Volume 6
Issue 5
TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS AUSTRALIA: FLOODING DOWN UNDER PG. 3 KING OF POP’S DOCTOR CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER PG. 4 DEAD BIRDS: ALL OVER THE WORLD! PG. 5 TORNADO TEARS THROUGH ST. LOUIS PG. 5 MAKING THEIR LIVES REMARKABLE: A CELEBRATION OF THE UNREMARKABLE LIVES LOST IN TUSCAN PG. 6 ILLINOIS TO ABOLISH DEATH PENALITY PG. 6
STUDENT LIFE REMEMBERING THE KING OF DANVILLE PG. 7 MUSIC CLUB PG. 8 WINTER DANCE: WHERE THE WILD THINGS ROAM PG. 8 VALENTINE’S ACCORDING TO THE PROS PG. 9 READER RESPONSE REQUEST PG. 10
FEATURES IT’S NOT ALL JUST FUN AND GAMES PG. 11 CLAIRE WAS THERE: TV NIGHT PG. 12 WHAT CAUSED A KILLER? PG. 13
SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT WHERE IS THE BREAK? PG. 14 PACKERS BRING TROPHY HOME PG. 14 THE ROYAL WEDDING PG. 15
Australia: Flooding Down Under On January 10, 2011, floods destroyed homes and lives all across northern Australia in Queensland. Thousands lost their homes, and as of January 19, twenty have been reported dead. The extensive damage ranges from death to the possibility of permanent damage to the Great Barrier Reef, according to Fox News’ website. The flood water has swept over the Great Barrier Reef, and as a result, many types of fish and sections of the reef have been smothered. Water is not the only danger in the streets--the flooding of the reef and other smaller bodies of water has washed sharks, crocodiles and poisonous snakes into some cities on the coast as well. Aussie-Info.com reported that northern Australia has a dry season and a wet season; often there is some flooding. The wet season lasts from November to March, and it can turn dry deserts into flood lands.
from us. It was about 15ft higher than normal. The prediction was for it to rise another 3ft or so, which could cause water to get into the ground floor of my apartment building, but because we live on the 3rd floor, we figured we would be fine.” On January 12, authorities ordered an evacuation of the city, so Nahm and his wife went to higher ground about half an hour from the city to a family member’s property. The city had to shut off all power. By Friday, the water began to go down, allowing Nahm and his wife to return to their apartment. Luckily, his building was not affected, but all around it there were businesses that had been significantly damaged, and the streets were filled with sludge. Luckily, the city was not a mess for long. “There were 65,000 active volunteers cleaning up the city! Within just a day, my entire neighborhood has been cleaned and the Courtesy of Google Maps sludge washed down the sewers. Hundreds of volunteers had roamed the neighborhood and helped the small businesses clean up the shops. It has been amazing to see so many people come into the city to help those in need.” Though the floods have destroyed much and the recovery process is nowhere near finished, it is refreshing to see a community so willing to pull together. Brisbane has made a significant step in the right direction. Amy Coyle Bear Facts Staff Writer
Fox News asked experts about causes of the flood. They said if there had been dams to control flood water during the wet season, the damages could have been controlled. Almost the entire northern part of Australia is a notorious flood plain, full of dry river beds that are at high risk for flooding after a rain. However, David Nahm said that “it is way too early to be placing blame on anybody.” Nahm lives in a suburb of Brisbane in Newstead, Queensland (see map – red flag), but he grew up in North County and went to Saint Louis University High School. He says that in December, the average amount of daylight had only been a mere four hours, and the rain had been going on for weeks. On January 11, residents of Brisbane were instructed to stay home. “My wife and I . . . were watching the river levels rise across the street
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
KING OF POP’S DOCTOR CHARGED WITH MANSLAUGHTER
LEFT: MICHAEL JACKSON, THE KING OF POP STRIKES HIS FAMOUS POSE (POPEATER.COM). RIGHT: DOCTOR CONRAD MURRAY GETS HIT WITH HARD QUESTIONS IN THE COURT ROOM (WORDPRESS.COM).
M
ichael Jackson’s former cardiologist Dr. Conrad Murray has been charged with involuntary manslaughter in the King of Pop’s death in June 2009.
Prosecutors accused him of providing the pop star with a lethal dose of the anesthetic propofol and other sedatives. Dr. Murray pleaded not guilty and was due back in court on January 25. The Associated Press quoted prosecutor David Walgren’s hard-hitting statement in the Washington Post, “Because of Dr. Murray’s actions, Michael is gone. Because of Dr. Murray’s actions, Michael’s children are left without a father. Michael is not here today because of an utterly inept, incompetent and reckless Dr. Conrad Murray.” Associated Press Writer Anthony McCartney reported that on January 11, 2011, Superior Court Judge Michael Pastor told Dr. Conrad Murray, Michael Jackson’s cardiologist, that there was a significant amount of evidence to find him guilty at trial, convicted of involuntary manslaughter. Judge Pastor came to this conclusion after listening to six days of testimony from Dr. Murray. Shortly after announcing the ruling, Judge Pastor also
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took the action of suspending Murray’s license to practice medicine in California. He clearly stated that allowing Murray to keep his medical license would “pose an imminent danger.” Murray’s attorney, Ed Chernoff, claimed that Murray hadn’t practiced medicine in California since Jackson’s death. According to The Associated Press, another one of Murray’s attorneys drilled experts with questions on the controversial possibility that Jackson took the fatal dose of propofol himself. Prosecution experts agreed that this was highly unlikely and that the ruling would remain the same even if that is what happened. Dr. Richard Ruffalo, an anesthesiologist who testified as an expert witness, provided even more evidence to find Murray guilty, evidence very difficult for Murray’s attorneys to contest. Dr. Ruffalo revealed that when Murray was interviewed by police two days after Jackson’s death, he “expressed concern about Jackson being addicted to the anesthetic in an interview.” McCartney reported the story that Murray told the police, which is that he left Jackson alone to use the restroom and when he returned, Jackson wasn’t breathing. Dr. Ruffalo testified, “It’s the same as having a heroin addict and leaving the syringe next to him and walking away.” Ruffalo also revealed that Jackson was taking propofol to help him fall asleep six nights a week for at least two months before he died in June 2009. Ruffalo stated that Murray didn’t even have the proper medical equipment to monitor the pop star. Prosecutors added to these shocking statements that Murray’s delay in calling 911 was as much as 21 minutes. Kimie Leach Bear Facts Editor
Dead Birds! All over the world 2011 has had its share of natural disasters so far. Beginning with the tornadoes in Sunset Hills and North County, nature could not resist getting crazy. From the beginning of January to the eleventh, there have been people around the world reporting dozens to hundreds of dead birds. Veterinarians and wildlife officials are sorting through a mountain of reasons why these birds are dead. The explanations ranged from the birds being stressed to the unusually frigid temperatures. To the experts, massive amounts of birds that end up dying is actually normal. However, it seemed strange to people here in the United States. It first happened in Arkansas just before midnight, according to www.articles.cnn.com. An estimated five thousand red-winged black birds and starlings were found dead in a one-mile radius. Wildlife officials believe the cause of death could be from fireworks that were set off that night or from a storm that had rolled through that day. In this case, it was determined the birds died due to internal injuries that lead to clots. Days later, in Louisiana, around five hundred redwinged black birds and starlings were dead on a portion of a highway. The cause of death is still unclear. Wildlife officials doubt that poison played a cause in all the birds’ deaths. In both of these incidents, wildlife officials do not think there is a direct link between the two. About two weeks later, the news was publicized by a newspaper editor, James Bartle, in Sullivan, Missouri, that dozens of starlings were found dead, according to www.fox2now.com. To Missourians, it seemed peculiar since it just happened weeks before in Arkansas and Louisiana. The Missouri Department of Conservation theorized that the starlings died because of temperature variations, tornadoes or shock. The bizarre amount of dead birds is not just in the United States. It has also happened in Sweden and Italy, said the www.huffingtonpost.com. All this hype about the massive amount of dead birds is quite alarming to some. As a passionate bird watcher, Sr. Sue Anne Cole thinks that all these birds’ dying is quite shocking. She said, “I bet that there is some disease they haven’t discovered yet that has attacked these species in particular.” However, officials have no doubt that this is completely normal. It is all just a part of nature. Megan Haenchen
Tornado Tears Through St. Louis New Year’s Eve is usually a time of cheer and excitement for the new year, but this past New Year’s Eve day, some Sunset Hills citizens were feeling fearful. On that very morning, a tornado rampaged through parts of the Sunset Hills and Fenton areas with 136 to 165 miles-per-hour winds, according to ksdk.com. The fierce tornado left the area with collapsed homes, over-turned cars, and tree branches and debris found everywhere. Also, the tornado caused a gas leak, which forced 30 families to temporarily evacuate their homes.
Damage to home of Ursuline students Mary Jo, Margaret and Katie Alonso. Picture taken by Mario Alonso. Ursuline sophomore Gabby Visconti, who lives in Fenton, experienced the tornado first-hand. She remembered the tornado beginning in her backyard. Visconti recalled, “I was really scared. I was upstairs, and I didn’t know what was going on. It was over in about 10 seconds.” The tornado knocked down trees in her backyard and created a hole in her family’s roof. Besides all the damage the tornado left behind, the storm also led to the death of one woman. Fox2now.com stated that Margaret Birkes was driving in her car on Highway 141 that New Year’s Eve morning when the tornado hit. The storm took her and her car airborne. She died on January 3 on her 70th birthday. To help the people of the area to get through the disaster, the community center opened its doors to families needing a place to stay the night due to the damage to their homes caused by the storm. Ksdk.com reported that the Red Cross and Salvation Army were also available to those of the area in need. Although the tornado may have torn the city apart, it brought the people of the community together. Meg Vatterott Bear Facts staff writer,
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
Making Their Lives Remarkable: A Celebration of the Unremarkable Lives Lost in Tucson By now the Tucson shootings are old news, and most people would rather just move on to the next piece of news. There is no doubt that the families of Dorothy "Dot" Morris, John Roll, Phyllis Schneck, Dorwan Stoddard and Gabriel "Gabe" Zimmerman would like nothing more as well. Unfortunately, the date of January 8, 2011, is a date none will soon forget. It was a day that their dear family member was torn from them. Of course, everyone has heard of Gabrielle Giffords, the congresswoman hanging onto life, and little Christina TaylorGreen, the 9-year-old born on September 11, 2001. But what about the other people--Morris, Roll, Schneck, Stoddard and Zimmerman, ordinary people who died? Because they were unremarkable people before their deaths, they will continue to be unremarkable after their deaths as well. Maybe it’s time to
change that, to let a little of their stories out as well. According to an article by The Associated Press in The Dallas Morning News, “Thumbnail sketches of those shot in Arizona,” Dorothy Morris was 76 when she was killed, a retired secretary. Her husband, George, was wounded that day and now must go to bed, alone, his mind full of the nightmares of the day he lost his high school sweetheart. John Rolls was 63, the chief judge of the U.S. District Court for Arizona, named to the position by former President George H. W. Bush in 1991. Phyllis Schneck, 79, was a homemaker who moved to Tucson with her husband from Colorado to avoid ever having to deal with snow again and spent her retirement time by volunteering at her church. Gabe Zimmerman, 30, was on Gabrielle Giffords’ staff and
helped set up the event at the supermarket where he was killed. He went into politics to help people. Dorwan Stoddard, 76, construction worker, died protecting his wife, his grade school sweetheart, from the shots. These are just thumbnails of the lives taken. Now that the stories of these lives have briefly been told, maybe all can place a face on the victims. No longer are they five unremarkable dead; they are five people with hopes and dreams, five lives cut short by a massacre. When someone like this shooter decides to play God and steal lives, he’s not just ending a life. He’s cutting short a story, and all the characters mourn the loss. Ann Slesinski Bear Facts Writer
Illinois To Abolish the Death Penalty The Illinois state senate took one more step towards social justice after voting to abolish the death penalty after it got the necessary 60 votes in favor of the bill. However, the final decision will be left to Governor Pat Quinn. Fifteen states and the District of Columbia have already ended capital punishment. Both sides have spoken to the issue throughout the process. The Catholic Church stands firmly against the death penalty. One point the Church makes is that the death penalty sends the wrong message: killing people who kill people doesn’t show killing is wrong. The Vatican stated that “we can’t know whether God has a purpose for a person’s life, even one who has committed a terrible crime and must spend his or her life behind bars.” According to the chicagotribune.com, opponents of the bill argued
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that the death penalty “should remain in place as the ultimate punishment for the most heinous crimes.” While it is evident that the Church condemns the death penalty, many still approve of it. Law enforcement officials advocate that prosecutors need the threat of the death penalty. They use this threat to get guilty pleas from suspects. Those who believe in it think that justice is better served and that criminals are sometimes given more sympathy than the victims. On the other side, the death penalty causes taxes to go up. Illinois has spent more than $100 million on the death penalty in just 10 years, without convicting anyone. According to stltoday.com, Quinn has said he supports the death penalty when properly applied, but he hasn't lifted the moratorium. He said he wants to hear from constituents and
would follow his conscience. Only time will tell if Governor Pat Quinn passes the law. Both sides have strong arguments to make. Maggie Eggleston Bear Facts Wrtier
Art by: Ann Wolf
Remembering the Great
King of Danville “He was really funny and lively”.
Earlier this month, Ursuline received some tragic news about the death of a beloved teach and friend, Mr. Dailey. Mr. Dailey had been suffering from a disease called ALS. Some symptoms of ALS include muscle stiffness, difficulty breathing and difficulty swallowing. The cause is still unknown, but it is normally diagnosed between the ages of 45 and 65. So far there is not a known cure for ALS, but researchers are still working on finding it. The funeral for Mr. Dailey truly showed how much he meant to all of us. Programs were handed out along with a red ALS band. Mr. Day gave a eulogy about all of the things that made Dan Dailey, Dan Dailey. Items such as the quilt made in support
of him and clothing representing his favorite sports teams were brought up. The ceremony ended with the traditional UA song Go Light Your World. Although the death of former teacher and friend was very saddening for the girls at Ursuline, Mr. Dailey was known for making us smile. Junior Allie Renz said, “When we didn’t know an answer, he would help us figure it out,” Allie also commented about his sense of humor. “He was really funny and lively,” says Cassy Herrin, junior. Colleen Wilson, a senior, said she loved how he always called her “Farthead,” and every day after school, he would walk by her locker and kick her in the back. Mr. Dailey always had a way to make Ursuline girls smile and our memories of him will always keep us laughing. Josie Ruggeri Bear Facts Writer
“an will be greatly missed by both students and coworkers.
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
What is music? Something to break the silence in an elevator, relieving you of the pressures of conversing with a stranger? Something from which you can steal lyrics after a break up, to post as your Facebook status? Well, if you break it down, music really is just various combinations of notes put to lyrics. But if you experience it, music is so much more. There’s a slim-to-none chance of ever coming across a person who doesn’t enjoy a single type of music. From Lady Gaga to Mozart, there really is a type of music for everyone. And while some people just simply enjoy listening to music as a pastime, there is always someone who’s further intrigued. In this case, that person would be Nora Early, UA junior and founder/president of the newest Ursuline club . . . the Music Club. The club’s relaxed atmosphere provides a welcoming vibe to all music lovers. Every Wednesday, from 3:00 to 4:00, the club meets in co-proctor Mr. Katheriner’s room on first floor of Brescia. The music club is a fun way for Ursuline girls to get together and discuss music, both new and favorites. Moving chronologically, the club is discussing music by time period. In their second meeting, Mr. Day joined in on the fun and jumped into the discussion of music from the 1950s. The following week, the students shared their favorite music from the 60s, and they will continue to follow in this pattern of music by decade. Music can really impose a lot upon a person. It can be persuasive; it can be comforting --it can be whatever you make it. And everyone interprets music just a little differently. Junior Sammi Niehaus shared that “music is the fire inside my soul . . . kindling.” So they come together and discuss, listen and share. It’s not only interesting--it can be enlightening. Welcome to all, the UA Music Club is a great way not only to expand your musical knowledge, but also to get to know your classmates to the beat of some of the best (and maybe even some of the worst songs) ever recorded. Emily Badock Bear Facts Staff Writer
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“Lions and tigers and bears, oh, my!” Winter dance was the place to be for all the party animals. With the theme “safari,” Ursuline girls put on their best cheetahlish clothes and animal prints for a night of fun and dancing in January. Girls lined up to pay to get into the dance located in the old gym. Zebra-print leggings, black leotards and tiger striped headbands were some of the more popular outfits seen. The Winter Dance has always been a great way to help with the seniors’ prom fund. What better way to raise money? “It’s a win-win situation,” said senior Colleen McCormack. “Sure, it costs money, but it goes to a good cause! Plus, you get to dress up ridiculously; it’s a blast.” Most schools have winter dances, but they’re formal. Ursuline gives girls a chance to dress up in wacky wear for one Art by Meghan Schmitt night. “I love winter dance!” said sophomore Eleanor Clark. “It’s awesome knowing I don’t need to go out and buy a new dress for this dance. I go through my closet and put on everything and anything.” Some UA girls just go to support the senior class. “If I were a senior, I would want the same. We just want the best prom possible, but in order for that to happen, the seniors need to get the most support possible,” said junior Allison Griffero. Overall the dance was a huge success. Girls danced the night away, and the proceeds went to a good cause. Meghan Schmitt Bear Facts Staff Writer
Valentine’s Day According to the Pros Dearest Bear Facts readers, you may have noticed there’s nothing in this month’s issue about Valentine’s Day. The editors decided to cut out the mushy-gushy stuff to prevent readers from vomiting or sobbing. Instead, they’ve decided to share with you how they’re going to spend their Valentine’s Day, boyfriend-less. Kimie Leach: Valentine’s Day falls on a Monday this year, and Monday is $5 Bottomless Wing Night at Fraileys (where I work). I’ve been working every Monday since I started there, so that’s how I’ll be spending my Valentine’s Day. I am planning on celebrating Valentine’s Day the following weekend with my best friend Alli. We’re both boyfriend-less so we thought it’d be funny to be each other’s Valentines. We’re going to do what girls love to do: dress up and then go out to dinner. After that, we’re going to have a good old-fashioned sleepover that consists of eating an entire tub of Ben and Jerry’s in our pajamas and watching movies that contain no romance in them whatsoever, like “The Hangover.”
Photo by: Amy Coyle senior at Ursuline Academy
Claire Fadel:
I’ve written numerous Valentine’s articles about my deep-seated hatred for such a holiday. This year is no different; I am both bitter and single. I am so angry that this is still a holiday, and I propose to sabotage all those partaking in Valentine’s Day. I will no longer keep quiet. I will ruin this day for all. For those who hate this day, I’ll be having an AntiValentine’s movie night. If ya’ll wanna join, just run on over to my house! My dad will be ordering Edible Arrangements for us . . . he’s my only Valentine.
Photo by: Kat Kernell junior at Ursuline Academy
Brooke Messmer: I feel as if Valentine’s Day is an interesting but awkward holiday. I will probably be spending my Valentine’s Day thinking about celebrities I want to meet in the future and with whom I want to go on dates. I will also probably be pestering my friends who will be on dates (sorry in advance). Valentine’s day doesn’t necessarily bother me, but it’s just awkward. Therefore, I feel if I do not have a significant other, then it is meaningless. I think that Valentine’s Day should be looked at as something different, other than for couples. We as a society need to depend on this day so everyone can feel the love. Where’s the love?
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ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
The Bear Facts News Magazine wants to hear from YOU!
We want to hear what you think. Whether it is a correction to something we printed, a point of view that you would like to be heard, article ideas that are lacking in the paper or you just want to tell us what you think of the paper, we want to hear it. Please either write your thoughts below, cut it out and submit it to the Bear Facts News Room (M24) or email one of the editors (pictured on reverse side). We appreciate all constructive feedback. Thanks. ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________
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Claire Was There: TV Night I am a proud TV junkie. Ever since I can remember, I have always rushed home to grab a snack and some “Lizzie Maguire” or now “Maury.” I’ve seen everything under the sun. Critics have declared that we live in the Television Era; producers have equipped the American people with having the best of TV there probably ever will be. Lately, I have noticed Ursuline girls seem only to care about Teen Mom or Gossip Girl and nothing a tad bit off the radar. I want to enlighten your TV vocabulary so here I am, sharing my TiVo list . •“Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia”: This show is not for the weakened heart; it is made for those with a sick sense of humor. Now on their sixth season, our favorite bar owners stumble upon adventures such as footwear for kittens, a mysterious pregnancy, dumpster babies and homeless priests. •“Dr. Quinn Medicine Woman”: “If we wanted two wussies we would have named them Dr. Quinn and Medicine Woman,” said Ricky Bobby’s wife in Talladega Nights. Oh, how right she is, but still I cannot resist. Dr. Quinn is a rising female doctor in the Wild West during its hey days in the 1800s. She is a huge
wussie, and the plot seems to always be thickening with towns people attacking Indians and what not. It is almost too much to love, not to mention her artisan boyfriend, who runs around in suede and tassels. Watch all five seasons (1993-1998) from Amazon for $55.00. •“Buffy the Vampire Slayer”: I know this is another one that has been off the air for awhile, but there are reruns everywhere! I love everything about Buffy. I have seen every episode more than twice and am not ashamed. Buffy is just a teenage girl living the hell that is high school when she becomes the Vampire Slayer. She is forced to battle the demons of darkness and be the “new girl” at school. Buffy is gorgeous, witty and completely rebellious. In every episode she has the most amazing fight sequences while wearing Marc Jacobs. This summary does not do it justice. Please go to your nearest daytime TV to learn what is the most amazing show. •“Lights Out”: This recently aired in January 2011 and has captured my attention. A retired heavyweight
boxer struggles to support his family and is forced to become an intimidating debt collector. This show reminds me of “The Sopranos” and rips out my heart when he cannot pay for his daughter’s expensive, private school. I desperately want Larry, the main character, to succeed and become a better man when he’s diagnosed with a slight form of dementia. Watch FX on Tuesdays at 9! •“Modern Family”: Stop making me laugh. Seriously. This show is almost too much, but I’m in complete adoration. these dysfunctional families seem to be a slight spinoff of the likes of “Curb Your Enthusiasm” and “Arrested Development.” It’s already won six Emmys, catch it on ABC on Wednesday at 8:00. We really do live in the TV age. There is something out there for everyone. It’s easy to change the channel and find something stupid to watch, but if you give it a little thought and a hunt, you’ll find the perfect TV shows. Claire Fadel Bear Facts Editor
Tell Claire an Embarrassing TV Show You Watch Religiously!
Grace Owens, 2011: “Sons of Anarchy,” is about a biker group, not-so appropriate, they sell drugs, kill people, have organized crime. Its not my like my life at all.
Cassiy Herrin, 2012: “House of Anubis.” Its got bad British acting, but the plot is really good. There’s some mystery murders and its on Nick.
Maddie Klump, 2013: This is embarrassing, but I watch “American Pickers.” Two guys go around the country and fine antique novelties.
Elizabeth Peters, 2014: I Know this sounds weird, but I love “Boy Meets world.” Claire: What is weird about that froshie? One of the best TV Shows ever!
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It’s Not All Just Fun and Games
Apple’s apps are all the rage right now. Apps range from Angry Birds, a currently popular game app, to apps that give you the ability to access your e -mail from almost anywhere. Apps now can read vital signs or even allow you to read your favorite book from anywhere. They can help you track your diet and log your activity rates. Many companies have iPod/iPhone apps to support their products, such as Whole Foods which has an app devoted to recipes made from products sold in their stores. According to one of our editors, there are some cool game apps that the seniors play, but she never said what they were. It must be a senior secret. There are so many apps out there that it can be hard to figure out which ones you want to look at, so just fire up your MacBook, and start typing things in on iTunes; oh, wait--you have net books, not MacBooks. Well, iPod and iPhone apps don’t work on Nerinx’s laptops anyway; what a waste. Some apps can actually be pretty useful. Some apps to help you when you are lost are the flashlight app for when it’s dark out, Maps for when you don’t know where you are and Dictionary.com or Wikipedia for when you don’t know the definition of a word on the big test tomorrow. There are also some boring but useful apps that come preloaded to the iPhone like the calculator, calendar and notes. As P!nk would say, there are some apps that are just “too school for cool.” Some of these apps n are flashcards, lecture recorders me and Cliffnotes. With all these educational apps, maybe Ursuline should invest in some iPhones, or at least iPod touches, for all the students. It’s hard to see a down side to this proposal.
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As P!nk would say, there are some apps that are just “too school for cool.”
Photo By Mary Elizabeth Herries
iPhones and iPod Touches are backlit so you can easily see what you are doing even if it is dark where you are using it. On a side note, Verizon just released that they will be adding the iPhone to their line of smart phones. The iPhone was an exclusive item of AT&T until this announcement was made on Jan. 11. Feb.10 is the date the iPhone will be available on Verizon's turtle speed 3G network compared to the 4G network announced earlier this month. The main difference between the two networks of AT&T and Verizon's iPhone is that on AT&T you can talk on the phone and use apps at the same time, whereas on Verizon you must choose one or the other. Verizon, on the other hand, currently has an unlimited data plan, and AT&T had set data minutes which you are not to exceed although changes could be made to both Verizon’s and AT&T’s data plans. In the long run, they are both made by Apple and have most of the same features. 4G networks iPhones are being rumored to hit the market sometime within the next year on AT&T’s network. Now with all this speculation of new iPhones hitting the market at different times, it may be hard to decide when to give in and jump on the iPhone bandwagon. The newest iPhone may be hitting the market in February, and another may soon follow after, but, hey, an iPhone is an iPhone, and most of these apps are designed to work on most versions of the iPhone and iPod touches. Mary Elizabeth Herries Bear Facts Writer
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
What Caused a Killer? Jared Loughner, the killer in the Arizona Massacre, suffers from mental illness, but which one?
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dream.” Why does this matter? What is so wrong with having lucid dreams? Recently the European Science Foundation reported that this kind of dreaming“ creates distinct patterns of electrical activity in the brain that have similari-
The mind of a killer is a mystery. However, sci-
ties to the patterns made by psychotic condi-
entists know that before one can even attempt to
tions.” The drinking and drug use (including the
shoot and kill many people, he or she had to lose
hallucinogens) usually keep people from falling
touch with reality. Jared Loughner is a recent
into a deep sleep, therefore having lucid
example of this deranged functioning of the
dreams. The more Loughner had the lucid
mind. According to John Cloud of Time Maga-
dreams, the more he thought he could control
zine, “Navigating the cluttered corridors of Jared
reality by losing touch with life all together.
Loughner’s mind will take psychiatrists months or
One’s perspective my be that hallucinogens
years.” After dropping out of high school before
made Loughner believe his reality wasn’t really
his senior year, Loughner started drinking heavily
reality. Therefore, he thought he could control
and using hallucinogens like acid and other
his surroundings. Time magazine’s John Cloud reported,
drugs, said fellow classmate Kylie Smith. Loughner friends said that he “would occasionally
“Still, [Jeffery] Swanson’s data show[s] that the
speak in random strings of words.” Besides Ja-
lifetime prevalence of violence in those with
red Loughner, many men and women who have
schizophrenia or a mood disorder is 33%, com-
been identified as serial killers had a mental
pared with 15% for those with no major disor-
illness due to a hit on the head or abuse as a
der. Combine schizophrenia or a mood disorder
child. However, there is no evidence that sup-
with substance abuse and the prevalence soars
ports the second theory would be true for Lough-
to 65%.” To help us better understand warning
ner. From his infamous mug shot, one can tell he
signs, “Psychiatrists who treat Loughner will look
isn’t well. The smile with his cocked eyebrow
for other risk factors that predict violence aside
makes even the best of psychologists contem-
from (and better than) psychosis: child abuse,
plate the rash decisions of Loughner. The drink-
alcoholic parents, and again, heavy drug use,”
ing and constant drug use are one solid reason
stated Cloud. Through science, we can further
for his behavior, but mental illness still plays a
determine the warning signs of a potential kil-
role.
ler, which will bring some peace of mind to us John Cloud reasoned that Loughner’s
fascination with lucid dreaming could also be a contributor to his developing mental illness.
all. Ann Wolf Bear Facts Staff Writer
Dream Views website stated, “A lucid dream is a dream in which you know you are dreaming. Typically this happens when the dreamer experiences something strange, and when they stop to question their reality they realize they are in a
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Packers Bring Trophy Home Super Bowl XLV Recap The Green Bay Packers and the Pittsburgh Steelers faced off on the biggest stage in front of 91,060 paying attendees Feb. 6, including 3,000 people outside the stadium, and not including all of the spectators on the television. The game was played at Cowboy Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Packers wanted to bring the Vince Lombardi Trophy back to Green Bay where it started. Vince Lombardi was one of the greatest football coaches in history. He was the coach of the Green Bay Packers who led them to win the first two Super Bowls in the history of the NFL. In the beginning it looked as if it was going to be a blowout for the Packers. The Steelers were the underdogs to begin with. The Packers were favored to win from the very beginning. While Green Bay led throughout the whole game, it was a nail-biter at the end. Nobody knew what was going to happen. Pittsburgh could have had a good last possession and could have scored, winning Super Bowl XLV. But that didn’t happen. The Packers stopped them in their tracks and took home the win! The Green Bay Packers have gone to four Super Bowls in the past and won three out of their four Super Bowl appearances. The last time they went to the Super Bowl was in 1998, losing to the Denver Broncos. The year before that, they defeated the New England Patriots. The Green Bay Packers won the very first two Super Bowls ever played in 1967 and 1968. While the Packers have only been to four Super Bowls, they have won the most league championships at 12. Behind them are the Chicago Bears with nine championships. This season the Green Bay Packers have gone 10-6. They made their way to the Super Bowl by beating the Philadelphia Eagles, the Atlanta Falcons and the Chicago Bears in the playoffs, according to NFL.com. The Pittsburgh Steelers have played in seven Super Bowls, winning six of them, including four in six years. The last time they went to the Super Bowl was in 2009. They went on to beat the Arizona Cardinals. Before that they went to the Super Bowl in the years of 2006, 1996, 1980, 1979, 1976 and 1975, only losing in 1996 to the Dallas Cowboys. This season, the Pittsburgh Steelers have gone 124. They had a bye week on wild card weekend, then went on to beat the Baltimore Ravens and the New York Jets in the playoffs to make it to the Super Bowl, according to NFL.com. Amber Grisham Bear Facts Writer
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Where is the Break? On February 6, 2011, in Arlington, Texas, the Green Bay Packers played against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Anticipation for the winner grew, but the anticipation for the commercials was larger. Fox Sports sold all of their commercial airtime. A 30-second commercial costs around $3 million dollars, but higher prices are charged for commercials that apply for a spot closer to Super Bowl week. Many longtime advertisers came back, such as Anheuser-Busch InBev, PepsiCo, Doritos and GM. According to i4u.com, Anheuser-Busch InBev aired five ads, including the beautiful Budweiser Clydesdales. Pepsi was back again after not being in the Super Bowl lineup last year. PepsiCo had three consumergenerated ads for Pepsi MAX and three consumergenerated ads for their favorite triangular snacks, Doritos, said foxsports.com. There were also newcomers to the Super Bowl advertisements which included Pizza Hut, Best Buy, Mercedes-Benz and Suzuki. Best Buy advertised the “must have electronics” by having Justin Bieber and Ozzy Osbourne and good buys. Mercedes-Benz flashed off four new cars, according to i4u.com, while celebrating their 125th anniversary. Most people watched the game as a large group, and nothing was better than ordering some pizza. Pizza Hut aired a commercial for the first time in the Super Bowl. As technology becomes greater, the Internet is used more often by everyone. This year Internet sites such as Go Daddy, CareerBuilder and Cars.com had commercials. According to i4u.com, Go Daddy not only featured Danica Patrick, a favorite from last year, but also featured Biggest Loser trainer Jillian Michaels. They also hope to bring more people to their sites. Not only were there commercials for the traditional foods, beverages and internet sites, there were trailers for upcoming movies. Paramount showed trailers for “Thor,” “Super 8” and “Captain America,” based on the Marvel Comics. Other trailers included “Cowboys & Aliens,” starring Harrison Ford and Daniel Craig, “Fast Five,” “Transformers Dark of the Moon” and “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides,” announced i4u.com. Although the Green Bay Packers beat the Pittsburgh Steelers, the commercials were the highlight of the night, but they did not live up to the expectations of last year’s commercials. They did not have as many laughs as last year, and some of them just did not make sense. It seemed like some companies put too much money in for a spot that gave nothing that was appealing. Sarah Haenchen Bear Facts Writer
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
The Royal Wedding
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fter dating for over eight years, Prince William, 28, and Kate Middleton, 28, have finally decided to tie the knot. The couple went to vacation in a remote lakeside hut on Mount Kenya, Africa, and came back an engaged couple. Although the couple did not divulge many details about the engagement, Kate Middleton told People.com that “It was very romantic, and very personal to Africa.” To honor his late mother, Prince William gave his fiancée the engagement ring that Prince Charles once gave to Princ e s s Diana. Prince William told People Magazine, “It’s very special to me. As Kate’s very special to me now, it was right to put the two together.” The ring is an oval sapphire surrounded by diamonds, pictured right. Prince William and Kate Middleton, The official wedsmile, after the proposal. ding date and place have been Picture by People.com announced to be this spring, April 29, at Westminster Abbey in London. According to People Magazine, the royal engaged couple will be married by Archbishop of Canterbury Rowan Williams at an 11 a.m. ceremony. The reception will take place at Buckingham Palace after the ceremony, hosted by Queen Elizabeth II, William’s grandmother. Prince Charles will host a dinner and dance at Buckingham Palace the night of the wedding for close family and friends of the newlyweds. There is much anticipation as to who will be invited to these royal events this spring. The reception guest list has yet to be released, but, according to People Magazine, palace officials state it will be drawn from members of the wedding congregation. These members come from the royal couple’s official and private lives. The official
wedding guest list is closely guarded information because the palace officials claim it is not a state affair that will be driven by protocol concerns. There are still many details to be announced for this highly anticipated royal wedding, such as Kate’s dress, the cake and the honeymoon destination. All these questions will soon be answered, and it has been said to be the most expensive celebrity wedding of all time, costing British taxpayers $20 billion dollars. Britons and visitors can try to catch a glimpse of the cou- Kate Middleton’s ring is the same ring ple as they glide by Prince Charles gave Princess Diana in a horse-drawn when he was engaged to her. carriage when it travels through Artist: Ann Wolf Parliament Square, Whitehall, Horse Guards Parade and the Mall, or they can gather near Buckingham Palace, where William and his bride are expected to emerge into public view briefly on the balcony. According to People.com, this is also the same balcony where William's parents, Prince Charles and the late Princess Diana, kissed after their 1981 wedding and where wartime leader Winston Churchill joined the royal family to wave to the public in triumph at the end of World War II. For those of us who will not be able to travel to London at the time of the wedding, we can view the wedding on local television stations. Emily Price Bear Facts Staff Writer
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abcfamily.com
You and Me Penny and the Quarters
The stars of “Pretty Little Liars” : Diego Boneta, Brant Daugherty, Keegan Allen, Brendan Robinson and Chuck Hittinger
GANT The sequel to the big hit Mean Michael Bastian Girls came out recently, and Best Love Song although we all knew it could T-Pain not live up to the expectations of the original, it didn’t even meet my lowest standards. The cast consisted of many Disney channel characters, and at times I felt as if I was watching a movie spin-off of one of their shows. The plot lacked originality; I could already predict what was going to happen five minutes into the movie. The worst part was that this movie lasted two hours, only to find out that everything you thought would happen, did. The movie did have its
funny parts, but those were scarce. Overall, I would have to give it a C-. Josie Ruggeri Bear Facts Staff Writer
1981: The pop star is born. 1998: Releases her first music video, “Hit Me Baby One More Time.” 1999: Releases 1st album, “Hit Me Baby One More Time.” 2000: Releases 2nd album “Oops! I Did It Again,” & begins dating Justin Timberlake. 2001: Releases 3rd album, “Britney,” & performs “I’m a Slave 4 U” at the VMA’s with a 7 foot python wrapped around her neck. 2002: Stars in the movie “Crossroads” & breaks up with Justin Timberlake. 2003: Releases 4th album, “In the Zone,” & kisses Madonna at the VMA’s. 2004: Married Jason Alexander in Vegas and had it annulled 55 hours later. Then married Kevin Federline on September 18. 2005: Gives birth to 1st child, Sean Preston. 2006: Gives birth to 2nd child, Jayden James, and divorces from Kevin Federline. 2007: Britney shaves her head, performs “Gimme More” at the VMA’s and releases album “Blackout.” Britney was checking in and out of rehab this year. 2008: Releases album “The Circus.” Kimie Leach Bear Facts Editor