BEARFACTS
ISSUE 1 VOLUME 6
Bringing You the Ursuline Academy News
IN THIS ISSUE: IRAQ: THE END OF OUR WAR MUSLIMS VS. AMERICA NEW LAPTOPS AND VIRTUAL HIGHSCHOOL SILLY BAND AMPUTATION
TABLE OF CONTENTS NEWS Iraq: The End of Our War, the Beginning of Their Democracy PG. 3 Glenn Beck Restores Honor, 2010 PG. 4 Click Here. NOW. & Silly for Silly Bandz PG. 5 VHS Coming to Ursuline PG. 6 UA Gets Individual Laptops PG. 7
STUDENT LIFE UA Loves Dan the Man & Ms. Albus Saves Furry Friends PG. 8 Junior Year Survival Guide PG. 9 Fall into Fall Festival & Quick Stress Relievers PG. 10 Student Spotlight & Claire Was There, Where Were You? PG. 11 Rockin’ the Clubs & 15 Minute Snacks PG. 12 New Teachers & Teacher Look-a-likes PG. 13 Faces & Fall Festival Events PG. 14
FEATURES The Fight for Every Woman’s Right PG. 15 Serviam: How Will You Serve? PG. 16 Meet the Editors & Editorial Policy PG. 17 Muslims VS. America PG. 18 Screen Time PG. 19
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT Home Game Blurbs PG. 20 Jersey Grenades: ENTER AT YOUR OWN RISK & Greatest Rapper Alive PG. 21
Iraq: The End of Our War, the Beginning of Their Democracy After seven years and 165 days at war, President Barak Obama formally ended the American combat mission in Iraq. Tuesday, August 31, the President broadcast a speech from the Oval Office as an end-ofthe-war gesture to Americans. Though almost 100,000 troops were removed, Obama explained that a “transitional force of U.S. troops will remain in Iraq with a different mission: advising and assisting Iraq’s Security Force.” These troops will help the Iraqi people transition from U.S. management into their own people.
were unwanted, even if they were trying to help. As years passed, the situations in Iraq began to change. One popular poll, conducted by ABC News in 2008, shows a 12% increase of Iraqi supporters within one year. The support rate went from 37% to 49%. Now in 2010, maybe more will see the difference made as the U.S. pulls out of Iraq. While the U.S. has officially ended the war, all continuing operations have been given over to Iraqi leaders. To help these new leaders in stabilizing the country, 50,000 American troops will be staying in Iraq, and all others will be brought back to the States.
history on the Federal Reserve. Though the war in Iraq wasn’t the sole cause of the current recession, with the majority of our troops back and the war officially over, more focus can go to fixing the economy and resolving the ongoing war in Afghanistan.
In previous American wars, as soldiers come home, a post-war recession has occurred. Like those after World War I and World The conflict in Iraq War II, post-war recession started eight years ago, With all these sol- occurs when the stopping of sparked by the devastation of 9/11. Following this, diers coming home, what does military production creates a there were reports of al- that mean for the struggling spread of job loss. Along with leged weapons of mass de- economy? Many Americans returning soldiers who are struction, harbored by Sad- have been led to believe that looking for jobs, the unemdam Hussein. With this infor- the war was the leading ployed population increases mation, the Bush administra- cause of the recession, but, dramatically. According to tion made the decision to go according to the Central seekingalpha.com, the unemto war. The invasion of Iraq Budget Office, the Iraq war ployment rate is currently at began in March of 2003, accounted for only 3.2% of 9.6% of the population which and though the U.S. did not all federal spending during its is a 4.2% increase from the find weapons of mass de- years of conflict. The Iraq 5.4% rate of the previous struction, the war continued expenses “is just a drop in the twenty years. The question is, on with the thought that bucket,” said Alan Meltzer, a will these soldiers cause the America needed to help end professor who has written a unemployment numbers to rise even more? the violence and On the subject, help establish a http://heavenawaits.wordpress.com/oorah-for-the-american-troops/ Day said, democracy in Iraq. “They’ve been This strugbringing the gle continued for troops home years. “It’s a clash 10,000 a year, of cultures,” said so the numbers social studies coming home teacher Jim Day. now won’t be “They see us as the overwhelming.” enemy.” To many of He continued to the Iraqi people Obama giving his’ speech on ending the war in Iraq. explain that it is American soldiers
not the jobs that America should be worried about, but “how do you get these men back in society?” Though the soldiers’ return won’t have much impact on the current economy, there is still the issue of discontinuing production of military products. Loss of necessity for these products may cause a loss of many jobs and an increase in unemployment. The transferring of companies from military goods to everyday products could help the job loss issue, Day said. The effects of ending the war in Iraq are just now coming into play. Whatever effects the economy undergoes from the ending of the war, America welcomes the troops back with open arms. And though the fight for social equality is still going on in Afghanistan, “Operation Iraqi Freedom is over, and the Iraqi people now have lead responsibility for the security of their country,” said Obama in his speech. "Through this remarkable chapter in the history of the United States and Iraq, we have met our responsibility. Now, it is time to turn the page.” Cinnamon Mullins Bear Facts Writer
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS 4
Glenn Beck
Restores Honor, 2010 “[To] pay tribute to America’s service personnel and other upstanding citizens who embody our nation’s founding principles of integrity, truth, and honor.” Radio talk-show host Glenn Beck tells anyone who will listen that the content of our character should not be overlooked when restoring honor to the country. Beck hosted a national rally on the Mall, located in Washington, DC, August 28. According to glennbeck.com, close to 500,000 people came to learn how we can rebuild Courtesy of blippitt.com this country in times where jobs are scarce and our economy is horrible. Mostly conservatives came, but some liberals partook in the festivities. Everyone followed the rules, given by Beck, which included no weapons, no political paraphernalia and no alcohol. Many guest speakers came to enjoy a nice afternoon full of knowledge and prayer. The rest of the liberal media were up in arms over the fact that Beck was holding a rally, especially when it was the anniversary of Martin Luther King’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech. Many liberals thought it was disrespectful. However, Glenn repeated over and over “that it was not disrespecting King; it was honoring him instead.” At the time when the dates were announced, nobody realized that it was the date of the historic event, until the media made it known. Ironically, King’s niece, Dr. Alveda King, came to speak at the rally along with many other famous political contributors. Many politians, including Sarah Palin, came to Washington, DC, to verbalize their opinions at the rally, including why the need
to pray to God is imperative. Even though political people came to the event, it actually had nothing to do with politics at all, much to the liberal media’s disappointment. The August 28th Restoring Honor Rally had nothing to do with the Tea Party or anything like it. It was just a time where people could come together in hard times and worship God in prayer and song. The point of the Restoring Honor Rally was to “pay tribute to America’s service personnel and other upstanding citizens who embody our nation’s founding principles of integrity, truth, and honor,” according to glennbeck.com. Among the honorees was Saint Louis’ own Albert Pujols of the Saint Louis Cardinals. People know that he is a great baseball player, but he has also done outstanding work in service to others. The Democrats are also planning a rally to show that the conservative group isn’t the only one who can get over 500,000 people to attend a rally on the Mall. The Restoring Honor Rally put the idea in everybody’s mind that it is indeed the content of your character that matters, according to what Martin Luther King, Jr., said over 40 years ago . Ann Wolf Bear Facts Writer
Click Here. NOW.
magine sitting at home on your new laptop, and BAM! Yet another advertisement for weight loss pills pops onto the screen, claiming amazing results within five days of free trial services. One could argue internet advertisement is the ultimate marketing machine; big, bold, flashing words on the side of your screen automatically draw your eyes in. The annoying pop-up ads won’t go away no matter how many times you click the close button. Yet studies show these ads prove to be effective, sucking you in to buying whatever it is that company is selling. According to Answerbag, Google makes around $254,000,000 a month just on advertising. They claim it is 99% of their income revenue. So why should this be a concern? Well, Google keeps track of the websites that are searched. In turn they use this to build ads which may interest users based on search preferences. A variety of Americans say this is an invasion of privacy; however, clearly not all ads are based on one’s hobbies. “Web sites
want to know all they can about you and generally consumers want to share as little as possible,” says MSN. It’s safe to say Ursuline students are well aware of what internet advertising is. It’s nearly impossible to go online without seeing some sort of ad in today’s society. But the vast majority, ironically, don’t mind it. Junior Rachel Higgins thought, “It’s really helpful because for the most part it’s things I actually care about.” On the other hand, others question what kind of messages companies are trying to send young girls. “There are millions of companies out there that say you have to be a certain size, act a certain way. There isn’t just one type of beauty, and our country needs to realize that,” said senior Colleen McCormack. Internet advertisement is a topic of debate for many, involving mixed emotions. Reaction is key. Megan Schmidt Bear Facts Writer
“There isn’t just one type of beauty, and our country needs to realize that,” said senior Colleen McCormack.
Silly for Silly Bandz How often is a trend with preschoolers just as popular with high schoolers? Rob Croak, inventor of Silly Bandz, got to find out the nice way by raking in quite a large amount of money for the product he remolded off a Japanese idea. Silly Bandz, targeted toward such a large age group, have seen such huge success that its numbers have flown off the charts! They’ve tripled the number of Silly Bandz produced within a day. Whether you like Silly Bandz or not, it’s hard to reject the popularity of these colored, fun shaped rubber bands. But what started as innocent fun has now turned into a safety hazard as rumors have been spread of amputations due to the bracelets and permanent marks from circulation being cut off. The truth is, no reliable source has any information of an amputation due to Silly Bandz. However, there have been reports of children, like Even Steel, having circulation cut off. According to KHOU Huston Texas, all reports have been related to the knock off Silly Bandz.
Steel was rushed to the hospital when his parents found out about what was going on, and luckily the knock-off silly bands were removed before they resulted in any sort of amputation (silly bands were removed by being cut off). But Steel still has marks on his arm that will remain there for an extended period of time. So if teens are Maggie Eggleston, Meg Vatterott and Emily Price going to follow the show off their Silly Bandz! trend and pick up some silly bands, make sure they are the proper size. Emily Badock Bear Facts Writer
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NEWS SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE
VHS Coming to Ursuline Starting January 2011, Ursuline Academy students will be able to communicate and learn with others around the world for a class of their choice through Virtual High School. Students can participate in VHS, an online learning community, with other students and teachers from all over the world.
Arts: • •
American Popular Music History and Pop Music
Business:
Dr. Gilligan chose Mrs. Jensen to teach the VHS program because she was interested in teaching more classes and because she knows how to work with technology. Fifteen to twenty Ursuline students can take a class of their choice, but no more than four Ursuline students can take the same subject. Students will discuss and do work with other students from around the world.
•
In the coming weeks, Mrs. McCorry, Mrs. Jensen and Dr. Gilligan will be giving out registration papers for Virtual High School. Every student is eligible to do Virtual High School. VHS has over 150 courses, and some courses even give college credit. Dr. Gilligan advised students to not overload their schedule because “these are legitimate courses, and they do count.”
Life Skills/Health:
With technology being more accessible today, it can be utilized at any place or time. All activities for the class are done on a computer and take place through the internet. Communication between students and teachers will take place on the Virtual High School Web site, www.goVHS.org.
Science:
An advantage of taking a course in VHS is that it is flexible. Students will be required to sign in at least three times a week during a fifteen- week period.
Social Studies:
Mrs. Jensen will start teaching a peacemaking class second semester. Some activities the students will be doing are reading books, writing reflections, having discussions and individual or group projects. Mrs. Jensen plans on doing podcasts for her students, so they can hear their teacher. She says that her peacemaking class is important because “it is taught by an Ursuline teacher and as Christians, we are called to be peacemakers.” She hopes that her class will take what they learn and apply it to their lives. Sarah Haenchen Bear Facts Writer
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Course Offerings
• •
Business and Personal Law Entrepreneurship: Starting Your Own Business Investing in the Stock Market
Language Arts: • • • •
Creative Writing 101 Ways to Write a Short Story Sports and American Society Who do I Want To Be When I Grow Up?
Mathematics: • •
• • • • • • •
Math You Can Use In College Statistics and Business Quality Management Animal Behavior and Zoology DNA Technology Forensic Science Oceanography Constitutional Law Psychology of Crime World Religions
Technology Education •
Web Design and Internet Research
Foreign Language: • •
Basic Mandarin: Chinese Language and Culture Portuguese 1
UA Gets Individual Laptops
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The Good and Bad With Laptops
he Eee PC Asus Netbook is now seen in all the classrooms and hallways with students. Ursuline Academy decided to go with a one-to-one laptop program because the laptop carts were not the best program. Mr. Schoemehl said, “Too much time was wasted getting the laptops, and Ursuline thought the students are responsible enough to have a laptop.” With the new individual laptops, there are no more carts in the rooms, and the desktops in the library and study hall were also removed . Having the new laptops means many changes with the computer technology. The new laptops are smaller than the laptops in the carts. The smaller laptops are easier to carry around. With the new netbooks, there was a change in the Windows program. Instead of Windows Vista, Ursuline computers now have Windows 7. Mr. Schoemehl stated, “Windows 7 is the latest operating system, and it improved a lot of issues with Windows Vista.” Also, a new change came to the e -mail system. The past years, Ursuline students and teachers used First Class e-mail but, according to Mr. Schoemehl, there were many issues with access. Teachers and students had to download First Class to their computer at school and also at home because First Class did not go through the Internet. On June 2, the First Class e-mail system could not be accessed. In the meantime, Google e-mail accounts could be accessed. Ursuline switched because it is more convenient, and only the internet is needed to access it. In place of the desktop computers in study hall and the library, there will be charging stations for the netbooks. The com-
puters in the carts will be leased back to the company at the end of this month. Immediately after students received their laptops, they figured out which sites were blocked. A favorite, Facebook, was disabled during the school day because teachers say “it’s addicting to the students and distracting.” Also, students were disappointed to hear that the Web camera was turned off. Mr. Schoemehl said, “This computer system is new, and we don’t want to fool with the Web cam now.” Mr. Schoemehl advised students to carry their laptop in the case provided or some other protective case. He said when shutting down the laptop, make sure the screen turns black and there are no lights on. The packet we received with our laptops says when our computer is charging. A blinking orange light means the power is low; a non- blinking orange light means medium power, and a green light means high power. Taking care of the netbook is a great responsibility, and misuse can lead to damage. If damage occurs to a netbook, students can contact Mr. Baker or Mr. Schoemehl by e-mailing one of them. A typed form will be given out for a damaged laptop, and they will take care of it. Some students had the option to fill out a form after receiving their laptop for insurance. Insurance will only cover accidental damage, and a loaner laptop will be leased during the time the damaged laptop is getting fixed.
Ursuline Academy decided to go with the Eee PC Asus laptop. This laptop is used for many classes. Any damaged laptop should be reported to Mr. Baker or Mr. Schoemehl. Photo by Sarah Haenchen
Sarah Haenchen Bear Facts Writer
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS 8
UA Loves Dan the Man “He was a jokester,” chuckled Gina Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS, is Palumbo, and Lauren Mammen quickly a neurodegenerative disease that slowly agreed, “He always had tricks up his sleeve.” disables brain and spinal cord function. The These seniors are not the only ones who know exact cause of this disease is unknown, but Mr. Daily’s quick sense of humor; anyone who the best explanation scientists have is that a has been in his classroom or been stopped by mutated gene causes ALS. It is found in most him in the hallway can usually share a humoradults between the ages of 40 and 70, apous anecdote. pearing randomly in seemingly healthy people. There is no cure for ALS, and no way to He truly cared about teaching here know whom it will affect (www.alsa.org). at Ursuline and took the time to know his students personally. Mr. Daily never wore a It was devastating for the entire Ursuline frown; he preferred laughing. As junior community when Mr. Dailey was diagnosed Grace Armstrong rightly stated, “He was with ALS, and the students and co-workers always smiling and was extremely dedicated miss him this year. Picture provided courtesy to his job.” Dan Dailey is a name that everyone of Facebook.com The first Dan Dailey Fun Run is on at Ursuline Academy knows and loves. He Sunday morning at 7:00 a.m. Be there to support Mr. always made sure his students were enjoying themselves Dailey and thousands of other Americans like him. while learning in his class. The freshman class may have missed out on the opportunity to have Mr. Dailey as their Amy Coyle teacher, but they will not have to inquire far to get a sense Bear Facts Writer of what he was like at Ursuline.
Ms. Albus Saves Furry Friends We rescue any size, age or breed of dog or cat, but some Serviam is taken to another level by helping animals of the shelters call me for help with the big ones.” in need. Ms. Beth Albus, Ursuline’s dance teacher, has her own rescue organization for all kinds of cats and dogs. Ms. Albus does not have to look hard for the animals This organization is called the Companions Forever Rescue, in need. “I get phone calls every day from people who founded by her in 2008. Companions Forever Rescue is a can no longer keep their pets or from animal control facilinonprofit organization which serves as a foster-home-only ties needing animals placed in our group so they don’t for animals which badly need a permanent home. The have to euthanize them,” she said. Because of this organicats and dogs that go to Companions Forever Rescue zation, 250 dogs and cats are saved each year. Ms. Almainly come from a variety of animal bus’s hope is that some day she will have control centers in the St. Louis area. a place for people to volunteer and Sometimes Companions Forever Rescue meet the animals. She loves taking care will take dogs and cats from other parts of the cats and dogs. She explained “It of the state but do not take them very is a bitter-sweet tale to tell when an often. For Ms. Albus, this was something animal gets a home. I am sad to see she had to do. them go, but at the same time, I know that there is another one out there that I “I was motivated after I went to can now go save.” This is a very unique a couple of shelters and saw the many organization since she uses herown home dogs and cats looking for their forever as a shelter. Needless to say, she is a homes. I love all creatures, big and savior to those cats and dogs. small, but the large dogs are the ones that steal my heart. There are so many Meg Haenchen that are euthanized each day; I had to Ms. Albus’ Cocker Spaniels: SkutBear Facts Writer tles and Sebastian. Albus. do something. So I started my group.
Junior Year SURVIVAL Guide Dear 2 0
Class of 1 2 ,
J
ask any senior what their junior year was like, and a majority of them will say it was their most chal-
U
lenging year at Ursuline. Junior year is the beginning of life as an upperclassmen and the preparation
N I
for college. Homework is at a high, and there is no time for slacking this year.
Juggling a Job: Depending on how many hours one works a week, having a job during junior year can be stressful. Make sure that the number of hours isn’t too much to handle. Marissa Buechel set school as her first priority and made sure that the number of hours she worked didn’t affect her homework: “I worked it out with my manager so that I didn’t work so much, he was really supportive,” she said. Some may work until 8 or 9 p.m. and by that time, it’ll be too late to start homework. Marissa emphasized a great piece of advice, “Do assignments the day they’re given!” If there’s free time after school before work, try to get as much homework done possible. If work starts directly after school at 3:30 or 4:00, try to get as much done during a study hall or academic advisement.
Use Study Hall/ Academic Wisely: Being a junior brings the privilege of leaving study hall. To keep from distractions, the library is a perfect study spot. The environment is quiet and peaceful which makes it easy to focus. There’s comfy couches to lounge on while studying for a big test. Don’t get too comfy though; it’s tempting to spend study hall taking a nap, but before those eyes close decide whether
O R Y E A R
or not that study time can be sacrificed and whether or not an assignment can wait until later to complete. The convocation center is quiet; too, but can easily become a distraction if a lot of friends are there at once. It’s very important to take advantage of academic advisement: this is the perfect time to talk to teachers about something you don’t understand. Since no teachers have class during academic advisement, it is important to take advantage of this period. Some students spend their academic advisement in the cafeteria, eating and chatting with friends. Making a quick stop to get a snack is fine, but make sure it is quick. “It’s full of people who are socializing which is distracting. It’s really hard to focus when you’re surrounded by your peers,” said Ali K a r d e s c h .
Study with Friends: Study groups are awesome! Kill two birds with one stone by meeting with classmates at Bread Company or Starbucks to study for a test and eat dinner together. Both Bread Co. and Starbucks have free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets to plug in laptops to. Make sure to invite someone who knows the material well and can help explain what you have trouble with. Flashcards are a great study tool, and when there’s a group of people to study with, there’s someone to quiz you on flashcard terms and study guide questions. Having someone quiz you is one of the best studying strategies out there. “It helps me remember better when I say things out loud; if I’m talking about a test with someone taking the same one, they might have an easier way to remember than me,” said Hanna Elster, explaining why she likes studying in groups. Study sessions also encourage getting acquainted with classmates. Surviving junior year is challenging, and there will be urges to just give up and scream. Set goals like making the honor roll to help pull through each day. Also reward yourself for your hard work every once in awhile, you deserve it! Kimie Leach Bear Facts Editor-in-Chief
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
FALL INTO FALL FESTIVAL Fall into autumn at Fall Festival. Fun games, time with friends and the crowning of a queen are all things you can find at Ursuline’s Fall Festival. According to Mrs. Quante, “When we celebrated our 160th anniversary of the founding of Ursuline Academy, St. Louis, we tried to look back in old records to trace its beginning. We could go back 30 years. At one time, the Fall Festival was the Penny Queen Coronation. It’s a great tradition, and I see it lasting forever.” It is a day that brings the whole Ursuline community together. “It is a longstanding tradition with the school,” Mrs. Quante continued, “It brings the students, families and community together for a wonderful day of celebrating Ursuline Academy. Even more wonderful, it is just perfect to come together in the back campus around St. Angela with her arms open, welcoming us to the campus and Fall Festival.” There are always a ton of events going on that day, such as the Jello eating contest, the grandparent dance competition, tug-a-war and the crowning. Also, this Emily Mulligan, varsity cheerleader, year, flag pumps up the Lady Bears at the most football has recent pep rally. She said, “I loved been brought teaching the girls cheers! It’s gonna back, thanks be fun to see what the student body to Ms. Hanock can do next!” and Mr. Reid. There are also other new games, but they are a surprise. Also this year, there is going to be an ALS Walk/Run for Mr. Dan Dailey who used to teach here. Being a spirit princess or a campaign man-
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ager is more than just trying to earn points for your class and to get up there and look pretty. Mrs. Quante explained, “The Spirit Princesses have a very responsible job to do. This position is a honor, a great tool to teach leadership and to demonstrate what is involved in becoming a good leader. The campaign managers play an important role in supporting and offering ideas.” The race to earn spirit points is always intense with people going to Racanelli's, selling their raffle tickets and the class bake sales. Every year the senior class wins, but let’s see what happens this year. This year, Fall Festival is on October 3 on the back campus. Come earn points for your class and your Spirit Princess! Amber Grisham Bear Facts Writer
Artwork by Ann Wolf
QUICK STRESS RELIEVERS The pressures of life can become very overwhelming. From homework, big tests and even friends, this leads us to feel a little off kilter sometimes. Here are some helpful hints to bringing back your sanity: Strive for excellence, not perfection. Redecorate your room! Play Rockband and get into it! Get in the car and just drive. Plan a scavenger hunt with friends! Megan Schmidt Bear Facts Writer
Student Spotlight Gabby Bernier, a sophomore here at Ursuline, goes through the regular stressful schedule day by day. But come night, you’ll most likely find her rocking out at a concert. She started getting into concerts at the beginning of eighth grade year. Her love for alternative comes from the first band she listened to, All Time Low. Through Twitter, Myspace, and opening acts at other concerts, she finds new bands. Concerts run year round, and she goes to one about every three weeks. Most of the concerts she attends are held in places around University City, like The Pageant. The crowd ranges from five to hundreds of people. One way to pick her out in the crowd is by looking for a bandanna; she always has one on. Over the past summer, Gabby took on her first crowd surf in Chicago at the Warped Tour. She said after a little nervousness, crowd surfing was thrilling. Her concert posse includes some of her best friends:
Claire Boxdorfer, Elise Ott and Christina Sinak. Concerts can either be a hit or miss. Her best experience was at the Never Shout Never concert while she “got ready in a Target bathroom in Joplin, then partied.” However, at an All Time Low concert, a girl fainted on her, and the rest of the night didn’t reach her expectations. One band she follows inspired Gabby to change her lifestyle. “Never Shout Never inspired me to become a vegetarian the day after their concert at Six Flags. I saw a video on his Myspace page and I’ve been a vegetarian for over a year now.” Gabby never turns down a new band, and the one song she recommends is “Like We Used To” by Rocket to the Moon. Maggie Eggleston Bear Staff Writer
Claire Was There, Where Were You? I’ve lived in St. Louis for a few years and believe it to be the most boring city in all of America. There are only so many times you can walk down Delmar, visit the St. Louis Zoo and sit in the blistering heat at The Muny. This is the main reason I started this column, to find entertaining things to do around St. Louis. As I began to explore the city around me, I realized a harsh truth. Although sometimes I have fun at the events, for the most part, it’s still incredibly boring. I was actually excited to have a break from St. Louis and travel to Jefferson City for the day. I was having the best time at my cousin’s wedding shower and was so surprised to hear that my family was jealous I lived in a city! My cousins began to tell me how boring it is to be in a small town and see the same people all the time. “I feel like I did the same thing every weekend in high school,” said my now thirty-year-old cousin, Rozzie Welschmeir. This gets a girl thinking; was I simply in the wrong state of mind? Was St. Louis a not-so-awful place? I got talking to some girls at school and was surprised that most loved living here. Senior Sydney Ungergott said, “I love being in the same town as my family and friends. It can get boring, but not all the time!” Even junior Shelby Marsh agreed, “I’ve made so many great friends here!”
This whole prejudice about the Midwest is a little overdone. This isn’t the center for world culture by any means, but it isn’t isolated by farmers either. There are cool places to go to or attend like the Midnight Ramble, Pageant concerts and classic St. Louis entertainment. For instance, going to a Cardinal’s game, cheap seat or high class, can never get old. A high school football game is just as fun as the people you go with. As long as you’ve some great Ursuline girls around, nothing can be that bad or that mind-numbing. I know St. Louis seems to be a hopeless, bottomless hole, but I really hope this column can help you and your friends to find creative things to do! Look further than what everyone is doing tonight and beyond West County or South County safety blankets. I hope to create believers out of the girls / who who think this is the worst place on earth into the exact opposite, or at least come close. So I ask ya’ll to keep an open mind and enjoy the city we are all stuck in for these four years. If we don’t have a choice, we can make the best of it together! Suggestions for places to go in this column are welcome! Claire Fadel Bear Facts Editor
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Catch
Teacher
U P With
Mr. Bratkowski
Subject They Teach
Mrs. Lehnert
What they are most excited about for the new school year
How Ursuline compares to other schools they have taught at before
Feels there is more structure and more responsibility on the students
“History I like thinking about how history and culture shapes our lives”
English
Getting back into the classroom and having her own class to teach
Used to work at large public High School that had a different environment
“History I used to coordinate lessons with a colleague who taught history”
History
Getting to know the students and becoming part of the UA community
Taught at UA in Springfield which was coed and the new interpretations of traditions
“Literature, because I love to read”
More feel of community and students here are more grade driven philosophy at UA is good for learning
“Sociology I have taught it in the past and I am fascinated by how society works and how people relate to each other”
It has been a long time since last taught here at UA (1983-1990)
“Math, because I already have experience, and I enjoy math”
Working with students and getting to use the new technology
English
N E
W Mr. Luparell
T e a c h e r s
Psychology/ Mr. Kathriner History
Sister Peggy Moore
Nickname: Kris DOB: December 27
Theology
Excited about being at UA and getting to know the students and becoming a part of the UA community
Being back at Ursuline and getting to know the students
Kristen Jensen
Subject they would like to teach besides the one they are currently teaching
Jennifer Love Hewitt Nickname: Love DOB: February 21 Picture taken from: movieeye.com
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FACES:
PRETTY LITTLE LIARS: WHO DO YOU THINK “A” IS?
“Emily’s new friend, Maya.”
MADELINE TIPPIE JUNIOR
“I know who A is because I read the books.” VICTORIA SAPIENZA SENIOR
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“I think it’s Mona.”
HEIDI HISCHMIDT SOPHOMORE
“Lucas, the guy who takes the pictures.”
HANNAH BROWN FRESHMAN
The Fight for Every Woman’s Right Women take for granted their right to vote. Most Ursuline girls are excited to vote as a soon as they turn 18. In fact, the class of 2012 will get to participate in the Presidential Election in their first year of voting. But what most girls don’t seem to remember is that women didn’t always have this right. It was something women in their petticoats and long dresses fought about, held rallies about, got jailed over, so that every woman could one day proudly turn in her ballot, so that each person could have a say in the people governing her life. A lot of girls don’t know of this struggle. That needs to change.
So please, know where the female race has come through, to know what the foremothers did to get the future generation of women to the place they are today. In 2006, Will Albino from Saliesianum High asked girls on camera at Padua, a Blue Ribbon School of Excellence, much like Ursuline Academy, if they would sign a petition to end women’s suffrage. A surprising number of girls said yes, saying, “There’s too much women’ suffrage in the world.” Suffrage, of course, means the right to vote. The video caused a lot of controversy and some anger from the girls of the school. The girls in the video, they claimed, were underclasswomen who hadn’t yet taken the Women in History senior elective class. In addition, Albino edited out almost everyone who said no to the petition. So, the experiment was recreated. Do Ursuline girls know their history? It is an honor to say that, on the whole, most Ursuline girls, and teenage girls in general polled do know their stuff. 87 % of girls refused to sign this kind of petition when asked. While browsing some forums, mainly www.homelandstupidity.us, about the aforementioned video, some teen boys had posted responses that, well, read them. One wrote, “Women just manipulate men. Why do they deserve the rights of the men that died for
their sakes? The men that made their lights, their homes, and their water system? Why?” Let me explain: women weren’t allowed to join the army or get physical jobs until recently. Now, there ARE women dying for our freedom, building our homes, water systems, etc. Women do these things now because they couldn’t in the past. Another wrote, “I is in a highshcool n stuff, and we asked some [incorrectly spelt expletive] and they agreed to help end womens suffrage. they can’t help it, women are for making babies and cooking, not thinking or doning anything other than men.” When arguing that one’s gender is the superior one because one’s gender can outthink the other, it might be best to use proper grammar and spelling. That’s all that will be said about that. Unless readers want to face this kind of ridicule, they should learn their history. The majority of people reading this were born women, so take some pride in that. These ladies go to Ursuline, so obviously they are smart, and they plan on doing something in their lives other than sitting around in their parents’ basement for the rest of their lives. They’re better than that, so please, learn their history, to know where the female race has come through, to know what the foremothers did to get the future generation of women to the place where they are today. Ann Slesinski
The majority of people reading this are women so take some pride in
Bear Facts Writer
An Ursuline girl getting ready to vote. This is a momentous time in many people’s life. Exercise your right to vote. Photo courtesy of Josie Ruggeri
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
Serviam: How Will YOU Serve? Every Ursuline girl is required to fulfill a total of 120 hours of service before graduation. This requirement may lead to a few questions. For example, an Ursuline girl may wonder, “What can I do to complete all those service hours?” or
“Can service be fun?”
The truth is that there are many service opportunities all around the St. Louis area which can fit each person’s own needs and interests. There are some new service programs and other unknown service sites. These options include different types of service, depending on how the person wants to help. In each issue of Bear Facts, this article will give the scoop on different service opportunities all around St. Louis. Meg Vatterott Bear Facts Writer
SERVICE SITE
INTEREST
BACKGROUND INFO
HOW TO HELP
CONTACT
Covenant House
Help troubled teens
This organization helps homeless runaway and at risk teens build a better life, they give them the resources they need to become independent and responsible adults.
Group volunteers: planning parties and events or gathering hygiene supplies, school supplies, clothing or food. Individual service: Tutoring kids, instructing classes, sorting donations
www.covenanthousemo.or g Volunteer Coordinator: Kathleen Davis 314-450-7670
Urban Future
Tutor youth of urban areas
This organization works within schools to help communities in urban areas suffering from poverty. They encourage the people living in these situations to believe in a brighter future.
Urban Future includes volunteer programs like the One on One mentor program and the IMPACT tutoring program.
Urbanfuture.org
This non-profit agency is a shelter for children from 12 months to 12 years whose families may be experiencing crisis. The organization’s main goal is to keep children from being abused or neglected by giving them individual care and attention.
Some of these tasks given to volunteers include holding, talking to, feeding, bathing, dressing, singing, playing or reading to the children.
www.crisisnurserykids.com
St. Louis Crisis Nursery
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Work with young children
3145 S. Grand Blvd. Suite A St. Louis, Missouri 63118 Phone: 314-776-3434 Fax: 314-776-4885
Crisis Nursery South: Phone: Sara Nelson, 314768-3898 E-mail: sara@crisisnurserykids.or g
SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
Rockin’ the Clubs A s t h e bell rings to end the day, Ursuline girls fill the hallways. Some go home, others to sporting events or just go hang out with friends. Just because the school day ends, it does not mean Ursuline closes up for the day. Many Ursuline girls choose to join clubs. At Ursuline, there are a total of 16 clubs. These clubs include Reading Club, Ultimate Frisbee, Pro-Life Club, Environmental Club, French Club, Peace Jam, Dance Club, History Club, SADD Club, Clown Club, Art Club, Writing Club, Future Farmers, Pickle Ball Club, Photography Club and Latin Club. All clubs have different meeting times; thus even the busiest of us can find time to get involved. For example, Reading Club will most likely meet on Wednesday’s directly after school and dismisses at 4:15. The reading club picks books girls are interested in, discusses the book and takes about how the book relates to everyday life. The moderator for Reading Club is Mr. Bratkowski.
moderated by Ms.Jensen and Ms. Mullen, and the club meets every Tuesday. Clown Club has many service opportunities, and it is a great way to get more people involved with service. Getting involved in Clown Club helps students earn service hours for graduation. Last but not least, Art Club gets together and talks about different things related to art and ways students can grow artistically. The Art Club meets during academic period and is planning on going on some field trips. Ursuline girls have also started new clubs such as Photography Club, Pickle ball Club and Latin club! Look for flyers which tell you dates and activities that they are doing. Overall, Ursuline Academy wants everyone to become more involved. Never feel like it’s too late to join a club, even seniors join clubs! Find a club, get involved and enjoy your time at Ursuline.
The Ultimate Frisbee club is moderated by Mr. Reid, and the club plays Frisbee after school. The pro-life Club is organized by Mrs. Kohl. The pro-life Club meets every second and fourth Tuesday of the month. This club stresses the importance of being pro-life. The Environmental Club stresses the importance of recycling and helps students learn about the methods of recycling. The moderator of the Environmental Club is Ms. Herbst. Peace Jam is a new club this year dedicated to being more involved with Service and living out the word “Serviam.” Dance Club performs at the dance recital, and the moderator is Ms. Albus. History Club meets every other Tuesday, and the moderator is Ms. Bagley. SADD Club stands for students against destructive decisions. This club is
FIFTEEN MINUTE SNACKS… Ursuline girls love Puppy Chow. It is a great mixture of the sweetest ingredients that makes your mouth water. Puppy Chow has Chocolate, peanut butter, Chex cereal, and the best part of it all; powdered sugar. All these ingredients make a delightful snack that is easy to make. Here is how to do it: Ingredients: 9 cups of Chex cereal ½ cup of peanut butter 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips 1 teaspoon of vanilla ¼ cup of butter 1 ½ cups of powdered sugar Directions:
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Brooke Messmer Bear Facts Editor
Picture of students organizing SADD Club. Taken by: Brooke Messmer.
In a large microwaveable bowl, melt peanut butter, chocolate chips and butter in the microwave uncovered on high for 1 minute. Microwave until it can be stirred smoothly. Mix in the vanilla. Then pour Chex Cereal in a large bowl and pour in the mixture. Stir until evenly coated. After it is evenly coated, put mixture into a two gallon resealable bag. Add the powdered sugar and seal the bag. Shake until well coated. Put mixture into a container. Enjoy! Meg Haenchen Bear Facts Writer
“It’s sugar, so I like it.”
-Megan Hickey Photo taken by: Sarah Haenchen
Meet the Editors Brooke Messmer
Claire Fadel
Junior
Senior
“This is no longer a companionship; this is a dictatorship.”
“I’m Simba and you’re gonna lift me up like we are on Pride Rock.”
Kimie Leach
Ally Hill
Senior
“My excuse for being late today is that I tore my toenail off.”
“A Fadoodle is a funky hair bun. I really like them. Call them Fadoodles.”
Editorial Policy Bear Facts is a news magazine published seven to eight times a year by the Journalism class of Ursuline Academy at 341 S. Sappington Rd., St. Louis, MO 63122. Bear Facts is distributed to the students, faculty and staff of Ursuline Academy. As a student written and edited high school news magazine, Bear Facts will strive to perform three functions. 1. To inform readers thoroughly and accurately of all events and issues found to be relative and interesting to the students, staff, and community. 2. To provide a public forum for students’ opinions through its editorials and letters to the editor. 3. To entertain readers with focus and features items. Student staff members will decide the content of each issue and will write and edit all printed material. Editorials with bylines will reflect the views of the individual
student writer. Editorials without by lines will reflect views of the student staff as a whole. Editorials do not necessarily reflect the opinions of individual students, the newspaper adviser, school administration, and faculty members. Bear Facts encourages readers to share comments, suggestions, or complaints by submitting letters to the editor. In order to be considered for publication, letters to the editor must include the author’s signature. Names can be withheld only at the request of the author and with the approval of the editorial board. The editors reserve the right to edit letters for clarification, or for space limitation. Libelous or profane letters will not be published. The Newspaper staff urges all Ursuline Academy students and coworkers to use the “Letters to the Editor” as a public forum in the spirit of freedom of speech and press.
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
Muslims VS. America The Constitution guarantees five basic rights to all Americans, the freedom of religion being one of them. Over the past month, arguments sparked about the construction of a Mosque near Ground Zero, the site of the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York City. Supporters of the Mosque have been using this basic freedom to validate the Mosque.
“Hating billions of people because of a small group of radicals will only cause more fighting, more
The construction of the Mosque has many Americans feeling angered. They argue that it is disrespectful of the Muslims to build so close to Ground Zero, because Muslims were the ones who destroyed the World Trade Center. They believe building a Mosque so close to this site will show disrespect for the dead and insensitivity towards American feelings.
asked to move in the first place is because of the American misconception that their religion is to blame for 9/11.
First of all, ordinary Muslims did not bomb the World Trade Center; Muslim extremists did. “Muslims” and “Terrorists” are not interchangeable words. The terrorists are Islamic extremists who have taken Islam and twisted it to fit their purpose. Terrorists, killing “in the name of Allah,” are calling themselves true Muslims. Al Qaeda and other smaller terrorists groups have destroyed the reputation of millions of true Muslims. Terrorist group members are “jihadist,” an Islamic term meaning “holy war” or “inner struggle.” In its true form, it is meant to be taken as an inner struggle, an inner war to become a holy person. Jihadist Muslims are taking the term literally and using it as an excuse for murder. Many have asked why, if given free land elsewhere, would the Muslims still want to stay where they are. The simple answer: the reason they are being asked to move is unjust. The only reason they are being
Throughout American history, there has always been one group or another that the country discriminates against. At first it was the Native Americans, then the African Americans and, most recently, the Japanese after Pearl Harbor. Americans have now moved to prejudice against Muslims when, in truth, doing a little background research would prove the only groups which people need to worry about are the small percentage of radical Muslim sects. Most people have heard about the small group of radical Christians who want to burn the Quran in Florida. They are drawing attention to themselves worldwide, and their behavior is exactly what al Qaeda can use to generate more hate for America in their countries. This is proof that every religion has a radical side, not just the Muslims. The small group of hateful Americans can now be made out to represent all Americans, just like the jihadist groups are being made to represent all Muslims. Hate spawns more hate; it will not end until prejudice can be snuffed out and people begin seeing one another as human beings who deserve to be respected. Hating billions of people because of a group of radicals will only cause more fighting, more hate. Americans will never forget what happened on September 11, 2001, and they never should. But if we are going to end terrorism, Americans, Christians and Muslims alike need to find peace with each other. Amy Coyle
Artwork By Janna Fezzi
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Bear Facts Writer
SCREENTIME When one walks down the halls they find girls and their personal laptops littering the floor; its hard to walk through the maze of technology. However, are there other problems besides the delicate hallway mazes that these new computers may pose? In a study presented at the American Heart Association’s Annual Conference on Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology and Prevention, in Colorado Springs, Colorado, it was researched that teens on average spend 42 hours a week, almost two full days or four days not counting sleep time, in front of some kind of screen. Whether it is a TV, computer, or even a cell phone, if it’s a screen then statistics show a teen can be found in front of it.
“Kids these days don’t get enough time away from technology and need to get outside more,” says junior Betsey Lauber. Based on research done so far and even our own Ursuline girl responses it is clear that the number of hours a teen may spend in front of some kind of screen is mostly due to school and the fact that the world has entered a new technology age. The age of the online social networking and electronically based school system. Ally Hill Bear Facts Editor
Junior Anna Hebrank said, “That doesn’t surprise me because of all the technology advances in schools allow for teaching and learning to be done entirely off smart boards or laptops.” The astounding number of hours spent by teens in front of some kind of screen does not surprise many like Anna. Senior Lindsey Elking seemed more pleasantly surprised by this statistic than one would expect. “I didn’t know everyone else was like that. Like me. I thought that I was the only one who spent that much time in front of screens.” It seems as though teens are constantly joining Facebook and rating videos on YouTube; this trend is more than enough to have some worried about the constant use of electronic screens. “We get bored easily and we are so addicted to Facebook and social networks and we have to watch our shows every night.” Freshman Kiera Drury stated after being informed of the hour screen average per week, “It can be unhealthy but after school I think you should spend some time to cool your brain down.” It seems as if many teens either do not notice or find it wrong that they spend 42 hours, almost two full days, in front of electronic screens a week. This however doesn’t apply to everyone of course.
How many texts do you send in one day? Junior Lauren Vonoehsen (left) says, “I have unlimited texting so I don’t have any limit so I probably in the hundreds” Junior Jenna Bradenberg says, “A million on a normal day, maybe a thousand on a slow day.”
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SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT FEATURES STUDENT LIFE NEWS
Promote School Spirit Attend a Home Game The Ursuline Bears often play right here at Ursuline, and with the new 25-cent soda promotion, why miss a home game?
October Home Games Tuesday 10/5 4 p.m. V Softball Vs. Lutheran South 4 p.m. V Field Hockey Vs. John Burroughs 5 p.m. JV field Hockey Vs. John Burroughs 5:30 p.m. JV Softball Vs. Lutheran South
Tuesday 10/12 4 p.m. V Field Hockey Vs. Lutheran South 5:15 p.m. JV Felid Hockey Vs. Lutheran South
Tuesday 10/26
A Day of Firsts The UA Bears varsity softball team had a great start to the 2010 season on August 23 with a 7-1 win over Westminster Academy. Freshman Madison Wagner pitched five innings, and senior Marissa Buechel came in and closed with two scoreless innings. The most exciting moment of the game was when freshman Josie Knesel hit an out-of-the-park homerun at the first at-bat of the game. “The whole team ran to home plate to congratulate her,” said junior Haley Baer. When asked about the atmosphere of the game after the hit junior Megan Buechel commented, “It was sort of like a trend that, after she hit the home run we started doing really well.” Haley and Megan both said they hope their new uniforms will give them the super powers to pull off a great season. Captain Marissa Buechel said, “The energy from our first game carried through the season and we are now 16-8. We’re excited to finish the season strong.” Mary Elizabeth Herries Bear Facts Writer
4 p.m. V Field Hockey Vs. Ladue 5:15 p.m. JV Field Hockey Vs. Ladue
The Nerinx games are Wednesday 10/20 25-Cent Soda Requirements Tennis- 4 or more wins Softball- 6 or more runs Volleyball- 2 match wins Golf- 3 girls score 35 or less Cross Country- a top 10 finisher Field Hockey- 4 or more goals
(From left) Mallory Yant, Megan Cooper, Katie Rankin, Molly Adler, and Marissa Buschel. These sassy captains strike a pose after a fun game!
A Not so Thought of Sport
You must be present for the majority of the game, most importantly the end, and get a coupon from Coach Brooks or the team coach to receive a 25-cent soda.
Sports are a big deal at Ursuline, but some sports get more recognition than others. One of those less mentioned sports is cross country. Dictionary.com describes cross country as “directed or proceeding over fields, through woods, etc.,rather than on a road or path.” Cross country is a team sport but also an individual sport as one runs for the team, trying to accomplish ones own goals as well as team objectives. Alicen Moser, one of the team’s captains, said she enjoys the way the sport makes her stronger and the closeness of her team. She also mentioned that at meets one does not just cheer on their own team, but also people on other teams, making the meet much more fun. Alicen summed up the sport when she said, “I love the whole atmosphere of the sport. I feel like since it is an individual as well as a team sport and because you compete against a whole bunch of schools all at the same time, there is less of a sense of rivalry.” Mary Elizabeth Herries Bear Facts Writer
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Jersey Grenades: ENTER AT OWN RISK As a new school year begins and the endless homework piles up, finding time to study becomes harder each day. Outside Friday night football, the Ursuline girl seems to be drawn to the reality MTV show “Jersey Shore.” With fascinating use of terms, such as GTL (gym, tan, laundry) and the situation room, MTV continues to capitalize on controversy, such as advertising “eight of the hottest, tannest, craziest Guidos. While many Italian-American organizations object to the use of the word “Guido,” MTV has found a diamond in the rough. The premise of the show is watching eight young people vacation in the town of Seaside Heights who party like rock stars. In addition to this rock star lifestyle, the cast has to work at a t-shirt store. While the premise is obviously weak, the train wreck of the cast is just entertaining. Viewers of the show have grown from a low of 1.375 million to the high mark of this season’s premier at 5.252 million, says chacha.com. While the show is not realistic, the relationships and human behavior seem to be. Everyone wants to know what is up with Ron and Sammi’s relationship, why Angelina returned and why they constantly fight about who will clean up after dinner.
Y B A B G TL
Students like to watch “Jersey Shore” because the cast gets to party, goofoff, and do very little an adult would consider productive. Annie Dohle, a junior at Ursuline Academy, stated, “It’s funny to watch, and it’s very entertaining.” Jersey Shore has become a cult classic to not only Ursuline, but to the world. While walking in the hallways of Ursuline, students are talking about the latest Jersey Shore episode. Thus, the show has become a must watch if you want to be included in conversation. Other reasons teenagers like the show because it includes a glamorous lifestyle in the second season, living on Miami Beach and earning over 10 thousand per episode. The bottom line is that “Jersey Shore” is just an escape. Just because these eight people act the way they do doesn’t mean the Ursuline girl will, too. It’s okay to take a break and find something other than sports and school to fill in time. But remember, Snooki was criminally charged with selling alcohol to minors at a party which ended up with the tragic death of her classmate. While the show is addicting, it is a little over the top. There is a need to focus on other things which are more important, such as school work. We can always prioritize, and watch “Jersey Shore” later on DVR. Brooke Messmer Co-Editor in Chief
Slam! Lock. This is what Dwayne Michael Carter, Lil Wayne, heard the moment he was thrown in the jail cell in March 2009. According to FoxNews.com, this world famous rapper, nicknamed “Weezy,” was accused of having a loaded, unlicensed, .40-caliber, Springfield Armory, semiautomatic gun in his smoke-infused tour bus after a concert in 2007 at the Bacon Theater in Manhattan. When first accused, Lil Wayne pleaded not guilty. After a second trial in October 2009 he pleaded guilty, because the police on the investigation found DNA proof on the gun pointing straight to Lil Wayne, even though his lawyer stated that Dwayne was only holding it for a friend, it wasn’t actually his gun. . He was sentenced to three and a half years in jail, but it was shortened to only a year. At the trial, bystanders observed that Lil Wayne just sat in a gray hoodie, shrugging and saying nothing at all the entire trail.
finally be released from jail November 5. Fans all around the world are ecstatic to hear this great news. Here at Ursuline Academy, nine out of every ten girls listens to Lil Wayne or have at least one of his songs on their iPods. A sophomore here at Ursuline, Heather Pesigan said in excitement, “I love Lil Wayne, and I am so happy he is finally coming out of jail! One of my favorite songs by him would be ‘Drop the World,’ for sure. I love Lil Wayne!” His top three songs are “Right Above It (feat. Drake)”, “Miss Me”, and “Forever”. He started his music career as a young teenager. Lil Wayne has continued his song writing and rap singing career and been given the title “best rapper alive” by his loved fans around the world. Emily Price Bear Facts Writer
F BABY
WEEZY
GREATEST RAPPER ALIVE: LIL WAYNE
Now that it has almost been a year, Lil Wayne will
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wearepopslags.com
25mag.com
USHER & TREY SONGZ These two hotties are going on tour together and will be coming to St. Louis: November 26th at the Scottrade Center
PICTURES FROM MTV
Kimie Leach Bear Facts Editor