2010 Health & Sex Guide by Portland State Vanguard

Health and

Sex Guide 2010

WHATâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S

INSIDE

The good, the bad

A conversation

and the sneaky

with Ron Jeremy

PG. 6

PG. 8

Pleasant ways to stay

positively healthy PG. 10

College eats PG. 16

WHO DID WHAT Editor-in-Chief Sarah J. Christensen Editors Virginia Vickery, Theodora Karatzas, Richard D. Oxley, Robert Britt Special section/Cover Art designer Bryan Morgan Production Manager Shannon Vincent Photo Editor Marni Cohen Online Editor Zach Chastaine Copy Chief Robert Seitzinger Advertising Manager Jae Specht Writer Bianca Blankenship Photographers Zach Chastaine, Theodora Karatzas, Aaron Leopold, Michael Pascual Copy Editor Noah Emmet, Amanda Gordon Advertising Sales Ana SanRoman, Wesley Van Der Veen Ad Designer Shannon Vincent Copyright ÂŠ 2010 Portland State University Vanguard 1825 SW Broadway, Smith Memorial Student Union, Rm. S-26, Portland, Ore., 97201

Staying sharp in school Michael Pascual/Portland State Vanguard

Healthy alternatives to that bag of chips Sarah J. Christensen Vanguard staff

Half the time that we’re on campus, we’re not thinking about ways we can get ready for lunches during the week. We’re thinking about that midterm, the required BlackBoard posting for class and how much we still have to do for the final project in a class. What this does, unfortunately, is leave our bodies to fend for themselves on a campus with high prices for healthy food choices. When inundated with the cheaper, less healthy food, it’s easy to make wrong decisions day after day and end up tired and unhealthy by the end of term. Here are a few tips to help out with the term without adding a lot of stress to your already busy days.

Lunches Sandwiches

If you’re avoiding even reading this paragraph because you’re thinking of your grandmother’s bologna-and-mayonnaise concoctions, don’t worry: I wouldn’t do that to you. With such a great selection of breads and meats in your local grocery store, don’t torment yourself with old school recipes for sandwiches. Take a hoagie roll—which freezes well if you need to have clear counter space—and toss on a little dijonnaise and barbecue sauce. Then, slice out some of your favorite cheese and layer it on both sides. Fill the middle with either shredded chicken (see “protein cups” for preparation tips) or some sliced deli meat. If you’re more of a meaty sandwich person, keep the lettuce use to a strip or two of Romaine and add a slice of tomato, and you’re set. Vary the ingredients based

on what you prefer, and the good ’ol sandwich will never lose its charm. Vegetables

I know what you’re thinking, “Vegetables? Really?” And yes, that’s what I’m talking about, those often-green things that require you to prepare them. Here’s some good news: They don’t take that long to prep. Every Sunday night when you’re wrapping up your homework, get out five plastic lunch bags and go to town chopping up veggies. The prep time is usually why veggies get overlooked, but it’s worth taking 20 minutes of your Sunday to make some chopped-up, healthy food for every day of the following week. Fruits

These poor things fall into the same trap that vegetables do, but the same Sunday evening preparation can take care of a lot of the hassle. For a little more fun, buy a package of small Tupperware. Then, make Jell-O and add chunks of your favorite fruit to the mix as they chill in the Tupperware. You’ve got your fruits and your fun, all in one reusable package. To make the whole process less painful, have over dorm mates and make a big batch for everyone. Cooking in the kitchen with friends is much better than cooking alone.

got. Don’t forget, variety is important—if you stay with the same old thing, you’ll get bored. Protein cup

This may sound a little dicey and like something a bodybuilder has to eat, but I’m just talking about some meat or eggs in Tupperware, I promise. Hardboiled eggs can also be made in one big batch on the weekend and eaten all week—smash them up and make some egg salad for a little more variety. With your college-kid budget, stick to cooking things that provide food all week. Shredded chicken is one of them. If you don’t have a Crock-Pot, head over to mom and dad’s to borrow theirs for the afternoon while you do homework. Take four or five thawed chicken breasts and slice them against the grain. Place them in the Crock-Pot with water just covering the chicken. Add one package of enchilada seasoning and one package of taco seasoning. Cook for five hours. At the end, smash the chicken so it’s in small pieces and drain out the water. Add the deliciousness to burritos or scrambled eggs, or just put in some Tupperware to eat between classes.

Snacks Why to eat these Trail mix

A throwback to the days of camp, but with a little creativity, it can be so much more fun. My personal favorite consists of a handful of raisins, a handful of cashews and two handfuls of Goldfish. The mixture is easy to vary depending on your tastes. Grab a bag of dried fruit from the store for more of a chewy texture, or a tub of mixed nuts if you’re a crunch-head. Add little crackers or grapes, anything that’s small and easy to dig out of a bag during that two-hour biology lecture you’ve

- Vegetables provide many vitamins and minerals you just can’t get anywhere else - Fruits are an incredible source of fiber, something important if you’re not getting enough exercise to stay healthy - Protein is probably one of the healthier ‘quick fixes’ a college student can do—it provides for a clearer head, without the caffeine or sugar crash - Grains are an important part of your diet and provide long term energy that kicks in after your protein is long gone

The wonderful world of

condoms So many choices to protect yourself Richard D. Oxley Vanguard staff

The condom. It has become as impressed upon our pop culture as it has in the leather of many a man’s wallet. Some praise its birth control, while some look to it as a means of keeping away a nasty sexually transmitted infection (STI) or two. So cut out the giggling. This is a very serious subject that you need to know about, just in case your pee-pee meets a hoo-ha.

A little history Condoms have been around for some time now. They possibly date all the way back to ancient Egypt, in fact. But the condom we all have come to know began back in the mid-1800s with Charles Goodyear. That’s right, the tire guy. Goodyear patented vulcanized rubber in 1839 and by 1855, he got the idea to expand his uses for rubber into the contraception market. However, the condom of 1855, well, it was everything you would expect from a condom made by a guy who made tires. Over the years, condoms evolved into its modern version, made from latex, polyurethane or most recently polyisoprene. Historically, they have been used to prevent pregnancy. However, it also proved to aid in STI prevention as well. In fact, when syphilis began posing a problem during the 16th century, Gabriele Fallopius wrote a lengthy account of a condomlike device which consisted of chemically soaked linen meant to prevent infection. In 2005, Consumer Reports released a guide to contraception products. They found that most brand name condoms such as Trojan or Durex all stood up to the test and basically performed the same. But still, your average store has a wall of the

Zach Chastaine/Portland State Vanguard

product, each brand trying to outsell the other. With so many varieties, what kind of condom should you choose?

Textures, lotions and other gimmicks As Garth Algar put it, “Ribbed for her pleasure. Ewww.” He was talking about the textured condom, which well, has various textures imprinted on it. Other gimmicks may include warming lotions or glow-in-thedark styles. This really comes down to having a conversation with your significant other.

Spermicidal lubricant

may indicate that they are meant for just, er, another form of contact. The FDA monitors such condoms so check the label or the box to make sure it's up to the task. It has also been noted that sugar in such flavored condoms may contribute to yeast infections in women. Some flavored condoms come in sugar-free flavors.

Edible condoms Look, if you have to have this spelled out for you then please, don’t have sex, ever. These condoms obviously are NOT for contraception or protection against STIs. They are a novelty item.

Some condoms may have this listed on their box. Consumer Reports has noted that the spermicidal lubricant doesn’t really do anything special beyond what a normal condom does. In addition, they also noted that spermicidal condoms have a shorter shelf life and may cause urinary tract infections in women. They may, however, offer that extra bit of mental comfort.

The French tickler

Flavored condoms

Sizes

Pretty self-explanatory. Condom companies found a way to include flavors in their condoms. Your imagination can take care of the rest. One thing to keep in mind with flavored condoms: Just because they are condoms doesn’t mean they are meant for sexual intercourse when they are flavored. The flavor aspect

An unnecessary aspect of the condom for most people. They are made from rubber after all, and in case you didn’t know, rubber stretches. But some brands, such as Trojan’s famous Magnum condoms, are made in varying lengths and widths to accommodate, er, a diverse market. There are also smaller condoms…

Yes, they actually do exist, even if only in the vending machines of men’s bathrooms. This is another condom that is NOT meant for any protection against pregnancy or STIs. They are designed for stimulation and comedic purposes only.

The good, the bad and the sneaky Zach Chastaine/Portland State Vanguard

Best and worst places to stash condoms Sock drawer (1–100 Condoms) Zach Chastaine Vanguard staff

Whether you’re a voracious jungle tiger or an enthusiastic beginner just gunning for their first score, you should always use protection. With this list, there will never be an excuse for not having a rubber when you need it most. All right boys and girls, you just got back from the Center for Student Health and Counseling with two hands full of free condoms—booya! Leave them in the package, and put them in these places.

Toiletry bag (1–5 Condoms)

Best places

Beanie (1–2 Condoms)

Star Trek box set (1–10 Condoms)

Nobody will ever look here. While not that mobile, it’s the most secret and safe your stash will ever be (but if he or she does look inside the box, hold onto that one).

Dorm wall (1 Condom)

Put the rubber in an envelope and pin the envelope to the wall—great for emergencies.

Book bag/backpack (1–5 Condoms)

It’s always on you, and typically the only person in your bag is you just try not to crush them with textbooks.

Discreet and roomy, you can stash about 100 condoms in it and still have room for your socks. This tried-andtrue location continues to serve us well. Staying overnight? Bring safety with you! Now you have fresh breath and safe sex in the same place—a good combination.

Bike seat bag (1–3 Condoms)

For the love machine on the move, put them in a paper bag to help protect from bike tools and the heat.

Cigarette pack (1 Condom)

Smoking is bad for your health, but using condoms is not—this dichotomy of health is perfect for the smoking sex machine. Short on pockets? No problem! Most beanies have a lot of extra room in them and nobody is going to notice your rubber taped to the inside. Try not to leave it there more than a few hours though.

Camera bag (5–10 Condoms)

Art students take note, camera bags have room for your lenses, camera, film and condoms!

Inner jacket (1–3 Condoms)

Sometimes you just want to have some sex, and you need the condom with you when you seek out the object of your lust (or it seeks you). Because of heat, this should really be a temporary stash.

Worst places It’s not all fun and games, kids. Some places put your condoms at risk of being damaged, and nobody wants an accidental baby when you can hardly afford food for yourself. Remember not to use condoms if the package is leaking or appears damaged. If it seems discolored, dry, brittle or torn when you take it out then toss it—they’re not that expensive, so better safe than sorry. Take caution with the following locations. Wearing it

Seriously, young tigers. Unless you want to be the subject of college humor legend forever, never wear a condom unless you’re actually using it right then. Not only is it phenomenally creepy, it’s extremely unsafe.

Wallet

This is probably the worst spot to stash condoms. While it might seem like a good spot, constant pressure and constant rubbing combined with heat can wear your condoms down to dust.

Shoe

This is an awful place to put a condom. Not only do you risk destroying it, you will probably lose it and it’s uncomfortable. Even if you don’t wear the shoe, it smells.

Stretch it out Pre- and post-sex stretches to keep you limber Bianca Blankenship Vanguard staff

Jewelry box

Earrings, finger rings and sharp disco beads all put your condoms at risk of puncture. Even if it doesn’t punch all the way through, a powerful load can exploit the damage.

Cell phone bag

Cell phones have been used on YouTube to light popcorn on fire, and that kind of radiation probably isn’t good for your rubber. Besides, we use our phones a lot.

Near light bulbs

It might seem clever to stash your condoms above the bathroom light, but a light bulb of any kind will bake your condoms dry—seriously ill advised.

Under heavy objects

You don’t want to degrade your condoms by keeping them under some heavy books or whatever. A small stack of magazines is probably OK, like if your parents make a visit.

Glove box

Although convenient, the glove box in your car is prone to extreme temperature change, and the police won’t be impressed when you accidently hand them your damaged condom instead of your registration.

Laptop sleeve

The warmth of your precious laptop is actually a problem for your protection for the same reason light bulbs are. Besides, it might fall out when you pull out your laptop, and that’s embarrassing.

Fridge

Hell no, Eskimos work hard to keep their Trojans from getting too cold and so should you! Leave the fridge for ice cream and medication.

Open Sesame

It’s common knowledge that stretching before and after exercise helps to keep muscles flexible and decreases the chance of injuries such as pulled or torn muscles. But do we ever think to stretch before and after sex? Sex can be a rigorous form of exercise, and while serious muscle injuries are not as likely to occur, small annoyances like muscle cramps are common and can seriously kill the mood. Here are some stretches to help you and your partner avoid those inconveniences—and to help set the mood.

The Cowboy

Partner stretches

The Duck

The Goblet

Place your hands against the wall and imagine pulling your tailbone toward the sky and back toward your head. By curving the spine in this reverse direction, both the upper and lower back muscles are stretched.

The Trusting Turtle

Lie on your back with your feet up, legs slightly spread and knees bent. Have your partner press straight down on the soles of your feet. This will stretch the backs of the legs and lower back muscles.

The Lean-back

To do this stretch, stand up straight, push your hips forward and let your upper body lean back. For more balance, place your hands behind your hips. This lengthens small-but-important inner thigh muscles that connect the legs to the pelvis.

This stretch loosens the hips while it increases blood flow to the pelvis. This is good for preventing the “flat tire” phenomenon in which the buttock muscles cramp up from extensive thrusting. To perform the Cowboy, simply spread your legs from a standing position and squat down while keeping your back straight.

Solo stretches When a partner is unavailable, the following stretches can be practiced alone. These focus on the muscle groups in the forearms. With one hand, press down against the knuckles of the opposite hand. Switch hands and repeat.

Reverse Duck

Push the fingertips backwards with the opposite hand. This can be done either toward or away from yourself.

The Crab

With the left hand behind the right hand, place the left thumb under the pinky and intertwine the remaining fingers. Twist up in a counterclockwise motion. Repeat with the other hand.

The Backhand

Grip the meat of one hand with the opposite hand and press the thumb against the knuckles. Press out and away from yourself.

Open Sesame

This is also good for opening the hips and additionally stretches the back, shoulders and legs. Sit across from your partner with legs spread and touch the soles of your feet together. Holding hands, take turns pulling one another’s arms.

All photos by Theodora Karatzas/Portland State Vanguard

The Lean-back

Pleasing your lady Ron Jeremy talks about sex, technology and everything in between Theodora Karatzas Vanguard staff

Talking with Ron Jeremy doesn’t go how you think it might. The porn superstar and cult figure is funny, polite and incredibly well spoken. Even when he talks about sex—a major topic of conversation for him—he does so in a lighthearted, humorous way. His tone seems to echo his feelings on the subject as something that should be enjoyed, free of guilt and shame. Before making the move to adult entertainment, Jeremy had earned his master’s in special education and was a teacher. He studied education at the undergraduate level, but also had a theater background. Wanting to try his hand at acting, he left his job as a teacher and struck out into the New York theater scene. He quickly realized that it would be hard to make a living doing theater. “I saw what the job market was like in New York. It was heinous,” Jeremy said. “To be in a stadium you gotta be in a union!” In 1970s New York, to work even as an extra, you had to be part of the Screen Actor’s Guild. This cut Jeremy’s job prospects down significantly. “Basically, actors are totally unemployed,” said Jeremy. “You’d be living in a cockroach-infested tenement house, reciting Shakespeare or auditioning with monologues. Even that was weird. In L.A. they auditioned with the script [ for the part you were auditioning for]. ” Los Angeles, Calif., proved to hold a better job market. You didn’t have to belong to a union and the pay was far better. This reality became a deciding factor in Jeremy’s decision to work in the adult industry.

“In L.A. you can be an extra and make $50 or $60 a day,” Jeremy said. “In New York, you just can’t. So porn came along and I took it.” Jeremy’s move into porn came after his girlfriend at the time sent a picture of him to Playgirl. From there, he started getting more work and was soon a big hit in the industry. “I came into porn with more acting credentials than most actors on Broadway,” Jeremy said. “My goals were way higher than to just be a porn star.” Back in the ’70s when he was starting out, Jeremy said the adult industry was far different than it is now. In many ways, it was more like mainstream cinema—just with more skin. “It was a lot nicer, it was like any film industry,” Jeremy said. “Porn in those days was like any B-movie…a porn film was like a low-budget movie. You had the same kind of gaffer, electrician, best boy, cinematographer, camera loader, director, assistant director. It was a lot like being in a real movie back in the old days in the late ’70s because there’s no DVD, no VHS, no CD-ROMs, no computers, no Internet, just feature films, so you felt like an actor.” The rise of computers and the Internet are two things Jeremy credits with changing the porn business forever—mostly, in his opinion, for the worse. “The business is now in a fairly good place, except for the Internet is stealing everything,” Jeremy said. “In the beginning it was OK because every company had a Web site…then came the freebies. [The Internet] just killed the industry, sliced it in half and everybody went bankrupt.” Jeremy has a reputation for not being a big fan of the Internet, going so far as to say that he even avoids e-mailing when he can. His dislike comes in part from his former role as an educator and what he observes are the negative affects the Internet is having on children today.

and rejecting the Internet A conversation with Ron Jeremy “As a former school teacher, I think we’re creating a possible ‘era of idiots,’” Jeremy said. “We had to memorize our times tables, our dates. Kids [today] don’t have to memorize a fucking thing. I just think in general that the Internet is kind of like a big piece of crap. It’s like nuclear energy. You can do great things, [it’s] cheap, affordable and excellent heating, yet also causes an atom bomb.” In addition to catching flack for his staunch views on Internet culture, Jeremy has dealt with obvious anti-pornography criticisms. He has famously compared pornography to violent video games, saying that the latter of the two is far more harmful to youth and could be responsible for a lot of violent behavior and poor conflict resolution skills. “When you play a violent video game all day long as a kid, of course you’re going to punch your friends or get into a quarrel, not solve it peacefully,” he said. “Whereas we’re in porn—we deal with adults.” As mentioned above, besides his porn career, Jeremy has enjoyed enormous success in many other areas of media and business. A bestselling author, entrepreneur and frequent guest speaker around the world—these are only a few of the accomplishments with which Jeremy has turned his career as an adult entertainer into an empire. Despite the criticism, however, he’s always tried to stay positive about his success and the pressure of being a public figure. “Over the course of one’s career, to get famous, that’s always wonderful,” Jeremy said. “That’s why it usually doesn’t get on my nerves…so many people wish they had that, that how could you ever get annoyed at it? Yes it can be annoying when guys go ‘Dude! Dude!’ They’re grabbing at your shirt, wrapping their arms around your neck…spilling beer on you. Of course it can be annoying, but then on the other part you also get to sign girls’ tits. If I have to go through four guys full of beer to get to your girlfriend’s boobies, it’s all worth it.” One of Jeremy’s latest business ventures is a swingers club in Portland called Club Sesso. While Jeremy doesn’t own or run the club in any capacity, his name is attached

to it and he is a strong proponent of the swinging lifestyle. He himself started swinging in the ’70s and was acquainted with many of the major club owners in New York at the time. “I was friends of a lot of these owners and, being a porn star, they gave me really good treatment,” Jeremy said. “I just learned the fascinating lifestyle. It was just so interesting. I saw it as almost a way of beating monogamy.” Jeremy’s own views on monogamy stem from a belief that the institution of marriage can be, in many cases, faulty. “Marriage is not being done properly,” he said. “The institution of marriage is failing right now. The majority of marriages don’t last. That’s a shame all across the board. You talk to most people today and they use this horrible expression: ‘I love a good steak, but not every night.’” He credits a lot of his concerns with marriage—and society’s view on matrimony—on how children are raised, citing differences in how we treat each

gender as they mature sexually: Men are encouraged to chase after women, while women are told they need to stay pure, resulting in some very messy situations and a lot of confusion. “We raise our children differently. We raise our sons to ‘go get em son! Make dad proud!’ and we raise the daughter [saying] ‘don’t you fucking dare!’ Therefore, you have a whole generation of guys who think it’s good to go get some and girls who say it’s not good to get some, but that’s changing… I’m seeing a very positive change, a serious one. Now girls aren’t just wanting good sex, they’re demanding it.” The bottom line for Jeremy, though, is pleasure. If he advocates anything, it’s having a fun, safe and mutually pleasing sex life. He makes a specific point of pushing more men to make sure their ladies are being satisfied. “Please your woman,” he said. “Because you’re going to get off anyway. We’re guys, it’s easy.”

Photo courtesy of Ron Jeremy

Pleasant ways to stay positively healthy Aaron Leopold/Portland State Vanguard

Keeping stress low keeps you happy and grades high Sarah J. Christensen Vanguard staff

Each and every term, students who excelled in high school or even their last term of college classes inevitably find that stress is catching up to them. Whether they have too much homework, don’t understand the curriculum, are having issues at home or are finding it hard to make new friends, students become overwhelmed. The most important thing is to recognize when this is happening and to take action against fatigue, depression and panic attacks. Here are some tips to keep stress at bay:

During the school day Walks

Yes, it’s just that simple. Take a walk. Leave your bag with your friends and take that extra five minutes you have to lap the Park Blocks. You can choose to think about things that you still have to do, or, you can take a minute to see what is going on around you—the infamous territorial squirrels in front of Lincoln Hall, the new growth in the planters and the weather. Learning to disconnect from the rush is important for perspective—and for your health. Stretches

If you’re that student who doesn’t leave during breaks in class because you want to read ahead in the book, I used to be one of you. I’ve come to realize that a five- to 10-minute break in class doesn’t help you cover much of the text. Instead, get out of your chair and stretch. If you’re self-conscious, pretend you’re going to the bathroom and instead just

stretch in the stall. It will get your blood pumping, wake you up and put you in a better mood. Taking a timeout from class allows for stress reduction and a change of scenery. Snacks

One of the more common problems that students have with staying mentally healthy is that they fatigue their body because they haven’t eaten in a while, and then they get grumpy. Many people with low blood sugar or low iron levels can really attest to this. Always have something on you to eat, and make it healthy. Even if you have to go to Costco on the weekend and stock up on fruit cups, do it. Keeping your body healthy is one key to emotional health.

During the week

Exercise

Have you ever noticed that the typical vision we have of a college student is someone bent over a textbook? That’s because it’s true. When you add the number of hours you sit in your classroom desks with the number of hours at your desk in the library or at home studying, you’ll be amazed. Your body naturally produces adrenaline when you are stressed, and it needs to alleviate the stress by using that adrenaline. Even if all you can manage is one trip to the gym per week, it will help. Go with friends and make it a group outing and talk about the things that are going on in your life. If you’re more of a solitary gym user, cycle out the frustrations you have at bearing the burden in your group projects or that your dorm-mate snores. Exercise is a healthy way to express yourself and deal with all the buildup from the week.

Talk it out

Maybe you’ve already got a friend that you talk to about all your problems, but having another can’t hurt. Some students can’t talk all day in class, and that need to talk overflows into our free time. When you get home, talk it out. Call your mom, uncle or a friend from high school and just chat about everyday stresses. It’s a good way to stay connected, but you’ll also see that they go through the same day-to-day ups and downs and that you’re not alone on this stressful planet. If you really don’t want to talk it out, write it out. Having thoughts rambling around in your head while you’re trying to concentrate on a Shakespearean term paper isn’t helpful. Write it down and revisit your thoughts when you have the time and energy to deal with them.

Where to find help Parents: It may be difficult to ask for help, but they’re an incredible resource. SHAC: Their on-site counseling service is confidential and aimed at helping you as a person and a student. Call 503-725-2800 for an appointment. Teachers: Letting teachers know that you’re having a difficult time is important, and they might also be able to point you in the direction of a tutor or give you an extension. Hotlines: If you feel that the stress has become too much, and are in danger of doing something hurtful to yourself, call the National Suicide Hotline at 800-273-TALK.

Tips for beating your inner demons College is an important time in our lives, and if there is one thing we want more than a proper education, it’s a lap full of that beautiful someone. Face it: We want to have as much fun as we possibly can while we are here even if we’re an academic stallion. But when you don’t feel good about yourself, or if you’re nervous about how people are going to receive you, it can be a lot harder to have a good time. Nobody is immune to the crippling effects of personal insecurity. We at the Vanguard want you to have fun, so we put together a set of tips and tricks to help you boost your self-esteem to its full capacity. Remember not to get discouraged—all things improve with practice and being a social barracuda doesn’t happen overnight. Be warned though, we can only show you the door. You must choose to go through. Be ready to break out of your comfort zone, young tiger.

How you look Don’t let anyone fool you: How you look is important, and you should always care. You’re not giving into any corporate or social cliché by looking sharp. Dressing well is a great place to start with selfesteem issues. You should feel good about yourself whenever you look in the mirror. A new look can help you feel like a different person. So try a change of pace and experiment with stuff you wouldn’t normally wear. When you shop for clothes, there are some great ways to find a new style that is in and fresh while still being very you. Start with mainstream clothing outlets when looking for a complete wardrobe overhaul (e.g., Gap, American Eagle, Abercrombie, Banana Republic). Guys, consult a female friend initially. If you’re in short supply, hit up the bookstore and browse men’s fashion magazines—the Internet is also a good resource. Good fashion will up your supply of lady friends in no time. Ladies, sales floors are crowded with people only too eager to help, and they give great suggestions when you’re hunting for an outfit. Women’s fashion magazines will help too, and it never hurts to just ask a guy friend what he finds attractive about you and what he thinks you’d look good in.

Overcoming insecurity leads to more dates Zach Chastaine Vanguard staff

Hygiene

Going on a date

A person can do wondrous things as long as they smell divine. This is not difficult to accomplish, yet is often overlooked. This is very important if you want to get a date or be dynamic at a party (even very drunk people appreciate fresh breath). Hygiene goes beyond just smelling like excellence. You need to take the battle to your nose, fingernails, toenails, face and hair too.

OK, little tigers, the time has come: You’re sharply dressed, smell nice and feeling as good as you look. It’s time to earn your stripes and make a play for the apple of your eye and ask them out. Obviously, the first step is to just ask. To do this, you’re just going to have to take the bull by the horns, and believe it or not, most people are actually really polite when they reject you. The worst-case scenario is they say no—you have nothing to lose and plenty to gain. Notes were cute in middle school, but face-to-face dating is what works in college. Also, the Internet is cool, but don’t just approach someone for a date via Facebook or Twitter—that’s how stalkers work, and you’re looking for a date, not a restraining order. Here’s a quick, easy guide to breaking the ice:

Do these things: - Shower every single morning, with shampoo and soap (or body wash) - Use deodorant—guys, reach for the Old Spice, ladies, Dove is clean and subtle - Shave any hair growing between your eyebrows—pluck them if you’re more comfortable with that - Moustaches are for hipsters and gold miners—Unless you’re one of those, shave it - If you use body wash, don’t use cologne or perfume, as it’s easy to go overboard—guys should consider Azzaro Chrome and ladies with American Eagle’s Aerie fragrance is great (it’ll probably be the last perfume you’ll ever buy) - Pick out or trim your nose hairs (this may hurt, so take your time) - Wash your face each morning and evening with warm (not hot) water and a washcloth - Style your hair—remember that even unkempt is a style!

Step 1: Say a simple hello and don’t act turned on or haughty— and remember to smile! Then introduce yourself to feel out how interested they are. If they respond well, proceed.

Step 2:

- If nothing else, consult a professional stylist or even a style magazine

Ask if they want to get coffee or lunch sometime. There are plenty of comfortable, neutral places to meet up on campus. If this goes well, proceed.

Hanging with a crowd

Step 3:

For some people, being with a group of people can be the most terrifying experience ever, especially if it’s a group of people they don’t know. What’s a little tiger to do? Try these tips when you’re out with the other cubs: Smile!

A little personality goes a long way, and people love a friendly newcomer. This is the most important thing to remember, as a smiling person gives off good vibes (aside from The Joker, maybe).

Keep cool

Stay calm, and remember that most people are actually quite friendly. If you get too nervous, politely say you have to get going—it’s better to seem friendly and distracted than like a nervous wreck.

Talking points

Let other people talk for a bit. That way, you can test the water and overhear what other people are into before joining in. Remember, it’s a bad idea to talk politics or religion amongst strangers. Once you join the conversation, be sure to stay relevant or at least sensible—random outbursts are not well received.

Exchange phone numbers or e-mail, (texting is pro). Now you can think about Facebook and Twitter contact with them.

If one of these steps fails, keep your head and be polite about the rejection. You may try again later, or you may need to move on, young tiger—plenty of antelope are on the plains.

Congratulations! Now that you have some pointers, get out there and date someone! You’ll be amazed at how soon your selfesteem rises and you’ll be well on your way to conquering insecurity forever. If you need more advice, write to us at onlinedailyvanguard@gmail.com.

Now in session: Porn 101!

Best actor: Michael Stefano

Adult film conversation shouldn’t be a shameful thing

Sasha Grey even landed a lead role in Steven Soderbergh’s The Girlfriend Experience—evidence abound that porn is being accepted, or at least tolerated. Bear in mind that I’m talking about hetero-normative porn here: Queer and alternative porn have a ways to go. Those willing to admit their porn fascination will appreciate the following list of highlights from last year and quick rundowns of some classics. With any luck, you’ll be encouraged to freely discuss titles you enjoy and those to avoid as you relax your worries about being judged for liking adult film.

Robert Seitzinger

Top picks for 2010

Photo courtesy of Elegant Angel

Photo courtesy of Sasha Grey

Vanguard staff

There are some topics divisive enough that your stance clearly defines your character to others, leading to assumptions and even prejudices that are difficult to change. Religion and politics are obvious examples of this, but conversations about sex shine an equally bright light onto one’s personality. Consider walking into Kells and overhearing some Scotch-sipping patrons discussing their water-sports fetishes. Most likely, these pee-is-sexy types went from potential hooligans to obvious perverts in your mind. However, if you were a fellow urophiliac, you’d want to join them and swap stories of your own golden moments. This is what talking about porn is like for most people outside the adult film industry. Most people either can’t stop giggling or just frown and ignore you as you casually rattle off your favorite actors and producers—and it’s never easy to bring up your enthusiasm for the latest release in the Weapons of Ass Destruction series or how you thought the lighting was a bit weak in My Hot Wife is Fucking Blackzilla #7. However, porn has made some crossover into the mainstream in the last decade: Ron Jeremy has held several guest spots on cable TV and in major motion pictures, My Bare Lady (FOX Reality) chronicled porn actresses who took on theater roles in London’s West End, and Family Business (Showtime) followed around producer Adam Glasser, aka Seymore Butts, while he and his mom ran their porn company.

Best film: Big Wet Asses 15

The Big Wet Asses series is known for casting starlets who have not performed on-screen anal sex acts—Julia Bond, Sunny Lane and Alexis Texas, to name a few—and has won consistently with this shtick at the Adult Video News Awards (the AVNs are more or less the porn Oscars). BWA15 cover girl Gianna Michaels finally answered the cries of her derrière-obsessed fans and performed anal with super stud Michael Stefano. Ava Rose offered up her on-film anal cherry as well in this title, and her sister Mia Rose took on frequent AVN winner Manuel Ferrara to close out the DVD. If you haven’t seen any of the BWA titles, this is a great one to start with. You really can’t miss with any of them, though—there are five scenes featuring women with thick backsides that get slathered in lube and then penetrated. Hey, if it ain’t broke don’t fix it, right? Best actress: Sasha Grey

I love me some Sasha Grey. There is a reason she was cast as a lead in a Soderbergh film—she separates herself from the trashy-bimbo-with-silicone stereotype unfortunately applied to porn actresses thanks to Jenna Jameson and hundreds of other nameless, aging Californian waitresses still searching for their big break. Grey’s natural grace and beauty are very refreshing, but she’s still one of the dirtiest girls in the biz—check her out in AVN-nominated Throat: A Cautionary Tale or Anal Cavity Search 9 and you’ll agree.

This man inspires a jealousy in me like the envy Bill Gates draws from young geeks who wish they, too, could amass billions with their computer-programming prowess. Stefano is superbly hung, dashingly handsome and he produces, directs and stars in some of the best adult film available today. That, and he’s hooked up with dozens of my favorite actresses…those fellows in high school who were sleeping with cheerleaders I merely got to see in skimpy outfits have nothing on Stefano.

Oldies but goodies Deep Throat (1972)

Linda Lovelace plays a woman who can’t orgasm until her doctor discovers that her clitoris is located in the back of her throat. She then goes on a fellatio escapade to find a husband, intermixed with the sounds of bells clanging to signify orgasms—the film is nearly 40 years old, and still the absurdity runs strong. The sexual ardor is somewhat lost, given how farcical the film tries to be, and it adds weight to the argument that porn shouldn’t try to win comedy awards and comedies shouldn’t make you want to masturbate. All I Want for Christmas is a Gang Bang (1994)

What happened to John T. Bone that made him decide to combine yuletide cheer with an orgy? The world may never know, but they can watch as he directs nine dudes going to town on Annabel Chong and Kerri Downs. Gangbang films are always a crapshoot, because the rampant bacchanalia precludes any sense of intimacy between actors and there are usually a few guys you’d just rather not see naked that get cast to take sloppy sevenths. But if you’re in the mood for some all-out group action circa the early 1990s, this is a solid choice.

Silliest porn titles Big Boob Bangeroo Blowbang Sexxxperience Boobaholics Anonymous Butt Junkies Creamy Stinkstars Cum on my Tattoo Cum on my Stockings I Can’t Believe I Took the Whole Thing Perverted Grannies Real Men Prefer Strap-Ons Screw My Wife Please 32—And Make Her Sweat Like a Pig!

Gender health matters! Michael Pascual/Portland State Vanguard

Boys and girls just aren’t the same Robert Seitzinger and Theodora Karatzas Vanguard staff

This may come as a surprise, but there are a lot of differences between men and women. Those differences weren’t so pronounced in kindergarten, but 12 grades later you’ve probably noticed that we treat our bodies—and our attitudes about the opposite gender—very differently. Some of these points are obvious, but they’re worth discussing given that some folks need it impressed upon themselves over and over before they understand the difference between Venus and Mars.

Robert’s tips for the guys Admit it, fellas: We got the better end of the anatomical deal. Our bodies are pretty straightforward in terms of what separates us from the fairer sex, starting with our excretory systems—yes, I mean taking a leak and dropping a deuce (grow up and read an anatomy book, dude). When it comes to whizzing, well, we’ve got it pretty easy—just aim and release. I feel we've won the genetic lottery if only because we can spell our names in the snow after too many beers. Holding your bladder too often may result in problems later in life, including early onset of urinary retention. This means it doesn’t all flow out on the first try, resulting in more trips to the john to shake the rest out. Sexually, having a penis is also considerably simpler: Apply even light pressure to our junk and a trouser tent is pitched. The most obvious peckerprotection tips include using condoms during sex to avoid dong-damaging diseases—and don’t go poking your pudd into pencil sharpeners or parking meters. Aside from that, be sure to scrub and rinse when bathing and don’t use Viagra recreationally—your erections are finite, my man, so don’t burn through your inventory now or you’ll miss them later. The anal region is incredibly sensitive as well and can be manipulated to very pleasurable effect, though many men cast in the hetero-normative mold might

mutter about how gay that sounds. To each their own, but there’s a wide gap between being homosexual and appreciating some light ass play every now and again. For male recipients of anal sex, be sure to use water-based lubricants to help avoid issues with bowel control and intense pain. Speaking of hairy derrière, men should take care to protect themselves from colon and prostate risks. This means wiping thoroughly and rinsing while showering (not a full-on enema, but at least lather your tuckus a bit). Also, if you’re worried about hemorrhoids or feel any sort of shooting pains from your dorsal region, don’t just shrug it off—it’s never comfortable to visit a proctologist, but that’s a time for being safe, not sorry. Just toughing it out will come back to bite you on the ass…literally.

Theo talks lady bits Us ladies have many tantalizing aspects to our bodies, from our supple breasts, hips and bums to that garden of wonder that is the vagina. However, being considerably more alluring than men (who, let’s face it, can be utter slobs if they’re not dating) means that we tend to have much more pressure to keep things looking pretty and special health concerns that we face. Breast health is important, given that they can seriously hurt if they’re mishandled. Wearing a bra is second nature for most college women, but surprisingly, most ladies wear the wrong bra size. Breasts may still change in shape and size as we mature, so be mindful of what cradles your chest through old age. Mammalgia, a term for breast pain, is very uncomfortable, though it usually only occurs during a menstrual cycle (or when some fumbling freshman forcibly fondles our fantastic front pair). Speaking of issues relating to menstruation, this again is something most of us are well versed in, having likely mastered the art of tolerating and keeping it as discreet as possible. Our flows will change with each cycle, so be sure to have a decent stock of necessary-sized tampons or pads handy. In recent years, there have been wonderful innovations in the

feminine hygiene industry, making it easier to find just the right product to suit your needs. Want comfort and solid protection? Try a tampon with super absorbency and a soft, plastic applicator for easy insertion. Care about the environment? There are myriad organic, chemical-free tampons and pads out there made just for your hippy vag. Urinary tract infections occur—given the physical differences—more often in women than men. This is because they’re usually the result of bacteria in the urinary tract, and bacteria has an easier time attacking the vulvovaginal region than it does forcing its way through a male’s stemlike urethra. Contracting a UTI is seriously uncomfortable, so be soft-yet-direct between your legs when bathing. Skip the douching and scented female hygiene products as this can upset the delicate pH balance in our neither regions and cause serious irritation. Finally, a happy woman is she who stays healthy. No one feels or looks very good when they aren’t healthy, so take care of yourself. Given the greater amount of health issues we face, having a good rapport and regularly scheduled appointments with a gynecologist is a must. He or she can be a veritable encyclopedia of knowledge on women’s health concerns and can help you in assessing what kinds of health care options are right for you. This can be especially good with birth control, as no two women respond to the same hormones in the same way. Talking to a doctor is, of course, always a good thing to do regardless of gender, but having a good gynecologist who understands your body will not only make you more comfortable, but also support better reproductive and overall health in general.

Medical info We’re journalists, not doctors, and we did our research via www.familydoctor.com and www.pdrhealth.com. These Web sites are OK for general advice, but for the most accurate info and assistance with gender-specific health concerns, it’s best to visit your doctor or head over to the Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC). SHAC info Web site: www.pdx.edu/shac Phone: 503-725-2800 Address: 1880 SW Sixth Ave.

Happy, healthy humpin’ Michael Pascual/Portland State Vanguard

Don’t get burned—use condoms and get checked regularly Robert Britt Vanguard staff

The safest form of sex, they say, is to abstain from it. But let’s be honest here, we are college students—and college students enjoy their sex. As far as sex is concerned, however, there can be too much of a good thing. That is, if certain precautions aren’t taken. Irresponsible and reckless sexual behavior can lead to unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STI), and among college-aged people, the risk of either is increased. According to a report released last year by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), roughly 1 million children and young adults 10 to 24 years old contracted chlamydia, gonorrhea or syphilis in 2006, and 45 percent of women ages 20 to 24 had a human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. In Multnomah County alone, there were almost 11,000 new cases of chlamydia reported in 2008, up from nearly 7,000 cases in 2000. Meanwhile, the number of cases of gonorrhea has remained constant at about 1,200 cases a year. “It’s a sexually active population, absolutely. And rightfully so,” said Janice

McBee, nurse manager for the Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC). “However, there are options, and people need to be smart in those options.” The biggest advice McBee has for sexually active students is to ensure they are having protected sex. “There are several options for safe sex,” she said. Barrier methods such as male or female condoms can greatly reduce (though not eliminate) the chances of unwanted pregnancies and STIs. To be effective though, they must be used properly and regularly. It only takes sexual contact with one infected partner to contract something, so consistency is important. Using dual methods of protection like condoms in tandem with the use of birth control pills is also recommended to further decrease the likelihood of pregnancy or infection. SHAC offers a variety of services for the safe-sex minded student, and McBee, a nurse of nearly 40 years, encourages students to take advantage of the assistance available. She said students set up appointments for a nurse visit, and that students set the agenda. McBee said an appointment with a nurse would involve a brief questionnaire to provide information on sexual history and the objective of the visit. “It’s really about listening to the student,” she said. “It might be, say, an

18 year old that is just starting out having sexual activity, or possibly it’s someone very experienced and they’re considering an IUD [an intra-uterine device used for contraception].” Screening for STIs is another service offered by SHAC, whether students are showing signs of an infection or are asymptomatic and just looking for peace of mind. Students can make an appointment to get checked, with the results typically available within two to three days. The CDC reports that screening is “one of the most effective, yet underutilized, tools…to help prevent the further spread of [STIs],” and according to McBee, not enough students are getting checked. In a study released by the CDC last November, there were over 1.5 million cases of chlamydia and gonorrhea reported in 2008—making them the most commonly reported infectious diseases in the country. Because infections are more common in young women and about 70 percent of chlamydia infections and 50 percent of gonorrhea infections in women have no symptoms, the CDC recommends annual screenings for sexually active women under 26 years old. “If anybody is suspecting anything at all, absolutely make an appointment,” McBee said. “Everything is confidential, it’s very respectful, and we are absolutely here for the student population.”

Staying healthy, with tips from SHAC! College life is a dangerous one, but together we can make it through Zach Chastaine Vanguard staff

Health goes far beyond just avoiding the flu. And on a college campus, there are more hazards to your health than you may even be aware of. Janice Mcbee from the Center for Student Health and Counseling (SHAC) gave me a thorough briefing of some of the often-overlooked perils of health that many of us aren’t even aware of. Remember that if you ever feel your health may be waning, or you simply desire a check-up, SHAC offers testing and treatment for anything from dental exams to mental health counseling, with widespread medical support resources for help beyond campus to boot! SHAC boasts an in-house laboratory for fast turnaround on test results and four on-staff doctors to handle X-rays, checkups and counseling—all flanked by a team of nurses to answer questions and concerns. There is even a mental health department where students can get counseling or help from a psychologist, and a dental facility where you can get your teeth cleaned. Students are encouraged to take advantage of SHAC resources.

Eating too much junk While it may seem cliché and obvious, there is a point where eating too much unhealthy food can begin to have more than the obvious adverse affects on your health. In addition to weight gain, mood swings are a known result of improper eating. So use your meager food budget wisely—perhaps buy some oranges.

Dental health Get your teeth cleaned: Nothing says you love yourself like a mouth free of cavities and gingivitis. Fresh breath and freedom from tooth decay is a winning combination. With such busy schedules sometimes we forget to take care of our pearly (or coffee-stained) teeth. Take advantage of SHAC’s dental facilities and let the friendly staff clean you up.

Heavy loads

Hand washing

We all have books, binders and countless papers for our classes, and some have to carry instruments and tools. But try to balance out your load to carrying only what you need when you need it. Your body will let you know when it has too much weight on it, you will feel discomfort or pain. Give yourself a break, and save yourself a trip to the chiropractor.

You think that the bathroom is the only place that has dirty door handles? Guess again. A college campus, like any public installation, has door handles that countless hands touch each day, phones that hundreds of mouths breath on and countless desks and chairs that we all have taken a much-needed nap in. Carry hand sanitizer and wash frequently to help keep yourself protected from contamination.

Headphones In the words of Chuck Palahniuk, we are addicted to music, and most of us would agree—it’s the best addiction. But take warning, constant exposure to high volume piped directly into your ear can cause damage over time that will be irreversible. Try to keep tabs on how loud your headphones or ear buds are. If you do think your hearing is troubled, a student can get a free evaluation from the Audiology Clinic with a referral from SHAC.

Alcohol Drinking in moderation won’t hurt you, and getting blasted every now and then won’t either. But drink with friends if you’re new to alcohol, and find out if your family has any history of alcoholism. Getting drunk can also imbalance your diet and cause you to lose your appetite, so be sure to eat plenty and drink water.

Housing hazards Do you live on campus? Don’t walk around barefoot if you can avoid it. Dorm floors are full of countless bacteria and viruses that can make you sick, and they can penetrate your socks too. Footwear is important if you live on campus. If you have to share showers, wear flip flops to avoid getting athlete’s foot.

Sunshine When sunlight hits your skin, vitamin D is produced, an important nutrient the body needs to maintain itself. Open a window and let the sun and fresh air in. Sunlight and fresh air can also improve your mood and relieve stress. Fresh air is also good for your lungs and mood.

Good sleep Sleep is how we recharge our bodies— sometime in the night, the magical mystery of sleep just gasses our engine in a way only sleep can. Not only does it revitalize us mentally and physically, it can also help us relieve stress. Although six hours is the recommended amount of sleep, most of us have odd sleep patterns that range from four to 10 hours per night. Find a schedule that fits you best, and sleep in once in a while.

Exercise Not everyone has time to hit up the gym three times a week, or even once a term. But it’s not even necessary to do that. While it is encouraged that a person get 30 minutes to an hour of exercise per day, just walking around for 10 minutes two or three times per day is better than nothing. And if you really want to get healthy, take advantage of the new Academic and Student Recreation Center. It’s free!

Hygiene How often do you shower? Once a day should be close to your answer. Showering cleans out clogged pores and washes away bacteria and viruses that cause disgusting body odors and infections. Keeping clean can also help you improve your social situation. For some cultures, frequent bathing is not the norm. If a friend of yours smells like a jockstrap, be sensitive to cultural differences when bringing up the subject of bathing.

College eats Avoid the common college microwave diet Richard D. Oxley Vanguard staff

We’ve all heard the horrific clichés of the “freshman 15,” or stereotypes of microwave dinners and pocket meals. But hey, it’s not like you’re made of money or went to culinary school! College has been known to play host to perhaps the worst diet that you will have in your life. But don’t bow down to the microwave just yet. Believe it or not, there is a middle ground. The following are four simple ideas for good and cheap college eats—emphasis on cheap—but still going beyond the common student’s culinary proficiency, or lack there of. Keep in mind, I try to keep it as healthy as possible, but this isn’t an article for your calorie-cutting, fat-burning, magically vigorous dietary regiment. Nothing takes the place of healthy food, your doctor’s instruction or good exercise.

A few tips to start you off - Own a pot and a pan: If you’re using these often, it could indicate that you’re eating a lot better than your neighbor. Plus they make a great late-night burglary defense device. - Invest in some seasoning: A spice rack can go a long way, and most good spices won’t cost you too much yet will last a while. When you think that a healthy meal is gonna lack some taste, a little seasoning can take it up a notch. - Canned vegetables aren’t always bad: They can be much cheaper and sometimes easier to cook with. But pay attention to the next tip… - Read labels: Read the labels of the stuff you buy. The more basic the ingredients of what you’re eating, the better it probably is for you.

Michael Pascual/Portland State Vanguard

Ramen stir-fry That’s right. Those ramen packages you’ve been boiling up can be better—well, they still aren’t that great for you, but you can add a few simple ingredients to benefit your body. Open that ramen bag and take out the seasoning packet. Now throw that packet away. There really isn’t much in there except for a lot of salt and MSG. Boil up those noodles as normal. When they’re ready, instead of making soup, stir-fry them up while adding a variety of vegetables. Think celery, onions, carrots, broccoli, peas, bell peppers, green onions and so on—anything you like. You can even throw on some chicken or steak strips. Use some seasoning, soy sauce, etc., for your preferred taste and remember, garlic is always good.

fry it along with some green onions, peas, carrots and any cooked, chopped chicken or beef you have around. Come to think of it, garlic goes well with rice too. Yummy!

Soup Soup is simple. The boiling does most of the work so you can rest easy. Take chicken soup, for example. Use chicken bullion or soup base and mix it with water to your tastes. Set it to simmer. From there add some dry noodles, vegetables you like and seasoning. You can also add chunks of chicken that you either bought in a can or cooked up yourself. Same deal for beef soup. And don’t forget the garlic.

Rice is nice

Wrap it up

Rice can be used in just about everything and it goes a long way. It's good on its own, but can be the base of just about any dish you enjoy. You can include it in your wrap or your soup. However, just a note for you counters out there, rice is packed with calories. But hey, take the stairs next time you have to get to the fourth floor of Neuberger Hall and that should help. And save some bucks—don’t buy the fancy imported stuff that costs an arm and a leg. If you can find some cheap curry, pour that on top. But a nice and cheap thing to do with rice is to scramble up an egg or two (depending on how much rice you made) and add it to some rice as you stir

Wraps are great to play with, as there are plenty of different recipes to use. A basic wrap is made by simply putting together a salad and wrapping it up in a soft tortilla shell. Use some lettuce, spinach or both and throw in a selection of your favorite vegetables. And like I said, you can play around with your own versions, but this one is fairly cheap. If you want to take it further, though perhaps not as cheap, bake up some popcorn chicken for your wrap. And if you want to go even further, soak those chicken chunks in hot sauce mixed with a little melted butter for a nice, spicy kick. Oh, and did I mention the garlic yet?

The Vanguard’s relationship poll Photo courtesy of Patrick Wanis

Patrick Wanis

What does it all mean?

RELATIONSHIP POLL The Vanguard posted a poll on Facebook asking what men and women look for most in a potential partner. The choices were narrowed down to eight options. Of course, if

Richard D. Oxley Vanguard staff

Sure, the Vanguard’s Facebook poll was all for fun and kicks, and admittedly not scientific. There can always be other considerations such as, you know, love. It appears trust, honesty and loyalty were dominant themes for both guys and gals when choosing a partner. The other answers were thinly spread, though differed. But still, what could it all mean? Patrick Wanis holds a doctorate and number of titles, such as human behavior specialist, celebrity life coach and relationship expert. He has also written various books on the subject of relationships and offered his expert opinion on TV, ranging from MSNBC to the Montel Williams Show. Wanis notes that although most might expect men to value physical traits more, they actually place trust, honesty and loyalty highest. This is because of the particular group taking part in the poll— the college crowd of Portland. “If you’re talking about more educated people, then they are going to have more experience in relationships, or they are going to have thought more about relationships,” Wanis said. “They’re saying ‘OK, because I spend more time thinking about life and questioning life and learning, gaining new knowledge, new understanding, new wisdom. Therefore, I am looking for something different in a partner, other than just the physical.’” Wanis also pointed out that such high marks for trust and honesty for both groups could come from bad experiences or relationships where those traits were absent. He noted if the same people polled were asked if they have been cheated on or betrayed in a relationship, the numbers would be similar to trust, honesty and loyalty. Physical traits still came in second for men, placing higher than it did for women. “The relevance of that is really quite simple,” Wanis said. “The male brain is primarily stimulated visually…the female brain, is stimulated primarily by sound… that’s why women will talk about a guy

we wanted to take the time, we could have offered over a hundred choices, but that might get a little confusing. Here are the results for both men and women.

Men Women

What do you look for most in A potential PARTNER? 0%

4% Success/Money

11%

A certain style 4%

16%

Humor 18%

Certain physical traits 11%

A casual, no commitment attitude 7%

12%

Goals or ambitions 39%

57%

Trust/honesty/loyalty 11%

Other

having a great voice, they will fall in love with a poet, musician, writer, singer, someone with an accent or someone who simply is skillful with words.” Some other differences were presented—women didn’t even vote for a casual attitude, when the guys scored 11 percent. However men didn’t pay any attention to success or money while women—though a very small percentage—did. “Guys are not interested in [money or success] because they are planning on making their own…and the girls are

telling you ‘it’s not that important to us either, because we’re also planning to have our own success and money,’” Wanis said. “The girls are saying to you ‘we want to be independent, we don’t want to be dependant.’ That’s different in today’s generation from former generations.” Of course, you can’t pin down everyone from one poll. Men and women will all want different things from a relationship, however serious. It is important to understand that in any relationship.