Lenten Commitments Prove Trying

Catholic students, as well as those who belong to a few other Christian denominations, including Episcopalians, Lutherans, and some Methodists, will continue to observe the religious period known as Lent until April 4th, most notably by personally giving up a specific food, drink, or habit.

"I gave up cursing, because it was something I did unknowingly on a routine basis," said Catholic student, Andrea Shannon, "I feel like I'm rationing what sort of words I use. Hopefully I can continue to decrease my cursing and censor myself even after Lent ends. It's a good thing."

Originally, Lent was characterized by fasting and prayer prior to baptisms occurring at Easter. The term "Lent" was adopted by English speakers during the Middle Ages.

After services on Easter Sunday, Catholics and other Christians will be able to indulge again (if they still care to) in whatever it was they gave up for the 40 days of Lent.

One Catholic student, Dana Haymon, is substituting tea for soda .

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Local Favorite Draws Crowd

Devoted fans flocked to old-school Campus Corner hangout, The Deli, last night to bask in the musical spender of featured entertainer Mike Hosty. Although he may not be widely known, Hosty maintains a status of small-town-famous, having originally written and still continuing to preform such songs as, "Oklahoma Breakdown".

Like many college towns, Norman maintains an assorted blend of musicians who regularly pop up on the local circuit to keep their fans happy.

"I had no idea who Hosty was at first," said Junior, Katie Duke, "but then my friends told me he was the guy behind Oklahoma Breakdown. Then understood why they were so excited."

Zulu King (1989), which is credited as his first song, was written in a garage right here in Norman. Hosty's catchy lyrics, sprinkled with down-home references to our very own Cleveland County, stand out as some of his strongest musical trademarks.

Those yearning to broaden their musical horizons need do no more than check local papers (and windows/marquees) for similar upcoming scheduled performances.

sources:
http://thedeli.us/blog/?p=126

Pink & Black Ball raises money for Breast Cancer research

The Pink and Black Ball took place last night, February 20th, at the student Union to help spread the message of Breast Cancer awareness and raise funds for the Susan G. Komen Foundation, thanks to the Women's Outreach Center and various other sponsors. Seventy-five percent of the money collected from ticket sales, ranging from $15-20 apiece, will help those locally affected, as it will go directly to the Central Oklahoma affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure.

"I think it's important to raise breast cancer awareness," said attendee, Molly Brock, "and it was a very impressive event considering only 3 paid staff members coordinate it, along with a lot of volunteer help."
The Pink and Black Ball provides guests with dancing, casino tables and appetizers, including a chocolate fountain. It is an annual event in its 6th year, here at OU.

The event raised $7,300 in proceeds last year. Those interested in learning more about the Women's Outreach Center and associated volunteer opportunities are encouraged to send an email to woc@ou.edu or call (405) 325-4929.

-Photo courtesy of Britan Mills

Sources include:
http://www.ou.edu/pinkandblackball/
http://studentlife/ou.edu/content/view/183
http://www.okctickets.com/e/3101/pinkandblackball2010/
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=6976633155

Fishing Team Wins $10,000 at Texas Tournament

OU's bass fishing won a $10,000 check from FLW College Fishing on January 31st at Falcon Lake, located in Zapata, Texas.

"It's a great representation of this university," said Tyler Nipper, club member, "It brings the OU and the OU Bass Fishing Club publicity not to mention the $10,000 check."

The fishing team won the competition by catching the heaviest of six fish (the maximum amount of fish for the competition) weighing in at over 34 pounds.

The club will keep half their winning and the university will benefit from the remainder.

To learn more visit:
http://www.oubassfishing.com/

Photo provided by:
http://collegefishing.com/image.cfm?id+36949

Delta Phi Omega Raises Money for Education

Delta Phi Omega, the only South Asian interest sorority on campus, is hosting various fundraising events Monday through Thursday of this week to help educate underprivileged children within the state and abroad.

"My sorority puts on these events because all of our parents and even some of the members are from countries where there is not as much access to education, said Delta Phi Omega Vice-President, Betsy Mathew, "we have so many opportunities here at OU, and just want to give back to others."

Delta Phi Omega chapters at various universities across the U.S. participate annually in "Literacy through Unity" week. The Multicultural Greek group will be hosting a dessert buffet spelling be, and volleyball tournament throughout its 7th "Lit. Week" at OU.

The members of Delta Phi Omega will deliver half of their proceeds to Santa Fe South Middle School in South Oklahoma City. The remainder of the money they've raised will be given to this year's international beneficiary, Asha for Education, which is specifically geared toward educating children in India.

*Photo taken by - Sejal Patel

For more information visit:
www.ashanet.org

Local Family Receives a Big Gift

The Skaggs Family, of Lexington, received a brand-new home over the weekend thanks to ABC's "Extreme Makeover: Home Edition", Ideal Homes of Norman, and an army of sponsors and local volunteers. Their previous residence's mold and termite problems were causing more stress on everyone due to youngest son, Jhett's fragile health.

The life-changing event took only a week to complete, due to the determination of countless compassionate people. "Our community has just showered us with love and prayers," said Jhett's mother, Audra, "We have been completely grateful for everything they have done for us. We know that God has a purpose for our son and our family."

Brian and Audra Skaggs, and their daughter, Merit, welcomed a baby boy in 2007. Major cardiac problems during infancy led to a heart transplant at only 10-months-old. Although Jhett fought through the procedure, he continues to struggle with a severely weakened immune system.

Because they no longer have to worry about mold, germs, or repairs, the Skaggs Family will now be able to focus more on the well-being of its youngest member, 2-year-old Jhett.

Sources:

"Introducing the Skaggs Family from Lexington, Oklahoma". Ideal Homes Extreme Makeover Home Edition Website. 6 Feb. 2010. http://www.idealextremehome.com./family.php

Potts, Christian. "Extreme show comes to state". February 2, 2010. The Edmond Sun Website. 6 Feb. 2010. http://www.edmondsun.com/local/x1687376271/Extreme-show-comes-to-State