Photo Credit: Holly CalvertDelta Delta Delta and Lambda Phi Epsilon send cards

to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital

ifc executive positionspage 3

pi Beta phi sends Kisses to the troops, raises Money for the usopage 10

cards for st. Jude

pages 4-5

a Letter froM our forgotten friend, thanKsgivingpage 11

November 15, 2012 | Volume 1, Issue 8 | Norman, OK www.theodysseyonline.com | @OU_Odyssey | Facebook.com//The-Odyssey-at-University-of-Oklahoma

editor's notewww.theodysseyonline.com2

This time of the year is a major breaking point for even the most successful of college students. We are at the crossroads of homecoming, midterms, ini t iat ions , graduate entrance exams, graduation preparation and finals on top of all of the regular day-to-day stresses college students experience. It can be really easy during this season to crash, panic, give up and go home. And while experiencing these feelings are totally normal, many college students develop extremely unhealthy ways of coping with them: irregular sleeping habits, stress eating (or not eating), excess partying, substance abuse and withdrawal from social contact are all at their peaks as a result of the increased external pressure. While not coping with these feelings of stress and anxiety can lead to serious emotional and psychological damage, it’s often worse to handle these situations using the coping mechanisms above. Instead, I have provided you with my top five ways to de-stress:

1) taKe tiMe off to do soMething you enjoy.

If you’re constantly throwing yourself into “must-need” projects and leave yourself no time for the “want-to” projects, you are neglecting a serious obligation you have to yourself to enjoy life. Every once in a while, schedule in time to take a break to read a good book, pursue a hobby or catch up on your favorite episodes of The Walking Dead. Doing things that stimulate

your interest can help recharge your batteries for the things you may dread doing.

2) taKe advantage of sunday Mornings.

I totally understand that college students will never, ever be able to get a faithful eight, seven or even six hours of sleep a night this time of year—your body can only go so long being deprived of sleep before it shuts down completely. You have to catch up on those extra zzz’s somewhere, and that’s exactly what lazy Sunday mornings were made for. Don’t you remember when you were a kid, and you had nothing more important to do with your time than roll over and ignore the sun streaming in your window for as long as you wanted? Even an extra one or two hours on the weekend can make a huge difference. I know you need a break from that irritating alarm clock anyway.

3) save soMe of your Best for the ones you Love the Most.

During this time of year, it is really easy to overbook yourself and have nothing but

the dregs leftover to give to your sisters/brothers, girlfriend/boyfriend, friends and family. These people are a priority in your heart, so why not make them a priority in your calendar, too? You have to stop to eat, to get coffee or to relax, so schedule time to meet your best friend for coffee, your boyfriend for dinner or your Little for a study break. If you don’t schedule time in for these people, the less important and less enjoyable things will consistently crowd them out of your calendar.

4) deveLop a rescue pLayList.

Music really does feed the soul, and during binge study sessions, long hours of working on projects and the monotony of homework music can be your best positive motivator. Isolate different needs: Do you need to relax? get motivated? stay awake? I have three such playlists and flip between them depending on my needs. I have the likes of Iron & Wine, Adele and the Smiths for when I need to chill

back; pump-up tunes from Katy Perry, Drake and Ke$ha for when I need some motivation; and Skrillex and Excision for when I need to stay awake for long hours.

5) finaLLy, and Most iMportantLy, taKe tiMe to do aBsoLuteLy nothing.

As much as it may seem like a waste of time, doing something completely mindless like making your Little’s lapboard, taking an extra long shower or walking around the block can clear your head of the negativity and stress that may be weighing you down. I like to veg out watching Greek, peruse gossipy magazines and zone out on Facebook when I need to power down. Sometimes the trick is just emptying the files from the brain computer, rebooting and starting fresh.

What are your favorite ways to de-stress this semester? Tell us on Twitter at @OU_Odyssey or on our Facebook page!

how to cope with stress this seMester

the odyssey at oKLahoMa

OLYMPIA MEDIA GROUP888.272.2595 | OlympiaMediaGroup.com

We want a representative from every house!To apply for a writing, photography or sales position,

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© 2012 Olympia Media Group, LLC All Rights Reserved. The Odyssey is a private entity not associated or governed by Oklahoma University or Oklahoma University Greek life office. The views and opinions shared in The Odyssey are those of the writers and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of The Odyssey and Olympia Media Group.

CREATIVE TEAMEditor-in-ChiefHaley Mowdy, Alpha Gamma Delta

Contributing EditorRyan Greenberg, Phi Delta Theta

Social Media DirectorJordan Wood, Kappa Kappa Gamma

PhotographerHolly Calvert, Delta Delta Delta

EXECUTIVE TEAMPresident

Drew Knox, Lambda Chi Alpha

Sales ExecutivesNick Ortiz,

Lambda Chi Alpha

Ryan Kitchens, Delta Tau Delta

HalEy MOWDYalpha Gamma DeltaEditor-in-ChiefHaley is a junior studying classical languages, pre-health and exercise science. You may contact her at hmowdy@ou.edu.

greek life traditionswww.theodysseyonline.com 3

It’s election month—that exciting time every four years when we elect a new president and vice president for the great U.S. of A. However, more directly related to Greek life at OU, it is also time to elect the new executive members of the Interfraternity Council, or IFC. The IFC at OU comprises 20 chapters and is lead by an executive committee of eight men. They are responsible for the coordination of many events and activities throughout the year. The IFC executive committee also represents fraternity interests to the campus and surrounding community, coordinates membership recruitment activities, promotes and coordinates community service and philanthropy projects, sponsors educational programs and leadership development opportunities for chapters, initiates public relations projects for the entire fraternity community and manages judicial affairs.

The members of the executive committee are elected/appointed in November and serve a one-year term that follows the calendar year. The outgoing committee and position descriptions are as follows:

president

Responsibilities: Setting strategic direction for IFC, leading the IFC executive committee and serving as liaison between the IFC chapters and the university community.

Outgoing: Nick Coffey, a senior economic and letters major from Oklahoma City, Okla.

vp of recruitMent

Responsibilities: Updating and publishing the IFC Recruitment Manual, soliciting advertising for the manual and organizing all details related to fall and spring recruitment weeks.

Outgoing: John Fraser, a senior industrial engineering major from Edmond, Okla.

chief justice

Responsibilities: Presiding at all judicial meetings and hearings, leading

the associate/assistant justices and interpreting the IFC Constitution and other judicial documents that uphold the values of IFC.

Outgoing: Matt Shandy, a senior political science major from Norman, Okla.

vp of MeMBer education

R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s : O rg a n i z i n g educational programming for new members and researching specific areas of chapter operations to provide useful materials to IFC chapters.

Outgoing: Will McWhirter, a senior energy management nusiness major from Southlake, Texas

vp of finance

R e s p o n s i b i l i t i e s : C r e a t i n g /maintaining the IFC budget, creating invoices, collecting dues from chapters and reviewing and approving IFC expenses.

Outgoing: James Bisacca, a senior international Bbusiness and economics double major from Plano, Texas

vp of adMinistrative affairs

Responsibilities: Updating content on the IFC website, recording and distributing minutes from all official meetings and planning the IFC executive committee elections while being an effective means of communication to the IFC chapter presidents.

Outgoing: Jordan Moxley, a junior business and entrepreneurship double major from Norman, Okla.

vp of prograMMing

Responsibilities: Organizing creative events to promote interfraternalism, planning community-wide service events and serving as a resource for other exec officers who want to plan programs related to their duties.

Outgoing: Drew Knox, a junior marketing and finance double major

from McKinney, Texas

vp of puBLic affairs

Responsibilities: Serving as the liaison to community media outlets, promoting a n d p u b l i c i z i n g I F C chapter events, developing initiatives to improve the image of IFC and running social media outlets.

Outgoing: Ryan Carter, a senior communication major from Shawnee, Okla.

IFC president is the only position that is voted upon by the student body. Chief justice and VP of recruitment are appointed by the newly elected IFC president. The remaining positions are voted upon by the outgoing members of the IFC executive committee.

The two candidates running for IFC president this year are Drew Knox, a junior Lambda, and Spencer Falcon, a junior Sig Ep. I will not give my opinions on who I am pulling for in the election, as that would be unfair. I will leave that up to you! And I hope everyone was able to make it out to the presidential debate last Thursday, Nov. 1—both of the candidates did a great job!

IFC ExECutIvE PosItIons!RyaN GREEnbERG Phi Delta ThetaContributing EditorRyan is a junior studying management information systems. You may contact him at greenberg@ou.edu.

greek life traditionswww.theodysseyonline.com4

Cards for st. Jude

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campus connectionswww.theodysseyonline.com6

Monnett place ad

With initiation season in full swing, it is important to take a step back and acknowledge the relevance of the sororities on campus at the University of Oklahoma. There are 11 outstanding sororities in the Panhellenic Association at OU, and each is unique and special in their own way. Every sorority was founded on this campus with principles and values that have stayed true to this day. Some of these chapters have been established for more than 100 years, and we as Greek organizations have been passing down the rich heritage of these chapters for decades. In recognition of the initiation season, here are some quick facts to know about our sororities on campus.

Alpha Chi OmegaOU Chapter: Psi Founded: DePauw University Oct. 15, 1885 Philanthropy: Victims of Domestic Violence Symbols: Scarlet Red and Olive Green; Golden Lyre

Alpha Gamma DeltaOU Chapter: Upsilon Founded: Syracuse University May 30, 1904 Philanthropy: Alpha Gamma Delta Foundation for DiabetesSymbols: Red, Buff and Green; Squirrel

Alpha Omicron PhiOU Chapter: XiFounded: Barnard College Jan. 2, 1897Philanthropy: Arthritis ResearchSymbols: Cardinal; Panda

Alpha PhiOU Chapter: Phi Founded: Syracuse University Oct. 10, 1872 Philanthropy: Alpha Phi Foundation, supporting women’s cardiac healthSymbols: Bordeaux and Silver; Ivy leaf

Chi Omega:OU Chapter: Epsilon Alpha Founded: University of Arkansas April 5, 1895Philanthropy: Make-a-Wish FoundationSymbols: Cardinal and Straw; Owl

Delta Delta DeltaOU Chapter: Theta Gamma F o u n d e d : B o s t o n U n i v e r s i t y Thanksgiving Eve, 1888 Philanthropy: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Symbols: Silver, Gold and Cerulean Blue; Dolphin

Delta GammaOU Chapter: Alpha Iota Founded: Lewis School for Girls, Oxford

Mississippi Dec. 25, 1873 Philanthropy: Service for Sight Symbols: Bronze, Pink and Blue; Anchor

Gamma Phi beta:OU Chapter: Psi F o u n d e d : S y r a c u s e University Nov. 11, 1874 Philanthropy: Camp Fire USA and United Way of Norman Symbols: Brown and Mode; Crescent Moon

Kappa Alpha Theta:OU Chapter: Alpha Omicron Founded: DePauw University Jan. 27, 1870 Philanthropy: CASA, Court Appointed Special Advocates Symbols: Black and Gold; Kite and Twin Stars

Kappa Kappa Gamma:OU Chapter: Beta Theta

Founded: Monmouth College Oct. 13, 1870 Philanthropy: Kappa Foundation, Reading is Fundamental, and the Center for Children and Families Inc. (CCFI) Symbols: Light blue and Dark blue; Owl, Golden Key and Fleur-de-lis

Pi beta PhiOU Chapter: Oklahoma Alpha Founded: Monmouth College April 28, 1867 Philanthropy: Literacy and Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts Symbols: Wine and Silver blue; Angel and Arrow

sororIty 101JORDaN WOODKappa Kappa GammaSocial Media DirectorJordan is a sophomore studying public relations. You may contact her at christina.j.wood-1@ou.edu.

campus connectionswww.theodysseyonline.com 7

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Where is your favorite study spot? Is it a cubicle in the Biz, open rooms in classrooms on campus or the study room in your sorority or fraternity house? I personally don’t have a favorite study spot, because I constantly need a change of scenery to keep me motivated to finish that paper I kept putting off. Midterms and finals are the worst. When I can’t stare at the stacks of books in the library anymore, I love to venture out to some of Norman’s local coffee shops.

I am a coffee nut and usually need some sort of caffeine running through my blood if I want to get anything done. Studying at coffee shops is the perfect solution. Even if you are not coffee-driven, I personally think coffee shops provide the perfect atmosphere to be productive.

Some of my favorites are Crimson and Whipped Cream or Café Plaid, both conveniently located on campus corner. Other options include Second Wind Coffeehouse and Gray Owl. Second Wind is also located on campus corner and Gray Owl is found on, what do you know, Gray Street, just one street north of East Main.

First up is Crimson and Whipped Cream. This little bakery and coffee shop is right next to Victoria’s Pasta Shop. This is one of my favorite study spots. They have

perfectly sized work tables, several outlets, free Wi-Fi and bright, natural light. The simple décor and aroma of fresh brewed espresso is hard to beat. Although I must say it is hard to focus when you have a case of incredible-looking cupcakes and whoopie pies staring out you. Even if you aren’t looking to study, this is a great spot to catch up with friends while taking advantage of their photo booth or playing one of their old-school board games and enjoying a chai tea or latte.

Also on the corner, you can find the commonly known Café Plaid. Prominently placed on Boyd Street, they are know for their chaotic “lunch rush,” but at other times of the day their amazing coffee is enjoyed by many. My favorite is a nonfat almond latte. The almond flavor is a standout and can’t be found most places. I wouldn’t recommend trying to study here during lunch time because you might get mobbed by a group of women devouring chicken pesto tortellini, but any other time, this spot is perfect to cozy up in one of their large booths and tackle your pile of homework.

Second Wind is also a great option. This is a nonprofit coffeehouse, so drinks are not priced, but donations are encouraged to help benefit local charities. What is better

than helping those in need while you enjoy a cup of joe?

Gray Owl is a favorite study spot for a large group of university students. I have not yet been to Gray Owl, but it is on my list of potential study spots. Their coffee is similar to most coffee houses, but it is really their “chill” atmosphere that lures studiers in. If you study best by looking through fake hipster glasses, then this is the place for you. Don’t let that turn you away, though, because it still provides a great space to get some studying done.

Next time you feel like you are in a rut and can’t study any longer, try changing your scenery. Walk to campus corner and refuel with a cappuccino while experiencing a different atmosphere.

A ChAngE oF sCEnEryaNNiE TUCKERKappa Kappa Gamma

Annie is a sophomore studying advertising. You may contact her at annietucker@ou.edu.

infographic

infographic

philanthropy & servicewww.theodysseyonline.com10

Pi Beta Phi SendS KiSSeS to the trooPS, raiSeS Money for the USoIn honor of Veterans Day, the Oklahoma Alpha Chapter

of Pi Beta Phi at The University of Oklahoma partnered with Cosmopolitan magazine and Maybelline NY to collect handwritten messages of support for American troops overseas.

The OU Pi Phi women and other OU Panhellenic women wrote messages on postcards, then kissed each of the cards. For every postcard message gathered by the Fraternity women, Cosmopolitan magazine donated $1 to the USO. The USO will send the cards to soldiers later this year in care packages.

The postcard collection is a part of the annual Cosmopolitan Kisses for the Troops campaign. Cosmopolitan has donated more than $100,000 to the USO and collected tens of thousands of “kisses” for the troops in the last three years.

The campaign extended to sorority women in 2011, with the chapter collecting the greatest number of postcards

receiving a $1,000 donation to its national philanthropy. Last year, the Indiana Beta Chapter of Pi Beta Phi at Indiana University won the national postcard contest and donated their winnings to The Literacy Fund at Pi Beta Phi Foundation.

“Pi Beta Phi is thrilled to participate in this wonderful event for the second year in a row,” said Julie Carney, Pi Beta Phi Grand Vice President of Programming. “The postcard collection events not only promote sisterhood and service among our collegiate women and their communities, but are also an amazing opportunity to support the USO and its programs for American military personnel and their families.”

About Pi Beta Phi Fraternity for Women: Founded at Monmouth College in Illinois in 1867, Pi Beta Phi has 135 chapters and more than 300 alumnae organizations worldwide. The fraternity leads the way to a more literate society through its Read. Lead. Achieve.® literacy initiatives,

including its reading enrichment program Champions are Readers®, its Canadian philanthropy Arrow in the Arctic and its partnership with First Book®. Pi Beta

Phi promotes friendship, develops women of intellect and integrity, cultivates leadership potential and enriches the lives of members and their communities. For more information, visit www.pibetaphi.org or follow Pi Phi on Twitter and Facebook.

CHElSEa MARTInChelsea is a junior studying human relations. You may contact her at chelseamartin@ou.edu.

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Finally, turkey day is right around the corner, and I have a feeling our Greek community could really use the break, if that is what you want to call it. OU may be known for many wonderful things, but its Thanksgiving break is not one of them. OU is not exactly generous with the days students receive off for this scrumptious holiday. I am definitely bitter about my 5:00 exam the Tuesday before Thanksgiving. Talking with friends, I realized that I have heard of a lot of students not even leaving Norman for the holiday. If so, this will help you out. Oklahoma City, only a short drive from Norman, can try to fill your heart, or stomach, with a different way to spend your Thanksgiving.

Rococo at Northpark Mall

Now in its brand new location, this OKC eatery will have a Thanksgiving day dinner from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. The “Bountiful Buffet” is $24.95 and is serving food such as hand-carved turkey with giblet gravy, smoked salmon, sweet potatoes, baked acorn squash, desserts and more. You really cannot go wrong with a traditional feast, especially when it is unlimited.

Ingrid’s Kitchen

If you have heard of this hot spot in OKC, you may be confused as to why a German restaurant is being listed here. Well this year, Ingrid’s is offering a Thanksgiving day buffet. Seating times are at 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m., 1 p.m. and 1:45 p.m. This buffet includes all the traditional favorites as well as house specialties, and the cost is $17.95

for adults, $9.95 for kids 6 years old to 12 years old and $6.95 for children under 6. If the idea of a German restaurant serving a Thanksgiving feast has you hesitating, keep in mind that Ingrid’s Kitchen was showcased on “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives” and was named one of “The Best of the Best” restaurants in a 2010 issue of Oklahoma magazine.

Cracker Barrel

Everyone knows and loves this classic restaurant, known for its great homemade food. For a holiday that is known for homemade recipes, it only seems natural to eat at Cracker Barrel, the closest thing to home-cooked food. You can either eat in the restaurant or get your meal to go. They will be serving turkey or ham and some delicious desserts. Cracker Barrel is open from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Thanksgiving. You can be sure you will not leave hungry.

Western Sizzlin’

A classic and popular chain restaurant, Western Sizzlin’

will have a first-come, first-serve turkey buffet with all your Thanksgiving favorites. Western Sizzlin’ is known for its unique way of grilling steaks that started back in 1966, so you can probably bet they know how to cook one good turkey. Prices on Thanksgiving are $8.99 for adults, $7.99 for seniors and children under 11 years old are $5.99.

If a Thanksgiving feast is not what you had in mind, there are still plenty of restaurants open in OKC for anyone just looking for a tasty dinner on Thanksgiving. Here a few ideas:

Chequers

1009 S. Air Depot, open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (405) 736-6944

Deep Deuce Grill

307 NE 2nd Street, opens at 4 p.m. (405) 235-9100

Deep Fork Grill

5418 N. Western Avenue, open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (405) 848-7678

Grand House Asian Bistro

2701 N. Classen Boulevard, open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (405) 524-7333

not hoMe for the hoLidaysKiRSTEN VIOhLKappa Kappa Gamma

Kirsten is a sophomore studying journalism. You may contact her at kaviohl@ou.edu.

Hey guys. It’s me, Thanksgiving. I just wanted to stop by and make sure you hadn’t forgotten about me. I know you’re all really super excited for Christmas, but I wanted to take a second to remind you what I’m all about. In case you have forgotten, hundreds of years ago, a bunch of European dudes hopped off their boat onto this new land that we like to call America. At first, they were like, “Whoa, what’s up with these Indians and their creepy pigtails?” But it didn’t take long for them to all become the best of pals.

The Indians welcomed their pale new friends with open arms. One thing lead to another, and then BOOM, Thanksgiving was born. Stuffing, green beans, turkey, and a whole bunch of family and friends. What could be better? Definitely not that little jerk Christmas. Everyone thinks they love Christmas, but they don’t realize how manipulative he is. Presents, lights, stupid trees with sharp little stars on the top? Christmas has become a materialistic holiday that is all about one thing: money. But not me. To celebrate my day, all you need is some warm food and someone to call family. Thanksgiving is the one day of the year that everyone can come together to celebrate, no matter if you are black, white, poor, rich, or a loud-mouthed, overly-opinionated grandmother.

Because today, even your intoxicated Grammy is part of the family, and it doesn’t matter that she gave all of your siblings Christmas presents except for you, because today, she’s family.

This being said, it really upsets me when people forget about me. Just last week, I was driving down the street when some little 12-year-old girl named Justin Bieber came on the radio singing Christmas songs. Seriously guys? Does no one even care about my feelings? IT’S NOT EVEN DECEMBER YET. And the inconsiderate a-holes that hang up their Christmas lights on Nov. 1? I hope you burn in a fiery, tacky-Christmas hell.

So all that I’m asking for on my one day of the year is for a little compassion. Sit down with your family, turn off the obnoxious Christmas music, put the eggnog back in the fridge (actually, you should probably just throw it away because eggnog is Satan’s milk), and take a day to relax with those you love. Whether that’s by watching Tony Romo’s beautiful body run around the football field, by eating so much that your dad literally has to carry you away from the table, or by just being with your family, remember to be thankful for the ones you love. Well, that’s all I have to say for now, so I hope that everyone has a happy turkey day and oh yeah, SUCK IT, CHRISTMAS!!

XOXO, Thanksgiving

A Letter From our Forgotten Friend, thanksgiving

FaiTH DAVISGamma Phi Beta

Faith is a senior studying advertising. You may contact her at faith.e.davis1@gmail.com."What could be better? Definitely not that

little jerk Christmas. Everyone thinks they love Christmas, but they don’t realize how manipulative he is. Presents, lights, stupid trees with sharp little stars on the top?"

laugh out loud12 www.theodysseyonline.com

Time for a little honesty hour: We all have our addictions. Not all of them are bad in moderation. Sometimes it is good to have an outlet for a little relaxation, but being college students, we do not know moderation. With finals just around the corner, we need to overcome our current vices. If overcoming the follwing addictions seems a little much, just consider reducing them and fully overcoming them during Christmas. But really, who is going to do that?

Starbucks

I personally love Starbucks a little too much. The other night, I went three times in about 30 minutes. It might have been less time than that. No joke. I was at the Biz location while my Big got a book. Immediately after leaving the Biz, we walked to the OMU location for more. I walked in with my tall from the Biz, and then I left with a venti only to return in a few minutes because I wanted a cold drink in addition to my venti Apple Chai. I walked back to the house a drink in both hands to be mocked by the barista and every person I saw. I need a support group.

Netflix

Whoever invented Netflix is a genius. All those

WONDERFUL shows and movies that are no longer on television or that we just want to rewatch are now at our fingertips! What better way to procrastinate than with your favorite show from middle school? Dropping out because of Netflix problems is a serious concern for some, like my roommate. Once pulled in by that random series, you HAVE to finish it. There is no other option for it; however, there are support groups for Netflix addictions online!

Video Games

I do not play video games, but I know it will be hours before someone is done. Who has five hours to give up to Modern Warfare, Halo or Madden? I can forgo sleep on a semi-regular basis, but it is not going to be because I was too busy playing a video game! I do not know how guys (or girls) do this. However, nothing compares to having the highest kill ratio or winning streak.Or so I am told.

Online Shopping

There are only a few girls who do not like to shop. One must not give up their coveted parking spot, napping time or study time to go to a store. I love clothes, shoes, accessories and make-up just as much or more than any

other sorority girl. However, it is much easier to limit my spending and find sales online than in person. I can compare things from different stores, rather than relying on my memory about what something looked like. Also, I do not have to worry about finding it again. The only downside is trying to imagine how it will fit and how the color varies in person.

Sports

It is that time of year when (sadly) college football is about to be over. For the sports fanatics, though, college and professional basketball are just getting started, and the pro football season is in full swing. What true fan can choose to do homework instead of watching the game? Who can study during halftime? The sacrifices some are going to have to make are going to be a little rough.

woes of Being in coLLege BROOKliN jOnESalpha Gamma DeltaBrooklin is a freshman studying Spanish, international business and marketing. You may contact her at brooklinrenaejones@ou.edu

@iambryson: Just had one of those awkward-curb-check-trying-not-to-hit-the-pedestrian-that-longboarded-out-in-front-of-me moments

@brettbody: T swift over everything

@madelinegabe: If anyone needs a ride... I’ll be driving the strugg bus all day.

@zachbraff: The person in your timeline who retweets the “person above/below this tweet” arrow thing, is arguably your least funny friend.

@ab_elizabeth: Getting chased by the guy in the scary spider costume in the caf and screaming “please stop doing this to me” #mylife

@BigJugDoug: Walked into Taco Bell and was greeted by a man asking how the strip club next door was... I guessed we parked in the wrong lot

@UnansweredSongs: Did anybody die for not choosing Taylor Gang?

@ewurtz: While leaving the library some guy jumped out from behind the clock tower in a creepy mask and wig… I screamed like a child.

Well played.

@k_ewy: all I want to do is be friends with the guy on campus that wears all leather and boots and carries the boom box. not sarcastic at all.

@ForrestBennett: I heard Hurricane Sandy is so angry because her real name is actually Sandra and she wants people to respect that.

@Ecarolla: School and I have a mutual hate for each other.

@hipstermermaid: I’m writing a horror movie about realizing that I left my phone at home.

@ohbryce: It’s safe to say that #ComfortColors has become the official t-shirt brand at the @UofOklahoma

@MuggleHustle: What would you guys do with 12 hours worth of Felix Felicis? I’d probably attempt to eat a second burrito at Chipolte.

@Mrlttims: Overslept and was late to class. Class got cancelled. This is how life should go.

@blakearmstrong: Ohhhh I thought James Harden got traded to the Houston Huffman center…. Guess not.

@bradendecker: “Stop horsing around” the father horse yelled to his kids, they freeze and stare in a state of confusion, they’re horses, they know nothing else

@nicolejenks: It’s nice to be important but it’s more important to be nice.

@lauren_lately: I think I should clarify... When I type omg I don’t say OH EM GEE in my head.. I say oh my gawww idk it’s less annoying

aNNa WhITE Pi Beta PhiAnna is a sophomore studying human relations. You may contact her at annawhite@ou.edu.

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Do you have bad luck with dating? Did your last relationship not work out for some unknown reason? A lot of times, we are blind to the obvious signs that show us a relationship isn’t meant to be. Lucky for you, I’ve figured some of them out. Here are some dating tips to keep in mind. Hopefully you’ll have better luck with your next relationship.

The Facebook Picture Rule

So, you’re talking to this new person. Your friends haven’t met them yet, so they ask to see a picture. The easiest way to find a picture is obviously on Facebook. Your next move is the most crucial. Do you show your friends the first picture you find? Or do you search through them until you find a picture you think is suitable enough to show your friends? We’re all guilty of doing it.

If you’re too embarrassed to show them off to your friends, it’s usually a bad sign for your relationship. Saying, “They’re cuter in person” or “They have a great personality” doesn’t make it OK. If they don’t pass the Facebook picture test, you might consider revaluating the situation.

*Just a side note, guys, if you’re reading this: It is extremely important to have a profile picture that actually shows what you look like. Stop having that picture of you and your entire pledge class as your only profile picture.

The Crazy Ex Rule

Do you ever feel like you’re being watched? Like no matter where you go, someone is watching your every move? It’s probably the crazy ex. While girls are the ones usually portrayed as the crazy ex, my friends have had some pretty crazy ex-boyfriends.

If the person you’re dating warns you ahead of time that they have a crazy ex or, even worse, a restraining order, you need to run. There are obviously some things they need to sort out before they get in another relationship. Thanks to the YouTube hit “Overly Attached Girlfriend,” we finally see the extent of how freaking crazy exes can be.

The Overly Opposites Attract Rule

If you haven’t heard the saying “opposites attract,” you live on the moon. There’s this idea that people who have opposing traits get along well because they each complete the other. Example: You’re sporty, but your girlfriend is artsy. It’s a perfect balance between the two personalities. It keeps the relationship from being too one-sided.

In a perfect world, that is true. But in reality, that’s not always the case. Sometimes, the opposites are too strong. Are you a super competitive athlete, while your girlfriend would rather skip through a field of daisies instead of watching the game? This is setting yourself up for disaster.

It’s good to have different interests, but just make sure

they’re not so opposing that you’re constantly at war with each other.

The Text Analyzing Rule

What R we doing 2nite? :)

IDC

What’s wrong?!?! :( :(

This goes both ways. I’m not just saying that because I’m a girl, either. I’ve known plenty of guys who overreact to text messages. If you can’t send a text without it being analyzed like it’s a relic, you probably need to decide whether you’re ready to handle that much drama.

When the use of Emojies and punctuation determines whether you’re going to get in a fight or not, things are bad. If you’re guilty of being on the other side of this, cut it out. You’re making us have anxiety attacks before we press “send.”

Wow, that’s a clever title. Sorry, just had to gloat for a bit. Hope you all are doing well. So, I don’t know how physically active my reader base is, but I’ll just do you all a goodness and assume you’re all professional-grade athletes. Since y’all are so athletic, I’m also going to assume you’ve been to the Houston Huffman Center on OU’s campus recently.

If you are a regular patron, or at least an occasional visitor, you know there’s always one thing you can count on when you go to the Huff—a good laugh when you walk by the amateur-level Tae Kwon Do class. I kid, I kid… kind of. But you can also count on at least 98 percent of the female population being in what I like to call the “Estrogym.” It’s the smaller room with all the treadmills, colorful balls and copious amounts of girls in yoga pants. Now, that may sound like a pretty great workout space for a single playa. But believe it or not, you’ll rarely find any males in the vicinity. That’s because they’re all getting their swole on in the “Testosteroom.”

The second you walk in, you’re hit with the smell of sweat and the sensation of being in the workout scene from Friday Night Lights. You know, because

there’s always a group of guys who are taking things way too seriously. Yelling when they’re doing a bench press, grunting loudly so people can see they maxed out at 250 lbs., staring a little too closely at themselves in the mirror… The “Testosteroom” and the “Estrogym” are two very different places. But there is occasionally an awkward middle ground. Just outside the “Testosteroom” is a small, two-bench workout area in front of some mirrors. That’s where some seriously awkward tension goes down.

This common ground can lead to some embarrassing

moments. Guys and girls tend to not like overexerting themselves in front of the opposite sex. It could be someone trying to impress another person by lifting a little more than they can handle and maybe an untimely fart kind of slips out…. I don’t know, this has never happened to me… But this isn’t the only place where males and females have the opportunity to meet. Ladies, the next time you’re running on the treadmills, look out those windows at the front of the room and see how many looks you get as they guys are “going to get water.” I mean, they could just be checking out themselves out in the glass, but in all honesty, is that much better?

thE Estrogym And thE tEstostEroom: A huff divided

Clay TUCKERSigma alpha Epsilon

Clay is a junior studying sociology. You may contact him at clay.w.tucker-1@ou.edu.

You know, because there’s always a group of guys who are taking things way too seriously. Yelling when they’re doing a bench press, grunting loudly so people can see they maxed out at 250 lbs., staring a little too closely at themselves in the mirror…

dating tips

alExaNDRa bAREDelta Delta DeltaAlexandra is a junior studying professional writing. You may contact her at alexandra.bare@ou.edu.

entertainment news14 www.theodysseyonline.com

The biggest shopping day of the year is right around the corner! While some may be dreading Black Friday, others have been looking forward to this day since last November. An extremely early morning, long lines, mass chaos and strong aggression to race toward the items highest on your wish list are just a few of the things to expect from this day.

Black Friday tends to be the highest sales day of the year for many stores. November 2011 proved this, setting records for sales and traffic over the holiday weekend. According to an article in The New York Times, “The National Retail Federation stated that spending per shopper surged 9.1 percent over 2010 to an average of almost $400 a customer, while total spending, including online sales, reached an estimated $52.4 billion Thursday through Sunday.”

Many people have transformed this day into a holiday shopping tradition. One such person is Haeden Guarnera, a junior and Delta Gamma member. “My favorite thing is just getting up early with my mom and aunt and hanging out all day. We always make a game plan the night before to see what we want, and we always have such a good time trying to get those must-have items,” Haeden said. “I expect this year to be just as much fun as it always is. The last couple of years, our reason for going has been more for

the experience, rather than the sales. It’s a tradition that my mom, aunt and I always enjoy!”

And the Guarnera family isn’t alone. According to the National Retail Federation, a record 226 million shoppers visited stores and websites across the nation during the 2011 holiday weekend reaching 86.3 million on Black Friday alone. Foot traffic is only expected to increase this year as we approach the anticipated weekend.

While stores have sales on virtually every item, electronics, movies and clothes are always the most sought after, and the ones that vanish the quickest after opening. Only the earliest of risers are deemed worthy of the best electronic deals as they push and elbow their way through the aisles. Because of this, many stores are aiming to increase sales and traffic by opening late the night of Thanksgiving. Though there is great scrutiny of stores that open on such a beloved holiday, it hasn’t stopped people from leaving their warm homes to endure the brisk weather and large crowds.

Whether you’re one to fight others for the best bargains or one to merely people watch, Black Friday is a day everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. The beginning of the Christmas holiday and the bustle of

the crowd is something that can put a smile on anyone’s face. Not to mention, this day can provide you with all your Christmas gift purchases for friends and family. Yet, if none of this interests you, maybe the anticipated Thanksgiving meal leftovers and long nap on the couch afterward will be just the ticket. Whatever you’re looking forward to, grab your friends and family and make Black Friday 2012 a shopping day to remember!

And if you’re having trouble making your shopping wish list, visit blackfriday.gottadeal.com, bfads.net or blackfriday.com to see the stores’ advertisements and sale items. Black Friday is not for the faint of heart, so be sure to dress warm, eat a big breakfast and be aggressive. Happy holiday shopping, and “may the odds be ever in your favor”!

A black Friday Experience

BEKaH WILSOnDelta Gamma

Bekah is a senior studying advertising. You may contact her at b.wilson@ou.edu.

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