Vol 56, Issue 2 Southwords

October 11, 2019

1111 S. Dee Road • Park Ridge, Illinois 60068

Vol. 56, No. 2

BLUE

RIBBON SCHOOL!

PHOTO BY CHARLOTTE GEIER

For the first time since 1989, Maine South is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education for educational excellence.

The winner is...

Mr. Spiegel receives Those Who Excel award.

Page 4

See page 5.

College Crisis

Editorial: the College Board puts profit ahead of students.

Page 6

Packed up

Students increasingly fixate on resume boosters.

Page 10

Football Frenzy Fantasy football leagues rise at South.

Page 14

NEWS

| October 11, 2019

Administration reverses stance on new parking policy Luigi Laudando News Editor

T

hough students were initially only allowed to park in the A-wing and cafe lots this year, school administration has decided to allow students to park in the northeast lot, commonly known as the “Jock Lot.” “The initial changes were to implement separate student and staff lots except for the A-wing, where a few spots were reserved for staff parking,” Dean Marta Hall said.

The Jock Lot was intended to only be used by teachers, but lack of demand saw the lot sit almost empty throughout the school day. Teachers can also park in the North Lot, commonly known as the “Teacher Lot” and the blue-striped spots in the A-Wing Lot. “Due to the feedback we have received since issuing parking permits this year, the North East Lot ‘Jock Lot’ will become a parking lot that both staff and students can park in with the appropriate permits,” a Sept. 18 e-mail from the deans said.

There is also the possibility that the Cafe lot will close during the spring to accommodate building construction.

As a result, fewer parking spots would be available.

“The change was made to assist s e c ur ity wit h monitor ing t he lots easier and to prepare for the

possibility of closing down the cafe lot if construction needs would necessitate it,” Ms. Hall said.

Seniors needed to apply for the parking permit lottery. Those who did not have disciplinary actions or outstanding fines were eligible to apply.

Top priority was given to students in the internship program. Next, priority was given to students who choose to carpool with another senior.

Carpoolers received a shareable placard to hang in their rearview mirrors instead of a sticker for their windshield, allowing them to use it in either person’s car. Geographic priority was given to students that live either north of Talcott Road, east of Aldine Avenue, or south of Arthur Street. Some permits were also available for purchase through auction at fundraisers.

“All seniors who applied and met the criteria received a parking permit,” Ms. Hall said. “In addition, we gave out about 20 permits through fundraisers and about 25 additional permits to students who qualify through the internship program and classes that are taken at the other school buildings. All together, about 400 permits were distributed.”

If construction does end up overtaking the Cafe lot, all students will lose their parking permits and must reapply under the same criteria

PHOTOS BY TYLER HOUCK

BEFORE & AFTER

The jock lot was intended to only be used by teachers, which caused the lot to go unused (above). After Sept. 20 when students were allowed to use the lot again, the lot was full (below).

as the August lottery.

There is no guarantee that those who received permits in August will receive one in a second lottery, however. Those who lose their permits will be partially refunded by the book store.

“We will be issuing a different

style parking permit to those students who won parking permits in the second parking lottery. The initial issued parking permit will no longer be valid,” Hall said. “We will have more information by February or March and will share it with students, parents, and staff.”

District revises school dress code Lilli Bresnahan

News Writer eginning with the 2019-2020 school year, District 207 adopted a new and more modern dress code.

“The dress expectations are set by the district,” principal Dr. Ben Collins said. “There was a review process in the second semester of last year with parents, students, and staff from all three schools, and then it went to the school board for adoption.”

The dress code no longer differentiates between male and female dress. Although the changes may not appear obvious to students and staff, the changes were made to align the dress code today’s standards for acceptable wear.

“The dress code before was sexist, and in some cases, racist.” Dr. Collins said. “Most people will wear sweatpants, shirts, pants, yoga pants, so there is no discrimination against that.”

With the new dress code, students are now allowed to wear hats, hoods, fitted pants, tank tops, pajamas, athletic attire, and visible straps or

B

2 SouthwordS

waistbands on undergarments, all of which were previously banned.

Students have started to notice how these changes are impacting the school climate.

“I think it’s a great change to the school, and it gives people the option to wear what they feel comfortable in,” junior Owen O’Malley said.

To some students, the most noticeable change is the new hat policy. Students can now wear hats and hoods in school, so long as it is not a distraction and the student’s ears are showing. This is to make sure that students are not wearing earbuds during class.

“It’s cool, and it’s about time they made these changes,” senior Tim Bresnahan said. “I love wearing hats.”

Social Science teacher Mrs. Katie Kaye is indifferent to the new code, but recognizes that it

may have unintended effects. “[I am] interested in how it will affect Halloween costumes,” Mrs. Kaye said.

Although students have more freedom under the new code, teachers still can voice their concern if clothing doesn’t follow the rules.

Overall, the policy has been perceived as a success so far during the 2019-2020 school year.

“This updated policy ensures that all students are treated equitably regardless of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, ethnicity, religion, and body type,” Dr. Collins said.

“We modeled this after successful examples from other high schools in the area, most notably, Evanston. The ‘I’ in PRIDE stands for ‘inclusive’ and this change aligns with that.”

“I respect the freedom we are now given with the hats and hoods, and it definitely enables students to express themselves.”

- Jameson Schmeltz ‘22

October 11, 2019

| NEWS

South earns national recognition from Special Olympics Jack Gorman

News Writer aine South High School was recognized this year as a Special Olympics National Unified Champion School. Four high schools in the state of Illinois have earned this honor thus far, along with multiple elementary and middle schools.

Maine South is already classified as a Unified Champion School at the state level, but this was the first year they won the National award.

S chools from elementar y to college level can apply for this award each year if they meet ten standards of inclusion set by Special Olympics International. From there, a national committee reviews the application and selects schools to be honored if they have sufficiently met these standards of inclusion. These guidelines are evidence of a school with a truly inclusive environment where students with and without disabilities are treated the same and integrated into the school community.

A d d i t i o n a l l y, o n e n e w l y re c o g n i z e d Nat i on a l Un i f i e d Champion School is chosen from each state every year to be recognized on ESPN’s Honor Roll, a televised recognition of their recently earned National Unified Champion School title.

This year, Maine South was recognized as the representative from Illinois on the ESPN 2019 Honor Roll.

Many people have been involved in the inclusion revolution. Junior Tara Murphy is an officer for Maine

M

PHOTO COURTESY JACK GORMAN

INCLUSION REVOLUTION

Members of Maine South’s inclusion club Hawk Pals embracing respect at their annual Respect Week party in the cafeteria. The 2019 Respect Week offered inclusive activities every day for students to get involved in.

South’s inclusion club Hawk Pals and a Special Olympics unified partner.

“We got this honor because as a school we have come leaps and bounds towards inclusion,” Murphy said. “So many people through so many different avenues have gotten involved in the inclusion revolution.”

This title is awarded to the school as a whole, not just the club or individuals involved in the application. National Unified Champion School recognition honors every student’s strides to facilitate meaningful inclusion at Maine South.

“So many people helped get this award,” Murphy said. “This includes anyone who attended Hawk Pals Events or participated in Special Olympics Soccer, Snow Shoe, or Bowling. Additionally, we had a unified basketball practice with the boys’ varsity team. Members of the Orchesis team choreographed a dance and attended IHSA Special Olympics Dance Competition with

our athletes.”

Soccer, Snowshoe, Bowling, Basketball and Orchesis are the Special Olympics sports offered at Maine South. Soccer and Competitive Dance are unified sports, meaning students with and without disabilities compete alongside each other.

Murphy also credits this award to participants of Respect Week, as their efforts significantly contributed to winning the recognition.

Maine South’s Respect Week is an annual week that promotes inclusion and respect of individuals with and without disabilities. Respect Week is run by Hawk Pals and will take place this year during the first week of March. “[The award was] thanks to everyone who participated in dressup days during Respect Week and wore a certain color or theme, and each and every person who signed the pledge vowing to not use the ‘R’ word,” Murphy said.

Learning), and Associate Principal for Instructional Operations and Human Resources (currently Associate Principal).

The goal of these changes is to improve the district’s service to both students and staff.

“We decided to look at the administrative structure and how it aligned to our goals as a school last year,” principal Dr. Ben Collins said. “The current title of Dean has a connotation that isn’t as strongly associated with our mission because there are more responsibilities that were changed in the new position, and after discussion, ‘assistant principal’ was more in line with their role in student services.”

Luigi Laudando

Maine South also has multiple opportunities for inclusivity during the school day as well that contributed to the school earning this honor.

“Maine South has been fortunate to have Theatre Communications, which is a unified class,” Special Olympics coach and Hawk Pals sponsor Ms. Michelle Dwyer said. Maine South also has over 70 peers who walk with students with disabilities during the passing periods to help promote positive social interactions.

Recognition as a National Unified Champion School and televised mention of this award is meant to promote disability awareness and strides towards a unified world by honoring schools that have already integrated students with and without disabilities into one community.

“This will reinforce the importance of inclusion,” Murphy said. “I hope that when this is officially announced to the school, people understand what it means.”

Maine S out h will for mally recognize this achievement later in the year at the winter assembly on Dec. 13.

“The assembly will showcase the unified teams, Hawk Pals and the inclusive environment that is being created at Maine South,” Ms. Dwyer said.

Maine South will be awarded a national banner presented by Special Olympics Illinois.

“The assembly should be a good time, and it will be incredibly exciting to receive the banner,” Murphy said.

Changes made to current Parent-teacher conferences administrative positions become invite-only Michael Paprocki

News Writer reorganization of administrative positions, responsibilities, and titles will occur next year.

At the 10-month level, the new position, Assistant Principal for Student Supports, will replace the current Dean of Students.

The new titles at the 12-month level include Associate Principal for Family and Student Services (currently Assistant Principal for Student Services), Associate Principal for Student Experiences (currently Assistant Principal for Students), Associate Principal for Teaching and Learning (currently Assistant Principal for Teaching and

A

News Editor aine South’s parent-teacher conference scheduling process was changed this year in an effort to more effectively serve families.

In previous years, parents could sign up to meet as many teachers as they would like, with conferences in both the afternoon and the evening.

This year, conferences were by invitation only from 6-9 p.m. on Oct. 10, and the name has been changed to “On Track Conferences.”

Parents were invited via email in late September based on academic performance, attendance, and other growth opportunities.

Each conference lasted nine

M

minutes, and students were expected to be at the conference along with their parents. This change allowed teachers to be able to focus more on helping struggling students.

“We had less time in the schedule for them and were already squeezed for appointment slots,” principal Dr. Ben Collins said. “We knew something had to give. Many of the students and parents who really need to have a face-to-face talk with teachers weren’t the ones we were able to see in great numbers in the old system. We thought having the students present along with extended meeting times would be more beneficial for those who needed it most.”

SouthwordS 3

NEWS

| October 11, 2019

to save $44 Counselor recognized by state Residents million in taxes Sofia Veljkovic

Gabriella Laudando

PHOTO BY ISABEL GIBSON

News Writer

News Writer

M

aine South guidance counselor Mr. Tim Spiegel has been recognized by the Illinois State Board of Education for his dedication to helping students navigate high school.

Along with four other educators, the Board of Education awarded Spiegel with a Those Who Excel Award.

Mr. Spiegel’s recognition award was in the category of student support personnel.

Students at Maine South appreciate Mr. Spiegel’s attitude and experience.

“Mr. Spiegel was super helpful when it came to learning about college and encouraging me to work my hardest in class,” senior Tyler Bastin said. “As a senior, I can say that having an informative counselor makes everything so much easier.”

Students see Mr. Spiegel as not only helpful but also caring.

“Mr. Spiegel was always so kind and really helped me balance my classes and not overdo it my junior year,” said junior Karolina Bisiak.

The Illinois State B oard of Education picks its winners based on how candidates demonstrate concern for children and the impact of doing their job.

“I would like to think the most important part [of being a counselor] is to ensure the fact that students are getting an experience here that

L

HAWK PRIDE

Mr. Spiegel is one of five educators in the state of Illinois to receive the Those Who Excel award.

allows them to grow and develop at whatever rate they’re at,” Mr. Spiegel said. “It’s preparing them for that next step in their life and getting to the point where they’re ready to take their next step.”

As part of the application, Mr. Spiegel had to choose three people, a student, an administrator, and a fellow educator, to write him a letter of recommendation.

“The people that I chose to do this were selected not just based on what I thought they would say, but people that I’ve known and trusted for a long, long time,” Mr. Spiegel said. “In return, getting a written summary of what they see you as was probably the most treasured part of this experience.

You would hope that you have given as much as you can over a long period of

time, which is something that I have always set out to do. Knowing the fact that that’s being reflected in me, that indeed it’s actually what’s there, is a pretty cool feeling.”

Mr. Spiegel’s involvement at Maine South outside of his role as a counselor has helped him to become more helpful to students.

“Being in education as long as I have, as a teacher, as a coach, and now as a parent, the idea of education in itself is a tremendously important facet within a developmental model,” said Mr. Spiegel. “You take your prior knowledge on what it is you helped prior students with, my prior knowledge as a teacher, and my current knowledge as a coach and counselor and bring it all together into using the right techniques.”

underrepresented minorities, lowincome students, and female STEM students. Despite more passing scores, there is actually a lower pass rate.

The College Board is also now offering new resources to teachers and students to better prepare classes for the exam. AP Classroom, which features a bank of old test questions along with new ones specifically written for students, practice tests, study guides, and more, is new.

The registration date being pushed up has both advantages and disadvantages.

Teachers like the idea of their students being committed to their class.

“I understand why they did it,” English teacher Ms. Johanna Abend said. “And I like the idea of students committing to the class early in the

year; however, I can see how it might be a problem.”

On the down side, students feel as if they do not have a good estimate of how well they know the course material to perform on the actual test.

ast year, residents voted to approve the sale of $195 million in bonds for building renovations at all three Maine Township high schools.

This led to a slight tax increase for residents. Due to lower interest rates, however, District 207 taxpayers are currently due to pay $44 million less than expected in taxes.

The district originally estimated the interest rate on the bonds to be around 4.54%. Now the interest rate has dropped to around 2.97%. This lower interest rate translates to around $44 million dollars in tax savings for taxpayers. The district released a video on Sept. 5 outlining the savings.

“These lower interest rates have come at the perfect time for the savings and for our community,” D207 Board President Paula Besler said.

In addition, the district plans to sell the remaining bonds from 2011, which will save taxpayers an additional $48,000.

“If bond sales were a baseball game, this would be a grand slam,” Mary Kalou, Assistant Superintendent for Finance, said.

Construction is set to begin in the spring 2020, with the scope of the work still being planned by administration. Taxpayers will see the impact of the bond sales on their fall 2020 tax bill.

College board makes changes to registration Emma Crosson

News Editor eginning with the 2019-2020 school year, the College Board has bumped up the test registration deadline for Advanced Placement students to November instead of March. The actual AP exams will still occur in May. The College Board has implemented this policy to encourage students to commit to the AP test in advance. The College Board claims their data has proven to them that students who enroll in the fall score higher on the exam in May. The data provided by the College Board demonstrates an increase in passing scores from different ethnic groups, income levels, and STEM students. The score increase w as e sp e c i a l ly re c o g n i z e d i n

B

4 SouthwordS

REGISTER NOW?

The Southwords editorial board examines the changes to Advanced Placement exam registration.

See­­­ page 5 Another disadvantage is that students and families have less time to work out the financing of the exam.

Without any discounts from the school, an AP test costs $94. Students who register after the November date must pay the initial price in addition to a $40 late fee. Students who opt out of the test after the November date will also be charged a $40 fee.

The registration date poses a particular problem for seniors unsure if their college will accept AP credit.

“With the AP registration deadline pushed to November, students and parents are pressured into spending money on a test they might not even need to take, especially considering that certain colleges have a limit of credits or only consider one test from a specific subject area,” senior Milina Miulli said. “For seniors, deciding if we are going to take an AP test and paying for it in November only adds on to the stress of the college application process.”

Some students, however, do not oppose the change.

“I feel as if it doesn’t really impact students too much because no matter what, we still take the test at the same time,” junior Natalia Stepien said.

Menu changes frustrate students Athena Demeros

“When the start time changed to 8:20, Features Writer there was no time for us to make the he start of the new school year brought sandwiches and be ready for lunch,” she said.

Another unpopular adjustment to the about changes to all parts of the school, even to the cafeteria. Many students walked cafeteria menu was the elimination of the into the lunch lines and noticed the loss coffee station.

“I’m disappointed they took away the of certain food items, the most noticeable coffee because when I didn’t have time to stop being the loss of customizable paninis.

The cafeteria started the year by having for coffee in the morning I could just get it pre-made sandwiches which disappointed at school,” sophomore Jordan Karkazis said.

Even though some students purchased many, but the customizable sandwiches coffee throughout the day, there were not have recently been brought back.

“Lots of people didn’t want to buy enough sales to make coffee a profitable item the pre-made sandwiches,” one cafeteria for the cafeteria.

“We just weren’t selling enough of it worker, who wishes to remain anonymous, [coffee],” the cafeteria worker said. said.

Quest Food Service is the supplier for the This was not a change positively impacting the student body, but rather a Maine South cafeteria and all of District 207.

Anthony Ferazzuolo, the Quest Food change to make the job of a cafeteria worker District Manager helps easier. decide what food is “The supply company “I was really upset when served in the cafeteria. thought it would be easier the cafeteria only sold “Q uest has a for us and food could be portioned more equally pre-made paninis...I liked m i n i mu m o f t w o between sandwiches,” she being able to pick the type food committees a year where a group of said. of sandwich I wanted.” students selected by The customizable -Caitlin Wallace ‘22 the Maine South dean paninis have recently gather and have open been brought back because students were not purchasing as many of dialogue with our Director of Maine South, Tony Puzzolo,” Ferrazzuolo said. the pre-made paninis.

This meeting makes decisions on the Sophomore Caitlyn Wallace, was very types of food to be offered in the Maine happy with the return of the paninis.

“I was really upset when the cafeteria South cafeteria.

“We discuss what is working, what is not only sold pre-made paninis because that is one of the healthier options in the cafeteria working, what do you like, what do you not and I liked being able to pick the type of like. We also ask the students what they would like to see and try to implement those items sandwich I wanted,” Wallace said.

Another change in the cafeteria lines if feasible,” Ferazzuolo said.

Even though students have different this year is the absence of breakfast opinions on cafeteria changes, many can sandwiches and burritos.

According to the cafeteria worker, this is agree on one thing: the menu option changes have helped to shorten lunch lines. due to the later start time this year.

T

Salty Jenny by Jennifer Nikolic

October 11, 2019

| NEWS

South earns National Blue Ribbon School recognition Georgia Fosse

Editor-in-Chief long with 362 schools across the nation, Maine South recently received National Blue Ribbon School recognition from the United States Department of Education.

The National Blue Ribbon Honor acknowledges public and private schools for their overall academic excellence and efforts to close achievement gaps across multiple student groups.

Maine South had to be recommended by the state of Illinois, and the application process officially started in November and concluded in March.

The submission required six different components: Eligibility Certification, Demographic Data, Summary, Curriculum and Instruction, School Supports, and Strategies for Academic Success.

Since the application contained numerous parts, dedication was required from all committee members. Staff poured numerous hours into interviewing department chairs and other stakeholders to collect data for the application and writing.

“The application is particularly arduous,” math teacher and committee member Ms. Beth Ann Ball said.

While the title is important, the process also functioned as an opportunity to learn. The significant reflection opportunity gave faculty insight on what to improve. “[The application process] helped isolate some things we can improve on as a school and larger community and helped us celebrate what’s going well,” principal Dr. Ben Collins said.

This recognition not only shows that Maine South is revered for its academics, but also for providing equal opportunity to the entire student body.

“As a mathematics educator, I am always concerned if all students have equal access to the Internet or to academic supports or to quality help in choosing a career,” Ms. Ball said.

“The Blue Ribbon status indicates that Maine South passed a rigorous national standard that we do have the structures and supports in place that all students can receive a top education.”

The Blue Ribbon Award doesn’t only reward the committee members’ work from behind the scenes, but the entire Maine South community.

“The students and staff work so hard every day, so having the rest of the country take notice is great for our community,” Dr. Collins said.

A

Student Loans

SouthwordS 5

COMMENTARY

| October 11, 2019

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

GRAPHIC BY CHARLOTTE GEIER

Scan this QR code to e-mail Southwords

STAFF EDITORIAL Student interests should come before profit C iting the goal of increasing student AP scores, the College Board recently released a new standard for test registration and preparation for the 2019-2020 school year. The College Board’s new and primary preparation tool is AP Classroom, an online resource for students. This addition is meant to benefit students with its new features: progress checks with individual feedback, instructional support, and more practice resources that parallel the structure of AP tests.

However, with the addition of this new resource also came another change to AP tests: registration and payment for tests are now due by Nov. 1, four-and-a-half months earlier than the previous March deadline.

The College Board decided to implement this new system after a trial run in the 2017-2018 school year. In its pilot programs, passing scores of three and higher increased across multiple racial and social groups.

The College Board argues that the results from their trial runs has shown an increase in scores, specifically for low-income students.

Despite their findings, the charts are confusing and misleading to readers.

The charts accompanying these claims highlight perceived student gains without actually explaining what the data accounted for. Though there were more total passing scores for low-income students as a result of an increased number a taking the test, the pass rate was actually lower percentage (35.7% with the mid-March deadline versus 23.6% with the Nov. 1 deadline) as a result

6 SouthwordS

of early registration. country, AP tests have been integrated One of the most enticing features as the primary type of accelerated of AP exams is the potential to earn courses offered to upperclassmen. college credit. However, if students In addition, high schools are often aren’t yet familiar with the majority ranked based upon the number of AP of the course content, then they won’t classes offered to students, resulting know if they are ready to take the test. in a push for students to take AP Students only learn around a tests regardless of whether they will quarter of the content of an AP class succeed or not.

by November. In March, however, The College Board has undue students are almost done learning control over schools that has allowed the required curriculum. This drastic them to dictate our education. While change in the registration deadline the College Board is considered a has forced students to decide if non-profit organization, the company they’re going to take the exam before earns over one billion dollars in they even learn half of the content. revenue annually.

This earlier registration deadline The College Board has claimed that also coincides with multiple early the addition of AP Classroom, despite action deadlines for colleges. While the earlier registration, will actually it’s possible this is a coincidence, diminish profit. However, these the new deadline numbers do forces seniors to “Though there were more not account for register for AP population total passing scores for low the tests before they of students that know whether income students as a result will be forced the school they of an increased number to register for will attend even AP tests they a c c e p t s t h e s e taking the test, the pass might not have scores. rate was actually lower.” taken after being Both of these exposed to more drawbacks of the earlier deadline content or knowing their post-high will result in students and parents school plans in March. pouring hundreds of dollars into It i s t h e C o l l e g e B o a r d’s tests before they know it is beneficial responsibility to be transparent to do so. If students do register by with its customers and prove that it Nov. 1 and decide to not take the prioritizes students above profit. If test, they will incur an additional the College Board is serious about $40 cancellation fee from the College improving student outcomes, they Board. should change back to the spring Students and parents have no registration deadline, allowing choice but to invest money into students the opportunity to decide these tests, despite the results being when they are comfortable with a ambiguous at best. At Maine South course and sure they want to take a and many other schools across the test before they must actually register.

S outhw ord s i s a s tu d e nt - r u n publication designed as a public forum for student opinion and balanced reporting on topics relevant to the Maine South community.

Unsigned staff editorials represent the consensus opinion of the Southwords Editorial Board. Personal commentaries represent the opinion of the author alone and do not represent the opinions of the publication nor District 207.

Stu d e nt p ar t i c ip at i on i n t h e newspaper, whether through readership, submitting articles, or voicing comments or concerns, is encouraged.

Signed letters to the editor can be delivered to the new Southwords office (B115B), 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.

Editors-in-Chief

Georgia Fosse Charlotte Geier Erin Martin

News Editors

Emma Crosson Luigi Laudando

Commentary Editors Gabriel Blindauer Laura Pomilia Features Editors Victoria Murphy Lily Niziolek Elizabeth Ryser Entertainment Editors Veronica Espinoza Ella Melcher Kristen Meyer Sports Editors

Sam Corbett Tyler Houck Amalia Laskaris

Production Editors Keeley Flynn Isabel Gibson Aly Trunzo Editorial Assistant Adviser

Jessie Beck

Mr. Stathakis

October 11, 2019

| COMMENTARY

Vaping industry not doing enough to curb usage by teens

Adam Ferraro Commentary Writer t was quite apparent to me from the first time I heard about vaping that it would become a serious, life-threatening issue. It is mind boggling that Juul and other companies are only now seeming to care about the health and safety of its consumers. Only now, after 19 deaths and counting, after hundreds of hospitalizations due to respiratory failure, has Juul decided that they should try to put a stop to this epidemic. While Juul hasn't exactly forced vape devices into the hands of teenagers around the world, they have seen this problem unfold and have done nothing to stop it.

Juul’s motives were made transparent when they began to sell mango and other fruit flavored pods. If this device is truly advertised to help individuals quit their smoking habit, then why is it being marketed under fruity flavors that would be most appealing to young people? It seems like a safe presumption to say that most former smokers are looking for something familiar: a tobacco or menthol-flavored pod which will act as a replacement for cigarettes, not something that is the polar opposite. Juul knew exactly what the consequences would be when they put these products on the market.

Now, it is only after numerous state bans and proposed federal bans that these products are finally being removed from store shelves. Even after these vape devices were shown to be highly used by and addictive to teenagers, Juul chose to

I

prioritize revenue over doing the right thing. Before decision is now predisposing them to a life of this epidemic began, the most Juul had done in an addiction.

Juul knew that teenagers were using their attempt to curb the number of teenage users was to warn them about its adverse effects. They also product, even if that truly wasn’t their intention, renamed many pod flavors from things like “cool and they are still continuing to sell fruit-flavored pods where they aren’t currently banned. Their cucumber” to “cucumber."

As many predicted, these changes were not motives are even more clear, especially now that very productive. Nothing was taken off the market, the cigarette manufacturer, Altria, has recently and in select states only (Illinois included) the age purchased a large stake in Juul. Juul is now being requirement of being 21 to purchase vape products paid billions from Big Tobacco, another industry was placed into effect, specifically online, with up that preys on its consumers without caring about their health. to 89% of teens attempting to buy one It’s most ironic how one succeeding in doing so. Once again, of the largest vape device it was only when numerous manufacturers who had the state governments banned sole intent of providing a sales that progress actually “healthier” alternative to occurred. smoking is now partially Juul revamped its owned by the company online age-verification who created the initial process, specific flavors problem. A business of pods are now being does have to care about banned, and places like their revenue if they San Francisco have banned want to stay afloat, Juul e-cigarettes outright. Now included, but when that the Trump administration business is negatively affecting is proposing legislation for the health of thousands of teens a total ban on “most flavored ILLUSTRATION BY ISABEL GIBSON across the US, to the point where e-cigarettes."

While this might impede people who have some are literally dying, it is apparent that the wanted to use vape products to quit smoking, at the company's greed is the sole priority and that they same time, a Juul pod contains so much nicotine are no longer concerned about any backlash they that it seems as though Juul is trying to just get may face.

Juul is manipulating its consumers for profit, smokers hooked onto something else.

Recently, the Population Assessment of Tobacco and going the way of the tobacco industry. If and Health (PATH) provided data that showed Juul wants to take initiative and hold themselves teens were three times more likely to begin smoking accountable, they need to take more action, later in life after using a vape device. For those understand their role in this mess, and attempt teenagers who are using a vape device as their some form of monetary recompense. If not, the introduction to a nicotine-based product, that problem will only continue to get worse.

VSCO Girls shouldn't be stereotyped Charlotte Geier Editor-In-Chief air scrunchies, Hydroflasks, friendship bracelets, Birkenstocks, puka shell necklaces, and more have all become synonymous with a new description of many teenage girls, all of whom are now labeled as “VSCO girls.” This mocking phrase is meant to describe someone who follows trends that stemmed from the app VSCO, calling them out for valuing these "basic" material items.

While I’m well aware that this mockery is all in good fun, I think it speaks to our tendency to group people into distinct categories, even when it’s not necessary. Whether we are aware of it or not, we are constantly separating people based on their appearances and personalities while

H

evaluating these groups based on our own prior experiences with similar people. We all are guilty of stereotyping—making negative assumptions before we’ve even spoken a word to someone.

We may not always realize it, but in high school, we still perceive our peers in the same way that prior generations did: jocks, popular girls, try-hards, PA-wingers, alternative kids… the list goes on. If someone doesn’t fit neatly into one of these boxes, we just group them into one category unless we really get to know that person. Only once we get to talking with people do we start to break down these barriers and stop making assumptions about our peers. The consequences of judging people can range from missing out on meeting someone new, to, at worst, creating a culture of exclusion in our community.

Although we might not be able to stop ourselves from categorizing people, the only way to facilitate a truly inclusive environment is to push ourselves to think positively about these groups, not degrade them. In celebrating the accomplishments and

differences of each “set” of people, we can normalize these differences and make being a part of a group a positive thing, rather than a stigmatized set of characteristics everyone is tied to.

In the case of “VSCO girls,” it can be satisfying to put a superficial label on the group of middle school and high school girls who are probably too focused on their appearance. Yet seeing groups like this one in the same light as others­­­­—instead of excluding them—is the best way to encourage actual acceptance of people of various backgrounds and identities.

We have to start with these seemingly harmless groupings, turning them into positive labels instead of derisive ones. Only then can we move on to eliminating more pressing stereotypes that exist today.

Therefore, the next time you see a typical "VSCO girl," however ridiculous it may sound, resist the ridicule and instead compliment their scrunchies or their abundance of friendship bracelets. Ultimately, that's where change starts.

SouthwordS 7

COMMENTARY

| October 11, 2019

Laura Pomilia Commentary Editor

F

or most people, Halloween is considered the scariest holiday.

For high school seniors, however, Halloween is merely a harbinger of the scariest day of the year: Nov. 1, the day early decision and early action applications are due for most colleges. Because early decision and early action are so popular among applicants, this day is understandably stressful.

However, the admissions process does not end when an applicant presses "submit." The type of application one chooses can have a significant effect on their admission.

The college application process, particularly regarding the different application periods, leaves something to be desired. As we all saw during what was deemed the “College Admissions Scandal” in early 2019, college admissions is far from the merit-based process it claims to be.

Since this scandal, it’s clear that American universities are trying to curb the potential for something similar to happen again. Part of this particular scandal involved standardized test score fraud. Many schools, such as the University of Chicago, are now becoming test optional. Test-optional schools allow students to choose whether they would like to send their standardized test scores, which further helps level the playing field for students who may not be as fortunate enough to be able to afford any kind of prep or study help for these tests.

However, this has not been enough. The college admissions process is deeply flawed, particularly in regards to the socioeconomic status of the applicants.

The different types of admission demonstrate this perfectly. Early decision is a binding admission decision, in which applicants are required to commit and withdraw all other applications if accepted.

Because of the binding contract, early decision is a substantial monetary commitment, and many families in America cannot afford this.

Unfortunately, this can highly affect the chances of a student’s admittance to a college. It is widely

8 SouthwordS

understood among high school seniors that it is “easier” to get into a college under the early decision contract. Colleges accept a greater percentage of students who apply early decision than students that apply early action or regular decision.

Admissions counselors agree.

“From a statistical standpoint, we accept about 38% of our applicants...

The rate about doubles for early decision candidates," admissions counselor David Trott from the College of William & Mary said.

This is not an uncommon occurrence. Admission yield, which is the percentage of students who were accepted and end up committing to the school, is understandably important for colleges, and colleges want to be admitting students who will come to their school. Retention rate, which is the percentage of students who stay at the school all four years, is also important since school ranking are based on this.

The increased acceptance rate for early decision candidates can be attributed to the fact that colleges want to admit students that will attend, and they know that any student they accept via early decision will attend their school.

This makes sense. However, with the monetary binding contract that comes along with early decision, many students who cannot afford early decision are forced to apply regular decision, thus decreasing their admission chances significantly—in the case of the College of William and Mary, for example, by almost 50%.

Along with this, many highlyranked universities, such as Boston University, New York University, and

iNFOGRAPHIC BY KEELEY FLYNN

College admissions options harm lower-income students

most of the Ivy League universities do not offer early action—the application option that gives students an early response from a college but does not require a commitment until later in the spring. This leaves regular decision as the only application option.

This rationale is also supported statistically. In 2018, the overall acceptance rates of the eight Ivy League colleges averaged out to 6.99%, with the early decision acceptance rate averaging 21.81%.

Furthermore, the percentage of the freshman class filled by early decision applicants was 43.34%—almost half of the freshman class. Students who apply early decision to highly-ranked universities have a much better chance of being accepted, because they have fewer students to compare to.

Moreover, college is becoming increasingly expensive. For families that are already struggling with the cost, the fate of their child’s admission

ILLUSTRATION BY LILY WENING

decision being based on which type of application they choose can be daunting, especially with the statistics that support the notion that applying early decision would get the best results.

Financial aid is critical in affording college for the majority of families and students. However, with early decision, students do not usually get their financial aid package until they are admitted. And because early decision is binding, colleges and universities are less inclined to give merit-based aid, as one has already committed to attend.

To provide more equity in the admissions process, colleges should offer early decision, early action, and regular decision. Having early action would help by allowing more choices to prospective students, particularly for those who would otherwise be forced to apply regular decision. If all schools were required to have all three types of admission decision, this would allow for students to still have the perk of applying first and demonstrating early interest, but not necessarily under a monetary binding contract. Applying through early action also allows students to compare multiple financial aid packages from multiple schools, which would aid students from lower-income families.

Applying to college is a stressful time in a student’s life. This should not be exacerbated by financial constraints, and the chances of admission to a college should not be based on the financial state of a student’s family. It should be based on a student’s academic and social fit, and every student should have the chance to apply to a college and have a fighting chance at being admitted, regardless of socioeconomic status.

October 11, 2019 |FEATURES

We’ve got spirit! Yes we do?

Juliana Parisi Features Writer

W

hether it’s the designs of the window paintings, the hallway and dance decorations, or the parade floats, there is a constant effort at Maine South to promote school spirit.

Despite these efforts, spirit can often run low.

“This is a problem that goes way deeper,” senior Greta Miller, president of Student Council, said. “I think it is a problem in our attitude towards school.”

However, not every school in the district lacks school spirit.

“I had the same job at Maine West,” Mr. Dave Berendt, Assistant Principal of Students Activities, said.

“I was there for twenty years. I, for some reason, take it [lack of spirit] very personally because if you go over to West, it’s insane. Kids plan on what it is they are going to wear and how they are going to dress up. We’ve struggled with it the last two or three years here.”

Lack of school spirit shouldn’t be confused with a lack of pride.

“I think it has a lot to do with your pride in the school. Somebody said it really well the other day: ‘Maine South has a lot of pride, but we don’t have a whole lot of spirit,’” Mr. Berendt said.

Students still have many things to take pride in.

“I think we do so many things well— academics, fine arts, athletics, and our clubs and organizations­­— but we are very

siloed in that [school spirit],” Mr. in spirit days makes one wonder whether or not spirit week is effective.

Berendt said.

“I think that spirit week has Many students believe that spirit days are overly complicated, so much become less exciting for some because many students do not participate in so that students do not partake.

When dress-up days require them,” sophomore John Biagi said. students to wake up extra early to “Students who do participate in the get ready or require lots of effort, spirit days always seem to enjoy many students lose their motivation them.”

Some students believe that the to participate.

Dressing up for spirit week can school isn’t doing enough to inspire feel worthless to students if their extra spirit.

“I feel like competitions really drive work isn’t able to be seen.

“Some days are easier than others,” students to take part in spirit days senior Samantha Mayer said. “America more because winning prizes gives most people a reason to participate,” Monday, for example, Maribelle Janzen was fun and easy.

“It’s so easy to find said.

Twin day, however, The school is harder. Even if you things wrong...It takes has tried to are twinning with a special person to implement more someone, you won’t say...‘let’s just have incentives to have eight classes students. with them, so no fun.’”

“We’ve tried one knows you are -Mr. Dave Berendt scanning kids twinning.”

The participation of the majority in and giving prizes to the most of students in spirit week is also creative.” Mr. Berendt said. “I am up influenced by the people who for everything and anything. If that is partake in them. Many go along with going to be what makes kids dress up, unspoken social rules and are afraid great. Some people would say ‘well, why do they need an incentive? Just to participate.

If the majority of people do not do it; have fun.’ Having fun, coming dress up, the ones that actually want to school is all I really care about.”

High school culture seems to be to may get scared out of it.

Some students, however, do take changing, as students didn’t always the time to make spirit days special. need prizes to participate.

“It used to be fun to come and “People are sometimes taken aback by my costumes because they see everyone dressed up,” said Maine are often extensive, but I get laughs South graduate and English teacher, and comments that make it fun to do,” Ms. Headley.

B esides shif ts in students’ senior Ravi Finn said. “I like to be able to change my style with the wacky participation in spirit days between eras, Ms. days. It is relaxing and fun.”

The lack of participation from the student body

Headley also noted changes in what she saw when she first began working at Maine South.

“People would dress up for Halloween to the point where some outfits were considered school inappropriate, and that right got taken away,” Ms. Headley said. “Certain kids fought for the right to dress up again.

The one thing that staff members and I have noticed is that now that it is reinstated, nobody bothers.”

Ms. Headley believes that dressing up can boost more than morale.

“When people take the time to do something fun or goofy, it can have an emotional impact on school culture,” Ms. Headley said. “You could argue that if a student is having more fun in school or feeling that their mood is a little brighter that it has an academic impact.”

Spir it c an extend p ast t he classroom, translating into how a student faces the world outside Maine South.

“The people that do spirit week have a certain attitude toward life,” Mr. Berendt said. “It’s a real positive attitude of ‘I am who I am, I love doing this stuff, I’m not worried about what other people think, I’m going to have a good time regardless.’”

Having spirit can spread contagious positivity throughout the entire school.

“It’s a great way to go through life, if you think about it,” Mr. Berendt said. “It’s so easy to find things wrong, to be negative about things. It takes a special person to say ‘what does that matter? Let’s just have fun.’”

WACKY

COLOR WARS

Senior Alexia Gurgone shows her senior pride by wearing all black.

Senior Fallon Adams displays her wacky clothing combination, including mismatched patterns and multiple layers.

ANIMAL PRINT

Senior Alex Kaltakis reps multiple pieces of animal wear for spirit week.

‘MERICA

Mr. Trevor Fritz goes all out for America by showing off his Star Spangled suit.

TWINS

Seniors Dilan Gürsoy and Bella Marzano stick together for twin day.

SouthwordS 9

FEATURES

| October 11, 2019

Don’t judge a resume by its cover

Omar Farrag

determining students’ admission into their school. “‘Contribution’ means they want ould you like a serving of Spanish club? How about a students to be involved on their side of Environmental club with your campus; colleges would rather see a Key club? And why not a second ‘pointy’ student who has successfully dedicated their time to a smaller list of helping of Model U.N? Some students treat the menu of activities rather than join every single extracurricular activities like an all- club but can only list ‘member’ as a you-can-eat buffet of resume builders, description of their time spent with leading to packed schedules and those clubs,” Ms. Moreth said.

Nevertheless, students continue surface-level engagement.

Why are students overburdening to join a laundry list of clubs. Some themselves? As Nov. 1 nears, many students may struggle to fulfill their seniors are polishing their resumes, obligations when joining such a vast making sure that their college array of clubs.

Mr. José Argüello and Mr. applications show involvement within Francisco Barbas are the sponsors of the school.

On the Common Application, Spanish Club, a club in excess of 200 students are allowed, but not required, members.

“Certainly, there is some of that to list up to 10 extracurricular activities. This list can pressure [not following through on obligations] students into believing that if they but in my experience, officers tend to aren’t involved in at least 10 activities, follow through,” Mr. Argüello said.

“Spanish Club has many members, colleges won’t accept them.

With this in mind, students but at a lot of events you think, ‘where begin planning their involvement in are they?’”

This may not be due to students numerous clubs as early as freshman year, setting themselves up for a busy being lazy or careless.

The sheer number of high school career.

Unfortunately, this may not have responsibilities students have often the effect on college acceptance that leads to a lack of incentive to go to every small meeting or activity students believe it does.

“I would say it is not just a on their busy schedule. To many misconception among Maine South students, clubs can become trivial and students that a large activities list not take priority.

The root of the problem, however, will help in college admissions, but it is also prevalent among most may not lie solely with students high school students pursuing a choosing too many clubs.

“I have the suspicion that we [the college education post-high school graduation,” Ms. Robyn Moreth, school] push too hard,” Mr. Argüello Maine South’s Career and Admissions said, “Maybe we should ease up on Specialist, said. “Colleges can tell the accelerator and give the students when the club is just another entry space to make their own decisions and decide for themselves what they want on your resume.”

More specifically, colleges are their clubs to look like.”

For students, easing up on the interested in accelerator may student leadership, “I would tell the mean joining fewer which is not limite d to just students, ‘maybe you activities. “ We d o t o o clubs or activities. want to do less, but do much sometimes “There is no without thinking ‘right way’ to be it better.’” through why we i nv o l v e d ,” M s .

-Mr. José Argüello d o t h i ng s ,” Mr. Moreth said.

Argüello said. “I “I also counsel students that their activities don’t would tell the students, ‘maybe you have to be Maine South centric. want to do less, but do it better.’ At Having a job and/or volunteering in the end of the day, the clubs are not the community are both excellent [made up of] the teachers; they are the students.” ways to be involved.”

S ome students are able to Activities are only a piece of the puzzle that colleges consider in maintain consistent involvement in Features Writer

W

10 SouthwordS

ILLUSTRATION BY GRACE ANELLI

an assortment of clubs.

Senior Greta Miller, President of Student Council, takes the time to prepare her day in order to stay on top of her busy schedule.

“I write a lot of things down in my assignment notebook, like all my meetings, so I can plan ahead,” Miller said. “I also make sure to go through all my emails.”

As for what motivates her to be so involved, Miller wanted to go to her clubs for more than appealing to colleges.

“I like being busy,” Miller said.

“I like to be active and have a say in what goes on in the school. Also, my sister was very involved in Student Council, so right when I came to Maine South she told me I needed to join because it’s so much fun. She really influenced me and I stuck with that.”

Another deciding factor in which clubs students join are the members of the clubs. If a student enjoys the club they are in, it is more likely that their friends will join that club too, or that groups of friends will sign up and go to meetings together.

Even so, not every club students join will have all their friends in it, so students have to come up with

other ways to motivate them to attend.

“Focus your energy and time on things you like to do and you’ll find it easier to wake up in the morning and go to the meeting,” Miller said. “You only have four years of high school to do what you want. Don’t waste your time on things you don’t enjoy.”

Looking good on college applications is something many high school students worry about. Many students join clubs without fully understanding the responsibilities they are committing to.

In reality, joining a myriad of clubs may have a negative impact on admissions chances. Some colleges may only want a handful of activities.

“One of the colleges I’m applying to only lets me put down four extracurriculars, including sports, so it’s hard to decide what really is important to me,” Miller said.

It is challenging for students to determine the right balance of involvement. That balance is personal for each student, with students having to decide for themselves what is best.

“Students should be involved in clubs, sports, and activities that interest them, not just because they think it will look good on a resume,” Ms. Moreth said.

PHOTO COURTESY LILY NELSON

October 11, 2019 | ENTERTAINMENT

Drama 3/4 presents ‘King of the Birds, the King of the Bugs’ Sam Mayer

Entertainment Writer

PHOTO COURTESY JULIA PAOLETTI

PHOTO COURTESY EVAN ARNOLD

M

ALL SMILES FOR FALL

Seniors Evan Arnold and Julia Paoletti and junior Lily Nelson (left to right) show off their trendy clothes­that are perfect for the fall season. Arnold is wearing an animal print buttoned up shirt, Paoletti is wearing a corduroy jacket, and Nelson is layering a long sleeve and a short sleeve shirt.

Fall-ing for fall fashion Caroline Tully Features Writer

W

ith the approach of fall, Maine South students tuck away their t-shirts, shorts, and sandals and dig up their sweatshirts, leggings, and boots. This transition can sometimes be brutal for students; however, an outfit worn with confidence can make colder weather more enjoyable. Here are some fall trends that some Maine South students have added to their closets to beat the brisk weather.

Corduroy has become a staple fabric for the fall season. The fabric’s simple vertically-lined pattern and soft feel adds dimension and texture to any outfit. Corduroy is often used in jackets, dresses, and skirts in many autumn colors including orange, red, and brown. When paired with dark, neutral colors such as black or navy blue or added to other clothes made of simple fabric such as cotton, corduroy becomes the statement piece of the outfit.

Hunter Boots are the perfect shoes for autumn. These trendy boots come in almost every color, height, and finish, so that everyone can find their ideal boot. Black, military red, and hunter green are their most popular colors for autumn. Besides coming in a variety of styles, the boots can be worn in many situations. Hunters are

very durable, making them great for any outdoor, fall activities like going to a pumpkin patch. However, they can be dressed up with a pair of the brand’s boot socks when going to the city, going out to dinner, or even a dress-up day for school.

Sweatshirts fill the closets of almost every student. From college visits to vacations to trips to the Maine South bookstore, students collect them as a remembrance of good times. Sweatshirts are the perfect piece of clothing to easily throw over a t-shirt to stay comfortable and keep warm in cold classrooms or during football games. Maine South students have also paired their sweatshirts with puffer vests of coordinating colors to make their outfits complete.

Layering shirts was an iconic trend of the ‘90s, as seen in movies and TV shows from the decade and became popular at Maine South last year. Repeating trends like this can be nostalgic. However, they can also be revamped and altered to stay new and fresh. Many students have made this style their own by layering patterned t-shirts over simple long sleeves or layering a basic tank top over a printed turtleneck. Layering offers a lot of variety of the styling of tops and helps keep some summer favorites in style for autumn.

Flannels are an iconic piece for both boys and girls in the fall season.

Everyone should at least own one of the button-ups because they are easy to style and can be used as a theme for spirit weeks. They come in an array of colors and patterns to go with any outfit. Their light-weight material makes flannels a great piece to throw over a basic t-shirt and pair with jeans for a more simple look.

Animal print is another trend that has become popular this summer, that has carried into the fall season. Stores have filled their racks with cheetah print dresses, snakeskin tops, and leopard print jackets. Animal print tops can be complimented well with dark, neutral bottoms such as black or dark wash jeans or skirts. Animal print jackets and dresses can also be paired with neutral colors such as black or white to make the print be the staple of the outfit.

Plaid is another trend from the ‘90s that has been brought back for this fall season. This trend has been seen in the movie “Clueless” with Cher’s iconic yellow plaid outfit as well as Rachel’s plaid skirt from the TV show “Friends.” Plaid is a fall pattern that never seems to go out of style. The pattern is used in many different articles of clothing, but is most commonly found in pants, skirts, and jackets. Red or dark green plaid on a heavier weight or soft material makes the pattern perfect for any autumn outfit.

aine South’s Drama 3/4 students have been at work this year preparing their studio show, “The King of the Birds, the King of the Bugs.” Drama 3/4 presents a studio show each year, giving the students an opportunity to showcase the skills they have developed throughout their levels of Maine South drama classes.

Last year’s show brought in one of the largest crowds ever with over 500 audience members, compared to previous years’ 80-100.

Due to the p opularity and high-energy nature of last year’s performance, the drama students are bringing back the same theme of 30 scenes in 60 minutes. This is inspired by the Chicago-based theatre company, The Neo-Futurists and their show “Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind.”

The show includes a mix of NeoFuturist plays, as well as original work created by the students.

Each audience member will receive a “menu” upon arrival, which will have all of the skits numbered.

The audience then yells out which number play they would like to see, choosing what order the show is presented in.

If the show runs over 60 minutes, the timer on stage will sound, ending the show no matter how many scenes are left.

The scenes range from comedic to powerful, plus a few that are just absurd.

Ever y aspect of the show is controlled by the students, including the name of the show, casting, and presentation of each skit. Ms. Carrie Saurer, the drama teacher, guides them along this process, encouraging them to make new, exciting and brave choices to ensure all students are proud of the final product. “The plays appeal to all different types of humor and everyone that comes will laugh and then laugh some more,” Ms. Saurer said.

Along with the 30 scenes, the show includes free admission and food.

“The King of the Birds, the King of the Bugs” will be presented on Oct. 30 in the Watson Auditorium at 7:30 p.m.

SouthwordS 11

ENTERTAINMENT

| October 11, 2019

CLASSIC FILMS:

Halloween edition Delaney Bannon

With Halloween just around the corner, many are grabbing their pumpkin spice lattes and popcorn to watch movies during the season of horror, thrill, and fantasy. These are the top five Halloween movies that you should watch before Halloween is over.

Entertainment Writer

‘Beetlejuice’

‘Halloween’

‘Halloweentown’

‘Monster House’

W

hile “Halloweentown” is not frightening, it is still great for the spooky season. The main character, Marine, and her siblings are not as normal as they thought they were. One night, they follow grandma Aggie home to find out she lives in a magical town called Halloweentown.

This film is definitely a must-watch because it is a Disney original movie that is still being played over a decade later. This film is perfect for putting you in the mood for the fall season. Throughout the movie, fall festivities are shown to illustrate the spirit of the Halloween season.

This adorable fantasy film showcases how one family can come together to save the spirit of Halloween from being wiped from an entire town.

In addition, ‘Halloweentown’ is a series consisting of four movies, so viewers can watch this fun and compelling series for hours on end.

12 SouthwordS

I

t’s 1963, Halloween night, and police are called to the Myers residence.

Here, t he y dis cover t he gruesome murder of Judith Myers by her six-year-old brother, Michael. After the murder, Michael is institutionalized for 15 years and escapes the night before Halloween.

This classic horror film is great for the Halloween season.

It offers a thrill and shock factor that many old horror films are known for.

However, it stands out among the rest because it offers an intriguing story line that is terrifying.

Unlike films that rely on the supernatural, the story of “Halloween” could happen in real life, which makes it even scarier .

I

n this film, three teens, DJ, Jenny, and Chowder, discover their cranky, old man neighbor’s house is actually a living, breathing, monster.

Their friend Jenny manages to become trapped inside, and they must convince their baby-sitter and two police officers that the house is what’s keeping her from coming out.

Everyone should watch this movie because it is a thrilling animated film with endless excitement.

It is perfect for the Halloween season because it offers a fright while still being a good film for the whole family.

Despite it being an animated film, it is still thrilling and spooky.

The realistic graphics of the monster house immediately invoke fear and terror upon the audience that makes ‘Monster House’ memorable and different from others.

ILLUSTRATION BY KEELEY FLYNN

“B

eetlejuice” takes place in New England and follows the story of a young couple named Barbara and Adam. One day while driving home, they are involved in a horrible accident; they manage to walk home, only to realize there are now ghosts haunting their house. They then resort to calling in Beetlejuice, the people-exorciser.

The story behind Beetlejuice, is that if you say his name three times, he will appear and make your life a living nightmare.

Everyone should watch this movie because of its uniqueness. Tim Burton goes above and beyond to artfully develop Beetlejuice’s character, despite his lack of appearance in the film.

Beetlejuice is only on screen for a third of the movie, but he still manages to capture the audience with his distinctive personality.

This comedy horror film is not necessarily the scariest, but it is still perfect for the Halloween season.

‘Hocus Pocus’

I

n the year 1693, three sisters were executed in Salem for practicing witchcraft; however, a curse was placed upon a black candle, and if it were lit, the three witches would be brought back from the dead.

The rest of the movie is a fun-filled quest for the witches as they attempt to pursue the children and perform their spells before sunrise, or else they will be gone forever.

Max and his two friends, Dani and Alex, try to outrun and outsmart the three witches or else the children of Salem will be doomed forever.

This film is a must-watch this season because it is a cult classic. Some people even dare to say that it is one of the best Disney movies ever made, which is really saying something.

If you’re looking for a movie full of nostalgia, spooky witchcraft, and thrills, “Hocus Pocus” is for you.

October 11, 2019 | ENTERTAINMENT

Falling in ‘love’ with the new Swift era

Veronica Espinoza Entertainment Editor

“Lover” Taylor Swift

T

wo years ago, Taylor Swift released her album “Reputation,” which surprised her fans because of her shift to electropop. The album had an edge to it, but was pop nonetheless.

On Aug. 23 of this year, Swift released “Lover,” which was again shocking because of its stark contrast with “Reputation.” It’s filled with a mix of heartfelt songs and classic hits that will make fans get up and dance, while other songs will remind fans of the country-singer she once was.

“Lover” captures Swift’s maturity regarding past friendships and relationships, her romance with boyfriend Joe Alwyn, and her newfound freedom in expressing herself. This is because “Lover” is the first album to be owned by Swift, since her previous albums had been owned by Big Machine Label Group.

She still cannot claim ownership for

the previous six albums she has made, which sparked a lot of controversy back in July.

Despite the buzz around her now owning “Lover,” fans were excited to see what Swift had in store—especially with an album that features 18 songs, the longest album she’s created yet.

The album opens with, “I Forgot That You Existed,” which features a bubbly and catchy chorus and some excerpts of Swift talking. The song’s nice tune and finger snaps in the background make it memorable, but it’s not quite as danceable as some of her previous hits.

Songs such as “Paper Rings,” “I Think He Knows,” and “London Boy” all have fast-paced beats, unlike “I

Forgot That You Existed,” which makes these songs exciting to hear and sing along to.

Besides these happy, upbeat songs, there are other songs that have a calm, yet refreshing sound to them, such as “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince,” in which Swift expresses her political views. A similar song, “False God,” follows with saxophone at the chorus and her echoing voice. The inclusion of unlikely instruments like the saxophone, bells, and trumpets helps deliver liveliness to the chorus.

The echoing background makes another appearance at the beginning of “Death By A Thousand Cuts,” which has a mixture of background patterns and pauses during the chorus. The periods of muted background in this song are particularly effective in showcasing Swift’s delicate voice.

“Lover” also reminds fans of the old guitar-playing Taylor, with the heartbreaking song, “Soon You’ll Get Better (feat. Dixie Chicks).” As Swift slowly strums the guitar strings, the rhythm complements the heartbreaking lyrics about the journey of Swift’s mother, Andrea, battling with a relapse of cancer.

Some of the mainstream songs, like “You Need To Calm Down” and “ME!” are still fun and high-spirited, even though they’re now played everywhere.

The most memorable songs on the album are “It’s Nice To Have A Friend,” “The Man,” “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince,” and of course, “Lover.” These four songs effectively tie together the various sounds and messages Swift used throughout the album to create a cohesive and distinct mood: fierce, honest, and empowering. Regardless of each song’s difference in sound—upbeat or slow-paced, careless or reflective, uplifting or saddening—each song makes an important contribution to this mood.

Fans also catch a glimpse into Swift’s personal life and opinions with her honest support for feminism and other issues on songs such as “The Man,” and “You Need To Calm Down.”

“Lover” brings out the best of Taylor Swift and showcases her evolving take on pop music. Whether you’re a Swiftie or not, “Lover” offers an enjoyable experience for everyone.

to the track, SZA gives an airy hook on “Staring at the Sun,” and Ozzy Osbourne delivers a gut-punching chorus on “Take What You Want.”

This album also contains several moments that prove Post can write a solid tune. “A Thousand Bad Times,” “On the Road,” “Sunflower,” and “Goodbyes” are all endlessly fun pop songs, while tracks like “Circles” and “Myself ” act as lovely, ethereal ballads.

Unfortunately, for each highlight in the track list, there’s a weak link.

Songs like “Internet,” “I Know,” and “Wow” fail to stand out melodically, rhythmically or lyrically.

It’s easy to zone out while listening

to this record because very little excitement or intrigue is audible.

There are also moments where one could question this project’s status as a cohesive album. It ebbs and flows more like a mix tape. The varied styles employed by Malone create an incohesive listening experience.

For example, as good as “Circles” is, it feels more in line with a Vampire Weekend album than your typical Malone project, and the vapid fun of the closing track, “Wow” is in direct contrast to the rest of the record.

Malone also comes across as if he has nothing fresh to say. The record lacks enough conceptual ideas to sustain its 50-minute runtime, and it gets to a point where each track seems to deliver relatively identical themes.

If you liked what Malone did on his last two albums, then you should give this album a listen, or at least give the aforementioned choice tracks a chance.

If you didn’t enjoy Malone’s previous work, then you probably won’t find much to adore about this over-hyped and disappointing new album.

Post Malone loses his authenticity in latest album OJ Jokinen

Entertainment Writer

“Hollywood’s Bleeding” Post Malone

B

ack in 2016, Austin Post (better known by his stage name, Post Malone) released his boundarypushing commercial debut, “Stoney.”

With this album, Malone managed to construct a style of his own, creating a sound quite unlike anything mainstream audiences were accustomed to at the time.

But the sound Malone helped establish three years ago is no longer ground-breaking—it’s the norm.

Many fans were hoping that Malone would be able to break free from the style that has defined his entire career and evolve his sound once again.

Unfortunately, he engulfs himself deeper into the realm of genericism on his latest album,“Hollywood’s Bleeding.”

To be fair, Malone does delve into styles we’ve never heard him explore

in the past. There are occasions in which his roots as a rock musician come into the foreground, such as in the melodic “Allergies” and the unrestrained intensity of “Take What You Want,” both of which are some of the most memorable moments on the record. But most of these deviations don’t bring any more to the table than his contemporaries already have. There were so many different angles Malone could have taken in the current rap-rock movement, but he decided not to go with any of them.

Now, an album obviously doesn’t have to do anything new to be great, but the album must display something (whether it be compelling song writing, catchy tunes, or an enveloping mood) that stands a cut above the rest, and Malone only succeeds a few times in that regard.

That’s not to say that this album doesn’t have any laudable aspects. The guests on this album, which are used less sparingly than on Post’s previous records, are almost always employed to its benefit. DaBaby delivers a verse on “Enemies” that adds a much needed sense of amusement and flair

SouthwordS 13

SPORTS

| October 11, 2019 PHOTO BY ALY TRUNZO

Underclassmen look to veteran swimmers to lead by example Maura O’Driscoll Sports Writer

T

IN THE (RED)ZONE

WMTH’s RedZone podcast is dedicated to all things fantasy football and run by seven juniors: Justin Brosnan, Timmy O’Brien, Pete Manolis, Flynn Maloney, Jack Dezelan, Mikey Marquardt, and Danny Sullivan. The creators of the show also run an Instagram account focused on providing roster recommendations and player projections, and they share updates on the NFL.

Fantasy football leagues gain traction at South

Tyler Houck Sports Editor

A

s much as some people wish to play football on Sundays, yearning to be included in the fame and fortune that comes with pro football, one game has filled that void and rejuvenated interest in a sport seeing declining numbers of participants.

Fantasy football has caused even casual football fans to be invested in league-wide action, rather than just rooting for their favorite team.

Some fantasy football players find it as a way to escape the woes of a down year for their favorite team.

“I’ve been a Bears fan forever, and the past few years when they haven’t been great, I’ve honestly taken more pride in my fantasy team than my hometown team,” sophomore Andrew Randazzo said.

One group of Maine South students has even taken their interest in fantasy football to the next level.

Using Maine South’s broadcasting airwaves on WMTH, the group has created a podcast that deals with the in-and-outs of managing a fantasy football team.

“We give recommendations, projections, and analyze the play of many NFL players,” junior podcast host Timmy O’Brien said. “We also strive to look at NFL news and aspects of football aside from fantasy.”

A growth in popularity among high schoolers prompted by easy

14 SouthwordS

access to apps like ESPN and CBS Fantasy Football is what made the group feel like a podcast was necessary. Those involved are able to make lineup changes from their phones instantly.

Many students at Maine South are in their own fantasy leagues, often with a group of a dozen friends and classmates. There is often an incentive attached to the league, other than bragging rights for beating friends.

O n e g roup of s e n i or s h a s consequences for the worst teams in the league. Other leagues have cash buy-ins with a return for a few top teams in the league.

“We have a 10-person league and it is extremely competitive and fun,” junior podcast host Danny Sullivan said. “Our league consists of all Maine South students who are juniors. Last year, our punishment was that the loser had to wear an ugly romper to school for a full day.”

Some students feel like the intense dedication to keeping track of a months-long process including drafts, trades, waiver pick-ups, and setting line-ups is too much for the risk involved with a league that has incentives and consequences.

“I used to play fantasy, but it takes a lot of time trying to keep up with my team each week,” junior Alex Heinz said.

With constant social media updates on player health and inside scoops from “fantasy professionals,”

the online game has drawn more involvement than ever.

Sometimes, fans can cross the line in making real football too much like a Madden video game.

Fantasy owners often can get caught up in the success of their team, even overlooking the health and well-being of the players actually out on the field.

In 2017 while recovering from an ankle injury, then-New York Giants receiver Odell Beckham, Jr. tweeted, “No offense. I could care less about ur [sic] fantasy teams. This is my Real Life. Focusing on gettin healthy and gettin better. 1 day at a time.”

Senior Carlo Kwon drafted an NFL player who was injured in the first week of games. He is trying to put himself in the player’s shoes.

“I think avid fantasy players like myself get caught up in it and sometimes forget that the player’s health is more important,” Kwon said.

Even teachers are getting in on the fantasy fun. In the English department at Maine South, a group of seven teachers compete in a friendly league for fun.

“The group of teachers have been colleagues for awhile, so while the relationships have already been established, fantasy football sparks even more camaraderie, conversation, or the occasional critique,” English teacher Mr. Jason Marsicano said.

“We do it because we love watching football, and it provides us with some bragging rights in the department.”

he Maine South girls’ swimming team is off to another fast start this season, thanks to their veteran leaders.

Many swimmers are crediting their strict practice routines.

“We have morning practices three times a week where we do dry-land conditioning with the occasional yoga session,” senior captain Annika Wagner said. “On afternoons, every day except Sunday, we do lots of swimming and racing.”

Head Coach Don Kura is pushing the girls hard at each practice to get the best results.

“Swimming is a mentally and physically challenging sport, and the captains this year have made sure that every swimmer feels included and comfortable with everybody else,” senior captain Natalie Wajda said.

The team has three senior captains this year, Wagner, Wajda, and Natalie Bryant, and they are all focused on leading by example.

As a team, improvements in how they prepare for meets is at the forefront of being competitive.

“We are hoping to qualify a relay or two for the state swimming and diving meet,” Coach Kura said.

The team still puts a focus on finding time to relax.

“At the Hersey Jamboree, we all dance around to music before the meet in ridiculous costumes,” junior Megan Frank said. “It creates a fun and positive environment for the meet.”

The team placed third overall at this year’s Jamboree, with Wagner winning the 200 Free and 500 Free events.

Because the team has only three seniors and eleven juniors out of 41 total swimmers, it is important that the team forms strong bonds.

The girls understand that it will take time, but they’re excited for the challenge “The fact that we are an extremely young team is interesting because it could be seen as a strength or a weakness; it creates a very new environment,” Wagner said. “We have a lot to learn.”

The next meet takes place Friday, Oct. 11 against Glenbrook South.

October 11, 2019 | SPORTS

Home court advantage allows girls’ tennis to thrive

Liliana D’Alesio Sports Writer

S

tarting off with a 4-7 record, the Maine South girls’ tennis team has faced some challenging opponents to start the season. Especially since Glenbrook North joined the conference, the girls have been playing in some tough matches.

“We play a schedule loaded with state ranked teams, so this has proved difficult at times,” Coach Gerald Smith says. “The girls’ attitudes and confidence are improving everyday and I am excited to see how we finish the season.”

So far this year, the team placed third in the Buffalo Grove Invite and 15th out of 48 in the Edwardsville Invite. In addition, the girls are also extremely excited for conference games. They are looking to beat teams they lost to in the regular season matches.

“A team goal for the season is to cheer each other on and support one another,” sophomore Mia Lee said.

Having lost nine graduated seniors and only having six returning players, this year’s team has come up strong despite these difficulties. This team is very young, but they have

SERVE’S UP

PHOTO BY JULIA BUONSANTE

Senior Regina Lee prepares to serve at practice. As a leader on the team, she has been mentoring the many underclassmen on the team this season.

used that to their advantage.

With so many underclassmen on the team, Coach Smith understands how important it is to cultivate leaders so the team can succeed this year and in coming years.

He hopes for everyone to continue to grow as a team.

“We are all super close,” senior captain Regina Lee said.

This season, senior Gianna Faraci has stepped up to be a key player in

building her teammate’s confidence.

“Even though Gianna Faraci is new to the team, she has become a big sister to a lot of the underclassmen,” Regina Lee said.

At practice, the girls are constantly working hard so they can succeed in the difficult upcoming matches.

“One of my personal goals for the season is to get all the hard hit balls back every time,” Mia Lee said.

The girls play other doubles teams

from their own team. Scrimmaging each other allows each player to get a feel for a game-like setting where they could reflect upon the scrimmage and find new ways to improve their technique.

While practices are taken seriously by each player, the girls always find a way to have fun and enjoy the time they have together to prepare for matches.

“There are a lot of drills and hard work, but we love to sing and dance all the time,” Mia Lee says. “Our team is always having fun, and we all get along.”

The girls have been taking advantage of the new tennis courts implemented this past year. Last year, they had to commute to Maine West just to practice. This year, the home court advantage and getting to play on new courts has motivated the team to continue to improve during each practice and match.

“It’s been super convenient and fun having new courts to play on at home,” Regina Lee said. “Hopefully they will last a long time.”

The team looks forward to their upcoming matches as they advance at the CSL Conference meet, which will be held on Oct. 11 and 12.

Boys’ golf competes under the leadership of Lahart Maria Egan Sports Writer

T

he boys’ golf team is excited to see where this season will take them after having some matches this season so far. One of these remarkable matches was at the Fenton Invite at White Pines; the team shot a 299, which placed them in second out of 23 other highly-skilled teams.

In addition, the boys attended the Zee Bee Invite at Zion-Benton, which included 22 other teams. Due to each golfer’s exceptional play, they were able to prevail, placing third at the invite.

“In both of these events, we had individuals compete at a high level and having a combined team average of 76 per player,” Head Coach Steven Scholl said.

The team also had two close matches against New Trier and Glenbrook North, losing by less than three strokes.

In general, the team has been very dependable in tight competi-

tion with around a team score of 150 accomplishments from sophomore strokes.

Myles Lahart as a boost of confi“The boys’ team is solid and dence. has more strengths than Lahart has had a top four weaknesses,” Coach score almost every match and Scholl said. “We have is close to having the best seaexperience, leaderson any ship and depth.”

Maine Junior Michael South Cwiertniak still golfer has believes work needs had during a regular season. to be done to continue the “Myles has been a huge success of the past few years. part in our team’s success“We need to keep finishes,” senior Brennan Dombro ing strong at the end of each said. “He has helped fill the round,” Cwiertniak said. “If void of Henry Hoelsher and we are able to do this, we Patchy O’Malley from last year, might be able to win Secand has consistently been our tionals for the fourth year in top golfer.” a row.”

One of Lahart’s main goals is The boys are looking to go to State as a team and break forward to Sectionals this a stroke count of 75 on one of year, as they are quite the days. familiar with the He believes focuscourse. ing during practices to Much of the team work on his technique PHOTO BY ZORYNA BANDRIWSKY will look towards the with different clubs Sophomore Myles Lahart

will ensure this success.

“When I practice, I hit all of my clubs, but also work a lot on my wedges around 50-130 yards,” Lahart said. “This is important because that is where you can score very well even on a bad day and gain ground on the rest of the field.”

As the team finishes their regular season and moves into the postseason, they will look towards their key players to lead the team.

“Along with Brennan Dombro, Michael Cwiertniak and Sean Gallery continue to be steady contributors to our success thus far in the season,” Coach Scholl said.

One strength that the team believes will help in terms of going to State is the camaraderie built throughout the season.

“The team is very close, which has resulted in a very fun and successful season so far,” Dombro said. “Even when we don’t have team events, we play and practice together, and that really builds our team chemistry.”

SouthwordS 15

CROSS COUNTRY | FOOTBALL | GOLF | BOYS’SOCCER | GIRLS’ SWIMMING | GIRLS’TENNIS | GIRLS’VOLLEYBALL

Coach Inserra wins 200th game amid four-game win streak Sargon Adam

Sports Writer ince head coach David Inserra took over for the Hawks in 2001, Maine South football has enjoyed almost 20 years of success. This year, the expectations are no different.

Coach Inserra reached 200 wins as a head coach after winning this year’s Homecoming game against Evanston, 41-0.

“I have enjoyed every single day of my ‘job’—not too many can say that.

200 is a lot of wins which means I’m getting pretty old,” Coach Inserra said.

“So many players and coaches have contributed to this amazing experience.

I could not be prouder of this program.”

The team began the 2019 season 0-2, PHOTO BY CHARLOTTE GEIER the worst start since a 1-2 start to the SWEET VICTORY Head coach David Inserra reached his 200th victory on Oct. 4.

The Hawks dominated Evanston 41-0 in their 2016 state championship season.

Homecoming game and celebrated Coach Inserra’s milestone with custom shirts after the win.

But Coach Inserra knows a winning offense and a safety on defense. team when he sees one, as Maine South opening losses. Against Glenbard West moving forward.

“I knew I had to step up and be an Part of the reason for the Hawks has not had a losing record with him at on August 31, Maine South bounced the helm. After back-to-back losses to back from a 17-0 deficit, with Leongas athlete,” Lazic said. “My mentality was storied success through two decades has the eventual state champions in the past adding two touchdown passes to take a key role in my preparation towards been their non-conference schedule. adjusting the game plan to have me at The team typically plays some of the two playoffs, Coach Inserra believes the lead 21-17. top-ranked teams in the state. Inserra those defeats have been a building However, Leongas went down with a quarterback.”

The Hawks responded in their next credits the strength of the opposition for block for who they want to ultimately knee injury right before halftime, which be, which is state champs. would sideline him for the remainder game against Fremd, winning 35-21, helping the team build and get better.

“The first two games prepared us for “ We p u t of that game with Lazic contributing 147 yards the speed and toughness that it takes to in 126 days and the next rushing and a touchdown.

The following week, they took on win good football games,” Inserra said. of off-season two weeks.

“The team is very work, with T h e Haw k s Palatine, and with the use of Leongas at “Good competition makes you better special, and we have 121 of those f e l l t o t h e quarterback sparingly in a return from and you can often learn more from a strictly lifting Hilltoppers, injury, the Hawks looked rejuvenated, loss—we did.” been through a lot of One goal the Hawks have been w e i g h t s 4 5 - 2 8 . T h e winning 35-27. Leongas added 290 yards passing and two touchdowns in looking forward to all off-season is and speed f o l l o w i n g adversity so far.” winning the CSL South conference t r a i n i n g ,” week, senior his first game back.

Coach Inserra -Luke Leongas (‘21) J o h n n y “This team is very special, and we title, With the IHSA converting to a said. “It’s easy Pa lu mb o, a have been through a lot of adversity district format after the 2020 season, the motivation running back so far,” Leongas said. “The grit and Hawks have their sights set on an 18th because these players want to be as transfer from Montini, also suffered a determination we show is a key factor conference title in 19 years.

Skoronski believes all the work put good as the past Maine South teams, leg injury. Four-star senior lineman and towards overcoming these challenges.”

Offensively, senior wide receiver forth during their rigorous practices and are willing to put in the work to Northwestern commit Peter Skoronski try and do so.” noted how difficult it can be to lose Ryan Kilburg and Lazic have helped lead will show during the regular season. the way, as they have been instrumental “I want to win a state championship The team motto for this season, starters to injury. with all my friends on the team to close “12,478,” David by Michelangelo, from “Losing Luke and Johnny was really to the success of the Hawks offense.

As leaders in the typical pro-style out my high school career,” Skoronski the story of David vs. Goliath. tough, and it is not easy to make up for passing game, they have shown the said.

“Coach Inserra came up with it to losing them,” Skoronski said.

The team will be playing against show how hard work really does pay off Leongas’ injury led to coach Inserra ability to be two of the focal points and that no matter the circumstances, looking to senior wide receiver Dan for the rest of the season. Kilburg and Glenbrook North tonight. The next it is important to never give up,” junior Lazic to step in at quarterback for the senior free safety Danny Locascio home game for the Hawks is against quarterback Luke Leongas said. time being. Lazic’s first start was a loss in have been key play makers on defense, Glenbrook South, which will be played In order for the Hawks to reach the home opener, Sept. 6, against Mount creating turnovers at crucial points in on Oct. 18. The team is currently on a their ultimate goal, they are going to Carmel, but he noted that both he and games. Kilburg, a Western Michigan four-game win streak after shutting out have to continue winning after two the team had to stay positive and keep commit, has been the top receiver on Evanston at home on Oct. 4.

S