To the editor:

As I began reading the article “Racial Slurs Never Appropriate in College Hallways,” I was appalled by the statement made by the African-American students.

As I read on, I was even more furious towards some of the things said by the unidentified victim.

The University of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State University and Oklahoma City University all have smoke-free campuses. On Aug. 1, 2011 OCCC will join the movement.

Once the policy goes into effect, cigarettes may not be lit on campus unless the smoker is in a car with the windows rolled up.

An individual who chooses not to comply will be fined.

To the editor:

I am writing to promote October as [Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgendered] History Month, celebrating the rich history of gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgendered, and queer people all over the world.

A high percentage of Western civilization’s artists, authors, musicians, and actors have been gay, closeted, or not strictly heterosexual.

Have you heard? Green is the new black.

It’s the color that goes with everything.

From using fluorescent light bulbs to buying electric cars, ‘going green’ — that is, becoming environmentally conscious in all your decisions — is quickly becoming a way of life in the U.S.

Bullying made big headlines in Oklahoma in May after Ty Field, an 11-year-old Perkins boy, shot himself to death after years of being threatened, teased, and beat up by his peers.

Field’s story is nothing short of a tragedy, but his situation is far from uncommon.

From playgrounds to locker rooms and everywhere in between, bullying is an epidemic sweeping the nation.

To the editor:

OCCC has been open for almost 40 years. The front doors have seen a vast diversity of students walk through them.

People can be racist if that is what they choose to be, but probably should keep their racism behind closed doors.

In a school environment where there are different ethnicity groups, there is really not a time and a place for racism.

There is no denying that student clubs and organizations are a vital facet of the college experience.

Club involvement promotes leadership, teamwork and interpersonal communication skills.

According to a study conducted by the Public Education Network, participation in clubs also can lead to better academic performance and better psychological well-being.

To the editor:

State Question 744 is poised to be one of the larger issues on the Nov 2 ballot.

Considering the ramifications of its potential passage, I would argue that SQ 744 is one of the most important state votes in our lifetime.

SQ 744 is a proposed Oklahoma Constitutional amendment that would dictate we spend at least the regional average on K-12 education.

Are you thinking about transferring to a four-year institution? Did you know there is an office on campus to help you with your transition?

The Transfer Center offers many services to get you headed in the right direction.

Q: If the number on my parking decal has faded due to the sun, do I need to get a new one?

A: “Not by policy. However, if you can no longer see the decal or read the number, it’s a good idea to obtain a new decal so that if the situation arises, we can contact you in regards to your vehicle. New decals can be obtained for free in [Records and Graduation Services].”
—Sgt. Larry Lundy
OCCC Safety and Security