Are colleges safe and secure? - Southeastern Oklahoma State

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he
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Campus Calendar
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SOSU
Dinner
Theatre
The
SOSU
Dinner Theatre will present Smoke on the
Mountain Friday, June
29; Friday, July 6;
Wednesday, July 11; and
Saturday, July 14. All
showings will be at 6:30
p.m. Tickets are $25,
with special pre-sale
rates available to faculty,
staff, students, senior citizens and groups of 15
or more. Call the Box
Office at 745-2696 for
more information.
In search of the
Woolly Mammoth
Children
will
learn
about
history
and how
cavemen lived. They will
learn to create stories
with art, clothes and prepare tools as they search
for the Mammoth. This
adventure lasts from July
16-20 from 8:30-9:45
a.m. The cost is $29 and
is open to children
grades second to sixth
For more information call
Continuing Education at
745-2858.
S
outheastern
FREE - additional copies
25 cents each
www.sosu.edu/thesoutheastern
The independent voice of Southeastern Oklahoma State University since 1912
Non-profit
organization
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
Durant, Okla.
Permit No. 117
Volume 87 No. 32
Are colleges safe and secure?
Crime rates available for public viewing
By KAREN MAPLE
Managing editor
Since 1991, all institutions of higher
education that participate in any federal
student aid programs have to report
three years’ worth of campus crime statistics, post security policies and make
timely warnings.
This policy is under the Crime
Awareness and Campus Security Act.
President Clinton signed the legislation into law in 1998 after nearly a
decade of work by a coalition of media
and victims’ rights groups, led by the
Society of Professional Journalists and
Security On Campus, Inc.
According to the Web site securityon
campus.org, “campus court proceedings or internal student disciplinary
proceedings have been one of the most
criticized methods colleges and universities have used to hide their crimes.”
The site explains that, for many years,
post-secondary schools had their own
system of justice, separate from criminal courts. While the internal student
disciplinary proceedings dealt with
matters, like cheating, they also handled violent student misconduct, such
as hazing and sexual assault.
Some schools fought against the new
legislation when it was first proposed.
For some schools, there was more of an
emphasis on image than safety needs of
students, and serious crimes were
shielded from publicity to protect the
reputation of the institution.
The regulation continues to provide
the media and campus communities
with information that allows students
and others on campuses to be aware of
safety precautions they may need to
take, keeps people informed about what
is going on and can even help students
decide which school they want to
attend.
The OPE Campus Security Statistics
Web site is a resource that people can
use to compare crime rates at different
universities.
In 2005, Northeastern State University
reported 12 burglaries, four cases of
aggravated assault, 40 drug law viola
STAFF PHOTO/The Southeastern
Campus Police serve the university community on a daily basis,
enforcing campus policies and making the campus more safe for students. If a person even suspects a crime is being committed or thinks
someone is acting suspicious, they should call Campus Police at 7452727. The building is located off University Street, across from Paul
Laird Field.
See CRIME Page 2
Charlie Brown
The Musical
Your a Good
Man, Charlie
Brown will be
performed at
the VPAC July
8 at 2
p.m., July 10
at 7:30 p.m. and July 15
at 2 p.m. All performances will be held in
the VPAC.
Tickets are $15 and
must be purchased in
advance. Call the Box
Office for tickets or more
information at 745-2696.
RAY GASKIN/The Southeastern
Torrential rains saturate Southeastern campus
Above, it isn’t a war zone. It’s the west entrance to Bloomer Sullivan Gym, where sandbags were stacked to prevent flooding. The SOSU baseball infield was under water after one of many heavy downpours this week. Flooding in Southern Oklahoma and North Texas contributed to several fatalities in the past two weeks. About 500 homes were flooded in and around Sherman. Portions of Highway 75 and Interstate 35 were closed
for several hours because of flooding. The National Weather Service said rain fell at a rate of an inch every 15 minutes in some places early
Monday. Torrential rain flooded creeks and rivers in Texomaland. A flash flood watch is in effect today. The Red River is forecast to crest about six
feet above flood stage this afternoon. Lake Texoma is predicted to crest at a level that will be its highest level since 1995.
SOSU representatives
attend security summit
By KAREN MAPLE
Managing editor
Space
Education
Continuing
Education will
feature several
classes for
children to learn about
space, planets and astronauts. The classes cover
ages 3-6, with the first
session July 9-13 and
the second session July
16-20. Both sessions will
last from 11 a.m. to 2
p.m. in UC 215. The cost
per class is $69. Call
745-2858 for more.
INDEX
News..........................2
Opinion......................3
Editorial
Perspective
Cartoons
Entertainment...................4
Review
Puzzle
Humor-Scope
Fashion
Recipe
Lifestyle/news...................5
Health article
News.................................6
Courtesy photo
The Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival is made possible through the combined
efforts of actors, directors and technicians across America. Tommorrow night is the
first show/dinner theatre Smoke on the Mountain, one of many shows the group performs this season.
‘Show goes on’ in 28th year
The temperature has gone up and the school
year is over, bringing in the summer, which
means that you can find actors, directors and
technicians from across America once again
gathered at SOSU for the 28th Season of the
Oklahoma Shakespearean Festival.
OSF, founded in 1979 by Molly Risso, is currently preparing for a month of excitement and
laughter for all ages.
This year OSF is producing a shorter season,
but still has as much, if not more, variety to offer
its audiences.
Alice in Wonderland was the children’s show
this season and kicked off the festival, taking us
through the rabbit hole with the white rabbit and
following Alice through sometimes magical but
Want to place an ad? Call 745-2983.
always fun adventures.
There were 105 children of all ages playing
characters such as bumblebees and caterpillars.
The dinner theatre production this year will be
Smoke on the Mountain.
This is an uplifting gospel musical comedy
centered around the Sanders Family Singers.
The show takes place at the Mount Pleasant
Baptist Church in South Carolina during the
first stop on their whirl wind, toe tapping, pulpit
pounding revival tour.
Smoke on the Mountain will be performed
June 29 and July 6, 11 and 14, with dinner being
served at 6:30 p.m.
See THEATRE Page 2
On Thursday, April 19,
Governor
Brad
Henry
announced the creation of the
Campus Life and Safety and
Security (CLASS) Task Force
to study safety and security at
Oklahoma’s college, university
and CareerTech campuses.
He made this announcement
after the tragic shooting at
Virginia Tech which resulted in
the death of 33 people, including the shooter, who committed
suicide.
“Oklahoma’s campuses are
safe, but we can never be too
careful when it comes to safety.” Henry told KSBI TV.
“It is imperative that we work
to ensure the safety and security of the students, faculty and
staff on Oklahoma’s campuses,” he said.
Henry said the task force
would examine current security
practices and would recommend measures to better protect campuses and improve
emergency responses.
On May 30, over 500 university presidents, administrators
and law enforcement personnel
from 24 states attended the
National Campus Security
Summit.
SOSU had five representatives who attended the summit
held at the University of
Central Oklahoma in Edmond.
Those who attended were
President Jesse Snowden,
Sharon Robinson, vice president for Student Affairs; Jon
Clouse, director of campus
police and safety; George
Brewster, SOSU public safety
captain, and Alan Burton,
director of public information.
According to the Oklahoma
Higher Education’s Campus EClip Newsletter, the summit
“was the first of its kind in the
U.S. since the shooting on the
Virginia Tech. Campus in
April.”
Speakers from across the
country presented many topics
in the goal of helping to protect
college campuses.
Featured speakers included
David Paulison, director of the
Federal Emergency Management Agency, and former FBI
profiler and NBC commentator
Clint Van Zandt.
Sessions included the psychology of rage, privacy and
the law; crises communicat-
See SUMMIT Page 6
Do you have a story idea or suggestion? E-mail us: campuspages@gmail.com
News
Page 2
The Southeastern
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Looking nationally Surviving the crises
at college crimes
By BOBBI GENTRY
Staff writer
By KAREN MAPLE
Managing editor
According to federal campus
statistics, violent crime is relatively rare on college campuses
when compared to society as a
whole.
In fact, before the Virginia
Tech shooting, the average
annual total of murders and
manslaughters was 16 over the
past six years, according to
U.S. Department of Education
Statistics.
According to Newsday, in
2005, the administrators of
8,771 college campuses reported 7,600 violent on-campus
crimes. These crimes included
murder, manslaughter, forcible
sex, robbery and aggravated
assault.
The campus rate in 2005
averages about 42 violent
crimes per 100,000 college students.
The U.S. Department of
Justice estimates 2,000 violent
crimes are committed per
100,000 people in the general
population in this same time
period.
Al Tompkins, author of several articles about campus security, said when researching
school massacres in recent
decades, “I was struck by how
many occurred in the spring,
especially in April.”
Three examples are the
Columbine
High
School
DEBRA PETERSON/The Southeastern
SOSU students are fortunate to participate in classes
and leisure at a campus with minimal criminal activity.
(Colo.) shooting, which took
place April 20, 1999. The two
shooters killed 13 people and
injured 24, before killing themselves.
On April 28, 1999, a 14-yearold boy killed one student and
injured another in Taber,
Alberta.
On April 26, a former student
in Erfurt, Germany, killed 16
people, most of whom were
teachers, before killing himself.
Whether there is a seasonal
link is something that might
need further study, Tompkins
said.
In 2005, a total of 189,448
crimes were reported on college campuses nationwide. The
Web site cya.ca.gov/Victims/
crime_&_victimization_stats
explains that 97 percent of
these crimes were property
crimes and three percent were
violent crimes.
Of the violent crimes, 53 percent were aggravated assaults,
28 percent were robberies, 18
percent were forcible rapes and
5 percent were murders.
In 2001 over 97,000 students
between the ages of 18 and 24
were victims of date rape or
alcohol-related sexual assault.
Students who had been drinking assaulted over 696,000
other students in this same year.
According to the Web site
diverseeducation.com, on-campus arrests for alcohol violations are up significantly
nationwide.
In fact, the numbers have
increased by 10 percent from
2003-04, rising to more than
See NATIONAL Page 6
OSU cited for illegal downloads
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
An Oklahoma State
University employee and 15
students have been cited in the
recording industry’s most
recent campaign against music
piracy.
A spokeswoman for the
Recording Industry of America
said the group plans to continue sending about 400 prelitigation settlement letters a month
to copyright violators on college campuses.
The letters advise copywriter
offenders how many music
files they were found to be
sharing online and said they
would be sued by record companies in federal court if they
did not respond within 20 days.
The letter says the minimum
damage for each song are
$750, possibly more.
OSU 4H staff member
HOW TO REACH US
■ Main number: 745-2983
■ News desk: 745-2944
■ Fax: 745-7475
Courtesy photo
An OSU employee and 15 students were recently cited
for music piracy.
Charles Cox is one of 1,620
college-computer users to have
received letters from the RIAA
since February telling them to
pay up or face federal lawsuits.
He paid $3,000 because, he
said, students who used his
office computer illegally
downloaded
copyrighted
songs.
“In some ways, I feel like I
was an innocent victim,” Cox
said. “I don’t consider myself a
thief.”
■ E-mail address:
campuspages@gmail.com
■ Web site address:
www.sosu.edu/thesoutheastern
The Staff
Managing editor
News editor
KAREN MAPLE
JAMIE CARRICK
Staff artist
Staff writer
BRENT SIDES
BOBBI GENTRY
Web Designer
Faculty adviser
BRANDON GOOCH
RAY GASKIN
Staff writer
SHEA McFADDEN
Columnist
Columnist
KEITH WATKINS
KAT HARVEY
Contributing writers, editors, artists, photographers
Dan Hoke
Jay Clark
Randy Bruce
Dahlia Killian
Josh McMullin
Debra Peterson
Publication policy
■ The Southeastern student newspaper is published as a teaching
tool for students in the Department of Communication and Theatre at
Southeastern Oklahoma State University. Advertising rates and
deadlines are available upon request. Call 745-2983.
■ Opinions expressed in The Southeastern do not necessarily represent those of the student body, faculty, staff or administration of
Southeastern Oklahoma State University, nor do they reflect the policies or beliefs of the university, the Student Government Association,
the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges or other regional universities. The Southeastern is a student publication with an independent
voice, not an official medium or expression of the Board of Regents
or regional universities. All sides of all issues are welcome.
■ Letters to the editor for the Opinion Page must be signed and
include a telephone number. We reserve the right to decline publishing any letter to the editor, and all letters may be edited for content,
space limitations and libel law compliance. Please hold letters to 300
words.
These days, Cox tells students to use OSU’s computer
labs instead of his computer.
And he’s so skeptical of music
obtained online that he’s turned
to radio.
He’s warning parents and students about the potential consequences of illegal downloading.
“Most of them don’t realize
they’re doing something that
puts them at such high risk,” he
said.
Correction: Page 6 of
the Thursday, June 14,
issue
of
“The
Southeastern,” a midpage
photograph
incorrectly identified
Dr. Wayne Jones,
Occupational Safety
Department Chair, as
Dr. James D. Jones.
One in five women will be raped in their lifetime. Seventy-eight rapes occur every hour in
America, and in 80 percent of the cases the
attackers are known by the victims.
Rape is not exclusive to females. Seven to
ten percent of rape victims are male.
Although rapes do not occur often at SOSU,
they have happened in the past.
A number of situations can constitute rape.
Sexual assault includes situations where force
or violence is used or threatened or when the
victim is intoxicated by a chemical substance,
unconscious, incapable of giving consent due
to mental illness, or under 16 years of age.
Because so many rapes are date rapes, one
way to protect yourself is to double date. If
you find this difficult or unfavorable, then
meet your date at a public place and provide
your own transportation.
Avoid secluded places, even being alone in a
dorm room, until you are sure you can trust the
person. Always let someone know where
you’re going, with whom and when you plan
to be back.
Most importantly, trust your intuition. If at
any time you feel threatened or uncomfortable,
you should remove yourself from the situation
or seek help.
Young people who use drugs and/or alcohol
are three times more likely to be raped. If you
decide to engage in these behaviors, always
get your own drinks and keep them in sight to
avoid date rape drugs, which can cause
extreme disorientation, difficulty moving,
memory loss and unconsciousness.
Even if all precautions are taken, rapes can
still occur. If you are raped, the most important
thing is to do whatever it takes to prevent
being seriously injured or killed.
As soon as it is safe, go straight to the emergency room. Do not eat, drink, smoke, douche,
bathe, change clothes or use the bathroom.
It is a good idea to call a friend or family
member to be with you during the examination
processes.
Many things will occur once you reach the
hospital. A trained counselor will speak with
you about what happened and what the medical exam involves.
One of the most common procedures is STD
tests. Blood and/or saliva samples will be
taken and doctors may start you on immediate
treatment for STDs, including HIV/AIDS,
Courtesy photo
One in five women will be raped in their
lifetime.
which largely increases protection against
developing these diseases.
If it is suspected a date rape drug was
involved, you can be given a toxicology test.
You will be treated for any wounds sustained
and internally examined for more injuries.
Females can be treated to prevent unwanted
pregnancies if they desire. Your clothes and
body will also be examined for traces of the
rapist’s hair, skin and bodily fluids.
It is important to remember that all things are
being done to help you. If at any time you feel
uncomfortable or don’t want a certain test
done, you have every right for a more detailed
explanation of why the test is beneficial or to
refuse any exam.
Feelings after a rape vary, but in all situations
it is a good idea to talk to a trained counselor,
trusted friend and/or rape survivor group.
There is no “normal” way to feel after a rape,
but some of the common feelings include
shock, fear, anger, guilt and shame.
Usually these feeling fade with time, especially if the victim has a solid support system
and understands that rape is never the fault of
the victim; it is always the fault of the rapist.
Rapes are about power and control, not sex,
not what you said, wore, did or didn’t do.
Safety tips for SOSU
The SOSU Web site
offers many tips promoting a safe and
crime-free campus.
Suggestions for protecting yourself in
campus housing
include not opening
a door to strangers
and verifying repairmen before
opening the doors. Keeping
doors locked can protect people and their belongings.
Most dorm thefts are due to
doors being left open,
unlocked or someone carelessly laying their keys down in
public places.
Most thefts from vehicles are
due to people keeping doors
unlocked and/or leaving windows down. People should
never store valuables inside
their car, placed in easy sight of
a potential thief.
The Web site encourages people to call the police in the following situations: If you or
someone else is involved in a
motor vehicle accident; if
someone touches you in an
inappropriate manner; if you
feel uncomfortable walking to
your car or a building on campus; unwanted or harassing
telephone calls; if you hear an
argument in a dorm room
or campus building; if
your vehicle or room is
burglarized or if you suspect something has
been stolen, and if
you suspect drug
activity on campus.
Reports of suspected and criminal activity can be
made confidentially.
The Campus Police are available for more than criminal
activity. They will provide welfare checks to someone who is
reported as being depressed,
assist with keys locked in cars
and be available if a person
needs assistance.
“If you see anyone suspicious
on campus, trust your gut
instincts and call the Campus
Police,” Jon Clouse, director of
Campus Safety and Security
said.
Campus security would prefer someone report a possible
safety or crime issue than to
ignore it because they are not
sure.
“If it turns out to be nothing,
there is absolutely no harm
done, but your phone call could
prevent a criminal offense
from occurring,” the Web site
says.
THEATRE
from page 1
The Shakespearean production this summer is Macbeth.
This haunting tragedy takes
us back to 11th century
Scotland as we watch the
chilling tale of the rise and
fall of a tormented king.
Macbeth, caught in a web of
prophecies told by three
witches, begins his bloody
crusade to become king.
The witches use Macbeth as
their puppet as they continue
to meddle in people’s lives.
Performances will be held
June 30, July 7 or July 12 at
7:30 p.m.
The final show of the season is the musical You’re a
Good Man Charlie Brown.
These performances are
July 8 and 15 at 2 p.m. and
also July 10 and 13 at 7:30
p.m.
OSF is being held in the
Visual and Performing Arts
Center. Tickets must be
reserved for performances.
Tickets are $12 for
Macbeth, $15 for You’re a
Good Man Charlie Brown,
and $25 for the dinner theatre
Smoke on the Mountain.
For more information or to
buy tickets, call 745 2696.
CRIME -- from page 1
tions, two illegal weapon violations, two
liquor law violations and two motor vehicle thefts.
For example, Northwestern Oklahoma
State University reported 11 cases of vandalism, 12 burglaries (including from
vehicles and dorm rooms), 19 cases of larceny, one case of public intoxication and
38 listed under “other (administrative
action)” for the 2005-06 school year.
East Central University reported 22
cases of burglary (five were auto burglary), one motor vehicle theft, five
weapon violations, six drug violations and
16 alcohol violations in 2005-06.
SOSU reported five burglaries (unlocked
vehicles/dorm rooms), one illegal weapon
violation, one drug law violation, seven
liquor law violations, two motor vehicle
thefts and two cases of arson (trash can
and cardboard set on fire in a lounge) in
2005.
Links on each page allow people to get
more information, variable(s) or institution details.
According to securityoncampus.org,
every institution must publish an annual
report by Oct.1 of each year that contains
crime statistics for the three most recent
calendar years.
According to this Web site, “The report
will be made available to all current students and employees and prospective students and employees are to be notified of
its existence and afforded an opportunity
to request a copy.”
This year, a provision was added to
allow schools to comply with the annual
report obligation on the internet, “so long
as the required recipients are notified and
provided the exact Internet address where
the report can be found and afforded the
opportunity to request a paper copy.”
Institutions are under no legal obligation
to provide a report copy to media, but
“they will likely provide it upon request
and will have to provide it to student journalists,” said S. Daniel Carter, writer of
“Covering crime on college campuses.”
Further information about campus crime
reporting, categories, school requirements
and how statistics are broken down is
available on Page 3 of the Web site securityoncampus.org/reporters/coveringcrime.
Opinion
Thursday, June 28, 2007
Page 3
The Southeastern
EDITORIAL
Secure your belongings
Safety is somewhat of an
issue on our campus, at least in
certain areas.
One of the areas we need to
look more closely at is dorm
safety and security.
The Durant Daily Democrat
covered a story over dorm burglaries in Shearer Hall in an
article published the last half of
May.
In the article, the Democrat
reported that items were stolen
from four rooms in Shearer
Hall. Items stolen included
computers and cell phones.
Though the person responsible was caught, we as a university need to look into this issue
and come up with solutions.
One solution is putting security cameras in the dorm hallways and outside the dorms.
These cameras could be used
to catch thieves and other students who are doing acts that
are against the law and school
policy.
They could also catch illegal
and suspicious activities happening just outside the dorms
or in the dorm parking lots.
This would help those who
stay in the dorms feel more
secure and safe.
They would also not have to
worry as much about the security of their personal possessions.
Video cameras might also
deter students from breaking
the law.
If students knew that cameras were in place, they might
be less likely to act against policy.
Of course these cameras
would not be placed in areas
where students’ privacy would
be violated, such as in the actual dorm rooms, so privacy violations would not be an issue.
Another solution to the dorm
security problem is informing
students even more about the
importance of locking up
rooms when they leave and
being careful who they allow
inside their rooms.
The more students are
informed about the issue, the
more they may be able to prevent theft in the first place.
Whatever the university does,
we each need to use common
sense and rely on our instincts
while we are on campus.
If someone feels like they are
in danger, they should call
Campus Police and let them
know.
Likewise, if they feel weird
about leaving their possessions
unattended, they should take
the items with them or lock
them up.
Hopefully, with increased
awareness, students will
become more safety/security
savvy, and property thefts on
campus will decline.
This week’s editorial, written by Jamie Carrick, reflects The Southeastern staff’s collective opinion.
‘Let freedom ring’
As the Fourth of July
approaches, our thoughts
should naturally fall into
remembering this is a celebration of American democracy’s
big day.
But we should also remember that this is Iraq’s chance
to develop their own democracy and we have American
troops dedicated to helping
them achieve that.
The struggle that we won
back in 1776 is a struggle that
some countries continue to
fight. It is a battle for humanity, a battle for the rights of
people and a battle to protect
worldwide, the ability to live
in a world free of fear and terrorism.
We have all heard our fair
share of those criticizing our
president and the war. Voices
almost as loud as those who
demanded the government do
something after the fall of the
twin towers and to stop the
threats posed by Saddam
Hussien.
But my opinion is not going
to address the fickle minds of
some people. Rather, I want to
point out that whether you do
or do not believe in the war or
our president, as an American
should you not at least sup-
Person on the street
bY Kevin McFadden
know the complete story.
Karen
I have faith in the American
Maple
way and in our military. Sure,
Managing we have seen our share of
those who take things to the
editor
extreme, but how can we let
the actions and choices of the
port our troops?
few affect the good work that
According to the Web site
so many of our military peramericanprogress.org, there
sonnel are doing?
are more than 135,000
I know first-hand how hard
American troops in Iraq alone.
it
is to serve overseas away
Since the beginning of the
from
family and loved ones,
war, 3,217 Americans were
even
when
my life wasn’t on
killed, 54 percent of them 24
the
line.
I
can
only imagine
years old or younger.
what
it
is
like
for
the men and
Over 24,314 American solwomen
who
serve
in combat
diers have been injured from
areas.
combat injuries alone.
And as the Fourth approachAccording to the Web site
es,
I find my thoughts drifting
cbo.gov/ftpdocs, there are, on
more
and more to the sacriaverage, 220,000 American
fices
they
make daily. Isn’t
military personnel deployed in
this
holiday
about celebrating
Iraq, Afghanistan and other
our
freedoms,
our country and
overseas locations in support
all
those
who
have
and are
of the “war on terrorism.”
defending
her?
I am not in support of peoSo as we celebrate our
ple dying or of war, but I am
Fourth
of July, we should let
in support of freedom and
our
minds
not only celebrate
democracy. Even if I had not
the
freedom
that our country
carried a high security clearnow
knows,
but take some
ance and been fortunate
time
to
remember
those living
enough to work with the
far
away
from
family
and
South Pacific Air Borne, I
friends
who
put
their
lives
at
would still have the common
risk
daily
to
help
others
find
sense to realize that, because
the democracy so many of us
of security reasons, those of
take for granted.
us here in America do not
Each week, Southeastern students, faculty, staff or workers will weigh in on
an issue concerning SOSU or the Durant community. This week’s question is:
What do you think is the biggest safety issue or concern on campus?
Betty
Andrews
academic
advisor
Shaunda
McGinnis
department
secretary,
mathematics
“I would say the lighting situation in the
parking lot.”
“There is no lighting in the parking lot.”
Mary
Pierce
counselor
Matt
Rizzo
junior
music education
“I think the sidewalks are a greater issue
than lighting right now, because it affects
all students, not just the ones around during the evening.”
“There’s a lot of really horrible sidewalk.
I’ve seen a lot of people trip and hurt
themselves.”
Perspectives
from different ends of the political spectrum
D
D
etermined
The Determined Democrat, Intuitive Independent and Resolute Republican provide readers with
their own insight regarding an issue relevant to the current political environment each week.
This week’s topic is: Gun control laws
I
emocrat
by Keith Watkins
Watkins
I’m a
Democrat,
no doubt
about it; if
you don’t
believe me,
check my
voter regis-
tration card.
I’ll be the first to admit
that I have liberal bias
(some may say more liberal than most).
While my opinions are
definitely influenced by
my liberal views, I’m also
a sucker for the facts,
especially when it comes
to gun control.
Here’s just a few from a
study done in 2001: Since
Washington D.C. passed
the country’s most restrictive gun ban 25 years ago,
its murder rate stands at
46.4 per 100,000 people.
Arlington,Va. (just
across the river from our
nation’s capital), on the
other hand, has very lax
gun laws and a murder
rate of 2.1 per 100,000.
In fact, according to the
study, the entire Virginia
metropolitan area has a
murder rate of only 6.1
per 100,000 people.
This phenomenon of rising murder rates seems to
repeat itself across the
board when states or
countries institute strict
gun control legislation.
At least in this country,
it always seems that the
areas that have the least
guns have the most
crime, and vice versa.
I would argue that
crime rates increase
because of, and not in
spite of, stricter and
stricter laws placed on
gun owners.
But, like I said, I’m a
sucker for the facts.When
the stats start pointing
towards and not away
from strict gun control, I’ll
change my stance.
But until then, I’ll just
stick to my guns, so to
speak.
V
S
ntuitive
ndependent
by Bobbi Gentry
by Kat Harvey
Guns and arms.
We all may know
what they are;
some may even
know how they
work, but what
about the laws
Harvey
that control or govern their use? Do we all know
what those are?
No, we do not. Some take the
laws for granted and think they
can get away with using common sense, but that is not exactly
how it works. I am no expert in
the law or matters that concern
these issues. In fact, I am not an
expert at anything, but I do have
an opinion in this matter.
I like weapons — the study of
how they work, why they were
invented — and I desire to learn
to use as many weapons as my
time here on Earth allows.
Even as I study and learn about
them, it will take me a long time,
still, to understand and fully grasp
what all of the laws and regulations for owning, operating and
carrying the weapons I learn
about mean.
Most people, when they think of
the right to bear arms (carry
guns), they think of the second
amendment or some of the
recent court cases that grant collective and individual rights to
bear arms.
Since I recently turned 21, I am
now eligible to apply for a permit
to carry a concealed handgun,
after I go through a one-to-twoday training course. This is just
one of the many restrictions on
weapons control. I could spend
all day telling you about laws and
restrictions and still not cover
some of them, because I don’t
know all of them.
Guns really aren’t the problem,
if everyone uses them in a legal
fashion and utilizes common
sense in owning them. The problem is all of the illegal uses of
guns and all of the illegal guns
floating around our nation. Since
these exist, there also exists a
force to oppose it. This force is the
ATF, Interpol, local law enforcement, etc.
Should there be stricter gun
control? Yes, on illegal guns, but
NO for the citizens who have paid
their dues, know their responsibilities and have secured their right
to bear arms the legal way.
R
R
esolute
epublican
V
S
After the
shooting at
Virginia
Tech, gun
control has
once again
been a hot
Gentry
topic, with
many trying to use this
tragedy to strip honest
Americans of their Second
Amendment rights.
What many people seem to
be forgetting is that guns save
lives. When you have a maniac with hostages, who do you
send in? Men with guns. Guns
are unfortunately necessary.
People claim we need
stricter gun laws. It is completely illegal for criminals to
buy, steal, use or even handle
a gun. We have tried this. It
doesn t work. Criminals by
their very nature ignore the la
-- that s what makes them
criminals.
So, how is changing the law
going to do anything against
that problem? All changing
the laws will do is keep guns
out of the hands of honest
people who would use them to
protect themselves and their
families. As apparent by their
actions, these monsters obviously act as though they
aren t subject to legislation.
Therefore, by attacking gun
laws, politicians are actually
attacking the innocent.
Many lawmakers are arguing for gun registration. Once
again, this is useless against
criminals. Having a list with
your and my name on it is in
no way going to show us the
guy who just bought a rifle
out of a trunk in an alley. Is
anyone really dim enough to
believe that this guy who
plans to use his gun to rob a
store is going to register it
first?
Even if we were foolish
enough to try gun registration, it would cost our country
millions to watch the innocent. A database with around
80-100 million honest gun
owners would need 22,000
updates daily just to follow
the people who move. This is
not a crime-fighting tool; this
is simply an unnecessary federal jobs program.
Southeastern Oklahoma State University, in compliance with Title VI and Vii of the Civil Right Act of 1964, Executive Order 11246 as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, Americans with
Disabilities Act of 1990, and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age, religion, disabilit, 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 education services.
Entertainment
Page 4
The Southeastern
Thursday, June 28, 2007
More sequels -- ‘Ocean’s 13’ and ‘28 Weeks Later’ How safe are fireworks?
By JOSH McMULLIN
Contributing writer
So far this summer, the
sequels haven’t exactly met the
expectations of movie goers,
but they’ve entertained the vast
majority of us.
Movie review
The money keeps coming in,
as “Spider Man 3,” “Shrek 3”
and “Pirates of the Caribean: At
World’s End” all continue to do
well at the box office, despite
the other movies that are on the
big screen for the season.
Another sequel worth seeing
this summer is “Ocean’s 13,”
starring all the originals from
the first two movies, as well as
some new faces fresh on the
big screen.
This movie also features a
Courtesy photos
Top left: A survivor in “28 weeks Later” running from the
zombies. Top right: Al Pacino stars as the villian of “Ocean’s
13.” These films continue the sequel rage in theatres this
summer.
better storyline and a new young and the old.
enemy.
Even people that watched the
After the villian of the film, original with Frank Sinatra
played by Al Pacino, swindles admit these are better. Turns
one of Ocean’s crew out of a out Sinatra was a better boozer
business deal and leaves him and singer than he was an actor.
Another film that came out
for dead, Clooney and the gang
earlier this year, but is also
team up to take him down.
“Ocean’s 13” is a film that worth mentioning, is the sequel
has a broad audience potential to the zombie horror film “28
because it’s popular with the Days Later.”
In “28 Weeks Later,” civillians are reintroduced under
U.S. military supervision to
London, after the original rage
virus victims are all dead.
Everything goes fine until a
carrier of the disease is found
and unwittingly reintroduces
the rage virus to the survivors.
Things pretty much go downhill from there, and the military is forced to shoot all available targets to maintain control.
So, the main characters in the
film are on the run from both
the raging virus zombies and
the U.S. military forces.
Both of these films are quite
entertaining, and the good
news is that we still have some
of the biggest movies coming
out, such as Michael Bay’s
hugely anticipated “Transformers,” which is slated to come
out July 3.
Beware of room 1408
A recent press release by the
National Council on Fireworks
Safety reminds people that some
fireworks could be dangerous.
People should only purchase
fireworks from a licensed dealer
or stand.
Illegal fireworks are often
handmade in basements or illicit
factories.
The Consumer Product Safety
Commission regulates legal fireworks which have safety warnings on bright color packaging.
Used according to package
instructions, fireworks can be
very safe.
In fact, while the sale of fireworks shows a huge increase,
consumer
injuries
have
decreased over the last 20 years.
Fireworks are legal in 45 states,
Puerto Rico and the District of
Columbia.
Last year, over 250 million
pounds of legal fireworks entered
the U.S. from China.
There is more to fireworks than
simply lighting a fuse. Each label
RANDY BRUCE/The Southeastern
should be read so people know
exactly what to expect and how
to protect themselves and spectators.
A favorite of most children are
sparklers. Parents should pay
special attention to children using
sparklers, as they can reach temperatures up to 1800-3000
degrees Fahrenheit.
By thinking ahead and using
safety precaution, people can
have a memorable and injuryfree Fourth of July.
Humor-Scope
It s not your typical horoscope.
By SHEA McFADDEN
Staff writer
By Josh McMullin
Thrills, chills and screaming for an hour and a half, and
you have a horror film from
the master of scary films and
novels, Stephen King.
Zodiac from Zen Master Butt3rs
for June 28 - July 4
Cancer (June 22-July 22): Avoid space ships, martians, jelly donuts and threewheeled cars this week.
Movie review
“1408” is full of shocking,
frightening and disturbing
scenes that will have you
freaking out and will keep you
on the edge of your seat, if
you haven't jumped out of it
and ran out the door, that is.
John Cusack stars in the
film as Mike Enslin, a
renowned novelist who has
become obsessed but uncertain of the afterlife.
He is skeptical on the paranormal and has an atheistic
view of the world after the
passing of his daughter.
Now for his latest project,
“Ten Nights in Haunted Hotel
Rooms,” Mike Enslin decides
to stay at the infamous
Dolphin Hotel in suite 1408,
where many people have died,
all linked to “suicides” and
“natural” causes.
Despite the warnings,
protests and the alcohol bribes
by hotel manager Gerald Olin,
played by Samuel L. Jackson,
Enslin is determined to stay in
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22): Build a rocket ship and move to the moon. Make sure to take
plenty of peanut butter and jelly.
Courtesy photo
Above John Cusack as Mike Enslin close to losing his sanity in room
1408.
room 1408 and will not have
it any other way.
“There have been 56 deaths
in 1408,” said Olin “No one
lasts more than an hour in that
room.”
---The Dolphin Hotel
invites you stay in
any of its stunning
rooms ... except one
After begging and pleading,
Olin regrettably agrees to let
him stay. Enslin looks at Olin
and asks, “So what … is it a
ghost or a poltergeist?” and
Olin replies “It’s an evil
room.”
A night of horror soon
begins after Enslin enters the
room and thinks, “This is it?”
And the countdown begins.
While the “normal” scary
stuff happens, with things
being moved or put back into
place, Enslin just shrugs it off
as someone being in the room
with him playing pranks.
A few haunting images and
some bleeding walls soon
change his mind, after he
finds himself trying to unlock
the door and even climb out
the window with very little
ledge to escape the corrupted
room.
Prepare yourself to be horrified and driven insane in this
Stephen King masterpiece,
directed by Mikael Hafstrom,
rated PG-13.
The Dolphin Hotel invites
you to stay in any of its stunning rooms ... except one.
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22): Tell Hillary Clinton her campaign song is awful. Honestly,
what are these politicians thinking?
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23): Boycott Washington D.C.
Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 21): Read my book on how to successfully date a sugar
momma and live large like you always wanted to.
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21): Open up a snow cone stand with unique flavors, such
as Mac ’n Cheese, Fried Chicken, Mayonnaise and Tuna Fish.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19): Go camp out in front of your local bookstore to prepare for the next Harry Potter book.
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18): When in Africa, avoid 29-foot-long crocodiles.
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20): Build a flying gold surf board to one up the Silver
Surfer.
Aries (March 21-April 19): Beware of Big Foot and Sasquatch. They have been
sighted at vending machines all over campus.
Taurus (April 20-May 20): Invent a tanning oil that makes your skin turn bright
green.
Gemini (May 21-June 21): If you’re a dude with lots of back and chest hair try out
my new line of swimsuits tailor made to show off man’s hair in all its glory. When it
comes to hair, more is better.
Jay s Little Known USELESS FACTS
From Jay Clark, the creator of Sweet, Treats & Eats, comes a column so
revolutionary it will knock your socks ON!
*All fun facts come from
The Book of Useless Information
Eats
by Noel Botham
Think you know EVERYTHING? Did you know ...
1. In Texas, it is illegal to graffiti someone else’s cow.
2. It is against the law to stare at the mayor of Paris.
3. Celebrating Christmas was once illegal in England.
4. Japan’s currency is the hardest to counterfeit.
5. It is illegal to grow or sell pork in Israel.
6. In California, it is illegal to eat oranges while bathing.
7. Most burglaries occur in winter.
8. Whaling is illegal in Oklahoma.
9. In Alaska, it is illegal to shoot a moose from an airplane window.
10. In certain places, it is illegal for a cow to moo within 300 kilometers of a private residence.
11. Pennsylvania was the first colony to legalize witchcraft.
12. In Brewton, Ala., it is illegal to ride down city streets in a motorboat.
13. In Hartford, Conn., it is illegal to cross the street walking on your hands.
14. In Idaho, it is illegal to give a box of candy weighing more than 50 pounds.
15. A monkey was once tried and convicted of smoking cigarettes in Indiana.
16. In Baltimore, it is illegal to wash a sink, no matter how dirty it is.
17. In England, the Speaker of the House is not allowed to speak.
18. In Virginia, law requires all bathtubs to be kept outside.
19. In Finland, the police deflate tires in lieu of giving tickets.
For the kids ...
Sweets,
Treats &
20. Every citizen of Kentucky is required by law to take a bath at least once a
year.
by Jay Clark
Tired of buying that boxed junk that never pops well? Bored
and want something that not only screams summer time but
makes you feel like a real chef? Take a chill pill and pop up a
bag.
Homemade Kettle Corn
Ingredients:
❏ 1 cup popping corn
❏ 1 cup popping oil
❏ aluminum foil
❏ 2 tbsp. brown sugar
❏ cast iron skillet
❏ 1 tsp salt (optional)
❏ 1 tsp flavor of choice
(optional)
Directions:
1. In a small bowl, combine the popping oil, sugar, salt and
other flavorings together well.
2. Place popping corn into skillet and pour oil mixture over
it.
3. Cover with aluminum foil well.
4. Place pan over medium high heat and let it sit until the
corn begins to pop.
5. Once the popcorn begins to pop, occasionally shake the
pan and make sure the foil stays on.
6. Wait until the popping stops and remove from the heat.
8. Eat and enjoy.
Jay’s Tasty Tip:
OK, so maybe it is easier to buy kettle corn from the store.
This is true. However, in efforts to be healthy, this recipe
delivers, after you eliminate the salt. Happy eating.
Lifestyle/news
Thursday, June 28, 2007
SOSU’s Spring 2007
President’s Honor Roll
SOSU PRESS RELEASE
SOSU has released the
President’s Honor Roll for the
Spring 2007 semester. To earn
this distinction, the student
must complete a minimum of
12 semester hours with a 4.0
grade point average (no grade
lower than A).
Listed below is the
President’s Honor Roll, with
students listed by permanent
hometown:
OKLAHOMA
Achille: Jonda Lynn
Robinson
Antlers: Adrianne Elizabeth
Cross, Sydney Natosha
Kellett, Jennifer Renee
Nelson, Brittany Grace
Phillips
Ardmore: Joshua Ben Ball,
Tristan Andrew Clark,
Michelle Lynn Crane,
Amanda Leigh Eads, Bailey
Mathes, Nicole Richelle
Miller, Sarah Elizabeth
Miller
Atoka: Dale Wayne Daniel,
Jennifer Ellan Larue,
Christopher Ryan Mingus,
Rachel Raylene Nutter, Icy
Less Reed
Bennington: Ashley Lynn
Doshier
Bokchito: Jeffry Wade
Fuller
Boswell: Kenneth Duane
Jones, Cayce Lynette
Roark
Broken Bow: Kyle Anthony
Axton, Jami Cheyenne
Felker, Joshua Cole
Holloway, Kyle Daniel
Mitchell, Kimberly Yvonne
Wood
Caddo: Theresa Marie
Bailey, Jennifer Michelle
Doyle, Kenneth Paul
McLaughlin, Spencer Ray
Phipps, Shawn David
Rowland, Josiah Paul
Schomer, Tiffany Lynn
White
Calera: Cristi Diahann
Young
Caney: Lavinia Jeanette
Bagby
Cartwright: Randi Michelle
Dollins
Clayton: Aleisha Jean Stills
Coalgate: Brian B Pope,
Miranda D Rutledge
Colbert: Jessie Elbert
Hopkins, Jessica Leiane
Kempe, Rebekah Denise
Molina, Connie Jo Winnett
Coleman: Shilah Kirk
Whitmire
Duncan: Catherine
Elizabeth Brunet, Bradi
Marie Strange
Durant: Amy Michelle Aplin,
David Worth Barker, Crystal
Marie Beller, Jonathan Paul
Beller, Jared William
Bourne, Caryn Dennice
Bradford, Jamie Juanice
Carrick, Hali Marie
Cornelison, Brooke Chelsea
Coxsey, Megan Ann Crews,
Megan Elizabeth Dillow,
Heather Diane Downs,
Carrie Daniele Edmondson,
Stuart Benjamin England,
Leslie Anne Gregersen,
Matthew Clyde Hanna,
Wendi Charisse Hobbs,
Jennifer Michelle Horton,
Jerrod Lyle James,
Adrienne Nicole Jensen,
Lela Alexandria Johnson,
Tara Danielle Johnson,
Timmy Ray Johnson,
Bradley Ryan Jones, Lacey
Renee Jones, Stephen R
Justus, Keri Elizabeth
Martindale, Carrie Katherine
McClure, Corey Andrew
McDaniel, Megan Leigh
McDaniel, Bridget Anne
Moore, Jade Elizabeth
Moore, Summer Brynn
Moore, Starla Kay Mullen,
Travis Zachary Phelps,
Robert Terry Pierce, William
Michael Robertson, Sarah
Ann Robison, Patti Rachelle
Schulze, Juliane Kay
Sicking, Jessicca Diane St.
Clair, Tom W Wells, Samuel
Lawson West, Lacy Dee
Westfall
Dustin: Lora Louise Meins
Finley: Lynsie Nicole Creel,
Christi Lyn Habrock
Garvin: Cassie Lyn
McKeever
Guthrie: Chase Alan
Langley
Hartshorne: Vanessa
Marie Miller
Haworth: Erica Nicole
Barber, Leah Elaine
Somers
Healdton: Harmony Shea
Horste, Danah Renae
Roberts, Ginger Ann Smith
Henryetta: Carisa Leann
Owen
Hugo: Hilary Grace
Hickman, Robert Lee Smith
Idabel: Montana L. Roper,
Mecca Wortham
Kenefic: Joseph Aaron
Sampson
Kingston: Bobby J
Buckaloo, Eric G
Fernandez
Krebs: Leonard Alvin
Howard
Lamar: Ravyn Marie Hitt
Lane: Amanda Rachelle
Hatcher
Lone Grove: Cheri Lee
Ann Conway, Ashley Nicole
Lewis
Madill: Hailey Ann Coe
Marietta: Amber Dee
Beavers, Johnie Ruth
Dewbre, Tommi Jean
Merriman, David Clifton
Reed
McAlester: Crystal Dawn
Howard
Mead: Sarah Leeanna
Stilwell
Milburn: Leigh Mae
Isenberg, Joshua Allen
Mayo
Moore: Charity Ann
Laponsie
Stringtown: Frankie Joe
Couch
Talihina: Allen Dale
Baughman, Sarah Michelle
Brien
Tishomingo: Carolyn
Roberta Creech, Ashley
Brooke Gamble, Elizabeth
Ann Hoster, Jennifer D
Kemp, Genna Marie
Marten, Victoria Lynn
Pacheco, Jennifer Deanne
Powell, Jennifer Rebecca
Wire
Tulsa: Kelli Lynn Arend,
Stephanie Elizabeth Heald
Valliant: Jessika Anne
Gunn
Wilson: Natalie Michelle
Bone
TEXAS
Allen: Ashley Ann Garner
Bells: Misty Corrine Nobles
Bonham: Raymond Stark
Wagstrom, Rachael LeAnne
Washington
Crandall: Kacey Diane
Russell
Denison: Tina Rene
Burnham, Judith Ann
Foster, Lanice Ann Hardin,
Carroll Lynn Maxwell, Terry
Columbus Nicholas, Dana
Lynn Nowlin, Heidi Michelle
Schapansky
Denton: Benjamin Weslee
Vance
Dripping Springs: Deana
Renae Brooks
Grand Prairie: Crystal
Diamonda Spencer
Grapevine: Joshua Don
Acton
Ivanhoe: Nequitajo Dori
Backus
McKinney: Alex Roy
Flores, Chanel Ann Turner
Melissa: Ashley Marie
Johnson
New Braunfels: Blake
Reynolds Classen
Nocona: Anthony Allain
Huerta
Pottsboro: Sean Greer
Lewis
Royse City: Jonathon
James Spencer
Sherman: Sheila EsmailiDoki, Jennifer Leanne
Garland, Gloria Marie
Henson, Katy Lynn Horton,
Dustin Blake Parsons,
Ashley Dawn Powell,
Rachel Rae Todd
Tom Bean: Rebecca Marie
Holcomb, Kristin Nicole
Pettit
Waxahachie: Anena
Victoria Sims
Whitesboro: Colby Wayne
Moree.
Page 5
The Southeastern
College Drinking
Provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
As college students arrive
on campus, it’s a time of new
experiences, new friendships
and making memories that
will
last
a
lifetime.
Unfortunately for many, it is
also a time of excessive drinking and dealing with its aftermath -- vandalism, violence,
sexual aggression and even
death.
According to research summarized in a College Task
Force report to the National
Institute on Alcohol Abuse
and Alcoholism (NIAAA),
the consequences of excessive
drinking by college students
are more significant, more
destructive and more costly
than many realize. And these
consequences affect students,
whether or not they drink.
Statistics from this report,
which were updated recently,
indicate that drinking by college students aged 18-24 contributes to an estimated 1,700
student deaths, 599,000
injuries and 97,000 cases of
sexual assault or date rape
each year.
Some first-year students
who live on campus may be at
particular risk for alcohol
misuse.
During their high school
years, those who go on to college tend to drink less than
their
non-college-bound
classmates. However, during
subsequent years, the heavy
drinking rates of college students surpass those of their
non-college peers.
This rapid increase in heavy
drinking over a relatively
short period of time can contribute to serious difficulties
with the transition to college.
Anecdotal evidence suggests that the first six weeks
of the first semester are critical to a first-year student’s
academic success. Because
many students initiate heavy
drinking during these early
days of college, the potential
exists for excessive alcohol
consumption to interfere with
successful adaptation to campus life. The transition to college is often difficult, and
about one-third of first-year
students fail to enroll for their
second year.
Students should learn the
penalties for underage drinking, as well as how alcohol
use can lead to date rape, violence and academic failure.
A variety of helpful
resources are available from
NIAAA.
The Task Force’s awardwinning Web site, college
drinkingprevention.gov, features this guide, along with
links to alcohol policies at
colleges across the country, an
interactive diagram of the
human body and how alcohol
affects it, an interactive alcohol cost calculator and the full
text of all Task Force materials.
Copies of all Task Force
materials may be ordered
from this Web site or by contacting the NIAAA Public-
ations Distribution Center,
P.O. Box 10686, Rockville,
MD 20849-0686.
For more information please
visit the Web site collegedrinkingprevention.gov
or call Student Health
Services at (580) 745-2867.
Holiday tips for a safe July 4
Protecting people
Each year, more than 11,000 people are injured in this nation
from fireworks, according to the Web site peabodyfire.org.
The United States Fire Administration (USFA), part of the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and the
National Council on Fireworks Safety recommends the following safety tips to help ensure a safer holiday celebration:
❏ Observe local laws, such as where and what type of fireworks can be discharged in your area.
❏ Never build or experiment with homemade fireworks.
❏ Only use fireworks outdoors
❏ Remember fireworks and alcohol do not mix.
Protecting pets
Many animals become frightened on the Fourth of July and
may become lost trying to escape the sights and sounds of
firework displays. The following are a few tips for pet families:
❏ Never let children handle or light fireworks. Even sparklers
can be dangerous if unsupervised.
❏ Make sure your pet has proper and up-to-date identification
in case they become frightened and get lost.
❏ Never ignite fireworks while holding them. Only light one
at a time, and move away quickly.
❏ If your pet gets nervous during thunderstorms, consider
talking to your veterinarian about getting a prescription tranquilizer to help calm your pet during the periods fireworks are
displayed.
❏ Make sure you give yourself enough room in a safe location, away from buildings, vehicles and flammable materials.
❏ Have a full bucket of water or water hose nearby for any
emergency, and to douse used sparklers.
❏ Watch what you wear. Loose clothing can catch fire and
should not be worn when lighting fireworks.
❏ Never try to re-ignite fireworks that have malfunctioned.
Soak them with water and throw them away.
By using common sense and safety practices, people can
have a safe and fun Fourth of July.
According to the Web site safetycenter.navy.mil, it is as simple as “think before you act.”
“Basic precautions for prevention of mishaps, while in the
home, on the waterways and on the highway, will make this
Fourth of July a safe and happy one …” the site says.
❏ Keep your pet at home if you are attending firework displays.
❏ If possible, keep your pet indoors during the Fourth. Soft
music might help calm a nervous pet.
❏ Pets can become victims to dangerous/life-threatening
“pranks” on the Fourth, so make sure they are in a secure area
or indoors.
❏ Clean up all debris of firework displays immediately; if an
animal ingests firework products consult your veterinarian or
local poison control center.
A few simple precautions will help ensure your family,
including your pets, has a safe Fourth of July holiday.
“Dear Luv Bug, My husband wants me to quit school and
stay at home with our children until they are raised, or at least
until my youngest is a little older. I know it is hard on him to
have to help with the kids and house, and he says he doesn't
want them being raised by day care workers when he is at work
I hope everyone is having a great sum- and I am at school. I think that I will be able to do more for my
mer despite all of the rain and flooding family if I get my education when my children are younger. We
everywhere.
argue about this all the time and I am afraid it will destroy our
marriage. Do you think I am being selfish to my family?”
“Dear Luv Bug, I am a student at Southeastern. I live at
home with my parents because it helps save money and they
Dear Married Student, I want to applaud you for your
wanted me to stay. It makes sense because they live in Durant, courage; that’s not a situation that's easy to put out there.
but as much as I love my parents, I sometimes feel like I may
I do not believe you are being selfish in any way. Having an
be missing out by not living on my own or with friends. I don't education in this day and time is very important. In fact it's more
want to hurt my parents feelings, so how can I tell them that I or less expected.
want to move out?”
Bettering your education will ultimately help you and your
family. I can’t tell you how many friends and family members I
Dear Thoughtful Student, I think it's very commendable and have that wished they had gone to school or finished school
respectful of you to think of your parents first.
while their kids were younger.
While staying at home is a great way to save money and it does
Be sure to reiterate to your husband how important and benehelp not having to deal with the hassle of overwhelming bills ficial it will be to your family to have a degree. I hope this sugand such, the truth is that one day you will be on your own and gestion helps.
the sooner you are able to do so the easier it will be.
If you're able to do so, try and take as many online courses as
I know what it’s like to have to tell your parents something like possible, that way you can stay at home with your children and
that and trying not to hurt their feelings.
still have time for school. If you don’t have a computer at home,
Assure them that everything will be OK and that you believe you can always use the library or a friend’s computer to look up
you should be on your own to grow from your experience as a your assignments, print them and take them home. If you have
student. Save up on money and show them that you are pre- friends and family nearby, I’m sure they would be willing to
pared.
help with the kids.
The Luv Bug
With Shea McFadden
News
Page 6
The Southeastern
Thursday, June 28, 2007
SOSU representated at ELA A farewell to friend, co-worker
SOSU was represented by
Michele Claxton and Camille
Phelps at the Educators
Leadership Academy (ELA),
held June 11-14 at the U.S.
Postal Conference Training
Center in Norman.
The Academy is hosted by
the University of Central
Oklahoma and travels to multiple locations.
Claxton is the Director of the
Educational
Opportunity
Center at SOSU, and Phelps is
the Director of Student Life.
ELA’s Mission Statement is
to prepare and challenge educational leaders to take an
active role in continually
improving the quality of education and community life.
The purpose of the group is
to provide quality leadership
training to educational leaders
comparable to that offered to
many upper-level executives in
successful organizations.
Claxton said, “The first session of the Educators
Leadership Academy was a
unique experience. As participants, we were challenged by
the programming, which provided quality presentations and
the opportunity for creative
interaction”
“It was stimulating to be
Courtesy photos
interacting with education
Michele Claxton (above)
leaders from across the state
and Camille Phelps (below)
and addressing the art of leadattended ELA in June.
ership.”
“Leadership is who you are
when no one is looking,”
Phelps said.
“I feel the Academy can
strengthen qualities that will
help me in my pursuit of lifelong learning.”
The ELA was founded by
Charlie Hollar, a retired businessman who entered the field
of education in 1990.
Top campus crime
By BOBBI GENTRY
Staff writer
Burglary is the leading crime
on many college campuses,
including SOSU.
Most of these thefts are crimes
of opportunity and can be easily
avoided.
One of the simplest things that
leads to many thefts is failure to
lock a dorm room, car, apartment, doors, etc.
It is also a good idea to keep
valuables out of sight in cars by
placing them under seats or in
the console.
The SOSU Dorm policy states
that no person who does not live
in the dorms is to enter without
an escort. Helping to enforce this
policy by not letting in people
who don’t live there can reduce
opportunities for robbers.
Some dorm rooms on campus
seem to operate as open houses,
with numerous people going in
and out, some of these people,
unknown by the room’s occupants.
This is a very bad idea, as some
of these people who may wander
in and out of rooms could be casing rooms for a future robbery.
Another common mistake
is to post
c l a s s
schedules or
notes
announcing when you will
return to your room.
While this may seem like a
great way to let your friends
know when you will be available
to hang out, to a thief this is simply telling them how long they
have to safely be in your room.
If at all possible, do not bring
many valuables to the dorm with
you.
This is college, a place to learn;
no one cares about your large
CD collection, expensive jewelry, etc., except those who would
like to make it theirs.
If you have these type things,
don’t brag about it or show it off.
Keep valuables in a safe, secret
place.
You can also help keep an eye
on your neighbor’s room and ask
them to do the same for you.
If suspicious persons are seen,
call Campus Police immediately
at 745-2727.
More crime & safety
articles coming in the
next issue of
The Southeastern
SOUTHEASTERN STAFF
Today started out like any
other for Southeastern employee Ralph Carlock. He checked
to make sure nothing out of the
ordinary
had
happened
overnight in the Fine Arts
Building, where he has been in
charge of maintenance for the
past 17 years.
But the day will have a different ending. It’s his last at
Southeastern.
“I’m retiring but I’ve got
plenty of work to do at home,”
Ralph said. “I’m helping my
wife renovate our house and
I’m going to restore my old ’62
Chevy pickup.”
The easy-going maintenance
specialist has some vivid memories from his years on campus.
“Somebody set the trash can
on fire in the men’s restroom
one time, and the building was
evacuated quickly,” he said.
“Then, there was the time
somebody set off a fire extinguisher on the second floor and
blew yellow powder all over
the place.”
Flippen featured on NPR
Dr. J. Brooks Flippen, professor of history at SOSU, was a
recent guest on National
Public Radio.
Flippen was interviewed on
the program “All Things
Considered,’’ hosted by Diane
Elliott. The program originally
aired June 3.
According to the program,
President Bush has been a
lightening rod for environmentalists, but it wasn’t always
that way for White House
Republicans.
The interview dealt with
President Bush’s recent proposal concerning climate
change.
Flippen specializes in modern American political/environmental history. He is the
author
of
two
books,
“Conservative Conservation-
Courtesy photo
Dr. Flippon was recently
interviewed by NPR.
ist: Russell E. Train and the
Emergence of American
Environmentalism,”
and
“Nixon and the Environment.”
He has also published a number of articles in the field.
Flippen joined the SOSU faculty in 1995 and holds degrees
from Washington and Lee
University, the University of
Richmond and the University
of Maryland.
On another occasion, a utility
company accidentally damaged a drain pipe connected to
the roof. The next time it
rained, the choir room, hallway
and several ground floor
offices were flooded.
“It happened three times
before we realized the drainage
pipe was leaking. It was a real
mess,” Ralph said.
The son of California migrant
workers, Carlock’s family was
always on the move. “I went to
three schools a year as we
moved around following the
harvests.”
That’s one reason why in
adulthood he’s had no hesitation to pick up and go. “I’ve
lived in five different states,
raised four kids and my wife
and I just celebrated our 40th
wedding anniversary,” Carlock
said.
All his children, plus seven
grandchildren, live within driving distance of Durant, so for
now the Carlocks will enjoy
retirement in Texomaland.
“I have no idea how many
miles that Chevy pick-up has
on it, Ralph said. “It was 20
RAY GASKIN/The Southeastern
Ralph Carlock retires from
SOSU.
years old when I bought it in
’82. Heck, that was 25 years
ago. I got a new odometer for it
one time, and never bothered to
hook it up.”
He says he’ll keep the truck
until his driving days are over.
One of his sons already has
first dibs on the vintage vehicle, but Ralph cautions him to
not get in a big hurry to pick up
the keys.
Call it coincidence or good
timing, but today is Ralph’s
63rd birthday.
He smiled and said, “That
worked out pretty good didn’t
it?”
NATIONAL -- from page 2
34,000.
The federal data also shows
a significant lowering in the
number of hate crime incidents. In 2004, colleges
reported only 20 aggravated
assault hate crimes, compared
with 168 two years earlier.
Data shows, however that
arrests for possession of illegal
weapons on campus increased
14 percent in 2004, in both
two and four-year colleges.
Of the 1,354 arrests for illegal weapons in 2004 over 300
occurred in student residence
halls.
Also in 2004, on-campus
drug arrests for two and fouryear colleges increased by
three percent, compared to the
previous year, and were up by
six percent since 2002. Nearly
half of all these arrests took
place in residence halls.
Every year an estimated
1,100 college students commit
suicide nationwide, but an
estimated 24,000 students
attempt suicide.
Campus crime data is available from two major sources.
One is the U.S Department
of Education, which, under the
“Jeanne Clery Act,” collects
statistics from more than
6,000 universities and colleges.
Another source is the FBI’s
Uniform Reporting Program,
which includes data for about
400 schools.
The most recent statistics
from each government agency
are available on the Web site
securityoncampus.org.
SUMMIT -- from page 1
ions and threat assessment and
the campus environment.
Two Virginia Tech student
leaders also shared their experience of the violence on their
campus.
“Unfortunately, in today’s
society, no public institution,
large or small, is immune from
the type of random violence
that we saw at Virginia Tech.
When an event like this occurs,
you have so little time to react
and make decisions, while at
the same time, the whole world
is watching.
“With that in mind, I applaud
the Virginia Tech officials for
their handling of the crises,”
Burton wrote in a recent e-mail
interview.
UCO President W. Roger
Webb told attendees at the
summit, “It is important for
those responsible for student
safety to hear what happened
and its impact on the campus
community. But it’s equally
important for us to realize that
we can’t turn our open places
of learning into fear-ridden
fortresses.”
Burton, who attended sessions on “crises communications” and another that dealt
with privacy and the law, said
he found them very informative
“The summit also provided
us an opportunity to network
with our peers from other institutions,” he said.
“We all hope we never have
to use the training we received
at the summit,” Burton added.
The one-day event was sponsored by UCO, the Memorial
Institute for the Prevention of
Terrorism (based in Oklahoma
City), the Oklahoma State
Regents for Higher Education
and the American Association
of State Colleges and
Universities.
Crime & safety counseling
By SHEA MCFADDEN
Staff writer
Crime and safety issues
are a common topic
around college campuses
across the nation.
Everyone from campus
police to student counseling services do their part in
helping with crime prevention
and tending to the needs of students.
When it comes to crimes on
campus there can be severe
consequences emotionally and
mentally on survivors of rape,
hate crimes, shootings, etc.
In terms of counseling, when
it comes to traumatic events
“we’re looking at a process that
reduces a negative impact of
the trauma and promotes psychological and emotional healing,” said Jane McMillan,
director of the
SOSU guidance
and counseling
center..
The time frame
varies from person to person for
psychological and
emotional healing.
“I think well-meaning friends
and family members sometimes place undue stress or
pressure on an individual to
just ‘get over it,’ and I believe
the reason they do that is that
they hate seeing their loved
ones distressed and they want
desperately to see them be in a
better place,” McMillan said.
“So what I would suggest to
those friends and family is the
most powerful thing they can
do is to listen and love that person unconditionally.”