Vol 44 issue 4

photo by Kelsey Gr

In This Issue:

ENTERTAINME>fT

COMMENTARY

SPORTS

Tips to avoid a boring break

Best of'07

Black Fridav is pure madness

Gymnastics working hard and gaining success

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NEWS

FEATURES

Toys rec3fed in the h o l i < ^ rush

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NEWS DECEMBER

21,2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No. 4

Recalled toys putting a damper on Christmas

by Courtney O 'Keefe Christmas is a time for giving and receiving.

Children are writing out their Christmas lists and letters to Santa.

They have seen all the commercials of all the toys they wish to receive. But Christmas shopping this year won't be as simple as what, how much, and where it can be bought.

This Christmas, there is also the worry of product recalls. Reasons for recalls can be from high amounts of lead in the paint to potentially dangerous parts. hi total, over 25 million toys have been recalled this year, most of those made in China. One example is Fisher Price.

Almost one million toys have been recalled this year, including the popular Big Bird, Elmo, Dora, and Diego characters. The reason for this recall is because of the toys' excessive amounts of lead.

Another company announcing recalls for their products is Mattel. Again, the recall is because of the high amounts of lead in their

dolls and accessory sets.

It would seem that with the recalls, parents would be extra careful about what they are buying for their children, but for some people that's not the case. In fact, the toy industry said that the shoppers aren't avoiding the 80% of toys made in China.

On the other hand, parents that are aware and care about the recalls are looking at other options for Christmas gifts this year.

One option is to buy products strictly made in the US. You can easily find these types of toys on the Internet or by simply checking the product you're buying at the store.

Another option is buying organic toys.

Organic toys are toys made with natural fibers and products such as wood and cotton. These toys are also chemical and preservative free.

The only issue parents have with organic toys is the price. Organic toys are not mass produced, and their materials cost more. For example, a simple music box can cost about $15, but for an organic music box, it can be over $60.

Parents are wondering how are they able to find out which toys are safe for their kids.

Consumer experts say that it is up to them.

One way to do so is to go to www.recall. gov. There they can search to see if the toy on their child's wish list is safe.

Parents can also look for products with the CE logo on it. The logo verifies that the product has met European standards.

But for those who aren't buying gifts for children, this doesn't mean that their gifts aren't being recalled or could be dangerous.

All kinds of products are being recalled, including mugs and clothing.

Also, recalls aren't just because of paint, but because of how the product is made as well. In one incident, an entertainment center's back panel wasn't secure and unfortunately led to a death of a child because it collapsed.

Recalls are for a reason; they are to protect the consumers. So when buying gifts for loved ones this year, do some research because giving isn't only about the smile on ones faceâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; it's about their safety as well.

Hawk Pride holiday drives a success

by Samantha Yee

The last Hawk Pride lesson was on giving back to the community.

Whether it be money or time, it's all important around the holidays. Classes worked hard to gather food for food pantries so that many needy people in the community would have enough to eat.

The countless bags of food that came from the students of Maine South were greatlv appreciated and well received by those who need it. The school also gathered toys, school supplies, and clothes. In total, over 1000 food items were donated to the Maine Township Food Pantry, hundreds of toys were sent to Children's Memorial Hospital, and a number of stationary and candy items were collected for the Center for Concern.

Maine South students show their school pride by donating to the Hawk Pride canned food, toy, warm clothes, stationary items, and candy drive.

NEWS DECEMBER 2 1 , 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VoL. 4 4 , N o . 4

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Oprah supports Obama campaign the campaign could possibly draw in voters who had not been exposed to Obama.

On Sunda>, December 9, both Obama and Winfrey came to South Carolina, where Winfrey addressed the considerable AfricanAmerican community. The two drew

Research poll, Clinton is leading in South Carolina with 45%, followed by Obama with Oprah Winfrey and Barack Obama kicked 31%. Oprah's support may come into play off their three-state tour Saturday, December 8 with the African American vote, where the in early voting states, beginning in Iowa. vote is split evenly.

Oprah drew in thousands of potential That evening Obama and Oprah ventured voters stating that Obama is a Manchester, New "politician who has an ear for Hampshire, where eloquence and a tongue dipped they were greeted in the unvarnished truth." by about 8,500.

Winfrey did not directly Winfrey again mention Hillary Clinton, but she addressed the denounced Clinton's claims that skepticism many Obama lacks the experience to hold of Obama's be president. "There are those experience. who say that Barack Obama "The amount of should wait his turn," she said. time aperson spends "But none of us is God. We don't in Washington know what the future holds, so means nothing we must respond to the pressures unless that person and the fortunes of history when is accountable for the moment strikes." the judgments they Obama and Winfrey spoke to made with the time a crowd of over 18,000 in Des they had," Winfrey phulij ^ourlesy of .\e\^ York TuriL^ Moines before making their Oprah joins Obama and his wife Michelle on the campaign trail in Des Moines, Iowa. said. "It's time for way to Cedar Rapids to speak a president who has to almost 10,000. Obama is in a three-way crowd of nearly 29,000. good judgment. We need Barack Obama." race in Iowa with Clinton and former North As to those who question the benifits of "South Carolina, January 26 is your Carolina Senator John Edwards. moment," Winfrey stated, referring to the date Oprah's support, the effects on Obama's Iowa caucuses are scheduled for January of the state's Democratic primaries. "It's your campaign will be left to play out in the 3, and Winfrey's visit was timed to maximize time to seize the opportunity to support a man Democratic primaries in the new year. exposure while people are still paying full who, as the Bible says, loves mercy and does Illinois's Democratic Primaries are attention before the holiday season. Political justly." scheduled for Tuesday, Feburary 5, 2008, scientists believe that Winfrey's presence on Currently, according to a recent AP-Pew along with twenty other states.

by Erin Klein

Peace talks taking place in the Mid East

by Jennifer Kurtz On November 27, 2007 peace talks commenced between Israeli and Palestinian presidents.

Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Israeli President Olment met in Annapolis to begin the lengthy negotiation process.

Although no peace agreement was completed at the meeting, both leaders have devised a plan to finish the peace agreement within 13 months. According to the joint understanding, both leaders agreed "to engage in vigorous, ongoing and continuous negotiations, and shall make every effort to conclude an agreement before the end of 2008."

The negotiation was mediated by President Bush, although Secretary of State Condoleeza

Rice played a major role.

Secretary Rice invited over 40 leaders, and most of them accepted. Even skeptical members of the Arab League agreed to attend the conference. To continue the negotiation process, Rice will travel to the Middle East frequently. However, if Rice does not succeed in negotiating peace, America's reputation could be damaged.

The second meeting of the negotiations took place December 12, 2007, but not without protest. Even though peace talks have commenced. Presidents Olment and Abbas still have to convince the public to consent. In the Gaza Strip, protest and boycotts have already begun. On November 23, 2007, Hamas, a Palestinian militant movement, began a protest against the peace talks. Thousands gathered to

protest, stating their voice would not be heard at the meetings.

In addition, Ali Khamenei of fran requested a complete boycott of the conference. A peace agreement is only a piece of paper; the people have to agree to make it work.

Will there be peace in the Middle East?

For over six decades there hasn't. An American president has never succeeded in negotiated peace with the Middle East. Despite this, the world can only wait with optimist anticipation.

The groundwork for the negotiations has been set. Now, it is up to the leaders of the Middle East and America to create a peace agreement that everyone can adhere to. The negotiations have begun, 13 months later a peace agreement could end conflict in the Middle East, giving the world a Uttle peace (of mind).

DECEMBER

21, 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No. 4

Maine South students' thirsts quenched

by Bess Featherstone

dedication towards the start of this group.

When talking about a Christian event at After years of desire to start a Christian Maine South called "See You at the Pole" club at Maine South, junior Annie Chung that took place earlier this year, Chung said "I succeeded when her idea was really touched, was approved on November and my heart was 2 of this year. set on starting a HjO, or Humble 2 One, Christian club at is completely student Maine South." organized, though it does Though she has have a required faculty had the idea for a advisor, Mr. McArthurChristian club since Self. her freshman year at Since the group is Maine South, she religiously affiliated, it didn't actively try carmot be supported by the to start one until school. Therefore, it is not this year. technically a Maine South At the onset, club, but instead a meeting Chung found herself of people who share the unaware of how to same viewpoints. What the go about starting a Photo courtesy of Kehey Cirandi school can do, however, club. To get started, is provide these people a H2O members listen to speaker Bob AnChung had to find a designated time and place derson, South Park Church Youth Pastor. teacher that would to meet. supervise her club.

"The purpose of this club is for Christians This teacher would only be there to supervise to come together and learn more about the meetings, but is not permitted to participate.

Christianity and have fellowship with other Chung then visited the SPS office, where she Christians," said Chung. The motto of this picked up the guidelines for starting a new group is "I'm thirsty." club. She also had a meeting with Maine Over 45 people came to the group's first South's Assistant Principal, Dr. Garlasco, who meeting and according to Chung, the number discussed with her the club's guidelines and of supporters is still growing. rules that are to be followed.

This was only made possible due to Chung's Since H^O club is a Christian club, no

advertising can be done for it throughout Maine South's hallways or over the announcements.

This guideline left all the advertising to word of mouth and the school cafeteria's walls, where miscellaneous posters may be hung.

The final step Chung had to take was to decide on a meeting time and place for her group.

Once this was done, the group was able to have their first meetings. They even have an "H2O Christmas Celebration" meeting planned for before Winter Break.

Since this club is student run, its formation consisted of fewer steps than a school sponsored club.

Despite this, the fact that Chung succeeded in getting this club up and running should give hope to all of those other students at Maine South with ideas for new clubs.

SOUTH WORDS 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.

How to start your own Maine South club

by Bess Featherstone If a student wants to start a school-sponsored club, there is a more time-consuming process for the student to go through.

First, a student should find a sponsor (a teacher or administrator) for his/her club as well as 10 or 12 dedicated student participants.

It would be ideal that these students range in years at Maine South, so that as the club carries on from year to year, there are still active members.

Once this is accomplished, a meeting with Assistant Principal for Students, Dr. Garlasco, will take place and the student trying to form the club will be given a packet of two documents: one, a club constitution, and the other, a simple questionaire about the club.

After filling out the questions, they should

be brought back to Dr. Garlasco who will then take the idea to the executive committee where the proposed club's ideas will be discussed.

The next step is for the school board to vote on the club at the next board meeting. Until this final step has been completed, the club cannot begin to meet.

If the club has been approved, it is allowed to start its meetings, make and hang up posters (that have to first be approved by Dr. Garlasco), and plan their one fundraising event for the semester (this also requires a form to be filled out and approved by the executive committee).

An interesting possibility to think about: if a club exists at one of the other Maine schools, Maine South can adapt it without going to the executive committee, since it has already gone there through the other school.

Editors-in-Chief

Michael Coyne Meghan O'Keefe News Editors Erin Klein Nicky Priovolos Features Editors Bess Featherstone Jacqueline O'Reilly Entertainment Editors Tom Berg Katrina Underwood Commentary Editors Xander Tapling Courtney Vinopal Sports Editors Thomas Joyce Patrick Mirski Production Editor Josh Sissman Ted Sherbin Photographers Kelsey Grandl Staff Artists Leah Artwick Gina Tingas Kevin Verre Advisors Mr. EUefson Mr. Stathakis

FEATURES DECEMBER

21, 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No. 4

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Student sings with Chicago legend

Boven explains. " I felt like 1 had been singing with him for years."

When the song was over and the applause Maine South is a high school rich with rang out, Boven couldn't help but want to sing talent. With students excelling in athletics, fine some more. "I felt phenomenal. I wanted to do arts, and beyond, there is plenty to be proud of a few more songs with Tony Ocean, but it was about at Maine South. Recently, senior Lindsay Tony's night and his show. My performance Boven got a chance to show off her talent in an onstage with him was magical and I wish it opportunity like no other. could have continued."

Boven's talent is singing, so when she heard As for her experience working with Tony about an opportunity to record a duet with Ocean, Boven said, "I love working with Chicago legend Tony Ocean for his new record, him. He is very professional, yet, so down to she jumped at the chance. However, the contest earth. I share with him the same work ethic she was entering was a difficult one. Over 150 of continuous and dedicated hard work in performers were also vying for their chance to everything I do." sing with a star.

Boven has big plans for the future. She'll Luckily for Boven, she was well-prepared. be performing with Ocean again in February Singing since she was four, Boven has competed at Best Buy, recording a solo demo, and and performed in counfless concerts and events, performing the National Anthem at Chicago including the Taste of Chicago and the Walt Wolves home games in their 2008-2009 season.

Image courtesy of www.facebook.c Disney Parade in Orlando, Florida. Last After that, who's to know? Boven plans to year, Boven recorded a solo vocal, "Do Lindsay Boven's friends were there to support her when pursue solid leads in the music industry, You Hear Wliat I Hear?" on the "It's she sang with Tony Ocean. (Boven, second from the right, that is, when she's not too busy majoring in All About Chritmas" CD with Studio mathematics or neuroscience in college.

Tony Ocean, center) Chicago. When she's not performing at For more information about Tony huge events like these, you can find her at The same day as the record's release, Boven Ocean, visit his website, www.tonyocean.com.

Maine South home volleyball, basketball, and performed the duet with Ocean live onstage at For more information about Lidsay Boven, go baseball games singing the National Anthem. the record release party. With friends and family to her website, www.lindsayboven.com. Here All this experience benefitted Boven watching in the audience, Boven took the stage you'll find the track Boven recorded with tremendously as she was chosen to sing the duet and sang her heart out. "What a rush for me," Ocean, "Children's Blues."

By Jacqueline O 'Reilly

on Ocean's CD because of her powerful voice and pure vocals. The duet she sang with Ocean, entitled "Children's Blues," and can be found on his new album, "Pardon My Past," released on December 1 on Nation Records.

Entertaining activities for your winter break 7:30 to 9:00 pm for $10 at the Gentle Persuasion lounge in Chicago.

Between holiday parties, gift While many find the holidays to be a time of hunting, last-minute cleaning great joy, just as many find it a total drag. If you frenzies the night before a belong to the latter, you can enjoy a good laugh party, and two weeks worth of at Donny's Skybox Theater, which is hosting homework to keep us busy, winter a comedic satire of Christmas, Hannukah, and break hardly seems like a break Kwanza traditions for $8 to $10. for some of us. The only thing Macy's on State Street is continuing the we have to find time for in these Marshall Field's tradition of holiday window two weeks is sleep. However, displays, with this year's display theme, Mary for the lucky souls who have no Poppins. Another option at Macy's on State homework to worry about, have phoio courtesy of biogsji^nupagescam m u s i c i a u s that will bc pcrfomiing Street is to visit the Walnut Room and have finished gift shopping the day breakfast or lunch next to the Great Tree.

The Great Tree at Macy's o^^r break, too. If you've been after Thanksgiving and are going Another option if you like the downtown Walnut Room downtown, having "Dancing With the to someone else's house for the area is Navy Pier's annual Winter WonderFest, Stars" withdrawal, your favorites holidays and are looking for a going on through January 6. Featuring three will be performing at the Allstate Arena on little fun and something new to do over break, new attractions, including the Glacier Run Friday, January 4 at 7:30 pm for anywhere from here are a few suggestions. virtual reality ride, the Too Cool Video Game $49 to $189.

For those interested in traditional Christmas Area, and the Winter Wind Glider, Navy Pier is If you're eighteen and looking for quick- fix fun, the Goodman Theater presents the classic, an excellent place for some cold fun. dance moves to show off at this year's New "A Christmas Carol," from Friday, December For more ideas of what to do over break, be Year's Eve bash, Chicago-Style Steppin' 21 through Saturday, December 29, with times Lessons are offered every Friday night from sure to visit metromix.com.

by Nicky Priovolos

varying depending on the day. Also, the Joffrey Ballet will be putting on its annual production of '"The Nutcracker."

If classic is not your thing, never fear. A limited number of artists will be touring Chicago, gracing us with lively performances. On Friday December 21, R. Kelly will be performing at the United Center, with tickets ranging from $45 to $100. The House of Blues has a large list of lesser-known

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FEATURES DECEMBER

21,2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No. 4

Students exposed to German culture

by Joanna Madej

The selection of things to be purchased at the Christkindlemarket is amazing. Whatever you're looking for, whether it's a Christmas present for your Mom, or just something for

cities and towns, including Chicago, who now experiences the German Christmas spirit.

The trip was more than just a shopping spree for chocolate and ornaments. It puts you in the Christmas spirit the German way.

Bratwurst, sauerkraut, and potato pancakes don't grace many Maine South students' daily menu, but these German staples are abundant at Christkindlmarket. There are also Christmas decorations that go beyond the typical wreath and icicle lights. It's this exposure to another culture that makes Christkindlmarket so beautiful.

Imagine walking in the crisp December air, eating authentic German chocolate and being surrounded by spectacular Christmas trees and one of the warmest atmospheres in Chicago.

This is what over 70 Maine South students experienced last week.

The f i e l d t r i p to the Chirstkindlmarket and the Museum of Science and Industry is a Maine South tradition. The students get into the Christmas spirit as well as develop a deeper understanding of It is thought that experiencing a culture different from your own a world different from theirs. expands your mind and helps you The students first went to the understand your own culture even Museum of Science and Industry better. to see the U-505 exhibit: a restored pko,ocour,esyofj.c,ueiineo-Remy j ^ ^ Christkindlmarket runs German submarine used in World War n. The students were very lucky to Visitors admire the beautiful lights decorating the Christ- through December 24, and admission is see something so historic, especially since kindlemarket. free. So maybe instead ofsitting at home it was brought over from halfway around this winter break and watching reruns of the world. The students even had the privilege that sweet tooth, you're bound to find it at "Grey's Anatomy," try doing something more to go inside the submarine. the market. cultural and festive. Whether you're German This wonderful tradition started over 400 or not, this event is for anyone who wants to The best part of the field trip was still to come. Maine South students then traveled to years ago in Nuremberg, Germany. People experience the magic of Christmas and learn the Christkindlmarket in Daley Center. They came together to celebrate the Christmas about German culture. As Frau Wolf says, "The were able to purchase various goods from spirit and Christkindle: the bearer of gifts in best way to understand something is to experience Germany, including clothing, food, and art. Germany. The tradition rubbed off onto other it yourself"

FreeRice.com feeds hungry around the world

by Meghan O 'Keefe The problems of the world are as omnipresent as they are overwhelming, at least to the everyday citizen. How can one solve world hunger, achieve peace in the Middle East, resolve the energy crisis, and prevent global warming? But perhaps by honing in on one problem at a time, a solution may be closer than expected.

There is a new problem-solving technique that may be the answer to world hunger. It's FreeRice.com made by John Breen, and it has taken on one of the greatest issues facing the world today.

In response to the challenge of taking on a "Hawk Pride Initiative," the English Department at Maine South, under the guidance of Mr. Parrilli. made it their goal to see that every student spends at least fifteen minutes on FreeRice.com during the month of December.

By just answering vocabulary questions.

which range in difficulty according to their personal vocabulary level, students earn grains of rice for the hungry around the world. For each correct answer, 20 grains are donated through the United Nations World Food Program.

In the first week and a half, the department was able to raise a total of 1,374,360 grains, which will feed a meal to over 200 people.

And for many, it hasn't stopped in the classroom. Countless have continued to play and donate in their spare time. The goal for the department is an impressive 1.5 million grains.

The issue is as crucial as ever today. It is estimated that over 25,000 people die each day from hunger, which works out to one every three-and-a-half seconds. Also, 854 million suffer around the world from hunger, which in turn creates ongoing problems of malnourishment and stunted growth. These numbers are both shocking and saddening.

but hopefiilly motivation enough to check out Free Rice.

Free Rice has a deeper impact than feeding the hungry alone. The donator is also benefiting from their time at this revolutionary site. The site requires users draw from their own vocabulary, as well as on Latin roots, to keep up with the adaptive vocabulary test. This is another reason why English teachers were so willing to give up time for the cause. Mr. Parrilli says, "It gets students to practice their vocabulary while raising money to help hungry people in the world."

The final ingredient to this mastermind website is the advertisements. For each new question, a new ad pops up to in turn pay for the rice earned. It is a truly symbiotic relationship for all involved.

So while everyone may not have the means or the methods to change the injustice of the world and correct the imbalance of third world countries, a mere fifteen minutes a day might just be the panacea to world hunger.

ENTERTAINMENT DECEMBER 21,2007

â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No. 4

7

Southwards^ picks for the Best of 2007 by the Entertainment Staff Here they are. without interruption, the Entertainment staff's personal picks for just about everything that came out in 2007.

Movies: It seems that lately "Superbad" has stolen the spotlight as the comedy of 2007, especially amongst teenagers. Therefore, I feel the need to remind you of the hilarity that is "Knocked Up." I'm not sure if I've ever laughed before as hard as I did during that movie. And unlike "Superbad," "Knocked Up" was smart and had a heart to it. It followed more in the steps of "The 40 Year Old Virgin" than "Animal House." Between the comedic bouncer, "Googling" murder, farting on pillow cases, and probably one of the most oddly memorable conclusions to a movie everâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; "Knocked Up" should probably be present on every one of your DVD shelves, or at least under your Christmas tree. Therefore, as 2007 comes to a close, take a few minutes to remind yourself why, over this past summer, you saw "Knocked Up" three times. Just picture Seth Rogen "throwing the dice" as a tear comes to your eye in fond remembrance. "Knocked Up" should remain a fixture in the comedy category for eternity and certainly belongs on a best of '07 list.

-Maija Gustin This year has spawned many great movies, and we can only hope that next year will have even more great movies. There is no clear winner when it comes to the best movie of 2007.

However, in each genre, there are certain films that have risen to the status of best of their class and possessed what some like to call "The Eye of the Tiger."

This fine year of 2007 has been to comedy what Calzone Day has been to Maine South: a time of greatness. "Superbad" takes the throne when it comes to this year's top comedy, with "Knocked Up" coming in second and "Hot Fuzz" comes in third. Judd Apatow is this year's cinema comedic mastermind, responsible for both the films in first and second.

Other films that have taken best in their geiue are: Robert Rodriguez's "Planet Terror" for best in Horror; "The Bourne Ultimatum" claims number one in Action; first place for the genre of Family is "Ratatouille"; "Hairspray" gains the right to best in the Music genre; and last but not least, "No Country for Old Men" grabs the title of best in Drama.

-Steve Wear

Mask: Any debate over the best albiun of 2007 is lacking unless LCD Soundsystem's sophomore albimi, "Sound of Silver," is mentioned. LCD's James Miuphy has crafted what is by far the most enjoyable album of 2007. Running the gamut from dance to indie rock to pop, "Sound of Silver" is a sublime listening experience.

While Murphy tends to be a little selfindulgent with multiple songs over seven minutes long, the six song stretch from "Time to Get Away" through "Watch the Tapes" is one of the best of any album in the last ten years.

The punk-tinged, ironic "North American Scum" is stellar, one of the best songs on the album. "All of my Friends" is the deepest, most lyrically matiu-e song on the album and is one of the best of 2007. While the album is not especially groundbreaking, every song feels fresh. Also, Murphy imbues the album with an energy absent on most releases. "Soimd of Silver" is piu-e gold.

-Jimmy Grizzel This year has been filled with great music.

But the only CD that really blew me away was Motion City Soundtrack's "Even If It Kills Me." This CD grabs you from the moment you hear the first song, "Fell in Love Without You." Lead singerJustin Pierre's poppy attitude and quirky lyrics come to life more than ever in the first song and only gets better as the CD goes on, leaving you as anxious and excited to hear more.

Motion City Soundtrack's musical talent really comes together on "This is for Real" and "Broken Heart." "This is for Real" opens with mellow dnuns and vocals that gradually increase to fit the feel of the story in the song.

"Broken Heart" opens with what seems to be effortless bass guitar and vocals that quickly change to a burst of energy.

No one will be able to resist this CD's fun, energetic, and upbeat mood.

-Katrina Undervt'ood I have to stick with the claims I made last issue about my personal pick for Albimi of the Year, Streetlight .Manifesto's "Somewhere in the Between." Streetlight has really created one of this year's greatest, most original albiun, and their unique method of song writing and performing really shines through in every track on this album. From the upbeat and exciting "Down, Down, Down to Mephisto's Cafe" to the climax of the album The Revciving End of it All." this album isfilledto the brim with talent

and musicianship that permeates through each song. Even though this is only Streetlight's second original album, they have solidified themselves as a definite presence in the ska getu-e, and anyone who is a fan of good music in general should check out this album.

-Tom Berg Television: "Private Practice," a show that many doubted would live up to "Grey's Anatomy," shocked many when the first night it aired it received 21 million viewers. The show has topped the charts and has received an average of 19.1 million viewers per episode. This popular drama takes place in Los Angeles, California, in a much smaller setting than is featured in "Grey's Anatomy." The plot focuses on Dr. Addison Montgomery's (Kate Walsh) life, how she deals with the new co-workers, patients, and life without her McDreamy husband. This show is a must watch. There is never a dull moment at Oceanside Wellness Center.

-Katrina Underwood Video Games: 2007 was definitely a landmark year in video games. I can't think of a year where so many premium titles were released all in the same time period. With the release of "Halo 3," "Mass Effect," "Call of Duty 4," "Super Mario Galaxy." "Assasin's Creed," and many others in the past two months alone, this is definitely a good time to be a gamer.

My Game of the Year award for 2007 goes to "Bioshock," by 2K Games. "Bioshock" is a fint-person shooter/RPG hybrid of sorts, where you explore a destroyed underwater Utopia named Rapture in search of the mysterious creator of the city and a way out. "Bioshock" adds originality to the first-person shooter genre. The story really follows an original path that veers far away from the realm of cliche.

The graphics are simply outstanding and the art direction that 2K takes in this game is phenomenal. The gameplay is just as great as the graphics, allowing yoiu character to surgically acquire plasmids, which give him unnatural powers he can use to defeat his enemies. The atmosphere this game creates is really superb and as a result, everyone who plays w ill remember the first time they meet a Big Daddy.

My runner-up for this award is "Metroid Prime 3: Corruption," another spectacular shooter that proved the genre actually can work phenominally on the Nintendo Wii. -Tom Berg

8 'Once' more than just a movie ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 21,2007 • VOL.

by Gustin •1\( Maija \nfii f/i iZii ftirt On November 25, The Swell Season ended their US tour by playing an intimate show at The Vic on Sheffield in Chicago. The band may sound unfamiliar to most of you. The Swell Season is actually Irish singer-songwriter Glen Hansard (of The Frames) and Czech folksingerpianist Marketa Irglova, the stars of the summer Wsh hit "Once." The film itself is about two musicians who meet in Ireland and collaborate to create some gorgeous music. This may soimd like a corny tale of finding love through music, but before passing it off as bad, give the movie a chance. It will blow you away. Hansard and Irglova are wonderfully charismatic, both separately and together. "Once" comes to DVD Dec. 18.

The charisma and chemistry of Hansard £md Ii^lova transcends the screen, however, hi such an intimate setting as The Vic, it feels like they are playing just for you. Hansard began the show solo with a song from "Once,"' "Say It to Me Now." His beat-up guitar resonated harmoniously in rhythm with the beautiful intensity of Hansard's Irish brogue. While watching Hansard sing and play, the audience is easily swept away into his passion. This experience is more than just music—it's as if you're in a trance.

After a few A*^ f. . solo . % songs, Hansard T T _ . _ _ . J ibrought ^ ^ ^ 1.1 outJ his partner-m-crime, Irglova. It was not hard to miss the ring on her finger or the boyish smile Hansard had as she walked onstage. Together, they created simplistically gorgeous melodies with only a guitar, piano, and two perfectly complementary voices. Occasionally they were assisted by a second guitar, bass, cello and/or violin.

Hansard stole the show. His unrelenting energy and gutsy performance was inspiring.

But the timid Irglova was heartwarming in her own right. On a few songs, notably "If You Want Me," Hansard stepped aside to let his right-hand woman play the guitju and sing. Her voice was haunting and always sincere. She does not command the stage in the way that Hansard does, but her shyness has the abiUty to warm your heart.

The Swell Season had their featured songs from "Once" perfected to a tee. Their set also included several songs that Hansard and Irglova had recorded under the band's name. But the higlilights came from some fabulous covers.

Hansard played a solo tribute to his hero. Van Morrison. He put all of his raw emotion into a cover of "Into the Mystic".

And it was astounding. Hansard's voice soared and at parts his hand strummed the guitar

44, No. 3

faster Superman can fly.

Morrison r- i _ . then -1 r-t. n__ Mr. 'K t^ "» * ' . would be proud. And for the finale. The Swell Season made it personal. Tliere was a man in the audience who had seen "Once" and taught himself to play the guitar because of it. They pulled him onto the stage to play Bob Dylan's "You Ain't Going Nowhere." The audience did not leave disappointed.

The Swell Season show was more than just a concert. It brought "Once" to life and gave new blood to it. And it was human. It was not a liighly-st>Iized and perfected spectacle made to inspire awe. It was simply a boy, his guitar, and his girl singing some beautifiil songs. Hansard started off most of his songs with an intro, story, or anecdote about the song's meaning or importance. And his use of the f-word was endearing in his brogue. At one point, after playing a wrong chord, he even started a song over after admitting to his many mistakes.

It was his little side-comments, clearly not rehearsed, that made the show so endearing.

You knew that each show was different and therefore more special. At the end, Hansard mentioned a return trip to Chicago. Do not miss it. I can honestly say that this was one of the best, if not the best, concerts that I have seen.

It's raw and unrelenting passion left an indelible mark on the audience.

Top flicks for the holidays b\ Colleen Herrmann 1. "It's A Wonderful Life" Well known around the world. "It's A Wonderful Life" has a heartwarming plot that you and your grandmother will love. Taking place in the 1940s. George Bailey is the man who has everything including a wonderful wife and kids, until at the worst possible time, Christmas Eve, his entire business comes crashing down. In the lowest moment, George thinks suicide is his only way out. Just when you think that the beloved main character will be a goner, Clarence, his guardian angel, rescues him and shows him how much his life is really worth, and why it's not his time to leave it yet. After seeing how bad life is after he is gone, he decides that Clarence was right, and when returning home, he finds his entire family has been trying to raise money for his business and that Clarence was able to get his wings in heaven. "Wonderful Life" is tlie realit>-check type of movie that will have you appreciatmg your family more every time you see it.

'A Christmas Story" Receiving 5 out of 5 stars, this is definitely a perfect movie to enjoy witii yourfi-iendsand family over the break. Following along the young main character of Ralphie and his family, taking place after the war, all Ralphie really wants is the Red Rider BB gun for Christmas.

After many pleas, he gets the gun, despite all the comments of "You'll shoot your eye out, kid!"

This movie is filled with memorable scenes, which will have you laughing for hours. This is guaranteed great movie that every one must see before the break is done, not to mention that it is aired literally all day on December 25th.

3. "Home Alone II: Lost in New York" Kevin McCallister is a young boy growing up in a family with so many relatives you can't even keep track of. WTien his family decides to take a holiday vacation to somewhere tropical, Kevin is not amused. After a late wake-up call, the family is left scrambling for the airport to make it to their flight on time, with Kevin left trailing behind the wrong man and eventually onto the wrong flight. Although this movie isn't

only about Christmas, Kevin learns a lot about hhnself and his family as he tries to survive alone in New York Cit>'. The most memorable part of the movie is when, on Christmas Eve, his mother finally finds hun in the city and he gets to share Christmas Day with his entire family in the plaza hotel and he realized that he really was loved by his enormous family the entire time...until the extremely large room service bill firom his dad's credit card shows up.

4. "Eight Crazy Nights" Produced by Adam Sandler. "Eight Crazy Nights" gives us non-Hanukkah celebrators a comedic glimpse into what the holiday is all about. Main character Davey is just an old town drunk who finds himself in some trouble on Christmas Eve. After getting arrested for ahnost ruining the entire town's holiday spirit. Davey is assigned to help coach a youth basketball team in order to help him become somewhat of a better person. Although this movie may not be as heart warming as some other holiday classics, it is bound to bring a laugh into your house and lighten up the holidays a little bit.

9 Holidays other than Christmas COMMENTARY

DECEMBER

21,2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No.4

by Andrew Abtahi As a Muslim, I don't celebrate Christmas.

When I tell this to people, they seem shocked that I don't celebrate their favorite holiday.

The idea of not getting presents under a tree on December 25 seems unthinkable to some.

In elementary school, we had "Holiday" sings where the few of us non-Christians had to sing "Jesus Christ the Lord." While I respect other religions, according to my religion, that is against the first belief There were sometimes we would sing about Hanukkah. but those songs only talked about spinning a Dreidel and dancing the Horah. I had to learn the reason why Jews celebrate Hanukkah by watching Arthur.

Sadly there isn't a Muslim character on Arthur, so Islamic holidays aren't really taught to American children.

Here's a synopsis of Islamic Holidays.

They move back about 10 days a year due to the fact that the Muslim world follows the Lunar Calendar, not the Gregorian like the West does. There are two major Muslim holidays: Eid-Al-Fitr and Eid-Al-Adha. Eid-

Al-Fitr is celebrated after the Holy Month of Ramadan, where Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. One day, Ramadan will be during the summer and Muslims in the world will be going without food and water for 15 hours, making even the most devout not want to fast.

This year, Eid-Al-Fitr occurred on October 12 and Eid-Al-Adha will be celebrated on December 20.

Picture courtesy of bbc.co.uk.

Muslims celebrating Eid-Al-Adha in Mecca.

Eid-Al-Adha is a four-day celebration that begins with a prayer at the mosque and a special sermon from the Imam. It observes the

day that Abraham was commanded by God to sacrifice his son Isaac to test his loyalty. At the last minute, an angel told Abraham not to, and he instead killed a ram. The Binding of Isaac is known in all three major monotheistic religions, showing we really aren't that different. Muslims celebrate this day with a feast that consists of a full sheep.

Before Eid-Al-Adha, millions of Muslims around the world make the pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Mecca is the holiest city to Muslims, since it is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and where God's house on Earth, the Ka'aba, is located. The pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj, is mandatory for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it.

Hajj is officially over at the beginning of EidAl-Adha.

Some of you might have never even heard of Eid-Al-Adha because it isn't on many calendars. You would think a holiday celebrated by over 1.1 billion people would get some recognition. Not getting a day off is understandable, due to the low population of Muslims in District 207, it's important to be knowledgeable about all cultures.

Beloved memories from 2007

by Anne Wave As this year comes to a close, I sit in class partially thinking about what the teacher is saying and partially reflecting on memories I have of 2007. In no particular order, I offer these: The End of Freshman Year - And it didn't come a minute too soon. It was like getting over the chicken pox after having them for an entire year. Ick. Picture Day - For those fiilly involved in extra-curriculars. Picture Day is one of the easiest and best days of the year. Students get credit for attending school but still get to leave at the most convenient times. The only drawback is all that smiling. iPods - More convenient than one would think. When that person you really dislike greets you in the hallway, all you have to do is turn up the volume of your iPod and claim you "didn't hear'" them. We all do it, don't we?

Rain - Thanks to the torrential downpours the first week of this semester, we were eased into the new school year with, like, just seven days of school out of the first ten days. Loved

that transition.

Air Conditioning in the Winter - As if walking outside in snow isn't cold enough.

Collaboration Days - No explanation is necessary.

Club Fundraisers - Who doesn't love that in any given class, at least four Spanish Club or Brotherhood members will be selling candy bars for a dollar at some point during the year?

The Athletic Trainers - Thanks to Jerry, Ali, and the student trainers, our Maine South

"It may be cold outside, but the love in our school will keep us warm." wrestling team operates in a clean, sterile environment, unlike some North Shore school wrestling teams.

Glenbard North - Although our Hawks put up a heroic fight, they sadly lost to Mount Carmel in the state semifinal. I know you're supposed to root for the school that beat you but.. .no. Thank you to the 8As other GBN for stopping the Mt. Carmel Caravan.

Facebook - Without something to distract students from homework, we'd probably have to do all of it at once.

Fritz,Steve,andtheother AnnouncementGivers - "It may be cold outside, but the love in our school will keep us warm." and "If today was a sandwich, I would eat it." Statements such as these brighten up our mornings from 10:10 - 10:15. After the announcements are over, however, student attitudes revert back to pessimistic and gloomy. But really, thanks for the four minutes of happiness.

And perhaps most appropriate for this edition of Southnords...

Mr. Herr, the Custodian With Serious Holiday Spirit - The holiday tunes softly emanating from the little radio on the cart have become one of my favorite reminders of the season.

10 Waging the Christmas War COMMENTARY

by Micliael Coyne slightly more subtle â&#x20AC;&#x201D; they're now specifically This time last year, I was writing an analysis targeting Santa. Thafs right: St. Nicholas of the secularists" consistent assaults against Claus is now a "controversial" figure.

Christmas. I was genuinely concerned that Gripe 1: his weight. I wish I was kidding, but the proud expression of our holiday was in there is actually a movement in Colorado that peril. But, readers, the allies of traditionalism is seeking to slim-down Santa. They feel that and legitimate Santa is a glorification fi-eedoms have won a of obesity, and that our major victory against red-suited, toy-toting the enforcers of seasonal icon should political correctness: promote a healthier body Christmas has returned image. This is absolutely triumphantly into insane. Doesn't it make more sense that an icon the public square. that is jolly regardless Most major store of weight does, in fact, chains, such as send the message to Sears and Wal-Mart kids that weight is not a have permitted their factor of happiness? The employees to use any anti-Christmas chain greeting they choose, gang has once again whereas last year challenged reason in a many major stores dark alley, but reason's a explicitly ordered their Photo courtesy knowTnoremedia.com big guy; he has a strong employees not to say "Merry Christmas" to Many major stores, such as Wal-Mart, are tendency to be capable oftaking care ofhimself customers. This was once again proudly endorsing Christmas.

Gripe 2: his laugh. Believe it or not, Santa's due in large part to pressure from the ACLU and other morally maligned groups who want cheerful "ho, ho, ho" has been deemed by religion permanently removed from the public some to insensitive. These fringe lunatics draw eye. These people mistakenly believe that blatantly undue comparisons between Santa's "separation of Church and State" means that laugh and a derogatory term for a promiscuous America is a secular nation. This is not true. woman. Rap music must have really messed America is, and always has been a deeply with our nation, because less than ten years ago, religious nation with a secular government, this would not have even been a conceivable although that government and its laws complaint. Even as I write this, I'm trying are steeped and rooted in Judeo-Christian desperately to keep from laughing, so I'm quite tradition. As such the expression of holidays, sure that reason will once again win the fight.

Even though anti-Christmas attacks are particularly Christmas, is an integral part of our nation's history and tradition. getting increasingly desperate and more One of the reasons for which our nation outlandish, there are still a few strongholds was founded was the liberty to express religion left within their movement. Electronics freely. The secularists who want to change giant Best Buy's employees were once again or deny that fact seek to rewrite our very ordered to greet employees with just about history, and as such, are simply un-American. anything but "Merry Christmas," Christmas As previously stated, opponents of break is still "Winter Break," and school Christmas have lost some major battles and children still can't have Christmas parties, but are on the defensive. People are fortunate instead must have ""winter solstice parties."

And it is only a matter of time before enough to even see Nativity scenes and the ACLU once again finds some way to Christmas trees at major stores, who only last turn up the heat on Christmas, even though year felt pressured to alienate the holiday. they are largely silent for now. But I can Holiday specials on television are once honestly say that I have never been more again Christmas-oriented, and the strong confident that the side of history, tradition, 86 percent of our Country that calls itself and reason will emerge victorious from "Christian" need no longer be estranged. any challenge that may soon befall it.

In spite of our victories, the war is far from Merry Christmas, readers.

And over. The minions of "political correctness'" have a safe and happy New Year. are still hard at work, although their work is

DECEMBER 21,

2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No. 4

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COMMENTARY DECEMBER

21,2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No. 4

Experiencing Black

by Courtney Vinopal Black Friday: a day that all retailers and shoppers alike dread. With the last issue of Southwords' article on Black Friday, I decided to do a follow-up and actually experience the mega shopping day on the Friday after Thanksgiving, where almost every store opens early and offers incredible savings for a limited time.

Target, Best Buy, and Kohl's were all opening early, so I woke up at 5:45 and figured the opportunity would be a good chance for me to practice my parking skills. When I entered the Golf Mill parking lot of Target, I knew that they would be put to the test like never before.

There had to be at least 250 people wrapped in a long line around Target, waiting for its opening at 6 AM. I expected a lot of people, but definitely not a line that was as long as it was. After spending 10 minutes trying to find a parking spot and at least 15 trying to park (mall parking is not one of my strong points), my dad and I headed over to Best Buy, as we wanted to avoid walking into Target with hundreds of anxious shoppers when it opened in five minutes.

From the outside, Best Buy didn't look that chaotic. Once I entered the store, though, it was like a war zone. Everywhere I turned there was a line for something. A huge line wrapped around the entire store, and there were two separate lines for computers and cameras.

I wandered around in confusion for quite a bit, trying to figure out what all of these people were at Best Buy for.

Eventually, I found myself in the deserted refrigerator section, and I ran into the store manager. I'm not sure why he was in the refrigerator section; my guess is that he was either taking a short cut through the store or

getting ready to curl up in the comer and hide from insane Christmas shoppers (probably the latter). He told me that the first Best Buy manager had arrived at 2:30 AM, and there were already people lined up outside the store.

I learned from the manager that their biggest sellers for Black Friday were computers and surround sound systems.

Once I made my way out of the refrigerator section, I saw that computers were indeed the hot ticket for the day, as there were many angry shoppers complaining about something to the store clerks. As I inched closer to the crowd, pretending to be very interested in the headphones in front of me, I heard that they were out of a certain type of computer. Best Buy had given out vouchers for this computer, but neglected to tell shoppers that they only had a certain number. Afraid that afightwould soon break out, I decided that it was time to leave Best Buy and make my way across the street to Target.

As I left Best Buy, there were tents and blankets strewn around the sidewalk. Camping out at Best Buy is one thing I would never do, no matter how good the deals were.

Once safely inside Target, it seemed comparably calm after the chaos that ensued at Best Buy. The girls' clothing section was, quite honestly, empty. As I made my way to the other end of the store, though, there seemed to be more and more shoppers. As I heard one teenager direct his sister to "Satan's playpen," I realized he was referring to the toy aisle.

Everywhere I looked, shoppers had toys, and these toys were indeed the hot tickets for the day. The most populated part of the store had to be the electronics section. "Guitar Hero 3,"priced at $85 (down from the original $110), was completely sold out by the time I reached it. I looked over at the similar "Rock

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Band," priced at $170, and saw the game fully in stock, as everyone had neglected "Guitar Hero's" poor competitor. An interesting thing about crazed holiday shoppers is that when they decide they don't need certain items, they just discard them randomly wherever they may fall.

That is how I managed to discover a dress-up Dora doll among a pile of mens' shirts, and a three-disc collection of Aliens in the kitchen appliances section. Although they were messy, Target shoppers were less angry than those at Best Buy. My last stop after Target was Kohl's, which had already been open for two hours. When I saw the line, it seemed everyone was either buying DVD players or kids' pajamas. Almost everything at Kohl's was on sale at 50-60% off.

I even saw a griddle for $10. The scariest part of the store was, again, the toy section. Target's toy section may have been called "Satan's playpen", but the Kohl's toy area was ten times worse. Everywhere you stepped, there was something plastic. The toys weren't organized at all. A "Jack Sparrow" Halloween costume lay among a pile of Fisher-Price WeebleWobbles, and it seemed that shoppers had to wade their way through a million different toys before they could get to what they wanted.

Words cannot described the mess that it was.

I feel bad for whoever got the job of cleaning it up. Kohl's probably had the most sales of the day, but they were very picked over by the time I got there.

Leaving the parking lot of Golf Mill, it looked like everyone was done with their shopping aheady. I guess if you get to the mall at 4 in the morning, you can be done pretty quickly. Although it was quite interesting to observe Black Friday, I don't think I would ever participate as a shopper. Nothing could convince me to camp outside Target on a freezing cold night, unless, perhaps, Horrorland" they were planning on offering genuine Hermes Kelly bags or Burberry trench coats at incredibly low prices (which will never happen). Until then, Fm content to just observe shoppers scrambling for the best deal. Yes. now I can say that I've seen Black Friday firsthand.

And it scared me.

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COMMENTARY DECEMBER

21. 2007 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No.4

Happy Holidays to the Armed Forces

by Xander Tapling It is becoming increasingly difficult not to notice the fact that the holiday season is descending upon us. And in case you're confused about which part of the season we're in, it's that part of the season we prepare for all year. Now, this is, for once, an article that really doesn't have any stand in politics or culture or religion.

As a part of a family with members in the armed forces, it is very clear the pain that a family goes through when their loved ones are

sent overseas to fight halfway across the world.

It doesn't matter why they're there; all that matters is that they aren't here, and that can be the most painful part.

As I said before, it doesn't matter if you're a liberal or a conservative or even if you support the war. All that matters is that there are people who will truly only be home for the holidays in their dreams. This article really only has one point: to say Happy Holidays to those who cannot be near their loved ones in their homes during this usually magical time of year.

All politics aside, however, we as a country

need to remember that, whether we think the war is right or wrong, just or unjust, each and every soldier in everv comer of the world is a representative of our countrv. For that service, at the very least, we owe them, and especially their families, our thanks; they suffer so that we don't have to. so that they can defend the beliefs that make the United States the country that we pledge our allegiance to every day of the week.

And so I say it one last time: Happy Holidays to all, especially our men and women serving us in our borders and throughout the world.

In Chicago, it's Christmas time, all the time

by Patricia Zavos It had finally gotten cold outside, the leaves crunching under your feet, and it had begun to truly feel like fall. The stores, however, were trying to convince you otherwise.

While it wasn't even Thanksgiving yet, the malls were busy decorating for Christmas, if they hadn't done so already. Holiday catalogs had been arriving for weeks in the mail, and all the holiday and winter apparel was up on stores' websites. Was it really time to start shopping already? This year, it seems like the Christmas season arrived undeniably early.

It's not just the shopping opportunities that

are being shoved down our throats, either.

While flipping stations in your car, you will probably hear some familiar holiday tunes.

93.9 started their annual Holiday Lite program on November 1, playing only Christmas tunes all the way through December 25. That's almost two whole months of nothing but "Silent Night" and "All I Want for Christmas."

Overkill, anyone?

While this article might make me sound like a Scrooge, I am anything but. I love the holiday season, especially the shopping. But pretty soon, Christmas carols will start playing in July and holiday sales will start in September.

The holiday season is losing its magic because of the increased conunercialism and its earlier start every year.

Try not to get caught up in Christmas too early next year, because by the time it comes, you may be sick and tired of bells, carols, and the sight of festive lights on the street.

Try to at least save your shopping until after Thanksgiving. If you can't accomplish this, or you must listen to "Jingle Bells" a month and a half in advance, just please try not to put your lights up so early. If not for your own sanity, please have some holiday spirit and spare the rest of us.

by Meglian O 'Keefe Running out of Starbucks, my toffee nut latte in hand, someone is yelling at me. Uh-oh.

Turning around, I see it's a young lady selling stuff for missing children. She's looking right at me, telling me how cold she is and how much she would love it if I could contribute to the cause. My mind is telling me to get in my car and get away fast, but my conscience is catching me. How can I say no and still feel alright about holding a four-dollar drink in my hands?

Five minutes later. I do get in my car and drive away, but with my Starbucks AND a brand-new, completely hideous, size XXXL. $10 t-shirt.

Like my closet wasn't full enough already.

The holidays are like this everywhere for me.

I see those Santas ringing their bells outside of Walgreen's and Jewel, and I just have to put in a dollar. At school, projects abound in Hawk Pride for everything from food to toys. all of which 1 think I have contributed to. It's not just at Christmastime either. When I go

downtown, I can spend more on tips to taxi drivers and donations to the homeless than on whatever it is I'm there to do for the day. 1 once was told I wasn't donating enough for my copy of "The Onion" from a guy on the street, and instead of saying "too bad" or not giving him the original donation, 1 listened to him and paid more. I never even opened the paper, and I just found out that "The Onion" is free.

It has been proven on more than one occasion that I am the ultimate sucker for charity causes.

It's not that bad of a quality to have really, especially for the people who benefit. But the thing that bothers me is that 1 couldn't tell you who I was helping exactly. 1 have no direction in whom I'm helping with my many donations and contributions. This troubles me because 1 feel like I'm not doing anything out of the goodness of my heart.

Rather, I'm doing everything out of guilt, out of wanting to avoid thinking about other people's unfortunate circumstance in relation

to ray life. The only way I'm comfortable with what I'm doing with my life is when I live unaware of others, essentially in ignorance.

The second I think about how the money I'm spending on a new pair of boots or even on my Starbucks intake for the year could go towards providing essential food and water for all those people in our world living in poverty, 1 can no longer justify what I'm doing.

1 doubt this can change very easily or any time soon. The only way to live with the injustice of the world is to appreciate any advantages I have and to cherish them for what they are; to fully utilize my educational opportunities and to know how lucky 1 am to eat well every day and have a warm winter coat. And when I do give back, it should be to causes I believe in and in ways that will have a maximum impact. It's not about giving to all; rather, one should try and assume the role of a responsible donor. Maybe then I wouldn't end up with so much useless junk in the back of my closet.

3 Talent continues all-around SPORTS

DECEMBER

21, 2007 • VOL. 44, No. 4

by Karen Perille

Without a doubt, the varsity floor routines were the highlight of the evening. Much like the girls from the movie "Stick It," they Any athlete you meet will tell you that her put their own unique spins on their routines sport is the most demanding. But when was through difficult tricks and unique music the last time you were graded on the beauty mixes. Kim Conway pulled ofl^ a high-energy of your kick in soccer? Or you had to finish a routine to Paramore's hit single, difficult shot m basketball with a hand "Misery Business." All the girls pop and perfect poise? had impressive handsprings and For the Maine South g i r l s ' acrobatic runs, but Broker really gymnastics team, doing athletic feats pulled out all the stops when she while still having grace and beauty is threw in a one and half punch fi^ont just part of their job. From the vault to (where she spun upside down in the the uneven bars, Maine South showed air for one and a half rotations) at the its skill when it won its dual meet end of her runs. When asked how it versus Evanston on Tuesday. felt to be performing a routine like The meet started with Maine that, Broker replied with a smile, "It South on the vault, while Evanston feels like flying." competed on the imeven bars. Each When the final scores were girl took two runs at the vault and calculated. Maine South beat the entire team lined up to cheer her Evanston at every level. The final on. Varsity gymnasts Sandy Durke tally: Frosh-Soph with 57.9 points, and Jamie Broker had the highest JV with 76.85 pomts. Varsity with scores of the event, getting 8.4 and 126 points. Varsity now has a 38.5, respectively, for their half-half 1 record; Frosh-Soph and Junior vaults.

Varsity are still undefeated.

After vault, varsity captain Kim Varsity members Erin Mulligan Conway commented, '"I think we're and Nicole Williams reacted to doing well. It's very good that the the great results. Mulligan said, photo courtesy of Kelsey Grandi Frosh-Soph team all got sevens or "There was overall improvement, but higher for their vaults."

Varsity member Sarah Russell gracefully performs her routine on the especially in the balance beam."

Next, the Frosh-Soph and Junior floor as she does the splits.

Williams added, "It was also Varsity performed solidly at the varsity's highest score this season." uneven bars, beating Evanston's team scores.

With a young and promising varsity team and Frosh-Soph and Jimior Varsity proved that Varsity also beat out Evanston, with Broker after vault, floor was their area of expertise. an undefeated Junior Varsity and Frosh-Soph once again a top scorer with an 8.05, along Before varsity took the floor, Kelsey Grandi team, one can only expect more improvement with Casey Hinds and Nicole Knuth, who both said, "We're looking good on the floor. I think and continued success for Maine South Girls' scored 7.65. All the Maine South gymnasts we have a good shot at winning."

Gymnastics this year. were impressive with their poise after multiple stalls or bruising falls.

After bars, it was on to the balance beam—an event that is often terrifying to spectators as the girls do handstands, jumps, and walkovers on a four-inch wide beam. Despite some falls, Maine South beat out Evanston in this event as well.

Wrestling to pin competition

by Josh Alvarez Hawks wrestling has come into this season as defending conference champs, and so far, they are reconfirming their dominance with an overall 5-2 record and 1-0 in conference.

"We are a solid, 'workman-like,' blue collar team." commented Coach McCann. "All of our weight classes are strong."

This is easy to say when you have athletes like captain Chris Osterberg. who just

won the varsity Prospect tournament, or Joe Brewster who qualified for state last year—as a fi-eshman—or Chris Brassel, who is ranked 10* in state and is an All-American.

"Our slogan is Power of O.N.E," commented Phil Yatvin. "The O.N.E stands for ownership, nobility, and enthusiasm," added Matt Bednarz.

There are a record number of seniors participating this season, with Osterberg, Brian Disher, and Tom Kashul sharing the captainship.

Combined with their strong team, the Hawks look to be very competitive in the Central Suburban League.

Despite their great start, the Hawks have a tough road ahead. "The Central Suburban Leauge is a very balanced group. No matter who we're facing it's going to be a brawl," said Coach McCann, "especially within our regional and sectional."

But when The Plaque is on the line, the Hawks are not going to be so noble.

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Boys' swimming: undefeated and homeless the Hawks thanks, to Saloman, who anchored the relay, pulling out a 22.52 second freestyle time, .08 seconds fast enough to beat the Warriors. DeGrazia, Halley, and Mike Kramer were also part of that relay. Another meet highlight was diving, with personal bests coming from two Varsity divers, Benedix and Bo Swantek. Benedix took first with 245.10 points and Swantek snatched second with 149.10 points.

The very next day, our Hawks traveled to St. Patrick High School for the 39th Annual Shamrock Relays. The meet was a great success. The Hawks rallied up 138 points, placing them at third place. St. Ignatius took second with 170 points and the meet winner was Niles West, with 186 points. Many of the Hawks received medals for their efforts, including first place finishes from DeGrazia in the 50 yard freestyle, and Grieco, Mike Szpak, Thompson, and Saloman in the 500 yard Crescendo Relay.

by Josh Sissman The boys' swiimning team has had quite a successful year so far. They have a perfect 3-0 record with a third place finish at the St. Patrick Shamrock Relays. However, with the recent shutdown of their own pool, the road to Sectionals seems to have become a lot more difficult to travel down.

The year started of with a meet against the St. Patrick Shamrocks, where the Hawks brought their "A-game" and stole the win from the Shamrocks. The big highlight in the meet was in the veryfirstrace, the 200 Medley Relay.

A week later, the Hawks traveled across town to Maine East. The Hawks took first in many events, including all three relays and multiple individual events. The final score was 140-41 on the Varsity level, with the Hawks on top.

The next challenge came from the Maine West Warriors. Right off the bat, the competition was fierce. The 200 Medley Relay was gold for

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

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Friday

Thursday

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Boys'B-Ball @ Niles West- 7:30 Girls' B-Ball vs.

Niles West- 7:30 Wrestling vs.

GBS-6:00

27 Girls' Gymnastics @ Maine Western Wrestling @ HomewoodFlossmoor-

Boys'B-Ball® Jack Tosh Tourney Girls'B-Ball @ State Farm Classic

Saturday

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Winter (Break Syorts Events 24

With a great season underway, the Hawks were flying. But a problem that has occurred in the past has come up again, but with full force this time. Ever since the start of the season, the team has had respiratory problems while in the pool area. Many swimmers have gotten what is known by the team as "the black lung." Severe coughing during and after practice is the most common effect of this "disease." No one knows why this happens, but the main theory is that the boys are in there for such long amounts of time, the chlorine in the air gets more concentrated and restricts breathing.

As a result, Mr. Claypool ordered that the pool be closed on Wednesday, December 12.

Furthermore, professionals have been called in to examine the entire pool facility and make sure it is fit for use by both the swim team and physical education classes. Until they reach a conclusion, the Hawks wiU just have to make do with practicing at Maine West and East.

3

28 Girls' Gymnastics @ Maine East5:00 Wrestling @ Rolling Meadows9:00

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5 Boys'B-Ball vs.

Taft- 7:30 Wrestling vs. Schaumburg- 9:00 Boys' SwimmingHawk Relays