NEWS BRIEFS
by Christian Tabak Assistant Editor
Oklahoma Supreme Court Upholds Controversial Abortion Law
The Oklahoma Supreme Court voted to uphold a controversial 2014 state law that restricts the use of abortion-inducing drugs. The law prohibits off-label use of abortion drugs by requiring them to be administered only according to guidelines set forth by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Abortion rights groups challenged the law as restrictive of women’s reproductive rights as well as less effective. The FDA guidelines require that women take the medication in higher doses than typically prescribed, visit three times with a doctor and prevent them from taking the medication after the seventh week. Aside from the restrictive nature of the guidelines, medical experts have asserted that the higher dosages increase the chance of side effects and reduce the efficacy of the pills.
Apple Resists FBI Order to Hack San Bernardino Terrorist’s iPhone
Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook launched an appeal against an order issued by the FBI to have the technology company create a backdoor for one of the iPhones used by the San Bernardino terrorists. The iPhone in question was used by Syed Rizwan Farook, one of the two individuals responsible for 14 deaths in a mass shooting Dec. 2, 2015, in San Bernardino, California. The FBI claimed the phone may provide answers to several questions regarding the shooting, but Apple argued that the government is overstepping its boundaries regarding consumer privacy and security. If Apple continues to fight against the mandate, the appeal is expected to go all the way to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals before a decision can be reached.
Quakey State: Fracking in Oklahoma
by Becca Stokes Online Editor
Since 2009, there has been a dramatic increase in earthquakes in the central and eastern United States. In Oklahoma, these earthquakes are prominent around the central and northern parts of the state.
More than 200 magnitude 3.0 or greater earthquakes have shaken Oklahoma since 2009. According to the United States Geological Survey, one to three 3.0 magnitude or greater earthquakes occurred yearly from 1975 to 2008. This rose significantly to an average of 40 earthquakes per year from 2009 to mid-2013.
This increase included the largest earthquake recorded in Oklahoma, which was a 5.6
magnitude that occurred near Prague Nov. 5, 2011. It has been interpreted that this activity is related to the process of fracking and wastewater injection.
Fracking is shorthand for hydraulic fracturing, which involves the process of drilling a mile or more into shale formations before gradually turning horizontal and continuing its path. This creates a well that, after it is safely drilled, cased and cemented, has small holes in the horizontal pipe through which a mixture of water and sand is pumped at a high pressure that creates small fractures in the rock that are held open by sand.
Fracking has provided access to an alternate
Many oil rigs in Oklahoma have been shut down because of drops in Oklahoma’s economy.
Photo by Kelsey Morgan
NEWS BRIEFS
by Christian Tabak Assistant Editor
Oklahoma Education Committee Passes Bill to Reform High School Testing
A bill that would eliminate Oklahoma’s end-of-instruction tests in high schools passed the state’s Education Committee and is on track to be reviewed by the Oklahoma State Senate as early as next week. Proposed by Sen. John Ford, R-Bartlesville, the bill would allow individual school districts to determine which assessment would best address the needs of each district’s student body. Currently, high school students are required to pass four-out-of-seven end-of-instruction exams in order to graduate, regardless of their grades prior to the examinations. The new bill is expected to reduce education costs as well as reduce stress on students, who are often required to take more than three of the exams in one year.
Obama Introduces Proposal to Shut Down Guantanamo Bay
President Barack Obama called for the closure of the Guantanamo Bay detention facility located in Cuba and has presented a proposal to Congress. Coming seven years after his original promise to close down the detention facility, the proposal involves transferring a majority of the 91 detainees to other countries and securing the remainder in another U.S. detention facility. Republicans have already voiced their opposition to the move by citing laws that prevent detained terrorists from being transferred to U.S. soil and arguing that the transfer of detainees would create a major security risk. While a detention facility has yet to be selected for the transfer, the Pentagon has identified 13 different facilities and are in the process of choosing which facility would be most suitable for the project.
Join The Oklahoma City Museum of Art For Omelettes and Rock’n’Roll
The Oklahoma City Museum of Art is hosting its 32nd Omelette Party fundraiser at 7 p.m. March 4 at the Chevy Bricktown Events Center. The event features gourmet egg dishes prepared by famous local chefs, live music and an art raffle featuring the works of more than 50 local artists. Tickets cost $100 for museum members and $125 for non-members. Tickets can be ordered in advance at 236-3100. All proceeds benefit the Oklahoma City Museum of Art.
Momentum to spotlight local artists under 30
by Michelle Rojano News Editor
The annual Momentum art show displaying artwork created by young Oklahoma artists will take place March 4-5 at the Plow in Bricktown.
Exhibiting art as well as film, live performances and more, the event is meant to help artists age 30 and under become known within the community as well as encourage the appreciation of art.
The spotlight artists for this event are Klair Larson, Haley Prestifilippo and Gloria Shows. These artists not only received monetary help to create art but also received three months of artistic guidance from guest curators.
Spotlight artists are selected months before the event and given $2,000 to create art exclusively for the next Momentum event. These spotlight artists are featured through highlighted displays and performances throughout the event.
Not all the art shown will be only from spotlight artists. The event portrays the creations of several local artists who were chosen by guest curators as the best out of hundreds of submissions.
Former Rose State College student Randall Barnes will be part of the event planning
FRACKING
committee. In previous years, art from an RSC student has been displayed and sold at Momentum.
The event is not only great for entertainment but also for art collectors.
There are about 80 pieces of art on display. Certain pieces of art may be purchased at the venue, depending on the artist. The website for the event shows previews of the work from the spotlight artists.
Aside from March 4-5, there will be free gallery nights from 2 to 7 p.m. March 6-7 and artists will be at the venue to talk about their art before ending the event at 7 p.m.
For more information on applying, volunteering or joining the organization, visit www. MomentumOklahoma.org. The application and selection of spotlight artists and artwork begins early in the year, so it is recommended that artists interested in being a part of the event begin looking into the event as soon as possible.
Tickets for the show can be purchased at the door for $15 or can be reserved in advance for $10 by calling the Oklahoma Visual Arts Coalition at 879-2400.
continued from Page 1
source of fuel. Until renewable energy is better developed and accessible for everyone, this alternate source of fuel will buy some time.
However, fracking also uses largest amounts of water. According to Chesapeake Energy, the initial drilling operation could use 6,000 to 60,000 gallons of fracking mixture.
“The oil and gas companies will tell you that there is little to no risk of contamination to drinking water because they securely seal the aquifers. That said, however, there are chances for things to not go as planned and a potential of contamination of drinking water,” said Environmental Science Professor Daniel Ratcliff.
Despite all this, fracking is not considered the cause of this increase in earthquakes.
According to the USGS, fracking is only directly involved in a small percentage of seismic activity.
“It is not each individual frack well per se, because each individual frack well is put under pressure for short durations and not as high of a pressure. It’s the disposal of those millions and billions of gallons of frack fluid and production fluid from all of the wells,” Ratcliff said.
These wells that hold all this fluid are also known as Class II underground injection wells. They take any fluid related to oil and gas drilling, including frack wastewater. The
oil and gas industry uses injection wells to dispose of the highly salty water from the ancient seas that have preceded in the Oklahoma area, chemicals, heavy metals and radioactive material.
“Things get pumped down more into those regularly. And so there you have a consistent process going on rather than a very short term,” said Geology Professor Eric Johnson.
Fracking has been a technique to extract resources since the 1940s.
However, new techniques such as horizontal drilling, which was developed in the 1990s, has led to more fluid needing to be disposed of. The larger amounts of fluid in recent years are the likely cause of the increase in earthquakes.
“It decreased the amount of fracking fluid they have in their production water, so they have a higher volume of disposal fluid they have to take care,” Ratcliff said.
Johnson also mentioned that it’s possible there are faults deeper below than what was previously recorded. If they exist, it is possible that the wells are interacting with these deep faults.
There’s no definitive answer currently for what is causing the earthquakes. In order to access this source of fuel, it is beneficial for oil and gas companies to continue these fracking procedures.
Photo courtesy of Momentum 2016
Momentum 2016 will take place at the Plow in Bricktown, showcasing several amateur artists’ work.
Titanic II delays voyage to 2018
by Rya Underwood Staff Writer
Titanic II delayed setting sail, and it will not be ready until 2018.
The ship is currently being built in Jiangsu, China.
The replica of the ill-fated ship was supposed to set sail this year. The ship was originally going to keep the same maiden voyage as the Titanic, but it will now set sail in Jiangsu and land in Dubai.
The Titanic twin is a creation of billionaire Clive Palmer and the shipping company Blue Star Line.
“Why build the Titanic? Why go to the moon? Why do the Yankees play the Red Socks? Why did Christopher Columbus discover the Americas? Because they could, and I can, and we can build the Titanic,” Palmer said.
The original Titanic, known as the ‘ship of dreams,’ set sail April 1912 in Southampton, England. It was destined to land in New York.
Five days into the maiden voyage the ship hit an iceberg estimated at 300 feet long and 100 feet above water.
More than 1,500 people died in the Titanic tragedy, with only 706 survivors.
Palmer and Blue Star Line received many supporters and positive feedback, but some people have questioned if building the replica is insensitive to the lives lost of the Titanic.
“I don’t think it’s insensitive, I think it’s fascinating that people will get to experience the wonders of the Titanic again,” said Wen-
dy Gibbons, a possible Titanic II passenger.
The new ship is almost identical to the original but it includes modern technology for navigation and safety. This includes more lifeboats, satellite controls and digital navigation among many other updates.
The original Titanic was 883 feet long and 175 feet high. The new ship is 882 feet long and 100 feet high. Though the new ship’s length and height are smaller, it will be a few meters wider than the original ship to supply additional stability.
Titanic II is maintaining the same Turkish and Edwardian look and feel as the original ship.
The grand staircase will be one of the many identical features the two ships share.
In addition, Titanic II will include identical first-class suites, dining rooms, smoking rooms, poolrooms and other amenities.
Even though the two ships share many features, the new ship is estimated to cost $426 million more than the original.
“Some eager passengers have already expressed willingness to pay $1 million per ticket,” according to CNBC.
Palmer plans to keep class system the same as it was in the twentieth century. Including first-, second- and third-class dining rooms. Also, first-class travelers will be separated from the other classes.
Tickets are not yet available for purchase. Ticketing information, voyage dates and prices will be posted on bluestarline.com.au.
GRILL & FR OZEN TRE AT S
Food truck take over
by Christian Tabak Assistant Editor
Chris Martin never saw himself operating a burger and frozen dessert food truck, but after getting hold of a truck to expand the reach of his ice cream cart business he has found himself right at home behind the grill.
“The reason I chose to do burgers and grilled items is very simple: the truck that I bought had a grill on it. I have had to add my fry equipment, but a burger just tastes better with fresh cut fries,” Martin said.
Now in its third month of operation, Chris’ Grill and Frozen Treats has picked up a decent following and joined a growing number of popular food truck vendors across the state.
“The bacon cheeseburger is probably my biggest seller, and fresh cut french fries or onion rings are such a unique treat they almost always accompany the burgers,” Martin said.
The food truck business has exploded across the U.S. over the past five years and there is no sign of it dying down anytime soon, according to a report from consumer research organization IBIS.
“In the short time I have been open I am very encouraged by the business,” Martin said. “When I am expecting a large rush or crowd I always try to have a helper to keep the lines moving quickly.”
From traditional food cart fare like burgers and hotdogs to mobile pizzerias and bakeries, Oklahoma’s food trucks offer a wide variety of meals and tastes. Even vegan meals.
The Loaded Bowl, Oklahoma’s only whole food and vegan food truck, opened in 2013 and has been surprised to see that its varied menu has a broader appeal than owner Tevin Grupe expected.
“The Loaded Bowl has always been a small operation, but our customer base has been growing like crazy over the past couple of years,” he said.
This increase in customer base has been so great that the food truck recently began plans for a restaurant in the Farmers’ Market District of Oklahoma City so as to meet the increased demand.
The Farmers’ Market District is also the location of the recently constructed Bleu Garten food truck court, an open venue that features a rotating selection of food trucks daily and attracts hundreds of local community members.
Following Bleu Garten’s success, community and council members in Midwest City have begun clamoring for the opportunity to create something similar.
“I think a dedicated food court like Bleu Garten or a festival like the defunct H & 8th in Eastern Oklahoma County would be great,” Martin said.
But while city officials have updated the zoning ordinances to allow for a food truck court, local business have yet to jump at the prospect.
Until then, Martin’s food truck can be found at locations across Midwest City and Oklahoma City as he supplies his burgers and considers updating his menu.
“I have just recently introduced homemade egg rolls onto the truck. If their initial success is sustained I may have to alter my concept,” Martin said.
To see where Martin’s food truck is from day-to-day, “like” his page, “Chris’ Grill and Frozen Treats,” on Facebook.
NEWS BRIEFS
by Christian Tabak Assistant Editor
China to Relocate 9,100 people for World’s Largest Telescope
China announced plans for the construction of a 500-meter radio telescope that would have the ability to detect radio signals from as far away as tens of billions of light years. But the project requires the relocation of more than 9,000 people to make space for the massive structure. While small compared to the 1.2 million who were relocated for the Three Gorges Dam, the move is estimated to have a significantly higher cost than the 12,000 yuan being offered to each family as compensation. The $185 million project is expected to be completed by September and, once complete, will surpass the Arecibo Observatory in Puerto Rico as the largest radio telescope.
Women’s Leadership Scholarship Now Open
RSC’s annual Women’s Leadership Initiative Scholarship is now accepting applications for the 2016 Women’s Leadership Conference held March 25. This year’s theme is Women and Education and applicants are required to submit a minimum 15-slide presentation on the theme. Requirements for eligibility are that applicants are female students currently enrolled or enrolled in the fall semester, have at least a 3.0 GPA and must be enrolled in at least six credit hours for the fall. The submission deadline is March 21. For more information, contact Professor of History Michelle Brockmeier at mbrockmeier@rose.edu.
Harper Lee, best known for the classic novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” and its recent sequel, “Go Set a Watchman,” passed away at the age of 89 in her hometown of Monroeville, Alabama. Despite her expectations of a modest reception, “To Kill a Mockingbird” sold more than 1.1 million copies in its first week, remained on the New York Times best-seller list for more than 98 weeks and won Lee the 1961 Pulitzer Prize. The story followed the experience of a young girl in the American South during the depression as her lawyer father represented an African-American farmhand falsely accused of rape. Dealing with issues of racism and justice through the eyes of a young child, the novel not only captured the hearts of readers but helped influence a national dialogue on Civil Rights. Students at the University of Alabama began a petition to rename a campus building in her honor rather than after former Sen. John Tyler Morgan, who had been a leader of the Ku Klux Klan.
Author Harper Lee Dead at 89
Photo courtesy of Chris Martin
Chris’ Grill sells homemade burgers, fries, onion rings and various ice cream items.
“Who has your vote in the presidential election?”
Campus Chat
by Christian Tabak Assistant Editor and Becca Stokes Online Editor
Steve Carano, Geosciences Coordinator
“I
want a candidate that will follow the Constitution. This person has a mess to clean up!
The
future of the country likely demands it.”
Kayla Barr, Pre-Med Major
“As for now, I think I’m going to vote for Bernie Sanders.”
“Voting for the Bernie man for 2016!!”
Cynthia Richards, Graduation Services Administrative Assistant
“Undecided until the primary. Trying to make a decision now is impossible.”
*Editor’s note: Interviewees also responded Republican candidate Donald Trump and Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton but wished to remain anonymous.
Mark Tippin, Dean of Business Information Technology
“As of today, I am leaning towards Bernie Sanders for the next president.”
OKC Zoo elephant’s necropsy results verify cause of death
by Sarah Hite Staff Writer
The Oklahoma City Zoo released the necropsy results on the 37-year-old Asian elephant that died in late January. Chai the Elephant was found dead in her habitat in the OKC Zoo on Jan. 30. Some groups are calling Chai’s death an unnecessary tragedy.
Her death was unexpected. Zoo staff reported Chai was behaving normally. The initial necropsy found no obvious signs of death, aside from a slightly thin body, and tissue results were sent to an independent lab. Further examination found a systemic bacterial infection, considered non-contagious. The independent examination supported the initial results, concluding a significant loss in body fat.
Animal activists are calling for the closure of the elephant exhibit at the OKC Zoo in response to Chai’s death and the death of the 4-yearold elephant, Malee, which occurred Oct. 1, 2015.
Chai and Bamboo, two Asian Elephants, were moved from Seattle’s Woodland Park Zoo to OKC in May last year. They were transferred because Woodland Park faced complaints about the inhumane conditions of the elephant exhibit.
It was debated on whether to send the pair to an accredited sanctuary or to the OKC Zoo. The decision to transfer the elephants faced protests from animal rights groups pushing strongly for a transfer to a sanctuary.
The average life expectancy for Asian elephants is about 60-70 years in the wild. The median life expectancy for Asian elephants in captivity is about 47 years. Chai was 37 years old when she died.
The Woodland Park Zoo officials chose the OKC Zoo among 32 options because of its $13 million state-of-the-art facility.
Opponents of the transfer favored sanctuary because of the space available for the elephants to roam. In response to these concerns, the OKC Zoo addressed the collaboration between itself, Woodland Park Zoo and a network of elephant welfare experts. It concluded the most important resource that supports elephant welfare is a natural social environment.
“Female Asian elephants live in multi-generational, matriarchal herds. No sanctuary is able to provide Chai and Bamboo with a multi-generational herd,” Woodland Park Zoo stated in a press release.
The OKC Zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquar-
iums, and OKC Zoo works to support and generate funding for elephant conservation projects and protecting habitats. The association works to connect communities with wildlife.
About two months after the transfer, The United States Department of Agriculture, Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service publicly released a routine inspection report performed July 22, 2015, outlining four instances of noncompliance, one of which referenced the sanitation of the elephant exhibit.
According to the report, at the time of the inspection there were rodent droppings near the elephant food preparation area. The USDA APHIS gave the OKC Zoo until the next day to correct the citation.
In response to Chai’s death, the Friends of the Woodland Park Zoo Elephants filed a complaint with the USDA to investigate. Alyne Fortgang, of Friends of Woodland Park Zoo Elephants, advocated for Chai and Bamboo to be sent to a sanctuary. She has said it is impossible to completely rule out the possibility that the Seattle elephants played a role in Malee’s death. Chai was exposed to Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpes Virus (EEHV) early in her life and was likely a carrier.
The OKC Zoo began considering a testing system that would yield quicker treatment in the future, the EEHV virus took hold of Malee too rapidly to save her. With another young elephant in the herd, the keepers maintain vigilance for the warning signs.
“The Seattle elephants did not bring this virus to us. This particular strain was already here,” said OKC Zoo Veternarian Dr. Jennifer D’Agostino.
It has been determined that the EEHV virus is not what killed Chai.
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals released a statement concerning Chai’s death. After contacting PETA, Jaimie Schwartz, communications special projects manager, stated the organization had no further comment at this time.
In an unrelated circumstance, Dr. Marion Garai of the Elephant Specialist Advisory Group, issued statements explaining the welfare concerns of removing elephants from the wild.
“Of course the zoos need elephants to generate income through more visitors, as they have clearly admitted,” Garai said via email. “This is an issue about money and not about the elephants and one wonders why they asked for public comment in the first place?”
“My personal opinion is that wild elephants do not belong into a zoo. Most zoos are inappropriate for the varied social structure and behaviour of elephants. There are very few zoos which can offer them more or less adequate facilities and only zoo born elephant should be kept in breeding herds, including males,” said Garai.
There are numerous concerns over the involvement, or lack thereof, of the OKC Zoo in Chai’s death. Reports indicated that the OKC Zoo asked for further investigation to determine if Chai had an underlying disease or chronic issue. The results may take several weeks for complete analysis.
Gabriella Gonzalez, Graduation Services Work Study
Political Hoaxmap’s efforts to extinguish speculation of migrants
Rubio criticized by news stations regarding age
by Rya Underwood Staff Writer
The United States law prohibits any person under the age of 35 to be eligible to run for president.
But a candidate only a decade older than the minimum requirement is sparking concern in some voters.
“The idea that age brings wisdom and maturity is what the Founding Fathers had in mind when they spelled it out in the Constitution,” reported USA Today.
Rubio will be 45 in May, putting him just 10 years above the required age. Although Rubio meets the age requirements to run for president, he is one of the youngest candidates in the race.
Even though Rubio’s age sparked controversy, if he were elected he would not be the youngest president. Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in at only 42 years old. John F. Kennedy was the second youngest president and was elected at 43 years old.
Citizens oftentimes consider a candidate’s age when deciding for whom to vote.
Some people are concerned Rubio’s age may negatively impact his role as president because he is not old enough to have the experience or wisdom a leader needs to run a country, while others see Rubio’s age as a positive aspect because they think he will be able to better relate with the people and be more open for change.
“I think age is less of a factor in comparison to experience,” said Lacey Pagel, a registered Republican.
A study conducted by The Quantitative Peace posted by Ben Farrer in 2014 showed citizens who want to see change in the country tend to vote for a younger candidate. The study also indicated that voters who want to see continuity within the country tend to vote for an older candidate.
“I don’t think age matters, unless they’re really old like Bernie Sanders,” said Shirlee Kapella, owner and CEO of Kapella Tax Service Inc.
Rubio expressed his youthfulness allows him to be in touch with the modern world. Thus, making him more aware of the wants and needs of this generation.
“The time has come to turn the page and allow a new generation of leadership into this country,” Rubio said.
Many citizens think there needs to be dramatic change in the White House, and Rubio might be the solution.
Other citizens think Rubio’s conservative values may prevent him from being open to changes the people want to see happen in America.
It seems Rubio’s talk about being “in touch” may have had an impact on Iowan voters. During the Iowa Caucuses, Rubio impressed his opponents by ranking in third place with 23 percent. This was only 1 percent below Donald Trump.
Though Rubio had impressive scores in Iowa, it seemed the people of New Hampshire may have a different opinion. Rubio came in third place in the New Hampshire primaries, with only 10 percent.
Rubio hopes to regain his voters as he prepares for Super Tuesday March 1.
by Sarah Hite Staff Writer
Karolin Schwarz and Lutz Helm confronted online media falsifications by creating HoaxMap Feb. 8. The focus was to dispel rumors about migrants and the relation to increased crime rates. The map was released online, as well as by hoaxmap.org. The map pin-points exact locations where criminal activity was said to have taken place.
The map shows the local crime reports involving migrants in Germany, showing local crime reports involving migrants. The country is one of many that is currently under a refugee crisis. Such a dramatic influx has prompted fear from some Germans.
There are more than 200 rumors. Public fear is charted on a visual plane, allowing viewers to form a new opinion concerning information-gathering through social media. The pins provide a description, accompanied by completed police investigations proving the falsehood of the alleged crimes. Reports range from vandalism and property damage to rape and sexual assault.
Currently, there is no statistical evidence to support a correlation between migrants and increased crime.
Saeed Mirzaee, the executive chef at the University of Central Oklahoma, is an immigrant from Iran. He left his country to escape an oppressive regime and further his education in America more than 35 years ago. He attended Rose State before transferring to University of Central Oklahoma and completing his degree in industrial technology.
“In 1979, I left Iran because of the regime change. Iran was a disaster but not many people wanted to leave Iran. Their heritage was there; their husbands were in Iran and their families were there … I got the last seat on the plane out of Abadan, Iran, to America. I was the only Iranian on the plane, most were American people there because of the oil,” Mirzaee said. 2
Mirzaee went on to discuss the hardships of assimilation and moving to a new country.
“The hardest part about being away from my home was the culture. The different dialects were difficult to understand,” he said. “All the language and rules were difficult to pick up. I knew too many people that came here and said, ‘I can’t stay.’ They want to go back to Iran because it is so difficult here. I knew people who threatened suicide rather than face the assimilation and harsh judgment in America.”
Social media has perpetuated a historical fear and has gone viral with reported incidents. Users do not necessarily validate the authenticity of a source before sharing it or passing it along.
“Since the middle of last year, we’re witnessing an increasing trend of rumours about asylum seekers going viral — ranging from [migrants] poaching swans to desecrating graves. Those stories are collected here,” wrote Schwarz on Hoaxmap.
The map faced criticism for not including accurate events among the inaccurate. By not addressing the relationship between factual news and rumors, Hoaxmap is considered vulnerable. The concession of true crimes compared to the false accusations could create a foil that demonstrates both negative and positive aspects of social media’s influence.
The anonymity online allowed users to express extreme ideas produced from malice. Schwarz confronted the anonymity with Hoaxmap.
Photo courtesy of Google Maps
Maps such as these allow Hoaxmap to disprove false correlations between migrant influxes and crime activity.
Photo courtesy of politico.com
Marco Rubio holds third place in the polls since the Iowa Caucus Feb. 1.
Facebook misfortune: India’s ban on program to open Internet access
by Christian Tabak Assistant Editor
Facebook’s quest to connect globally was put on hold in India after the Indian government banned its Free Basics program for limiting Internet access rather than expanding it.
Citing how the service provides access to only a limited collection of Internet services, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India ruled that the service was in direct violation of international net neutrality standards.
This ban is the first of its kind for the program since its launch in 2013 as part of Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg’s initiative to increase Internet access around the world.
“While we’re disappointed with [this] decision, I want to personally communicate that we are committed to keep working to break down barriers to connectivity in India and around the world,” Zuckerberg said in a statement released on Facebook.
But the idea that this is about actually connecting more countries to the Internet is a misconception, according to Mark Raymond, Wick Carey Assistant Professor of International Security at the University of Oklahoma.
“Almost every country on earth has Internet access. Even North Korea. So it’s wrong to say that this is a matter of getting more countries online. Rather, the challenges are more often either about government repression or censorship, or about the costs of modern telecommunications services,” he said.
Free Basics began operating in India in February 2015 and quickly became the subject of a national discussion over whether or not the
Students interested in travelling!
Passport program offers students way to travel while earning college credit and cash
by Kat Tabak Circulation Manager
Students and community members have an opportunity to travel and experience countries around the world through Rose State’s Global and Cultural Learning Program and the Passport to Learning Program.
Open to students, faculty and community members, the Global and Cultural Learning program provided two-week long study tours to countries as diverse as Nicaragua, Paris and Austria.
The plan behind this project is to help students get the chance to see the world around them from a different perspective and also to allow them the chance to have new experiences, according to Professor of Humanities Lori Morrow.
“Part of college is about gaining a new perspective on the world,” Morrow said. “If students can see themselves and the world a bit differently after participating, then it was a success.”
service violated one of the most important principles governing unrestricted Internet access: net neutrality.
By preventing Internet service providers from restricting access to content or services available to Internet users, net neutrality works to ensure that discrimination and monopolization is kept to a minimum and not letting large corporations or the wealthy pay for faster Internet speed than the general public.
And while Free Basics markets itself as a free Internet service that expands Internet access to millions of people in more than 37 countries, that access is limited to Facebook and services that sign-on with the program. Not the entire Internet.
“Whether or not you think the kind of model Facebook was attempting to deliver in India is a problem ultimately depends on whether you value consumer freedom or simply improving the material and economic conditions for citizens,” Raymond said.
Although the ruling presents a major obstacle for Free Basics in India, Zuckerberg and Facebook have made clear their intentions to fight the ban.
“Everyone in the world should have access to the Internet. Our mission is to make the world more open and connected. That mission continues, and so does our commitment to India,” Zuckerberg said.
But for the time being, India appears to have decided that maintaining strong net neutrality outweighs the services Free Basics is offering.
Most of the travels for the Global and Cultural Learning Program take place in Europe, with this year’s trip in May providing students the opportunity to visit France, Switzerland, Germany and Austria.
The Passport to Learning Program is a new initiative that began last fall that promotes student learning about art and culture within our state.
Part of the reason behind the creation of the Passport to Learning Program was to allow students who could not travel overseas to still get an opportunity to experience art, culture and music from a different perspective without even having to leave the state, according to Professor of English Sherri Mussatto.
Points are earned for attending events such as musicals, cultural festivals and museums and students who earn more than 100 points are eligible for a Passport to Learning Certificate that is added to their activity transcript.
Students who achieve 100 points are also entered into a drawing for one of five $75 gift cards and students who achieve 75 points are eligible to receive a $10 gift card.
The program also provides two bus trips in the spring and fall semesters as a learning experience and can also be attended for extra credit for certain classes. While these trips cost between $30$40 for students, the cost covers lunch, travel and admission to the sites visited.
For more information about either program, contact Morrow at lmorrow@rose.edu or Mussatto at smussatto@rose.edu.
India’s ban on Facebook’s Free Basics program hinders efforts to break down virtual barriers around the world.
Photo by Kelsey Morgan
Last semester, the Passport Program took students to Oklahoma City, Tulsa and Dallas museums.
Photo by Kelsey Morgan
e February 26, 2016
Staff Members
Editor-in-Chief, Graphic Artist
Kelsey Morgan
Assistant Editor
Christian Tabak
Photography Editor Jackson Parker
Online Editor
Becca Stokes
News Editor
Michelle Rojano
Staff Writer
Cassandra Hernandez
Austin Russell
Sarah Hite
Jonathan Goudeau
Trevor Wilson
Page Clare
Adviser
Darcy Delaney
Secretary Carol Benefee
Computer Guru
Scottie Seger
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In the weeks leading up to the highly-anticipated seventh solo studio album by Kanye West, Twitter was taken by storm. West, an occasional Twitter user in the past, was the talk of Twitter because of his rants, album title changes and, of course, he is “Yeezus.”
West has gone through a plethora of title names, ranging from “So Help Me God” to “The Life of Pablo.” As West was in the midst of indecisiveness, changing the title from “Swish” to “Waves,” rapper Wiz Khalifa took offense to album title because West was not paying homage to Max B, the innovator of “the wave.”
Khalifa posted a tweet with the initials “KK,” which brought West’s insecurities to the forefront as he attacked Khalifa.
“Maybe I couldn’t be skinny and tall but I’ll settle for being the greatest artist of all time as a consolation,” West tweeted.
In the following days, Khalifa seemed to continue throwing shots West’s way, but they ended up squashing the beef.
West continued to keep the Internet buzzing after announcing his Yeezy Season 3 Collection will be
shown at a listening party of his new album at Madison Square Garden. When tickets went on sale, they were sold out in 10 minutes.
“Thank you so much guys we sold Madison Square Garden out in 10 minutes,” West tweeted.
All-in-all, this feat is extraordinary and shows West’s relevancy in our culture.
On the eve of the album’s release date of Feb. 13, West tweeted prior to his performance on Saturday Night Live announcing he is $53 million in debt.
“Mark Zuckerberg invest $1 billion into Kanye West ideas,” West tweeted the morning of his album release.
He opened himself up to help from anyone who was willing to help. West did not go into specifics on why he is where he is at financially, but he stated his dreams and ideas played a part.
People always want something to talk about on social media and West has provided that. Twitter and West may not make much sense together, but you will be entertained by his irrational, unpredictable tweets.
Cheap, fun last-minute Spring Break trips
by Michelle Rojano News Editor
Spring Break does not have to be beach raves or cost thousands of dollars. The point of Spring Break is to have fun and visit some places that are not accessible in day-to-day life.
It is not too late to plan a short, fun trip with a handful of friends.
• Roadtrip to a neighboring state
Go to Texas beaches like Galveston or Padre Island. These are probably the closest, easiest trips to take as an Oklahoma resident who wishes to go to the beach. After visiting the beach, there is the possibility of passing through and exploring Houston and Dallas on the way. Popular cities in Texas have many activities and attractions that vary from Oklahoma’s.
• Two-day trip to a different city
Plan a short two-day, one-night trip to Dallas or Tulsa. This is perfect if it is not possible to take a week off. Plan a weekend trip there. Look into their popular attractions like the local zoos, museums or aquariums. Rent a hotel room at any hotel with an indoor pool, just in case the weather is rainy or cold.
• See a concert and explore a new city
Plan a concert trip or an event trip. Many theaters and venues will have plenty of artists or plays scheduled during spring break. If there is a band, artist or performance occuring in a nearby city, plan a
short day or two-day trip around it. It is easy to look up concerts and buy tickets online ahead of time. Songkick and Bands in Town are great websites that follow specific artists and bands and send notifications when artists are nearby. Venues usually have websites or advertisement of events happening.
• Visit a local lake
Oklahoma may be landlocked, but there are many man-made lakes. A trip to Lake Murray or Lake Thunderbird might be a great substitute for a beach. Another great option is Turner Falls. It may not be a new place but it can still be a nice short trip full of fun adventures.
• Rent a cabin by a lake
Visiting a lake does not have to mean camping. There are many cabins available averaging about $125 per night. Most cabins are a short distance from a lake and come fully-furnished and have running water and electricity.
• Visit local family or friends
Visit family or friends. Message your favorite cousin on Facebook and plan a visit. Most people have extended family that they do not see often. It is even better when there is not a huge age gap between cousins or siblings, because the interests will be similar. Maybe visit a close friend that has moved out of the city.
Twitter is the source of many celebrity disagreements, from Kanye West and Wiz Khalifa to Katy Perry and Taylor Swift.
GraphicbyBeccaStokes
“History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but faced with courage, need not to be lived again.”
- Maya Angelou
Black History Month: February holds black heritage celebration and pride
by Page Clare Staff Writer
Since 1976, the United States has devoted the month of February to black history. As decades go on, Black History Month has become more of a celebration of black culture, excellence and the thriving of black individuals in general.
Black History Month originated from Carter G. Woodson’s “Negro History Week,” according to History.com. The Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH) sponsored national Negro History Week. The organization chose to dedicate the second week of February to converge with the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass.
The nation should find pride in itself for overcoming a horrific epidemic of slavery, prejudice and racial discrimination. Although there are still racial issues in the country, progress has been made.
Years ago, segregation stood between bodies of people that passed judgment because of race.
However, the individuals who believe society has grown tremendously to love and encourage one another have also realized the only superior race is the human race. Despite this way of thinking, racial profiling has not been permanently extinguished. Terrible events such as black-on-black crimes, police shootings and wrongful systematic occurrences are still taking place. Although, how discrimination effects law enforcement is not fully publicized. In an interview with Lonzell Scott, a reference clerk for the Midwest City Police Department, Scott stated after two years of military service, he became certified to be an Equal Employment Opportunity Clerk.
“Discrimination wasn’t that [bad] but minorities were having a hard time getting jobs,” Scott said. When asked if he personally experiences prejudice in his law enforcement career he answered “yes.”
“Being called the N-word wasn’t
anything odd or out-of-the-ordinary,” Scott stated regarding his military service in 1982.
Despite his racial obstacles, Scott rose above the odds against him. He received an award from the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People because of his achievements and efforts.
Black History Month reached prospects not only in the United States but also around the world. Countries such as Canada and the United Kingdom also partake in the celebration in black culture. This is an example of how many generations have evolved and have come to respect, and more importantly learn, from those before them. Seeing change in communities does not require looking far.
Rose State offers a variety of ethnicities in its students, faculty and staff. Dr. James Hochtritt, professor of African-American studies, holds Black History Month close to his heart.
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He is caucasian man who teaches an African-American history course.
In an interview with Hochtritt, the question of why he wanted to teach black history arose. He replied that he grew up in the Bay area in the 1960s.
“In such a diverse and radical area, you could not help but to become politicized at a very early age,” Hochtritt said. Given his circumstances, growing up exposed to issues such as Civil Rights and watching his generation question various public issues, this contributed to his interest in African-American subjects. He began seeing oppression involving many ethnicities.
“You couldn’t help to be made aware, empathetic and understanding of all kinds of people,” he said.
Although black history is only recognized internationally once a year, the culture and triumph of blacks and minorities should be recognized every day.
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Frederick A. Douglass High School was named after Frederick Douglass, orator and author who advocated for civil rights.
Photo by Kelsey Morgan