February 13, 2014 | Volume 3, Issue 18 | Stillwater, OK
www.theodysseyonline.com | @Odyssey_OKState | Facebook.com/TheOdysseyOklahomaState
IS THE GRASS GREENER ON THE OTHER SIDE? PAGE 5
CAN WOMEN BE CREEPY? page 4 VALENTINE’S DAY FOR THE SINGLES page 7 THE FIVE CUTEST CONGRESSMEN page 11
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editor’s note
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CaTCHING UP WITH THE SaE’S Last year on Va l e n t i n e ’ s D a y, I had the privilege of interviewing three Chi omega junior members of Editor-in-Chief Sigma Alpha Epsilon. Daren Dunkel, Jacob Libby is a senior studying Moffat and Austin multimedia journalism. You may contact her at elizabeth. Higgs opened my nicholas@okstate.edu. eyes to many things about dating and the holiday from a guy’s perspective. This year I caught up with the SAE’s to see how their view on dating has evolved now that they are seniors. Turns out, their outlook on women and hilarious thoughts on love haven’t changed much. Talking with these boys causes a certain book title to resonate through my mind. Guys are Waffles; Girls are Spaghettiby Chad Eastham offers some clarity on why I was baffled when Austin told me his worst, yet most humorous, date-gone-wrong story. Worst Date or Best Date? “In high school, I used to date the devil and I took her to a restaurant,” Austin said. “My ex-girlfriend was our waitress and [the devil girl] was upset, so I was eggin’ her on. I was kinda like flirtin’ with my ex a bit. I told my ex how big of a tip I was going to give her, and my girlfriend got up and walked home from the restaurant.” Austin is from Tulsa, so it wasn’t a short jog home. After she denied his one call, Austin said he gave up. He hasn’t seen her since. “You finished eating, didn’t you?” Daren asked. “Yes, I did. But she’s literally the worst person I’ve ever met,” Austin said. In order to avoid eating another dessert alone at Johnny Carino’s, as his date hitchhikes home to watch John Tucker Must Diewith her girlfriends, Austin plans to spend the Hallmark holiday with his bros this year.
LIBBY NiCHoLAS
“I’m taking [my girlfriend] to Thai Cafe,” Jacob said. “I will also be drunk with Austin at Thai Cafe,” Daren said. “Yes, I will be at Thai Cafe,” Austin said. “I am Daren’s date.” These guys may be funny, but they shared some serious insight on how guys plan pick up lines, date invitations and more. Best and Worst Pick Up Lines “Daren’s still in the fifth grade stage, where he’s mean to a girl if he likes her,” Austin said. “I don’t pick up girls. Girls pick me up.” “I think my attention span for texting is about five minutes,” Daren said. “So when a girl doesn’t respond in that timeframe, I say, ‘good talk.’ Never works out. Ever. Only annoys them. Wouldn’t recommend this strategy.” Describe a Typical Valentine’s Day “Usually just get really drunk, I think.” “Yeah, me too.” “Yeah.” asking Her Out “Whatever I’ve done has worked, because she has stuck around,” Jacob said. “You have to actually go on dates, though, most people don’t want to do that.” “I think the perfect way is to just be casual about it,” Austin said. “Like, ‘Hey, want to stay home and bake?” “When have you ever baked?” Daren asked. “That’s the point,” Austin said. “If she can’t bake, she’s going to be alone for all of her long, boring, cupcake-less life... there are a ton of girls out there who aren’t going to have a fulfilling life. Girls gotta bake and guys gotta do your research.” Research is figuring out if a girl’s qualities match up with your interests, Austin said. This includes things about her personality and physique. So, what are good and bad signs in research? “Chi Omega or Pi Phi, intelligent, in shape, enjoys drinking, likes sports, likes Taylor Swift and is not annoying, “ Daren said. “My type is very similar to Libby Nicholas’s mother... just very classy, very nice.” Daren also believes in brown nosing.
THE ODYSSEY AT OKLAHOMA STATE EXECUTIVE TEaM President Breanna Fuller Alpha Delta Pi
Distribution Executive Tori Brownless Alpha Delta Pi
Recruitment Executive
CREaTIVE TEaM Editor-in-Chief
Libby Nicholas Chi Omega
Photographer Jamie Barnes Sigma Pi
Kade Goodwin Phi Delta Theta
OLYMPIa MEDIa GROUP 888.272.2595 | olympiaMediaGroup.com Managing editor, Brittany Binowski Designer, Grant Hohulin
We want a representative from every house! to apply for a writing, photography or sales position, theodysseyonline.com/creative © 2014 Olympia Media Group, LLC All Rights Reserved. The Odyssey is a private entity not associated or governed by University of Oklahoma or OSU Greek life office. The views and opinions shared in The Odyssey are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of The Odyssey and Olympia Media Group.
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IS THE GRASS GREENER ON THE OTHER SIDE? It’s high time Oklahomans prepare to defend where they stand in regard to marijuana laws.
bill, regarding marijuana as a frequent “gateway drug.”
The argument for legalized marijuana has arrived in the Oklahoma legislature. State Senator Connie Johnson, D-Dist.48, recently introduced a bill that would regulate and tax marijuana like alcohol in Oklahoma.
“I have discussed this issue with two physicians, MD’s, and I accept the assertion that they have an adequate arsenal of pain medicines and do not need medical marijuana at this time,” Halligan said. “They also voiced serious concerns regarding the other chemicals that individuals were inhaling when smoking marijuana.”
Senate Bill 2116 would make the personal use, possession, and limited cultivation of marijuana legal for adults 21 years of age and older, and establish a system in which marijuana is regulated and taxed similarly to alcohol. Yesterday, proponents of the Senate Bill 2116 converged on the Capitol to show support for the bill to legalize marijuana. The morning was marked with a hearing on the science of medical marijuana held by the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Select Agency. Advocates were encouraged to meet with their elected officials and discuss the legislation in what was promoted as “Marijuana Rally Day.” “As taxpayers, we’re spending over $30 million each year policing, jailing and incarcerating our citizens on marijuana-related offenses. Yet, marijuana is almost universally available. It’s time for a smarter approach,” Sen. Johnson said. “By taxing and regulating marijuana we can take the lucrative market out of the hands of criminals and drug cartels and put it in the hands of tax-paying, law-abiding businesses,” Johnson said. Recent national polls of adult Americans showed 55 percent in favor of legalizing marijuana for recreational use. In addition, a recent online poll of college-aged students in this area showed support as high as 74 percent in favor of legalization. Despite these rising numbers of approval, not all legislators are eager to jump on board with Johnson’s bill. Senator Jim Halligan, R-Dist. 21, is one of several Republicans in opposition to the
MITCHELL eArL Alpha Gamma rho
Mitchell is a senior studying biochemistry and molecular biology. You may contact him at mitchell.earl@okstate.edu.
On January 1, Colorado became the first state to legalize marijuana for recreational use, projecting nearly $70 millions of anticipated tax revenue for 2014. Washington is not far behind with sales to open up within the month. Oklahoma joins five other states with on-going legislative debates about the issue. Those states include Rhode Island, Vermont, New Hampshire, Hawaii and Maryland. In addition, an effort in Alaska to place an initiative on the 2014 ballot is being promoted. The Marijuana Policy Project plans to support similar movements in Arizona, California, Maine and Nevada for the 2016 election. The movement is taking place nationwide, and even the Department of Justice has suggested they will allow the legal experiments in Colorado and Washington to continue—as long as marijuana does not make it across the border or into the hands of minors.
GLOBAL WARMING? YEAH RIGHT! would go to class, so that’s a plus for the university. Also, it would give us all a chance to break out our Hawaiian shirts a little more often, and there’s nothing wrong with that.
Last Sunday Nick and I stepped outside for our weekly power walk down 6th street to the donut shop, and we came to the same conclusion that this global warming thing is a bunch of bogus. I don’t have to be a scientist to realize that it’s not getting any warmer. For instance, last year during finals week in May, it was in the 40’s. But, according to politicians like Al Gore, we need to start driving less and recycling, so that the polar bears don’t starve to death. Oh no, heaven forbid we disrupt the life cycle of the polar bears. Yeah, we’ll see how badly Al Gore wants to save a polar bear when it’s two feet from his face, ready to tear him to pieces. Let’s be honest here, those savage beasts should be locked up in confined, yet comfortable habitats in public zoos. I’d feel safer living with Sharkeisha than having those man-eaters running rampant on the streets. When you look at global warming rationally, it really doesn’t seem that bad. First of all, who wouldn’t want the weather to be a little bit warmer? More people
NICK CHArLtoN & DaVID DuNKeL Sigma Alpha epsilon
David and Nick are sophomores. You may contact them at S e c o n d l y, c o n s e r v i n g davidadunkel@aol.com. energy is stupid. Thomas Edison is rolling in his grave every time some liberal politician mentions a smart car, or how we need to turn off the lights every time we leave a room. Yeah, that’s a great idea, let me just turn off all the lights at my house at night so I can get robbed. Americans shouldn’t conserve energy, we should utilize it. Leave the lights on all day, and celebrate the fact that we have electricity. Let the next generation of people deal with our problems, while we reap the benefits in the mean time. While you energy conserving, tree hugging Al Gore fans are out trying to save the polar bear populations, Nick and I will be driving our Hummer to the Tulsa zoo to throw peanuts at the animals. The point we’re trying to get across is that politicians will come up with the craziest ideas just to scare people into voting for them. Al Gore’s movie “The Inconvenient Truth” is a prime example of this. You want the real inconvenient truth, Gore? George W. Bush won the election and you didn’t. And you’re movie has as much credibility to it as “Ice Age 2: The Meltdown.” Go ahead and run up the heating and electric bills this winter, and save our people from polar bear attacks. Until next time, kisses.
Nick and Dave
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CAN WoMeN Be CreePy? Valentine’s Day and the days and weeks leading up to it are chocked full of pressure. There’s pressure on guys to find a girl who is willing to allow him to shower her with Phi Delta theta cards, flowers, chocolates and gifts because Christmas wasn’t Kade is a senior studying political even two months ago and let’s science. You may contact him at face it, that’s WAY too long for kade.goodwin@okstate.edu most females to go without needing to be bombarded with presents. For girls, there’s pressure on them to find the best looking, most successful, least socially awkward schmuck available and swindle them into blowing their monthly allowance on a heart shaped box filled with chocolates, of which only one-fourth will be eaten by the intended party, the rest by her Valentine-less roommate. This makes me think that the heart-shaped, chalk-like, candies with writing on them that taste like Tums were made for guys to eat because the price of flowers gives them a stomach ache. Still, women get excited over this day almost more than any other holiday. Guys should be leery about this. You should always question a grown woman if she gets that excited over chocolate and stuffed animals.
KaDE GooDWiN
Anyway, Valentine’s Day is tailored for women, but then again so is the entire dating game. The dating game is full of decisions, and as you might be able to tell by my Odyssey profile picture, I don’t always make good ones, but hear me out. It was decided long ago by men to allow women to get away with things that women decided men couldn’t get away with. Let’s take a look at a few of them. Social Networking Creepiness: If a girl is interested in a guy, there are no bounds to how creepy she can get on social networking. With a few minutes, a girl will know your top three Snapchat friends, who favorites your tweets and Instagram pictures and the fact that your high
school girlfriend looks like she must have taken the breakup hard, fell in love with Ben and Jerry, and seems to have put on the senior 70. While I even feel weird if I remember a girl’s birthday, females will openly admit that they creep on a guy’s social networks. They have no shame in tweeting blatant passive-aggressive things about boys with no consequence, but the moment a guy Facebook messages “Heyyyy lady!” to a girl at 3:13 a.m., his Valentine’s Day card turns into a glittered restraining order. Is that a double-standard? I believe it is. Flirting Creepiness: I’ve always said, for guys there’s a fine line between being flirty and creepy, and that line is being good looking. If you’re a good looking guy, you’ll be able to get away with things that average guys can’t without being labeled “creepy.” If an unattractive guy looks at a girl he doesn’t know for longer than two seconds, he’s automatically in the same category as that high school softball coach who put too much emphasis on stretching. A man can’t stare at a woman like a woman can stare at a man. Girls can stare at guys and guys will be like, “I think she’s staring at me. Nah, there’s probably something really cool going on behind me.” Looking at women for a long period of time is like looking at the welding arc during homecoming, you’re not supposed to do it. While good looking guys have some leeway when it comes to being creepy, women have carte blanche in that category. Women can say or do just about anything short of asking for a locket of your chest hair and not be labeled creepy. A girl could come up to me and creepily say, “I’ve been watching you for a long time. I know everything about you, I know that you can’t put your left sock on properly, you wear footie pajamas and you write a blog about your hatred of Juan Pablo and The Bachelor.” And I’d still be like, “Oh wow. That’s cool. What kind of binoculars do you use? Are you doing anything this Saturday? I’m sure you already know that I don’t have plans.” I mean, let’s be real, if a girl is willing stalk a guy, the least you can do is buy her dinner. All in all, if you don’t have a Valentine this week, don’t feel bad. Who needs a holiday filled with awkwardness and failed expectations? If you don’t have a Valentine, remember that your real gift is not having to buy gifts for anyone. And if you still feel bad, just remember, that no one loves you on the other 364 days either.
BoyS WHo CALL tHeMSeLVeS MeN CAN Be CreePy
Valentine’s Day is definitely one of the most overrated holidays in the book. I’ve never been a candy and teddy bear kind of girl. However, many girls do like that, but the older I get the more I realize how creepy it is a guy you “like” getting you a teddy bear. Wasn’t that a dad kind of thing about 10 to 15 years ago?
BLaKE BAKer Pi Beta Phi
Blake is a freshman studying multimedia journalism. You may contact her at claudbb@okstate.edu.
pursuing Creepiness: When is the last time you heard of a girl saying to a guy, “I’m really going to pursue you.”? Women are lucky to not get called obsessed if they send a text first. As girls, we are trained to be “damsels in distress” and wait for the guy to make a power move, and would be called some bitter names if we didn’t play along. A girl asking a guy on a date? Yeah right. How would a male prove his manhood if, heaven forbid, women had some say so.
“That’s just how guys are wired” creepiness: if a guy does anything socially unacceptable or “creepy,” the words “wired differently” are bound to come up. Any time of day, a guy can get away with making passes at women while she is supposed to stand their in all “That’s just how guys are wired” creepiness: if a guy of her virtue and draw the line. If a woman does anything socially unacceptable or “creepy,” the were to say the things that were said to With Valentine’s coming up, talk her by man, the reactions would be quite words “wired differently” are bound to come up. around the sorority house is full of the different because women “just couldn’t be discussions of, “Do I get him something wired to say such a thing.” Women just for Valentine’s Day... we’re not technically aren’t wired to slap a backside that walks dating?” or the “I need to know what my by or, heaven forbid, a girl just wanting to boyfriend is getting me, because I want to get him something to the equal.” So, to say have a random hook up. I mean that just can’t happen, only guys are wired like that… the stress is high about Valentine’s Day is an understatement, but the real issue is that we’re bound to be a floosy if it happens. Valentine’s Day is a holiday that the man is supposed to make the power moves, but In conclusion, forget getting the roses and teddy bear from a frat star with a dad body really that’s not much different than dating. In general, men can get away with a lot more and spend some time with the ladies, where it’s socially acceptable to text them first, invite and not be creepy. them to dinner and pay for your own meal.
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campus connections
WHAT IS THE pERFECT DATE? With Valentine’s Day quickly approaching, many students are picking out cards, buying assorted chocolates, and making reservations at various restaurants. However, there are many different ways one can spend his or her Valentine’s Day. In order to obtain some perspective on the subject, I asked a few students what their idea is of the perfect Valentine’s Day date. Jamie Gentry responded by saying her version of the perfect Valentine’s Day date would definitely be something fun. “Start with going to an arcade and then go play laser tag,” Jamie said. “And then go get some dinner and maybe ice cream and then see an action movie. After that, we’d come home, stay up late drinking energy drinks and play video games.” Tyler Konarik, member of Phi Gamma Delta, said a relaxing Valentine’s day is ideal. “To me, I think the perfect Valentine’s Day date would be homemade dinner where we could relax and eat together; just my date and I,” Tyler said. “We can give each other our Valentine’s Day present and then we would end the night by renting some movies.” Tyler’s girlfriend, Killian Sokolosky, offered a similar idea. “My idea of a perfect date would be a nice quiet dinner, preferably homemade,” Killian said. “And then we would do something fun together, like ice-skating. To end the night, we would settle in and cuddle by the fire with a good movie playing.” Karalyn Henderson, member of Alpha Delta Pi, had a different take on the perfect Valentine’s Day date.
“I believe it would be fun to have a casual dinner and just get to know each other,” Karalyn said. “The most important part of Valentine’s Day to me is simply spending time with the one person you truly care about.”
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aNNa-RUTH LeWiS Alpha Delta Pi
Anna-Ruth is a sophomore studying psychology. You may contact her at anna-ruth.lewis@ okstate.edu.
Chad Thurman, member of Kappa Sigma fraternity, had a very specific idea in mind. “The perfect date? I mean the weather would have to be perfect, but if I need a day to show a woman I love her, then I’m gonna go all out,” Chad said. “Flowers and dinner should be once a week, not once a year! I heard that the Grand Canyon is one of the top 10 sunsets and sunrises in the world! So we’d pack up that morning and go to the canyon for a little sunset picnic and then go find the perfect spot to camp to watch the sun rise. Something memorable, that’s for sure!”
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campus connections
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INQUIRING MINDS:
THE aLLURE OF CaMP COWBOY people love working camp so much, but that is by no means the only part of camp that people love.
JaMIE BArNeS Sigma Chi
Jamie is a junior studying Landscape Architecture. You may contact him at james. barnes@okstate.edu.
I know there are several instances when people are asked why they love working Camp Cowboy, and people have struggled to accurately explain the true allure. I have heard people say that when they try to explain how great Camp Cowboy is, they feel like a Star Wars fan explaining the magnificence of the movie to someone who wouldn’t understand. Sometimes it can be hard to fully encompass why people love being at camp so much in one attempt at an explanation. It is almost like there is a sort of magic about Camp Cowboy that makes people fall in love, either with camp itself or with someone else who loves camp as much as they do. While it is not the whole purpose of working camp, you cannot deny that there are social benefits. You simply get to meet so many interesting people and a good number of campus leaders through being involved. Having the ability to meet people throughout the summer is great, and honestly we probably all can think of at least There are times in people’s one couple on campus that can in some way lives when they realize that they tie their relationship back to Camp Cowboy. have stumbled upon something I don’t want anyone to think that Camp Cowboy is Whether it’s the soul mates who flirted for special. Once you realize what a semester, then spent some time at Camp the new “It” scene for finding your future wife or you have found, all you want to Cowboy, where they discovered that they husband, but it could never hurt to meet more people were meant to be together. It could be the do is cherish this special thing. One thing that I have noticed while having fun, thus increasing your respective couple who met outside of the lodge and to be a truly special thing here on formed a friendship that led to a more opportunities to meet someone special. our campus is Camp Cowboy. serious relationship, love finds its way into Some people don’t care too much people’s lives. Some people may go into the for spending their time out at camp summer thinking they will find that summer Redlands, or simply haven’t discovered the magic that happens while at Camp love, or maybe they found love on accident. They could have been overcome with Cowboy, and for them I can only hope they get the chance to discover its allure. attraction after watching someone perform the most impressive rendition of Boys will be Girls, or have seen someone’s capacity for compassion when they helped a shy The people who work Camp Cowboy know how incredible a weekend at camp can be, freshmen make some friends. I personally have witnessed a good number of friends and they keep coming back year after year to be a part of something so great. Beyond start relationships that formed on a foundation of camp. all of the ways that Camp Cowboy benefits the school and its incoming freshmen, it is a great experience for the college students who get the chance to work camp as staff I don’t want anyone to think that Camp Cowboy is the new “It” scene for finding members. So many wonderful people work camp, and you begin to feel the sense your future wife or husband, but it could never hurt to meet more people while of family amongst the Camp Cowboy people. When you work Camp Cowboy, you having fun, thus increasing your respective opportunities to meet someone special. have the opportunity to bolster your school spirit and meet a solid number of cool Whether you are looking to get that Facebook official status with someone, or really people. A majority of the people that I am friends with and have close bonds with just want to have a lot of fun with some really incredible people, Camp Cowboy is no are people I met through Camp Cowboy. Not only do you make some meaningful doubt a great place to spend some of your summer. Lastly, if you didn’t already know, friendships while working camp, you also have a blast. That is definitely one reason applications to work Camp Cowboy are out and are due tomorrow, on Valentines Day.
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greek life traditions
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COUPLES OF THE WEEK Valentine’s Day: a day filled with love of all kinds, some with family and friends, some with significant others, and for some, just recalling any memorable Valentine’s moments. These couples have found their valentine for a lifetime. Meredith Moore, Alpha Delta Pi, and Thomas Blackwell, Kappa Sigma, are both from Keller, Texas, and have been together for four years in April. Their first date included stargazing and goofing off in the park. “Our love has always been just like two kids in the summertime that way,” she said. One of the funnier moments of their relationship was a date Thomas had planned out for the two of them. With the intentions of going, after getting dressed up and all, they found out it was an “Oak Ridge Boys” concert. “Thomas was upset for a little bit then we busted out laughing,” Meredith said. Meredith and Thomas are taking the next step in their relationship, as they have been engaged for 10 months. “We were in Florida with my family,” she said. “Thomas asked if I wanted to go for a walk. We got ice cream (which he dropped - later he told me because he was so nervous), and then we walked on the beach, he got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. Of course, I said yes! He was very sweet and had talked to my dad before for his permission.” Meredith and Thomas say to have a “crazy and kid-like” relationship and have a solid foundation in their faith. They are relying on God to guide them in their future plans. Mckinzey Baab, Gamma Phi Beta, and Jonathan Wedel, FarmHouse alumni, have been together two and a half years. McKinzey and Jonathan met during Freshman Follies and also had a class together. Jonathan and McKinzey’s very first kiss was when he asked her to be his girlfriend. After they had taken some time off, their second ‘first kiss’ was when Jonathan proposed. Jonathan and McKinzey’s relationship has been a fun and interesting adventure. “For one of our dates, we snuck onto the OSU baseball field and stargazed!” they said. Their first form of communication (other than in person) was through HeyTell. Jonathan decided to take the next step toward marriage on Nov. 29, 2013.
“It was the day after Thanksgiving and Jonathan and I had been planning on going on a date that day,” Gamma Phi Beta she said. “On our date, we Taylor is a junior studying went to the city to go icestrategic communications. skating and walked around You may contact her at taylor. downtown. We then went to felgenhauer@yahoo.com. dinner at Mama Raja’s and headed back to Stillwater to go see a movie. When he opened the door, I saw all these candles and lights on his wrap around back porch, and I could not move, speak, or think. He took me outside and prayed over our relationship. And then he got down on one knee and said, ‘McKinzey Baab, I love you. Will you marry me.’ In shock, I said yes!”
TaYLOR FeLGeNHAuer
Jonathan and McKinzey will be living in Norman while Jonathan finishes law school. Taylor Mayes, Phi Gamma Delta, and Brene’ Holloway, Chi Omega, met during Homecoming Brene’s freshmen year of college. Taylor and Brene’ have been together for three years and going strong. Taylor and Brene’ have some funny quirks and stories within their relationship. “When you’re engaged to an identical twin….things tend to get awkward sometimes,” she said. Taylor made the big move on Oct. 20, 2013, and they are getting married in August. “My “birthday week” had begun and Taylor told me to leave every night open. Each day he took me to a special place or gave me a special gift along with a letter. Taylor told me to be ready at 4:30 and to just wear something cute but not fancy. He took me down a trail where he had set up a picnic with my favorite meal he had cooked. After we ate, my best friend Morgan Hammock blindfolded me, along with Megan Gray who was video taping the whole thing. At this point I was freaking out! They took me to a hotel where a package was waiting for me on the bed. I have always wanted a red dress, and Taylor had gone shopping and got me one with a letter that told me to put it on. When the car door opened, Taylor grabbed my hand and took me to my backyard. After he took the blindfold off, he took me to a table that had a bottle of champagne and dessert. Then we went down the steps where he had hung hundreds of pictures we had taken together over our relationship. Lastly, we sat on a bench by a fire and Taylor read me three bible verses and talked about our relationship. He washed my feet and then got down on one knee.” Taylor and Brene’ plan to live in Oklahoma City after they are married. These happy couples have their Valentine for life and have many great plans for their futures!
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health & fitness
TIPS FOR A HEALTHY HEART Fear not, friends. This week I’m not telling you to take fish oil pills, guaranteeing a lower cholesterol level and a healthy heart (although that might not be such a bad idea). In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, here are my tips for a healthy heart, and surviving the ups and downs of college romances.
NINa BLASDeL
Kappa Delta Nina is a sophomore studying hotel & re s t a u r a n t a d m i n i s t r a t i o n . Yo u m a y c o n t a c t h e r a t nina.blasdel@okstate.edu.
Maybe you’re in a lasting relationship, maybe you’re recently single, or maybe you’re a serial-dater. Whatever the case, it’s no doubt that while in college, we forge dozens of relationships - some of which will last our whole lives. Love is probably the most universally confusing thing in the world. We’re conditioned, from a young age, to expect love to be just like Disney movies: birds singing, flowers blooming, and constant handholding. We venture into the treacherous territory of our adolescent years, and it’s only natural for us to expect a knight in shining armor or a fearless princess to pull up a seat next to us in our 9am trig class, right? As we grow up, we’re slapped in the face with a harsh reality: Disney movies are fiction. So what are we supposed to do next? Dates…hookups…dance floor make-outs…these are somewhat commonplace during the weekends in life of a college student. But what happens when things start to get serious? How do you survive a broken heart? How do you keep a relationship going?
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Don’t get me wrong; I am certainly no love guru. However, I do live in a house of about 100 collegiate women, and trust me, I’ve heard just about every story you can imagine. Whether it’s from a late night dishing of the details, or an around-the-table venting session, a sorority girl knows just about every type of romantic scenario that can develop on a college campus, and how to (or how not to) deal with it. What I have learned, so far, is this: Love is universal. Be it platonic, unrequited, or the “wow this might be real ‘love’ love,” everyone seems to be searching for it. One thing is certain, though. To have a healthy, happy relationship with another person, you must love yourself first. Loving yourself comes with practice, and an acceptance that you’re never going to be perfect. It’s an understanding that you’ll never be able to please everyone. You might be the prettiest peach on the tree, but some people just really hate peaches, and there’s nothing you can do about it. Loving yourself is looking in the mirror and seeing your crooked tooth, and instead of trying to adjust your smile to cover it, embracing it. We’re taught by the media to believe that we have to be some sort of perfect, cookie-cutter creature, with all of our ducks in a row. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate dressing up and I try to look my best when I go out, but you know what? Nobody is like that all the time. People fall in love with people for their uniqueness and quirks. Your best friend loves you for all your weirdness – your goofy laugh and your inability to tell a story without getting completely sidetracked halfway through. People love people for their raw, imperfect emotions, which is why I’ve realized that we generally fall for people when we least expect it. Maybe loving is the highest form of emotion, and that’s why people who are in love are so incredibly passionate. It’s the instant connection over a shared interest, a mutual infatuation with something, an unquenchable desire to make the other person happy. All love is valid, all love is real, and all love is beautiful.
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special occasions: Valentine’s Day
VALENTINE’S DAY FOR THE SINGLE’S
Ok, so tomorrow is Valentine’s Day and the one perfect thing about it is... I’m single. Wait, what? #SingleForLife, so if you’re single, I’m going to share a few things that you can do tomorrow while other people are being lovey dovey.
NICK VeLA
Kappa Alpha order Nick is a junior studying international business and pre-law. You may contact him at nick.vela@okstate.edu.
First and foremost, if you want people to think you’re in a relationship, order yourself flowers. It only take a few minutes and let’s face it, you could probably use some good décor in your home. On the card, you can even write yourself a little note about how much you love yourself. Now, most people don’t think that’s a thing, but in fact, if you go to http://www.statisticbrain. com/valentines-day-statistics/, then you will see that 14 percent of women buy themselves flowers on Valentine’s day. As long as you don’t tell anyone what you’re doing, flowers for yourself are perfectly fine. Another thing that you can do for Valentine’s Day since you’re single is hang out with your other single friends. More than likely, your single friends won’t have anything to do and will want to hang out. You can go to dinner and just have friendship time. Keep in mind that going to dinner on Valentine’s Day may look a little odd, and may seem like you are dating this person. Make sure you invite a group of people to go with you, so it looks a little normal “Valentine’s Day is noting out of the ordinary,” senior Elise Cabori said. “All you have
VALENTINE’S DAY
V is for the ... Value that this day makes some feel,
A is for the Appetites who count Russell Stover’s as a meal. L is for the Losers who have no significant other,
JaKE BLASDeL Sigma Nu
Jake is a junior studying b i o l o g i c a l s c i e n c e . Yo u may contact him at jacob.blasdel@okstate.edu.
E is for Everyone whose Valentine is their mother. N is for the Nurturers who look forward to this day, T is for the Teddy bears who sit and rot away. I is for the Imbeciles who try way too hard, N is for the Naturalists who can settle for a card. E is for the Energy that permeates the setting, S if for the Sweets we eat and find ourselves regretting. D is for the Dad who feels sorry for his Daughter, And tries to make her happy with All the crap that he has bought her. Y is for another Year that you lovers have to wait, but for all you hopeless romantics, 365 days away sounds great.
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to do is pretend like it’s a normal day.” While talking to Elise, she shared that spending time with your friends tomorrow is probably the best way to spend Valentine’s Day if you’re single. Another thing you can do if you’re single and wanting to have a great day tomorrow is go to the Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory. I am not a big fan of chocolate and feel sick to my stomach every time I see someone eating chocolate, but the factory is, in fact, one of my favorite places. The chocolate covered strawberries are a win and you can’t go wrong with those on Valentine’s Day 2014. Another favorite item I get that is good is the Cheesecake Carmel Apple. They cut the apple into slices for you, and it’s a sure winner to have a great Valentine’s Day. If flowers sent to you, dinner or chocolate factory is not something that you want to do, you could also order in and watch a movie. You can never go wrong when you pick up the phone, order a pepperoni pizza and stick in a great movie. One of my favorite movies that I could watch over and over again and not have any problem doing it is Mean Girls. You can definitely watch Mean Girls tomorrow and have no shame. Trust me, if you give me call or a text, I will be there to watch it with you in second. Mean Girls on Valentine’s Day is the pinnacle of tomorrow, just saying. If you aren’t up for any of those things, find some friends and ask them for ideas. Valentine’s Day is definitely not a day to mope around; it’s a day for love and cherishing moments with special loved ones. Pick up the phone and call your siblings and tell them you love them. Facebook or Twitter your friends and tell them thanks for being your friend. Valentine’s Day is a fun day and I enjoy it every year. Shout out to all the special loved ones who are spending the day together. Congrats!
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fashion trends
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HOT IN STILLWATER
VALENTINES DAY EDITION: GIFT GUIDE Tomorrow is the day. Hopefully by now
Payne County for this one. This is a special
you have something planned for your
date, more so than a regular “date night.”
significant other, so feel free to use this as
Go to a nicer restaurant than you normally
a checklist to see if your gift falls into the
would. Flowers and chocolates are a given,
correct category. These are just guidelines,
but the list doesn’t end there. A nice pair
so if what you are doing for the big day is
of Kendra Scott earrings, or a something
a little different than what’s suggested, no
similar would be great.
worries! But this will give you a chance to
Single- Don’t be sad about being single
see if what you are giving is on the right
on this day, or any day for that matter.
track.
Being single does not mean being lonely. It
a couple of dates- So you guys have
means focusing your time on other things
been on a couple dates, you talk often, but
and getting to know yourself. There are
you have not DTR-ed? This can be a hard
so many great things about living the solo
position to be in. You don’t want to over-
life! Do not feel the need to defend the fact
do it because that could send clingy vibes.
that you are single to anyone. Although
Flowers are acceptable, but maybe not a
society may tell you differently, being single
dozen roses. Daisies say “I like you,” but
is really a fabulous thing. Focus on all the
roses say “I love you.” Be careful there.
positive things about your single life… here
Chocolates are a safe bet, as is a nice dinner.
are a few in case you may have forgotten:
Avoid giving actual gifts, such as jewelry or
You are not tied down
stuffed animals. Basically, acknowledge the
You can accomplish other goals
day, but don’t go above and beyond because, depending on the girl, that might not work in your favor. Newly dating- You are past the stage of “talking” and you all have recently made it official. You’re in
aNNa-MaRIE AHrBerG Pi Beta Phi
Anna-Marie is a sophomore studying sports media. You may contact her at anna-marie. ahrberg@okstate.edu.
luck! This is the easiest category to fall under for this particular holiday. You don’t have to worry about small “moves” freaking her out, but you also don’t have the pressure of getting her an extravagant gift. Flowers, a nice dinner, and a small gift ranging anywhere from a teddy bear or tickets to a sporting event or concert that you two could enjoy together are the perfect way to go. Seriously dating- So, you have been dating for what seems like an eternity? Boys, you better be ready to step it up a notch. Maybe try venturing out of
New crushes: you can’t look forward to a first kiss if you are already in a relationship, right? You are saving a lot of money You can be selfish You can talk to whoever you want, when you want to You are able to fully enjoy your time you have with friends You can flirt guilt free You can do what YOU and only YOU want to do You don’t have to please anyone else but yourself …The list is endless really!
“Being single used to mean that nobody wanted you. Now it means that you’re pretty sexy and you are taking your time deciding how you want your life to be and who you want to spend it with.” ” – Sex and the City
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entertainment news
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THE FIVE CUTEST CONGRESSMEN
Are you spending your Valentine’s day alone? Don’t worry, America is always there for you. What some of our dear politicians might lack in foreign policy and bipartisan efforts, they’re more than willing to make up for in looks. Rep. Adam Kinzinger I’m a sucker for blue eyes with dark hair, so Rep. Adam Kinzinger is an obvious first choice. Representing Illinois, Kinzinger is only 35—making him one of the youngest representatives in the House. Did I mention that he was in the Air Force? Swoon. Rep. Aaron Schock Snaps to Illinois, they sure know how to pick a congressman—and they like them young. Schock is only 32 and currently serves on the Ways and Means Committee. When he’s not busy assisting his constituents, he appears to just go around shirtless. Not that I’m complaining. Rep. Joe Kennedy III The Kennedy name exudes class, charm, and good looks, and Rep. Joe Kennedy is no exception. This smoking hot ginger represents the fourth district of Massachusetts. He can be seen here with his now-wife and an adorable pup. Rep. Sean Duffy I’ll be honest, I’m not too sure exactly what being a “professional lumberjack athlete” entails, but I’m on board. When he isn’t
being a competitive tree climber (seriously, that’s a thing—look it up), he’s taking care of his six children as well as the 7th district of Wisconsin. Rep. Michael Grimm Grimm makes the list purely because he looks like a Baldwin brother; it’s just something in those steely blue eyes. Before representing the 11th district of New York, Grimm served as a United States Marine and an FBI special agent. He currently serves on the House Financial Services Committee. While beauty may fade and hairlines will recede, what truly ties these men together is their commitment to bettering the country through service. So next time you’re feeling lonely, grab a box of chocolate and snuggle up to some C-SPAN—maybe you’ll catch a glimpse of these cuties.
SOPHIa GiBSoN
Delta Delta Delta Sophia is a freshman studying agricultural education. Yo u m a y c o n t a c t h e r a t sophie.gibson@okstate.edu.
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entertainment news
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‘LiKe CrAZy’ For you, VALeNtiNe I know I wrote about Valentines Day movies last week,
After my first viewing of the
my bad, so here is another film in particular that you
film, I did not really walk away
should watch this Hallmark holiday. ‘Like Crazy’ is an
loving it, but after giving it
artful romantic drama that some may even call an indie
another chance I saw the true
film, which is my favorite genre. I would have to say that
art that it was all along.
my favorite aspect of the film was the heartbreakingly
My favorite film of all time
realistic plot that was acted out brilliantly by leads Anton
is ‘(500) Days of Summer’, so I
Yelchin and Felicity Jones.
aNNa MCDouGAL Kappa Alpha theta
Anna is a sophomore studying english. You may contact her at anna.mcdougal@okstate.edu.
suppose I just really appreciate
Not to place too many spoiler alerts in this brief review,
films with realistic endings and
but if you are looking for a feel good movie, don’t turn
plotlines. Although I will argue that ‘(500) Days of Summer’ ended happily and will make the
to this one. The ending is not necessarily
same argument for ‘Like Crazy.’ While it did not end with a sunset or upbeat music, that does
a sad one, but rather an extremely true
not mean that it cannot be considered a happy ending. That is a judgment I will let you make
portrayal of how falling in love for the
– if you choose to watch it, of course!
first time feels and often ends. Yelchin
Another plus is that ‘Like Crazy’ is streaming on Netflix, so all you have to spend on it is
and Jones convey all of the whirlwind
time. Again, if you and your significant other want a cuddly love story to watch this Valentines
emotions and struggles that come along
Day, stay away from this one. But if you are looking for a great film with a heartbreakingly
with such a deep and difficult love,
good story, ‘Like Crazy’ is the one for you.
making the film hard to watch at times because it is honestly a bit of a downer.
VALeNtiNe’S DAy iN StiLLWAter Welcome to Stillwater, America, where your options to dine out on Valentine’s Day are just about as slim as Pistol Alpha Delta Pi Breanna is a senior studying Pete’s waistline. Tomorrow is animal science. You may Valentine’s Day, and in two c o n t a c t h e r a t b re a n n a . fuller10@okstate.edu. days the candy aisle at WalMart will be marked down to 50 percent off. Seriously, who doesn’t love heart shaped chocolates? I am sure there are a few gentlemen out there who probably forgot to make a reservation, and don’t worry because I have done a little research around town to help you out! (Trevor, this does not apply to you). This year Valentine’s Day happens to fall on a Friday, so restaurants will be busier than most years. I personally do not think Valentine’s Day should be about the gifts, but about the love you share with your significant other, family and friends. When it comes to dining out, make sure it is a place that is special to the both of you.
BREaNNa FuLLer
Chick-Fil-a I might be the only one obsessed with Chick-Fil-A, however, they are not missing out on this wonderful evening of love either. Reservations are available for 5:30 and 6:30 and the cost is $25 per couple. The dinner includes entrees, side items, drinks, desserts, and a photo of the two of you. Hideway Serving their annual heart-shaped pizzas. The pizza is approximately the size of their small, which is perfect for two lovers to enjoy a pizza of their own variety.
Brooklyn’s I spoke with the manager and Brooklyn’s is serving a special dinner for two, but details could not be released at this time. However, if it is anything like last year, I am still savoring that juicy steak that was served. Dining In This year Trevor and I chose to pass up the fancy restaurant and are having a candlelit dinner with our friends instead. Everyone in our group of friends happens to be in a relationship and we wanted to spend time together, so the gentlemen are fixing the ladies a nice meal. We are still dressing up, but to me this is more cozy and romantic. I am not entirely sure what we are having for dinner, but I know it will be cooked with love. I am most excited about this dinner because I know it will be something to remember forever. A few other suggestions to take your love out on the town would be Da Vinci’s, Sushi House, or Kyoto. Make sure to call ahead to make a reservation and to check on any specials before you find yourselves waiting an hour for a table by the bathroom. Wherever you and your love decide to dine, remember this is a night to rekindle the love that the two of you share. Ten years down the road you probably won’t remember where you ate or even what you had, what matters most is remembering the love you share for one another. I wish everyone out there a night of love and happiness!
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Dear Abby,
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Dear Abby,
I’ve been in a relationship for seven months. My boyfriend and I talked about Valentine’s Day, but he does not really think it is a big deal. He says it is “just another day.” How do I let him know that Valentine’s Day is important to me? Sincerely,
Recently, I have been “talking” to a girl I met just a few months ago. I have taken her on a few dates and really enjoyed her company. We have not exactly had the “DTR” talk, but I have reason to believe a relationship is in our future. However, Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching and I honestly have no idea how to handle it. Do I send her flowers? Buy her chocolate? Take her out to dinner? How much is too much? Help! Sincerely,
Giftless Girlfriend
Lost in Love
Dear Giftless, Nothing Compares 2 U - Sinead O’Connor When you talked about Valentine’s Day, did you tell him it was important to you? If not, you Everybody R.E.M need to do so. Guys are very literal. If you say, “It’s Hurts fine,” -he will assume you mean everything is okay. Basically, you need to straight up tell him it is important to you. For you, Valentine’s Day is Stay Together for the Kids - Blink-182 probably a time to celebrate your relationship with him. However, he most likely sees it as a day in I’m so Lonely I could Cry - Hank Williams which boyfriends, fiancés and husbands are pressured into buying roses, balloons and chocolate. Tearsalso in Heaven Erichim Clapton When you tell him the day is important, you need to-let know why it is special. And try your best to not put too much pressure on him. Do not get upset when your roommates, best friends and pledge sisters are all going on extravagant dates and receiving elaborate gifts. Focus on your guy and why he is so special to you – not on the gifts you do or do not receive.
Sorority Sue’s Weekly Scoop Hottie COUPLE of the Week: Alison Limke and Connor Davis Kappa Delta junior and Sigma Chi sophomore Going steady. ·
Everyone loves a cougar, especially Connor.
·
Panhellenic Prez and Sigma Chi VP. #powercouple ·
·
The only thing missing from this romance is a sense of humor. lol
She didn’t find Bobby Fisher, but she found a VR director. Weekly Scoop:
· New shipment of Kendra Scott at Peck’s Lodge, boys. We all know you forgot to buy your girlfriend, mom or that special friend a gift. · In case you forgot you’re single, Beta Love Rave and Rock of Love are both coming up. Just a casual reminder that you’re lonely. ·
Taking your date to Brooklyn’s for Valentine’s Day? How original.
·
House of Cards starts up again tomorrow night, so your evening won’t be a complete waste.
Dear Lost, Valentine’s Day has a way of stressing most people out. Whether or not you have a significant other, you will probably find yourself worrying about the day one way or another. Because you are not exactly sure where your relationship stands, it can be hard to determine how to handle the holiday. I suggest you figure out how you really feel about this girl. Is she the girl of your dreams? Can you see yourself with her for a long time? Or is she just another fling? I think your gift should reflect how you feel. Do not worry about scaring her away or doing too much. While you should not go overboard or be creepy, do something thoughtful for her. Most guys today are content playing games. But if you are really interested in the girl? Go out on a limb, be a man and let her know how you feel! Girls would much rather feel appreciated and loved than receive a human-sized teddy bear or an enormous bouquet of roses. Keep it simple and keep it sweet.
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laugh out loud
@HuffPostMedia: It’s always the ones you invest with political power and then throw completely under the bus and humiliate on national TV #christielessons @hipstermermaid: I’m sorry I can’t stay out late tonight, I have to go home and look at my phone. @JakeBlasdel: Some random girl direct quote: “omg big I love you I’m getting wasted tomorrow” @BlairHanebaum: Me: “If you stranded on a deserted Island, what would you take?” ….Will: “Probably a game boy and Natalie Portman” @Kyle_Lippert: Kevin Hart is in pretty much everything now. He has gone from being a
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comedian to being the high fructose corn syrup of actors. @timonalimb: My mom called me and told me to delete my tweet. @sammyrhodes: Men are like waffles: they can’t talk about their feelings. @ABC: Deport Justin Bieber petition passes 100,000 signatures, White House obligated to respond. @espn: Kevin Durant just made a serious statement: The MVP award is mine to lose. @Josh_lippoldt: I miss 224 S. Washington.
@J_MILL93: “LITTLE will you still love me if I eat 3 bowls of pasta tonight??” “BIG OMG you are soooo skinny!” “Little I love youu!” Life of a houseboy @kadegoodwinning: Is 43 Facebook pokes enough to let her know I’m interested? @GastonHart: Yes, every professor at OSU, my name is like the guy from Beauty and the Beast @samkoontzSMK: you mean I have to eat desert by myself like I’m fing steven glandsberg? @B_Poi: All I wanted was a bagel. Got in a car accident. No bagel.
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