The Vista April 24, 2008 by The Vista

April 24, 2008 www. thevistaonline. corn The Student Voice of the Universit of Central Oklahoma Since 1903

UCO celebrates Earth Day a day late

by Vista photographer Chris Albers

by John Cleary

From left: Kristen Buck and Ashlee Hogg react Wednesday to Cycler, an interactive robot made from all recycled materials sponsered by Waste Management in celebration of Earth Day.

by Nelson Solomon Staff Writer

Yesterday, under a dark cloud that threatened to start pouring at any time, UCO celebrated its planned Earth Day Fair, a day after the actual date of Earth Day. Students lined up to get their free hot dogs and stopped by a number of vendor booths to learn about the Physical Plant's biodiesel recycling program and where to travel in Oklahoma.

Tamera Williams, quality assurance officer for Oklahoma Water Watch, described how rainfall around the Edmond area ends up in Lake Arcadia. "The water ends up in the lake, and then we go in and purify the water so that people in the area have clean water to drink," she said. Carl Shortt, shop lead technician at the Power Plant, described the plant's effort to convert waste vegetable oil from the campus'

kitchens into biodiesel to fuel their vehicles. Tom Groshong, the motor pool supervisor at the plant, said the Environmental Protection Agency mandated in January 2007 the use of a new ultra-low sulfur instead of the former sulfurlubricated additive. "They essentially took the lubricant out of the additive, and we needed something new to fuel our vehicles," Groshong said. Shortt said Guy Ellis, a

Tech II at the plant, brought up the idea of using biodiesel and cited the already prominent use of the product in China. The Physical Plant also accepted a number of recyclable items on site, including printer cartridges, cell phones and fluorescent lights. Other vendors at the fair included Barnes & Noble, which featured books on environmentalism and the Martin Nature Center in

Creative studies freshman Sam Hart helps draw a giant peace sign with sidewalk chalk Wednesday in celebration of earthday.

Oklahoma City. Earth Day is celebrated around the world on April 22, although larger events such as festivals and rallies are often organized for the weekends before or after April 22. Many communities also celebrate Earth Week or Earth Month by organizing a series of environmental activities throughout the month of April, according to www.earthday.net . Earth Day was founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson

of Wisconsin and organized by Denis Hayes in 1970, the Web site said. UCO Earth Day Committee Chairman Dr. David Bass, biology professor, told University Relations "the primary purpose of the Earth Day Fair is education. Through this tradition, we give the public the opportunity to get a better understanding of the environment and our responsibilities to protect it."

Campus buildings get Askins praises McNair scholars searched by police by Nelson Solomon Staff Writer

"We had some non-specific information come in from off campus that we felt we needed to act on." by Andrew Knittle Editor in Chief

Responding to an off-campus tip, one that university officials won't elaborate upon, UCO police conducted a walk through of the school's buildings and structures around 2 a.m. Wednesday morning, but found nothing "out of place or suspicious." UCO Police Chief Jeff Harp said the tip came from a non-student, although he wouldn't divulge any specifics because of the ongoing investigation. "We had some non-specific information come in from off campus that we felt we needed to act on," Harp said. Harp said UCO police

Mon. through Thurs. at 5 p.m.

officers conducted a buildingby-building search that lasted more than an hour, looking for "individuals or items" that didn't belong. According to Harp, no students were evacuated from on-campus housing, although some student workers were removed from their posts while police cleared the buildings in which they were working. By the end of the search, police didn't find anything "out of place or suspicious" and the school's buildings were re-opened shortly thereafter. "There's nothing to substantiate the information we received," Harp said.

University Relations Executive Director Charlie Johnson said the school's reaction was on par, considering recent tragedies at college campuses around the nation. "In today's world, following the tragic events at Virginia Tech a year ago and at Northern Illinois University two months ago, we know that we need to be constantly vigilant in our efforts to help keep our campus safe," Johnson said. "So, when we receive information that campus safety may be put at risk â&#x20AC;&#x201D; no matter how probable it may seem at the time â&#x20AC;&#x201D; we must take it seriously and act accordingly."

Photo by Chanel I lenry

Lt. Gov. Jari Askins speaks Tuesday at the McNairs Scholars Annual Awards Banquet at UCO in the University Ballroom in the Nigh Center.

"If you would know strength and patience, welcome the company of trees." -Hal Borland

"Please be seated. That was not a way of saying to go stand in the buffet line," Lt. Gov. Jeri Askins said as she opened her remarks to the audience Tuesday night at the ninth annual McNair Scholars Awards Banquet at the Nigh University Center. "But I know I'm what stands between you and your dinner," she added. "So I'll make sure my speech is short." Askins was at the banquet to congratulate the students who are participants in the McNair program, especially those who are about to graduate. She said she was able to visit with college administrators and other groups over the course of many years, and she's noticed that "those who are participating in this pro-

Enter the Forbidden Kingdom Review on Page 7

see ASKINS, page 4

OPINION

April 24, 2008

4 1

5 ih

4 6

1 4

I tr,4

111•

1 ,1■1■ ■

2 8

4' '

1 8 4

4 1

9 4

8 3

7 9

6 g

rnLdco

Cartoon by Jared Aylor

CAMPUS QUOTES: Compiled and photographed by Nelson Solomon and No Lupov

"If gas gets too expensive to afford, how would you get around?" "I walk now anyways. I have no license."

Conner Andrulonis Substance Abuse Studies - Junior

"I'd use my sports bike. My truck hasn't moved in a month because of gas prices."

Micheal Briscoe Exercise Fitness - Junior

"I'd ride a bike for exercise to improve my health."

Tamera Scott Nursing - Sophomore

"I'd buy a bike and wouldn't be going to this school. I live in Norman."

High gas prices can be a good thing Last year, the five biggest oil firms in the U.S. took the American public to house, earning a collective $120 billion in profits. And while this may seem like business as usual for the likes of Shell, Exxon Mobil and the rest of the, the current price for a gallon of unleaded should be a pretty strong indicator for the profit sheet in 2008. If you're tired of paying more than $3 per gallon right now, you'd better get used it. As a matter of fact, don't even used to it. Add $2 to the current gas prices and get accustomed to that figure; it ought to last a few months, at worst. And don't think our government or the oil companies are going to pull up in fleet of Hummers and save the day. These two groups of old, rich people don't care about you, regardless of what comes out the mouths of seemingly angry senators and representatives as they berate oil executives on C-SPAN. The politicians want the oil companies to spend more on developing alternative fuels and energy sources. The oil companies say they're already spending enough. The politicians say they'll repeal around $20 billion in tax incentives the oilmen currently receive. The oil guys say that's fine; they'll just keep hiking up the price of

\‘.

AP Photo

A truck drives past a gas station along Interstate 70 near Maple Hill, Kan. Wednesday, April 16, 2008. Oil futures prices fluctuated after rising to a record near $115 a barrel Wednesday as investors reacted to a government report indicating that gasoline demand continues to decline. gas in the U.S. The oil companies say they want to head to Alaska and drill for oil there. They say they want to help with these skyrocketing gas prices. Sure they do. The fact is this: You need to start thinking about life without cars, planes and other vehicles powered by combustible engines. Most of us will not be able to afford to drive the way we do today in a few years, so maybe we should start thinking it right now.

THE VISTA Matt Post Sociology - Sophomore

"I would sell my car, get a bike and a motorized scooter, and mix it up everyday."

Megan Bentley Early Childhood Education - Freshman

"I'd sell my car, buy a motorcycle and only drive when necessary."

Comm. Building, Rm. 107 100 N. University Dr. • Edmond, OK 73034-5209 405-974-5548 • editorial@thevistaonline.com EDITORIAL

PHOTOGRAPHY

Andrew Knittle, Editor in Chief No Lupov, Managing Editor

Chris Albers, Photo Editor Brenda O'Brian

N EWS

ADVERTISING

Justin Langston, Senior .Staff Writer Nelson Solomon, Stuff Writer Jana Davis, S'talf Writer Abha Eli Phoboo, Staff Writer Jordan Richison, Staff Writer Carrie Cronk, Staff Writer Megan Lee, *ff. Writer Laura Hoffert, Stag Writer Josh Flowers, Staff Writer

Keith Mooney, Ad Director Garrett Johnson

CARTOONIST Jared Aylor

ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Tresa Berlemann

SPORTS Jeff Massie

ADVISER Julie Clanton

Lauren Nichols Public Relations - Freshman

DESIGN Steven Reckinger

If Americans weren't allowed to drive their fat cans around, then maybe we, as a nation, wouldn't be so fat and pathetic. Look around this campus. Look at how fat some of these kids are walking around with their bellies muffin toppin' like crazy. Yes, you're fat, and if God came down today, he wouldn't be pleased with your gluttony considering all the starving children inhabiting the world. It's really quite pathetic how fat this

The Vista is published as a newspaper and public forum by UCO students, semiweekly during the academic year except exam and holiday periods, and on Thursdays only during summer, at the University of Central Oklahoma, 100 N. University Dr.. Edmond, OK 73034. Telephone: (405) 974-5549. The issue price is free for the first copy and $1 for each additional copy obtained.

EDITORIALS Opinion columns, editorial cartoons, reviews and commentaries represent the views of the writer or artist and not necessarily the views of The Vista Editorial Board, the Department of Mass Communication, UCO or the Board of Regents of Oklahoma Colleges. The Vista is not an official medium of expression for the Regents or UCO.

country has become in such as short period of time. Put your cell phone, stop texting your moron friend, get off of Facebook and try walking to McDonalds instead of driving that huge SUV your daddy bought for his fat little angel — or whatever you daddy calls you. You might burn a few calories, and you'll definitely save on some extremely expensive gas. Ah, sometimes it feels good to veer off topic.

LETTERS The Vista encourages letters

to the editor. Letters should address issues and ideas, not personalities. Letters must be typed, double-spaced, with a maximum of 150 words, and must include the author's printed name, title, major, classification and phone number. Letters are subject to editing for libel, clarity and space, or to eliminate statements of questionable taste. The Vista reserves the right not to publish submitted letters. Address letters to: Editor, The Vista, 100 N. University Dr., Edmond, OK 73034-5209, or deliver in person to the editor in the Communications Building, Room 107. Letters can be e-mailed to editorial@ thevistaonline.cotn.

April 24, 2008

Greek Life celebrates another year of a job well done by Jordan Richison Staff Writer UCO Greek Life celebrated another year on Tuesday at their annual Greek Convocation award banquet. The night was designed to recognize and thank all the Greeks for a job well done. The event started off with Dr. Kathryn Gage, UCO vice president of Student Affair. Gage talked about how important Greek life is to the UCO community. She said they are the backbone of the university and their leadership help pave the way for campus life events like Homecoming and Winterglow. "I can't imagine UCO without Greek Life," Gage said. Following Dr. Gage's opening, UCO Panhellenic President Amanda Ardese gave out the first awards of the night to the champions of the annual "Greek Week" competition from both 2007 and 2008. This was followed by announcing the Greek Honor Roll to those students who earned a 3.0 G.P.A. for a semester in Fall 2006, Spring 2007 or Fall 2007. Pi Kappa Alpha member Michael Goodman and Sigma Kappa member Natalie Weaver were formally recognized for winning Order of Omega, a Greek Honor society, national scholarship earlier this semester. "It has been an honor to be apart of Order of Omega these past two years, and I feel very privileged to be able to represent our chapter at a national level. As I plan to continue my education, it is encouraging to be supported by such a prestigious organization, personally as well as financially," Weaver said. Sigma Kappa's Kali

AP Photo

From left: Logan Reynolds, Inter-Fraternity Council Man of the Year; Jayme Petete, Panhellenic Woman of the Year; Jarrett Evans, National Panhellenic Council Man of the Year, hold their awards after Greek Conovocation on Tuesday night. Hudson and Sig Tau Gamma's Michael Ooten were also recognized for being named All Greek Man and Woman, an award voted on by the entire Greek community during "Greek Week." After the Greek intramural champions were recognized, the prestigious Greek awards Intrafraternity Council (IFC) Man of the Year, Panhellenic Woman of the Year and NPHC Member of the Year were handed out to an indi-

standing service to the Greek system and UCO. IFC Man of the Year went to Logan Reynolds of N Kappa Alpha Panhellenic Woman of the Year went to Jayme Petete of Alpha Gamma Delta and NPHC Member of the Year went Dr. Kathryn Gage to Jared Evans of Omega Si Phi. "It's really an honor to win an award that represents IFC vidual member of each orga- as a whole, and organization nization who displays out- that has done so much for

"I can't imagine

UCO without Creek Lifi."

me," Reynolds said. Petete said it was an honor to be announced Panhellenic Woman of the Year because there were so many amazing and dedicated applicants to choose from. She said as long as she as at UCO she will continue to serve the Greek life community. "I have a passion for UCO's Greek Community and will continue to contribute to it in any way possible," Petete said.

The big hit of the night was the chocolate fountain, a new feature that was added to this year's event. Schwab said it intended to be a fun promotion for Greek Convocation, but it turned into the main focus of the evening. "I'm glad the students enjoyed it and I think it was a major hit, it might even return for Convocations in the future," Schwab said. Jessica Schwab, assistant director of Greek Life and student organizations, said Panhellenic will be doing several things on campus in the upcoming year. She said next year Panhellenic will once again be hosting their annual fundraiser, the Mr. Greek UCO Pageant, as well as participating in the formal recruitment process for new members. She added that they would also be involved in both Homecoming and Greek Week. They also are planning a new event, Greek Discovery Day, a preview day for incoming students who are interested in going Greek. Schwab said this summer, Panhellenic will host Summer Tea on July 13 at 3 p.m. in the NUC Ballrooms. This is a preview day for students who are interested in the Panhellenic sororities and are incoming freshman, transfer students or current UCO women who are not Greek and interested in learning about our sororities. "I'm just very excited about the accomplishments of our Greek students and continually impressed by them and their abilities. I am confident the campus will continue to embrace their achievements and I can't wait to see what other amazing things they will do," Schwab said.

LIVING ON CAMPUS

LIVING OFF CAMPUS

ARE YOU INTERESTED IN LIVING ON-CAMP SIGN-UP IN APRIL AND YOU COULD WIN ONE OF THESE GREAT PRIZES. !A, FULL YEAR OF HOUSING FREE [00 A FULL. YEAR MEAL PLAN FREE

ONE GRAND PRIZE W

A $250 BOOK SCHOLARSHI EVERYONE GETS A FREE T-SH1f

April 24, 2008

'Friday Night Live' entertains

"1-Capp Earth Day, gosiin

by Jordan Richison Staff Writer

by Vista photographer Chris Albers

One of UCO's resident Canadian goslings grooms itself after a short swim in Broncho Lake.

ASKINS from page 1 gram are focused. You knew you were selected." "With that selection came responsibility to fulfill the expectations of those who chose you to participate," she said. Askins focused her speech on asking the students in the program to "get on your mark, get set, and to go." "When it comes to getting on your mark, each one of us has our own particular place in life. We have our own spot," she said. For an example, she referred to the approaching Olympics, specifically the runners. "When they run the sprints, and the racers line up in the lanes, they each have their own lanes and set of starting blocks. Two runners don't start from the same spot," she said. She said that "by participating in this program, part of what you are learning while you are here at UCO is you're finding out who you are." She said one can't know their place in the world until they have a pretty good idea of who they are. "Participation in this program gives you even greater opportunity to define who you want to be, and to reach the potential that's inside of you," she said. "I would say that by now, you have already found your mark." She mentioned that the research projects and the workshops the McNair scholars have participated in have helped guide their direction and learning. "You have a much better sense now of who you are," she added. Askins then discussed the "on your mark" part of the saying. "For leaders, educators and students, nothing just happens overnight. It takes a lot of training and learning," she said. She said she tells those interested in leadership that "there are no natural-born leaders; it takes practice, more practice and more practice." Referring to the Olympics again, she said "you don't see somebody who's never participated in a marathon or decathlon just show up at the Olympics and say, 'I'm here, I want to be in.'" "Getting on your mark means that you have to get yourself in the best prepara-

tion that you can," she said. Askins referenced a quote from the 16th U.S. President, Abraham Lincoln, "I will study and get ready, and some day my chance will come." "Because you never know when you're going to be called to do something," she added. Askins said if there's one thing she hopes students learn from the McNairs program, it's that "you have now become a lifelong learner." "I hope you'll be curious about life, about your community and the world around you; and will always continue to be a lifelong learner about those events that are going on around you," she said. She said her final point was the most important of all. "What do you do with all of this when you graduate? It's the 'go' part. When the starter raises his pistol at the beginning of the race, and he fires it, what if nobody ran?" she said. She mentioned that "it doesn't really matter what

you've learned unless you do something with it. Dreams are good, actions better. Leaders are those people who can take dreams and turn them into action." "To be a leader, you don't have to be an elected official, or some title; you just have to know who you are and have a dream, and be able to put that dream into action," she said. "When you do that, other people will see that you are a person of substance and they are going to follow you." She told the scholars that as they complete this program, she wants to be" in the bleachers, cheering as each of you find your mark, get set, and as you go." UCO's McNair Scholars Program is federally funded by the U.S. Department of Education and provides research opportunities, faculty mentoring relationships, graduate school preparation and additional educational services at no cost to students with financial need who are first generation, according to the recently published spring 2008 Research Journal.

HE WHO DELIVERS

FAST DELIVERS

II EST AMERICA'S SANDWICH DELIVERY EXPERTS! NORMAN — 775 ASP AVE. — 405.701.5337 NORMAN — 1135 ELM ST. — 405.321.4424 EDMOND — 1900 E. 2ND ST. — 405.715.3200 EDMOND — 2801 E. MEMORIAL RD. — 405.607.2200

WEI DELIVER:

orilir Jo/tilos

W ORT D , . Oncnt cs'L

• 1905. 2002, 2003. 2004. 2000 JIMMY JOHN'S 111ANCHISL. LLC

JIMMY JOHNS .

COM

TJ0.0404A A A re, Ain;

"Live from UCO, It's Friday Night!" Student Programming Board's Friday Night Live, UCO's student produced and performed sketch comedy show, will take place this Saturday at 7:30 in Constitution Hall. The show, which started in 2004, consists of sketches, pre-recorded videos, a musical guest and a special guest host. One of the things the show is known for it's hilarious opening videos. Last semester's show featured the cast members mocking the opening of the popular 1990's show "Baywatch." The show usually takes place on Friday nights, but due to scheduling conflicts, this semester's show will take place on a Saturday night. "We at Friday Night Live refuse to change the name of the show due to naming conflicts with a certain NBC late night show," said FNL director Kellen Hodgeson. FNL Assistant director Jaime Foster said FNL is not like the other studentproduced shows on campus because it's all about comedy. "Rather than having one theme to tie the whole show together, we have many different sketches," Foster said. Cast member Garrett D. Johnson said the show is going to be a little more explicit this semester, which may be a good reason to come to the show. "It's simply comedy," Johnson said. This semester's show will be hosted by 2007

11,1"4

tat LW:Sr (Ma) Vote ' sv.E rct3 I? COAAtiy .ii-4-i0(t) Or) ...Amp(As with guest host UCO Homecoming Queen Cyndi Munson

Saturday, April 26th 7.30pm in Constitution Hall Free Admission!!

Homecoming Queen and former UCOSA vice president Cyndi Munson. "I was really shocked to be asked to host FNL, it has always looked like something fun to do, but I never thought that I would he asked to be a part of such a great program," Munson said. Munson said this is her first time to perform on stage. She said the cast has been so positive and encouraging the entire week and they make her want to work hard and put on a great show. , "It's been something really new and different for me,

but I have had so much fun all along the way," Munson said. Johnson said the cast has been working hard to put on an entertaining show. They have been practicing every night this week for about three hours. He added that they started practicing about a month ago when they would rehearse three times a week for three hours a day. For more information about FNL, contact the Student Programming Board at 974-2363.

Chambers Library Extended Hours for Finals Hours:

Sunday, April 27th 12pm-tam Mon-Thurs, April 28th-May 1st 7:30am-tam Friday, May 2nd 7:30am-l1pm Saturday, May 3rd 12pm-lipm Sunday, May 4th 12pm-tam Mon-Thurs, May 5th-8th 7:30am-tam Friday, May 9th 7:30am-5pm

April 24, 2008

Hollywood bear kills trainer with bite to neck by AP Writer BIG BEAR LAKE, Calif. (AP) The grizzly bear that wrestled Will Ferrell's charkter in the recent film "SemiPro" seemed to obediently follow cues _ which made its killing of its trainer with a bite to the neck all the more stunning. Three experienced handlers were working with the grizzly Tuesday at the Predators in Action wild animal training center when the bear attacked Stephan Miller, 39, said San Bernardino County sheriffs spokeswoman Cindy Beavers. Stephan Miller is the coos; in Of training center owner Randy Miller, she said. Pepper spray was used to subdue and contain the bear, and there were no other injuries, Beavers said. The state Department of Fish and Game and Occupational Safety and Health Administration were investigating. Sheriffs Sgt. Dave Phelps said the bear was a 5-yearold male named Rocky. The Predators in Action Web site said Rocky is T/2 feet tall and weighs 700 pounds. The Web site identified Rocky as the animal that appeared with Ferrell's character in the scene from "Semi-Pro." Randy Miller doubled for Ferrell in the bear wrestling match, according to the site. The attack took place during videotaping of a promotional video, said Harry Morse, a spokesman for the California Department of F.ish and Game. There was no immediate indication Wednesday who had custody of the tape. Morse said the animal center had a good safety record.

AP Photo

Rocky the grizzly bear is seen at the Forever Wild animal sanctuary in Phelan, Calif. in Nov. 2007. The grizzly bear which appeared in a recent Will Ferrell movie killed a 39-year-old trainer with a bite to his neck Tuesday April 22, 2008 and had to be subdued with pepper spray. It had received a single misdemeanor citation in 1999 after animal rights groups

complained that owner Randy Miller had arranged to have another bear wrestle a man.

He received a permit from Los Angeles County officials for the exhibition but it still

was a violation of state law, Morse said. There was no word whether the bear would be euthanized because of the attack. Morse said the attack occurred outside the agency's jurisdiction. Representatives of the county's Animal Care and Control Program did not immediately respond to a call seeking comment Wednesday. Calls seeking comment from Randy Miller were not immediately returned Tuesday evening. The center, located in the San Bernardino Mountains east of Los Angeles, has two grizzlies, and also trains lions, tigers, leopards, cougars and wolves for uses ranging from film and TV to advertising and education. In a February interview, Randy Miller called Rocky "the best working bear in the business," The Sun of San Bernardino reported Wednesday. But the paper quoted him as adding: "If one of these animals gets a hold of your throat, you're finished." Randy Miller won a World Stunt Academy Award for his work wrestling tigers in the 2000 blockbuster "Gladiator" and performed stunts with his animals in films including "The Postman," "The Island of Dr. Moreau," and "The Last Samurai." He also helped recreate animal attacks for National Geographic documentaries and the Discovery Channel. It was not immediately known how long Rocky has been at the facility. The attack prompted actress Virginia McKenna, founder of the international wildlife charity Born Free, to call for the entertainment industry to stop using wild animals.

Social host law explained by Carrie Cronk Stqff Writer' Students with questions and wanting to better understand Edmond's social host ordinance will be provided the opportunity to have those questions answered by two speakers at noon on Monday in room 211 of the Liberal Arts building. Edmond City Attorney Stephen Murdock and Edmond Chief of Police Bob Ricks will discuss the ordinance and answer questions following. Pamela Belote, political science adjunct professor said she invited the pair to speak on campus to discuss the ordinance and the necessity for it because the social host ordinance impacts the daily lives of Edmond citizens and UCO students, but also because at one time UCO students were the largest demographic of people arrested for violating the ordinance. She said, "the social host ordinance makes the owner of a property or host of an event liable for any underage drinking in his home or at his event. There are fairly severe penalties associated with the ordinance and they increase in severity with subsequent violati ons." Belote said she hopes students will come to listen to the speakers, as many UCO students aren't familiar with the penalties for second and thirds offenses. The lecture is open to all students. If more room is needed the lecture may be moved to the Pegasus Theater in the Liberal Arts building and a sign will be posted on the door of room 211.

WWW.THEVISTAONLINE.COM EARN $40 TODAY. $80 THIS WEEK.

Offer expires May 31, 2008

Earn an extra $5 with this ad. wasta) *Eligible new donors CASH IN YOUR POCKET. DONATE PLASMA. IT PAYS TO SAVE A LIFE.

716 NW 23rd Street Oklahoma City, OK 73103 405.521.9204 â&#x20AC;˘ zlbplasma.com Fee and donation times may vary. New donors bring photo ID, proof of address and Social Security card.

ZLB Plasma

Good for You. Great for Life.

A uyvv\-

IMAGINE\SUCCESS. your .suic-cpss NOEL

, a university student, takes summer classes at

ROSE STATE COLLEGE because: Classes Transfer Gas Savings Personal Attention

worldwide from First Fidelity, you can spend your money

Flexible Class Schedule

on the things you've always dreamed of. Because buying stuff is cool. ATM fees, not so much. Find out more at www.first-fidelity.com .

AFordable Tuition

Rose State College is Your Community College of Choice!

FEE

ROSE STATE COLLEGE CLASSES BEGIN JUNE 2ND www.first-fidelity.com Member FDIC

CALL 405.733.7372 OR VISIT WWW.ROSE.EDUIRECRUIT

April 24, 2008

'Forgetting Sarah Marshall' Askew speaks about writing is an unforgettable movie by Jordan Richison Staff Writer .

Judd Apatow-produced 'comedies tend to revolve around men who are hurt, befuddled or frightened by Women, and his new movie "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" is no exception. ' You can tell this is an 'Apatow film as his signature raunchy humor is in full effect, as full-frontal nudity hots of screenwriter/star lason Segel grace the screen in the film's opening scene. Segal ("How I Met Your Mother") plays Peter Bretter, a soundtrack composer for 4 "CSI"-like procedural drama that stars his longtime girlfriend, Sarah Marshall (Kristen Bell, "Veronica Mars"). Peter has grown accusYomed to life in Sarah's shad_ CM, working at home and spending his days on the sofa. But his comfortable, slovenly existence comes to an end when Sarah breaks up with him in an embarrassing scene. Peter does not cope well, and despite the efforts of half-brother Brian ("Saturday Night Live's" Bill Hader) to shake him out of his tunk, the man spends most of his days weeping uncontrollably. On the spur of the Moment, Peter jets to a Hawaii tesort to forget his troubles, but soon teams Sarah and her insufferable new boyfriend, British rocker Aldous Snow (Russell Brand) are there.

Fortunately, Peter has desk stage a "Dracula" musical clerk Rachel Jansen (Mila with puppets. Segel could Kunis) on his side. She empa- have easily written the Sarah thizes with Peter's plight and character as a simple shrew, sets him up in a palatial suite but Sarah had good reasons usually reserved for kings or for leaving Peter, and Bell's Oprah, and tries to show him scenes in which she explicates her problems with Peter how to forget Sarah. Directed by Nicholas are her strongest. As for Kunis, the former Stoller, "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" is packed with "That 70s Show" star who memorable characters and also voices Meg on "Family performances. Hader and Liz Guy" delivers a breakout Cackowski, who plays Brian's performance. Rachel is not wife, steal their scenes. I also just an incredibly pretty face; enjoyed Brand's slimy, Liam but also someone who has Gallagher-like performance her own sad past that shakes and Paul Rudd is hilarious Peter out of his torpor. She in his cameo as stoned surf shows him there can be a future beyond his post-breakinstructor Chuck. But it is Segel, Bell and up misery. The movie also features Kunis who , carry the film. Segel plays a variation on Apatow movie regular Jonah most of his roles as an inse- Hill and "30 Rock" star Jack cure, but genuinely nice guy McBrayer. McBrayer plays with a strong Darlad, a nerdy love struck geek streak. guy struggling to find the H i s dream is "magic" on his honeymoon. His character is one of my to favorites of the film and I wish he had more screen time because the times he is on screen are great. "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" is filled with blunt humor that many people will see as over-the-top raunchiness. Overall, Team Apatow delivers again with a refreshingly truthful and sharp comical film, and just like last year's Apatow classics "Knocked Up" and "Superbad, "Forgetting Sarah Marshall" will leave the audience laughing long after,the credits role.

Congratulations Greek Convocation 2008 Award Recipients Inter-Fraternity Council Man of the Year • Logan Reynolds, Pi Kappa Alpha National Pan Hellenic Council Member of the Year • Jarrett Evans, Omega Psi Phi Panhellenic Woman of the Year • Jayme Petete, Alpha Gamma Delta Fall 2007 All-Greek Scholars • Lori Phillips, Sigma Kappa • Monta Johnson, Alpha Xi Delta • Jill Sallee, Delta Zeta • Dylan Bergery, Sigma Tau Gamma • Michelle Brown, Delta Sigma Theta Fall 2007 All-Greek New Member Scholars • Shelby Nelson, Alpha Gamma Delta • Sam McNichle, Pi Kappa Alpha

Fail 2007 Highest /FC GPA • Sigma Tau Gamma

Photo Provided

Rilla Askew, author of "The Mercy Seat" and "Fire in Beulah," attended the Beginning the Novel course to talk about her latest book, "Harpsong," and her journey as a writer. by Abha Eli Phoboo Staff Writer

Rilla Askew, author of "The Mercy Seat" and "Fire in Beulah," attended UCO Creative Studies' Beginning the Novel class on April 23. She talked about her journey as a writer and discussed the elements of her latest book "Harpsong." Askew teaches Creative Writing at University of Oklahoma and has recently been travelling across the state reading at events organized by local libraries. "It's been great travelling across Oklahoma, ' talking to readers, mostly women, who are deeply and passionately

committed to their culture. Print is not dead, it's just not in such big numbers," said Askew. Her novel, "Harpsong," is experimental in its form, structure and style. The book, which was part of the curriculum in UCO professor Dr. Stephen Garrison's class, is slowly gaining attention among the reading public. "Harpsong," turned down by big trade publishing houses including her earlier publishers, is published by the University of Oklahoma Press. - It has been officially named the first vohnnel.n the Press' "Oklahoma Stories and Storytellers" series.

"The publishing industry has changed. Major publishers are all about profit and it's the small university presses that are taking up the gauntlet. You can make a living writing genre fiction but it's hard as a literary fiction writer," said Askew. She doesn't discount the fact that there are literary writers who make it big but adds that they are few. "It really happens one reader at a time and with luck. It's not a mass effect but a slow process. It's a pact between the writer and the reader," she said. '' see ASKEW, page 7

Real Education =

REAL JOBS 2-year Degrees

Fall 2007 Highest NPHC GPA • Alpha Kappa Alpha Fa112007 Highest Panhellenic Council GPA • Sigma Kappa

2008 Greek Goddess • Kali Hudson, Sigma Kappa 2008 Greek God • Michael Ooten, Sigma Tau Gamma Greek Week Champions Team 1 • Alpha Phi Alpha • Sigma Kappa • Sigma Nu • Sigma Tau Gamma Council Presidency Recognition • IFC, Chase Alexander, Sigma Tau Gamma • NPHC, Edward Hudson, Jr., Phi Beta Sigma • Panhellenic, Jayme Petete, Alpha Gamma Delta

■ Engineering Technology ■ Turfgrass Management

■

Technical Spanish/ Translation & Interpretation

■

Computer Game Programming

AWN .k 40:;A: stalA unkavgostrv,

•

OKLAHOMA CITY

www.osuokc.edu/future

April 24, 2008

'Forbidden Kingdom,' a silly but fun romp by Justin Langston Senior Staff Writer Every time a Western studio takes on an Eastern-styled project, there's always an undercurrent of worry. While Hollywood has succeeded in replicating the formula of Eastern cinema from time to time, it's easy for a studio to wash out any Eastern sensibilities or to misguidedly misinterpret them. "Forbidden Kingdom," a fantasy wire fu epic featuring legendary kung fu cinema masters Jet Li and Jackie Chan, is one of those projects that falls somewhere in between. "Forbidden Kingdom" follows Jason (Michael Angarano), a teenaged boy obsessed with kung fu movies. After being beaten up by a thug who looks like he took a wrong turn on his way to a bad remake of "West Side Story," Jason is coerced into robbing his favorite pawnshop. After the thug shoots the pawnshop owner, Jason gets a hold of a golden staff and falls off of a roof while fleeing from the thug. Jason, expecting to be dead, wakes up a fantasy world based on Ancient China. As Jason travels, he meets Lu Yan (Jackie Chan), a drunken scholar warrior who everyone assumes is an immortal. Lu tells Jason that he's the Seeker and he's prophesized to restore the Monkey King, who's been turned into stone by the Jade Warlord. While traveling, Jason meets up with an unnamed monk with a secret past who's been searching for the staff (Jet Li) and a beautiful woman who's vowed vengeance against Jade Warlord (Liu Yi Fei). One of the best parts of the movie is the fight choreogra-

vo,p r Ki N1 4..)01\ift i1A,

phy, choreographed by Yuen Woo-Ping ("The Matrix"), as it features some of the most energetic and well-rehearsed fights in American cinema in the past few years. The muchanticipated fight between Li and Chan is one of the more visually impressive fights in the movie, particularly since it doesn't rely on wires or special effects. Both men go into the duel with all the power and energy that would be expected of them, making one of the best fights for both of them in several years, particularly in Chan's case. Even the fights that utilize wires are computer generated effects look extremely good. The wires are used sparingly, and mercifully are

tr.,:itir A

VAN A Li

done in a way that looks like a combatant is actually jumping or flying rather than being pulled around the stage on wires. The computer generated magic, particularly the spells of the Monkey King and the Jade Warlord, all look pretty realistic, particularly the transformation of the Monkey King from flesh to stone. It's also cool to see Li and Chan in a different role than they've been in before. Li, who normally plays pretty serious characters, gets to be pretty goofy for once. It's especially cool when his character's mysterious past is revealed. While Chan has played the drunken warrior before (in the awesome

from page 6 Askew, who received her MFA from Brooklyn College, started out writing short fiction. "I didn't have the need to write but I put myself in workshops and situations until it became a necessity. I haven't written for a while since `Harpsong,' haven't deeply immersed myself in a novel. The disease I feel by not writing is really profound," she said. `Harpsong' is about Harlan Singer, a musician who becomes a folk hero and his young wife, Sharon, who tray-

must go from a dream state to writing before the world gets in the way" Rilla Askew el across Oklahoma, jumping trains. The story is set during the Dust Bowl era and follows the lives of the protagonists while giving glimpses of Oklahomans then. The language of the novel is poetic, intensifying the sense of spirituality that emerges from the details Askew so skillfully draws on. A novelists' task is to write about whatever their passion is, said Askew. She feels that research is an important part of the writing process in order to capture the everyday details. "Harpsong" is poignant in its lyricism but is rich in details. Askew spent many years reading about Oklahoma's history and her earlier books are set in time periods surrounding events such as the Tulsa Race Riot. However, "Harpsong's"

/est

•Private Bedrooms and Bathrooms •All Utilities Paid including Internet* •Individual Leases with Reserved Parking Spots •Gaming Room •24-Hour Computer Lab and Fitness Center •Resort-Style Pool and Hot Tub •Stand-up Tanning Bed *$25 electricity cap

"Drunken Master" movies), he rarely gets a chance to play the mentor. Both Li and Chan do a superb job as Jason's mentor. While Chan and Li are a comfortable fit for their roles, most everyone else feels awkward, particularly Angarano, who looks and sounds way too much like Daniel from "the Karate Kid." He tries so hard to emulate what's come before him that he and his character come across as empty and irritating. There's nothing unique about him, which is disappointing, because the character does have a bit of potential. Unfortunately the story is kind of silly. It's a very loose adaption of "Journey to the West" and serves mostly as a bridge between fight scenes, which makes the movie seem much more Western than it should. In good kung fu movies, the fights are integral parts of the plot. Here, the plot is just a way to get to the next awesome fight scene. There are parts of the movie that just don't work. Sparrow is about Jason's age, and she's drop-dead gorgeous, so they fall in love, despite a lack of any real chemistry between the characters or any real interactions between them beyond a handful of scenes. Silly plot and some underwhelming aspects aside, it's still got a lot of awesome fights. The fight between Li and Chan is well worth the price of admission. All the others, especially the fight between the Monkey King and the Jade Warlord at the beginning are all just gravy, some of the best gravy in the business.

ASKEW

elliptical plot lines and different narrative voices has been a bone of contention among readers. "I knew that everything in the novel had to happen simultaneously. I wanted to write about a folk hero and wrote the different parts at different times. Most narratives are linear and `Harpsong' travels in giant figure eights. You begin in one place and come back to another, then begin elsewhere and return to it," said Askew, adding, "But that's how the story had to be written." The inspiration for "Harpsong" started with an old postcard that hung on Askew's bulletin board for ages. It is now the picture of the book's cover. When Askew abandoned work on

KickingbIrd Golf Corse

Kickingbli

E 2nd Street

a non-fiction piece, Sharon's voice started talking and eventually became the protagonist and an important narrator in the book. "`Harpsong' is the hardest thing I've ever written," said Askew, who acknowledges that writing is the most difficult thing a writer does. Finding time is a challenge and even though she used to write four pages a day, she's limited it to two during semesters when she's teaching. "I write early in the morning," she said, "before the day begins. I must go from a dream state to writing before the world gets in the way."

1600 •Kickingbird Rd. Edmund, OK 73034 405-341-2310

CLASSIFIEDS

April 24, 2008

Deadlines/Pricing DEADLINES: All classifieds MUST be submitted by noon Tuesday for the Thursday publication and Friday noon for the Tuesday publication. Prices: Classified ads cost $6/day for the first 20 words and $.10/word thereafter. PAYMENT IS DUE WHEN AD IS PLACED. Classified Display ads (one column boxed ads on classified page) have same deadlines and prices as regular display ads. Call 974-5549 or 974-5918 for info.

Employment PROMETRIC TESTING CENTER IN NW OKC Testing center is looking for individuals (part-time and full-time) to proctor national board exams. Must have excellent customer service skills. Extensive training is involved and only applicants interested in long-term positions will be considered. Please email resume to ptc902@sbcglobal.net SUMMERTIME GROUNDSKEEPING & RANCH MAINTENANCE Approx. 30 hrs. per week. Some flexibility. Located in Edmond. Call 850-7610.

SPEND SUMMER BY THE POOL! Were looking for part-time lifeguards & pool managers this summer. We specialize in the management of homeowner association pools throughout Edmond and NW OKC.

Good pay...GREAT FUN! Visit www.nwpoolmanagement.com to apply, or call 826-9088.

CENTER FOR POSITIVE CHANGE NEEDS MASTERS LEVEL STUDENTS IN NEED OF SUPERVISION FOR THEIR LICENSE PROFESSIONAL COUNSELORS (LPC) LICENSE Center for Positive Change is a fast growing company in Yukon. We are seeking people that want to work in a compassionate, respectful environment and can enhance, enrich and preserve the lives of adults, children and the families that we serve. Please call for more info. Contact: Andrew Scott M.Ed., LPC, Clinical Director 1607 Professional Circle, Yukon, OK 73099 405-265-2800 (0), 405-265-2553 (F) HELP WANTED Work with special needs child in Edmond. Training provided. US Citizen only. $10/hr. 330-7849. TRAILS YMCA Looking for energetic people to work our member services desk. Full-time and part-time available. Please apply in person today. 261 S. Santa Fe, Edmond, OK. 330-4016. EDMOND PSYCHOLOGICAL OFFICE Looking for a part-time ffice assistant (mornings/afternoons.) Must have experience in Microsoft Office, able to multitask, and typing skills are required. Experience in transcription a plus. Please contact Heather or Kayla @ 341-3085. BUSY EDMOND DOGGY DAYCARE Looking for part-time employees. Fax resume to 341-3037. PT SUMMERTIME CHILDCARE NEEDED For 2 boys, age 4 & 6. Flexible schedule. 3 days per week. Must be dependable and honest, with good driving record. Located east of Portland Ave. Call Amy 406-9985.

88 northwest management

FUN SUMMER JOB! Seeking summer nanny in North Edmond for 3 boys, Mon - Fri. 7:45am til 5pm. Call for interview. 412-3144.

P/T CASHIER/ STOCKWORKER NEEDED Heavy lifting required. Must be 21. Apply in person: Edmond Wine Shop, 1520 S. Boulevard.

LAWNCARE MAINTENANCE HELP WANTED Full and part-time positions. Starting pay: $8/hr. 359-3747.

EDMOND FAMILY Seeks year-round in-home sitter for 2 and 4-year-old. Monday through Friday, 2-6PM. Our home is less that a 1/2 mile from UCO. References required. Position starts May 12, 2008. Please call 405-401-2943 and leave a message.

RECEPTIONIST NEEDED For financial services co. Pit position in Edmond. Call Alex, 990-0488, for more info. NOW HIRING PT/FT RECEPTIONIST Must have people skills, positive attitude, basic computer skills and be proficient in handling phone calls and scheduling. Call 923-0074 or apply in person at 2000 W. Danforth, Ste. 124. 'brow Studio. NEED P/T JOB? St. Elizabeth's afterschool pro. gram is looking for someone that loves children that could help with our program. Hourly pay commensurate with experience. Hours are 3-6PM, 5 days a week for summer & fall. Also, subs are needed for this time period. If interested call the CDC office at 340-1789. ST. ELIZABETH'S CDC Is looking for a F/T teacher with early childhood degree or working on their degree. We also need subsitute teachers that can help 3-4 or 5 days a week. Hours are anytime between 6AM-7PM. If interested please call CDC office at 340-1789. TEMPORARY WAREHOUSE HELP NEEDED FOR SUMMER Must be able to lift 40lbs. Hours are 8AM to 4:30PM M-F with some overtime and Saturdays. Pay starts at $8.50 hourly. Please apply at Thompson School Book, 39 NE 24th St., OKC. Ask for Ronnie. FLYER DISTRIBUTORS NEEDED Flexible hours. $8.50 per hour. Apply at Pinnacle Fitness, 2137 NW 138th St. 748-4544.

6 8

RIVER OAKS GOLF CLUB Looking for a friendly, energetic person to fill weekday shifts or Saturday & Sunday shifts at the bar & grill. $8-10 per hr. Will train. Located 10 min. from UCO. Call Chris 771-5800 for appt.

If)

TEACHER Needed immediately for Edmond Daycare. FT/PT. Experience preferred, competitive wages. Apply in person @ 24 NW 146th. Call Camelot C.D.0 @ 749-2262 CITY OF EDMOND Summer positions @ Pelican Bay Aquatic Center: Asst. Pool Manager, Cashier & Cafe Managers, Cafe Staff/Cashiers, Lifeguard Staff, Water Safety Instructors, Golf Course, Arcadia Lake, Parks & Recreation jobs also open. Job Info line 359-4648. www.edmondok.com . Apply at 100 E. First, Room 106 CUSTOMER SERVICE HELP M-F 4:45AM - 9AM. Occasional weekend shift. Apply in person. Edmond YMCA.

ONE BEDROOM APT. •

Gas and water paid. No Pets! Lo-

cated near UCO. 1209 N. Roosevelt. $360.00/MO. Plus deposit. 641-0712

For Sale 3 BEDROOM, 3 BATH

MOBILE HOME Already set up in park, 1 mile west of campus. $6,000. Contact: 878-0104 or 659-9225.

HELP WANTED: HANDY STUDENT

Carpentry, painting, lawn maintenance. Near UCO. Must be self-

motivated, trustworthy. 641-0712.

Rentals/Housing SAVE MONEY!!! No parking fees. Walk to school. 217 E. Ayers. Newly remodeled, furnished. Includes internet and cable. 590-7719. 1 BDRM HOUSE FOR RENT No pets, no w/d hookups. Campus close, water paid, available June 1st. $375 + security deposit. 408-8765.

EDMOND LANGUAGE INSTITUTE Conveniently located on the UCO campus, offers English as a second language classes for international students/individuals. NOW FEATURING a specially designed program with: Strong emphasis in listening & speaking, Highly interactive classes, Comprehensive TOEFL program. Enjoy small classes and the campus facilities. Contact us at (405) 341-2125 or www.thelanguagecompany.com DO YOU WANT MORE FOR YOUR CHILD THAN DAYCARE WHILE YOU ARE WORKING OR ATTENDING SCHOOL? Churchill Pre-School Academy's curriculum prepares your child for school. Estabished in 1986. Enrolling now for summer and fall. No enrollment fees. Located at 724 W. 15th St. Open 7:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., all year. Please call 341-4314

Services for Birth Mothers: • You

choose the famil y for y our baby

• Free housing, medical & legal fees • Continued contact with family available • Confidential counseling Please call or visit the website: (405) 216-5240 or toll-free (866) 397-7202 Cling taxi , Ok14 ►

er\qc g ,

www.ehrislian-adoption.org

, "An adoption agency and maternity home"

6 5

9 7

O f,

1 6

I IG

Advertise with the

COLLEGE DISCOUNTS AVAIL. Spacious 1 & 2 bed units priced from $450.00-600.00. Limited availability. Call today to reserve your new home. (405) 341-8911.

THE ATHLETE'S FOOT TECHNICAL SHOE STORE in North OKC is accepting applications for employment. 12-15 hrs. per week. Flexible hours & Saturdays. No retail experience needed. Call 848-3232.

VISION QUEST apply online: www.vqm.net or call (405) 749.0332 today!

DILLON PARK APTS Now pre-leasing for Summer & Fall. Free cable T.V., phone & high-speed internet. Call 285-5900

Services Athlete's The' Foot

FLEXIBLE HOURS? WEEKLY PAY? $8/HOUR? IS NOW HIRING!

SHOGUN'S STEAK HOUSE Hiring for wait staff, bussers, dish washers, host, bartender. Apply in person at Northpark Mall (NW 122nd & N. May) after 5:30pm. 749-0120.

...then look no further!

UNDERCOVER SHOPPERS Earn up to $150 per day. Undercover shoppers needed to judge retail establishments. Experience not required. Call 800-722-4791.

SCHOLARSHIP?

SERVER POSITION Available @ Pearl's Lakeside. Apply within. 748-6113.

Looking for...

Sudoku 5

LOOKING FOR A NEW & FUN WORK ENVIRONMENT? Now hiring for all shifts. Hyatt Place. Send resumes to Kenneth.James@hyattselect. corn

OF OKLAHOMA Is looking for students to fill part time positions. Several 9am 1pm and 1:30 pm - 5:30pm shifts are available for Mon-Fri. We pay $10 per hour for energetic phone work educating senior citizens on healthcare issues. No experience is needed we will train. Business is located at 1417 NW 150th St. in Edmond. Call 879-1888 to set up an interview. Ask for Hannah McMahan.

vistaniedia@yahoo.com 405/97449 1 8 • GUARANTEED PERSONALTRAINING • PREMIER FITNESS LIS 11.14

8 4.7 Zie

Previous Solution

211.• UJI 0

PINNACLE CS«

FITNES S& TRAIT C;

0 A-

co ULM

ENROLLMENT FEE! GIVE YOUR BRAIN A REST...AND YOUR BODY A WORKOUT! 4 Months: $129 3 Months: $99

5 rrt

Limited time only!

www.thevistaonline.com

748-4544 view xp'Ilr 11 c I efitutesso kc. corn

7-74

S 001I Ian 3101 3.0 1 3 X (11 3 0 • .A-L tUrl S CII A

COLUMNS

Maybe the question isn't whether guns on campus should be allowed or not, but why and how guns are accessed in the first place. offenses, but also we jail them for longer. "It [the United States] has 751 people in prison or jail for every 100,000 in population. (If you count only adults, one in 100 Americans is locked up)," Liptak wrote. Astonishing numbers, comparatively to other countries. He said the only other country to come close is Russia, 627 prisoners for every 100,000. We are a violent country and I don't mean violent in regards to video games. When I say "violent," I am referring to our natural instinct to settle arguments with a gun or other violent means. In "Bowling for Columbine" a film by Michael Moore, he gives many reasons of why guns are not our last

resort, but our first. He interviews several random people in Canada and asks them if they lock their doors during the day or at night. They said no, and thought it was abnormal that in America, we lock everything. We lock our doors in America out of fear; fear created by guns and what violent people can do with them. Access to guns and the availability to reach them wouldn't be difficult for a person to do-especially one with violent intentions. In reply to last edition's comment on guns in school, I can't help but wonder if there would be less of an issue with school shootings if kids (and I do mean kids) did not have access to the guns in the first place. It seems the solution presented was-if they have a gun I should have a gun. It is an issue far beyond that. The issue is gun accessibility as a whole. Our jails are filling, nearly busting, at the seams with both major and minor offenses. "The United States has, for instance, 2.3 million criminals behind bars, more than any other nation, according to date maintained by the International Center for Prison Studies at King's College London," Liptak wrote. Maybe the question isn't whether guns on campus should be allowed or not, but why and how guns are accessed in the first place. It may not ever change, but when children are getting a hold of guns because of easy accessibility, I can't help but wonder if it should.

AT RN A 0 BY

ABHA, EL! PHOBOO

ANDRO I DTA I NMENT

What's the po44? I read an article in The New York Times yesterday that shocked me. The headline read, "Inmate Count in U.S. Dwarfs Other Nations — by Adam Liptak. His opening statement said the United States has less than five percent of the world's population, but almost a quarter of the world's prisoners. His article suggests the various reasons of why this is the case, including incarceration for minor offenses-such as a bad check. Not only do we jail offenders for the smaller

April 24, 2008

USTIN LANGSTON I have a complicated relationship with "Final Fantasy VII." On one hand, it's got an amazing setting and easily one of the best games in the series, and on the other hand, it's overly complex and some of the characters annoy the crap out of me. What I can't deny, however, is that it was a game that really revolutionized the industry. It created a beautiful world that praised the best and condemned the worst that humanity has to offer, and created characters that continue to enchant its audience nearly 11 years after the game was originally released. The problem is, the genre really hasn't evolved much since. "Final Fantasy VII" introduced CG cutscenes and complex drama to video games. It heralded the advent of richer settings and more dynamic characters in video games. It wasn't the first game to have these (it

We always make that distinction: • what we love doing and what we do to earn a living. More often than not, our passions are abandoned for the sake of earning money, sidelined as a mere hobby we indulge in when tired and empty of life. Then there those few who are good at what they love doing and have the courage to follow through. But even they falter. In such times, it might even boil down to that cliché question: what would you choose if you were to die tomorrow? "That's an impractical

wasn't even the first in the series), but "FFVII" was the game that brought this to the forefront. "Final Fantasy VII" made video games cinematic. The game was heavy on the computer-generated movies, and used them to tell some of the more dramatic parts of the story. For the time, with the limited power of the consoles and computers of that generation, it worked. It made the characters more real, their emotions more genuine and their conflicts easier to relate to. Finally, the characters in video games could look and, eventually, sound like real people. Now, we don't need computer-generated sequences to tell stories in video games. Graphics in games have become so detailed that "gameplay graphics" and "CG graphics" are nearly indistinguishable

from one another. Developers have learned that they can use elements of the game itself to tell the story. Further, the actual gameplay has evolved so far that players can now do things in games that were once confined to the wellchoreographed CG movies or the player's imagination. Unfortunately, RPGs still seem stuck in 1997. They still use limited gameplay, and rely heavily on CG sequences for the dramatic parts of the story. It's frustrating to watch a character tear apart a band of demons with sweet powers and totally cool acrobatic maneuvers in an awesome cutscene prior to a boss fight, only to be subjected to a turn-based fight where the heroes and the Big Bad take turns wailing on each other. What's worse is the hero

probably won't even have any of those slick moves for use in actual combat. There are games, from both the East and the West, which proves how awesome RPGs can be if they shed the cutscenes and turned based gameplay of the past. Even other "Final Fantasy" games (even those bearing the Roman numerals VII in the title) have begun to focus less on cutscenes for anything other than dialogue, and have begun to move away from the turn-based battle sequences. Combat in games like "Mass Effect" and "Final Fantasy XII" is more than just sitting there, waiting for your turn to hit something. Out of combat, things have evolved as well. Developers can tell stories with the gameplay itself. Pn7zles, levels, and combat can all be used to get the plot across, and we don't need overdone cutscenes anymore. "Final Fantasy VII" couldn't use anything other than cutscenes to tell its story. The. Playstation's hardware was too limited to have anything other than semi turn based combat or CG movies. Now, a decade later,' developers don't have an excuse.

question," laughed my friend Anne, a gifted artist who's

sets all day long. That would be a dream come true, but see it would still be a dream that's rather impractical." Impracticalities aside, there are choices we make everyday. Sometimes, it's as simple as choosing to ignore or acknowledge a person you know and happen to pass by on the street. What if that was the last time you saw the person or talked to him? Would you still ignore or acknowledge? Cliché questions might make you look for new answers when seen in new light. If your answer to the

first question was to do what you love doing, that doesn't necessarily mean you'll be good at it or eke out a living. Even Vincent van Gogh, now a master, constantly doubted his worth. He had great conviction but little money, great passion but little acknowledgement. Decades later, his suns and starry nights burn brightly, but it took courage for him to keep doing what he did, keep painting while he could, keep showing the world the way he saw things. Our choices can make all the difference.

Cliche questions might make you look for new answers when seen in new light. a business major. We were sitting beside Broncho Lake, balancing cups of coffee on our knees as the sunset turned the green waters to russet. "If I were to die, I wouldn't be worried about making a living. I'd paint the color of sun-

GameStop's

END OF SEMESTER

TRADE-IN DEAL! Trade 3 or More XB360, PS3, or Wii Games:

GET A 20% EXTRA TRADE-IN CREDIT! Trade in Your PS3, Wii or XE3360 Game System:

GET AN EXTRA $30 TRADE-IN CREDIT!

GameStop p

US 1E'

r- tcj It ea rt I at Li

TWO EDMOND LOCATIONS: 2nd & Bryant (In front of Target) Danforth & Santa Fe (East of Wal-Mart)

Offer not good on cash trades. Trades must be in full working condition to receive full value. Cannot be combined with any other offer, Trade-ins subject to manager approval. See store associate for details. No dealers. Expiration: 5/ 18/ 2008

SPORTS

April 24, 2008

UCO Softball team splits doubleheader at home by Justin Langston Senior Staff Writer

Photo Services

UCO Softball teams splits doubleheader against Southeastern Oklahoma on Tuesday, losing the first game 5-3, but coming back with a 3-2 victory.

On Tuesday, the UCO Softball team took on Southeastern Oklahoma in a doubleheader at home. UCO fell in the first game, losing 5-3, but sprang back in the second game, taking a 3-2 victory. "We had a chance at the end to pull out the first game and just didn't quite get it done, but we didn't hang our heads and came back to get a win we needed to have," head coach Genny Stidham told Broncho Sports. "Lindsey came up with a couple of big hits for us and Molly did a great job of keeping them offbalance." Southeastern Oklahoma took an early lead over the Bronchos by scoring two unanswered runs in both the second and third innings. The game was quiet for three innings until the Savage Storm scored their fifth run in the top of the seventh. UCO finally got on the scoreboard in the bottom

of the seventh when the Bronchos attempted to rally back. First base Ashley Geter knocked pitcher Molly Shivers in for the Bronchos' first run of the game. Later, with two outs, second baseman Alley Roberts batted in outfielder Megan Bentley for the second run. The Bronchos scored one more run before their final out, falling shy of taking back the game by two runs. On defense, Alli Blake stood in as pitcher for four innings, facing 17 women at bat, allowing six hits and giving up four runs. Blake struck out one of those she faced off against. For the last three innings, Hillary Brandt stood on the mound, facing off against 10 at bat, giving up a single hit and run while striking out two. Looking to rectify the previous game, UCO took the next game over in the second inning. While Southeastern scored a single run in the top of the second inning, the Bronchos struck back with two runs in the bottom. First

base Lindsey McLaughlin knocked out a homer that scored pinch runner Caitlin Harper, who replaced catcher Emily Bounds. UCO increased their lead in the bottom of the fifth with their final run of the game when Brandt knocked Geter in for the Broncho's final run of the game. In the top of the seventh, the Savage Storm tried to shore up another victory, but only managed a single run, ending the game with another mark in UCO's W column. On defense, Shivers served as pitcher for all seven innings. She faced 24 at bat, allowing three hits and two runs while striking out three. This weekend, the team travels to Durant to take on Southeastern Oklahoma in another doubleheader on Saturday. This game will be the final game of the regular season for the Bronchos. After this weekend, UCO will prepare for the Lone Star Conference tournament beginning May 1.

Tulsa mayor congratulates Oklahoma City for NBA franchise by AP Writer OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) Tulsa Mayor Kathy Taylor congratulated Oklahoma City officials on Tuesday for landing an NBA franchise and said there's no reason people in her town can't support an Oklahoma City pro basketball team. Taylor, speaking at a Rotary Club luncheon in downtown Oklahoma City, said that what benefits Oklahoma City also benefits Tulsa. She said that's why she was glad to support Oklahoma City's efforts to attract a major-league franchise. That process was realized last Friday, when the NBA Board of Governors voted 28-2 to approve the relocation of the Seattle SuperSonics to Oklahoma City, pending the result of a federal court case in Washington state. Seattle officials want the team to fulfill the final two years of its lease there, while the team's Oklahoma City-

based ownership group would prefer to negotiate a buyout to that lease. The Sonics are legally bound to come to Oklahoma City under a lease that takes effect as soon as the Seattle lease is fulfilled. "It really puts Oklahoma on a national map, and that's what's important, and it continues to grow the economy of Oklahoma City, which helps Tulsa," Taylor said of the Sonics' impending move. "... We are the two most significant contributors to the state economy. Anything that we can do to help Oklahoma City's economy expand is good for Tulsa." Tulsa and Oklahoma City are connected by an 86-milelong turnpike, but the state's two largest cities have long had what sometimes has been a not-so-friendly rivalry. Both Taylor and Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett said that 20 years ago, it would have been unlikely for leaders in one town to support a major initiative of the other. But Taylor, who grew

up in Oklahoma City, didn't hesitate when officials from Oklahoma City and the SuperSonics asked her to be a part of the team's March 25 presentation to members of the league's relocation cornmittee. Her presence _ and the role Tulsa-area residents could play in supporting an Oklahoma City franchise _ was noted by NBA Commissioner David Stern. During a press conference following last Friday's vote, Stern mentioned Tulsa a halfdozen times. Stern said the owners learned "how close Tulsa is" to Oklahoma City "and how many citizens of Tulsa will consider the team to be, and did consider the (New Orleans) Hornets when they were there ... a state franchise." Cornett said 10 to 20 percent of the Sonics' ticket sales in Oklahoma City will come from the Tulsa area, and Taylor noted that it's "90 minutes door-to-door" from Tulsa

AP Photo

Clay Bennett, left, owner of the Seattle SuperSonics, David Stern, center, commissioner of the NBA, and Mick Cornett, mayor of Oklahoma City, laugh during a news conference in Oklahoma City, Tuesday, March 25, 2008, following a presentation by the city to the NBA relocation committee. to Oklahoma City. Those numbers are why Cornett said it only made sense to include Tulsa leaders as part of Oklahoma City's presentation to the NBA. "When you talk to NBA owners, the idea of people driving 11/2 hours to an NBA game is something they're

comfortable with," Cornett said. Including Tulsa as part of the team's sphere of influence meant the owners would "see a larger metropolitan area that they're more comfortable with." But just because the team will be marketed throughout Oklahoma does not mean that

Oklahoma City officials aren't somewhat territorial, at least when it comes to how the team will be identified. Stem said Friday the team might consider using "Oklahoma" as its name, noting that "you really see a much larger market than just the Oklahoma City market."

Studios 1, 2 & 3 Bedrooms with Immediate Occupancy. Pet Friendly. Rent Weekly, Monthly or Lease. Victoria Park 801 N. Kelly Ave. Edmond 405-341-5751 Willow Cliff 5304 Willow Cliff Rd. Oklahoma City 405-787-8900

Properti