The University News

The King of Pop re-releases thrilling album

KATIE LEWIS • February 22, 2008

There is no doubt that Michael Jackson is a hit-making machine. Despite the dismal sales of 2001's Invincible (Sony), Jackson's classic tunes from the 1982 smash hit Thriller continue to kick ass, two-and-a-half decades after the album's debut. Feb. 12's release of Thriller 25 (Sony Music Distribution), which was the world's best-selling album of all time, includes all of the original songs, in addition to new tracks starring hot artists Fergie, will.i.am, Akon and Kanye West.

‘Avenue Q’ drives right up the profane collegiate alley

KATIE LEWIS • February 15, 2008

Puppets can teach lessons to adults, too, as a group of plush creatures sings about finding purpose and making sweet love in "Avenue Q." The Tony Award-winning musical by Robert Lopez, Jeff Marx and Jeff Whitty opened Tuesday, Feb. 13, at the Fabulous Fox Theatre to a raucous crowd of adults.

Ash Wednesday services have large turnout

KATIE LEWIS • February 8, 2008

Xavier College Church saw many faces this week during the four masses celebrated in the church on Ash Wednesday, which was Feb. 6 this year. Other Catholic masses were celebrated at the Medical School Chapel, Saint Louis University Hospital Chapel, School of Nursing and the Law School Courtroom.

Let Me Explain: Man, I feel like a woman

KATIE LEWIS • February 8, 2008

It would be so much easier to be a dude. Let me explain. It's difficult not to judge people based on stereotypes, but, as I see it, there are two kinds of people: Those who are thoughtful, wise and nurturing, and those who spit, have tennis shoes the size of boats and frequently fondle their downtown bonanza.

Let Me Explain: Ch-ch-changes

KATIE LEWIS • January 25, 2008

I've got some decisions to make. Let me explain. Graduation. Career. Finances. Relationships. Maybe a baby. These are all weighing on my mind, so you can understand why I fantasize about booking an African safari or a tour of the Greek isles and never looking back.

Let Me Explain: Not enough ado about something

KATIE LEWIS • December 7, 2007

The Great American Kiss-Off has begun. Let me explain. We (and when I say "we," I mean this newspaper's target audience: 20-something co-eds) put such an emphasis on bumping uglies that we forget an important part of it: kissing. And kissing can be awesome.

The garbled ‘Wicked’ could use a magic pick-me-up

KATIE LEWIS • December 7, 2007

There's only one reason to see Stephen Schwartz's "Wicked," and it isn't the plot, choreography, lyrics or cast. The Fabulous Fox Theatre's current run (through Sunday, Jan. 6) of the Broadway blockbuster is carried by Carmen Cusack's singing voice. Without it, the musical is nothing but an average evening at the theater.

Winter Showcase in Motion

KATIE LEWIS • November 30, 2007

Life is not a GAP commercial, but the members of Phases of Motion are intent upon bringing back dance breaks. The dance group will perform Saturday, Dec. 1, in Xavier Theatre in their hour-long Winter Showcase. Special guest performers include Bare Naked Statues, Melody of Praise Gospel Ensemble and dancers from the Indian Student Association.

Let Me Explain: Silent mouths have zero impact

KATIE LEWIS • November 16, 2007

I'm ready. Let me explain. In less than a year, we're electing a new president. In less than a year, our new president could make history. Or, our new president could be another white guy. But you have a choice and a voice in this whole democratic debacle.

Let Me Explain: One year older, just as tired

KATIE LEWIS • November 2, 2007

It was my Sixteen Candles year, except with 22 flaming sticks. Let me explain. I recently had a birthday. At least, I think I did. My birth certificate says so. My calendar reminded me. My internal clock caused my knees to creak and my vision to worsen when the minutehand struck midnight.

Simon says SLU is safe, but students should be savvy

KATIE LEWIS • October 26, 2007

In light of the two recent crimes on and near Saint Louis University's campus, and April's Virginia Tech massacre, college students are more concerned than ever about their safety-and they should be, if only for their own safety. "A lot of people have the mentality that it won't happen to them, that you don't need DPS on your cell phone, that you don't need someone with you wherever you go," said sophomore Monica Martinez, who was held up at gunpoint Oct.

National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

KATIE LEWIS • October 12, 2007

Saint Louis University is doing its part to raise awareness about breast cancer. The Student Health and Counseling Center, new SLU sorority Zeta Tau Alpha and Relay for Life are all contributing to the cause through education and fundraising. The Health and Counseling Center, located at the base of Marchetti East, offers free breast exams in October.