Vol 38 issue 13

SOUTH maine

MARCH 22, 2002

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q n IIVOL t h 38, FV.-J^ NO. 13

Home of the hogs?

In This Issue:

NEWS: MOCK TRIAL'S DAY IN COURT

COMMENTARY: STUDENT BEHAVIOR

FEATURES: IT TAKES Two TO TANGO

SPORTS: PREVIEW OF SPRING SPORTS

2 News

SOUTHWORDS • MARCH 22, 2002

Four cultures unite

by Kelly Oenning The French, German, Italian, and Span- Language Week. Once a person learns just across the ceiling. They were there to conish Clubs united in the celebration of Na- one foreign language, the possibility of pick- vey the concept of the unity amongst the diftional Foreign Language Week a few weeks ing up other languages is inevitable. ferent languages in the Foreign Language During the week, many vibrant posters Department. ago as they sponsored a cultural breakfast in the student cafeteria.

The display would portray the idea that one language is not preEach club provided a variety ferred over the other, and as Ms. of ethnic foods native to their Kramer stated, the different lancountry of study and shared in guages and their cultures, "are all each other's traditions. With the in it together." array of so many delicious foods, students found that it was hard Aside from the abundance of not to try ethnic dishes such as cultural food and entertainment, pizza, foccacia bread, Spanish the cooperation and pride exemplitortilla, croissants, and the Gerfied by each club displayed how man pastries. foreign languages can unite and diversify Maine South. That feehng Not only was the food great, of unity does not only apply to the the live entertainment provided languages taught at Maine South;

by Maine South's most popular it encompasses all the different landuo, Mrs. Weber and Mr. Barbas, guages of the various ethnicities was outstanding as well. "I have Kelly Oenning, Anna _ , / .. Lukas, and Allison Wohl within our student body. to say, when they sang Volare by celebrate Foreign Language Week with their Camaval masks. the Gypsy Kings, I wanted to get Furthermore, thanks to all the up there and sing in Italian even French, German, Italian, and Spaii^^^ though I'm taking Spanish," said Allison decorated the second floor A-wing in cel- ish Club officers, Mrs. Kramer, Mrs. W ^ ^ ^ Wohl, Vice President of Spanish Club. ebration of the Foreign Languages. Each for- ber, Mr. Barbas, Ms. Wendling, and Mrs. And right there in the excitement, was eign language was represented on separate Nica, National Foreign Language Week was the motivation behind celebrating Foreign posters that were strung randomly in rows truly a success.

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March 22, 1457- Gutenberg Bible becomes the first printed book.

March 22, 1630- The first legislation to prohibit gambling is enacted in Boston.

March 22, 1904- The first color photograph is published in the London Daily Illustrated Mirror.

March 22, 1933- President Franklin D. Roosevelt signs a bill that legalizes the possession and sale of beer and wine.

March 22, 1954- The first shopping mall opens in Southfield, Michigan.

March 22, 1963- The Beatles release their first album, "Please Please Me."

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SOUTHW'ORDS • MARCH 2Z 2002

New$ 3

The Hawks go to court

by Katz bv Kristi Kristi Katz ^ ^ But none of those trials really mattered; Once again, another triumphant season based on the case of the paralyzed hockey for the Maine South Mock Trial Team has player that was tried a couple years ago. The there would be no conference champion at come to an end. After many long Tuesday case focused on a state championship bas- the end of the season. It all came down to night practices and grueUng scrimmages, the ketball game between two high schools, the state competition.

By 7:30 a.m. on Friday, the team was on Mock Trial Hawks headed down to Spring- where during the final play of the game, one field for the state competition on Friday, player collided with another, and conse- their way to Springfield. As they got closer March 1,2002. The team had high expecta- quently, the victim's back was fractured. The and closer to the capitol, the pressure began tions going into the weekend, and they left defendant, Robin Hightower claims he ac- to build. Once the Mock Trial Hawks arcidentally shpped on water, however some rived in Springfield, they checked into their Springfield with a feeling of fulfillment. "luxurious and spacious" The Maine South Days Inn motel rooms and team, among a field of started to prepare for the 54 competitors, placed first day's trial. eleventh, of a total of The first round was to be over 600, just a mere five against the Illinois Math points short of the finaland Science Academy. The ist round.

Hawks walked into the This season was uncourtroom ready for a fight like any other in the hisand walked out victoriously. tory of the Mock Trial The second day came all team. The first differtoo early for the Hawks ence was the size of the with a 6:45 a.m. wake-up team. Coach, Don call. Their second trial cArthur took eighteen ^ ^ t itudents to Springfield; started at 8:30 a.m. This time the Hawks faced Triad, the largest number yet. a formidable opponent the Among those stuteam had faced at last year's dents were returning seSenior Mock Trial members Dan Saavedra, Stephanie Caccomo, and Stephen state competition. Once niors Stephanie Christy prepare for trial at the law firm ofJenner and Block. again, the team did well; Caccomo, Dan now all that was left to do Saavedra, Stephen was wait to find out the reChristy, and Julie Fudukos. A handful of juniors Cassie say there was no water on the court at all. sults of their efforts.

In past years, the team had made the Elite Sobota, Agatha Bochenek, Nicole Other elements played into the case. DurNellessen, Adrienne Frederick, Kelly ing a shady pep rally the night before, the Eight several times and hoped to do the same O'Toole, and Ian Beacraft, as well sopho- defendant exploded at the victim when he this year. Unfortunately, the inclement mores Kristi Katz, Marie Guillo, Kara thought that a secret game plan was being weather shattered those hopes.

There was word of a severe winter storm Collins, Ellen Dwyer, and Nick Pierce, and revealed to the other team. There was also freshmen newcomers Christina Fudukos, whole slew of potentially biased witnesses. warning, and so the Illinois State Bar AssoPam Kaye, and Jessica Newton, all added Then, there was the professional recruiter ciation (ISBA) sent all 54 teams home, withfor the NBA sitting in the stands. Was she out announcing the top eight and without a to the team.

Another increase in numbers this year the cause of the aggressive competitive play final round. Instead, the teams would be was the number of coaches the team had. on the court, or was her presence enough to judged on their first two trials and the law Mr. McArthur returned for his fourth year keep the players in check? Who was to be test the Hawks took on Friday. The ISBA as coach. Mr. Michael Polk, a resident of believed and who had an ulterior motive? would send notification of the winners on Park Ridge, also returned for a second year Was the collision intentional or just an acci- the following Monday.

When Monday came around, the Hawks as the team's advising attorney. Mr. Kurt dent? These questions made for some good Lahey, a substitute attorney, also joined the arguments, and ultimately they led to a very were notified of their 11th place finish, and they were very proud. It was also announced team this year as the second advising attor- challenging case for both sides. ey.

Aside from all of the late night practices, that Maine South's Dan Saavedra had won This year's case came soon after try-outs, the team also participated in scrimmages the Outstanding Lawyer Award for his role and the students dug right in. The case, the against local schools and competitors. The in the trials. With that, the Maine South People of the State of Illinois vs. Robin Maine South Mock Trial Team even hosted Mock Trial Team capped off another amazing season in style.

Hightower, was a criminal case loosely their own Hawk Invite.

4 Commentary ttfc OTltOfSj

By Megan Gibbons During 2000, 16,653 people died in an alcohol-related fatality. 614 of these deaths took place in Illinois alone. Over half of all teenage deaths are alcohol-related.

The statistics get thrown at us year after year and we listen and reflect as we sit quietly at all of our safety assemblies, yet it never really seems to have an impact.

We walk away with a few more statistics under our belts, but we continue to live just as we always have. We are all touched by the stories, and the numbers astound us, yet we simply walk away.

Spring break has finally arrived and big plans have been made for months. We have all been dreaming of the fun this week will hold since the day we returned to class second semester. It is the perfect time for relaxing and enjoying times with friends. Yet, as I sit here I cannot deny the feeling of dread I begin to feel inside. It slowly builds as I cannot stop myself from imagining the mistakes some of us might make this week.

When someone loses their life, or forever alters it, we cannot overlook the amazing feeling of emptiness and loss that rushes over us. It is as if there is nothing that can fill the void that has been created in our hearts. As the class of 2002's senior year winds down, we all want nothing more than for it to remain full of the happy times and the memories that have been shaped over the years.

A mistake that will forever alter life can take away bright futures and end promising lives far too early, not to mention tear from each and every one of our hearts all that high school has been and forever leave our spirits with a missing piece. We all need to recognize just how much each every one of us touches those around us and live smart. Life and the love of those that surround you are terrible things to waste. It needs to be lived with dreams for the future and plans for the journey. Keep in mind just how important life truly is.

Life is an remarkable entity, and no matter the vacation, the break, or the celebration, it needs to be cherished. Regret is a horrible thing, and we all need to do all that we can to ensure that we aren't left with any.

SOUTHWORDS • MARCH 2Z 2002

•Staff Opinion

Student behavior

by Tracy Schmidt The melting pile of snow outside the cafeteria must have been too tempting. As the 8* period bell rang, a senior grabbed a handful and carried it with him inside. Calling over to his buddy, he waved the snowball in the air and then proceeded to chuck it at a window. The parapro on duty, upon noticing the slush streaking down the window, turned to reprimand the culprit.

Confused by the dense crowd passing through the hallway, she stopped a boy laughing and pointing at the window.

"YOU!" She snapped. "Did you do that?"

Indignantly he replied, "What the $&%@ you talking about?"

"Don't give me that," she grabbed his arms. "Show me your hands."

She flipped them over— they were dry.

Realizing her mistake, she let him go. "I'm sorry. My mistake. Get on to class."

The boy muttered, "Yeah, you better be sorry, S&^@*\" He continued on his way, confident she had heard his degrading insult.

The parapro rolled her eyes, knowing all too well that not only had she let the real perpetrator escape, she hadn't called another student on his obvious disrespect. But even if she had written either student up, would it have really made a difference at Maine South High School? A school where student disrespect is becoming a way of life?

No, chances are it would not.

It's getting worse Administration, teachers, and paraprofessionals all agree that within the past year student behavior has gone from bad to worse. Inappropriate language, insubordination, and distasteful clothing are among the many problems that have gotten more severe both in and out of the classroom.

Says school principal Dr. Cachur, "I have noticed a difference in overall student behavior. The staff has expressed concern to me— teachers are getting lip back now instead of the expected yes ma'am."

Getting hit the hardest with this disrespect are the paraprofessionals, adults monitoring student behavior in the hallways as well as in the library and cafeteria. Many students, seeing them simply as "bored

moms with nothing better to do than yell at kids to put on their ID's from the safety of a big desk," often ignore them.

Mrs. Baseleon, a fourth-year parapro, knows that many of the students pretending to look for ID'S after she reminds them are faking it. "You can't get everyone," she says, sitting at her desk outside of the faculty lounge during 6* period. "If I see somebody walking down the hall without one, I' 11 remind him. But you can't go running down the hall after them. There's too many of them to do that."

In a recent passing period, for example, this writer counted 54 students walking to their next class without an ID. Only one student actually put on an ID when asked to by a parapro.

Yet as Mrs. Baseleon has gotten used to the students ignoring her, she has also gotten used to their language. "Disrespect;t ISi ^ more verbal than it's ever been. Two ye( ago I'd be shocked if a kid swore and write him up like that. Now I'm more used to it and have to let the kids go because it's become so common around here. Of course, if it comes to downright disrespect, then we write them up."

As she says this, two boys pass swearing and threatening each other. One becomes so fed up that he shoves the other into a locker. "Hey, knock it off, guys." Mrs. Baseleon calls.

Officer Ross, having seen the incident from down the hallway, rushes up and confronts the boy. Without touching him or using disrespectful language, she asks him about slamming the other kid into the locker.

"Hey, lay the S%*# off!" He snaps back.

"I'm having a bad day!"

Officer Ross follows the boy down the hallway, scolding him for his misbehavior.

Mrs. Baseleon shakes her head. "A large majority of the kids here are great and just need to be reminded about language or ID's.

But there's always those ones that just want to be cool and get out of hand." ^ ^ Mrs. Wellson, sitting at the other e n d ^ ^ ^ the hallway near the attendance office, agrees. "Most of our students are great compared to what you'd hear about at other schools."

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Commentary 5

SOUTHVVORDS • MARCH 22, 2002

Staff Opinion

% growing concern And she should know because, next to Mrs. Schueler of REO, Mrs. Wellson has been a Maine South parapro for the longest— sixteen years. She continues to return each year simply because she likes the kids who "keep me young." Yet within the past few years, she has noticed a change in the overall attitude of the student body.

"They've got this new attitude of 'I don't care.' That somehow they don't have to follow rules and discipUne. It's very arrogant."

Arrogant. Yes, that's the right word.

What else can describe the attitude of students blatantly refusing to put on their ID's, to talk respectfully, to treat each other kindly when asked to by a paraprofessional? "Sure, the parapros don't have a degree Uke the faculty members," commented one teacher who asked to remain anonymous, "but does that make them any less worthy of the respect teachers receive?"

A Gandhi-esque attitude No, just ask Mr. Deger: social science teacher, varsity swimming coach, beloved comedian, and lunchroom babysitter. He has cafeteria duty during 6"^ period— the overcrowded lunchroom lately notorious for its student fights. Like the other two teachers on duty, he circles the room, keeping an eye on overall student behavior for any potential outbursts. But while doing so, he puts in the extra effort of mopping up tables and throwing out trash.

It isn't technically his job to pick up after the hundreds of students eating in 6A and 6B, but if Mr. Deger doesn't, who else, besides the janitors, will? "I guess I'm just trying to take a Gandhi-esque attitude," he says, picking up a used Kleenex and tossing it in a garbage can. "Maybe if they see me doing it, they will be a bit more respectful of each other as well as the room and clean it up. Maybe if they come down here and see a clean room, they might be a bit more motivated to keep it clean."

The disrespect of which he speaks is apparent when looking around the room as students clear out for 6B. Half-eaten sandwiches, spilled pop cans, and discarded napkins grace tables and the floor, left behind by those too lazy and selfish to drop them

in one of the garbage cans conveniently located at each exit. A few students take a moment to clean the mess left by others, but many leave it for Mr Deger and the other two teachers and janitors on duty.

"Most kids will clean up after themselves and are really good about it, "says Mr. Deger.

"But then you've got those that simply refuse to do so and disrespectfully leave it for someone else to take care of. That's why I try to do my part."

He points to a janitor folding tables up across the room. "Who cares if I'm a teacher? Why should Joe have to clean up?

Is he somehow lower on the caste system because he's a janitor?"

Mr. Deger pauses for a moment, chuckling to himself. "I think a person loses perspective on humanity when he no longer cleans toilets."

Perhaps the increase in arrogant and disrespectful behavior on the whole is due to the fact that there are simply not enough toilets for the 2400 students of Maine South to clean. Or perhaps it's due to something else.

Many influences Mr. Thetard beheves a variety of influences are affecting student behavior. "I'd Uke to thank Britney Spears, J-Lo, the media, and J.C. Penny's," says the school dean of seven years with regards to the indecent dress of many female students. "There are a lot of influences. It can be the media and you can't take responsibility out of parent's hands either. Then again it's also part of our responsibiUty to say 'Hey, come on guys.

This is a school, not a locker room.'"

Acting on this idea within recent weeks, the administration has been discussing the student behavior at great length with each other, the department heads, the teachers, and the parapros. They continue to deal with students on an individual basis but have not yet formed a plan as to deal with refining Maine South as a whole. Says Dr. Cachur, "We normally have a higher standard of behavior but now it is evident that we have fallen below that standard." (continued on page 6)

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-Jennifer Wayer, '02

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It's not of what I have seen but it is what I have heard - too much vulgar language!

-Leah Wannell, Faculty

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The janitor cleaning up after a girl fight with the "body fluids clean-up" kit.

-Tom Gonzalez, '03

6 Commentary;

SOUTHWORDS • MARCH 22, 2002

Staff Opinion

Maine South student behavior still a concern* continued from page 6 Like Mr. Deger and Mr. Thetard, Dr. Cachur believes that the sUp in student behavior is a direct result from an ongoing trend in society. "Our lifestyle has become very casual. You see it in our dress and in our attitude; you see it in businesses and malls and church. Now it's evident that it's entering our school as well."

Yet what can be done aside from writing up students or dismissing their outbursts as the results of a bad day? It is clearly evident that the current situation is not working within the halls or cafeteria.

A few staff members suggested that administration could hire more security guards and enforce a greater level of zero tolerance.

Mr. Wallace, a parapro most often found outside the faculty lounge, thinks that a stricter disciplinary procedure is key: "Instead of detentions for twenty minutes, make it an hour. Instead of Saturday morning, make it all day Saturday. Students come here to conform to the rules of Maine South and they— and their parents— need to understand it when they walk in the door."

Officer Ross, Maine South's own security officer, feels similarly. "Kids think they can get away with misbehaving and soon enough they find out they can't. Disrespect to teachers and fellow students gets them in the biggest trouble. They have to communicate on the same level with respect and politeness if they want things to work out peacefully."

Students have their say When it comes right down to it, as most parapros and teachers will agree, the majority of students do mean well and realize that the current behavioral situation is inappropriate for any high school—especially Maine South. And while they may not be taking any concrete steps in changing the problems, many have ideas of improvement.

Adrienne Frederick is a junior and a member of the Mock Trial Team and girls' swim team. From watching teachers react within the classroom and the hallways, Adrienne has noticed a general trend. " A lot of teachers are getting fed up with the student language and now they are letting it go," she says. "They're almost expecting the language, like they're tolerating too much.

"There needs to be a constant enforcement of the rules so that some teachers won't let things go and others will be strict about it. There needs to be some kind of balance going on that clearly isn't there now."

Her classmate. Student Council President-elect Matt Heerman, may have the perfect solution. At Deerfield High School where his father teaches, the administration has enacted a program called the "Ritz Carlton Standard" devised to target inappropriate language.

For example, if a student can walk into a five-star hotel and make a comment without being asked to leave, then his word choice is acceptable. However, if the student's language would have him kicked out of the five-star hotel, then clearly it would be unacceptable for Deerfield High School and the student would earn himself a detention.

Although Matt does not know if administrators will replicate the "Ritz Carlton Standard" at Maine South, he does feel something is needed. "The best way to fix this problem of misbehavior is to attack it at the younger ages, specifically with focus on the family's role," he says. "However, if the school wants to take care of it now, their best bet would be going at it from a non confrontational angle.

"Teachers need to approach kids that are acting up without using a threat of punishment. Obviously punishment is not working well and if anything, is causing more and more kids to rebel against the system.

However, if the teacher is non confrontational and consistent about proper behavior, perhaps the kids will learn this kind of stuff is not appropriate at school."

While the majority of this article has focused on the students' misbehavior, it must also be noted that the Maine South staff— parapros, teachers, and administrators—is not without fault. The overall situation could not have escalated to this level without certain actions taken by those responsible for the students' well-being.

Student Council President Dan Saavedra, seeing himself as the main representative of the student body, blames the lack ofunderstanding between staff and students.

"In today's teenage culture," he says, "you can't expect 'yes ma'am' or 'yes sir' in high

school. However, I agree that there is a lack of respect around the school.

"But by the same token, I've seen a response that also lacks respect. Parapros physically grabbing students in the halls merely over ID's or bottles of water is also unacceptable in my mind. Adults acting in that manner weaken their authority overall."

"Mutual respect is key. Students need to acknowledge the authority of the school's staff— however, that will never occur if the adults continue to stoop to their level. Those with the age, maturity, wisdom, and experience must step up and be the role models here."

It must be noted, however, that the students' initial acts of misbehavior are provoking parapros to return the disrespect— even though these adults may not intend to do so.

Says Mrs. Baseleon, "Sometimes you need to take the misbehavior with a grain of salt and other days you just say 'I don't need this.'

"But there's no need for us to disrespe! you—^because if we can't respect you, how can we expect you to respect us?"

R.E.S.P.E.C.T It has become clear that, the root cause of the recent misbehavior is a lack of communication between staff and students.

Many comments show that staff members may be failing to execute clear discipUne and, more importantly, that several students are acting with inappropriate disobedience.

Yet who's to blame? Is it the fault of the teenager or the adult? The media or the family? Nature or nurture?

One cannot put a finger on the definite cause of student misbehavior simply because no single one exists. Rather it is a combination of influences and factors combined to provide the ideal environment for the problem to flourishing in.

Sadly, Maine South is providing that ideal environment and the results are showing.

These results will continue to show, however, until the staff introduces a new plan q. action with which the student body must c operate.

Then, when the roles of adults and teenagers are clear, can the school hope to run an estabhshment in which respect is not just an idea, but a way of hfe.

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!Features 7

SOUTHWORDS • MARCH 22, 2002

<5,Quieres bailarconmigo?

by Kelly Oenning Yes, it's true; it takes two to tango. So that's why you need to come to the dance room (across from the cafeteria) on Tuesday, April 2 at 3:15 p.m., because the Spanish Club is sponsoring a FREE leam-totango event with tango instruction from the experts of Tango.. .Nada Mas! Everyone is invited to attend our Tango extravaganza, and bring a few friends because you'll need a dance partner!

Pizza and snacks will be served after school and then the tango lessons will proceed.

Learning to tango is also a great new date idea. Tan go... Nada Mas, is a tango dance studio on Northwest Highway in Chicago dedicated to the Argentine tango and other Latin rhythms that will have you and your I date swept off your toes.

For the more adventurous c o u p 1e - I wouldn't recommend this for a first datetango dancing is a unique and fun alternative to the regular "So, whatta ya wanna do tonight?" blues.

The atmosphere of Tango.. .Nada Mas replicates the salons and dance halls in Buenos Aires where the tango first originated. From the up-tempo ritmos to the slower and more meticulous dance moves, the tango has come a long way from the urban alleyways of Buenos Aires to the streets of mainstream America.

However, if you think tango dancing involves guys in tight pants with a rose stem between their teeth, you're in for a disappointment!

Actually, tango dancing has become

quite chic among Chicago-land area teens and young adults. With the recent "Latin invasion" of salsa, merengue, and other Latin rhythms, the tango has also taken precedence among dance aficionados.

At Tango.. .Nada Mas, classes are offered every Saturday night at 8 p.m. for $15 per person. The lesson runs about 45 minutes, and then off to the dance floor for unlimited practice time with the sound of live Tango music.

Small candle-lit tables border the dance floor, and give Tango.. .Nada Mas an authentic taste that would make anyone believe they're back in Argentina, or on the set of Evita.

Attire for the studio is more on the formal side, but don't worry, you don't have to rent a zoot suit or a tango gown!

And girls, if you think you'll have to drag your boy out on the dance floor, then go with a group.

It's much more fun to be with all your friends and see them tango just as good-or just as bad as you.

And guys, dancing is not as bad as it seems: "Once I got used to it, tango dancing became pretty cool because it's so different, and you get to lead the dance," says one Maine South male who ventured out to Tango.. .Nada Mas and ended up having a great time.

So if you're looking for a new alternative for your Saturday nights. Tango.. .Nada Mas is a great way to experience a new culture and pick up a few dancing moves for your next big dance. And don't forget to be there on April 2 for Spanish Club's Tango extravaganza!

Don't forget that Southwards applications for the 2002-2003 school year are due TODAY in room V-131!* I f you need an application, pick one up in room V-131.

SlDTIWIllS A student-produced newspaper of:

Maine South High School 1111 South Dee Road Park Ridge, IL 60068

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\ Letters to the editor should be delivered to; I room V-131 or given to a member of the edi-1 ( torial staff. SOUTHWORDS reserves the! j right to edit material for clarity and brevity j and to reject obsceneyiibelous submissions. |

I Editors-in-Chief I News Editors I Commentary Editors \ Featiu-es Editors I Sports Editors Production Editors Core Photographers Core Staff Artist Advisor

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Britt Frederiksen Megan Gibbons Monica Bysiecki Caroline Kim Deanna Oleske Tracy Schmidt Eileen Collins i Emily Haak i Austin Gibbons j Kristi Katz \ Jim Puis I Dan Saavedra j Rachel Kalom i Salena Retsos j XR. Kerth i J

8 Features;

SOUTHWORDS â&#x20AC;˘ MARCH 2Z 2002

The people have spokenŠ

by Ashley Thielsen Late last month, mock elections were held, in which all seniors were able to "vote" for officials in our state government. Many seniors are now being given the opportunity to actually register to vote; many, although eligible, have opted not to. However, until 1971, the choice to either vote or not vote was not a luxury for 18 year olds.

Tomorrow, March 23, 2002, marks the 31st anniversary of the ratification of the 26th Amendment.

The 26th Amendment states: Section 1: The right of citizens of the United States, who are 18 years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States or by any state on account of age.

Section 2: The Congress shall have the power to enforce this article by appropriate legislation.

By lowering the voting age from 21 to 18 for all legal U.S. citizens, the 26th

Amendment made eUgible 11 million new voters to go to the polls in 1972.

The change did not go unchallenged, however, by those who felt that 18-20 year olds were incapable of making such mature

decisions. One such opponent to the amendment was Representative Emanuel Celler who on March 12, 1970, said, "I just don't think that they're mature enough to vote...

I'll fight tooth and nail."

Despite the challenges, many were clearly in support of the measure and felt that 18-20 ear olds were more than mature enough to vote. One such supporter, Mike Mansfield, said, "At 18,19, and 20 year-old young people... fight our wars. 1 think they have earned [the right to vote], and have eamed it far better than many of us in this chamber."

The right to vote by citizens 18 years old and older is a privilege not enjoyed by many people in the world. The 26th Amendment has changed the lives of every American since 1971; it would be difficult to imagine Uving in a world where citizens old enough to fight were denied the right to say how their country was run.

2nd Annual Anelise's Run DATE: April 7, 2002 TIME: 9:00 runners, 9:15 walkers START/FINISH: Park Ridge Community Center ENTRY FEES: $15 if registered by April 1st Family of 4 is $50 ($10 for each additional member) $20 race day registration, 7:30-8:30 If you want a t-shirt, you must be registered by March 22nd.

The drop off box is located at the Park Ridge Community Center or mail in to: Anelise Adams Fun Run 1670 S. River Rd. Des Plaines, IL 60018-2290

SOUTHWORDS â&#x20AC;˘ MARCH 22, 2002

Rest and relaxation

by Alison Balaskovits Planning a trip? Would you choose an enlightening tour about Sophocles, or perhaps a ski trip in Colorado? This is the difficult question that many students face when trying to manage their time: education or entertainment?

In a survey of one hundred students at Maine South, more than half, 78%, would choose the latter.

Not surprising, we are teenagers, and what else does a teenager want to do besides have fun?

Males have been to more museums and art institutes than females by roughly 20%, while 42% of all females have been to a dance club more often than males have.

What should we think about these statistics? Less than a quarter of the students surveyed have gone to their state capital out of their own free will, but around 95% have

gone to a sporting event.

Do Maine South teenagers value entertainment over education? According to the statistics they do. This is hardly surprising; what teen doesn't wish he or she was racing through the streets with a sleek, black corvette?

Who doesn't daydream of skydiving or rock climbing?

Who wouldn't want to take a trip to Fiji?

If you look at this survey purely by the statistics, Maine South would seem to be a "party school."

Maine South, however, is one of the top ten schools in the state, which means that it is in one of the top 500 schools in the entire nation.

Therefore, in the midst of all the time spent studying, students should be afforded the time for rest and relaxation too.

iFeatures 9 Spring fling

by Lauren Paez If you like to dance and support a great cause at the same time, then come to the "Spring Fling" dance on April 13 sponsored by Brotherhood. The "Spring Fling" was once the Dance Marathon, but Brotherhood changed the name so that students didn't think that it was a real marathon.

All we ask is that you tell all your friends and come out and support the Make-AWish-Foundation. All our proceeds go to the foundation to grant a terminally ill child any wish he or she wants.

The dance will be in the Spectator Gym from 7-10 and we will have a lot of food and a D.J. When spring break comes to an end, show off your tan at the "Spring Fling" on April 13 in the Spectator Gym!

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Zero tolerance for zero tolerance

by Katie Chor "Honestly, I never meant to order that alcohoUc drink," said a former student of Maine South. This student, who asked to be called "Joe," imbibed two drinks accidentally and received a punishment that basically erased everything he had worked for.

Should it be that easy for a student to drink their future away?

On a Maine South sponsored trip to Virginia, Joe was not planning on causing any trouble. The rules were very clear to him, and he expected to follow them. However, during meal at a nice restaurant, Joe ordered a drink.

"I ordered a fruit drink. I never mentioned alcohol and wouldn't have had enough money for it anyway," he said. "Apparently [the waitress] thought I was the chaperone.

But I never misrepresented myself and she never asked me for an ID. I had no idea she was going to serve me alcohol."

Joe took a sip of his drink and was surprised that there was alcohol in it. The idea

of a person mistaking him for being five years older was so perplexing that he asked the other students what they thought. "Someone suggested I try ordering a beer to see what happens." The waitress sold him the beer also.

"1 was told by a teacher that if I admitted everything, I wouldn't get into that much trouble, and I did. I freely admitted that I had two drinks, but I was not intoxicated and I think that was important." However, the school had a list of rules that did not care about Joe's situation.

Many schools and towns have adopted Zero Tolerance, a supposed solution to the rise in the overall behavioral problems in schools. Zero Tolerance states that there is no excuse for violating certain school rules, notably the ban on students use of drugs and alcohol.

"I was pretty much taken out of school for twenty-two day," Joe said, and part of that was due to refusing rehab, "I was never

addicted to alcohol. 'Two drinks' is not an addiction. I should not have to go to rehab to fix a problem that doesn't even exist." So Joe was suspended and was not allowed to make up any work for all but one class. This resulted in significant decrease in his grades. "My grades suffered because of my suspension. The college that I was planning on going to slowly became an impossible goal."

It seemed completely unfair to Joe that he had received such an extreme punishment. Even some teachers involved in the situation, including the one that reported Joe finally concurred that they did not agree with his punishment.

"The educational system is supposed to help people," Joe said. "After that, I lost a lot of faith in it. Zero Tolerance solved nothing for me. It is teachers being forced to do things that they don't even agree with. If you ask me, zero tolerance killed common sense."

10 Sports

SOUTHWORDS â&#x20AC;˘ MARCH 2Z 2 0 0 2

Surprising tiie competition

by Austin Gibbons Boys' track has come to the end of it's indoor season, and as spring break comes, so does the outdoor season. The Hawks have had many successful meets, as they have beaten St. Patrick's and St. Joseph's, as well as a strong second place finish at the Evanston freshman/sophomore Invitational.

Against the Shamrocks of St. Patrick's and St. Joseph's, the Hawks ran away with the meet, winning almost every event. Joe Janik took the 50m. Dave Skiba took both sets of the hurdles in great form, and Chris Mitchell astounded the audience with an impressive 2:03.3 in the 800m, winning the event. The Hawks took the 4x200m relay, and Tony Marcinek won the 400m in 55.7 ÂŁmd the pole vault with 13'06". In an attempt to break the indoor school record, Marcinek had this to say, "I had a great shot to break the record of 14', but 3 minutes of stabilizers before the meet started didn't help the cause." In the mile, the Hawks swept the event, taking 1st- 3rd. Tony LoBianco took first in 4:34.3, and Austin Gibbons and Phil Keith followed with 4:52.6 and 4:52.7, respectively. Mitchell

won the high jump and the long jump, while Skiba won the triple jump.

The Hawks blistered the field in the final event of the night, the 4x400m relay, lapping everybody. However, the distance re-

Sprinting to the finishline

by Jenny Heffeman "...And they're off!" After an amazing performance at the Wheeling Invitational, Maine South girls' track has blazed past the competition. Friday, March 1st, numerous opponents journeyed to our hallowed fieldhouse to compete for honors. However, they were hard pressed to do so, as the Hawks put in their best effort. Achievements of the night include a first place by the triple jump relay of Susie Logsdon, Sarah Anderson, Jamie McKenzie, and Madeline Kmiec, as well as a second place finish in pole vault by sophomore Jessica Aniol.

Continuing their competitive streak, the speedracers put up a fight versus Luther North and Resurrection March 7. Despite the

loss of several valuble team members to sickness and spring sports, Maine South pulled through to win the meet. Contributions to this outstanding performance came from Katie Coppin, who won the 600m with a time of 2:53, and the 1600m relay, which placed 2nd.

After this victory, the girls threw themselves into practice in an attempt to ready themselves for March 14th's conference meet. Following this important meet, only one more remains in the indoor season.

The outdoor season will commence with the return to school from Spring Break. Seize the opportunity to continue your spring tan and come on out to the track to cheer on the Lady Hawks!

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lay suffered a tough loss to the sprinter relay in their annual dual. The sprinters prevailed winning by a half second in a time of 3:56.8. Vince Natali, who is undefeated on the year to this point, is having a great year, as he took first in the shot put once again.

At the Evanston freshman/sophomore Invitational, there were many great performances. Lee Camarano ran an impressive race in the 3200m, as he took 2nd place at 10:42.2. Kyle Galayda had a great day as well, taking 2nd in the high jump, and Pat Moran continued, taking 2nd in the 800m, in 2:17.7, and 3rd in the 1600m, at 5:10.3.

Overall, it was a great day as the Hawks sophomore squad took 2nd, losing to Evanston by only one point, 45.5 to 44.5.

The Hawks team traveled to Evanston this past Friday for the CSL South Indoor Conference meet. They ran against state caliber runners such as Jasen Toussaint, Erik Sloan, and many others. The Hawks looked to win the CSL South title for the first t i n ^ ^ in their history in the South division of t h ^ ^ conference.

HeyYou! We still Need Spring Sports writers.

Just Contact Kristi Katz or Austin Gibbons for any infornnation.

Or stop by V-131 and drop us a note!

Sports 11

SOUTHWORDS • MARCH 22, 2 0 0 2

Hoping for home runs back in the day, I look, with my girls, to

by Nicole Nellessen Morning practices: does the girls swim upset our rivals once again."

"The season isn't all about wins and team have another season? No, but the girls Softball team is back in full swing, attend- losses, however," Paiser continued, "this ing hardcore practices at 6:00 a.m., in the year the girls are going to learn what it is to be a family. All team sports should be apback gym. preached that way and I expect With a new head coach this year, Ms. 'l \ everyone to know and Emmy Paiser, as well as assistant coach ^ t 1|^ \ build confidence and tmst Mr. Deines, JV Coach Mr. Hamann, and ii^ ^^^h other." freshman coach Mr. BelUsario, the program ^Hjm'^^^m ^ ^ ^ ^ W^ "Along with trust, I exis looking to turn some heads. ^^ \ pect the seniors to take on "With this being my first year, I feel / j leadership roles on and spoiled. The skill and enthusiasm I see -^ X /V off the field. The under is amazing," said Coach Paiser. ' '>» classmen should then With seven have no problems fitreturning —,^^ ting in. I see them fillseniors, J||ta ing the important roles," K e l l y ^ W F >| said Coach Paiser Oening, Tricia ^f With the head coach spoiled with skill Diduch, Liz Bondi, and enthusiasm, along with nothing but Maria Coletti, Nicole Cameron, Anne Forde, and Britt Luxton, the positive expectations, the girls' varsity softvarsity squad looks like it will give state- ball team looks for success this season. owerhouse New Trier trouble on the field.

Mistakes may happen here and there, but "I remember playing at Maine South," they are going to shake it off and go in thinkCoach Paiser said, "New Trier was always ing, "Harder, straighter, hit it again." A foul at the top, along with Evanston and Niles ball may not be so bad, but a home run West. Just as my team claimed conference would be much better

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Flying birdies

by Kaitlin Moran The birds are flying once again. No, the Maine South geese have not returned from the south-yet-but the girls' badminton team is in full swing. After losing seven strong seniors last year, the nets will be set high.

The girls have been working hard and are up to the challenge, getting in shape with runs around the A-wing and North Fields and constant practices. With twentytwo experienced returning players and twelve energetic newcomers, the team is ready for a successful season.

Coach Schwan is taking a break while preparing to add a new member to her family around in the end of April, yet she is still playing an active role in the program, cheering the team on and helping out when needed. Ms. Muir is filling her shoes as varsity head coach and is doing a good job of it. With Coach Danon as her junior varsity sidekick, they make quite the dynamic duo.

The Hawks are focused now on their first tournaments Saturday, with the junior varsity at East Aurora and the varsity competing at Buffalo Grove. The season will officially kick off against Glenbrook North and Maine East.

w/c Highlights M a r c h 2.2.

Baseball

M a r c h 23 vs.

Rolling Meadows

M a r c h 24

M a r c h 25

M a r c h 2.6

@ Vernon Hills 11:00 a.m.

Softball

Girls'Soccer

vs. Mather 4:30 p.m.

Boys' Gymnastics Boys'Volleyball

Boys'Track

Girls'Track

Badminton ^

Have a great Spring EJ^eaE - ^

S|)ITI1«»1!DS

2UUi SPORTS Unfinished business Baseball • Softball • Outdoor Track • Badminton • Girls' Soccer • Boys' Gymnastics • Boys' Volleyball

by Mike Zuhr After last year's disappointing and premature exit from the IHSA State baseball tournament. Head Coach Bill Milano addressed the juniors that would return the following year. Coach Milano looked every junior in the eye and presented a challenge, of some "unfinished business" that needs to be taken care of. When an Italian makes a statement like that, everyone should beware.

"Unfinished business" is this year's baseball team slogan and motivation. Nothing will get in the way of this year's team until all of the business is finished.

Milano is entering his sophomore season, and has revived and reshaped the program going 30-4 in his first season at the helm of the varsity squad. Assistant Coach Jason Marsicano also returns to the program bringing intensity that keeps the team fired up and focused. Along with the two returning coaches, there is great experienced senior leadership also making another run. The team will ride the backs of their two heroes.

Mark Ori and Craig Murray, the two all-state candidates and Division-1 recruits. They will

lead the squad deep into the playoffs. Bryan Smaha, Anthony Anichini, Mike Zuhr, Bob Sanchez,Gregg Kane, Phil Sloan, and Jason Clark, all returning seniors will play an important part in the success of the team.

There is also a great group of talented juniors and one sophmore who will contribute greatly while learning what it means and takes to play Maine South varsity baseball.

The Hawks begin their business at Rolling Meadows tomorrow. They also take on Vemon Hills and Appleton throughout the spring break. As Maine South is off enjoying their break, the Hawk baseball players will be hard at work.

When the Hawks return from break they will be looking to avenge last year's playj loss as they take on the hated Loyola Act emy at home. This year has the potential to be an exciting and memorable one. So Hawk fans need to head out and join the "bleacher bums" and help cheer on the Hawks as they take on the competition.

The little engine that could

by Scott WojteczJco This year's Maine South Boys' Volleyball Team has quickly grown to understand the challenge that lies in their course after last year's strong showing. It will not be easy to overcome the loss of nine seniors from last year's squad, yet these boys are prepared to make the sacrafices necessary to repeat the success.

Each individual player has done whatever was needed be done to rip the "I" out of TEAM. Take the always energetic junior hitter Lionell Chiero, who headed straight for the barber to remove six inches of unneeded baggage. Junior setter Dan Tallungun, has put himself on house arrest to keep his mind focused on the sport he loves. When asked to comment on his lockdown, he simply stated, 'Team back-

wards sounds like meat, and I don't like meat, so I will do whatever it takes to keep this team moving forward." Senior Ian Fidler volunteered to spend five days in Cancun, Mexico, refining his tools on the beach. Everyone has done their part.

With gym space lacking. Coach Grannell has led these players away from the hours of dayUght and into the depths of the morning. A combination of greuling fitness center workouts, the fresh smell of the back gym at 5:45 in the morning, and Momingfields' creme-filled donuts has kept this team motivated to be the best they can be.

As this year's squad has only three returning varsity members in Ian Fidler, Dan Mathisen, and Scott Wojteczko, it will look to make a new game for the squad in a hurry

with the help of the new varsity members Dan Tallungan, Chris Hayes, Tim Curry, and Kevin Pick.

The Hawks may not be the biggest or the strongest team in the state, but sweet sassy molassy, they will do whatever it takes to win." Listen for the roar as volleyball comes steaming into Maine South, after break. The boys volleyball team opens the season versus Notre Dame on Thursday, April 4. They look to be a successful squad this year, as they face off against state powerhouses such as Stevenson, Evanston, a a ^ New Trier. Talented junior Kevin Pick s^^B it best when he provided helpful insight upon the 2002 Boys' volleyball season. "I look at these guys and it makes me think of my favorite story: The Little Engine That Could."