Vol 37 issue 10

SOUTHWORDS Vol. 37b. Issue 10

Maine South Hiah School • II11 S. Dec Road • Park Ridac. IL60068

Januar\'26. 2001

A plethora of Fine Arts achievements NEWS Ice Wolf at state -p.2 Symphonic Band at state -p.3

COMMENTARY Endangered music -p.4 Property of the editors -p.4 What's all the cheering about -p.5 Winning isn't everything -p.6 FEATURES

The production of The Ice Wo//was performed at the Illinois High School Theatre Festival during winter break. photo by Mr Bragiel

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Stereotypes -p. 7 Suicide Awareness -p. 8 Who are you -p. 8 Stereotypes continued -p. 9

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SPORTS Boys' swimming.

Girls' track -p. 10

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Girls' gymnastics.

Hockey's response -p. 11 Boys' basketball. Girls' basketball, Wrestling -p. 12

Today Maine South's highest band, the Symphonic Band, breaks barriers by performing a concert at the state competition. pj^^j^ ^,y J^^ p^^i^

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Ice Wolf heads south

by Katie Magnuson There has recently been a lot of buzz about the Maine South state champion football team, but most people may not know that there is another state-honored group at Maine South.

Last October, the Maine South Fine Arts Department put on a production of The Ice Wolf hy Joanna Halpert Kraus. At that time, the show was judged by a panel of adjudicators who gave the cast and crew commendations and criticism. A long period of waiting followed and finally, on the Saturday after Thanksgiving, the good news was announced: the play was going to go down state to the Illinois High School Theatre Festival.

The question many readers may be pondering is, "So what?"

For those who have never ventured into the PA Wing and don't know too much about the theatre department here at South, the following explanation may be of some help.

The Illinois High School Theatre Festi-

val is an event where approximately 4,000 high school students congregate at one place to participate in workshops and see productions of select high schools from Illinois. Of 40 productions evaluated. The Ice Wolf was one of the eight full-length productions chosen to perform at the festival.

After a final performance of the show to get back in the swing of things, the cast

and crew pulled together as an ensemble and took down the set and loaded it into a truck to take down to Champaign. The entire bri-

gade arrived on Thursday afternoon and after a quick stop for dinner, they went straight to the Krannert Center for Performing Arts at the University of Illinois to begin putting up the set. Working as a team, they rebuilt the set, put up lights, organized costumes, and ran a few scenes on the new stage. On Friday, Maine South's group performed the show twice, giving two of the best performances ever. Afterwards, they dismantled the set and loaded it back in the truck for the last time.

The rest of the weekend was spent enjoying other high schools' productions and going to workshops. On Saturday afternoon, the cast and crew watched the AllState production of West Side Story, which included a cast and crewft^omall over the state. When the show was over they loaded thei buses and headed back home.

The weekend proved to be a once-in-a-lifetime event. Going to State isn't something that happens very often, although this year seems to have proven the excep-

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photo by Mr. Bragiel = \

January 26, 66 A.D. - The 5th perihelion passage of Halley's comet is recorded January 26,1905 - The world's largest diamond, the 3,106-carat Cullinan, is found in South Africa January 26,1907 - The first federal corrupt election practices law is passed January 26, 1926 - A television show is first demonstrated in London January 26, 1998 - President Clinton makes his infamous statement, "I want to say one thing to the American people, I did not have sexual relations with that woman, Miss Lewinsky."

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Symphonic Band performs at state

by Jim Puis Today is a day that will forever be remembered in Maine South Fine Arts history.

Today, January 26, the band performs at the all-state competition.

"Maine Township High Schools.. have been one of the best-kept musical secrets in the state." —Mr. Pressler, band director

the band has ever played, so that by the time the concert is over, nearly every director in the state will know how well they played.

Lately, all of the students have been diligent in their practice. Junior Emily Zoellner, a flute player in the band, expressed her ex-

Matt Heerman, a sophomore tuba player, is looking forward to the concert, "I'm really excited. This is going to expose other schools to the glory of the Maine South Band."

"This is a great opportunity for the band to represent District 207 in a positive way." —Emily Zoellner, band member

The Illinois Music Educators' Association All-State Conference is a showJunior Meg Dwyer, who also plays case for some of the finest musical talflute, notes that preparing for this conent that can be found in the state of Illicert is much different than preparing for nois. Among the highlights of the Peoothers. "This has been a lot of work, but ria conference are honor ensembles comI think it's for a good cause— I'm lookbining the top auditioned musicians from ing forward to it." around the state; additionally, a few seMr. Pressler is very impressed at the lect groups are invited each year to perrecent progress of the band in rehearsal. form a concert of their own.

"In the last few days, I've heard this band do musical things that, four or five years This year, the Maine South Symago, I didn't think could ever happen."

Bhonic Band was invited to present a He also realizes that, from a teacher's roncert at this most prestigious event in standpoint, he has a fairly strong personal the state. Mr. Pressler, the group's direcinterest, as a strong performance could tor, is looking forward to it. open up new opportunities for the band.

'This is the first time in the 99-year The invitation of the band to perform history of Maine Township High Schools at the conference did surprise some onthat a group has been invited to perform lookers. The Maine South bands generat a festival like this," he noted. "Maine ally strive for, excellent performance at Township has been one of the best-kept home, rather than traveling to play against musical secrets in the state." others. "We don't do the competition Last year, the Maine South Chamber thing. It gives the band some of the wrong Orchestra presented a clinic session on ideas and I have a philosophical argument playing jazz music in a string ensemble.

Pete Muscarello plays his bass during rehearsal with it."

A Maine West choral group also had a in preparation for the IMEA All-State Confersimilar opportunity.

How is the concert going to come out, ence, photo by Jim Puis after all of the travails of the band and its According to Mr. Pressler, however, fearless leader? According to Pressler, this is a totally different ballgame. "We have the prime concert time," he said. Mr. citement. "This is a great opportunity for the 'This is going to be exciting."

Pressler expects the audience to consist of band to represent District 207 in a positive the most highly informed people for which way."

Did you know?

Dr. Harvey Kellogg, of Kellogg brand products, invented Corn Flakes as a sex-drive suppressant.

Source: Chicago Sun-Times

Southwords regrets omitting these authors' names from the December 22 issue: The article entited ' T h e dating deal" was by Nick Mohar and Danielle Pallasch.

The article entitled "One hot system, one last chance" was written by Peter Schaul and Terry Spanos.

HEY YOU! Like to draw?

Southwards needs cartoons. Stop by V-131 formore information.

Gypsy Rose Britney

by Lauren Hurley Ah, the beautiful, bemused, bellicose Britney Spears. So full of youth, irmocence, and from what I have heard, silicon. The teen super-diva has now gained a name for herself. Of lately. Miss Spears' good name has become synonymous with clothing removal. Despite the fact that she does indeed tear away a great deal of her wardrobe, like the great stripper Gypsy Rose Lee, she manages to leave some things to the imagination. In a strategic move, Britney has successfully diverted the public eye away from her dubious vocal talent and great set of personality towards the next striptease.

From all the merchandise that bears Britney's name, is it easy to see that she appeals to quite a lot of people. One can find lip balms, trading cards, and even sunglasses marketed towards her fans, most of which are prepubescent females. As Spears leads an international army of girls, the question on everyone's mind is-what can we expect next from the pop princess?

As a person with an intuitive knowledge of public demand and a dabbler in small business, I suggest that Britney Spears launch a new tear-away clothing line. The line could be cleverly called "Oops...I tore off my dress again," "Nothin' but a battery pack," or my personal favorite, "Lady GoDIVA." The line would feature an array of tear-away clothing available to young and old, men and women alike. The secret to each garment would lie in the seams where Velcro would be used instead of the more traditional substance thread.

When I think about it, I can hardly believe that we as a culture have gone so long without such an obvious necessity. Think of how many situations that call for immediate clothing removal! A spilled drink, a heat wave, prom night...clearly these are all situations that would benefit from the "Lady GoDIVA" line.

I believe that this is just the tip of the iceberg for Britney Spears' marketing possibilities. I wait with bated breath for the day that the hair extensions and tanning booths bearing the sweetheart from Louisiana's logo make their way to the shelves of Target. Until then, however, to get my tan, I'll have to search for the sun.

Endangered music

by Nick Mohar and Danielle Pallasch The Constitution is supposed to be the epitome of justice and liberty in the United States. In the past, amendments have been added to the Constitution to give groups of people rights that they previously did not have. However, when amendments are ratified to take rights away, a great upheaval comes about. The first amendment grants the right of freedom of speech and expression.

When these unalienable rights are tampered with, it creates great tension between people of all opinions.

"I believe that any form of censorship, be it labeling music or restricting such media to a particular audience, is wrong, and a violation of the first amendment," Aaron Yoho, an anti-censorship 'warrior' states.

Some like Yoho feel that censoring music is an infringement on other God-given rights.

It is said in the Constitution that we, as people, are given certain rights that no government can take away.

Some, however, agree that the government has the right to step in and take control of the situation.

Censorship advocates, such as Tipper Gore, feel that it is absolutely necessary to get involved in censorship. Gore founded Parents Music Resource Center, a censorship organization, in 1985. Gore, thinking of her own children, stated, "I think it's great they [record companies] are labeling their work. It makes parents well aware of what their children are listening to so that they can monitor it."

Parents of young children have strong ideas about censorship also. Some are adamandy against it. Danny Goldberg, CEO and Co-Owner of Artemis Records, says, "I am speaking not only as a long-time record executive, but also the father of a ten-year-old girl and a six-year-old boy. I do not believe either government or any entertainment industry committee had any business telling my wife and me what entertainment our children should be exposed to."

Our parents, however, have strong reasons for supporting music censorship. Paul De Mico, a parent of an eleven-year-old, says, "My daughter is at a critical age. Even the smallest things influence her. I don't even like listening to what's on the radio anymore.

It's all about sex and discrimination towards

certain groups. I can't even imagine what the uncensored versions of these songs must be like! I don't want my daughter to have the same mind set as the authors of today's music."

High school seems to be a time where a song is necessary for every occasion. Dances have theme songs and there are pep songs at football games. It just seems prudent for music to have a huge part in high school life.

Many are left upset at censorship. Liz Pahlke, a senior, stated, "I get mad when my favorite song comes on the radio and the station leaves pieces of it out. I think that it is a mean thing to do to an artist. It takes away from his or her work."

Suprisingly, there are students at Maine South who are in favor of censoring music.

Senior Tony Allegretti says, "Radio stations are supposed to censor to get a wider audience. If you want to listen to the real words, you can buy the C D . " Another senior, Tim Schneider, says, "It really doesn't bother me.

Plus you have to be careful of what kids hear.

I don't think young kids should be listening to Limp Bizkit."

"Once a whole group of Americans is told their viewpoint caimot be shared, it directly contradicts the values that this 'free country' was built upon..." stated author Margaret Dunn. Dunn was upset when rapper IceT's song "Cop Killer" was banned. It caused the re-release of the album and a lot of angry people. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) felt it would create violence in entertainment. Henry Jenkins reminded us though, "that media alone does not cause a child to commit a violent act or promote aggression." In agreement, Richard Rhodes, author of Why They Kill, agrees: "No direct, casual link between exposure to mock violence in media and subsequent behavior has ever been demonstrated."

In all actuality, it really is up to the music listener to decide whether or not censorship is necessary. The government may step in; however, it must handle things in a manner that they think is appropriate. Is it a vio-1 lation of the first amendment?

Senior Karen Boysen says, "As Americans, we should, in theory, have the ability to listen to music as we please. But how many theories are actually proved?"

What's all the cheering about, anyway?

by Britt Frederiksen Imagine a Friday during any season of the year. The school is a whir of red, black, and white. Cheeleading outfits abound and acronymed shirts profess the values of our school: Purpose, Respect, Involvement, Dignity, and Empathy.

Now imagine the end of each class period, when those wearing Varsity jerseys are given best wishes for a good fight in the next day's game. Imagine too, the congratulations they receive the next Monday for a win. It is a normal week at Maine South.

But what is the purpose of school? To hquidate ignorance, right? The school's folder will explain that students are at Maine South to "strive for excellence."

That question answered, the bigger question to be raised is: why does a normal week at Maine South need to include all of the hysteria? This is a bit more difficult to answer.

For some reason, since the dawn of the modem American high school, there have en modem American interscholastic ath^Pettes. No other country in the world puts so much stress on athletics in schools. America justifies the existence of athletic clubs in various ways, ranging from supposed educational value to economic benefits.

Athletics are not an extension of the physical education at Maine South. 'Thysical education courses at Maine South stress life fitness and general well-being," says P.E. teacher Cindee Kawalek. The weight training in thefimesscenter and weight cage alike push students toward the most positive workout plans. The class gives clear, concise methods of reducing body fat healthfully and toning muscles beneficially. Physical education promotes a positive treatment of the human body and teaches against ignorant body practices such as gluttony, sloth, and dmg consumption.

Athletics at Maine South, however, stress a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and train for maximum performance in a short span of time. This type of training is ideal for the sports athletes play. The training is quite difrent, however, from what students are ught in gym class. Instead of promoting # long-term health, athletics teach short-term ways to increase performance. The argument that students can extend their physical education by participating in after-school athletics is false—they do not learn how to take

care of their bodies long term. Athletes leam how to force their bodies into one habit for one season, and then most (except for the rare three-sport aerobic athlete) allow their bodies to retum to their previous state—the same binge-and-purge cycle that gym class teaches students to avoid for long term health care. Wrestlers and dancers starve themselves to be the correct weight for competitions.

Athletic influence in education is also seen in the standard classroom. Athletes are given more attention than any other activity. Athletes "gain respect" from their fellow students, says four-year football player Anthony Schittino. Joe Sergo, also a fouryear member of the Maine South football program, says, "When I think of school, I think of athletics," and explains that he passes his classes so he can play sports.

This is seen as a positive way to get students interested in academics, but more can be taught to a willing academic student than one focused solely on other pursuits. A school has failed if the only reason its students attend classes is for athletics.

George Will wrote that "Football exemplifies two of the worst characteristics of American society: violence and conmiittee meetings." Most athletic teams at Maine South are the same—they foster the restless energy of adolescents by promoting violent expression.

Sports are seen as a good way for teens to let off steam, to spend excess energy, or, as Maine South alumus and swimmer Matt Wanat states, "to give them something to do." But by endorsing violence, the school "gives students a taste of an extreme lifestyle," says Maine South alumnus Colin Johnson, a four-year member of the football team. "Professional athletes lead an extreme life on the field and try to drag it into other areas," often expressed by taking drugs, beating women, or worse.

Our school requires a separate office for sports injuries—the trainer's office. The violence of sports causes injuries that can last a lifetime, from paralysis to brain damage.

Athlete Marcelino Rivera was injured during football practice his freshman year.

The growth plate in his hip cracked, leaving him in a wheelchair for two months. He could not mn for six months. "My back still hurts pretty badly," he says of the injury. Joe

Sergo fractured his vertebra from football as well. His doctor told him that his injury was "inevitable" because he played sports and would cause him pain throughout life.

The strain and pain of sports is also reflected in the life span of professional athletes—^57 for the average pro football player, significantly lower than that of the average male, 74. High school athletics do not promote good health, but may inhibit it.

Although schools keep athletics to promote social interaction between students, there are also significant negative psychological effects of high school athletics. Anthony Schittino says that athletics have helped him to feel welcome at Maine South.

"When kids see you on the field, they remember you, they like you," he explains.

Yet athletic clubs also form more cliques than any other extracurricular activity at Maine South. Matt McHugh says, "Athletics have given me a view of a society that rewards people for their physical qualities and creates elitist groups."

The fact that athletes receive the amount of attention they do from the school sets them on a pedestal. Nora Erickson says, "Didn't Constitution Team take state? No one would know because football took state as well. Athletics are second to nothing at Maine South."

Athletics boost the already inflated egos of adolescents. Teens have a sense of invincibility, and making the team fosters that sense of immortality. Jordan Mann says that "some athletes have warped ideas of their importance." The hubris, or Hawk PRIDE evident in the average Maine South athlete, is enough to understand why athletics do not foster positive social interaction—they inhibit it. An anonymus 2000 alumnus said, "I didn't just go to Maine South. I played football at Maine South." Why this puts him on a higher pedestal than those students who do "just go" to school is baffling.

Athletics will not leave Maine South any time soon. They do have benefits—they bring people to the school, keep kids interested and monitor academic progress. But if we must have athletics, their pitfalls must also be recognized. A change in the attitude of the athletes and toward the athletes must occur. We cannot keep athletics the way they are now and boast that we are "striving for excellence."

Winning isn't everything

by Megan Gibbons A loser falls graciously, right? Shakes the winner's hand and moves on.

For as long as so many can remember the winner was the winner. Despite memories of our childhood redos, when the final whistle was blown, the outcome was final.

Very rarely did you see a professional baseball team decide to replay next week because the manager of the losing team did not agree with the outcome.

Children throughout our generation have been raised to be gracious losers who smile, nod, and continue with life. We have been taught that the end is the end. After all, there is no real need to keep fighting: it is not whether you won or lost, it was how you played the game. This is the mentality so many parents and teachers are working to instill in our next generations. It is with this state of mind that we can send the world spinning in a righteous direction.

It is with these amazing hopes for the future that I question just what example those who hope to guide these generations are truly setting. The leaders of today claim to be harboring the lesson of good faith and humble success; however, how is it that children can hold such values when all that they see around them is the demonstration of the contrary?

In all fairness, a foul ball called by a qualified umpire in a little league game of baseball is a foul ball. The batter simply sets himself up for the next pitch. Why is it that such a call, not favoring a certain son or daughter at the right time, is immediately challenged? How can children see the right direction if the instant they look behind the batting cage they witness their father jump wildly from the bleachers in protest? At soccer games, we listen to parents who run along the field with the referee and shout obscenities when their team fails to be winning. Are children learning to accept loss if at every chance of it someone is there ready to defend the fact that they truly should have won?

Listening to parents preach about "winning isn't everything" is the right attempt to steer young children, for it gives them the value that effort is what truly matters and that losing is not the end of the world. Yet children learn greatly from example, so

imagine the thoughts running through their young and impressionable minds as they watch others contest an undesirable outcome. Suddenly, the rules have changed.

Presidential recounts upon recounts are the prime example of demonstrating a questionable direction for our young minds.

These outrageous displays of "poor sportsmanship" related to our Presidential race recently resolved have been splattered across television screens and newspapers in millions of homes each week. Imagine just what these children have begun to focus on. With these past weeks of news, the mentality that the game is not over imtil you like the outcome is rapidly becoming the message splashed in their eyes. Witnessing this and watching no authority figure do anything about it and no umpire make a final call says something to the children: wiiming is everything and don't stop until you've got it.

Amazingly, do-overs and redos are becoming fair game. Now there is no end, and losing is simply not an option. We are instilling in their little hearts that it is okay to fight and that smiling and saying congratulations simply doesn't cut it. Fighting, court cases, and no clear end to something that should demonstrate the beauty of competition is making it clear that suddenly it is alright to fight and to be a "sore loser" because that is what it takes to win. Winning, once so unimportant, has now become the force that drives society. Slowly it will become the force that drives the young's own ambition.

Without the experience of losing, we are without a great thing. This is a nation filled with loss and that is precisely what has made it the success that it is. With each loss and downfall, a lesson is learned and new understanding is established. It is these lessons that are carried on through life and continue to influence decisions and actions taken.

Without these losses, there would be few leading the path of honor that our country claims.

After experiencing the wrong direction, the path we should lead becomes so much brighter. The insight gained by loss is the stepping stone to a clear and successful life.

Where would this country be if it failed to experience loss before it tasted triumph?

Taking hits and losing fights led the way to victory. Without the losses lighting the way, the road would be dark and unpassable.

Simply, loss is a necessary evil. Though it hurts and we do not want today's children to be hurt, it only makes them stronger. Hurt turns to wisdom after time, and it is this wisdom that often leads children through their lives. Is a heart full of arrogance and the thought that winning is everything what we want the future to value?

It has become our choice. Do we choose to send unblemished children with little taste of reality and the understanding of loss into the world to face failure from all aspects of life? Or do we choose to send strong souls who have tasted failure and are aware of the paths they need to follow to avoid it? These souls will humbly accept success for they are aware of the losses occurring around them. Yet, those exposed to solely victory will only deepen the hurt of those who lose to them.

It is time that we step up and allow young children to understand loss and understand that winning isn't everything. In doing so, we must set before them an example that shows acceptance of an outcome and acceptance in the face of defeat. Demonstrating the inability to accept defeat will only lay before them a deceiving path on which to live their life. We must guide them with love and with compassion, but let them taste defeat and know that it only makes them stronger.

HEY YOU! Send your letters-to-theeditor to Britt and Megan

Features 7

•Stereotypes in our world As defined by the American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language, a stereotype is a "conventional, formulaic, and oversimplified conception, opinion, or image," among many other definitions. Most members of today's society do not realize it when they stereotype different groups of people.

Carl Jorgensen, an associate professor of sociology at the University of CaliforniaDavis says, "In order to act without bias, you have to have a completely accurate perception of the world and there is no such thing."

Jack Dovidio, Ph. D., of Colgate University says, 'Twenty years ago, we hypothesized that there were people who said they were not prejudiced but who really did have some unconscious negative stereotypes and beliefs. It is the duty of all people to try and become more aware of the stereotypes held."

Gender Pink for girls, blue for boys was only the beginning of gender stereotypes. According to Master's and Johnson's Research, children learn gender behaviors that become part of their daily life. These ideas set examples about how men and women should act. Gender identity is more than just the perception that one is male or female. Many people believe the stereotype that men tend to be more physically aggressive while women are more passive. Women empathize with the victim, but can be more aggressive if they feel justified or the victim is anonymous.

Stereotypes don't stop there. With regards to talking, men talk more. In contrast, women use tags more often. Non-verbally, women look more at the partner when listening than talking; men are about equal but are more likely to touch. Women just tend to be touched. Men and women differ on how they handle sexual activity, men have casual sex, and women have sex in a romantic relationship.

According to Johnson's and Master's Research there are also cognitive gender differences. Women excel in languages, while men excel in math, science, and spatial learning. People believe this even though IQ tests were done on both men and women, proving that their overall learning ability is

by Dave Lamont and Lara Zimmerman equal. This, in itself, shows that stereotypes are very much opinion based. Socio-cultural influences may reflect that math and spatial learning are stereotypically masculine, but they see no difference with math on the elementary level. At the secondary school level there is a difference. However, given the same opportunities, women can excel just as much as men.

Class Many people hold stereotypes about "the rich" and "the poor." One of the common ones is "old money" versus "new money."

This stereotypical distinction is made between people or families that have had a long reputation of having or inheriting money, and those that have just recently earned it.

People having newer money are stereotypically seen to be fake and very unaware of what people think due to their desire to be in the more elite social circle. On the other hand, people with older money have a reputation for being quite stiff and egotistical, since they are very selective about with whom they wish to socialize.

It has been suggested as well that class and social status have a direct relationship.

Even if someone has money, but they work in a factory, our society will not view them as wealthy. Or if a person with money dresses different, they will be treated differently.

Although there are many exceptions, the United States seems to believe in these coarse opinions throughout the world today.

As Paul Fussel states in his book Class, many Americans will not even acknowledge the influence of class in our society.

Religion Religious discrimination has always been in the lime light of the public, and everyone has an opinion about it. Almost everyone belongs to a religious group, and if they do not they will share their reasons why not.

Diana Eck, professor of comparative religion at Harvard University, confirms this fact by saying, "These religious communities are here to stay, putting down roots, building temples and mosques, and partici-

pating actively in their cities or towns."

Right now America is the most diversified country when it comes to religion. Orthodox Jews tend to get the brunt of the cliches due to their strict customs. Muslims are also very concerned about this. "Our major concern is drugs and alcohol, and sexual relations before marriage," says Talal Eid, who is the religious director at the Islamic Center of New England. Back in the 1980's in New Jersey, a group calling themselves the "Dot Busters" went around attacking Hindus who wore the traditional dot on their head (the bindi). Apparently Muslims were the first suspects in the Oklahoma City bombing before the real culprit was known.

"People will often stereotype Catholics as sexually conservative or repressed, Jews as greedy and stingy, and Muslims as tercontinued on page 9

S OUTHTWORElS A sjudent-produced newspaper of:

Maine South High School t i l l South Dee Ro^. Paric^jdge, IL 6006?

Letters^o^the ediforshould be delivered to room V-lSror-^vento'a member of the editorial staff.-^OUTHWORDS^reserves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to repct-otecen'e or libelpus submiS' 7^-" sions.

Editors-in-Chief News Editors Commentary Editors Features Editors Sports Editors Production Editors Core Photographers

Core Staff Artist Advisor

Sam Fuller Lauren Hurley Meghan McCall Tracy Schmidt Britt Frederiksen Megan Gibbons Eileen Collins Nicole Perm Ellen Gartner Chris Mitchell Jim Puis Dan Saavedra Rachel Kalom Deanna Oleske Megan Price Monica Haak T. R. Kerth

8 Features

T h e teen killer •

by Shaheen Baig and Jenny Stahl Suicide ranks as the third leading cause for death among young people. It is the second leading cause of death among older teenagers, according to the American Association of Suicidology.

For the high school setting, suicide is more common than people think. Fortunately, it's not impossible to recognize, if people are properly educated and informed on the matter. For this reason, all teens should have a basic understanding of teen suicide—there are no assigned watchdogs.

No one goes up to each student on a daily basis and asks what's bothering him or her It's up to friends and family to recognize the signs of suicide.

Though suicide might circle anyone's thoughts, it's most common in teenagers, unaccepted gays and lesbians, and those who are victims of unhappy family life.

Suicidal teens display irregularity in their actions and schedules.

Dropping out of clubs and organizations or avoiding their Mends are also possible signs of depression that may lead to suicide.

Abnormal sleeping habits, weight loss or gain, irritability, restlessness and fatigue are also possible signs of suicide. In addition to that, in school, if the teen displays difficulty concentrating, remembering or making decisions, the case should be looked into. These signs may follow with guilt, hopelessness, and worthlessness, and eventually the thought of suicide.

However, noticed fatigue or difficulty in making decisions just might mean that the person is tired and confused. But if there is the shghtest reason to believe that someone is having suicidal thoughts, an adult should be consulted so proper care can be given.

Every year, to ensure starting the high school experience in the right direction, freshmen have been educated about teen suicide.

Under the leadership of Dr. Kyp-Johnson, continued on page 9

Who are you?

1 Baig

by Shaheen Baig Does anyone grunt like Tim Taylor, or laugh like Nanny Fine? Can someone question like Ricky Lake or pull stunts like Bart Simpson? Maine South students and staff think they mimic the lives and personalitites of TV celebrities. When asked 'what tv character do you identify with most?' Maine South students and staff came up with a range of responses, some predicatable and others a little startling.

Laughing a little and then hesitating Peter Schaul identified with a famous Seinfeld character. "Comso Kramer, because I do stupid things and I'm tall."

His TV 'best friend' would be Mr. Kerth, who thinks his life best resembles Jerry Seinfeld. "I'm looking for the instruction manual [in life] and I can't quite find it."

They were among the 38% that said they saw themselves in sync with the characters of Seinfeld.

Another 'Kramer' from Maine South would be senior Chris Downing. "I think my hair looks funny and I'm strange."

John Dimaggio believes he's also another Kramer in disguise. "I'm sarcastic, fun, and I view the world light-hearted."

i # students at Maine South The next show most identified themselves with is the show Friends. Although her hair is a little shorter, Danielle Pallasch believes she is Rachel in diguise. "I think we're both intelligent but we don't show it."

Mr. Scorza believes himself to be Chandler. "I'm sarcastic and things don't always go right for me."

Elliot Goss, pondering upon which celebrity he is, came up with the late Chris Farley. "[We have] the same p)ersonality. I seem to think I'm funny." It may not seem a surprise as many find his jokes amusing.

A big surprise came when Mr. Parrilli declared he is Tom Green. "I'm obnoxious and silly in public. I unnecessarily cause attention to myself." However, Mr. Parrilli believes he does not demonstrate this behavior in class.

Whether you are the class clown or the class brain, you will find someone to identify with. Some people try to make themselves a fictional character. Others are just bom with the characteristics that make them like another person. But whoever you are, there is someone out there to identify with.

How much do you know about suicide?

The answers are either true or false.

Good luck!

1. The loss of a parent early in life has nothing to do with suicidal behavior.

2. Suicide increases in the spring.

3. Once a person becomes suicidal, they will always be suicidal.

4. Help for young people who attempt suicide requires the assistance of a parent.

5. Only social workers or physiologists can help a suicidal person.

Knowing the signs There are two different ways of communicating someone is suicidal.

The signs can be either verbal or nonverbal.

Some verbal signs of a suicidal person: "I wonder how it would feel if I were dead?"

'Teopie would be better off with out me."

"I want it all to end."

"I can't take it antymore."

"It is the only thing I can do."

Some non-yerbal signs: •Drawing up a will •Giving away possessions •Change in sleep patterns •Changes in activities •Changes in prevailing moods •Previous attempts •Social isolation •Decrease in self esteem •Decrease in personal hygiene While one or two of these signs may not mean an individual is suicidal, a combination of a few of these signs could indicate the person is having suicidal thoughts.

Features 9

•College bound...

by Shaheen Baig

by Shaheen Baig ^^^^F After giving Maine South three years of seems to be certain of their post-high school their lives, Maine South seniors are already plans, as 4% remained undecided. counting down. They have just finished their These statistics can be compared to what seventh semester of high school— only one Maine South alumni have done. According semester left. to Ms. Cannon, the Career Resourse AdviFor many, South has become a second sor, statisticsfiromthe past years show simihome. Students have learned, grown, and lar trends. Last year, 5% of the 1999-2000 made strong relationships. However, on June class chose to work full-time after high 3rd, the class of 2001 will scatter in their school. However, many kids chose not to own directions, in search of their own per- work during college, said Ms. Cannon. sonal hopes and dreamis.

So where are the seniors planning to atEvery senior has his or her mind set for tend? Fifty-one percent of the seniors surthe future. They all want to achieve some- veyed reported they would prefer to go to thing different. According to a recent sur- an out-of-state school. vey, 86% of the seniors plan to attend a colHowever, 38% want to remain in Illinois, lege or university next fall. Attending school, and attend an in-state school. One percent and then working part time is the intended plans to attend a community college, while route of 9% of the seniors, while 1% ex- 10% still remain undecided. pressed the possibility of working both fullAlso according to CRC records, the top time and attending college. Not everyone schools for most M.S. graduates to attend

t

Teen killer continued from page 8 students set out to teachfireshmenwhat suicide is all about. This year the students watched a movie, listened to a speaker and had a discussion. The program turned out to be very successful.

Dr. Kyp-Johnson is not aware of any suicides in Maine South. However, he believes that many students here feel that if one does not recieve straight A's, he or she is a failure. He also feels there is a lot of academic pressure at South. He encourages students to talk to him, if any of the students are concerned about their friends being suicidal. He is especially concerned with seniors who might be depressed and leaving for college soon.

"We try to look into all possible causes [of suicide] during high school becasuse we do not want suicidal kids to go off to college being stressed and alone," said Dr. Kyp-Johnson. " People can always stop by if they have anything to talk about."

«

HEY YOU! u can still turn in your arles to Nicole or Eileen!

Anwsers: 1)F 2)F 3)F 4)F 5)F

continued from page 7 rorists," says Mary M. LaMont, a teacher of Theology at Loyola Academy.

Acting One of the job markets that has been hit especially hard by stereotyping is the acting industry in Hollywood. Asians seem to get a lot of the discrimination in this country, especially in the movies.

According to Welly Yang, one New York Taiwanese-American actor, "If you watch TV or film, you never see Asian-Americans that are prominent. What everyone wants to do is not be typecast. What [actors] want to do is not be typecast as an Asian gangster or a guy who can't speak English."

Chinese-American actress Cindy Cheong says, "There's something about 'exoticizing' Asians and putting them on stage for white people to see that makes me uncomfortable.

When my main agent calls me, it's usually for a role specifically as an Asian-American woman. I'd also like to be called for other roles."

V Race Relations Stereotypes by people's race has proven to be one of the most widely spread stereotypes in our country. One of the main things

are Oakton and Trinity College. "Community College is a great idea because it is closer to home and inexpensive," say Ms. Cannon. "However, students should still apply to their dream school and use a community college as a backup."

After OCC and Trinity came University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and University of Illinois at Chicago. Schools like UIC prove to be popular because of their high academic standards and low cost.

The top out of state schools included Univeristy of Indiana, University of Iowa, and the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

When it comes to deciding where to go, whether in-state or out-of-state, many factors can come into play.

Where ever the student decides to go, they will remember M.S. as they spent four years of his or her life here in Park Ridge. that Americans stereotype is that Muslims and Arabs are terrorists. Latinos also face many stereotypes. They are falsely categorized as illegal aliens who are stealing American jobs. According to the Census Bureau, however, the number of Hispanic owned businesses has risen seventy-six percent between 1987 and 1992, and have made one hundred and thirty percent more money.

Tyce Palmafify,firomthe magazine Heritage Fouruiation 's Policy Review, says that these changes are due to the "deeply encouraging signs of [Hispanic] desire to join preceding waves of immigrants in pursuit of the American dream."

African-Americans are also very wrongly stereotyped. According to Jack Dividio, "If I'm a white person talking to an Afirican-American, I'm probably monitoring my conscious beliefs very carefully and making sure everything I say agrees with all the positive things I want to express."

Mary Jackman, a professor of sociology at UC-Davis, has a particular theory on where all the African-American stereotypes originated. "Whites imported cheap labor, blacks as slaves, and have sought to maintain the nature of that relationship even after slavery ended. There was sharecropping and factory household labor- all demeaning of black status to elevate white status."

-lO

sports

Rulin' the water

by Matt Huffman The Hawks carried an enormous amount of confidence going into the break after a thrilling win over Glenbrook North.

The meet came down to the last event, the 400-yard relay, composed of Jon Michaels, Chris Marquez, Will Kruesi, and Matt Huffman. They crushed their season best time by eight seconds and won the event. There were only three other firsts with Matt Huffman in the 100-yard free. Will Kruesi in the 100-yard back, and the 200yard free relay (Michaels, Kevin Pick, Marquez, Huffman).

The Hawks put long hours over the break with three-and-a-half hour practices. At Hawk relays the team's hard work paid off.

Even though they took fourth place they

posted many great times against highly competitive teams such as Sandburg, Schaumburg, Niles West, Niles North, and Highland Park. The Hawks had six medalwinning relays containing three silver and three bronze medals. The silver relays included divers Nick Kam and Bob Klauk; the 200-yard butterfly relay of Dan Smart, Paul Sarran, Mark Kruk, and Matt Huffinan; and the frosh/soph 200-yard medley relay of Will Kruesi, Adam Cien, Alan Zarychta, and Dan Mathisen.

The varsity is currently 4-1 and 1-0 in conference meets. The talented JV squad is 4-0-1 and 1-0 in conference meets. The Hawks hope their hard work will pay off in January during the heart of the season.

South Stats 400 Number of wins achieved by girls' varsity coach Mike Deines.

8 Number of seconds shaved by the boys' varsity swim team 400yard relay team.

Seniors Natalie Rubino and Katrina Kloess stretch out before a challenging practice. photo by Ellen Gartner I

Off to the races

by Eileen Collins The Maine South girls' track season has once again started. The season officially began during finals week, but new members are welcome. If one wants to stay in shape and have a good time doing it, track is for them. The indoor season lasts until just before spring break. Then the team moves into the outdoor season.

Last year Maine South sent a number of team members downstate, including individuals and relay teams. They are hoping that this year their team will be just as successful. Junior Mary Payne says, "We are

hoping to win both indoor and outdoor conference. That was our goal last year, and it's our goal this year as well."

Kelly Haas adds, "At the start of a new season we all have our expectations set. This year we know we can do well, and I think we will."

Anyone interested in joining the team can talk to Mr. Gabauer, Mr. Downing, Mr. Nordahl, or Ms. Covington for information about this year's team. Between jumping, hurdles, sprinting, distance running, and throwing, there's an event for everyone.

Southwards still needs photographers for the winter season. Contact Ellen and Chris in VI31 if you're intersted!

27 Points scored by Jeremy Arbuthnot in the boys' varsity basketball game agauist GBS.

Number of individual wrestling champions at the Flossmoor Tournament.

h o c k e y ' s response

by Drew Derifield On the Friday before holiday break, after retreating to my house from the weather, I sat down on the couch with a mug of hot chocolate and the newest issue of Southwards. As I leafed through the pages with excitement, I came across an article that seemed quite foreign in the sports section.

It was a defense of the school's policy of not recognizing some of the hardest working athletes at Maine South disguised as an editorial explaining why some teams are not recognized in the paper. Truly the piece was nothing more than support of the school's established policy of ignoring their very own hockey team.

The fact of the matter is that Hockey will never be a school sponsored interscholastic activity because of IHSA's failure to recognize it. But that is not what the team pleads for; as a spectator of the Maine South hockey

team I would like to ask for simple recognition from the school whose name they bear across their chests every time they take the ice. As a team, it must certainly be discouraging not to be able to include games, which have become rather popular Friday night attractions for students, in the daily bulletin's list of events. Not that this would necessarily increase fan turnout at games, which really has not been a problem (about 100 fans turn out for each home game), but it would certainly be symbolic of hockey's acceptance into the respected Maine South athletic community.

The Sports Editors were certainly right when they stated that Maine South athletics are of a quite high caliber. Hockey is of no different caliber than any other team that may happen to have the school backing it.

Maine South Hockey is one of the better

teams in Illinois, a state with a youth hockey tradition that has now felt rejection not from the students, but from the administrators.

My suggestion to these administrators is that Maine South Hockey function independently of the school as it already does, but let them be recognized by the school, permitted to advertise, and be included in school publications (including the yearbook, in which over 80% of all Illinois high schools choose to put pictures of their hockey teams).

After all, the United States is an inclusive, not exclusive democracy. Even Maine West has chosen to grant their hockey team the recognition they so richly deserve. The result is a turnout of around 2(X) fans per game. Why then does Maine South, an alltogether better school than its sister, choose to ignore its own Hawk Hockey program?

These girls don't flip out

by Lauren Gazzolo The girls' gymnastics season is more than halfway done, but the girls are showing no signs of slowing. Over break, the Varsity took 3rd place at the Maine West Invite.

Joanna Ortega had an outstanding meet, placing 3rd all-around and two 1st places

^J) ^

^

on vault (9.1) and beam (8.5).

The freshmen had their first invite at Niles West and did extremely well. Although they were short a few gymnasts, they still earned 8th place, and everyone went home with a medal. Liz Pyzowski took 3rd

on bars, Courmey Keenan took 9th on beam, and Jenny Sanders took 3rd on vault.

Conference meets are coming up soon, and the team would like to say thanks to their managers, especially Jessica, for all their hard work in keeping them organized.

Hctyvk Highlights 1/26

1/27

Boys' Basketball

@ New Trier 7:30 PM

vs. Fremd 7:30 PM

Boys' Swimming

vs. New Trier 5:30 PM

@ Conant 1PM

vs. Elgin 7:30 PM

@ Buffalo Grove 12 PM

1/29

1/30

1/31

vs. Highland Park 7:30 PM

Girls' Indoor Track Girls' Basketball Girls' gymnastics Wrestling Boys' Indoor Track

@ Libertyville 7:30 PM Regionals

@ CSL Tournament @ CSL Tournament 9:30 AM 5:30 PM vs. Niles North/ St. Viator 4:30 PM

O

SOUTHWORDS

Winter

1

VVrcstlins • Basketball • Indoor Track • Gymnastics • Swimmina

Wrestlers aim for conference title

by Jim Denk When asked about how the Hawk wrestlers are going to endure these upcoming weeks. Coach Fallico replied, "MTXE!" Now if one is not a wrestler, he or she is probably confused, but ask any Hawk wrestler and you will learn that MTXE stands for Mental Toughness and eXtra Effort.

The mighty Hawks wrestled extremely tough over the break. Coming in every morning and working as hard as ever helped them sweep right though the Rolling Meadows

quad with three great wins. First the Hawks wrestled Fenton. With a convincing 60-9 victory the Hawks moved on to Elmwood Park. Walking right over them, the Hawks met the home team. Rolling Meadows, for the final match of the day and were victors again with a 55-12 score.

Later in the week the Hawks visited Flossmoor for their 20* annual tournament.

Missing four varsity starters and losing team leader Patrick Maloney in the semi-final

round due to an ankle injury, the Hawks still managed to pull out a very impressive second place. Tournament champions include Nick Fallico, Jason Caudill, and Mike Tedeschi.

Continuing his response, Mr. Fallico explained, "The next couple of weeks will be tough, but as long as we wrestle Mentally Tough and with eXtra Effort we should win our second straight conference tide and another regional tide."

Deines achieves 400th win Still kickin'

by Krissy Vonesh Congratulations to Coach Mike Deines point-scorer Linnea O'Neillto 4 points from on achieving his 400th win as girl's varsity the field. Mary Therese Ristau was a force Head Coach at under the basket Maine South. His and Liz Bondi had hard work has paid an important role in off by the knowlguarding a strong edge and skill he has post with at least a handed down to the three-inch height players that have advantage. Bondi passed through the and Vonesh both successful Maine took charges late in South program. the game to rally Coach Deines' the team and Katie Hawks were victoriRistau and Erin ous over the Maine Fanner kept the ball West Warriors Tuesmoving at the point. day by 17 jK)ints and Meg Nakamura with a great game was onfire,contribplayed by them. uting greatly to the They also came team's success as through holiday well. The fans' supbreak with excepAnne Forde looks to work the ball around port is greatly aptional progress. Afpreciated and the at a recent home game. ter three tough Holiquality of play disday tournament deplayed on Tuesday photo by Rachel Kalom feats over the two will only get better weeks to Downers as the season moves Grove South, Loyola, and Lake Zurich by a on. The Hawks will soon face Waukegan combined total of under 15 points, the girls and another conference rival, Evanston, in strongly rebounded in the first game back weeks to come and will play their hardest to bring back victories from both games. Conagainst long-time rival Maine West.

Strong defense was the key in the vic- gratulations to all of the girls and especially tory Tuesday as South kept West's main to Mr. Deines.

by Tim Moron Some may now consider the boys' basketball team "on fire." Indeed, they are ^ ^ scorching after a 6-1 Christmas break bofl|V nanza. Against the Titans from GBS, Jeremy "Daddy" Arbuthnot broke out like a bull at a rodeo, scoring 27 points. Stellar passing from John Vigna (10 assists) and Tim Moran (8 assists) also helped the Hawks in their victory. The next Saturday the Hawks traveled to Hersey where Vigna scored 17 points, with Bryan Smaha and Arbuthnot also adding double-digit efforts.

Over Christmas break, the team traveled to Wheeling for the Hardwood Classic Tournament. The Hawks went 3-1 with impressive victories over Streamwood. Prospect, and Naperville Central. The Hawks suffered their only loss in a 3-point heartbreaker to Loyola. John Vigna was recognized individually as a member of the AllToumament team.

After the tournament, the Hawks hosted a very tough Notre Dame basketball team at Maine South. The Hawks came away with a thrilling victory as Tony Traynor hit a 17-foot jump shot as the buzzer sounded.

Smaha led the Hawks with 22 points.

After the victory against Notre D a m e ^ ^ Anthony Anichini was heard saying, "The ^ ^ reason our team is so good is because of my fundamental skills. I am the first one always to be in the triple-threat position!"

The next home game is against Fremd.