Are colleges safe and secure? - Southeastern Oklahoma State
Transcription
Are colleges safe and secure? - Southeastern Oklahoma State
T he Thursday, June 28, 2007 Campus Calendar -- Do you have an item for the campus calendar? Fax the information, including dates and contact numbers, at least a week in advance to 7457475, or e-mail [email protected]. 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: [email protected] 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: [email protected] ■ 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.”
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