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NEWS

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FEATURES

ENTERTAINMENT COMMENTARY

fiillatv Clinton A look inside the connects with uTnter plar, "Peer Maine South past G>-nt"

Oscar predictions made

A t ^ h i vs.

Covne on the candidate field

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PAGE 8

PAGE 5

SPORTS Ha"^ettes do well at n a t i o n a l s ^

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isrEws FERUARY

22,2008 • VOL. 44, No. 6

Maine South hosts Clinton town hall meeting

by Meghan O 'Keefe

On Monday, February 4, the day before the Super Tuesday showdown, Hillary Clinton made a direct connection with her past with her teleconference directly to the Maine South auditorium. The event was part of an across-the-country Q&A session, which the Democratic primary candidate called "Voices Across America: A National Town Hall." The special was broadcasted on both the Hallmark channel and her website.

The Maine South PA wing turned into Hillary-central, complete with pins, signs, and t-shirts splashed with clever sayings such as "Hillary is My Homegirl" and "Hot for Hillary." Campaign workers gave signs to a scattering of audience members, some of whom were Park Ridge residents, while the majority were from neighboring communities.

Although Hillary never left New York, she was able to visit all of the twenty-two Super Tuesday states. Starting with Kansas City, Missouri, the New York Senator spent the night answering a question from each state. Surprise moderators showed up occasionally, such as Bill Clinton, Chelsea Clinton in Connecticut, and America Ferrera in New Mexico. hi the Maine South auditorium, along with the other gathering places across the country, voters gathered. The night's agenda started with a proposal of questions from various audience members. They covered everything, from an angry man's outburst over the US's treatment of Greece, to a middle school student

reporter's inquiry as to what the future holds for today's youth, to the quest "to make every school as great as Maine South," as said by former Maine South teacher Mrs. Deines.

While each person posed a valuable question for Clinton, it came down to voting on the extensive list of 26 possibilities by clapping in the end. After three tries, the question asked

by Iranian immigrant Azar Khounani was, "What is your role as an international leader, as a role model, as a woman, specifically for oppressed countries like Iran?"

In her lengthy answer, a trend of the night that a moderator had to admonish her for several times, Clinton started by declaring the need for opening relations and talk with the Iranian government, which she had extensive knowledge about. She then went on to speak of the need for the US to demand human rights in all countries. Clinton expanded the scope of the issue by commenting on the overall international relations of the US with the rest of the world and her plan to open communications to move in a different direction than the Bush administration. She finally brought it to women by saying, "Where women are free, where they arefiiUparticipants in their countries, we are more likely to have a better relationship."

The question of other states included many of the topics proposed within the local audience that evening, a clear sign that there are some imiversal issues in this race that all voters are concerned about. Some big topics included public education, the international status of the

US, veterans' benefits, US job security, global warming, healthcare, outsourcing within the military, and the conditions of the world for future generations.

Clinton's answers to all of the posed questions were well thought out and organized.

She had facts and details to go along with all of her proposed plans, which were quite numerous. Clinton had more confidence and personality than ever She put her arm around an adolescent audience member in New York after inviting her on-stage to ask her question and smiled brilliantly when she saw family and friends in the other states. Clinton was obviously pleased to see Park Ridge audience members, especially her former classmates.

She joked to the New York crowd with a chuckle, "There're a lot of my friends from school there! I could tell you stories about every single person in the theatre, but I want to save us both from the embarrassment."

Support for Clinton has not been particularly strong in Park Ridge despite her roots in the neighborhood. There was, however, a strong showing of former classmates, the first graduating class of Maine South. The Class of '65 included moderator and Clinton fiiend Betsy Ebeling, as well as a dozen or so other alums.

It is unclear whether the country-wide town hall was effective the day before the huge Election Day, February 5. She won eight states to Obama's 13 (with New Mexico still being determined), and ended up with slightly fewer delegates at the end of the day.

Maine South mock election a sweep

by Samantha Yee Seniors taking social science classes participated in a mock election on Tuesday, November 7. Students voted for Presidential and Congressional candidates. The ballot also asked which national issues students considered most important in the election.

In the Democratic Primary, Barack Obama was the top choice, with 74% of the votes.

Former first lady Hillary Clinton followed with 22% of the votes, while the other 4% percent of the votes were invalid.

As the only senatorial candidate. Richard Durbin was overwhelmingly chosen by 95% of the voters. Janice D. Shakowsky won over 69% of the voters for the Ninth Congressional District to the US House of Representatives, while John Nicota received 28% of the votes.

Interestingly enough. Mitt Romney

received the majority vote by one percent with 31%, while John McCain followed with 30% for the Republican presidential nomination.

Mike Huckabee received the other 24%.

Andy Martin recieved 46%, Steve Saurberg recieved 29%, and Mike Psak recieved 20% of the vote for the Republican choice for US Senate nominee. With 89% of the votes, Michael Benjamin Younan won over the choice for ninth congressional district to the US House of Representatives nominee for the Republican primary.

The 419 seniors were also asked when they decided upon whom they would select as their Presidential candidate. In the Republican primary, 31% said they chose between 7-30 days prior to the day of election. 27% said over a month ago, 25% said within the last week, 9% within the last 15 minutes, and 6%

that day, longer that 15 minutes ago.

In the Democratic primary, 38% of the students had made up their minds over a month ago, 23% had chosen between 7-30 days ago, 16% chose in the last week, 15% had 15 minutes before they voted, and 5% that day, longer than 15 minutes that day.

Students were asked which of the national issues they considered to be the most important issue in this year's election. Accordingly, both parties agreed that fraq and terrorism were the most important issues for this election.

Students also chose from abortion, guns, health care, and immigration. 34% of the Republican voters and 27% of the Democratic voters chose multiple issues.

Students, as well as their Illinois voter counterparts, have cast their ballots. And in the end, they came to the same conclusion.

NEWS FEBRUARY

22, 2008 • VOL. 44, No. 6

3

UN denounces tobacco

By Jonathan Stevens The dangers of tobacco products have been a hot topic in countries across the world ever since tobacco use was linked to emphesyma. lung, mouth, and lip cancer, and other health risks and illnesses. These worries sparked heated debates over health ethics versus capitalistic gains, which in turn resulted in the formation of a special council of the United Nations to discuss the widely growing epidemic of tobacco-related illness.

It is the United Nation's health agency that has recently burst into the news with new, startling statistics about the tobacco "problem." In a report released on Thursday, February 7, the U.N. published its recent studies of tobacco use in 169 countries across the world. The results were shocking to the world community, as the report closed with a statement that revealed an estimated one billion deaths from tobacco illness between this year and 2100.

While the larger part of a century may seem to be a far way oflF, the truth of the matter is, that the impact of tobacco related deaths are

already shaking our communities. Before the U.N. health agency reached the controversial one billion prediction, it commented on the statistics already collected from recent years.

In recent years, there has been an average of 5.4 million deaths from tobacco-related illness every year. With these statistics, there are 14,794 deaths a day, or 616 deaths an hour.

Somewhere in the world, a person dies from a tobacco-related illness every six seconds.

The number of deaths per year is expected to grow because of the world's growing population and the targeting of young people as consumers by tobacco companies. By 2030, the number of deaths a year would reach about eight million, based on scientific data regarding the increasing number of addictions to nicotine, causing young people to become life-long smokers.

If these predictions are true, there will be close to 170 million deaths related to tobacco caused illness by the year 2030. If the number of deaths per year continues to rise so rapidly, the U.N. believes that deaths could easily surpass one billion by 2100.

Of further concern to specific nations, including our own. was the U.N. statement that 10 countries out of the 169 countries studied accounted for more than two—thirds of all the deaths caused by tobacco. Among those ten countries were China, Japan, the United States, and Russia. This suggests that the huge problem is bigger in the United States than in many of the other countries of the world.

With the world now focused on these heavy, grave predictions, new debates arise over how to reverse the tobacco epidemic.

Among the top ideas for reducing the number of deaths due to tobacco related illness are the raising of tobacco taxes, the further banning of tobacco advertisement, further regulation to protect people from second-hand smoke, and increased education about the health risks of tobacco use.

Whatever is decided on the world stage, the problem remains eerily close to home every time an American citizen passes a store selling tobacco and thinks about the deaths to be caused in their own backyard.

New lead in Hollo way case

By Teddy Sherbin

The search for Natalie Holloway and the truth of her disappearance has been going on since May 30,2005. However, the end appears in clear sight.

Holloway, an eighteen-year-old girl, had been on a trip to the Caribbean island of Aruba after graduating high school. Unfortunately, the very last night of her trip proved to be the very last night of her life.

Holloway got into a car with three boys: Joran Van Der Sloot, and brothers Deepak and Satish Kalpoe. The boys' stories differed greatly every time they were asked to recount it, having let Holloway out at the beach with Van Der Sloot, at her hotel with Van Der Sloot coming later, and more.

Dutch Crime Reporter Peter R. De Vries was approached by Patrick Van Der Eem, who had befriended Van Der Sloot, pretending to be a drug dealer. Van Der Sloot was made to believe that Van Der Eem did not care about

the Holloway case, but only wanted a partner.

De Vries helped to set up Van Der Hem's car with hidden camaras to catch Van Der Sloot in his confession. The footage of this confession was released.

In the footage, Van Der Sloot said that he and Holloway had been out partying. After the party, Holloway and Van Der Sloot went to a beach. They were on the beach, when suddenly, she started convulsing, "like a movie," he said on the video. Van Der Eem asked him if he tried CPR, to which he responded, "Of course, I tried everything."

After this, he called a friend, Daury Rodriguez, begging him not to call the police, but to come out and help him. The friend came with a boat and brought the body out to the ocean, dumping her far enough out where, in Van Der Sloot's words, "she'll never be found."

The most shocking part of his confession is when he admitted that he was not, in fact, certain that she was dead. Even with the possibility of a coma, he was too scared to

think.

"It startled me to death," he said. He "almost wanted to cry." But he was not worried for Natalie. Instead, he wanted to cry, wondering, "Why does this have to happen to me?"

The case, currently closed, may open up again after this tape. Van Der Sloot continues to deny that he had anything to do with the death of Natalie Holloway.

He claims that he only made the story up to impress his friends. Is this the truth, or is it sunply a lie to get himself out of being arrested for a fourth time?

Van Der Sloot may or may not have actually killed Holloway, but if what is said in the tape is true, then he had everything to do with her disappearance, and that is enough to convict him. In the video. Van Der Sloot said that he '^vould never kill a girl."

Beth Holloway Twitty, Natalie's mother, is relieved to find out what happened to her child. When asked why he did this. Van Der Eem simply replied, "It's obvious, everyone wanted the truth."

FEBRUARY

22, 2008 • VOL. 44, No. 6

Model UN goes to national conference

by Joanna Madej On the afternoon of January 31, twentyfive students and two advisors left Maine South High School to spend a long and workfilled weekend at the Palmer House Hilton in downtown Chicago for the Model United Nations Conference.

The Model United Nations is a simulation of the real United Nations. Students all across the globe meet at different conferences to discuss the political dilemmas of the world they live in. There is a set of partners in a committee, each representing a different country and each committee discussing a different topic.

This was the 20"" conference hosted by Model United Nations of the University of Chicago (MUNUC). It was a successful and professional conference.

The Palmer House Hilton housed more than 2,500 students that weekend. There were teens from Illinois, United States, and all around the world. Active participants could hear many accents and opinions throughout the hotel.

For most of time, the students were in committees, discussing the topics that they had previously prepared for. The schedule was

a little demanding, as some of the committee discussions lasted for a few hours at a time, but it was certainly worth it. The experience exposed the delegates to opinions different than theirs, taught them to negotiate with others, as well as opened their minds to resolutions previously not thought of.

The conference, however, did have some fun aspects. When not in committee, Maine South students had a fair amount of down time. For instance, the Friday that Maine South had a snow day, February 1, some Model UN participants walked around and shopped downtown. Others stayed at the hotel and worked-out or just chilled in the pool and hot tub. There was also a dance for participants on Saturday night.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the trip was the opportunity to meet new people.

Whether they were from Glenbrook North high school, Ohio, or Honduras, participants were excited to be able to talk to different people and proudly represent Maine South. It didn't matter if they met them at committee, the pool, or at some place they went for lunch. Participants found talking to people at the conference to be the biggest reward. They enjoyed interacting

Math team adds up to success

by Erin Klein The Maine South math team had the Northem Suburban Math League meet last Wednesday, February 13. The team hosted York, Willowbrook, Maine West and Niles West at its fourth meet of the season.

The math team competes by grade level with freshman focusing on Algebra I, sophomores on Geometry, juniors on Algebra II, and seniors on Pre-Calculus. The entire team advanced to state last year for the first time in Maine South history.

Five people at each grade level are considered contestants in each meet. The way the meet is scored is by adding together the total points from the highest three test scores of the five contestants. Each paper is worth a possible 25 points, and the team is given half an hour to answer the five test questions for a maximum score of 75 points.

The season has been up and down for the team this year. At the December 6 meet at Hoffman Estates, the seniors tied for first

place with three perfect papers. At their home meet, the freshman finished with points, the sophomores with points, the juniors with points, and the seniors with points.

The sophomores currently have the best record on the Maine South Team. Of the 55 teams that compete in the league, the sophomores are ranked 12"". The entire team is ranked 25" in the state.

Head coach Mr. Nilsen says of the season "Going into this year, we were looking forward to coming out like last year. It was our best year ever." Other coaches include Mrs. O'Malley, Mr. Guccione, and Mr. Hurley.

Regionals are scheduled for this Saturday and take place at North Park College. The competing teams include Stevenson, Evanston, Glenbrook South and North, Maine East, New Trier, Niles North and West, and Walter Payton.

Mr. Nilsen says, "I'm hoping for progress at the regional event close to matching the success of last year." Depending on the results, the team may go on to compete at the April 26 state meet.

with people so different from them, yet so similar in that they all shared an interest in foreign affairs and diplomacy.

The final day was a blast. After determining a resolution for each topic, the delegates had some fun in their committees. A dance-off, calling out Model UN pick-up lines, singing Djibouti's "national anthem," and asking their chair and moderators personal questions were just some of the enjoyable activities that took place.

A lot of things could be said about the conference. However, participants will leave with a greater understanding of the world and people living in it.

S OUTH WORE) S Maine South High School 1111 South Dee Road Park Ridge, XL 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

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 Comtney Vinopal Sports Editors Thomas Joyce Patrick Mirski Production Editor Josh Sissman Ted Sherbin Photographer Kelsey Grandi Staff Artists Leah Artwick Gina Tingas Kevin Verre Advisers Mr. Ellefson Mr. Stathakis

FEATURES FEBRUARY 22, 2008 • VOL.

44, No. 6

5

"Peer Gynt" transforms the Practical Arts wing

By Katie Rose Brosnan

have built an extended stage out into the Something exciting is taking place backstage audience and constructed a complicated set of platforms on top of that of Watson extension.

Auditorium this The costume crew, headed February. The

by Whitney McClennegan, w i n t e r show has also been working t h i s y e a r is overtime to ensure that this "Peer Gynt" b> complicated show (with Henrik Ibsen, belly dancers, brides, and a Norwegian even the odd troll thrown playwright. in) looks spectacular. "Peer "Peer Gynt" Gynt" will also feature is an allegorical live music, courtesy of everyman's Mr. Matter, who wrote the tale, following musical accompaniment a flawed but to our production, and intriguing main the talented band he has character. Peer, selected. throughout his life. Peer's " P e e r G y n t " is the travels take c o m p i l a t i o n of m a n y him to a creepy weeks of hard work for troll kingdom, the entire cast of the show. photo courtesy of Kelsey Grandi the pyramids of Mrs. McClenneghan has Egypt, a lunatic chosen to make this show Rachel Lapp and Maureen Davies asylum, and an ensemble piece, meaning rehearse for "Peer Gynt." the Norwegian that everyone plays many countryside, all the while searching to find different roles and all cast members are himself. involved in the process Peer is being of putting the show played by together. Cast members both Andrew include: Michael Terleckyj Hansen, Andrew and Michael Terleckyj, Hannah Hansen.

Johnson, Katie Johnson, Katie Rose Brosnan, The cre\\ Rachel Lapp, Annie backstage, Hoeg, Mary Bennett, meanwhile, Tamara Bodnar. has been Chuck Schultz, Nora working Pace, Xander Tapling. furiously Danny Giovannini, for the past Matt Hamelic, Sara m o n t h or Calvey, Danielle Fritz, so in order Jonathon Black, and to bring the Maureen Davies. incredibly complex " P e e r G y n t " is photo courtesy o/Ketsey Grandi s t a g e to playing on February life. Under 21, 22, or 23 in the the direction Andrew Terleckyj and Katie Johnson run their scene Watson Auditorium. of "Peer Gynt." of P a t r i c k Tickets are six dollars Sanchez and stage manager Will Pierce, they and can be purchased at the door.

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"Ellen Degeneres" -Danny Craig '09

'My after-party" -Devon Williams '09

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'I watch the Grammys..."

-Jennie Chcverette '08

'The performances and cute singers" -Anna Wolf'10

6

NTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY

22, 2008 • VOL. 44, No. 6

Four Seasons sing their way to fame

by Katrina Underwood "Jersey Boys" may not sound like a musical that teenagers would be interested in. Many think of old music, old songs, old cheesy lyrics and think that this play is only for their parents or grandparents. These were i my thoughts exactly until I actually went to go and see the play. I could not' have been more wrong about '"Jersey Boys." It is an incredible musical that I highly recommend. It is guaranteed to do anything but bore. The minute it ends, you will be begging for more and looking for the cheapest tickets to see it again. This one-of-a-kind musical is j great for any music lover.

I Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons"' rise to fame has never been portrayed better than in this play directed by Des McAnuff. The play goes through every aspect of their musical career, never leaving out the slightest detail.

From what brought the four boys from Jersey together, to the inspiration for their music, the Jersey scene, their fight to keep the group together, and how they would make pop music history, this musical will have you on your feet and wanting to sing and dance by the end.

Des McAnuff and writers Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice reveal everything in this intriguing musical. Nothing is ignored. "Jersey Boys" reveals the successes and failures of all their careers. The 1951 New Jersey scene

the entire band's dreams.

Jarrod Spector as Frankie Valli, Drew Gehling as Bob Gaudio, Jeremy Kushnier as Tommy DeVito, and Michael Ingersoll as Nick Massi bring the original Four Seasons characters and songs to life like never before.

Never missing a word or beat, the old classics come in the falsetto tune and high pitched singing that Frankie Valli is remembered for. "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Sherry," "Walk Like a Man," "Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You," and "Working My Way Back To You," are just a few of the anthems that will bring happiness to anyone in the audience by how astounding the dancing, singing, set, and costumes are.

This play brings back memories for parents and grandparents. It is an amazing form of music that teenagers will wish they had been listening to their entire lives. This is a family play that will have everyone laughing together. I would not recommend this play to anyone under the age of 13, because it does photo courtesy of www.tickettransaction.cotn display some crude language and offensive is well depicted with the lifestyle that came behavior. along with touring, such as prostitutes, financial Every aspect of "Jersey Boys" is a very troubles, addictions to gambling, mobsters, well-produced musical that will not leave you failed marriages, and disappointment to family; disappointed. Though the tickets are quite all of these factors nearly led to the ending of pricey, they are worth every penny.

AI 4

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JERSEY BOYS

'Made in the Dark' creates bright future

by Jimmy Grizzell Hot Chip, the British indie darlings who defy classification, have manufactured a wiimer in "Made in the Dark," their third album. "It's on every street/It's funky, cheap," vocalist Alexis Taylor crows on the opening track, the bouncy "Out at the Pictures." Taylor could've been describing the album itself, which is a sprawling, quirky experience with a gimmicky feel to it. That's not a bad thing, however, it makes for an entertaining and whimsical record.

While Hot Chip's previous album, "The Warning," was a relatively homogenous, melancholic entity, "Made in the Dark" casts a far wider musical net. The album is an eclectic composition of club cuts, sweeping electronic songs, minimalist ballads, and soul inspired fare. "Touch Too Much" is a highlight; it's tightly crafted and is one of the more electronic songs on the album. "One Pure Thought" is arguably the best song on the album, starting out with crunchy guitars before calming into a rhythmic pattern with an amazing beat.

"Ready for the Floor" is the album's first single, and one of the best songs on the album.

Infectiously catchy and full of memorable hooks, it is an exemplary pop song. It was at one point rumored that Hot Chip was in talks with Kylie Minogue about selling the rights to the song. The rumors were entirely unfounded, but they do illustrate the quality and mainstream possibilities for the song.

The album is not without its moments of toocool-for-school pretentiousness. On "Shake a Fist," Hot Chip interrupts an otherwise rollicking song with an obnoxious two-minute cameo by artist Todd Rundgren. A "game" of "sounds of the studio" is introduced by a Rundgren-spoken word spiel. The band then commences to fiddle with synthesizers for a minute-and-a-half. Its boring, entirely unnecessary, and the only blight on an otherwise stellar album.

The lyricism and wit present in "Made in the Dark" is both irresistible and irritating. On "Wrestlers," Taylor somehow synthesizes topics as disparate as Ray Charles and WWF, and still manages to convey his point. Somewhat. "Hold

On" has a great tune, but one obscured by bizarre lyrics like "I'm only going to heaven if it feels like hell/ I'm only going to heaven if it tastes like caramel."

On certain songs. Hot Chip's tongue-incheek wit is an asset, but in others it mangles what would otherwise be exceptional tracks.

Uniquely, Hot Chip recorded some of these songs live, and crafted them with their live show in mind. That may contribute to the hectic and fragmented feel of some of the CD, but also to its distinct style. Plus, that makes Hot Chip a special band to see live, and they're playing here at the Vic on April 17.

"Made in the Dark" represents a continuation of Hot Chip's growth as a band and marks their ascension into the elite echelon of the British music scene. Whether you consider them dance, rock, electronic, new wave, indie, nu-rave, or some other contrived genre, there is no question that Hot Chip has recorded an excellent album, one appealing not only for its musical and lyrical merits, but also on the basis that is an intoxicatingly fun listen.

ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 22,2008 • VOL.

44, No. 6

7

2008 Oscar predictions Fai^oi 'Montana'

by Maija Gustin

Now that the end of February is here, an exciting event is approaching fast—the Oscars.

The lavish ceremony is still set to happen.

There are some clear front-runners in the race for that little golden statue, but nothing is set in stone yet. Here are this film fan's predictions for who will walk away with a few of the biggest prizes.

Best Motion Picture of the Year: This is the big one. And this year, the category is full of contenders from all over the genre. There's the epic love story of "Atonement," the serial-killer flick "No Country for Old Men," the oil-epic "There Will Be Blood," the i »i corporate corruption film "Michael ^ ' Clayton," and "Juno," the little-indiethat-could. The front-runners seem to be "Atonement" and "No Country for Old Men." "Atonement" won the Golden Globe, giving it some steam, but for the past few years, there has been a Golden Globe curse. No film to win the Golden Globe for Best Motion Picture Drama has won the Oscar. Last year's Golden Globe winner, "Babel," was beat out for the Oscar by "The Departed." "No [ A Country for Old Men" has received better * perception from critics and seems like it might just beat out "Atonement" for the show-ending prize.

Best Actor: Daniel Day-Lewis has this prize for his part in "There Will Be Blood." His performance is the talk of Hollywood and it seems unlikely that the other nominees, George Clooney ("Michael Clayton"), Johnny Depp ("Sweeney Todd"), Tonmiy Lee Jones ("In the Valley of Elah"), or Viggo Mortensen ("Eastern Promises") will be able to change that. Day-Lewis also won both the Golden Globe and the Screen Actors Guild award.

Best Actress: There is no clear winner in this category. It most likely seems, however, that it will be between Julie Christy for "Away from Her" and Marion Cotillard for the French film "La Mome." Each actress won respective.

Best Actress in a Drama and Best Actress in a Comedy/Musical. Respectively, Julie Christy has a slight edge with her recent Screen Actors Guild award win. But the Oscars will most likely pit an old Hollywood face with a new foreign star. The other nominees are Cate

Blanchett ("Elizabeth: The Golden Age"), Laura Linney ("The Savages"), and Ellen Page ("Juno").

Best Supporting Actor: Two w o r d s Javier Bardem. His performance as an evil hired killer in "No Country for Old Men" has had people both talking and screaming. He is said to be absolutely frightening, and after stealing both the Golden Globe and the Screen Actors Guild award, he seems to be the forecasted wiimer. He is pitted against a few old faces, Philip Seymour Hoffman ("Charlie Wilson's War"), Hal Holbrook ("Into the Wild"), and Tom Wilkinson ("Michael Clayton"), along with <'0m one new face, Casey Affleck ("The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford"), a.k.a.

Ben's brother. All are said to be .^strong performances, particularly M Hoffman's and Affleck's, but Bardem i I has this one in the bag. /jll Best Supporting Actress: Once | I I V again, there are two front-runners. ' ~ " ' Cate Blanchett is said to be the gem of "I'm Not There," where she plays Bob Dylan (no, that's not a typo). She won the Golden Globe for this role. However, Amy Ryan has been receiving huge buzz for her role in "Gone Baby Gone."

Blanchett may have the lead due to her Golden Globe win, but Ryan should certainly not be cast aside just yet. A surprise upset may also come from Ruby Dee ("American Gangster") after her Screen Actors Guild win. The other nominees are Saoirse Ronin ("Atonement") and Tilda Swinton ("Michael Clayton").

Best Director: This is most likely between two big-time American directors and one new foreign director Ethan and Joel Cohen have received huge acclaim and the prize from the Director's Guild of America for "No Country for Old Men." However, Golden Globe winner Julian Schnabel has also been critically praised for 'The Diving Bell and the Butterfly." This will be a tough race with no clear wiimer in sight. The other nominees are Paul Thomas Anderson ("There Will Be Blood"), Tony Gilroy ("Michael Qayton"), and Jason Reitman ("Juno").

The winners will be announced Sunday.

February 24.

t

by Lesia Witkowsky and Megan O' Keefe It is no doubt that one of the hottest concerts in early 2008 was that of fifteen-yearold Miley Cyrus, otherwise known as Hannah Montana.

The tour kicked off in St. Louis on October 20, 2007. Hannah eventually made her way over to Dlinois twice, appearing at the Allstate Arena with the Jonas Brothers on December 8, and the second time on January 14 at the United Center with Aly & AJ. Tickets sold out so fast for both concerts that they were nearly impossible to come by.

Some devoted fans who desperately sought tickets even paid $600 dollars to scalpers for them. Extreme parents went as far as to skip a mortgage payment to take their kid to the show, one even going as far as lying about her husband being in the military in Iraq to win a radio contest.

However, they admit, it was worth every cent. Tessa Witkowsky, a sixth grader who was lucky enough to attend the show claims, "It was the best concert I've ever been to in my life. Not only did I get to see Hannah, but Aly and AJ were there too. I bought two T-shirts in case one gets ruined... it was that good!"

Mrs. Taylor, a mother who brought her 12year-old daughter to the concert as a birthday present, praised the performance saying, "I was dancing and clapping the entire time. It was worth it."

Miley Cyrus's high energy performances gave the entire audience what they paid for.

Her boimcy personality shone through every song and performance, which are intertwined with numerous costume changes. As Miley. she worked on developing her own status as a singer and songwriter by playing more personal songs. Her song "See You Again" is circulating on the major radio stations and has become increasingly popular among all ages.

As if two appearances by Haimah weren't enough for some fans, the "Hannah Montana/ Miley Cyrus Best of Both Worlds Concert Tour" is now a 3-D movie that debuted on February 1. It made an astounding $42,000 per screen and made $29 million total over Superbowl weekend, setting 3-D movie records for highest revenue in a weekend. If you missed the concert, go see this Ihr and 14min film to see for yourself what all the hype was about.

8 Head-to-head on '08 primary OMMENTARY

FEBRUARY 22, 2008

â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No. 6

by Andrew Abtahi

by Michael Coyne

What does a party do when there are two great candidates trying to get the same position? Currently, that is the dilemma of the Democratic Party. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton would win the nomination easily if they weren't facing one another.

Hillary Clinton is the familiar, well-known, experienced candidate that has been one of the popular faces of the Democratic party for the past decade. Barack Obama is the up-and-coming star of the party and reminds people of a mixture of Bobby Kennedy, John F. Kennedy, and even Martin Luther King Jr. They have similar views on the issues, but they both want to fix the problems in different ways. Both currently want to get out of Iraq using phased redeployment, also known as the "timetable." Obama states he would do face-to-face talks with leaders of the rogue nations of Iran, Venezuela, and Syria. Clinton, though, would call for more diplomatic talks but wouldn't sit face-to-face with these nations' leaders in her first year.

Health careHfc become a major i^Se TIii*%lection1season, season,and andthe the two DemocratHive different plans for implementing ci c^ra^fq^^ Americans to ^ l e health care Qinton phjjjjjjjjjjj^^ individual^purancee to^K runjU^SP Medicare, and the $110 billion plan would be paid for by taking away^ the Bush tax cuts for the elite.

Obama plans that all children receive healthcare, and that people who don't receive employer paid insurance be able to choose between public insurance or private insurance. Companies that don't provide healthcare to their employees and eliminating the Bush tax cuts for the top one percent would pay for his $60 billion plan.

Obama and Qinton both stand on the Uberal side of every issue, which is unlike 2004, when Democrats tried to seem conservative so they could get more votes. John Kerry failed to defeat Bush because he thought the country was in a conservative mood, but this isn't in the case anymore.

Now that the full extent of the damage the Bush presidency has done to America has been seen, being a Democrat is in style again.

Change has been a word used a lot this election season, especially with Barack Obama. The Democrats, like in the 2006 congressional battle, have stood as the party for change, and both the contending candidates for the nomination are calling for making Washington different than it has been for the last seven years.

The point of the primaries is to find the candidate that would be best to win in the general election in November. Polls have been released

by CNN and "Time" that show that both Clinton and Obama would win the general election against John McCain. But Obama's margin of victory is higher then Qinton's, making him a better candidate to put up against the Republican.

Obama has a better chance of getting moderates and independents, which, like in all elections, is an important factor in wiiming the presidency. Also, Obama has been able to get young voters and a lot of apathetic people who don't usually vote. The charisma of Obama has been able to get even more traditional conservative voters to see hope in him also.

Qinton and Obama are both great candidates, but if the Democrats want to have the best chance in wiiming in November, Barack Obama must win the nomination.

Of the originally massive field of Republican presidential hopefuls, only Senator John McCain and Governor Mike Huckabee remain truly competitive. Many conservatives aren't too happy with these choices.

At the moment. Senator McCain has a clear lead in the delegate count and is expected to be the Republican presidential nominee. I wasn't too happy about this prospect, so I had to gradually make my peace with it.

An "R" next to a name does not a Republican make. The two pieces of legislation that John McCain is most closely associated with are McCainFeingold, a nauseating assault on free speech in political campaigns, and McCain-Kennedy, the abhorrent illegal inmiigration amnesty bill that was proposed last year.

On the Iraq War, a situation that most conservatives agree is vital to oin National Security, Senator McCain's voting record is identical to Senator Hillary Clinton's. That is, he was for invasion initially, then he started complaining and opposing the war's handling from day one. And in 2004, McCain expressed serious interes^Âť becoming Senator John Kerry's running male. He is, however, a VietiSi POW, ajaj^American hero. Additicpall>, his mcxlerate stances could gamer thelBport needed to make Mc(feiii ,\mencas oldest elected I^esident. *. dfelie ruimjJI'Up. Mike Huckabee of Arkansg, ha&suix^i|^redentials on the social and economic sides, but as far as foreign policy goes, he's not perfect either. Huckabee has alfe^feedi critical of our position in Iraq, but he admits that it's necessary to maintain a presence there. Huckabee also wants to shut down Guantanamo Bay in Cuba, which means that the terrorists that we are holding there will have to be brought here, to the continental US. This means that they will have to get Constitutional protections that they simply do not deserve.

Huckabee does have positives, however. For one, he wants to abolish the IRS and replace it with a simple "fair tax" plan. Basically, that means no papers. Well, a lot less papers; it means that you pay a set percentage of your income as Federal tax based on your income bracket. It's a system that should have been common sense and has been a long time coming.

He also wants to secure the border and overturn Roe v. Wade. Both are core Conservative issues.

Huckabee's critics say that he should drop out due to a lack of votes.

That would be foolish. Huckabee actually does stand a real chance in this race if he is persistent enough to keep McCain imder the 1,191 delegates needed to win the nomination. In that case, the Republican Convention will decide the nominee, and Huckabee's conservative credentials could reahstically pull him into a win there. Huckabee's critics also jab at the fact that he was a Baptist minister. This is not a criticism, it's bigotry.

Not voting for someone because of his or her faith is the same as not voting for someone because of the color of their skin or their gender.

It's not right. We, as Americans, should want an individual of strong moral character in our nation's highest office. I said the same thing to those who stood up against Governor Ronmey simply because of his Mormon faith.

I will not endorse either candidate until one of them is formally the GOP nominee. My final thought is in response to Aim Coulter's remark that she would endorse Hillary Qinton over John McCain; Conservatives, would you rather see the courts under the judges that John McCain would appoint, or the judges that Qinton or Obama would appoint?

Think carefully.

COMMENTAR FEBRUARY 22,2008

• VOL. 44, No.6

9

Across the ocean, worlds apart Al Fatir. For weeks, Islamic students had been fasting during the light hours, eating only when the sun retreats behind the horizon in Before making the colossal switch from celebration of Ramadan. Eid Al Fatir stands Maine South, to my school in Harrow- for the "end of fast," and at Whitmore, Eid Whitmore, I was positive that I knew what Al Fatir also stands for a low attendance rate, was in store. I had seen British movies, read as the students celebrating the holiday aren't "Harry Potter" and even did a little bit of required to attend. Before going to England, poking around online — how different could I never really knew that kids were required to fast, that there was a certain way to dress school in England be?

I chuckle as I look back on these feelings during Ramadan, and that the fast lasts for because now, months older, yet years wiser, I one lunar month (about 30 days). know far better and can realize how jaded I Another advantage of attending Harrowhad been.

Whitmore was the school hours. Every day, Let's start with the basic facts. The school students are expected to be sitting in their I attended is for year eight (our equivalent of Form Room for "registration" at, get this, seventh grade) all the way to year 13 (aka the 8:45. People were absolutely floored when seniors). It's true that this school has a greater I told them the time that Maine South starts variety of age groups than MS. However, every day; they couldn't fathom how "unfair" Maine South, the school with merely four such an early start was. While I loved the comforting privilege of an extra hour and grades, dominates Whitmore in size.

At Whitmore, and every school here in a half of sleep, the typical school day at England, the school does not share Maine Whitmore isn't exactly what it's cracked up South's laid-back approach. Years 8-11 must to be because there never is a "typical day" as wear a strict uniform of a black blazer, complete the school ends at different times each day. with the Whitmore School crest on the left On a normal day after school at Maine hand side, a standard, diagonally striped grey South, there is always something going on. and black tie (yes, for girls too), black dress If one were to lag behind on a typical day pants/black pleated skirt with either black at Whitmore, he would be walking around knee socks or tights, and black dress shoes. a virtually dead campus. I was completely The uniforms are strongly enforced by all shocked by the lack of clubs, extracurriculars staff members and it's not uncommon to see and sports offered here. Not only that, but students not allowed in class until they tuck in there was a lack of information provided about their shirts and fix their ties. them, if and only if they were offered. The My brother had specific trouble with the events, like the opportunities to get involved dress code. He was hassled on a daily basis at the school, are minimal. They don't really about his hair (he was actually told to get a have school teams, attending games are out haircut from the head teacher), and the length of the picture, and in the possible six years of his tie, and he was forbidden to wear any of school, there are only two games. A prom is held at the end of year 11 and again, at wristbands or bracelets. the end of year 13 for the students who have While Maine South clearly trumps chosen and had the grades to continue on with Whitmore in size, Whitmore is more racially schooling in the Sixth form. diverse. According to a poll taken in 2007, the dominant race of District 207 was Caucasian At Maine South this year, I am a junior. with a whopping 89.6%, followed by Hispanic However, at Whitmore, I was a member of the with a mere 3%. On a different note, I could Sixth form. The Sixth form could be referred safely say that Caucasian is probably the to as college prep because, in essence, that's fourth most dominant race at Whitmore, vastly basically all it is. Being in the Sixth form at outnumbered those by of Indian, Middle Whitmore comes with plenty of freedom and Eastern, and African descent. Going to school many benefits that are not offered to members there was an excellent opportunity to learn of the lower school. For one. Sixth formers about the cultural and religious differences that are not required to wear a uniform, so they we've "seen" and "heard o f but never actually are easily distinguished from the rest of the took the time to explore. A perfect example of school. Common rooms and study rooms this is an Islamic holiday that took place: Eid are provided exclusively for members of the

by Keely Patt

Sixth form.

The classes for members of the Sixth form are different from the lower school as well.

Students don't have the same set of classes everyday as we do at MS. Usually, once a week, students get no lessons all morning and are allowed to do independent study. The most lessons students attend a day is two. This may sound amazing, but don't be complaining about the nine period day yet — would you really want to sit in a single class for three hours straight?

Every week students have a double lesson and a single lesson for each of their four subjects and two "frees." The last benefit provided for members of the Sixth form is oflf campus limchtime benefits (hour-long).

Now that I look back on this once-in-alifetime experience, I feel that it's the personal stories that my family can share with others that really capture our life in London the best.

People had to pick their jaws oflf the floor after hearing my dad's (horror) stories from the school he taught at. Once, a student got jumped by ten other students and was sent to the hospital. If that wasn't enough, each of the ten students were sitting in class the next day with not so much as a slap on the wrist.

Another classic was the bloody shirt incident, as it's now known. One of my dad's fellow teachers broke up a fight, and a student bled all over his shirt. When this incident reached the attention of the head teacher, she merely handed him ten pounds and told him to go buy a new shirt, then return to teach.

People were also really interested to learn that m England, if someone is breaking into your house, by law, you (the homeowner) are forbidden to assault them — unless they assault you first. This person is breaking into your house, yet if you lay a finger on them, you could find yourself in jail.

Another thing that people loved to hear about was the state of healthcare. We obliged by telling the story of our elderly neighbor who broke his hip, but wasn't guaranteed surgery for a year. By the time his surgery rolled around, doctors had to re-break the hip, operate on it, and it hasn't been normal since.

If you told me that my parents tried to place me in a school that was pretty much as different in all possible ways fi-om Maine South, I would definitely believe you. I will tell you that I am very gratefiil to have only stayed for one term.

10' The simplicity of voting COMMENTARY

FEBRUARY

by Xander Tapling

With all the fury surrounding the upcoming elections, many more people are predicted (and already have begun) to vote. As we all know, voting is one of the best parts of democracy, because, not only does it give us a choice in candidates at every level of government, but it also gives us the option to be totally apathetic about who is elected by not voting.. .and letting us whine about it later.

However, before we all go kicking off our shoes to avoid the long lines at the polling centers, let's take a look at how incredibly simple voting has become. Now, there are some parts of voting that have been around for a few years and are rather obvious. For example, you need a form of ID that the state you're voting in finds acceptable (mainly driver's licenses).

Also, you need to be a United States citizen (which should be easy enough if you already have the driver's license).

There have also been several changes to the ballots over the years; long gone are the days when people would just gather in the

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by Meghan O 'Keefe I'm not a fan of the cold weather in the slightest. ReaUy. in no way, shape or form do I appreciate gusts of wind colder than North Atlantic blowing through my hair and causing every bone in my body to shake. I hate that it seems like every time I want to go somewhere. I have to allow extra time to deal with the inconvenient weather. If it's not snow, it's sub-zero temperatures. It never ends, until, well, spring break. Chicago winters are brutal, and they are causing me some serious winter blues.

Even though the end isn't so near, I cant let it get me down. I have to try and remember the things I love about winter before I start focusing on all those unappealing negatives.

So here are my top five winter loves; may they help me to survive the miserable bits for another six to eight weeks.

1. Hot chocolate. Actually, hot anything.

Fm a big fan of them all. A packet (or two) of President's Choice hot chocolate made with hot milk and topped with a huge mountain

22, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL. 44, No.6

streets and shout out the names of people they figured would be at least decent candidates to lead the country. We've upgraded to pieces of paper where you just punch the hole next to the candidate's name. Unfortunately, that proved a bit difficult for some of our friends from Florida in past elections, so some states have decided to take it one step further and jump into the 21st century with electronic ballot machines.

These are actually fun little inventions.

These machines are superbly advanced (some more than others), and have been programmed to keep track of which buttons are pressed, which candidate they correspond to, and keep each person's results entirely secure. But if this isn't for you, there are also many other media that one can use when trying to make themselves heard. Phones and private computer networks can be used to cast your vote, at the possible cost of a bit of security.

Despite all of these excellent, easy, and intelligent ways to vote, there are still a couple catches that stop a great many Americans from voting on a daily basis. I'm referring to the untapped group of ideological revolutionaries, or at least people who would think they are. I'm

talking about Generation Y, teenagers across the nation that talk more sense than half of the people on Capitol Hill. Now, the limitation here is that you need to be 18 years of age to vote, which puts a bit of a damper on the voting plan, since they do check ID. Here's where the system gets confusing: I've had a few relatives vote recently, one who was 22 and one who is 63. Election officials checked the 22-year-old's card like he might have hidden top-secret government information inside the thing. However, the 63-year-old might as well have waltzed through with a fake ID made out of poster board and red crayon; they hardly even looked at it. She began to pull it out and they told her they didn't need it, which seems a bit odd to me if you're trying to ensure that only U.S. citizens are voting.

But disregarding this little lapse in judgment on the part of the polling station volunteers, voting is simple and easy, and honestly, any teenager could do it, but since we can't, encourage your family to go out and get it done for you.

of Extra Creamy Reddiwhip can make my icy anti-winter feelings melt away. And don't even get me started about Starbucks. Not that I don't love the cold stuff, but steamy Peppermint Mochas and creamy Toffee Nut Lattes always, always hit the spot. And then there's the healthiest of them all: tea. I only recently began to appreciate tea, but now I'm hooked. White tea is delicious, refreshing, and loaded with antioxidants. I just can't get enough of it. especially the pure kind.

2. Uggs. You can call them ugly, sloppy, or anything else, but you cannot call them uncomfortable. They are warm, can help get you through snowy days, and go with all the winter staples, whether it's jeans or sweatpants. Any other winter shoe, or even any other winter boot for that matter, cannot compare. And that is why they never go out of style. They are just too perfect for winter.

3. Watching snow fall: I can't help it really. Watching the world turn white is just beautiful. I hate snow falling when I'm at school, when Fm in the car, or when Fm out of the house, but when Fm just home, I can't help but agree with "let it snow, let it snow, let it snow." Besides, snow days aren't so bad, either.

4. Extremely comfy clothes. When there is snow on the ground or the temperatures are particularly chilling, there is nothing better than fleecy clothes and thermal tees. I don't look my cutest or most stylish, but I sure am warm. And if Fm not going for the ultimate comfy clothes, even things like turtlenecks and extremely layered tees are a reason to look on the bright side of winter. I may always prefer the styles of warm weather, but there are some things only winter is appropriate for.

5. Winter sports. From sledding after a big snowfall to hitting the slopes, whether it be with skis or a snowboard, it is definitely possible to have fun in the outdoors during the wintertime. It may not feel like it when Fm cleaning off my car, but snow can be a gateway to some of the most exhilarating sports. The cold air is actually refreshing when you're working up a sweat instead of the usual biting nature on normal winter days. It almost, almost, makes it worth all the winter hassle to be able to glide down the side of a snow-covered hill.

So there. It's not all bad. I promise. Winter can be depressing but it all comes down to the perspective you take on it in the end.

SPORTS FEBURARY 22, 2008 â&#x20AC;˘ VOL.

44, No. 6

11

Swimmers infinalstretch of season

by Josh Sissman

With pool conditions back to normal, and the swimmers feeling fresh after winter break, their work was cut out for them in the weeks to come. A disappointing Senior Night against conference rival Niles West had the swimmers feeling like they were in shallow waters.

The next meet was against another conference team, powerhouse Glenbrook South, but once once again, the Hawks fell just shy of victory.

The final score for varsity was 126 to 60.

The times of the Hawks' swims were slowly improving, but the team pulled together the day after their defeat from Glenbrook South to show that they weren't playing in the kiddie pool.

Saturday, January 26, was the 19'''Aimual

Cougar Swim Classic, hosted by Conant, and the competition was fierce. With schools like Downers Grove North, Schaumburg, Mundelein, and conference rival Niles West, the Hawks were out for the gold and a little redemption from their Senior Night defeat.

The Hawks showed no mercy and proved the depth of the team, taking seven gold, 15 silver, and two bronze medals overall, not including gold in the Class A diving competition by Kyle Benedix. They finished first in the meet, crushing the competition with 249 points. Niles West took second with 231 points, and third was taken by the host with 208 points. The Hawks were flying high, but the expectation grew greater with even harder challenges down the path.

A dual meet against national powerhouse

New Trier came out with good times, but not good enough for a win. Good races came from the A Medley Relay, who took first with a time of 1:46.61. Individual races that were swum well came from Mike Szpak in the 200-yard freestyle and 100-yard breaststroke, Mike Kramer in the 200-yard individual medley, and Jared Degrazia in the 100-yard backstroke. All three had second-place finishes.

Conference and sectionals are approaching fast as the Hawks begin tapering their practices in order to drop some major time at the two meets. Crazy hair colors and shiny bald heads are signs that the season is almost at a closing point.

With several opportunities to make state qualifying time cuts, the Hawks are focused on finishing this season off strong.

Cheerleaders finish strong at state

by Monika Kasiulus

competition and therefore, reached their goal.

The top three teams were Lockport, BradleyBourbonnais, and Sandburg.

the realization that it is now an IHSA sanctioned sport. People are starting to recognize that it is The Maine South Varsity cheerleaders not just a sideline activity consisting of a group finished up their competitive of girls waving their season February 2 when poms in the air. It is they attended the IHSA state essential for the girls finals held in Bloomington, to be strong stunters, IL. tumblers, jumpers, After a hectic season and of c o u r s e , filled with games, practices, cheerleaders. competitions, and other To top it off, the school-related activities, competitive season they were ready to put all is often filled with of their hard work into injuries and other action. unfortunate setbacks.

The main goal of the In one of their first squad was to place in the c o m p e t i t i o n s of top ten. Last year was the the season, Markie first time that any Maine Ignoffo badly South cheerleading squad injured herself when ever made it to the state landing a back-tuck finals; when they made it during the routine. again this year, they were Fighting through the determined to do better excruciating pain, than ever before. Head she kept on doing the coach Pati Coy admitted routine to ensure that that she was still in shock her stunts were hit. from making it to state the Along with Ignoffo, Photo courtesy of Monika Kasiulus previous year, and that it other team members The cheerleaders perform one of their lifts at the state finals in Bloomington, Illinois. was an honor to even be battled sickness and there. injury; fortunately, they were able to keep their heads up and fight After much Overall, the standard for competitive through it and accomplish their goals. anticipation, the girls placed ninth at the cheerleading are increasing each year, as well as

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Hawkettes work their magic at Disney

by Audra Walker

The Hawkettes are known for their high energy halftime performances and flexible moves, but how do the Hawkettes compare to other dance teams in the surrounding area? How about dance teams from all over the country?

Just recently, January 31 through February 4, the varsity Hawkettes traveled to Orlando, Florida for the 2008 Universal Dance Association (UDA) National Dance Championship.

This year was the Hawkettes' small varsity j a z z debut.

Competing against 59 teams in the small varsity jazz category, the Hawkettes plowed through preliminaries and made their way to semi-finals, their team goal. They placed 18* among the 25 teams that made it to semifinals. The top three teams at finals ended up being Los Alamitos of California infirstplace, St. Thomas More Catholic of Louisiana in second place, and Assumption High School of Kentucky in third.

Neighboring suburb Lake Forest brought home a sixth-place trophy in the large varsity jazz category. Lake Forest also received a third place trophy for large varsity pom.

The Hawkettes competed with poms up until last year. This past year was their transition stage from pom to jazz. The Hawkettes never compete against Lake Forest because they are large varsity and the Hawkettes are a small varsity team. Evanston, also a neighboring suburb, placed sixth in the Large Hip-Hop category.

This was the Hawkettes' second year competing in the high kick category. Last year they brought home a seventh place high-kick trophy. This year, with more competition, they received an eighth place trophy. They are still top 10. but it was hard for the Hawkettes to go down in the ranking. This is only motivation

for next year's team.

When it comes to state competitions, the Hawkettes have secured a first place position in the high kick category. The skill level of dance teams in the surrounding area is less advanced compared to our National competitors.

Glenbrook South, some of the biggest competition in the area, competed at Nationals and took 16* place.

The Hawkettes compete in two competition circuits.

Universal Dance Association (UDA), and Team Dance n i i n o i s (TDI). A TDI competition was held at Maine South on December 9* photo couriers of Audra Walker 2007. The Hawkettes hope to The Hawkettes take a team picture at Nationals. hold many more competitions in the future, due to the fact that it was an extremely exciting event. If the team continues to hold competitions, they will generate more profit with each year that we host.

The Hawkettes also sell cookie dough in June once their 11-month season has begun.

Hawkettes are a self-funded organization.

March 7 is the 23"' Armual Flower show.

These fund raisers and a few other small opportimities here and there help fund the Hawkettes.

Be sure to congratulate the 2007-2008 Hawkettes for their victories at Nationals.

The team captains this year are Kiley Krug, Colleen Holmes, Samantha Nelson, and Christine Allegretti. Junior varsity coaching captains are Kristen Brown, Mandy Moore, Christen Ferro, and Rachel Rosales. Tracy Simkins, Kim Dardi. Caitlin Kelly, Chelsea Vaccaro, Julie Berzins, Steph Spencer, Jelli Corrigan. and Austin Paulik are also important members of the team. Kelsey McKenzie is the prized costume coordinator and Audra Walker is the Spirit Captain.

Keep your fingers crossed for the upcoming UDA state competition February 23 and the photo courtes\ of Kelse\ MtKfnzie TDI state on March 2.

The girls dance during the competition.