12032004

Friday, December 3, 2004

15TH STREET

Which famous speaker motivated the campus? See story, page 2.

Briefly Speaking...

NEWS Rose State College

6420 SE 15th Street, Midwest City, OK 73110

Vol. XXXIV Issue 12

Bond calls for tax hike

MWC Holiday Lights Spectacular

Del City Library will be holding a workshop on how to make hand-made gifts for Christmas from 6:30-8 p.m. on Dec. 7. The workshop will include how to create professional looking etched glass container and bath salts. The event allows one to save money on gifts as well as personalize them. Supplies will be provided. For more information or to sign up, call 672-1377.

RSC Fall Concert Series

The public is being asked to vote Dec. 14 on a bond issue to expand the RSC campus. The Communications Center, RSC’s latest addition, is home to the Music, Art and Journalism Departments as well as the Public Relations Office and the Performing Arts Theater. (Photo by Jon Rollman) Daniel Cunning Assignment Editor

Students interested in a career in mathematics, the natural sciences or engineering may now apply for the Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship and Excellence in Education Program. Students must meet the specified criteria. Those interested must apply before Dec. 17.

For more information or to pick up an application, visit the Student Services Building, Room 100-H.

OSU Recruitment Counselor

The recruitment counselor will be on the first floor of the Student Services Building outside the Enrollment Office from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. on the following dates: Jan. 12 Jan. 26 Feb. 9 Feb. 23 March 9 March 23 April 13 April 27

Literacy Link

The Literacy Link will be holding a tutor training workshops on Jan. 15 and Jan. 22 from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. at the MWC Library in the Family Place Room. “The mission of the Literacy Link is to help adults in Eastern Oklahoma County who need to learn to read.” There will be no cost to attend and material will be provided free of charge. For more information or to register for the workshop, call 732-2737 or come by the office located in MWC Library at 8143 East Reno.

New Learning Resources Center Hours

The LRC will have extended hours for students during finals. Coffee will be available. The following is a list of the new hours: Saturday, Dec. 11 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 12 from 1-8 p.m.

Monday, Dec. 13 from 7:30 a.m.-12 a.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 14 from 7:30 a.m.-12 a.m.

The Library and Audiovisual services will be open until 12 a.m. on Dec. 13 and 14. (Tutoring and Testing services will maintain their regular hours.)

Foundation receives historical land Sports Editor

How to Make Hand-Made Gifts Workshop

Barry M. Goldwater Scholarship

December 3, 2004

Travis Tucker

The Joe B. Barnes Regional Park at 8700 East Reno in MWC has kicked off its 10th year of the Holiday Lights Spectacular on Nov. 19. It is the largest animated drive through light display. The display will be open 6-10 p.m. SundayThursday and 6-11 p.m. Friday-Saturday. The display will run until Dec. 30.

RSC and the Music Department are presenting the fall concert series. The series began on Dec. 1 and will continue through Friday, Dec. 17. The Fall Concert will be held Monday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 p.m. in the H.B. Atkinson Theater.

The last of the series will be held Dec. 17 at 7 p.m. in the H.B. Atkinson Theater and will be the Top 40 Concert.

Will Master Chief be visiting you this Christmas? See story, page 10.

Many might wonder why someone living in and around RSC would be willing to take time to visit their designated polling place and vote in favor of raising their taxes. However, this is what RSC is asking people to do come Dec. 14.

RSC - with the help of many on campus - has been working hard to put together a bond issue that, if passed, will provide the funding to build a Training and Education Center. The new TEC building will help to increase and make more effective the training programs offered by the college to Tinker Air Force Base employees.

The site of the building is not yet decided, but locations in discussion include off campus and closer to TAFB or, if necessary, the TEC would be built on campus. One of the many purposes for this state-ofthe-art facility would be to help centralize all of the training facilities and free up much needed space in the Tom Steed Center and across campus.

The plan is for the bond issue to raise $7.65 million to build the facility, which will have an annual operating budget of $315,650. Projected annual revenue for the TEC is $373,250.

Currently, taxpayers are still paying off the last bond issue passed that provided $3.875 million to build the Communications Center and Performing Arts Theater. The remaining $800,000 plus will be paid off in 2006.

The relationship between RSC and TAFB currently allows for those employed at Tinker to participate in five different training programs. With the addition of this new facility, that number would increase by seven to offer a dozen different training programs to the TAFB personnel.

The areas that the bond would affect all fall under RSCʼs Technical Area Education District. This district stretches as far northwest as N.E. 50 and Sunnylane and extends southeast to include S.E. 119 and Indian Meridian, as well as most of what is in-between.

Those living in this district would have an increased property tax that would vary based on their propertyʼs assessed value. This tax increase would be short lived, however, as the final payments toward the last bond issue would come in 2006 and taxes would fall back close to where they are currently.

Polling will take place from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. at the same places election votes were cast. With the help of volunteers, RSC has been able to put together and mail out postcards to encourage those in the Technical Area Education District to get out and vote.

For those who wish to learn more about the upcoming bond issue, contact the Office of the President at 733-7300.

Estimated Tax Impact based on property assessed at 11 percent and with $1,000 homestead exemption applied Home Value Average Monthly Cost $50,000 $0.74 $100,000 $1.64 $150,000 $2.55 Expected amount after the 1996 issue is paid off in 2006 Home Value Average Monthly Cost $50,000 $0.39 $100,000 $0.87 $150,000 $1.34

W.P. Atkinson founded Midwest City in 1941 in order to help provide support to an air depot (later named Tinker Air Force Base) being built in the area. W.P. decided that housing, shopping and faith-based buildings would be offered for those individuals who would be employed by the air depot. It was a great success and quickly grew into one of the largest cites in Oklahoma.

W.P. and his family continued to play important roles to the MWC community. H.B Atkinson, brother of W.P., was a member of the Oklahoma Senate. He authored legislation creating RSC and was recognized by RSC in the naming of the theater after him, whereas the Student Center was named after W.P. in recognition of the time he served on the planning commities during the early years of RSC. During his life, W.P. filled his home with local history and had a dream of a historical center where he could share this history with Oklahoma. Before his passing, he began setting up The Living Historical Center of Oklahoma County.

The home of W.P. and the acreage it is on, along with approximately $350,000 in a trust fund, was donated to the RSC Foundation.

The only request was to keep the interior of the home as it was when W.P. lived there.

This gift doubles the size of the RSC Foundation, giving it more leverage when asking for funds from other organizations. It will also provide RSC with a historic conference center that can be shared with other Oklahomans.

“It is just awesome. It takes history and makes it accessible to the public ... you canʼt calculate the value of that,” said Susan Loveless, associate vice president for Resource Development.

The college is planning to lease the property from the RSC Foundation over the next 99 years for the one-time lease payment of $10 and will utilize the property as the physical location for the Eastern Oklahoma County Regional History Center. The location will also be used for meetings and training sessions for employees and students. The property could also be rented to external groups for retreats and special meetings.

The house could be ready for tours in January, pending repairs and the updating of the fire safety system. The house is located on the northwest corner of 10th and Midwest Blvd.

The home, pony barn and land are valued at $1.5 million.

The donation of the estate to the RSC Foundation will ensure that the history of the community - as well as that of the man who started it all - will be preserved for all to enjoy for many years to come.

All requests for use of the facility should be made through the office of RSCʼs President Dr. James Cook.

Adopted schools given holiday celebration Sara Nealey News Editor

RSC will be hosting the annual Christmas Party for its two adopted schools, Telstar Elementary and Willow Brook Elementary, in the Main Dining Room in the Student Center on Friday, Dec. 10.

“The student senate is hosting a little festival event for the first graders of the adopted schools,” said Bryan Montgomery, chairperson of the Christmas committee.

First graders of Telstar and Willow Brook elementary schools will take a field trip to RSC and spend two hours – 10 a.m.-12 p.m. – opening presents, visiting Santa Claus, making snowflakes, listening to Mrs. Claus read stories and more.

Student senators and volunteers will be dressing themselves as elves and acting as guides to the elementary students. There will be eight different stations at which the students will be offered different activities. Various RSC clubs will be volunteering to run these stations.

In addition to the aforementioned activities, there will be a refreshment stand serving food and drinks. The students will spend 15 minutes at each station.

First graders from Willow Brook and Telstar elementaries attended a Christmas Party hosted by the student senate. Each child received a bag of miscellaneous toys and goodies. They also made and decorated newspaper hats. (File photo)

The student senate is expecting approximately 350 first graders from the adopted schools to be present for the Christmas party.

RSC adopted these two elementary schools as a part of the Adopted Schools Program. The college selected two elementary schools in the Mid-Del area that were labeled “at risk” in hopes of improving the lives of the students.

These schools were labeled as “at risk” by the Oklahoma City Public School District due to the economical conditions of many of the families whose children attend these elementary

schools.

The Christmas Party is an annual event for the adopted schools so that some students who normally would not have the financial opportunity to celebrate the holiday season will still receive presents and have fun.

“Weʼre looking forward to it,” said Montgomery.

All donations for the Christmas party may be taken to the Student Center office. For more information regarding the Christmas Party and the Adopted Schools Program, call 733-7373.

News

Page 2

Dec. 3, 2004 15th Street News

Artificial sweeteners challenge sugar Erin Waltman Assistant Editor

With the entire nation becoming more health conscious, people are trying to eat less sugar, and artificial sweeteners are becoming more popular. However, how do various artificial sweeteners stack up against sugar?

“Sugar is classified as a carbohydrate and gives us four kcalories per gram. Artificial sweeteners are non-carbohydrate, nonkcaloric, synthetic sweetening agents,” said Pam Reynolds, nutrition professor. “So you get the sweet taste without as many kcalories.”

There are five Food and Drug Administration approved artificial sweeteners: Acesulfame potassium (Sunett), Aspartame (NutraSweet/Equal), Sucralose (Splenda), D-Tagatose (Sugaree) and Saccharin (Sweet ʻN Low).

“There are basically two types of alternative sweeteners,” said Reynolds. “One set, the artificial sweeteners, provide virtually no energy (no calories) and are sometimes referred to as ʻnonnutritive sweetenersʼ and are often used in diet soft drinks. The other set, the sugar replacers, yield energy (calories) and are sometimes referred to as nutritive sweeteners. This is the type of sweetener often used in sugarless gum.”

Saccharin, which was discovered in 1879 and is 300 times sweeter than sugar, was used during World War I and II to make up for sugar shortages and was nearly banned in the 1970s. Reports from a Canadian study claimed that saccharin was causing bladder cancer in rats, creating the need for the “Use of this product may be hazardous to your health. This product contains saccharin which has been determined to cause cancer in laboratory animals” label on some

Internationally known speaker kicks off Leadership Series Daniel Cunning Assignment Editor

With the help of numerous people and significant funding, the Diamond Leadership Series was able to make a strong impact on campus last year. Although not broken up as a six part series, the Diamond Leadership Series is continuing this year.

The first Leadership meeting was held on Friday, Nov. 19 in the RSC Communications Center. This seminar, titled “Making a Difference,” featured one of the most prominent speakers to come to the campus yet, Ed Gerety.

Gerety, a national and internationally famous speaker, made his way to Oklahoma to speak to the students at RSC. His message, combined with humor and personal experience, is one that has been successful for him as he travels throughout the United States, Canada and parts of Europe.

He saw no less success from his presentation on the RSC campus.

Last year, Glenn Chilcoat played a large role in piecing together the DLS and presenting it on campus. Acting as the new director of Student Activities, Towry Barnard is now responsible for the program. The first workshop of the DLS under her watch was a big one.

In an e-mail, Gerety restated a few quotes from his speech here on campus. He reemphasized RSCʼs outlook on graduating by saying, “As a leader itʼs not just about having a positive attitude; itʼs about taking action with that attitude. And as the motto at Rose State College [is] to ʻfinish what you start.ʼ” Gerety also expressed thanks at the welcome he felt not only from the faculty, but from the students as well. The visit was successful in large part due to the efforts of Barnard as well as Dr. Jay Kinzer, dean of students.

Gerety said, “The greatest choice that we make as leaders is to lead by example, that when you give your word you keep it, that when you say youʼre going to do something by a certain time, you do it - whatever it takes.”

No specific date is set for the next DLS workshop, but students can check back for more information about the Series next semester. For more information about the DLS or other activities, students can visit the Student Activities Information Desk in the Student Center or call the Information Desk at 733-7376.

(Photo by Kenneth Beachler)

products.

Now, however, the label is not needed. New research shows that male rats have a particular pH factor that causes a predisposition to cancer, which does not necessarily hold true for female rats or humans.

“Splenda is the artificial sweetener sucralose along with maltodextrin, which is added for

bulking,” said Reynolds. “Sucralose is 600 times sweeter than sugar, and they make it by taking cane sugar molecules and substituting three hydrogen atoms with three chlorine atoms. The pros of Splenda are that Sucralose has no calories, but the maltodextrin they add has about 10 calories per tablespoon.”

Aspartame is the most commonly used

artificial sweetener due to its use in diet sodas. It is a combination of two amino acids, phenylalanine and aspartic acid, which are then combined with mathanol, according to Reynolds. Aspartame is about 200 times sweeter than sugar.

“The rate of obesity in the United States has been rising for decades. Foods and beverages sweetened with artificial sweeteners were among the first products developed to help people control their weight,” said Reynolds.

“Ironically, a few studies have reported that intense sweeteners such as aspartame may stimulate appetite, which could lead to weight gain. Contradicting these reports, most studies find no change in feeling of hunger and no change in food intakes or body weight.

Adding to the confusion, some studies report lower energy intakes and greater weight losses when people eat or drink artificially sweetened products.”

The best bet for people trying to eat healthy and lose weight? “Be health conscious about what [you] eat,” Liz Brown, wellness coordinator, advised. “Using artificial sweeteners will not make a huge difference if you arenʼt watching other aspects of your diet such as fat intake and your exercise level.”

“The most important part of any weight loss plan is exercise,” Reynolds added. “You can eat pretty much what you want as long as you exercise and burn more calories than you take in. When trying to lose weight, one must also include exercise.”

Choosing sugar over artificial sweeteners - which have been accused of causing headaches and upset stomachs in some people - may be valid, as long as consumers remember that exercise is the key to any health-conscious life.

Lighting ceremony cheers children, adults Travis Tucker Sports Editor

RSC offered Christmas cheer to the young and young-at-heart on Nov. 30 during the annual Holiday Lighting Ceremony.

Student Senate President Doug Richardson opened the event at 5:15 p.m. in the Campus Mall, welcoming everyone to the event. He was followed by RSC President Dr. James Cook who recognized Sharane Camble, a sixth grader from Telstar Elementary who won a drawing contest. Her artwork can be seen on the inside cover of RSCʼs Christmas card. She will receive a $50 savings bond for her contribution.

Next, the Telstar Elementary choir performed two traditional Christmas songs: “Sleigh Ride” and “Feliz Navidad.” They were followed by the Ridge Crest Show Choir who picked up the beat with newer Christmas songs “Snow Day” and “Santa Is the Man.” Cook then asked all in attendance to join in the countdown to the lighting of the Campus Mall. When the count reached zero, the entire mall lit up on perfect cue thanks to the many hours spent on the decorations by RSCʼs Physical Plant workers.

“Itʼs a huge team effort. RSC is lucky enough to have such a huge team who can put in the effort to make such a thing happen,” said Kelly Lancaster, maintenence worker 1.

While the sky darkened above the Mall, Uduak Williams, Miss Black Rose State, and Kara Samply, Miss RSC/MWC, sang “O Holy Night” as a duet.

“I feel it is great that RSC can make Christmas happen for some of these kids,” said Williams.

Then the children were allowed to take advantage of the holiday train ride fashioned out of plastic barrels linked together and lead by a four-wheeler, which circled the mall giving the children a chance to look at all of the lights.

In the Main Dining Room, children enjoyed the rare opportunity to meet Mrs. Claus before sitting on Santaʼs lap and giving him some hints on what they would like for Christmas.

Paige Slopey, granddaughter of Gerry Sheppard, physical plant office manager, was the first to visit with Santa and asked for a fingernail paint dryer, a play puppy and a new book to read.

“Whatʼs tremendous about it is the participation of the kids and school choirs, and for the younger ones to get a chance to sit with Santa and Mrs. Claus is wonderful,” said Regent Ken Bartlett.

There was also live entertainment by the RSC Music Department for children and parents alike while they patiently awaited their turn to visit with Santa. Students Bret

The Holiday Lighting Ceremony gave holiday cheer to all who attended. Pictured clockwise from top: Emma Jordan (4 months old) has her picture taken with Santa; Candace Meadows performs on the piano and the Logo Towers are the centerpiece to the lighting ceremony.

(Photos by Devin Horst)

McGlathery and Amy Stehr began the live music. Performances also included a bass duet of “Silent Night” played by Jason Ethridge and Johnathan Rhoton and a piano composition titled “A Childʼs

Christmas Wish” written and performed

by Candace Meadows. The students were directed by Bernard Jones, choir director, and Emily Robinson, piano teacher.

News

Dec. 3, 2004 15th Street News

Page 3

Obsessive-compulsive disorder uncovered Sara Nealey News Editor

Over seven million individuals in the United States suffer from an anxiety disorder known as obsessive-compulsive disorder, forcing them to perform certain rituals - such as locking and unlocking doors a certain number of times - due to an irrational fear.

OCD is defined as an anxiety disorder characterized by obsessive unwanted thoughts and fears that cause one to compulsively complete acts to temporarily appease the fears. This combination results in the hindrance of oneʼs daily life and activities.

“Obsessions are ideas, images and impulses that run through the personʼs mind over and over again. A person with OCD doesnʼt want to have these thoughts and finds them disturbing, but he or she canʼt control them,” reports familydoctor.org. “Obsessive thoughts make people with OCD feel nervous and afraid. They try to get rid of these feelings by performing certain behaviors according to ʻrulesʼ that they make up for themselves.”

With the exception of children with OCD, those with the disorder are aware that the fears are irrational; however, this only leads to frustration as one cannot make him- or herself stop acting out the compulsions.

There are many different types of OCD. The type most commonly portrayed in movies is

obsessive hand washing and cleanliness and is but one of the kinds that can affect a person.

Some are plagued with horrifying thoughts regarding loved ones, causing one to do things such as making sure that all drawers are shut, arrange fringe on a rug or turn a light on and off repeatedly.

Common obsessions include the need for consistent reassurance; preoccupation with certain numbers, sounds or images; fear of germs and uncleanness; need for order, symmetry and exactness; fear of performing unsatisfactory work; fear of thinking “sinful” thoughts; abhorrence of bodily fluids and waste and the fear of hurting a family member or friend.

As a result of the obsessions, one may perform such compulsions as constantly seeking approval; repeatedly counting to certain numbers; excessive cleaning; meticulously arranging objects; repeating certain activities such as touching an object or going in and out of a door; hoarding unneeded objects; and repeatedly checking lights, stoves, doors, drawers, etc.

The causes of OCD are unknown; however, according to Yahoo! Health (www.health. yahoo.com), “There are several psychological theories about the cause of OCD, but none has been confirmed … although there are several studies showing brain abnormalities in patients

(Photo by Ginnie Escobedo)

with OCD (decreased caudate size, decreased white matter), the results are inconsistent and still under investigation.”

While completely eradicating the symptoms of OCD is very unlikely, relief is possible.

Antidepressants such as Paxil and Zoloft are commonly prescribed to OCD patients. Be-

havioral therapy is also a successful form of treatment for this disorder. With treatment, living a normal life is probable.

If one suspects he or she has OCD, a doctor should be contacted for diagnosis. For more information about OCD, visit the Web sites Familydoctor.org or Yahoo! Health.

Avoiding cold/flu this season Helpful tips to ease

holiday gift-giving woes Heath Sitton Staff Writer

Like it or not, the holiday season has made its way back around. Thanksgiving has come and gone and Christmas is right around the corner. Christmas is a time for happiness and good cheer, a time for love and a time to spend hard earned money on gifts. But, what do people want?

When thoughts of ideal gifts come into peopleʼs minds, is a gift from the heart better than a gift from the wallet? It all depends on the relationship of the giver and receiver. It is the thought that counts, right? Then why does America spend so much money on gifts, when something given with love is better? The answer is that Americans are consumers and that is why they were placed on this earth: to consume.

So, if people are stuck and cannot think of what to get that special someone, they can turn to the Internet for help. There are many companies out there dying to make a profit and these companies have prepared lists of the “top 10” gifts to give. If one cannot decide, take a look, for example, at eBayʼs choices for the best (Photo by Ginnie Escobedo) Erin Waltman Assistant Editor

With the shortage of flu vaccines this year, millions of students and school workers are being given the simplest recommendation to avoid getting sick: practice good hygiene.

“Good hygiene means taking measures to ensure that you are clean and healthy,” said Liz Brown, Wellness coordinator.

“Itʼs an attentiveness to cleanliness and [trying] to minimize exposure to pathogens or those things that may get past our bodyʼs defense mechanism to risk our health,” said Dan Points, Health Sciences division dean.

The best way to practice good hygiene and avoid germs is the simplest: washing hands.

Cold and flu germs are spread primarily through “touching. Granted, sneezing and droplets - particles like that - certainly contribute to the distribution, but probably the best thing we can do is wash our hands,” said Points. “Thatʼs something we really have to instill, even within our students, is to get used to - if they havenʼt already gotten in that habit - washing their hands frequently.”

The Centers for Disease Control have made an extra effort this season to remind schools and universities that good hygiene can help prevent them from becoming giant germ factories. Various states are taking steps to ensure that the spread of flu germs this season will be minimal by encouraging students and faculty to avoid going to school and work if they are ill.

“I would not allow [concerns over missing coursework] to put [people] at risk,” Llelwyn Grant, CDC spokesman, was reported to have said in a recent news story at CNN.com.

Students and faculty who do become sick can take reasonable precautions to try and prevent the spread of germs to others.

“Stay at home if you are ill,” advised

Brown. “If you go to school or work, make sure you wash your hands, cover your mouth when you cough, avoid sitting close to others and everyone should carry a little bottle of [alcohol-based] hand sanitizer with them and use it often.”

“We hear more about people coming to work when theyʼre ill,” said Points. “It may be a good sign of dedication to the workplace, but it may not be doing your office mate or colleague a favor if you come in and spread it.”

“I doubt [the shortage of vaccine will have] as much an impact on the student body as it will on some of the more senior faculty,” said Points.

The obvious exception to that are the students in the nursing program who often put themselves in harmʼs way by visiting hospitals as part of their coursework.

“Theyʼre constantly exposed to sick people; thatʼs what we find in hospitals,” said Points.

“I think it behooves them to be even more conscious of hand washing, more conscious of trying to keep their own health as peaked as they can.”

Good hygiene, combined with exercise and healthy diet, may help students and faculty avoid coming down with the flu this year as well as making them healthier overall.

gifts out there.

For all electronic needs, turn to Best Buy

eBay’s Top 10 Gift Choices 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Clothing MP3 players Toys and dolls Digital cameras Lingerie Video game systems DVDs Home décor Perfumes and fragrances

10. Jewelry

Santa remains a key player in holiday gift manufacturing and distribution. (Photo by Jon Rollman)

and Best Buy Online. MP3 players are available for $100-$500; digital cameras range from $150-$900. Most DVDs can be purchased for around $20 or less, while video game systems tend to average around $150.

If clothing, jewelry or home furnishings are on the Christmas list, it is recommended larger department stores be avoided and that shoppers head for the bargains at discount retailers or outlet malls. Stores such as Gordmans, TJ Maxx and Stein Mart usually carry the same items as the larger department stores at a fraction of the price.

If the stresses of trying to decide on what gifts to give or ask for is becoming too much to handle, then the consumer market is there to help. Surf the web, shop the malls and read the magazine ads. If the decision is still too hard, ask the person what they wish to receive.

Campus blood drives save lives

To avoid exposure to germs, people are encouraged to: • Wash hands several times a day using soap and warm water, scrubbing hands under the water for 10-20 seconds.

• Cover mouths when coughing or sneezing and wash hands immediately afterward.

• Avoid sharing glasses, water bottles, drinks and utensils.

• Carry tissues with them for coughing and sneezing.

• Carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer and use it when hand washing is not possible.

(Photo by Devin Horst) RSC, in conjunction with the Oklahoma Blood Institute, held a blood drive on Monday, Nov. 22 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Tinker Terrace Room in the Student Center. Students, faculty and staff were encouraged to roll up their sleeves and give a little of themselves to help patients suffering from sickle cell anemia, cancer, critical injuries or other health problems.

People who donated blood first read information on blood donation, filled out a health history profile and talked to a trained staff person. They were then given a brief physical which includes having their temperature, blood pressure, iron level and pulse checked. The next step was the donation process. An area on the donorʼs arm was cleaned and a needle was inserted by a staff member. After seven-ten minutes, approximately one pint of blood was collected and the needle was removed. The final step was for the donor to eat and drink refreshments provided to stablilize their blood sugar.

Pictured above, Yoshanna Peeples relaxes while Tenoya Roberts draws her donation from the vein in her arm.

Voices

Page 4

Dec. 3, 2004 15th Street News

Entertainment no longer scripted Darcy Delaney Editor in Chief

“Britney Spears married Kevin Federline, but was it really a hoax?” “There is a new Bennifer in town, but this time J Lo is nowhere to be found.” “Guess what celebrity leading lady is going to be a mom.” These are all headlines we see as we check out at the register. Magazines fill the stands with this momentʼs “it” celebrity or couple and nearly everyone wants to catch a glimpse.

People are interested in who the cast members of “The O.C.” were dating and why they broke up. Now the demand is even higher with shows like “Best Week Ever,” “Entertainment Tonight,” “Access Hollywood,” “Ex-

tra” and the list goes on and on. There are even shows like “Hottest Celebrity Hookups” and “100 Sexiest Celebrities,” which spend over an hour talking about the worldʼs most beautiful people.

Why? Because viewers become interested in the charac-

ters they see on TV and want to know more. They often confuse entertainment with reality and consider them to be one and the same.

Last week I went to WalMart to pick up a magazine and because they did not have Rolling Stone, Maxim, FHM or Spin (I guess all of those are too provocative for WalMart which sells condoms

and Cosmo) I decided to buy Us Weekly and GQ. While at the register the lady held up the Colin Farrell covered “GQ” and said, “Youʼre buying this for the articles – right?” and then laughed. Yes, I had noticed that Colin was on the cover; however, that is not why I bought the magazine. In fact, I have not even read the article that he appears in yet.

So, while the cashier at Wal-Mart follows Colinʼs life, I personally think that everyone should stop being so obsessed with celebrities and concentrate on more important issues like: “Did Nick really cheat on Jessica?”

Admit it – it is a guilty pleasure!

Counseling Tip No.10

• Holiday Stress No. 4 Stick to a budget. Before you go shopping, decide how much money you can afford to spend on gifts and other items, and then stick to your budget. Donʼt try to buy happiness with an avalanche of gifts.

Plan ahead. Develop a calendar of specific days for shopping, baking, visiting friends and other events. Plan your menus and make one big food-shopping trip to avoid a last-minute scramble to buy forgotten ingredients, allow extra time for travel and you wonʼt feel generally rushed.

• Holiday Stress No. 5 Acknowledge your feelings. If a loved one has recently died or you are not near loved ones, realize that it is normal to feel sadness and grief. It is okay now and then to take time just to cry or express your feelings.

Seek support. Take advantage of social support. Getting involved and helping others can be a great way to lift your spirits and make new acquaintances. You donʼt have to do it alone.

• Holiday Stress No. 6 Donʼt abandon healthy habits. Donʼt feel pressured to eat or drink to excess just because it is the holiday season. Get plenty of sleep and schedule time for physical activities.

Take a breather. While you may not have time for a silent night, schedule time devoted only to yourself. Find something that clears your mind, slows your breathing and restores your calmness.

Remember: this is a time to enjoy and appreciate people in our lives.

For more information or for free confidential counseling, call Special Services and Student Outreach at 733-7373. See the Jan. 28 issue for the next counseling tip.

Sidewalk Talk “Should celebrities’ lives be publicized?

Why or why not?”

“No, because they are just like everyone and they should be able to keep their private lives private, just like I am able to keep mine private.” Brittany David, business major

“I think their lives should be public because when you accept the responsibility of being a star, you should do so knowing your life is going to be in the public spotlight.” David Fogle, criminal justice major

“No, I donʼt believe their entire lives should be publicized, because everyone needs some kind of privacy.” David Austin Stine, English major

“No, because celebrities lives should not be publicized. Their business should stay indoors instead of being on the street and in the hand of the meat-eating media.” Lʼorcal Carter, pre-med major

“No, because everyone has a right to a personal life and not everyone needs to know your personal business.” Stephanie Humphrey, athletic training/sports medicine major

“I donʼt think that celebrities livesʼ should be publicized, especially every detail of their personal life.” Michael Kotzum, liberal studies major

Club commemorates professor

The plaque is hung next to room 122 in the Business building and was placed roughly two weeks The 2003-2004 Legal Assistant Club com- ago and was paid for through donations gathered memorated the memory of deceased adjunct by the 2003-2004 LAC. The LAC is made up of legal assistant - or paraprofessor Tsu Kreidler by recently placing a legal - majors. Only legal assistant majors can join plaque on a wall in the Business building.

“Because [Kreidler] had taught classes attended the club, and any legal assistant majors who have by many of the current students who are also in not yet joined can still join.

The LAC participates in camthe club and - more particularly pus activities such as Global - students who were in the club Oklahoma, SpringFest and the a year ago, the club decided last community Halloween festival. year to have a plaque made in The official club objective is his memory,” said Larry Barto “promote a higher order of rett, business professor and professional conduct in the legal former LAC advisor. assistant profession ... to promote “Tsu was one incredibly fine the legal assistant profession instructor dedicated to this and to promote learning and college and our legal assistant job placement assistance,” said program,” said Barrett.

Barrett.

Art Zenner, Business diviLAC meetings are usually held sion dean, added, “Tsu was the (Photo by Devin Horst) Wednesday evenings around 7 type of individual who not only asked to have a change but then would be the first p.m. in the Business building.

For more information on the LAC, contact volunteer to initiate the change. He was a visionBarrett at 733-7335 or contact Tamara Smith, ary that also was a very hard worker and always the current club president, through the Business stepped up to the plate to accept a challenge. He division office. was a truly dedicated professional.”

Erin Waltman

Assistant Editor

Women’s scholarship offered

The following scholarship application will be available in the Financial Aid Office in the Student Services Building, Room 100-H. For more information on upcoming scholarships, call 733-7713.

• The Oklahoma Business and Professional Womenʼs Foundation Scholarship The OBPWF is offering scholarships to “Oklahoma women who are in accredited learning institutions during the 2005-06 school year.” The deadline for the scholarship is March 1, 2005. Applicants will be notified by June 30, 2005, whether or not they are awarded the scholarship.

N EWS Info & policies

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.

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.

Staff Members Editor in Chief

Chief Photographer

[ddelaney@rose.edu]

[jrollman@rose.edu]

Assistant Editor

Assistant Photographer

Darcy Delaney

Erin Waltman

[ewaltman@rose.edu] News Editor

Sara Nealey

[SN0208849@rose.edu] Sports Editor

Travis Tucker

Jon Rollman

Kenneth Beachler

[KB0092257@rose.edu] Photographer

Ginnie Escobedo

[gescobedo@rose.edu] Photographer

Devin Horst

Graphic Artist

Sabra Schwartz

[sschwartz@rose.edu] Staff Mystic

Joshua Jordan [jjordan@rose.edu] Staff Writer

Heath Sitton

[jhsitton@cox.net] Secretary

Carol Benefee

[ttucker@rose.edu]

[dhorst@rose.edu]

[cbenefee@rose.edu]

Assignment Editor

Circulation Manager

Coordinator of Student Publications

[dcunning@rose.edu]

[jdcasteel@rose.edu]

Daniel Cunning

JD Casteel

Julie Lesko-Bishop

[jlesko-bishop@rose.edu]

Winter begins • Rotary of MWC meeting at 11:30 a.m. (MDR) Yule • Mary Kay workshop at 6 p.m. (TTR) • Toastmasterʼs International Club meeting at 6 p.m.

(SC123)

• Victory Fellowship Church service at 9 a.m.

(TSC Auditorium) • Victory Fellowship Church service at 5 p.m.

(TSC Auditorium)

Kwanza Holiday Break (campus closed until Jan. 3)

26

• Victory Fellowship Church service at 9 a.m. Holiday Break (campus closed until Jan. 3) (TSC Auditorium) • Victory Fellowship Church service at 5 p.m.

(TSC Auditorium)

13 20 27

28

Holiday Break (campus closed until Jan. 3)

14 21

Holiday Break (campus closed until Jan. 3)

22 29

• Del City Kiwanis meeting at 12 p.m. (RR) • MWC Optimist Club meeting at 12 p.m. (FR)

15

8

Holiday Break (campus closed until Jan. 3)

23 30

• MWC Kiwanis meeting at 11:30 a.m. (TT)

16

• Section 125 Employee sign-up at 8:30 a.m. (FR) • Hillsdale Freewill Baptist information booth from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. (SSB Lobby) • UCO booth at 9 a.m. (SC Lobby) • Kiwanis of MWC meeting at 11:30 a.m. (TTR) • Abled Disabled Club meeting at 11:30 a.m. (SC123) • Mid-Del Tinker 100 meeting at 5:30 p.m. (TTR) • Country Estates Baptist Church banquet at 6:30 p.m. (RR) • Big Teepee meeting at 7 p.m. (FR) • “Rutherford Wolf” Drama production at 7:30 p.m.

(HBAT)

• American Indian Assoc. meeting at 12 p.m. (SC123) • Kiwanis of MWC meeting at 11:30 a.m. (TTR) • Del City Kiwanis meeting at 12 p.m. (RR) • Regents Christmas Dinner at 6 p.m. (MDR and TTR) • MWC Optimist Club meeting at 12 p.m. (FR) • International Students Club meeting at 1:15 p.m.

(SC123) • Chess Club meeting at 3 p.m. (East end of MDR) • TEACH Club meeting at 4:30 p.m. (SC123)

• TAFB Retirement workshop at 8 a.m. (TSC Auditorium) • Rotary of MWC meeting at 11:30 a.m. (MDR) • RSC Nursesʼ Capping and Pinning rehearsal at 1 p.m.

(CC-PAT) • RSC Fall Music concert at 7:30 p.m. (HBAT)

12 19

2 9

• Holiday Lights Spectacular Joe Barnes Regional Park, MWC Sun - Thu: 6 - 10 p.m.

Fri - Sat: 6 - 11 p.m.

For information, call 739-1293 or visit www.midwestcityok.org

Month-long events

Thursday

• TAFB Retirement workshop at 8 a.m. (TSC Auditorium) • National Defense Transportation Association luncheon at 11:30 a.m. (TTR) • MLK Breakfast Committee meeting at 3:30 p.m. (FR) • OCU information booth from 4-8 p.m. (SSB Lobby) • “Training With Excel” workshop at 5:30 p.m. (TSC Auditorium) • RSC Nursesʼ Capping and Pinning ceremony at 7 p.m.

(CC-PAT)

7

Hanukah begins at sundown

• Victory Fellowship Church service at 9 a.m.

(TSC Auditorium) • Victory Fellowship Church service at 5 p.m.

(TSC Auditorium)

6

1

Bingo’s Birthday Month National Drunk and Drugged Driving Prevention Month National Stress-Free Family Holidays Month Safe Toys and Gifts Month Universal Human Rights Month

Wednesday

• H&R Block workshop at 8 a.m. (TSC Auditorium) • Section 125 Employee sign-up at 8:30 a.m. (FR) • St. Gregoryʼs University information booth from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. (SSB Lobby) • SWOSU recruitment booth at 10:30 a.m. (SC Lobby) • American Indian Assoc. meeting at 12 p.m. (SC123) • Del City Kiwanis meeting at 12 p.m. (RR) • MWC Optimist Club meeting at 12 p.m. (FR) • International Students Club meeting at 1:15 p.m.

(SC123) • Chess Club meeting at 3 p.m. (East end of MDR)

• Lean Committee workshop at 7:30 a.m. (RR) • TAFB Retirement workshop at 8 a.m. (TSC Auditorium) • Section 125 Employee sign-up at 8:30 a.m. (FR) • OU advisor from 10 a.m.-1 p.m. (SSB100) • Rotary of MWC meeting at 11:30 a.m. (RR) • Sister Cities International luncheon at 11:30 a.m. (TTR) • Mary Kay workshop at 6 p.m. (TTR) • Toastmasters International Club meeting at 6 p.m.

(SC123) • Choctaw High School Football Awards banquet at 6:30 p.m. (MDR)

• Victory Fellowship Church service at 9 a.m.

(TSC Auditorium) • Victory Fellowship Church service at 5 p.m.

(TSC Auditorium)

5

Tuesday

• TAFB Retirement workshop at 8 a.m. (TSC Auditorium) • Section 125 Employee sign-up at 8:30 a.m. (FR) • Air Force ROTC booth at 10 a.m. (SC Lobby) • OCU information booth from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. (SSB Lobby) • Student Senate meeting at 2 p.m. (SC123) • Student Hat-Making Committee meeting at 3 p.m.

(SC123)

MDR - Main Dining Room RCR - Regentsʼ Conference Room RR - Raider Room SC - Student Center SM - Science and Math building SSB - Student Services Building TSC - Tom Steed Center TTR - Tinker Terrace Room

Abbreviation Guide

Monday

ADM-RCR - Administration building, Regentsʼ Conference Room CC-PAT - Communications Center - Performing Arts Theatre FdR - Founders Room FL - Faculty Lounge FR - Fountain Room HBAT - H.B. Atkinson Theatre HPER - Health, Physical Education and Recreation HSA - Health Sciences Annex LRC - Learning Resources Center

Sunday

December

3 10

4 11

• “Rutherford Wolf” Drama production at 7:30 p.m.

(HBAT)

Saturday

31 New Yearʼs Eve

Holiday Break (campus closed until Jan. 3)

24

Holiday Break (campus closed until Jan. 3)

17

• Presidentʼs Council meeting at 9 a.m. (ADM204RCR) • RSC Top 10 Music concert at 7 p.m. (HBAT)

25 Christmas Day

Holiday Break (campus closed until Jan. 3)

18

• Presidentʼs Council meeting at 9 a.m. (ADM204- • “Rutherford Wolf” Drama production at 7:30 p.m.

(HBAT) RCR) • Telstar/Willow Brook Christmas Party at 10 a.m.

(MDR, TTR, FR, FL, FdR) • “Rutherford Wolf” Drama matinee at 12 p.m.

(HBAT) • Phi Theta Kappa meeting at 2 p.m. (SC123) • Baptist Ministries Wives banquet at 7 p.m. (RR) • New Community Church banquet at 7 p.m.

(TTR) • “Rutherford Wolf” Drama production at 7:30 p.m. (HBAT)

• OG&E Garden Lights Myriad Botanical Gardens, OKC Mon - Sat: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sun: 12 - 6 p.m.

For information, call 297-3995

• Festival of Lights Shannon Springs Park, Chickasha Nightly: 6 - 11 p.m.

For information, call 222-9627 or visit www.fol.net

Friday

Left: Many events

Below: S.A.F.E. placed a wrecked car in the campus

were held at Global Oklahoma such as the

Mall to discourage drinking and driving.

javelin throw.

Below: Hundreds of faculty, staff, family and friends gathered for RSC’s celebrating “Democracy Cookout.”

Right: Attendies translated their names into Asian characters at Global Oklahoma.

Below: Hamza Miftah El Kheir, industrial engineer, Charbel Chaghouri, mechanical engineer, and Kerroum Amin, petroleum

Below: Student leaders retreated to

engineer, won the tank launcher

the Raider Room for a luncheon and

competition on Nov. 29.

motivational speaker before heading to Tulsa.

The semester’s ending here Left: Pageant director Rick Woodard meets with with Miss RSC/MWC contestants.

Right: Raider Dayz began the semester with music, food and fun.

Left: The fall semester brought the debut of Below: Raider Rally introduced RSC to

the RSC Raider mascot.

it’s men’s and women’s basketball teams

Below: Eric Payne, Raiders basketball

at the start of the season.

player, goes through a tight defense to put up a two point score.

Below: Belly dancing at Global Oklahoma.

Below: Project Success yielded the largest turn out to date.

Right: The RSC Sexual Health Fair held on Dec. 1 had a big turn out. Many students received a collection of sexual health information and played sexual Jeopardy.

Below: Miss RSC/MWC and runners up.

Above: Women’s basketball experienced one of it’s strongest seasons.

Below: Local businesses servved cuisine from around the world at Global Oklahoma.

Left and below: Brad Carson and Tom Coburn participated in a televised Town Hall debate in the Performing Arts Theater as picketers lined Hudiburg Dr.

Below: Student senate election day featured pizza, hotdogs and music.

Below: Students board the bus home from the Leadership Retreat at Tulsa’s

Below: Many bands performed into the

Doubletree Hotel.

night at the State Fair.

Above: Students turn out for student

Above: Students hovered around the many

senate elections.

professors to ask quesetions at Project Success.

Left: Attendees of the Tulsa Leadership Retreat gather in the Doubletree Hotel lobby.

Below: Many Oklahomans enjoyed the State Fair.

Below: Flag football fun.

Above: Coke’s last days on campus.

Above: RSC President Dr. James Cook and Business diviision dean Art Zenner sign the Cyber Security Degree Transfer.

Left: Live music entertained students as they voted for new student senators.

Above: Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett visits RSC. Above: Traditional dances of India displayed at Global Oklahoma.

News

Page 6

Video games to heat up winter holiday season

Image courtesy of XBoxPress Bryan Trude Contributing Writer

Video gaming has been one of the fastest growing entertainment mediums for the past 20 years. More and more, gaming is considered an activity for the young, from the gradeschooler spending their days hunting 3D bumpmapped aliens to young businessmen and college students who cut their teeth in eight bits. The holiday season this year promises a wide offering for the gaming soul.

The biggest offering Microsoftʼs Xbox system is bringing to shelves this year is the much-anticipated title “Halo 2.” Bungieʼs top-rated sci-fi First-Person Shooter, “Halo” was Xboxʼs top selling title at the consoleʼs release; with Halo 2, the Redmond-based company improves on the solid gameplay core with an invigorating story, new weapons and features and the much-sought Xbox Live support.

Released on Nov. 9, Halo 2 has become the most-played game on the Xbox Live network. Beware the online play, though, if you are concerned about younger children.

Xbox Liveʼs main method of communication between players is voice chat, and there will often be some foul-mouthed gamers online.

Rival developer Nintendo is not sitting quietly through the holiday season. Nov. 21 saw the release of the Nintendo DS, the only new system being offered this season. The Nintendo DS is a handheld system that expands the handheld gaming world with leaps in interactivity, multiplayer capability and pure graphical power.

The first thing one would probably notice about the DS is that it has two screens. Though the DS has the clamshell design familiar to Advance SP owners, the wider DS sports two screens and six buttons besides the control cross. The bottom screen is touch sensitive, allowing DS games to utilize touch and draw interface. The DS comes equipped with a removable stylus to use the touch screen without smudging it.

Two processors give the DS the muscle to process full three-dimensional graphics, a handheld first. The DS also comes with a headphone and microphone jack, as well as a smaller built-in microphone to utilize voicerecognition in upcoming titles.

As far as games go for this hand-sized powerhouse, the release titles are a little slim, with the top-selling title being the remake of the Nintendo 64 classic, “Super Mario 64 DS.” All DS multiplayer games can be played wirelessly with other DS users up to 100 feet away, with only one game cartridge on one system. The DS also comes bundled with the Pictochat software and a multiplayer demo version of “Metroid Prime Hunters.”

Not to leave their other consoles out in the cold this season, Nintendo is also offering the much-anticipated sequel to its smash hit “Metroid Prime,” “Metroid Prime Echoes.”

A space FPS, “MP: Echoes” is an excellent action offering for the smaller shooter fans.

Also, to keep up with the Gameboy Advance, Nintendo is releasing a remake of the first two “Final Fantasy” role playing games, one of which was never released in the United States.

Playstation 2 developer Sony has the thinnest offering so far this season. With big name titles “Jak 3” and “Ratchet and Clank: Up Your Arsenal” already on the shelves, and itʼs new console offering simply a slimmer, smaller Playstation 2, Sony finds itself lacking of a hard-hitting new release to steal “Halo 2” and Nintendo DSʼ thunder. However, they are currently offering a downloadable expansion for Square-Enixʼs Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Game, “Final Fantasy 11.”

“FF11” is one of the most popular MMORPGS available for consoles. While “FF11” is available for both the PS2 and the personal computer, beware: the combo package, including the game and a hard drive that must be installed into an original PS2, costs close to $100. Added in the cost of the required broadband internet and the monthly fees for playing the game online, it is not an experience for the cost-conscious. However, it provides a gaming experience quite unlike any other.

Dec. 3, 2004 15th Street News

Mo’ education, mo’ money Heath Sitton Staff Writer

Apart from expanding the mind and bettering oneself, the goal of college is to reach the higher standard of pay. Making money is what this world is all about. But, is that college degree really going to ensure that the paychecks will always roll in?

In Oklahoma, those pursuing a higher education are an elite group. The majority of Oklahomanʼs rely on only a high school education. While the percentage of people attending college is found to be higher in many other states, the truth is, anyone seeking a higher education in the nation is among a small percentage.

The average income of an individual living in Oklahoma County, Okla. is $39,500 a year.

With the cost of living being considerably lower than other states, the people obtaining this average could be considered “well-off.”

However, if we take a look at the average wages of a New Yorker, around $56,000 per year, Oklahoma could be coming up short.

Granted, the cost of living is higher in New York than in Oklahoma, there is still a great difference in earnings.

In New York many more people have re-

ceived a higher education, whereas Oklahomans with a degree are of a low percentile.

“60 percent of the people in the top earnings category had a higher education,” stated a report from colleges and universities across the nation, while “60 percent of those in the lowest earnings category did not have more than a high school education.”

While looking at lists of the wealthiest people in America, it is clear that there is a correla-

(Photo by Ginnie Escobedo)

tion between education and success. Indeed, it is also clear to see that many of the richest people did not pursue a higher education.

For example, Bill Gates, the richest man in the world with a net worth of $46.6 billion, was a college dropout. Granted, he did drop out of Harvard. The point is that he does not hold a degree from an institute of higher

education.

For those looking to hit the big time and get rich, there are some ways that seem to help.

Many of the wealthiest people made their fortunes in technology, especially Internet related businesses. Nearly 40 percent of those on the top 400 list of wealthy Americans inherited their money. If a student is unable to make a fortune through inheritance, there is still hope. Many students will finish college and obtain a degree. They will go on to live mediocre lives making mediocre money. Some of the smartest students out there will find a way to success, they will come up with random inventions and make millions, and others may marry into wealth and never look back.

Students attending a college may want to ask themselves why they are doing so.

Those who have not yet decided what they want to do with their life may want to reconsider the education process. For those students already set in a degree plan, they should do some research and learn the employment opportunities of the degree they will acquire. Everyone may want to ask themselves if they are in it for the love of the job or for the money.

Oklahoma’s seasonal attractions Bryan Trude Contributing Writer

As December rolls in, people find themselves crashing through their closets and attics to find their heavy coats or that sweater with the cute little snowman on it so they can save themselves from the cold. However, people should not let the cold weather keep them inside. Bundle up and get out there because while it may be nice and warm in the house, thereʼs a lot to see this holiday that cannot be enjoyed from a recliner.

Starting close to home, MWCʼs Festival of Lights opened up to the public on Nov. 19.

Until Dec. 30, over one million lights will illuminate the night sky over Joe B. Barnes Regional Park. Under the leadership of a new committee, the festival continues to put a little light in the holiday. The light festival is free to the public, but donations are highly appreciated. For volunteer opportunities, call 739-1288.

For those who want lights, but feel a change of scenery is in order, take a short drive south to Chickasha. Their annual Festival of Light is a nationally recognized light show, and this year will feature over three and a half million lights. The festival, located in Chickashaʼs Shannon Springs Park, opened on Nov. 23 and will remain open until Dec. 31. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. Sponsors for the Festival of Light include ArvinMeritor, Grady Memorial Hospital, Eduardoʼs Mexican Grill and Cantina and Ed and Aaronʼs Restaurant. For volunteer opportunities, call 224-9627.

All through December, the Oklahoma City Zoo will be holding a number of events for the young and young at heart. Every Monday,

Among the may holiday lighting festivals that surround the Oklahoma City region, the Bricktown Canal offers a completed different experience during the holiday season. (Photo by Jon Rollman)

December through February, there will be free admission to the zoo, as well as day camps on Dec. 28 and 29. Dec. 11, 13 and 18 will see events for the kids with Santa himself making appearances. Also, every day in December will be Deck the Zoo Day; people who bring in an edible wildlife ornament can gain admission for $1. For more information, contact the Oklahoma City Zoo at 424-3344, or visit http://www.okczoo.com.

The winter weather is not dampening the holiday spirit in Bricktown this holiday season.

The trees along the Bricktown Canal on both

shores are decked out in festive light displays, adding a little holiday touch to the usual fare of restaurants and nightlife. The new Harkins Bricktown 16 Theater opened earlier in the year, and offers babysitting services and an expanded snack menu for moviegoers, as well as five hours of free parking.

Staying in Bricktown, Devonʼs World of Trees is currently open through the third base gate at SBC Bricktown Ballpark. This covered, heated display features Christmas trees as they are decorated around the world.

The display is free of charge.

Seasons Greetings

from the 15th Street News

Pictured top row left: Bryan Trude, Kenneth Beachler, Devin Horst, Jon Rollman; second row left: Heath Sitton, Sara Nealey, Erin Waltman, Travis Tucker, Carol Benefee, Julie Lesko-Bishop; first row: Sabra Schwartz, Darcy Delaney and Ginnie Escobedo. (Photo by Joe Escobedo)

Features

Dec. 3, 2004 15th Street News

Critic shares holiday favorites Erin Waltman Assistant Editor

With the holiday season upon us, I felt compelled to put up my top five holiday movie picks. These are the movies I would choose to see if the weather outside was frightful and I wanted to get into the holiday spirit.

5) “Itʼs A Wonderful Life” - I admit to this guilty pleasure: I like to watch “Itʼs A Wonderful Life” at least once every holiday season. This 1946 classic features George Bailey (James Stewart), a man who cannot see how his presence in the world is anything but a hindrance. When angel Clarence Oddbody (Henry Travers) offers George a chance to see what life would have been like had George never been born, George learns that his presence in the world is worth more than he could have guessed.

This movie gave the world the well-known phrases “Zuzuʼs petals” and “every time a bell rings, an angel gets his wings.” It is one of the best movies for a “feel-good” feeling and can help remind everyone that their life touches countless other lives, even when they feel completely unwanted.

4) “Miracle on 34th Street” - Another classic oldie, the 1947 version of “Miracle on 34th Street” is the story of Doris Walker (Maureen OʼHara) and her daughter Susan (Natalie Wood), two women who will not see the holiday season for anything more than an over-advertised excuse to spend money. When a department store Santa by the name of Kris Kringle (Edmund Gwenn) befriends the family, the women quickly learn that thereʼs more to Christmas than what they thought.

This movie always leaves me feeling up.

With such classic moments as Krisʼ first experience with chewing gum and Doris and love interest Fred Gaily (John Payne) discovering the perfect house. This movie

helps remind everyone that the holiday is not just about commercialism and stress but also about family, love and goodwill.

3) “A Charlie Brown Christmas” - This animated classic tells the story of a Christmas with the Charles M. Schulz (creator of the comic strip “Peanuts”) characters. Much like “Miracle on 34th Street,” this 1965 animated feature focuses on the commercialization of the holiday season and the loss of joy people feel when the season becomes nothing more than another way to spend money. Charlie Brown, the title character, struggles with this feeling, unable to believe that all his friends seem to be forgetting the real message of the season: to love one another and have goodwill toward everyone.

Moments to remember in this movie Popcorn Perspective

include the infamous “Snoopy dance” and Charlie Brownʼs despairing “AUGH!” when the one ornament on his tiny tree causes it to collapse. This is another movie to remind everyone of why the holiday season is the best time to sit down and remember family and friends.

2) “Scrooged” - There are two types of people when it comes to this movie: those who love it or those who hate it. I, obviously, fall into the “love it” category. This 1988 movie modernizes the story of “The Christmas Carol,” putting Francis Xavier Cross (Bill Murray) in the role of Scrooge and Grace Cooley (Alfre Woodard) as Scroogeʼs kind-hearted assistant Bob Cratchit. Cross, a cynical and selfish TV executive, is visited by the ghost of his deceased boss and encouraged to change his ways lest Cross end up

as miserable in his afterlife as his ex-boss is.

Three ghosts (of Christmas Past, Present and Future) visit Cross in an attempt to turn his life around before it is too late.

A humorous slant on the classic story, this movie gives holiday viewers such great moments as the Ghost of Christmas Present smashing Cross in the face with a toaster and the Ghost of Christmas Past mocking Cross with the words “Niagara Falls” for weeping over his mother. A humorous way to enjoy the holidays, “Scrooged” will be a favorite of mine for years to come.

1) “A Christmas Story” - The penultimate holiday movie for me is and always has been the story of Ralphie Parker (Peter Billingsley) and his quest for a ʻgenuine Red Ryder 200-Shot Carbine Action Air Rifle.ʼ The movie, narrated by Jean Shepherd, tells the story of the typical 1940s family.

Ralphie, along with younger brother Randy (Ian Petrella), father (Darren McGavin) and mother (Melinda Dillon), prepare for the holiday season through a series of foibles and follies in this 1983 classic. Ralphie struggles to convince everyone around him that a Red Ryder BB gun would be perfect (always to the reply “Youʼll shoot your eye out”) while also trying - with best friends Schwartz (R.D. Robb) and Flick (Scott Schwartz) - to avoid bully Scut Farkus (Zack Ward) and his toady, Grover Dill (Yano Anaya).

This movie has too many classic scenes for me to list them all, but some of the best moments include the impossible-to-understand curses from Ralphieʼs father, the Sexy Leg Lamp, the mall Santa booting Ralphie down a slide, the “Soap Poisoning” scene and Shepherdʼs horrified narration of Farkusʼ “yellow eyes.” This holiday movie is practically guaranteed to give all who watch it a warm feeling - whether it is brought on from holiday spirit or laughter - and will always have a place as a family classic in my mind.

Attendance policies debated Daniel Cunning Assignment Editor

She thinks that being lazy should continue to be acceptable throughout a personʼs life. Sadly, Sara seems to be confused as to what a person needs to do and what a person wants to do, something I like to refer to as responsibility. If Sara, and those who agree with her, are upset about an attendance policy, that really only leaves two options as far as I am concerned: either do not enroll or get used to attending class regularly.

She thinks that there are a large number of people just floating through college who do not need to attend class and can get by with just reading the textbook for each class. Unfortunately, and many professors might agree, these textbooks present one direct way to teach a cerSara Nealey News Editor

He says that attendance policies are fine. I say that, once again, Daniel has disappointed me. Surely he does not need somebody to follow him around, holding his hand and telling him what to do. Oh, that is right, he is married.

Back to the point, I say that attendance policies are uncool. It is true that a professor without an attendance policy may not see as many of his or her students. One would think that a bad thing, as students are paying a hefty fee for their education.

One then has to wonder how a student could possibly do well if he or she is missing class all of the time. After all, it is not hard to find students that are constantly

tain subject. Much like many other things people learn throughout their lives, there is more than one way to learn something.

I have had professors state out loud in class that the textbook is incorrect in one way or another. It is not anyoneʼs fault that this happens, but instead it is something that cannot be avoided when you purchase a book written by a few individuals to be taught by hundreds or thousands of others.

It then becomes necessary for a student to attend regularly to get the information the professor feels is essential to the course. If that cannot be found in the textbook, then a student not in class does not stand a chance of passing a class without additional help from the professor or another student.

She says that just showing up for the tests is much like clepping out of a class.

If that were the case these students are not as intelligent as they claim. If they knew enough about the subject to just buy the book and take a test, it makes no sense to enroll in the class at all. If they for some reason do so anyway, they are either extremely foolish or just kidding themselves about being able to test out of the class to begin with.

Another aspect of these attendance policies is that many professors do not immediately discredit a student for a couple of missed classes. Many, in fact, award students points at the end of the year for attending every class. Due to the fact that some classes meet only around 30 times, and that this is a college and not a high school, classes cover topics at a much more rapid pace and unnecessary absences will not help anyone in any way.

skipping class that are also making decent grades. Oneʼs first thought may be that these students are somehow cheating. However, upon closer examination, a student does not have to cheat. Sometimes simply reading the required text and showing up for tests (that are sometimes based solely on the required textbook) are all that a class demands for a good grade.

Whether or not that is the “right way” to get a college education is a matter of opinion.

Still, either way one looks at it, the method by which a college is run is not the responsibility of the students. Attending class simply for the tests and reading the textbook is much like clepping out of a class, anyway.

If a student wants to pay extra for the class rather than a clep test, that is his or her own

decision.

It is also possible that a lecture simply does not help a student. For instance, if a student were narcoleptic and was often uncontrollably falling asleep, the lecture really would not help this student. If the student wanted to go to class, that would be fine, but forcing this person to sleep at a desk rather than at home is just silly.

The bottom line is that a studentʼs grade should reflect a studentʼs ability to meet the academic requirements of a course, not on how many times a student can show up for a class. If lectures do not help somebody at all, then why make this person waste time?

By this point in studentsʼ lives it is time for them to decide for themselves what an acceptable amount of attendance is.

He said

She said Rose-Colored Glasses

Page 7 Aries March 21-April 19… This week while fly fishing in the latrine, your head will begin to itch. Not because of psoriasis, or even a screaming lice infestation, but because famous child star Gary Coleman is gnawing on your scalp.

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Taurus April 20-May 20… After many failed attempts at fame, you will finally realize the greater meaning of life this week when you are smacked in the face by a foulsmelling, drooling, handbag-wielding ape.

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Gemini May 21-June 21… After purchasing an ice-cold beverage from a vending machine last week, you were pleasantly surprised to find the machine was dispensing severed human toes instead of soda.

You happily munched them to your heartʼs delight; your great luck will likely carry into this week.

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Cancer June 22-July 22… After eating an expired jar of mayonnaise two weeks ago, all you have been able to do is sit around and belch noxious odors. This is partly due to the fact that the mayo expired in 1984, but also because you decided to use a toilet brush as a spoon. Gross!

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Leo July 23-August 22… During a frenzied search for the TV remote last week you somehow missed the new Lifetime movie.

You might think that this is terrible news, and frankly you are quite right. This new movie starred David Hasselhoff and Patrick Stewart as pool cleaners who murder unsuspecting women. Although the plot was rather stale, both men looked very macho without their shirts on.

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Virgo August 23-September 22… After joining a cult of renegade ninjas last week, your life began to show a great deal of promise. This promise quickly faded, however, when you realized that these “ninjas” were actually 90-year-old grannies, and the “cult” you joined was actually a knitting class.

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Libra September 23-October 23… Your hopes of becoming the next American Gladiator are hopeless. The show has been cancelled for years, you bozo.

Scorpio October 24-November 21… In a dream last week, you were visited by a funny looking troll. This troll promised you a wish the next time he visited. When he does return you will be let down miserably as your wish for the reinstatement of the popular 70s television program “Happy Days” will be swiftly declined and the troll will make you roll out of bed and jab yourself in the eye with your toe.

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Sagittarius November 22-December 21…

This week is a big one! You will be so bored all week that it will feel more like a month.

Perhaps even two!

Capricorn December 22-January 19… After five trips to the mall last week, you finally remembered why you went. The item you have been forgetting to purchase is a giant platter of French cuisine. Now all you have to do is find a place with French waiters who all have oversized French heads so that your order may be filled. Also, you should quit going to the mall, you doofus.

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Aquarius January 20-February 18... Everyone seems to be forgetting about you lately.

Hopefully, they will notice you again by Jan. 28. If not, hit them over the head with a frying pan.

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Pisces February 19-March 20… “A fine cuisine is more delightful than even the fluorescent-hued hindquarters of a wild baboon.”

Put this principle to practice, and your life will begin to show great promise.

By Erin Waltman

Comic Corner

Sports

Page 8

November wellness employee exercises despite many injuries

Dec. 3, 2004 15th Street News

Basketball Schedules Womenʼs Basketball Schedule:

Travis Tucker Sports Editor

Nanci Moll, professor in dental hygiene and dental assisting, has been named RSCʼs Wellness Employee of the Month for November. Moll graduated from RSC in 1981 with a dental hygiene degree knowing she wanted to teach. She worked and continued her studies acquiring a masterʼs degree in adult education.

She has been employed with RSC now for almost 10 years and enjoys teaching.

“When I was raised, women did not play sports,” said Moll. “Gym class and volleyball” was her form of exercise. ed aeroMoll startbics during the 1980s dance aerobic craze and still does cardiovascular exercises at least four times a week. She enjoys walking with her husband.

“He is an extremely motivated exerciser,” said Moll.

Moll has a busy teaching schedule and cannot find time to take advantage of the RSC gym so she has become a member of the Edmond Athletic Club near her home where she is active in yoga, pilates, and aerobics.

Moll was in a car accident on July 1 that left her with three broken ribs, whiplash, a frozen shoulder and a variety of other injuries. She is still in therapy for the frozen shoulder but has healed from the other injuries quite quickly.

“She has had some injuries recently yet has maintained her fitness,” said Liz Brown, RSC wellness coordinator.

There will be no employee named for the month of December due to the holiday and finals. Januaryʼs employee of the month will be named in the Feb. 4 issue.

To nominate a fellow RSC employee, e-mail Brown or check inside a copy of “Your Health Style.”

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Travis Tucker

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Meet the Players #12 Jeanette “JJ” Sloan

Turns 19 on Dec. 6 and was raised in Newalla, Okla.

Freshman in her first season for the Raiders Started Playing: for Little Axe Elementary when 6 years old Favorite Food: spaghetti or any Italian food Pre-game Routine: take a nap Sloan has only played two games this season due to an ankle injury. She led the first game of the season with the high score for the night.

With an average of 15.5 points a game and a 71 percent free throw, she has done well for the Raiders.

Sloan competes along side her twin sister, No. 20 Annette Sloan. They have played along

#4 Jawan Thomas 24 years old and was raised in Flint, Mich.

Freshman in his first season for the Raiders Started Playing: for the Amature Athletic Union in Flint, Mich. when 15 years old Favorite Food: motherʼs Mexican dip Pre-game Routine: listen to “old school” music Thomasʼ father played college basketball and his uncle coached his first AAU basketball team in Michigan. Thomas joined the Marines and served four years and was given the opportunity to see the world while visiting seven countries. During his stint with the Marines, he earned a position on the All

Professional sports display pitiful attitudes

each otherʼs side since first grade and have chemistry on the court like no other.

“I love the fact that I have always played with my sister. I would not do it without her,” said Sloan.

Her twin sister is not Sloanʼs only form of family support; her grandparents attend every game cheering their granddaughters and teammates along.

“I love [my family] for being there for all of my games and supporting me the way they do,” said Sloan, “I play so much better knowing theyʼre here for me.”

Though Sloan is a radiology major at the moment, she is thinking about changing majors so she can attend a four-year college. “So long as it is close,” said Sloan as she does not want to be far from family.

Marines Team and played for them for two and a half years.

While he was in the military his family moved to Moore, Okla. where he began to call Oklahoma home. RSC Coach Calvin Pierce saw him play during the national Basketball Shootout Competition organized by Tyrone Johnson held in Oklahoma. He later practiced with the Raiders during post season earlier this year, earning his position on the team.

“Thomas is a mature player who has made the difference on these last few games,” said Raiders Assistant Coach Tommy Smith.

Thomas is looking forward to “a championship and the experience of getting there,” and feels that “if we can play together, all 16 individuals as one, we are destined to make it.”

Sports Editor

It seems that athletes, owners and fans alike have forgotten the meaning of sportsmanship. I can understand that it is a business that is out for revenue, but how far is too far?

Professional sports used to be a suit-andtie event where fans would support their team, even if they lost most games during the season. Fans would cheer until the last second had rolled off the clock for their home team.

Today, fans show up in poorly stitched jerseys that cost more than a business suit so that unthankful players can make multimillions per year off their part time job. Fans spend more time managing fantasy teams than they do attending the real ones because the games have become too expensive to attend.

Where bad calls used to inspire nasty stories from the media, today a riot can be inspired by anything from a win to a loss.

What has caused these unwanted changes in fans?

In my opinion, it is greed; owners are greedy and are forcing fans to pay unreal-

The Sports Stop istic amounts for tickets and merchandise.

The players in turn demand more money from the owners because they want a bigger piece and are willing to strike at their fansʼ expense, causing the fans to leave the game feeling they have not gotten their moneyʼs worth.

The National Hockey League is experiencing a strike along with a player lockout that is promising to last the entire season.

Baseball went through a similar situation and has never fully recovered. Why do the owners and players feel that this will be different for them when they have a smaller fan base to begin with? It seems the fans are no longer important in their minds. The average NHL player makes $1.2 million a year while it would take the average fan 30 years at $40,000 a year to match it; this is ridiculous In the recent Pacers-Pistons game, fights broke out amongst players and fans alike with fans throwing everything from beer and popcorn to metal chairs. Things went wrong long before a fan threw the cup at Indianaʼs Ron Artest, but for Artest to enter the stands attacking fans randomly hoping to lay a blow on the individual who threw the plastic cup is unacceptable. In my mind, Artest should not be able to return to the sport. This is not his first incident. He has been suspended frequently for having hissy fits, destroying monitors and equipment and for asking for time off from his seasonal sport to promote his rap album, which I hope will be boycotted by fans.

Athletes need to learn to have pride in the fact they are a part of a professional team and lessen the fact that they are millionaires before the first season ends, and owners need to cater to the fan instead of their pocketbooks. Otherwise, sports will continue to change for the worse, ending up with only the top of our society being able to watch a game in person through glass windows so they can not inhibit the game and average Joes paying cable companies for pay-perview access to their favorite team.

Holiday Word Search R E I N D E E R Z E E D H A H

A E C H V E R G P R N E C I O D H S T H R S P I I L M R S W J M T H O L M H V O A A G D S F I R I L D O ODLQ Q L O N

A N U K A H R E E N I S W Y E A R E F O O F T C G I L K E A C E T W I N K L S A Q D O U P N O Y L Y R Z I C A L R A I A H R Q S T N E P L A C E R E M H L S OZNSP I W R E A T H

N T G C P T Y D E R I N C R S

O O Y E R E U S D G Z E R I U

M I T T E N C K I N G S H U E I O N E L R N O O E G E D D W R T R J W S N N E V I T T E L S L O H M I T L R E A N N O M M N O E D O E R I S T P O O G E I L T TFRMS G A R P L U

S W Find the following words: M 1. Holiday 19. Ornament G 2. Snowstorm 20. Scrooge 3. Goodwill 21. Noel H 4. Candy Cane 22. Holly 23. Elf M 5. Cheer 6. Fireplace 24. Lights E 7. Reindeer 25. Kwanza O 8. Evergreen 26. Chanukah Sugarplum 27. Christmas T 9.

10. Yule 28. New Year E 11. Winter 29. Mittens 30. Spice L 12. Ice 13. Presents T 14. Spirit S 15. Stockings 16. Sleigh I 17. Wreath M 18. Mistletoe

Answers to Nov.19 crossword