Twenty Something October 2011
Bethany Young - Editor-in-Chief Rachel Zoe
Kelsey Self - Fashion Editor Anna Wintour
Emily Davis - Writer Where’s Waldo?
Luke Stephens - Writer Indian Chief
Lil Doescher - Hair & Makeup Rain Cloud
Meagan Owen - Writer Gumball Machine
Denver Duncan
Jeff Ragan Little League Bas
Kealey McIntire & Ja Blinged out G
n - Writer
Christina Fallin-Bacon - Writer Masquerade Belle
Writer seball Player
Sarah Ethridge - Writer Witch
aNiece Cranmer Ghouls
Sherree Chamberlain - Writer Zombie
Meredith Foerster - Writer Hippie Chick
Abigail Ogle -Writer Kylee Gwartney - Writer Barbie Kitten
Alex Mendex-Kelley - Writer Princess
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Fashion
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town turned famous. “The place I grew up is fancy now, like the movie “Sideways” was filmed there. But then it was more of an agricultural town, like everyone was in Future Farmers or played sports,” he said. “People sort of classified you as either English or Western, and I was like, ‘I don’t like either.’ So my mom and I got in a fight and she eventually just gave me money to buy my own clothes, which were kind of outrageous then.” In school, John’s teacher also took notice of his originality. “My teacher told me I was giving such boring speeches…so he suggested maybe I do something I have a passion for. At the time I didn’t really know what he was saying, but then he suggested my clothes, and how [the way] I dressed was different.”
John’s passion extended beyond classroom assignments. “After that, I did some research [about fashion]. When I was having trouble finding sources, I came across an article with a quote from Eleanor The world of fashion is a continually evolving Lambert and someone suggested I contact her,” cultural phenomenon. Author and fashion hisJohn recalled. “At the time I didn’t think anytorian John Tiffany tells the story of the woman thing of it. Later, I met [a man] that worked for who pioneered it all in his latest work, Eleanor her. [A few] years after that, I was working at Lambert: Still Here. the World Bank. I hated it and he suggested I move to New York because Eleanor Lambert Eleanor Lambert was a world-renowned press was looking for an assistant.” At 25 years old, agent and trailblazer for American fashion. “It John moved to New York and landed the job. took a full year to do the book,” John said. “I worked for Miss Lambert [as her assistant], so As Miss Lambert’s assistant, John gained a peek I knew the story and had already been in the into the hidden world of the fashion industry. archives. Well, they were the files then, and “I found all these files and started to find out turned into the archives after [her death].” more about her,” John explained. “She really was the first to find fashion as an art, because John captures the essence of Eleanor Lamfashion certainly was not seen as an art form in bert’s accomplishments and authenticity. “I the 30s and 40s.” really wanted to let people experience it,” John explained. “I wanted to use Miss Lambert’s After World War I, the women in the fashion original press releases from all these amazing industry sought Eleanor Lambert’s help to designers she created. Well, she didn’t create promote their clothing lines to boost post-war their designs, but she took them to a new level. sales. “Their ad campaigns at the time were I wanted people to understand how people horrible, like, ‘The only thing worse than bad thought of [designers] back then.” breath is a bad dress.’ The department stores, which were basically run by women, said [the Before John became Miss Lambert’s assistant, ads] were terrible,” John revealed. he walked to the beat of his own drum in a
As the women came in contact with Miss Lambert, the tables turned from advertising to publicity. “She [Lambert] said they needed to not just promote dresses, but promote full collections. She knew to turn the artists [the designers] into the stars.” John continued, “The problem was Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar were the only editorials. They loved French design and that was all they cared about. That was all they would report about in the 30s and 40s.” Eleanor Lambert found an opportunity for American fashion and created one of the most sought after events of the year – New York Fashion Week. “She [Lambert] said to create a couture group which would be the designers’ full collections, which were only French at the time. [She said] to create a way for people from all over America to come to New York, and report on the fashion in the New York department stores. Over the years, the American reporters kept coming and [the publicity in American editorials] worked. New York Fashion Week has never stopped. The only time it shut down was during 9-11.” Miss Lambert also developed a number of other staples in the fashion world, such as the Best Dressed List, the Coty Awards, and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA). John shared that “[when] Jackie Kennedy became the First Lady, she wasn’t happy that she was being published as wearing French designers. Miss Lambert offered to help, and suggested that [Mrs. Kennedy] wear American designers.” The fashion press agent had one goal in mind – for America to acknowledge fashion as an art form. “Miss Lambert petitioned the U.S. Congress for fashion to be included as an art in the Council of the Arts. It was a very controversial thing because fashion wasn’t seen as an art; it was seen as a business,” John explained. “The Republican Senators were not for it, so [Miss Lambert] had [an American designer] fashion show for the Republican Senators’ wives. She told the wives to tell their husbands that American fashion is an art, and it would be a crime to wear another country’s clothes because that’s un-American. It worked like a charm. The next
day, the Senators voted and it passed.” Eleanor Lambert lived 100 years and spent her career promoting others, rarely promoting herself. “That wasn’t who she was. She knew who she was, and she nurtured talent. She wouldn’t work for those she didn’t think could handle it,” John said. “[While putting the book together], what I really learned from many of her friends and family was she was a rebel. She dared to believe that American fashion wasn’t equal to French fashion and she proved it. She could spot future talent; she was interested in promoting other people and not herself.” While creating the book, John uncovered incalculable amounts of information, but remembers one moment specifically. “The one thing she [Lambert] used to say was, ‘I didn’t create anything, I only did what was in front of me to do.’” With that insight, John knew what it was for him to do – inform the world of the woman who took the success of fashion and turned it into an American art. John Tiffany brings the stories of Miss Lambert to life through words and photography. Pick up a copy of Eleanor Lambert: Still Here, available online and in bookstores nationwide.
Eleanor Lambert & John Tiffany Written by Meredith Foerster
Christian Dior
Oscar De La Renta
Rudi Ge
From Eleanor Lambert: Still Here Š 2011 Pointed Leaf Press Courtesy: Fashion Institute of Technology/SUNY, FIT Library Dept. of Special Collections and FIT Archives
Rudi Gernreich
ernreich
Stephen Burrows
Calvin Klein
Fashion
Fashion
Fashion
Trendy Trends
Trends can define who you are socially. They can even define a generation as a whole, for instance bell bottoms. More often than not, a trend is as short as homemade booty shorts (also a trend, see what I did there). By the time most of the general public discovers a trend, a.k.a. your mom or dad, the next bigger, better, eccentric, hipster fad is already in place, and they, the “trendsetters”, are already looking down through their oversized non-prescribed glasses at you and smirking. Oh, and the hipster craze is an entirely different issue we can cover later. Even as you read this, you or someone you know is a casualty of following a fad; we all are. I may or may not be wearing a Snuggie right now. Though some are good and even fun for a while, it’s usually showing up late to the trend party or hanging on to the latest ‘thing’ way too long instead of sending it to live on a beautiful farm where it can run free with other trends, that warrants public ridicule. Some get emotionally attached to their new hip look and when the fashion fairy waves her wand, poof, the trend is over. It’s as heartbreaking as being dumped by the star quarterback for the new girl in town. That’s why you can still see a perm or fanny pack running wild on the streets. The great thing about trends, fashion ones in particular, is that they come and go. So let’s look at a current trend that honestly was over last October. This trend pays tribute to the majestic creatures of the heavens, a trend that was stolen from Native Americans (like many other things). Yes, I’m going to say it… FEATHERS! If you have one in your hair right now, take it out! It’s ok. Let it go. Nobody’s looking. Pull it out and throw it in the trash. You may be in denial about your feather extensions, so here are a few harsh truths to try and convince you that this trend is over. Truth number one: they are sold at the fair. Fashion tip #283: It’s a good rule of thumb not to buy your accessories within 50 feet of pig barns or colossal turkey legs. I could stop there but I’ll keep going. Truth number two: Your eighty year old grandma can actually buy feather extension’s on QVC. Have you been to Hometown Buffet at 4:30? Truth number three: People are feathering their pets! If don’t believe me, Google it! You won’t be disappointed. So, if you and Pookie are sharing accessories you should be ashamed of yourself. Now don’t call a foul on me yet, the feather craze is not yet extinct. It has only migrated south for the winter. The trendies, in all their fashion glory, have now moved the feathers from their head, to their ears and neck. Some have even taken it in a more permanent direction and tattooed a feather on their body in hopes that the feather is here to stay. But just like all other great fads that have gone before the feather, it too will float away, just like the closing scene in “Forrest Gump”.
Written by Denver Duncan
Written by Daniel Whitfield
Fashion
Fashion
Like many of you, my father had to travel for work when I was a child. Sometimes for days in the country, a week in Europe, half a month in Asia and so on. The only joy in a dad being gone for these trips is the trinkets that he would bring back. It is sometimes like Christmas, waiting at the airport and giving him a big hug proceeded with the “I miss you” and the ever popular, “What did you bring me?!” This would bring a laugh and a joke about only being able to snag an extra bag of peanuts from the airplane… but then he would bring out what really came back! Tea cups from China or scaris from India, they all held a special place in my heart because they were from somewhere “far away.” They all tell their own story about the people that made them. They remind me that we are all connected- farther than we can see. I used to dress up in the scaris, play with the colorful bangles and imagine what it was like where these pieces were from. It wasn’t until I was old enough to travel on my own that I appreciated finding these great pieces from my trips. From all of my travels, I carry a piece of them with me. It is my favorite treasure hunt to go on… the hunt to find a piece of fashion that tells the stories of my adventures while I was there.
Smells of great leather and Italian herbs fill your nose when you walk the streets of Rome and one of those smells lured me and a group of girlfriends in to witness leathermaking in the works. After walking around the whole workshop you could pick out pieces to buy. Of course everything in this store was expensive and if you cross over into Euros… even more expensive. But I did find one leather ring. A small piece worked and sewed together. I originally got it thinking it would just be a “thing I bought in Europe” and never really wear it (kind of like that fake Prada I bought in the streets) but I have never seen anything like it since and it has become a staple in my jewelry rotation.
A dear old friend of mine was sent to Angola, Africa for a business trip, (you all might know Angola for their win at Miss Universe, but to him it was completely foreign.) He recalls a scene of a young man with headphones in but nothing attached Creative, unique, eclectic and stylish are all and was puzzled until he realized the iPod logo/commercial showed a silhouette of a things I like to be in a fashion realm and person only with the headphones. Endeared all of these things I have been able to find by this, he ventured into the city and found in the streets of Seattle, boutiques of Italy several vendors. Some of which were chilor the presents brought back from all over the world. It is beyond fascinating what you dren, whom he said would chase after the trucks hauling off precious materials- ivory, will find when you look into the style and culture of other people. You discover things stones, fabric - to try to catch any pieces falling off. After catching the falling pieces, that make you more similar than different and you find yourself wanting to learn more they would assemble them into jewelry. This jewelry, held together by any piece of about them. You learn that by buying lostring or spare elastic (often from a used cal, you are giving back to something that piece of clothing), would be etched with is outside yourself… and it feels great. It a design and sold at the market or to any inspires me. Here are some of my favorite passerby willing to look its way. stories: Written by Meagan Owen
Scarf from India
Dress from Spain
Vintage gloves passed down from your grandmother, gifts from friends from places far away, accessories that hold no monetary value but purely sentiment. They span years or even decades across time and thousands of miles across land. Look at these pieces in your closet and remember that they are uniquely yours. Cherish them and let them inspire you.
Matching bracelets from a street vendor in Seattle.
Braided string bracelets from an orphanage in Honduras.
Twenty Something Girl in The City
Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young
Lauren Archer
How old were you when you started dancing? I was three years old. My parents took me to see the Nutcracker for the first time and I was captivated by the dancers. I carried around a nutcracker doll everywhere I went for the next two years and refused to wear anything but dresses and bows. What type of dance have you taken? My main focus has been ballet but I have also taken gymnastics, modern, jazz, contemporary, and ballroom.
What is next for you in the dance world? Well until Christmas I will be solely focusing on my technique and preparing for out winter showcase, but beginning in January I will start auditioning for companies nation wide. I will be auditioning everywhere from San Francisco Ballet to Sarasota Ballet in Florida! I hope to find a job in a strong company with a love for the ballet classics but also have the opportunity to perform new contemporary pieces.
Of all of your performances, which ballet has been your Tell us about your journey of favorite to perform in? pursuing ballet. My favorite ballet to perform in is definitely I moved away from home when I was 16 to Don Quixote! I love the Spanish sass in all dance professionally as a member of Tulsa of the choreography and the music by LudBallet’s second company [Lauren was the wig Minkus is absolutely inspiring! This was youngest ballerina the Tulsa Ballet ever my first ballet to perform with Tulsa Ballet. asked to join their company - but because I was a cupid in the dream scene of Act II she is so humble, she would never tell you when I was ten years old and then I perthis unless you asked]. I had to finish high formed it again as a member of Tulsa Ballet school online because ballet became my full II as a corps member. time job. I absolutely loved my time there! I performed Who are some dancers who in four of Tulsa Ballet’s performances: Don inspire you? Quixote, The Nutcracker, Cinderella, and Natalia Osipova, Svetlana Zakharova, and The Carnival of the Animals. Karina Gonzalez are three amazing dancers who inspire me. They are such hard Now you are living in New York workers and truly come alive on stage. They and dancing - tell us about your are so good at becoming the character they experience there so far. are portraying and are technically beautiful. I moved to NYC at the end of July to be a part of Ellison Ballet. Edward Ellison has an What advice would you give to impeccable eye for the purest for of ballet other dancers who are trying to technique. He has a way of truly inspiring pursue their passions? his students and preparing them for the Dream big. Work hard each day pushing a world of ballet. Just being in the city alone little bit further and getting a little bit is so stronger. Immerse yourself in the dance energizing! It’s dreamy getting to wake up culture. It’s important to know about ballet, and walk down the streets of New York to companies, composers, and variations in go to ballet everyday! I feel so blessed to order to fully understand the art you are have this opportunity. trying to perfect. Also, don’t be afraid to fail, it will happen, just use it to learn and push you even more.
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Quarter-Life Crisis
So you turn 50 and panic sets in. Perhaps you feel that your career is at a standstill, or that you may want to enhance your physical appearance. Middle-aged men could even be found pining for one of those motor bikes that they don’t know how to operate, but its glossy presence in the garage somehow makes them feel adequate. Or perhaps you’re simply questioning your purpose in life for the years to come. Sounds about right. Now imagine someone in their early twenties- an educated graduate from an accredited college or university, ready to take on the world and expected to know what they want in order to do so. Never mind the pressure from outsiders or society as a whole, to settle into a profession quickly to succeed. Welcome to the quarter -life crisis guys. Unfortunately, no plastic surgery or new rides can combat this existential dilemma. According to a ‘Fear of Ageing Report’, young adults are no strangers to the realm of stress and anxiety. “Pressure to succeed has intensified as more young people invest in education and enter the world of work; once on this path, they can enter a period of not only pressure to achieve themselves, but also a period of constant comparison with their peers, which only serves to intensify the stress.” While that forecast doesn’t appear too bright, may I be so bold as to question the notion of pursuing what you actually want in life instead of succumbing to the pressures of trying to blend into those office jobs that make you cringe? Now I’m not suggesting that ‘climbing the corporate ladder’ is useless if you
know you can eventually be happy at the top, but the key is happiness… isn’t it? After taking a course in positive psychology, I gained a newfound appreciation for following a sense of purpose and living a life of fulfillment. Clinical Psychologist Todd Kashdan discusses meaning and purpose in his book Curious. A purpose guides our narrative and adds the meaning to life that so many of us seek. On a bit of a spiritual level (not to sound too preachy here), purpose gives you the answers as to why you’re here; in a cosmic way, it conveys why you were brought into this world, it brings forth your joi e de vivre. “Purpose is a manifestation of our core values and interests,” Kashdan says. “Having a purpose is just a starting point. Only by committing effort do we give ourselves a self-sustaining source of pleasure and meaning.” Purpose is often brought to light with an understanding of who we are, while recognizing what strengths we have that can be geared towards bettering society. With this process comes a sense of reward, a feeling we all strive to ignite within ourselves. Perhaps this is the counter to the infamous quarter-life crisis? Kashdan notes that curiosity and introspection foster selfawareness. “No matter what path you end up on – and it could be an odd combination of learning from others, being reactive, and being proactive-always questioning, investigating, and wondering will serve you well.” Written by Lauren Suval
Halloween Hair: Lil Doescher Makeup: The MakeUp Bar Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Models: Damaris Pierce, Heather Carter, Makenzie Muse, Alyssa Bland, Brett Raprich
n
pauly D
Snooki
Minnie Mouse
Lady Gaga
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I got an early start to doing Halloween makeup way back when. As an artist you live for these moments when you can make a beautiful woman look like she’d been run over by a MACK truck! What’s not to love? I helped Halloween loving folks recreate a priest with a slashed throat, Dolly Parton, Marilyn (of course), lady Liberty, street walkers, Disco Mavens, GaGa, women into men, men into women, and Alice in Wonderland to name a few! The transformation is sometimes subtle and sometimes crazy. Several years ago I worked with a woman that had seen me work with lots of latex, making scars and burns and creating bruises and broken noses. She wanted me to make her look like she had been in a terrible accident. As the day progressed I kept adding more things to her. I started ripping her clothes and putting tire marks across her body. She had blood coming out her ears, and a broken nose. Her poor head was swimming in mint flavored red goo. Scrapes along her arms, gashes on her legs. She was a work in progress for 8 hours in between every other client I had that day! She looked so bad (by that I mean good) by 5 pm that she decided to enter a costume contest where the first prize was $500.00! Before heading out to her favorite bar, she wanted to show her Mom her “look”. While driving to her Mom’s house she was stopped at a red light and a women rushed over to her and knocked feverishly on her window yelling for her to open the window. “Miss! Miss! Can I help you?? I am a registered nurse and you need to get help right away! Miss!! Miss!!” My friend begrudgingly rolled down her window and said, “I’m so sorry but this is my costume. My friend is a makeup artist….” Before she could even finish explaining it was all a horrible misunderstanding, the kind good hearted nurse stormed off yelling, “You shouldn’t do that! That is just plain wrong! What is wrong with you people? Giving people heart attacks. Go to %$#%!” I took a little personal offense to that, after all it was convincing to a nurse! I think I did a pretty good job, but noooo she couldn’t recognize that! Oh well, I digress. So my friend makes it to her bar, and she scopes the floor and sees some pretty weak choices. Mostly lazy stuff like gypsies, pirates and those guys that can’t live down the super hero thing. Everyone is having a swell time and after some time and a few rounds of beers the moment of truth was upon us! They called everyone up and did the customary applause-o-meter. I had given my friend a couple of melt away capsules filled with blood liquid. So when they called her name she bit into it and spewed blood down her chin and maybe even on a patron or two! Super cool right? She was clearly the winner! There was only one more contestant left. She makes her way to the front, takes off her coat only to expose her teeny weeny bikini. Apparently she had just made a big purchase in the way of some double d’s. I’m sure you can guess the end of this story. Awesome huh? NOT...
Alex Mendez-Kelley, Owner of The MakeUp Bar
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Screw Halloween: A 20-Something’s Guide to the Truly Terrifying Werewolves aren’t real, ghosts are sort of cool, I’ve never seen an alien, and hacker movies just make me sad. Don’t get me wrong, I love love Halloween, but none of that blood business freaks me out. Wanna see me REALLY quake in my hipster white-girl boots? Read on sweet readers. Read on.
1. Opening Biscuit Cans Biscuit cans are the adult jack in the box with the sound of a gunshot at the end instead. Has science really not found another way for us to access canned biscuits? #mommyhelp 2. Blind Spots Do you mean to tell me that there’s just a place in my peripheral vision where I just can’t SEE?? And you expect me to DRIVE that way??? 3. Girls with Wedding Pinterests/scrapbooks etc. (insert blood-curdling scream) There is nothing more terrifying than the girl who plans her entire life-time union before ever having a confirmed life partner. I like to imagine them with Children of the Corn eyes while they do this weird ritual. It’s freaky business and frankly, never okay. Rein it in ladies. Rein it in.
4. Smelling Weird and Not Knowing It Have you ever walked in to someone’s house how and it. Just. Smells. So. Weird. What if YOU are that person?! They don’t know it, so you probably don’t either. The same question applies to breath, B.O., clothes, and funky car smells. Ohmygosh WHAT IF IT’S YOU. 5. Trypophobia It’s a thing I have. Look it up. I just can’t talk about it . . . . woeifwoeifmwoifjwgiowbjmn UGGGHHHH!!! 6. Pathological Liars It’s not so much the lies that scare me, but the infinite possibility of the dream world they live in. Like... I think they really believe that stuff. And if they believe THAT, who’s to say one day they won’t start to believe OTHER crazy things? Like they’re supposed to kill me and stuff. 7. Milk I accidently ate chunky, sour, heavy cream last year. That experience was 10 times scarier than The Ring. 8. Alligators I don’t know why sharks get so much street cred. Alligators are like camouflage sharks with legs. They’re 12 ft long, 1,000 lbs, and swim 20 MPH. Did you also know that they run 11 mph on those tiny legs, and their bite is also strong enough to lift a truck (True story. Google told me so.) 9. Birth Control Tiny pills that trick your body into thinking you’re pregnant for an unlimited amount of time! Added benefits are an increased risk of blood clots, gaining 10 lbs, plummeting libidos, and incuring enough emotions to sustain 7th grade girls at an all night lock-in. Wait, in WHAT world is this okay? 10. The Past The past is truly the freakiest of them all. Here are just a few examples of socially acceptable behavior in the past... smoking in cars with the windows up, dog-fighting for sport, slavery, watching tigers rip people apart for fun... you know, everyday kinda stuff. Honestly, the capacity for human beings to be doing evil without even thinking twice about it is mortifying! Even scarier to think, if we lived in those time periods, we would probably act like that too. I’m not saying everything is perfect today . . . . but the PAST??? Freaky deaky. Written by Sherree Chamberlain
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Warning: the following article contains information about the Jersey Shore. I feel like I need to make the above warning because it seems like we twenty somethings are fond of expressing our dislike for Jersey Shore. Making the mistake of asking someone who doesn’t like Jersey Shore if they like Jersey Shore can easily result in a twenty-minute diatribe about their hatred for the show. However, I’d rather watch an hour of those lovable/despicable (take your pick) guidos than hear a person’s twenty-minute Jersey Shore rant, just as some people would surely rather argue about the merits of Jersey Shore than read my two page article about Jersey Shore. All that aside, Jersey Shore’s Sammi “Sweetheart” and Ronnie have one of the worst relationships on television. Each is in the difficult position of being attracted to someone who makes the other completely unlikeable. While Ron brings out Sammi’s pettiness and jealousy, Sammi brings out Ron’s anger and short temper. Whenever the two start fighting, the show grinds to a halt and everyone stops having fun, both the rest of the cast and the viewer. The problem is that it is nearly impossible to identify a Sammi and Ron type relationship until it is too late. I’ve identified a few signals that your budding relationship may be going the way of Sammi and Ron. Hiding Earth Shattering Secrets – Keeping huge secrets from your significant other is a sure sign of bad news. Ron is constantly keeping his other-girl-phone-calling and clubtriple-kissing a secret from Sammi. Someone should let him know that a camera crew is following him around recording his every move. This ranks four out of five Pauly D’s on the Situation Scale.
Triple Kissing – While I’m on the subject, a good rule of thumb is that triple kissing is not a part of a relationship’s healthy public image. One out of five Pauly D’s.
Wearing Sun Glasses Inside – This won’t sabotage a relationship, but it can’t help. Half a Pauly D.
Fighting in Front of People – I’m not talking about little disagreements. I’m talking about knock down, drag out screaming fights in the company of others. This is Sammi and Ron’s go to move. Four and a half Pauly D’s.
Will They, Won’t They/On Again, Off Again – A constantly changing relationship status is never a good sign. From my experience, these types of relationships usually result in all of the bad aspects of a relationship (fighting, hurt feelings, jealousy) with none of the positive aspects of a relationship. This quickly alienates people who have to constantly hear about and deal with the ramifications of your rapidly changing love life. People don’t see you as Ross and Rachel from FRIENDS, they see you as Sammi and Ron. This ranks two out of five Pauly D’s on the Situation Scale.
Being Cast on a Reality Show – I’ve watched enough episodes of Real World to know that being on a reality show is the one sure fire way to ensure that your relationship is destined to be hated by everyone. Five out of five Pauly D’s.
I hope that this quick guide is helpful to you in maintaining a sane and happy relationship. One that doesn’t make your friends hate you. LUKE STEPHENS www.everygirliveeverkissed.com
Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Models: Gabrielle Ruiz, Chris Rice, Andres Acosta
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Bring It On: T
The Musical
With football season in full swing, some people view cheerleading as a spectator sport, but this fall competition and rivalry form new meaning as “Bring It On: The Musical” takes the stage.
creators proved advantageous. “To be honest, I’m actually glad I didn’t know how amazing they were until I met them because, if I did, I would have been really intimidated and probably would not have auditioned,” Courtney University of Oklahoma’s own Courtney Correvealed. “It’s intimidating, but I trust that they beille plays a part in this world of competiknow what they’re doing because of their track tive cheerleading and gave Twenty Something record. They are so down to earth and treat me Magazine a behind-the-scenes look at the just how they treat any other principal in the musical comedy. show, which is a really good quality because it makes the cast feel equal and equally as imporWhile reading for a class assignment, Courttant to the show. I learn a lot from them just ney discovered the auditions in The New York by watching them work…They’re some of the Times. “It ended up opening a huge opportuni- most amazing minds on Broadway right now ty for me that I never would have known about and I get to work with them every day.” had I not read the article,” said the Texas native. Unlike the high school cliques depicted in the After careful consideration, Courtney chose to musical, these cast members are comrades. attend the auditions in Atlanta over those in “There is absolutely no segregation,” Courtney New York City and Los Angeles. “I thought I said of the diversely talented team. “It’s funny could stand out a little [in Atlanta] considerbecause on break you’ll see the dancers trying ing I’m not a musical theatre major and I don’t to learn how to tumble and the cheerleaders have an agent or any connections to the show,” trying to learn how to dance. To be in a musishe said of her decision. “I went to the first cal about high school cheerleading you have to audition my senior year at OU, I even missed be silly, you can’t be a diva and so that’s really an exam for it,” she admitted. “I flew there by nice. Everyone is humble and so accepting.” myself and didn’t know what to expect and basically went into the audition looking like an The musical comedy previewed at the AlliOU cheerleader.” ance Theatre in Atlanta earlier this year, and although the cast is cooperative, the weather Despite the musical’s theme, Courtney felt out caused a rocky, err snowy, start to producof place in her game-day uniform at her audition. “The week before previews was crazy tion. “When I walked in I was shocked because because Atlanta experienced a blizzard which no one else was dressed like a cheerleader and hasn’t happened in years and a lot of our I was wearing exactly what I wore to the OU stage managers, costume people and lighting [cheer] tryouts,” Courtney explained. “It ended people weren’t physically able to drive in the up working to my advantage because that’s ex- week before we opened,” Courtney explained. actly what they were looking for.” In July 2010, “During our test process we had what you call Courtney learned she made the cut and joined 10-out-of-12, which means you rehearse for 10 the cast as a competitive cheerleader. hours out of a 12 hour period. We would walk out of the theatre and there would be ice on the Without a musical or acting background, ground and we’d have to truck it back to our Courtney packed her bags and headed to the hotel and do it all the next morning.” Big Apple where she met the award-winning team behind “Bring It On: The Musical.” Some Despite the weather and a few injuries, the cast of those masterful minds include Tony Award- and crew came out on top, of the cheer pyrawinners Andy Blankenbuehler (director/chore- mid that is, during the grand opening. “It really ographer), Lin-Manuel Miranda (music/lyrics) brought the cast together,” Courtney noted. and Tom Kitt (composer/music). “Those long days were hard and I think that the injuries and the snowstorm made it harder, Courtney’s naivety to the talented team of but we pulled through and we had an incred-
ible, uplifting night. The show could not have gone better for opening night.” The message and theme behind the musical resonates with the twenty-something crowd. “There is a little bit of crude humor in the show…and the show does address some issues that are common in high schools that are definitely not from 1999 [around the time the film was released in 2000],” Courtney said. “The show is worth seeing once, if not twice, and I can guarantee you will leave the theatre satisfied no matter who you are, what age you are, or what activities you like, it strikes a chord with everyone. I’m really excited for people all over the world to hear these messages.” The title may draw on memories of the film, but the production of “Bring It On: The Musical” is not your average pep-rally. “Considering who is behind [the musical] it’s not going to be some cheesy, cheap production,” Courtney explained. “The depth of the characters and the music is genius. The meaning behind the plot of the show is so much deeper than the movie. The people who are behind the show would not put anything less than spectacular on the stage.”
Courtney with Director, Andy Blankenbuehler
“Bring It On: The Musical” launches at the Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre in Los Angeles. The tour extends six weeks beginning October 30 through December 10. For tour dates visit www.bringitonmusical.com to find a city near you! The Atlanta Cast with Dolly Parton
Written by Meredith Foerster
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I played basketball all the way through high school. I had the privilege to play with Blake and Taylor Griffin my junior and senior year at Oklahoma Christian School and was a part of two state championship teams. I was so involved in basketball I missed all the auditions for musical theatre departments. In fact, I was very close to playing basketball at a small college in Kansas. But something didn’t feel quite right. Late in my senior year my mom was directing Smokey Joe’s Cafe at the Sooner Theatre in Norman. There were a couple of OU musical theatre guys in the show. I saw how talented they were, and how highly they talked Skyler Adams plays Matthew of OU’s musical theatre program. It was then that I realized that people actually do commit Tell us about yourself to pursuing theatre. And it hit me. I couldn’t I was born and raised in Oklahoma City. My family moved to Orlando when I was 9 for my picture doing anything else. dad to go to seminary. I have an older brother How did you become involved in and sister. We were best friends growing up, theatre? never fought, always made each other laugh. I My mom is an OCU grad and has worked as an was blessed to have the polarity of theatre and actress/director/choreographer ever since. So I sports in my life as a young boy. It created a was raised with theatre in and around me. For healthy and necessary balance in my life. As a fourth grader, I was leaving English class to go instance, there is a video of my brother and sister and me as toddlers dancing to the opening do matinees. And these were eight-week runs of A Chorus Line in the living room. I couldn’t at a local equity theatre. I was cool. Looking walk yet. So while my brother and sister are back I think I grew up faster than most kids doing their best rendition of Michael Bennett’s because, when you’re in the theatre, age beoriginal choreography, I crawled in circles. So I comes relative. You connect with whom you connect with, regardless of age. So I was treated guess there was never a time that I can remember when theatre wasn’t a part of my life. I did just like everyone else. I had friends twenty, my first play at 4. thirty years older than me when I was in that theatre. On the other side of the spectrum, I What is it about the theatre that LOVED basketball. That was my passion and inspires you? my therapy. When I’m in a gym and I have a basketball in my hands, I feel at home. My dad I think theatre is about telling stories. Telling was a basketball coach when I was growing up. the story of the human condition. And as an So I had mom teaching me the ways of theatre actor I get to be a great part of that. I get to take some or all of myself, place it in an entire diflife and my dad teaching me how to run the ferent life and see what comes out. People love pick and roll. Also, it’s interesting having an actress and a pastor for parents. I wouldn’t have going to the theatre to escape or be changed. What could be more important than being it any other way. This month Lyric Theatre is bringing Altar Boyz to their stage in the Plaza. We caught up with two of the cast members to bring you a behind the scenes look into the show.
able to touch someone’s life? To take them on a journey and hopefully make them feel something, or make them think about something they hadn’t before. That’s an important job. And the great thing about all that is, I love the hell out of it. Of all the experiences you have had in the theatre world, what has been the one that outshines the rest? I think getting the opportunity to play Roger in RENT has been the experience that has changed me the most. It forced me into an entire different level of commitment. It has been the most challenging role I have taken on. I became so invested in that character and brought so much of myself and my experiences into that show that it was incredibly personal to me. To be able to sing those songs and emote in such a visceral manner was so fulfilling as an actor. It changed me as a performer. I never thought of myself in a “Roger” light. But I eventually believed it, and saw it in myself. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to explore and challenge myself.
noticed it.”
Desmond Dansby plays Luke Tell us about yourself. I was raised in Sapulpa, Oklahoma by my sweet and loving, God rest her soul, Grandmother. I graduated from Muskogee High School. I have two younger sisters and a younger brother.
How did you become involved in theatre? The first show that I ever did was George M. Conhan. Well, it wasn’t a full out production to most people, but for me it was my time to Tell us about your involvement shine in the 4th grade, singing ‘I’m a Yankee with Altar Boyz here in Oklahoma. Doodle Dandy!’ That was one of the moments I will be playing Matthew, the leader of the that I figured out that I loved to sing in front group. We have a great cast assembled. Billy of people and would just get into whatever I Porter is going to make this show unique and heard about around town or locally. From then our own. I can’t wait to be back on the Lyric on, I was involved with the Tulsa Youth Opera Stage! and got to be part of the children’s ensemble in Carmen. I also got to sing Christmas songs What should patrons expect out of around town at different places with the Tulsa this show? Youth Opera. In middle school, I played Daddy Patrons should expect to laugh... a lot. This is Warbucks in Annie Jr. To get ready for the such a clever show, poking fun at the boy band show, I shaved all my hair off because that is era, with an underlying message of faith. what I saw in the movie. When I got to high school I was juggling basketball (which I am What advice would you give other very good at, by the way), show choir, regular aspiring artists? choir, student council, and my personal life at I would say to other young artists, “Don’t try home. But the day I said to myself “Theater to be anybody else but you. Don’t try to fake is what I want to do” is the day that I actuanybody out. No one else can be ‘you’ as good ally listened to lyrics for the first time. I finally as you can, so I think that’s your best shot.” As understood someone else’s story and the love of C.S. Lewis said, “No man who bothers about theatre in 2005 when a friend of mine bought originality will ever be original: whereas if you me the album “At the Corner of Broadway and simply try to tell the truth, you will, nine times Soul” for my birthday. I believe it was Billy Porout of ten, become original without ever having ter’s second solo album…if you don’t have it,
RUN and pick up a copy. I didn’t do anything else that day but listen to songs over and over again. It just moved me to say to myself, “That is going to be me one day. I’m going to be on Broadway one day!”
does. What really turns him on is rap, hiphop, and R&B music, so I’m sure I am going to fit in really well. I am so excited to work with this wonderful group of guys and work with this wonderful director.
What is it about the theatre that inspires you? What doesn’t inspire me about theatre? Theatre is much more to me than a stage with lights on it. It is really a journey that I get to explore every day with whatever show that I am doing at that moment. I love to take on different characters and make them unique and special to me. It is that one moment that you can really step out of self and become a character that really brightens up that audience member’s day or even change their lives. Theatre opens up all different kinds of worlds for people to explore, and I just love taking those audience members on the journey with me.
What should patrons expect out of this show? To be moved! I have never seen the show but, from what I have read of the script, get ready to sit back and have a great time with us Altar Boyz because we are going to blow your mind.
Of all the experiences you have had in the theatre world, what has been the one that outshines the rest? When I got to play Seaweed in Hairspray with Lyric Theatre. That was one of my dream roles and I’m so happy that I could be someone’s “black white knight.” What I loved about the show is that it takes you to a place of just wanting to have fun, no matter if you were black, white, yellow, etc. None of that mattered to Seaweed. He just wanted to dance and sing with no cares in the world. Also, working with such an amazing cast and a brilliant director, Lyn Cramer, this experience will be with me for the rest of my life. Tell us about your involvement with Altar Boyz here in Oklahoma. I play a character named Luke who is the bad boy of the group. He is not the brightest but is so passionate about what he says and
What advice would you give other aspiring artists? The only advice I can give someone is this: “If you want to be somebody, if you want to go somewhere, you better wake up and pay attention” ~ from Sister Act 2. The artist is really able to be at their full capacity when they are able to let go. When you get there, there are endless possibilities that will happen in your life, in your professional career, and in yourself.
Opens: Wednesday, Oct 12 Through: Saturday, Oct 29 Location: The Plaza Tickets: $40
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Olympia Dukakis performed Rose at UCO September 17th. The one-woman show, written by Martin Sherman, was performed with few props and a script in hand, but proved that simplicity done right can really work. From the beginning, I, as a member of the audience, was emotionally drawn in to the difficult journey of the comical and sentimental Jewish woman named Rose. Dukakis as Rose begins her monologue, deeply saddened by the murder of a 9-year old child. She then speaks of her childhood, describing her mother, the saintly woman who never showed much affection towards her children, and her hypochondriac father who dies ironically to say at the least. She also illustrates her Jewish upbringing, offering this insight: “The greatest contribution to mankind was asking questions that can’t be answered and that the glory of the race has less to do with giving the world Moses and Marx and Jesus and everything to do with the invention of the phrase ‘on the other hand.’ ‘’ She used this phrase, time and time again, presenting yet another perspective on nearly everything. She explained how she didn’t feel a sense of belonging to where she grew up in the Ukraine and shared her story of love and marriage with the one eyed painter; though she later admitted he wasn’t faithful, their love was intense and the greatest of her life. The story turns much darker. She reveals her traumatic recollection of the Warsaw Ghetto and shares the heartbreaking story of losing those who meant the most in her life. However, she survived, which is a key component of this whole play: with all that Rose endured in her life, she always managed to survive. After the war, the British tried to stop all of the refugees who longed for Palestine. Rose was one such refugee and soon found herself in America with her new husband. Though she’s unsure of everything, even her new husband, she eventually finds her footing and in time, operates a hotel in Miami. Rose is quirky, funny and never seems to lose her lust for life or sex. She even gets in touch with another part of her spirituality as she attempts to reconnect to a love from beyond the grave. Some might find this to be dabbling in darkness, but Rose tells her tale hilariously, introducing the audience to a new side of herself: which is both bizarre and surprisingly endearing. After the deaths of her second husband, she runs off to a commune with a significantly younger man, and experiences an all new lifestyle. Rose describes this flippant time in her 40s like this: ‘’We smoked a lot of dope and talked about peace and love and noble things, and I did not mention the last time I lived 12 to a room lest I blacken their innocence.’’ This Holocaust survivor knew she couldn’t stay and soon left to find a new love, and was revisited by a past, yet not forgotten love- or at least the memory of him. Throughout her life, Rose acquires a disconnection with her faith which in turn, creates a rift in her family as her identity of a Jewish woman is questioned and reprimanded by the children she raised. Though agnostic, she laments the violent actions of the Jewish militants, believing that they ought to be better than their enemies. To say that Dukakis’s performance was impressive would be an understatement. The actress transformed from Olympia to Rose seamlessly as she wove the heart-wrenching story for nearly two hours, without so much as an intermission. Everything about her portrayal was authentic- from her speech to her facial expressions. Even when the power went out for a moment, she acted as if nothing had happened and continued where she left off, still completely in character. The story was mesmerizing and encompassed every joy and heartache in the life of Rose. Though she spent the rest of her life trying to forget much of the pain she had endured, she never seemed like a victim. In spite of her grief, she never stopped living.
Written by Ashley Foerster
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What We’re Listen Artist of the Month: Sia
Since it is October and officially Fall, I think it’s appropriate that we all have someone a little calmer to chill us out from time to time. Sia’s perfect. She can do no wrong because she is so unique and ridiculously talented. It’s refreshing when someone has an incredible voice to show off, but has her security in tact and doesn’t always feel like she has to belt it like our friends Jessica or Mariah. She is known for her work with Zero 7 and I know you’ve all heard her voice before, but her solo act is worth investing in with her jazz/electronic influences. Sia is Australian and was raised in a musical environment with both of her parents being in a band. She has received many awards for her solo work, and even collaborated with Christina Aguilera in her Bionic album. She’s best known for her songs “Breathe Me,” “I’m In Here,” and “Clap Your Hands” as a solo artist. With Zero 7, “Destiny,” and “Throw It All Away” are her highlights. Promise me you’ll listen to her Pandora. It will change your life.
Song of the Month: “Total Life Forever” by Foals
This song is just fun. I heard it once on the radio and I knew I was going to choose this song for October. These Oxford boys wanted to have more fun making music after they were accused of being too serious in their first band. Their effort to change worked because from the get-go, “Total Life Forever” is an easy-going track with an 80’s vibe. I haven’t listened to the whole album Total Life Forever yet, but I know it will be just as good and entertaining.
ning To...
Album of the Month: “The Rip Tide” by Beirut
Most of the time, when a boy drops out of High School, it’s just downhill from there. However, when Zachary Condon dropped out from Santa Fe High School at the age of 16, he utilized his youth by traveling and getting cultured with music. His free spirit paid off. From then on, Condon and his buds formed a band, called themselves Beirut, and were signed by Ba Da Bing Records in 2006. They’ve since released 4 records, including their last, The Rip Tide, released August 2 of this year. They are so easy to listen to. Sometimes you have to listen to a band for a while to understand them, or try to understand what all the fuss is about, but with Beirut, you just get them automatically. They’re very instrumental and inspired, be it that mostly every track is inspired by a different city or port in America, like “Santa Fe,” “East Harlem,” or “Goshen.” It’s expressive of the band’s past, and shows their songwriting skills based on their experiences. Beirut is a simple band who clearly knows what their doing.
Wtitten by Sarah Ethridge
Music
Ben Kilgore
The face of many musical feats, Ben Kilgore is releasing his latest endeavor – “Sacred Songs”. The ambient musician was born in Dallas, but calls Oklahoma home. His father, John Wayne, was a worship pastor in Tulsa and inspired Ben to pursue music. “Ever since I can remember I was singing in church choirs and my family used to travel around like the Von Trapp family,” Ben recalled. “The first band I was in was called Shadow Walk with my older brother, Blake, and that was in 1996 in my freshman year of college. We played for about six years and then decided we made better brothers than band mates,” he added laughing.
for me, but we complement each other very well,” Ben said. “God bless her for learning how to make suggestions and stand behind them and not let me get my way the whole time.” “Sacred Songs” is more personal compared to Ben’s other works. “When I was younger I hadn’t experienced a whole lot of life, but I think now I’m having more things happen around me that are worth talking about,” the 33-year-old said. “This album we just finished was some of just getting it out like therapy. Most of these songs deal with my own personal life experiences. Some of these songs have to do with figuring out who God is and why does it matter.”
After playing in the folk-Christian band with his brother, Ben branched out into a solo career. “I started playing with my own solo acoustic gig and that was my first time by myself,” he said. Although Ben has focused mostly on the guitar, his latest songs include new instruments and sounds. “Growing up I took piano lessons and I loved to play the piano, I’m just not as good as I want to be, but I got a grand piano and I’ve been playing a lot of piano these days. A lot of the songs I’ve been writing recently are on the piano.”
Never one to slow down, Ben is currently working with unofficial band mates Chad Copeland, Jared Evans and Nathan Price to form a new band. “We have some exciting endeavors with some heavy hitters who know how to do this on a grand scale,” Ben revealed. “I’m excited to get in the studio with those guys and see what comes out because it really could be anything. I have an open mind, I’m not married to any [genre], but obviously labels are going to want something that will sell. I just want to make great music.”
Although Ben was raised in a Christian home, his faith is not his only musical influence. “It’s [influence] is really across the board,” Ben explained. “Growing up in a Baptist home and my dad being a minister I grew up on a lot of Christian music…but my mom showed me some mainstream music like Billy Joel and she liked The Carpenters. Listening to gospel choirs growing up I kind of developed a soulful voice.”
Throughout Ben’s musical career, he has determined what is most important when chasing your dreams. “One thing I’ve learned over the years is that through my 20s and early 30s I really just wanted people to like me,” he explained. “Obviously I wanted success and for my peers to think I was creating something interesting. I think getting away from that and finding out what comes out naturally and what sounds best… I’d like to see something like that, where I can sing soulfully and not come out like I’m trying to be an indie rocker. I’m done pretending and trying to be something I’m not.”
The singer/songwriter’s soulful voice pairs naturally with his wife’s on “Sacred Songs,” their duet album. “I’ve never worked in a relationship with someone that was musical or had the same appreciation for music as I do,” Ben revealed. “It [relationships] was always kind of a burden for me with how much time and energy I put into my music; I was always having to explain it. For her to share that love of music is great. She has a great voice.” Ben and Noel have been married for two years, but Ben claims singing together has been a learning process. “I’m somewhat of a powerful singer, so learning to share the space was kind of hard
For the aspiring twenty-something musicians, Ben advises discovering what you want, and then going for it. “It’s a marathon, not a sprint. You can’t take snapshots, you have to look at the whole picture,” he said. “Learning to think like that is important. Lastly, I’d say try not to compare yourself.” “Sacred Songs” releases October 7 on iTunes and the husband and wife duo is set to have a release show at Venue 68 this month. Written by Meredith Foerster
Hair & Makeup: Lil Doescher Styling: Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Clothing Provided by DNA Galleries & Bad Granny’s Models: Brooke Taylor, Alex Eppler, Kendall Harris
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Carnies
Food
Fall is officially here. And with this wonderful season comes lots of change. Not only is Mother Earth altering her image with new leaf colors, cooler temperatures, and less sunlight, but our lives also seem to become busier and swing into a different routine from the summer. Between watching the new fall TV lineup all week, football all weekend, and partaking in other social or sedentary occasions, it can be a dangerous time for our eating habits. Combining these weather and personal changes, our activity levels tend to decrease while our eating generally increases. This is a serious problem. To add to this predicament, most people don’t have a good goal or mindset to keep living a healthy lifestyle in the fall. This is an even bigger problem. Gone are the goals of looking good at the lake or pool. They’ve been replaced with people who unintentionally, or proudly, proclaim they are trying to put on “winter weight”. Last time I checked, most of us aren’t living in caves and don’t need additional blubber to keep us warm to survive the winter. (If you do live in a cave and need the additional fat to survive, by all means, eat up). Instead, let’s continue to build or maintain the progress we achieved over the summer while still enjoying the wonderful things the fall provides. A perfect seasonal solution to this problem is chili. This fall favorite is delicious, nutritious (great source of protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals), flexible/versatile (good for lunch, dinner, leftovers, on top of spinach or lettuce for a salad), and can be made in a variety of ways. Follow these tips while picking ingredients from each category. Pick as many as you like. Experiment with different ingredients and combinations to find your favorite chili recipe. Have fun and enjoy!
Lean Meat Choose 93% ground or above. -Beef -Turkey -Chicken -Other lean meats (lamb, elk etc.) Veggies Choose Peppers. They add an extra spice and the capsaicin in peppers help increase metabolism, regulate blood sugar, and provide numerous other benefits. -Bell peppers (green, red, orange, yellow) -Jalapenos -Green chili -Onions -Tomatoes (choose low sodium if using canned) -Mushrooms -Zucchini -Squash -Broccoli -Carrots -Celery Spices Find the flavors you like while keeping the calories low. -Chili powder -Cumin -Ground black pepper -Cayenne -Paprika -Garlic powder -Onion powder -Ground black pepper -Salt -Oregano -Coriander Beans Puree’ if don’t like whole beans so you can still get the nutrients. -Kidney -Black -Pinto -Chili -Other Beans Toppings Use in moderation. -Sour cream -Cheese
Written by Jeff Ragan
Food
Apple Delight
Let me just preface this by saying that this recipe made my college experience that much better. I made this dessert with my friends at least once every two weeks. Since girls like to bake, this is an easy (and cheap) recipe for any of us to make that is a crowd-pleaser every time. It’s near and dear to my heart and I hope that y’all will like it as well. Plus, it’s so festive for Fall. Ingredients: 6 cups of cubed apples (you choose which kind) 1 box of yellow cake mix (Spice cake is wonderful too) 2/3 cup of instant oats 1 stick of butter (although you could get away with half) 2 teaspoons of cinnamon ½ cup of chopped pecans (optional) Directions: Preheat oven to 375º. In a large mixing bowl, combine cake mix, apples, oats and cinnamon and stir until apples are fully coated. Spray a cake pan (9 x 13 is fine) with some Pam and then pour cake mix into pan. Cut your butter into slices, however thin or thick you want them, and place them on top of the mix evenly so when it melts, the whole top should be covered. Place pan in the oven and bake for 45 minutes on the middle rack. *There will be some patches of dry cake mix when it’s finished, but it should not be too crisp. It took me some trial and error to get the exact cooking time right. Serve immediately with vanilla ice cream, and enjoy! Written by Sarah Ethridge
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Happy October! In true Halloween fashion, this conference realignment business is scary stuff! To catch you up to speed, most colleges are members of a conference. Here in Oklahoma, we are part of the Big XII (technically now Big IX because Nebraska and Colorado left last season and Texas A&M has officially joined the SEC). When I originally began writing this article, there were several rumors about OU and OSU heading to the PAC-12, yes the PACIFIC CONFERENCE. In my opinion, that would have been a great move for OU and OSU academically, but terrible athletically... because of the geographical distance. Since then, the PAC-12 came out with a statement saying they would not expand. After that, OU President Boren and OU Athletic Director Joe Castiglione held a news conference and told us about the Big XII’s plans to stay together. They have also reinstated the “expansion committee”… basically meaning, the Big XII is now accepting new members. I’m sure by now, you are on the edge of your seat wondering why the conferences are playing musical chairs. Here’s why. Texas A&M is so sick of being Texas’ “little brother.” UT gets all of the attention, they have their own network and A&M is over it… so they bounced to the SEC. Now the Big XII only has nine teams. Most thought the Big XII would just dissolve and OU, OSU, UT and Texas Tech would head to the PAC-12, but that did not happen. Why aren’t the four teams going to join the PAC-12? Because UT wouldn’t change their network! The PAC-12 wanted Texas to alter their network… the PAC-12’s demands were not crazy… but UT did not cooperate. So here we are, back to the Big XII-3. Feels a little like sorority rush, doesn’t it?
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“To this day, I love thinking back to the days when motor racing was dangerous and sexy was safe.” Professional sports car driver is just one of the many titles he can give himself. Christopher has a collection of around 25 cars, including an Aston Martin DB5 convertible – aka Mr. James Bond’s vehicle of choice in the film Gold Finger. It is said to be one of the most recognizable cars in the world. “It’s an icon,” Salyer says of the elegant convertible. “The lines of the DB5 I think are timeless. Many, many years ago – almost 30 years in fact – I was able to acquire my first Aston Martin, which I have to this day.”
There’s no limit when it comes to the versatility of Oklahoma City native, Christopher Salyer. He’s no stranger to the hard work and dedication it takes to own a chain of very successful music stores for ten years, CD Warehouse. He’s also a visionary with a deep love of architecture, traveling, and Aston Martins. Salyer’s love of cars started when he was very young. Watching his older brother racing sports cars lit a yearning inside him to race as well, much to his mother’s dismay. The SMU alum’s affinity for the classic style of Aston Martin ties into his racing roots. In 1959, Aston Martin pulled out a win for the World Sports Car Cup, an event that inspired millions around the world. “To this day, I love thinking back to the days when motor racing was dangerous and
Mr. Salyer’s taste in design at home blends together designer classics, like Louis Vuitton, with an assortment of different styles. It’s a collection he says has been put together throughout his lifetime, going as far back as when he was five years old and traveling the world with his parents. “I believe strongly in a blending of design ideas. While I appreciate contemporary architecture and contemporary style, midcentury style has its place. All of it has its place really, but I think the best place is for them to tastefully be blended together.” Whether it’s a new hat or an old car, Christopher believes that “design is alive and moving and hopefully never static.” He encourages that one should always be looking for new pieces to add to what they already have in their home. Lately though, he’s focusing most of his time on Automobile Alley Inc., a business he helped found soon after the 1995 Oklahoma City Bombing. Over 350 buildings were destroyed that April 19th, and the company has been helping to restore and revamp them ever since.
“Many of these were originally automobile dealership buildings, and we’re putting a wonderful new gentrification into the neighborhood. Retail, restaurants, nightlife, offices, warehouses, and a smattering of residential – which we hope is going to continue to grow and become a more important part of the neighborhood.” The continued restoration will help to give downtown OKC a more community feel. Like that of New York City or even Austin, where the cities are big but everything you could want is within walking distance. The rebirth of this historic district is helping to rev-up the city’s economy. This busy man has also, at one time, been a chairman, a co-founder of a business with his wife, and a certified public accountant. So what drove Salyer to obtain the success he’s realized throughout his career? A great education, and two little things called time and experience.
petition is more fierce than ever. “One could almost be assured of a career with a college degree in the early 70s. That’s no longer true. One now needs something more than just a degree. One needs internships, foreign language skills, a boot camp experience, a master’s degree, a PhD, an MD, a JD.” Still, achieving fabulous success today isn’t impossible. It just takes time and a bit more determination than it used to. “I believe that luck is defined as the point where opportunity meets preparedness. While one does, in some regard, make one’s own luck, it occurs as a result of hard work and diligence.” So put in those crazy hours, follow your passion, and never stop trying. One day you can look back like Christopher Salyer and say, “I did it.”
“I don’t think there are any shortcuts to that. I think the same would apply if one wants to become a musician. The Beatles, for example, did not become excellent until they had gotten their 10,000 hours under their belt playing in Hamburg, Germany for a couple of years.” He’s grateful for the “boot camp” style training programs that were available at major corporations back in the 70s. After getting a master’s degree in Boston, Salyer started his career at Chase Manhattan Bank. “Everyone needs an experience that allows them to become particularly expert at something.” “Unfortunately, these experiences aren’t as common as they used to be.” Christopher says that Twenty Somethings often have to fight for job opportunities because the com-
Written by Kylee Gwartney
Hair & Makeup: Lil Doescher Styling:Kelsey Self Photography: Bethany Young Model: Ashley Liddell Clothing Provided by: Lush, Ten14, Heirloom Shoes
Flash back to the Audrey era. One of the most original and note worthy style icons of our time is the stunning Audrey Hepburn. Her class, elegance and beauty have allowed her image to become a timeless inspiration for woman of every age.
“I believe in manicures. I believe in overdressing. I believe in primping at leisure and wearing lipstick. I believe in pink. I believe happy girls are the prettiest girls. I believe that tomorrow is another day, and... I believe in miracles.�
“Everything I learned I learned from the movies.�
“If I’m honest I have to tell you I still read fairy-tales and I like them best of all.”
“Moon River, wider than a mile, I’m crossing you in style some day. Oh, dream maker, you heart breaker, wherever you’re going I’m going your way. Two drifters off to see the world. There’s such a lot of world to see. We’re after the same rainbow’s end. Waiting ‘round the bend, my huckleberry friend, Moon River and me.”
Feature Five Ways to Make a House Your Home
One of the best things about being a Twenty Something is you are probably setting up your own home for the first time. This is at once and (not sure what she means here???) super exciting and super overwhelming prospect. Thanks to my husband’s career moves, I set up my first home in Tulsa, my second home in Houston and am currently in the process of setting up my third in St. Louis. Because of this, interiors have become a real passion of mine. I am passionate about living well and having my home be a reflection of who I am and what I love. Through my interior adventures, I have found that you really don’t have to spend a ton of money to make a house your own, which is great because most Twenty Somethings probably don’t have an unlimited budget. Here are five tips that will help anyone make their space feel like their home. 1. Photos In the age of digital everything, a lot of people no longer take the time to print out their photos. This is SO sad. Pictures are my favorite link to the people and memories that I love. There are countless ways to display pictures in your home. Create a gallery wall with various shots of your favorite people and places. Not only are my family and friends on my gallery wall, but I also have pictures of our previous homes, college campus, venue where we got married and any other place that has special significance to us. Another way I have pics displayed in our home is in big decorative bowls. I keep them out so they are easy for our guests, and us, to flip through whenever we want! 2. Fragrance House smells are one of my favorite things. Just thinking about the way my Mom’s house smells gives me such a feeling of comfort. This is something that I definitely want to recreate in my own home. Scent is the sense that is most closely tied with memory, so I definitely want my house to smell great! Candles are the obvious answer to this; I love the Voluspa scents. But there are other options besides candles. When cold weather comes, boil cinnamon sticks in water. It will make your home feel so cozy! You can also create your own signature linen spray and mist it all over your house.
3. Display the things you love. So many times, people have items that they absolutely love that get relegated to a closet or simply stored away. I think if you love an item - keep it out! Why not hang that dress you can’t wait to wear on the outside of your closet door? Drape the necklace your grandmother gave you over your lampshade. Put fruit in your favorite mixing bowl and set it out on your counter. Looking around your house and seeing things you absolutely love will make you feel at home instantly. 4. Tell your story, not a store’s. Retailers have found a way to con people into buying entire rooms at once. To me, this is a travesty. I believe that all items in your home should be acquired over time. Yes, it might be easier to go to a store and buy your couch, chairs, coffee table, lamps, etc. all at once - but what’s the fun in that? I love looking around my home and remembering how I got each piece and the memory that accompanies it. I will never forget when I was with my mom and best friend in Tulsa and we went to look at a house that was for sale. In the garage, there was a great antique chest. I took one look at it and knew I had to have it in my house - it’s now my kitchen island. Not only was it inexpensive and so unique, it will forever remind me of that day. 5. Bring the outside in. Display fresh flowers in your home. Period, end of story. And it doesn’t have to be expensive - get the $3 bunch from Trader Joes and arrange it yourself (it’s not hard, I swear!). If flowers aren’t your thing, then put some pinecones in a glass hurricane. Gather sticks and arrange them in a vase. You can also collect cool rocks and stones. Get an orchid. Or paper whites. Just do something to bring nature into your home you won’t regret it! Emily Davis is a lifestyle blogger and interiors enthusiast. Catch her at www.mainstreetchic.blogspot.com
Kealey McIntire & JaNiece Cranmer of KSBI’s All About You
Five Ways to Make Social Media Work for You Like many other TV shows and magazines, we here at All About You use social media to promote our product. Technology is a wonderful tool that can help spread the word, but it can also push people away if you abuse it. Nothing is more annoying than those groups who post anything and EVERYTHING (several local news organizations come to mind). That will get people to dislike you in a cyber-second. On our personal pages, we’ve also de-friended several people who constantly update their feeds (you know who you are!!). Whether you’re promoting a product, or just trying to keep the friends and Facebook friends you have, these are some things we found to keep in mind. Use Facebook to make friends, not customers. Human-interest stories are often more watched and read than any hard crime report. The reason being is that people want to connect with people, emotions and feelings. Connect with your followers on a personal level. They want to follow you, not just another page. Post ideas for your community and events. If people recognize you as a source of knowledge they are more likely to visit your page often. Also, try to incorporate media such as viral videos, cool pictures, polls, anything to keep your friends interactive. Post three times a day, no more. Nothing is more annoying than somebody who over posts. That’s an instant dislike. The best times to post are 7 a.m., 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. Those seem to be the peak traffic time for Facebook users. Don’t post silliness just to add another item. Post something that people actually care about. If you don’t have anything, then don’t post anything! People will be much more inclined to read on if they know your posts are substantial. Provide incentives; don’t be pushy. Find something that you can give as an incentive. Maybe a small gift certificate ($5 from Starbuck’s), or a coupon for free donuts. People are much more responsive if they know they are going to get something out of what they are doing. Be exciting. Facebook marketing is not about making customers; it’s more about making friends. If you post something that you would not click to read, then you’re followers are probably bored as well. All About You has moved. Check us out at our new time slot, Mon-Fri at 10 pm!
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