The
Bark
Issue Number III 11/26/08 285 E. Grand Ave. Fox Lake, IL. 60020
The Voice Of Grant Community High School
Falling economy affecting the lives of ‘average’ Americans everywhere Average America are going on this weekend, not what tests are High School. Senior Chris Hayes says that or personal assistant. Generally, the higher the is a commonly heard happening next week. the definition of average is falling in America education level, the higher the pay. As a result of phrase. It used to Average Americans aren’t looked at because “if you look at teachers, they aren’t very that, some people will go to those great lengths in represent a high quality the way that they used to be. Senior Martha good, and when there is a good one, they get order to get that desired high salary. way of life in America, Jarka says, “People are expecting less from the fired.” The media all over America is also but that may not be the U.S. in general. We are more self serving and People going into the work force aren’t setting standards and examples of Average case today. self centered than other countries.” going for a lot anymore either. Some people put Americans. The term Commercials, sitcoms, and reality This is true of many Americans. Many forth just enough effort so that they can live above ‘average’ used to mean people are concerned with the way that their the national poverty level. This is not true for all shows are intended to portray average people Katie Loris sufficient and acceptable, coffee is being made in the morning, opposed to people, but for the Average American, they are in America. They are said to display stories of Staff Reporter while today it seems to whether or not they can help someone out on the not making the big bucks. people fulfilling the ‘American Dream’. In other mean just above failure. street who is struggling. The average income for a household of cases, celebrities in tabloids, on TV, and in movies Americans all over the country are Jarka believes that when it comes four is around $50,000, and the poverty level is are setting a lower example of standards and redefining their ways of life, and averages. Paris for many people that means living Hilton, one of the just above, or at, average. wealthiest people However, many in America, has families are still living life beyond barely completed average. Families are buying the education that plasma TV screens, million dollar typically rewards cars, and other such items that a person with that may not be necessary to survive kind of money. on a daily basis. People in America Celebrities want a lot. People keep everywhere affect spending, no matter what their the definition financial situation is. As a of average in result of that, many families America. If are facing foreclosure, or a celebrity, or declaring bankruptcy. In 2007, anyone in the the number of filings increased spotlight, is by approximately 40 percent, as seen living a life 1.3 million credit card holders below average, declared bankruptcy. it is very easy Mr. Van Alstine, social for other people science teacher, says, “The to follow in his problem is that average doesn’t or her footsteps. cut it anymore. Even above Teens and even average Americans are struggling adults look up to in the current economy. Many celebrities and people were unprepared for this their ways of [economic crises].” life. The amount The huge decline in of money they our economic power hit a lot of have may be people hard. Most people were well above that living what they would call an of the Average average life, which included The economic slow-down is taking its toll on many Average Americans but S. Francisco/The Bark www.parishilton.com American, purchasing things that were only their standards of wanted, not necessarily needed. to politics, Americans have lowered their just above $20,000 for a family of the same size. living may not be. Mr. Schmidt, English teacher, says that standards. A 2005 study showed that 12.6 percent of the Many people were not prepared for pop culture everywhere is affecting the definition Sarah Palin is a huge political icon population was living under the poverty level. how the economy would turn, so they continued today, as a result of her involvement in the 2008 On the other hand it may look to some of average throughout America. to live beyond their means. They now are being Presidential Elections. When Palin gives speeches people as if averages and standards are rising. In America used to be viewed as a forced to choose which bills to pay, the electric or on live television, she refers to Americans as ‘Joe order to get into your dream college, your grades hardworking country that was always moving the heating? Six Packs’ and ‘Hockey Moms of America.’ This need to be better than a lot of other applicants forward. Today, the economy is more than $10 Students are also being trillion in debt, and is still spending. Americans is how Palin sees the average men that you’re competing with. News affected by this decline in ‘Average and women in America. Your ACT scores are also meant to may appear to have a lot, and be living above America’. It used to be said that a Men are stereotyped to portray you as a hard working and intelligent average, but when it comes down to it, most Perspective solid C for a grade was average. be daily drinkers, and women to student. These requirements also represent the people are far from living an average life. Most Now, people are being heard talking of how they j u s t be mothers. This is demeaning to lowering averages and standards in America. families have credit-debt that is extremely hard have an average grade in a class, when in fact, Average Americans. There are both men and Due to these requirements, many students in high to pull through. In 2007, the United States as a that grade is only a D. women in America who have worked for years school are not putting forth the effort necessary nation owed roughly $2 trillion in credit card In other countries, students in high to become CEOs of companies, and have made to be accepted into a decent college, simply debt. The average credit-card holder alone owed school are concentrating on the present. They themselves good money. between eight and nine thousand dollars per because it is too hard. are working to build a solid future, even if they The fact that Palin refers to Average After college, standards and averages card. haven’t mapped it out yet. What teens today are going for is not Americans that way in most of her speeches are still a big part of people’s lives. Van Alstine says that teens in America shows that even she, a political representative for In some cases, you need no education what people would call a bright future. are concerned with school, cell phones, how they our country, thinks that average Americans are to acquire a certain job, but that is very Average refers to a lot of things, in need to fit in, and for some, hopefully college. just that, average. uncommon. Often times, people need at least every aspect of someone’s life. When it comes When over-hearing a conversation at school, Some students blame their lack of a graduate degree in business, just so that they to Average Americans, the definition of average students are busy talking about what parties drive on the teachers here at Grant Community are qualified enough in order to be a secretary has lost a lot of its stature and value.
A change we can believe in? The scoop on the ‘08 outcome, page 3.
A-Team is on its A-Game. Turn to page 5 to read about how they are fairing this year.
New renovations soon to be made to Paul G. Lewis field. Get the details on page 6.
New season, new team, and a new coach: Read about the Lady Bulldogs basketball team on page 8.
November 26, 2008
The Bark
The Bark Staff Editor-in-Chiefs Meital Caplan Rachel Seminara
Section Editors Jordyn L. Boyles Collin Bushing Lydia Wells Chief Photographer Shayla Francisco Staff Reporters Alex Carr Stephanie Dogan Katie Loris Paul Kudowski Hayley Pallock Emily Paddock Monserrat Martinez Jeshanah Smith Meagan Stephenson Essence Tillery Kingston Warren
Advisor Mr. Beverly Mission Statement It is the mission of The Bark to give a voice to students and to provide those students a public forum for student expression. The Bark is written with the intention to give students and faculty information fairly and impartially. We believe that only when a student body is informed can it be happy, safe, and given the freedom it deserves.
Submission Policy It is the policy of The Bark to be a student newspaper. We value your opinions and you have a right to express them, especially in the form of writing to this newspaper. If you wish to write to The Bark, you may drop off your signed letter and the disk that it is saved on to Room 262 or Mr. Beverly’s mailbox. If you prefer to remain anonymous, we still need your signature or your letter will not be published. -The Editors-
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Opinions & Editorials Overweight teenagers are in danger of serious health issues Looking around in today’s society, it feels like the country is becoming smaller and smaller. The fact of the matter is that the area is not getting smaller, but the people in it are getting larger. The teenage obesity rate has tripled in America over the last twenty years. About Collin Bushing 14 percent of all teenagers Op/Ed Editor in America are overweight. Is this really something that American citizens should be known for? Living in a country where 14 percent of teens are overweight? Teenage obesity has become such an epidemic that doctors are now performing surgeries on teens as young as 14 years old. This is a serious problem. Teenagers in general should not have to rely on surgery for their overweight problems. When a person is a teenager, they are supposed to be having the time of their of their life. Yet some of them are sitting on the couch at home chowing down on some potato chips while waiting for the pizza delivery guy to arrive. These teens should be out being active with their friends. Being overweight has many health issues as well. For example, being overweight increases the chance of a person developing cancer by 33 percent. These types of cancer are esophageal, prostate, breast, kidney, and colon. All of these cancers can be fatal if not caught soon enough. No one would ever want this brought upon them, a friend, or even a family member. Another serious health issue that can evolve from being overweight is congestive heart
failure. This is when the heart cannot pump blood into the other organs in the body, which can lead to death. Another issue to be concerned with is that overweight teens are more likely to develop depression. This depression is due to anxiety problems, people making fun of the overweight individual, and a lack of self confidence. In some cases, this depression can lead to suicide. These are just three fatal risks that can come about because of unhealthy weight levels. This is a serious problem and should not be taken lightly. Grant Community High School is no stranger to this plague of overweight teens. The medical reasons previously listed could be affecting the students that pass by in the hallways every day. It is understandable that many of the students at Grant don’t like gym class, but it can help solve this health problem. The main cause of teenage obesity is lack of physical activity. So the next time one of the gym teachers is yelling to run another lap, the students should be thanking them, because that extra lap may be saving their life. Also, the food served during lunch here at Grant does not offer the healthiest choices. The main lunch is swimming in a pool of grease, and all those delicious cookies are packing a lot of calories too. In fact, the average cookie has a total of 160 calories. That doesn’t sound like much, but when students eat two or three of them that is a large percentage of their daily calorie intake. There are a few alternatives to the school cafeteria lunch that won’t be turning the students into heavier teenagers. For instance, eating a salad and drinking a bottle of water is a healthier choice.
This should be able to satisfy a student’s hunger. Water has zero calories, and teenagers are supposed to drink six bottles of it every day. The students that work out every day, meaning 30 minutes of exercise, can eat a little more because they are going to burn off the extra calories they take in. On the other hand, the students who go home and do nothing should not eat large meals or unhealthy snacks. If these students are simply relying on their metabolisms to do all of the work for them in keeping them healthy, they should plan on being hungry for the rest of their life. There are some very simple exercises that can be done to help fix this overweight phenomenon. Doing crunches or running around the block will help significantly. Those activities don’t sound very fun to most teens, so why not try playing basketball in the driveway with a couple of friends, skateboarding around the block, or playing volleyball in the backyard. Some of the teens reading this are probably saying “I am big and beautiful,” or “I love the way I look.” These teens will not be saying this when they are being rushed to the emergency room because they have had a heart attack. Being a size zero or having an eight pack is not necessary, but being at a healthy weight level is. It will make teens so much happier, and they will be feeling much more active and ready to do different activities. Get up off the couch and become a healthy teen. Don’t be one the 14 percent members, because that can only lead to diseases that can be fatal. Overall, take care of yourself and avoid becoming one of the statistics.
Does the media play a part in the peer pressure on teenagers? Billboards, magazines and commercials are everywhere, all depicting a nonrealistic view of our society. It seems that more and more people are falling into the trap of the Emily Paddock media. Everyone is on Staff Reporter the quest for perfection. Every time I go to the grocery store I see tabloids saying that some star has lost some ridiculous amount of weight, or some athlete has broken a new record. All of these so called “accomplishments” only put more pressure on everyone else. Many people see these tabloids or magazines and feel the need that they too should lose weight or break a new record. Although it could be argued that tabloids, billboards, and all other types of media are beneficial because they are motivators, many would agree that the media tends to be more negative than positive. According to Urbanesque Magazine, a study done on the island of Fiji showed that once popular shows such as ER,
Lydia Wells Features Editor
The average person sees about 3,000 ads a day in magazines, covering billboards, or on television. So it’s an easy argument to say that all this is turning our generation into something that resembles a science fiction plot: people lusting after perfection, whether they be skinnier, smarter, or
prettier. I say no. There is no way that watching America’s Next Top Model will make you develop an eating disorder, or that playing violent video games will make you strap a gun across your back and shoot up the nearest school—kids are surrounded by media and images every day of their lives, but not everyone chooses to be influenced. “I think the media tests teens; it doesn’t automatically change their habits. It’s a personal choice,” says freshman Rose Craig. Junior Nick Serdar agrees that the media has zero effects on teens. “The media isn’t the pressure,” he says. “The pressure comes from other teens.” Sophomore Mallory Simmermon also agrees. “The media truly doesn’t affect teens. When I go on websites or watch television, I’m not sitting there looking for reasons to feel bad about myself. “Personally, I think parents and the environments that each of us lives in influences us the most,” Simmeron says. “Our parents raise us and
Melrose Place, and Xena: Warrior Princess, were introduced, the island’s cases of eating disorders rose 15 percent. An anonymous junior agrees that the media does play a role in teen behavior. “They have so many commercials about looking young and being stick skinny. I have felt pressured because looks mean everything these days,” says the anonymous junior. With messages like these posted everywhere, it is no wonder why there are so many selfconscious teens. Although many would agree that the media has a great influence on teens, there are those who believe that it doesn’t. Those saying that the media has no affect tend to be a bit hypocritical, because they are usually the ones who tend to focus on
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teach u s things that, in general, make us the young men and women that we grow up to be.” In his book, Moving Experiences, author David Gauntlett aims to shed light on the fact that research gathered claiming there is a link between teens and the media is fundamentally flawed. He says, “The fact first is that if, after over 60 years of a considerable amount of research effort, direct effects of media upon behavior have not been clearly identified, then we should conclude that they are simply not there to be found.” And it’s true: take a look at some of the research, and you can see where people grasp at straws. For example, a study conducted involving both violent teenage offenders and ‘ordinary’ school pupils of the same age concluded that the young violent teens watched less television and played fewer video games than the average teens. Furthermore, the study found that the violent teenagers had less access to technology and showed no particular interest in the violent video games. They also enjoyed non-offensive material, much the same as ‘regular’ kids. Even more studies found that “children can talk intelligently and indeed cynically about the mass media and that children as young as seven
their appearance the most. People such as junior Kaitlyn Kenney acknowledge the problem by saying “personally, some things on TV may influence me.” However, she continues by saying “I don’t change who I am to fit-in.” Those with this mind set are well off because the media in some cases tends to overwhelm some. Junior Nick Garcia believes that “the media criticizes what you look like and in some cases even your personality.” With the millions of TV shows, like The Janice Dickinson Modeling Agency, only portraying one type of beauty makes it hard for many to get past that. There are also many violent shows on TV that many would claim to be inappropriate and a bad influence on kids and young adults. Although these shows may not be what lead to mass shootings, they are definitely one of the leading causes to the daily fights that occur in schools. Although there isn’t much that one can do to stop the massive effect that the media will have on each individual, everyone can be his own sensor and decide for himself how he should look, feel, and act.
can make thoughtful, critical decisions about the media,” says Gauntlett. Gauntlett found even more research to support his hypothesis: many experiments, to begin with, are flawed, and too often the wrong conclusions are gathered from insubstantial evidence that often points the other way. Ultimately, there are many different ways teens perceive the media. Serdar says, “I feel challenged when I watch shows like UFC. Things like that motivate me to become ‘stronger’. I get the urge to be ‘the best’”. On the other hand, many teens choose to ignore the images thrown at them from glossy magazine covers or blaring from their television sets. “Everyone is an individual and shouldn’t be a copy. I don’t think it’s right to all push to be the same. I just ignore the pressures,” says Craig. Simmermon says she doesn’t feel pressured by the media at all. “Anything I have ever done or am doing that wasn’t or isn’t necessarily healthy is a personal choice! I decide what makes me happy and I don’t choose to be reminded of that by the media,” Simmeron says. In the end, go ahead and watch television or listen to the radio or read magazines; it’s up to you, and only you, to decide how you act. “Many people blame the media for ‘problems’ that the American society supposedly has,” says Simmermon. “It’s not the media’s fault that there are several skinny, smart, and beautiful people that are a part of it.”
Con
November 26, 2008
Op/Ed
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Students break the rules, but the punishment is inconsistent
Hayley Pallock Staff Reporter
Teenagers break the rules. It’s a simple fact that no one goes without noticing. Our detention rooms are usually completely filled, and dean’s aides are busy retrieving students all day. It’s hard to determine the cause of the problem when sometimes, there
is no effect. The things students do to get detentions are so tedious, that often the rule enforcement is a joke. The deans tell us in the beginning of every year the lowdown of every rule and the consequence that follows when they’re broken. I think a lot of people would agree that punishments are usually not as harsh as they sound. When walking down the halls, especially when it’s warm, it’s clear who doesn’t rrespect res espect the dress co ode. So S ome m gir i ls walk around code. Some girls
Grant’s student handbook lists all of the rules
in their shortest skirts, and boys are being constantly told to pull up their pants. You’re not exactly considered lucky if you get away with it all day. Your punishment all depends on which teachers you run into that day. Similarly, I’ll see students with bandanas on, and get away with it, despite the fact that they are considered ‘gang related.’ Homecoming week especially must be the exception when they suddenly stop being gang related, and the rule seems to disappear. Sitting in a desk for 50 minutes, seven times a day isn’t exactly comfortable, and I’m sure some students have heard of ‘comfy Thursdays’ when track pants and a t-shirt is the cool thing to wear. The handbook states “no pajama pants”, but what draws the line between track pants and pajama pants? Another huge cause of detentions at Grant Community High School is the misusage of IDs. The point of wearing your ID around your neck is supposedly to let staff know if you’re a member of the Grant student body. For some students, this ta task is too m mu ch to ask, and just a pesky problem. much Is it really even possibl possible for some ra non-Grant students random o jjust ust come in and walk to arrou o nd? It’s rridiculous, around? and if we’r we’re walking around this place we are place, obviously students.
Everyone knows the hotspots in the halls where specific teachers stand spotting kids without red lanyards on, ready to fill out detentions. When we aren’t in these hotspots, it’s likely we won’t get caught. It’s common for teachers to just ask you to put it on and let you pass. I’ve also been a witness to the fact that when cell phones get taken away, you’ll get it back depending on the mood of the person who took it. It’s never really clear if you’ll get a warning, or if your parents need to come pick it up. The problem is obvious: inconsistency. If every teacher had the same policy, and stuck to it, there wouldn’t be a reason to laugh at the rule enforcement. The way that children learn is through discipline. Nowadays, it seems to me that kids just shrug off their instructions. If consistency isn’t represented in school, then how could it be represented at all? For instance, if a student ditches a class, and gets away with it, then it’s likely that he/she is going to do it again. I met someone a while back that made the decision to ditch classes numerous times a week. After every other day of inschool for a couple months, his punishments just disappeared. The student handbook doesn’t really reflect reality, and teens will usually just do what they want. Kids will naturally rebel, or not care enough to follow the rules, but this isn’t a fixable problem if the staff cares as much about the rules as the students do. It’s not possible for a person to learn if they aren’t disciplined. Consistency is the key, and as much as I don’t agree with some of the rules, I think that if the faculty of Grant wants them to be followed, they need to follow up with enforcement.
What do you think is the most common rule broken at Grant?
No cellphones. I mean the teachers aren‛t stupid, they know we have them. I see people all the time trying to be all sneaky in their school bags. Come on now, we all know that blue glow on your face isn‛t from the pen you‛ve been “looking for.”
-Junior Jes Farruggia
S. Francisco/ The Bark
Be an individual and rebel against the “in” crowd
Meagan Stephenson Staff Reporter
In most high schools today, you will find being your true self a challenge. With all the new fads and fashion it is hard to not fall in sync with everyone else just to be ‘cool’ or ‘in’. But if you have confidence in yourself, the difficulty of being yourself won’t be
hard at all. By definition, individuality is a person’s independent nature; one’s unique distinction in character. For me, though, it means something more. To me it means freedom to be yourself, with the confidence to do what you like without fear; to separate yourself from the average everyday person. To some, the definition of individuality may be different, but others may not even recognize the term. Sometimes kids will do what they do because they think that is what they want. Really, it may actually be because that person’s friend is doing the activity too. This is one example of how somebody might confuse their own uniqueness for something that somebody else is doing. Shouldn’t you do something because you want to do it, not because someone else does it? Given that it’s hard to find what you truly want out of life or just out of school, it is difficult to
get out of the trap that is commonly set by peer pressure. If you want to change from the typical high school stereotype, don’t ask the “in” crowd on how you should dress and act. You would end up practically being a puppet. Don’t let this happen to you. Here are some ways that one could resist the uniformity of high school. Come up with your own dress code within the school dress code limitations. You could take your uniqueness to different levels. You could simply create your own style to how things are done in our school. Nobody put a ban on the number of piercings you can have, or where they are. If you feel wearing just one ear ring even though you have two holes, that would make a fine statement, so go ahead and try it. Who said make up is a must? If you even have semi-beautiful skin underneath, let it show. It wouldn’t be that hard to use skin cleanser as often as you use cover-up. Hair styles are as varied as the people who wear them. Try to come up with something that might show some part of your inner self just to keep things spontaneous. You could go with the usual pony-tail, then twist it into something no one has tried before. If you don’t wear glasses try a nonprescription pair. You would be surprised how
many people go after that look. It could greatly improve your first impression of somebody. Next is clothes, nobody wants to be seen in rags, but if you don’t have a favorite brand, try to wear something that isn’t popular yet. Shoot to be a trend setter. Just be sure not to go radical with the idea of something extreme, like coming in wearing a chicken suit. You would probably appear more weird than different. Accessories can also make you seem different. You can also have a bag to fit your style. You don’t really need twenty different bags to match every different outfit. One that can go with anything would be just fine. Also, maybe you would want a bag that could be used for anything practical. Maybe you need to always have something on or just something for a special occasion. If simple is for you, that is OK, but if you desire something more noticeable, go for jewelry. However, try to stay away from the trap that is always there for the unaware. If you feel even the slightest bit off about what it is you are wearing, you probably shouldn’t wear it. Lastly, the only advice that I can give for those who might listen, is this: don’t get confused and get caught up in the common trap that is always set for teenagers who haven’t found themselves yet. Be who you are and be who you can be.
I think the most common rule broken at Grant is not wearing ID‛s. I think that a lot of people don‛t follow this rule because they don‛t think its necessary. If you‛re here you obviously go here so you shouldn‛t have to wear an ID around your neck.
-Junior Megan McKinley
The dress code because most people just wear whatever and only certain people get in trouble for it. Most teachers don‛t really pay attention to what students wear.
-Junior Felecia Robinson
America rejoices over Barack Obama’s win With the historic election come and gone, millions of Americans still rejoice over the fact that Barack Obama is our elected president. But beyond this, people look to Obama to see Essence Tillery what change he will Staff Reporter bring about. “He’s going to give us the change we need because he’s the change from everybody else. He hasn’t been in the political circle enough to be corrupted yet,” said junior Jerrod Ramsey. Neither a Bush nor a Clinton, many Americans see Obama as a breath of fresh air, and with his motto “yes we can” and his plans
of tackling major problems (like the economy) as soon as possible, many Americans are hopeful. “I never thought that he’d screw up in the first place as with most Democrats I have faith in (sans Rod Blagojevich). I like the ideas of Barack Obama better than McCain,” said senior Ben Ranes. Many Americans are thrilled that Obama is our president, maybe even look to him as sort of a savior. But in reality, Obama is still one man, and there are people out there who aren’t completely sold yet. “What I want Obama to do is be the first president to keep all of his promises. I’m very pro change, but I’m also aware that this isn’t going to happen with a snap of his fingers,;it’s going to take the cooperation of the whole country. While the Democrats make
[him] out to be our savior, it takes everybody’s involvement [to make things happen],” said junior Vesta Steponaviciute. Of course, while there are people who see Obama as a positive thing, there are always going to be very unfavorable opinions. “I’m not a very big fan of Obama, but if he won, he won,” said junior Brad O’Connor. Other people have stronger feelings about Obama’s presidency, and are vehemently against him. But people have to take into account that Obama hasn’t made any changes, positive or negative, for the country considering the fact that president Bush is still in office. But like him or not, Obama’s here for at least the next four years with the world on his shoulders.
All photos by S. Francisco/ The Bark
Letter to the editor
Hi, my name is Jes Farruggia and I’m a junior here at Grant. I have a statement for Collin in response to his argument for dissection. Actually, I’m almost 100 percent sure that there is no “computer simulation” offered here at school. In fact, I am sure because when I refused to dissect animals in Biology, instead of being offered an alternative, I failed all three dissections. My grade was soon brought to a D, and I ran the risk of failing all because I wouldn’t cut open the inside of a worm, frog, and crawfish. I would love to see an alternative here at Grant for future classes. Especially so students (like my sister who will be a freshman next year) won’t run the risk of failing, just like I did. Jes Farruggia Guest Writer
November 26, 2008
Features
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Features Kingston’s Korner: Saw V: a ‘horror’ to watch Don’t you just hate waking up somewhere and you don’t know where you are? Y o u r first reaction is Kingston Warren probably “Where Staff Reporter am I?!”, but not if you’re strapped to a table surrounded by barbed wire, or if you find your head stuck in a c u b e d b o x w h i l e i t ’s g e t t i n g f i l l e d w i t h w a t e r. L e a v e i t t o Jigsaw to accommodate you with such luxurious sweets. All you have to do is take your life for granted to have these horrifying experiences a t y o u r f i n g e r t i p s . Yo u c o u l d be driving home from work or walking to school when you see a pig demon in a boxing outfit and bam!—you’re hit with a knock out poison and you wake up in a bathroom-like chamber or in an abandoned house; it all depends o n w h a t J i g s a w ( To b i n B e l l ) p l a n s for your rejuvenation. Jigsaw said it best himself in this movie: “Killing is distasteful; there is a far b e t t e r w a y. ”
“I am the man you call J i g s a w, ” i s o n e o f m y f a v o r i t e lines in the film. If you’re new to the Saw series, you might want to get caught up before you see this one, but nonetheless you could be entertained. It has all the gore and blood you have more than likely heard about, and Jigsaw is still the man of brilliance and talent beyond compare. We p i c k u p i n t h i s f i l m with a young man named Jeff (Angus MacFayden) strapped to a table with an anchor-like blade above him that will slice him in h a l f . J i g s a w ’s r u l e s t o h i m a r e simple: he has to crush the tools t h a t k i l l e d D e t e c t i v e H o ff m a n ’s sister or end up with no waist line. However, the murder w e a p o n i n H o ff m a n ’s s i s t e r ’s d e a t h w a s n o n e o t h e r t h a n J e ff ’s own hands. Yo u may remember Hoffman (Costas Mandylor) from the previous Saw films. Now with Jigsaw dead, he is left to carry o u t h i s l e g a c y. H e h a s h i s h a n d s full with a couple loose ends he needs to tie up. Hoffman needs
to work fast because Detective Strahm (Scott Patterson) is right on the back of his heels because w i t h J i g s a w ’s a p p r e n t i c e , A m a n d a (Shawnee Smith) dead, Hoffman is looking really suspicious. But of course, Jigsaw has more people he needs to put to the test. Four people star in this film: an inspector, a building bureaucrat, a drug addict, and a journalist. They find themselves in a fight for their lives in mind challenging games. David Hackl, the d i r e c t o r o f S a w V, h a s b e e n w i t h the Saw franchise since Saw II a s p r o d u c t i o n d e s i g n e r. H e t r i e s , but fails, to make himself known with his first big screen director role. The screenwriters Patrick Melton and Marcus Dunstan are also no help. They leave you hanging at the end of several scenes in this movie with no suspense. It seemed like their main focus seemed to be a cat and mouse theme with Hoffman and Straum going after one another, r a t h e r t h a n s t i c k i n g t o J i g s a w ’s message.
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Acting skills were never p r e s e n t i n t h i s m o v i e e i t h e r. T h e actors had certain moments in the movie where they showed skill, but it was mindless zombies after that. Dragging words out and not fully in character are only a few of my criticisms. The only exception would be Bell, and it was only because of the flashbacks to the other Saw films. J a m e s Wa n w a s o n e h a l f o f the original story writer for the f i r s t S a w. I f y o u a s k m e , i t w a s by far the best Saw movie and David Hackl could have learned a t h i n g o r t w o f r o m Wa n t o m a k e t h i s m o v i e b e t t e r. Saw V lacks a lot of things that the other Saw movies had: b r u t a l i t y, i n t r i g u e , a n d a g o o d ending. All in all, this movie was far below my expectations. The message was there, but the storyline was hacked to pieces. However, it seems like we’ll be hearing, “Hello. I would like to play a game,” at least one more time. I would give it 3 out of 5 crowns.
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Is that what society needs to do to get people’s attention-watch people suffer?
It has all the gore and blood you have more than likely heard about...
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www.saw5.com
Deeper message to Saw V’s gore, guts, and blood This past on suffering death, it still has a H a l l o w e e n , b i g g e r m e a n i n g b e h i n d t h e s t o r y. I would have to say that the Saw series m o s t p eople go to watch it for made its comeback with the blood, guts, and torture, but the ongoing this movie isn’t all about that. sequel to a I t ’s t r y i n g t o t e l l y o u a d i ff e r e n t h o r r o r meaning of life. The sad part of this is phenomenon: Stephanie Dogan t h a t t h e movie does have a bigger Saw V. It takes Staff Reporter m e a n i n g t o t h e s t o r y, b u t m o s t us to a place where you people go to just see the torture. Is that what society has need to appreciate your take on c o m e t o these horrid days? That life, and not take things for to grab p e o p l e ’s granted. Features attention you need N o w, if you have Perspective a catch, by showing never tuned into any of the the brutal death of S a w m o v i e s , i t ’s b a s i c a l l y a b o u t o n e m a n ( J i g s a w ) w h o ’s p e o p l e ? Each week there are always determined to make people realize n e w r e l eases for us to go out and that life is taken for granted, and to prove that people are selfish tune into a completely different and won’t take time out of their life. I mean, come on, who has l i f e t o s a v e s o m e o n e e l s e ’s . n e v e r w a t c h e d T h e H i l l s o r i s a He also gives them a chance to big fan of Gossip Girl, and if not, you still know about it. redeem their past lifestyles. Society is based on Even though this story goes into brutal and vicious detail drama and conflict. Nobody gets
enthused by the perfect life; you need a little bit of consequence. This is making this a bad habit that should end. I know I like to watch for the entertaining, suspenseful e d g e s o f y o u r s e a t ‘ w h a t ’s g o i n g to happen next’ kind of movies, s o I g u e s s i t ’s a g o o d w a y t o experience the movie while also getting a message out there. Maybe that was what David Hackl, director of Saw V, was trying to express to us: that b e y o n d a l l t h e i n t e n s i t y t h e r e ’s a message going out to all the viewers that we need to change the way we view each other and how we view ourselves. T h a t ’s w h a t t h i s m o v i e is trying to tell us, and if there wasn’t blood, guts, and horror, would any of us watch it? Is that what society needs to do to get p e o p l e ’s a t t e n t i o n — w a t c h p e o p l e suffer? It shouldn’t but it does, and I don’t think we should be
counting on a change anytime soon, but we should wake up and r e a l i z e w h a t ’s s u r r o u n d i n g u s . Most people could relate. We a l l w a k e u p e v e r y m o r n i n g believing that we are supposed t o h a v e t h i s d a y, t h a t n o t h i n g is supposed to happen, and we go through our usual lifestyles not realizing what surrounds u s . T h e r e ’s a b i g g e r p i c t u r e o u t there. We go through life s e l f i s h l y, w e l i v e i n a “ m e ” s o c i e t y a n d i n s o m e w a y s t h a t ’s a good way to think, but in others, i t ’s t r a g i c w h e n y o u o n l y c a r e about yourself. There are so many scenarios where you could be busy with your life that you don’t even r e a l i z e w h a t ’s s u r r o u n d i n g y o u . Stop and take a look around to find yourself and to f i n d s a n i t y, b e c a u s e i n t h i s w o r l d today you have to just take a break and relax.
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November 26, 2008
AC/DC’s Black Ice cd not rockin’ anymore... For those about to rock, we salute you. That being said, nobody make a move to salute A C / D C ’s Shayla Francisco new album Black Chief Photographer Ice. After an eight year long wait, the new AC/DC album, Black Ice, was released Oct. 15 under producer Brendan O’Brien, who has w o r k e dw i t h t h e l i k e s o f S t o n e Te m p l e Pilots, Pearl Jam, Bruce Springsteen, and Rage Against the Machine. Fans eagerly ripped the plastic off of Black Ice, which is annoyingly only available at Wa l m a r t , popped the CD into the player and h e a r d a n i n t r o www.acdcrocks.com that sounds hauntingly like “Shook Me All Night Long”. Just the originality fans were expecting from AC/DC …not so much. The lack of originality in melody doesn’t stop there. The c h o r d p r o g r e s s i o n i n “ Wa r M a c h i n e ” of the verse and the chorus are exactly the same as “Givin’ the Dog a Bone”, off the Back in Black album. “Wheels” makes you want to burst out into “Highway to Hell” and “Anything Goes” makes “Slade R u n ’s R u n a w a y ” r i n g i n y o u r e a r s . Wi t h a l l d u e r e s p e c t , A C / DC is one of the most iconic bands o f t h e 7 0 ’s a n d 8 0 ’s . B u t t h i s a l b u m sounds exactly like every other AC/ DC album before it. Granted, there are only so many original sounding songs you can mash together with a very limited chord selection. Wi t h A C / D C n o w h a v i n g been a band for 35 years, the
question comes to mind, should they have stopped while they were ahead? While they were still in the full swing of their youth? When sex, drugs, and rock’ n’ roll were the only things in life that mattered? Wi t h t h e r e c e n t c o m e b a c k of many bands from previous generations, such as Metallica, Guns’ n’ Roses, and Rush, its something one could seriously study: the art of the comeback. How does a band complete its legacy if they just keep trying to come back around? S o m e bands strike it lucky with their c o m e b a c k s . Ta k e t h e R o l l i n g Stones, for example. Their 2005 album A Bigger Bang hit number three on national charts. T h e band had such positive fan feedback to the album that they were invited to play at the 2005 Super Bowl where they played classics such as “Start Me Up” and “Satisfaction” to thousands of fans Other bands seriously flopped, such as the likes of M e t a l l i c a ’s Death Magnetic, released in Sep. But as far as Black Ice goes, perhaps AC/DC should have let Stiff Upper Lip be the nail in the coffin, which made it to the number seven spot on The Billboard charts. If you’ve been waiting these eight years to listen to something mediocre that doesn’t break any former molds, this album is for you. But if that isn’t the case, just pop Back in Black back in the player and let the familiar legendary ballads fill your ears; don’t plague your appreciation of AC/DC with Black Ice.
Academic team plans on bringing their A-Game to all their meets
Grant Community High School’s academic team is already a month into the season, and they have spent their time preparing for this year’s big competition and hoping to do well. Their most current Rachel Seminara score is 3-3. Editor-in- Chief “I am looking forward to seeing how we stack up against nine of the best teams in the state,” says Mr. Van Alstine, coach. The general consensus of the team is that Stevenson is going to be the hardest to beat. They are among the nine best teams. Although they will be hard to beat, Grant’s team is confident. Senior Hugo Sancen believes that the team is “the equivalent of a Chuck Norris roundhouse kick.” Although everyone on the team is important, the team does have a few key players. Senior Seth Goodwin says, “[The team is] very strong. [Senior] Alex Maskevich, [senior] Andrew Noffke, [senior] Jimmy [Currea], and myself form an indomitable force.” Van Alstine agrees with Goodwin, saying that the returning seniors are the backbone of the team. Noffke is captain, and Maskevich was MVP from last year. The team is filled with confidence, and with all their practice, it is no surprise that they are ready for the competition.
“We practice everyTuesday,Wednesday, and Thursday,” says Noffke. “Personally, I try to get everything but the meet out of my mind so I’m ready to go for the meet.” Of course, each individual prepares for the meets in different ways. “I prepare by coming to school, learning, taking challenging classes, and reading classic literature,” says senior Rachel Varney. The challenge of Academic Team isn’t for everyone. Each member joins for different reasons, which brings a diverse realm of knowledge to the team. “I enjoy the challenge to see what I know and I enjoy learning new things from the questions. It is actually one of the best ways to learn new things in math and science, as well as other subjects, too. It’s a brain exercise,” says senior Ben Ranes. The challenge always brings in more members. “We have a lot of newcomers that are excited to be a part of the team,” says Van Alstine. “Incoming members always give me more options during a meet.” One of the newer members is freshman Samantha Smyth. She joined the team because she likes trivia and “academic team seemed like a good choice.” The team’s next meet is on Dec. 10, at Stevenson. The team will need not only their “indomitable force”, but everyone’s skill, selfassurance, and knowledge.
Features
Random Facts... Every 45 seconds, a house catches on fire in the United States.
The sentence “The quick brown fox jumps over a lazy dog” uses every letter of the alphabet.
A person uses approximately fifty-seven sheets of toilet paper each day.
Human thigh bones are stronger than concrete.
Strangefacts.com
There are over 58 million dogs in the U.S.
One gallon of used motor oil can ruin approximately one million gallons of fresh water. In Texas, it is still a “hanging offense” to steal cattle.
One in every four Americans have appeared on television.
Clinophobia is the fear of beds.
Taphephobia is the fear of being buried alive. Over 10,000 birds a year die from smashing into windows.
The placement of a donkey’s eyes in its head enables it to see all four feet at all times.
A hippo can open its mouth wide enough to fit a 4 foot tall child inside.
Attention Juniors:
ACT class begins January 12 from 4pm to 6pm or 6:30pm to 8:30pm.
How to sign up:
Information packets will be sent to your home. Return the registration form by Dec. 15. Cost is $205. Questions? See Ms. Corey in the Guidance Office..
November 26, 2008
News
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More News Grant stadium soon to undergo much-needed renovations To decorate, or not to decorate?
Taking a good Many Grant students agree that these Another aspect of the stadium that is look at Grant Community to be refurbished is the press box. Currently, the renovations are a good use of the school’s money. High School’s stadium press box is very difficult to enter and exit from. “It will benefit [the school] in the future because field, it is obvious to To improve safety while also providing more more people will come [to the games],” said some people that it is room for media representatives and coaches, the freshman Matt Spears. due for some serious existing box will be replaced with a 10’ X 36’ box The anticipated reconstruction of the upgrading. that will also include a new sound system. football stadium is expected to attract a larger Approximately Projects and advancements such as this audience to Grant’s sporting events. 1,700 students attend one display how Grant is growing as a whole. Junior Sarah Mirocha believes that Monserrat Martinez Grant, and with the “I think each time we improve any the new bleachers will attract more spectators Staff Reporter number expected to of our facilities, it is a display of our ‘Bulldog because “people don’t like the fact that a lot of grow, the stadium that Pride’,” said Sefcik. “The new stadium bleachers, the times there aren’t any seats.” houses the anticipated football games every year press box and lighting will provide improved You also can’t forget how much the will have to grow along with it. increased space will benefit the From the bleachers to the Bulldogs’ loyal superfans. “It stadium light poles, Grant’s Site and will really allow for a full student Facility Committee agrees that they section. This way all superfans have reached the end of their useful can stand in the same section and life. not be all spread out,” said junior The Site and Facility Jerremy Wiker. Committee is made up of members Construction is scheduled to of the Board of Education, begin when fall sports come to an administrators, the athletic director, end and will be completed before teachers, and residents of the district. spring sports begin. The committee’s purpose is to “I am very excited for all the meet regularly and discuss future improvements to the stadium,” facility plans. About five years ago, said Mr. Rivette, varsity soccer the committee recognized that the coach. “The lights and sound stadium’s bleachers, press box, and system will improve the overall lighting needed to be replaced. quality of the experience of the According to Christy spectator.” Sefcik, assistant superintendent, the Mr. Rous, varsity football current bleachers do not meet the coach, also agrees and believes Americans with Disabilities Act Grant’s football stadium will soon have a new look www.grantbulldogs.org that this project is way overdue. (ADA) requirements because they do “The new bleachers having not provide handicap accessibility. So far, the safety, accommodate larger crowds to support our expanded seating with multiple entrances/exits existing bleachers have passed annual inspections, teams, and become a showcase for our school as along with handicap access will make Grant well as the community.” but their maintenance cost is increasing. sporting events more pleasurable for our fans,” Five years ago, when this project said Rous. “All of these new improvements will Although the modifications to provide handicap access will be both difficult and was discussed, funds were built into the budget greatly improve the overall atmosphere at Grant expensive, the home and visitor bleachers will to complete the renovations in the 2008-2009 Community High School. Now, if we could only provide a total of 36 wheelchair spaces, making school year. get field turf.” The money that will be used to pay off it easier for all fans to come out to cheer for their A positive reaction from students, all of the stadium’s improvements will come from coaches and the community is expected from teams. The stadium’s light poles were also the District’s operating funds. The entire project these new renovations. structurally tested. The tests determined that it is will cost a little over 1 million dollars. The new “It will make the experience [at the time they should be replaced and that the electrical bleachers and press box alone will cost $741,420 games] better and more enjoyable,” said freshman service for the lighting to be majorly improved. and the new lighting will cost $298,500. Quinton Quaries.
Habitat for Humanity a positive organization in Lake County According to Donovan, not only do
Gas prices. The economy. Taxes. The housing market. There are some things that will always be considered horrible. For the last several months, these things among others Jordyn L. Boyles have hurt the general News Editor American population. America is in a rut, and it’s having trouble digging itself out. But some people were in trouble before the housing market crash, before the astronomic gas prices, before the falling economy. Fortunately, there are many positive programs to help those who are facing struggles. Habitat for Humanity is arguably one of the most influential and beneficial volunteer organizations in this area. This organization is dedicated to providing homes to those who are unable to provide them for themselves. Through the efforts of hundreds of volunteers, countless hours of labor, and numerous amounts of both monetary and material donations, those who participate in Habitat for Humanity work together to build not just temporary houses, but homes that will last a lifetime. “The primary mission of Habitat for Humanity is ‘Building Homes, Building Community’,” says Julie Donovan, Executive Director for Habitat for Humanity in Lake County. “As we build houses, we build community in the volunteers, the Habitat families, the neighborhoods in which we build, and throughout the world.” In order to be selected, Habitat for Humanity families must meet a certain criteria determined by the Habitat organization. “[They] are selected on their need for improved housing, their ability to pay for the house, and their willingness to partner with us,” says Donovan. Need is determined by living conditions at the time of application. Families living in overcrowded or poor quality housing,
people who have disabilities that require special accommodations, or people who pay too much for their homes might be eligible. Habitat determines the family’s ability to pay by reviewing its credit report, debt, and other financial records. Families must also be willing to complete 500 hours of volunteer work for the organization and take classes in financial and budget planning. There are currently 11 homes under construction in Lake County, and it takes approximately six to eight months to complete one house. In order for such a large operation to run smoothly, the efforts of many people must be coordinated. “Volunteers are the backbone of Habitat for Humanity,” says Donovan. “We welcome volunteers in several capacities.” These capacities include construction, donations, community service, and behind the scenes work. “Volunteers assist with many tasks including pouring concrete foundations, framing, siding, insulation, hanging drywall, painting, landscape and many other jobs that get houses built,” says Donovan. “No skill is required, just a willingness to work hard and people who are physically fit for construction.” Volunteers are also needed to go out on the Habitat truck and collect donations, and others are needed to unload the truck and organize the donations once they are brought to the final destination. Yet others are needed to help spread awareness of what is a growing problem in our area. Currently in Lake County, there are 120 houses that are standing only because Habitat put them together. Many families can benefit from this non-profit organization on a day-to-day basis. “Families who previously lived in overcrowded and run-down conditions finally move ahead in their lives as their housing improves,” says Donovan. “Often the parents go back to school and get promotions and the children often do better in school.”
the families who receive homes benefit from Habitat, but the volunteers enjoy the positive experience of it as well. “Even though the work is hard and volunteers get very dirty, most people have a great time and want to come back,” says Donovan. “People really enjoy seeing the result of their work at the end of the day. We find people drive by months later just to see how much work has been done since their volunteer day.” Teachers and students at Grant Community High School agree that Habitat is a positive organization and is great to be involved with. “I would definitely volunteer my time if Grant did something to benefit this program,” says Ms. Nortiano, Social Studies teacher. “I think any program that relies on the efforts of community members for positive purposes is beneficial. I think students who volunteer would get immediate feedback that their efforts were worthwhile.” Students share this opinion also, saying that Habitat would be a good organization for Grant to partner with. “I think Grant should get involved with Habitat for Humanity,” says senior Deborah Storm. “It not only brings the community together, but it provides a safe home for a family that needs one.” Storm also says that she would definitely consider being apart of it, because “I really like helping others and being a part of something big like that.” Sophomore Emily Gasperini agrees. “I would consider being a part of Habitat for Humanity because the process would be life changing and a good experience,” she says. And if the sense of doing good work in the community isn’t enough, Donovan provides another impressive benefit, noting that “volunteering with Habitat is a great experience to put on college applications and your resume.” For more information on Habitat for Humanity, or to sign up to volunteer, please visit www.habitatlc.org.
Thanksgiving decorations not as important as decorations for other major holidays T h e traditional ways of Thanksgiving have Jeshanah Smith always been celebrated Staff Reporter in homes, some in different ways than others. “Thanksgiving is special to me because I see my family that I don’t see everyday and for me, it’s a time to reflect on what I am most thankful for,” said sophomore Mallory Simmermon. However, in recent years some have noticed that after Halloween, stores automatically put up Christmas decorations and forget about Thanksgiving. Decorations play major roles in the holiday seasons. Most people get more excited and involved when they’re a part of it. Some business owners in the area, however, don’t spend a lot of time decorating for Thanksgiving. “We try to keep it low key on the decorations,” said Brent Chizn, assistant manager for Dominick’s in Fox Lake. “When you think about it, how long are decorations going to be up anyway?” To some, people don’t really see the need to go all out for decorations. “You don’t need to go all out for the holidays. It’s a waste of time and money. You should focus on your family instead of decorations,” said junior Joshua Burch. Others don’t really mind if people or businesses put up decorations for holidays. “To be honest, it really doesn’t faze me. I’m not the one for the whole materialistic side of the holidays,” said Simmermon. Some people have grown up with decorations all their lives and look forward to putting them up for holidays. “I’ve had decorations my whole life, and without them, there wouldn’t be anything to project holiday spirit. Therefore we wouldn’t really feel that the holiday is really there, without the decorations,” said freshman Briana Miller. For some people, decorations for any holiday are just a way of showing what that holiday means to that certain person or family. Others believe in the very bare minimum of decorations, or in some cases, none at all. Whether families choose to put up decorations or not, many of them can agree that the best part of Thanksgiving is spending it together.
Many stores skip over Thanksgiving when putting out holiday decorations
S. Francisco/ The Bark
November 26, 2008
Sports
Fall Sport’s Most Valuable Players
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Football John King
Cheerleading Robin Rasmussen
Cross Country Ryan Mamerow
Tennis Jessica Ring
How did you feel when you were named MVP?
How did you feel when you were named MVP?
How did you feel when you were named MVP?
How did you feel when you were named MVP?
“I felt honored and surprised.”
“Well, when my name was first called I was really excited. I honestly didn’t think it was me because there are people on my team that work just as hard as I do.”
“It was an overwhelming feeling of excitement. It was an honor to be named MVP as a sophomore.”
“I was actually pretty surprised because I knew so many players worked really hard too. I would of thought for sure that one of the seniors would have gotten MVP. Overall, I was pretty excited. I was so happy because I worked extremely hard to get to this point.”
Do you feel that you earned this title? “I do believe that I’ve earned it. I lift, I run, I watch films and I do what I can for the team.”
Do you plan to continue your sport in college? “Yea, I hope to play somewhere in college.”
What does this title mean to you? Do you plan to continue your sport in college? “Yes, I’m really trying to get a scholarship. I’m looking into Bradley University because their team is pretty good. I’m also looking into the University of Central Florida, but I’m still unsure if I want to go out of state.”
“To me it means many things such as giving it all in my practice and meets, being a team player, and overall love of the sport.”
Do you feel that you earned this title? “I tried to contribute leadership and give back the support I have been given.”
Do you feel that you earned this title? “Yes, I think I contributed to the team because everyone pitches in to help out and win a match. ‘What the mind can believe, the body can achieve.’”
Volleyball CJ Hill
Soccer Jeff Szelewicki
Cross Country Alexis Capps
Golf Brandon Magnuson and Sean Thandupurakal
How did you feel when you were named MVP?
How did you feel when you were named MVP?
How did you feel when you were named MVP?
How did you feel when you were named MVP?
“I felt honored to be chosen from the many hard-working players on the team.”
“I was speechless for a second; I had no clue what to say to Mr. Rivette. The way I feel now isn’t really easy to describe. All I can look forward to is playing soccer again.”
“I was nervous at first, but then it felt good when he called my name for MVP and I had to go up and get it, knowing everyone was cheering for me.”
[Magnuson] “I felt flabbergasted. It was a great moment in my life.”
Do you feel that you earned this title? “I feel that I did my role as a senior by being one of the leaders and being a good role model.”
Do you plan to continue your sport in college? “No.”
Do you plan to continue your sport in college? “I would love to continue my soccer career into college. I have one of my high school games left. It’s the all sectional game, where hundreds of colleges watch some of the best in state perform. I’m pretty pumped for that game because then I’ll be able to sign to a school.”
[Thandupurakal] “I was honored to be recognized by my coaches.”
Do you feel that you earned this title? “I think I did. I worked hard all season and I did what the coaches said. I was always cheering my teammates on after I was done running and I’d always shake the other runner’s hands when I was done running.”
Do you feel you have earned this title? [Magnuson] “I feel as if anyone could have gotten MVP, but I think I out-worked everyone.”
What does this title mean to you? What does this title mean to you? “It means that you worked hard to receive an award at the end of the season and knowing the feeling you get when you win MVP.”
[Thandupurakal] “A lot. I aim only for the best and it’s my first big step. I hope to win state senior year and this is a good stepping stone.”
Girls Bowling will ‘spare’ no opponent in their upcoming journey to victory The Bowling Bulldogs plan on ‘striking’ a new path to greatness—and they’re not ‘sparing’ anyone or anything. Ms. Miller, head coach, says, “I look forward to seeing our Lydia Wells returning players, and I Features Editor also enjoy meeting our new bowlers. As a team, I aim to defend our division championship and bring home Grant’s first conference title.” Brianna Brugioni, who bowled the first-ever 300 on the team last year, is also looking
forward to a new season. “My goals are to average over 200 and to make it to state,” she says. She also hopes the team “breaks records from the past.” Tryouts began on Nov. 11 and lasted three days; after that, the team was picked and the season began. There are many new bowlers to the team, and the veterans are looking forward to starting the season again. “I’m looking forward to the first [match]!” says senior Beth Bengston. Brugioni, who enjoys the rival teams, says, “I am looking forward to our tournament so we can take first place for the second year in a row.” However, before they can compete, the girls will practice daily to improve where they left
off last season. Bengston wishes to “learn how to throw my ball faster.” Another member of the team, senior Serina Stow, says, “I want to improve my average by 20 pins.” However, as with any sport, there are challenges. “Any time a team loses 60% of its varsity squad, it can be a challenge,” says Miller. “On the other hand, I’m excited to see some of our junior varsity bowlers step up, claim their varsity position, and compete at the higher level.” Even though the season is full of hard work, there are always the fun times that make it worth the hardships.
“My favorite part of bowling is being able to hang out and compete alongside others who feel the same,” says Brugioni. Stow’s favorite aspect of the season is “the amazing people on our team and the memories we create.” Miller also enjoys the season, no matter how grueling it may be at times. “I love watching a team come together—cheering the victories and working past the setbacks. When they truly embrace the fact that we are Bulldogs, win or lose, and that we are proud to represent our school, it is amazing!” The team’s first match is a home game at 4:30p.m. at Lakes Bowling Alley on Nov. 26 against Warren.
November 26, 2008
8
Sports For the upcoming 2008-09 wrestling season, the Grant Community High School Bulldogs are expecting big things this year. C o m i n g off a conference Paul Kudowski championship last year, Staff Reporter Grant is hoping to go further into the season this year. The team is looking to avenge their loss to Libertyville High School, who defeated them at sectionals last season. “I’m looking forward to being the Force-of-the–North and get redemption against Libertyville,” says senior Tyler Dempsey. Other athletes have similar aspirations. Junior Jason Montemayor is anticipating “being all-state and seeing how far we go as a team.” With the return of many prominent Grant wrestlers this season, there are high hopes for another state championship. Even though Grant lost many valuable seniors from last year due to graduation, the team is still a very confident. “I believe that [last year’s senior wrestlers] leaving can be a positive thing for the team in a sense that we can try or be just as hard working as they were and lead the team to success,” says junior Christian Balderas. Still, the team will have to work hard to make up for the lost athletes. “We did lose a lot of seniors from last year, but we have a few three year starters and we have people who have been practicing with us for a while and should help out with no problems,” says Dempsey. Some key wrestlers to keep an eye on this year are senior Tyler Becker, Montemayor, Balderas, and the return of junior Lee Munster. Lee, who won the 119 lb. state championship his freshman year in the 2006-07 season, missed most of the season last year but is looking to get back to championship form. “My goal for this year is to receive another state title, and I hope to achieve this
The Bark
Wrestling team hopes on continuing its legacy with an undefeated season
meets,” says Geist. “Oak Park River Forest has a lot with an undefeated record,” says Munster. The athletes themselves even of talent and could be a threat to beat us,” This year in particular, Munster has a recognize the potential within each other. says Dempsey. “They’re one of our biggest lot riding on how his season goes. “I believe that there are many challenges as a team.” “I feel that I am going to have to prove Even with the tough competition, the myself even more after verbally committing to different aspects to the team but one of the most a school and because I moved up in weight,” important is to practice hard and push each team and coaches alike feel that an undefeated other during practice to be the best that we can record is within their reach. says Munster. “If we do [go undefeated], that means The school Muster speaks of is be,” says Balderas. The team is now expecting to have we are one of the best teams in the nation; I none other than the accredited Northwestern University where after visiting he “liked an easy program until Jan. 2009 when they will would like that,” says Geist. Munster agrees, saying that finishing the school, the coaches, and the wrestling be challenged with a line of nationally and state ranked teams. the season with a perfect record “would be a program.” “We have two nationally ranked huge accomplishment because every year we Besides the return of several talented athletes, one thing the Bulldogs always have to teams on our schedule in Glenbard North (5th) stack our line with tough teams in order to get their advantage is the coaching. Grant’s varsity and Oak Park River Forest (13th), and several better.” The season starts on Nov. 26 at home head coach, Mr. Geist, has earned an astounding state ranked teams such as Libertyville, Leyden, against Antioch High School, so come out and record of 192-30 over the years as Grant’s coach and West Aurora,” says Geist. athletes aren’tt see your Grant Bulldogs dominate. The athl h etes es as well aren and looks to add to his win total with a solid blind to the fact that different season this year. ul record, one of schools will be difficult to o Besides a successful n a sport is defeat. the most important things in pect lost respect, and there is no respect stants, for Grant’s coaches and assistants, who have proved themselves over the years for being successful in what they do. “They really know how to coach individuals and teams,” says junior Jack Kramer. Montemayor agrees stating that “coach Geist and coach Walls are very serious when it comes down to practices and meets but out of school they’re like one of your best friends.” Likewise, the coaches feel like the athletes stand out for their work ethic and dedication. “The kids that don’t give up also work very hard This season’s team hopes for a successful year even with the loss of last year’s seniors. Guest photographer/ The Bark at practice and at
Boys b-ball team gets all-star coach Girls basketball team gets a make over The varsity boys basketball team has new coaching staff determined to make this basketball season and beyond different from the past. Mr. Bosworth, the new head basketball Essence Tillery coach, plans on helping Staff Reporter the varsity boys pick up the tempo of their game this year by pushing the ball up the court on offense and scoring in transition. Ultimately, he plans on making Grant Community High School’s basketball teams the best man defense in the area. Bosworth and the boys are working towards this goal by running five days a week, doing weights three times a week, doing individual workouts twice a week, and participating in open gym twice a week as well. “The more running the better,” said senior Gilbert Sheehan. “I’m out of shape.” Both the athletes and coaches agree that the tough conditioning is just one aspect of what will make for a successful team. “We’re all looking to build a great program together. The kids are working their butts off every day,” Bosworth said. The boys not only welcome the vigorous conditioning, but are enthusiastic this year about their new coaching staff and see Bosworth as a breath of fresh air. “All I can say is that Bosworth brings a more up-tempo game and that we’re giving 100 per cent every game,” said junior Sebastian Russo. Junior Tommy Bronken agrees: “Our new coaching staff is extremely knowledgeable about the game and will surely help us achieve victory.” Bosworth in particular was not only a player here at Grant for four years, but he played
college basketball as well. Bosworth played at the University of Wisconsin OshKosh for his freshman year of college, then transferred to Elmhurst College and played there for the remainder of his college experience. Next, Bosworth was the assistant varsity coach at North Chicago High School for a year before coming to Grant to fill the same position for two years all before he became the new head coach. In a nutshell, “He’s a former player who really knows the game,” according to senior Austin Spohr. Besides Bosworth, the other coaches have their own experiences and expertise. Mr. Duffy, head sophomore boys basketball coach, was a head coach at Antioch High School for four years, a head coach at an Arizona high school for one year, and before that, he was an assistant coach for 10 years. “I’ve been coaching for forever,” says Duffy. The newcomer, Mr. Catanzaro, has been working with basketball teams since he was in high school and also played college basketball. The experience and prowess of the coaches, the players’ physical and mental abilities, and their overall preparedness will be put to the test at the Johnsburg Thanksgiving Tournament on Nov. 25-29. “We will be prepared. With the off season work outs, we’ll be ready,” said Spohr. Bosworth has a positive outlook for the season as well. “We couldn’t ask for a better coaching staff with Coach Behm, Coach Catanzaro, Coach Duffy, Coach Maple, and Coach Oler all on board. We’re all very excited,” said Bosworth. As the Ralston era ends, Bosworth’s era begins. Bosworth’s coaching ability, and that of the rest of the basketball staff, will be watched with scrupulous attention and all will see how truly good everyone is in this upcoming basketball season.
The girls varsity basketball team got a new makeover this season by naming Mr. Eiduke as head coach for the girls varsity basketball team.On top of the new coach, the team will also have an Alex Carr entirely new starting Staff Reporter lineup. For the first time in nine seasons, the girls basketball team is making a coaching change. Eiduke was offered the job last spring and he felt that it was a “great opportunity” to become varsity head coach. Eiduke knows that one of the largest tasks the team will face this season is to carry on the winning torch from past seasons. “The biggest challenge we will face is working to continue the tradition that coach Oeffling and his players created for GCHS girls basketball,” says Eiduke. There is already one noticeable change Eiduke has seen as the head coach of the varsity team. “The difference revolves around having two classes and potentially other younger students creating a team, rather than one class,” says Eiduke. The team has been very successful over the past few years and Eiduke is trying to maintain the past success. “In order to continue the program’s success, we must formulate a plan and work hard to implement it and execute it,” says Eiduke. A disadvantage the team has is that it is going to start the season with very inexperience players due to many seniors from last year’s team graduating. “We lost many talented players,” says Eiduke. “We will have to work on teaching our players what we want from them
and then learn from our experiences as the season goes on.” Even though the team has made numerous changes, the team was still ecstatic to start the season, and see what they could accomplish. “I’m excited to see how far we can get this season,” says senior Amber Potts. The Bulldogs know the expectations are high from the previous success, but they are handling the high hopes for this season well. “Of course there is pressure, but all we can do as a team is try our best and give it our all,” says senior Brittani Schisler. The players have embraced Eiduke and are excited for this season. “We played over the summer and got a feel for Eiduke and how he coaches,” says Schisler. “We are looking forward to a new season and a new coach.” The returning players are also excited about leading the team this season. “[The best part about playing varsity basketball] is being looked up to by all of the younger players,” says Potts. Eiduke has the team working on two key principles at practices that are vital for any team to be successful throughout the season. “Fundamentals and defense will be our primary focus at our early practices,” says Eiduke. Eiduke is also having the team focus on three key objectives throughout the season. “[Our] main goals are to win the Prairie Division, win the holiday tournament, and get better every day,” says Eiduke. There are a few other aspirations that the team has set for this season. “[The goals are] to win over 20 games, and beat Round Lake and Antioch,” says senior Gina Cellucci. Come support the Bulldogs as they attempt to accomplish one of their goals Dec. 2 when they face the Antioch Sequoits at home.