.

In our modest beginning, the newspaper was manually laid out by hand. Stories were written on typewriters instead of computers. Scissors, X-acto knives and wax pieced it all together.

From journalists who hand wrote

interviews to voice recorders that can transcribe an entire conversation; a lot has changed in the world of journalism.

Now, The Lookout is the only American Scholastic Press Association’s 2018-2019 competition first place winner with special merit in the entire country.

The honor is the highest possible award for junior and community col-

who is your favorite actor or actress of all-time??

Shauna Stocken

editor in Chief

Robin Morales

Associate editor

Ali Williams

Julie newell

The Lookout staff looks forward to connecting with readers and sources on LCC campuses, social media and in-person in Gannon Building room 3157.

With our finger on the pulse, it is with great pride that The Lookout staff captures photography and writes articles that will entertain and inform the audience with an authentic truth.

lege newspapers in the U.S. with enrollment higher than 2,500 students.

From then to now, LCC has borne six decades of journalists, photographers, page builders and business moguls.

The evolution of journalism and technology now allows our staff to instantly connect on the web and social media, better serving you, the reader.

—

Jocelyn underwood

the lookout staff —

Kari eastway

staff writer

bayelee hodge

larry hook

stockens@lcc.edu

moraler4@lcc.edu

willa156@lcc.edu

A&e editor

sports/PHOTO editor newellj1@lcc.edu

underwj9@lcc.edu

eastwak1@lcc.edu

greggc3@lcc.edu

hodgeb9@lcc.edu

“Tom Hanks”

“Robin Williams”

“Saoirse Ronan”

“Julie Andrews”

“Jennifer Lawrence”

“Matthew McConaughey”

“Emma Watson”

“Adam Sandler”

STAFF WRITEr

ad manager

Chloe Gregg

lead paginator

adviser

hookl@lcc.edu

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12|LAST LOOK

SEPT. 3 - 15, 2019 www.lcc.edu/lookout

‘Party with the Prez’ kicks off school year

By Julie Newell Photo Editor/Sports Editor Nothing brings college students together like free food, games, prizes and great music.

Welcome Week events at LCC started on Thursday, Aug. 22 and ended on Friday, Aug. 30.

Free food and beverages were served all week long, including Kona Shaved Ice, popcorn and donuts. Activities included petting therapy dogs, student employment fair, club fair and school supply giveaways.

The real star event of the week was “Party with the Prez – Party All

Amanda Cho prepares a yummy blue raspberry snowcone for a student.

Knight.” LCC President Brent Knight joined the LCC students on Wednesday, Aug. 28 for an afternoon of free food, raffle prizes, music and games.

Knight took part in playing musical chairs with a few students, but got knocked out in the second round.

Many students jammed out to the live band, “The Hot Mess,” while others ate cotton candy, shaved ice, pizza and ice cream.

Others played games including Jenga and Connect Four and some enjoyed the sunny day by sitting and talking with new and old friends.

Photo by Larry Hook President Brent Knight gets knocked out of a game of musical chairs by a quartet of other players.

The band “A Hot Mess” provides rock and roll tunes for the hundreds of people in attendance at the “Party with the Prez” event Aug. 28 on LCC’s main campus.

At left, Calla Coleman and Nick Snider enjoy a game of Connect Four. At right, Erin Matesich (left) and Pam Jaymes hand out slices of Domino’s Pizza.

Photos by Julie Newell

Cassie Little happily serves a cone of cotton candy to a hungry student.