a student newspaper of the University of Tulsa
February 14, 2022 - Issue 15 - Volume 107
TU to begin purchasing textbooks for freshmen, page 2 Saints’ running back Alvin Kamara arrested for battery, page 3
Valentine’s Day reads, page 6
lo v Po y Am by : ve r Co
Satire: Valentine’s Day tips from a man clearly going through something, page 8
ic h
Leaked report alleges Chinese encroachment, page 5
The Collegian: 2
News
14 February 2022
TU to begin purchasing textbooks for freshmen
The program also aims to reduce the overall cost of textbooks for undergrads, according to interim provost Jennifer Airey. Adam Walsh Managing Editor
In light of a new proposal revealed to the student body, I sat down with Dr. Jennifer Airey, the interim provost of TU, and asked a few clarifying questions about the new initiative to purchase all texts for students. Initially spotted at the bottom of a TU Facebook post, whispers of what the new book purchasing program would actually look like abounded. Several variations of costs, which texts would be purchased, whether they will be physical or digital and other details seemed to be contradictory among the information sources. The new program, as explained by Dr. Airey, is as follows: The University of Tulsa will take on the cost of purchasing required texts for the classes taken by incoming freshmen and other first year students (i.e. transfer students). This aspect of the program would feature no cost to the students; the university will take on those costs, utilizing their ability to buy in bulk to reduce the overall cost while providing texts for students that otherwise would have to wait several weeks into the semester to find them. The primary goal of this focuses on providing first generation students or those without the necessary financials to go ahead and purchase hundreds of dollars’ worth of books in the first week. Digital editions will be prioritized, but if a digital edition cannot be found, a physical copy will be loaned out to the student. If one does not particularly like the idea of all digital editions, they can opt out of the program in a way yet to be revealed. Likewise, professors will have some control over what texts will be prioritized as digital or physical copies, though a system to prevent professors from purchasing a multitude of texts because students will not directly see that cost is also in development. Over the course of four years, all of the student body will have matriculated under this new program, and the university will
continue to absorb that cost. The rather obvious rebuttal to that is to blame any future raising of tuition on the existence of this program, but the hope is that the necessary funds will be reallocated from the current tuition costs. One option still lying on the table is the inclusion of the current student body into this plan. As it stands right now, only next academic year’s freshmen, transfer students and further years’ cohorts will see the fruits of this resolution. However, there has been discussion about rolling out the program as it stands to the entire undergraduate faction of the university. Instead of TU covering the cost of all texts, non-freshmen or non-first year students would have to pay a fee per credit hour to receive these texts. Yet the goal remains clear: reduce the average cost of books purchased by students for each semester. Graduate students are exempt from this program; the book purchasing will only apply to undergrads.
Pros of this program: Each student will be equipped with the required books as soon as the semester starts with a common, identical edition of each text. While this may not matter as much in STEM-oriented classes, Arts and Sciences students that spend time negotiating
due to their continued use and low valuation. Cons of this program: Digital editions. It’s an unfortunate reality that purchasing pdfs will always be cheaper than physical editions, but it should still be mentioned.
“... the goal remains clear: reduce the average cost of books ... for each semester.” between book editions, differing pagination and other idiosyncrasies in their texts will no longer have to experience those issues. Students that could not afford to purchase texts will now be able to acquire these works under their common tuition payments. Professors will have more liberty in purchasing different texts, especially with the rising costs of textbooks driving some departments to use older, more rare editions
Any tuition raise in the coming years will probably be blamed on this program. The issue of course packs seems to exist somewhere in the gray area of this resolution. It’s unclear whether or not course packs will be included under the new rules and restrictions.
When the program is implemented, new students will be equipped with their required texts as soon as the semester starts.
courtesy Wikimedia Commons
40-person brawl breaks out at Golden Corral The fight reportedly broke out because of a steak shortage. Logan Guthrie Commentary Editor On Jan. 28, there was a large fight that broke out involving 40 people at a Golden Corral in Bensalem, Pennsylvania. According to Gaven Lauletta who was not present at the fight but posted a video of it, “There was a shortage of steak and two parties were involved and one family cut in front of another family, they were taking their time and
they ran out of steak and it got into a heated exchange at the tables.” It appears that initially the fight had to do with the steak shortage, with one man in the video posted by Lauletta of the event even saying, “All I wanted was some steak,” but it is still unclear why so many people were involved. Additional reports say otherwise. Although not verified, one spokesperson is saying that the brawl broke out as a result of one customer thinking the person in line behind him had cut in front of him. Supposedly the customer had ordered a well-done steak, and the man behind him who ordered a rare steak received his first. However the
fight was started, it has sparked further debate on whether the buffet’s food was worth it to begin with.
high chair’ good. GC is a competitive midmajor no one respects because they’re in a weak conference with Ryans, Old Country
“‘What it boils down to is that it was a group of adults that weren’t acting like adults.’” Comedian Roy Wood, Jr. tweeted, “As a former Golden Corral employee. Trust me. That steak is good. Not sure if it’s ‘2 yrs Probation aggravated assault with a kids
courtesy Wikimedia Commons Golden Corral is cooperating with the investigation led by Bensalem Township Police Department to determine the cause of the fight and the individuals involved.
Buffet & Cracker Barrell.” Another person tweeted in disagreement, saying, “I promise Golden Corral ain’t good enough to be fighting over.” There is still much up in the air about the exact events that occurred at Bensalem’s Golden Corral. Lauletta has been outspoken to TODAY that everybody at this time is “focusing on the wrong thing. What it boils down to is that it was a group of adults that weren’t acting like adults. You know, there were children there, there were babies. People got hurt, and it’s just — it’s not acceptable. And, you know, we have to be better than this.” The following statement was issued by Bensalem Township Police Department’s Sgt. Glenn Vandegrift: “The social media videos depict the chaos of the scene at the time and most individuals were gone upon police arrival. Thankfully, there were no serious injuries resulting from the fight that we are aware of. Only a few, minor injuries were sustained.” The Police Department is trying to determine the exact cause behind the fight and who all were involved. According to a statement by JK Hospitality LLC to TODAY Food, Golden Corral is cooperating with the police investigation. “We are aware of an unfortunate disturbance that started between two parties of guests at our franchise restaurant in Bensalem, PA. We notified the local authorities, and they are investigating the incident. Thankfully, no serious injuries have been reported. The safety of our guests and co-workers is our top priority.”
14 February 2022
Sports
The Collegian: 3
Saints’ Alvin Kamara charged with felony battery Sports writer Ben Bowdon discusses the recent criminal charge against running back Alvin Kamara. Pro Bowl, Alvin Kamara allegedly punched a man eight times at The Cromwell Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas. Darnell Greene, the alleged victim, attempted to step into an elevator with Kamara and then the scuffle ensued. Greene sustained an orbital bone fracture to his right eye which may require surgery. The police talked to him while he was in the hospital being treated for injuries
matter how the criminal case goes, Greene will probably seek recourse in civil court as well. In a private attempt to serve justice, the NFL will most likely suspend Kamara for at least six games. This news does not bode well for the New Orleans Saints, who had its worst offense when Kamara was on injured reserve last year.
“... the NFL will most likely suspend Kamara for at least six games.”
courtesy @Saints on Twitter
Yet again, another star NFL Player is in the news for problems off the field. On Sunday evening, the day of the Pro Bowl, New Orleans Saints running back Alvin Kamara was arrested and charged with battery resulting in substantial bodily harm. Alvin Kamara was picked in the third round of the 2017 draft by the New Orleans Saints from the University of Tennessee. Since his matriculation into the league, Kamara has averaged a massive 1500 yards per
season on the ground and in the air with 67 touchdowns total. He has been elected to the Pro Bowl each season and was awarded Offensive Rookie of the Year. Along with Drew Brees and Michael Thomas, he has led the Saints to a record of 58-23 during his time in the NFL. He is, with no doubt, an amazing athlete and star player. Unfortunately, this time he is not on the headlines for an incredible athletic performance. At 6:30 a.m. the Saturday prior to the
and he directed them towards Alvin Kamara. After a surveillance video corroborated the victim’s statement and a credit card purchase pinned Kamara at the scene, an arrest report was created against him. He was arrested after the Pro Bowl and posted $5,000 bail. The hearing is scheduled for March 8. Alvin Kamara’s attorney released a statement on Thursday, Feb. 10, stating, “Alvin Kamara has gained a well-deserved reputation for being a hard-working and a community-minded individual. The recent Las Vegas allegations are not consistent with who Mr. Kamara has shown himself to be in both his public and private life. Therefore, we are conducting our own investigation into all of the circumstances and individuals associated with the matter to determine both the facts and motivations of all involved.” This seems like a feeble rebuttal by Alvin’s legal defense. There is clear video evidence of Kamara punching the man repeatedly. No
Some people have criticized the NFL’s response to situations like these. There seems to have been so many large profile criminal cases in the NFL – Aaron Hernandez, Ray Lewis, Ray Rice, Michael Vick, Kareem Hunt and now Alvin Kamara. Why does it seem to happen every year? Do NFL players commit more violent crimes than average or is it simply the availability heuristic — that because it’s in the news we think it’s more common than it is? In 2014, USA Today ran an analytical study to determine the relative rates of crime for NFL players versus U.S. men aged 21-34. They found that NFL players are disproportionately arrested and charged with domestic violence but have a lower arrest rate overall. The NFL will continue to try to dissuade this behavior, but petty fines and small suspensions do not seem to be a deterrent.
Pro Bowl tackling rules cause upset among fans Sports writer Ben Bowdon talks about the lack of competition in the 2022 Pro Bowl.
The annual NFL Pro Bowl has existed since the early 1950s. Players are elected by a combination of coaches, players and fans. The all-stars from either conference compete in an National Football Conference (NFC) versus American Football Conference (AFC) exhibition game. In the end, the true honor is the Pro Bowl selection rather than the quality of the game. Additionally, since 2016, the NFL has included a skills showdown in the Pro Bowl festivities. There are a variety of unique competitions where players from each conference team compete against one another. The 2022 Pro Bowl featured five self-explanatory competitions: Precision Passing, Thread the Needle, Best Catch, Fastest Man and Epic Pro Bowl Dodgeball. The skills showdown on Thursday before the Pro Bowl really exemplified the laid-back mood for the Pro Bowl. It was filled with laughter from the athletes, crowd and commentators alike. Many of the competitions are not taken seriously with smiles all around. The Best Catch competition,
new this year, featured top wide receivers Stefon Diggs, Tyreek Hill and Justin Jefferson as well as Trevon Diggs, the cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys. Some of the highlights included a casual falling catch onto a folding table and a recreation of the famous “helmet catch” alongside a more technically challenging one-handed, under-the-leg grab by Trevon Diggs.
for a touchdown in Kyler Murray’s opening drive. After six more interceptions, an amazing performance by Justin Herbert led the AFC to victory. Every year, fans, the media and players complain about the state of the Pro Bowl. NFL Hall of Famer Deion Sanders took to Twitter this year, exclaiming, “Lord help me. I’m watching the @nfl Pro Bowl and I
“Many of the competitions are not taken seriously with smiles all around.” In the Pro Bowl game on Feb. 6, the AFC beat the NFC 41-35 at Las Vegas’s Allegiant Stadium, extending a five game win streak for the American conference. The game was full of defensive highlights, which is unsurprising due to the offenses lacking the requisite long hours of practice. The tone was set when Darius Leonard, the Indianapolis Colts linebacker, returned an interception
remember when we were so proud and appreciative of that accolade. We went to Hawaii to prove we were more than worthy so we competed at practice and in the game. I wanted u to know that PRIME was PRIME ! What Happened & When ?” The lack of tackling bothers fans who tune in expecting to watch competitive professional football similar to the regular season.
Those are legitimate complaints, but they are difficult to fix. Many of the objections to the Pro Bowl stem from the increased safety. There are strict tackling rules to limit hard hits and injuries. American football has one of the highest rates of injuries in organized sports worldwide. The NFL, and elite players themselves, do not want to risk a season-ending injury in one isolated game that has no bearing on the real season. The lower pay players receive for the game is not enough of an incentive. Moreover, even if every player performed with 100% effort, the lack of cohesiveness and practice severely limits the capabilities of the team. The Pro Bowl will not change significantly as long as it gets the same viewership numbers. If you want to watch “good” intense and competitive football, wait for the Super Bowl the following week.
courtesy @Chiefs on Twitter
courtesy @NFL on Twitter courtesy @Buccaneers on Twitter
Sports
The Collegian: 4
14 February 2022
Peng Shuai’s first interview after disappearance Sports editor Callie Hummel discusses the new claims made by tennis player Peng Shuai.
After Peng Shuai, the 36-year-old, threetime Olympic tennis player, lodged the first Me Too accusation against a high-ranking member of the Communist Party in China, she went missing just to resurface and say the whole situation was a “huge misunderstanding.” On Nov. 2, Shuai posted a lengthy statement on the Chinese social media platform Weibo accusing Zhang Gaoli, China’s 75-year-old former vice-premier, of forcing her to have “sexual relations” with him. She writes that seven years ago, Gaoli and her had sex, but had no contact until he recently invited her over to play tennis. After they played, Shuai, Gaoli and Gaoli’s wife, Kang Jie, all went back to the Gaoli’s house and he brought Shuai into his room with a guard outside and began berating her to have sex
him this time, he exclaims that he hates her, and that he helped her exponentially over the seven years they were apart. Out of guilt and mixed emotions, Shuai gave in and they had sex with Gaoli’s wife in the house. The recollection of events Shuai posted have since been translated to English, therefore the exact quotations may not be worded the exact way Shuai wanted. A half an hour after the post was published, the heavily censored Chinese Internet had already removed the post, blocked anyone from searching for “tennis,” “Peng Shuai,” or “Zhang Gaoli,” and suspended accounts sharing screenshots of the post in hope to keep the spread of information limited. However the post spread around China and then around the world, creating a story with international attention.
“... immediately after the post, Shuai went missing for 18 days.” with him. Shuai was appalled that his wife would be okay with the situation, and wanting to have nothing to do with Gaoli, she refused. The two went back and ate dinner with Jie, during which Shuai reports that she could not stop crying, but Gaoli continuously comforted her until she felt better. After dinner, she finds the comforting came from ulterior motives, as he demands again for the two to have sex. When Shuai denies
The situation also garnered international worry, because immediately after the post, Shuai went missing for 18 days. Shuai was the country’s biggest tennis star, so the tennis community did not take lightly to her disappearance. The Women’s Tennis Organization, Association of Tennis Professionals and multiple high-ranking tennis players publicly pushed for an investigation. On Nov. 14, the Women’s Tennis Organization
(WTO) officials announced they still were unable to contact Shuai. On Nov. 17, CGTN, a Chinese stateowned media company, finally released a statement about Shuai, saying she was “resting at home” and that “everything [was] fine.” The post also included an email that Shuai allegedly sent to WTO that the news about sexual assault allegations are not true, and she is not missing or unsafe. For good reason, the WTO did not accept or believe this statement, and the search for Shuai, and the battle on censorship, continued. The Association of Tennis Professionals and President Joe Biden both announced they want “verifiable proof” that Shuai is truly okay and not just statements by the Chinese government. Photos of Shuai in her house playing with stuffed animals were the result of these demands, a media outlet claiming they were photos she sent to her friends. On Feb. 6, Shuai made her way back into the spotlight to make a personal statement of her conditions with a French newspaper, L’Equipe. The interview took place in Beijing in a controlled hotel room, and the two journalists were allotted an hour of time. L’Equipe revealed that they had to submit questions in advance, and present them in front of a Chinese Olympic committee official. The most notable part of the L’Equipe interview was when Shuai stated that the whole situation was a “huge misunderstanding” and when asked about the sexual as-
sault allegations she responded, “sexual assault? I never said that anyone made me submit to sexual assault.” In the duration of the interview, Shuai also claimed that she was the one that erased the post in November because she realized sports, her romantic life and politics should not be mixed and that her life since November has been, “as it should be: Nothing special.” Shuai also used the interview to announce her official retirement from tennis, which sparked warnings with many as Shuai is only 36-years-old, without injury, and was continuously winning awards and tournaments leading up to November. Shortly after the interview was published, Marc Ventouillac, one of the L’Equipe journalists covering the story, went on record to say he believed the L’Equipe interview was “Chinese propaganda.” He revealed that even though he was in the same room talking with Shuai, he couldn’t tell if she was truly safe. He also fielded his opinion that the interview was only performed so that Shuai’s disappearance didn’t overshadow the 2022 Winter Olympics currently happening in Beijing. While the information and interviews have people creating and sharing their own opinions on what’s happening to Shuai, most seem to agree on one thing: Peng Shuai is still not safe.
courtesy Wikimedia Commons
courtesy Wikimedia Commons
Feb. 14 - Feb. 20 Monday
Tuesday 15
14
Thursday 17
16 W Tennis @ Wichita State TBD
W Golf Columbia Classic All Day none M Basketball vs. UCF 6:00 p.m.
Wednesday
M Tennis vs. Arkansas 6:00 p.m. W Basketball vs. Tulane 6:30 p.m.
none
Friday
Saturday 18
19
Softball LA Tech Invitational 10:00 a.m.
M Basketball Track & Field @ South Florida Arkansas Qualifer 1:00 p.m. All Day W Basketball vs. SMU 1:00 p.m. Softball LA Tech Invitational 3:00 p.m.
Sunday 20 W Tennis @ Oklahoma State TBD Softball LA Tech Invitational 10:00 a.m. Softball LA Tech Invitational 12:30 p.m.
14 February 2022
Commentary
The Collegian: 5
M&M’s discourse obscures human rights abuse seen on my social media and on the news is about the green M&M’s boots. It is not just Mars getting sued for child slavery, however. Nestlé and Hershey are also in a lawsuit for the same reasons, but again no one seems to care because no one is discussing it.
M&M’s inclusivity campaign distracts from their current lawsuit. Victoria Bonham Student Writer
As of Jan. 20, 2022, M&M’s had a slight change to their classic look. These changes were subtle, such as the colors being a tad more vibrant than before, but what most people are in an uproar about is the green M&M changing her white boots to a pair of sneakers. Now, the brown M&M got to keep her little heel, although it is now a tad shorter but not super noticeable, while the others got laces on their shoes. The brand did this in order to seem “more inclusive.” They are going to change some aspects of the characters’ personalities, too. The orange M&M is going to embrace his anxiety and the red M&M is going to be nice instead of a bully. However, no one is focusing on that. They want the green M&M’s go-go boots back. This new campaign appears to be a distraction from the lawsuit going on against
and putting sneakers in her diminishes that persona the creators have presented. The brown M&M had a very minimal change — probably because the company was so focused on the fact that they are dealing with a lawsuit about child slavery to care. Perhaps the company knew that people
“It is disappointing to think that beloved candy brands such as M&M’s would be complacent with immoral practices ...”
courtesy @mmschocolate on Twitter The green M&M first made her debut as a mascot for the cholocate company in 1997 as part of a Super Bowl advertisement.
the Mars company due to claims of child slavery on the cocoa plantations they use as their source. Unfortunately, all that I have
It is not inherently a bad thing that society wants their chocolate candies to be more inclusive. However, if they wanted to seem more inclusive then they could have just made all of them have sneakers. Personally, I do not understand how shoes make a difference in inclusivity, but if that is what it takes to seem that way then do it to them all. Don’t get me wrong, I think that the green M&M should have her classic boots. The boots should come back because that is part of the character they have made the green M&M to be, a femme fatale personality has been given to a literal piece of chocolate,
would only throw a hissy fit if the green one changed, and so used the campaign to their benefit as a way to hide the fact that they have child slavery lawsuits against them. It is possible that they thought giving the people something to be angry about would make them overlook the human rights abuse. It is disappointing to think that beloved candy brands such as M&M’s would be complacent with immoral practices and then cover up their actions, but it would not be the most shocking thing anyone has ever heard.
Tensions rise over Nepal’s border relations
Leaked reports claim China is encroaching on Nepalese territory. Logan Guthrie Commentary Editor Last week, reports began to leak from Nepal’s Government that China is encroaching upon their shared border. This is the first public, official report about any current Chinese interference in Nepal, and this is following claims that the country trespassed last year in Humla, a western district of Nepal. These reports are not surprising, but come as a great concern coinciding with the conflict on the border of Russia and Ukraine.
about their border in relation to the Sugauli Treaty of 1816, which Nepal claims places the territories west of the Mahakali River in their control. While diplomatic solutions are being sought by Nepal in both cases, the potential encroachment of China adds extra, unnecessary political strain and conflict to the region. That being said, the report has not been published by any Nepalese authority at this time. This is very confusing and a little suspicious, as there is no reason for Nepal to hold off on publication, unless the reports are not substantiated yet. Nepal and China have worked hard to improve their relationship with each other in recent years, particularly in an effort to counterbalance the conflict between Nepal and India, so it seems very out of character for China to begin trespassing at their own border with Nepal at this time. However, these reports being leaked to the public are bound to cause strain on this relationship. A task force sent to Humla claims sightings of buildings being built by China on the Nepalese side of the border — although this turned out to not be the case. In addition, the report included restrictions of religious practice by the Chinese in Lalungjong near the Hindu and Buddhist holy site of Mount Kailash, limitations to grazing by farmers’ livestock, and the construction of a fence, canal and border on the Nepalese side of the border.
“... it makes no sense at this time for China to encroach on their ally considering border conflicts with India.” While the Chinese embassy in Kathmandu has denied any reports of interference in Nepal, Gyanendra Bahadur Karki, the Nepalese Communications Minister, responded to the reports in a news briefing by saying, “Either with India or with China, if there are any issues at our border we will resolve them through diplomatic means. Such problems should not arise and the Nepal government will always make efforts to prevent such situations.” Even just last month there was a dispute between India and Nepal
All things considered, it doesn’t seem that there is enough reason to believe quite yet that China truly is encroaching on Nepalese territory, due to the nature of the report being unpublished and some of the claims turning out to be false. The Chinese embassy has gone on record saying, “There is no dispute at all. It is hoped that the Nepali people [will] not be misled with false individual reports.” With everything going on with the Russian-Ukrainian border, it is only natural to be a little on edge regarding other border
courtesy Wikimedia Commons The Sino-Nepalese Teaty of Peace and Friendship, officially signed on April 28, 1960, ratified the previously settled upon borders between Nepal and China.
disputes, especially between countries with opposing political ideologies. However, it makes no sense at this time for China to encroach on their ally considering border conflicts with India. It seems safe to say at this
tucollegian@tucollegian.com editor in chief
Justin Klopfer managing editor
Adam Walsh news editor
Shelby Hiens sports editor
Callie Hummel variety editor
Julianne Tran commentary editor
Logan Guthrie satire editor
Anna Johns photo & graphics editor
Amy Polovich
business & advertising manager
Madeleine Goodman social media & web manager
courtesy @PradeepgyawaliK on Twitter President of Nepal Bidhya Devi Bhandari led her country in their third-ever tourism campaign, known as Visit Nepal 2020. This follows two other campaigns from 1998 and 2011.
Maddie Walters copy editor
Jihan Aldada
time that the reports are likely false or unconfirmed, and that more information needs to be made public to really understand what is going on between Nepal and China.
@TUCOLLEGIAN
The Collegian is the student newspaper of the University of Tulsa. It is distributed Mondays during the fall and spring semesters, except during holidays and final exam weeks. The University of Tulsa does not discriminate on the basis of personal status or group characteristics including but not limited to the classes protected under federal and state law. Inquiries regarding implementation of this policy may be addressed to the Office of Human Resources, 800 South Tucker Drive, Tulsa, Oklahoma 74104-9700. (918)631-2616. Requests for accomodation of disabilities may be addressed to the university’s 504 Coordinator, Dr. Tawny Rigsby. (918)631-3814. To ensure availability of an interpreter, five to seven days notice is needed; 48 hours is recommended for all other accomodations. Advertising Policy: Advertising appearing in this publication does not imply approval or endorsement by the University of Tulsa or the Collegian for the products or services advertised. For advertising information, email the Collegian at advertising @tucollegian.org. The deadline for advertising is noon on the Friday prior to publication. Letter Policy: Letters to the editor must be less than 500 words and can be sent to tucollegian@tucollegian. org. Under no circumstances will anonymous letters be published. The name of the person submitting the letter must be published with the letter. We reserve the right to edit or reject all letters. The deadline for letters is 5 p.m. on the Friday prior to publication. Editing Policy: The Collegian reserves the right to edit all copy submitted by all writers. This editing my take place in many forms, including grammar corrections, changes in paragraph structure or even the addition or removal of sections of content. Editorial Policy: Columnists are solely responsible for the content of their columns. Opinions expressed in columns may not represent the opinions of the Collegian staff, the administrative policies of the University of Tulsa, the views of the student body or our advertisers.
The Collegian: 6
This carefully curated list of podcast episodes is sure to not disappoint, unlike first dates. Hana Saad Student Writer The day of love is finally upon us. Whether you love it or hate it, you can’t escape it. This week, I present to you a variety of podcasts that revolve around Valentine’s Day and everything that it involves, including dating and food. There’s something for everybody. For the One Who Loves Valentine’s Day: “Dates & Mates with Damona Hoffman” offers advice for those trying to navigate the dating world online and IRL. The variety of guests and topics appeal to people in all stages of the dating process. For the One Who Loves to Laugh at Love: “Why Won’t You Date Me with Ni-
Variety
cole Byer” details the hilarious shenanigans of Nicole Byer’s love life. She invites plenty of guests on the show, including former romantic interests. The result is hilarious (and sometimes embarrassing) stories about love and dating. For the One Who Hates Valentine’s Day: Instead of focusing on the sappy romantic parts of Valentine’s Day, listen to a true crime podcast instead! “The Valentine’s Day Mystery” an episode from “Dateline NBC” that aired originally in March 2010 is the perfect episode for true crime lovers who are trying to skip the corny rom-coms. In this episode, they explore the story of a doctor’s wife who was murdered on Valentine’s Day. Apparently the suspect was totally unexpected. For the One Who Enjoys All Things Food: “Episode 8: Valentine’s Day — Chocolate, Aphrodisiacs, Cocktails & More” of the “Must Love of Food” podcast dives straight into a conversation centered
around all types of Valentine’s Day treats. The hosts dive deep into the nitty-gritty of things, like what the best kind of chocolate is for baking. This episode is sure to delight any foodies. For the One Who Likes “The Office”: “The Office Ladies” sit down with Andy Buckley to talk about the episode “Valentine’s Day” on “The Office!” Buckley discusses his career, as well as the behind-thescenes of the episode. They concluded by talking about the best and worst Valentine’s gifts, which is a bonus if you’re shopping for that special someone. For the One Who Likes to Read: Let’s be real, some of us plan to curl up on our couch reading a book instead of going out on a date with someone this weekend. In the episode “Queer Romances for Valentine’s Day” of “Reading Glasses,” hosts Mallory O’Meara and Brea Grant talk about a variety of books featuring queer love! The hosts bring different perspectives to the episode, as O’Meara is an author and Grant is an avid reader (especially of e-books). Plus, they mention “Carry On” (which if you haven’t read yet what are you doing with your life??). For the One Who Is Sick of All the Dating Talk: “Immigrantly” has feature episodes about love, dating and more in all of their February 2022 episodes! They explore self-love, comedy, mental health and talk about all things relationships through the lens of life as an immigrant or the child of immigrants. As usual, these conversations are a delight to listen to, regardless of whether you are part of an immigrant family
14 February 2022
courtesy Stitcher Podcast host Hoffman is a dating coach.
courtesy Earwolf “The Office” actresses deconstruct episodes together.
or not. The episodes are about so much more than dating, which is refreshing. These podcasts are available on all streaming platforms. Happy Valentine’s Day!
Valentine’s Day reads for all your romance needs Pick up one of these novels to fill your need for romance this Valentine’s Day. Myranda New Student Writer Love is in the air! It’s February, which means candlelight dinners, love potion lattes at 918 Coffee and, of course, adding romance novels to your bookshelf. This is the perfect time to start a novel full of fluff, enemies-to-lovers, angst or any of your favorite tropes. A lot of great romance novels have been published in the last few months, and I would love to share with you some of my favorites as well as ones that I cannot stop hearing about on Instagram and TikTok. This is your guide to romance novels for the 2022 season of love. “People We Meet on Vacation” by Emily Henry: Although I have not read this novel yet, it won Goodreads’ Best Romance Novel of 2021, and I see it all over the blogs of book influencers on social media. It’s a sweet second chance romance for two best friends, and the wholesome connection explored between the pages can make anyone feel the love. “One Last Stop” by Casey McQuinston: McQuinston is a goddess when it comes to LGBTQ+ romance novels, and “One Last Stop” is no exception. A girlloves-girl romance that completely takes place on a train full of magical elements
and drag queen neighbors, what more could you ask for? This book will make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside from themes of found family and recognizing your dreams. While you are in the neighborhood for LGBTQ+ romance novels, I also highly recommend her debut novel, “Red, White & Royal Blue.” “The Love Hypothesis” by Ali Hazelwood: I just finished this novel, and I cannot get over it! There is nothing better than a main character who is a woman in STEM, and this novel was equal parts scientific facts and steamy romance. Full of the best banter I have read in a while and the most fun cast of characters, you will not be able to put it down. In fact, this was a top runner for Goodreads’ Best Romance, only placing in second by around a thousand votes. “The Spanish Love Deception” by Elena Armas: This was another very popular read of 2021, and it has been all over my Instagram page since I have finished “The Love Hypothesis.” Fake dating, enemies to lovers and incredibly witty writing, this novel has everything you need to enjoy two people coming together even though they insist they never would. “It Happened One Summer” by Tessa Bailey: I have been told that if you enjoyed “Schitt’s Creek,” especially the character of Alexis, then you would love this novel. The reviews for this are absolutely raving, with everyone talking about how it was the novel that got them out of their reading slump or how much they love the bearded fisherman love interest. I can certainly say this is a novel that has caught my attention.
“Honey Girl” by Morgan Rogers: Once again, I want to express my love for novels set in academia, especially women pursuing doctorate degrees, and this is such a fun read in that category. Another woman loves woman romance, this is a sweet novel that shows the importance of reflecting upon our lives and ourselves to see what we are truly seeking in life. “The Song of Achilles” by Madeline Miller: This has to be one of the most romantic novels I have ever read, especially when it comes to the entire plot revolving around soulmates and an eternity in the afterlife. The love story of Achilles and Patroclus is beautiful and heartbreaking, a tale of pride, honor and companionship. Be warned, though, this novel will absolutely devastate you so be sure to keep a box of tissues close by. “Heartstopper” by Alice Oseman: If you prefer books with stunning illustration, this graphic novel series is definitely for you. This boy loves boy novel has been described as cute, precious and downright sweet, making it the perfect cozy read to make your day better. Anything by Colleen Hoover or Adam Silvera: To finish this list, I must include the two authors who always have novels roaming the latest reviews and blogs. Both have written an assortment of plots and characters so you can find whatever fits your fancy. Known for being big in the field of romance novels, I feel like you can never go wrong with them. Hopefully you found something new to add to your bookshelf, and, if not, there is
courtesy HarperCollins The Song of Achilles was published in 2011.
always plenty of fanfiction online. Though some romance novels can be an acquired taste based on the level of spicy content, the relationship being highlighted and the way it is written, it is such a broad genre that there is something for everyone. Happy Valentine’s Day!
photos by Ha Huynh Students celebrated Lunar New Year on Monday, Jan. 31 with performances, music and food.
Variety
14 February 2022
The Collegian: 7
Favorite relaxing strolls and wanders in Tulsa
With spring semester in full swing, here are some good walks in the city to release stress. Margaret Laprarie Student Writer
One of the reasons I cheer for the end of winter each year is because I can finally start to go on walks again. I’m a little too easily distracted for meditation, and sometimes I have a little too much energy for journaling, so the only real, foolproof way I have found to relax and clear my mind when it’s buzzing is to put in my headphones and go on a walk. This past summer I stayed in Tulsa for work and found myself taking a walk nearly every evening at the end of my day. I could watch the sunset, listen to my latest playlist
and decompress from the last several hours of teaching art to eight-year-olds. Sometimes it was the best part of my day. There are a few elements that are essential for a good, relaxing walk, and perhaps the most important is the location. Are you in a garden, a park or a neighborhood? Are there plenty of plants to look at, pretty houses to admire, a path to follow? Does the path vary at all? How long is it? Is there a good spot to stop and admire the sunset or feel the breeze for a moment? These are all the things I consider for a good walking spot, and luckily Tulsa has many options that check all of these boxes. Gathering Place Yes, this one is obvious, but it deserves the hype! Gathering Place is a perfect spot to take a walk because it’s full of greenery and nature, big enough for a good long walk but also possible to choose a shorter path if
photo by Margaret Laprarie Stroll past some wildflowers at the Gathering Place.
photo by Margaret Laprarie Especially beautiful in the springtime, Woodward Park is a perfect place for a walk.
desired, and there are tons of stops and activities along the way. Some of my personal favorites are the Cabinet of Wonders located inside the boathouse on the far side of the park, and the Lodge, where I usually stop and read for a bit after a good walk. Woodward Park/Tulsa Rose Garden A two for one! Woodward Park is a great spot, especially in the springtime because there are so many beautiful flowers and trees in bloom. I wandered over there last spring for a walk and had the best time admiring all the fresh blossoms and different types of plants. The Tulsa Rose Garden is within the park, and I honestly couldn’t tell you where one stops and another begins. For all I know,those beautiful flowers actually belong to the rose garden! Either way, this spot is perfect especially for those looking for a more scenic walk to clear their head. The Philbrook Gardens Free with your TU ID, the Philbrook is the perfect place to take a walk, both in and outside the museum. The gardens are gorgeous at all times of the year, and often have
special plants that change with the seasons and sometimes even the exhibitions! Philbrook has a botanical curator on staff who works to specifically pick out elements for their garden. If you keep following the path to your right once you reach the large pond, the garden loops around and you can also visit their outdoor cabin and maybe catch a glimpse of one of the Philbrook garden cats! Tulsa Botanic Gardens Although you do have to pay admission, the Tulsa Botanic Gardens is another gorgeous space to enjoy a walk. They too have a variety of beautiful plants, a large pond and several different places to stop and reflect, if that’s your thing. My personal favorite special touch is a large monster head that can be found along the path, and you can even go inside of the head and admire the stalactites on the ceiling! No matter what kind of walk you’re looking for, Tulsa has a spot for you and a relaxing way to release any spring semester stress.
deep sea diver turned detective and I just got Jen Comfort’s “The Astronaut and the Star” on Kindle, which sounds like a fun twist on the typical meet cute). I loved getting Magic City Mailbox delivered throughout the pandemic and especially enjoyed Kelli Jo Ford’s “Crooked Hallelujah” and Bryan Washington’s “Memorial.” I also find solace in reading books about writing like Helen Sword’s “Air & Light & Time & Space” and Anne Lamott’s “Bird by Bird.”
See Me After Class is a weekly column where a different professor reveals their variety favorites. Julianne Tran Variety Editor Dr. Emily Contois is an assistant professor of Media Studies who holds a Ph.D. and M.A. from Brown, an M.P.H. from Berkeley and an M.L.A. from Boston University. To have had her as a professor is to love her. Amid a pandemic semester, Contois’ class — even in an online format — was a light for me and my classmates. She is candid, energetic and caring. It would be a mistake to graduate from TU without taking a Contois class. What’s your favorite book? What book would you say all undergrads need to read before they graduate?
Rather than recommend one book, I’d encourage students to 1) read voraciously and widely, across multiple disciplines, fields and genres, and to 2) try to not lose your love of reading, which unfortunately can be a common side effect from reading so intensely for classes. I try to follow this advice too. So, I’m enjoying reading for my new research project on athleticism in branding and everyday U.S. consumer culture; recently I liked Jürgen Martschukat’s “The Age of Fitness: How the Body Came to Symbolize Success and Achievement” and Jenn McClearen’s “Fighting Visibility: Sports Media and Female Athletes in the UFC.” I also read a lot for fun from: literature and popular fiction (I own all of Ann Patchett and Haruki Murakami’s books, though Murakami’s recent ones have let me down a bit), memoir (I liked Jami Attenberg’s “I Came All This Way to Meet You”—and you and I read together and loved Michelle Zauner’s “Crying in H Mart”) and thrillers and romance, too (I liked Andrew Mayne’s series about a
What’s reading like for you? Is there a specific setting, mood, drink set-up? Reading is such a lovely escape, but I also learn something from everything I read that helps me to become a better writer, whether it’s lovely prose or skillful argument or something about pacing, characters or storytelling more broadly. I’ll often curl up with a book on the sofa with my rescue pittie Raven cuddled next to me and a cup of tea at arm’s length, or if I’m reading for work, with a pencil and a bunch of sticky notes, too. My favorite setting is to read outside on a lovely sunny day. Is there a movie/show that you always return to? I teach the pilot episode of “Mad Men” in my “Advertising History, Culture & Critique” class and I often get sucked back in and watch the entire series again. It’s not without its flaws, but I find the characters infinitely intriguing and the show does a great job highlighting some of the biggest issues in advertising and of the 1960s. I’ve watched the entire thing maybe six or seven times at this point. Like many of my students, I’ve lately been a big comfort TV rewatcher with shows like “Grey’s Anatomy,” “The Office” and “Parks and Rec”—so much so that I wrote about the connections between comfort TV and comfort food in a short essay. What was the last book/movie/show that you actually found funny? I read Sam Anderson’s “Boom Town: The Fantastical Saga of Oklahoma City, Its Chaotic Founding, Its Apocalyptic Weather, Its Purloined Basketball Team, and the Dream of Becoming a World-class Metropolis” when we first moved to Oklahoma and parts of it had me in stitches. I recently read “The Guncle” which had some really funny moments. “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” is nominated for Best Animated Feature this year and I thought it was funny and very clever. I haven’t loved the show “Peacemaker,” but the intro credit’s choreography is hysterical. Almost every episode of “Insecure” is comical in a way that sears you. “Moses Storm: Trash White” was hilarious and very smart. For a song and music video, Aesop Rock’s catchy and absurd “Long Legged Larry” makes me laugh every time, and I love the stop motion animation.
courtesy Universal Pictures Contois has a love-hate relationship with the “Fast and Furious” franchise.
What’s your favorite Tulsa restaurant? Do you have any food/restaurant routines? The spot I probably visit the most is Mother Road Market. I take my “Food Media” students there for field trips to test our
courtesy utulsa.edu You can find Dr. Contois online @emilycontois.
palates and to meet the food entrepreneurs who are part of the Kitchen 66 program. I also had a very memorable meal at Nonesuch in Oklahoma City and its concept (local ingredients and flavors, a multi-course tasting menu, a small space with seats setup in an intimate U-shape) reminded me of one of my favorite restaurants where we’d go for my birthday every year in Providence, RI, where we lived before we moved to Tulsa. Is there a media/pop culture/entertainment/music side to you that students wouldn’t expect? Ha. Well, I’m a pretty open book with my students and pop culture is a lot of my job, so I don’t think they’d find anything all that unexpected. My “Media & Popular Culture” students last semester found it funny how sincerely I love-hate the “Fast and Furious” franchise. Probably the weirdest thing would be the music I’m listening to while I work out at the gym. (I’ve been holding one of my office hours each week at Collins Fitness Center so students (current and past!) can ask questions, get help, chat, or just say hi.) I’ll be listening to anything from sugary pop to 80s rock to hip hop, or even a touch of metal. My husband and I met when we were in college, and we’re polar opposites in just about every way, including our live music tastes (which we’ve missed during the pandemic), so favorite concerts range from Lady Gaga to Ghost, Childish Gambino to Iron Maiden, Girl Talk to Weezer. If you had to pick three songs for a Playlist of Your Life, what would they be? Okay, first off would be John Farnham’s “Two Strong Hearts.” He was an Australian pop star when I was a little girl growing up there and it’s just so catchy. Second would be Rise Against’s “Swing Life Away.” They’re a hardcore/punk band that was popular when we were in college. It’s a sweet acoustic song that I remember listening to together, driving around town with the window’s down and the warm air rushing in. We danced to it at our wedding, too. Third would be Kesha’s “Praying.” I love all of her party pop music, but Rainbow was this gorgeous departure, deeper, more soulful, more searching. I wrote most of my first book listening to that album and “Praying” was one of my favorite tracks.
The State-Run Media
Look, girls!
It’s the virgin loser without a Valentine! Attack! YGGDRASIL THE WORLD TREE IS DOING NFTS
SORRY IF THIS IS HOW YOU FOUND OUT
14 February 2022
the
State-Run media
Valentine’s Day tips, as told by a man who is obviously going through something Valentine’s Day is so hard to navigate, and in college, it is a whole new battlefield. We found a heterosexual man to give it to us straight — how does he celebrate this love-infested holiday, and what does he suggest? Anna Johns Spirit channels dreary, depressed men as a subversive art form “Ugh, my head,” begins our Hurricane Spotlight man, rubbing his eyes. He wakes for the first time in the Collegian’s glass enclosure, his temporary home away from home — for the purpose of this interview, that is. Microphones dot the corners of his tank. He sits in a Collegian chair, its age unknown but its dust a formidable opponent. Blunt force trauma on the side of his head is evident by the blood coagulating in that area, something he, too, notices when he touches the wound and grimaces. “Where am I?” he asks, voice growing tenser. “What did you do with me?” A bookshelf sits in the corner. In it, TU yearbooks from the 40s to 70s lie untouched, ready to be opened and studied: the ways of the old just at this man’s fingertips, should he so choose to peruse. Maybe he could find TU alumni Dr. Phil. Maybe. 1.“Look, I don’t care about your stupid fucking newspaper. Get me out of here.”
His enclosure pounds as he slams his fist against the glass. He has been trying to escape for hours. Where he comes from, is delivering head trauma and locking someone up not how you land a virile beau? “Obviously not,” he spits out with a glare. “You go on Tinder. Ask out a girl from class. Meet someone at a party.” “Wait, do you not know?” he asks. “Is that why you dragged me here? You couldn’t just ask someone?” Swiftly, the interview continues. 2. “I don’t know what the fuck you would give to a significant other as a gift. Release me.” With the hours trickling by, he has become testier. Something rabid shines in his eye, something desperate. But he knows the drill: no answers mean no corn dogs for dinner and no freedom. So, with a sigh, he says, “Fuck you. There are teddy bears or something, I’m sure. Chocolates? Dinner?” Where would he get dinner if he were liberated? The answer, like him, is unexpected and daring: Chili’s, for the endless nacho appetizer and those killer chocolate lava cakes as dessert. Yummy! 3. Romantic music? What are you even talking about? Look, my family is going to be worried about me. I call them every day, and once they notice I’m gone, they’re going to start looking.” The burst of electrical shock burns through his veins. A scream escapes his chapped lips. Sweat drips down his forehead.
Quiz: What is your Love Language?
Hello, Valentine! Take this short quiz to see your signature love style. 1. When you look at your partner, you feel… A. A lust that makes my fingers bleed and my drool coagulate B. Proud, for I have flicked my wantonly fingers around the loosest purse strings yet, so deliciously tempting… C. Ecstasy, For Bones Are Good To Eat, Ready To Boil And Bubble In Mine Cauldron!!!! D. Ooey-gooey feelings of love and affection, an intimacy sparking between us
3. Your partner loves you for…
A. The lust you instill in them when you wear the sexy executioners' hood B. Your capitalist ingenuity. After all, it was your idea to work the orphaned children in the NFT Factory, and it was your plan to settle on Crypto Island, where you both now reside. To the moon! C. The maternal aura you exude despite living in the deep woods. It is safe in your cottage, mind the Hagfish Slime and the Ichor dripping from your teeth. D. The companionship you provide, the love you give or something else suitably normal and boring
“Fine, you want an answer? Drake’s pretty good. You listen to that ‘Girls Want Girls’ song by Drake about how if she’s a lesbian, he is too?” Another shock. He screams again. 4.“Are you that desperate for content here or something? I haven’t even heard of the Collegian. No one on campus knows you exist or even reads the paper.” Well, you cannot transmit an electric shock to a guy for being correct. It’s called ethical journalism. 5.“You want seduction advice from me now? What is wrong with you? Let me go.” With the promise of water to quench his searing thirst, he reluctantly offers an answer: show your intended sexual conquest all the photos in your gallery—especially the funny ones, like the apache attack helicopter meme. If your Valentine does not laugh, that is their fault. Go back to scrolling Reddit, king. 6. If you were curious about how to do sex, I am sorry. The interview has abruptly ended. I was also interested in the whole sex bit, but our designated normal man just escaped our glass enclosure. Go figure. Men, right?
QUIZ RESULTS!
Mostly A’s
Your love language is Bloodthirsty and Carnal.
2. What is more meaningful to you?
A. The village peasants rounded up in shackles, bruised and bloody; the beautiful female virgin looks at you with fire in her eyes, a plan undoubtedly unfolding in her protagonist mind. Too bad she won’t see the makings of her scheme. You lick your lips in excitement for the night to come. B. Tiny Tim bore a little crutch, and had his limbs supported by an iron frame. Let’s kick over the fucker and steal his coin purse. C. Gendered experience of commanding an undead army of skeletons and transmuting a blunt D. Quality time spent with your partner, feeling supported no matter your decision and holding hands in the grocery store
4. What would you rather hear from your partner?
A.“Your machete, my dear, freshly cleaned and sharpened. Say, that gender ambiguous bodice hanging upon your gender neutral, swiveling hips is driving me crazy…” B.“While you rested, my pet, I put Neuralink brain chips in, like, 30 monkeys. They all died with utmost cruelty—EPIC FAIL, LOL. So cringe. Anyway, shall we pop in the Metaverse and get around in my self-driving Death Box 3.0?” C.“Please, let me out of the cauldron, miss. I’m only 5, and I need to get home to my parents; they must be worried sick about me!” D.“I love you the way you are, mess or no mess. I crave your presence. You give me feelings of hope and joy every day.”
Mostly B’s
Your love language is Slovenly Greed.
Mostly C’s
Your love language is Baba Yaga’s Revenge.
Mostly D’s
Your love language is Normal, I Guess? Grow up. Leave me alone.
graphics by Anna Johns
