Vol 45 issue 6

FEBRUARY 20, 2008

1111 S. DEE ROAD • PARK RIDGE, ILLINOIS 60068

VOL. 45, NO. 6

image by Bess Featherstone, Erin Klein, & Courtney Vinopal

NEWS

FEATURES

ENTERTAINMENT COMMENTARY SPORTS

3 7 8 13 14

District 207 The end of the considers lights Moment of Sifor Wilson field. lence in Illinois.

PAGE 3

PAGE 7

Blink-182 pulls a 180.

Blago’s impeachment leaves a void.

PAGE 8

PAGE 13

Maine hockey ices the competition.

PAGE 14

2

NEWS FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

Celebration fundraising has begun

by Lisa Francis

After a long and exhausting first semester, it’s finally time to breath a sigh of relief and realize that we are over half way through the school year. Not that Maine South isn’t great and doesn‘t put a spring into the step, but summer is really just around the corner.

Before summer, comes an event that is known to top off the high school experience: Prom. Yes seniors, it’s almost that time. At Maine South, Celebration is an event known to provide a safe alternative to other dangerous post-prom activities. (Remember, even if you decide not to attend prom, you can still go to Celebration.) This year, Celebration is going all out. The theme is “South Beach Celebration.”

After senior prom on Friday, June 5, prom-goers

will board busses and head down to ESPN Zone in the city. They will even have Rock Band set up and a DJ just for Maine South’s group. After leaving ESPN Zone at about 3:30 am, busses will be boarded and will drop students off at a sunrise cruise, where they will enjoy breakfast and the Chicago skyline. Buses will arrive back at Maine South at around 7:30 a.m.

Seeing as this is a costly endeavor, the Celebration committee needs students’ help.

Traditionally, a fashion show is held in order to help with funding. This year’s show was scheduled for February 26, but due to lack of parent involvement, the show has been canceled.

Another Celebration fundraiser is known as Phone-a-Thon, where students can sign up and call Maine South parents to make a pledge towards Celebration funds. This year’s Phone-

a-Thon will be held on March 11. The proceeds from pledges usually account for 40% of Celebration’s funding, so your help is needed.

If anyone is interested in helping Phone-aThon, contact Mrs. Berg at terreberg12@ comcast.net.

In order to make this year’s Celebration a success, student involvement is a must. Senior class President Danny Craig is calling on upon all students to make this year’s post-prom celebration a success.

“I think Celebration is a great way for seniors to spend the last moments of their senior prom, an event that they will remember for the rest of their lives,” Craig said. If anyone is interested in helping fundraise for Celebration, or has any additional questions, please feel free to contact the committee chair, Mrs. Stimson, at anitaaeiou@sbcglobal.net.

Security cameras watch over South

by Keely Patt While traveling from class to class during the course of the past few weeks, you’ve probably noticed several new features; chances are they’ve noticed you too.

Maine South has installed several security cameras throughout the exterior areas of the school this past month.

The cameras’ primary focus is school entrances, driveways, and parking lots.

According to Dr. Rose Garlasco, Assistant Principal of Students, there are more than 20 throughout campus. We can expect roughly 16 or 17 cameras total to be installed over the course of the next few weeks.

Mr. Dagres, Dean of Students, stated that the total cost with installation, programing and training is approximately $50,000.

T h e c a m e r a s y s t e m ’s hardware, however, is still in the process of being installed, according to Dean George Dagres. The completion of the hardware installation in addition to setting up the software is

photo by Jackie Hazlett-Morris

Maine South students walk on campus while security cameras watch overhead.

expected to take place over Spring Break, even though the actual cameras are in place.

Maine South isn’t the only school in the district to note the countless advantages provided by this novel precaution; Maine West and Maine East are in the process of installing their own exterior cameras as well. Many other schools around the nation have already installed cameras.

This technique has proven to be very efficient in enforcing safety and respect between students.

The reason for implementing these innovative security measures, according to Dagres, is to provide yet “another layer of security for our campus, faculty, staff and students.” The principle task of these cameras is to monitor exterior campus activities; the administration’s hope is that their use will discourage any inappropriate activity or any other incidents that may potentially disrupt a school day.

Needless to say, hopes are high for this high-tech approach to keeping Maine South students secure.

NEWS FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

3

Pat Quinn takes office as Illinois’ new governor

by Vanessa Hofer Blagojevich’s political scandal first surfaced on December 5 when it was revealed that federal investigators had been conducting a wiretap on the governor. In the recordings, Blagojevich implied that he intended to sell Obama’s senate seat. He expressed his current “financial” troubles. In a conversation with his chief of staff, John Harris, Blagojevich blatantly stated “I want to make money.”

He also expressed interest in earning up to $300,000 dollars a year. It is reported that Chicago Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr., previously only referred to as Senate Candidate five, was willing to offer Blagojevich $500,000 for the senate seat. Jackson denies any wrongdoing.

The overwhelming evidence against the former governor led to his arrest by the FBI just four days after the wiretap story was released. It didn’t take long before there was a growing call for Blagojevich to resign. Attorney General Lisa Madigan appealed to the Supreme Court to remove him from his position due to a “disability.” Blagojevich insisted that he would not resign, and this led to the first governor impeachment probe in Illinois history. This proposal by Lisa Madigan was rejected thereafter. In the time leading up to his impeachment, Blagojevich continually denied any involvement in corruption. He was even quoted using the words of famous poet Rudyard Kipling saying, “I will fight, I will

fight, I will fight. Until I take my last breath.”

In spite of Blagojevich’s bold statements, no one else seemed convinced. Even his Lieutenant Governor Pat Quinn said in a CBS interview that he believed Blagojevich would be out of office before February 12.

The former Governor took his retaliation a step further when he appointed Roland

disgraced Illinois governor by a vote of 1141. Blagojevich responded saying he would “continue to fight every step of the way.” A second vote was conducted on January 17 in which the vote for impeachment rose to 117-1.

The only person that voted not to impeach him was his sister-in-law Rep. Deborah Mell.

Leading up to his trial, Blagojevich vowed to boycott. He claimed that the rules were “unfair,” and that he didn’t have much of choice than not to attend. The unfair rule he spoke of was not being able to call upon a witness if it interfered with the U.S. Attorney’s Investigation. Blagojevich had hoped for one of Obama’s top advisors to vouch for him.

Blagojevich spent the day of his trial doing TV interviews. He appeared on “Good Morning America,” “Nightline,” “The View,” “Fox News,” “The Today Show,” and “Larry King Live.” He also Photo courtesy of standingupforillinois.org said that he had gained peace of mind from thinking about historical figures like Governer Pat Quinn takes office.

Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela, Burris as senator. This sparked a lot of anger and Gandhi. On “Good Morning America,” in democrats who had been determined from Blagojevich even revealed that he had preventing Blagojevich to make the decision. considered Oprah Winfrey for the senate seat.

Democrats stated that they had nothing against Blagojevich has since been replaced by Burris, they were only objecting the fact that his Lt. Governor, Pat Quinn. Quinn has Blagojevich had chosen him. Burris was taken the step of appointing former federal sworn in as a U.S. senator on January 15 after prosecutor Patrick Collins to “clean up” the the resistance from Washington subsided. state government. Blagojevich’s criminal trial Only days before Burris was sworn is set for sometime this April, where he will be in, the state House voted to impeach the facing possible charges of federal corruption.

District considers lighting up Wilson Field

by Asha Kirchoff A proposal for new stadium lights was submitted to the District 207 Board of Education. The lights were first proposed at a Board meeting last summer while discussing the utility of the field. Mr. Claypool pointed out three distinct benefits to having a lighted field. First, more teams would have a chance to compete in the stadium due to its capacity to stay open beyond daylight hours. Second, teams would be able to practice where they would compete or perform (also due to the extended hours of the stadium). Utilizing the lights would benefit not only the athletic teams, but also band, Hawkettes, and cheerleaders.

Finally, the community would be allowed access to the field after Maine South teams had finished their daily activities. Mr. Claypool also commented that the availability of the turf would increase dramatically.

Following the proposition, district personnel started collecting data for the lights which would be funded by the district’s Operations and Maintenance budget. Mike Galis, the District 207 Director of Faculties and Purchasing, worked with the contractors to complete this task. Details were then compiled into schematics (available on the Maine South webpage) showing the wiring for four light poles with fourteen lights each.

These designs and a low bid of $270,000 were submitted to the Board during their January 2009 meeting. Following this, the plans were presented to the Park Ridge City Council for community feedback. Several neighbors of Maine South were present at the February Board meeting to voice concerns about the lights. While the submitted designs calculated that the lights would meet all legal requirements to minimize the amount of light that would extend into bordering properties,

neighbors also raised concerns about late night parking and activity in the neighborhood.

However, there was indication that both parties were in understanding.

“They [the Board] want to be fair to our neighbors… all of us understand that,” said Mr. Claypool. And while the lights may cause disturbances in the neighborhood, “The neighbors understand the reasons for it.”

Lights would enable the football team to play on Friday nights, as opposed to the Hawks’ long standing tradition of Saturday games. Mr. Inserra, the head football coach, said that Saturday games “have been good to us.” However, he pointed out, “It’s exciting to play under lights.” While both Mr. Inserra and Mr. Claypool stressed that the lights would benefit all school teams, Mr. Claypool described the more energetic attitude of a crowd on Friday night. “There’s something special about Friday night football,” he said.

4

NEWS FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

President Obama’s views on education

by Nick Espevik Like so many others before him, President Obama has promised to reform the education policies in this country. He plans to reform the “No Child Left Behind” program, invest in early childhood education, and help make college affordable to more citizens. His goal is to try to support and help our country’s teachers.

Obama’s first goal is to start with early childhood education which will be accomplished by first trying to implement a new “zero to five” program geared towards small children and their parents. According to Obama, it will

to drop out, ‘personal mentoring’ is not likely going to help much. If anything, it should be geared towards finding ways to help them improve their grades.”

In addition to these plans, President Obama wants to encourage taking AP classes to better prepare students for college. He and Biden also plan to support programs like GEAR UP, which encourage students to take, mainly from low-income families, to prepare for and go to college.

As far as higher education goes, the President plans to simplify the process for applying for financial aid. The plan is to just have families

them by creating a new voluntary national performance assessment so that everybody can be sure the educator is ready for the classroom.

To support them, he wants to provide them with mentor programs.

He also wants to give incentives to give teachers paid planning time so they can share their best practices. This is similar to Maine South’s collaboration days. As for rewarding them, he plans to find new ways to increase their pay. These ways have not yet been announced.

Overall, Obama has several plans for education that, if work, should help increase college graduates, recruit more teachers, and help parents afford their children’s eduction.

The cost, however, is substantial and the source of the funding is still undetermined.

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

Editors-in-Chief photo courtesy of Wall Street Journal

President Obama visits Capital City Public Charter school on February 3. emphasize early learning to help ready more check a box on their tax form. There won’t children for kindergarten. He will also increase even be a need for a separate form anymore. the “Head Start” funding and help improve the There is another plan for a tax credit. This tax quality of it. Finally, he wants to also make credit would pay for the first 2/3 of tuition for affordable child care more available to working universities and make community colleges free families. for most students. Recipients of this tax credit Next, he wants to focus on K-12. He says however, would be required to complete 100 he would start by pouring more funding into hours of community service. the “No Child Left Behind” program. He and President Obama also wants to support Vice President Joe Biden believe that teachers English language learners and transitional and students should not focus so much on bilingual education. He wants to help limited standardized tests. He also plans to put a big English proficient students by holding schools focus on math and science curricula by putting accountable for making sure these students more math and science certified graduates into complete school. the teaching field.

Finally, Obama wants to recruit worthy Another big item they want to address is teachers and reward them. He would recruit the drop out rate. They feel that intervening teachers by making Teacher Service Scholarships in middle school with personal mentors and that would cover four years of undergraduate parental involvement will help keep more kids work or two years of graduate work. They in school. According to one student at Maine receive all of these benefits if they teach in a South, “That may help, but if people are going high-need field or location. He would prepare

News Editors

Features Editors

Entertainment Editors

Commentary Editors

Sports Editors

Production Editors Photography Editor Staff Artists Adviser

Bess Featherstone Erin Klein Courtney Vinopal Ashley Kozubal Keely Patt Johnathon Stevens Joanna Madej Tom Bielawiec Sarah Geraci Lydia Ramsey Tom Berg Steven Wear Xander Tapling Anne Wave Marissa Duric Patrick Mirski Caileen Bazarek Lesia Witkowsky Ted Sherbin Matt Eller Jackie HazlettMorris Leah Artwick Mr. Stathakis

FEATURES FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

5

The sweet life of America’s ‘first kids’ A look at how kids have grown up in the White House over the years

by Hope Tone All over the world, people watch the royal family with a fierce interest. But in America, we find it harder to relate to the kings, queens, princes, and princesses. One thing that many Americans do take interest in, however, is the “first children.”

The White House was finished in 1800, when President John Adams and his wife Abigail moved in.

However, the White House was not even known by that name until 1901 when Theodore Roosevelt made it the official name, instead of the more formal name, the Executive Mansion.

Until the late 19th century, most of the president’s children did not reside at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Yet, they still experienced some monumental occurrences there.

On January 17, 1806, President Thomas Jefferson’s daughter Martha gave birth to her first child in the White House, the first baby to be born there. President John Tyler holds the record for most children to a president with a whopping fifteen, but many presidents had only one or two.

Although there were many children in the White House, it was over a 150 years before they even began to gain true publicity, starting with the children of John F. Kennedy, whose daughter and son were both under the age of five when he was inaugurated.

One of the first publicized first children was Amy Carter. When her father was elected to office, she was only nine years old. Although her father only served one term in office, Amy still felt the full scrutiny of the media. From a young age, she flaunted her liberal views (publicly complaining about nuclear warfare), read books at state dinners (to the disdain of foreign ministers), and kept to herself.

She recounted memories of having a slumber party in her tree house on the south lawn of the White House, all while having her secret service agents monitoring from the ground.

Although she had a slightly lonely childhood, she got many experiences afforded only to the president’s child. For one birthday she received an elephant from Sri Lanka (who still resides at the National Zoo).

At the age of 12, Chelsea Clinton became the daughter of the President of the United States.

After the inauguration, the Clintons asked that the media take a “hands off” approach towards their daughter, who was not as thrilled for all of the attention. One of her most memorable White House memories, recollects mother Hilary Clinton to the Los Angeles Times, was

Morning America” about how fun the girls found sliding down the solarium ramp. In a letter to Malia and Sasha, Jenna and Barbara urged the girls to experience everything they could when they could and to admire the magical nature of the White House. The girls also wrote, “Although it’s an honor and full of so many extraordinary opportunities, it isn’t always easy being a member of the club you are about to join.” But most importantly, the twins wrote, remember who your father really is and how much he will always love you.

The Bush twins were not the only ones to offer advice to Malia and Sasha.

Luci Johnson called it a “Privilege of a lifetime,” while Ronald Reagan’s daughter recollected how much she hated inauguration night to “People” magazine.

The consensus is, though, that previous first children encourage the Obama girls to experience things an ordinary citizen could never even hope to see or do in their entire life.

Malia and Sasha Obama, the recent presidential first daughters, have had some of the most extraordinary experiences ever. The night before their father was sworn in as President, the Obama girls attended a Children’s Inaugural Ball, essentially a large concert art by Leah Artwick featuring teen sensations the Jonas Brothers, Miley Cyrus, and Keke Palmer. But, unlike all the other The “First Daughters”, Malia and Sasha guests Joe Jonas himself took them Obama had a slumber party to celebrate their up on to the stage. Following their father’s inauguration. father’s inauguration, they had a sleepover with their closest friends, the dating. similar to Chelsea Clinton who also celebrated “I guess meeting Bill could seem rather and with a slumber party in 1993. intimidating. And meeting me as well,” said The new children of the White House, Clinton.

Sasha and Malia, will definitely have many If President Obama is elected to a second unique experiences over the next four years. term in 2012, Malia and Sasha could be facing Their lives are sure to be well-documented by very similar issues. The most recent “first the media, but they will undoubtedly adjust children” in the White House were Barbara to their role as “first kids.” If the Obama girls and Jenna Bush. Although they didn’t spend follow the advice of Jenna and Laura Bush, much time living there (they were 18 when they will definitely take advantage of their their father was elected), they still had some new home and position. Whether it’s bowling tricks to share with the Obama’s. During a competitions in the basement, jogging on the November visit to the white house, the Bush track on the front lawn, midnight swims in twins showed Malia and Sasha how to “run the heated pool, Christmas at Camp David, and jump” in order to climb onto one of the or lunch with the Queen of England, they will giant beds. surely enjoy their time at 1600 Pennsylvania Laura Bush spoke to the cast of “Good Avenue.

6

FEATURES FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

Students volunteering to impress?

by Joanna Madej High school can often be a busy mess of homework, after-school activities, and chores.

Many play sports, join school clubs of their interest, play an instrument or dance after school. Some juggle all of these in addition to AP classes and a list of responsibilities.

However, there are also those who do something special with their extra time by giving back to the community: volunteering.

Whether helping out at the local hospital or shelving books in the library, these people deserve praise because helping others and making them happy is the most admirable and giving way to spend a few extra hours a week.

Well, at least some of them do. As beautiful and perfect as all of that sounds, not every volunteer deserves praise, as many Maine South students and faculty would agree. The problem is that not everyone volunteers for sincere reasons.

The race to impress colleges has caused many to volunteer just to look good on their college applications. Although not required by colleges and universities, community service does look good on an application. And Maine South students know that.

“All my friends who volunteer do so because they think it would look good on their resume,” junior Iwona Staszel said. Maine South students seek volunteer positions at various places, including libraries, animal shelters, and churches. Many also volunteer through Brotherhood, a Maine South club.

Maine South faculty have also noticed this trend of volunteering for the sake of college admission. “We really caution against volunteering just for an application,” Maine South Career Counselor, Mrs. Maksymiu, said.

Moreover, if one did nothing for the first two years of high school, it will not help to all of a sudden join half the school’s clubs, start volunteering every day at the community center, and plan to save all the dying whales once junior year comes around the corner. Colleges can identify this suspicious and desperate behavior to look good on one’s college application.

“Colleges can see through activities that started junior year,” Mrs. Maksymiu said.

Even if a student feels like the work and activities from the first couple years of high school are not enough, they should not worry; or, even worse, they should not waste their time volunteering doing things of no interest to them.

“It is the depth and quality of the activities, not the quantity,” Mrs. Maksymiu said.

While a part of the faculty tries to keep students away from volunteering to impress, the other actually encourages it. The National Honor Society (NHS) claims it “honors students who show outstanding achievement in four areas: scholarship, leadership, service, and character.”

And all of these are admirable characteristics.

However, at the NHS orientation meeting at the beginning of the school year, students are told to volunteer between the time of the meeting and the application deadline, which was February 19. The NHS claims that this will increase the chances of one getting into the organization.

And students listened. “Personally, I’ve just started my volunteering career because of NHS,” junior Iwona Staszel said. One could also see other students desperately calling community centers and churches. The NHS claims it will be able to distinguish between the students and accept about 100 best ones once they all apply. However, most of their “Service” sections will look the same. So is it right to volunteer only because one was told to?

Volunteering, in its end, is a positive way for students to spend their time as well as a great way to give back to the community. It also gives the volunteer much experience in the working world. But is it moral to be claiming to be helping out if one is not doing so for sincere reasons?

There are some students who have volunteered all along, but for most, volunteering for the NHS application was their first volunteering experience. Some might argue that it was a positive thing because it gave them a lot of experience that they can now put down on their college application. However, others may say that this is a two-for-one deal and it demeans the purpose of volunteering even more.

Some may say that volunteering is still volunteering, no matter what the motive.

However, others may agree that volunteering only for college applications or organizations like NHS is paradoxical because of the definition of volunteering, which is “to do, make, give, or undertake of one’s own free will.” It seems to be the popular opinion that if one is volunteering for any other reason that the goodness of one’s heart, one is not truly volunteering.

What teachers really get done on collaboration days

by Teddy Sherbin

Maine South myths would have one think that teachers party on collaboration days, and the boxes of doughnuts seen on workroom tables if one comes in early enough certainly fuel this myth. Unfortunately, these myths are far from correct. Finally, the greatest mystery of our school will be revealed: What do teachers do on collaboration days?

Each week varies, depending on the date, and more often than not, each department does their own thing. Wednesday, February 11 was a rarity, as there was a building-wide collaboration around the theme of technology updates in the school. From making PowerPoint games for review to using YouTube videos in the classroom – every program a teacher could ever use was discussed. A certain number of teachers were asked to give presentations on these programs, and the rest of the teachers signed up to go to three of the presentations.

This is not a regular occurrence, though.

Usually, the departments work by themselves, addressing their department’s goals and improvements. Teachers meet with other teachers to discuss lesson plans and ideas.

For example, the Foreign Language Lab was recently redone. The Foreign Language department has been learning the technology behind the new lab and how to work it all during their collaboration. On other levels, the department deals with Foreign Language Week and how to better teach their classes the necessary vocabulary, grammar, etc.

The different departments focus on what they need to. The Fine Arts department has a very interesting set up. While, for the most part, they meet with each other to discuss music, speech, and the arts, about four times per year, they meet with the teachers from Maine West and Maine East. During this time, they discuss curriculum, assessments, and anything else they need to.

Collaboration days are nothing like what students imagine. Teachers are actually working, with some fun and doughnuts thrown in from time to time. Feel free to continue dreaming that they might be racing down the halls or staying at home and sleeping. In reality, that is just left to the students.

FEATURES FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

7

Moment of Silence still a good idea?

by Agatha Lewandowska Since the 2007 school year, all Illinois schools were required to have a “moment of silence” during the day. This moment was meant to be used for religious prayers or a time of reflection for students. However, it didn’t take long to notice that this moment was oftentimes taken as a joke, with students and teachers continuing conversation throughout the brief minute. At Maine South High School, we incorporated a short period of time before the daily announcements third period.

Was this moment beneficial to students that are religiously active, or are schools taking away from our valuable time? Should public schools be allowed to enforce a time meant for religious prayer, or does it violate some student’s beliefs? What can be done to please both sides in this argument?

Many consider this moment of silence valuable for students, for those who practice religion, and for those who do not. While one student prays, another nonreligious one could use the time to reflect on his own feelings and actions. This is thought to relieve stress from one’s day and clear the mind of anything distracting or uncomforting.

Secretary of Education Richard W. Riley said, “Public schools can neither foster religion nor preclude it. Our public schools must treat religion with fairness and respect and vigorously protect religious expression as well as the freedom of conscience of all other students. In so doing our public schools reaffirm the First Amendment and enrich the

However, there are many who oppose the idea of setting aside a succinct moment of silence. These people argue that public school classrooms should not permit religion and prayer during the day, as it may offend others.

They feel it would violate the principle of church-state separation inferred by the 1st Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. The Supreme Court of Wisconsin, Weiss V. District Board, argues, “There is no such source and cause of strife, quarrel, fights, malignant opposition, persecution, and war, and all evil in the state, as religion. Let it once enter our civil affairs, our government would soon be destroyed. Let it once enter our common schools, they would be destroyed.”

Students’ parents complain that they do not wish for their children to be exposed to religion while attending a public school, and that only private, religious schools should set aside the time meant for reflection.

In November of 2007, a federal district court requested a lawsuit to prevent school districts from enforcing the Silent Reflection and Student Prayer Act. This request was granted in March of 2008, forcing all Illinois public school districts to remove their art by Leah Artwick “Moment of Silence.” The federal district court ruled this act as an “unconstitutional throughout the day. Certain religions require prayers to be recited several times during the endorsement aimed at introducing prayer in day, and the “moment of silence” allows one public schools.”

Although both sides of the argument hold to stay religiously active. Those who support this idea also argue to keep this “moment” of strong positions on this issue, Maine South silence” to preserve our Constitutional right students will have to look toward their free time for their own moment of silence. to religious freedom.

By Lesia Witkowsky Just because Valentine’s day is over, that doesn’t mean that the romance has to stop. Try taking that special someone for a lovely outing down the Blue Line to Logan Square. Lining the walls of the blue line exit is the “Cuentos en la Pared,” or “Stories on the Wall.” This is a sculpture made entirely out of metal and is part of the Integration Art and Garden Project.

Not much farther down is a mural painted on the side of Chase bank, commemorating three firemen who lost their lives fighting a fire on Logan Square.

As you walk on, try catching a movie for

just three dollars at the Logan Theatre (2646 N Milwaukee Ave). The Logan Theater has recent movies for the cheapest price around. What’s more romantic for an after-Valentine’s-day date than dinner and a movie? Logan Square also has plenty of appetizing restaurants. For something quick, inexpensive, and delicious, there is Johnny’s Grill. This cozy diner serves anything off the grill, from breakfast omelets to lunch-time grilled cheese to steak for dinner.

If you’re looking for a traditional restaurant, try Lula’s Café. Its multi-ethnic menu and vegetarian platters will make you want to come back again. However, if you’re just looking to quench your thirst, the New Wave Coffee Shop will cater to your needs. Similar to Starbucks, the New Wave serves coffee and hot chocolate, along with tasty treats. The colorful environment and unique people also add to the New Wave’s pleasant environment.

To end your little date, you can walk over to

lives of their students.” The thousands that agree with this statement argue that the brief moment of silence simply helps one focus

Wolfbait & B-girls (3131 W. Logan Boulevard) for cute Logan Square souvenirs. They sell anything from Logan Square T-shirts, to handmade jewelry, to antique toys. Remember your date with a special little gift.

Then, after you’ve enjoyed a movie, a nice dinner, and an adorable keepsake, you can relax and take in the beauty of the square amidst the Centennial Monument; it’s been there since the 1870s. Also, all around Logan Square are “Free Book” and “Free Movie” exchanges.

Resembling newspaper boxes, you simply trade movies or books with the ones in there, a leave a book/movie take a book/movie deal.

All in all, you really can’t run out of things to do at Logan Square. And, now that you have a perfect agenda for it, go on that second date.

Or you can invite your friends, your parents, or even your grandparent to take a ride down the Blue Line and discover the hidden beauty that Logan Square has to offer.

8 ‘Two Tongues’ better than one ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

Bemis is thrown into a Conley

by Ted Sherbin photo courtesy of wikipedia.com The band Two Tongues is a “super melody that recalls “In Reverie,” Saves band” composed of Max Bemis and the Day’s least successful album, in Coby Linder of the band Say Anything the song “Don’t You Want to Come and Chris Conley and Dave Soloway Home.” This beautiful song switches of Saves The Day. Perhaps the greatest tonality flawlessly, and it all comes duo of our time, Bemis and Conley have together to make for a great track. created a strong, harmonic and beautiful The album also works in Bemis’ piece of work in their eponymous first fiancée, Sherri DuPree, the lead singer album, “Two Tongues.” from the band Eisley. She sings on The album follows a friendship “Interlude,” which seems to reference story, as played out through the voices Say Anything’s “Retarded in Love.” of Bemis and Conley but they have There seems to be an abundance of assured everyone that the story is Bemis’ influence. The guitars almost all meant to be relatable to any and all sound like Say Anything, but Conley personal relationships. The album, in throws in his knack for great harmony. their minds, follows the story of their From time to time, a guitar will play friendship. When he was younger, a Saves the Day-like riff, but there is Bemis always looked up to Conley and plenty of Bemis’ catchy, crazy musical The band “Two Tongues.” Chris Conley is second from the his band as an inspiration. Conley never influence throughout the album. left, and Max Bemis is on his right. had it easy. He had some rough times, and “Two Tongues” finishes with two songs, Bemis loved the way that Conley would the unbearably catchy “Back Against the epic beginning to the album, featuring Bemis on express his life through his lyrics.

Wall,” and the cover of Ween’s “Even If You the verses and bridge and Conley on the refrain.

Bemis turned out to have it a little harder. The harmony, lyrics, and driving beat make the Don’t.” “Back Against the Wall’s” refrain He fell into drugs and suffered from extreme track, and the album, unforgettable. consists of the words “Alright, Come on,” and bipolar disorder. He eventually went nearly But as the album continues, Conley and it is still one of the greatest refrains in a long crazy, as he went to mental institutions and Bemis slowly begin to creep out of their musical time. The cover is a hysterical song where there eventually to rehab. He is better now and has comfort zones, until they progress out of their seem to be two crazy people singing to each not relapsed since. elements entirely. Conley has developed his other that even though they hate themselves, Bemis approached Conley with the idea of a famous whining voice through Saves the Day. they will always love each other. collaboration of the bands. Conley, at this point He tries to match the iconic Saves the Day This album will no doubt go down in history a fan and friend of Bemis, said, “I would do it sound from their latest album on this one. as a classic. The musicality and catchiness of with no one else.”

However, in the song “Dead Lizard,” Conley “Two Tongues” is incredible. You shouldn’t And he was quite right; the album is an sings to a real driving rock beat that resembles wait to pick this album up. absolute triumph. It opens with “Crawl,” an Yellowcard’s “Lights and Sounds.”

Blink-182 reunion shock of the Grammys

by Tom Berg Perhaps the biggest, most important piece of news to come out of the Grammy Awards on February 8 was the reunification of Blink-182, the punk rock band probably best known for their hit singles, “All the Small Things,” “What’s My Age Again?,” “First Date,” and many others.

The band, which was formed in 1992, began to have issues in 2004, when guitarist/singer Tom DeLonge wanted to take a short hiatus from touring to spend time with his family.

That, among other things, led to a chain of events, which led to the unexpected canceling of the band’s tour in progress, and then Tom quit the band. DeLonge went on to form a new band, Angels and Airwaves, where the other two members of Blink, Mark Hoppus and Travis Barker, formed the group +44.

For a while, it looked like Blink-182 was gone for good, and these two new bands would be all that was left of the group. But during the Grammys, the infamous threesome presented the award for “Best Rock Album.” That event was the first time all three members of Blink were on stage together in four years. Travis Barker then answered the question that was on everyone’s minds when he said: “We used to play music together, and we decided we’re going to play music together again.”

Listening to each group, it’s easy to hear the split in their influences. +44 brings with it the more serious side of Blink, with Mark’s more mature vocal style leading the way. Their only album, “When Your Heart Stops Beating,” has plenty of mature themes and, overall, has a more mature, progressive type of sound to it.

The band tried to move past all the sounds that

Blink-182 used to be, and their sound seemed to evolve into something Blink fans didn’t expect: a strikingly new group that sported a strange-yet-familiar sound.

While +44 was moving beyond their past, Angels and Airwaves was embracing it for all it was worth. Their two albums, “We Don’t Need to Whisper” and “I-Empire,” share much more in common with Blink’s old sound than +44 does. Tom’s very distinct vocals by themselves bring back memories for many Blink fans, and the group surrounding DeLonge really compliment his voice.

Overall, Angels and Airwaves are more on the punk rock end of the spectrum, and +44 lands on the alternative rock end, but when combined, these two very different groups come together and become the legend that is Blink-182.

ENTERTAINMENT FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

9

‘Coraline’ strikes the right chord

‘Heroes’ saves the day

by Steve Wear Have you ever considered sewing buttons visual style makes “Coraline” very… creepy. over your eyes? If yes, put down the thread “Coraline” is directed by Henry Selick, the and go see Henry Selick’s “Coraline,” while director of “The Nightmare Before Christyou still have functioning retinas. If the an- mas,” and based of Neil Gaimond’s book. For swer is no, still, those who go see “Corahave read the line.” book, don’t The movie is worry. It actuabout Coraline ally does the Jones (voiced book justice.

by Dakota Fan“Coraline’s” ning), who feels soundtrack is neglected by not too shabby her parents and as well. The is quite bored music set the of her life, but tone in many it suddenly gets of the scenes interesting when and added to she a small door the general in her new weird mood. house. Found “Coraline” during the day, is not for any the discovered children who door seems to like their lead to nothing. blankies and But at night, the wet themdiscovered door selves easily. transports CoraWhile I was in line into another the theatre, I dimension, one counted three that resembles crying chilher normal life, dren, four if only much more you count myinteresting. In self. “Coraphoto courtesy of wordpress.com the alternate line” is a genversion of her Although ‘Coraline’ may be animated, the dark themes in uinely creepy life her Other children’s story its ad campaign show that it’s not for children.

Parents pay atharkening back tention to her, and everything is fun and happy to Grimm Brothers stories of children being and adventurous. Coraline’s delight is turned sexually assaulted and abused. “Coraline” to horror when her Other Mother (voiced by does not include sexual content of any form Teri Hatcher) does not want her to go back to but will definitely keep children from exher normal world. Giant bugs and malicious ploring any unknown doors they find in their button-eyed people make Coraline’s chances houses. Also, “Coraline” is shown in 3-D. of getting home seem unlikely, and she has to It is the first movie in a while that actually use all of her wits and determination to try to should be in 3-D. “Coraline” does not only return home... and stay alive. use the 3-D aspects for cheap tricks, but the Although all the commercials are advertis- movie also uses it to further express and tell ing “Coraline” as a Tim Burton movie, it is only the story. “Coraline” uses 3-D subtly, along designed by him. This movie uses the stop-mo- with small details like the use of real fabric tion animation that Tim Burton followers have for clothing, to create a sense of realism. grown to love. Done in the same visual style Overall, “Coraline” was a brilliantly craftas “The Nightmare Before Christmas” and ed movie. Its oddity was even more com“Corpse Bride,” “Coraline” is a visual treat. pelling than other Tim Burton movies like From creepy-looking bugs, to creepy-looking “Corpse Bride.” “Coraline” pushed all the people, to creepy-looking cats that can talk, the right buttons.

by Mary Ann Bennett Despite recent reviews on the new season of “Heroes,” the show is not losing its magic.

The intense cliffhangers and profound plotlines are still there, amidst the supposedly cheesy dialogue. Sure, shouting “We have to stop them!” is a little cliché, but the delivery is what matters most in acting. Hayden Panettiere is a great actress, and she can manipulate those five words to make you forget the cliché.

After leaving us with a plane about to crash and newly-powered Peter Petrelli (Milo Ventimiglia) hanging on for dear life on a flimsy net ripping off the plane walls, “Heroes” started off with a plot reminiscent of the first episodes of “Lost.” Nathan Petrelli (Adrian Pasdar) is on the phone with a mysterious person talking about what had happened earlier in the day.

It involves a plane crash and a deserted area, along with runaway heroes and teams of the government’s death squad hunting them.

Alliances are formed, along with spilt sides of good and evil. People will surprise you on who they choose to trust and where they stand when it comes to their power being compromised.

Matt Parkman (Greg Grunberg) continues to surprise us with his abilities that follow those of long dead Isaac Mendez (Santiago Cabrera).

Could it have something to do with his spirit walk and the African man that keeps appearing out of nowhere?

Meanwhile, Sylar (Zachary Quinto) is on the loose and continues to leave a path a messy destruction. When he meets a young boy (Dan Byrd) who can help him find out who his birth father is, he immediately takes a mentor’s role in the boy’s use of his ability. Can this kid become the next Sylar or is he Sylar’s next victim?

Claire Bennet (Hayden Panettiere) shows her bravery and need for being part of the heroes’ team by getting all of them in this mess.

Her father (Jack Coleman) continues their love/ hate relationship by keeping Claire out of the government’s eye. Ando (James Kyson Lee) with his new ability and Daphne (Brea Grant) team up to save the heroes, specifically Matt and Hiro (Masi Oka). With a twist of events and more surprises, the conclusion of the episode is of Peter, Matt, Hiro, Ando, and Mohinder (Sendhil Ramamurthy) standing around a table plotting their next moves as the government’s most wanted.

Will the heroes be ready to fight back? Can they ever go back to living the normal lives that they long for? Who will live and who will die?

Watch Mondays at eight o’clock on NBC.

ENTERTAINMENT

10 Sam and Mo’s Predictions for the Oscars

FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

Award season is finally here and it’s Oscar time. Between the two of us, we’ve seen practically every movie nominated. So, here is our list of our picks for the Academy Awards.

The awards are February 22, so be sure to watch these predictions come true.

Best actress: the nominees are Anne Hathaway in “Rachel Getting Married,” Angelina Jolie in “Changeling,” Melissa Leo in “Frozen River,” Meryl Streep in “Doubt,” and Kate Winslet in “The Reader.”

The final verdict: Although Kate Winslet gave an extraordinary performance; Meryl Streep’s depiction of a frosty nun can’t be beat.

Best actor: the nominees are Richard Jenkins in “The Visitor,” Frank Langella in “Frost/Nixon,” Sean Penn in “Milk,” Brad Pitt in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and Mickey Rourke in “The Wrestler.”

The final verdict: Sean Penn’s portrayal of Harvey Milk was just uncanny. But we’re going to give it to the big guy: Mickey Rourke.

His performance was heart-wrenching, and everyone loves a good Cinderella story.

Best Supporting Actress: the nominees

are Amy Adams in “Doubt,” Penelope Cruz “Vicky Christina Barcelona,” Viola Davis in “Doubt,” Taraji P. Henson in “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” and Marisa Tomei in “The Wrestler.”

The final verdict: Penelope Cruz as a leading lady in a Woody Allen flick is Oscar-worthy. But it’s Marissa Tomei’s turn, as her protrayal of an aging stripper is definitely the ‘dark horse’ of this category.

Best supporting actor: the nominees are Josh Brolin in “Milk,” Robert Downey Jr. in “Tropic Thunder,” Philip Seymour Hoffman in “Doubt,” Heath Ledger in “The Dark Knight,” and Michael photo courtesy of cospringsfilm.blogspot.com

by Sam Iorio and Mo Kaitis

Shannon in “Revolutionary Road.”

Final verdict: Hoffman’s acting was superb in “Doubt.” Any other year Hoffman would have most certainly won. This category has some real competition. But, we’re going to give it to Heath Ledger for his chilling performance of the Joker. Anyone who saw “The Dark Knight” would tell you that he definitely deserves his posthumous Oscar.

Best Picture: the nominees are “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” “Slumdog Millionaire,” “The Reader,” “Milk,” and “Frost/ Nixon.”

The final verdict: As hard as we tried to agree, it was just honestly impossible to compromise. Here are our two separate picks for best picture: Sam: My choice is “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button,” because overall, I think it was a movie that really had everything going for it. Not only was it a great adaptation from the book, but it also was a great love story and period piece as well.

Mo: My choice is “Slumdog Millionaire.”

This year’s Indie Bollywood flick proved to be the most emotional film of the year. It made me laugh, it made me cry, but most of all, it made me dance.

“More Information” full of hilarity Park Ridge has been up to its knees in snow, icicles as big as people were forming, and our own pets didn’t want to go outside. Certainly, Old Man Winter was here to stay, and all we could do was hide indoors from the cold. What better way to spend that time than by reading a book? One such book to pass the time is “More Information than You Require”

by John Hodgman, also known as “The PC Guy” from those Apple commercials.

This is a book that will definitely keep you entertained.

“More Information than You Require” is a sequel to Hodgman’s first book “The Area of My Expertise.” So similar in style and writing are these books that the second book picks up in page numbers where the first book left off. But it is not necessary to read the first one in order to enjoy the second. The book reads as a memoir/book of random facts where the author lists everything that he knows.

This is where the similarities end. In this

photo courtesy attheecho.com

by Andrew Salomon

John Hodgman is known as a correspondant on “The Daily Show.” His book, “More Information Than You Require“ is random and fun.

book, Hodgman says that mole-people exist, you can tell the future using a pig’s spleen, and Napoleon was the first person to land on the moon.

This all seems like non-sequitur fun, but there is also a subtle satire here. Hodgman is poking fun at writers who just write books filled with useless tidbits and information (there seems to be a lot of that now).

So, he decides to do that but only include the most ridiculous and fake facts out there.

Hodgman also pokes fun at egotistical celebrities and pundits by portraying himself as a pseudo-intellectual. He considers his first book as a volume of “complete world knowledge” and devotes a whole chapter to what he will do with his large fortune (build a dolphin sanctuary, build space stations, and make a film from the old television show “Brisco County, Jr.”).

So, whether you want some cryptic and veiled satire, or you just want to hear the exploits of Elvis Presley the Time Cop, pick up “More Information than You Require”

by John Hodgman. It’s the perfect way to pass the time in a nice, warm bed.

11

COMMENTARY

Ex-critic turned vegetarian founder Ingrid Newkirk. I was unassumingly flipping through the pages, sifting through articles about election predictions and new skyscraper technology when I found this.

Now even I, a tree-hugging, animal-loving, self-proclaimed vegetarian teenager, think PETA and its tactics for protest are odd and inappropriate. I’m not one for ruining fur jackets coming out of award ceremonies or gruesome displays of objection outside of KFC. But reading through Newkirk’s interview, I came across one statement that blew me away: “Calves are taken away from their mothers and used for veal. We drink the milk meant for those little calves.” We take the baby calves away from their mothers and eat them as though we don’t have any other options for food. And then, after we have eaten veal unnecessarily, we down it with the milk that the mother cow intended to use to feed the growing baby calf. Doesn’t there seem to be something wrong with that?

I’m not trying to change your eating habits or shame you for eating the way you do.

Rather I just want you to think about it. Maybe you’ll find yourself changing one day too.

Comic by Leah Artwick

by Anne Wave Three years ago, I would have been the first person to tell you that vegetarians are all radicals, psychos, and crazies. How could I live without chicken sandwiches and pepperoni pizza? And besides, eating vegetarian is hard because there aren’t many options out there.

Right? Well, no, I was wrong.

Hi, my name is Anne and I’m a vegetarian.

Thanksgiving morning of 2006, my mother took my family and me to meet John Pierre, a world-famous nutritionist, personal trainer, and vegan. He told us of his ways and his proposition for us as a family. I took everything he said with me, and quickly left. The whole idea freaked me out – like I said, I thought all those kinds of people were radically strange.

But months later, I found myself convinced by his argument and ready to give it a whirl. So I did. I declared to myself that I would no longer eat meat and I never turned back.

Ever since then, I never thought of it as a decision I made – it was a rule I made that I didn’t dwell on but strictly followed. But then a few months ago, “Time” magazine interviewed People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals co-

What do you think teachers do on Collab. Days?

FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

“Have huge parties.”

-Eric Schmeisser ‘12

“Have breakfast in the cafeteria.”

-Liz Hankins ’09

“Drink coffee from Starbucks.”

-Katie O’Connor ‘10

“Go out for breakfast with their colleagues.”

-Alex Romano ‘10

12

COMMENTARY FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

Auto-tune proves off-key DTV Switch

by Stephanie Bergren In this day and age, technology rules all aspects of life. Call me old-fashioned, but I think technology interferes with modern music too much.

Microphones? Good. Amps? Good.

Sibelius and Finale? Good. Mixing boards?

Good. Electric instruments? Good. Pitch correction? Bad, very bad.

As a musically inclined person, I like to hear things that are in tune. I have a problem with popular music as a whole because I think its only purpose is to be catchy. However, the overuse of modern technology is appalling.

Generally, the difference between a corrected voice and a regular voice is small to an untrained ear. I completely understand that some artists do this for effect (ie; Kanye West, “Heartless”), but the other artists, the ones that are known for singing, use this technology to fool their fans. In the end, these artists get money for tricking the public into thinking they can sing.

Granted, most people probably don’t care about how the music they listen to is created and if it’s doctored, but any self-respecting musician should. I understand how difficult it is to stay in tune one-hundred percent of the time, and it makes me respect artists who at least try themselves and don’t sell out to make it easier

on themselves. Actually, I would rather take a slightly out-of-tune singer (I have my limits) who puts his entire soul into his music than a “corrected” pop singer.

Music is a form of art. Top 40 artists sometimes fail to realize that music is a form of expression, not of a robot. Some of the best music, as in music that has stood the test of time, is off key. The Beatles were not perfectly in tune, but everyone loves them. Our society thinks that perfect pitch equals good music, but it usually equals false advertising in popular music.

Recently in “Time” magazine, Josh Tyrangiel talked about Auto-tune, “a downloadable studio trick that can take a vocal and instantly nudge it onto the proper note or move it to the correct pitch.” Auto-Tune uses mathematical formulas to change pitches. As an übergeek, I think using math to solve real-life problems is infinitely cool, but people who are paid millions of dollars to sing off-key and trick fans doesn’t sit well with me (though it would be another thing if they created the software to fix themselves).

Otherwise it just seems like these “artists” have little talent.

As far as I’m concerned, pitch correction is like Milli Vanilli and for those of you who do not understand the obscure ‘90s reference, trust me, it is not good.

Jim Hendry signs cause a ruckus

by Marissa Duric To Park Ridge officials and citizens alike, the appearance of “Honorary Jim Hendry Way” signs are proving to be a complete mystery. These brown, rectangular signs are posted at the intersection of Prospect Avenue, Touhy Avenue and Northwest Hwy. Instead of the usual pomp and circumstance that would follow such an honor, there was general sense confusion amongst Park Ridgians. Wayne Zingsheim, Park Ridge director of public works claims, “They just appeared out of nowhere.”

However, once some phone calls were made to the Illinois Department of Transportation, Zingsheim maintained that the signs came from an “executive order from the governor’s office.”

However innocent this mix-up may seem, further investigation proves that the signs were posted just days before the city was expected to vote on a measure that would ban the city from creating such honorary streets. While the state never broke a law, they displayed a clear disregard for the city’s power. When a city

honors an individual in such a manner, it is a reflection upon that city. The city is saying that they believe this individual is of extraordinary character, has surpassed insurmountable odds and/or achieved unbelievable things. Hendry, however, does not fit even one of those descriptions. Consequently, Park Ridge appears to be a city with questionable character and a seemingly clueless system of government. This unauthorized action is not only a threat to our city’s control over its own affairs, but it could also be proof of a large campaign donation to former Governor Blagojevich.The combination of a rather random honoree, timing, and the former Governor’s long-standing record of corruption makes for rather suspicious circumstances. I will be the first to admit that I take public displays of Cubbie pride where I can get them, but I think the only logical step is to notify the state that if the signs are not removed, they will be taken down by the city.

This is the only way to avoid a tainted reputation of obliviousness, corruption and the general lack of a backone.

by Anthony Eugenis On January 29, the Senate passed a bill to delay the switch of DTV to June 12 of this year.

On February 4, the House passed it as well. As of press time, President Obama has not signed this bill, but he is expected to, as he mentioned that he supports the delay.

It is not clear to many whether the DTV delay is such a good idea. It does give people more time to get coupons and buy converter boxes, but those people have already had a year to get a box.

For those that have not seen the DTV ads showing the shocked family watching their TV screen go to static, or don’t know much about the switch to DTV, here is an explanation: DTV stands for Digital Television. What will happen is all shows will stop broadcasting in analog and will switch to digital. Digital signals have better picture, better sound, and provide more channels. This is a great advance for technology in the U.S., a country that has been lately lagging behind other countries in that category.

If you have cable or satellite TV, you will be unaffected. But if you get TV from “rabbit ears” or a “rooftop antenna,” you will need to buy a converter box. Converter boxes run from $60-$90. In 2007, to aid the people, the government began sending out coupons for people to buy converter boxes. These coupons were worth $40 and were given to those who asked for them. Unfortunately, the coupon stash was exhausted a few months ago, and now four million people are on a waiting list.

One question arises: Should the government be handing out these coupons? DTV is just entertainment, which is not exactly the government’s number one priority. Besides, they’ve already given us Blagojevich to keep us pacified. $635 million, out of the $800 billion proposed stimulus package, is put aside for more coupons. That money should definitely be put somewhere else. Enough money has been spent on these coupons, and it’s been known for years that a DTV switch was coming. All of those people had more than a year to get a converter box. If they couldn’t buy it in that first year, how could they be expected to in four months?

Still, Congress voted to wait, so now we must. It’s just surprising to see that they would delay something that the country knew well in advance. So now America will have to wait for the switch—but luckily we still have “The Office” to entertain us.

13

COMMENTARY FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

A somber farewell to Blagojevich through his private Chicago residence, removing and confiscating such things as his beloved “Football,” the special case where Blagojevich carries his special hairbrush (and yes, it’s named after the nuclear launch code package that the

Just thinking about these things brings a tear to the eye of any self-appreciating critic; this In a not-so-surprising turn of events, the veritable goldmine of material is packing his Illinois Senate voted on Thursday, January 29 bag and leaving the scene of Illinois politics to impeach former Governor Rod Blagojevich. forever, since the Senate has barred him from Even less surprising was the holding any political office in stunning margin by which he Illinois for the remainder of his was impeached by; a vote of 59-0 life. However, despite the somber with no members absent. At the and rather swift manner with same time the Senate lined up to, which he has been thrown out of metaphorically, give Blago (as he office, Blagojevich is going out had come to be “affectionately” kicking and screaming. Thank referred to) a good kick out the the stars for it too, or else he door, it also inspired a moment of might have kept some shred of reflection. dignity and those of us who get For critics and comedic our chuckles by ridiculing others wannabes (myself included), it would feel somewhat bad about was almost a sorrowful moment; making fun of him. the Illinois governor’s office had Much like Sarah Palin, Rod become a gigantic gubernatorial Blagojevich is going down gift from heaven, as far as making cursing everyone he worked jokes and writing scathing reviews with as the instruments of his was concerned. Also, with the loss demise. Thankfully, also much of such famous targets as former like Sarah Palin, he doesn’t appear photo courtesy of the Boston Globe president George W. Bush, Alaska Blagojevich on “The Late Show” with David Letterman. His most recent to be leaving the center stage governor Sarah Palin and Senator any time soon, and will continue blunder: saying one of Letterman’s jokes just “wasn’t that funny.”

McCain, the critics of America’s to hold his head up with some political scene were already feeling a bit president hauls around with him), and other misplaced sense of pride as the entire political desperate for ammunition. belongings that were either property of the commentary community parades past to throw In a send-off of fantastic proportions, state or evidence for his impending federal trial their tomatoes at him.

Blagojevich’s impeachment trial was followed which, in all predictable scenarios, will result Luckily, all the product in his hair can take by a cadre of black SUV’s that began going in federal charges and an indictment. it.

by Xander Tapling

by Erin Klein “American Idol” returned for its muchanticipated eighth season on January 13, and my family, along with 30 million other Americans across the nation, tuned in.

Hosted by Ryan Seacrest, this number-one series allows viewers to share their voice in deciding who will be America’s next singing superstar.

My family have not been avid viewers of America since its first season. We first turned on the show two years ago during the audition week, where thousands of hopefuls from across the nation auditioned for a shot at stardom; between the ridiculous auditions, hilarious comments from the judges and performers with actual talent, we were hooked.

Faithfully, each Tuesday and Wednesday at seven o’clock, my family and I gather in the family room and tune into Fox for the new episode. Though we have practically a halfdozen televisions in our house, we seem to have an unspoken agreement to watch it together.

Though I’ve never really bought into the whole “family game night” thing or believed in the idea of “quality family time,” the two hours each week that we spend watching American “Idol” together have been quite nice; however, the season premiere this year presented me with a somewhat eerie feeling: between listening to my brothers ridicule Simon, watching the tattooed rocker chick with pink/orange hair and the bikini clad contestant sing their hearts out in Phoenix, Arizona, it occurred to me that next year at this time I will be in college and watching “Idol” alone.

With my focus solely on getting into college and the fun that will hopefully entail, I lost sight of all that comes with leaving for school in the fall. Though we seniors will be departing for

new homes, making new friends and having new experiences, we will all be leaving people behind.

Our years in high school, for the most part, are the last full years we spend living at home.

Whether it’s just talking with each other or having dinner as family, maybe it’s time for you to take advantage of this time and make your own “quality family time.” Besides, who knows what might become of it?

Whether your tradition is sitting down and watching “American Idol” with your families, playing a board game or any of the huge amount of other activities out there, it’s important to spend time with them before you go off to college. Why? Well, partially because you don’t want to sit through Mom’s heartwrenching guilt trip when you call for help.

But mainly because you’ll miss them when you’re off at college.

And yes, even if you can’t wait to leave now, you’ll still miss them when you’re off at college and not seeing them everyday.

1 4 The Maine Township “Maineiacs” have a shot at state title SPORTS

FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

By Jimmy Loomos The 2008-2009 regular season might have ended for Maine Township’s hockey team, but the excitement has just begun. As the much anticipated state playoffs begin, the Maine Township Maineiacs look forward to a shot at capturing the state title.

The Maineiacs, led by captains Nick Karpinski, Mike Krecker, and Nick Salemi, all of whom attend Maine South, finished fourth in their division, with a final record of 20-5-1.

a desire to win, so that leads to our success.”

Recent inductee to the Illinois Hockey Hall of Fame, Steve Glickman, coaches the Maineiacs. He said, “We are right where we expected to be—in the top half of the league.”

About his coach, Paso stated, “He spends time on just conditioning, so that helps us keep up with teams.” Having previously played Hockey, Glickman understands the game, and his coaching is a major factor in the Maineiacs success.

Although favored, the Maineiacs trailed 1-0 going into the third and final period. They then stormed back to take the victory 4-1, showing that their emphasis on conditioning was paid off.

Coach Glickman is ready for the playoffs saying, “Now it’s a brand new season in the playoffs, and we expect to take no prisoners and bring home a Championship—nothing less.” Glickman adds, “Our team’s chemistry is a challenge because we have kids from three

Photo Courtesy of Maine Hockey Website

The Junior Varsity and Varsity Maine Township Maineiacs had a very successful season, along with lead scorer Kevin Paso , number 16.

The Maine Township Maineiacs, who are made up of the best Maine South, Maine East, and Maine West hockey players, owe much of their success to their deep team. “Our first line can get a lot of goals, and we have six solid defense men,” says Mike Krecker.

The team also boasts leading scorer and Maine South student Kevin Paso, who just broke the all-time Metro Central points record, with 46 goals and 29 assists in just 25 games.

Paso was also the only player on team that was chosen to be on the All-State team. About all of his accomplishments, Paso says, “My favorite thing about the team is everyone has

The core of the team is the front line containing Kevin Paso, Patrick Lebeau, and Rick Anderson. The three have scored most of the team’s goals and they lead a strong balanced attack. Forward Justin Praznowski, a senior at Maine South, says, “The main key is really our first line because when they play well, everyone else seems to play better.

Credit should also be given to the top-notch defensive line headed by Krecker and Salemi, with help from Nick Barlock and Sean Landers.

Easily the most exciting and arguably the biggest win for the Maineiacs so far came on January 9 against cross-town rival Notre Dame.

different schools. They do share a common love with their passion for playing hockey.”

The team’s chemistry is also strong because the boys have been teammates for so long. “We all get along really well,” says goalie Jack Rice.

This year’s team has met everyone’s expectations, with only a couple losses they would like to get back. They were, however, able to knock off top-finishing Prairie Ridge 5-2.

They placed second overall in the state tournament for teams consisting of more than one school, however their ultimate goal is a State Title.

Player

Number

Position

Class

Player

Number

Position

Class

Richard Anderson

26

Forward

Senior

Nicholas Barlock

15

Defense

Senior

Salvatore Caruso

37

Defense

Senior

Charlie Collins

93

Forward

Junior

Nick Karpinski

17

Forward

Senior

Mike Krecker

41

Defense

Senior

Sean Landers

22

Defense

SP

Pat Lebeau

18

Forward

Junior

Jordan Malin

13

Forward

Senior

Steve Mancuso

7

Forward

Junior

Matt Marcin

28

Defense

Senior

Kevin Norman

9

Forward

Senior

Kevin Paso

16

Forward

Senior

Patrick Praxmarer

3

Forward

Senior

Justin Praznowski

84

Forward

Senior

David Pukszta

29

Forward

Junior

Jack Rice

1

Goal

Senior

Robert Rogowski

21

Defense

SP

John Rooney

27

Forward

SP

Nick Salemi

69

Defense

Senior

Benjamin Wade

33

Goal

SP

Jonathon Weber

19

Defense

Senior

Steven Zimmerman

25

Forward

Senior

Steve Lombardo

99

Forward

Freshman

2008-2009 Maine Township Maineiacs

15 Gymnasts achieve their goals SPORTS

FEBRUARY 20, 2008 • VOL. 45, NO. 6

by Keely Patt In summing up the 2009 girls’ gymnastics season, Varsity gymnast, Sandy Burke, put it best by saying, “This season was awesome. We achieved a lot of the goals we set for ourselves at the start of the season and we all got along so well.”

Her truthful words paint a picture of the teamwork and sheer motivation illustrated by this year’s varsity team.

The season started out with only one minor setback: junior Jamie Brocker’s shoulder was still injured from the previous year, resulting in her inability to compete on the bars.

Injuries plagued the team early on. In late December, junior Sandy Burke sprained her ankle while competing in the Maine West Invite in late December. Unfortunately, this injury stopped her from finishing the rest of

the season.

Senior Nicole Williams suffered bad stress fractures on her shins, preventing her from working out everyday.

In addition, juniors Casey Hinds and Nicole Knuth both injured their ankles. Despite the pain, the girls worked tirelessly, and constantly motivated each other.

Coach Tessa Robinson’s gymnasts did well at Conference, obtaining the place they had expected—fourth. However, the best was yet to come.

The Regional meet at Palatine proved to be the highlight of their season. Overall, the team placed third, an impressive feat.

“We had our best meet at Regionals,” said Burke. “We achieved our goal of 128, which was our highest score of the season.”

The girls preformed extremely well but unfortunately, freshman Allegra Miller, missed

qualifying for Sectionals by 15 hundreths of a point and Williams missed by five hundredths of a point.

The Hawks’ only Sectional qualifier was Brocker. Brocker had strong performances in floor, vault, and beam but just missed qualifying to the state meet. She earned all-conference honors for the third year in a row.

“I had so much fun this season; it’s so enjoyable to coach girls that get along so well together and want to succeed and work hard to become better gymnasts,” Coach Tessa Robinson said.

“I’m sad that Nicole Williams will be leaving us, but am glad that I’ll have all the other girls back with me next year.”

Other members of the Varsity team expected back next year for another impressive season are sophomores Sarah Russell and Kalyna Witkowsky.

Hawkettes fifth in nation

by Bess Featherstone

The nationally-ranked jazz dance was African themed. The girls danced as if they were a tribe being driven by their fears.

“This one has been fun for us because we get to wear bright colorful costumes and we growl

Finishing fifth in the nation for their jazz routine and second in the semi-finals for their kick routine, the varsity Hawkettes are proud of their achievements.

“We set a goal: to get top five in the nation. We did it. I couldn’t be happier with the team’s efforts this year. They’re all awesome dancers. We did the best we’ve ever done in Maine South history. It may sound cliché...but all of our hard work and dedication really has paid off,” said Jackie Graney, Varsity coach.

An instrumental “Smells Like Teen Spirit” was the song of choice for the girls’ kick dance. The team’s captains Audra Walker, Mandy Moore, Rachel Rosales, Christin Ferro, and Kelsey McKenzie, The Varsity Hawkettes pose with their trophy in Orlando after wrote an essay for the rest of the team to read in order to understand what they would be expressing at the audience” said Audra Walker.

The team competed in Orlando, Florida through the choreography. The theme expressed through the dance was a depiction of teen angst where they stayed at the Caribbean Resort. The weekend started with a team dinner, practice, along with good versus evil.

and a 9:30 lights-out policy in order to prepare for their first competitions, in which they advanced to finals with 10 other teams in kick and just missed the cut for jazz finals.

The next morning, the girls competed for the last time and waited until late that night to receive their fifth placement, filling the day watching other teams compete in all areas of dance including pom, jazz, and hip hop. These routines are available for all to watch on www.varsity.com.

Reflecting on the season, Walker stated, “This is my third year going to Nationals, and every year we aim higher than the year before. We really made a name for ourselves this year. I think when the girls go back down to Orlando in the years to come, they’re going to do Photo by Kelsey McKenzie some amazing things. This year has been a great year their competition. for Maine South athletics and clubs, and we’re happy to represent our school amongst the best teams in the Nation. I’m sure I speak for all thirteen of our seniors when I say that this has been one of the best experiences of our lives.”

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

Wrestlers take down the competition

by Olivia Leiby The wrestling team this season is having much success. So far they have won Conference and are undefeated in dual meets in conference.

The Hawks won their seventh CSL title in the new millennium, this is the third year in a row the team has won this title. Still a goal for the team to achieve is winning regionals. If the team were to win regionals it would be the first time in seven years the wrestling team won

both CSL title and regionals. This would be a huge accomplishment for the varsity team. The Hawks would not have been able to achieve all of these things without the support of varsity coach Craig Fallico and assistant coach Dennis McCann. There are also some teammates who help keep the team together as well. Chris Brassell, Colin Baer and Joe Brewster, also known as the killer B’s, have helped the team in many ways. One of their teammates said, “ these guys lead us and set a high standards for

us to meet.” These three teammates are tough competitors on the mat and don’t back down, Chris Brassell is actually undefeated this season so far. With all this success the team expects to have many qualifiers for state as they did last year as well. The Hawks have their sectional meets on February 13 and 14. They have state finals on the 20 and 21 of February. The team is very excited and proud of the success they have had this season. Winning regionals and making it to state would truly be exciting for the team.

Varsity Voices: Maine South athletes speak their minds Who is your favorite superhero?

Dan Passarella

Audra Walker

Matt Perez

What is your favorite type of gum?

Alex Rodriguez is ...

If all the teachers had an arm wrestling competition who would win?

The Flash

Big Red

the greatest baseball player of all time.

Mr. Tumilty

Spiderman

Spearmint

my favorite Cubs player.

Mr. Kaprowski

Batman

Waterme Watermelon Bubblicious

done.

Mr. Kaprowski