Members of RSC’s student sen-ate, Legacy Scholars and Presi-dent’s Leadership Class ascended the steps of the state capitol on Friday, Feb. 6, as part of their bi-annual leadership retreat. The retreat was a rare op-portunity for the student leaders to mingle amongst each other and also allowed newly elected senators to become more familiar with student senate veterans. The one-day event differed slightly from the retreat held dur-ing the fall semester in that the atmosphere was more formal and the planned activities were more concise. Upon arrival to the capitol, Oklahoma State Senator, Steve Russell of District 45, met the leadership group. Under the state capitol’s rotun-da, Russell entertained a myriad of questions from the students that ranged from the innocuous “what are some pieces of legisla-tion that you find interesting?,” to the cynical, “will higher edu-cation receive funding from the legislature to offset future tuition fee increases?” Regarding the latter, Russell said, “Well I think that the tuition

fees are going to be raised by what the Board of Regents do. And I think if they raise them, then that is the wrong way to go.” Last Jan., Glen Johnson, Okla-homa State System of Higher Ed-ucation Chancellor visited RSC with the 2009 Legislative Agenda for the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education. Johnson’s plans were to ask the Legislature for 80 million in order to prevent

raising student’s tuition fees. However, some Legislators be-lieve Johnson will back down. “I heard Chancellor Glen John-son speak yesterday morning at a breakfast and listened to his proposal. He’s backed off this 80 million. That [money] comes out of your pocket and so some of the concern that I have as a

News15th StreetPresident Britton,

... page 4

SPOTLIGHT

Volume XXXVIII, ISSue 17roSe State College

FrIday, February 13, 2009

Inside

“Go Red FoR Women” and health FaiR,

... page 3

music stand: myRa Beasley,

... page 4

my take on liFe: RetuRn oF the cats,

... page 2

President Barack Obama vows to cre-ate more jobs and stimulate the econo-my; and with Oklahoma being number 19 on the list of the nation’s fastest-growing states there has never been a better opportunity for college graduates to stay in-state. Interview opportunities with Oklahoma’s top companies such as Devon Energy, Chesapeake Energy Corporation, Oklahoma City Thunder, OG&E Energy Corporation, Valir Health and ITT Technical Institute among about eighty others will be available for Okla-homa college students at the fourth an-nual Greater Grads Career Fair. Joyce Burch from the Great Oklahoma

City Chamber of Commerce said, “We have a very low unemployment rate in Oklahoma and a lot of people are near-ing retirement age. Companies are now wondering where are [replacements] go-ing to come from. Oklahoma is fortunate to have many great colleges and univer-sities. By working with college students and telling them about the great com-panies and opportunities in Oklahoma, then companies will not have a problem staffing.” Part of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s Greater Grads program, the Greater Grads Career fair is designed to help keep Oklahoma’s college gradu-

ates from leaving the state in search of jobs. Hundreds of local col-lege students will meet with employers about career and internship opportunities on Feb. 24 from noon to 4:30 p.m. at the Cox Business Convention Center, 1 Myriad Gardens. Shuttle transportation will be provided from the Coca Cola Bricktown Events Center, 425 E. California, where there will be free parking. According to the cham-ber, one of the fastest ways to get a job after graduation is internships, which allow a college graduate to test drive their chosen career path and gain valuable expe-rience. Another way is building a strong resume,

networking and making great con-tacts at career fairs. Even if [a stu-dent] is not looking for a permanent po-sition right now, the career fair offers the chance to find an internship and make connections with recruiters to find out what skills will be needed in the work-force, Burch said. Cashlie Hines of Express Employ-ment Professionals, found her job at the Greater Grads career fair and spoke on her experience. “I wanted to make connections. Net-work, network, network. Even if I didn’t find a job or an opening that day, mak-ing the connections with people would be the way for me to get a job later on. I could grab as many business cards as I wanted and go back to the computer and phones later to follow up. You never know who you’re going to meet,” she said. Linda Hoang of Chesapeake Energy who also met her employer at the Great-er Grads career fair said, “I had a great experience at the career fair. It was very busy when I was there, it was nice that representatives from the companies that I visited with were inviting and happy to tell me about their company. The Great-er Grads Career Fair represented many different types of companies. Therefore, it is great for anyone to attend no mat-ter what type of career they are looking for.”

Today’s college graduates are young, smart and results-oriented. They bring indispensable skills to the table like creativity, versatility and technologi-cal skill. It’s important to keep these talented future workers in Oklahoma. Oklahoma City is full of opportunity and optimism. Also along with a num-ber 13 ranking by Forbes’ list of “Best Places for Business and Careers”, Okla-homa deserves a second look. Check out greatergrads.com for information on internships, job opportunities, career fair dates, as well as information and tips on resume building and cover letters. “If [students] preregister and check in at the event, then they have a chance of winning a Dell laptop. We are also giv-ing away Thunder tickets. Even more important than that is the opportunity to make a connection with an employer [the student] is interested in working for after graduation,” said Burch.

Story provided by the Greater Okla-homa City Chamber of Commerce.

Oklahoma college graduates are the future and the future is here

Student leaders visit state capitol

Greater Grads, RSC connection RSC Job Placement and Career Services will offer free shut-tle rides to the Greater Grads Career Fair Tuesday, Feb. 24. Additional RSC exclusive drawings will also be held. Shuttles will leave RSC every 30 minutes starting at 11:30 a.m. The last shuttle will leave the Cox Business Convention Center at 4:30 p.m. “By taking the shuttle, students will not have to worry about parking,” said Connie Myrick, Coordinator of Job Placement and Career Services. Students who register in advance through the Office of Job Placement and Career Services will be entered into additional drawings to be held at RSC. For more information call 733-7377 or stop by the Office of Job Placement and Career Services in the Student Services Building, room 106.

RSC Raiders promise exciting baseball season

Freshmen relief pitcher Jeremy Hey attempts to swipe the Redlands College player from scoring but unfortu-

nately the error lead to the runner being safe. (Photo by Eric Tatom)

Freshman centerfielder Romus Cezar takes one for the team against Redlands College during the season opener Feb.10. (Photo by

Eric Tatom)

Senator Steve Russell, district 45, explains the importance of the leg-islative process to leadership students. (Photo by J.L. Morrissey)

Treasurer’s ReportAlex Funston, treasurer, reported there was $9,579.19 as of Tues-day in the senate account.

Committee ReportsRSC’s Cheer Club was approved for $450 to go toward their reg-istration fee for a March cheer-leading competition. The club has already held a cheer clinic and sold McDon-ald’s cards to raise money for new uniforms, payment of the coach and some of the registra-tion fee.

New BusinessTaylor Fields was selected the new Student Senate Club Liai-son.

LegislationSenate Resolution 022, the pur-chase of copies for student sena-tors of Roberts Rules of Order, did not pass Tuesday. The 30 copies that would be purchased would cost approxi-mately $1.99 each, creating a total of $59.70. This resolution was not passed. “It is my opinion that it didn’t pass because it said reso-lution and not bill on [the docu-ment],” President Haley Oliver said.

BYMIRANDA LIMINGNews EditorBY J.L. MORRISSEY

Assistant Editor

See RETREAT, Page 3

Senate synopsis

As the semester quickly moves into the 4th week, it is time to consider what students can do to remain afloat as professors, who are de-termined to test students’ skills at everything from reading to advanced mathematics con-tinue to challenge students. Some students will quickly find themselves overwhelmed with too much too fast. It is time to get the semester under control by getting organized as soon as possible. And here’s a list of sug-gestions to help.

1. Get A Planner One way to guarantee a deadline or an important appointment is not missed is to have it written down on a calendar. Start by planning what time each week is going to be spent on each class. Figuring out a balance that works will be part of the upkeep process. Then, look at each course’s syllabus to write down the assignments, readings, homework, quizzes and tests to be done during each

study period and when it is due. This will do two things. Depending on how detailed the student wants to be, the planner format can be electronic (on computer, iPod, cell phone) or a traditional paper planner in a size con-venient to the student. No matter the type of planner used make sure to schedule time for doing nothing and having fun.

2. Color Coordinate Classes For some students, organization needs more than luck or a planner. It needs color. Each class can be assigned a color and ev-erything dealing with the class is specific. Math can be blue, English purple, theater green, chemistry red, government pink, and so on. The notebook, pen, folders and binders would be the same color. This way the stu-dent can easily and quickly determine which items are needed for each class. For some the DCK Design brand notebook will offer an excellent alternative to multiple notebooks because it has 4 colored sections already. Plus, if using a planner, it offers ways to dif-ferentiate at a glance which assignments are for each class. Some students may find color

coordinating a backpack for Mon/Wed class-es and Tues/Thurs classes works as well.

3. Single Notebook Method Other students will prefer one binder with folders or a several subject notebook with pockets to hold all classes. This puts all syl-labi, assignments and class notes in one eas-ily accessible place for reference at any time. The use of an accordion file with tabs for each class will reduce the chance for losing important papers not needed daily.

4. Organize the Study Space Set out an area just for studying and keep all textbooks in the same space. Set it up in the early weeks of school and keep it clean and organized. Have everything necessary for doing schoolwork before sitting down to do it. Collect the textbook, supplementary mate-rial, paper, pens, pencils, a snack, drink and anything else necessary before sitting down. Time could be wasted and concentration bro-ken by having to find an item after the study session has begun.

Anyone want a cat? I mean, kitten. Nobody in the whole wide world wants a cat. If anything, they want a kitten. So here’s your chance to own your very own cat. I mean, kitten. Don’t get me wrong. I don’t hate animals. I have two cats, as you probably already know, as all I ever talk about is my damned cats: Sarah and Joe. Sarah, the princess, may be the prettiest cat ever. Completely black except for a pinch of white on her throat, she’s the kind of cat that Egyptian royalty would want to have around. Why? Be-cause she stays quiet and out

of your lap. And she most certainly doesn’t climb up your leg like they are tree trunks to dig claws

into. No. She doesn’t do that. But Joe does. I swear he’s the most an-noying cat ever. He’ll get into anything. Once I caught him gnawing away on one of my anti-depressants. After an emergency call to the vet, my friend Randy helped me force Joe to drink hydrogen peroxide so he could

throw up the pill. He survived. And I thought to myself, man, I love that cat—even if he is

annoying at times. But no. Now he’s annoying all the time. I guess since his near death experience, he wants to spend more time with me. He’s the reason I don’t write as many columns as I could because he

jumps up in my lap every time I sit down at the computer causing it so I can’t write. It’s entirely his fault.

He also ate my homework. That’s original—a cat eating your homework. Usually, the joke is that a dog has eaten the homework. But I digress. If I wanted to write about dogs, I would have taken one in, reluc-tantly, of course. Joe also pees on my clothes es-pecially if I leave a jacket on the floor. He will pee all over it. Peo-ple tell me if I get him snipped he won’t do this anymore. That’s kind of expensive. Anyone good with scissors? EDITOR’S NOTE: The staff of the 15th Street News has given Bryan all the advice we can about cats (we have a team of cat lovers, after all). Now Bryan is in need of you, if you have any advice for him, please e-mail him at bmangieri@rose.edu.

Page 2 • February 13, 2009

OPINION

PolICIeS and letterS to the edItor Columns, commentaries and letters to the editor are personal opinions of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of 15th Street News or other students, faculty or administrators of the college. Editorials are written by the editorial staff. Letters to the editor may be hand delivered to FA110; sent by mail to 15th Street News, Rose State College, 6420 SE 15, Midwest City, 73110; e-mailed to the secretary, [cbenefee@rose.edu] or recorded nights on PhoneMail at 733-7400 between 8 p.m. and 8 a.m. Letters must include the writer’s full name, ID number and telephone number. Letters will be printed with full name and must be 500 words or less. Editing may be necessary for space, clarity or to avoid obscenity, libel or invasion of privacy, but ideas will not be altered. Publication of all materials is at the discretion of the editor. Anyone having a complaint may call the editor in chief, 733-7400, or the Student Publications Board chairperson, Towry Barnard, 733-7379. 15th Street News, a student newspaper serving the RSC community, is published weekly, except school holidays, on Fridays during the fall and spring semesters by the Office of Student Publications, 6420 SE 15,

Midwest City, OK 73110. 15th Street News is a member of Oklahoma Collegiate Press Associa-tion, which has designated this paper top junior college newspaper six years, and Associated Collegiate Press, which has rated it All American 30 semesters. This publication is printed by Edmond Sun, Inc., issued by RSC and authorized by the Coordinator of Student Publications. Cost to the state taxpayers is $301.81 for 4,000 copies per issue and $56.40 for spot color. This paper is recyclable. RSC, in compliance with Titles VI and VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended, Executive Order 11246, as amended, Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972, Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 and other federal laws and regulations, does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, disability, sexual orientation or status as a veteran in any of its policies, practices or procedures. This includes, but is not limited to admissions, employment, financial aid and educational services.

Editor in ChiefRacheal Price (rprice@rose.edu)

Assistant EditorJ.L. Morrissey (jmor-rissey@rose.edu)

News Editor Miranda Liming (mi-randa_liming@stu.rose.edu)

Features EditorBryan Mangieri (bmangieri@rose.edu)

Staff WritersNicole Ford

PhotographersChelsea McIntire (cmcintire@rose.edu)Eric Tatom (etatom@rose.edu)

Graphic ArtistsBrian AllenGrant Skaggs

Circulation ManagerPaul Kim (pkim@rose.edu)

Tech SupportScottie Seger (aseger@rose.edu)

SecretaryCarol Benefee (cbene-fee@rose.edu)

Coordinator of Stu-dent PublicationsJulie Lesko-Bishop (jlesko-bishop@rose.edu)

StaFF memberS

ditorialE

ACROSS 1 “Lara __: Tomb Raider”6 Iron pumper’s pride10 Challenge14 Palmer of “The Gentle Sex”15 Japanese box16 Concluded17 Start of a quip19 Big-shot letters20 Jacob’s twin21 Is not well

22 Center23 Mack of Keystone films25 Garden legumes27 Part 2 of quip32 Touch tenderly35 Ruler before Lenin36 Corp. titan37 Brought into play38 Stocks: abbr.39 Star or wolf modifier40 Notes of scales41 Wine region of Italy

43 Indicates the way45 Part 3 of quip48 Burn a bit49 Ilie of tennis53 Abrasive cloth56 Gator relative58 Award for a sitcom59 Rani’s wrap60 End of quip62 Bacon quantity63 Bellow64 Orchestral instruments65 Otherwise66 Keats works67 Minotaur’s home

DOWN1 Aids for Sherlock2 Cycle in a laundromat3 City on the Allegheny4 Showed off5 “__ the season...”6 Frasier’s ex7 Blue dye8 Cross the line?9 Signal for help10 Anti-war11 Ardent12 Agents, briefly13 Once, once18 “The Dresser” director Peter22 Bryn __ College24 Expressions of uncertainty26 Writer LeShan28 System of moral values29 Computer image30 Small change

31 Garden tools32 Remedy33 On a cruise34 What’s left38 Stiffened, in a way39 Eavesdropper41 Sore42 Mexico Mrs.43 Quiet partner?44 Alternatives46 Professional copyist47 Small hills50 Take a stroll51 Small silvery fish52 Vocalist Gorme53 Latin being54 Shopper’s milieu55 Baseball stats57 Provoke60 Colo. neighbor61 Former trucking regulating agcy.

By Alan P. Olschwang

Solution from 2/6//09

BY BRYAN MANGIERIFeatures Editor

My Take On Life ...

Cure for the urinating blues: Snip, snip

Creative ways for class managementARIES

(March 21-April 20) Don’t stand in some-one else’s way. It is

time for them to grow wings and fly.

TAURUS (April 21-May 20) It is not all about

you. You need to get over that part of your

thought process.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21)

If everyone on earth was a single body part; you’d be the brains. Use them.

CANCER (June 22-July 22)

You may not know what you want to be when you grow up,

but don’t let that stop you. You’ll find your

passion.

LEO (July 23-Aug. 22)You have plenty of creativity, imagina-

tion, and exuberance to spare. Spread it around a little, but

remember don’t over extend.

VIRGO (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)Time to take the

plunge and challenge yourself. Apply to the writing competition,

you’ve been dreaming about. Remember to

peer edit first.

LIBRA (Sept. 23-Oct. 23)

Your expectations are high and it’s a good thing, but remember, your reward for your hard work won’t pay

off immediately.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24-Nov. 22)

Sometimes arguments are a blessing in dis-guise. Look through the muck and deter-mine what is trying to be said. Plan your

actions based on what you learn.

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23-Dec. 21)It is time to settle

down and do the right thing. It will be hard, but it will be worth

the effort.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)Be passionate and

brave in the face of adversity.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 21-Feb. 19)

In your relationships, you need to take

one road while your partner takes another. Meet in the middle and magic will hap-

pen.

PISCES (Feb. 20-March 20) Slow down, take a

deep breath and just be. It’ll be fun.

Graphic provided by MCT

Page 3 • February 13, 2009

CAMPUS CORNERBriefly

Speaking

Young adults are not exempt from heart dis-ease, so more education on this deadly disease can be vital. Some people may assume that youth indi-cates good health, but heart disease is the third leading cause of death in people 15 to 24 years of age. Nearly one mil-lion people in the United States are born with a heart defect. A dis-ease of the heart muscle causes 36 percent of adoles-cents and young adults to die sud-denly. The nation recognized cardiovascular heart disease and celebrated “Na-tional Wear Red Day,” on Feb 6. However, RSC will celebrate this event throughout the entire campus on Feb 25, due to everyone trying to get settled and familiar with

their surroundings. Following this event the goal to strive for a better life, and better health will continue with the 2009 Community Health Fair to be held Feb. 28 in the Student Center. Liz Brown has coor-dinated the “Wear Red

Day” event for the last six years. She talked about her passion for fighting heart disease and her concern for her 78-year-old mother who has high blood pressure

and has a risk for heart disease. Heart disease is the number one killer of women over 40. According to Brown, women are particularly vulnerable because of the tendency to care about others, but neglect their health. To show support for

“Wear Red Day” people can wear red or make a donation. A selection of t-Shirts are available for stu-dents, faculty, staff and anyone who is willing

to purchase one at the Wellness Center from now until Feb. 25, for $5 and $10. This is the third year that the school has designed and sold shirts. Employee support-ers will also receive the benefit to wear jeans to work on Feb. 25. All proceeds from the sale

of the shirts will go to the American Health As-sociation, which works to advance groundbreak-ing research and spread lifesaving knowledge to people of all ages.

Last year, 255 t-shirts were sold, and RSC was able to donate $1,199. “Walking Advertise-ment,” were the words Brown used to describe participants. “We all know some-one that has been af-fected by the disease,” Brown said.

Young people are targeted to raise awareness, so they can be-come proactive and recognize the symptoms. For more information about heart disease call 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visit www.american-heaart.org. To purchase a t-shirt for “Wear Red Day” or to make a mone-tary contribution to the American

Heart Association visit the Wellness Center front desk 8 a.m. – noon. or the Wellness Center lab in the afternoon.

Some methods to consider to lower the chances for Cadio-vascular Disease (CVD) are: • Get a check-up • Know your numbers (cholesterol, blood pressure, and

blood sugar) • Exercise• Reduce stress • Research and update understanding on this disease • Quit smoking• Create a personal health record with a physician

• Watch your weight • Be proactive • Monitor salt intake • If you do not know how to make medical decisions

findaproxy• Pamper your arteries (watch what you eat). Also, keep in mind during cold weather two cups of sugarfreecocoaimprovesbloodflowby5percent,cutsblood pressure by three to four points, which lowers the chance for CVD.

Intercultural EventsSeveral intercultural events will be held

throughout Feb. in cel-ebration of Black History

Month. RSC will provide trans-

portation to the Okla-homa History Museum

to visit the Tribute to Af-rican American History at 12:15 p.m. Tuesday,

Feb. 17. College volunteers will be trained to use children’s books and

interactive presentations to engage children in the seminar “Reading to End

Racism” 9 a.m. – 1:30 a.m. Friday, Feb. 20 in

the Tinker Terrace Room. “Harlem Renais-

sance” Exploring Af-rican American Art of

the 1920s and 1930s, an exhibit at the Oklahoma Art Museum, is currently on display and RSC will provide transportation

to the museum at 12:15 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 25. Seating is limited and pre-registration is

required. All three events require pre-registration, as seat-ing is limited. For more information or to reserve seating please call 733-

7373.

Census BureauThe US Census Bureau is looking for candidates to fill positions for the 2010 census. Interested

persons can apply at www.2010censusjobs.

gov. Census assessments will be conducted in the RSC Student Center 10

a.m. – 4 p.m. every Mon-day until March 9. No

appointment is necessary. For more information

call 424-9140 or 1-888-861-2010.

Address UpdateStudents are reminded to update their address in

anticipation of the High-er One Debit Card. The

debit card will be mailed in March and will be the

way refund disburse-ments are issued.

Health Sciences Infor-mation Session

Program directors from the Health Sciences divi-sion will host two infor-mation sessions to ad-

dress questions regarding admission and applica-

tion process, advisement, curriculum costs and

prerequisites. Interested students and prospec-tive students will have

the opportunity to attend one of two sessions to be held 12:30 p.m. and 7:15 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24 in the Student Center Main

Dining Room.

Rose CafeThe Rose Cafe has ex-

tended its hours of opera-tion Monday - Thursday

until 8 p.m.

Almost, MaineThe RSC drama depart-ment will perform “Al-most, Maine” 7:30 Feb. 13 - 14 with a matinee

performance 2 p.m. Sun-day, Feb. 15 in the H.B.

Atkinson Theater. Tickets are available at the door and are free to students and seniors. General ad-mission is $3 for adults

and $2 for students.

BY NICOLE FORDAssignment Editor

As of January 2009, over 100 thousand people are awaiting or-gan or tissue transplants, 750 of those are from Oklahoma accord-ing to organdonor.gov. Early attempts to transplant organs and tissue did not work out so well. However in the early 1950s major medical break-throughs allowed things never thought possible. Today, the pro-cess has become more common and quite a bit safer. There are two types of possible donors, cadavers and the passive. Cadavers are more common. To be a cadaver donor one must be totally and completely lack-ing in brain function. In essence, the subject must be unable to maintain normal function such as conscious thought, breathing or moving without medical appara-tus. This damage must be irrevers-ible and contrary to popular belief cadavers are not dead, they are simply kept on life support until the required transplant can take place. The second type, the passive or living and willing, donor donates an organ or tissue not necessary

for survival. An interesting fact, humans are born with two eyes, two kidneys, and two lungs, only one of each is absolutely neces-sary for survival. We are also equipped with a regenerative liver that can grow back the donated portion in about two months. Only certain organs and tissues can be donated or received includ-ing kidneys, hearts, liver, lungs, the pancreas and the intestines. Tissues can be heart valves, cor-neas, bone, skin and connective tissues. Many stigmas still plague the transplantation process. A popular one is that if a person registers as an organ donor, the doctors will not try as hard to save them. This is simply not true. The first priority for any doctor placed in a situation so dire is to save lives. The worst-case scenario, being the patient will never again function without life support, is when the hospital staff considers donation. Another is the idea that a patient may accidentally receive a dirty organ or perhaps the body may reject it. This is again highly un-likely. In the United States alone, there are over 200 transplant hospitals devoted to the trans-plant process. These hospitals are

linked by The United Network of Organ Sharing, which has devel-oped a Web site used by medical professionals to screen donors and recipients for compatibility. Only specialized transplant profession-als, who are members of The Or-gan Procurement and Transplant Network, are authorized to use its information. The last concern is most important to the closest rela-tives of a cadaver donor, the graphic alteration and disfig-urement of the deceased. The fact is, organ and tissue do-nation does not affect funeral arrangements. Open casket services are still possible for a deceased donor without worry of disfigurement and notice of the procedure. Marking the driver’s li-cense or obtaining a donor card does not set the deci-sion in stone. Oklahoma recently passed House Bill 1183 prohibiting anyone from overruling a donor’s decision to share his or her organs/tissues if documented on a license or donor card. This bill, however, is only for those 21 and up. Any do-nors of lesser age will need

to talk with family about their wishes to become a donor, be-cause the next of kin will have to sign a consent form upon death. Visit www.lifeshareoklahoma.org for information on becoming a donor and stories about survivors here in Oklahoma.

Ryan Child contributed to the writing of this article.

In conjunction with Midwest Regional Medical Center, RSC will host a community health fair 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 28. Participants will be offered free health screenings for adults including blood pres-sure, body fat analysis, asthma testing, diabetes foot care, vi-sion and sleep apnea screen-ing. Glucose and lipid profiles will be available from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. on a first come, first served basis. Patients who wish to recieve the profile must fast after midnight on Friday and

results will be mailed to the participant. In addition to the screenings, representatives from Alzheim-er’s Association, American Heart Association, Areawide Aging Agency, Arthritis Foun-dation, Central State Academy of Massage, HealthSource Chi-ropractic and Progressive Re-hab, Prevent Blindness Okla-homa, Red Cross, Seniors in Law Enforcement Together and State and Federal Medicare Information will be distributing health related information. Liz Brown, coordinator of the event for RSC, said, “We con-tinue to offer this event in order

to provide health information and resources to families in our community. The fair offers an informal setting to learn about programs that may benefit you and your family.” In 2008, approximately 500 people participated in the fair and around the same number are anticipated for this year’s event. Brown said calls began to come to her office during the summer about the health fair. This year will mark the six-teenth year of the fair. For more information call the RSC Wellness Center at 733-7525 or Marilyn Flinchum at 610-8328.

lawmaker is, do we want to put the burden on students through fees?” Russell said. Russell then expressed con-cern over Higher Education Administrator salaries and com-mented on his own struggle to finance a college education for his daughter who is currently en-rolled at the University of Okla-homa. After the question and answer session with Senator Russell, the students split into smaller groups for a tour of the State Capitol led by knowledgeable docents.

Students toured the Oklahoma Senate, House of Representatives and the Supreme Court. The leadership group lunched at Nonna’s restaurant in Brick-town. While there, they sang Happy Birthday to Dr. Jeanie Webb, RSC Vice President for Student Affairs and presented her with a miniature chocolate cake. Upon returning to RSC, the student senators worked on vari-ous workshops concerning parlia-mentary procedure, goal setting and meeting management.

Retreat - CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

Top: Dr. Jeanie WebbLeft: Madeline Miller, Kole Tidwell and Phillip Cox take a break to

enjoy the art in the capitol rotunda. (Photos by J.L. Morrissey)

BY MIRANDA LIMINGNews Editor

Organ donation concerns probed, options given

Community Health Fair

Health related events slated for campusGo red, go healthy

Page 4 • February 13, 2009

COLLEGE LIFE

Myra Beasley

RSC President, Dr. Terry Britton grew up with six older brothers and sisters in rural Washita, Okla. He was the youngest of seven and enjoyed being “spoiled for a few years” but then six years after he was born, “this ornery little sister came along,” Britton said affec-tionately. Sibling rivalry aside, growing up together demanded plenty of self-discipline. “We started off out in the country and my mom was try-ing to raise a bunch of kids as a single mother. We were pretty poor,” Britton said. According to Britton, his mother was “the rock” that kept the family centered and stable. From Washita the fam-ily moved to nearby Anadarko when he reached the fourth grade. “Mom worked as a nurse’s aide and raised us all. We had to learn how to behave. She usually worked the 3-11 p.m. shift at Anadarko hospital, and we were pretty much on our own, day and night. We had to take care of ourselves in the evening as she worked six days

a week,” Britton said. Britton spent his formative years in Anadarko doing all the “iconic things you’re supposed to do.” “I was a newspaper boy and had a route of 88 customers. For a year, I sold popcorn at the movie theater on Friday and Saturday nights. Then I was a soda jerk at the local drug store. I had all the jobs that were pret-ty typical of my generation,” Britton said. But all those iconic jobs were not enough to keep Britton in Anadarko. He had aspirations and set out on a path toward higher education. Like many students at RSC, Britton was “the first generation student in his family to go to college.” After his mother relocated to Hinton, Okla., Britton be-gan attending Southwestern Oklahoma State University in Weatherford. For a year and a half he commuted with several other students until he secured a job in Weatherford. “It was great. Southwestern was a very supportive college,” Britton said. Britton’s stay at Southwestern was transformational. “It was during the boom years there, and from the time

I began to the time I left in 1965, it had virtually doubled in size,” Britton said referring to the baby boomer generation that followed him. After graduating from Southwestern with Bachelors in English Literature, Britton became a graduate assistant teaching English at the University of Oklahoma. “That was great but scary. I had never taught before,” Brit-ton said. “All of a sudden you’re faced with all these bright minds in front of you and you’re responsible to see that they learn something. If you talk with most good teach-ers, they’ll tell you that they’re very nervous when they get in front of a class the first time. It’s a challenge, and you’re sup-posed to be up to it.” While at OU, Britton finished his Master’s in English Litera-ture and for a few years became a special instructor. “I finished all my course work and finished all my ex-ams. I left with what they call

an ‘ABD,’ all but doctorate,” Britton said. He left OU in Jan. 1972 for RSC when he was hired as an English professor. Britton even-tually returned to OU to finish his doctoral degree in English Literature in 1981. Since his arrival at RSC, Britton has held several posi-tions including Executive Vice President, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Vice Presi-dent for Information Services and Director of the Learning Resources Center.

A month ago marked Brit-ton’s 37th anniversary with RSC but the college is more than a career for him, it is a family affair. He met his wife, Kay, at RSC. She worked as a librarian and professor for 27 years before retiring. Their son, Aaron, is “an accomplished musician” and graduate of RSC who now attends OU and ma-jors in International Relations. Occasionally on weekends the Britton’s will retreat to their place by the Wichita Moun-tains.

Spotlight: RSC President Terry Britton

BY NICOLE FORDAssignment Editor

Music Stand

Scholarship opportunities

Frances Hughes Memorial ScholarshipThe Frances Hughes Memorial Scholarship is now seeking ap-plicants. Those interested must be enrolled in at least 12 credit

hours, take one business course each semester of the award, work as an intern at the RSC Performing Arts Theatre, or equivalent a minimum of six hours a week, maintain a 2.5 GPA and major in liberal studies with an emphasis in fine arts, arts management, or art librarian. Applications are being accepted now through March 1. For more information or to get an application call 736-0223.

Tinker Federal Civic Leaders ProgramThe Tinker Federal Civic Leaders Program is now accepting ap-plication for the fall semester. The Tinker Federal Civic Lead-ers Program is an intense leadership development program that

includes character training, communication skills and teamwork. Five scholarships will be awarded for Tinker Air Force Base mili-

tary spouses between the E-1 and E-6 ranking and five scholar-ships are available for adults in Eastern Oklahoma County aged

24 and older. Successful candidates will maintain a 2.5 GPA, have the ability to complete the current semester, attend an off-campus Leadership Retreat in August, complete a Leadership Project in conjunction with TAFB and enroll in the Lessons in Leadership Engagement course in the fall. Applications are due by March 1.

For more information call 736-0223. Scholarship Open House

A scholarship open house promoting the leadership scholarships will be held 5:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 17. Information

will be provided to incoming students about the eligibility require-ments and how to apply for scholarships and financial assistance.

Foundation ScholarshipThe application for the RSC Foundation Scholarship will be open March 1 – 31. Interested students must apply online and include a short essay. Students may only be awarded one foundation schol-arship per semester. For more information or to apply visit http://

www.rose.edu/finaid/scholarship_info.asp.

Dr. Terry Britton in his office. (Photo by Eric Tatom)

Each smaller square, called a cell, is to be filled in with a numerical

figure from 1-9. These numerals are not to be repeated within horizontal or vertical rows or within a large

square.

Solution from 2/6/09

SUDO KU

“I really still can’t be-lieve all this. I am walk-ing in his favor,” pro-nounced Myra Beasley, one of the stars of Tyler Perry’s play, “The Mar-riage Counselor.” Beasely stars as Mi-chelle, a woman whose husband is no longer in love with her because of the weight gain. The play was recently per-formed at RSC Perform-ing Art Theater Feb. 3-5. Although, her passion is singing, Beasley enjoys every moment of acting on stage. Beasley, 35, was born

and raised in Oklahoma City and began singing gospel when she was five years old. She adores the sounds of musical art-ists like Shirley Caesar, Lashun Pace, Dorinda Clark-Cole and Pastor John P. Kee. “As I matured into a young lady, God perfect-ed my instrument for his glory,” she said. Considering herself a sweet savior to gospel music. Some of her avid listeners agree with her. Influenced by her mother to explore a ca-reer in vocals, this con-tinues to encourage her today. Beasley’s talent has lead her to accomplish things beyond her imagi-

nation. She has arranged musical pieces for groups, added vocals to radio commercials, per-formed as a backup vo-cals for Christian World Music Inc., performed at Oklahoma City Uni-versity and appeared as a guest artist on Trinity Broadcast Network. Manager and sister, Marshall Beasley, quoted her as saying, “I just want to sing backup.” Marshall believed her singing would lead her to a career beyond being a backup vocalist, but neither manager nor art-ist realized that her vocal gift would open the door to an acting career. As fate would have it, one Sunday in 2005,

singing in the choir, she drew the attention of writer Kendrick Young, who was present in the sanctuary. Moved by the message she was sending through her performance, Young offered to set Beasley up with a play audition. This audition lead to her starring and singing in “God Save Me From My Secrets” written by Young in 2006. Shortly after her first play, actor Tony Grant told her about a role in a Tyler Perry production. She auditioned for the role and won it. Since Dec. 21, 2007, she has been working with Perry. Even though she tours the United

States performing, she still lives in awe of her success. When asked how it feels to work with Perry she said, “He is a man full of wisdom and knowledge. Every time you meet him you are in learning and teaching mode.” In the next five years, she would like to con-tinue to work with Perry, but also work on her own CD. She wants peo-ple to know about this little Okie girl, who nev-er gave up on God’s plan for her. She wants peo-ple to trust and “Never give up on God.” Readers can purchase DVDs of any one of these plays at their local video store.

BY J.L. MORRISSEYAssistant Editor