By Gena Markman

After influencing the lives and touching the hearts of many, R.E.M. decide to call it quits after a powerful and rewarding 31-year run on September 21, 2011.

“This wasn’t an easy decision; but all things must end, and we wanted to do it right, to do it our way.”

Wrote singer and front man Michael Stipe.

  As one of the first popular alternative rock bands, Michael Stipe, Peter Buck, Mike Mills, and Bill Berry never ceased to impress their loyal fans with controversial, inventive, hand crafted lyrics, skilled instruments, congenial compositions and harmonies, and the unique, lingering voice that is Michael Stipe and R.E.M.. They no doubt left a lasting impression on each and every one of their fans; as well as contributed to the shape we see our musical world today.

R.E.M. assured the split was in no way sparked by disagreements or controversy of any kind within the band - Just that it was simply “the time.” Many also believe their last album, Collapse Into Now, contained several lyrics hinting towards a split. If you listen to it, the entire album seems to be saying “farewell and thank you”. For example, in the song “All the Best,” lines such as “I think I’ll sing it and rhyme, I’ll give it one more time.” And “it’s just like me to overstay my welcome,” seem like clear goodbyes, especially when going back and listening to it after news of the spilt.

If you haven’t yet pleased your ears and mind with the genius works of R.E.M., don’t fret. The band left behind 15 full albums in their 3-decade long journey. Mike Mills, bassist of R.E.M. keeps me at ease by giving the comforting statement that convinces me the split was for the best, “We have always been a band in the truest sense of the word. Brothers who truly love, and respect, each other. We feel kind of like pioneers in this – there’s no disharmony here, no falling-outs, no lawyers squaring off. We’ve made this decision together, amicably and with each other’s best interests at heart. The time just feels right."

By Nicholas Lives

Unless you've been living under a rock or some other large piece of unmovable earthly material, you've undoubtedly heard of a little internet streaming/DVD mailing movie rental company called "Netflix".  Well apparently Netflix is not content having a slash in their company description, so recently the company has decided to split themselves into two separate companies, one called "Qwikster" and the other still named "Netflix", each handling a different aspect of their service.  While Qwikster handles the movie renting service via mail, Netflix handles the web streaming service.  The idea is that if each company only has to focus on providing one service, then said services will improve in quality. 

There is already much fuss over whether or not this move was a smart or silly idea, with some folks arguing that splitting into two companies only serves to confuse customers, and other folks arguing that the improvement in quality service will make up for it.

As for me, I don't really care either way.  What I find a bit odd however, is this silly marketing trend of spelling "Q" words with W's where the U's should be.  Do they think that its clever when they spell things wrong?  Do they think people will look at the spelling and say, "Gee golly gee that sure is somethin' special!  I have complete faith in companies who can't spell!"  Sorry to break it to you Qwikster, but your "clever" marketing ploy is NOT clever, it's just annoying.  Qwest, I'm looking at you too buddy.

By Madeline Burdette

At a young age, Jane Eyre was exposed to extreme hardship. Orphaned, living with her cruel aunt and cousins, Jane was accused of being a wicked child. “Withhold the hand of friendship, and deny your love to Jane Eyre, the liar.” These words were spoken by her schoolmaster, and characterized her rocky childhood.
    Hope was restored to the resilient Jane when she began a job as a governess. The mousy Jane found friends, and eventually true love. Only a secret threatened her happiness. The story of Jane Eyre has captivated many since its publishing in 1847. Author Charlotte Bronte won over hearts with the popular tale of hatred, friendship, duty, and true love. For those who do not prefer reading, a modern movie has been released featuring Mia Wasikowska, Jamie Bell, and Michael Fassbender.

By Sydney Klingler

The original film from 1984 is often thought of by some as old or outdated, but the remake is sure to remind us of the life that is Footloose. With Kenny Wormald playing Kevin Bacon’s original role and Julianne Hough taking the place of Lori Singer, these two some dancing shoes to fill.

Ren McCormack, played by Kenny Wormald, is a city kid who comes to a town where music and dancing are banned. Here he meets Ariel Moore, played by former Alta student Julianne Hough, who catches the fire of his rebelliousness. Together, they bring life back to their small town.

                Law after law is passed to ban anything that brings joy to the youth of this small town but the time has come for a fight. “Rules are meant to be challenged,” as Wormwald’s character says. The time has come for everybody to cut footloose.

See the Offical Trailer here!