Vol 42 issue 3

n i l S. DtE RcjAD • PARK RIDGE, ILLINOIS 60068

OCTOBLR 14, 2005

VOL. 42. No. 3

j

iK photo by Katie Katz

M This Issue:

NEWS Maine South presents "Tlie Imaginary Invalid"

page 2

FEATURES ENTERTAINMEM COMMENTARY SPORTS The inspiring storv "Stewic Ciriffin: The oil-drilling \\ ho will he of MS Alumni the Untold Storv" bill is once again number two in Gary Skomasa up for debate coUege football?

pages

page?

page 10

page 12

2

NEWS OCTOBER

14, 2005 • VOL. 42, No. 3

Moliere's magic provides valid laughs

by Melissa Hansen The Maine South Fine Arts department opens its 2005-2006 theatrical season with the fall production of Moliere's "The Imaginary Invalid." a comedy of ridiculous proportions.

"The Imaginary Invalid" opens in the sitting room of Monsieur Argan's house in Paris, France in the year 1674. A hopeless hypochondriac with medical bills sucking out his every last penny, Argan is surrounded by family and friends who are less than supportive of his condition. His mad maid. Toinette, mocks his absurd treatments and drops valuable china: Argan's wife, Belante, is busy "signing documents" with their lawyer in the bedroom; his older daughter is unwilling to marry the doctor Argan has found for her, and instead wishes to associate with her new "music teacher"; his younger daughter bites him; his sister thinks he's crazy; his apothecary and his other doctors leave him with bills, bills, and more bills; and worst of all, he's still incurably ill.

Directed by Mr. Muzynski and studentdirected by Mary Hungerford, "The Imaginary Invalid" is an effective mixture of situational comedy and commedia del arte. The ridiculousness of Argan's state of affairs is exemplified through wild exploits and wilder hair. The 23-member cast has been working relentlessly to communicate all the humor in Moliere's timelessly funny comedy. Rehearsals have not all been work, however. "I look forward every day to rehearsals [because] 1 know I'll have a lot of fun," Hungerford notes.

"People laugh all the time; it's hard not to. The cast is amazing."

A special highlight in the play is an impromptu song, composed by Mr. Danckwart. which is conducted between Argan's older daughter and her music teacher. The song, like many things in the play, has overt insinuations which Argan does not notice but the audience enjoys for their dramatic irony.

Stage crew, led by technical director Mr. Sanchez and stage manager Elizabeth Patelski, has been putting together an appropriate set for this untamed and illogical comedy. A raked stage—a stage built on an incline—has been created to present the play on the same

unleveled stage surface that it would have been produced on in the 17th century; the rake also creates depth. The costumes and music will also reflect the period and tone of the story.

Flamboyant costumes with peonies, hugehipped skirts for ladies, giant powdered wigs, and a gigantic mole accentuate the characters' personalities, and the music featured will add to the hilarious atmosphere with upbeat quartets of the time.

"The Imaginary Invalid" is being presented on October 20, 21, and 22 at 7:30 p.m. in the Watson Auditorium.

Tickets are S4 and will be sold ^^^^^

at the door.

jMj^PR^nl^ '^

^

Stage crew has been hard at work putting together a raked stage.

May-day for Marshall Fields

by Megan Mormon Beginning on the first of February in 2006. seven new nationwide divisions of department stores will be changing 849 stores' names, including Marshall Field's, to Macy's.

On August 30 of this year. The May Department Stores Company merged with Federated Department Stores, Inc. They hope to expose brands from Macy's and Bloomingdale's to more of the nation.

Federated's chairman, president, and chief executive officer, Terry Lundgren explains. "To better serve our customers in this highly competitive retailing environment, we must concentrate on our best national brands and reduce costs so we can deliver outstanding value to shoppers." He goes on to say. "We believe that continuing to build Macy's and Bloomingdale's aggressively across America will accelerate our store sales performance and increase profitability, thereby driving our shareholder value."

One negative resuh from the change is that 6,200 workers w ill lose their jobs. The chain

may lose some of its customers. In a poll taken on chicagotribune.com. 89.9 percent of the responders. 20.615 people, agreed that the name change would make a difference to them personally. 96.5 percent. 20.542 participants, declared that it would make them less likely to shop at one of the stores. Many Chicagoans who have embraced Marshall Field's since the 1850s. are disgruntled by the threat to the uniqueness of the stores.

On the other hand, some may not find it so hard to accept the sudden switch. A survey which was taken in all of the large cities with Marshall Field's stores revealed that 89 percent either viewed Macy's as "more fashionable" than Marshall Fields or really no different than the original store. Shoppers may be happy to know that you will still find the irresistible "Frango" mints, window displays, holiday shows, and specialty boutiques at the stores you knew so well, only under a new name. But. if you-are looking to have one last unforgettable holiday experience at the store known to all as Marshall Field's, be sure to head on down this season.

Join Improv Club Do you like making things up off the top of your head?

Do you love to laugh and make other people laugh?

Do you have no problem acting silly in front of complete strangers?

Then Improv Club is the club for you. If you have any questions, ask Mr. Pappageorge.

Meetings are Mondays and Thursdays after school in C130 or C-132.

NEWS OCTOBER

14, 2005 • VOL. 41, NO. 3

3

New Safety Measures on Talcott

by Annette Dean On September 2. a car accident took place after school. A freshman was running across Talcott when she was hit by a car. Although the girl was not seriously injured and the driver was not issued a ticket, local officials have become concerned.

Many Maine South students cross Talcott every day before and after school, and up until now there was no crosswalk at the exit on Talcott.

At a recent city council meeting, improving safety along Talcott was discussed. According to 5"' Ward Alderman. Mark Anderson, the matter should be handled by Maine South officials, the Park Ridge Police Department, and the Department of Public Works. "[They] should work together to come up with a comprehensive plan that enhances safety, while not unduly inconveniencing students (driving or on foot),'" he said Many students have reported a recent increase in police presence on Talcott before and after school. These officers have been enforcing the 20 mph school speed limit to

try and prevent a future accident.

One sign of the increased safety measures is the new crosswalk at Talcott and Home. A crossing gaurd has also been hired temporarily to assist students who use the crosswalk on their way to school. The hope is that students will use the crosswalk rather than cross midway through Talcott.

It was also requested that the gate along the fence be closed to prevent students from crossing Talcott away from the crosswalk.

Maine South did close the gate, but Mr. Claypool noted, "We are monitoring the, situation to make sure that closing the gate. isn't creating more problems than it is' solving."

The police and the Department of Public , Works will continue to discuss the issue and < work to prevent another accident near Maine' South. Mr. Claypool said. "1 have a great deal of confidence in the Park Ridge City manager, and all the people who have taken an active • role in improving the safety around our school.

If it is their belief that the steps they are taking, along Talcott will improve the safety for our. students, then I am confident that it will and' that the students at South will be safer for their' actions.''

Repacking the Supreme Court Bush nominated and who since has become a <

by Maureen Johnson President George W. Bush nominated member of the Court's liberal wing.

White House counsel Harriet Miers this past Democrats fear losing the moderate O'Connor ^ week to fill the Supreme Court seat vacated when such issues as abortion and gay rights. are in question. Miers fought for the American •

by Sandra Day O'Connor.

Bar Association to take" After fighting through a neutral stance on, an approval for new abortion in 1993.

Supreme Court Justice Vice President Dick' John Roberts. Bush is Cheney defended] passionate about Miers' Bush's nomination in an, potential on the Supreme interview with RushCourt. He claims Miers is Limbaugh. Cheney is' "a pioneer in the field of confident that Miers will, law, breaking down not only appease, barriers to women that Roberts' Supreme Court conservatives but will remained a generation also be a comfort to" after President Reagan liberals. appointed Justice O'Connor to the Supreme With the Supreme Court facing two very < Court."

Although Miers replaced Alberto Gonzales important appointments within the span of a" as the President's top legal advisor this past few months, it is likely that the Supreme Court" February, little is known about her perspective will need time to find its new footing on many . on many controversial issues. Republicans issues.

The appointment of Roberts was the first ] fear that she may become a "stealth" candidate akin to Justice David Souter, who George W. Supreme Court change in eleven years.

By James Mantas Might as well wipe with the money: The Cameron County commissioners voted to restore a 1912 toilet in Brownsville, Texas for S24.000.

Well, at least they're spending money on something besides the death penalty.

Give me a loincloth and I 'II explain: In Arizona, a man entered his father's house to find a thief, entirely naked and standing with two rifles, in the home.

The thief robbed the man. stopped, asked for shorts—and received them—and was caught trying to hotwire a car next door in shorts.

Now stop reading and try to imagine how this man ended up naked with two rifles in somebody else's house.

The truth is out there, but probably not in Pei-u: Alfa y Omega gathered in Lima to discuss aliens. The group believes that at the end of the world, a fleet of UFOs will visit Earth, one of which could be used by, um. Jesus, for the Second Coming.

I think Jesus would roll out in a Cadillac if anything; a Cadillac with hydraulics. And spinners. And sandals airbrushed on the hood.

Pope Benedict XVI has date: On Monday, October 3. the pope told Archbishop Nikola Eterovic in Italian that he had an appointment with the dentist at 4 p.m. just before the microphone input was cut.

"Dentist" is code for the organizing of his pope hat closet.

Nobody ever does this: 43 percent of U.S. workers admitted to calling in sick when they felt fine, up from 35 percent last year, according to a study conducted by careerbuilder.com.

Actual excuses from the survey (not kidding): "I was too drunk to drive to work." "God didn't wake me." and my personal favorite. "I forgot I was getting married toda\'.""

OCTOBER

14, 2005 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 3

iPodnano: impossibly easy to break?

by Bettina Chang

have such problems after their first releases. If apparent lack of memory. Right now, the you wonder why you haven't heard of nano is available in 2GB and 4GB problems like this in the past, consider how models. That's approximately 500 often iPods are in the news nowadays and songs and 1000 songs, compare it to the amount of media respectively. It's a coverage given to any other electronic â&#x20AC;˘H pretty hefty price tag for product released in previous years. a tiny mp3 player that Besides, if you do happen to get holds the same amount as one of these defective nanos, an iPod mini, which would Apple will gladly replace it for now sell for around S80 less. you.

1 personally was willing to As for scratches on the overlook this discrepancy simply nano. 1 have a slightly because the nano was so pretty, greater concern. My and 1 have an inability to resist shiny nano did manage to things. Besides, who plans on sustain some surface listening to more than 3 days' worth of damage, and I'm still music at a time? not quite sure from what. To So for those of you contemplating me, though, it is pretty purchasing a shiny, new iPod A brand new. shin\ iPodnano obvious what the problem nano. go ahead, indulge is: there are no cases out for yourself. But remember, if the nano yet. The news claims that there have you're shelling out more than two hundred bucks for a gadget, don't be afraid to part with another ten to protect it in a case.

Don't deny that you've seen it. It's everywhere. It's on billboards, it's on subway cars, and it's on those commercials with the impossibly catchy music. It's Apple's new iPod, the heir to the "mini" throne, the "impossibly small" iPod nano.

The mp3 player craze that has swept America has so far benefited the Apple company the most. With the largest advertising budget and a widely-known brand, as well as those incredibly enticing dual-colored commercials, the iPod has become the most famous gadget of modern times. However, with the retirement of the iPod mini (previously Apple's most popular product), the introduction of the nano has been a veritable media circus.

For most consumers, though, the biggest question about the new nano is not whether it will break the market for mp3 players, but rather ifthe nano will just... well, break. It's a legitimate question, considering this sleek mp3 player is thinner than most of the pens in your backpack. (And we all know the mysterious propensity for those pens to get lost or broken.)

However, I am here to say that in my experience, the nano is actually a tough little buddy. I recently purchased the four gigabyte version for 230 dollars (with twenty dollars off for the "education discount") on the Apple website (with free shipping and a free engraving), and despite my reputation for been thousands of complaints about scratched clumsiness. 1 have not managed to break it yet. screens. Perhaps that is because there are You may have heard rumors in the news about millions of people out there with brand-new, screen defects in the nano, but apparently 1 did shiny iPod nanos and no protection for them. not receive one of Granted, that could be Apple's these players. The fault, but there are plenty of screen is functioning other companies that are quite well and scrambling to offer some sort conveniently displays of nano case. Most of these pictures in full and cases/skins are expected to be surprisingly clear released this month. Besides. color. since when does an iPod not scratch? Any device that is Apple has been handled regularly and used hearing complaints of extensively will sustain some defective screens due sort of damage. The scratches to poor materials used in their creation. on my nano? 1 blame myself However, LCD before I blame the makers of it. screens (such as those Another huge concern of on iPod nanos) do How long before it looks like this potential nano consumers is the

The scratches on my nano ? I blame myself before I blame the makers.

SOUTHWORDS A student-produced newspaper ot:

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 re.serves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to reject ohscene/libelous submissions.

Editors-in-Chiel James Mantas Greg Mitchell News Editors Annette Dean Melissa Hansen Features Editors Atra Asdou Bettina Chang Entertainment Editors Marty Diamond Ron Feiereisel Commentar) Editors Kelsey Keith Anna Wolonciej .Sports Editors Alexa Karas Frank Lukes Production Editors Max Hester Joshua Sissman Core Photographer Katie Katz Core Staff Artist Gina Tingas Advisors Mr. Ellefson Mr. Stathakis

5 Keeping the memory alive FEATURES

OCTOBER

14, 2005 • VOL. 42, No. 3

hy Greg Mitchell When you receive your diploma and walk out of the gates of Wilson Field for the last time as student on graduation day, what will Maine South have meant to you? Will it have simply been just another wrung in the ladder of life, an unemotional stepping-stone?

Will the memories you made for four years at the comer of Dee and Talcott be forgetten?

For Maine South graduate Gary Skomasa. this is certainly not the case. His deep connection to Maine South goes far beyond any picture or caption you would find in an old copy of Eyrie.

Skomasa was diagnosed with Chronic Mulcuamal Leukemia (CML) in 2000 and has been valiantly fighting the disease ever since.

It may be a stretch to say that Maine South is saving Gary's life, but it definitely has had an extremely positive impact on it.

Gary Skomasa graduated from Maine South in 1974 and currently lives in Golden.

Colorado, in his house overlooking the famous Table Rock Mountain. This is where he has been fighting rejection from the stem cell and bone marrow transplant he received from his little sister.

"My CML sometimes gets way out of control, and I spend more time in the hospital

than at home," Skomasa says.

He has had to endure five cornea transplants in the past year and a half and is losing his

However, to truly appreciate Gary's story, you have to start from the beginning. He entered Maine South in 1970. which he said, , "...was pretty intimidating for freshmen."

Luckily, he had a niche in school, and that was fine arts. Gary was involved with band and theatre, and says that the friends he made during those activities are the ones that have continued to be close to him. At this point in time, the Maine South band was the pep band for DePaul, and played half time shows for the Bears and the Bulls.

After high school, he went on to attend Evansville University, and after that, created a catering company which blossomed into the sole food service provider for concert venues in the Southern Indiana. Southern Illinois, and Western Kentucky areas. His company catered concerts for artists such as Elvis Presley. Elton John, and Styx. He ended up selling this company to Holiday Inn and later became immersed in the computers.

Skomasa worked for one of the Big 8 accounting firms. Eamst and Young. After his retirement in 1999, he became the systems manager for Pepsi. All the while he was involved with maintaining the Alumni website.

For the past six years, our Maine South alumni website has never looked better.

Because of Gary Skomasa's dedication, former students have been able to look back and make sure their pre-graduation memories are not forgotten.

"Mj CML sometimes gets way out of control, and I spend more time in the hospital than at home.''

- Gary Skomasa hair from the chemotherapy that he is going through. However, through all of his struggles.

Skomasa has used his connection to Maine South as a source of strength.

After moving to Colorado, he voluntarily took over the then-empty Maine South Alumni website. At first this was just to keep him busy,, but it grew into a passionate endeavor. Though he started small, he has since added over 25,000 names of alumni to the site, and has added countless senior pictures. Southwords articles, and pictures. It is because of him that all past and future Maine South students will have their names kept alive in the records of Maine South.

Lobotomy Pop by Hannah Artwick OH «V frOO I HAVB4-r

JhW .irr-^K

TO TiU. VOD SOMETHING ^

L\\\

e/en rutxjtHwi

T A U e S TO "rOV I N fOUBVB^

T^utea LAST HOKT •irr WHO

CAteSfNtWHV TOTAL SPAJt A!

*,^^ Mtjf^'ieli!.

ANO WAS I B N t < i* TKOJ6S AhC I

<, i s MOT L a s r r s T X -tart eornt

ANvwna

i WAV'WHAT A»£ THE PLANS ieCAUit ^ " ~ - ^ ( V. ^ ^*' •**"* FOB « » IMBELK" ANt> OCrn

^ , : \ / S | . HO* «LA6LA«LA

6 Katrina: Maine South helps OCTOBER

hy Nicky Pviovolos

Imagine losing everything you own.

Everything from material things, small personal effects, and even family members. Petty things that were once the most important things in the world and ruled your life have been taken away from you. Your home is in shambles and you can no longer recognize the city you knew and loved; the warm place that you grew up in has been destroyed and all you have left are treasured memories.

This is how the people of New Orleans have felt the past few months.

Everyone has seen the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the devastation that has taken place. The entire nation was in a state of shock after the hurricane hit New Orleans and its surrounding areas. All across America, everyone from celebrities, to politicians, to the average Joes and Janes, are pitching in and doing their best to reach out to those currently in need of assistance. Benefit concerts such as Road Jam, telephone marathons, and firefighters collecting money for the American Red Cross are examples of the relief effort.

In school In Illinois, Illinois, the the doors doors to to every everv public nublic school have been opened to Katrina victims looking for a place to return to classes. What some people don't know yet, however, is that there are many things being done in our own school to help the victims of this disaster.

Maine South students have come together once again for a worthy cause. We have proved that we are not self-absorbed teenagers whose only concerns are fashion. MTV and sports. Various student organizations such as Varsity Club and Student Council have decided to hold fundraisers to raise money or purchase supplies to send to the New Orleans survivors. Collectively, Maine South students and staff donated spare change and extra dollars for a little over a week. These donations, though individually small in sum, added up. Every little penny that was scraped up has ended up making a huge difference.

Many lives will be touched by the generosity and compassion we are showing.

For the past few weeks. Maine South has hosted a supplies drive for clothing, shoes, necessary items, etc. If our goal is reached, then we will have filled an entire semi-truck with money and supplies to send to the victims of this terrible disaster. Look inside your wallets, and if you have fifty dollars that

14, 2005 VOL.. 42, No. 3

you vou have have been been saving saving for for aa new new mountain mourftain bike, bikt find it in your heart to spend 10 dollars on a tshirt or pair of pants for someone in need. Maine South has been doing a marvelous job of helping out, but we still need you.

The Maine South community has shown that we are caring, concerned citizens. In a schoolwide effort to send relief to the victim's of Hurricane Katrina. over 9.000 dollars have been raised. Thank you for your support, Hawks.

Don't forget to donate any new or lightly used clothes, shoes, and other supplies to help fill the semi-truck. Every little thing counts.

Congratulations to the 2005 Maine South Homecoming court Queen: Danielle DiVito Fallon Calandriello Liz Chao Kayla Killean Valerie Wersching

Homecoming 2005: A Photo Essay by Lindsey Ruiz

ENTERTAINMENT OCTOBER

14.2005 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 3

7

"Untold Story" deserves to be heard h\ Ron Feiereisel

iririri!^ Okay, r i l be the first to admit it: I was a bit lazy this lime around.

I couldn't go to the show this weekend, so sue me. These things happen, but that didnt stop me from getting a little work done 1 went out and picked up "Stewie Griffin: The Untold Story" on DVD. Problem solved.

In essence, the movie is three episodes of the series that connect lo each other. The movie begins with Stewie learning to swim and instead becoming extremely jealous of another, better swimmer. Stewie attempts to kill the boy. but instead nearly kills himself .After seeing what hell is really like (the only show one can watch down there is "Who's the Boss") he decides to stop being evil and live a decent life. Even though it sounds a little weird. Stewie as a nice person is surprisingly funns. just because it's so out of character for the little guy. especially when he tells Brian, the talking dog thai he wants to model his life after none other than Julie Andrews in "The Sound of Music."

The "plot" of the movie is insignificant because, as viewers of the show will attest, there really are no concrete, character-developing plotlines to speak of. So, basically, it's on par with most theatrical releases nowadays. The nearly ninety minutes of the movie is filled with the show's trademark flashbacks, as well as references to other movies that are sometimes very obvious, like parodies of "Indiana Jones" and "Star Wars." as well as a brilliant homage lo "Ferris Bueller's Day Off." but also more obscure nods to movies like "BuUitt," where the gag only works if you've seen the film. One of my personal favorite asides is one near the end of the movie w hen Peter is stuck on a desert island with Bono and a crate of relief food. The gags range from occasionally campy one-liners (provided mostly by Brian), to surprisingly offcolor humor, even for "Family Guy" The creators rip on Jesus. Ghandi. and even themselves. There's even a joke commercial that has nothing to do with the overall stor). but is so random and funny that it fits right into the movie. Sadly, most of the really funny

awkward to watch. The movie has the same almost low-budget style to it that the TV show has. where occasionally you catch the characters off model, or you notice that something is missing within the set. It isn't particularly professional animation, but it works with the show's content and sense of humor.

The extras leave something to be desired, but seeing as this is a straight-to DVDanimated feature. 1 don't think that a lack of bonus material should be held too strongly against it. There are storyboard-tofeature comparisons, as well as a great commentary by creator/star Seth MacFarlane. the director, and a few other "Family Guy" personalities, like Seth Green and the director of the feature. The commentary explains some of the more obscure pop culture references as well as the writing process of the film.

"Stewie Griffin: The Untold Stor\"" is "Family Guy" at its best, and it will keep fans and new viewers laughing throughout. The humor is sometimes very offensive, bit still funny. "Family Guy" is con.stanlly proving to the Fox network that they made a huge mistake canceling it back in 2002. Hopefully niijo i'vjfji Fox will learn something from all this. .4 hiiihUiiliifrom Stewic's foray iiiio politics

stuff woni make ii to television when the movie eventually airs as three separate episodes.

One thine that I've got to applaud the writing staff of "Family Guy" for is the fact that even though the movie is "uncensored" the foul language is kept to a minimum. Mosi show s would have just let the characters loose. but seeing the cast of "Family Guy" cursing like sailors would have made the whole thing incredibly unfunny. Tlie vulgarity is moderated

so you aren't put off by it, which was a nice touch.

As far as the voice acting goes, the movie is consistent, but of course "consistent" for "Family Guy" means that it's already excellent.

The entire original cast is in the film, and Seth MacFarlane. the creator of the series, is responsible for about half of all the voice work in the movie. He's provides the voices for Peter. Stewie. Brian, Quagmire. Tom Tucker.

Superman and nearly all of the male celebrity parodies and incidental characiers. There isn't that much real celebrity talent to speak of. Phil Lamaar and a couple of other "M ADt v" alums make guest appearances, as well as Ron Livingston and Drew Barrymore for bit parts. but none of them really give standout performances.

The presentation of the movie is good: the animators didn't try to make the movie look different from the TV show in any way. which is another thing thai the movie gets right. It they had cranked out a really polished, beautifully animated feature, it would have felt

Computer Club Presents...

Til On November 12, the Maine South Computer Club will be hosting a gaming party.

Gaming include.s PC and Xbox games. Prepay $15 to Mr. Hurley, through www.mscomputerclub.org by November 6. or wait and pay S20 at the door.

Stop by the Computer Club meetings for additional infomialion.

8' Beat Kitchen sounds good ;CIA:I.NMENT

OCTOBER

hv Diiui Romaiuizzi

The '"Beat Kitchen" has it all. If you're looking for quality entertainment, great food, and an exceptionally fun environment, the Beat Kitchen is where it's at. Located in the heart of Chicago, it's easy to hop on the L to get to this cozy and inviting music venue or restaurant.

The Beat Kitchen is unique in the fact that you can enjoy music and food, while still getting superb service from the friendly staff.

As soon as you walk in, you in.stantly feel like a regular. You can even order tickets online, or reserve the room upstairs for parties or private events.

Known for their incredible menu, the Beat Kitchen has unique and mouthwatering entrees that will keep you coming back for more. You can stick with the classic cheeseburger, or go with their gourmet Thai pizza. With seating in both the front dining area and stage area, you can eat before the show or while watching the perfonnance.

What truly draws in the crowd is the amazing performances from local city bands, along with well-respected musicians recognized nationally and internationally. They offer a huge variety of music from indie and hard rock, to folk. pop. and much more.

The Beat Kitchen is also known for their electric back room, where the performances take place. The fantastic state of the art stage lighting and sound inakes the experience even

Shiny Toy Guns will blow you away hy Jiiliii Phillips

"We are the weapons and mirror reflections of the very real things that very real people Shiny Toy Guns is an feel every second," stated Jeremy Dawson, in upbeat and very unique an interview in which he was asked what band.

When band inspired their song lyrics.

Shiny Toy Guns' latest album, "We Are member Jeremy Dawson was asked in an inter\'iew Pilots," has many hits such as "Le Disco." to describe their sound, "Don't Cry Out," and "Rocket Ship." Their he could not come up with an answer. Their cleverly original lyrics, such as " Ten nine eight music seems to have an ___^___^_____i —i-^-—g^-————- and Fm breaking away/ I'm all dressed up and electronica beat with indie rock-inspired lyrics.

"We are the weapons and ready to play / seven six five four and I'm all Shiny Toy Guns tlrst came mirror reflections of the very over you/ counting together two years ago. real things that very real three two one and I'm Originally from California, the band people feel every^ second. " having fun..." engage you from the very first started off with members —Jeremv Dawson song. After listening to Gregori Chad on vocals and guitar, Jeremy ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ one song, you'll be convinced that Carah Dawson on the keyboard and synthesizers, and Mike Martin on drums. and Gregori were bom to sing together. Shiny A year later Carah Faye joined the band Toy Guns recently played at the Beat Kitchen in Chicago and at the House of Blues. They becoming its second lead vocalist.

Before they were Shiny Toy Guns, Jeremy will be back in Chicago for future shows after Dawson was in a band called Cloud2Ground, they return from London, where they will be and he has been playing in one band or another touring.

Shiny Toy Guns has a unique and since he was 11. Lead vocalist Carah Faye has been a professional jazz and theatrical singer captivating sound that can only be loosely and dancer her whole life, which explains the compared to bands such as Muse, Keane, Snow electric energy she shows on stage during their Patrol. Stellastar and Mindless Self Indulgence.

For a great change in your playlist. give shows. Their lyrics target specific issues in life: Shinv TOY Guns a shot. fear, frustration, love, and humility.

14. 2005 • VOL. 42, No. 3

better. With booths located along the walls, there is a wide-open standing area in the center of the room where you can listen to and enjoy the perfonnance.

Having gone to the Beat Kitchen. I appreciate everything they offer. The bands are down-to-earth and often hang out after they perfonn to meet their fans. The prices are very reasonable and the environment is upbeat and welcoming.

If you find yourself looking for something to do on the weekends, or even during the week, stop by the Beat Kitchen. Directions and more information can be found at their website http://www.beatkitchen.com, or you can reach them by phone at (773) 281-4444.

Enjoy the quality music and delicious food the Beat Kitchen has to offer.

Ron & Marty's DVD Picks for October Marty's Pick: "Arrested Development": The Complete 2nd Season This underrated yet critically acclaimed show's second sea:^^*K3**'* son takes the already hilarious ^1 show to new hieghts of absurd If tomedv. The second season picks up right where the first left off. in the middle of the Bluth family's legal battle with the S.E.C. Tlte witty writing combined with the near-perfect acting make for one amazing show. If you've never seen "Arrested Development." shame on you. Go out and buy this DVD. Available 10-11-05.

Ron's Pick: "Batman Begins": 2-disc Specia Edition Director Christopher Nolan is responsible for pulling the Batman franchise out of the movie toilet. A solid comic book storv bolstered by excellent prefomiances by Christian Bale. Micheal Caine. Liam Neeson, and Gary Oldman make "Batman Begins" the .secondif not best-Batman film. The 2-di.sc Special Edition is loaded with bonus features (i.e. a whole disc worth) and although a single-disc version is available, this is the one to buy.

Available 10-18-05.

COMMENTAR' OcTOBiK 14, 2005 â&#x20AC;˘ Vol.. 42. No. 3

9

All quiet on the Midwestern front hy Marty Diamond You wake up in the morning, you look out the window, and. all of the sudden. you're bored. There is absolutely nothing to do.

Or is there?

Sure there is. There's...um...well, there's Mexican food. Okay, so I lied.

There really isn't much to do in the quiet town of Park Ridge.

1 mean, yes. every now and then. U2 rolls into town, and everyone gets very excited because U2 really is good in concert, and the Edge is just an amazing guitarist. But if I have to hear Bono rant about peace one more time, I might just explode.

But enough about Bono. What can we do to keep ourselves in a constant state of fun? After throwing a stick to my dog (who. incidentally, is named Bono) precisely 47 and a half times, I'm compelled to run after it myself. And I grew out of writing bad. emo-inspired poetry at the tender age of eleven. So now what?

My first idea was to give everyone a jetpack. However, after realizing that this would cause jetpack traffic, I abandoned

this idea.

The second thought I had was to bring back the fearsome beast know as the Tyrannosaurus

Utusnattoii b\ Ron Feieieisel

Bono's mission: Saving the world...with sunglasses

Rex, just to shake things up. But, of course, our government would rather invest their time and money on training dolphins to attack terrorists. That last bit is actually quite true. That's where our money goes.

So we're left with the last and possibly most dreaded suggestion: move to a different country.

But wait. Why not just another city in America? Well. I'll tell you why.

You could go to New York where, as witnessed by a friend of mine, you might just be attacked by a hobo. Or you could go to Washington D.C., where the most exciting thing is the filibuster.

Maybe you would go west. California is always an option. However, your neighbor will probably end up being someone named Chad.

You could travel to Wyoming. But think about this. What, exactly, is in Wyoming?

Maybe, just maybe, the fact that we're missing is that, while things here aren't very exciting, they're better by comparison.

I guess what I'm trying to say here is that, though we're bored, there are others out in the world who are surprisingly more bored than us.

The British are an excellent example of this.

So go read that book over again, or go outside and play with your dog, or go play Frisbee. And if you do plan on going outside, be sure to watch out for Bono.

Now I see me, now I don't

by Emily Miller Rushing to get ready after an intense Physical Education class (which you now have to participate in because it counts in your GPA). feeling sweaty and red and hot. you look to see yourself in the mirror, only to discover there are no mirrors.

All the mirrors lining the walls in the girls' locker room, that used to be very helpful in fixing hair and adjusting clothes, are gone.

Trying to exit through the main passageway in the locker room was always difficult simply because there are way too many people in there at the same time. Girls were always standing or kneeling there while applying copious amounts of eyeliner and bronzen

Gazing into the mirror, girls discussed lifealtering decisions and heart-breaking problems.

Without these mirrors, these traditions are now taking place somewhere else; in the bathrooms.

Although the lack of mirrors in the passage-. way does help bring the number of girls primping down, it causes another problem.

The bathrooms are too crowded. All the girls who used to line the wall of mirrors now take their spot in the bathrooms. If you just happened to need to use the bathroom, it would be amazingly crowded, with about half of all the girls crammed around the dimly lit mirrors.

Credit must be given because this problem has somewhat been addressed. Someone has recognized the over-use of the bathroom mirrors and placed small mirrors around the locker

room. These do help. Let's face it: girls need their mirrors.

Taking away the mirrors did not make the girls less worried about what they looked like.

In fact, it is even more worrisome to leave Physical Education after just running the mile and not knowing if makeup is streaky or if there is an alfalfa sticking up into midair.

If PE is first or second period, the rest of the school day might have to be endured w ith wondering how sweaty your face looks, especially if time to go to the bathroom is limited.

Taking away the mirrors does not remedy the problem girls have with worrying about their looks or really the traffic problem in the halls. The guys probably don't appreciate it much either.

10 The oil issue in black and white COMMENTARY

OCTOBER

14, 2005 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. 3

by Anna Wolonciej

of Old Crow, for example, is home to 245 people and is still untouched by roads. Oil drilling in the area would definitely change that.

The construction will also disrupt the habitats of thousand of species in the tundra and can cause irreversible damage to wildlife. It is more than likely that pesticides and acids will be spilled during this project and will contaminate local animals and their homes. Polar bears. grizzly bears, musk ox, caribou, and Artie fox are all fatally endangered by oil drilling.

The government is also promising this to be part of the solution to America's oil dependency issue. They have failed to mention that it will take over 10 years to dig up the "black gold," which at the rate of our consumption, will only last about six months to a year. Billions ir of dollars will be added to our nation's deficit to provide oil for a few months, and even during those few months, experts say that it will most likely not affect ^1^ oil prices.

No matter how much the government wants to change the oil dependency These polar hears may not have an problem, it's not going to adequate habitat if the U.S. drills in arctic happen. The United States Alaska. consumes 25 percent of the world's oil production, but administration is providing is false security to only has 3 percent of the reserves. By 2025. when production is at its peak, the refuge oil a grief-stricken nation.

The Bush administration has introduced the will only decrease oil imports by two percent. new drilling area that will encompass 1.5 mil- Importing 65 fiercent of necessary oil is no one's lion acres of the 19 million acres that make up definition of economic independence.

"If we are not wise enough to protect the the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. Although this is only 8 percent of the protected area, a lot Arctic refiige, fiiture generations will condemn ir needlessly sacrificing the wilderness of more land would be disturbed to build 1.500 miles of pipelines and roads and 1,400 produc- ineir world to feed our profligate, short-term ing wells that are necessary to extract oil from and shortsighted energy habit." acknowledges Former President Jimmy Carter. Many others different sources.

In addition, allowing the government to in- have also realized that this is not a wise decivade a protected area will open doors to future sion to make hastily after recent disasters.

Drilling in Alaska and destroying precious controversy. Granted, the U.S. needs plenty of oil to function, and it makes sense to use the wilderness will not help America's oil depenresources found under our soil first. However, dency problem. The solution doesn't lie in proin this case, the oil is found in one of the world's ducing more to supply our excessive needs. most esteemed areas that is home to so much Alternatively, we must learn to use less. We have started to do so in some cases, such as more than budding air pollution.

The refuge is not just a barren field, as it is using energy efficient cars, but we still aren't often perceived. On the contrary, there are many doing enough. The less energy we use, the more small towns and villages found there. The town precious land and animals we can preserve.

Congress is getting dangerously close to passing a law that will allow oil drilling in the Arctic Refuge.

The process that began earlier this spring was thrust into the spotlight after Hurricane Katrina and Hurricane Rita damaged the Gulf Coast refineries. The government is claiming that digging for oil in northern Alaska will help decrease the rising gas prices, which have climbed over three dollars. However, the only thing the Bush

"When we went to an improv comedy show."

-Sarah W'oppel, Connor Leontios, and Liz Davies '06

>

"I went to a wedding reception and danced with a forty yearold stranger.."

-Matt Grear '06

S O

a O

"Party bus to the Hard Rock Cafe."

-Martina Luskin and Katrina Winogradzki '07

s "I went to a friend's party."

-James Kim '08

C8

.a

COMMENTARY OcTC)hi:K 14. 2005 • VOL. 42, No. 3

11

Creationism further debated in schools

by Brigette Demke Religion—what a taboo word in today's culture. It seems to have no place outside the place of worship anymore.

According to a court ruling, it doesn't belong in our politics, our schools, our books, or any of our affairs. If it doesn't belong in any of these places, where does it belong? 1 find this completely ridiculous.

Religion, any religion, isn't meant to be solely a private matter, just as it isn't meant to be solely public.

If we completely banish it from important

aspects of our lives (school, work, or politics), we can't keep the public part alive and reach out to others. That's a huge part of religion: reaching out and helping others. In fact, I'd almost go so far as to say that it's a comerstone of almost all of the major religions.

Recently, a group of parents in Pennsylvania sued the school board. The board required teachers to include "intelligent design," a concept similar to creationism, in the curriculum.

According to the parents, this requirement violated the separation of church and state.

How exactly does including both sides of a current, ongoing scientific argument violate

said separation? It's simply giving these kids a chance to be well-informed and to make thei' own decisions, which is something we have been fighting to do for decades. Whatever happened to truth and fairness?

If I had school-aged children right now, I'd want them taught evolution as well as creation ism, not with the view that one is right ant one wrong, but with objectivity: this is one theory and this is another; here are the facts supporting and against each. You choose.

1 can only hope we can learn to step back and weigh things for what they're worth. I pray it's not too late to do so.

Who else is tired of JPEG boyfriends?

by James Maiitas Online relationships [log] me off.

Some teens don't know what the teen dating experience is all about; right now, we should be trying to have as much fun as possible. Serious relationships serve no purpose when you're sixteen.

Even more tragic than this mindset is the ridiculous concept of dating someone over the Internet. Girls or guys you meet online that live in other time zones are not going to be fun to date because you're barely ever going to see them, if at all. You will not have fun with someone if you see them once a month; you're going to be robbed of that wasted time, because instead of leaving yourself open to meet someone who actually lives within a reasonable distance—or better yet, your area code—you tie yourself up with someone you probably have never met.

1 can see why a long-distance relationship is attractive; there are virtually no physical aspects of the relationship—by this I mean how confident you are and also how comfortable you are with the sexual aspect of a relationship.

Young girls can finally say they have a boyfriend (and vice versa), even if they met him on MySpace. Anybody can be sweet in writing because most of a relationship's worst moments happen as consequences of actions, and it's hard to do something stupid from four states away.

Only being a guy, I find it hardest to understand why any guy would want a longdistance relationship. What fun are you going to have with a girl you can't take out or visit or even adore? Literally the only benefit of an online relationship is having someone to confide in. Confide in your online friends, but

picture imodifitdt courtesy oftuil.cnm

Bad AIM. don't tie yourself down to them. Internet relationships aren't worth the sacrifice.

When you talk to somebody, you use body language more than verbal communication, whether you believe it or not; one conversation

could be identical to another in words, but still be entirely different just because of tht communication that's not happening in dialogue. That's why the phone is a terrible medium for communication; even worse is AIM because—take it from the journalist— real-time written communication isn't at all efficient, simply because it's impossible to truly express feeling and intention, except by using those stupid emoticons.

So why discriminate against real-life relationships in favor of those that take place in words and pictures? The best things about a relationship are taken away: spending the weekend together, going places together, holding each other—even fundamental things, like knowing how a girl dances or how a guy kisses simply aren't possible over the Internet. I can't imagine having a girlfriend for a month or more without ever even holding her hanc (ignoring the fact that you can't reali; know for sure if she has two).

How do you really get to know someoii online? It's just not possible, though i sounds like it could be. "If you want to know if you love him so, it's in his kiss (that's where it is)."

Would you rather be on the Internet until midnight with someone you've never really seen, met, or know personally, or walk down the beach holding the hand of the only person that you really want to be with?

So get real; or at least get with somebody real.

12

PORTS OCTOBER

14, 2005 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42. No. 3

Who will be number two in college football?

Going with Marcus Vick as their starter at the most crucial position was a bit ofa gamble for Virginia Tech. He was coming off a season in which he was suspended and would have to face the constant pressure of playing in his brother Michael's enormous shadow.

1 here is no doubt there was a lot working against the young dual-threat quarterback, but instead of wilting under the pressure, he has become one of the most dynamic players in college football.

Vick is a major reason why Virginia Tech could give the Trojans of the University of Southern California a run for their money as the topranked team in Jhe countp'. Vick has been lethal out of the pocket, rushing for 213 yards and two touchdowns as of press time However.

Vick's most significant statistic is not his nine umchdowii pas>e> to one interception, or his S80 \ ard> pa.ssing. but his spectacular completion percentage of 68.1. What this percentage and the lack of interceptions reflect is smart decision making and patience.

With this mix of heady quarterback play and the constant threat of his speed. Vick can keep the Hokies in any game. The offense also has two talented backs in Mike Imoh and Cedric Humes, as well as receiver Jeff King, who has been a force in the red zone, catching four touchdowns.

The facet ofa lesser team that can de-rail a powerhouse is a stingy defense. The Hokies defense has been dominant, leading their conference by allowing only 242 yards a game. What is more impressive is that they have only allowed opponents to score a measly eight points a game. With this impressive defense and an explosive offense led by Vick, Virginia Tech is the pick.

u s e is loaded with talent. Their whole offense could go pro. and as they proved against Oregon, they can beat a team with just one good half of football.

Which leaves us with the argument over who will take on the Trojans in January. Of the rest of the elite teams, Texas will have the privilege effacing the best offense in college football history.

Virginia tech looks like a contender so far this season. They currently hold the number three ranking, with their strengths being their number three defense, which has already scored twice this season, and perhaps the best special teams unit, year in and out. Marcus Vick is a smarter and more polished quarterback and leader than his brother Michael, hut lack^ the athletic abilit\ to help them get past Miami, West Virginia, and Boston C'olkye in ihe AC C. Texas has earned thejr number two ranking in the polls after their tough win at Ohio State in an instant classic for their twenty-second road win in 23 games. If the number two spot comes down to one-loss teams, that win will prove to be a huge tiebreaker for the Long Horns.

And while there are other undefeated teams in the top ten right now, Texas's schedule favors them with the best shot at running the table this year. Their toughest opponent used to be Oklahoma, who doesn't look so tough after losing to TCU and UCLA in their first three games.

Personnel-wise, they have the most athletic quarterback since Michael Vick in senior Vince Young, who showed that he can beat a team with his arm instead of his legs against the Buckeyes. Florida, another team that many consider a contender, will have a tough time remaining unbeaten in the toughest conference in the country.

Hawks don't disappoint aganist the Dukes minute after an unlucky touch by the defense.

The score was tied 1-1 at the half.

After halftime, the Hawks came alive as an During recent Hawk soccer annual barbeque, the freshmen, sophomore, and approaching storm threatened to end the game early. Midfielders Tom Sullivan and Dan varsity teams Gerrits led a Hawk participated in charge that produced what Coach many opportunities, but Spiegel called no goals. Despite the "a showcase explosive play by the of the Maine Hawks, the Dukes scored South soccer f^^ on a rebound after a program." pHf deflection save by The Hawks (9"^ goalkeeper John Michael 3-3) didn't Kulnig. disappoint a The tying goal came large crowd of with four minutes Photo h\ Katie Katz supporters as they took on Matt Johnson practices with Cullen McChristian remaining when senior captain Jon Woo tipped the York the ball past the York Dukes.

The Hawks got the lead quickly when keeper after a goalmouth scramble.

Despite the 2-2 draw, the Hawks came away Cullen McChristian scored on a penalty kick in the eleventh minute of the first half Howver, satisfied as they produced a quality game the score was equalized in the thirty-sixth against a strong opponent. bv Bill Wamock

We need sports writers for the upcoming winter season.

Contact the sports editors if you are interested.

SPOR: OCTOBER

14, 2005 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 42, No. .^

Sadly, Cubs can learn from White Sox

by Greg Mitchell The Cubs have a lot of work to do. but what else is new? As much as it pains me to say, Jim Hendry must learn from Ken Williams, choose an identity for his team, and work tirelessly to mold the team into that identity. The magical team from 2003 had an identity, and that it is why they were so successful. They won not only because they had an effective rotation, but because the rest of the team was built so that the staff could succeed. Besides that terrible gaffe in the infamous eighth inning of game six, Alex Gonzalez was a tremendous defensive shortstop and led the league in fielding percentage at that position. Damian Miller was a great defensive catcher and play caller, and Mark Grudzielanek played with reckless abandon.

Though the 2003 team wasn't nearly as potent offensively as the teams of the past two seasons, they were able to mask that lack of hitting with good defense and pitching. What I am getting at, is that Hendry needs to get back to what made the Cubs a winner, and take advantage of the pitching he has, before it slips away. In saying that, I believe he needs to create a lineup that supplements the staff.

First and foremost, Hendry needs to aggressively pursue free agent right fielder

Brian Giles. Giles will give the Cubs a rock in the outfield and will bring with him a .290 average, 25-30 home runs, and 85-90 runs batted in a season. He could be inserted into the fifth spot in the lineup and secure the heart of the order, which already includes Derrek Lee and Aramis Ramirez.

Another move the Cubs need to make is to find stop gaps for center field and second base.

Felix Pie is considered a Juan Pierre type player, and has been labeled as the leadoft'man of the future. But after sustaining a foot injury late in the year, he needs another year to develop in the minor leagues. At second base, the Cubs have Eric Patterson on the up and up. and he is coming off a season in which he won the batting title and player of the year awards in his league. Also, he isn't his brother Corey, which is wonderful. However, he too needs another year to develop. These two would provide high average hitting and speed to the top of order, which the Cubs have sorely missed the past two years, but this wouldn't be a realistic expectation until 2007.

In saying that, 1 believe Hendry should bring back Kenny Lofton, a free agent who proved he can still hit, to keep the spot warm for Pie. Also, Pie could learn a thing or two from Lofton. At second base, the Cubs should pick up Todd Walker's option and use him until Patterson is ready. Lofton and Walker would be serviceable in the field and at the plate and would keep the Cubs competitive.

B

Girls CC has high hopes

by Tommy Joyce With a young team, the girls' cross country squad is running like the wind. Top runners, sophomore Kelly Kohlndorfer and senior Emma Keenan, hope to make this a winning season. The varsity team is also getting great contributions from freshman Keely Patt. The team has high hopes, according to Emma Keenan, who said, "We're looking forward to a strong finish at conference this year, which is at Maine South for the first time in six years."

The team is currently sitting in fourth place in their conference, posting a record of 2-3. A win at the Downers Grove meet gave the team some needed confidence. They edged out their rivals and came out with a great victory. Coach Gabauer stated, "With our good, young team, we hope to be one of the top two in the conference."

To make regionals, the girls will have to make it past rivals Hersey, Wheeling, and Maine West. Only the top five schools advance from Regionals to Sectionals.

Gabauer knows that the competition will be tough, but he believes that his young team will be able to advance through the playoffs. in the upcoming Central Suburban League South Invitational, the girls hope to finish in the top five. If the team can place among the top five teams, then they will make the regionals, hopefully advancing even further into the playoffs.

Jock Talk: From the Field to the Fans "We hope for a strong finish as a team at Regionals."

-Mike Magnuson, Boys' Golf

"We had a great season, with a lot of fun and hopefully we will have good results at Sectionals and State."

-Melissa Miller, Girls'Golf

"As the season draws to a close, we are trying to beat our best times, despite the crazy hot weather."

-Ketlv Kohlndorfer. Girls' Cross Coimtri"We have h a d some tough losses, but we're vvorking hard to get ready for Regionals and finish the season on a strong note."

-Matt Johnson, Boys' Soccer "We're more than halfway through our season, and now we are going to start focusing less on our times, and more on outswimming our opponents."

-Brittncy liiman. Girls' Sioinnning

"Come to the Conference meet tomorrc^v at o'A^l at "Maine South ."

-TatO'']-l(VV. 'Boys'Cross Country "With Conit'iciKi- and tin- Siak' louiiiaim-ni iRainijj, we are ready to vvi-.all ot \\n> \fars' hard work put mio action."

-DduifUv Bunnii. dirl^' Tennis

"Our team is really starting to click. We are starting to do really well."

-Julie Davis, Girls' Volleyball "Wc arc lookinjrui take ConfcrciKC and head into tlic stale playoffs with nKunciiium."

-Adam Fee, Foodxtll

C/3 . . ^ J ^

. - l ^ , : ^

^ . -

•«;••-

SPORTS | ^ i #

F/XLi.

2 0 0 5

Cv.,,-. C>,i . . .X. 'GOLF'GlRLS' \'OLLEVBALL»BoVS' SoCCER'FoOTBALL'GlRLS' SwiM.MlNG'GlRLS' T E N M S

Volleyball looking to pick up the momentum

by Alexa Karas Girls' volleyball faced the New Trier Trevians on September 26. The first game was a heated match with even scoring. The Hawks won 28-26. with a final service ace by Katie Anderson.

"Although we were able to hang on and finish the first game on top. we almost let it slip away," commented Coach Butera. "The majority of the match we controlled the tempo and forced New Trier to play at a higher level."

Christina Solari put the Hawks on the board with a kill in the beginning of the second game.

Kristin Unti took the service line and watched New Trier spike it out of bounds. Throughout the game, there were many smart offensive plays. Anderson added an ace, and blocking was at it's best with several successful blocks

by Unti, Ashleigh Heffeman, and Julie Davis.

Chelsea Petersen created many scoring opportunities by finding open players like Elizabeth Kossnar, who continued with several kills. Even though the team was working well and had accurate hitting and blocking, the score

uas always close.

After a lift call and a double hit foul against Maine South, Butera took a timeout at 20-23.

During the timeout, he said, "[You] must execute and take advantage of the opportunities that come during the match. Finish strong.

We've got to believe in ourselves and come together as a team."

Unfortunately, the Hawks fell short of the victory, 22-25. In the beginning of game three, the energy was high because the stakes were definitely up. Unti spiked a ball during the first play, followed by a single block by Kossnar.

The rest of the game passed slowly because the Trevians started pulling away with the lead. The Hawks lost 11-25. but still finished strong against one of their biggest rivals.

"Maintaining momentum has been an issue for our team. We were able to carry our momentum into game two, but we were unable to continue it through to the end. We get a little rattled after making mistakes, which is something we can improve on." said Butera.

"Things happen or they don't in a game. All we have to do is fix those ten points and get out of slumps faster." suggested Anderson.

As far as looking down the road towards the

piayofifs. the girls are nothing but positive and excited for the challenge. "The potential has been there all year. Take all the matches we've competed in and fallen short of winning, and we'll look like a top ten team." added Butera about their progress in the season.

Before most games, the Hawks say they get pumped up on the bus by singing and playing games like "Little Sally Walker." Everyone on the team is responsible for one another and each player is spirited in her own way. "Kristin Unti is crazy and jumps up and down and yells a lot." said Krista Porterfield. Kossnar added.

"Julie always has a cheerful mood [and is] positive." "It really is a group effort," concluded Anderson.

The Hawks are ready for anything and are trying to improve their record slightly before entering the piayofifs. On theissueofregionals Butera commented. "Our girls have gone through many adverse situations this season. I hope those losses bui Id their confidence in being able to compete with good teams, and eventually translate into a thirst for winning to avenge their losses." There is no doubt the Hawks will go far this season with the coaching and leadership present on the team.

'

I

Girls' tennis preparing for Sectionals

by Frank Lukes The girls' tennis team is right where they want to be. They are beating the opponents they should be beating, as well as pro\ ing to be a handful to powerhouse teams like New Trier. "The girls have exhibited incredible heart this season." said head coach Liz Eckhardt.

The team proved this with strong showings at the Hawk Invite and the Lake Park Invite.

All MS singles players took second at the Hawk Invite, which led to the girls getting some trophies with a second place finish.

At the Lake Park Invite, the girls out-classed their opponents and found themselves with a first place finish, beating Lake Park West.

Schaumburg. and Oswego East. "We played

extremely well, and we definitely dominated all of our opponents." said senior Kat Koralik.

In the past few meets, the team has shown some grit. They overwhelmed Niles West and came out on top with a 6-1 finish. Against our rival. New Trier, they lost a hard fought battle 3-4.

In other meets, a 4-4 tie came against Rolling Meadows, as well as a crushing 0-7 loss to Glenbrook South. Although it was a sweep, Kate Paczkowska, at number one singles, played extremely well against her foe, Katya Babinski. who was 7-8 in state last year.

Kat Koralik. at number two singles, also played well and took her opponent. Sammy Levin, to a close finish.

"About this time of year, everyone gets tired." commented Eckhardt. "We've had three to four meets every week, [and] the girls have shown up and played their best for every one."

The team will need all its energy at the ' Conference meet. Maine South is hosting conference this year, but that doesn't make it any easier. With New Trier. Evanston, and Glenbrook South in the same conference, the girls have their work cut out for them, and must show up with their game faces on.

"To achieve the success at conference that we are capable of, we need to strive towards our goal each and every day by working hard on and off the court." stated junior Courtney Hoglund.

Another crucial aspect to attain success is the chemistry of the team. The girls are friendly and supportive of one another, and know when to have fun and when to be serious. Their determination and energy will carry them to enter the state tournament. Sectionals are tomorrow with the state meet commencing next Friday. October 20.

•»