Vol 37 issue 5

SOUTHWORDS Maine South High School • 1111 S. Dee Road • Park Ridse. IL 60068

Vol. 37b. Issue 5

October 20. 2000

GQ or IQ? NEWS SPUD Update -p.2 National Merit Semi-finalists -p. 3 WINGS program a success -p.3

COMMENTARY Property of the editors -p.4 Tiniest pieces of loyalty -p.4 Steps through history -p. 5 Voices in my head -p.6

FEATURES Focus on faculty -p. 7 Focus on student excellence -p. 7 Shadowing Program -p.8 Maine Township Olympics -p.8 Heads up Maine South -p.8 Home of the what? -p.9 Special poetry... Park Ridge -p.9

SPORTS Girls' golf, Girls' cross country -p. 10 Boys' soccer, Girls' swimming -p. 11 Football, Girls' tennis.

Boys' cross country -p. 12

photo by Deana Oleske From left to right: Aaron Hilyard, John Jacobsen, and Dan Tomassi These three seniors have been recognized as National Merit Semi-finalists for their junior year performance on the PSAT standardized test. See page three for story.

2 New^s

Working for unity and tolerance by the members of SPUD Meeting twice a month to help make a difference, the members of the club are the ones who stand up for a minority that contributes to our school's diversity. SPUD makes bonds with other service organizations to maximize their abilities, and when they're not out in the field helping people, they meet in a classroom to spend time on vital issues affecting the everyday lives of students. Still, because of all the misconceptions lurking in the hallways and classrooms, many students don't realize that this is what SPUD is truly about. Although it has been around since last year, many unanswered questions still remain about this organization: is SPUD just a gay club? Do straight people even take part in it? What does this club do? Why does it exist at Maine South?

Students Promoting Unity and Diversity was formed with the intention of creating an environment where all students supportive of lesbian/gay/questioning people can unite to promote tolerance and respect within our school. While the club does work for gay and lesbian rights, SPUD is composed of many straight members who are vehemently against homophobia and want to make a difference. It is for this reason that SPUD is not a gay club but a gaystraight alliance.

What exactly happens at a SPUD meeting? Despite the myths about being "the gay

club that doesn't do anything interesting or important," all their meetings are extremely productive. Not a minute passes by in which they aren't working toward their goal: to work for tolerance and respect, as well as to have a place where everyone can feel accepted and supported. For example, take their past accomplishments. Last year they had many intense discussions focusing on the is-

"What we're working toward in SPUD is a sctiool and a community where people are tolerant of all people, including gays and lesbians.

We welcome anyone who wants to help us reach that goal."

-Ms. Salathiel

sues gay/lesbian/questioning students face and how straight supporters are affected.

Many of their meetings are spent brainstorming ways everyone, straight and gay, can help make this school (and eventually the world) a better place.

Don't think that SPUD is confmed just to the C-128 classroom. In order to actually put their ideas to use, they go out and use their intelligence and talents to make a difference.

This year for their first leap into activism, they teamed up with Brotherhood to take part in the AIDS Walk of Chicago in September,

a major fundraising event for the needs of HIV/AIDS victims. It doesn't end there. In October they are participating in the Paddle Against Domestic Abuse (PADA) canoe trip with Amnesty International and the Theater Technicians Guild. Yet why would they participate in anything not having to do with gay and lesbian folks? There is only one simple answer: SPUD does not discriminate ~ " with what it does (e.g. the event does not have to be gay-related), as long as they continue to work for the fair treatment of all individuals.

All in all, SPUD is here at Maine South to show you that everyone, straight and gay alike, can unite together to promote diversity and tolerance. The club is solid proof that there is an existence of many straight supporters at our school who are willing to stand up for the rights of gay/lesbian/questioning people, a group among many other minorities. The club members encourage all to come take part in their next m e e t i n g ^ ^ and show your support not only for g a j ^ ^ people, but also for the equal rights of all minorities.

Have any questions about SPUD? Feel free to see Ms. Salathiel in the English office (C-130) or e-mail SPUD at spudclub@yahoo.com. Anyone may check out the website at http://www.geocities.com/ spudclub to get an even better view of how the club benefits everyone!

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October 20,1817- 1st Mississippi showboat leaves Nashville on maiden voyage October 20,1903- US wins boundary dispute between the District of Alaska & Canada October 20, 1944- 30 blocks of Cleveland, Ohio, burn after a liquid gas factory explodes October 20,1964-150 are arresed at a protest during Rolling Stones concert in Paris October 20,1968- Jacqueline Kennedy marries Aristotle Onassis October 20,1990- Protests against the Persian Gulf War begin in 20 US cities

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News 3

National Merit Semi-finalists

Aaron has won the Science Department Student of the year award in both Biology and Physics as well as the Bausch and Lomb Science Award. He has played soccer for four years, including two on varsity. He also has played tennis for two years. He has participated in the ski club for three years and the Yorkfield Run for Hunger in his junior year. He has been very involved in band where he plays the trumpet. He is in marching band and has played in the Orange Bowl, 'at Disney World, as well as many other parades and the V-show and the musical pit orchestra here at Maine South.

John has played soccer for four years, three of which have been on varsity where he is now the captain. He has also played volleyball for three years and is a member of the AP Hawks Constitution Team. He serves as the Student Council Organizations Commitee Chair. He spends three days every week helping freshmen as a member of Peers Reaching Out and is a senior leader for gym classes. John is also a member of Brotherhood. He contributes regularly to Southwards where he writes all the soccer articles. Outside of school John trains a U10 girls' traveling soccer team.

Dan has been on varsity track and cross country. He is also a member of Spanish Club and Italian Club. He has been in TO.F.Y.S and Key Club as well. Dan has been selected as a member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta. He has also earned a place on the High Honor Roll and been recognized as an AP Scholar. He is currently a senior leader for gym classes. He was chosen as Student of the Month in RE. as well as Geometry. This summer Dan was offered the opportunity to go to Washington D.C. and participate in the National Student Leadership Conference.

WINGS program a success with Brotherhood

by Tracy Schmidt Last year, members of the Brotherhood Organization began a volunteer cooperative with WINGS, a transitional living facility for suburban homeless women and children living in the north and northwest suburbs.

Brotherhood volunteers started a homework and mentoring project at two of the housing sites, working with children between the ages of two and 13. For ten weeks, 22 students volunteered twice a week. During this time period, students worked with the kids twice a week so that mothers living at the homes could attend social work or job readiness counseling programs.

The response from the children, the mothers, and the WINGS organization towards Brotherhood's help was outstanding. Beth ardham, the volunteer coordinator for the 'program, spoke about its success:'The repr sponse from Brotherhood's volunteers was astonishing. WINGS had at least two Brotherhood volunteers working every week in the summer. They helped with children dur-

ing the day, night, and on weekends."

Due to the Brotherhood members' assistance, Gardham explained, WINGS residents were able to go on job interviews, maintain employment at a job until day care was found, attend a training program to obtain a full-time job, and attend individual counseling sessions.

WINGS extended much gratitude to the 22 volunteers who "went beyond what was required for their school year volunteer time and made a difference in the lives of others." These volunteers were Jennifer Anderson, Melanie Clark, Katie Barry, Karen Boysen, Theresa Dulski, Rachael Daubach, Arlene Dawravoo, Tamara Forys, Matt Granger, Matt Huffman, Kelly Leszczynski, Katy Madsen, Mackenzie Madsen, Molly O'Keefe, Lauren Paez, Elyse Russo, Chrissy Schaefer, Beth Spitelli, Jess Stuckey, Kim Toter, Randy Tosch, and Rita Yonkers.

Recently, WINGS and Brotherhood kicked off the program for a second year.

Ms. Flint, a Brotherhood spxjnsor, has high hopes for it. "This year Brotherhood and Wings would like to get more students involved. We are hoping to organize three cycles of twenty students that will rotate throughout the school year. We also would like to focus more on the mentoring aspect of this program, specifically reading literacy.

I'm proud to be saying that Brotherhood sponsors are looking forward to another great year working with WINGS." Brotherhood members are also looking forward to a great year. "I really enjoyed working with the kids over the summer," says junior Melanie Clark. "It gave us a chance to interact with them and also gave them a chance to have fun and learn."

"I also had a great time working with WINGS," says Chrissy Schaefer, also a junior. "It was such a great feeling to see those kids' faces when we arrived at WINGS. I'm so glad we're doing it for a second year."

P r o p e r t y of

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The Editors

by Sam Fuller Another year at Maine South means another homecoming week of festivities, the exciting football game, and the meaningful dance to finish the celebration. One of the most memorable moments of homecoming is the Homecoming Queen Court introductions at the pep rally. However, I was very perturbed at the method of this year's court presentation. It seemed the overall quality was somewhat disorganized, and almost tarnished.

I remember as a freshman and sophomore watching the elegant yet bold queen prospects slowly make their way down the aisle, listening to all their accomplishments and goals. In fact, time seemed to stop during this period of the assembly. I remember just how inspring it was to experience this event and to witness the recognition of accomplished students.

This year, the event took a different turn.

The remarkable and professional ceremony looked more like a team locker room. With cheerleaders surrounding each side of the nominees, many of my friends could not even behold the spectacle. The candidates seemed very uncomfortable as they squeezed through the aisle, dodging "spirit sprinkles" every so often. I cannot blame the cheerleaders as Âąey had not acted simply on their own will, but were asked to create the "spirit tunnel."

I am also convinced that the floor should not be used as a seat for these young women. If their sponsors wished to give them the same level of attention as other sports teams, which is rightfully so, I believe another location would have been more appropriate. Although the cheerleaders have their own worth, I would rather have spent my time viewing the nominees and experiencing the homecoming tradition.

I hope that somehow the inspiring homecoming pep rally can be restored to its former glory. I firmly believe that the "cheerleader tunnel" was not the best way to present the nominees. I also believe the cheerleaders should have a voice in how they interact with the schoool. For the sake of the Homecoming Court, for the sake of the spectators, and for the sake of tradition, I hope that a professional pep rally with the same spirit to honor select students and teams can be restored.

Tiniest pieces of loyalty

by Megan Gibbons From smiles to gentle touches, it seems loyalty has taken on a new face. No longer are our television screens splashed with visions of vahant men declaring their lives, but now don the faces of youth and the strongest kind of loyalty; the loyalty that arouses faith and an unbreakable bond of love. From royalty to politicians to the young boy down the street, loyalty graces all with style. And suddenly loyalty takes hold of an amazing new meaning.

Where the concept of loyalty today has been d l but abandoned, it remains, seen quietly through the tiny things people do for one another. Loyalty has been altered; it is not something to be announced or to be praised. Today it is plainly the small acts that fill hearts and alter lives.

Loyalty holds different values now; very rarely does one witness someone throwing himself in front of a bus for their boss as he crosses the street. One might, on the other hand, see a husband give up his Sunday to hold his wife's purse as she tries on seven pairs ofjeans. If the day is lucky, one might even see someone's papa sit down to have a tea party with the granddaughter he loves.

It is these elements of loyalty that fill our heart. As we all sat and viewed the pictures of young John F. Kennedy Jr., playing under his father's desk during the busiest time of the day, we knew that loyalty and love existed. Or when we woke up early to watch Princess Diana's fimeral procession and saw her sons solemnly walk behind her every step. They didn't have to stand up and declare the utter loyalty they felt to their

mother, but everyone who watched knew it was there.

These things are small and can often go imseen; however, they don't slip through the cracks. These often-silent acts of loyalty are the best of their kind.

As I watched my grandparents live their lives, the loyalty that existed there was an absolute wonder to me.

They didn't stand up every morning as I ate breakfast with them and announce their devotion, but 1 watched it and knew it was there.

And as time grew to the end, it shone from every rafter of their little home. My grandpa's leaving her knowing his loyalty would always remain^ And after watchinf this, I knew loyalty still existed.

And where some say it has declined to a lower level, I see it as quite the contrary. Loyalty has climbed to a whole new plateau, one that doesn't need to be expressed, but one that only requires a smile.

When a young person can see a smile and know that loyalty lies beneath it, then it can be said that loyalty is at its greatest level.

People might say to a neighbor, "Where are the ties?" after they watch them make fim of their parents. However, perhaps it is what they don't see that defines their loyalty. Those that criticize close relationships by branding them unloyal don't see the loyalty. But they don't see the 'I love you's' at bedtime and miss the exchange of smiles at diimer. It is these tiny, often insignificant^ acts that hold the most value. It is these smaM relationships that truly outline loyalty.

Where loyalty is so hard to comprehend, those who are able to hold these small pieces of it are the ones who will be able to comcontinued on pg. 6

Corxiixientary 5

steps through history

By Britt Frederiksen and Megan Gibbons Once upon a time, information was confidential, only for the social and political elite. However today information can call itself anything but hidden, it holds great new bounds. We can all recall the way very important information was passed as we watched GI Joe. Information arrived via a giant man in a suit with a briefcase handcuffed to his arm. In this generation's early years, not to mention those of the generations preceding us, information was a sacred something passed along with the greatest of consideration.

If information was deemed not worthy for public ears, it remained that way. Governments could hide information labeled "Top Secret." Mussolini and Hitler relied on the ignorance of their suplorters to gain total control over the populace. If either of these rulers tried to take control today, however, both would find their old charisma lost and the populace not as responsive.

Today, there are cables stretching for miles upon miles filled with information ranging fi'om how to maintain a good house plant to how a govenmient controls a nation. Not only are there moimtains of knowledge, but there are mountains of knowledge with very few restrictions. Not only do these cables exist, but they are readily accessible, not only to the elite, the government agents and computer engineers, but to the common man. Whereas those in the past had limits on information, today all information is available all the time.

If one were to ask a baker who worked in Germany when Adolph Hitler was rising to power what the govermnent was doing, the chances are that the baker would have no idea, even if he wanted to. Today, on the contrary, this baker could and most likely would know exactly the path his leader was Planning to take and the reasons he felt for 'doing so.

With the amazing age of internet upon us, it is as if history has been erased. In the past, governments and dictators relied on the fact that their people could and would not

know anything about the inner workings of political leaders. Today, however, any unjust action could be uncovered in seconds, and reports of government actions are con-

Today, we have voice in history. We have a wider range of venues to express our opinions. We have a wider range of venues to find out about the opinions of others. We can act and react for what we believe with greater ease as we gain access to more and more information supfxjrting our opinions and our beliefs.

Today is not the death of history.

We still make history on a daily basis. Our newspapers just grow more and more accessible, eliminating the need for a history curriculimi geared towards changing a brainwashed populace or enlightening those without access to information.

Classes no longer need to focus as strongly on the recent past, but only must encourage students to keep upto-date on current events. It remains important to explain the past, but less to explain the present. Students should be expected to know about their country - they all have access to current events.

In the so-called "death of history," or of history as we know it, comes great things and strides in the direction of true government and education. As we gain access to more and more information, it is our duty to take advantage of it and realize the hurdles we have crossed by making previously confidential information available to all.

Today, when most people have immediate access to pertinent government actions, history is no longer a method of enlightenment, but repetition.

•

stantly skimmed by the United Nations and other interested organizations.

At the click of a mouse one can discover the feelings of his leader and understand motives and reasoning for his actions. Instead of pleading ignorance when asked government actions in history class, today we can only make up other excuses, such as 'The dog ate my computer... and the one in the library.. .and the newspaper." No information is hidden.

Aspects of today's society regarding the freedom of information and the knowledge of the general public have taken such a drastic turn as if history never existed. History is less than it once was. In the past, history served as a way to enlighten otherwise naive citizens to the motives behind government actions. Today, when most people have immediate access to pertinent government actions, history is no longer a method of enlightenment, but repetition.

Now, the number of people that can claim they have an understanding of their government might be very few; however, the fact that there exists the opportunity to learn about it makes today's society that much more advanced. It is understood that not all people are checking up on the ways of their leader; however, it can be said that those who need to and can make a difference if things get out of hand, are and they are altering history.

HEY YOU!!

Express your opinions! Write for Southwordsl Submit your commentaries and Letters to the Editor to Megan, Britt or V131.

6 Gommentary

Voices in my head: Cheering and Jeerina

by Lauren Hurley "E-I-E-I-E-I-oh!" Jake and Todd shouted incessantly. The cheerleaders did not accept.

Again the guys demanded action, "E-I-E-IE-I-oh ! Just do it!" A mixed look of consent and disgust spread across the frozen females' faces as they turned around. Jake and Todd howled like Ebola-infested monkeys when they realized that the cheerleaders had given in. "Okay, ready? Hit it." Faintly the sounds of the popular cheer reached my ears, but my attention was more drawn by what was happening on the field. Some fool on the other team intercepted a pass and attempted to out- run varsity player Andy Seven. Before he knew what hit him, Andy's prey was lying sprawled out on the sidelines, victim of a Hawk Attack.

I tried to keep my balance on the bleachers while Todd, Jake, Guy, Celeste, and Delia shinmiied to "Shoo bee doo bee doo bee doo!" Then the jumping began. Under the weight of several seniors and one sophomore, the wood in the bleachers acted as a trampoline. No one seemed to reform their dissentaneous behavior despite warnings from the referee at last week's game. We all started laughing when he said "dissentaneous." Then he shot us the evil eye, so for the sake of South, we temporarily simmered down.

Anyway, moving on to the more recent past, I was still gaping at Andy even though he was now off the field and talking to the coach. "Always the loner," I muttered to Mae. Andy Seven was my first assignment for Psychology. We had to choose a person to observe from a distance and analyze. For reasons unbeknownst to me, I chose Andy. I thought my assignment was going to be easy, I mean, what could possibly be so complicated about the persona of a football star?

Apparently, I had a lot to learn.

Mae cut into my thought process. "Um, Lauren? Can I have my binoculars back?"

In an Andy daze, I handed them via her new beau, a sophomore by the name of Harvey DelNegro, but all the guys called him "Rookie." Rookie's a good guy, but why he and Mae were together is something I cannot comprehend. My theory is that she is making up for her overextended premature maturity by dating someone who could still order a Happy Meal at McDonald's and not

feel weird about it. However, if it makes them happy, it can't be that bad.

My cheering comrades finally sat down for the quarter. Celeste turned to me, "So, how do you think that you did on that Government test?"

"Not so hot."

"Why? She said we could use our notes."

'True, but only if we showed them to her on Thursday. But, due to the stress of the day, I forgot that little piece of information and accidentally made notes anyway."

"So why didn't you use them on the test?"

"Because once I remembered the deal about showing them to her, I couldn't have used them. It would be a form of cheating.

I'm telling you, though- those notes really would have come in handy for that matching section. I did horribly on it. I probably failed the test just because of that. So for not cheating, I'm not going to hell, but I'm probably not going to college either."

Celeste's laugh was cut short when the Hawks scored a touchdown. One of the soccer studs started a cheer where the only words were "Maine South" and "Ba-da-dadaa." It made for a perfect cheer—minimal lyrics and the school spirit to shout it loud and proud.

We sat down again. Out of the blue, the topic of discussion turned to which teachers from whom we planned to get recommendations. There was a general reply of Mrs. This and Coach That, but then Jake said he wanted Mr. Bleep to write him one. If we were Scooby Doo characters, the word "GASP!" would have been etched over our heads. "Mr. Bleep?! For the love of God! Why on earth would you have him write a recommendation?" Rookie questioned.

"Well, he seemed to like me a lot last year for some reason..."

"Maybe, but he's the most distracted teacher in the district! By the time he writes you that recommendation, you'll have a doctorate over at the University of Des Plaines."

"I wonder if there's a way to make it easier for him."

Then Guy piped in,"Well, you-could make up a Mad Libs recommendation form for him to fill out: Jake was very adjective in class. Pronoun always verb—past tenseevery day, and adverb finished the work."

The group concensus was the same-Mad Libs recommendation forms probably

wouldn't fly over at Northwestern or NYU. Our attention was once again returned to the game. I looked down at the far end of the field. I pretended not to hear Rookie doing the best Adam Sandler impersonation I have ever heard in my entire life. Adam Sandler soundbytes are aphrodisiacs to me, and Rookie is all Mae's. When our home team missed a field goal. Rookie stood up and shouted, "Go home, ball! Are you too good for your home? Answer me!" Sigh.

Jake and Todd whipped out an aural torture chamber-a backpack stock full of cowbells and shouting cones. I wouldn't be surprised if they brought a gong to a game sometime in the near future.

"Hey cheerleaders! E-I-E-I-E-I-oh!" Jake bellowed, trying to get a rise out of the girls.

Celeste screeched,"Down in front!" An unfazed Jake replied, "E-I-E-I-E-I-oh!" The cheerleaders on the track looked ready to kill.

To be continued...

Loyalty continued from page 4 pletely understand it.

Whether we vvdtness loyalty on the street, or find pieces of it in our homes, we must know that it still exits. From JFK, to the Princess of Wales, loyalty surroimds us everyday. Look to your left and notice the yoimg girl holding her father's hand with the utmost loyalty, or to look behind you and notice the middle-aged man carrying his wife's purse. Then might you understand how strong loyalty is today and how much meaning it truly holds.

So climb out of the cynical stages that cry the death of loyalty, and realize the birth and grovrth of the amazing virtue. Fill your life with the little pieces of loyalty that will make yours and the life of those aroimd you that much more fulfilled. Look to others and smile, work to bring out the loyalty that truly does lie beneath each person. Look and see loyalty not at a level that condemns it to the lowest depths, but one that escalates it to the highest of heavens.

F e a t u r e s 9U

Focus on Faculty Ms. Nicole Hoog is one of Maine South's new English teachers. She has many new ideas that she hopes to share with her students. "I am currentiy not involved with anything outside the classroom," Ms. Hoog says. "However, I would be interested in being part of the new COACH program next year." As a student at Resurrection High School, Ms. Hoog was involved in Italian Club, Ecology Club, National Honor Society, and the school's newspaper. In college, at DePaul University, she spent a lot of time working at the University's Writing Center, which operates in a similar way to Maine South's COACH program.

Prior to coming to Maine South, Ms. Hoog taught Religious Education at Our Lady Mother of the Church. She was also one of four facilitators of the youth group there, CONNECT. Last spring Ms. Hoog came to Maine South where she had a "wonderful experience." She is very happy to be back here, saying, "I knew that I was interested in Maine South as soon as I began preparing for a teaching career. I had heard nothing but good things from former students, parents, and people in the community. I was fortunate enough to do some observations here in the spring of 1999 and was able to teach one class period for Mrs. Jill Braverman. I was very impressed with the faculty and students here and I felt very comfortable. I kept in touch with Jill and was thrilled to learn that the department had accepted my student teaching application for the spring of 2000.1 had a wonderful experience and was asked to return for a fulltime position. It was a dream come true."

Ms. Hoog was a little unsure about becoming a teacher. "My family was support-

Nicole Hoog

by Eileen Collins

ive of my decision to be a teacher and was so convinced that I would make a good teacher that I believed them." She started thinking about being a teacher towards the end of high school. "As I advanced farther into high school, I developed a strong interest in and love for English," says Ms. Hoog. "I was encouraged by my teachers and my family. They recognized my talent and suggested that I should become a

teacher. During high school I wasn't sure about being a teacher, though. I often tutored many of my friends in English and other subjects and received a positive response. It wasn't until the end of my freshman year in college, though, that I decided I wanted to pursue teaching as a career."

S OUTHWORDS A student-produced newspaper of:

M^ne South High School i^ll South Dee Road ll^P^idRJdge, IL 60068 Letters4(Kthe edftorv^miist be signed and should be3^elivjered4o'room V^31 or given to a member xof the editorial staff.

SOUTHWORDS reserves thexright to edit material lor-xlanty-and brevity and to reject obscehe^or Uheloiis^bmis^ons.

Editors-in-Chief News Editors

Clarification!

Stephanie Caccomo's article on Adaptive RE. last issue may have confused a couple of readers. We would like to clarify the following.

The article said, 'The leaders who volunteer their time have never been recognized by the school as actually participating in gym class.

They do not earn credit for giving their time."

Actually the leaders do not get gym credit for the class, but they do eam a quarter of service credit for helping out in Adaptive P.E. Also, Mr. Robert Karlov was incorrectly quoted as saying that he likes Maine South's "eccentticity." It is the "electricity" of Maine South students and teachers that he enjoys.

Southwords regrets the errors.

Senior Activities: • Boys' Track Team Timer • Amnesty International • Ecology Club • Equinox • Key Club • Pep Council • Spanish Club

Commentary Editors Features Editors Sports Editors Production Editors Core Photographers

Core Staff Artist Advisor

Shaheen Baig

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

Focus on Student Excellence

Teacher's Comments: "Shaheen is one of the most mature adolescents I have ever met. She is involved in Hawk Pride and Hawk Eyes and is a constant supporter of school spirit She has an inner drive that is amazing. Shaheen is always looking for ways to help others and excels in all areas of her life."

-Ms. Damewood

8 Features

South's shadowing program

by Squirrely Penn Although Maine East is Maine South's sister school, students believe the two schools have nothing in common. Stereotypes and rumors engulf both schools and students tend to hide behind these myths that each school creates.

Last year, Maine South graduate Laura Weibel started to unravel the rumors by shadowing students from Maine East.

"As I walked through the halls of East, the only word that came to mind was different," she said. "Yet, I already knew it was going to be different. I did observe the cul-

tural diversity that really makes Maine East the unique school that it rightfully is portrayed to be."

One of the differences that Ms. Weibel noticed was their 'Premier Profile.' While Maine South has 'Hawk Pride.' Maine East promotes using appropriate language accepting cultural and personal differences, supporting the efforts of others, and demonstrating school pride. For Maine East these ingredients form the foundations of an excellent school.

Ms. Weibel's experience, a proposal for

a Student Ambassador program where students from East, South, and West would 'shadow' at other schools, gaining first hand knowledge of what each school is like and communicating that realistic impression to their home school and to the community.

Ms. Weibel discovered "a diverse yet energetic smdent body with excellent teachers as role models."

Hopefully as Ms. Weibel found out what Maine East was all about, others too will discover the truths behind the stereotypes that cover both school.s

A bit of Australia in Park Ridge

by Squirrely Penn On September 16, ninety kids participated in The Maine Township Olympics.

The participants were from various schools around the Chicagoland area.

Held at Maine East, the athletes of all ages competed for ribbons. This year, five students from the Jobs for Illinois Graduates (J.IL.G.) program at Maine South helped run the event.

"It was such a nice day," said J.J. Crawford, sponsor of J.IL.G. "It also was a nice experience for the the people who ran the events and who participated in the events."

The competitions that took place were vast: the soccer kick, high jump, long jump, a ball toss, a free throw, an obsticle course and a discus throw.

Because the event is held every two years, J.IL.G. raises money in every other

year by holding a carwash. The Maine South girls' soccer program also helps by donating

money from their annual juggle-a-thon.

The event kicked off at high noon and went well into the afternoon, ending at four o'clock. The helpers from Maine South were Dina Tspralis, Shelia McFadden, Maureen

Wallies, Jami Saccomanno, and Tara Salemi. Mr. Crawford was really pleased with how well the event went.

"It was such a nice day for the participates and the people whc^^^ worked. It r e a l l y ^ ^ encompassed the Olympic spirit especially with the Olympics going on.

You could see the pride in the kids faces that were awarded ribbons in their event," Mr. Crawford said with a smile on his face.

The next special Olympics is scheduled to be held in the year 2002.

Heads up, Maine South

by David LaMont Ever wonder what is going on in the sky above you? That is the last thing the people in Gonnese, France were thinking about when an Air France Concord came crashing down out of the sky this past July.

The investigation of the crash of the Air France Concord has focused on a Continental Airlines DC-10 that took off moments before. A thin strip of metal was found on the runway, possibly the part missing from the Continental jet that could have been the piece of metal that punctured the Concord's tires.

The city of Park Ridge, located on the border of O'Hare International Airport, might have to wonder if the same type of disaster could happen here.

According to Safety Technician Samuel Davis, who works for the Federal Aviation Administration's Flight Standards District Office in Schiller Park, this threat, is a definite possibility. As recently as September 24, American Airlines 737-800 blew out a tire on O'Hare's runway due to debris on the runway. The debris also caused considerable damage to the underside wing of the airplane.

If this incident had happened on takeoff the possibilities for danger to those in the plane and on the ground would have been greater.

"Debris on runways has always been a constant problem," he said.

Along with debris complaints, 'blue ice' complaints has risen in the last year. Blue ice occurs when wastewater has leaked to^ the outside skin of the plane and freezes.'

When the frozen wastewater thaws as the airplane descends to higher temperatures closer to the ground, the blue ice falls to the

continued on page 9

Home of the what....?

by Nicole Penn On September 13, 1814, Francis Scott the class of 1975, disagrees. "Maine Key visited the British fleet in Chesapeake South has plenty of its own pep songs.

Bay to secure the release of Dr. William Why can't we sing the Maine South pep Beanes, who had been captured after the song after the National Anthem? I played easev^K^foi^he Hawks when I went to school here burning of Washington, D.C. andTit was'always 'home of the brave.' was secured, but Key was<detain5l'on-sl overnight during the%heiling':of;i.Fort' -• .Science:teacher Mr. Ricky Myrick L would be better if we sang McHenry, one of the forts'defendmgBalti brave-and'iheri'added 'Hawks.' That more. In the morning, he was|sb',delighted to see the American flag still flying oVer^the,- would'he\betteri;l3'also don't like how fort that he began a pxjem tocjoicme^^^te^ \vnen we sayi-hawl^ the way kids put the occasion. First p u b l i s h e d ^ ^ w ^ h ^ ^ ^ up their4iaiids{iWit&'the upraised fist, I "Defense of Fort McHeiiry,i«aKrrater as don't likeithac"i-^. •:': 'The Star-Spangled Baimer," the poem soon "It's alsoilike when people take off attained wide popularity as suhg^to the tune their hats to pay'respect. We should also 'To Anacreon in Heaven." Tte^rigin of this" pay respect in the fact of keeping the tratune is obscure, but it may have been writ- dition of the.song," states Mr. Matt ten by John Stafford Smith, a British com- Parrilli, English teacher at Maine South poser bom in 1750. \_.-««,i - „ who thinks that Maine South should stop "The Star-Spangled Banner" was offi- this new tradition.

However, juiiior Becky Desmond likes cially made the National Anthem^by Congress in 1931, although it already had been the present tradition of the altered song. adopted as such by the Army and the Navy. "It's a good Maine South tradition. We Today the national anthem is^^sung "before always sing it that way when we are on fevery sporting event. Frorn soccer to base- our home turf. It's not like we sing it anyball, all sport fans know the lyrics to the his- where else." torical song. Even at college and high school Katie Rista^u,vwho' has attended as levels 'The Star-Spangled Baimer' is played. many Maine South sporting eventsas.she The lyrics are all the same at every level, at could, agrees. "It's a traditiori that should every sporting event. be kept. It should stay with Maine South as long as it can."

Except at Maine South.

"You should have a good sense of huFor the last decade or so, the last word of the song has changed, from 'home of the mor about it," says Mr. Bonk. "It's just brave' to 'home of the Hawks' puncmated what makes Maine South unique." by an upraised fist.

But how unique is Maine South? Other Mixed feelings surround the changing of schools have also changed 'home of the brave.' the National Anthem.

Richard Kastelli, who has a student at "We sing 'home of the bulldogs' at our Maine South and is the coach for the Falcon home games," say senior Waukegan fans, football team, believes, "It [the national an- Rick Black, Michael Camote, Katie them] should stay the way it should be. The Pappsk and Ann Rose Niesserre. anthem was not written for Maine South or "I like it. I think it's about school any school, in fact. It was written for the pride," said Ms. Pappsk. country."

"We've also heard it sung differently "It's school spirit," argues Erin Farley, a at Johnsburg, McKenry, Crystal Lake, Maine South alumni. "It's cool for the people Zion and I think Evanston has started to adopt it too," says Mr. Black. who go here."

"It helps the students unite. It brings us But not all fans from those schools all together," says senior Natalie Rubino. would concur with changing the words. ^'It's special for Maine South."

Band director, Harold Mins of Andy Bonk, 1976 state foils champ for Waukegan strongly feels, 'The National Maine South, agrees and says, "It's good to Anthem should not be tampered with. show school spirit. I think it's okay. We only Francis Scott Key wrote it the way he wanted it to be. If you want to rewrite the change one word."

However, Gregg Borowski, graduate of song, then change the whole thing.

There's a difference between the school song and the national anthem. And it should stay that way."

"It makes us feel different when we play you guys [in football]," says Steve Fionrentino, a varsity football player from Glenbrook South.

"It should be sung the way it should be. This way, everyone knows the words."

Tom Kerth, whose girls' varsity soccer team has won good sportsmanship awards, fmnly states, "Part of being a good host is making visitors feel welcome, and the National Anthem allows everyone, from both sides, to sing togetliCTjas one. The competition should start when„the whistle blows, not during the anthem^'^^-"It gets you pumped up before the game," says sophomore football team members Chris Regas, Nathan Weber, and John Hill. "We have started ^ S i n g it at our home games and it's great." , - - -; The parents of the football players feel the same. "It's ok. We're only changing the last word, and we only sing it at home," says Mr. and Mrs. Quan Hanford, parents of varsity Waukegan athletes.

Although it may just be one word, the whole song together really means national pride for some. ',,, "Being a_Yietnani~Veteran," says Mr Kastelli, "it really means something to sing the song as it should be, I fought for this country and the song as a whole really says something about fighting for one's country. It's not about just wiiming a football game."

Heads up continuted from page 8 ground. Some complaints however, have been waste from birds. "People will know when you have been hit with blue ice because it will eave tremendous dainage to your property," said Davis. Because of the speed the ice picks up on the way down, damages can be great The concord happened to crash into a hotel in a suburb near the airport where it originated. Maine South High School may not be much farther away from airport related danger than that hotel.

lO Sports

n the swing of things the f 速"'competition' "9

by Liz Sutter "Wha wha what's the dillio dillio? Wha wha wha what's the deal?" Listening to these wonderful lyrics and watching as Mr. Hamann cringes at the sound of their music choices was hilarious as well as pressure lifting as the Girls' golf team headed to the conference meet at Deerfield Golf Club.

Ahh...the wonderful district 207 suburban vans.

Only a few weeks earlier, the girls were shocked to hear that their coach for the past two years, Ms. Tipton, was diagnosed with cancer. She stepped down and the girls were left without a coach. Coach Hamann and Coach Scott have helped the team in the past when the girls were in the construction stage, and now stepped in to lend a helping hand.

With Mr. Hamann as the new head coach, and Mr. Scott filling in when Hamann couldn't be there, the girls had many laughs and a lot of great meets.

With an early conference meet at

Deerfield on September 28"', there was a crunched schedule this season. They were able to pull through and come out with a fourth place finish behind New Trier, GBS, and Waukegan with a score of 402. The team is very pleased with their results, which improved one standing from last year.

Changing regionals proved to be a difficult task for the team this season. They entered into a brand new regional of teams at Bonnybrook in Waukegan, which included the number one and two teams in the state this year. Although the girls did not move on to Sectionals as a team, their total of 397 was a great improvement from last year which placed them seventh out of twenty teams.

Meg Nakamura, although, did qualify to advance to sectionals in fourth place with a score of 80. When at sectionals, she shot a 76 and qualified to advance down to the state competition in second place.

by Krissy Vonesh This year the girls' volleyball team has seen more success than in recent years. The girls are spirited by their success and look forward to playing some of their toughest competition in the last eight games of the season.

The Hawks have won four consecutive matches against a strong Evanston team and have competed with some of the state's top ranked teams such as New Trier and Jacksonville. In the third tournament of the season, the Hawks placed second in the third pool after defeating Byron and Evanston.

In the last tournament of the year, Maine South is a co-host school and will be playing state-ranked Jacksonville and Lyons Township.

At the home game on Wednesday, October 18, the seniors will be honored for their accomplishments.

Cross country causes confusion

by Claire Sharkey Speeding down Talcott road on October 3, a man notices a line of red next to a line of yellow are next to a man with a gun!

Horrified, he slows down, dials 9-1 -1 on his cell phone, and gets out to see if he can help.

"Bang!" he's too late. The Glenbrook South Titans now have no hope of staying alive.

The runners take off, two yellow jerseys leading the way, Coppin, Sokes, and Sharkey right on their Titan tails. The rest of the GBS ladies, too exhausted to speak their last words, instead decide to take in the scenery of the Maine South course as they run. They see hundreds of freshman football players doing their best to not get run over. Coach Gabauer standing along Dee Road muttering, "OK, come on now, let's go here," excited fans along the parking lot fence becoming thirsty just by watching, Mr. Inserra taking a break from

coaching to yell, "Let's go Hawks!" and the varsity football players counting the number of different types of socks they see on the runners to use in their defense.

It's the final lap. Cordaro, Haas, Payne, MaRous, Talaga, and Coppin let out the Hawk cry as this is it for the Titans. Sokes and Sharkey decide the two yellow people in front of them are not going to finish together.

The two take off down the Dee Rd. stretch, carrying their bodies as fast as humanly possible, splitting the two Titans, and breaking the school record all at the same time. They wait as their teammates come soaring through the finish line.

Minutes later, the Hawks learn that last lap phenomenon was well worth it as they beat GBS 27-28. Sure enou^, the Park Ridge police arrive to answer the call of the confused

man who is still over at the starting line.

He explains, "Officer, a greyhaired man wearing a baseball hat shot the gun, and then drove away in a golf cart! These girls took off, but for some reason, they ran in a square?'

The pohce officer looks at the panting man and replies, "It looks to me that what you've witnessed, sir, was not a scene of violence, but the humiliation of GBS." The officer gets back in his squad car, waves at the M.S. ladies, and says, "Nice job today.

Hawks. We'll see you at McDonald's this weekend." The girls go home with new records set in stone, and their win behind them, and a chance to try on their dresses one more time.

The ladies can't dance too long, however. The conference meet is Saturday, October 14, at GBS.

South Stats ^ Number of consecutive victories by the Girls' volleyball over Evanston.

42 Margin of victory in the Homecoming football game against Waukegan.

Number of already red-heads on the Boys' soccer team.

Hawks dye-ing to start playoffs Success for

by John Jacobsen Matt Manning sat and pondered in the comer at the last Hawks Soccer pasta party; his teammates stared at his countenance, which reflected evidence of deep concentration and were utter perplexity. Matt had never thought about anyting in his life so intently before. Young vivacious Steffen Mirsky immediately attempted to clear the thoughts of his fellow teammate "What plagues your mind, Matthew? Is there something I can do?"

Matt sighed, "I can't decide what color to dye my hair for playoffs, young Stef. Do you think red, or black?"

"Your wisdom evades me Matt. What do you mean dying your hair for playoffs?

Please, do explain!" Steffen rambled in a state of excitement.

"Well, Steffen," rephed Matt, "the boys' soccer team dyes their hair as a statement of unity before playoffs."

Filled with worry, Steffen squeaked, "But what if my mother won't let me? Wouldn't it just be easier to read poetry or discuss alipbra to unify the team?"

With a little bit of a giggle. Matt preached, "You will learn, my little dumpling...you will learn."

It is still a mystery as to what color hair the Hawks will sport this year when playoffs begin October 24 at 3:00 PM in a home

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Boys' Soccer

game against Niles West, but one thing is for certain: these Hawks will be prepared for batde. As the regular season comes to a close, the Hawks' main focus is to fine-tune certain aspects of their game and more importandy recuperate from the injuries that have decimated them throughout the season.

Team co-trainer Joey Burgeron recendy related critical information: "NickiDobric's broken heart and Jimmy Denk's shattered ego look to be healing up nicely. They should both be 100% come playoffs."

Should the Hawks defeat the Niles West Indians in the first round, a potential matchup with #4 in the state. New Trier, awaits. When asked about a looming second round matchup with the rival Trevians, John Vigna uttered, "Who Trier?

Nope...never heard of them." More objectively, Matt Shalzi noted, "I guarantee you they're going to put eleven guys out on that field. If we don't do the same, we're in for a long day."

In the end, what color from the spectrum will the Hawks choose to dye their hair with?

Will there be no dye at all? Will John Bratko's and Steffen Mirsky's request for red dye prevail? How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop? Your Maine South varsity soccer team will answer these questions at Wilson Field on October 24 at 3:00 PM.

HciM^k 10/20

10/21

10/23

Sectionals

IHSASt ite Meet

Girls' Volleyball

Girls' Swimming

Regionals vs. New Trier 9:00 AM

Girls' Golf

@GBS 5:00 PM

The girls' swim team is still maintaining a strong undefeated record after decisive victories over Niles West, Hoffinan Estates and Waukegan. In the Niles West meet, Maine South took first in every event. Individual winners were Megan Gibbons, Amanda Fallico, Laura Bender, Amanda Lounsbury in diving, Beth Spitelli, Julie Szramek, Anna Tomczyk, and Liz Niemczyk. The 200 medley relay of Niemczyk, Fallico, Natalie Kruk and Bender, the 200 free relay of B. Spitelli, Bender, Szramek and Kruk and the 400 free relay of B. Spitelli, Bender, Gibbons and Szramek also placed well.

A few days later, the Hawks also did well against Niles West. Individual victories came from Gibbons, Bender, Kruk, and Fallico.

All three relays again won, this time including Niemczyk, Fallico, B. Spitelli, and Kate Paine in the 200 medley, B. Spitelli, Bender, Paine, and Szramek in the 200 free relay and Bender, Paine, Gibbons, and Szramek in the 400 free relay. Later that week, the Hawks had another victory against Waukegan.

Tough competition lies ahead for both the Varsity and JV teams, including their last dual meet, when the Hawks travel to Glenbrook South.

10/24 Sectionals

Cross Country

Football

by Anna Tomczyk

Highlights

Boys' Golf

Girls' Tennis

swimmers

10/25

SOUTHWORDS •ff

U

Football • Golf • Cross Country • Soccer • Girls" Tennis • Girls' Volleyball

C o m m i t m e n t to perfection

by Kevin Sherlock The Hawks soared to an undeJeff Kuempel, and Mark Ori led the • feated record of 7-0 after week defensive rush, stopping the Bull'-fjt-. seven with victories over Evanston dogs for minimum yardage and no ' ' and Waukegan. pass completions. Giovanni Portogallo added an interception in Against the Evanston Wildkits, " ^ the fourth quarter to seal the Hawk running backs Corey Norman and * : victory. Corey Norman and Shawn Kevin Sherlock combined for * Kain each rushed for three touchnearly 250 yards rushing. Sherlock * *%, • -liiJi '^mk.• - ' j-> J A, K ^ S downs, while Chris Fosco added added three touchdowns behind another. The Hawks rolled to a 50offensive linemen Jim Magiera, % •••r 8 win.

Jeremy Arbuthnot, Ralph m Kopycinski, Pat Stritzel and Joe Proving that special teams are Madden. Shawn Kain also threw a The Hawks share a laugh after beating Waukegan 50-8. for special people, senior longphoto by Rachel Kalom touchdown pass to Tony Traynor as snapper Mike Tedeshi spoke of the the Hawks answered last year's loss 2000 Hawk team. He said, "A lot to Evanston with a 33-6 win. week of practice. Coach Hopkins asked the of people don't understand the balance of Homecoming weekend the Hawks took team to write their goals for the season on a this team. We don't have a superstar or on the Waukegan Bulldogs. The motto for piece of paper. After reviewing their goals, 'playmaker.' We are a team of guys that wan|^^ homecoming was "Back off Bulldogs." That the team came out of week seven as a more to win, from the quarterback all the way t ^ ^ ^ is exactly what the Hawks did. During the focused and intense team. Dominick Lupo, let's say, the long-snapper."

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Crosscountry Tenpiis takGS third chronicles

by Scott Fullman As the season comes to an end, the varsity boys' cross country team is holding their ground, defeating Glenbrook South in a dual meet, placing third at the Addison Trail Invite, and finishing strong at the Central Suburban League South conference meet. The team is currently tied for first in the CSL conference. The Varsity is headed towards regionals with their heads high, looking to succeed farther up the long, arduous ladder towards a trip downstate. As the days get a little shorter, and the wind a little colder, these guys are still trekking through the forest preserve and striving for that downstate goal. With seniors that will be leaving at the end of the season, the team will have to look to its up-and-comers on the Sophomore team. They too have been very strong this season, and look to follow in the great footsteps that have been set for them.

by Ellen Gartner The girls' tennis season has wound down, with a third place in the conference meet behind New Trier and Glenbrook South.

When Mrs. Bondi went to the seeding meeting the Thursday before conference, she had quite a job to do. There had been so many successes throughout the season, and the roster was so flexible that the girls had played all up and down the ladder. That was the beauty of this year's tennis team: everyone worked well as a team, and was incredibly talented as well.

The singles lineup gave a great showing at the conference meet. At first singles, Maggie Witek took third place, beating Niles West 6-2, 6-1. Chrissy Kipta at second singles had an unfortunate loss in the first round, but ended up coming in fifth. Jeanne Mollner at third singles had a second place seed, and ended up fourth place after a frustrating final match. At fourth singles, Kara Dollaske came in third place with a final

match victory over Evanston The first doubles team of Caroline Brzozowski and Liz Bondi had a very strong showing against New Trier in the final conference match. Unfortunately, they fell just short, losing 6-7, 4-6. The second doubles team of Megen Briars and Kayla DiMenna took third, playing their first match into the dark hours of the evening on Friday, October 6, to only split sets and finish the match the following day. The third doubles team of Ellen Gartner and Sonja Mirsky took second place to New Trier as well with a score of 3-6, 1-6.

Not only did this year's team have a strong physical and mental bond, but also a strong bond of friendship. Considering it was such a short season, the memories shared will last a lifetime. Witek, K i p l ^ ^ ^ Bondi, Brzozowski, Briars, and DiMenm^^ are off to represent the Hawks at sectionals, and hopefully as well at the state meet.

J.