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2

NEWS MARCH

24. 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

^The Secret Garden" soon no longer a secret

by Melissa Hansen

Garden," written by Martha Norman and Lucy Simon, opened on Broadway in 1991 and won two Tony awards. "'The Secret Garden' is a musical that not many have seen," says Mr. Muszynski. "The Maine South production of 'The Secret Garden' will be a new look at this complex piece of theatre. We are making some changes to the show and hopefiilly clarifying some of the more difficult concepts of the play for our audiences."

In order to convey the meaning and the power of the musical, the cast has been working hard since February. The cast spends most of its time blocking scenes, learning music, and mastering the various accents of the show. Directed by Mr. Muszynski and

choreographer for the production.

Pit orchestra has also been burning the After months of midnight oil. Led by Mr. Pressler, the pit auditions, practice, setconsists of some of Maine South's best building, and hard work, orchestra and band members. It is the the Maine South musical, responsibility of the pit to play music that was "The Secret Garden" is meant to be played by Broadway musicians ready for an audience. with the same professionalism and proficiency.

The pit is also responsible for various sound The story of "The Secret Garden" is derived effects, including Dickon's robin. from the children's tale of the same name by Frances Hodges Burnett. The plot is driven by Behind the scenes, crew has been Mary Lennox, a sour and selfish young girl hammering and sawing away in order to create living in India whose parents and companions a great show. Technical director Mr. Sanchez die of cholera. An old will states that Mary and stage manager Suzy Herman oversee the is to be sent to her mother's brother-in-law, crew as they build and paint the set designee!

Archibald Craven, a hunchback who still

by Eileen Joyce. Also, the cast must prepare mourns his dead lighting, sound, wife, Lily. Once and props so that Mary is there, she the show looks and is bewildered by sounds its best. The how different life costume department, at Misselthwaite, overseen by Mrs. England is in McCleneghan, is comparison to creating period outfits her life back in with their renowned India. As she tries skills and sewing to find the secret abilities. garden of her Aunt Perhaps the Lily, she ends sad note of the up on a journey production lies in to find herself, the fact that it will accompanied be the final bow for by such notable two of Maine South's friends as Martha, most influential the maid, and fine arets teachers.

Martha's brother, Mr Danckwart is Dickon, who retiring at the end of the year and Mr. shows Mary what Pressler will start it is like to truly working officially care for something photo bv Katie Kal: next year at Maine that is alive and Diane Heller and Atra Asdou practice while Grace Elderkin accompanies on the piano.

East as an assistant help it grow. Act principal. "They will One shares a final twist as Mary discovers her hidden cousin. student directed by Hannah Johnson, the be missed as teachers and directors," states Colin Craven, who is unable to walkâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;at least show is completely blocked first and then run Mr. Muszynski. according to his doctor (and uncle) Neville. through in order to smooth out the dramatic In reflection of the production, Mr. Mary seeks to share the magic of the garden performances. Mr. Danckwart teaches the Muszynski offers some final thoughts. "I with everyone in the house, and by doing so. cast the various song numbers, making sure know that our audiences will love the magic, makes Misselthwaite a place worth being in. that everyone is pitch-perfect and worthy of beauty, and wonder of the secret garden."

This entire story is also told by the Dreamers a Maine South musical. A new addition, Ms. "The Secret Garden" will be performed (the people who died of cholera in India).

Darrelyn Marx, has been hired to go over in the Watson Auditorium on April 21, 22, "The Secret Garden" is not a big, flashy accents with the cast and, depending on where 28, and 29 at 7:30 p.m. and on April 23 at 2 musical like the ones Maine South has done their characters are from, is helping them p.m. Tickets are eight dollars. Tickets tend to recently, such as "Les Miserables" and develop convincing accents, especially the sell fast, so buy them in front of the cafeteria "Beauty and the Beast." "The Secret Garden" Yorkshire accent that the servants use, so that while you can before the show opens. After relies less on spectacle and more on beautiful the difference of language become normal all, come opening night, the beauty of "The music and a compelling story. "The Secret and not a novelty. She is also serving as the Secret Garden" will not be a secret anymore.

NEWS MARCH

24. 2006 • VOL. 42, No. 12

Controversy at Elmwood Park

3

by Annette Dean

student enrollment. They also said, that school officials aren't even allowed to ask students Imagine if one day. about their immigration status.

Maine South lost all When Elmwood Park, failed to agree to of it's funding, and these terms, the State Board of Education the IHSA revoked the revoked Elmwood Park's recognition status. schools eligibility to This, among other things, prevented the participate in athletic competitions. This District from receiving aid from the state and became a reality for students at Elmwood participating in athletic competitions. "We Park High School, after their school refused told the district what the law requires and to admit a student with a tourist visa. they said, 'State board, we don't care what The controversy began when an Ecuadorian you say. We are going to interpret the law in girl tried to enroll in Elmwood Park High our own way and not allow enrollment of the School, and the school denied her enrollment students,'"Jonathan Purr, of the Illinois Board because she was in the United States on a of Education, told the Chicago Tribune. tourist visa. School officials also allegedly This was the first time that the State Board told the girl that they would report her to of Education had revoked a school district's immigration authorities. When the Illinois recognition status since 1989, when the State State Board of Education found out about Board of Education revoked the recognition this, they immediately took action, citing status of Kaskaskia Island School District. a Supreme Court case and a state law that T h e ' requires revocation, ] public however,, schools to did not last' educate long. The" students next day,, even if the District • they can't agreed not" prove that to question' they are in students, the United about their < States immigration' legally. status and ] In fact, it agreed not. is illgal to deny • to even students] question enrollment,, students photo courtesy oJwwwMaih chroiiu le < nin because' about their Elmwood Park students could no longer compete in IHSA of their' citizenship events, such as this football game last year against Sycamore. status. mmigration status. Following the agreement, the State, On the other hand, the school district stated Board of Education restored Elmwood Park's • that because the Ecuadorian teen had a valid recognition status, and the basketball team' tourist visa, she was not an undocumented was able to compete that night. immigrant or a legal resident. Therefore, she In the end, the State Board of Education felt • was expected to return to Ecuador soon, and that they sent a message to Illinois schools. the school had no obligation to educate her.

As for the Ecuadorian girl who started this' The girl from Ecuador was not the only one to be denied by Elmwood Park. Another girl controversy, she went to Florida because she. from the Czech Republic was also told that she was afraid that the publicity surrounding this • incident would lead immigration officials to' was not eligible to go to school in Elmwood Park. She filed a lawsuit and was admitted two try and deport her. Her family however, is, happy that other students won't have to go. months later.

The State Board of Education was very through what they went through.

The Board of Education stated that they ] disturbed about what they had heard about the Elmwood Park School District enrollment will continue to monitor the Elmwood Park, District and other school districts to prevent' policy. The State Board of Education stated that immigration status should play no role in this from happening again.

by James Manias

The Nigerian government is urging its citizens that a solar eclipse this month may cause "psychological discomfort," but not to panic, like they did in 2001 during an eclipse. "Some people even felt some evil people in their communities were responsible for the eclipse," said Information Minister Frank Nweke.

So people still don't know what causes an eclipse? They're, like, 4,000 years behind. Maybe whoever was supposed to tell them fell off the edge of the Earth.

At the traditional Lithuanian "Air Circus" winter aviation and alternative piloting festival, three teams raced to and from a marker while pushing a portable toilet (with a "pilot" inside) for ultimate bragging rights as the fastest WC Pushing team.

They might be wasting their time.

Google ran out of Earth to map and now has elevation, infrared, and visible maps of Mars on their site. Give in to your inner nerd: google.com/mars.

Now I can actually find my house.

Writer Josh Kilmer-Purcell, author of "I Am Not Myself These Days," about his double life as drag performer Aquadisiac, was put on PETA's "Fish Empathy Project" list of those alleged of cruelty to goldfish for wearing clear plastic breasts with live goldfish inside. "It would be, for you, like living in a covered bathtub that's constantly moving, tossing you around as you defecate in it. It's filthy, painful and terrifying for these animals," said the animal-rights organization.

We should really have more empathy for nine-second-attention-span goldfish.

What was the stor>' about again?

MARCH

24, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

Scholastic Bowl stays on mark

by Vince Ziols "For competitive students. Scholastic Bowl provides an outlet that is different from athletics. Instead of physical skills. Scholastic Bowl allows competitors to test their skills in knowledge and recall," said Tom Egan, varsity Scholastic Bowl Coach Mr. Egan has been in Scholastic Bowl since college. During his time in Scholastic Bowl, he has been a player, an official, and of course, a coach.

Many people have no idea what Scholastic Bowl is really like. For each match, five players are allowed to participate in answering questions. A "toss-up," the initial question, is read and the team that answers it first gets 10 points and a chance at getting a 20-point "bonus" (a series of 3-5 questions). Each match usually has 20 toss-ups, and in a tournament, the winning team has a chance to advance to the finals.

As of this year, the varsity Scholastic Bowl team had its third consecutive 40-win season.

"Two years ago, we beat Lxjyola, one of the harder teams, at the Regional." recalled Mr. Egan. "It's not all about competing; making fun memories is important too."

"Whenever a team loses great players, as we did last year, there is the expectation that the team will not accomplish as much. The measure of a great team, as ours is, is to reload, rather than rebuild. 2005-06 was a reloading year, not a rebuilding year, as many outside of Maine South expected," Egan said.

Scholastic Bowl is not all about out-smarting your opponent. It's also about making friends with a diverse crowd.

"You meet with a variety of people to compete with, from all over," says Natalie Kociubinski, a senior varsity member who has been in Scholastic Bowl for her entire high school career.

"Students in Scholastic Bowl.make friends with so many other gifted players, and when they are done with high school and go off to college they can find friends they already made," Mr. Egan stated.

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 givento a member of the editorial staff. SOUTHWORDS reserves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to reject obscene/libeious submissions.

Editors-in-Chief News Editors Features Editors Entertainment Editors Commentarv Editors Sports Editors Production Editors Photographer Staff Artists Advisors

James Mantas Greg Mitchell Annette Dean Melissa Hansen Atra Asdou Bettina Chang Martin Diamond Ronald Feiereisel Kelsey Keith Anna Wolonciej Alexa Karas Frank Lukes Maxwell Hester Joshua Sissman Katie Katz Hannah Anwick Gina Tingas Mr. Ellefson Mr. Stathakis

5 Don't dread spring break at home FEATURES

MARCH

24, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

by Nicky Priovolos It seems as though we have all been counting the weeks, davs. hours, and minutes until the bell rings on March 24. Spring Break is almost here and that can mean one of two things: fun in the sun or utter boredom.

For those who aren't jet-setting off to a dream>, tropical paradise. Spring Break can be a monotonous, ver> long weekend. However, staying in town doesn't mean that your Spring Break can't be enjoyable. There are plenty of places to go and things to do in our own state that can give you cool stories to exchange with your friends who are spending the next week on a beach.

If you are looking for a concert to attend, you're in luck. Ashlee Simpson will be performing at the NIU Convocation Center in DeKalb, with tickets starting at .3.3 dollars.

Coldplay's concert at the United Center is on March 30 and 31. Kom will be at the Allstate Arena on March 30 with their ten-year anniversary celebration.

Going to a theatrical event such as "Wicked," a well-known musical, is another great form of entertainment. One sophomore raves. "It was the best musical I've ever seen. I could watch it over and over again and not get sick of it." Another student states. "I'm not much of a musical person, but I thought it was prettv cool."

Sports fans might want to check any of a numberof upcoming games. For instance, this

Sunday. March 26. the Chicago Blackhawks will pla\ the San Jose Sharks at the United Center. On March 28. the Bulls will play the Orlando Magic at the United Center. Tickets start at 25 dollars.

Teens that prefer a more hands-on approach to fun can check out a number of upcoming activities. The Uncommon Ground Coffeehouse and Cafe downtown will be hosting free, openmic storytelling events on March 25 and 27 starting at 7 p.m. On March 30, there will also be a karaoke night open to all ages, starting at 7:30 p.m. Also, the Park Ridge Public Library is offering various workshops and showing movies throughout the week.

For more information on upcoming events, check out www.centerstage.net or the Metromix section of the Chicago Tribune.

DECA qualifies six for nationals Management), Kirby Corkill (Vehicles & Petroleum), Michael Szaflarski (Accounting), While the girls' basketball team was playing Jon Woo (Entrepreneurship Project), Jeremy at state, another Maine South organization was Nuzzo (Quick Service Restaurant), Victoria competing. After weeks of preparing, Maine DeBella (Food Marketing). Amit Pithadia South's business club, DECA (Distributive (Business Service & Sales Demonstration), Matt Education Clubs of America), Wloczkowski & Bill Wamock competed at the state finals (Sports & Entertainment), Bob in Decatur, Illinois, against Pacione & Mike Spytek (Travel schools from across the state. & Tourism), Dan Schallmo The group left on Thursday at (Retail M e r c h a n d i s i n g ) , 7 a.m. and arrived home late Emily Reeder (Restaurant Saturday afternoon. & Food Service), Brooke Each participant had U< Amelse & Amanda Black compete in two tests, an (Hospitality Services), and economic test and a product Alex Nagelvoort (Marketing knowledge test, as well as Management). two role-plays. The economic The six finalists who test determined the student's q u a l i f y for n a t i o n a l s understanding of general are Natalie Kociubinski business, while the product(first place. Apparel and knowledge test determined Accessories Management), photo ( ourtes\ oj Mr. beer their understanding of their Kirby Corkill (first place.

Seventeen DECA members placed in the top ten at state. specific field. The two roleVehicles & P e t r o l e u m ) , pla>s put the students in real-life business well as competencies for receiving higher than Michael Szaflarski (second place. Accounting), situations where they had to come up with 75 percent in any given category.

Jon Woo (third place, Entrepreneurship logical and business-appropriate solutions.

After three days of tests, role-plays, and, Project), Jeremy Nuzzo (third place. Quick There were also more social activities, such as socializing, the finalists were announced: Serv ice Restaurant), and Victoria DeBella (third a banquet and a dance, w hich allowed students 21 out of 23 students from Maine South place. Food Marketing). from different parts of Illinois to get to know received competencies, 17 out of the 23 DECA did outstanding at state. Participants one another. gained experience for next year's competition students placed in the top 10, and six overall and a brief insight into the type of situations that In order to place at state, the students had qualified to go to Dallas, Texas for nationals. the current business world faces. Good luck to to excel at all four competitions. For group The 17 students who placed in the top 10 are those going to nationals. competitions, each member's score was taken Natalie Kociubinski (Apparel and Accessories

by Lindsey Ruiz

into account for his or her total score. In addifion to the final awards ceremony at the end of the competitions, the students received awards for excelling in individual competitions, such as Role-Play One or the Economics test. Each category had a first, second, or third winner, as

6

STUDENT COUNCIL CANDIDATES MARCH

Candidates for Student Council

mm

24, 2006 • VOL. 42, No. 12

Note: Roy Carvatta is runt:-

'-ontested for Secretary.

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My name is Laura Sheehan, and I'm currently a freshman and have been in Student Council for the past year. I've been involved in several of the clubs here including Ski Club, Spanish Club, and Brotherhood.

You might haye $een mp in the homecoming parade, selling candy for Brotherhood, or attending a Spanish Glob breakfast.

I am currently one of the chairpersons for the upcoming blood drive.

As Vice President of the Student Council, I'll continue to confribute my ideas and hard work to make Maine South a great school.

Hello, my name is Warda Baig. I am a junior running for Student Council Vice President. I have been here since sophomore year and have taken an active interest in both class and student councils. I have first hand experience in the council operations of the council, as I have helped organize and attended man\ sponsored e\cnts.

I have strong leadership qualities and excellent communication skills. As Vice President, my goal is to help the President run the Council more smoothly and efficiently. By voting for me, next year's Council will be one of the best, I guarantee it.

Hi, my name is Ashley Welenc and I'm a freshman. For the past year, being part of the Student Council gave me the opportunity to; help with creating posters for certain events, help in creating our float for the Homecoming Parade and marching in the parade, and ushering at the

My name is Kelley Hungerford, and I am running for President of Student Council.

Since my freshman year. I have been an active member in Student Council. I was Blood Drive Chair my freshman and sophomore year, won Council's "Outstanding Freshman" Award, and was V-Show Chair this past year. My duties were promotion and organization of Blood Drive and V-Show.

As a general member of Student Council.

I have also helped with the food drive.

Homecoming, and assemblies.

If I am elected. I plan to promote membership in Student Council and also improve the morale and general interests of the student body.

Hello, Maine South. My name is Mary Hungerford, and I'm running for Vice President of Student Council for the 20062007 school year. I've been in Student Council for two and a half years; my sophomore year, I was a Blood Drive Chair, and I am currently Secretary. I am also an active member in Thespians and C^SA. I look forward to teaching monthly Hawk Pride lessons and helping transfer students get familiar with our school.

As Vice President, I would focus on increasing membership in the council and keeping members active throughout the year.

My name is Donna Ramirez. I am running for Treasurer of Student Council. I am a junior who loves math and has been involved with Student Council for one year. I have good leadership skills and I like to keep things on task. ^ ,..., .„. .^-.^..^^ v~-, v-,.

I like working with groups, thinking of new ideas and helping others. My goal will be to get more students involved in helping their fellow classmates in Student Council to reach their goals.

A donation of one cent can mean the world to somebody and I'd like to motivate other students to lend a hand and make that difference.

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Currently, I'm one of the three chairpersons in charge of the Blood Drive. After my exciting experience with Student Council, I have decided that it would be a lot of fun/responsibility to run for Treasurer for next year. 1 am creative, responsible, hardworking, and will not let you down.

2006-2007 SouTHWORDS APPLICATION MARCH

24,2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

2006-2007

7

Staff Application I. . class of wish to become a Southwards staff member for the 20062007 school year. In completing this application, I agree to conduct myself as a responsible member of the student body.

Email address: 1st period teacher: 3rd period teacher:.

My cumulative GPA is semester GPA is

My most recent

Current English teacher: Extracurricular Activities I will be involved with next year:

I am most interested in the following position(s): (select no more than two from each column)

Editorial Staff News editor Features editor Entertainment editor Commentary editor Sports editor Production editor

Writing Staff News Features Entertainment Commentary Sports Photographer* Artist/Cartoonist* Graphic Design/Layout* *Please include portfolio, if possible

I will fulfill the following requirements: 1. I will submit the names of these facult\ members ÂŤ ho know me well and can speak for my qualilications: Counselor English Other teacher (use art/photo teacher if appl\ ing for artist/photographer) 2. I will maintain a minimum "C" average in my academic course w ork.

3. I will read and follow the staff manual.

signature with date PLEASE RETURN COMPLETED APPLICATIONS TO V-131 OR A SOUTHWORDS EDITOR BEFORE TUESDAY. APRIL II.

8

2i06-2Ou7 Souii! WORDS Joe DESCRJi>TIONS MARCH

24, 2006 • VOL. 41, No. 12

What does it take to be on the Southwards staff?

This pullout is the application for the 20062007 Soiitlmords staff. A description is given for each ofthe positions.

The staff consi.sts of two editors-in-chief, two news editors, two features editors, two entertainment editors, two commentary editors, two sports editors, artists, production editors, graphic designers, and photographers, as well as several staff writers for each section.

Editors need good proofreading skills as well as the ability to work with students collaboratively. Editors must be approachable and never condescending.

All positions require enthusiasm and consistent contributions; students applying must be willing to spend time and effort on their work, and must also be able to do so in a timely manner, as meetmg deadlines is vital.

For more information on any staff position, e-mail any ofthe editors-in-chief or advisors.

News The News section covers developing stories ranging from school happenings to international issues.

News writers need to be informed about school and national issues and need to feel comfortable inierviewing people. Staff and freelance writers alike need to be able to write objectively and with finesse.

News editors need to keep up-to-date on news inside and outside of school. Editors must also be ready to fact-check articles. The News section is also in charge of the cover page, so one must have knowledge of what will be appearing in the other sections ofthe paper

Features TTie Features section contains the widest variety of articles. It focuses on issues directly affecting students, either in or out of school.

Features writers need to be inventive, in that finding an interesting topic to report about can sometimes be challenging. A good Features section focuses less on objectivity and more on relevance.

Features editors need to be well rounded and ready to condense and edit anicles fairly.

Fact-checking is sometimes necessary, but the most emphasis is placed on relevance, as mentioned earlier.

Entertainment

Photographers

The Entertainment section contains reviews and articles related to art, music, literature, restaurants, and anything else that might be considered entertaining.

Entertainment writers need to stay informed ofthe school's fine art events. Also, unique to the Entertainment section, writers specializing in a specific genre (music, TV, etc.) are welcome.

E n t e r t a i n m e n t e d i t o r s need to be knowledgeable about popular recreation and open to trying new things to write about. The Entertainment staff creates any games featured in the newspaper.

Photographers must be ready to take pictures at any time. Core photographers must be ready to lake specific pictures by a set deadline.

Photographers must also have flexible schedules, since they may have to attend awayfrom-school events. Owning a digital camera is preferred but not required.

Commentary The Commentary section is the voice ofthe students of Maine South.

Commentary writers need to be creative and opinionated. They must be able to present an issue about which they are passionate in a professional manner.

Commentary editors must be extremely careful, since editing anything about someone's opinion can be problematic. Editors must also be open-minded, since a wide variet)' of opinions will always exist in their section.

Sports The Sports section covers all sports at Maine Soutli. It also features articles about professional and collegiate sports.

Sports writers need to keep up-to-date on all sports at Maine South. Sports writers should be creative in their reporting on events. Accurate reporting is crucial.

Sports editors have to stay on top of varsity sports happenings, as well as other sports that the editors themselves may or may not be involved in. A deep knowledge of sports— within the school and outside ofthe school—is a must.

Production To help with the technical aspects of putting together a newspaper, a production editor must be knowledgeable in the maintenance and operation of Macintosh computers, Macintosh operating systems, and software as well as have skill in InDesign and Photoshop CS. Most importantly, the production editor must be willing to learn to use these programs more proficiently.

The production editor should attend every meeting and paste-up—when the final components ofthe paper are added together—^to provide the editors with technical assistance.

Staff Writers All writers need to have a good grasp of grammar and be able to write concisely.

Staff writers should have the time necessary to complete their articles: they need to be consistent and dedicated to their work. Staff writers will sign a contract to contribute either 14 articles per year (one per issue) or 9 articles per year Though their primary contributions are towards their assigned section, they may also write for other sections.

Graphic Designers Graphic designers are responsible for improving the layout ofthe paper and assisting the editors-in-chief and section editors with the aesthetics ofthe paper They should be familiar with Photoshop and'or InDesign software.

Artist/Cartoonist Core artists and cartoonists must be familiar with Photoshop software, scarmer software, and PageMaker The ability to produce illustrations quickly and on demand is really as important as the artist's skill.

If you or anyone you know is interested in joining Southwards, give it a try. Justfi11 out the application on the other side of this page and get it to us by Tuesday, April 11.

"FEATURES. MARCH

24, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

9

Downloading: misconceptions and suggestions

by Dariuz Dzien With the Napster controversy, the use of peer to peer applications (P2P) exploded. The number of file sharers rose exponentiall> and now is in the millions, thanks to the expansion of broadband and the ease of use of P2P software. The number of misconceptions about the legality of the use of such software has also risen.

In short, not a single person has been put on trial, fined, or punished for downloading any type of music, movies, or software. The legality of such downloading is currently unclear, since no law has been passed that prohibits the act of downloading; however, copyright laws (US Code Title 17 and the Digital Millennium Copyright Act) explicitly forbid distribution (uploading) of copyrighted material. The lawsuits that have been filed against P2P users by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) have been against uploaders, those who shared music, not downloaders. Unlawful distribution, not acquisition for personal use, is what the RIAA is going after; downloaders will be invulnerable until a new law explicitly prohibits it. Whether or not such a law will pass is a topic of great debate; the RIAA argues that its artists are losing money, while the opposing side believes that the monetary losses have

TOOPIC

been exaggerated, and that most who download albums eventually end up buying them.

Downloaders often do this to see if the album is worth buying in order to support the artist.

The misconceptions of the legality surrounding the file sharing issue (downloading being illegal, P2P being unsafe) have led many to resort to paying to acquire music/v ideos/media online. Considering that it is currently safe to download such media free of charge, paying is simply unnecessar>, unless, of course, one finds the free acquisition to be immoral.

For those who couldn't care less about the morality of the issue, there are several resources for obtaining free media online, some of which are, in some cases, unsafe to use.

BitTorrent (BT) has become a popular application, thanks to its broad assortment of files and ease of use. However, despite its popularity, it is generally seen as unsafe to use for music, movies, and TV shows, since the software forces the user to share his/her files, which is illegal, as mentioned.

Kazaa and its network are still around, and it is generally safe for downloading, as long as the user either disables sharing or (preferably) uses Kazaa Lite, which comes free of spyware (always a threat) and disables sharing. The main setback of Kazaa usage is the existence of fake MP3 files of music on RIAA record labels that consist of nothing but background

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Rearrange the circled abc's.

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For those who are somewhat computer savvy, there are newsgroups and IRC.Newsgroups are essentially a network of servers used to post both messages and files and have been around for almost as long as the Internet itself. Many of these newsservers are available free of charge from the ISP. The free Comcast server has a one GB/month limit. The downside of newsgroup use is that one must spend a decent amount of time to learn how to find files and how to download them, and that one must pay for service if he/she wishes to download more per month. Since the easier (but not necessarily better) ways have proven to be the most popular, newsgroups have been used relatively less. It is unfortunate that this is true, since newsgroups are often reliable and offer expedient transfers.

The Internet Relay Chat (IRC) worid is the most complex of the file sharing applications.

The IRC clients that are available allow users to both chat and transfer files; however, the user must first learn many commands that are essential to IRC use. and thus, it is not common among regular P2P users.

In essence, as long as you do not share what you download, you are safe in the Internet world. Now stop using iTunes and start getting more for less; the law may change soon and the opportunity to take advantage of what the Internet offers for free may disappear.

Attention Maine South: Southwords is looking for diverse opinions, unique perspectives, and interesting views. Anyone can submit to Southwords, and having your work published is a fulfilling experience. Submit finished work to Mr. Ellefson, Mr. Stathakis, or drop it off at V131, located right next to the Physical Education Department office.

iCOMMENTARY MARCH

24, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

The demise of Dave Barry

by Mam Diamond

Well, not really. But it sounds much more exciting and dramatic that way. He"s stopped writing, though, so he is basically dead to his fans.

For those of you unfamiliar with the writer, let me enlighten you. Dave Barry is/was a comedic writer who, through irony and oneliners, has achieved great works of satire. He wrote many books and wrote weekly articles in various newspapers, including the "Chicago Tribune Magazine." One of his books was even made into a movie ("Big Trouble"). Sadly, this is thought to be the highlight of Tim Allen's career.

But what happens now? Who could possibly fill the shows of such a writer? Some might suggest Kevin Smith. He's a good, funny writer. Others (like me) might suggest one such as myself. Still others might suggest Big Foot, but thankfully, these people are locked up in institutions.

How would one such as myself (or others, to be fair...but I'll win) snatch such a glorious (not especially) crown? Quite simply, we'd have to steal it. After all, even though he's not writing, he can still wear a silly crown.

We could just write our way to success and attempt to live the American dream. But that never works, except in bad "Lifetime" movies and even then, only for women.

Now, what I propose may seem radical, but

stay with me. First, we must take the letter "z" from the alphabet. Don't ask me why; it just has to be done. Then, we must ask Mr. Barry to name one of us his successor. Easy, right?

Wrong.

Its obvious that you fell for my ploy to destroy the core of our language, which means that you are not a very good American.

Therefore, you could never be his successor (1 told you I'd win).

But I digress.

We must honor Dave Barry for the great contributions he has made to this society.

Namely, mainstreaming words like "booger" into everyday writing.

Dave Barry left the writing world more than just boogers, though. He left it hope. Hope that some day, somehow, people everywhere will enjoy reading and be happy with it. His humor was not something one would see on the news or most mass media (try not to think about "Big Trouble"). Think of "Dave Barry Slept Here: A Sort of History of the United States" and "Dave Barry Turns 40," some of his greater works. It couldn't be replicated in any medium besides writing. And it shouldn't need to be. Many writers cannot match his wit, but they can match his happiness. They just have to stand back and laugh at the idiocies of life.

The fact is that any one of us can be his successor, but no one can ever actually match the legacy his words have left behind. And that is even more lasting than the alphabet.

"Go to Wisconsin Dells for my birthday because Fm going to be 18."

-Emily Reeder '06

"I have a kickboxing tournament."

-Matt Heller '06

From the runways to the hallways

by Laura McGinnis It's that time again, folks: it's time to cast away your Uggs and Northfaces and whip out some spring apparel. This spring is jampacked with some ragin' fashion, and I am going to hook you up with what is hot.

Gracing the runways of Calvin Klein, Marc

by Marc Jacobs, and Narciso Rodriguez were stunning outfits of all white. White is making its comeback this season with skinny pants and fitted vests. Wearing all white is definitely acceptable and chic as the weather begins to warm up. Also, earth tones such as tans, browns, and khaki are entering spring fashion with a "Ka-Pow." Designers such as Christian Dior and Versace packed their shows with flouncy, summer dresses and once again, the

fitted trouser.

So I know what you're thinking: "How do I wear this kind of stuff to school?" Well, my friends, that can be very simple. Many stores are packing their shelves with white and earthy tones. Hollister now has many adorable, flouncy skirts in simply divine shades of chocolate brown and tan. Also, head over to Nordstrom for some white summer dresses and fitted pants. You can most certainly combine white with these earthy tones or more simply, with a pair of your favorite jeans.

You can pretty much pair these super-fly outfits with some of those gorgeous wedge heels and espadrilles that are making an insanely hot comeback. Now that I've have helped steer you in the fashionable direction, take these tips, and "work it."

"Just hang out with my friends."

-Anita Stefanek '08

"I am going to Disney World."

-Jeff Wear '07

'COMMENTARY MARCH

24, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

11

Immigration protest brings America's priorities to light the 9/11 tragedy crossed into the U.S. from Canada. Yet, the bill plans for tighter security and a larger fence installment at the U.S./ A family from the U.S. had their peaceful Mexico border. Not just a longer fence, 700 life in America interrupted when immigramiles of fencing would be stretched across the tion officers discovered that the father in the Southwest border. family was an illegal immigrant. The mother If the government is going for the shock of the Alvarez family, who had to give up a factor, they will probably win. The people in steady bank job, was outraged by what had the U.S. have been scared out of any kind of happened. Daniel Alvarez, the father of the sense because of "terrorist threats," "warnfamily, had been living illegally in the U.S. ing levels" and other assorted scare tactics. when he married his wife who was a U.S. Sure, the threat of terrorism is real, but to citizen. The family was uprooted and forced what extent? to move back to the husband's home town of Apaseo, Mexico.

Its time to wake up and face the facts: illegal immigration can almost be called the While only Daniel Alvarez was forced to underground economy of the U.S. Because go back, the family wasn't going to the let they are willing to work for lower wages, the father's mistake ruin their family. immigrant get the jobs. And yes, they April Alvarez told the Chicago Tribune, get the jobs over natural-bom American "I know in different circumstances, the U.S. citizens. You could argue that immigrants is about family values, but when it comes should be allowed to become citizens more to undocumented immigrants, they don't easily so these kinds of bills would be obcare." She claimed that the immigration solete, or you could argue that they are the laws made it sound like they didn't need a main cause behind the large number of the father in their family. unemploymed in the U.S., but in the end On Saturday, March 11, a massive proyou have to leave it to the elections and test was held in the Chicago Loop. Over March 11th immigration bill protest downtown inwhat the people want. The worst part of the 100,000 protesters showed up to deliver volved thousands of people. bill is not its clearly flawed stance and reatheir say in a new bill. This protest was for soning, but blatant disregard for humanity immigrant rights in the U.S. This bill targets the unlawful presence of immigrants in those hiring them. This is a fine argument. that it possesses.

The U.S. really needs to figure out what the U.S. and those who house migrant work- Terrorism however, almost seems like a sad ers. Both supporters and critics of the bill ral- attempt to shock the nation once again. More they are supporting and fighting for, family lied on March 11 to raise awareness of the new illegal immigrants cross into the U.S. from the \ alues or terrorism? The two are clearly havbill. It assured politicians that more voters U.S./Mexico border, and the 19 hijackers from ing a hard time coexisting.

by Jesse Bustamante

would be participating in the new bill's vote.

As awareness of the bill's intentions were raised, information from both sides of the argument was compiled.

The side supporting the bill claims to be worried about "anti-terrorism" and "immigrant control." Immigrant control is understandable, but terrorism? The bill plans for a stricter punishment for illegal immigrants and

Selfless students without much self

by Kate Geishecker

It's an old story. Sunday night rolls around, and after a long weekend of work and trying to catch up with your friends, you have a paper to write, eight math problems to do, and a chemistry report to type. It's not that you like staying up until three in the morning and impersonating the living dead on Monday morning, it's just that there's not enough time and too many people to please to pull everything off.

Personally. I take the Ayn Rand route. If you're scratching your head and wondering what the author of "Anthem" has to do with not having enough time to pass your classes. let me give you the sentence summary of

Rand's philosophy: live life for yourself. After all, in your world, you are all that matters.

While 1 don't advocate living an amoral life in which your hedonistic ways play a major part, I do believe that Rand has a point. After all, will doing your homework, working part time, being president of two clubs, and living the life of the average Maine South student give you a life of happiness andfiilfiUment,or just a ton of stress?

At this point, if you're shaking your head and calling me a slacker, hold on a second.

I'm not telling all Maine South students to put down their calculators and go play video games for hours on end. But let's think about what we as teenagers have to endure and then decide. First, high school demands that we excel in our classes, and figure out what we

want to study in college and, ultimately, what we would like to do 10 or 20 years down the road. We're also expected to act as mature and responsible young adults, receiving more responsibility at our homes, getting a job, making decisions, and trying to live up to parents' expectations.

Between trying to please everyone but ourselves, how are average students supposed to figure anything out about themselves? Maybe after reading this, you'll take a second look at Rand's theory of objectivism. Or just consider it. Maybe we're all spreading ourselves too thin and need to take some time for ourselves.

After all, high school years are the years of self-discovery. Take a lesson from Lear; starting early on your road to self-discovery is never a bad thing.

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SPORTS MARCH

24, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

An older and more experienced team

by Frank Lukes

because we have such a strong team this year," "The team is looking really good so far and we're practicing really hard," said Koralik. commented coach Eve Muir-Wilson.

The 2006 badminton This year, the team will be led by captains "I think we're really going to step it up this season has begun. With a Katherine Cien and Megan McKalvey. With year" strong team this year, the the added leadership of the other seniors, this The goal for this girls are looking year is to send three to year's team is a strong f o r w a r d to a four girls downstate. In one and will be one to the past couple years, season full of success. follow as the season Maine South has been "Last year was an experimental progresses. one round away from year. We were all new to varsity and "Ever since [their] qualifying players. The didn't have a clue of the competition freshman year, the girls have a very tightlywe would encounter," said senior ^006 seniors were knit team.

Conditioning Mary Yu. "This year we're stronger ilways a strong, is also at its peak this and more experienced. We're ready l e d i c a t e d , and season. for what's ahead of us." successful group of The varsity team this year consist "They all step up sirls," stated Cien. of seniors Kasia Ciaston, Katherin where needed. They It's our last year and take charge and they Cien, Katie Hapeman, Kat Koralik we're ready to take on are leaders," said MuirMegan McKelvey, Steph Sampr whatever comes our Wilson.

Erin Strauts, Mary Yu, with junio way without fear or photo by Alexa Karai Jonell Lee, Maureen Loughran, The girls play hesitation."

Elyse Kafkes, Donna Ramirez, Stacy Loughran and Kafkes practice phoio by Alexa Karas tomorrow at thc RolHn As always, rival their serves.

Svetlichnaya, as well as sophmore schools Evanston, Strauts prepares to hit an Meadows Invitational incoming birdie. ^here they look to bring Kelsey Kronborg-Mogil.

New Trier, and Deerfield will give the This year the team is focused on giving their Lady Hawks some trouble, but duals against home some hardware. They next play at home best effort every day, whether on the court or Glenbrook North and Glenbrook South should on April 11, against Maine West, followed by off. The girls have adopted the phrase, "No prove interesting because of similar skill New Trier on April 18, and Lake Forest on Hesitation" as their motto. "1 am excited levels.

April 19.

You better bring your "A" game

by Nick Ryter If the Hawks varsity baseball team ever has to play on a dreary, dark morning in January, they will be more than ready. The boys put in the time in the winter months, corralling yellow crazy balls and throwing off of wooden mounds so the summer months won't be so doggish.

The coaching staff, including head coach William Milano, assistant pitching coach Jason Marsicano, and former player turned assistant coach Dominic Lupo see a group of talented Friel players, but most importantly, a team with great chemistry at this point in the season.

One of the reasons that the guys have responded so well to each other is, as Coach Milano put it, " We had 21 guys who all could play on the varsity level, but most importantly.

and Ryan (t achholder catch during practice. showed that they wanted to be there by participating in the summer baseball league and preseason practices in the winter."

The Hawks will rely on a strong pitching rotation, aided by an improved defense from last year, and an offense that takes advantage

of situational hitting. Don't be surprised to see more than a few bunts as well to help manufacture runs. As coach Marsicano jokingly put it to the position players, "All we need is one run. Just one. I'm not asking for five, or even three; just one." And while not every game will be 1-0, the pitchers, like seniors Kevin Manson and John Wolf, along with juniors Mike Bradley and Rob Seiwert, are capable of suffocating opposing offenses on a daily basis.

The team will also rely on their experienced seniors, especially up the middle. They return four of eight everyday starters, as well as the starting catcher, junior Alex Friel, who caught a majority of last year. The rest of the starting spots will be determined in practice leading up to opening day. Whomever fills in, one can be sure that it won't distract the team from its goals: to win the Central Suburban League Conference, win 25 games, and win the regionals.

The CSL will be tough as ever. Coach Milano said, "Any team that doesn't bring their "A" game could get knocked off."

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SPORTS MARCH

24, 2006 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 12

Volleyball hungers for another taste of state unfortunate that the last play of a heated match has graduated, but Ryan Haas played club the was a controversial call, but the Hawks still past two years and will be an asset to the team," said Szaflarski.

Last season, for the first managed to take home fifth place. time in the 15 years that After amazing fan support last year, the "We had to play the top-seeded team in the boys' volleyball has been a tournament. It was a David and Goliath match Hawks are expecting even more as this season sport at Maine South, they and we were the underdogs," Granell reflected. approaches. Hopefully, the die-hard fans will went to state. Finishing "But one play does not make a match one way exert a positive influence that represents Maine South. with a prestigious record of 32-8, the Hawks or another."

Some teams that the Hawks have to look paved a path of excellence that they plan to Moving on to this year, the Hawks appear out for are New Trier travel on this year stronger than even Some benefits and Evanston. Due to going into the season are the as well. their relatively young many returning players and the Picture this. It's team last year. New talented senior and juniors that the third game of Trier is expected to be worked on perfecting their skills the first match at a lot better this season. on JV last year the state tournament Playing and beating against the returning As their third year on varsity, Glenbrook North has champions. The fan juniors Teddy Adamczyk and also been an aspiration section is exploding Kris Staks plan on leading the for the Hawks after they with red and black, Hawks as part of the nucleus of were unable to face the score is 24-23, the offense. In the middle will them in the Sectional the Hawks are down be two-year starter Matt KelK. championship last who has a lot of experience after by one after battling year. playing in sectional matches and back from a seven the state tournament. Nothing point deficit, and the With young players will get past defensive specialist other team has the that are stronger and CuUen McChristian and his serve. Unfortunately more experienced than sharp reflexes. Andrew Juiris for the boys, last last season, the Hawks plans to put a little muscle into crave for another taste year's season came the weak side of the net, and of state. "Last season to a crashing end Mike Szaflarski, Mike Thomas, didn't turn out the with a controversial and Mike Ross will help fill in way we thought, but call made by the lyhalo by Katie Katz the gaps. with a new team this referees.

Adamczyk prepares to kill the ball. phfilo by Kalie Kalz year, we can expect to Originally down Junior Dan Suwinski plans on by seven points in the third game, the Hawks assisting McChristian with the defense, senior Juiris blocks the ball go far," commented during practice.

Adamczyk. "Coach crawled back to nearly tie Wheaton Warrenville Phil Ziols will be essential to hitting in the front at 24-23. "We didn't know that a major miracle row, and Ryan Haas will play middle at the net. Granell has always been a huge factor to our was in the making," said Coach Granell. It was "We have big shoes to fill now that [Dan] Fabry success."

by Alexa Karas

Taking Hoffman Estates into overtime

by Tommy Joyce The boys" basketball team put up a valiant effort this season but fell short, losing to number two seeded Hoffman Estates (19-10) in a thrilling Regional overtime game.

The Hawks lost the low-scoring game 38-35, eliminating them from the Class AA state tournament. The team finished with a record of 15-12 overall and a 5-5 record in the Central Suburban League Conference. The team made significant progress throughout the season and experienced growth among all of the players

on the team.

The Hawks fell behind early and were down by 11 points at one point, as Hofftnan Estates came out shooting hot. The boys" were down 16-5. but then they slowly clawed their way back. John Wolf led the charge to half time with nine of his fourteen points in the second quarter The Hawks only trailed by a single point at half-time.

Coming out of half-time the score was 22-21 in favor of Hoffman Estates. In the third quarter, a total of nine points were scored between the teams: the Hofftnan Estates Hawks scored five points and the Maine South Hawks scored four points.

The game was very close, 27-25 in favor of Hoffman Estates at the beginning of the fourth quarter. Defense again ruled the quarter.

Anthony Cruz tied the game at 31 on a driving lay up with only 30 seconds left. Hofftnan Estates was unable to score and the game was forced into an overtime period.

The Hawks came back to take the lead 35-34 on another basket by Cruz, but after a two-point field goal and a pair of free throws for Hoffman Estates, the game was over The boys' fell 3835, but they gave a valiant effort against the number two seed. Senior Anthony Cruz finished with 11 points and Senior John Wolf finished with 14 points in their final game.

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Girl's Basketball steals spotlight

by Greg Mitchell On November 15, the Wheeling girls' basketball team came into Maine South and scratched out a one-point victory over a team they weren't supposed to beat. At the time. Wheeling was ranked by multiple publications within the top 10 in state, while our Hawks weren't anywhere near the top 25. The Hawks had even begun the season 0-1. Not even the most optimistic fan could have predicted what happened next.

Building on that 0-1 start, the Hawks went on to produce one of the greatest seasons in the history of Maine South athletics. They proceeded to reel oflfeigl straight wins. They would also add two seven-game winning streaks and one nine-game winning streak, finishing the season at 32-4. For the mathematically impaired, that's winning at an 88 percent clip, which is remarkable. Putting that in perspective, that's like the Cubs shattering the single-season record for wins and posting a record of 143-19. That's like the Bears solving their quarterback issues and winning 14 games, and like the Bulls somehow repeating their record-setting 72-10 season. The point is, that .32-4 is an extremely impressive record.

But this team goes far beyond the numbers, however extraordinary they may be. The Hawks were smaller and younger than nearly every team they faced. Coach Mark Smith's roster included four sophomores, and he started one of them. Their tallest player, senior Christina

pholo b\ frank 1

The team huddles during the Elite 8 game against Marian Catholic.

Solari, is listed generously at six feet. However, neither of these factors were remotely an issue the entire season.

Solari owned the post and played twice her height. Smaller forwards, like Nikki Wnek, Grace Goro, and Karen Solari dominated the glass, constantly beating out girls with an

obvious height advantage. This was epitomized in their quarterfinal win over Marian Catholic, who were considerably bigger than the Hawks, but still lost the battle on the boards, 36 to 28.

Their youth never showed. They never wilted under pressure and were always poised in crucial situations. The Hawks battled back from a 22-point deficit at Resurrection and won in the final moments. They beat Evanston in the final moments with the Conference championship on the line and won playoff games against Elk Grove at Elk Grove, Schaumburg at Schaumburg, and DeKalb at Northern Illinois University. This can be attributed to their two captains, Ashley Tomzik and Christina Solari, and seniors Jessica Diffendal and Stephanie Zipp.

This team grew and gathered momentum as the season went along. When they faced New Trier for the first time on December 6, they looked overmatched and were beaten by 30 points. For most teams, this loss would have flattened momentum and crushed confidence. However, the Hawks went on a seven game winning streak, which included a 62-47 victoy over that same New Trier team just over a month later.

Maine South is known athletically for football; this is a given. However, for a few months in winter of 2005-2006, the girls' basketball team garnered just as much attention, and deservedly so.

Continuing a prestigious history of pole vaulting

by Eric Forbes Many schools across the world compete in pole vault, but what has made Maine South pole vaulting so great?

Maine South's pole vault history goes back to 1965. when Doug Macomber was a state qualifier and champion. Ever since then, Maine South has had pole vaulters getting first, second, and third at indoor and outdoor conference almost every year.

"Maine South has always been known

to have good pole vaulters," said Lonergan.

Lonergan has been coaching track and field at Maine South since 1982. Lonergan helps out with the track and field program, but the events that he coaches are the jumping events: long jump, triple jump, high jump, and pole vault.

Lonergan went to Maine South when he was in high school and was involved with the track and field program.

In high school, he said that he had fi^iends who were good pole vaulters, but he decided not to try it because he wasn't fast enough or in the right shape.

"To be a good pole vaulter means that you

have to be a good athelete, so the schools were cutting out their pole vaulters so that they could use them as good atheletes in other events to benefit the whole team," says Lonergan.

This was done because of low enrollment in schools. Maine South never cut out pole vaulting, which has contributed to the history of great pole vaulters here.

This year's pole vaulting looks to be satisfying for Maine South track and field.

The teams top vaulters are Dirk Haller vauhing 13'6", Eric Forbes vaulting 11 '6", TonyAraque vaulting 11', and freshman. Barret Gizaldo vaulting 10'6".