Vol 42 issue 6

IN IN IN IN IN MaINe Sout outh out out

DECEMBER 2, 2005

1111 S. DEE ROAD • PARK RIDGE, ILLINOIS 60068

VOL. 42, NO. 6

Maine South student trends: cell phones, ripped jeans, The North Face fleeces, iPods, college hooded sweatshirts, and Birks.

NEWS

FEATURES

out

photos by Katie Katz

ENTERTAINMENT COMMENTARY SPORTS

Park Ridge All up in MySpace uptown development

Arrested Develop- Reverse age discrimination ment arrested

Senior athletes in Varsity sports

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NEWS

DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

Park Ridge Uptown development looks promising

by Melissa Hansen While Park Ridge teenagers often complain that nothing happens in their town, developments in recent years have proved the contrary. Not only does Park Ridge have two Starbucks within three blocks of one another, but it also has a movie theatre that has actually started showing first-run movies.

(Does anyone else remember when it took the Pickwick a year to get “Titanic”?)

In general, the lack of “excitement” in Park Ridge comes mainly from the voters. Of all recent proposals to spice up the Park Ridge life—including building a larger, modern library and turning Centennial Pool into a water park—only one really took root: the skate park next to Hinkley. And unfortunately, this service does not aid those in Park Ridge who do not roller blade or skateboard in finding something fun to do Uptown.

However, changes are finally being made.

The gigantic eyesore of a pit where the Park Ridge water supply used to be regulated, as well as the blocked off area on Mecham where the Bredemann car dealership was located, is part of a new plan to modernize Uptown.

The City of Park Ridge signed a redevelopment agreement with Edward R.

photo courtesy of www.parkridge.us

The Uptown area has already sold many of the to-be-built condominimums featured in the new “Fountain Plaza.”

James Partners, LLC in order to make a better Uptown. The plan, detailed in a 137 page volume at City Hall, describes the plan to create a “once in a lifetime” opportunity to re-do Uptown. The plan details the creation of a grassy, polished “Fountain Plaza,” where shops, courtyards, and residences will be located on the area where the water reservoir used to reside. This plaza will feature an underground parking garage with two levels—

Want to have a musical holiday?

Come to the Winter Holiday Concert.

There are very few opportunities to see the choir, orchestra, and band perform together.

There are also very few opportunities to hear your favorite Christmas carols and holiday melodies performed by the always energetic and dedicated music department of Maine South.

Come Sunday, December 11 at 2 or 4:30 p.m. to the auditorium for a concert of classics, including the Maine South traditional holiday sing-along, “Tribute of Carols.”

certainly a solution to the never-ending problem of Uptown parking. Also, there are plans to “unify” the appearance of Uptown with similar lighting, signs, sidewalks, street furniture, and landscaping.

Park Ridge citizens in general have mixed reviews on the subject. As of last December, only 66 percent of Park Ridge citizens supported the redevelopment of Uptown.

Despite investing several million dollars in a project, only two-thirds of the population agrees with it.

“It looks awful and destroys tradition,” states one Park Ridge resident, who has resided in Park Ridge for nearly 50 years. “I have many memories of the Uptown area and the destruction of the buildings is unnecessary, in my opinion.”

The youth of Park Ridge seem more inclined to support Uptown redevelopment. “I like the idea of having more shops in Uptown,” says one senior. However, she adds, “I doubt I’m going to go there any more than I do now; in high school, you can normally find a friend with a car, so why stay in Park Ridge to shop when you could just as easily go to Woodfield or Old Orchard? The development will probably interest middle schoolers since they can’t drive but still want to hang out.”

Despite the big, gaping hole in the middle of the heart of Park Ridge, there is no doubt that this hole will be filled very soon with more options for the casual shopper. The success of this development, however, is yet to be determined.

NEWS DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42 NO. 6

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Supreme Court Saga in active duty from for a few months in 1975, and then served in the reserve until 1980.

The decisions made by Alito has had many high- profile jobs since the Supreme Court affect his graduation from law school. From 1987every aspect of our lives. 1990, he worked as the United States Attorney When Sandra Day for New York City, and from 1990 until 2005, O’Connor, the first he served on the Third Circuit Court of woman on the Supreme Appeals.

Court, retired on July 1 of 2005, it was clear Alito’s nomination appeased many of the that whoever replaced he would have the conservatives who criticized the Miers power to change the world. Following nomination. However, many of the Democrats O’Connor ’s resignation, George Bush who supported the Miers nomination, and feel nominated John Roberts to fill her position that conservatives forced her to withdraw, on the court. It was expected that Roberts were angered by the Alito nomination. would replace O’Connor at the start of the next “Every American should be deeply term. However, a month before the term concerned that the far right wing, which began, Chief Justice William Rehnquist died prevented Harriet Miers from ever receiving after a long battle with thyroid cancer. a Senate hearing, is celebrating Judge Alito’s On September 5, Bush withdrew Roberts’ nomination and urging the Senate to rubber nomination and restamp a swing vote on nominated him to replace our rights and Rehnquist, as chief justice. liberties,” said John However, there was still an Kerry. open seat on the court.

“I am, and always Bush’s initial choice to have been, a replace O’Connor was conservative” stated Harriet Miers, the current Alito, whose strong, White House Counsel. conservative views Almost immediately after have become a major the Miers nomination, concern of many Bush received a lot of Democrats, who are criticism. Most of the worried that if criticism was about Miers confirmed, Alito’s lack of credentials, and it conservative views came from Bush’s will push the Supreme conservative base. They Court further to the were concerned that there right. was no record stating how Of all of his Miers would vote on hotconservative views, button issues like abortion Alito’s views on and gay rights. On October abortion have received photo courtesy of Associated Press 27, Miers asked Bush to the most publicity.

Supreme Court Nominee Samuel Alito withdraw her as a nominee There is a lot of Then, on October 31, concern that Alito may Bush nominated Samuel Alito to fill vote to overturn Roe v. Wade because of a 20 O’Connor’s position on the Supreme Court. year old document, where he stated “ the Because O’Connor was often the swing vote Constitution does not protect a right to an on the Supreme Court, if confirmed, Alito’s abortion.” Alito tried to combat these concerns decisions would have the power to change the by saying that when he wrote that document, world we live in. he was an advocate looking for a job with the So who is Samuel Alito? What are his conservative Regan administration. views, and what qualifies him to be on the When Alito’s confirmation hearings begin Supreme Court? in January, they are likely to provoke intense Alito graduated from both Princeton debate. If confirmed, Alito will replace University and Yale Law School. While at O’Connor, the swing vote on key issues, Princeton, Alito joined the ROTC. He served allowing Alito to affect all our lives.

by Annette Dean

By James Mantas Think of it as a squishy, blue Godzilla that hurts when you touch it: A sudden surge in giant jellyfish, weighing up to 400 pounds and having up to seven-foot wide umbrellas, are causing mischief for the fishing industry off of Japan’s east coast.

Somebody call Spongebob or Patrick.

World’s smoothest talker: America’s “best known televangelist,” Pat Robertson, once said that feminism encourages females to “kill their children, practice witchcraft, destroy capitalism and become lesbians.”

Concerning banning Intelligent Design from a Pennsylvania school’s list of things kids should definitely know, he said: “...if there is a disaster in your area, don’t turn to God. You just rejected Him from your city.”

I’d hate to make fun of this deity and get hit by a flood or something. And then lightning. Twice.

Mornin’ sunshTAKE COVER: Danish researchers are testing a pillow that can put soldiers to sleep in warzones by chirping like birds and other natural... things.

I’d like to have an alarm clock pillow; except I need one that uses live gunfire, ironically.

Well of course he’s girly; his name is Kim: Kim Jong Chol – Kim Jong II’s 24-year old son and possible successor – has been called “too girlish” by his dad to rule North Korea in the past; but recently, Chol proved his masculinity by proposing a new, radical form of defense: “I’d not allow weapons or atom bombs any more. I’d destroy all terrorists with the Hollywood star JeanClaude Van Damme,” inspired by 1995’s “Sudden Death.”

His older brother is currently in Europe – self-imposed exile. One, big, semipsychotic family.

Pro bike rider struck: A man fleeing the scene on a bicycle from a casino – Nickel Nats – was struck by a police car responding to the call. He made off with about $500 – until he was pronounced dead at the scene.

At least the bullets were saved…

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FEATURES DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

South’s school spirit

by Sarah Dickey and Danielle DiVito The 2:10 bell rings at Maine South. Walking to the school assembly, Megan sees students jumping fences. Wearing red, white, and black, Megan walks into the assembly and sees that the attendance of students is down. Things haven’t changed, but the attitude toward school spirit has.

“School spirit would be showing your pride for your friends and your teammates that are out there on the field,” said senior Mark Fosco.

School spirit seems to be low at Maine South. Fifty-three percent of an informal

survey said they did not attend assemblies. “I think our school spirit is slowly declining, even in the four years I have been here,” noted senior Ellyn Michalak.

“I noticed that there was a problem,” Fosco said. “Not enough people were attending the football games. Some friends and I created some t-shirts for everyone to wear. I try to get people to participate, but it is just too hard.”

Earlier this year, Fosco and his friends made a deal with Mr. Claypool. “A hundred and twenty-five shirts were made and handed out.

The Tragedy of the Year’s First Snowflake

by Gina Tingas

Maybe half of the students who own one wear them to games,” Fosco later stated.

One out of every four students surveyed do not attend sporting events. Students just don’t show pride or interest in their teams.

“Being an ex-football player, I can tell you first hand: it is nice to have a cheering section.

When you’re on the field, the cheering just gets you going. If the players have no one cheering, then they feel like they have no one to impress,” admitted Fosco.

“If you ask me, Fridays would be a good day to wear our school colors and get people back into the swing of things,” he suggested.

Fifty-two percent of students questioned said that they wear school colors on Fridays.

“I think that even as a freshman, I saw a lot more school spirit than I see now,” observed Michalak.

Scott Yoshioka, equipment manager and custodian at Maine South, also weighed in on this issue. “[It] sounds good to me. I mean, I wear black or gray every day. I always have a continued on page 5

SOUTHWORDS A student-produced newspaper of:

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

Editors-in-Chief News Editors Features Editors

Entertainment Editors Commentary Editors Sports Editors Production Editors Photographer Staff Artists Advisors

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

FEATURES DECEMBER 2, 2005 VOL. 42. NO. 6 continued from page 4 [Maine South] football t-shirt on under [my uniform],” said Yoshioka.

“No one really has school spirit anymore.

Well, at least when an outsider sees [us], it doesn’t seem that way,” said Fosco.

Staff members at Maine South cannot understand this new trend of students without school spirit. “I’ve got tons of school spirit, and I didn’t even go here. Seniors [have the most school spirit. Underclassmen don’t care.

Unless they have a friend on the team—but if they don’t then spirit is down. It is surprising because we are so big [of a school] and so successful in our athletics,” remarked Yoshioka.

Students seem to be apathetic toward school spirit, and so don’t give any mind to it. Senior

Jenny Paen explained, “I don’t care about school pride. Supporting it only relates to the lowest common denominator in school.”

“I mean, [things] like football games don’t really interest me,” added senior Ryan Anderson.

What could the school possibly do to draw these teens into more school-sponsored events?

The interviewed students stated that they wanted the events to be more comfortable for them. “[School spirit is] a passage for American [teens] who love it, and can’t stand it. There has to be a sense of camaraderie and friendship for students, [so] by being there they won’t be ridiculed,” Paen said.

In the four years that Jenny Paen has attended Maine South, she has been a Hawk Pride leader, student of the quarter, and more.

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“I am anti-Hawk, but I still have been sucked up by the programs that promote school spirit,” she said.

“When I look around, I see school spirit. I think it’s just because I refuse to be part of it, so I notice it more. Everyone wants to fit in and feel accepted. Goofs want to be preppy.

They want to be accepted by Maine South,” Paen said.

Over the years, Maine South students have lost their pride in their school. The percentages of students who don’t support their school are over 50 percent. Maine South needs to realize these increasing numbers, and make school events appeal to all students. Students need to feel comfortable in their environment, so students like Jenny Paen won’t have to say, “I don’t feel like I am in my place.”

All up in “MySpace”

by Anthony Perez and Joanna Mikosz The majority of users joined MySpace because Crystal Chandelier comes home exhausted many of their friends were users too. Out of Lobotomy from schoolPop! everyday. Her daily routine this sampling, 16 percent of students did not includes homework, chores, and spending time have accounts but still visited the website.

Pop!She visits the website onLobotomy MySpace.com.

When asked why MySpace is so addictive, regularly throughout the day and loves the many Maine South students agree that the sole interaction among users. reason is checking for comments that people Crystal made new leave them on friends at school their profiles and because of MySpace. replying back to She continues to meet them. other students and “MySpace is recognizes them in the more addictive hallways because of than drugs,” says their websites and junior Sergio pictures.

Selles.

“It’s This year’s most thrilling, and widespread fad, that’s why I use MySpace, can be it all the time.” found monopolizing In general, many teenagers’ people’s favorite computer time. As aspects of photo courtesy of myspace.com more and more Tom: everyone’s favorite MySpace friend.

MySpace are students find meeting new themselves addicted to this online community, people and viewing pictures of others. it becomes an important part of their social MySpace has negative elements, too. Some lives. Many Maine South students keep in people don’t like the recurrent technical touch with each other with it problems, the strangers, the chat rooms and the MySpace is a social networking website that journals. Some users just don’t like the users allows its users to keep close contact with each that are addicted to it. other. Users enjoy publically posting pictures, When asked what his/her least favorite thing journal entries, personal information, and was, a student replied, “I don’t like it when comments to their friends. people complain about how miserable their A random sampling of 50 Maine South lives are.” students revealed that 66 percent are frequent Some students feel that at times MySpace MySpace users. 38 percent of these people find can be unsafe. It is easy to be fooled into themselves addicted to the fun-filled website. believing fake identities and lies.

“There are a lot of creepos out there,” remarks senior Danielle Divito. “This one guy who skins people tried to be my [MySpace] friend.” by: information Hannah Artwick “I don’t want personal on the internet about me,” says senior Dave Douglass. “[Users] are wasting their time with MySpace and just joined because everyone else has one.”

Although some feel unsafe, others feel different because of their tightly-knit friend groups.

“I feel pretty safe,” says Selles. “All of my friends have MySpace and I only accept [friend requests from] people who I know.”

Thirty-two percent say that they use MySpace only for keeping in touch with friends. Others use it for checking out bands, meeting new people and making new friends.

“MySpace is cool because you can keep in touch with graduates and people that you don’t really talk to much,” says senior Justin Leverenz.

The majority of users visit regularly, even many times a day. “I go on it whenever I’m at home. I’m on it all the time,” admits Selles.

When asked to sum up their feelings about MySpace, a variety of different views came up. Some users feel negatively. “MySpace is a quick fad that will get old really soon,” says Douglass.

However, it seems that others feel differently. The website has been successfully up and running from June 2003 to this day.

With its increased traffic and membership, the website has gone up in value as well as users, and continues to do so as word spreads from its addicted fans.

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FEATURES DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

The war within: Cubs and Sox fans come closer [than the Cubs] to [the World was seven. “My middle name starts with a ‘c’ Series] each year, and somehow, the Cubs and that was the only baseball team that I knew always make the papers. They get the big [of that] started with a ‘c’,” she said. This is not War is about choosing sides, and baseball spotlight. They get everything we thought we the hard evidence behind what makes a Cubs or is no different. After all, isn’t baseball just a deserved,” Leverenz said.

Sox fan. There are other answers out there that couple of guys running around in circles in the However, this is just one opinion alone. pertain to each individual. sand, chasing a ball? No, Others choose sides For example, while the general consensus not in Chicago. In for different reasons. among students is “their fans suck,” some Chicago, baseball is a “A lot of it is individuals claim that “they don’t play the game cold war where the location… some right,” “my dad and brother made me like the tensions are continually people grow up with Sox,” “I like how [the Sox] are more racially rising. As it turns out, the mentality, the diverse” or simply, “because they are not cool.”

Maine South belongs to underdog mentality. One even noted that they prefer the other team the Cubs. What makes a That’s how a lot of because they like the colors better. Most don’t Cubs fan a Cubs fan, or a Sox fans come to be. know why they prefer one team over the other.

Sox fan a Sox fan?

They’ve always been “I don’t hate the Sox, I don’t like the Sox, Sometimes it only the underdogs for but I just kinda tolerate them,” Thompson said. depends on where you sports. Whether or not The Maine South survey justifies that a lot of live, or where you grew [we win] the girls are softer toward the opposing team, 54 up. However, there is championship, it’s percent of guys are Cubs fans, 26 percent are much more [about] winning over Sox fans, and the other 20 percent just don’t care, psychological reasoning the city,” Leverenz or love both. For girls, 47 percent are Cubs fans, behind it. stated.

11 percent are Sox fans, and the other 42 percent The hardcore Sox fan: As a matter of fact, just don’t care or love both. The numbers favor To help better understand 26 percent of Maine the Cubs, so the World Series didn’t have that the motivation of the South students much of an impact. Only 2 out of 82 people Photo courtesy of Espn.go.com. hardcore Sox fan, Justin surveyed who are into admitted to bandwagoning. So why does Cubs fans celebrating at a game.

Leverenz provided his Chicago baseball Thompson not like the Sox? perspective. Leverenz claim that it’s a matter “Because [the Cubs] are my team,” she states. notes that he was born and raised on the South of where you grew up or who you grew up In choosing sides, Thompson states that it is side of Chicago. But maybe growing up on the with. Seeing that Maine South is not located human nature to do so. It also seems to be human South Side is not the only reason to root for in the south side, it makes nature to be so the Sox. sense for it to be competitive, even “Well, my mom was a Cubs fan growing predominantly Cubs-fan when the justification up, and I didn’t have a father. Living so close territory. is “because they are to Comiskey Park, and tickets being so cheap “Well, after this year, we my team.” As for the when I was little, it kind of happened,” kind of just let it go. It doesn’t hardcore Sox fan, she Leverenz said. The Sox became a childhood matter anymore. Sox fans are holds her own opinion memory that he is fond of. fulfilled, we got what we about them. “I think Being a Sox fan makes Leverenz dislike came for, and it looks like we they’re like hardcore Cubs fans. “I do pretty much fit the typical Sox got a good chance of doing it Cubs fans: they like fan [stereotype of being] bitter. It’s just the way again next year,” Leverenz their team. But of life for me, and growing up in the Bridgeport said. sometimes, they can area, that’s the way the whole [neighborhood] “We’re always upset when be loudmouths.” was. It’s just, we always had our back to the the Cubs win. I’ve got a t-shirt Many students wall, finishing second, third, fourth place when that says that I cheer for two claim that the the Cubs were winning the NL central. It teams—the Sox and whoever opposing fans are probably stems from jealousy,” explains is playing the Cubs. It’s the rude. So, the Sox fans Leverenz. So that covers his hate for the Cubs, way most Sox fans are, and think that the Cubs but why their fans? that’s the way is always going fans are rude, and the Photo courtesy of Whitesoxinteractive.com Excited Sox fans at a game.

“Well part of it is the hard-working South to be,” concludes Leverenz.

Cubs fans think the side blue-collar attitude and mentality The hardcore Cubs fan: To Sox fans are rude. It’s compared to the North side—more money, help justify the mentality of a Cubs fan, a vicious cycle that has us running around in white-collar work. And even though the Sox Elizabeth Thompson stepped up to the plate. circles, and has us wondering when the haven’t had as many championships, we’ve She remembers being a Cubs fan since she bitterness will end?

by Matt Cusimano

ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

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“Jarhead:” an interesing study in a soldier’s boredom

by Ron Feiereisel

###+ I’m divided over which actor truly owns “Jarhead.” Sure, Jake Gyllenhaal is Anthony Swofford, the main character, and the movie on a whole is about him, but Jamie Foxx is so incredibly captivating as the world-weary Staff Sergeant Sykes. Both of them could easily be up for Oscars, but if I had to pick one or the other, I’d choose Foxx simply because his character is so much more interesting. Not to say that Gyllenhaal’s Swofford isn’t. Both of their performances were excellent, and made the movie interesting and original.

The one thing that worried me going into “Jarhead” was that it could have easily been reminiscent of other war movies like “Platoon”—there’s a very similar dynamic between Foxx and Gyllenhaal that exists between Willem Dafoe and Charlie Sheen in the Oliver Stone film—or “Full Metal Jacket,” in which the young soldiers spend a good deal of the film being “motivated” by their drill sergeant. Both of the aforementioned films’ respective components show up, but “Jarhead” makes them different enough so the similarities are quickly forgotten.

The movie focuses on Swofford’s training as a scout sniper by Sykes, which I thought was interesting. It’s usually infantrymen who get the war movie spotlight. His experiences, or lack thereof, during the Gulf War as part of Operation Desert Shield, as well as Desert

Storm, make up the rest of the film. We see the men go from revved up killing machines to bored, disillusioned soldiers, as the war that they thought would last for two weeks drags on for much longer.

“Jarhead” is it’s own kind of war movie, in that there’s not really a whole lot of war.

We’re just waiting for something to happen, and that provides an interesting catalyst to watch how the characters develop. The first half of the film is very funny, but the movie slowly transforms into a gritty drama once the bombs start to fall.

Dialogue is witty or poignant, depending on the scene, and has a very real feel to it.

The men talk like men do when men get together; they swear and demean each other like it’s nothing. Overall, the movie has a very masculine feel to it. And the mission that Swofford and Troy (Swoff’s spotter, played by Peter Sarsgaard) undertake near the end of the film is tense. Part of it is the spot-on acting, but the other excellent thing is that by that time in the film, the audience is so emotionally attached to the characters and they’re worried about the outcome.

Their success is uncertain. You, like the snipers, aren’t sure if the whole thing is going to go just right or horribly wrong. It’s an excellent scene because it all works so well.

Director Sam Medes gives the film an interesting look, seeing as the film is set in the barren deserts of the Middle East. During the day, the troops look completely isolated from the outside world—there’s nothing visible in the distance, just blue sky and a sea of sand.

Movies You Should See Before You Kick the Bucket “Dune” “Heat” Al Pacino and Robert De Niro star in this incredible crime drama set in Las Angeles. Pacino and De Niro play an LAPD detective and a hardened criminal, respectively, and both of their performances are excellent. “Heat” also boasts an impressive supporting cast including Val Kilmer and Jon Voight. The dialogue, direction, and and acting are incredible, especially when De Niro and Pacino have a verbal showdown in a cafe and during the heist that De Niro and his partners in crime orchestrate and execute. “Heat” is brilliant.

Based on the novel by Frank Herbert, “Dune” has one of the most interesting stories, well, ever. Paul Atreides (Kyle MacLachlan) is the main character who goes from Prince to religious hero over a period of time. The story unfolds slowly but keeps you intrigued every second the movie goes on.

Some other good points to this movie are the fact that it features both Patrick Stewart and Sting. That’s right, Sting, the singer. The acting, great as it is, is second to the amazing story in the movie. Even with Patrick Stewart.

The visuals only get better as the Iraqis start burning oil wells. Huge jets of flame erupt from the earth, and there’s always something to look at in the shots. Mendes is also good at

photo courtesy of cinema.com

Swofford arrives in Iraq making the camera adjust to the scene. When there’s a frantic, friendly-fire artillery attack, the herky-jerky camera movement puts the viewer into the scene. The cinematography’s not a hundred percent imaginative or original, but it’s still very interesting.

For some, “Jarhead” might seem to be a sparse, boring chronicle of the life of a soldier who never quite made it to battle. For others, the movie will be alive in its sparseness, in the way it showcases the evolution of the soldiers’ mental states, for better or for worse. Finally there’s a movie about war that shows us what the troops do when there’s no war to fight. It busts them down from the usual super-soldier level found in films and makes them relatable in their boredom. The soldiers are on pins and needles waiting for combat, and that’s a nice break from seeing them storm Omaha Beach on D-Day. Not that World War II is clichéd, but after seeing it so many times in all sorts of movies and video games, The Gulf War serves as an interesting substitute. “Jarhead” may not be a total breath of fresh air, but it’s certainly pretty close.

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ENTERTAINMENT DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

“Arrested Development” arrested

by Marty Diamond While pondering the reason why Richard Gere keeps getting work, I was informed of terrible news.

“Arrested Development” had been cancelled. I could not believe it at first. The show is just so brilliant. But then it hit me. Of course Fox would cancel this show. Why? Easy: because it is brilliant.

Why would any network cancel a brilliant show? Well, for one, this is Fox we’re talking about. They cancelled lots of great shows, like “Family Guy.” Yet, with all the judgment of a dying squirrel, they cancelled one of the greatest shows since “Sports Night.”

“Arrested Development” was given a chance, but no breathing room. Fox gave it a bad night, and let it be the primary draw for Monday night television.

The show was just cancelled, but it’s time to start thinking about a solution to getting

photo courtesy of Amazon.com

“Arrested Development” back on television.

Step 1: Buy thousands of millions its DVD’s. It worked for “Family Guy.” It just

might work for “Arrested Development.” But if it doesn’t, we move to Step 2.

Step 2: Introduce Rupert Murdoch to Mr. T and the A-Team. Mr. T would teach him a thing or two about running a network and pity.

Step 3: On the off-chance Step 3 doesn’t work, we need a backup plan. Show Robert Murdoch a night on the town and introduce him to Donald Trump. Within minutes, I guarantee that there would be some kind of merger. The resulting good feelings would get this outstanding show back on the air.

If these don’t work, then we are in serious trouble. If the combined attempts of Mr. T and Donald Trump can’t bring back the Bluth family, then there is no hope for television.

Good shows will be cancelled left and right.

We will be left with “Prison Break,” “The O.C.,” and the current-day “Simpsons,” which isn’t funny at all.

So please people, help get this show back or we will be plummeted into a dark age of television. And I’ll have to get the A-Team on your case.

How to mini-golf in the dark

by Ashley Koda The first Putting Edge was created in Brampton, Canada in 1995. Since then, 18 other locations have been built and they now exist across all of North America. Putting Edge is a unique innovation that incorporates glowin-the-dark amusement into mini-golfing. It also has a couple dozen arcade games that a guest is able to play and get tickets for. Not only is this an environment for kids, but for adults as well.

Upon entering the building, the first thing that caught my eye was the amusing glow in the dark decorations near the entrance. Purple, green, orange, yellow, and blue rocks were huddling by the front windows and an orange glow-in-the-dark man hung from the ceiling playing his guitar.

I was also impressed by the flowery aromatic scent of the place, which was unlike anything my nose has ever smelled. This adds to the cleanliness of it. The carpeting was nicely vacuumed, and I was astonished at the fact that although everything in here was glowing under a black light. There was nothing on the ground that wasn’t supposed to be there,

such as papers, wrappers, or broken goods, which would have glowed and wouldn’t have looked very professional.

When I got to the counter to purchase a game of golf, I noticed that the prices seemed to be relatively low, although you wouldn’t want to pay for more than two adults.

Otherwise the fee would be quite expensive.

For an adult over the age of 12, it costs $8.50 to play a round of golf. It descends from there to $7.00 for a youth (ages 7-12), $6.00 for a child (ages 5-6), and free for any children that were four years or younger. Although the prices weren’t too bad, it seemed to me that they should get lowered, considering it’s an entire six dollars more between four and five year olds. Senior citizens also get a discount and are charged the same price as five and six year olds are.

The staff seemed friendly enough, although it seemed as if there weren’t enough people working. There is a front desk where you purchase your golf games and any concessions that you might have a taste for, a starter desk where an employee hands you a golf club, a glow in the dark golf ball of your choice (pink,

green, yellow, orange, or purple), and a redemption counter where you can exchange tickets for prizes. It would have made sense to have a person working at each of the desks, yet there were only two employees. It seemed too hectic and one of the girls had to run back and forth from the starter desk to the redemption counter. This could produce problems.

The golf course was unusually intriguing.

The holes were quite challenging, and the glow-in-the-dark objects definitely caught my attention. The course was packed with vibrant colors, loud music, and a certain excitement that one cannot get from regular mini golf.

Overall, I was genuinely impressed with Putting Edge. Although I didn’t get a chance to play the arcade games, I checked out the prizes that one was able to win, and I was no less intrigued with those than I was anything else in the building. Putting Edge is a place that a person should go to if there is absolutely nothing to do on a Friday night. Hours are 119 Mondays through Thursdays and Sundays, Fridays 11-12, and Saturdays 10-12. It is located at 4105 North Harlem Ave in Norridge.

9

COMMENTARY

DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

The teenage beauty obsession

by Nicky Priovolos

It seems that everywhere we turn, we are bombarded with what is considered the “ideal image.” The result of America’s obsession with beauty has had a deep impact on everyone, especially teenagers. At an age that is so critical in our development of self-confidence and acceptance of ourselves, we are constantly urged to change and to try to improve ourselves to look like mannequins.

Shows like “Extreme Makeover,” “Nip/Tuck,” and “Dr. 90210,” add to our self doubt and make us believe that we have to look a certain way to be happy and have friends.

What teen hasn’t spotted an issue of Seventeen or Sports Illustrated and wished they looked like the model on the cover? It is normal for teenagers to be a little uncomfortable in their own skin at this point in their lives.

However, the mania to become Barbie & Ken clones has been taken too far. Across the nation, teenage girls are suffering from eating disorders because they don’t believe they fit the image of a perfect woman. Over a million cases of bulimia and anorexia are diagnosed each

year. Thousands more go undetected. And why are these girls putting themselves in danger?

Is it really worth trading their health, and sometimes their lives, for others to see a few pounds less of you?

Hollywood has made it acceptable to have plastic surgery. In fact, it is actually encouraged. Aspiring actors and actresses are being told that they are too fat, or too short, or too tall, or not buff enough.

In today’s world, many people think that artificial attractiveness enhances you. From collagen implants in lips, to liposuction, to butt implants, to rhinoplasty, to you-name-it, fake is in. The ideals that are being hammered into our heads day in and day out are preposterous.

Why does it matter if you’re not a size zero or if you don’t look like Arnold Schwarzenegger?

The key thing is that we accept and learn to like ourselves. With that accomplished, all of our aspirations can become realities.

These displays of what a person should be like are not only affecting our self-confidence, they are also changing how we look at other people. Our own peers are making us believe that we are inferior. Countless times, I have heard rude and obscene comments shouted

across the hall or cafeteria about a person’s appearance. Nobody should believe that another person is inferior because of the way he/she looks. However, one’s opinion of another does not need to be voiced.

Too often we put on a façade because we worry about others’ opinions. Spending precious time worrying about the comments of others is wasted time. Not everyone can look like Angelina Jolie or Orlando Bloom. Teens often change the clothes they wear and other things that make them unique because they want to fit the image of a perfect person. Well, that person doesn’t exist. Perfect is being an individual and staying true to yourself.

While Maine South is not as racially diverse as some high schools, each person is an individual with different talents and qualities.

People come in different shapes and sizes and everyone has something that makes him or her unique.

As teens, we are all guilty of stereotyping our peers whether based on their clothes, size, or who their friends are. Everyone is special and has something special to offer the world, even if they do not look like cover girls or poster-boys.

Steroids: the easy way out

by Sean Coppin For years, Americans have believed in hard work and ethics that brought this great country to what it is today. Now, more than ever, Americans are looking for the easy way out of the hard work that has for so long established our amazing nation. This change in ethics has led to drastic changes in American life.

Obesity has plagued us, technology has somewhat hindered us, and drugs have contaminated our everyday lives and entertainment. One of the problems that plagues American atheltics is the usage of steroids among not only athletes, but also among teenagers.

According to the Monitoring the Future survey, 1.9 percent of 8th graders, 2.4 percent of 10th graders, and 3.4 percent of 12th graders used steroids in 2004. People who use

steroids run the risk for liver tumors and cancer, jaundice (yellowish pigmentation of skin, tissues, and body fluids), fluid retention, high

(good cholesterol).

Steroids are basically a way of getting out of hard work for an amount of time. However, the consequences are brutal and not worth the risk. Whatever happened to earning our future, earning our living, and eventually earning our destiny?

The era of the “roids” is here, launching America’s youth into a frenzy of easy strength and stamina, broadcasted by the “role models” of Mark Mcguire, Sammy Sosa, and Barry Bonds. Jose Canseco has told us, the tests have shown us, and Rafael Palmeiro has proved to us that steroids are prominent in the Major photo courtesy of www.raffy25.com Leagues.

Athletes like Rafael Palmeiro have been involved Have these cancerous steroids too in steroid scams. deep into our youth, or is it still possible to start filtering our nation into its old blood pressure, increased levels of LDL (bad ways? There is a wrong way, an easy way, and cholesterol), and decreased levels of HDL a right way. Which way should we take?

Reverse age discrimination color, national origin, citizenship status, creed, religion, age, sex, marital status, sexual orienby Paula Zelkowska tation, gender identity, disability, or veteran status.

Supposedly, these things are not being disFrom the first day of high school to the last, students might not know what they want to be criminated against. However, more than one of in the future. Everyone’s wants, emotions, be- the above has appeared on any general job apliefs, and actions vary; therefore people take plication.

Let us say employers are looking for sometheir own steps in life. Having a part time job one at a certain age. They will pick someone to is just a step closer to finding a path in life.

Jobs can include long hours, collecting other their preference, therefore subconsciously dispeople’s money, packing bags, delivering news- criminating against age. Removing age from job applications would papers, or collecting remove the misconcepgolf balls. These are all tions people make the jobs that are availabout others. able because no one else The counterpoint to wants to do them. hiring younger workers Many students is that there are many would be grateful to fines and laws that have a job. In reality, it’s cause employers to renot as great as it sounds. consider hiring teenagIt’s true that one gets ers. Curfew laws, and spending money, but time limits per day and when it comes down to per week, stand in the it, the work has to be way of letting the emdone, the hours put in, ployer get what he or and energy wasted. she wants. Investing in In addition to doing photo courtesy of vanderbilt.edu teenagers would mean boring and tedious jobs, Finding a a job, such as loyalty to the company teenagers, in most cases, lifeguarding,might be more over their life span and get paid minimum difficult than you would think. educating future emwage. In Illinois, minimum wage is $6.50. With the catastrophes our ployees.

Not only are the remaining jobs a poor secountry has to deal with, prices rise, unemploylection, there are less of them everyday. Anment is rising and wages stay the same.

Teenagers do not have higher-paying basic drew Sum, director of the Center of Labor Marjobs because, in most cases, they are inexperi- ket Studies at Northeastern University, has done enced and uneducated. If companies provided a study projecting teen employment. He stated, programs to educate teenagers in their field, “Teens also face increased competition from they would have the possibility to increase pro- 20- to 25- year-old college graduates who have ductivity and wages. Eventually, time spent in been driven into less attractive jobs unrelated educating teenagers would pay off because to their fields.” This drives teenagers out of there would be less supervision necessary to jobs that they essentially could be gaining experience in. complete the same amount work.

Students are competing with college graduI’m sure all of us have heard the saying that you can do anything if you really put your mind ates and workers that are 55 and older because of the lack of government-sponsored employto it. In reality, you can’t.

Many students have tried to get a job at a ment programs. High health care costs cause bank, or somewhere else comparable, where fewer retirements to go into affect, which dethey can get good references for an even better creases job availability to teenagers.

There should be more business cooperative job. The more references and experience, the more likely the person will work full time and education, higher standards for youth, a stronger enforcement of employer laws, tax credits earn more money in the future.

Companies state that applicants will not be to teens, and more government funding for teen discriminated against because of their race, job programs.

DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

Should returning senior athletes automatically make varsity?

10

COMMENTARY

“No, because that’s not what sports are about.”

-Joe Murray and Frank Calabrese ‘08

“Yeah, it will make students more active.”

-Alec Brennan ‘06

“Yes, because it is his or her last year.”

-Arielle Besyk ‘09

“Yeah, it is his or her senior year.”

- Amanda Theel and Olivia Brown ‘07

11

COMMENTARY

DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

Hypocrisy: Feminism: A dying concept?

We just have to deal with it

our

tesy

of c

osm

o.co

m

Believing in a cause without supporting it with your actions is hypocritical. Hypocrisy is the practice of professing beliefs, feelings, or virtues that one does not hold or possess. It’s a common pet peeve that we all seem to rant about. Hypocrites are loathed by society, but we forget one minor detail: we’re all members of this despised group.

We may deny it, but our denial doesn’t negate our affiliation with hypocrisy. We have a tendency to think that we’re more righteous than the person sitting next to us, that “person” being someone who doesn’t uphold or believe in the same beliefs as we do. As a result, we become condescending and try to instill our own set of morals upon people, despite the fact that we probably don’t even abide by those morals a good majority of the time.

The level of hypocrisy could vary from being something minute, like calling someone a liar and then denouncing them for it (as if you’ve never told a fib in your life), to being extreme, like criticizing drunks when you’re a pitiful inebriate. We don’t need to maintain an active two-faced persona continuously to be considered a hypocrite. It’s in our own nature to be a bit duplicitous from time to time.

Being a hypocrite is inevitable, but we can attempt to alleviate this undesirable trait. Hypocrisy has its own formula: BeliefsActions=Hypocrisy. It’s virtually impossible to have our actions equate exactly with our beliefs; our hypocrisy level will mostly likely never be at zero. Of course, it doesn’t hurt to take a stab at balancing the formula as best as we can. “If you can’t walk the talk, then simply keep your mouth shut” is what I’d like to say, but who am I kidding.

I’m a hypocrite just like you and the rest of the world, so let’s strive to reduce the bashing when it comes to attacking others. I’m no better than you, and you’re no better than me.

We’re on the same playing field, so let’s call it a truce.

to c

by Hannah Pae

Years after women such as Betty Friedan and Sylvia Pankhurst fought society and the legal system for equality of the sexes, it seems that our generation of women is seeking to destroy it. We have found new ways to demonstrate subservience to the opposite sex. We can now vote, go to college, and even make more money than males. Yet we still, every day, strive to please the opposite sex over ourselves.

Why is it that our generation does not appreciate this equality? Is it because we have been handed equality on a silver platter? We have not had to fight for equality; rather, we have taken it on as naturally as breathing.

And what role does the media play in all of this? Sure, evils of the media are influential. It is almost impossible to ignore the message of “man first, me later” when songs like Destiny Child’s “Cater to You” top the charts.

Magazines such as Cosmopolitan, which can be seen in study halls and lounges throughout the day, boast articles such as “100 Ways to Please your Man,” “Make the Perfect Dinner for Him,” and “What to Wear to Make Him Drool.” It’s no wonder that our generation of women believes the ultimate goal is to capture a man’s attention.

While this may be seen as an attack on the risqué clothes and trends floating around, it is anything but. Wearing feminine clothes can be empowering, but that isn’t why girls dress in low cut jeans and tank tops. But if you get up in the morning thinking “which shirt will attract the most attention in my physics class?” then ask yourself this: What is most important to you? Living your life everyday for someone else? Or living your life every day for you?

It all boils down to this. Why abuse rights that hundreds of women have fought for years for just to please members of the opposite sex?

If our equality was taken away would you fight for it back? pho

by Kate Geishecker

Physical education no longer physical

by Julia Nikol Running across the track with the cool wind blowing through your hair. Spiking a volleyball with such strength that it smacks down on the ground too quickly for your opponent to deflect it. Racing to the other side of the court to hit the small, white, birdie that twirls at lighting speed as it flies through the air. It’s exhilarating to do these activities each day of the week in gym class.

It’s not so exhilarating reading about these activities in health class for a semester.

Kids need to go out and play. It’s as simple as that. Physical activity is essential for a teen to be healthy and fit. Exercising releases anxiety and stress as it burns calories and makes for a more physically fit young man or woman.

But between school, homework, and afterschool activities and clubs, many teenagers just don’t have the time to go out for a jog or play

some soccer with their friends. That is why schools provide children with physical education. It gives them a sold block of time to exercise at least five out of the seven days of the week. But if this is taken away from them for nearly five months, what hope is there for a more healthy high school community?

Illinois is the only state that requires schools to provide P.E. But if our state believes it to be so necessary for kids to be physically fit, why is Maine South so okay with the idea of depriving children of this for a whole semester?

Sure, health is an important class to take, but a growing teen’s fitness should not be compromised for it.

Teenagers need to be active in order to stay healthy both physically and mentally. It is only logical for Maine South to find a way to incorporate learning about physical fitness with actually making sure their students are physically fit.

12

SPORTS

DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

Should senior athletes be cut from varsity sports?

Through rigorous practice, intense summer camps, long seasons, and consistent dedication, seniors have shown their support and commitment to the sports program they represent. These players were evaluated and selected during their junior year.

They already fulfilled the varsity requirement by proving their ability and dedication to the program.

After playing for three years, with their junior year on varsity, seniors should not be cut from their sports, unless due to an injury or a behavioral problem. Coaches and trainers are not supporting school spirit, morale, and Hawk Pride by cutting seniors.

Seniors have worked hard and have logged many hours to develop and stabilize the program they are involved in. Whether it is organizing tournaments or running snack and concession stands, this is their year to shine and finally have fun playing the sport they love.

Many people may argue that if seniors cannot be cut from a varsity sport, they won’t care as much and will not participate to their fullest potential. If this is the case, the coach does not necessarily have to play the athlete, and the athlete can remain on the bench. In almost every case, there is such a desire to play during senior year; the athletes will play as hard as any other season.

Others may say that keeping mediocre seniors around is a waste of time when there are fresh underclassmen just waiting to dominate a varsity position. There is nothing wrong with choosing these players for the team. If there are not spots available due to the number of seniors, underclassmen can remain at the JV level for one more year.

Seniors are an important edition to the team and keep the moral high.

With respect to tradition and seniority, it is imperative that athletes have positions guaranteed for them on the team if they indeed participated on varsity their junior year. There is a sense of dignity that must be maintained in the athletic program in order to ensure its success in the future.

When determining who makes a varsity sport, it should not be based upon on year in school. On the other hand, it should be based upon who has the most talent and can perform better than everyone else. If it is between a freshman who has a lot of talent, and a senior who has less talent, chances are the coach is going to lean more in favor of the freshman. During tryouts, coaches want to see someone who has the talent needed to compete at a high level against opposing teams.

If varsity teams were determined by seniority, the effort that is put forward by each person would not be taken into account. A junior who has worked exceptionally hard to improve at his sport for the past two years should not get passed over by a senior who was on the varsity team last year, but has done nothing in the off-season to prepare.

“Senioritis” not only affects schoolwork, but it also has an impact on sports as well. Returning seniors often feel like they have a spot on the team no matter what, which decreases their drive toward success. This may put them into a mindset that they don’t have to work as hard as they have in years past just because they’re seniors.

Attitude is another key factor that must come into play. If there is a senior who is displaying a bad attitude, compared to a sophomore who has the attitude that the coach is looking for, then the coach is going to look a bit closer at the sophomore. Most of the time, though, it is the opposite way around. The senior has the desirable attitude and the underclassman has the attitude that needs improving. Nobody wants players on their team who have bad attitudes–it’s not beneficial to the team.

By not reserving spots on the varsity team for returning seniors, it keeps them from becoming lazy and it gives them motivation for improvement. This will enhance the performance and the chemistry of the team because everyone will know that they have to try their best day in and day out.

Karas vs. Lukes

Jock Talk: From the Field to the Fans “We are looking forward to a fresh start against a lot of strong competition.”

-Stephanie Zipp, Girls’ Basketball

“We have two new coaches this season and a lot of returning talent. We are looking forward to a positive season and are excited to see what happens.”

“After all the off-season training and the -Laura Zimmerman, Girls’ Track memories from last season, we hope to “We all are looking forward to another solid season of continue our success from last season and running really fast.” do better and go farther.”

-Eugene Mendoza, Boys’ Track -Matt Shesek, Boys’ Swimming

“If you want to see something intense, come to our next meet. They’re sick and we need your support.”

“With a new assistent coach and six new freshman, the team is very strong this -Nick Lagattuta, Wrestling season.”

“After all this practicing, I’m anxious to -Rachael Fuller, Girls’ Gymnastics step on the court.”

-Willie Ruben, Boys’ Basketball

13

SPORTS

DECEMBER 2, 2005 • VOL. 42, NO. 6

Hawks looking for a successful season

by Harrison Conners With last year’s late season success still lingering in the Hawks’ minds, they are looking to begin fresh and get off to a quick start this season. They aren’t wasting any time in preparing for their tournament at Downers Grove North over Thanksgiving break.

Expectations are high as the Hawks will compete in a tough CSL South conference, where they finished 2-8 last season, taking on rivals Niles West, Evanston, and New Trier.

Coach Lavorato is starting his third year coaching at Maine South and is looking for his team to compete in a CSL South championship.

“We’re looking for early wins and early wins in conference,” Lavorato said. He stressed building on last year ’s 11-18 season, mentioning goals like playing .500 or over, winning another regional championship and advancing to sectionals.

Early success may be tough to come by with the loss of football players who are competing in the playoffs this late fall. Adam Fee (eight points and eight rebounds per game

last season) and Carl Michas are both out due to football. They hand the reins over to John Wolf and Anthony Cruz, who have the potential to become a dominant duo early in the season.

Lavorato’s team worked hard in the offseason to pump up the volume with morning and evening workouts. As the team shapes up, look for newcomers Colin Wehman, Matt Kelly, Will Ruben, Peter Bjelopetrovich, Jake Wilson, Ryan Carmichael, Dan Altizer, Jeff Rosales, Jon Allegretti, Charlie Haracz, and Charlie Fagenholz, to improve the quality of this season.

Maine South is looking hard to pick up where they left off after a stunning buzzerbeater victory in the IHSA Regionals last February. They went on to lose at Sectionals, but they remain optimistic, knowing they have the ability and talent to finish the job.

The Hawks’ schedule is packed with excitement this year, with challenging games against Glenbrook South, Evanston, Prospect, and even a Jack Tosh Holiday Tournament over Christmas break.

November will be an opportunity for the Hawks to gain confidence and pick up speed in their Thanksgiving tournament, while the football players finish their business.

Photo by Katie Katz

Colin Wehman practices his freethrow.

Girls swim to the end of season The girls had to face perennial competition from their rivals New Trier, Evanston, and Standing next to the block, Glenbrook South in the CSL Conference. This the swimmers were ready to conference is competitive each year, and this start. The official says “step year was no exception. Even with the tough up,” and “on your mark.” The conference rivals, the girls’ swim team swam bright white light flashes, and then they are their way into the state sectionals. They off within milliseconds, smoothly gliding qualified for the Northbrook sectional, and through the water. consequently faced some very tough The girls have spent countless hours training opposition. Unfortunately, the Maine South in the pool. They team did not prevail. worked very hard and Glenbrook North won the made many sectional and advanced advancements down state. throughout the fall However, one of the season. The team captains, senior Lauren Zillmer, qualified for the gained a lot of state finals in the experience and individual freestyle. In the knowledge from their 100-yard freestyle event, captains, Hannah she scored a stellar time of Artwick, Laura Boysen, and Lauren Photo by Katie Katz 54.23 seconds. In her 50 yard freestyle effort, she Zillmer. The girls Swimmers doing a kick set. scored a superb time of have also gained wisdom from the head coach Chris Deger. With 24.91 seconds. Both of these outstanding seven returning seniors, two returning juniors, times earned Lauren a spot downstate in the and two returning sophomores, the team was swimming finals. She competed in the individual 100-yard freestyle and the very strong and well-rounded.

by Tommy Joyce

Photo by Katie Katz

Talking in a huddle before match. individual 50-yard freestyle on Saturday, November 18. Congratulations to Lauren on this great achievement.

In the future, the team hopes to carry on and improve upon this year’s performance. The experience, determination, and leadership of the seven seniors really made this a fantastic year for the girls’ swim team. They will pass on tradition on to a still experienced team of returning excellent sophomores and juniors.

There are still high hopes to have a successful team next year and hopefully advance through the postseason

GIRLS’ GYMNASTICS • BOYS’ BASKETBALL • GIRLS’ BASKETBALL • WRESTLING • BOYS’ SWIMMING • INDOOR TRACK

Knight in shining shoulder pads Girls gymnastics

by Nick Ryter Let me take you back to a couple of weeks ago. This isn’t just a tale of life or death, it’s also a tale of football in the ancient state of Illinois.

Forgotten are the seasons past.

This year, the attack was headed by quarterback Tyler Knight. With his teammates patrolling the sky, he ruled the ground game.

In the second round of the playoffs, he led the Hawks into the pouring rain at Warren to face the three headed Hydra in Marcus Lewis, Mitchell Moore, and crafty southpaw quarterback Anthony DeVries. The Hawks knew they would need every player, from the rook up to the king, to contribute for the Hawks, especially their Knight. Not only did he contribute, but he flat-out stole, the spotlight, accounting for all of the Hawks 24 points.

Knight, who passed for 158 yards and ran for 113 yards, scored on three quarterback keepers from the one-yard line. Knight also connected with the game’s leading receiver, Jimmy Coy, who had six catches for 106 yards.

With the Hawks trailing by three with 52 seconds remaining in the first half, a 32-yard scramble by Knight set up the 35-yard, game tying field goal with 2.3 seconds left in the first half.

Offensively, Warren got off to a fast start with Moore running for two touchdowns and Marcus Lewis catching one touchdown. But once the Hawks defense got a grip on the slippery ball carriers of Warren, it was lights out for the Blue Devils. Led by linebacker Dan Rogers (10 tackles, three tackles for loss) the Hawks forced the Blue Devils in to three threeand-outs in the fourth quarter.

Things looked dicey when Warren’s offense, facing a one point defecit with thirty seconds left, completed three quick passes to get down to the thirty with time on the clock.

That was when Adam Blandin dove in front of a pass to end the threat of a another lead change. A missed PAT by Warren proved to be the difference. Final score: Hawks, 24 – Warren, 23.

Stevenson goes down for the count The next Hawk to star in the playoffs was Adam Fee, leading the Hawks in both tackling and receiving against the 11-0 Stevenson Patriots, a game in which he earned MVP honors. The wide receiver/defensive end caught seven balls for 70 yards and a touchdown, as well as racking up nine tackles, two for a loss, to go along with a blocked punt.

That block came on the first defensive possession of the game, as Fee helped the Hawks to a great start to set up Tyler Knight’s three-yard TD run. Knight ran for 66 yards and a score, while completing 15 of 22 passes for 146 yards and two touchdowns.

Scoring first proved to be key in keeping the Stevenson crowd noise a non-factor, as the Hawks defense created key turnovers when the team needed them the most. Stevenson countered with a miraculous catch from QB Preston Earl to wide receiver Benjamin Morrison, who bobbled the ball behind his back mid-stride in order to maintain possession and absorb contact. Stevenson’s ten-yard rushing TD from tailback Breckenmeier was merely a formality following one of the best catches this year.

Trailing by three points in the second quarter, Knight’s 28-yard pass to Jimmy Coy for a touchdown swung the momentum back in the Hawks favor, and gave them a 14-10 lead going into the half.

The third quarter will forever be remembered for two way lineman Pat Burke.

Burke, who showed tremendous concentration in the midst of a Stevenson drive, tipped a pass to himself at the line of scrimmage and took the return 17 yards.

Knight kept the offense in sync by hooking up with Fee for a 13-yard TD. Keeping the Stevenson offense in check was the Hawks seven tackles for loss, which prevented Stevenson from scoring the entire second half.

Late in the game, the Patriots came down to the redzone where they needed a score to keep their hopes of winning alive. K.C. Kaage made an acrobatic catch to stay in bounds in the end zone for the pick, putting the icing on the cake for the Hawks.

off to a great start

by Brittany Wisniewski After several weeks of rigorous practice, the Maine South girls’ gymnastics team is ready to start their 2005-2006 season.

Third-year head coach Tessa Robinson has been working her Hawks hard throughout this preseason to help each girl enhance her abilities before starting what is sure to be an exciting year.

After a great deal of hard work, it seems the Hawks are developing a strong, solid team. Leading the team will be senior captains Rachael Fuller and Joanna Slezak.

Returning seniors Andrea Frankos, Ana Franzen, Sara Garofalo, Lindsay Jozwiak, and Carolyn Olson are expected to be sound in the all around competition throughout the season. Having many experienced gymnasts should provide a solid foundation for the lady Hawks.

After a successful preseason, Coach Robinson is excited for the season to begin.

When asked about her aspirations for this season, she said, “I am hoping to have each girl set and meet her individual goals and to have everyone really working together to meet our team goals.” With such a foundation, it seems there is room for growth for both the team and each individual gymnast.

This year’s team is looking to improve on last season by defeating teams of similar skill levels and challenging teams that have proven to be more difficult adversaries in the past. The meets against New Trier and Glenbrook South should prove to be tough battles, as they have in past years. The Hawks hope to capture victories against rivals Evanston and Niles West, who have consistently put together good teams in previous years.

This season opened up at home against Highland Park on November 29. The Hawks hope to be victorious in this match and use it as a springboard for what the team hopes to be a very successful season.