for
on-going research.
Cash for cancer cure collected through campus Car Show
Andrew Knittle
News Editor
The student senate, in conjunction with the Office of Student Activities, will host the 2006 RSC Car Show April 8 in the north parking lot of the Communications Center.
The proceeds will benefit the American Cancer Society and their fight to find a cure for the deadly disease.
Registration is $15 and will be held the morning of the event from 9 a.m.-12 p.m.
Vice President Yancey Scott, liberal studies major and car enthusiast who hopes to one day own a BMW M3 and turbo-charged Honda S2000, is heading up the event for the senate.
Scott hopes the event will draw a wide range of participants, not just RSC students.
“Anybody can be in the car show. We’re trying to get the community involved as much as possible to the make the event enjoyable and a success,” Scott said.
Scott added that “anything with wheels that rolls” is welcome to compete in the car show.
Trophies will be awarded for first through third places in the following categories:
• Import/Foreign
• Domestic
• Under Construction
• Classic Cars & Trucks from 1986 down
• High and Low Truck
• Race Car Class (not street legal)
• Stock
• Anything not a car or truck
• Motorcycle Class
Special awards for Loud Stereo, Best of Show, President’s Award and Audience Choice will also be presented during the show.
According to Wes Leflore, assistant coordinator of Student Events, two of the three judges are in place as of March 27.
“We have two judges, who are local professionals, and are working out the details of securing the third,” Leflore said.
He added that the judges are not experts in the car industry, but will be accessing the vehicles from a layman’s perspective.
The band Bishops Alley, described as “a little bit country, a little bit rock ‘n’ roll,” will provide entertainment while the cars are on display.
Job search made easy Career Fair brings students,
Andrew Knittle News Editor
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce will host its first Career Fair April 5 at the Cox Business Services Convention Center in downtown OKC.
The event will be held from 12:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. and feature only Oklahoma-based employers seeking new employees and interns to fill positions all over the state.
The goal of the Chamber and its event is to keep promising graduates, as well as serious students still enrolled, from leaving the state to find employment elsewhere.
Open exclusively to Oklahoma college students, the event will offer those in attendance a unique opportunity to see and be seen by a wide array of companies from various industries, including energy, media, advertising, legal and manufacturing firms.
Roughly 80 companies, including Dell and Chesapeake, have signed up to participate in the career fair, said Event Coordinator Macay Bolay.
According to Bolay, the career fair will be more than just companies handing out business cards and brochures to anyone passing by.
“Those students who attend need to be sure and be prepared, because these meetings [with the representatives] could very well turn into actual job interviews, done right on the spot,” Bolay said.
Bolay added that students who plan to attend should dress in appropriate business attire and bring several copies of their resumes to submit to the representatives of the companies they are interested in joining.
Job Placement/Career Ser-
vices Specialist Sally Cohea said students can use the career fair as an opportunity to network with major Oklahoma companies, even if they are not able to secure a position straight away.
“These days, a lot of people use these kinds of opportunities to give companies a chance to look at them, and if they aren’t qualified this year, the company can let the student know what they need to work on to secure employment with them in the future,” Cohea said.
Students interested in attending have the option of driving themselves or using the
bus transportation provided by RSC.
Those who desire to drive 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 wanting to ride the bus will need to either visit the Student Activities Desk in the Student Center or call 7337376 to reserve a spot. Various prizes, including more than 200 New Orleans/ Oklahoma City Hornets tickets, will be given away during the day’s event. The fair’s cor-
porate sponsors include Cort Furniture, Tropical Plant Leasing and the Oklahoma Redhawks.
The Cox Business Services Convention Center is located just off Interstate40, directly across the street from the Ford Center at the corner of Robinson Avenue and Reno Avenue. If students want to find out which companies will be represented at the career fair, they can call the Chamber at 297-8900 or visit their Web site at www.okcchamber.com. aknittle@rose.edu
All-night walk benefits survivors
Andrew Knittle News
Editor
The 10 th annual Eastern Oklahoma County Relay For Life, an all-night walk to benefit those affected by cancer, will be hosted by RSC at 7 p.m. May 12.
Participants can take part any time during the Relay, which will last throughout the early-morning hours of May 13, ending at 7 a.m.
participating, making this year’s contingent for the Relay the largest ever for the college.
Teams participating this year include student groups Phi Theta Kappa and the student senate,
According to Martin anyone can take part, and she believes everyone should.
Anybody can be in the car show. We’re trying to get the community involved as much as possible to the make the event enjoyable and a success.
The purpose of the event running throughout the night is to illustrate to the community that the fight against cancer is continuous and on-going, not something that ends because the day is over.
RSC will have bands and other activities to entertain participants of all ages.
”
Yancey Scott, liberal studies major
Refreshments, including hamburgers and chopped beef sandwiches, will be sold to those in attendance, with all proceeds routed to the ACS. Those needing further information should contact the Student Activities Desk at 733-7376 to make any inquiries. The car show will be sponsored by local retailer Audio Midwest, who sell a variety of car accessories in addition to other products. aknittle@rose.edu
Oprah fan shares life and plans for future.
See Spotlight On, Page 2.
Concessions will also be made available, with all proceeds going to benefit support groups and educational programs for cancer victims and survivors.
Payroll Clerk Tammy Martin, a Relay team captain for the past five years, says that RSC is expecting 5,00010,000 participants from surrounding areas.
Martin also added RSC will have more than five teams
“We all know someone who has cancer or who has passed away [from cancer] and the relay is an opportunity for all of us to honor the survivors and keep the memories alive of those who have passed away,” Martin said.
According to the American Cancer Society’s Web site, www.cancer.org, the Relay For Life can trace its beginnings to May 1985 and a Tacoma, Wash. surgeon named Dr. Gordy Klatt. Klatt, trying to find a creative way to raise money for cancer research, ran and walked around a track at the University of Puget Sound for a full 24 hours, letting friends join him for $25 to raise money for the local ACS’s office. That first year, Klatt was able to round up $27,000, and since then the movement has
State-sanctioned vampires seek donors.
See story, Page 4.
spread across the nation.
The ACS estimates that cancer, which can develop in any organ in the human body, will cause more than 560,000 deaths among Americans in 2006, making it the secondleading cause of death in the
country after heart disease. Students and faculty wishing to participate in the Relay can call Martin at 7337585 or stop by the Payroll Office to speak with her in person. aknittle@rose.edu
Dustbunnies
Photo
Students appraise each others’ cars during the 2005 Car Show, an event hosted by the student senate. This event raises money
the American Cancer Society’s
The Cox Convention Center, located on Reno Avenue in OKC, is a popular site to host events. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce will be offering a Career Fair there April 5.
Golden Dragon Acrobats
The Golden Dragon Acrobats from China will perform at 8 p.m. Thursday, April 6 in the Communications Center’s Performing Arts Theatre. Tickets will be available the night of the performance and can be purchased for $9 by faculty and staff. Students can receive one free ticket and purchase a second ticket for $7. For more information, contact the Marketing and Public Relations Office at 733-7458.
Del City Library Events Winter Read Fest
Del City Library’s Winter Read Fest Senior Coffee Hour will be held from 10-11 a.m. Monday, April 3. Senior citizens are invited to the library for coffee, breakfast snacks and socializing. Winter Read Fest winners will be announced.
Evening Storytime
The library will be hosting evening storytime Doghouse Evening Stories at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 4 for children ages 4 to 8.
Morning Storytime
Del City Library has morning storytime for children ages 1 to 5 in April on Wednesday mornings. The first session on April 5 is Something Fishy. The April 12 Storytime is Fur and Feathers. The final program is April 19 and will be Backyard Bugs.
Preschool Aerobics and Storytime
Children ages 1 to 4 and their parents are invited to the library for Preschool Aerobics and Storytime at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 6. Attendees can enjoy fun movement, stories and juice, too.
Origami Workshop
Mae Dean Erb travels the country and world attending and leading origami workshops. Erb will be at the Del City Library at 2 p.m. Saturday, April 8 to lead a workshop for children ages 6 to 12.
Celebrating National Poetry Month
Teens are invited to celebrate national poetry month at the Del City Library at a café-style poetry reading. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own writing or a favorite poem to share. The reading will take place at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 18.
PlayTime
PlayTime at Del City Library at 10 a.m. Thursday, April 20 will feature Shannon Holcombe from the Oklahoma Poison Control Center. PlayTime is for children ages 6 months to 3 years and their parents or caregivers.
The Del City Library is located at 4509 S.E. 15th St. For more information on the above events, call 672-1377.
OSU-Tulsa Transfer Day
All students transferring to OSU-Tulsa programs are invited to attend Transfer Day from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. and 2-6 p.m. Thurday, April 13 in the Administration Hall Lobby. Transfer Day is an opportunity for new students to complete the entire admission and enrollment process in one day. Students can apply for admission as long as they bring all official transcripts, enroll for summer and fall classes, meet with an academic advisor, learn about financial aid and scholarship and tour the OSU-Tulsa campus. To register or learn more, contact Prospective Student Services by calling 918-594-8355 or 800-277-8228 or by e-mailing info@osu-tulsa.okstate.edu.
Rules ‘golden’ during first 7 days of April
Shannon Hoverson Assignment Editor Golden Rule Week, April 1-7, is the week where all mankind is encouraged to be nice to one another.
The main purpose of the Golden Rule is making this world a better place in which to live.
The rule is endorsed by all the great world religions from Christianity to Islam and Buddhism to Judaism.
Jesus and Confucius used it to summarize their teachings and many other cultures have held this belief to be key throughout the centuries.
The most common form of the Golden Rule is found in Confucianism:
“Do not unto others what you would not have them do unto you.”
Analects 15:23. It is such a profound statement that people have been using it in one way or another for centuries.
It can best be interpreted as treating others only in a way that they are willing to be treated themselves.
To apply the Golden Rule properly, people must have knowledge and imagination.
What effect actions have on the lives of others is important.
By using the Golden Rule, people can progress further in their moral thinking and actions.
The International Society of Friendship and Good Will promotes the
Golden Rule Week on their Web site, www.friendshipandgoodwill.org.
The main objective of the society is to “encourage and foster the advancement of international understanding, better human relations, friendships, good will and peace through a world of fellowship of men and women of good will.”
With its roots in a broad range of world cultures, the Golden Rule is well suited to become a standard by which diverse cultures can resolve conflicts.
So remember, as the first week of April rolls around to be nice to fellow students and apply the Golden Rule. shoverson@rose.edu
Raiders’ responses given, new question posed
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
Last week, the 15th Street News introduced the first Raider Response question: “What musicians, comedy acts or other performers would you like to see visit RSC as a part of Rose State LIVE!?”
Listed below are the students who responded and the performers they want to see as a part of Rose State LIVE!
• Susan Brakefield, art major – pop singer Pink.
• Dajuan Hawkins, mortuary science major – any jazz or blues performers.
• Erica Hartless, nursing major – Larry the Cable Guy and Ron “Tater Salad” White.
• Kyle Hollingsworth, respiratory therapy major – alternative rock band the Flaming Lips.
• Anatolii Soloshono, liberal studies – psychadelic rock band Dandy Warhols.
• Trey Wilson, pre-pharmacy major – comedian Jamie Foxx and rapper Chamillionaire.
Replies to this week’s Raider Response question should be e-mailed to Assistant Editor Johnna Ray at jray@rose.edu or handdelivered to FA110 before noon Wednesday, April 5. jray@rose.edu
Raider Response Question No. 2:
What courses would you like offered during the summer sessions that are not already listed?
Spotlight On: Diverse background illustrates life
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
When Isabelle Billen was a young child, she wanted to one day be a hairdresser. Instead, she joined the staff at RSC and became the featured employee for this week’s “Spotlight On.”
Billen, born in Enid, Okla., came to RSC Sept. 29, 1985 after reading an ad for a programmer/analyst in a local newspaper. She had recently graduated with a bachelor’s of science degree from Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford, Okla. and
SIFE
was seeking to begin her career.
Before starting at RSC, Billen was a college student and part-time auto mechanic, a skill her uncle taught her while she worked in his shop. Later, she attended the University of Central Oklahoma where she earned her MBA in 1990.
Billen is now the associate director of information systems/institutional research, but her second title at the college was coordinator of programmers and analysts.
“My college education is very important to me,” Billen said. “Education opens many doors and once you have it, no one can take it away from you.
“Obtaining my certification as a group exercise leader has been important, too. I was always very shy growing up and would have never guessed that I would someday be in front of a kickboxing class as the instructor.”
Billen and husband, Dono -
van, have one son, Hunter. Billen said that she does not think she could live anywhere but Oklahoma because it is not too big or too small and “the weather is mild” and most of her family lives here.
“I have two brothers, three sisters, one sister-cousin, one brother-cousin and a host of nieces and nephews and other relatives,” she said. “We are all pretty close.” In addition to her family ties, Billen’s opportunities at RSC have been “great,” she said, adding that she works with “some great people everyday.”
“The people have to be one of the greatest things at RSC,” Billen said. “Everyone is so helpful and willing to work together to get projects accomplished.” jray@rose.edu
Q: Do you have any animals/pets?
A: No, but there is a hawk that visits my backyard regularly.
Q: What hobbies do you have?
A: Cooking, sewing, exercising and gardening.
QQ: What is the most exciting/interesting thing you have ever done in your life?
A: Getting married and giving birth to my son have to be the most exciting things.
Q: What goals/plans do you have for the future?
A: I would like to start back on my piano lessons so that someday I’ll actually be able to play something more than beginner songs.
&
Q: Whom do you find most exciting or admire most?
A: Oprah Winfrey is someone that I really admire. She came from a horrible childhood and overcame some hurdles that would have led most people to suicide. She seems to genuinely care about people and gives so much of her own time and money to help people who are less fortunate.
AStudents in Free Enterprise is a global, non-profit organization that is working on changing the world through highly-dedicated stu
dent teams on more than 1,600 university campuses in 40 countries. SIFE wants to hear what you have to say Share your thoughts and ideas with the community. You have a voice that needs to be heard. Anyone can participate. Use the form below to give us your thoughts and let your voices be heard. Make a difference. Give a short summary of your answers and provide input as to what you believe will improve the community, education and family structure.
to create your own business?
Are there adequate financial resources in your community? Watch for a business leader’s response in the next week’s paper. Your age range__18-25__26-35__ 36-45__45 and up Students, faculty, staff and the community are encouraged to participate. Send an e-mail with the current topic listed in the
line by noon Wednesday following the issue date of the current publication. E-mails should be sent to Editor in Chief Erin Waltman at ewaltman@rose.edu or Assignment Editor Shannon Hoverson at
Those who want to respond but do not have e-mail may place their responses in an
the 15th Street News located in the Fine Arts Building Room 110. shoverson@rose.edu
with
and drop
Photo by STACEY McENTIRE
Car Show/Student Fund Raiser at 10 a.m. (North parking lot, CC)
Paralegal Association banquet at 6:30 p.m. (RR)
(SC Lobby) Baptist Collegiate Ministry meeting at 12 p.m. (SC123) TEACH Club meeting at 1:30 p.m. (SC123) VOICE Club meeting at 2:30 p.m. (SC123) UCO Recruitment booth at 8:30 a.m. (SC Lobby) Mu Rho Alpha Club meeting at 11:10 a.m. (HSA138) Republicans Club meeting at 1:30 p.m. (SC123) Chess Club meeting at 3 p.m. (SC123) RSC Live! “Golden Dragon Acrobats from China” at 7 p.m. (CC-PAT)
• NTSO Club meeting at 12 p.m. (SS137) “Papers” Drama production at 7:30 p.m. (HBAT) State Petition booth at 10:30 a.m. (SC Lobby) Study Abroad Club meeting at 1 p.m. (SSB100Q) • Langston University Recruitment booth at 10 a.m.
UCO Recruitment booth at 8:30 a.m. (SC Lobby) Chess Club meeting at 3 p.m. (SC123)
Phi Theta Kappa Chat Room meeting at 8:30 p.m. (RSC WebCT)
Baptist Collegiate Ministry meeting at 12 p.m. (RR) International Students Association meeting at 1:30 p.m. (SC123) VOICE Club meeting at 2:30 p.m. (SC123) Phi Theta Kappa Chat Room meeting at 8:30 p.m. (RSC WebCT)
Study Abroad Club meeting at 1 p.m. (SSB100Q) Langston University Recruitment booth at 10 a.m. (SC Lobby) Asian American Heritage Month at 11 a.m. (MDR) Student senate meeting at 2 p.m. (SC123) GED Graduation at 5 p.m. (MDR, RR)
State Petition booth at 10:30 a.m. (SC Lobby) NTSO Club meeting at 12 p.m. (SS137) “Papers” Drama production at 7:30 p.m. (HBAT)
• Student senate executive officers’ election at 8 a.m. (SC Info Desk) UCO Recruitment booth at 8:30 p.m. (SC Lobby) Springfest at 10 a.m. (Campus Mall) Republicans Club meeting at 1:30 p.m. (SC123) Chess Club meeting at 3 p.m. (SC123) Dinner Theatre at 6 p.m. (MDR) “Papers” Drama production at 7:30 p.m. (HBAT)
• Springfest at 10 a.m. (Campus Mall) • Baptist Collegiate Ministry meeting at 12 p.m. (RR) • TEACH Club meeting at 1:30 p.m. (SC123) • VOICE Club meeting at 2:30 p.m. (SC123)
Langston University Recruitment booth at 10 a.m. (SC Lobby) State Petition booth at 10:30 a.m. (SC Lobby) Phi Theta Kappa meeting at 2 p.m. (LRC Fireplace Room) Student senate meeting at 2 p.m. (SC123) Student senate candidates’ debate at 3 p.m. (SC123)
State Petition booth at 10:30 a.m. (SC Lobby) Study Abroad Club meeting at 1 p.m. (SSB100Q) Toastmasters International Club meeting at 6 p.m. (SC123)
Competing clubs vie for top honor,
members host speakers, attend events to raise points
Shannon Hoverson
Assignment Editor
Each year the clubs of RSC compete to win Club of the Year.
The top three clubs for 2006 so far are the Paralegal Association, Friends of the RSC Library Club and the Non-Traditional Student Organization.
The president of the Paralegal Association, Diane Wilkerson, said that the reason they are in the lead is due to the devotion of the officers and members of the club.
“We are a group of hard-working students who want to bring recognition to our club, advisor, professors and our program at Rose State,” Wilkerson said.
Some of the activities they have participated in include working a booth at the State Fair to raise money, helping out during Global Oklahoma, the holiday lighting ceremony at RSC and the Telstar and Willow Brook Christmas party.
They have also been involved with community service, such as cleaning up at a non-profit animal shelter in Prague after it had been damaged by wildfires and mentoring students at Telstar Elementary.
The club has also had several guest speakers including an Oklahoma Supreme Court Justice and the president of the Central Oklahoma Association of Legal Assistants.
The Friends of the RSC Library Club is currently holding second place. They have helped out at many campus wide functions – the Halloween carnival, Global Oklahoma and many others. The club also collected donated books to send to children in Louisiana after hurricane Katrina.
Additionally, they have had many guest speakers, including someone from the library personnel office speaking about how to get a job, the director of the OU Health and Sciences and the Executive Director of the Oklahoma Library Association.
Sharon Saulmon, director of the LRC, said that the club is in the top three because of the dedication of the members, LRC staff and the support and encouragement of the student senate and Student Activities.
Last, but not least, is the NTSO, an organization committed to providing support, friendship and guidance to non-traditional students at RSC. The club encourages their members to become active in academic, social and recreational opportunities on campus.
A non-traditional student is generally considered to be a graduate student who already has a degree or has spent time away from college in the workforce.
Several “non-trads” are married with children.
Some of the activities for the past year include working at Global Oklahoma, helping out at the two blood drives, operating the football toss at the Halloween carnival and the elementaries’ Christmas Party.
They also helped out with the Miss RSC/MWC pageant and the Sooner Rose Elementary Carnival. They plan on helping with the Miss Black RSC pageant, as well.
“The group seems to be a cohesive group that has bonded during the year,” said Pamela Reynolds, professor of social sciences and a new advisor for the club.
While the Paralegal Association is currently in the lead, this may change as each club gears up to do more on campus or with the community. Until then, may the best club win. shoverson@rose.edu
NewS/weather
OBI visits campus Students, faculty donate to save lives
Andrew Knittle News Editor
The Oklahoma Blood Institute set up shop in the Tinker Terrace Room March 28, drawing blood from roughly 60 students and faculty. The OBI, its staff and volunteers were on campus from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Before donating blood with OBI, individuals were asked to fill out a front-and-back form, answering questions regarding medical history and personal information.
After that was complete, a small sample of the perspective donor’s blood was drawn and tested by technicians to make sure the iron in their blood was at an acceptable level.
If the would-be donor had not given blood in the previous 56 days and their iron levels were up to par, they were cleared to donate. Donors were also required to eat a meal before giving blood, as donating on an empty stomach could cause the individual to pass out.
Once everything was checked off the list, technicians drew one pint of blood from the donor, which volunteer Barbara Lewis said is just another “easy way to lose a pound.”
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.
For their time, the donors were given an OBI T-shirt and peace of mind. Sabrina Davis, first-year nursing student, said that her initial experience giving blood was painless and relaxing.
“The technicians were all really nice. They like to hold conversation, keep you busy,” Davis said.
Lewis said she believes there are many reasons to give blood, but only one that really counts.
“If you give blood, you could save someone’s life,” Lewis said.
Davis added that she was pleased she did not have to wait once she arrived at the donation site.
Lewis and her husband George, retired after many years of service at Tinker, volunteer for the OBI whenever they can and urge others to do the same.
Those interested in volunteering can visit the OBI’s Web site, www.obi.org, and download the form or stop by one of the Institute’s donor centers. aknittle@rose.edu
Global warming doubters proven wrong
Johnna Ray
Assistant Editor
The concept of global warming, once doubted to even exist, now has more than 50 years of research and scientific evidence on its side.
One pioneer in this research was Dr. Charles D. Keeling, a scientist who received the National Medal of Science from President George W. Bush in 2002. Keeling, who died at the age of 77 in 2005, began collecting air samples as early as 1955 and used them to measure the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
Prior to Keeling’s research, scientists believed the Earth could “soak up” fossil fuel emissions as they rose, without causing any harm to the atmosphere. But an increase in carbon dioxide buildup each year since that time shows the opposite.
Global warming is a buildup of carbon dioxide and other air pollutants in the atmosphere that trap heat from the sun and cause the Earth to warm up.
Although it is often confused with the greenhouse effect due to the relation of the
two, the processes are not the same. The greenhouse effect is a naturally-occurring warming event that is essential to survival. It causes thermal radiation released by the Earth’s surface to be held in the atmosphere, according to www. staffs.ac.uk.
Global warming causes more heat and pollutants to be trapped than what should naturally occur with the greenhouse effect, causing a change in weather patterns and a continual rise in average temperatures across the globe. In fact, the National Resources Defense Council’s Web site, www.nrdc.org, claims, “The 10 hottest years on record have all occurred since 1990” as a result of this pollution.
The U.S. produces about 25 percent of the carbon dioxide pollution found in the atmosphere, according to NRDC, even though only 4 percent of the world’s population resides in the U.S.
The leading cause of this pollution in the U.S. is from power plants that burn coal and produce more than 2 billion tons of carbon dioxide
annually. Automobiles follow closely with an annual creation of nearly 1.5 billion tons per year in the U.S. Other countries, like China, India and Japan, emit fewer pollutants when combined than the U.S. does alone, according to NRDC.
In addition to raising average temperatures, global warming has also caused a decline in snow accumulation and winter seasons in some states in the U.S. Also, Europe and Asia have seen large numbers of heat-wave related deaths in recent years and some conditions, such as hurricanes, are now able to obtain more energy from the warmer ocean and cause more damage.
Senator Pete V. Domenici, R-New Mexico, chairman of the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources, said in an article posted on www.globalwarming.org that the committee would not introduce climate change legislation this year. Domenici added that he and Jeff Bingaman, D-N.M., are working on a bill that would require a reduction in global warming pollutants,
but that no one is yet sure how to write the bill.
The committee is expected to hold a forum April 4 to hear experts discuss the climate changes. In the mean time, steps can be taken by individuals to help reduce the amount of pollutants that enter and become trapped in the atmosphere, preventing more damage from occurring.
Ÿ Choose an energy-efficient vehicle with the best gas mileage, preferably more than 40 miles per gallon, that will meet individual needs.
Ÿ Keep tires inflated properly and perform other routine maintenance, such as engine tune ups, regularly.
Ÿ Car pool, walk, ride a bicycle or take public transportation when possible.
Ÿ Replace all light bulbs with fluorescent lighting.
Ÿ Weatherize homes and offices to reduce the amount of fuel needed for heating.
Ÿ Use appliances with the highest energy efficiency affordable. Most appliances list the energy use in clear view.
jray@rose.edu
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.
Editor Bryan Trude [btrude@rose.edu]
Staff Members
Clubs participate in many events - like Global Oklahoma and the Halloween carnival - to raise points for the Club of the Year Award.
Volunteers give blood during a drive organized by OBI and the student senate.
Photo by STACEY McENTIRE
Photo provided by NTSO
Support of women’s choice, “plan B” voiced
Erin Waltman Editor in Chief
Unwanted pregnancy is a hot issue in the U.S. and a new bill going before the Oklahoma House of Representatives is adding to the controversy.
Rep. Thad Balkman has proposed a bill that will make it within the legal rights of pharmacists to refuse to sell women Levonorgestrel, also known as “plan B.”
This pill makes it possible for women who have had unprotected sex to know they are protected against unwanted pregnancy.
Levonorgestral is not an abortion pill – it prevents pregnancy from even occurring by blocking fertilization of an egg.
Women need only get a prescription from their doctor, take the prescription to a pharmacy and take the prescribed medication to know they are safe.
Unless, of course, the pharmacist refuses to fill the prescription based on their morals, something that Bill 2884 will make legal.
Personally, I am strongly against pharmacists bringing their morals to work with
them.
Women who do not believe in abortion and who make a mistake by having unprotected sex when they are fertile are having their last chance taken away from them.
Levonorgestral does not kill a child – it prevents a child from ever being conceived.
How can this be against someone’s morals, especially when it may prevent unwanted children growing up in potentially abusive foster homes?
A pill that prevents more children being born is a very good thing. There are millions of children in foster homes and orphanages.
Many children will never be adopted and will grow up in an orphanage without ever knowing a mother or father outside of those who foster them. And, sadly, many of these foster homes will be of very poor quality.
However, if Bill 2884 passes, pharmacists would be within their rights telling women they must have whatever child may have been conceived and deal with the consequences.
The bill will protect pharma-
cists refusing to fill a prescrip-
tion if they believe the pill will be used to destroy an unborn child or to cause the death of any person.
Of course, almost any pill taken in a large enough dose could kill a person.
And, as I said above, Levonorgestral would not kill a child – it would prevent a child from being conceived.
Does this mean pharmacists should start refusing to fill prescriptions for other prescribed medications, too? Any prescribed medication could be deadly if taken wrong, after all.
If a woman is already pregnant – if she has waited longer than 72 hours to take the pill after unprotected sex – then the pill will not harm the developing fetus.
There is no reason to oppose “plan B” and every reason to give women the right to make their own decisions.
Of course, that is not what the pharmacist down the street believes and his morals are more important than an unwanted child’s bleak future. ewaltman@rose.edu
Counseling Tip No. 7
Others will treat you the way you allow them to treat you. Set standards for the way you treat yourself, the way you want others to treat you and the way you treat others. You will be amazed at how differently people will respond to you.
If you or someone you know has problems with setting standards for how they are treated, help is available. For more information or for free confidential assistance, contact the RSC counselors at 733-7373.
CAMPUS CHAT
by stacey mcentire and johnna ray
When did you first start at RSC? Two years ago
What are your best moments while attending RSC? Dr. Michael Lovegrove. He is a good professor.
Dear Editor,
This is in response to the review on “The Shaggy Dog.” We all have our opinions, so here is mine.
a Disney movie. I suppose if the dog had been dribbling a basketball or sporting
review. Disney movies are geared towards children or family entertainment. So, when you watch it, you must see it
the
of children. Of course, we as adults fail to see the humor in a grown man
quite funny. As we grow older, we tend to lose
things. Children, on the other hand, do. As the mother of five, I found myself enjoying seeing Tim
I would give it an eight on the scale of one to 10, only because I liked him so
Just remember when you are reviewing children’s movies, it’s okay to let your inner child come out. Tina
Fools’ folly found, pranks, laughs on April 1
abound
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
It is a day of practical jokes for many and a day to be “on guard” and suspicious for others, but although the day of pranks itself is well-known, its historical beginning is not certain.
It is April Fool’s Day, sometimes referred to as “All Fool’s Day” and is informally observed on April 1 each year.
Many suggestions as to its origin have been given over time, but none have been proven to be the true beginning for this day of silly jokes and minor mischief.
Possibly the earliest and most widely accepted of all claims is centered around a change from the Julian calendar to the Gregorian calendar in the 1500s.
This rumor states that the New Year began on March 25 with the Julian calendar, but since this was during Holy Week, citizens held off celebrations until April 1. It continues that when the Gregorian calendar took effect, the first day of the year changed to January 1, but due to the slow spread of news during this time, many did not learn of the change for quite some time and continued to celebrate on April 1.
Those who celebrated on what was now the wrong day were said to have been easily tricked into believing it was the correct day, thereby earning them the nickname of “April fools.”
Many April Fool’s Day tricks have been played by friends, family, co-workers and even the media in the past 500 or so years. One of the most popular and widely-known of all media pranks is the 1957 British Broadcasting Corporation’s “spaghetti harvest” hoax.
This April 1 prank used a fake “news story” to convince viewers that spring was arriving early and would result in the need of an early harvest of spaghetti from trees. Several citizens called the station requesting more information about how they could purchase one of the trees and where they could watch the harvest taking place.
In France, some are not open to a wide range of jokes to be played on others. Instead, many believe the jokes must, in some way, contain something about an “April fish.” The April fish is a reference to young fish and describes someone who is “easily caught” and therefore, easier to successfully prank.
One popular ploy used by many tricksters is to secretly attach a paper fish to the backs of unsuspecting targets.
Once a prank has been completed successfully, “Poisson d’Avril!” or “April Fish,” is shouted, allowing the recipient of the joke to realize they have been the object of another’s fun and foolery.
In Scotland, the time of trickery spans over two days rather than one, according to www.wilstar.com/holidays. The second day, called “Taily Day,” is “devoted to pranks involving the posterior region of the body,” the Web site claims, adding that “kick me” signs can be traced to this practice.
Regardless of how the tradition began, it has gained popularity with each new year. So this April 1, those who are told they have a spider in their hair, a ticket on their car window or a zipper that is not zipped might be simply experiencing first hand what it feels like to be an “April Fool.” jray@rose.edu
How to...
Clean for spring without trouble
Shannon Hoverson Assignment Editor
The birds are nesting, the flowers are blooming. It is official: spring has sprung. Although we have not had much winter to speak of, unless you count the snowfall last week, it is still time to air out our musty houses.
If you do not know where to begin, just listen to me and I will guide you through the horrors of spring cleaning.
First, you need to have a plan, otherwise you will end up screaming and pulling out your hair as the dustbunnies gather in attack formation.
Before you even start, make sure you have all the cleaning supplies at hand. If you need to, go out and stock up on Pine-Sol, Ajax and Lysol.
Getting those cool Swiffer dusters might be a good idea if you have a lot of dusting.
As soon as you have all the supplies you need, it is time to start. Make sure you are wearing comfortable clothes that you do not mind getting dirty.
The way you should clean is in waves.
Start by going through the entire house collecting any trash – old magazines, empty soda cans, junk mail and
anything else that is just clutter – this will help you to get rid of those piles of papers you never want to go through.
Chuck everything you do not use and I do mean everything.
Be ruthless, be cold-blooded – you must not compromise. I know it will be hard, but just close your eyes and toss it away.
If it is clothing and you have not worn it in over a year, it is time to take it to the Salvation Army or Goodwill.
Once this is done, start dusting.
“But what about vacuuming?” you ask. If you vacuum and then dust, you just put all that dust on the floor and you will need to vacuum again. Therefore, the rule is dust first, starting from the top and going down.
If you are cleaning a knick-knack shelf or one with books, you need to dust each item and then dust the shelf itself. There are no short cuts here, sorry.
It is also important to clean any ceiling fans, as they just move the dust around the room and evenly distribute it to all
corners. To make the work go faster, I recommend putting on some music. If you have someone to help, try making a game of it to see who can finish dusting first or some such thing.
Cleaning, while a chore, does not have to be a bore.
Now, vacuum fans, you can pull out the old Hoover and get going. Spring cleaning is not the same as “everyday” cleaning, you need to move that couch and assault those ferocious dustbunnies in a surprise attack.
If you do not, then they will multiply and eventually dustbunnies will take over your home, forcing you to live in the garden shed.
If you have a vacuum with all those attachments use them to get in the corners, behind doors and in the nooks and crannies.
For the kitchen, make sure you sanitize the counters.
You will need to get a good cleaner that cuts through grease, as it coats everything stored above the oven. Again,
start from the top and go down. Clean out the fridge, throwing out anything that is out of date or you have not used in eons.
Using a mild cleaning solution, wipe down each shelf and then put your perishable food back.
Thoroughly clean the stovetop and oven, taking out the racks and the burners. Take everything out of the cupboards and give each shelf a wipe down with a sanitizer. Finish by sweeping and mopping the floor.
In the bathroom, clean the shower/tub with an anti-bacterial solution such as Clorox.
Wipe down every surface. Clean the toilet with a proper cleaner, using a brush. Remember, when using any type of cleaner, always wear gloves.
Finally, sweep and mop the floor. If you have any bath mats, make sure you wash these as well.
Spring cleaning is a huge affair; do not expect to finish in one day. Make a plan to work on one or two rooms each weekend. This way, you space out the work. If you follow my simple steps, spring cleaning will be a breeze. shoverson@rose.edu
Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship available
Johnna Ray Assistant Editor
Many scholarships are offered to eligible students each semester with many covering only tuition or book fees.
However, at least one scholarship program is offering a $25,000 award and an opportunity to travel abroad.
Rotary District 5750 is accepting applications now for the Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship. This scholarship will provide one candidate with an opportunity to “further international understanding and friendly relations” with people in a country outside of the U.S. during the 2007-2008 academic year.
The chosen scholar will share presentations of their experiences in the U.S. with Rotary clubs and other groups in the host country during their studies abroad.
Upon returning, the student will share the ex -
periences gained while away with local Rotarians and other groups in an effort to promote goodwill in both countries.
Applicants will need to obtain passports and any necessary immunizations on their own, but travel expenses and tuition will be covered by the scholarship.
Furthermore, applicants will choose their top three choices for the host country and the Rotary Foundation will select one of these and make all arrangements needed for the trip.
“Past winners have been top students and involved with community service and had a passion for humanitarian issues,” Dr. Cheryl Evans, Dean at Northwestern Oklahoma State University’s Enid campus, said.
Although some recipients have joined Rotary after returning from their studies, Evans said Rotarians and members of their immediate family are not eligible to receive the award.
All applicants must have sophomore status, be sponsored by a club in Rotary District 5750 and have a permanent or university address in the district.
Other criteria that would make an ideal candidate, according to www.rotary.org, include excellent leadership skills; proven academic success record; community involvement; well-dressed, professional appearance; maturity; responsibility; interest and flexibility.
Eight copies of completed forms and documents should be mailed to Evans at Rotary Ambassadorial Scholarship Chair District 5750, 2929 E. Randolph, Enid, Ok. 73071.
For application forms or to obtain further information, visit www.rotary.org/foundation/educational/amb_scho/prospect/index.html, e-mail Evans at clevans@nwosu.edu or call (580) 2133105. jray@rose.edu
Exploring anime series, creepy fans at conventions
Bryan Trude Sports Editor
An astute, observant person would probably notice that I have written zero stories for this issue.
Except, of course, the people who do not read the paper entirely, but just my pittance of a column, for which I offer my most profound thanks and admiration. You people are my heroes.
However, the reason would be that I spent the entirety of last week in OKC’s polar opposite, Seattle.
Now, people may ask, “What were you doing in Seattle, Bryan?” Indeed, why would I go some place where the plants are green, water falls from the skies and nothing is on fire?
Sakuracon 2006.
In the ultimate expression of my geekdom, I flew halfway across the country for
an anime (slang for Japanese animation) convention, held for three days at the luxurious Washington State Convention Center, in the heart of downtown Seattle.
While I consider myself something of a diet otakuI might blow all my money on useless junk in the dealer room, but you will never see me dress up as Sailor Moon, an idea plenty of other fat, old men unfortunately had – I still partook of the four theaters created in the center simply for showing anime.
Burst Angel Better known by the Japanese name “Bakuretsu Tenshi,” “Burst Angel” started production on Japanese TV in 2004, and is still being produced today. Only recently, however, has it been localized and translated into English. Designed to appeal to the
most base instincts of the largest American anime fan base (college-age men), “Burst Angel” is a story about four women who dress in scant clothing and go around “Charlie’s Angels” style committing violent acts of destruction at the behest of a mysterious boss, who has graciously equipped them with enough munitions to arm a National Guard division, as well as a large combat robot.
The four girls fulfill the four fetishes of anime-loving men quite nicely. You have the lanky, destructive antisocialite; the loud, obnoxious tomboy; the sultry older
woman and, sadly enough, a 12-year-old.
I am officially creeped out. All in all, “Burst Angel” is not a title I would recommend for an anime novice. Lack of story and too much reliance on fetish sex appeal makes the shallow story rather base, even for advanced anime fans.
Peacekeepers This is a title that I believe cannot be found here in the U.S., and this makes me sad.
Set in feudal Japan, “Peacekeepers” follows the exploits of a group of swordsmen who act as the secret police, battling against a brewing movement to rebel against the Shogunate.
Spatterings of intense, brutal and bloody violence hide a deeper plot, one that follows each character’s story with a detail that is often lack-
ing in the local plotline swill. Most notable is the story of two brothers who join the secret police group, called the “Shinsengumi,” to avenge the brutal murder of their parents.
While I do not foresee myself returning to an anime convention anytime soon –seriously, those Sailor Moon guys creep me out – it is an experience that any fan of anime should experience.
While the OKC area no longer hosts any anime conventions that I am aware of (OU’s Ronin Con was cancelled last year), a good starter would be A-kon, held annually in midJune in Dallas.
So, sign yourself up to go, save a little money and experience the oddity for yourself. However, if you do, I have one request for you: Shower. btrude@rose.edu
HAries March 21April 19... This week, dear Aries, I recommend you play the stock market. Of course, as your official spiritual adviser, you have to split any earnings with me. If, however, you end up broke and alone on a street corner, remember that this publication also makes a wonderful hat.
Taurus April 20May 20... While the Bible may say, “Wine maketh the heart merry,” that does not mean you should indulge to the point of collapse, no matter how handsome a doormat you may make.
Gemini May 21June 20... This week, live by the saying, “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.” Therefore, check the eyes of everyone you meet for the elusive beauty - I have heard it fetches a good price on the black market.
Cancer June 21July 22... Unbelievably, this week holds nothing exciting for you. Enjoy it while it lasts. Or, you know, spice things up by getting into a high-speed chase. Your choice.
Leo July 23-August 22... Sorry, Leo, no news this week. I am, as always, pleased to be your font of nothing.
Virgo August 23September 22... No matter how tempting it may be, avoid watering your coworkers. Believe it or not, it will not help them grow anything other than angrier.
Libra September 23-October 22... No, Libra, it cannot get any worse. Unless, of course, you get scabies.
Scorpio October 23-November 21... Resist the urge to indulge in pointless name-calling this week. Only indulge in namecalling that has a point.
Sagittarius November 22-December 21... Do you ever think that you are the only person to feel the way you do? You are correct, but only on Tuesdays. This week, enjoy your unique status on your special day.
Capricorn December 22-January 19... As unbelievable as it may seem to you, the neighborhood stray cats have been working on hotwiring your car while you sleep at night. Double check your door locks before bed.
Aquarius January 20-February 18... Be careful of what you say this week - I think someone is recording every word.
o r o s c o p e s
Pisces February 19March 20... Start recording every word Aquarius says - it is funny to see them so nervous.
by Erin
Rose-Colored Glasses
Waltman