Norman's Intimate Community for Your Ears; The Opolis

            The Merriam-Webster Web site defines ‘polis’ as “a state or society especially when characterized by a sense of community” and that definition resonates in the name of Norman’s intimate music venue, the Opolis. Located in downtown Norman, the showground has provided indie tunes for music lovers almost nine years.

            The Opolis is subtitled as a ‘micro venue’ on the Web site and provides the lineup of artists that will be performing among the 13 shows being hosted in the month of October. The Opolis host shows several nights a week and keeps the music community in tune with new and local artists. But, most students who have moved to Norman from out-of-state do not realize the wealth of music that is provided throughout each week and some believe there is no music scene at all.

            “I would argue that there is not a lack of music in Norman,” said Guestroom Records manager Travis Searles. “You can go see live music in Norman, especially if you are 21, every night; every single night. Multiple times a week you have two to five places hosting live music and it’s really just about finding out about it.”

            The Starlight Mints are one of Norman’s own local bands whom some of the members are the brains behind the Opolis.  The band’s Web site describes them as “a group of beautiful pop mutants: four singular musical minds whose love for archetypal pop music and AM radio has provided, over the course of three previous acclaimed albums, a rock-solid foundation for a whole bunch of inspired uniqueness, all baked to perfection under the hot Oklahoma sun. “ Drummer Andy Nunez owns and operates the Opolis, bringing in local and national acts. 

            Yelp.com provides forums for members to post reviews for a variety of businesses; in one review posted by ‘Jake A.’ from Oklahoma City, Okla. gave his opinion of the Opolis.

            “[The Opolis is] the pearl of the Norman music scene,” said the Yelp.com member. “They have great shows from local, regional and national acts, with prices averaging about $10. Depending on the band, there’s always a different crowd; expect lots of hipsters and college kids. They have cheap 3.2 beers and it’s a really intimate little joint. I’ve been to a half a dozen shows there, and will keep going back!”

            The Opolis has become a local community of people who appreciate an affordable live show from talented bands hoping to get their name out. After attending a show, some have regretted not finding out about the Opolis sooner.

            “I first went to the Opolis on a whim to see a band called Red Cortez,” said Oklahoma City resident Kyle Burnett.  “I was really surprised by how intimate the Opolis felt, the smaller venue really lets everyone inside see a great view of the stage and the artists that are performing. To say the least, I was happy I went out to see that concert that night, not only because I was able to experience a unique slice of Norman’s indie and local music scene, but also because I caught a pick thrown by the lead singer. I would recommend everyone to check out, or at least glance at this venue’s lineup to see if a big name band will play in an intimate setting such as the Opolis, it is well worth it.”

            The Opolis is an obvious choice for some unique live music during the week or as a weekend plan. To join their musical family, visit their Web site at http://www.starlightmints.com/opolis.html.

The Opolis on Main St. PHOTO: Courtney Goforth

Hey Mona Eltahawy, let’s talk

             She was introduced as “unapologetic and firm in her beliefs,” and the New York based journalist Mona Eltahawy lived up to those expectations. Eltahawy’s latest blog post entitled “Hey America; I’m a Muslim, let’s talk” was the topic at the “Blogging for Social Change” workshop hosted by the Center for Social Justice in Women’s and Gender Study Program at the University of Oklahoma for students last Wednesday and Eltahawy did not hold back.

            The award-winning columnist and international public speaker on Arab and Muslim issues’ strong beliefs are built on a strong cultural foundation; Eltahawy was born in Egypt and since resided in the United Kingdom, Saudi Arabia, Israel and the United States. In the early 90s, Eltahawy decided to become a journalist to report on human rights. Later, in 2005, she began blogging, despite her depiction of bloggers being “nerds in their underwear in their mother’s basements.” But it was on September 11^th 2001 that marked the day Eltahawy became “sick of objectivity” and developed into an opinion writer.

            After making the decision to shift into opinion writing, Eltahawy developed a social media addiction. Twitter, Facebook, news media Web sites such as Yahoo, NY Times and the Washington Post and liberal blogs became a few of her daily doses to satisfy her craving. However, Eltahawy does admit to following more liberal-based journalism as opposed to the contrary because of her own personal views.

            “There is enough things in the world that make me angry,” said Eltahawy. “I don’t have enough anger to waste on things I can avoid.”

            Blogging has its critics, such as any other style of media. But, Eltahawy was asked how she approaches the common issue of credibility that is often addressed in blogging.

            “You have to place it in context. I am never the person to say ‘do not report it’ and ‘sensor it’, said Eltahawy. “Follow as many sources as possible, do not rely on one source. You begin to trust both your instincts and what is out there. Don’t believe everything you read online, but don’t disbelieve it or discount it, look around.”

            Eltahawy is currently teaching a three-weekend course at the university, “Women and New Media in the Middle East.”  The Oklahoma School of International and Area Studies Web site indicates that the course will explore modern history of women’s movements, media dynamics, women’s roles in mainstream and independent media and how women are using new media to challenge authority in the Middle East.

            “Mona’s take on blogging opened my eyes to the power of web 2.0,” said junior Alex Eschbach. “My own blog showcasing my rampant narcissism now seems significantly less important.”

            Eltahawy has faced the adversity that goes along with being a woman in addition to being a Muslim-American. But Eltahawy does not let the critics pull her down from her soapbox.

            “Sometimes I give the middle finger to people when I protest,” said Eltahawy.

            Eltahawy’s stands firm in her beliefs and for that, she is unapologetic.