Workshop guides search
Students learn skills, meet employers
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
The goal of many college students is to find a career in the field they have spent years studying, but many are not sure how to prepare an impressive resume or ace an interview.
The Job Placement and Career Services Office helps students with these issues and assists them in finding employers in their chosen fields, both on an individual basis and during workshops.
A special pair of workshops have been planned to help students learn the necessary skills for landing that muchdesired career and to prepare for the Greater Oklahoma City Career Fair scheduled for April 5 at the Cox Convention Center.
The first was scheduled for March 24 and the opportunity to register for it has passed. However, another opportunity to participate in one of the workshops will be held from 11a.m.-4p.m. March 31. Required pre-registration for this event is scheduled from 5-7 p.m., March 29 and 30 in the Social Services Building, Room 205.
During the registration times,
students will be given a preparation sheet to take home and fill out with information needed for creating their resumes. These completed forms will be used by students during the workshops and should be brought with them at that time. Supplies, including a compact
Achieving summer tan might prove hazardous to health
Andrew Knittle News Editor
With spring break behind them and summer just a few weeks away, many image-conscience RSC students — and faculty as well — might be thinking about how to obtain the all-important base tan.
For many of those appearance-obsessed individuals, tanning salons – not the sun – will serve as the conduit for attaining the fresh-from-thebeach-even-though-there-isno-beach look this year.
And while nothing is more appealing than a person who looks like a saddlebag with eyes and a nose, there are very real concerns to be addressed regarding tanning salons.
Contrary to what students may have heard from TV commercials or from the sleazy salesman at the local tanning salon, indoor tanning is not good for a person’s health.
As a matter of fact, no tan – indoor or outdoor – is con-
sidered healthy.
Only relatively small amounts of natural sun, which aid in the production of Vitamin E, are advisable by health officials.
With that being said, there are a few other things to consider before lying down in the luminous mouth of a tanning bed.
Melanoma, the deadliest and most common form of skin cancer, is developing among Americans at an alarmingly high rate, and many experts believe that growth is directly related to the meteoric rise of the indoor tanning industry.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics’ Web site, around one in 75 Americans will develop melanoma this year.
In 1930, only one in 1,500 Americans were affected. The 1,800 percent increase in less than a century reflects the change in the American public’s opinion of what is and is not considered attractive.
See TANNING, Page 5
disc for storing resume copies and personalized business cards, will be provided at no cost to students, along with free food. For more information, contact the Job Placement and Career Services Office by calling 7337377 or visit SSB, Room 101. jray@rose.edu
‘Narnia’
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce will be hosting its first ever Career Fair April 5 at the Cox Business Services Convention Center in downtown OKC between 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. It will feature only Oklahomabased employers seeking new employees and interns to fill positions all over the state.
The event will be open exclusively to Oklahoma college students.
Those students wanting to take part in the Career Fair should dress in business attire and bring several copies of their resume to submit to the representatives of prospective employers.
Students interested in attending have the option of driving themselves or riding a shuttle from RSC.
Those interested in driving their own vehicles can park free at the Coca Cola/Bricktown Events Center, where a shuttle service will transport the student to and from the event.
Students wishing to ride the bus will need to call the Student Activities Desk at 733-7376 to reserve a spot.
Diamond Leadership
to host guest speaker Marcus Bivines
Andrew Knittle
News Editor
RSC will host Marcus Bivines, an OU graduate and record-setting track star, April 20 during Springfest.
Bivines, who is also the president of his OU law class, will speak as part of RSC’s Diamond Leadership Series. The DLS, presented by the Student Activities department, exists to aid students in their future endeavors, according to Student Activities Coordinator Towry Barnard.
“The Diamond Leadership Series is designed to provide leadership development opportunities for our students.
“Employers are seeking students with leadership skills, so it is my job to provide [them],” Barnard said.
Barnard said national leadership speakers are brought in for fall DLS events, while spring is reserved for speakers with local connections.
Springfest, held April 19-20, is an annual event sponsored by the Student Senate to celebrate the season and entertain RSC students. The festival will be held on the Campus Mall.
Any RSC club or organization wishing to participate in Springfest can contact the Student Activities Desk at 733-7376 for further information. aknittle@rose.edu
sells out, entertains music-lovers, Lewis fans
Shannon Hoverson Assignment Editor
The RSC production of “Narnia” was a success, selling out for each of the showings on March 9, 10, 11 and 12.
Based on the book, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis, “Narnia” tells the story of four British school children who embark on a journey to a magical land that is being oppressed by the evil White Witch.
The children must overcome their own failings to destroy her and free the land of Narnia.
Craig Swindall, a music major, played the part of Aslan, the king of Narnia. His powerful voice helped create the illusion of a mighty lion.
Kathryn Anderson, also a music major, gave a stunning performance as the White Witch in the Sunday matinee.
ater major Kira Redshaw for the matinee.
Joshua Langer, theater major, played the younger brother, Edmond.
The parts of Mr. and Mrs. Beaver were played by Stephen Garret, a senior at Yukon High School and Tricia Barber a graduate of RSC. Natalie Mason, a seventh grade student from Edmond, played Mr. Tumnus, the faun, for the Sunday production. Gravelly Finley III played the faun in the first three productions.
The sets were very professional and made the most of a small stage, incorporating a revolving set with four different scenes; a winter forest, a spring meadow, the courtyard of the White Witch’s castle and the throne room of Cair Paravel.
There she meets Mr. Tumnus, a faun who entices her to his cave for tea.
Tumnus then sings about how Narnia used to be, before the White Witch took over.
Soon the children have become involved in a war against the White Witch.
When Aslan appeared, the audience clapped enthusiastically.
The story progressed and the White Witch took Aslan while she and her minions sang about “deep magic.”
Finally the White Witch was defeated and Narnia restored.
Martin Steger directed the cast. Prior to “Narnia,” Steger directed several one-act plays for the Theater department.
“I have been wanting to do this production for years,” Steger said. “I have been waiting for my opportunity to direct ‘Narnia’ for a long time.” Supporting Steger was music director Bernard Jones, vocal coach Carol Johnson, scenic designer Suzanne Thomas. With, production assistant Becca Thrash, costume designer Tim Kerber, stage manager Megan Skinner, choreographer Brandi Wary and dialect coach Greg Crall also assisting. shoverson@rose.edu
“ ”
The children were taken to Cair Paravel and crowned as Aslan said, “Once a king or queen of Narnia, always a king or queen of Narnia.”
I have been waiting for my opportunity to direct ‘Narnia’ for a long time.
The part of oldest child, Peter, was played by theater major Kelly Swartz. This was Swartz’s debut at RSC.
Martin Steger
director
Playing the part of Susan was Sarah Nilson, a music major.
Lucy was played by the-
The play began with the four children arriving at the country estate of a professor, whom they are living with during the war.
The opening number was a song called “Windows and Doors.”
When Lucy went through the wardrobe, the lights went off and the audience was transported into the magical world of Narnia.
happened before the Joan Jett concert?
At the end of the play, the cheering audience gave the actors a standing ovation.
Steve Reeves walks for wellness.
Photo by STACEY McENTIRE
Photo by STACEY McENTIRE
Photo provided by MARCUS BIVINES
Blood Drive
The Oklahoma Blood Institute will be at RSC collecting blood from willing donors Tuesday, March 28 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Student Center’s Tinker Terrace Room. Donors will receive a free Tshirt and free cholesterol check. A Prostate-Specific Antigen test is available to males over 30 for a nominal fee. Donors must be at least 17 years old, weigh at least 105 pounds, be in good health, and must eat well and drink fluids before and after donating.
Child Development Scholarship
The $500 Estes and Frances Walker Child Development Award for spring 2006 is available to Family Relations/Child Development majors. Applicants must be currently enrolled at RSC, be within 12 credit hours of completion of the program for graduation, have a minimum 2.75 cumulative GPA, a minimum 3.0 GPA in FSCD courses and currently working with young children. Application deadline is April 1 and applications are available in the Foundation Office in the Administration building. For more information, contact Lisa Pitsiri at 736-0315.
Kids College and Senior Enrollment
Enrollment for Kids College and summer senior personal enrichment programs begins April 3 with classes to begin June 5. To view a complete schedule of classes for Kids College and summer senior programs, go to www.rose.edu and click on the Continuing Education link. For more information or to enroll in classes, call 733-7392 or visit the Tom Steed Center at 6191 Tinker Diagonal.
Rose State Idol
The student senate will be sponsoring Rose State Idol during Springfest, April 19 and 20. The competition is seeking talented RSC students. Talents can be varied. Interested students can sign up at the Student Activities Information Desk. For more information, contact Towry Barnard at 733-7376.
Kids College Counselors Needed
The Continuing Education division is looking for counselors for the summer Kids College program. Counselors are needed to work morning shifts of 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. and afternoon shifts of 12-5:30 p.m. All counselors will be paid $7 per hour. For more information, call 733-7392 or e-mail Jennifer Skoch at jskoch@rose.edu.
Library provides books in unusual places
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
Two programs, available through the Oklahoma Metropolitan Library System, offer free access to various materials for residents of Oklahoma County who are at least 65 years old, homebound, disabled or, in some instances, incarcerated.
The first of these programs, Books by Mail, has been offered since 1972 and currently serves about 500 people in Oklahoma County, including people in nursing homes and assisted living centers.
Books by Mail is a need-based service that gives people who find it difficult to visit the library the opportunity to borrow magazines, compact discs, books-on-tape, newspapers or an assortment of books – including those offered in large print – without leaving their homes.
“We try to make sure that the people that need it most receive it,”
Anita Roesler, senior services coordinator said.
Catalogs with a list of many available items are printed every three months and may be mailed to customers or picked up at the library.
Additionally, customers are allowed to order any other books available at the library and may request placement on a waiting list for popular books, such as best sellers.
Customers who qualify for the service are not required to receive the usual library card, Roesler said, adding that the library pays all post-
Tutors,
Andrew Knittle News Editor
age costs associated with the mailing of these materials.
Orders are due back three weeks after the day they are mailed.
This allows for the usual two-week checkout period and an additional week for mailing. Materials may be sent back and exchanged earlier if the customer chooses to do so.
The bags used for mailing are made of a soft, durable material and have an attached slot for the address label.
The label has the address of the
customer on one side and the address of the library on the other. Customers turn the label over and slide it back into the slot when returning items.
In addition to this service are Book Centers. Book Centers provide a bookcase and collection of 80-120 books, newspapers, CDs, tapes, videos and magazines to incarceration facilities, retirement homes, homeless shelters, assisted living centers or nursing homes. Furnished items are usually rotated every eight weeks.
The system offers a total collection
of more than one million fiction and non-fiction items to all customers in Oklahoma County.
Customers may complete applications in person or by calling Sharon Maine, Outreach Services, at 6063295.
For information regarding volunteer opportunities, contact the Metropolitan Library System Volunteer Services Office by e-mail at volservices@metrolibrary.org or by calling 606-3762. jray@rose.edu
mentors impact students’ lives
Volunteers share time, skills with adopted schools
Since 2001, disadvantaged students at Telstar and Willow Brook elementary schools have been able to count on RSC and its students to lend a hand.
According to RSC’s Web site, 95 percent of students at Telstar were considered “economically deprived.”
The students also scored well below the 70th percentile in achievement tests administered by the state.
Diane Wilkerson, a 44-year-old mother of two and president of the RSC’s Paralegal Association, tutored three times a week at Telstar during January and February of this year. Although she spent a relatively small
amount of time with the children, the results surprised her.
“I personally tutored the same three little girls and watched their improvement in alphabet association, word recognition and overall reading skills improve more than I could imagine in five short weeks,” Wilkerson said. Wilkerson added that the elementary
students are not the only ones to benefit from mentoring services like these.
“To see them smile with pride when they accomplished a new goal is important for the child and the tutor, making it all worth the added effort,” she said. Wilkerson, who graduates in May, has had to put her mentoring duties on hold because of a demanding pregraduation course load. One member of the Paralegal Association, Freda Montgomery, is still tutoring students at Telstar once a week.
Patricia Hunt, principal of Telstar, said that mentors are important because they fill in the gaps left by teachers and parents.
“By having outside resources such as tutors/mentors working with our students, it provides them with a chance to build a relationship with an adult that is supportive and consistent and who values education.
“They assist teachers with providing an individualized reading/math program that is designed to meet our students’ needs…and allow our students to see people care about their ability to succeed in the future,” Hunt said.
RSC students who want to become a mentor at either elementary school can call Dr. Joanne McMillen-Stafford at 733-7373 for more information.
aknittle@rose.edu
Clinic aids pet overpopulation fight
Bryan Trude Sports Editor
Volunteers for Animal Welfare Inc. will be hosting a spay and neuter clinic March 25 at 2113 S Santa Fe in OKC.
VAW is a charitable, non-profit organization. Founded in 1974, its mission is to prevent cruelty to animals. VAW has earned the recognition as being a “reputable, well-informed organization which is a strong and effective voice for animals throughout the state of Oklahoma,” according to the VAW brochure.
“We are [holding the clinic] to combat the animal overpopulation problem in Oklahoma,” VAW Vice President and Rescue Coordinator Rita Hoch said. “Approximately 15,000 perfectly adoptable animals are euthenized a year in the Oklahoma City shelter alone.”
The clinic is a service for low-income families. To utilize the clinic, the household income must be comparable to $35,000 a year for a family of four.
It costs $25 to spay or neuter a cat, while an additional $10 is charged for dogs. Standard vaccinations will also be available at the clinic for $5, and rabies shots will also be available for $5.
Neutering is the surgical removal of a male animal’s testicles, the male reproductive organ. Spaying is the term for the surgical removal of a female animal’s reproductive organs. Both procedures not only reduce the popula-
tion of animals in the area, but also carry medical and psychological benefits for the animal including lowered aggression, reduced chances of cancer and a lessened tendency to roam large
areas. Each spay and neuter clinic will be operated by a volunteer staff of veterinarians, with full-, preand post-op care for the animal. An additional clinic will be held March 30.
“The OKC shelter has declared that it wants to go no-kill, where they do not euthanize any adoptable animals, by 2010,” Hoch said. “We want to help by decreasing the number of animals that go into the shelter in the first place.”
Since September 2005, VAW has rescued and adopted out 360 cats and more than 100 dogs. VAW operates adoption drives every first Saturday of the month at the Petsmart on Rockwell Avenue, at the Edmond Petsmart every second and fourth Saturday and every third Sunday at the Petsmart on NW 63 rd and May.
“All animals that VAW adopts out have had their vaccination shots, rabies shots and have been spayed or neutered,” Hoch said. “In addition, dogs have been checked and cleared for heartworms, and cats have been checked and cleared of FIV and feline leukemia.”
Hoch also said that the VAW is always looking for volunteers to work at the spay and neuter clinics, as well as to foster animals up for adoption.
To reserve a time to have an animal spayed or neutered, call the scheduling line at 996-8291. For more information on VAW and volunteering opportunities, call 842-6772. btrude@rose.edu
Laura Stroud, member of the RSC Paralegal Association, aids students at Telstar and Willow Brook elementaries.
Photo by SCOTTIE SEGER
Photo by STACEY McENTIRE
Photo by STACEY McENTIRE
Rita Hoch, vice president and rescue coordinator of Volunteers for Animal Welfare Inc., often takes her work home, fostering shelter animals.
Book centers aid citizens and the disabled in acquiring reading materials. Joy Scott, resident of Arbor House in Midwest City, browses the selection provided by the Metropolitan Library System.
JoanJett&TheBlackhearts
Band’s arrival stirs up curiosity before show
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
The atmosphere in the Communications Center was noticeably different March 9 as several guards dressed in black suits and wearing hearing devices secured the area for the arrival of Joan Jett and the Blackhearts.
Many students attending morning classes in the building whispered to each other about the visitors as they left their classrooms and entered the hallway. Some knew what the ‘men in black’ were doing there; others did not. But everyone who saw the black suits knew that something was going on and excitement and curiosity began to fill the air.
Some students hurried past the guards with their heads down, gazing at the floor in front of them as if consciously avoiding eye contact. Others stood and watched them as they made their way up and down the halls.
Jett and the band arrived at the airport around 11 p.m. March 8. The tour manager checked many details before they visited the campus, such as the location, size and contents of the dressing rooms and the Performing Arts Theatre where they would be playing.
As the day progressed, Jett was taken to various places in Midwest City to gather items she wanted or craved, such as coffee from Starbucks. Other requested items, like peanut butter and jelly, cereal, “red” Gatorade, Cokes, lemonade, soy milk, peanuts, fresh fruit, assorted breads, orange juice and tea, were already prepared and made available for the ‘talents,’ both in the bands’ room and Jett’s private room. Local stagehands remained busy as they set up the stage with directions from the band’s crew on exactly where to place the microphones and other equipment.
Approximately four hours before the show, the band performed a sound check, remarking that the acoustics in the theater were “first rate,” according to Sandria Steward, assistant marketing director.
Also before the show, local radio station BOB-FM, 96.9, did a live remote and informed listeners of the opportunity to purchase remaining tickets.
Just after 7 p.m., the Communications Center was filling up with anxious fans, both in the foyer near the interior doors of the theater and in classroom hallways. Meanwhile, security personnel remained at various doors leading backstage and to the dressing rooms.
At 7:30 p.m. band members walked back and forth down the hallway unescorted, while a few last minute guests were allowed into the small room where Jett was signing autographs.
A few visitors invited by the band were already sitting at tables in the room holding various items they wanted to have signed.
At one of the tables, Jett smiled and laughed with guests as she autographed posters of herself from the ‘80s that fans had brought with them.
The intense energy of excited admirers felt thick in the air although the room remained strangely quiet.
However, even in the near silence, the whispers of anxious fans, including working staff from RSC, could often be heard.
Around 7:45 p.m., security members gathered to pose for a photograph with Jett who was standing in the center of the group.
Soon after, the RSC guests were lined up for their opportunity to meet her and have a photograph taken with her.
Jett displayed a very ‘everyday people’ personality while mingling with fans, giving each a big, flashy smile that seemed to melt away the anxieties of those meeting her for the first time.
Fans spent only a few seconds with her while having their pictures taken, but each gained memories to last a lifetime in the process.
Just before 8 p.m. the last photo was taken and guests left the room to find their seats and await the performance soon to begin. jray@rose.edu
Performers rock campus
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
Despite plane delays, severe weather watches and colder temperatures that swept into Oklahoma as the group was arriving the night before, Joan Jett and The Blackhearts performed live for students, staff and community members March 9.
The concert was a part of Rose State LIVE! and was held near the same time that the opening night dinner theatre for the musical “Narnia” began. Ushers opened the interior doors of the Performing Arts Theatre in the Communications Center just before 8 p.m. to let the crowd of nearly 500 fans enter and find their seats.
Guests were very quiet as they sat listening to pre-recorded music and waited for the group to take the stage. Soon, the lights above the audience dimmed and the once quiet crowd began to scream and applaud.
The band entered the stage first and took their positions under faint blue lights. Jett soon followed with the same explosion of energy that fans have come to appreciate since her debut with the Runaways in the mid- to late- ’70s, and the crowd sprang to their feet in approval.
Some fans returned to their seats as Jett began to sing the first song of the evening, “Victim of Circumstance” and remained sitting, although cheering, while “Cherry Bomb” was played. Jett, already flinging sweat from her hands and shaking it from her shirt, addressed the audience before continuing with the third song, “Light of Day.”
“I know we’ve got some singers out there,” Jett said to the audience. “Stand up, don’t be shy. It’s OK to show off. We all love showoffs.”
Fans listened to Jett’s instructions and cheered louder, while singing and dancing in place to the next several songs, which included, “Bad Reputation,” “Androgynous,” “Fetish,” “Do You Wanna Touch Me” and “I Hate
Myself for Loving You.”
Jett also sang a couple of songs that are included on her soon-tobe-released CD, “Sinner.”
Before singing the 2004-released “Naked,” Jett again spoke to the fans.
“This next song is about introspection,” Jett said. It is about “looking inside yourself … self discovery … and sometimes, that’s hard to do,” she added.
Members of The Blackhearts have changed throughout the years, but the intensity of sound has not been lost, as seen in the current group. And Jett’s somewhat coarse voice sounds as strong after more than 27 years of performing as many artists who have not yet played half as long.
Current band members were introduced by Jett near the end of the performance and are Thommy Price, drums; Dougie Needles, lead guitar; Enzo Penizzotto, bass and longtime friend Kenny Laguna, keyboard. An encore performance of “Everyday People” was given before Jett and the band said their last goodbyes of the evening, just after 9:15 p.m. The group was scheduled to play at the Ostrich Festival in Chandler, Ariz. the following evening. jray@rose.edu
Reasons for forecast differences given
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
The weather in Oklahoma, as in many places, is often very difficult to predict.
Yet, new instruments are developed and tested frequently to aid in predicting upcoming “good,” “bad” or even “severe” weather conditions.
Often, the forecasts are different depending on which television station is viewed or what newspaper is read. News 9 weather producer and meteorologist Carrie Rose offered an explanation for these variations.
“The reason why all of the TV stations in OKC tend to have different forecasts is because we each produce our own forecasts unique to our stations,” Rose said. “At News 9, all of our meteorologists are just that – we have degrees in meteorology from OU. So we have been formally educated in the weather and forecasting, enabling us to produce forecasts on our own here at the station.”
Well-known Meteorologist Gary Eng-
land said that although News 9 does not use information from the National Weather Service to create forecasts, they do use them in comparison with other data.
“The NWS does have a lot of great resources we can use, such as current conditions measured at sites all over the U.S., but we produce our own daily forecast before the NWS releases theirs for [Oklahoma],” Rose added. Rose said that forecasts differ because meteorologists have different ideas about what is going on with the weather and must sift through a “wealth of information” when making a forecast. This wealth of information includes data gathered from weather balloons, satellite data and imagery and measurement sites.
The data, Rose said, is entered into computers that generate a number of possible future conditions, creating a forecast model. The models provide meteorologists with a large array of information including pressures, temperatures, cloud cover, dew point temperatures and pre-
cipitation locations and amounts and tests are run several times each day.
“Meteorologists must be smarter than the models,” Rose said. “We have to know each model’s flaws and tendencies so that we can take what we know about what’s going on right now and what has happened and make a good prediction on what will happen.
“The models are not like an answer key we run to check our work against. They are just one of the tools that we use to help guide our forecast decisions.”
Experience plays a large role in predictions, Rose said, adding that the more
time a meteorologist spends in an area, the more familiar they become with the behaviors and patterns of that region.
“Where you see real discrepancies between the different station forecasts is when there is some weather event that may or may not pan out, like an ice storm or severe weather outbreak,” Rose said.
“Different meteorologists will anticipate future weather events differently. Some like to jump on any slight chance of a big event and publicize it highly.
“Others like to let viewers know that there is a possibility of an ice storm – give a percentage and location and explain why
we think it could happen – but that it’s say five days out.” Rose said that England always says, “we have to consider what the viewer at home is thinking and what they individually want to know. If we think it will rain, then let them know that in laymen’s terms.” Because the weather is so important to the daily lives of readers but sevenday forecasts are so difficult to predict accurately, a five-day forecast will now be included weekly in the 15th Street News. jray@rose.edu
Photos provided by STEVE REEVES
Enthusiasm and energy abound at concerts. Joan Jett’s March 9 performance provided an example of this.
Security personnel provide protection for all entertainers visiting the Performing Arts Theater.
Fans often dream of having a chance to meet their favorite celebrities. Joan Jett signed memorabilia for fans backstage before her performance at RSC.
NewS/SportS
Healthy food rare on campus
Andrew Knittle
News
Editor Students and faculty crav-
ing a healthy meal while on campus should probably look elsewhere.
Aside from vending machines, there are only two other locations – the Rose Café and RSC Cafeteria –that sell food on campus, and neither offers much in the way of healthy, dietary fare.
The Rose Café, located in the Student Center, sells the same food found at concession stands and snack bars across the country.
Lots of good eats, like bacon cheeseburgers and deep-fried chicken baskets, but nothing much for students and faculty looking to keep the pounds off by eating right.
The alternative spot to grab a bite not spit out of a vending machine, the RSC Cafeteria, is not much better.
While the cafeteria offers a menu that changes daily, most of the items are comfort foods, “just like Mom used to make.”
And while a variety of salads can be found at either location, the portions are made
primarily of iceberg lettuce, which has the least nutritional value of any of the lettuces, according to WholeHealthMD. com.
Adlaide Oakley, director of Auxiliary Enterprises and Services, is in charge of the Rose
Age: 20
Café and the RSC Cafeteria, as well as the foods served there.
Oakley said, the lack of healthy items is largely because of demand.
“We produce volumes of food based upon sales,” Oakley said.
In other words, the food served at the Rose Café and RSC Cafeteria reflects the demands of the students and faculty who patronize them on a regular basis.
Oakley also stressed the fact that the Rose Café and RSC
Meet the Players
#32 Stephanie Hernandez, Guard
Hometown: Oklahoma City
Cafeteria – whose customers are “people no longer anchored by eating at home” – have to compete with national fast food chains, many of which are just a few minutes drive from campus. aknittle@rose.edu
by bryan trude
Hernandez likes eating, her family and friends, dancing, watching movies, shopping, making money, playing her Playstation and listening to music, especially Mexican music. She does not enjoy homework, rock music and cheap people.
Hernandez did not provide a favorite quote.
#20 Mika Blakemore, Point Guard
Age: 19
Hometown: McLoud
Blakemore enjoys hunting, playing sports and hanging out with her friends, especially her boyfriend. She does not like rude people, liars, snakes and people who do not act like themselves.
Blakemore’s favorite quote is “Friends are like stars. Even though you cannot always see them, you always know that they are there.”
Campus grading system explained
Bryan Trude Sports Editor
Now that midterms have passed and thousands of studious students are getting their first real dose of sleep in weeks, it is time to begin worrying about grades. However, many ask, “What do all these grades mean,” or “How do I figure out my grade point average?”
RSC operates on a letter grade system similar to the one used in most public school districts. In each class, the grades A, B, C, D and F are awarded, each assigned a point value - four points for A, three points for B, two for C, one for D and no points are awarded for F.
To compute a student’s grade point average, or GPA, each student must multiply the point value for each course by the number of credit hours the course was worth.
For example, a student who earned an A in a three credit hour course would multiply four times three.
Once the point totals have been calculated for each course, the student will then add the points together and divide by the total number of credit hours for all the courses.
For example, a student who took four courses worth
Columns, commentaries and letters to the editor are personal opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of 15th Street News or other students, faculty or administrators of the college. Editorials are written by the editorial staff.
Letters to the editor may be hand delivered to FA110; sent by mail to 15th Street News, Rose State College, 6420 SE 15, Midwest City, 73110; e-mailed to the secretary, [cbenefee@rose.edu] or recorded nights on PhoneMail at 733-7400 between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. Letters must include the writer’s full name, Social Security Number or ID number and telephone number. Letters will be printed with full name and must be 500 words or less. Editing may be necessary for space, clarity or to avoid obscenity, libel or invasion of privacy, but ideas will not be altered. Publication of all materials is at the discretion of the editor. Anyone having a complaint may call the editor in chief, 733-7400, or the Student Publications Board chairperson, Towry Barnard, 733-7379.
three credit hours each and earned a B, B, C and a D would divide the 27 total points by the 12 hours attempted, resulting in a GPA of 2.25.
Students are required to maintain certain GPAs to avoid being placed on academic probation - 1.7 for freshmen and 2.0 for sophomores.
Failure to meet these GPA requirements when on academic probation results in academic suspension, where a student is not allowed to enroll for a 16-week period.
In addition, RSC also has several letter grades in which there are no points computed and do not count toward your grade point average (see sidebar for a full list of grades which RSC uses).
One of the special letter grades, W, stands for “automatic withdrawal,” applied when a student withdraws from a class.
To obtain this grade, a student must withdraw from class prior to the 12th week of a 16-week period.
After this deadline, a student must obtain approval of the professor and dean of the applicable division, and must not be failing the course. Withdrawls are accepted until the last classwork period prior to final exams.
Students who receive an I, or incomplete, grade must
15th Street News, a student newspaper serving the Rose State College community, is published weekly, except school holidays, on Fridays during the fall and spring semesters by the Office of Student Publications, 6420 SE 15, Midwest City, OK 73110. 15th Street News is a member of Oklahoma Collegiate Press Association, which has designated this paper top junior college newspaper six years, and Associated Collegiate Press, which has rated it All American 30 semesters. This publication is printed by Edmond Sun, Inc., issued by RSC and authorized by the Coordinator of Student Publications. Cost to the state taxpayers is $301.81 for 4,000 copies per issue and $56.40 for spot color. This paper is recyclable. RSC, in compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Executive Order 11246, as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures.
This includes, but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid and educational services.
resolve the grade by completing the professor’s requirements before one 16-week semester expires. Otherwise, the I will remain permanent and the student will not receive grade points.
Students who wish to challenge a grade or request that a grade be changed due to extenuating circumstances must make the request within 90 days following the grade’s appearance on the permanent record.
All such requests must be made to Vice President of Academic Affairs Ric Baser.
For more information, consult the 2005-2006 RSC catalog, page 32. btrude@rose.edu
The following letter grades are issued by RSC, and are found on page 32 of the 2005-2006 catalog.
A-Excellent
B-Good
C-Average
D-Poor
F-Failing
I-Incomplete
Bryan Trude [btrude@rose.edu]
Shannon Hoverson Assignment Editor
Students who are awarded Federal Pell Grants are not always aware of the responsibilities that come with them.
First of all, there are federal laws that govern the financial aid program and require that the college monitors student’s progress.
When a student has completed less than 30 hours, they must maintain a 1.8 grade point average or better for the semester.
If they have more than 30 hours, they need to have a 2.0 GPA or better.
This is the minimum GPA needed and is cumulative as well.
Also, if a student receives any federal aid and then completely withdraws from all classes before 60 percent of the semester has been completed, they will be required to repay a portion of the aid received.
If this is not done, the student will not be eligible to receive federal aid at any school until it has been repaid.
Once students have finished more than 60 percent, they do not need to repay the money.
“If a student only drops one class and is still enrolled in other classes for the semester, they would not be required to repay any money for that dropped class,” Steven Daffer, director of Financial Aid, said.
The minimum required hours vary for each program, for student loans a student must be enrolled in at least six hours.
For the Pell Grant, some students may qualify at three hours and for workstudy they must be enrolled a minimum of six hours.
RSC does not have financial aid notice, probation or suspension like some other colleges.
However, there is a financial aid warning and exclusion.
If they are placed on warning, they are still eligible to receive aid for the semester, but they must complete the requisite number of hours with the required GPA.
If the student does not complete the necessary hours and maintain their GPA, they will be placed on financial aid exclusion.
If this occurs, they will not be eligible for any federal aid.
N-Grade not reported
W-Withdrawn S-Satisfactory
U-Unsatisfactory
AU-Audit
AW-Administrative withdrawl
Staff Members
“It is important to remember that a student must attend classes to receive federal aid,” Daffer said.
For more information about financial aid call the Financial Aid Office at 733-7424. shoverson@rose.edu
Stephanie Hernandez
Mika Blakemore
Photo by MORGAN HORNER
Photo by MORGAN HORNER
Photo by MORGAN HORNER
Daniel McClure, business major, attempts to find a healthy alternative to lunch on campus by visiting the salad bar in the Cafeteria.
Erin Waltman Editor in Chief
Pets are becoming a big part of U.S. family life. Most households have at least one pet, and many households have more than one.
Dogs, cats, ferrets, fish, rabbits, guinea pigs, cockatiels – the list is almost unending. Pets offer companionship and entertainment, but many people seem to forget that pets offer another thing as well: accountability.
Whether you purchase your pet at a pet store or do the responsible thing and adopt from a shelter or rescue organization, you are accountable for what happens to the pet.
No animal is a “throw away” pet, even things as small as mice or parakeets. Everything deserves the best care a person can offer, and this means that people seeking to take a new pet into their life
should take one big step first: research.
Whether you plan on getting a Border Collie or a rat, you first should get a book on the subject. After all, just because you think German Shepherds are beautiful does not mean you know what kind of care they need.
Grooming, feeding, walking and – most importantly – being able to provide proper veterinary care are all things that must be taken into account when bringing a dog home. For example, large breed dogs need more room to exercise and will require daily walks. Saying, “I didn’t know” does not excuse an irresponsible pet owner if their animal winds up extremely sick. The information is available. Libraries offer the information for free if buying a book from a bookstore is too expensive. But then, if you cannot afford a book, then how can you expect to afford a pet?
CAMPUS CHAT
Pets rely fully on their person. They cannot get a part-time job if times get tough. They cannot drive themselves to the vet. Pets are not disposable. If there is a doubt in your mind that you may not want your parrot or chinchilla two years down the line, do not purchase or adopt an animal. Animals bond to the people who care for them, and no animal appreciates being dumped because their person “got too busy” or “got tired” of them.
Embrace responsible pet ownership. Do research before buying or adopting a pet. Make sure the pet is the best choice for your lifestyle. If you have doubts that you will be able to provide food, clean living quarters and proper vet care, wait until you are in a financially stable situation before adopting. Your future pet will thank you. ewaltman@rose.edu
by stacey mcentire and johnna ray
Cohea
Counseling Tip No. 6
The most important number in the world is 168. It is the number of hours in a week – we have no more; we have no less. Time is a resource in which to use our energies. Make wise choices.
If you or someone you know has problems with time management, help is available. For more information or for free confidential assistance, contact the RSC counselors at 733-7373.
TANNING
continued from Page 1
The roots of indoor tanning can be traced back to the 1920s influential French designer Coco Chanel.
Chanel brought the world the “little back dress” and her equally famous “No. 5” fragrance. She decreed to the fashionable folks of the time that acquiring a tan was in vogue.
while working at RSC? I like the smaller campus, the people are great – Come see me!
Aside from melanoma, tanning indoors can also damage a person’s eyes, sear brown age spots into the their skin and expedite the formation of wrinkles, causing the tanner’s flesh to prematurely sag.
Despite all of this, many young people are still taking the risk for the sake of looking tan and healthy.
Kristi McEntire, first-year accounting major and part-time employee of a Choctaw tanning salon, said some people will go to disturbing lengths to stay on top of their tanning regi-
ments. “I have more than a few customers that try and come in and tan more than once a day,” McEntire said. McEntire added that she believes that most of her customers are well aware of the risks associated with indoor tanning, but could probably not care less. aknittle@rose.edu
Spotlight On: Fordenbacher, grad turned employee
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
The spotlight this week is on someone who knows the value of finishing what you start, even if you do not start it right out of high school. She is 2003 RSC graduate Pam Fordenbacher. Fordenbacher was born in Erie, Pa. and moved to Oklahoma after her husband, John, was transferred with the Air Force in 1974. The couple returned to the East Coast twice since 1974 and lived in Poughkeepsie, N.Y. for one year. Their first son, Josh, now
31, was born in Rome, N.Y. during one of their moves.
“We have lived in our house now for 25 years, minus the one year we lived in Poughkeepsie,” Fordenbacher said. “I did have a fun job there. I made costumes for Mid Hudson Ballet Company and worked back stage.”
After her time in New York, Fordenbacher had three more children: Rachel, 25; Jacob, 23 and Tim, 20, and now has six grandchildren: Cara, 8, Emilee, 5, Ryan, 3, Adam, 1, Isabelle, 4 and Carter, 1. Fordenbacher managed a retail store until she had children and then stayed at home to raise them. She came to RSC in 1998 as a multi-media Web design major “because it was closer to home” and graduated in 2003.
“I enjoyed going back to school, [but] it was harder to remember than when I was younger, so I had to study harder,” she said.
Two of her sons have also attended RSC - Josh, who graduated about 10 years ago and Tim, who will graduate in the spring.
Fordenbacher said that the most interesting thing she has done was staying home to raise her four children.
“Every day was a new adventure,” she said. “And we visited many exciting places through music, books and food.”
Fordenbacher embarked on a new adventure on Labor Day, 2005, when she quit smoking. She said she does not have any advice for others who are trying to stop smoking, because “each smoker has to find what works for him.”
When her husband quit smoking four years ago, he dug an 11 feet by 9 feet, 42 inch deep koi pond. There are now seven koi, one algae eater and two large gold fish in the pond.
“It has a water fall and a small stream,” Fordenbacher said, adding that it is “very relaxing to hear the stream gurgling.”
As for future plans, Fordenbacher said she does not have any as she does not set goals anymore.
“If I set a goal, I limit myself for other adventures which may cross my path and I may lose out on something grand.” jray@rose.edu
Q: What is one of your most memorable times at RSC?
A: Dr. Elizabeth Edwards’, dean of humanities, birthday party. Her birthday is in July, so last summer we had a great party for her.
Q: What person, animal or thing do you most relate to, find most fascinating or admire most?
A: The elephant. The elephant is God’s sense of humor.
Q: How does what you are doing now compare to what you wanted to be as a child?
QA: When I was a child I wanted to be a good mother and have four children when I grew up and I did that. The only other thing I wanted to be was a teacher, so I guess in a round about way I got to do that also. I was always teaching at home and for many years, I substituted in the elementary schools. When I worked in the computer lab in the Communication Center I was able to tutor many students and loved that also. I have learned through the years [that] I can enjoy life wherever I am and whatever I am doing.
Q: What has been your proudest accomplishment?
A: My proudest accomplishment is being able to look at my children and be proud of whom each is. I am proud of my President’s Honor Roll awards from RSC because I know how hard I worked for them. [And] I quit smoking.
Q: What hobbies do you have?
&
A: It depends on what month it is. I can do many things, but I am a master at nothing. I enjoy working in Photoshop, InDesign and Illustrator. I don’t classify them as a hobby. I like to sew and quilt, make jewelry, knit, [make] pottery, photography and crafts in general. I guess I could be classified as a Carol Duvall wannabe. Like I said, it depends on what month it is. I can entertain myself very well. All I have to do is pick up a book and read and I am happy.
Q: What do you enjoy most about RSC, Oklahoma and life in general?
A: I enjoy the people at RSC - students and staff. When we moved to Oklahoma 31 years ago, I did not think it would be for a lifetime, so I am not sure I ever settled in.
Fordenbacher
Photo by STACEY McENTIRE
Photo by STACEY McENTIRE
How to...
Make grades without cheating
Shannon Hoverson Assignment Editor
One thing every college student has to do at some time during their college career is write a research paper for class. Whether it is for English Composition or a paper about the sex life of single cell amoebas, you need to write something that is informative, intelligent and not copied word-for-word from the Internet or a book. Because that is the biggest mistake you could make and it might cost you your education.
Plagiarism is illegal; it is not just your professor being “mean” to you or trying to
make your life hard. If you are going to take something from the Web or another printed source, you must, must, must cite your source. Did I mention you must cite your source? So, how do you write that research paper without plagiarizing? First you need to have a healthy balance of your own thoughts about the subject and quoted sources. Professors are not looking to see if you know everything about Jane Austin or the molecular structure of a squid. But they do need to see if you read the material and understand it enough to put the information in your
Campus photographer Steve Reeves walks to Wellness Employee of the Month title
Shannon Hoverson
Assignment Editor
Every month, RSC staff can nominate a fellow staff member for the RSC Wellness Employee of the Month award. Steve Reeves, campus photographer, was chosen as the February recipient.
Q: What do you do at RSC?
A: Photography.
Q: How long have you been an employee at RSC?
A: Many years.
Q: Are you married and do you have children?
A: Yes, three.
Q: How often do you work out?
A: Every day.
Q: What is your normal work out routine?
A: Walking around the campus.
Q: Do you eat any particular foods to stay healthy?
A: Cake and cookies.
Q: Do you listen to any particular music when you work out?
No.
Q: What is your favorite type of music?
Blues.
Q: What inspired you to quit smoking?
A: A friend of mine, who had been smoking for years quit and I figured if he could, so could I.
Q: What is the most interesting thing about your walking?
A: The stuff I find. So far I have found two tennis balls, a baseball and a knife.
Q: Do you like The Beatles?
A: Yes, as well as Monty Python. shoverson@rose.edu
own words.
& Cite a source any time you state an idea that you did not originate. & Give sources for quotations and be sure to quote any string of three or more words that comes from a given source. & If you must paraphrase, do so carefully as copywright law protects the expression of
an idea.
& When in doubt, always cite your source. If you think it might be considered plagiarism, so will your professor. & Use more than one source. Usually your assignment will call for that already, but if you have multiple sources, you will not be tempted to copy word-for-word.
& Read the material over before you start to write, this way you will have time to form your own ideas about the subject and be able to write your ideas, not someone else’s.
Aries March 21April 19... Yes, your suspicions are correct - invisible people are stealing your change.
Taurus April 20-May 20... If you have been having dreams of being chased by No. 2 pencils that scream, “None of the above!” then you should probably start a hobby; school is absorbing your life.
So, follow my advice and turn in original papers to your professors with proper sources cited and documented and everyone will win.
I look forward to reading about the sex life of the amoeba and a dissertation on the impact of squids in 19 th century literature. shoverson@rose.edu
& Remember that your professor is there to help. If you run into trouble ask them for assistance. Do not just cut and paste or copy from a book. Plagiarism is not the “easy” way out. You can get in serious trouble if you are caught doing this and most professors can spot when you do so.
Raiders invited to share opinions
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
College life is more than simply attending classes, doing homework and taking tests, although all of these are important aspects of the overall campus experience.
Involvement in sports, clubs and extracurricular events are also important parts of a college career, as are meeting new people and sharing personal views with others while listening to their ideas.
This section of the 15th Street News will allow RSC students to discuss things that they enjoy or dislike about RSC or would like to see added or changed. A new topic will be introduced each week and readers’ responses from the previous week will be provided.
Students, faculty, staff and community members are encouraged to participate by sending an e-mail with the current topic listed on the subject line by noon on the Wednesday following the issue date of the current publication.
Responses may be written in the form suggested in the masthead, the area that lists the staff members’ names and e-mail addresses, and should be sent to Editor in Chief Erin Waltman at ewaltman@rose.edu or Assistant Editor Johnna Ray at jray@rose.edu. Those who wish to respond but who do not have an e-mail address may place their responses in an envelope addressed to the editor in chief and deliver them by hand to the Fine Arts building, Room 110.
Suggestions for additional topics that current Raiders would like to discuss should be delivered in the same way as responses, but may be sent at any time during the semester. However, the earlier the suggestion is delivered, the sooner it can be included as the Raider Response question of the week.
This week’s Raider Response question involves Rose State LIVE!* and serious suggestions will be forwarded to the marketing director for consideration in planning upcoming events.
RSC students, faculty and staff vary greatly in age and interests, making it difficult at times to find entertainment that can be enjoyed by all Raiders. However, responses to this week’s question could enable a majority of Raiders to experience a performance, free or at a discount, which they might not be able to see otherwise.
Responses to the current question must be received by noon Wednesday, March 29. jray@rose.edu
would you like to see visit RSC as a part of Rose State LIVE!?
*Previous ‘talents’ have included Willie Nelson, Bill Cosby and recently, Joan Jett and The Blackhearts. Current upcoming performers include the Golden Dragon Acrobats from China who are scheduled to perform Thursday, April 6.
Bryan Trude Sports Editor
Welcome back, my intrepid readers.
As you no doubt recover from your post-spring break sunburns – and hangovers – I have decided to explore an increasing phenomenon in the cinematic world.
Gemini May 21- June 20... I am not speaking to you this week, Gemini. If you want a horoscope, go check out some other medium.
Cancer June 21-July 22... The secret is out. You know what I mean. And now, so does everyone else.
Leo July 23-August 22... Remember how you complained about winter not being very wintery? Are you happy now?
Virgo August 23September 22... A stranger is coming into your life soon. And the accent is on the “strange” part of that prediction.
Libra September 23October 22... Stressful situations will be making you crazy this week. Buy stress balls in bulk.
Scorpio October 23November 21... Live up to your scorpion-esque astrological sign this week - sting anyone who bothers you. I recommend, however, stinging with sarcastic words rather than an actual stinger; jail time for armed assault is never fun.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21... Use humor as a weapon this week. Banana cream pies make fabulous ammunition.
Capricorn December 22-January 19... Are exorbitant prices on food and drinks getting you down? Go back to nature - hunt squirrels.
Aquarius January 20-February 18... The musical “Oklahoma!” was not kidding when the cast sang, “The wind comes sweepin’ down the plains.” Invest in lead-bottomed shoes - you might need them to avoid going airborne.
o r o s c o p e s
Pisces February 19March 20... Do you ever feel like I am making fun of you in these? Well, I am.
Straight-to-video sequel releases prove unimpressive to reviewer
A standard motion picture will follow a fairly typical pattern. Production, editing, pre-release hype, release into movie theaters, the inevitable letdown when the movie fails to live up to the hype and the ultimate fate of being thrown into the discount bin at Walgreens. However, many movies today are implementing a strategy normally reserved for Disney sequels. Straightto-video bypasses the entire theater release process, skipping the post-theater disappointment by forcing people to buy the DVD before they know the movie blows chunks. This helps producers to pad their video sales numbers while still churning out sub par products.
movies of the decade. As a matter of fact, the movie was so insanely popular that it went on to be an insanely popular, Tony-award winning Broadway musical.
to videocassette (and again on DVD last year).
Disney has been using this method for years, especially when it comes to sequels to highly successful animated features. For example, 1994’s “The Lion King” was one of the most successful animated
However, in 1998, Disney attempted to capitalize on their previous success with the release of “The Lion King 2: Simba’s Pride.” As if they inherently knew that this movie was an insult to the artistry and storytelling of the predecessor, “Simba’s Pride” was released directly
Millions of fans – including my mother – bought the movie on name recognition alone, not expecting that the combination of terrible music with a contrived story would produce the worst cinematic outing for Disney since “The Black Cauldron.”
While they tried to salvage the brand’s reputation with the fairly decent straight-tovideo production “The Lion
King 1 1/2” in 2004, irreparable harm has been done to the “Lion King” brand as a result.
lineup, the producers of the Matt Groening masterpiece “Futurama” are working on the scripts for at least four movies planned for release straight-to-video. As a fan of the series, I pray that they do it right, and keep the original production values and as much of the original voice cast as possible. “Return of Jafar” suffered greatly when Robin Williams did not reprise his role of Genie, and I am scared to see what happens when “South Park” premieres its new season with a new voice actor for Chef. “Futurama” producers, consider yourselves warned. btrude@rose.edu Reel Talk
Sadly, this is not the only time Disney has followed this self-destructive pattern. The exact same occurred when the smash-hit theater release “Aladdin” was followed up by the straight-to-video “Return of Jafar,” followed by a passable salvage flick, “Aladdin and the King of Thieves.”
Now the curse is passing to a new generation. In an attempt to salvage a Family Guy-esque revival in light of high ratings on Cartoon Network’s “Adult Swim”
by
Erin Waltman