Vol 51 Issue 7

NEWS | April 17, 2015

D207 buys TMA builidng back for additional space David Kloc News Writer

D

PHOTO BY JOSH LARRAGOITY

uring spring break, the Maine Township administrative offices moved out of Maine South and into the Tool Manufacturing Association building located on the corner of Dee Road and Devon Avenue.

The move frees up space for Maine South to use for academic purposes.

“About a year ago, the district had the opportunity to explore the possibility of buying the Tool Manufacturing Association building next door,” said Mr. Messmer. “Once that occurred and the plans moved forward, we were able to purchase [the building], which originally belonged to the district years ago.”

There was a need for more space in Maine South, even before the new building was acquired.

“One of the things we know we need is some larger group space for [students],” said Mr. Messmer.

There were different ideas about how to obtain more space in Maine South.

“B efore the TMA purchase happened, we were thinking about downsizing the kitchen, he said. We have a large kitchen that we don’t use a lot of, and we were thinking about if there was a way we could reconfigure

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PHOTO BY JOSH LARRAGOITY

that space, or where else we could reconfigure.”

Once the new space was purchased, many ideas were generated about how to use the new space.

“We had thought about putting all of guidance down [in the new space], but if that happened, it really didn’t solve our need for big space, because the guidance offices are tiny, and that wouldn’t clear up a lot of space,” said Mr. Messmer. “Even the Deans’ Office isn’t big enough to offer a space for students. But this new space helps us accomplish this.”

With the newly-vacated space south of the C-wing, each student will now belong to a pod based on the first letter of their last name.

“The remaining space [in the current main office] and the Deans’ office will be converted into three guidance pods,” said Mr. Messmer.

“For students, everything about your life here is going to come out of the pod you belong to. Your counselor will be in this area. If you need an early dismissal, or you’re reporting attendance, you’ll come to this area, as opposed to having one attendance office that handles 2,400 kids.”

“We’re hoping that the pods become a home away from home for each of our students. I think it’ll be a

PHOT

IN WITH THE NEW District 207 purchased the TMA building next door to Maine South and also purchased a new sign. This building houses both District 207 administration and the Ralph J. Frost Academy.

more user-friendly system than we currently have,” said Mr. Messmer.

Now that the administration has moved out, the empty offices will eventually be turned into usable space for students.

“Behind where C-135 is, that area is going to open up, and what we’re going to eventually do with that is turn that into more large group instruction space and some classroom space,” said Mr. Messmer.

“We may eventually have a big space that teachers can sign out. It will be a cool workspace.”

The goal is by the end of this school year to have all the current Maine South administrative offices to be moved down the hall.

“This will then allow on June 11th for the current Maine South Administrative offices to start to become dismantled and reconfigured,” said Mr. Messmer.

ALL CLEARED OUT District Administrators have vacated The Ralph J. ALL OUTlocated District Administrative offices are clearing outbe of Frost CLEARED Administration Center in207 Maine South. Part of this space will soon their original space, located in Maine South. be used for instrucused

by Maine South administrators whileThis otherspace partswill willnow be used as instructional tional space for students. space for students.

April 17, 2015

| NEWS

‘After-prom’ takes on a new meaning Erin Clements News Editor

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rom is less than two months away and seniors are beginning to prepare for their last high school dance. A big part of preparing is the after-party. Post-Prom Party is a school event put together by students with the help of a group of moms. For the second year, seniors will spend their night on a ship on Lake Michigan with their friends.

“Post-Prom Party is the opportunity for seniors to continue their parting aboard a ship that will cruise Lake Michigan,” said Kim Eggert, head of the Post-Prom Party committee.

While Kim Eggert is the head of the committee, she isn’t the one calling the shots. Students are the ones planning the evening and getting the word out.

“It will be exciting to see how the students can make this event successful,” said Eggert. “Whether it’s fundraising to reduce the cost of tickets, advertising, decorating the trolleys, or putting together a play list of songs—the students hold the keys to creating a memorable event.”

Post-Prom Party is being held on

the Mystic Blue cruise ship that will be boarding at Navy Pier. The boat will take the seniors out on the lake for the rest of the night, before they return to Maine South to be picked up and taken home.

“11:00 p.m. until 3:00 a.m. are the hours we reserved,” said Eggert. “There will be trolleys at Maine South to transport the students to Navy Pier and at the end of the evening the trolleys will drop students back at Maine South.”

This after-prom party has been coordinated by a group of Maine South moms who wanted to give kids something fun and safe to do after the dance. Post-Prom Party gives seniors an activity to enjoy while continuing their good-byes once the dance is over.

“The committee wants to make [Post-Prom Party] a fun and memorable event for the seniors,” said Eggert. “Most kids want to dance to their play list with all the kids they shared their high school experience with one last time. This allows them to do that.”

The committee for the Post-Prom Party decided on this event to allow seniors to continue their fun with

friends after the dance while encouraging them to be safe and stay out of any trouble.

“Many kids want to continue the fun with their friends one last time and don’t want to be on the road heading to someone’s cottage,” said Eggert.

Once aboard the enchanting boat, the seniors will be welcomed by a DJ and a playlist put together by the students for dancing and a buffet of food for eating. The committee has high hopes for Post Prom Party to be a major success for its second year in a row, anticipating many more to come.

“Hopefully [the seniors] will knock their socks off with the fabulous DJ, available playlist [made by students], and food buffet,” said Eggert.

Seniors will work up an appetite from dancing all night with friends, which is why the ship will offer a buffet of different foods and drinks for students to refuel.

“There will be a finger-food buffet along with desserts,” said Eggert.

“Soda, juice, water, coffee, and hot chocolate will also be served.”

Although there is no designated

limit to how many seniors can attend Post-Prom Party, there are only so many trolleys to be booked. As of right now, there are four trolleys booked and each one seats 36 passengers. However, if more seniors sign up in time, more trolleys can be added.

Once all the expenses toward prom are added up, it can get a little costly. Seniors usually want to save as much as they can on the afterparty while still having a good time.

The Post-Prom Party committee is keeping this in mind by doing fundraisers around town to keep the cost low and affordable.

“We are sponsoring fundraisers at Potbelly’s and the Sandlot to help keep the cost below $75.00, so the final cost will be determined after the fundraisers,” said Eggert.

Since Post-Prom Party is considered a school event, students are given the opportunity to plan the event themselves while the moms on the committee help finalize the minor details.

“It is a great opportunity for seniors to demonstrate leadership experience for college admissions,” said Eggert.

Historic ‘Pi Day’ brings pie to the classroom News Writer

O

n Friday March 13, students and faculty of the Math Department experienced one of the most celebrated Pi Days in Maine South history.

“Actual” Pi Day was on March 14.

It was a very special date because it contained the first five digits of pi (3.1415) in perfect order. Many students brought in assortments of pies, cookie cakes with the Unit Circle painted on with frosting, and sugary beverages, such as soda.

The high caloric and sugar content of the treats surely inspired excitement for math within the students. The holiday is considered by some students to activate both taste buds and brains.

“Celebrating Pi Day is a fun way to have a party while still learning about math,” said junior Claudia Nadler.

A break from regular lectures to celebrate something that is still educational is an occasion that students

greatly appreciate.

Some teachers believe that Pi Day can get in the way of instruction or lesson plans, but this is not true in most cases. Although some classes may get carried away with the celebration, other classes find fun ways to still make it educational.

Junior Gina Johnson feels that Pi Day can be both educational and productive.

“A few of us brought in pie and cookies to celebrate the occasion,” said Johnson. “We had a quiz that day, so afterwards, we got to relax and enjoy some pie.”

Although academics are more important than eating pie in class, knowledge can still be incorporated into the celebration of Pi Day. COOKIES AND PI Junior Melis Ozkan brought a cookie cake to Mrs. Hey“I find the whole concept of pi den’s pre-calculus class to celebrate Pi Day. The cookie cake was cut with a diagram of to be fascinating—how it contin- the unit circle on it. ues into infinity and can technically never be defined,” said Johnson. “We Pi Day is a day to explore how ploratorium where people marched use the value of pi almost every day boundless a number that is involved around one if its circular spaces and in our math classes without much in so many daily calculations can be. then ate fruit pie in 1988. 21 years thought, so I think pi definitely deThe first large-scale Pi Day cele- later, the U.S. House of Representaserves the recognition.” bration was at the San Francisco Ex- tives made it an official holiday.

PHOTO BY MELIS OZKAN

Melis Ozkan

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NEWS

| April 17, 2015

Mr. States’ AP Gov. classes stage Senate simulation News Editor

L

ast mont h, Mr. St ates’ AP G o v e r n m e n t a n d Po l i t i c s classes participated in a U.S. Senate simulation. The simulation concluded the classes’ Congress unit and was designed to give students a clearer idea of how Congress works in America.

Students were assigned to either the Democratic Party or the Republican Party, depending on responses to political ideology surveys they took prior to the simulation. They were then placed into various billwriting committees, in which they had to draft their own legislation, which comprised the first week of the simulation. The Senate session began during the second week, when students debated the various legislation that was created and ultimately voted on whether to pass or reject each individual bill.

The Senate simulation has been an integral component of Mr. States’ course for decades.

“I started the Senate simulation back in the ‘90s when I used to teach at Saint Patrick High School,” he said.

“I had gotten it from an educational seminar, and it came along with me as I started teaching at Maine South. I review student comments at the end of each year’s simulation to find ways to modify and improve the simulation, but the idea of the simulation itself has been something I’ve done for nearly 20 years.”

Mr. States finds the simulation to be beneficial in providing an environment in which they can apply the information they learn.

“One of the major components of the simulation is taking students out of the AP College Board curriculum,” he said. “I’m certainly not trying to separate students from the text, but rather have them apply it in an alternate setting instead, which can be a very helpful tool when understanding the complex operations of Congress.

I want students to be immersed in America’s political system and really understand public policy when they leave the halls of Maine South, and the Senate simulation is designed to help in that process.”

Mr. States finds the simulation to

be one of the more enjoyable aspects of his course for students.

“Ever y year, students bring something different to the table,” he said. “And I find that is largely due to the differing personalities in the room. I feel that students enjoy being able to have a say in what is going on and let their voices be heard.”

Many of Mr. States’ students enjoyed the experience and felt that it was beneficial to their understanding of the curriculum.

“The Senate simulation was much more engaging and interesting than I thought it would be,” said senior Christie Sherbahn. “A lot of the things we went over in class were unclear to me until we discussed and utilized them in the simulation. Having that

hands-on experience definitely helped my comprehension of the material.”

“What was unique about the Senate simulation was that it took us out of our regular academic routine,” said senior Joe Dybisz.

“It let us mimic real-world Senate proceedings in order to gain a better understanding of our government’s legislative branch through an eventful process that proved to be a nice change of pace from the standard curriculum.”

“The Senate simulation was a wonderful experience that exposed me to the inner workings of Congress,” said senior Kamil Winnicki. “Trying to work together with the opposing party helped illustrate how difficult it is for politicians to get past political gridlock. Classmates turned into rivals as everyone tried to get their bills voted through Congress. It was hectic.”

Senior Brendan Concannon, who was designated as the President pro tempore, found the experience to be incredibly rewarding.

“The Senate simulation was extremely beneficial, in my opinion,” he said. “I learned all the procedures and regulations that a senator must follow. As the pro temp, I had to lead the class one day in Mr. States’ absence. I really enjoyed having a leadership position during the whole process and I really think that it has been the highlight of AP Gov. this entire year. If there was a class that was just purely simulating the Senate, I would definitely take it.”

This strong work ethic is what inspired Ms. Durkin, Steve’s U.S. History and Current Affairs teacher, to nominate him for “Kid of the Week” In her letter to WGN, Ms. Durkin said, “In an era where some people feel that kids today do not know the essence of hard work, Steven defies that opinion. When it snows, Steven, who is only a senior in high school, wakes up at 1 a.m. and plows snow all night and comes to school that same morning ready to learn at 7:45 a.m. He is never late to class and is even cheerful by saying ‘Good morning’ to me as we start the first class period of the day. When there are days that I feel tired and don’t want to go to work, I think of Steven who

was plowing snow all night.”

Though plowing snow throughout the winter is a taxing job, Steve also finds it rewarding.

“My favorite part of the job is getting the satisfaction of getting a job done right,” he said, “I know if I contribute to plowing a parking lot or doing the landscaping at someone’s house, it’s a good feeling to see the job get finished and see the transformation complete.”

After he was selected as “Kid of the Week”, Steve was interviewed on WGN radio. “[Being on the radio] almost sounds like a conference call and you really don’t realize that people all across Chicagoland can hear

you,” he said.

When Steve works for his family’s business during the summer, he mainly does landscaping. He helps to install drainage systems and also plants bushes and trees.

Steve’s experience working with his father has been a beneficial one.

“My dad is a pleasure to work with,” he said. “At times, he can be unpleasant, but I know at the end of the day how much stress he is under with the business, so I just go along with the flow of what he is doing.”

Throughout the winter, Steve managed to keep his grades up and his school attendance was unaffected, and he also maintained his spot on the gymnastics team.

PHOTO BY JOSH LARRAGOITY

Jake Kay

SENATE IS IN SESSION

Students in Mr. States’ 5th period AP Government and Politics class look on as senior Cassidy Gooding presents her bill. Mr. States’ 3rd period class participated in the same activity last month.

Senior Hawk is WGN’s “Kid of the Week” John Zaris Staff Writer

M

aine South senior Steve Mei was recently honored by WGN as “Kid of the Week.” The designation is bestowed upon those who demonstrate dedication to their community.

Steve works for his dad’s business which, during the winter months, entails plowing snow whenever there is a big storm. For several years, Steve has spent late nights and early mornings plowing snow to make it easier for others to commute.

“I enjoy doing it, so it’s really no bother to me to get up a little early and work in the morning,” he said.

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April 17, 2015

STAFF EDITORIAL

MS nap room not a day dream F

ollowing the recent move of the Ralph J. Frost Administration Center offices to the newly-acquired building on the corner of Devon and Dee, space has been freed south of the C-Wing where the offices formerly stood. While some of the area has been allocated for the relocation of the Maine South main office and SPS office, our school should seriously consider the notion of adding a “nap room” as a place for students to sleep during their free periods.

For many Maine South students, it can be difficult to get to bed at a normal time as they balance extracurricular activities, multiple Advanced Placement courses, and work obligations. After coming home late from practices or athletic events, some Hawks are prone to study until the early hours of the morning in order to complete their work. Such practices make it difficult for students to be alert and ready for school the next day.

Research has indicated that there are many benefits of rest for a high school student’s nervous system and development. In a study conducted

by Columbus State University in the spring of 2011, scientists concluded that teenagers scored higher on standardized exams they took in the morning than they did on similar tests conducted in the afternoon.

Their findings indicated that as the day progresses,

students’ attention spans have a tendency to wane, which makes it difficult to absorb lessons and can often result in students falling asleep in class.

In order to prevent students from sleeping in the middle of a lecture on Hamlet’s innumerable soliloquies in their English class, the nap room would help students re-energize and regain focus. Hawks could utilize the room to nap during free periods.

While some might suggest it would be better to solve student sleep issues by moving the start time of school from 7:45 to later in the morning, this is not a feasible option due to athletics. Many outdoor sports such as golf and tennis already fight daylight in order to get their matches and tournaments in before the sun sets. However, a nap room would serve a similar purpose by allowing students to be more prepared and better able to handle the pressure of the school day.

Currently, many fatigued students journey to the nurses’ office for a quick nap before their next class begins. This practice is quite popular and it is not uncommon to find all of the vinyl beds occupied by tired students.

Unfortunately,

students’ proclivity for naps in the nurses’ office takes up space for Hawks who are truly ill or injured and need to lie down. This competition for resources could be easily prevented with the introduction of a nap room.

The effects of a 20-minute nap on the human body have been proven to boost concentration levels and alleviate feelings of drowsiness that hold students back in the classroom.

Ps ychol o g y profe ss ors at t he University of Texas interviewed hundreds of students and found that those who took brief naps during the day had higher grade point averages than the other students surveyed who ignored such practices.

While sleep has often been associated with laziness, it has become clear through scientific research and multiple studies that very successful people prioritize being well rested, whether through a full night’s sleep or sporadic naps. A nap room may be a very cost effective way to boost test scores and student morale.

| COMMENTARY

Maine South High School 1111 South Dee Road Park Ridge, IL 60068 http://www.southwords.org

Signed letters to the editor should be delivered to LRC1, given to a member of the editorial staff, or e-mailed to southwords@maine207.org.

Southwords reserves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to reject obscene/libelous submissions.

Scan this QR code to e-mail Southwords Editors-in-Chief

Alex Ellyin Katie Krall Stephen Sakowicz

Production Editors Joshua Larragoity Rhyanne Noche News Editors

Erin Clements Kristin Camiliere Jake Kay

Entertainment Editors Katie Kaminsky Kate Papciak Matt Weiss Features Editors Monica Bielawiec CJ Johnson Laney Kraus-Taddeo Commentary Editors

Annie Krall

Alex Ponder Sports Editors

Austin Derrick John Lavaccare Sam Tinaglia

Art/Production Team Basia Chruscinski Ryan Kovacin N ILLUSTRATIO

RUSCINSKI

BY BASIA CH

Adviser

Mr. Stathakis

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COMMENTARY | April 17, 2015

What it means to wear the red, black, and white

programs a reputation as one of the most successful and competitive programs in the state, and being able to represent Maine South is an opportunity that we may sometimes take for granted.

Stephen Sakowicz Typically, most teams at Maine Editor In-Chief South always contend for much more ed Black White...Fight Hawks than a conference championship Fight!” Being a dedicated in the highly-competitive Central student-athlete at Maine South, I Suburban League. It is expected embrace the lines that Gary Koca that teams perform to the level of made famous in “Hail to the Hawks” excellence that the athletes that came and have become embedded in Maine before them demonstrated.

South athletic culture.

Winning a state championship Wearing the Hawk logo across or even a sectional or regional my chest carries with it tradition, championship is an accomplishment honor, and responsibility that is that some other schools hardly ever now an integral part of my DNA. get to experience with their sports Over 50 years of a winning tradition programs. Yet, at Maine South, it has earned Maine South’s athletic has become expected that athletes

compete for these titles each year due to the winning tradition set by the athletes that came before us.

As part of the baseball program that has won six Regional titles in the last eight years, I feel that carrying on these winning traditions has become a primary focus of mine as a player.

Winning isn’t all that we can hang our hat on, though, as athletics have taught me to first take care of things at home and in the classroom before stepping onto the field and taking care of things in the world of baseball.

I’ve bought into the concept that winning in the classroom and on the field is another signature tradition of Hawk athletics. I can only hope to continue to uphold these Hawk traditions as a collegiate athlete.

Not a practice, game, or open

gym goes by without a reference to past players like Mark Ori, Jim Walewander, or Joe Oliver, who gave everything for their team and paved the way for future Hawk baseball players to believe and achieve.

Their legacy, along with the fundamental program goals, motivate me to represent my school, team, and family every time I put on the red, black, and white uniform. Playing for the name on the front of the uniform rather than the name on the back is a staple of Maine South athletics.

Whether students are part of an athletic program or are able to represent the Hawks in another extracurricular activity such as the marching band, speech team, or chess team, we all share the same sense of red, black, and white pride.

fundraising is what made it so successful. Mr. Berendt’s arrival at Maine South brought along not only his stellar attributes as a leader but also a rejuvenated sense of charity and school spirit in our halls.

For this year’s fundraiser, we plan to give back to the community again by aiding the St. Jude Research Hospital in Chicago.

In order to raise money last year for the animal shelter, Maine South nobly participated in many smaller fundraisers, which were all ver y successful. The most noteworthy activities that students participated in were the Miracle Minute, coin wars, pizza madness, and Hawkfest.

Hawkfest, which is happening again today during all lunch periods, is a fun festival located outside the

cafeteria. Students can look forward to going outside and playing games like bean bags, entering in a piethrowing competition, and even doing races on an inflatable game course. There is even a dunk tank.

In addition to Hawkfest, other fundraisers, like the color run and the FIFA tournament, will also help the cause.

One of the reasons why our school thrived last year, was because all of the students came together as a community and worked together to achieve our common goal.

We all understood how even small donations could help, and how getting involved could really help the animal hospital.

Since everyone was able to vote on which charity to help, it made us more motivated to get involved with the

fundraising activities, because it was for a charity that we personally chose and wanted to help. This made it so that not only were everyone’s ideas involved, but also their hearts.

Last year, the ways that we raised funds were so fun and convenient, it was easy for everyone to help, and the majority of students were excited to aid a worthy cause. The large variety of games and fundraising activities made it so that there was something that could appeal to everyone.

For this year’s fundraiser, the goal is to raise even more than last year’s $19,000. Making sure that everyone is involved will also be a top priority.

To some it might seem that changing the world as a teenager is nearly impossible. But Maine South has proven that if we aren’t alone we can soar.

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Fundraising fuels Hawks to achieve a common goal

Maggie Harris Staff Writer

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aising over $19,000 last year, the Maine South school-wide fundraiser has been a very successful way for the students of Maine South to not only come together as a community, but help the community as well. As evidenced by last year’s success, when Hawks fly together and have a strong leader at the helm, we can make a real difference.

These fundraisers mean a lot to everyone involved with Maine South, especially since it is the students who decide where the funds raised will be sent.

Most will recall that last year, the school voted on giving all the money to the Wright-Way Animal Hospital. Since the animal hospital was devastated by a horrible bus accident early last year, the money that Maine South earned helped them out in more ways than one.

“I think Maine South is a great place with many generous and caring people, and are happy and excited to have the opportunity to help others,” Mr. Berendt said about last year’s fundraiser.

Mr. B e re ndt’s f ait h i n t he PHOTO BY HANNAH SIMPSON student body along with the sense JUMP ON IT Last year’s Hawkfest included activities ranging from an inflatable obstacle course to throwing an egg at of community cultivated through faculty members. Hawkfest 2015 features a variety of competitions and a dunk tank.

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April 17, 2015 | COMMENTARY

Avoiding spring fashion faux pas Katie Kaminsky Entertainment Editor

P

ale legs. Dry and cracked skin.

Extra weight leftover from, let’s face it, the holidays. Unpainted toenails. Should I keep going?

The winter season wreaks havoc on young Chicago suburbanites like ourselves. Yet, we are expected to toss on our shorts the moment it becomes slightly over 70 degrees.

I would much rather prolong the struggle of developing a summer wardrobe. However, if you are truly dying to break out the cutoffs, all I’m asking for is that you consider a bit of preparation for spring.

Put Your Best Foot Forward: Ladies (and maybe gentlemen), do us all a favor and go to your favorite salon and get a rewarding pedicure.

Flip-flops and bare toenails simply don’t go together, and I like to think that we are leaving the world a better place if our feet are well groomed.

Seriously, just go with it. Your athome pedicure with your mom might not be enough. Thankfully, there are plenty of spring shoes that are acceptable that still cover toes. Keds, Converse, and Sperrys give feet a rest from the fur- lined boots of the winter, but still allow for some coverage.

That jacket was adorable in December: There will always be that one shirt that served us well during the dreaded winter months. We all want to believe that exact same shirt can make a smooth transition into our spring outfits. Sadly, we are not Heidi Klum, and this is just not an option for us commoners. Spring is a time to be adventurous in outfit choices.

ILLUSTRATION BY BASIA CHRUSCINSKI

Have you seen all of the magazines at the Jewel checkout line? Spring fashion is in bloom. Pastel leather jackets, yellow hues, and breezy tops are all the rage this year. Have some fun with your style, and mix up your normal routine.

Sun in a bottle: Don’t ever let anybody give you grief about using a self tanner. If you want to kick off the start of spring with a bit of color, you shouldn’t let other people’s opinions get in the way. There are many options to choose from when it comes to self tanners. On the more expensive side, St. Tropez Self Tan Bronzing Mousse and Clinique Self Sun Body Tinted Lotion are two favored options. If you don’t feel like handing over $40, Jergens Natural Glow Moisturizer is available at drugstores for $10. You

What do

will get the color that you want while avoiding the harmful UV rays of the sun and painful burns. Plus, your new shorts will look much better if you don’t have the translucent skin of a vampire.

Dress appropriately for the weather: Chicago is home to great deep dish, Lake Michigan, hot dogs without ketchup, and unpredictable weather. For example, on March 23, Maine South students were graced with a heavy blanket of snow mere days after experiencing 70-degree weather. It is not uncommon to see completely weather-confused outfits all over school. Athletic shorts and Uggs never work together—you just look like a temperature-confused Eskimo. It’s safe to say that any time in March is a bit too early to break out

the shorts. The second half of April is typically a good time to start pulling out spring-approved outfits, such as shorts, skirts, and tank tops. It is important that you check the weather at the beginning of each day in order to avoid being the only person at school in shorts and a t-shirt.

Nobody wants to be the one who is freezing during the entire school day, pretending to not be affected by the cold. When in doubt, a pair of pants with sandals can never be a bad thing.

Ditch the Groutfit: On a bitter, cold, winter day, the only thing that seems appropriate is complete head to toe sweatpant attire. The halls of Maine South are flooded with gloomy color combinations of black and grey. Spring is a time to embrace pastels and neon colors, giving many an opportunity to escape typical black and grey outfits. Don’t be afraid to be bold, because spring gives us all a chance to try different color combinations. Red and orange blends are surprisingly appealing, as are mint green and pink. Once spring rolls around, the only acceptable time for full on sweat garb is during AP tests—otherwise keep them in the closet for next year.

Laundry is a must for spring: Yes, I will publicly admit that I have worn the same black pair of leggings three times in one week before. I am not proud of this time in my life, but sometimes we are all desperate. One of the only downsides to spring is that it becomes increasingly harder to re-wear clothing items throughout the week. It is easier to notice that you wore a pair of pink shorts twice in a week than it is to catch an excessive use of a single pair of identical leggings. This unfortunately means having to bribe a family member into doing your laundry and perhaps rooting around in the couch cushions for some loose change for new clothes.

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Submit article ideas or write a letter to the editors!

Deliver signed letters to LRC1 or scan the QR code on the top of page 12 to e-mail southwords@maine207.org

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ENTERTAINMENT

| April 17, 2015

Diving into Rosemont entertainment offerings Julia Klages

Entertainment Writer osemont added The Sugar Factory and iFly to their ever-growing entertainment district this past year.

Anyone who has an Instagram has probably noticed numerous pictures of candy-filled drinks over the past couple of months. These drinks are from the restaurant that seems to have every candy imaginable, The Sugar Factory, in Rosemont’s entertainment district.

Although it only has 11 locations in the U.S., it has been visited by many people including celebrities such as Kylie Jenner, Britney Spears, and Katy Perry. Reservations are encouraged due to the restaurant’s popularity.

Once a customer walks in, he or she will notice a waiting area with two candy-filled walls, as well as candyfilled tables.

All of the candy is available for purchase, and the selections range from 25-cent gumballs to 70-dollar gift baskets.

If a customer is unable to reserve a table, they can still be satisfied by purchasing and filling a bag with all sorts of classic and exotic candy.

“When I went, I unfortunately could not reserve a table on a very busy night,” said sophomore Kamila Kazmierczak. “But filling my bag with all kinds of different candies made up for not reserving a table.”

In the actual restaurant, the customer can pick through a variety of different food items, from burgers to desserts to “goblets.”

The goblet is the Sugar Factory’s

PHOTO BY JOSH LARRAGOITY

R

FREE FALLING

Junior Rhyanne Noche flies through the wind tunnel while a professional skydiving instructor assists.

While people wait for their turn in the wind tunnel, they have the opportunity to watch the fliers participate.

signature drink which contains various juice combinations and candies depending on each flavor.

The beverage is about 60 ounces in total. The price of these drinks is about $30, so splitting the cost is definitely encouraged.

“I first got very nervous about the price because I did not really want to pay $30, but luckily I went with a couple of people which allowed us to share the drink as well as split the cost,” said sophomore Sam McAllister. “I’m glad we did this because it was possibly one of the best drinks I have ever tasted.”

PHOTO BY JOSH LARRAGOITY

SWEET TOOTH

The Sugar Factory is perfect for those craving everything from a brownie sundae to a hamburger. Reservations are recommended.

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The other “regular” food ranges from prices such as $10 for burgers and shakes to $30 for the steaks.

“The food was decent, but the goblets were delicious,” said senior Erin Patrick. “I would recommend going just for dessert since it is a pretty expensive place.”

Other items such as delicious chocolate brownies and ice cream are available as popular treats on the menu. Anyone can go and enjoy the Sugar Factory experience with friends for any occasion.

The Sugar Factory is not the only exciting addition to Rosemont.

Another interesting feature is iFly, where people can test their limits with indoor skydiving. iFly is also located in the Rosemont entertainment district.

Actual airplane skydiving is often seen as dangerous. Luckily, people can fulfil their dream of free falling by skydiving in a risk-free wind tunnel at iFly. “It really does feel like you are skydiving because it is so windy,” said junior Haley Novak. “My favorite part was when they turned the fans on high and I went to the top of the tube and spun around and then they put the fans on low and I fell really close to the ground, but then floated.”

A single flight costs $70 for firsttime fliers, or $55 for returners. Party packages can range from $300 to even $950 depending on the included deals and the number of people. Although

indoor skydiving is on the more expensive side of things, it is well worth it.

“I do think it is a little expensive for the short amount of time you are in there for, but I would do it anyway, if you can, for the unique experience,” said Novak.

The experience begins by having the flyer go into a separate room and watch a short video clip on different techniques and tips such as how arms and legs should be positioned. Then the flyer heads back to the room in order to gear up for the flight. For safety reasons, each person must wear a helmet, goggles, earplugs, and a jumpsuit.

A professional skydiver instructor is present in the tunnel to help make the experience as safe and exhilarating as possible. The flying experience itself starts when the flyer enters the tunnel, where he or she is then lifted up into the air.

“Even though you are in there for only a short amount of time, it feels like a lifetime,” said sophomore Dominika Kolendo. “I would definitely love to go again.”

After the flight, each person can watch the other flyers indoor skydive.

Some party packages even include a personalized taping of each flyer.

“The best part was watching everyone’s face while flying because it was hilarious,” said sophomore Kristin Woo.

The last paper & pen

April 17, 2015 | FEATURES

class

Maine South says goodbye to the last Chromebook-free class

always paper, it is very difficult for students who have to strain their eyes to look at their computer screens,” said senior Valerie Asimacopoulos.

Margaret Cahill & Studies, like one published by Monica Bielawiec Pam Mueller of Princeton University Features Writer & Editor and Daniel Oppenheimer of UCLA, his graduating senior class will be support this idea. the very last class of students to Mueller tested college students on have walked the halls of Maine South their ability to both retain facts and without a school-issued computing come up with ideas based on notes device. These students offer the last from their lectures. insight on learning in a traditional The scientists found that the school environment supplied with students who had used hand-written only heavy textbooks and spiral- notes did consistently better than bound notebooks. those students who typed notes when Although the technological tested 30 minutes or a week after they world continues to advance, were taught the lesson. many students in the class This is likely due to the fact that of 2015 seem to believe when handwriting notes, one is forced that taking good notes to paraphrase and summarize the and writing by information rather than type exactly hand is the what is being said. key to “I think that paper textbooks are way easier to take notes from and to read than an online textbook as well as the fact that paper textbooks are a lot easier to use and find resources in,” said senior Savannah Theil. academic While hand-­w ritten notes s u c c e s s . may provide both cognitive and However, after this academic advantages, it is year, there will be no impossible to disregard GR students at Maine South APHIC t h e ot h e r b e n e f it s BY BA without Chromebooks.

Chromebooks provide SIA CH RU “I’m sad because I think that students.

SC INS KI there’s a secret art in writing notes, “We are helping and it’s the most effective way to students learn to learn something,” said senior Dan use the tools that are expected in Hopkinson.“I think it will negatively college and the workplace today,” affect our test scores.” said Principal Messmer. “I would Many students can relate to this also venture to guess that we will “secret art” found in the written word. see students more engaged in classes “By having textbooks that are not and the work of the class as more and

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more teachers begin to embrace all the incredible and varied ways that technology can be used in the learning process.”

Students seem to agree that do a lot technology is necessary in today’s o f o t h e r things like day and age.

“Learning with Chromebooks and play games and using online resources can really help w a t c h N e t f l i x ; students learning in today’s modern but it also has its society,” said senior Bjorn Olafsson. advantages, like at “It is simply necessary to be able to school when you need to type something, you have use and interact with them.”

Maine South’s class of 2016, easy access.”

Perhaps some of the currently juniors, are also in a unique position because they are the only disadvantages of Chromebooks are class that did not use Chromebooks rooted in the lack of student selftheir freshman year, but then used control; however, the benefits of Chromebooks cannot be disregarded them every subsequent year.

“I feel like I was able to learn more due to a few distractions—especially since phones and and retain more k n o w l e d g e “I’m sad because I think o t h e r p e r s o n a l electronics are during my freshman year,” that there’s a secret art a l s o c u l p r i t s s a i d j u n i o r in writing notes, and it’s i n i n t e r f e r i n g with student Austin Mose. “ D u r i n g m y the most effective way to productivity.

Technology in s o p h o m o r e learn something.” education seems year, with the to provide both introduction of Chromebooks, I didn’t really feel like I positive and negative experiences was able to gain or retain much of the to students. With a new, all-digital knowledge that was presented to me. student body at Maine South for the I feel like Chromebooks are actually a first time in history, only time will tell the long-term effects on students disadvantage to our learning.”

S o m e s t u d e n t s f i n d t h a t and staff alike.

Computing allows us to discover Chromebooks can present educational challenges while at the same time the world in a new way and help us prepare for the future, but conversely, aiding the learning process.

“I think it’s a lot easier to get the possibility exists that it could distracted in school with a Chrome- hinder our learning and retention. book,” said junior Nikki Burdyn. Maine South will face new challenges “In study hall and lounge, instead as it takes on generations of digital of doing your homework, you can natives.

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PHOTOS BY JOSH LARRAGOITY

FEATURES | April 17, 2015

WELL-TUNED As a clarinetist himself, Mr. Tkachyk enjoys working near musicians in the PA wing. His experiences in both Ukrainian and Czechoslovakian military bands significantly influenced his life.

Custodian’s hidden life as a musician Emily Donahue Features Writer

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espite student tendencies to assume that staff members live at Maine South, many Maine South staff members lead very different lives off campus. Maine South custodian Myroslav Tkachyk is definitely one of these staff members. A janitor during the day, he is also a renowned clarinetist.

Mr. Tkachyk has lived in the United States for 16 years, but he used to be a professional clarinetist in the Ukraine. He started playing clarinet in fifth grade in his home on the western side of Ukraine.

“My friends played clarinet in school, so I chose to as well,” he said.

In the beginning, Mr. Tkachyk had no way of knowing how far he would go with the instrument, just that he enjoyed making music very much. Aside from the clarinet, he learned piano and saxophone, but ultimately chose to make his career in clarinet.

“I love music, that’s why I started,” Mr. Tkachyk said. “I just kept going and going in school and in college, and I loved it. That’s why I chose that.

I chose this instrument, then I chose a musical school, and [took everything] step by step. It’s very simple for me.”

He attended a musical college and conservatory in the Ukraine for nine years. This was when his preparation and practicing was the most rigorous.

“When I was a college student, I practiced sometimes eight hours a day,” he said. “Then, less and less. When I was a college student, there was more motivation for hard work. If you see your friends practice, you do too. It’s like a booster for you. I worked a lot during that time.”

Mr. Tkachyk’s hard work paid off as he went on to play in bands and orchestras professionally

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after he graduated.

“I was working for a couple of orchestras, but most of the time I spent at the military band in the Ukraine,” said Mr. Tkachyk.

“For five years, I was working in Czechoslovakia for the military band, too, when the Soviet troops were there. I wore my uniform just for performances on the stage.”

Mr. Tkachyk’s favorite memories of his time as a professional clarinetist all come from the years he spent playing with the Czechoslovakian military band.

“I was working in Czechoslovakia with the military band for five years,” Mr. Tkachyk said.

“That was the best time for me because we did a lot of travel. I learned a lot of different cultures. I saw so many cities and so many people. We performed everywhere. So many stages, so many places. That was amazing. It was the best time in my life when I was working there.”

When Mr. Tkachyk came to the United States, he did not leave his work ethic behind.

“I retired from my job, so I decided to go over to the United States because my friend moved over here too,” he said. “The main reason was to support my family, with two kids. My son was a medical school student, so I had to support him. I came over here and I was working on construction for a few years. No choice, just work.”

Mr. Tkachyk’s friends have influenced him in many ways throughout his life, and they also played a significant role in his move to Chicago.

“I have so many friends who are here, especially from the Ukraine,” he said. “We have this very big Ukrainian community in Chicago.”

Mr. Tkachyk faced a lot of difficulty learning

English when he moved to the United States.

“I never was taught English, never,” he said. “I taught myself. The foreign language in my school was German. When I came over here, I didn’t understand the language, and it was so hard for me. But then, step by step, I got it.”

He is busy now with his job and doesn’t practice as much as he once did, but Mr. Tkachyk still has unequaled musical talent. He even performed at Maine South’s Coffee House (an annual variety show put on by teachers and staff) this year on Jan. 23 for the first time.

“I’m busy now, and I’m the cleaning guy now,” Mr. Tkachyk said. “My last performance, I was not ready. Teralyn Keith, who’s the department chair, she asked me the day before. She said, ‘You have to, you have to’ and I said ‘I’m not ready, I haven’t practiced.’ Then, last minute, we found a pianist.

We went to the choir room and practiced for two minutes together, and then went on stage.”

As he works in the PA wing, he hears the students in band and music which reminds him of his own time in music school.

“We are so lucky to have him working here,” Mrs. Bannon, the Fine Arts department secretary, said.

It is not uncommon to see Mr. Tkachyk stop for a moment to listen as he passes the practice rooms, or talk to students about how their music is coming along.

To the students who frequent the music rooms, as well as anyone who is looking to achieve a goal in any aspect of life, Mr. Tkachyk gives a good piece of of advice: “Work hard, then you will be successful. Just work, work, work.”

April 17, 2015 | FEATURES

Whether classics or clunkers, Maine South student vehicles show the unique personalities of their drivers.

SA DEBON

PHOTO BY ANALI

by Laney Kraus-Taddeo, Christina Johnson, & Monica Bielawiec Features Editors

PHOTO BY JAKE MELERSKI

ANALISA DEBON 1991 Cadillac Seville

Senior Analisa Debon’s Cadillac Seville is not the typical car you see in Maine South’s student lot. In fact, the Cadillac Seville model hasn’t even been manufactured since 2004.

D eb on’s g r and f at he r owned it originally, but she has driven it for a year now.

This 1991 classic has become her favorite car in the family.

“That was the car I would drive when I was learning how to drive,” she said. “It fits for me.”

Debon also lends the car to her siblings.

“We all share it,” she said.

“But I drive to school because I am the better driver.”

Debon has become accustomed to the surprised looks as she drives.

“I was driving and I saw this kid that I don’t know that well, and so I waved, but then my car died and then I was stuck there,” she said. “I guess he thought I was trying to talk to him, so I rolled down my window and said ‘my car is stuck.’ It was really awkward.”

Despite its malfunctions, D e b o n w o u l d n’t d r i v e anything else.

“I like the fact that it makes me look cool when I drive around,” she said.

KELSEY GROSSART 1986 Ford Convertible For junior Kelsey Grossart, being able to drive was a transition into adulthood—something she was looking forward to.

“My mom always had to drive me in the morning and it was annoying, so I got my license, I got a parking pass, and I got a car,” she said.

Grossart’s 1986 Ford Mustang LX Convertible makes a statement in South’s student lot.

“I used to call it the ‘Ratchet Mobile,’ but my friend Keanan Bender came up with ‘Gladys,’” Grossart said.

Grossart’s been driving the car since August of 2014.

“I had a German exchange student, and the car had overheating problems, but I didn’t know that,” Grossart said. “We were going to Six Flags, and in the middle of the expressway, my car overheats.

I pulled over, thank God. We waited for my grandparents to get a radiator coolant and we still went. I wasn’t going to deprive her [of the experience].”

With all its original parts except for the car’s battery, this Mustang is a cool car.

Y GROSSART

PHOTO BY KELSE

A RELL Y AMO DANN Y B O PHOT

JAKE MELERSKI 1967 Chevy Impala Senior Jake Melerski owns a 1967 yellow Chevrolet Impala.

“When I turned 18, my dad told me I could get a car and we’re both into classic muscle cars, so we found one from a guy in Nebraska.”

Melerksi’s classic vehicle, similar to the one featured on t he CW ’s tele vision show, “Supernatural,” can go much faster than the 275 hors ep ower engine mentioned in the series.

“It could get anywhere up to 500 horsepower once we get it in pristine condition,” said Melerski.

The 1967 version of the Chevy Impala was redesigned with coke-bottle styling, resembling the classic CocaCola contour bottles when the car is viewed in profile.

“I liked the long body style, and it’s a big car,” said Melerski.

Melerski is trying to keep the car in the best condition.

“I’m in autos right now, so I bring my car into the lab sometimes, but mostly it’s my dad and me working on it at home.”

Melerski plans to take care of the car for as long as possible.

“The plan is to get it fixed up and drive it all summer,” said Melerski. “I also plan on taking it to college with me.”

DANNY AMORELLA JACKIE VIOLA 1989 Chevy Celebrity 1999 Ford Conversion Van

Students can’t miss senior Danny Amorella’s Chevy Celebrity in the lot. As the car seems to be missing a few car parts, the rich history and funny quirks truly make it a timepiece.

“It’s got kind of a cool history,” said Amorella. “The previous owner was my dad’s friend who was the former head mechanic at General Motors. This guy had so much money and so many cars of his own, yet he still drove this little beater car to work every day.”

The little unique characteristics are also a part of its originality.

“Only the front speaker works, and I can’t lock any of the doors or else they will never open again,” said Amorella. “Also, as soon as you start the car, you can take the key out of the ignition, and it will still run.”

The car, naturally, is an attention-getter in the South student lot.

“I feel like more people know who I am now because they’ll see my car or they’ll hear it.”

This Ford Conversion Van can almost be considered the eighth member of the Viola family. This year, it is senior Jackie Viola’s turn to drive the hand-me-down van.

“The ‘Honker’ is like a sixth Viola child and I can’t imagine driving any other car,” Viola said.

The 16-year-old model, which gets 14 miles to a gallon on the highway, not only is painted green, but has a TV and disco lights.

“My family has had it for fifteen years and I am the fourth Viola kid to have driven to Maine South in it,” she said.

The Viola family has seen 48 states from the van’s wellworn seats, and has had more than a few adventures. “[My family] spent the night in it in a Walmart Parking lot because it died in the lot earlier,” she said.

Unfortunately, the size of the van causes difficulty.

“It can’t fit through car washes,” said Viola, “so we try to wash it by hand once every summer.”

PHOTO BY JACKIE VIOLA

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SPORTS

| April 17, 2015

Badminton team eying state appearance Austin Derrick Sports Editor

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he girls’ badminton program is focused on ensuring long-term postseason success.

“We want someone to qualify for state every year,” said varsity head coach Eve Muir.

In badminton, it is easy to get sucked into a game of rallies; however, Coach Muir has a different approach she believes will be successful this year.

“We have to play each game to our fullest...and play aggressively and go for the win,” she said.

This task could prove to be difficult, as this year’s team is one of the youngest in recent memory.

Senior captains Ashlee Kossifologos and Lisa Mak, as well as senior Paula Kossifologos and Junior captain Jana Duerkop are the only returning varsity members. Only two other seniors joined the squad, and two sophomores are playing on the varsity level.

PHOTO BY JOSH LARRAGOITY

DOUBLE UP

Ashley Kossifologos and Jana Duerkop prepare for the upcoming point as the Hawks battled Maine East on March 23rd at Maine South. The Hawks are 2-3 so far on the season in dual meets.

With the obvious youth, practices at the beginning of the season will be especially important.

As volleyball takes up most of the gym space during the spring season, the girls have to make their schedules very flexible in order to be able to practice six days a week. The traditional 3:30-5:30 practice is an option, but the team also has many morning practices beginning at 5:45 a.m.

While the practice hours can be difficult for the squad, Coach Muir believes the competitiveness and drive this team has shown is a good sign going into the season.

“The girls are very committed to being on the team, especially rearranging their schedules so that they are available,” she said.

Badminton has most of their matches through tournaments on Saturdays during the spring.

Over spring break, the Hawks battled at Rolling Meadows and East Aurora, finishing third and second, respectively. They have had a decent start to the season, winning two dual meets, but they have lost three.

The Hawks look to improve in the matches left on the schedule, including a New Trier invite on April 18. The road to State then begins with the sectional tournament from May 8 to 10, hopefully culminating in a appearance in the state tournament on May 15 and 16.

Lacrosse programs reach new heights

John Lavaccare

Sports Editor oys’ and girls’ lacrosse are two of Maine South’s newest sports, and though both programs are still considered clubs rather than teams, both are out to prove that they have bright futures.

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GIRLS’ LACROSSE The girls’ lacrosse team, led by Coach Solomon, is working to advance to the next level. Last season, they finished 12-8 (3-3 in their conference), and Coach Solomon believes this year’s team has the potential to improve on that record.

“We have put together what should be a stronger schedule than previous years,” Coach Solomon said. “We kept the team together over spring break, which should prevent the slide we’ve experienced in previous seasons.”

Over spring break, the Hawks went 3-3 against difficult competition from around the US, including a win over Franklin High School in Tennessee, one of the most successful programs in that state.

Their spring break experience

14 SouthwordS

has prepared the team for tough opponents they will face throughout the season.

“We traveled over spring break to play tough teams in order to get ourselves battle-tested for conference games coming up,” senior Kristin Schulze said.

They have a lot to prepare for, with upcoming matchups against two teams ranked in the top five in Illinois according to LaxPower.com, York and New Trier.

Keeping their defensive play strong will be a key to any possible upsets. The Hawks were second in the state in goals allowed last season, and they have continued their defensive success in 2015.

“As it has been, our defense is our biggest strength,” Coach Solomon said.

Another strength is an especially strong bond between the teammates, which makes them a more formidable unit in games.

“Our team is very close both on and off the field and that gives us an advantage,” junior Grace Borkowski said. “We trust each other to make the right decisions with the ball.”

BOYS’ LACROSSE The Maine South boys’ lacrosse program has been on the rise ever since head coach Camerin Staffel was hired entering the 2012-’13 season.

Now, the Hawks have achieved another milestone: the first conference win in program history, a 6-5 victory over Evanston. “[One of] our goals for the season [was] to get our first conference victory ever, which we did last week,” Coach Staffel said.

The next goal for the team is a deep run in the B division state tournament.

Last season, the Hawks captured their first playoff victory in Coach Staffel’s tenure, but were eliminated in the second round. This year, the players hope to advance even further in the postseason.

“Our goal is to win B division state,” senior Vinnie Paradiso said.

“Anything less than that would be a disappointment.”

In order to achieve that goal, building team chemistry has been of the utmost importance.

The team’s entire starting lineup

from last year returned this season, and many of the players have been playing together even longer than that.

“A lot of us have been playing lacrosse together since before high school, and this is the year we’ve all been working towards for so long,” Paradiso said. “Our teamwork on both sides of the ball will be a strength.”

The program has been recognized by scouts at the next level, as seniors Nick Gallo and Sam Daly have committed to play at the collegiate level at Augustana College.

“Playing for Maine South has taught me discipline, respect, and how to work hard,” Daly said. “Those three things are going to be key for next year.”

Gallo has seen the team’s practice pay off, both with team success and individual recognition.

“Playing for Maine South has helped me, as well as my teammates, get a solid grasp of the game of lacrosse,” Gallo said. “My lacrosse IQ and stick skills have grown tremendously because of all the work we do at practice.”

April 17, 2015 | SPORTS

Bender leads girls’ water polo in net

Staff Writer

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irls’ water polo has a plan to go into every game this season believing they are the underdog. With this mind set, the team believes they will work even harder and have more confidence to pull out a win.

During the offseason, many of the girls traveled to California to train and compete. To complete their off-season, some trained at New Trier over the winter, competing against state-ranked teams.

The girls believe endurance is one of the most important components of a water polo match. With this in mind, they have been conditioning with a lot of different leg and swim sets each practice.

Senior goalie Kalin Bender, has set a goal for herself to attain another All-Conference and All-Sectional nomination. In order to achieve this, she goes into each game with a positive attitude, and this allows her to instill confidence in herself.

“I can block every goal,” Bender said.

In order to prepare for her most important season of her career, she would ask her off season coach to push her mentally and physically to her furthest limits.

“When asked to be pushed on a

scale from one to five, I always said five,” said Bender. “I knew that if I wasn’t being pushed hard enough, then I wouldn’t be able to complete my goals of blocking certain shots by certain players now.”

Bender, also a captain for the season, hopes that her leadership abilities will lead to harmony between her teammates.

Chemistry is important to every team, and this desirable new unity will certainly help bring many wins and great success for the team.

Bender will be continuing her water polo career at Utica University in New York next fall.

Playing in New York never crossed her mind; however, after the head coach of Utica reached out to her with great interest, Bender went on a visit to the school.

She found an overwhelmingly supportive environment from the team and coaches, and she decided that New York was where she would be spending her next four years.

There, she has the opportunity to become a starting goalie or field player. Because being left-handed is such an advantage in water polo, Bender hopes that she will be able to make her debut as a field player during her freshmen year.

“I’m excited to leave Chicago,”

said Bender. “I want new experiences in my life, and I feel moving out to New York would be a great way to start my future.”

Bender and the Hawks got off to a good start this year by setting the bar high. They captured a 14-7 win in their first match against Vernon Hills.

The team looks to continue their early success and pursue their lofty goals as their back-loaded schedule

approaches.

“We have a lot of tough opponents that we are facing soon, but we know how to play our game and are motivated to advance far in our conference,” junior Lily Ellyin said.

Conference is scheduled for May 8 and 9, with Sectionals the following weekend at Glenbrook North High School. The State tournament will be held the weekend after that at Stevenson High School.

to have someone qualify for state.”

Wi t h t h e s e e x p e c t a t i o n s , leadership is a quality that cannot be lacking in order to ensure success.

“Our seniors have been the main leaders, but we have some young guys who have helped lead,” said Coach Young. “Seniors Nick Salgia and Dominik Spalinski have led by their examples both on and off the court.”

Salgia and Spalinski will compete as a doubles team this season, but will also serve as veteran leadership for some very talented young players.

“Nick and I have experienced a lot during our time with the team,” Spalinski said. “We are able to bring that with us every day and teach the younger members of the team that every practice and every match requires consistent effort and that

conducting yourself with class on the court is most important, not necessarily winning or losing.”

Spalinski and Salgia will be mentoring a young core with a lot of potential.

“Richard Mehl and George Grecu will be top young players for us,” said Coach Young.

Nationally-ranked freshman Danilo Kovacevic figures to bring a bright future for the Hawks.

“Danilo Kovacevic is a player who will lead by his performance on the court,” Coach Young said.

Both the seniors and the young players were playing at a high level early on, as the Hawks started their season with victories over Buffalo Grove and Leyden.

Tomorrow, the Hawks look to

defend their home courts in the Maine South Invite.

Now the team will begin a tough season fighting for the conference title. The Hawks are looking forward to a match-up on May 7 against defending conference champion New Trier, who took third place at the State meet last spring.

This, along with other challenging conference meets, will prepare the Hawks for a deep postseason run this May. “We hope to finish within the top three in the CSL conference tournament,” Spalinski said. “Nick and I, along with Danilo, believe we have a chance to qualify for the state tournament and place within the top three as a team in the sectional.”

PHOTO BY RHYANNE NOCHE

Alyssa Darlak

BRICK WALL

Goalie Kalin Bender holds the ball after making a save in a match against Maine West. Bender will continue to play water polo in college at Utica University.

High hopes for young boys’ tennis team Michael Greco

Staff Writer fter qualifying a doubles team to the State meet last year, the boys’ tennis team is looking to repeat similar success this season.

The players have put in work to develop many facets of their game.

“We pride ourselves as a team in putting in hard work to not only be physically strong, but mentally strong as well during the season,” Coach Young said.

The hard work put in by the team has led Coach Young to have three main goals for the season.

“Our expectation is to finish as high as we can in our tough conference that involves New Trier,” Coach Young said. “Secondly, we want to win our sectional. Our final goal is

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BASEBALL | BADMINTON | LACROSSE | BOYS’GYMNASTICS | GIRLS’SOCCER | TRACK | BOYS’TENNIS | SOFTBALL | WATER POLO | BOYS’VOLLEYBALL

Girls’ track ready to run in outdoor season Emily Stevens Staff Writer

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ust as their first outdoor meets are approaching, the girls’ track and field team is on the right track.

Coach Jeff Downing said that it is one of the most talented group of girls he has coached at Maine South, and the girls’ indoor season is proof of that.

At the Plainfield North Invite, the distance medley relay of Kalina Gardiner, Julia Sirvinskas, Casey Bomrad, and Olivia Niziolek won first place.

Their time was a 2015 state record for about a month.

Also at the Hawk Relays Invite, the sprint medley of Jasmine Williams, Stacy Pater, Julia Sirvinskas, and Kalina Gardiner won first place and set a new meet record with their time.

At the rate these girls are going, their outdoor season should bring new successes and records.

Maine South has had recent success in the track

events, but progress in the field events has also been promising.

“We are all practicing very hard this year and have high goals for ourselves,” senior captain Mary Grace Inserra said.

She also added that other runners are getting called upon to try something new.

“Since we lost a lot of athletes in our field events, Coach is trying to have each sprinter try out a field event,” she said. “We have found a lot of talent in the jumping events this way.

With this unique approach to finding new athletes for the field events, it seems to highlight new skills and talents within the team that normally would have gone unnoticed. This shows one of the team’s greatest assets, their diversity in power and ability to apply themselves.

To achieve these titles, the girls have been going through tough and mentally-taxing practices to

push them to go the extra mile. The distance team practices not only on the five-day-a-week schedule that the rest of the track and field team does, but also on Saturdays to ensure that their bodies remain active and in shape.

The outdoor season brings the new component of field events to track and field, so the Hawks have to be prepared to face different conditions while competing.

“The outdoor track has fewer turns and is a better material, and on long runs we are able to run in the street or the forest,” sophomore Maura Lally said. “Running outside is better for training and also far more enjoyable.”

The girls have some challenging meets coming up in April, including going up against perennial conference giants like New Trier. These meets will help them prepare for the upcoming conference meet on May 7.

another helps the players develop good team chemistry, and makes the season enjoyable.

“A majority of us have been playing together our entire lives, and we all have strong bonds that definitely influence how we perform,” Anderson said. “We’re really close and always have a great time when we’re all together.”

Although the team lost their opening game to Conant by a score of 10-5, they showed potential for a successful season with a strong four-run first inning.

“Although they came back and beat us, our hitting was outstanding for seeing live pitching in a game situation for the first time this season,” Suwanski said.

Richardson noted that the the season is a long one, and that the early results can be used for learning experiences to the younger players and the team as a whole.

“We are committed to learning and improving from each game,” she said. “Our goal is to be the best at the end of the season, when it will count the most.”

To reach this goal, some adjustments have been made for the 2015 season. They include more conditioning, new drills, and an altered warmup routine, which Anderson believes is now more efficient and beneficial towards helping the girls prepare for game.

Anderson also praised the coaches for developing the team and preparing them for the season.

“Coach Pasier has motivated the rest of our team to work even harder this year to win a Regional

championship and more,” she said.

These improvements, coupled with the desire to avenge their playoff loss of last year, has made for a talented, hard-working squad, one that has the potential to go far in the postseason.

Experienced softball team swings for the fences Julia Sirvinskas Staff Writer

A

fter a 2014 season cut short by an early Regional loss, the Maine South girls’ softball team is eager to prove themselves this year. The team is coached by former softball All-State recipient Ms. Pasier and assisted by Mr. Bellisario and Mr. Regan.

With 11 returning varsity players, including future University of Michigan softball player Courtney Richardson, the girls feel they have the experience to make this season special.

While the thought of playing in college is exciting for Richardson, she isn’t looking ahead just yet, knowing she has to give it her all her senior year to benefit the team.

“Nothing changes,” she said. “Our team has been working hard and I am excited to see the outcome of the season.”

Emily Suwanski, one of the captains alongside Richardson and senior Nina Anderson, has high hopes for the 2015 season.

“With many returning varsity players, many of us are really working towards being conference champs,” she said.

Suwanski also acknowledged the talent derived from competition amongst the players.

“Although there are so many seniors and returning varsity players on the lineup, the younger girls are putting up some good competition for starting spots,” Suwanski said. “All around, we have a very solid and versatile team, and I have confidence in anyone going into any position.”

The confidence the teammates have for one

PHOTO BY RHYANNE NOCHE

BATTER UP

Nina Anderson steps up to the plate as Maine South faced Loyola on April 8. The Hawks won 11-6 and look to continue their success in the conference season beginning in mid-April.