Police Records Can Be Hard to Get at OCCC

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To comment on stories, or to access the latest news, features, multimedia, IONEER online exclusives and PAPRIL 13, 2012 WWW.OCCC.EDU/PIONEER COVERING OCCC SINCE 1978 updates, visit occc.edu/pioneer. Walk for life Student award ceremony set EDITORIAL PASSWORDS for April 20 DON’T BELONG TO EMPLOYERS MARY MCATEE Staff Writer Reporter Joey [email protected] Stipek says your social networking passwords should he 36th annual Student Awards not be in the hands TCeremony will take place at 6 p.m. of employers. Read Friday, April 20, at in the General Dining more inside. Area of OCCC, said Student Life Assistant OPINION, p. 2 Marcy Roll. Roll said several students and teachers would be honored at the ceremony for lead- CAMPUS LIFE ership, academic excellence, and civics. KNOW Student Life Director Erin Logan said YOUR OPEN about 120 students will be honored. Chris James/Pioneer “The awards are plaques, medals, certifi- RECORDS Trish Stutson, political science and pre-law major, takes a stroll around the walking cates, and graduation cords, depending on OCCC is bound trail around the OCCC pond April 4. Wednesday marked National Walking Day during by Oklahoma law which students and faculty took to the sidewalks to fight heart disease. the award,” Logan said. to release certain Faculty, staff, students, and their families records to the public. are all invited to attend the ceremony, Roll Find out which said. She said different faculty and staff will records the public present the awards. can get and how to obtain them. Police records can be OCCC hosts the awards ceremony for students “to recognize student achieve- NEWS, p. 6 ments,” Roll said. She said the ceremony will last about an hour, followed by a SPORTS hard to get at OCCC reception. BASKETBALL (Editor’s Note: In In part one of a two-part series, which police records Logan said she looks forward to the part one of a two-part must be made available ceremony. “We’re excited to be part of a LEAGUE IN series, Senior Staff the Pioneer investigates OCCC’s SESSION for public inspection. wonderful event that highlights the diver- Writer Sarah Hussain, compliance with the Open sity, creativity, and excellence of OCCC’s OCCC’s men’s Special Projects Re- It reads, in part, “Law basketball league porter Joey Stipek, and Records Act enforcement agencies student population.” plays at 7 p.m. Online Reporter Mike shall make available every Thursday Wormley investigate records that should be avail- for public inspection, if on campus. The whether OCCC is in compliance with able according to the state’s kept, the following records: league is open to the the state’s Open Records Act when ‘Absolute 2012’ community. For more it comes to what records are being Open Records Act, Title 51 A chronological list of inci- details, see inside. released by campus police.) of Oklahoma statutes. dents, including … a brief The law ensures citizens summary of what occurred.” to be unveiled SPORTS, p. 8 access to their government or The law also requires that SARAH HUSSAIN EMILY MAYES its institutions. The Open Re- if a person is arrested, the Senior Writer News Writing Student CAMPUS LIFE cords Act states its purpose person’s name, date of birth, JOEY STIPEK is “to ensure and facilitate address, race, sex, physical DEADLY Special Projects Writer reception to celebrate the newest the public’s right of access description, and occupation TEXTING MIKE WORMLEY edition of the college’s literary and to and review of govern- be provided. A AND DRIVING Online Reporter artistic journal, “Absolute 2012,” will be at ment records so they may In an incident on campus OCCC hosted a 12:30 on Thursday, April 26, in CU1 and efficiently and intelligently Feb. 23, a student reportedly seminar about the itizens seeking police 2. The journal includes works of short fic- exercise their inherent politi- was sharpening his knife in dangers of texting Crecords on campus tion and non-fiction, poetry, photography, and driving. Turn cal power.” class and threatened his may find barriers to that ac- and art. inside to read one In Section 24A.8. Law classmates and the profes- cess, Pioneer reporters have The reception will feature readings from family’s story. Enforcement Records—Dis- sor when they questioned found. the journal, said English Professor Mary- COMMUNITY, p. 10 National experts say closure, the Oklahoma Open OCCC seems to withhold Records specifically states See RECORDS page 12 See ABSOLUTE page 9 2 • APRIL 13, 2012 PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER OPINION BALLIARD BILL

EDITORIAL | No one has the right to ask for personal passwords Facebook content is like U.S. Mail U.S Citizen Kimberly Hester is currently learning right thing to do,” the consequences of exercising her First Amendment In reaction, Congressman Ed Perlmutter (D-Colo.), right to free speech after she apparently agrees and proposed an amendment to posted a picture on her personal H.R. 3309, the Federal Communications Commis- Facebook page of a co-worker’s sion Process Reform Act of 2012. pants around her ankles in April The amendment, “Mind Your Own Business on of last year. Passwords,” would have prohibited employers, pro- The teacher’s aide at Frank spective and otherwise, from demanding employees’ Squires Elementary School social networking usernames and passwords — and located in Cassopolis, Mich., would have allowed the FCC to step in and put a stop Jeremy Cloud maintains the picture isn’t of to any employers asking for this type of information treated the same way as your mail is handled by the pornographic nature and said for privacy reasons. U.S. Postal Service. she didn’t upload the picture to Unfortunately, the amendment was voted down in You wouldn’t let Congressman James Lankford JOEY Facebook while at work. the U.S. House of Representatives last week, 236 to 184. open up your letter from a loved one, would you? STIPEK Still, a parent who was friends This is yet another example of people elected in The American Civil Liberties Union even agreed with Hester on Facebook and Washington who don’t even know how to say “Face- with this common sense approach. could see Hester’s posts, notified the school district’s book” correctly, making decisions that compromise The ACLU issued a press release expressing a real administration about the photos in question. a person’s right to privacy. concern that an employer with a password “essentially Hester’s boss then made repeated requests to ac- Since it’s impossible for those elected to Congress can act as imposters and assume the identity of an cess her Facebook account. Hester refused on every to understand this issue, I will write it out for them employee and continually access, monitor and even occasion. at a high-school reading level. manipulate an employee’s personal social activities The school district, assuming the worst possible No single person using social media websites should and opinion.” scenario, placed Hester on paid administrative leave have to turn over their passwords to their potential Cases like Hester’s rarely are treated as a free speech before eventually suspending her without pay. or current employers. issue. They are usually “these are the consequences of Facebook has stepped forward, saying the popular Citizens have the First Amendment right to practice your freedom to speak” issues. Unfortunately, Hester social networking site isn’t happy about the possibility free speech and religious freedoms even on websites is learning there are sometimes consequences to the of employers prying into their employee’s profiles. such as Twitter and Facebook. content a person posts onto social media accounts. Facebook released a statement regarding situations One’s social media personality is an extension of —Joey Stipek such as Hester’s which read, “we don’t think it’s the one’s overall individual identity. It deserves to be Special Assignments Reporter

LETTER TO THE EDITOR | Clothing questioned, said to be embarrassing Writer says student’s T-shirt has no place at college To the editor: learning environment. I don’t care if classmate would feel sitting next to him. on what is decreed appropriate dress. Although I have always respected your T-shirts make political or reli- No one should have to feel that way Thank you very much for your time. OCCC’s dress code and the freedom it gious statements, or even sport the because of someone’s poor clothing —Blake Williams allows, a fellow student’s wardrobe of occasional “f-bomb” or marijuana leaf choices and a college’s too-loose policy EMS Major choice has left me reconsidering. here and there. This week, I noticed a young man But to wear such a blatant, sexist strolling around campus in a T-shirt obscenity is unacceptable and makes that read “Yes, I am staring at your tit- the college look downright trashy. Do you have news you’d like to share? ties” in big, bold print. I cannot imagine the embarrassment To say I was appalled was an under- a female professor would have felt in- If so, contact Pioneer Editor Jeremy statement. structing a young man wearing such a That has absolutely no place in a shirt in class, or how degraded a female Cloud at [email protected].

OKLAHOMA CITY COMMUNITY COLLEGE PIONEER Vol. 40 No. 29 Jeremy Cloud...... Editor Whitney Knight...... Online Editor The PIONEER is a publication of Oklahoma City name if the request is made in writing. Sarah Hussain...... Senior Writer Mike Wormley...... Online Writer Community College through the Division of Arts The PIONEER has the right to edit all letters Emily Schorr...... Staff Writer Nadia Enchassi...... Online Writer and Humanities. It is published weekly during the and submissions for length, libel and obscenity. Mary McAtee...... Staff Writer Cybele Hsu...... Graphics/Webmaster 16-week fall and spring semesters and the eight- Letters should be fewer than 250 words. Students YvonneAlex...... Staff Writer Morgan Beard...... Multimedia Editor week summer session. must list their major. OCCC staff and faculty must Robert Bolton...... Community Writer Cynthia Praefke.....Advertising Manager Opinions expressed are those of the author list their work title. and do not necessarily represent those of the Letters to the editor can be submitted to the Brandon Willis...... Sports Writer Aaron Donahue...... Circulation Manager PIONEER, the college or the publisher. PIONEER office, located in room 1F2 on the first Chris James...... Photographer Ronna Austin...... Lab Director The PIONEER welcomes letters to the editor floor of the Art and Humanities Building, mailed to Casey Akard...... Videographer Shawn Stawicki...... Lab Assistant and encourages the use of this publication as 7777 S. May Ave., Oklahoma City, Okla. 73159, Joey Stipek...... Special Projects Sue Hinton...... Faculty Adviser a community forum. All letters must include the or submitted via e-mail to [email protected] with author’s name, address, phone number and a phone number for verification included. The 7777 S. May phone: email: signature. E-mail letters should include all but the PIONEER ONLINE also can be accessed at www. Oklahoma City, OK 73159 405-682-1611, ext. 7307 [email protected] signature. The PIONEER will withhold the author’s occc.edu/pioneer. PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER APRIL 13, 2012 • 3 COMMENTS AND REVIEWS

EVENT REVIEW | Norman event has grown since its inception Medieval Fair full of merriment The last days of March and be- Riding ponies or llamas on the wanted to participate and attend ginning of April marked the 35th King’s Carousel, boarding a camel the fair, so it was moved to one Students should year of the annual Medieval Fair or elephant, testing your skills at side of the Duck Pond and the held at Reaves Park in Norman. crossbow or Jacob’s Ladder were a event was expanded to two days. From people dressed in tra- few activities available. Interest from the schools re- use OCCC job ditional Medieval gowns to the Fair goers feasted on smoked sulted in expanding the fair to a delicious, gigantic funnel cakes, it turkey legs, roasted corn or hand- three-day event in 1993 so students went off without a hitch yet again. crafted root beer while seven stages from around the state could attend web resources Parking always proves to be with continuing performances the fair on Friday as part of a unit Students, summer 2012 is fast approaching. quite an obstacle, but that is to be from the popular Jester Rejects to of study on the Middle Ages. expected with the popularity the the Jean Hill Irish Dancers, and The event continued to grow, fill- The office of Student Employment & Career fair has acquired over the years. many more kept them entertained. ing the park to its maximum with Services can help you search and apply for jobs There were plenty of parking lots Originally it was a forum for the participants and visitors flocking both on and off-campus. and makeshift ones as well with English Department at the Univer- in from throughout the nation. In We have a variety of professional job search people collecting at most $5 for a sity of Oklahoma which chose the 2003, with cooperation from the tools and programs designed to strengthen your parking spot. month of April because it was close City of Norman, the Fair moved application process: Experiencing the Middle Ages to Shakespeare’s birthday. to Reaves Park, one of Norman’s with food fit for a king, games and This was a small one-day event largest parks. #1. Online Student Job Board: www.col- a vast array of entertainment for on the south oval of the campus. The rest is history. legecentral.com/occc all ages is what is expected when The public responded positively, This event is always held during More than 200 local part-time, full-time and attending the free admission fair. so the fair was continued in the the last weekend in March or the seasonal jobs listed daily. And that is what they got. following year. first weekend in April. Be on the #2. Please upload your résumé to the student Merriment abounded with jug- Interest continued to grow each lookout next year, go and enjoy. glers, minstrels, dancing, human year. Rating: A+ job board for registered employer review. chess games and knights jousting After its third year there was not —Sarah Hussain #3. Optimal Résumé: www.occc.optimal- on horseback. enough room for the many who Senior Writer resume.com. More than 6,500 students have created résu- més utilizing Optimal Résumé. APPS REVIEW | Few downsides to free download #4. OKJobMatch.com. This is a brand new job search website focus- ‘Draw Something’ for everyone ing on Oklahoma employment opportunities. #5. Optimal Interview: www.occc.optim- In an age where cell phone users with your palette: a blank white subsequent ads a little irritating. alresume.com. can raise virtual chicken farms and screen with a few colors at the top, Besides ditching the ads, all the hurl rotund birds at snorting green and tools at the bottom to erase and full 99-cent version really boasts Practice interviewing by answering questions pigs with a touch of their fingertips, change your brush size with. Using is a larger dictionary of words to presented by online interviewers. For the tough there’s nary a shortage of games your fingertip, you pick your color choose from, though it isn’t enough questions click the “Coach” option for additional available on mobile markets. and the size of your brush and draw to affect your gameplay one way in-depth guidance. But after seeing about a hundred your chosen subject. or another. #6. Résumés printed on résumé paper. reincarnations of a ninja slicing a When you’re finished, you The game runs beautifully with #7. We will also help you create a profes- piece of fruit, sometimes the pick- submit your masterpiece and it is crisp, clear graphics, near-instant sional cover/application letter. ings seem a little slim. instantaneously received on your load times, and an interface that #8. Don’t forget to check our student job That’s why it’s so refreshing to teammate’s device, where they is easily navigated, even for new bulletin boards and job tables for daily job see something as innovative as guess your drawing and send you gamers and young ones. announcements and updates. “Draw Something,” the newest app one back. Sadly, “Draw Something” is not burning up the charts. Guessing comes a little easier in currently available for Blackberry If you have never completed an online job Available in a free or 99-cent “Draw Something” than it does devices — one of its few downsides. version on both the Apple and in “Pictionary,” as you are given a The pop culture challenged may application, don’t worry. That’s why we are Android stores, “Draw Something” word bank of letters that you drag also find some of the word choices here — we can help. is a bit like a mobile, modernized and drop into appropriate spaces. occasionally too celebrity-focused. Office hours are Monday through Thursday game of “Pictionary.” One of the perks of the modern- For instance, don’t do as this writer from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. and Fridays from 8 You create an account using day version is actually getting to did and stare at the word “paulyd” a.m. until 5 p.m. either your email address or Face- watch a video of your ally’s draw- for a good 10 minutes before re- Please visit our website at: www.occc.edu/es book log-in, then create a game ing as they create it, providing a sorting to Google and discovering for more information and assistance or phone with your choice of an email buddy, perfect opportunity to tease them that Pauly D is a disc jockey on 405-682-7519. Office location: Main Building, Facebook friend, or a random user. about their pathetic attempts later. “Jersey Shore.” First Floor, Room 1G7. After creating the game, choose Whether you guess correctly But the sheer enjoyment the Good luck with your job search and have a from three randomized words, or not, the game goes on. There game has to offer, as well as the great summer 2012! each with varying degrees of diffi- are no penalties for losing, which unbeatable price for a game with a culty. If solved correctly, the harder makes for a delightfully stress-free lot of replay value, easily outweighs words yield more coins, which can gaming experience. these few cons. —Debra Vaughn then be used to buy additional Users can play the game in its Rating: A Student Employment & Career paintbrush colors. entirety for free, though those us- —Whitney Knight Services Director Once selected, you are presented ing Apple products might find the Online Editor 4 • APRIL 13, 2012 PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER COMMENTS AND REVIEWS

MOVIE REVIEW | Television series was part of writer’s life for a decade ‘One Tree Hill’ ends with closure after nine seasons “One Tree Hill” ended its series after a nine-year in the series, Julian’s wife and the mother of twin The whole ninth season the theme song didn’t start run on April 4. boys, also stayed with the series for the entire run. the show off and this was a little disheartening for Nine years. Most shows don’t make it half that long. After season six Peyton and Lucas moved out of me because it was tradition. Nine years of love, heartbreak, murder, mayhem, and Tree Hill (leaving the show) and with the exit, brought The scene was a great moment, probably one of my anything else creator Mark Schwahn could think up. new faces and recurring guest stars to the series. favorites, to see the entire cast singing along to the That’s nine years of my life, almost a whole decade. Those included: Julian Baker (Austin Nichols), who words of “I Don’t Want To Be” — Nathan fist pump- I remember watching the show for the first time, made perhaps the biggest mark, marrying Brooke ing and everyone singing together, paying tribute to a thinking, what a weird name for a television series. and fathering their children; Millicent Huxtable (Lisa song that will forever make the world think of “One Nine years later here I am. Goldstein), Brooke’s assistant and friend, and Mouth’s Tree Hill.” Tric was started by Peyton and Karen, The series started out about the rivalry of two (Lee Norris) wife and mother-to-be; and Clay Evans then Haley took over. Chase (Stephen Colletti) was brothers, Nathan and Lucas Scott (James Lafferty and (Robert Buckley), Nathan’s agent, friend, and in the the bar manager for years and, being down in the Chad Michael Murray) with the same father, Dan final episode, brother-in-law, marrying Quinn James dumps about the direction his life is going, Haley Scott (Paul Johansson) in Tree Hill, N.C. (Shantel VanSanten), Haley’s older sister. makes him the new bar owner, even though he can’t For most of its run, the series was about the hatred As the final episode in the series was played, I tried make a drink. the brothers had for each other and their dad, who to take it all in. What was the significance of each Karen’s Cafe rooftop is where Haley and Lucas was evil and manipulated people, including his family. moment and why did it end this way? began making predictions for the year. However the brothers grew to love each other and I was pleasantly surprised with the final episode, They would write them down and put them in a the resulting milestones that happened in their life though. It took place in the three more popular spots brick in the wall. The predictions couldn’t be opened were unforgettable. of the show (aside from the Tree Hill High) — Karen's until the next year. Keith Scott, (Craig Sheffer) played an unforgettable Cafe, Tric and the River Court which was the backdrop In the finale, Haley passed the tradition on to Jamie. role as the boys’ uncle when he stepped up to be a for an incredible turning point. She explained the rules and quickly, Jamie piped up, father to his brother Dan’s child and again when he The show was no longer about rivalry but about “I want to beat dad’s scoring record.” cared for Lucas’ mother, Karen (Moira Kelly), only embracing life, talent, and love. The finale went into fast forward showing Jamie get- to be murdered later by Dan. In the finale, Nathan speaks with Jamie (Jackson ting his wish. Although it was a sour note that Lucas Haley James (Bethany Joy Galeotti) — Lucas’ best Brundage) about playing sports because that’s what and Peyton weren't present for the final episode, Mark friend and later in the series, Nathan's wife — re- Jamie wants to do, not because he wants to follow Schwahn sent the show off with a sense of closure. mained a staple in the nine year run of the series. in Nathan’s footsteps, like Nathan was forced to do Every character received his or her own ending. Peyton Sawyer (Hilarie Burton), who at one time by Dan. In that moment, Nathan assured viewers (if It was bittersweet. was Nathan's girlfriend, became Lucas’ wife and the there were ever a doubt) he was the anti-Dan. Rating: A mother of their child. Brooke Davis (Sophia Bush.) Tric gave a final show with an appearance by Gavin —Emily Schorr Lucas’ former flame, Peyton’s BFF, and more recently DeGraw, who sings the theme song for “One Tree Hill.” Staff Writer

TOP 20 MOVIES SPORTS REVIEW | Kentucky and Kansas show skills on the court weekend of April 6 through 8 Championship basketball game satisfying www.yahoo.com I am a huge basketball nerd so I came to their big men and let them score or assists, three steals, and six blocks. Yes, six. 1. The Hunger Games 2. American Reunion into the NCAA National Championship get fouled. Unfortunately for Kansas, UK Davis is a little light as far as weight. 3. Titanic Game between Kentucky and Kansas with has the best big man combination in the That is why he only had six points and 4. Wrath of the Titans a certain expectation. However, most country with Anthony Davis and Terrence went one for 10 from the field which can 5. Mirror Mirror casual fans went with common sense and Jones. Jones did a great job of standing his be assets to such physical play. 6. 21 Jump Street seeing the tradition-rich names of Ken- ground and making Thomas Robinson use Kansas tried to make a run at the end 7. Dr. Suess’ The Lorax tucky and Kansas, thought it was going to skilled post moves to score which is not his but I never saw them truly threatening 8. Salmon Fishing in the be a classic matchup. strength. On offense, Jones overpowered UK’s title hopes. Kansas getting to the Yemen Kentucky is built on power and speed the opposition with drives to the basket championship game is a product of North 9. Housefull 2: The Dirty which wears players down over the course and offensive rebounds. When Jones is Carolina’s injury to point guard Kendall Dozen of the game. Kansas on the other hand is engaged in the game and plays like he is Marshall and Bill Self being such a great 10. John Carter built on a more methodical pace which the best player on the floor, UK is virtu- coach. 11. Safe House allows them to utilize their size. ally unbeatable. Overall, I was satisfied with the game 12. Journey 2: The Mysterious Island 3D Coming into the game, Anthony Davis Davis is one of the greatest defensive but that is because I came into it with the 13. Act of Valor vs. Thomas Robinson was the key matchup forces I have ever seen since Greg Oden right expectations. Kentucky was just way 14. The Raid: Redemption and also the two finalists for National while he was at Ohio State. For some too talented for Kansas and it showed in 15. A Thousand Words Player of the Year which Davis eventually reason, people expected Davis to score 30 the box score. Kentucky is projected to 16. Jeff Who Lives at won. After watching the game it was pretty points and dunk everything but that just have six players drafted in the first round Home obvious that Kentucky was on a mission is not his game. He is a smooth operator of the 2012 NBA Draft. 17. October Baby and whoever was in their way would get who controls the paint and rarely makes Rating: B- 18. Project X dunked on. mistakes on offense and defense. —Brandon Willis 19. The Vow Kansas’ main offense is to throw down Davis finished with 16 rebounds, five Sports Writer 20. Casa De Mi Padre PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER APRIL 13, 2012 • 5 Caring Van to offer free child immunizations

MORGAN BEARD centers for This is a great opportunity for parents Staff Writer several years Vaccinations [email protected] to provide free to get their children the important immunizations vaccines that they need.” offered Blue Cross and Blue Shield of to children across “ —Becca Foster Oklahoma is teaming up with OCCC Oklahoma City. OCCC Student Parent Children in attendance will to provide free immunizations to “ We’r e j u s t be able to receive the following children on April 25. trying to make received that immunization, Knight vaccines: Lee Ann Townsend, lab supervisor sure the public is aware so we can get said. for the Child Development Center and this out to as many people as we can,” For future events, the Oklahoma • DTaP/Tdap Vaccine Lab School, said the Oklahoma Caring Knight said. Caring Foundation’s full schedule can • Hib Vaccine Foundation will bring the “Caring Van” OCCC student Becca Foster, who has be found on their website at www. • Hepatitis B Vaccine to the OCCC FACE Center parking lot a child of her own, thinks the Caring klahomacaringfoundation.org. • Hepatitis A Vaccine “If people can’t attend the one on from 2 to 4 p.m. that Wednesday. Van clinic is great for the community. • Meningococcal Since there is no charge, the only “The fact that they’re coming to April 25, there will be many other Conjugate Vaccine thing parents need to bring is their OCCC and providing this service for opportunities in the future,” Knight child’s current shot record. free is admirable,” Foster said. said. • Polio Vaccine Parents must be prepared to “This is a great opportunity for • Measles, Mumps and complete the required paperwork as parents to get their children the Rubella Vaccine well, Townsend said. important vaccines that they need.” • Varicella (Chicken Pox) Leslie Knight, Caring Van Program The Caring Van immunizations will Vaccine specialist, said the program is a “walk- be available to newborn babies up to • Pneumococcal up clinic” which means it is open to the 19-year-old teenagers. Conjugate Vaccine general public. In addition, the tetanus, diphtheria • Human Papillomavirus Knight said the Caring Van program and acellular pertussis shot will be Vaccine has worked with community childcare available for adults who have not yet Courtesy bcbsok.com Autism Awareness Month encourages education MARY MCATEE autism, they still don’t know that much,” py, whichever Staff Writer she said. “It’s very complex.” [kind] you There is a lot of misinformation out [email protected] Ladiski said one way to tell if a child want to start, there that makes people very apprehensive has autism is by observing his or her it helps the about giving immunizations.” April is Autism Awareness Month, behavior around other people. child be more “ —Dawn Ladiski and the Center for Disease Control and “A lot of it has to do with interac- functional.” Child Development Professor Prevention has released new numbers tions with other children and people,” Choudry that show its prevalence in America. Ladiski said. said differ- A recent CDC report estimates that She also said some children may have ent forms of therapy have emerged “There is a lot of misinformation out 1 in 88 children in the U.S. has autism. sensory issues, such as being sensitive throughout the years claiming to help there that makes people very appre- The Autism Society defines autism to touch. autistic individuals. hensive about giving immunizations.” as a complex developmental disability “You might see a child who doesn’t “They have all come and gone, but Ladiski said. that typically appears during the first want to be touched or hugged,” Ladiski there will always be people who swear Ladiski said if a parent is still wor- three years of life and affects a person’s said. it helped their child,” Choudry said. “It ried about what effects immunizations ability to communicate and interact Choudry said there are many other might have, it might not have. I don’t may have, they can discuss with their with others. indicators of autism in general that know, ” pediatrician about their child’s immu- Autism is also referred to as a ‘spec- might be helpful in diagnosing a child. Ladinski said there has also been me- nization schedule. trum disorder,’ and affects people dif- “The general signs you see are not dia speculation about the link between “You can talk to your pediatrician ferently. Asperger’s syndrome is usually looking into the eyes,” Choudry said. autism and immunizations.Ladinski about how many shots, or the dosage,” listed on the autism spectrum. Choudry warned though that not all said she spoke with her pediatrician Ladiski said. Mansur Choudry, a specialist at Spe- autistic children have the same signals. about the link when it came time to Choudry warned, however, that cialCARE, a facility that offers services “There are so many different signs,” vaccinate her children, and she was told whatever treatments a person chooses to children both with and without Choudry said. “The problem is, no the evidence for such a link is weak. only teaches the patient to cope and special needs, said as of now the cause two children are the same. If there is “There is a lot of information out in they are not permanent fixes. and cure of autism are still in question. a sign in one child, it might not be in the media about how there is that link,” “Autism never goes away,” Choudry “Presently, we can’t say 100 percent the other child.” Ladiski said. “They actually do not have said. “People will tell you they cure what is the cause of autism,” Choudry Choudry stressed starting therapy any research that ties that back in.” autism. They don’t. They help you man- said. “Presently we also do not know early to help children with autism Ladiski encouraged parents to be age it better.” what the cure is.” succeed, educated about immunizations, and For more information about autism Dawn Ladiski, professor of child “There’s a lot of denial about this to evaluate any information they hear and a complete list of possible indica- development, agrees. thing with a lot of parents,” Choudry about negative effects of immuniza- tors, visit www.autism-society.org or “As much as [researchers] know about said. “But the earlier you start thera- tions. contact your childs physician. 6 • APRIL 13, 2012 PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER

ISAAC WARD JR. RELEASED FROM JAIL ON $10,000 BOND Student who threatened professor says he was bullied YVONNE ALEX with a dangerous weapon, Ward said he has been told tion I’ve had,” Hall said. Staff Writer according to an Oklahoma to stay away from the college “I haven’t been contacted yet [email protected] City Police Department campus for 12 months by Stu- (by the court) but will do what report. dent Support Services. is required.” JOEY STIPEK Ward said his medical “If I am found not guilty, I No additional security was Special Assignments Reporter condition was a factor in was told I can return.” planned for evening classes at [email protected] what happened. Learning Support Specialist the Science, Engineering, and “My blood sugar was high Mary Turner said while Stu- Math building. A student arrested after and I was in the beginning dent Support Services couldn’t “At the moment there is threatening his classmates stages of a level 1 seizure. comment on case specifics, she nothing Mr. Ward has done and professor said in a phone “I had been off of my could confirm that the office to warrant the pursuit of a interview he was bullied “for medication.” had “tried to help him with his trespassing complaint against weeks and weeks” by fellow During his time in jail, his classes and academics prior him,” said Police Chief James students prior to the incident. he said, he lost 30 pounds to the incident.” Fitzpatrick. Isaac Ward Jr., 28, was re- because of his medication The adjunct math professor In his arraignment on March leased from Oklahoma County Isaac Ward Jr. levels being off. Ward threatened, Greg Hall, 7, Ward pled not guilty to the Jail March 31 on a $10,000 Since his release, he said, said he was aware that Ward charges, according to an Okla- bond, said an official at the for allegedly “threatening peo- he has changed medications had been released, but he hasn’t homa State Court Network Oklahoma County Sheriff’s ple with a knife,” as reported and gained the weight back. changed his daily activities. report. A pending court date office. in the March 14 edition of the The college officially sus- “I feel safe on campus,” Hall of May 14 is set for Ward. Ward was held at the Okla- Pioneer. pended Ward on disciplinary said. Read the Pioneer online homa County jail after being He has been charged with charges Feb. 29, as reported “I’ve been here 10 years. This www.occc.edu/pioneer for arrested on Feb. 13 at OCCC two felony charges of assault previously. is the only violent confronta- updates. Big Truck tacos returns to OCCC April 17 to feed the masses LAUREN TUBBS The scholarship opportunity News Writing Student open now until May 4 is the Jean and Ralph Gamel Scholarship, OCCC is kicking off its annual schol- Harrison said. arship fundraising campaign with a visit This scholarship often funds from Big Truck Tacos from 11 a.m. to up to 10 winners ranging from 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 17, in parking $500 to $1000 each, she said. lot D near the College Union entrance. Business Management major Executive Director of Institutional Josh Marshall said he is excited Advancement Lealon Taylor said tacos Big Truck Tacos is returning to will be $3.50 each, the regular Big Truck OCCC. Tacos price, with 10 percent of all sales “I think raising money for going to the OCCC Foundation. OCCC scholarships and eat- Taylor said this year will be the third ing Big Truck Tacos are a great time OCCC has partnered with Big combination,” he said. Truck Tacos. For more information on the Last spring there was a turn-out of Big Truck Tacos Fundraiser, about 300 to 400 people so it’s becoming contact Taylor or Harrison at a regular community event, Taylor said. 405-682-7548. Every year OCCC has a campaign Also, visit OCCC’s Facebook File Photo/Pioneer asking all faculty and staff members page at www.facebook.com/ Big Truck Tacos drew a big crowd for lunch when the business visited the campus to donate to the school’s foundation. otriplec and Big Truck Tacos’ last year. The eatery will be back on campus from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 17. The foundation’s purpose is to fund Facebook page at www.face- scholarships for students. book.com/big-truck-tacos. The foundation also contributes to construction projects, such as the Don’t be left in the dark. Performing Arts Theater under con- Follow us for instant news and updates! struction on campus. Taylor said the Big Truck Tacos event www.twitter.com/ will help students and the community get involved. OCCCPioneer Director of Development Jennifer Harrison said foundation scholar- www.facebook.com/ ships can range anywhere from $300 OCCCPioneer to $2,500. PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER APRIL 13, 2012 • 7 Cancer survivors stress health tests JEREMY CLOUD Boyd said she began treatment with with cancer. hear, that we don’t pay attention to.” Editor a trial medication three times a week, “I took it as another challenge, an- she said [email protected] and went into remission after a year. other way to get closer to God, to rely “One thing that really gets left out of She said the entire time, she hadn’t told on him.” the preventative treatment program is “I cried. I thought I was going to die. her children. Hendricks said she believes stress also having your hormone levels checked,” I didn’t want to tell my kids, I was afraid “I just kept thinking what if this played a role in her cancer. she said. of hurting them,” said Kelli Boyd, nurse doesn’t work? That was the scariest part. Stress, and the need to prioritize life “Not all cancers are hormone driven, assistant and nursing major at OCCC. How will I take care of my kids?” she around the sources of it, was what led up but many are. If the hormones are in Boyd is just one of many survivors said. “What I thought I’d had a lifetime to English Professor Stephen Morrow’s balance, the cancer doesn’t grow.” of cancer. In 2008, there were close to do, I suddenly didn’t. And it really cancer diagnosis, he said. Morrow was Boyd said she urged others to perform to 12 million men and women in the put life into perspective.” diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2007. self-examinations. U.S. battling cancer, according to the That shift in perspective comes with “Once you have the ‘C’ word in your “You know your body better than American Cancer Society. battling cancer, said Michelle Hen- life, it changes things,” he said. anyone else. If something is wrong, Boyd said her uterine cancer was dis- dricks, cancer survivor. Morrow said he went for radiation if something feels wrong, go to your covered in 2009 during a hysterectomy Hendricks’ son attended OCCC up therapy, and said he knew his chances doctor. If he or she won’t listen, go performed for other reasons. until his untimely death in a head on were good, as it was an early diagnosis. to another, and another. Keep going “It was stage one, uterine cancer. collision in late 2010, she said. “But I knew that the relationship ‘til you find a doctor that will listen,” There were a lot of different options Hendricks said she and her family between me and my body needed to she said. for treatment I could go through. And were visiting Texas, six weeks after the change. I believe that when we get that As of today, Hendricks and Morrow we were discussing them when I ended loss of her son, when she discovered a ill, our body is speaking to us.” are both in remission. Boyd’s situation up in the emergency room.” tumor in her breast. Morrow said it was a wake-up call, is less certain. At her last test two weeks Boyd’s said her doctors found a “At the doctor’s office, I felt I’d already that made him realize how much more ago, she got a positive result. growth on her ovary and said they figured out it was cancer,” she said. attention he needed to pay to his health. “We’re going (back) in a couple of did not think it would be anything to “When they asked me if I wanted to “As a father of three, I got so busy just weeks to do some more tests, and see worry about. But it was. The doctors call anyone, I said no. taking care of things, that it was very if the cancer’s come back, or if it’s an biopsied the growth, and a week later, “It was devastating. I was worried easy…to let (my) body and health slip issue with the lab.” Boyd received a call. The growth was more about my family than I was about off the radar.” Boyd, Morrow and Hendricks all said cancerous. myself.” Morrow urges others not to do the in various ways that cancer brings with “I just dropped the phone and fell Hendricks’ tumor was over four same. it the realization that time is precious. to my knees. My options had just van- centimeters, roughly the size of a tennis “All those basic truths of health don’t Hendricks said she urges others not to ished. I didn’t want chemo, or radiation ball, she said. matter to us until we hit a serious illness waste time. therapy, I’ve seen what it does to my “And it’s like, ‘how do you miss that? that says, ‘Hey, stupid.’ You have to take “People matter. Memories matter. patients,” she said. How do you miss something that large?’ care of yourself.” Things don’t matter as much. Life is “It’s terrifying. Part of you just wants she said. Preventative measures against cancer about the legacy, what you leave behind, to give up, to say, ‘I have the C. It’s all Hendricks said she received a lot are widely known, Hendricks said, but and you’re always making memories. over.’ But I said, no, I’m going to fight. of support from friends and family all too often ignored. The only question is, are you making And I’ll fight until the day I die.” as she began and continued her fight “There are a lot of things we already good memories, or bad?” Gamer Guild looking for bleeders and vampires JUSTIN VODA will provide donors with privacy and extra student to give blood, it’s worth it.” to others with some very creative efforts. News Writing Student confidentiality. Healthy people who are at least 16 We want donors to realize that by giv- “Take Us to Your Bleeder” fun and years old and weigh at least 125 pounds ing blood, they are literally saving lives, Student vampires will overrun the games will be held nearby in room are encouraged to give blood regularly. and feel that satisfaction in making a campus during the Oklahoma Blood CU3 with free snacks and drinks for The Gamer Guild of OCCC is a club life-saving impact.” Institute’s blood drive, which will take donors, as well as a video game console that promotes gaming of all kinds. They The OBI receives more than 125,000 place between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. on to remain true to Gamer Guild fashion. gather to play games of all varieties donors each year making it the ninth Thursday, April 19. Vampire themed games are expected, from board and video games, to the largest non-profit blood center in The Gamer Guild of OCCC is spon- but do not be surprised to see classics more classic pen-and-paper games America. The blood donated stays soring “Take Us to Your Bleeder,” an such as Super Mario World. from years past. primarily within Oklahoma communi- event designed to encourage students to “‘Take Us to Your Bleeder’ is designed “This is a chance to tell students what ties so the lives you save could be those dress up as either vampires or vampire to allow people to play games after they we’re about and hopefully encourage of your families, friends, or neighbors. slayers in an effort to foster student donate blood,” Gamer Guild member more students to donate blood than One donation can save up to three blood donations during the drive. Jeremy McKinley said. they might normally because we’re such lives, according to the Red Cross. Of “This is a fun event,” said Karolyn “It allows us to support the blood a spectacle,” Chowning said. the people entering hospitals, one in Chowning director of TRiO grant drive and also drum up publicity for The Gamer Guild is expecting a seven needs blood. More than 38,000 programs. “As we were building up the the Gamer Guild.” healthy turnout for the OBI sponsored blood donations are needed every day. schedule for the year for the Student Life Students are responding to the blood drive. The OBI is partnered with over 2,500 calendar, the event just kind of arose unique concept and campus awareness “Oklahoma Blood Institute is pleased businesses, schools, religious and civic as the students were talking about the is growing. to have strong support on the OCCC organizations, which allows them to blood drive.” “I think it’s a really clever way to gear campus,” said Leslie Gamble, director hold over 4,000 blood drives per year. The blood drive itself will be held in up publicity for the event,” student Julie of community relations for OBI. “Over For more information visit the OBI room CU1 of the Main building and Campbell said. “If it inspires even one the years, we have seen students appeal website at www.obi.org. 8 • APRIL 13, 2012 PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER SPORTS UPCOMING INTRAMURALS SPORTS | Community sport EVENTS draws attention to OCCC How to hack it April 19: Intramural Spring Campus Swim Meet begins. For more information, call the Wellness Center at 405-682-1611, ext. league 7310.

April 25: Laser Tag begins. $5 scores per player. For more information, call the Wellness Center outside at 405-682-1611, ext. 7310. April 29: Paintball Tournament: approval Capture the Flag Tournament. For more information, call the BRANDON WILLIS Wellness Center at 405-682- Sports Writer 1611, ext. 7310. [email protected] April 27: Home Run Derby begins. For more information, call The OCCC Men’s Commu- the Wellness Center at 405- nity Basketball League kicked 682-1611, ext. 7310. off its Spring season at 7 p.m. on March 8. The season, April 27: Wiffle Ball Tournament however, is still going strong begins. For more information, through May 3 and exciting call the Wellness Center at 405- game play can be seen every 682-1611, ext. 7310. Thursday evening at 7 p.m., 8 p.m. and 9 p.m. in the Well- ness Center Gymnasium. All event news is due The cost to play in the Monday by 5 p.m. for league is $250 per team and inclusion in the next issue. must be paid upfront in order email to participate in the league, [email protected]. according to Recreation and Sports Specialist Eric Watson. The OCCC Men’s Basket- ball League has been a staple of the Wellness Center for The Pioneer more than a decade, he said. Watson said in order to Sports Podcast participate, participants must with be 18 years of age, but the Morgan Beard sign up period for the men’s and league ended in March. Brandon Willis Chris James/Pioneer According to Watson, stu- Listen Wednesdays at dents and members from the Student August Lombardo kicks a hacky sack in the OCCC courtyard April 9. WWW.OCCC.EDU/ community flock to OCCC in Students are free to pass time between classes in the courtyard with physical March just to sign up for the activities or just enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. PIONEER popular league. Watson believes the com- petitiveness of the league is talent level is mostly for rec- “There are some guys out based on the teams that sign You have a lot of good players who have reational purposes. here who can really play and up every year. played together for a while, so they have “Most players only have some have played college “The competitive aspect good chemistry.” high school playing experi- ball,” Davis said. of the league is based on the “ —Saajan Patel ence and very little college For more information conditions of the team mem- OCCC Student playing experience,” Watson about the OCCC Men’s Com- bers and on the league,” Wat- said. munity Basketball League or son said. “I think this league is pretty The individual talent level Wellness Center staff and anything else involving the Saajan Patel, student and tough,” Patel said. of each player can vary de- OCCC Pioneers team mem- Recreation and Fitness de- frequent visitor of the Well- “You have a lot of good pending on which team ber Pierre Davis said he partment call the Wellness ness Center, said he believes players who have played to- you are watching, Watson thinks the league has quality Center Desk at 405-682-1611, that the league always offers gether for a while, so they said. talent for a recreational men’s ext. 7310. a very competetive challenge. have good chemistry.” He said, he also believes the league. PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER APRIL 13, 2012 • 9 Domestic dispute, fire, thefts top weekly reports SARAH HUSSAIN “Well it’s about to get real.” in the Wellness Center when his Blackberry Curve Senior Writer After Parks gave officers a desription of her hus- phone was stolen. [email protected] band’s car, campus police offered the women an escort In a report by security officer Fredrick Evans, to their vehicles. Nelson told dispatch to watch for Howard arrived in the gym at 11:30 a.m. and played A family dispute spilled onto campus April 6. At Parks’ husband’s vehicle on surveillance cameras and numerous basketball games, periodically checking 8:30 a.m., OCCC Police Officer Gordon Nelson and contact him via radio if the man arrived. on his phone on a bench near the court. Security Officer Fredrick Evans responded to a distur- As officers were leaving the division office, dispatch At 1:45 p.m. Howard checked on his phone and bance in room 1H13-F of the Social Sciences Center, informed them that Parks’ husband had called her to found it missing. according to a OCCC police department report. say he wasn’t going to the college that day, but was Tipton reviewed video surveillance with Howard The request was made by Markus Smith, Political going to church instead. and was able to identify a possible suspect. Howard Science division department chair, after he was made Surveillance cameras confirmed that Parks and said he recognized the man as someone who plays aware of problems two of his work study students Caraway left campus in Parks’ vehicle at 10:55 a.m. basketball at the gym on occasion but is not a student, were having. without incident. and goes by the name Mario. The video revealed the According to the report, student worker Tori Evans In another incident, at 8:30 p.m. on April 6, Sgt. suspect left the gym shortly after sitting in the area was having problems with her husband, another Kevin Tipton and security officer Monte Roddy where Howard’s phone was lying. work study student whose name was redacted in the reported a fire on the roadway between John Glenn Parking surveillance shows the man then went to OCCC incident report. Elementary School and the college’s off-campus Fam- his car, re-entered the building to change clothes in Parks told officers she and her husband had sepa- ily and Community Education Center. the Social Sciences restroom, and went back to the rated two weeks before and she had been staying According to the report, Richard Diedrich, a jani- gym. The value of the phone is estimated at $501. with Michelle Caraway, another work study student. tor at the elementary school, told Tipton and Roddy At 3:30 p.m. that same day, student Peter Pham When Parks told Smith her husband had texted her, he had observed four juveniles light a fire and flee reported a watch had been stolen from his car in saying he was on his way to the campus to confront south on Land Avenue. parking lot A. her, Smith called officers. According to the report, Diedrich caught up with According to a report, Pham was taking the watch She reported her husband texted her, saying, “I the juveniles and told them he had witnessed the to be repaired after class. am coming and it’s going to get ugly,” According to incident. Officers were able to look at surveillance Pham said he arrived on campus around 1:30 p.m. the report, at 7:48 a.m. Parks’ husband also texted video and observe the incident. and when he went back to his car at 3 p.m. he noticed Smith, saying, “It’s going to get ugly this morning. Tipton and Roddy also found about six bro- his gym gloves had been moved to his drivers seat, Shelly [Caraway] is a done deal so if you don’t want kensprinkler pipes pulled up and lying on the ground. but didn’t notice the watch was missing until he ar- the bs in your office you might tell her to leave. I’m OCCC Police Dispatcher David Madden confirmed rived at the watch repairer. He contacted the OCCC done being nice.” he could see the youngsters playing with the pipes police department and asked them to review video At 8 a.m. Parks’ husband texted her again, saying, like swords on the surveillance video. surveillance tapes of the area. “ … And you have until I get there to make up your Tipton contacted Oklahoma City police. OCPD After reviewing the footage, it was determined a mind.” She responded, “OK, let’s do this.” officer Jason Farmer arrived and took a report on man in a white Jeep Cherokee approached Pham’s Parks’s husband then texted, “Oh? You got balls vandalism to the school. car and entered it via the driver’s side door. cause you in front of him [Smith]. It is ok. We shall A day earlier, a phone theft was reported. On April 5, The Jeep is then seen exiting onto May Avenue see.” Then shortly thereafter he sent one last text, OCCC Student Samir Howard was playing basketball going north. Absolute: Literary publication college tradition Continued from page 1 is based on a one-to 10 scale. be the case. college bookstore for $5. begin playing at noon to greet “We read through each one “We don’t necessarily start The “Absolute” reception incoming guests, she said. beth McCauley, who serves as of them, score them one to 10,” with a theme, but sometimes is held every April and is a For more information about one of the academic advisers. she said. it seems one just naturally hap- popular event, McCauley said. the “Absolute 2012” or the The “Absolute” gives writers “The ones with the highest pens,” McCauley said. “We usually have a pretty reception, contact McCauley and artists the opportunity to scores at the end of all our Copies of the “Absolute good audience.” at 405-682-1611, ext. 7405, or have their work published. submissions we narrow down 2012” can be purchased in the The OCCC jazz band will email [email protected] “Our submissions come from there, based on what from all over,” McCauley said. our favorite selections were,” “You don’t have to be a student Jones said. at this school to submit.” At times, the “Absolute” Kylee Jones, one of the “Ab- seems to have a theme con- solute’s” student editors, said necting the works throughout the process for choosing which an edition, but McCauley said submissions will be published this year that doesn’t seem to

Comments? Opinions? Let us Know! E-mail Mark Smith at [email protected] Let your voice be heard! 10 • APRIL 13, 2012 PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER CAMPUS COMMUNITY CAMPUS

COMMUNITY | Parents say TXT in cars has G2G HIGHLIGHTS Tuition Fee Waiver Information Texting and driving seizes lives Tuition Fee Waiver applications for the Summer 2012 semester are available in the SOUFIAN FAIZ Financial Aid Office. Completed applications must be submitted before 5 p.m. April 20. For News writing Student more information, call Student Financial Sup- port Services at 405-682-7525. he automobile accident that claimed the life of high Picnic in the Park with Trio school senior Alex Brown in Trio Student Support Services is hosting a 2009T also redirected the lives of her potluck picnic for students and their families parents who have devoted themselves from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday, April 23, at since then to warning others about the Earlywine Park located at 3033 NE 119th. For dangers of texting while driving. more information, call Karolyn Chowning at 405-682-1611, ext. 7620. The Brown family from Wellman, Texas, formed the Alex Brown Foun- OCCC to host the United Nations dation to fund their public service The Multicultural Business Club is hosting a work. video conference with the United Nations from The Foundation visited OCCC to noon to 1:30 p.m. April 24 in the Bruce Owen speak about the dangers of texting Theater. Students are encouraged to attend and driving. the meeting. Parents Johnny Mac and Jeanne Free Immunizations for Children Brown, along with their daughter The “Caring Van” will be at the Oklahoma Katrina, spoke on campus March 26 City Community College (OCCC) Family about how they lost their beloved and Community Education (FACE) Center, Alex, who was texting on her mobile Wednesday, April 25 from 2 to 4 p.m. to pro- phone just before the single-vehicle vide free immunizations to children. accident that took her life. Mother Jeanne Brown, 45, left her Arbor Day/Earth Day Celebration The Green Task Force will be hosting Arbor teaching job to become president of Day/ Earth Day celebrations from 11 a.m. to the foundation. She directed her focus 2 p.m. Thursday, April 26, in the Main Dining in the speech to young people who area of the union. There will be information- text and drive, warning them of the al booths as well as free saplings and door consequences. prizes. “We’re here because we want you to understand,” Jeanne Brown said. Meet Your First Responder Day In her speech, Mrs. Brown talked On Wednesday, April 18th, OCCC will host “Meet Your First Responder Day” in Park- about the tragic reality of texting and Chris James/Pioneer ing Lot A. Everyone is invited to meet Law driving. Nursing major Tessa Greene, 20, signs a pledge not to text and Enforcement, Fire and Emergency services “If you insist on texting and driving drive at OCCC on March 27. The pledge was done in rememberence of Alex Brown, a texting and driving accident victim. personnel. Hot dogs and soft drinks will be you need to make sure your family has served at 11:00 a.m. OCCC employees can health and life insurance on you,” Mrs. receive their Quarterly Safety Training by at- Brown said. The only reason why I do this is because I tending the event. “You should start thinking about your own funeral so your parents don’t know how it feels, and I don’t want this to All Highlights are due Monday by noon have to deal with all of it.” happen to your family.” for inclusion in the next issue. Since the death of Alex on Dec. 29, “ —Johnny Mac Brown Email your event to 2009, the family has been traveling Alex Brown Foundation Vice President [email protected]. across the nation talking to students about the dangers of texting and driv- of getting into a wreck while texting behind the wheel ing. are two times higher than drinking and driving. messages while driving. The father said their goal is to help other families As Katrina Brown, the youngest daughter, started These applications, such as Text Toggle, are de- avoid the grief they have suffered. talking about the death of her sister, it was obvious signed to respond immediately to the sender with a “The only reason why I do this is because I know that the traumatic impact of the accident is still in- personalized message and are available free online. how it feels, and I don’t want this to happen to your grained in the parents’ memory. Mrs. Brown also advised teenagers to engage in family,” Johnny Mac Brown said. Mr. Brown had his eyes fixed upon the ground safe driving programs such as Teens in The Driving Mr. Brown quit his job as well to be the vice presi- while his wife started crying. Seat. She said the goal of these programs is to raise dent of the foundation. In his speech, Mr. Brown said Mrs. Brown concluded the speech by presenting awareness of the driving dangers and prevent ac- that using a cell phone behind the wheel is a choice, some helpful tools to eliminate cell phones as a cidents involving young drivers. and for every choice made there are two possible driving distraction and help young students focus More than 60 people who attended the presenta- results: a good one or a bad one. on road. tion signed a pledge not to text and drive. “Are you willing to trade your life for a text mes- Mrs. Brown suggested that people should down- The family said their purpose is to keep speaking sage or a phone call?” Mr. Brown asked. The chances load applications that are designed to intercept text about their cause as long as it takes. PIONEER | OCCC.EDU/PIONEER APRIL 13, 2012 • 11 CLASSIFIEDS THIS WEEK’S PIONEER PUZZLE Pioneer classified advertising is free to all enrolled OCCC students and employees for any personal classified ad. Ad applications must be submitted with IDs supplied by 5 p.m. Mondays prior to the publication date. For more information, call the Ad Manager at 405-682-1611, ext. 7674, or e-mail [email protected].

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Continued from page 1 Jordan cites both FERPA and the Health whether written, oral or electronic. information because that person, for Insurance Portability and Accountabil- “Covered entities include health example, committed a crime or was what he was doing. ity Act (HIPAA) as reasons to redact care providers, paraprofessionals such injured in an accident, the college is Campus police came to the scene information from those reports if it as EMTs and paramedics, and health in no way restricted by HIPAA from and took the student, Isaac Ward Jr., involves students. care plans.” releasing that information. HIPAA to the campus police office. There he Jordan will send the Pioneer general Gerrity’s four-page response can be is not a blanket health care secrecy was arrested by Oklahoma City police information but not give Pioneer re- read in its entirety online at www.occc. law — it applies only to your doctor officers and later charged with two porters the actual incident report. He edu/pioneer. or your medical insurance carrier, not criminal felony counts of assault with then instructs reporters to contact him Goldstein argues neither HIPAA nor to colleges. a dangerous weapon. for more information. FERPA apply to campus police records. “FERPA is never, ever a valid reason When campus police provided the Jordan cites the Americans with “HIPAA applies to organizations that for a college to withhold or redact crime report to the Pioneer staff for the first have a primary business of providing reports, period,” LoMonte said. time three weeks later, Ward’s health care, insurance, or electronic “Congress amended FERPA in 1991 name and other information was Any OCCC official using records transactions for those compa- to say that records created for law blacked out. FERPA, HIPAA, and the ADA as nies; obviously, law enforcement has enforcement purposes are not FERPA To get more information Pio- a primary business of enforcing the records. ` neer reporters called Master Sgt. excuses to withhold information law and thus, none of its records are “If [OCCC] is relying on FERPA as a Gary Knight of the Oklahoma “in police reports either doesn’t HIPAA records.” reason for releasing only partial crime City Police Department who sent really know these laws or is Goldstein said every time a person in reports, then the college is in violation a copy of their report by email hoping you don’t.” campus law enforcement cites FERPA of the Oklahoma Open Records Act.” within five minutes of receiving —Joey Senat or HIPAA as the basis for not disclosing LoMonte said citing ADA as a “justi- the phone call. The required in- Oklahoma State University Associate a record, “that person is misinformed, fication for withholding public records formation, including the name, Professor for the school of media & lying, or both.” is so frivolous that it almost seems like was part of the report. Strategic Communication He said the same applies to ADA. it must be a joke. “ In other campus incidents, “The ADA isn’t a privacy statute at “There is absolutely, positively noth- Pioneer reporters find the re- all,” he said. “It’s an anti-discrimination ing in the Americans with Disabilities daction of public information to be a Disability Act (ADA) if the incident statute. Act that says government agencies are common practice for college police. involves OCCC faculty or staff as the “It requires employers to treat indi- not to release police reports.” College attorney Nancy Gerrity reason for denying reporters those viduals with qualified disabilities fairly Joey Senat, Oklahoma State Univer- explained OCCC’s position regarding records. and make reasonable accommodations sity associate professor for the School of these records in a message she described He said, in an email, that medical for their disabilities. Media and Strategic Communications as “for educational purposes only” and records involving employees are pro- “It has nothing whatsoever to do and former Freedom of Information “not legal advice.” tected from release under ADA. with records of any kind or the release Oklahoma president, reviewed several She wrote: “The Family Educational “On medical reports involving of those records. If someone is citing of the emails where Jordan refused to Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) pro- students, it would more likely be provide requested records and his tects the privacy of students … . (A) protected under FERPA instead OCCC has to remain in reasons for doing so. college may not release ‘personally of HIPAA. In an email response, Senat said, identifiable information’ derived from “The ‘law enforcement records’ compliance with all applicable “Any OCCC official using FERPA, education records … . An ‘education exception to FERPA applies only to state, federal and local laws, HIPAA, and the ADA as excuses record’ under FERPA is any record records made and maintained for “as does any other agency or to withhold information in police maintained by the college that is directly law enforcement purposes.” individual.” reports either doesn’t really know related to a student.” Jordan said on medical call re- —Cordell Jordan these laws or is hoping you don’t.” Student Press Law Center Attorney quests, student reporters will be OCCC Media Relations Coordinator When Jordan was asked to respond Advocate Adam Goldstein sent his given information on a “case-by- to the same set of questions as the response via email from his office in case basis, because if the record is other sources in this story, he made Washington, D.C. not an employee or a student, and the the ADA as a basis for not releasing re- the following statement in an email: He took a different stand on the record is not a sole medical response cords, they’re not even misinterpreting “It doesn’t matter if I personally matter. (administration of medical care un- the law, they’re just saying the names agree or disagree with the information. “FERPA applies to educational insti- der HIPAA) then, we can release the of laws they’ve heard that sound kind OCCC has to remain in compliance tutions, but has an exception (1232g) report.” of official.” with all applicable state, federal and (a)(4)(B) that says it doesn’t apply to Gerrity also defends that practice. Student Press Law Center Executive local laws, as does any other agency records in the possession of campus “The Americans with Disabilities Director Frank D. LoMonte agreed with or individual.” law enforcement.” Act … requires employers to treat any Goldstein, saying HIPAA and FERPA To learn more, read part two of the OCCC police also respond to acci- medical- or health-related information are never valid reasons for a college to Pioneer’s Open Records investigative dents and injuries on campus, involving voluntarily provided by an employee or withhold police department reports. coverage in next week’s newspaper. both students and employees. obtained from an employee as a result LoMonte provided his comments in Find out what experts had to say re- Pioneer reporters are regularly de- of an employer inquiry as a confidential an email message. garding the law when it comes to timeli- nied any record where OCCC police medical record,” she wrote. “First of all, HIPAA is almost always ness in filling Open Records requests or security officers are on the scene as Pertaining to HIPAA, Gerrity wrote: a false justification for refusing to turn and the availablity of employees during first responders. These are reports of “The HIPAA Privacy Rule imposes over public records. HIPAA applies business hours to fill the requests. incidents such as dizziness, vomiting confidentiality requirements on cov- only to two types of people: Health care Additional information also is avail- or cut fingers. ered entities, and applies to all forms professionals, or insurers. able at the Pioneer Online at www.occc. Media Relations Coordinator Cordell of an individual’s health information, “If the college has someone’s medical edu/pioneer.