Vol 41 issue 3

OUfflWORDS

M A I N E TOWNSHIP H I G H SCHOOL SOUTH

OCTOBER

15, 2004

I l l s . DEL ROAD • PARK RiixiE, ILLINOIS 60068

VOL.41. \ .

In This Issue: NEWS f Chicago police consider fining for rug possession page 3

FEATURES Class of'91 Olympian Tom Hoff discusses strength in the face of injury page 4 ENTERTAINMENT Video gamers eagerly await new releases of the fall page?

COMMENTARY George W. Bush: Right president, right time page 9

SPORTS

Girls' swimmers urprisc thcmscKcs page 14

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EWS OCTOBER

15. 2004 • VOL. 4 1 . No.3

Lockeian Americana

by Alex Schallmo America was founded on ^ % certain inalienable rights which include life and liberty. To Americans, government is supposed to be an institution created to provide a voice to each of its citizens and represent the minority as well as the maiority. Half a world away, in Sudan, such things that Americans take for granted are not permitted by the existing Sudanese government.

The majority of the population in Sudan is Arab, and it had lived in a semi-peaceful relationship with the minorities of the Darfur region of Sudan, which include the Fur. Masalit and Zaghawa. In February of 2003, the Sudan Liberation Army/Movement and the Justice and Equality Movement, comprised of members of the minority citizens, began to demand that the government grant them equal

socio-economic representation. In response to this armed resistance, the government sent the Sudanese military, and sought the aid of the powerful Janjaweed militias, not to attack the rebels, but rather to engage in a scourge of the civilians of the Darfur region of Sudan.

The militias have raped and murdered women and children, burned whole villages to the ground, plundered mosques, destroyed everything that could sustain life, and removed all emergency relief efforts. In many cases, these attacks have been supported by the Sudanese airforce. Mosi of the casualty numbers have not been recorded, so true figures are not available. The ethnic cleansing that has ravished Darfur for over a year now has seen over 110,000 of its citizens escaping into neighboring Chad, yet most of its citizens are left to suffer the wrath of its government.

Although the government has stated to the UN that it would allow unhindered

humanitarian access for the relief of the Darfur, it has not lived up to its agreement. If the Sudanese government does not permit access to humanitarian efforts, over 100,000 of the citizens of Darfur could die in the next twelve months.

The United Nations debate has largely centered on whether to call the actions of the Sudanese government genocide or ethnic cleansing, instead of implementing practical responses to this atrocity.

This issue has come to the forefront of American political debate, but in the case of the presidential election, both Democratic candidate John Kerry and Republican candidate George W. Bush are in agreement.

They both believe that a coalition of neighboring African nations should intervene.

If you are interested in learning more about this issue, visit www.amnesty.org, and attend the next Maine South Amnesty meeting.

New voting procedures to prevent repeat fiasco.

by Anna Wolonciej The 2004 presidential election is creating many issues outside of the candidates' campaigns. This election will be closely monitored for two reasons: to monitor the incredibly close poll results and to prevent another voting fiasco like the one that occurred in Florida in 2000.

Every state is taking precautionary measures to handle the ballots correctly: no one wants to be this year's Florida. New technology is being introduced to many polling places to accommodate local voters.

There are five types of ballots currently used in United States elections. Though all five were used in the 2000 election, every state is weighing the pros and cons of each type of ballot again to become more efficient in vote counting.

Many states are considering getting rid of older voting technology to make voting easier and more accurate.

The first type of ballot is the old-fashioned paper ballot where the voter marks the box next to his or her chosen candidate's name.

This type of ballot is very inexpensive, and it has been in use since 1856. However, all the ballots must be counted by hand, and therefore

it is time consuming and prone to mistakes.

Paper ballots are slowly decreasing in use because of their disadvantages.

The second type of voting technology is more of a device than a ballot: the lever machine that has been in use for over a hundred years. The voter has to pull a lever next to the desired candidate's name. This machine can count votes quickly, and it is impossible for the voters to choose a candidate more than once. The problem with the lever is that it is no longer manufactured and the older machines can break down easily. Also, the votes cannot be re-counted if necessary.

Punchcards have not been around for long but have increased in popularity. The voter simply has to punch a hole next to the name of the chosen candidate. They are also inexpensive. Their downside, however, is that they can create chaos when it comes time to count. Not all the cards are punched through completely and the poll workers sometimes have to guess the voter's intent. The "hanging chads" from the punchcards were the main problem in Florida in 2000.

An optical scan works the same way as a standardized test. A computer scans the filled in circles to get an accurate count. This does not mean that mistakes can't happen, however.

The machines could break down or stop

reading the votes properly when the voter doesn't use a number two pencil.

The last and the newest type of ballot is a touch screen, similar to ATM machines. It is very easy to use and allows the voter to review their choice before casting the electronic ballot.

This type of technology is expensive though, and potential software errors can occur.

Therefore, no actual ballots are available for a re-count. Many people make mistakes with this type of ballot, but experts say that once it is used more often, mistakes will be less common.

While states are deciding which technology will help obtain more accurate results, another debate is arising. The OSCE (Organization for Security Cooperation in Europe) will send representatives to monitor the election. This organization traditionally monitors elections in new democracies. Many U.S. government officials consider it an outrage that a country that considers itself to be an icon of democracy needs foreign involvement in a d o m e ^ ^ election. ^ B State legislatures and different organizations are trying to literally make every vote count.

This year's election will be highly concentrated on the accuracy of the results as well as to provide results that will provide validity of results that determine the actual winner.

NEWS OCTOBER

15, 2004 • VOL. 41, No.3

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^ a i n e South experiences a "Visit"

by Kelly Spreitzer It's thai time of year again - fall.

I t s when the first play of the year comes out.

This years play is "The Visit," written by Friedrich Durrenmat and adapted by Maurice Valency.

There are scene changes with every blink of an eye. The crew has been putting in countless hours designing, constructing, and painting the set, with much of the set being handcrafted by the theater

crew. Makeup designer Pam Kaye describes (played by Jessica Salzinski). who causes much the juxtaposition between the behavior of of the drama in the little town of Gullen. Other characters and the characters to keep track of during this comedy/ tone of their tragedy are Schill (played by James Dimatteo) makeup. From the and the ever so popular Burgomaster (played diligently crafted by Matt Cuisimano). This cast has been general store to the working extra hard since day one to perfect train station, to the their characters. There are twenty-seven cast town square and the members in total, and that's a hefty number, Golden Apostle considering how many f)eople there usually are Inn, the audience for a play production. will never know "The Visit" is playing in the Watson where this play will Auditorium from Thursday, October 21 to go next.

Saturday. October 2.^ at 7:.^0 p.m. every night.

The main The tickets are $5 and will be sold in the Constnuikm crew members work hard to character of the cafeteria before, during, and after school during get the set ready for the fall play. play is Clara the week of the performance.

Daley pushes to get pot fines roUing I •S^ .^^w ^ B «

I by James Mantas C^L m-w^

For those who are uninformed, Chicago is going through some major

Due to recent spendingthe astronomical costs of Soldier Field, among others- City Hall and Mayor Daley have a small problem with Chicago's budget: a $200 million problem.

Chicago's financial situation is eroding slowly. CTA bus fares rose in January by 25 cents to $1.75; this was done in an attempt to rescue the bus system from utter collapse.

After all, CTA funding has been stuck at a miserable $3 million since the 1970's.

However, considering the amount of money CTA needs to maintain its present service (as well as Mayor Daley-backed cuts made to the budget), fares would have to skyrocket to $3.(X) to keep the wheels on the bus going round and round.

The lack of incoming funds is partially the result of hotels lacking visitors. Daley warns that, in order to keep the Chicago budget from imploding, tourists are going to need a reason to come to Chicago. "Tourism and conventions coming back. They have to and they will, herwise], the terrorists have won," he said.

All this is background to a new revenue idea from the strangled heart of the judicial system of Chicago.

Arrested marijuana users everywhere know what a slap on the wrist feels like; to be arrested for possessing marijuana will most likely mean

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A fine would mean much-needed revenue a court date. But a court date for pot possession for City Hall, and the pot ticket idea just might doesn't mean much these days, especially in be the miracle the Mayor needs to resurrect Chicago.

Chicago's budget. The fines proposed are $250 According to Bryan Brickner, chairman of for ten grams or less, and up to $1,000 for up the National Organization for the Reform of to 100 grams.

Marijuana Laws, "Cannabis arrests are at an all-time high in the city...," Put into perspective, if every - These all-time highs are marijuana referring to the 20,000 possession people arrested each year in misdemeanor Chicago for misdemeanor reported this year marijuana possession. had been ticketed "There are only so many for $250, City Hall judges, so many police would have officers," he said. It costs c o l l e c t e d millions of taxpayer dollars $5,000,000. to prosecute these small Realistically, marijuana cases. though, not all After all. four out of five fines would be defenants caught with ten paid on time. That grams or less (about enough adds late fees. to make seven joints) over Also, all busts the last two years walked would definitely free without any punishment Chicago Mayor Richard Daley gives a not be less than 10 whatsoever, according to a presentation. grams, which study conducted by Sgt. Thomas Donegan of means up to 4009c more cash for City Hall on Chicago. that ticket. Then those tickets might not be Arresting officers, prosecutors, and even paid on time. To add even more to this already users themselves have better things to do. hefty amount, with the easy new tickets, more More often than not. court cases are dropped officers will cite more citations and more cases due to lack of participants. will result, meaning that the number of arrests Daley supports a marijuana ticket idea; could increase dramatically. instead of having arresting officers give Fines, then, would be a blessing for the violators a court date, police officers would entire city; more revenue would mean more write up a pot citation, similar to a parking money for things that actually matter. tickets.

City Hall could soon be rolling in the dough.

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rEATURES OCTOBER

15, 2004 • VOL. 41. No. 3

Maine South serves up an Olympian^

by Kelsey Keith

Olympic volleyball players. Hoflf didn't feel After the girls' he was being challenged at Ohio State and he volleyball team went wanted to go somewhere where others had downstate last year and aspirations of being professional volleyball t placed third, volleyball has players. "1 transferred to Long Beach State become the sport to watch. because 1 wanted to be around people who were Maine South volleyball ultra-competitive in volleyball. The program wasn't always this prosperous. In the early was willing to be extremely challenging to 90s, Maine South didn't even have a volleyball me...so 1 went to Long Beach," stated Hoff. team. It was a club that played in a few Even after transferring to a much more competitive school tournaments here and and one with an there. There weren't amazing volleyball conference matches or program, Hoff was even a state tournament. an All-American his The lack of opportunity junior and senior offered here, however, year. He is one of six didn't prevent one Maine players in the history South alumnus from of Long Beach State chasing after his dreams. to record over 1,000 Tom Hoff, a 1991 Maine kills in a career.

South graduate and After graduating member of the U.S. from college, Hoff National team and the worked as an 2000 and 2004 Olympic engineer in Long teams, didn't start Beach for a month. playing volleyball until During that time he he was 15 years old. "1 put his name in to be started playing with my drafted for a brother and then at professional beach [Maine South]," noted volleyball league.

Hoff. "1 was introduced After one season on to the Seoul Olympics in the beach volleyball 1988, and looking at the circuit, he moved to volleyball there, 1 Colorado Springs in decided that was the summer of 1997 something I wanted to and has been on the photo (tmnesv nl IWI Eyi do. It was a huge goal U.S. national team As a junior at Maine South. and dream of mine, and ever since.

Hoff was a key member of I have been pursuing it Four months the vollevball team. ever since. It has been before the Sydney 16 straight years now."

Tom Hoff's journey to becoming an games, Hoff suffered a back injury and Olympic athlete was neither clear cut nor easy. underwent surgery. He was back playing in Coming out of high school, Hoff was mid-July, though he didn't fully recovered by unrecruited. Park Ridge was not the volleyball the start of the games. When the team's other hotbed of the U.S. Hoff had to force himself middle blocker, Jeff Nygaard, came down with onto teams in hopes of being asked to join mono, Hoff had to play, even though he was them. "I sent out a highlight tape 1 had made, only half-well. Going into Sydney, the U.S. and Ohio State was the only one who bid with was ranked number three and had placed third a small interest," said Hoflf. Although Hoflf at the more competitive world cup. As Hoff only attended Ohio State for two years, he was said, "We were in an extremely good situation, able to lead his team to an NCAA Final Four but we didn't do that well. Bad things appearance and was an Ail-American his happened with injuries and timing. That's the sophomore year. Like Park Ridge, Ohio State thing with having a team of six and twelve was not a breeding ground for national or guys. When you have a couple injuries, your

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team is no longer third in world and you're not so good anymore." The U.S. failed to win one match at the Sydney games; it was their worst performance in seven Olympics.

Many athletes never return to their sport after injury with the same ability and stamina, but that was not the case for Tom Hoff. The U.S. head coach, DougBeal, noted that, "Hoflf is a significantly better blocker and server than he was before surgery." Hoflf feels he was able to have such a positive recovery because he wanted to be able to play volleyball again.

"I felt something that I loved and had a huge passion about and that 1 still really enjoyed was taken away from me for the first time in my life," Hoflf said. "In volleyball, I had never been in a situation where 1 wasn't in control of my own destiny. If I wanted to play on the beach professionally, I played on the beach.

If I wanted to become a first team AllAmerican, I did it. All of the sudden, I was on the road to being an Olympian. I was starting for the national team for several years, and then I had this bad back injury. VoUevjj^ continued on pJ^^

S OUfflV/OR P S A student-produced newspaper of:

Maine South High School 1111 South Dee Road Park Ridge, IL 60068 .Signed letters to the editor should be delivered to room V-131 or given to a member of the editorial staff. SOUTHWORDS reserves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to reject obscene/libelous submisEditors-in-Chief News Editors Features Editors Entertainment Editor Commentary Editors

Sports Editors Production Editor Core Photographers Core Staff Artist Advisors

Carly Calkins Kate Funkhouser Ashley Rezaiezadeh Alex Schallmo John Mallory Kelsey Keith Melissa Hansen Mike Bielaczyc Rebecca Christopher Corinne Ullrich Steve Contomo Miurrio Greg Mi^ Bobby Crisr is^^e Katie Katz Audrey Russell Jon Markowski Mr. Stathakis Mr. Ellefson

FEATURES OCTOBER

15, 2004 • VOL. 41, NO. 3

5

# \ chat with class of 1991's Tom Hoff was taken away from me and it gave me a taste of how special what I was doing was to me. I came back and trained with a vengeance to come back and be just as good and try to help my team. I wanted to prove that every day is so special becau.se maybe I was taking things for granted because as I wanted things, I was able to make them happen. With my back injury, it was my first real stumbling block on the way there, and I said, "After this I am going to savor and enjoy every moment I have of volleyball.""

Unlike the Sydney games, the team went into Athens ranked seventh in the world and they were placed in the hardest pool. To get out of their pool, they had to play the top four teams in the world.

"It made it a little more difficult, but that makes it all the more sweet when it's over," Hoff said. "We had a better mind.set going into Athens: we didn't have the nagging injuries or unfortunate last minute sprains. We wanted to go out there and give it our best shot. We ended getting fourth."

Even though the U.S. walked away from thens without a medal. Hoff was extremely proud of his team. "Everyone thinks you have to get a medal," he said. "People sitting on their couch don't know the level of competition, intensity, and focus it takes for four years to attain that gold medal. I can sit here and say I am really proud of myself and the team and our finish, even though we don't have a medal to prove it."

The U.S. men's quest for a gold medal ended when they played the number one ranked Brazil volleyball team in the semi-finals.

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"The teams thai finished above us were more consistent," Hoff said. "They played better at the times when they had to. especially Brazil, who was head and shoulders above everybody. So, I am not sitting here saying we got robbed or anything. I am realistic. I think we played really well and with tremendous heart. We played eight matches when we were in Athens and we trained for four years. So we are playing for six months straight in the gym for one two-hour session.

It is that amount of focus and determination that adds up to a gold medal. It's the little things. It's worrying about one play or one point and doing your small part for the team.

When you are at the Olympics, everything is so magnified that teams like Brazil can magnify your weaknesses and they can go out there and beat a lot of the good teams really bad. Brazil played a great tournament and is a darn good volleyball team."

The U.S. lost in the bronze medal round to Russia, but, like Hoff, their coach Doug Beal was pleased with the results.

"I am happy with our team. I think they fought very hard the whole tournament."

As for Hoff "s future career in volleyball, he is currently playing on a professional team in Greece, but as for the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, the possibility of him playing is openended.

"I am not sure about Beijing. Right now, I would say I would try to. I am going to keep doing this as long as my mind is willing to allow me to. It takes a lot of mental energy.

"I have always loved my job. It is normal for me to go to work and say 'I have to go

work out" or I have to play volleyball." That is me going to practice, and 1 prepare for it as seriously as if I had a regular job. The day that I don't find it enjoyable and my heart is not in it and I don"t have passion for what I am doing, that is when I will step down. I love what I am doing right now. and I have loved what I have been doing since I left school.

When I don't love it and enjoy it anymore. I will stop playing.•• Hoff would love to return to Park Ridge to visit Maine South and watch some volleyball games, but unfortunately he won't return from Greece until late May or early June when school is out. "I would love to see the gym," he said. '"I spent a lot of hours there as I am sure the young athletes today do."

Tom Hoff sends his best to the student body and offers a little inspiration: "Nothing is impossible. If you have a dream, follow it, and don't make any excuses for yourself. If you put all your energy into something, you can accomplish anything. And that is coming from myself, who was born and raised in Park Ridge where there was no volleyball, and I had a dream to become an Olympic volleyball player. I made it come true, and there is no reason why I shouldn't have. I had no resources or people whom I could ask for help. " I didn't have USA volleyball knocking at my door, but I made it happen. Just like anything, if you want to be a doctor or a lawyer, through hard work and determination you can do anything. I believe in that 100 percent. It may sound ridiculous, but that is what got me where I am todav."

OCTOBER

15,2004 • VOL. 41, No. 3

IVIaine S o u t h g o e s all iif

by John Mai lory Tom jumps up from his seat and flips over his cards.

He has just muttered those famous words in poker: "I'm all in." These simple words will determine his poker fate. But his opponent flips over a straight, beating Tom's three of a kind. Tom. dejected, gathers his things, and goes on his way, still proud that he made it that far.

No, this is not a scene from the World Series of Poker or a different poker tournament. This is a tale of events that happened in one Maine South student's living room. Of course, the names have been changed to protect the innocent. With the poker craze sweeping the nation, it was just a matter of time before it reached the nation's high schools. Maine South is no exception.

"It was just something 1 got into for fun when I saw the World Series of Poker on ESPN last year," said one student. "Eventually, I got much more involved in it. I studied it a lot, and started to play some games where people were winning a couple hundred dollars a hand.

That is kind of when I realized it was going too far."

It's very odd to think that high school kids have that much money to throw around just for card games, but this is Park Ridge. Most of the teen gambling problems reported around the country have been from upper class, suburban communities.

According to a survey conducted by the University of Pennsylvania in 2003, 51% of boys 14-18 surveyed admitted that they had

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gambled for money. This is alarming, considering that the same study also concluded that compulsive gamblers are often formed at an age as early as 15.

"Poker is like a long-lost brother that I have finally found," said one student. "Now that we've met, all we do is spend time together. I like to play for money because on any given night, I could be good, or the people that 1 play with could be bad. And I love to win, no matter what it is."

Keith Whyte, the executive director of the National Council on Problem Gambling says that calls to their gambling problem hotline are up 20% in the last six months, with most of the reported problems regarding card games. "It's definitely skewing younger," Whyte said.

"Kids think they're invulnerable. Gambling can be a devastating health problem just like any other addiction, but this isn't just an issue without a solution."

The most popular and most often televised variation of poker is Texas Hold 'Em poker.

It is played like regular five card poker except that each player is dealt two cards, and there are seven community cards that are used by all of the players. The first three of these community cards are called the flop, then the turn card is dealt, and then the river. There is a round of betting in between all of these cards being dealt.

The one factor that may contribute the most to teens being able to play poker for big money is the plethora of online poker websites. With sites such as partypoker.com, pokerstars.com, pokerroom.com, planetpoker.com, and many more, it's easy for anyone with a computer to win or lose

big. All these websites require is a credit card number, and you can start a money account where the winnings you earn are deposited directly onto the credit card. There are stories of kids using their parents' credit cards and losing thousands of dollars in just a few days.

"1 have played for money online before, and 1 really don't see what the all the concern is about," said one student. "There can be a lot of money floating around, but I always try to be sensible. My parents let me use their credit card for it. but I have to pay them back. The most I have lost in one sitting is like SI50, but 1 win sometimes too, so it's a nice balance. Playing for real money is much more realistic, and also much more fun."

Maine South has strict policies on card playing. Cards are not allowed out in any class, even lounges. And if you ask around school, it is clear that this rule is very well enforced.

Many teachers who see kids with cards out confiscate them and take them to the dean's office.

"I've seen a lot of people playing cards hi but 1 really never see them openly playing with money," says Mr. Thetard. "I think they take care of the money games more at their houses."

The poker craze is not slowing down whatsoever. The World Poker Tour has been the higest rated program on the Travel Channel for the last two years. There are products offering to reveal the secrets of poker all over TV and the internet. Actually, this craze is just reaching the peak of its popularity. Whether it is in a high school student's basement, or at a $5,000,000 tournament in a Las Vegas casino, poker is everywhere, and it shows no signs of folding.

Walking through the century ^ttm^ ^K„ •^

t>y ^ince Ziols 1!!H W

What do you do on the weekends? Maybe you catch a flick. But where are you going, and what are you going to see? You can go to Loews and cough up nine dollars.

How about five dollars to rent a movie?

If you are looking for new movies, cheaper tickets, and a different experience, then the Century Centre Cinema is the perfect theater for

you.

This theater is located at 2822 North Clark Street in the'Century Shopping Centre in Lincoln Park. In this theater, you'll find different food that you won't find in most other theaters. You can enjoy such treats as coffee, pastries, and even a hot dog or two.

If you don't want to make the trip downtown, there is a theater at 1850 Second Street in downtown Evanston. Now what kind of movies can you watch at this amazing theater? This theater plays small independent

films on its main screens.

With past movie such as "Memento," "Fast Runner." "Bowling for Columbine," "The Blair Witch Project," and "Run Lola Run." I can't blame you for not having heard of half of these movies. These movies are as good as or b i ^ ^ ^ than the million dollar movies with over-p^ra actors and soulless plots.

Now that you know of a different movie the- . ater that has new independent movies and cheap tickets, all you need to do is pick up a newspaper and see what's playing at the Century Theater.

ENTERTAINMENT OCTOBER

15, 2004 • VOL. 41, NO. 3

7

Wideo games: the autumn anticipation

by James Mantas The video game world is being shaken, not stirred.

Fall 2004 will be forever remembered by one word: sequels. Ever\' platform is in on it. X-Box boasts the next chapter of "'Halo"; PC gamers get to click away their sleeping patterns with "The Sims 2": Gamecubc owners wiU bite and claw to get their hands on upcoming "Metroid Prime 2": Echoes.

Playstation 2 owners have "Madden 2005" to occupy themselves, but that's old news, These new games will most likely change the gaming world for the better. ^ I "Halo: Combat C~i ^~^ ^ .•'^"^^Evolved" was unheashed on the same day as the X-Box, and since then has developed one of the largest and most patient fanbases in console history. "Halo" is a firstperson shooter game for Microsoft's green gi^ n t . easily described as its most successful ^ B n e . It's arguably the best game of its kind on any console.

"Halo 2" is going to be the biggest event this year for XBox owners, oi maybe even for the gaming world itself.

Bungie, the makers of "Halo", an nounced the ,.„/„„„«„„., official release date v.i)uld be November 9.

2004. With the announcement, there came an onslaught of screenshots. details, and a Beta version. Though the single-player missions are tightly under wraps, the Beta version, offered to select Microsoft employees, sported an online multiplayer mode filled with enough customization options and lluid gameplay to silence the loudest pleas from "Halo" disciples.

Knowing that Bungie is behind the wheel of this year's rocket-mounted warihog of a sequel, other surprises are definitely in store. Of aem. new warthog variations, homing rockl. sprinting, hijacking alien vehicles, dual wielding, and sixleen-player online play make this upcoming game even more enticing. If you don't already have it reserved, do so soon.

Check Bungie.net for details on "Halo 2" before "Halo 2" consecrates shelves.

The most popular game ever for the PC. "The Sims" had a series of expansion packs: "Livin" Large', "Hot Date" "Unleashed", and "Online" to i^.m^ -J—iSiname a few.

- ^ ' • I Vlaxis kept !iem coming olcly to keep ihe life simulation experience •"' fresh. When the game's first actual sequel was announced several months ago. "Sims" fans were still having endless fun making dream mansions and whittling virtual gnomes.

Nobody envisioned "The Sims 2."

Before 1 explain why this game might very well be the greatest PC game ever, know that it requires a 1.5 GHz processor. 256 MB RAM. 3.5 GB of hard drive space, and a video card.

So if your computer doesn't pack that kind of punch, skip these next few paragraphs, or read it and become jealous.

First, players either chose a neighborhood from the existing three or create their own. Tliey then choose a house and a family to move into it. Upon opening the "Create a Family" screen for the first lime, players are greeted with a multitude of changes and updates. Total customization is a beautiful thing; you can create and change absolutely everything about your Sims from the space between their eyes to the position and angle of their jaw line to their formal dress to their make-up... creating a Sim can finally be considered art. That's speaking only about physical traits, too: you can also decide if your Sim wants to become a social icon, a "Woohoo" master, or a parent of five.

Carefully balance its personality and determine its zodiac sign to infiuence how your Sim will react to situations like taking out the garbage.

Now Sims actually have lives: they grow, love, and die. They get sick, fall into depression, skip instead of walk. They are, seemingly, as human as you or me. Make them a hou.sc Why not? Mansions can now be six stories tall.

Make a condominium. Give it balconies and outdoor hallways. The world is your oyster.

Visit thesinis2.com for more tantalizing details on this strikingly simple but incomprehensibly complex phenomenon. Buy "The Sims 2" while you're at it.

The Gamecube doesn't seem to have attracted the widespread attention that Sony and Microsoft enjoy. It seems like Nintendo loyalists always seem to get the short end of the stick, ridiculed by peers for having the "kiddie system," getting stuck with the tiny controller.

Well, on November 16, it just might all be worth it.

"Metroid I*rime 2: Echoes," just like every other Nintendo game, has no information whatsoever about ii on any website or reliable source. It wasn't until this year's E3 (the annual gaming event. Electronic Entertainment Expo) that anyone even saw the actual game.

What they saw was the return of Samus Aran, the heroine of the scries, once again taking on the scum of the universe, this time in an even prettier single player mtide and a brand new multiplayer mode. Up to four players can compete in split screen with one Gamecube, making the game even more exciting.

Even though the only two games available at E.^ were the standard deathmatch and the "bounty mode." where the goal is to collect as much money as possible, the sampling has shown what great things this game has to offer.

Gamers lucky enough to have played the demo have enjoyed the kKk-on controls, as well as turning into a ball and rolling around at high speeds.

So autumn now has more reasons to be your favorite season, especially if you're a gamer rcadv for a new challenge.

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OCTOBER

15,2004 • VOL. 41, No. 3

Finding Franz in the dark of the R i v i e r #

by Joe Blanski Franz Ferdinand was the Austrian Archduke whose assassination solely sparked World War I. But on Friday, September 30. the band Franz Ferdinand solely sold out a show ai the Riviera Theater The Scottish quartet is independent music's latest success story. How could a foreign band on an independent label rise to magazine covers and sell thousands of records in only seven months? They're witty, intelligent, and determined to make people dance. Plus, they know how to put on a show.

The band came out wearing suits, and the drummer donned a shiny, golden jacket. A performance band at heart, they opened with the fast-paced "Cheating On You." This set a lighthearted tone ridiculing the nature of relationships with lyrics like, "Goodbye girl/ Because I'm lonely/ Goodbye girl/ It isn't over/Goodbye girl/ Becau.se it's only love."

After a few more album tracks and switching singers, the band played the promising unreleased song, "Your Diary." The heat really turned on when they played their wellknown single, "Take Me Out." If someone wasn't dancing before, now he was. If someone was dancing, now he was jumping.

With a band that makes every song like a single, there were no brakes-just one fast drive

all the way through, keeping the audience on the their feel and out of their seats. At one part, they played their other three singles all in a row: "Dark of the Matinee," "Darts of Pleasure," and "Michael." Alex Kapranos and guitarist Nick McCarthy steppet.1 onto the railings, moved all over the stage, and sang together.

Drummer Paul Thompson was a sight to see because a fan of the band was by the drums, keeping his hair waving through the air.

The only band member not entertaining the crowd was the barely-moving bassist. Bob Hardy.

Fans threw dollar bills onto the stage in response to the lyrics of "Jacquelline": "It's always better on holiday/ that's why we only work when/ We need the money." Kapranos commented that he "was glad it was only paper." During the song "Michael," near the climax of the song, they extended the bridge riff and gave a brief and dramatized biography of each band member before they returned to the song's normal progression.

The first set ended with "Come On." a song too slow be the best song to end with. Luckily, however, it turned out not to be the closing song.

The encore performance consisted of one more unreleased song and "This Fire." "This Fire" was the song most deserving for closing, and

summed up the show for Kapranos with the audience's "Eyes, burning a way through me/ Overwhelm, destroying so sweetly/Now, there is a fire within me/ A fire that burn.s/ This fire is out of control/ I'm going to bum this city/ Bum this city."

When they said their last thank you and goodnight, the fans left sweaty, smiling., satisfied. People talked about it being on! the best concerts they've ever been to. It certainly was forme. Franz Ferdinand performed their songs with an energy that can't be fully felt through the album. The presence and confidence they bring to the stage makes the songs stronger and more invigorating. Still, I bought the album the next day and would be willing to pay any amount of money to see them again.

Maine South's "The Visit'^ deserves a visit

by Melissa Hansen The Maine South performing arts department has been changing as of late: two musicals, one winter and one spring, both anticipated as greater collaborations of the peculiar folk that reside in the PA wing, have turned the tables on the customary two-play year. This provides an extra emphasis on this year's fall play, "The Visit" by Friedrich Duerrenmatt. Categorized as a drama with hints of dark comedy, "The Visit" allows an outstanding number of Maine South students (27) to show off the their talent as residents of a PostWorld War I German town who welcome a billionairess back to the town. She arrives with strange company (such as a panther), and an

even stranger proposition for the townspeople.

In many ways, it is a play that doesn't quite sit right. It isn't quite a comedy where you want to laugh at the characters' antics or a drama where tragedy fuels the plot. The very nature of the dialogue causes you to shift uneasily in your seat as you try to comprehend what exactly is going on and how the heck you should feel about it. To be an active audience member is to be conflised and conflicted right along with the townspeople. It is a state of thoughtful, yet fi-ustrated viewing that is drawn into the story and is never quite satisfied, even at the end.

Considering the diverse locations that the play takes place in. the set design makes the best of it with simple sets that move from railroad stations to forests to shops. The set's highlight is a winding staircase that graces the Golden Apostle, the mn. It is impressive to look

at and even more impressive to see an actor perched on top of it in an even more impressive feat of balance. In fact, the entirety of the staircase is impressive.

The actors and crew that have been working so hard on the production must also be acknowledged. Crew, specifically, suffered from a late start, but has pulled together magnificently. It just goes to show that if you spend more than half of your life at school, you're bound to accomplish something of worth.

Perhaps the only thing that is amiss in this play (other than a woefully lacking G e r ^ ^ accent in our wonderfully Midwest worlo^K the fact that Maine South doesn't have a panther to walk around the stage and instead must make due with sound effects. While it's a good thing not to encounter lions and tigers and bears at every turn, who isn't fond of cats?

CQMMENTARYTII OCTOBER 15, 2004 • VOL. 41, No. 3

t i |>r ©.per t y f • (Of

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the editorsj The right president at the right time

by Carly Calkins There is no question as to whether or not there exists a strong persevering quality in President George W. Bush. Ever since he declared the warranted "War on Terrorism" on September 11, 2001, he has not veered away from the ultimate goal of terminating global terrorism. As of now, the federal government has spent less than SI20 billion on the war in Iraq, a U.S. military objective that President Bush says is essentially an important battle in the war on terrorism.

However, presidential candidate John Kerry has been claiming that the federal government has already spent S200 billion on the war effort in Iraq. This is untrue, according to the President and the Vice President. Nevertheless, ny people believe that this escalating SI20 ion war bill is astoundingly too large. It • should, however, be noted that during the Clinton administration, S77 billion was spent on the declared war against Serbia, and, oddly enough, it didn't seem to be such a publicized grievance at that time. During this war against Serbia, the federal government made assertions that there were mass graves in Serbia.

However, they were never actually found. This situation is uncannily familiar to that currently in Iraq, where President Bush claims there are weapons of mass destruction hidden, yet they remain undiscovered or perhaps eliminated as a result of aggressive action taken by the United States military. It just doesn't make sense that President Bush is being severely criticized by some for not having a valid motive for declaring war when President Clinton wasn't nearly as opposed, especially when some positive outcomes have resulted from our military involvement in the Iraq.

Since carrying out the Commander-inChief's declaration of war, our military, along with that of allies Great Britain, Australia, garia, and Poland, has accomplished a bora of significant achievements in Iraq.

These include the long-anticipated and necessary capturing of tyrannical Saddam Hussein, and more importantly, the liberation of 25 million people from this genocidal dictator. Unfortunately, as in all wars, lives

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have been lost in the progress of this war. As of 10/1/04, approximately 1,065 Americans have

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George Bush campaigns in Charleston, West Virginia. died since its beginning. However, this total will never come close to the number of Iraqi citizens who now enjoy new democratic freedoms thanks to courageous troops fighting in this war.

According to President Bush, Iraq is a central pan of the war on terror. If the united States continues to succeed in spreading a democratic way of life in this region, not only will it help stop the spread of terrorism, it will enable Iraq to continue acting as a model to other surrounding countries, reminding them that a country's transformation from a dictatorship to a democracy is certainly possible. President Bush stated that the ultimate goal in Iraq is to allow the Iraqi people to govern themselves democraticly without the help of foreign military aid, at which point Bush would pull American troops out of the country. Iraq's interim Prime Minister Allawi stands with President Bush in that he believes it is important that the United States not send mix signals on its stance in the war in Iraq, something that Senator Kerry has proven to do since his campaign began.

There is an ideology referred to as the "Gospel of Wealth" that was first introduced by 19* century steel tycoon Andrew Carnegie in 1889.

Applying it to himself, this was his idea that wealthy, upper-class citizens had the duty to assist the less fortunate because of certain social provisions that would forever inhibit these people from moving to a higher socio-economic condition. In some sense, the United States parallels Andrew Carnegie in that, as a country, it has the highest economic growth of any of the

world's industrialized nations. Because of this, many people, including President Bush, believe that the United States has a moral duty to help small countries establish themselves when they either ask for or make it obvious that they need help. Also, the United States feels it necessary to spread democracy to smaller countries with victimized citizens like Iraq so that their citizens can enjoy the same rights and liberties that Americans do today. Especially applicable now, former President Ronald Reagan once said, "A leader, once convinced a particular course of action is the right one. must have the determination to stick with it and be undaunted when the going gets rough." George Bush has not wavered on his decision to go to war in Iraq; he wanted to stop terrorism and end the long-time threat to the United States that was Saddam Hussein. With this goal in mind, President Bush has and continues to succeed while still remaining committed to his original convictions.

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Bush discusses his plan for the economy.

There are now less than three weeks until the much-anticipated 2004 presidential election to be held on November 2. President Bush's platform remains steady and consistent, with his most important pledge to promote a continued strong military front in Iraq and against global terrorism. Also, Bush promised in the first presidential debate that no national draft would ever be enstated if he is re-elected. Above all. President George Bush makes it clear that his most important job as president is to protect the American people and to prevent another tragedy like 9/11 from ever taking place in the United States again.

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.OMMENTARY OCTOBER

15, 2004 • VOL. 41, NO. 3

Letters to the editors How does one achieve the status of an oldschool Metallica fan when he was bom after the band's first studio release? 1 attended the Metallica show, but on Saturday, not the soldout Friday show.

At the show, people didn't read their tickets that said "no moshing or bodysurfing," they just did those things, no matter what the consequences were (which, in one guy's unlucky case, happened to be getting punched in the face and beaten down by security guards, then thrown back in the crowd). People didn't judge those holding lighters; we just busted them out and sparked them.

I might not be sure how hardcore a show should be, if it's necessary for fans to fight the band, jump off the balcony, or pummel the people beside them. The show was as hardcore as a major venue like the Allstate can get without a riot erupting.

Every person was on his feet for over two and a half hours rocking with their favorite band and supporting the new sub-par material.

Lars Ulrich has never been recognized as a great drummer, though if his skills have diminished, it wouldn't be a great loss.

Lars, however, can still keep the tempo, so let's not bash what doesn't deserve bashing.

What's wrong with high-fiving fans? If I were in the front row, I'd want to slap hands with one of those guys. The band should celebrate with the fans, not pretend to be above them.

I had no complaints after this show. I feel sorry for a person who dished out the cash just to listen for reasons to [expletive deleted] and moan about how Metallica changed and doesn't rock anymore. There are more than enough of those people, and the fans don't want them among the ranks.

-Dan Feenev

This letter is a response to Mike Bielaczyc's obvious support of Kerry's flip-flopping in a recent issue of "Southwords." I haven't come upon any of the allegations he stated in his article, but I have easily been able to count the number of times John Kerry has jumped from supporting the war in Iraq to saying he is against it. For starters, Kerry voted in favor of the use offeree against Iraq if need be and clarified his position in May of 2003 by saying that President Bush made the right decision and fully supported him on the war. Not surprisingly, when favorable political wind came about. Kerry said that his vote in support of war was only to be used as a "threat against Saddam." Lastly, he changed his position again and stated that he is a clear-cut anti-war candidate, just like he was when the first Gulf War came around in 1991.

Coming hot off the heels of the first presidential debate for this election year. Democrats are quite giddy over what they say was a "victory" for John Kerry. The biased mainstream media touted Kerry as the "winner" of this debate. In fact. Kerry only beat Bush in that he was able to express himself more clearly and that Americans viewed him as a better debater.

You probably didn't hear that Bush was the more believable candidate with 50% of the confidence vote and also did better on the issues with 49%. Americans once again saw the president as being more likable, giving him 48% in this area. But when asked which candidate is tough enough to be president, a whopping 54% supported Bush over Kerry's measly 37%.

Kerry also states that his directive on the war

on terrorism would be a more "sensitive" one.

After all, Kerry doesn't miss an opportunity to criticize the president on issues of security, while Kerry's own record of attendance at the Senate Committee on Intelligence (on which he served from 1993-2000) is abysmal at best: Kerry missed an entire 77% of all committee meetings.

Being the security-conscious person he clearly is. he says that more inspections and another set of UN resolutions would have been effective against Saddam's dictatorship of deception. He says diplomacy could have been given a chance.

Were 16 prior resolutions passed by the UN not a chance for diplomacy? Instead of obliging with inspections, Saddam played a simple game of cat and mouse with his weaponry, moving banned weapons into secluded areas of Iraq while having scientists shred important documents.

Saddam, the clever cat he was, created fake death certificates for scientists that could possibly leak information to the UNSCOM inspectors. Newly translated documents that Saddam left behind show evidence of purchase orders for anthrax and mustard gas in the late 1990s.

They also spell out what terrorist organizations had offices within Baghdad and how Saddam had fully supported terrorists with money and training after the first Gulf War. Now, this same man, who went from palace to rat hole to jail cell, has the audacity to explain how he meant "no harm" during his ruling.

-Derrick Wlodarz

"Abortion, because every woman should be able to choose, instead of some middle-aged man."

-Marissa Landolfi, '07

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o

"Buisness ethics can be summarized in so many ways."

-Andy Simkins, '05

o o "The war, because 1 don't want to be drafted."

-Matt Shesek '06

"The war in Iraq, because our troops are dying."

-Kristyn Malonev, '05^

by Sam Byrne & Karen Magiera

COMMENTARY OCTOBER

15. 2004 • VOL. 41, NO. 3

11

iK^eyes won't open door to better America

by Annette Dean All we've been hearing about lately is Bush vs.

Kerry. However, there are other elections going on that affect us and our future.

In Illinois, the senatorial election has been very exciting this year. After the media tracked down the records from former Republican candidate Jack Ryan"s "messy" divorce, he withdrew from the race. I supported Obama during the primary, but the media crossed the line by tacking down Ryan's divorce records. However, even before the information about Ryan was released to the public, many considered Barack Obama to be the favorite.

After Ryan withdrew, the Illinois Republican Party was desperate for a new candidate.

Every time they asked someone, that person would decline for various reasons. Finally, the Republican party found a candidate: Alan Keyes. kFirst of all, why is Keyes running for SenTin Illinois'? He lives in Maryland. Previously,

on his radio show, Keyes criticized Hillary Clinton for running for Senate in New York when she didn't live there.

Even though we live in an upper middle class suburb, many of us are nervous about how to pay for college. Obama currently supports a program that would eliminate banks as middlemen when the government gives out student loans. Currently, banks take some of the money you would receive to cover their own costs. With the new plan, the money would go directly to the student.

During a recent interview with Obama and Keyes conducted by students, a girl who had been shot asked the candidates how they could feel safe with guns on the street. To the girl Alan Keyes replied. "I think, unhappily, it was not the gun that shot you. The problem in our community is not with weapons, it is with people."

What Keyes fails to realize is that there are too many guns on the streets, and if people couldn't access them so easily, we might have fewer shootings. However, the main problem with Keyes' response was its obvious insensitivity. In contrast, Barack Obama talks about

preventing people from accessing handguns illegally and how important it is to stop people from selling guns illegally.

As you can see, there are many reasons why Keyes is not qualified to be a United States Senator. However, the main reason is that Keyes makes comments that are outrageous and inappropriate. Perhaps the worst comment was when he called Vice President Dick Cheney's lesbian daughter a "sinner" and a "selfish hedonist." It is the responsibility of a senator to be sensitive to the alternative lifestyles of citizens of the United States.

Another inappropriate comment was when Keyes said that Jesus would not vote for Obama.

Obama responded by saying, "The race for Illinois' open U.S. Senate seat should focus on issues...not whether Jesus Christ would - even if he could - actually vote for one candidate over another."

Hopefully, after reading this, you will realize two things. One. the presidential election, although immeasurably important, is not the only election of which the people of Illinois should be aware. Second. Alan Keyes is clearly not fit to be a senator for the State of Illinois.

American flag deserves respect

by Mark Duric

words the atrocities commited against minorities during our country's formation and those I believe that it is imperative that each of us that have continued beyond that.

Our leaders are not always directed by pubstands and recites the Pledge of Allegiance every morning. We should not do so mindlessly, lic will and do not always make moral decisions, but what effect do these terrible circumbut as proud citizens.

I know that I have an immense sense of pride stances have on our flag?

The flag represents the principles that are and reverence for it. I am proud, because our mankind's rights by birth. Among these are the flag symbolizes a nation which has made a right to speak freely, the right to worship as promise to its citizens that they may lead free one deems fit, and the right to economic lives without fear of persecution. oppurtunity.

I am proud our people have made enormous It seems highly unlikely that anyone could sacrifices to contribute to the ultimate victory possibly disagree with these ideas protected of democracy. I am proud that many brave souls by our constitution.

Why. then, do individuals have paid with their lives to defend this flag. still refuse to make the trifling effort necessary Therefore. I am saddened to see some of my to stand and say a few words of patriotism? classmates choose not to join me in honoring If fatigue is the answer, people should con^ e Stars and Stripes. sider the efforts of so many before us. Since I While it is most certainly their right, those the Revolutionary War. Americans have been Tho don't recite the pledge disrespect the prinfighting and dying to preserve our ideals. If ciples upon which this country was founded and these people saw the importance of protecting dishonor the Americans who helped freedom our flag, we can make the effort to utter a few prevail.

The flag transcends all evil which has words.

Perhaps the mention of God offends some occured in our history. It is difficult to put into

people. In English, the word "god" refers to a being of supernatural powers who is worshiped by people. Most people believe in some form of higher being, and each language has a word for "god." Thus, this is an issue of translation.

Faith is a guiding force in our nation. Abandoning faith by not saying the Pledge of Allegiance deprives us of part of our identity.

We live in extremely dangerous and trying times. We must remain ever vigilant against the forces opposing liberty to ensure that the government of the people does not perish from the earth.

Reciting the pledge may seem like a menial task, but it is crucial to our survival. Our flag and country are under attack both abroad and at home. If we can't take time now to honor the flag. I wonder when we will stand up for America. Saying the pledge is a minor chore that helps us better understand our nation. I ask that we stop wasting time making excuses not to say the Pledge of Allegiance, and instead refocus our energies on making certain that the flag's promise of freedom does not go unfulfilled.

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SPORTS OCTOBER

15, 2004 • VOL. 41, No. 3

ICC IDS u p SI Girls' golf wraps up successful season^

by b\ Katie Katz The golf season has quickly come to an end, but what a season it was. This fall, girls' golf lost their number one player, Kristi Katz, who is now playing golf for Illinois Wesleyan University. At tryouts, the returning girls were shocked to see the seven new freshmen that came out for the team. After tryouts were over, the girls' golf team had a total of 16 golfers, more than the team has ever had in the past.

The varsity has only one returning varsity senior in Meredith Wisniewski and three returning varsity juniors in Aileen Fairell, Katie Katz, and Melissa Miller The girls' first match of the year was against New Trier, who had won the state title the past four years. Unfortunately, the lady Hawks just couldn't hold off the Trevians, but the girls held their heads high going into the next match against Prospect. Things were looking fine until the coaches added the scores: the Hawks had lost 207 to 202.

The Hawks were bound to come back, which they did against Willowbrook. With a score of 190 to 226, Melissa Miller shot a 4land medaled. Katie Katz shot a 47. After winning that match, the lady Hawks were on a

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Emily Miller tries to hit a long, straight drive. streak, winning their next match against Waukegan 196 to 217.

Melissa Miller's second place finish was the highlight of the invitational.

The next match was against Glenbrook North, where the lady Hawks came to play, and

Injuries can't hurt spirit b\ Katie Kloess

You've probably seen those "cute" pink shirts that have flooded the hallways, but do you know who is wearing them? Well just in case you didn't know, it's the varsity girls volleyball team. If you were to ask anyone of the 14 Varsity girls how they like it, they will say, "I like it like that!" Even though it comes from a song, it has started to stick as a motto for the girls thus far. The Hawks have begun passing better, hitting the ball harder and serving tougher. When all is said and done, they do like it like that!

The Maine South girls volleyball team is working its way back from a couple of injuries and a low part of the season. The girls have worked extremely hard so far and continue to give it their all every time. They have switched things up a little, and so far it seems to be working. They have moved senior Siobhan Mischke to the outside, where she now joins Katie Kloess. Meghan Polston has taken over all of the setting responsibilities. Junior Krista Porterfield has stepped up and joined Danielle Jenero as a defensive specialist.

As the season hits its mid-point, if you haven't seen these girls play-you really need to go watch them. Here are the Top Ten Reasons why you should go to a girl's varsity volleyball game: (10) It's a chance to support a Maine South Sport. (9) If you are lucky, you may get to hear some of the team sing the National Anthem. (8) Their home games aren't that far away. (7) They are counting on your support!

(6) 14 Girls in spandex....does anything else need to be said? (5)You don't have to wear a coat when you watch their games.(4) Why not?

(3) They have more kills than any other team in the state of Illinois (2) Home games are free!( 1) They are actually good.

The girl's hardwork isn't always seen in the scores of their games. After being defeated by some mediocre teams, the Hawks have stepped up their level of play. They have worked harder and it has paid off The girls have beaten Evanston, who had beaten them in an earlier tournament, as well as Glenbrook South and Waukegan. The Hawks hope to be able to play with some top state-ranked teams at the Pumpkin Tournament (Oct. 15-16 at Maine West).

mpressne scoring. scoring, But ( ^ ^ did, with some impressne played a little better. Miller shot a 42, and Veronica Polston shot a 45, with her first two birdies ever. Katz unfortunately wasn't able to play due to injured ribs.

The next stop was the York invitational, where Maine South took the second place trophy home. Katz and Miller both shot an 81, but in a playoff, Katz took home the silver and Miller took home the bronze.

Back on the lady Hawks' own turf against Glenbrook South, winning didn't seem to come that easily, with Katz shooting a 44 and Miller shooting a 45.

It was then time to face York again, but this time it was at their home course. Things looked good when Katz came in as a medalist with a 42. Unfortunately, York's overall team score lead them to victory over the Hawks.

Finally, it was on to the lady Hawks" last match of the season against Rolling Meadows.

Katz came in with a 44, earning her a medal, and Wisniewski shot a 48. The scores were neck and neck, but in the end. Rolling Meadows won by one stroke. It was a good season for the girls" golf team, and hope ^ next year, they can continue to impove.

Come support PP Hawks Volleyball at the Pumpkin Tournament When: Tomorrow, October 16 9:00 a.m.

Where: the spectator gym

SPORTS OCTOBER

15. 2004 • VOL. 41, No. 3

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g i r l s ' cross country at the right pace hy Danielle DiVito It was the very first day of the 2004 girls' cross country season, and temperatures were in the low 50s. In addition to a brisk wind that swirled the Evanston High School campus, the Wildkits had something to fear: the Maine South varsity girls' cross country team.

Although it was cold, the Hawks were on fire.

The girls' varsity team has done exceptionally well this season so far and is predicted to continue this success for the remainder of the season.

Senior Kim Coppin, the most feared girl on the squad, is the number runner one this season in the top seven varsity spots. Despite the

graduation of Kim's sister. Katie. Coppin is still running strong without her sister at her side.

Six other teammates make up the strong pack of seven.

Starting at the Evanston meet on September 28, varsity had outstanding three-mile times

by Kim Coppin (19:03), Annie Eriksson (19:27). Katie Seiwert (20:10), Laura McGinnis (20:22), Kelly Kohlendorfer (20:28), Jessica Diffendal (21:39), Nadia Smajlovic (22:40). and Amanda Swanson (23:34).

These amazing times brought a huge victory over the Wildkits and large smiles to the faces of the South runners. More victories are to come for the varsity girls.

The J.V. girls' team is also doing very well.

Although they fought hard to win their meet against Evanston, they were just shy of a victory.

The top seven J.V. runners for two miles were Kelsey Engle (14:05), Megan Wisnewski (14:44), Laura Zimmerman (14:58), Olivia Petholsh (15:10), Katie Mahler(15:14), Carrie Lakomek (15:21), and Nora Dwyer (15:22).

This season's team is made up of 55 girls and two hard-working coaches. Each practice, the girls work towards their goal of making it to state. Whether it's Coach Gabauer's quality jokes, or Coach Clip's spunk, they must be doing something right. The way things are going, these girls will be running to state.

Congratulations to golfers Scott Berleth, Melissa Miller, and Katie Katz. All three qualified or their sectional. Scott shot a 71 and ended up winning his regional. Melissa Miller shot an 89 and Katie Katz shot a 93 at their regional.

Hawks capitalize against conference rivals

by Steve Contorno It looks as though anyone can succeed in Charlie Bliss' offense. The offensive coordinator's pass-happy attack allowed senior quarterback Sean Price to post some ridiculously high numbers last season. With Price out for a few more weeks, junior Tyler Knight has taken over the Hawk offense and has had similar success.

Jn a Saturday afternoon game against New ^r. Knight looked particularly poised. He was near perfect on the day passing, his only major error coming on a first quarter interception on an attempted screen pass.

Other than that. Knight took complete control of the game, especially with his feet. Knight is runner than Price, and Bliss was able to use

his quickness to run the speed option against a slow Trevian defense. It was highly effective, as Knight scored twice on the option. One of those, a seventy-five yard run, showed Knight's complete mastery of the option, as he faked the pitch and ducked up field for the score.

While the offense was in complete control of their game, the defense made sure any lead would not be blown. In previous weeks, the defense seemed to be the weakness of the Hawks. In the first four games, the defense allowed opponents back into the game, and even put victory in question against Warren.

Against New Trier, the starting defense completely shut down their opponent's offense, not allowing a touchdown until late in the fourth quarter.

Lead by last year's CSL Lineman of the Year. Tony Colletti, the defense has finally shut down the run. Head Coach Dave Inserra has

settled on a rotation in the secondary that keeps legs fresh. The immediate impact of this decision, as seen in the New Trier game, was less big plays allowed by the defense, and more opportunities for turnovers.

As a team, the Hawks allowed only two touchdowns against New Trier, ending the game with a 40-14 victory. The Hawks sit at 5-0 after their bout with the Trevians. They have yet to lose a regular season game since Lincoln Way East in the 2001 season, Inserra's only regular season loss is his tenure as head coach.

With the playoffs approaching, the Hawks hope this success carries over. Inserra has produced some excellent teams in his short time as head coach, going to the semi-finals in 2000 and the state championship in 2003. He is still searching for that state title. Can this be the year he can "finish the dream"?

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BBQ day full of tasteful play

by Peter Mallon The Maine South boys' soccer program held its annual BBQ last Saturday. The mouthwatering aroma of fire-grilled burgers and hot dogs filled the air on what seemed to be a pleasant morning. All looked well as the sophomore and freshman teams gave outstanding efforts to beat Palatine 5-0 and 21 respectively, but the tides soon changed at around 1:00.

The varsity squad (5-7-2) took on a far more challenging and skillful Palatine team then the underclassmen had seen. The Hawks started out the game with excellent ball control and ball movement. They seemed intent on scoring early when Arthur Dinvemo ripped a shot that

went just wide of the goal. However, the Pirates came right back with two powerful goals that gave them the lead and momentum throughout the game.

The Hawks continued to posess the ball and had some dangerous scoring opportunities but were denied due to tremendous saves by the Pirates' goalkeeper. Hard work and determination finally paid off when senior forward Tom Kaflces slipped the ball pass the keeper to put the Hawks back into the game.

The intensity of the match was almost overpowering as the game neared its conclusion.

Scoring seemed near as the Hawks put together a number of combination plays that brought them closer to the victory they desired.

Unfortunately, luck was not on Maine South "s side, as scoring chances were blocked and cleared away. With less then a minute to go. the team strung together a deadly-looking attack that ended with a controversial foul.

However, the referee didn't issue a potential goal scoring penalty kick that would have tied the game, and the clock expired. Although the Hawks lost the match, they gave a valiant effort.

The varsity squad took on conference foe New Trier on September 28 and lost by a score of 6-1. The Hawks will host CSL South rival Niles North on Senior day, October 21 at 4:45 at Wilson Field. Come out and support your Hawks as they try to head into the state playoffs with fun and exciting soccer along the way.

Girls' swim team: unwaverir%

by Frank Lukes The girls' swim team has kept busy with two meets and an invite in one week.

They first competed against West Leyden, with the varsity winning (63-27), the J.V. winning (50-41). and the freshmen winning (58-36).

Among the three levels, Maine South earned eleven 1st place finishes. The varsity produced spectacular times with a 2:20:64 by Erin Keating in the 200 yd. freestyle, a 5:55:14 by Hannah Artwick in the 500 yd. freestyle, and a 1:48:93 by Colleen Muszynski, Helen Sapieka.

Laura Boysen, and Lauren Zillmer in the 200 yd. freestyle relay.

Leeann Olson swam a 1:10:42 in the 100 yd. backstroke, Muszynski swam a 1:13:33 in the 100 yd. breaststroke, and Sapieka, Keating, Artwick, and Muszynski swam a 4:10:83 in the 400 yd. freestyle relay.

Three days later, varsity and J.V. swam against Highland Park where they produced excellent results. Overall, varsity won 104-76 and J.V. won 103-76. On the varsity level, an outstanding season and personal best times were produced by the swimmers.

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Lauren Zillmer practices her breastroke There were seven season best times all together, and they were a 2:00:64 by Olson, Muszynski, Boysen, and Sapieka in the 200 yd. medley relay, and a 27:00 by Sapieka, a 28:13 by Stacy Vucich, and a 29:34 by Tracy Hedrick in the 50 yd. freestyle. Boysen swam a 1:07:48 in the 100 yd. butterfly, and Muszynski, Sapieka, Boysen, and Zillmer swam a 1:47:85 in the 200 yd. freestyle relay.

Muszynski swam a 1:12:93 in the 100 yd. breaststroke.

The three personal-best times included 6:38:87 by Hedrick in the 500 yd. freestyle relay, a 1:12:93 by Muszynski in the 100 yd. breaststroke, and a 4:01:24 by Boysen,

Sapieka, Artwick and Zillmer in the 400 yd. freestyle relay.

Two days after their win over Highland Park, the girls competed in the prestigious Trojan Team Challenge. After an exhausting week of swimming, they set and achieved their goal of not finishing in last place. Placing ninth out often teams, the Hawks fell behind several schools, but finished by topping Bartlett by 62 points.

Sarah Walsh, on the J.V. side, earned a personal best time of 1:17:73 and placed 2nd out of 26 swimmers in the 100 yd. breaststroke.

Walsh also swam a 1:03:57 in the 100 yd. freestyle, where she placed 5th out of 37.

On the varsity level, some hard work by Zillmer paid off with a 26:04, her season-best time in the 50 yd. freestyle, which gave her a 6th place finish out of 41 swimmers. She then swam in the 100 yd. freestyle, earning 2nd with a time of 55:63. Next she swam with Bo\ Sapieka, and Muszynski in the 200 yd. frei relay, to nab a season-best time of 1:47:2: When asked about the team's success and hard work, the head varsity coach, Chris Deger, said, "Collectively, I think the girls are surprising themselves, even though they are exhausted."

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