Vol 45 senior issue

June 4, 2009

1111 S. DEE ROAD • PARK RIDGE, ILLINOIS 60068

Image created by Bess Featherstone, Erin Klein, and Courtney Vinopal Illustrations created by Leah Artwick

VOL. 45, NO. 10

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VOL. 45, NO. 10

AWARDS

Recognition of Scholarships of the Class of 2009

Applied Arts and Technology Award: Adrian Birylo

Art Award: Trevor Tagge

Business Award: Hiral Pithadia

English Award: Katie Rose Brosnan

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Advocate Lutheran General Hospital—Service League Internship- Thomas Rucker CAN/AM Hockey Group—Academic Scholarship- Alexander Tzortzakis Comcast—Comcast Leaders and Achievers Scholarship- Johanna Norman Daughters of the American Revolution—DAR Good Citizen Award- Johanna Norman Des Plaines Ladies of the Elks—Scholarship- Erin Klein , Amanda Koch, Kathleen Morrisroe, Johanna Norman, Rachel Parker, Kamila Sibiga Gartner Or tho d onti cs, Ltd.—S cholarship- Anne Householder Golden Apple Foundation—Golden Apple Scholar of Illinois- Lauren Vidal Hawkette Booster Board—Hawkette Scholarship- Audra Walker Il linois PTA—L i l lian E. Grover Scholarship- Kathleen Kreisel Illinois Student Assistance Commission—Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship- Erin Klein, Brian Wagner, Robert Porter Kiwanis Club of Park Ridge—Kiwanis Club Noon Scholarship- Anne Householder, Cassie Lee Maine South Mothers’ Scholarship Club— Mothers’ Club Scholarship- Danielle Fritz, Erin Klein, Kelly Mack, Tricia Adreani, John Alviti, Megan Auld, Allison Bende, Thomas Berg, Gianna Bosco, Emma Briars, Katie Brosnan, Jaclyn Burke, Anthony Caccomo, Kathryn Cato, Annie Chung, Anthony DiGiacomo, Jack Dilfer, Monika Dobrowolski, Caitlin Doherty, Winston Douglass, Erin Ellsworth, Elizabeth Featherstone, Stephen Francis, Lauren Grieco, Anne Householder, Kenneth Johnson, Kevin Karrasch, Shui-Sum Lau, Abigal Loiacono, Danielle Maher , Leigh McGinnis, Joanna Miscierwicz, Johanna Norman, Mia Pappalardo, Hiral Pithadia, Robert Porter, Matthew Przekota, Michael San Gabino, Kamila Sibiga, Veronika Stefinka, Sonam Tantuwaya, Brian Wagner, Natalia Wojnarowski National Air Traffic Controllers Association—2009 NATCA Scholarship- Bridget Mischke National Merit Scholarship Program—Commended StudentLeah Artwick, Megan Auld, Leah Barsanti, Thomas Berg, Lisa Daul , Matthew Frank, Robert Juckett, Erin Klein , Patrick Klimmeck, Dora Korpar, Cassie Lee , Megan Maher, Nicole Moersch, Alyssa O’Neil, Gregory Piekos, Robert Porter, Timothy Warnock National Merit Scholarship Program—FinalistElizabeth Clarke, Kyle Hannon , Shui-Sum Lau, Brian

Wagner, Laura Walsh National Merit Scholarship Program—Nat’l Merit Corporation ScholarshipElizabeth Clarke, Brian Wagner Park Ridge Community Church—Eric Nelson ScholarshipKelly Mack Park Ridge Juniors & Foundation— Park Ridge Juniors Scholarship- Monika Dobrowolski, Monika Kasiulis, Erin Klein, Amanda Koch, Abigal Loiacono, Johanna Norman, Shea Parker Park Ridge Panhellenic Club—Panhellenic Scholarship- Erin Klein, Amanda Koch, Johanna Norman, Kamila Sibiga, Courtney Vinopal, Elizabeth Featherstone Park Ridge Presbyterian Church— Ralph J. and Ellen Frost Scholarship- Anne Householder, Michael San Gabino, Laura Sheehan Rosemont Chamber of Commerce—ScholarshipAnne Householder Rotary Club of ChicagoO’Hare—Daniel Dace Memorial ScholarshipAbigail Loiacono Rotary Club of Park Ridge— Rotary Club Scholarship- Kelly Mack Sons of the American Revolution—Good Citizen AwardThomas Rucker Twentieth Centur y Club Foundation—Scholarship- Anne Householder, Amanda Koch, Thomas Rucker , Michael San Gabino United States Air Force Academy—Appointment to the US Air Force Academy- Robert Juckett Western Golf Association—Chick Evans Caddie Scholarship- Matthew D’Souza, Katherine Gembis, Patrick Mirski Women’s Division of Joint Civic Committee of Italian Americans—Academic Achievement Award- Erin Ellsworth Ashland University—Provost’s Scholarship- Brian Heller Augustana College—Biology Scholarship- Mark F a r r e l l Au g u s t a n a C o l l e g e — B u s i n e s s Administration Scholarship- Daniel Kwasigroch Augustana College—Presidential ScholarshipMark Farrell, Daniel Kwasigroch Augustana College—Trustee Award- Daniel Kwasigroch Bellarmine University—Monsignor Treece Scholars Award- Michael Lau Bellarmine University—Multiculturalism Award- Michael Lau Bellarmine University—Out of State GrantMichael Lau Bellarmine University—Residence Hall Grant- Michael Lau Bellarmine University— Tuition Grant- Michael Lau Boston University— Dean’s Scholarship- Emma Briars Bradley University—Bradley University Grant- Natalia Wojnarowski Bradley University—The University Scholarship- Natalia Wojnarowski, Deirdre Smith Carleton College—National Merit Scholarship-

Family/Consumer Sciences Award: Chloe Wells

Foreign Language Award: Lauren Vidal

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Awards

the class of 2009 Elizabeth Clarke Cornell College—Presidential Scholarship- Melissa Ryan Denison University— Founders Scholarship- Courtney Vinopal DePaul University—Scholars Award- Maria Gianakakos DePauw University—Honors Scholar ProgramChristina Gale DePauw University—Trustee Award- Christina Gale DeVry University— DeVr y High School Scholarship- Daniel Wojtas Dominican University—Presidential Scholarship- Nicole Moersch Dominican University—Science Star Scholarship- Nicole Moersch Drake University—Presidential Scholarship- Joseph Orlando, Eric Ryczek, Michael Thornton Drake University—Trustee ScholarshipMichael Thornton Drexel University—Alumni Endorsement Scholarship- Diana Kuritza Drexel University—Legacy Scholarship- Diana Kuritza Drexel University—Trustee Award- Diana Kuritza Elmhurst College—Academic /Music Scholarship- Jonathon Weber, Daniel Glines Illinois State University—Music Merit Award- Anthony DiGiacomo Illinois Wesleyan University— Alumni Scholarship- Brittany Christie Indiana University—Distinction Scholarship- Anthony Caccomo Louisiana State University—Tiger Scholarship- Taylor Campbell Loyola University— Loyola Scholarship- Alexis Gavin, John Solt Loyola University—Trustee Scholarship- David Martin, Kamila Sibiga Marquette University— Business Administration Scholarship- Heinz Schelhammer Marquette University—Ignagius Magis Award- Alexander Morask Marquette University—Ignagius Magis Award- Audra Walker Marquette University—Ignatius Academic Distinction Schol.- Steven Zawila Marquette University—Ignatius Leadership ScholarshipAudra Walker Marquette University—Ignatius Magis Award- Stefan Burke, Elizabeth Featherstone, Stephen Francis, Heinz Schelhammer Marquette University—Ignatius Scholarship for Community Service- Michael Cooney Marquette University— Marquette University Honors Program- Elizabeth Featherstone Milwaukee School of Engineering— Academic Scholarship- Michael Kwasigroch, Mark Wlodarski Roosevelt University—Merit Recognition Scholarship- Mary Ruscitti RoseHulman Institute of Technology—Catapult Scholarship- Gregory Piekos Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology—Merit Scholar Award- Gregory

Piekos Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology— Merit Scholar Award- Mark Wlodarski Saint Louis University—Deans’ Scholarship- Kimberly Kohlndorfer Saint Louis University—Provost Scholarship- Margaux DeChambre, Margaux DeChambre St. Ambrose University—Men’s Soccer Scholarship- Matthew Tucker University of Dallas—Aspiring Scholars Award ProgramWilliam Amorella University of Dayton—Dean’s Merit Scholarship- Robert Feiereisel University of Dayton—Father Chaminade Award- Melissa Wilson, Kelsey Johnson University of Dayton— Scholarship- Suzana Bjelopetrovich University of Illinois - Urbana/Champaign—Eaton ScholarshipJaclyn Burke University of Illinois - Urbana/ Champaign—James Scholar Honors ProgramKathleen Kreisel University of Illinois - Urbana/ Champaign—JM & LC Gregory ScholarshipJaclyn Burke University of Iowa—National Scholars Award- Matthew Burian University of Iowa—National Scholars Award- Mia Pappalardo, Matthew Schueller University of Iowa—Tuition Scholarship- Mia Pappalardo University of Michigan—Dean’s Scholarship- Hiral Pithadia University of Montana—Presidential Leadership Award Scholarship- Kathryn Cato University of Notre Dame—Notre Dame Scholar- Lisa Daul University of South Carolina—Woodrow Honors Program- Johanna Norman University of Southern California—Trustee Scholarship- Zachary Timm University of Texas at Austin—Butler School of Music- Matthew Przekota University of Texas at Austin—Non Resident Tuition ScholarshipMatthew Przekota University of Wisconsin at Madison—Chancellor’s Scholarship- Gabriel Arenas University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee— UWM Scholars Award- Katlin Seibert University of Wisconsin at Parkside—University Scholar Award- Gabrielle Whittinghill Valparaiso University—Illinois Neighbor Grant- Caitlin Doherty Valparaiso University—Presidential Scholarship- Caitlin Doher ty Valparaiso University—Valparaiso University Gift AwardCaitlin Doherty Western Illinois University— NCAA Athletic Scholarship for Basketball- Jaclyn Rieger Wittenberg University—Wittenberg Scholarship- Kelly Mack

Speech/Drama Award: Katie Rose Brosnan

Mathematics Award: Brian Wagner

Music Award: Annie Chung

Physical Education Award: Maris Witry

Social Science Award: Terrence O’Neil

Science Award: Kyle Hannon

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VOL. 45, NO. 10

Military: James Garbossa, Christopher Justice

COLLEGES

Arizona: University of Arizona-Jack Donohue California: University of Southern California-Zachary Timm Colorado: United States Air Force Academy-Robert Juckett University of Colorado Boulder-Matthew Kociuba University of Colorado Denver- Elisa Marszalek Florida: Lynn University-Megan Fessel Rollins College-Jessica Taber University of Miami-Kathleen Morrisroe University of Tampa-Herbert Mueller Georgia: Savannah College of Art & Design-Barbara Stanek Illinois: American Academy of Art-Ralitza Kourteva Augustana College-Joseph Eichberger, Alexandra Babowice, Mallori Kleeman, Daniel Kwasigroch Aveda Institute-Elizabeth Hankins Benedictine University-Carolyn Lagattuta Bradley University-Deirdre Smith, Kevin Weber, Natalia Wojnarowski Chicago Cooking & Hospitality-Morgan Loftus, Brandon Deleon Columbia College-Tyler Bravo, Katherine Giannini, Forest Karner, James Kenneally, Michael Schmalz, Adrien Showalter Nicholas Tumminello, Alex Veneracion, Mary Walley, Jeffrey Dittburner, Anna Lafleur Columbia University-Vincent Deluca Concordia University-Daniel Wardzala Depaul Univeristy-Kaitlin Volkman, Ashley Apa, Alex Baldi, Matthew Bennett, Bartek Bieszczad, Megan Caron, Melissa Cubert, Kelli Doulas, Colleen Gavin, Maria Gianakakos, Michael Gitter, Christine Kochou, Lewis Minaglia, Paulina Nowak, Conrad Richtscheidt, Veronika Stefinka, Rory Ward, Alexa Zajdel, Chelsea Zivkovic Devry University-Daniel Wojtas Dominican University-Thomas Frohm, Kathryn Karkowski, Mika Manalo, Nicole Moersch, Molly Morettes Eastern Illinois University-Ally Brewster, Stefanie Carbone, Amanda Majewski, Angela Micotto, Bridget Mischke, Kristin O’Machel, Nicole Preston, Alexander Terenzio, Kevin Thompson, Samantha

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Williams, Lauren Zitkus Elmhurst College-Jessica Crowl, Marianna Defilippis, Daniel Glines Harper College-Alison Gismondi Harrington College of Design-James Burzynski Illinois Art Institute of Chicago-Cara Previs Illinois Institute of Technology-Adrian Birylo, Brittany Crawford-Purcell, John Kerin, Christopher Schaffer Illinois State University-David Atas, Colin Baer, Katelyn Barabasz, Michael Bartley, Nicole Bertini, Kevin Blowers, Sarah Catalano, Daniel Craig, Justine Delgado, Anthony Digiacomo, Elise Freemon, Danielle Fritz, Eliza Hamer, Chloe Hawkins, Leah Hedrick, Johnathan Jamison, Kevin Karrasch, Kristin Kelly, James Kenevan, Nikola Lukic, Kevin Muszynski, Strahinja Nikolic, Rachel Parker, Shea Parker, Scott Petray, Jessica Rangel, Lauren Runyon, Annie Ryan, Laura Schreiner, Zachary Stimson, Alexandra Szajowski, Kristin Tortorello, Antoinette Viola, Stephanie Volpe, Ashley Widomski, Kristie Wurglitz, Martin Brun Illinois Wesleyan University-Brittany Christie, Frank Marchiori, Daniel Mcnally, Emily Wechter, Katie Brosnan Indiana University-Anthony Caccomo, Jessica Misiorowski Kendall College-Tina Alaimo Kirkwood-Douglas Makowski Knox College-Brittany Wisniewski Loyola University-Arthur Bielecki, Megan Gluchman, Yara Hamwi, Michelle Jaworski, Abigail Loiacono, David Martin, Anthony Pierucci, Kamila Sibiga, John Solt, Alexis Gavin, Jennifer O’Neill, Anna Marie Brodech, Nichole Cabral, Jacqueline Ryan, Ashley Welenc Millikin University-Alexander Leontios, Michelle Micor North Park University-Jessica Aimers, John Mistretta Northeastern Illinois University-Joseph Homik, Alexander Kokoszka, Maria Kolligris, Monzerrat Lagunas, Melissa Ortiz, Michael Finnegan, Robert Lisiecki, Mateusz Zych Northern Illinois University-Joseph De Santis, Andrew Doubek, Ashley Getz, Brendan Harrison, Carlene Louie, Kaitlyn May, Andrew Riis, Jonathan Ross, Monica Skowron, Colleen Wohl Northwestern University-Oriana Kamber, Terrence O’Neill, Robert Porter, Michael San Gabino, Alexander Tapling Oakton Community College-Eric Baker, William Carson, Suzanne Cella, Katherine Czerwionka, Adrian Dabros, Daniel

Desjardins, Erin Disandro, Stephen Dunleavy, Ethan Gillani, Caleb Goad, Teresa Guimond, Dorothy Hartmanowski, Katherine Jobe, Lindsay Joern, Brian Kinell, Michael Krecker, Michael Kula, Rafal Labuda, Joseph Lamb, Ryan Lynn, Lisa Marciniak, Michael Miniscalco, Roberto Molina, Norbert Mroczkowski, Thomas Norden, Samantha Ojeda, David Patterson, Chase Peyton, Constantine Principato, Caitlin Raciborski, Gregory Roames, Thomas Rowan, Iveta Sarieva, Raul Sorbun, Lauren Teresi, Jennifer Williams, Samantha Stevens Olivet Nazarene University-Rafael Agosto Robert Morris-Nicholas Karpinski Roosevelt University-Kendra Corkill, Mary Ruscitti, Katharine Urso Southern Illinois University-Alison Chambers, Christopher Mahoney, Michael McCall, Neil McConvillem, Adam Scheitel, Nathan Kelley The Art Institute Of Schaumburg-Robert Capozzoli Triton College-Cristian Carbone, Tiziana Fiore, Natalie Klemme, Dorothy Maratto, Mercedes Ortiz, Julie Stahl, Giovanni Verdin, Oskar Wielgus University Of Chicago-Dustin Popiel, University Of Illinois Chicago-Arielle Besyk, Alexandra Courtney, Michal Kaczmarek, Kamil Galimski, Gus Giannopoulos, Piotr Kikolski, D’feau Lieu, Richard Mckelvey, Brooke Nelson, Steven Norman, Kevin Pazik, Nicholas Waters, Nicole Williams, Anna Zelkowska University of Illinois Springfield-Benjamin Knitter University of Illinois Urbana-Larissa Bodnar, Gianna Bosco, Jaclyn Burke, Madeleine Cisneros, Lauren Dechambre, Julie Demarke, Mathew D’souza, Matthew Frank, Karl Gaudyn, Justin Heyman, Anne Householder, Patrick Klimmeck, Kathleen Kreisel, Tarah Laffey, Kelly Lamey, Klaudia Liszka, Jonathan Lung, Abigail Miller, Patrick Mirski, Joanna Miscierewicz, Amanda Moore, Christopher Mularczyk, Shehan Mulvihill, Keely Patt, Daniel Passarella, Austin Paulik, Robert Peterson, Claire Ristau, Laura Sheehan, Sonam Tantuwaya, Christina Tanzi, Ryan Tunney, Lauren Vidal, Nicholas Virgilio, Brigid Walsh, Laura Walsh, Steven Wear, Paul Weisheit, Maris Witry Westerm Illinois University-Remington Silverstein, Michelle Apa, Victor Babicz, David Bania, Michael Bargo, Oleksa Bindas, Nicholas Cacciatore, Nicholas Catino, Michael Coglianese, Matthew Cummins, Nikko D’ambrosio, John Fricano,

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Michigan: Central Michigan University-Jaimie Connelly Ferris State University-Robert Hanson Michigan State University-Jonathan Black, Chelsi Burger, Megan Peters Northern Michigan University-Shannon Connell University of Michigan-Hiral Pithadia Western Michigan University-Kevin Paso, Anthony Haduch Minnesota: Carleton College-Elizabeth Clarke Macalester College-Tyler Hanck, Dora Korpar Northwestern College-Rachelle Lechner St. Cloud State University-Christopher Brassell St. Olaf College-Timothy Warnock University of Minnesota-Twin Cities-Allison Bende Missouri: Saint Louis University-Margaux Dechambre, Kimberly Kohlndorfer, Kristin McGuire University of Missouri-Brynnan Baccus, Michael Cummins University of Missouri Columbia-Jordan Malin University of Missouri Columbia-Megan Stevens, Kellie Donahoe, Jacqueline Kotsovos, Aleia Stein, Chelsea Vaccaro Washington University in St. Louis-Leah Barsanti, Zachary Swanson Wentworth Military Academy-Kenneth Johnson Montana: University of Montana-Kathryn Cato New Hampshire: Dartmouth College-Erin Klein New Jersy: Rider University-Stephanie Londono New York: Columbia University-Brian Wagner Cornell University-Thomas Rucker Ohio: Ashland University-Brian Heller Case Western Reserve University-Anthony Labellarte Denison University-Courtney Vinopal Ohio State University-Megan Auld, Chance Kuykendall, Tianna Skordilis, Tasha Domashovetz University Of Dayton-Suzana Bjelopetrovich, Kelsey Johnson, Gregory Kapolnek, Frederick Wilson, Melissa Wilson Wittenberg University-Kelly Mack Pennsylavania: Dickinson College- Devin Beaugureau Drexel University-Diana Kuritza Mercy Hurst Northeast-Bailey Patt Pennsylvania State University-Meghan Gallagher

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University of Pennsylvania-Sam Chwarzynski Rhode Island: Rhode Island School of Design-Leah Artwick South Carolina: University of South Carolina-Johanna Norman Tennessee: Vanderbilt University-Luke Elderkin, Charles Goro, Shui-Sum Lau Texas: University of Dallas-William Amorella University of North Texas-Thomas Berg University of Texas Austin-Matthew Przekota Utah: Brigham Young University-Cassi Lee Wisconsin: Beloit College-Tess Chappell, Kathleen Hansen Carthage College-William Dupont, Vladan Gacanovic, Allison Lestina, Melissa Palka Marquette University-Annie Chung, Michael Cooney, Matthew Dolan, Elizabeth Featherstone, Stephen Francis, Colleen Herrmann, Alexander Morask, James Ruane, Heinz Schelhammer, Audra Walker, Steven Zawila Milwaukee Institute of Art & Design-Trevor Tagge Milwaukee School of Engineering-Winston Douglass, Michael Kwasigroch St. Norbert College-Amanda Hamby, Niki Pappas University of Wisconsin Madison Gabriel Arenas, Olivia Beringer, Susan Berleth, Jennifer Champion,Katherine Eichman, Amanda Koch, Connor Mullen, Amber Nordstrom, Jillian Northfell, Emily Paloian, Lesia Witkowsky, Nicole Zajdel University of Wisconsin Milwaukee- Katlin Seibert University of Wisconsin Whitewater- Emily Epifanio, Zachary Glasebroo University Of Wisconsin Platteville-Daniel Garcea, Robert Carskie University of Wisconsin-Parkside-Gabrielle Whittinghill

Colleges

Shannon Lewensky, Jaclyn Rieger, Matthew Snyder, Frank Speciale, Demosthenis Tingas, Francis Trudeau, Theresa Wendorf Indiana: Ball State University-Amanda Valdez, Chloe Wells Butler University-Erin Ellsworth, Thomas O’grady, Ryan Simpson Depauw University-Christina Gale Indiana University-John Alviti, Erin Barrett, Laura Buskirk, Joseph Calabrese, Christina Coy, Andrea Di Franco, Daniel Evola, Kelly Hernandez, Colleen Keesey, Courtney Kowalski, Danielle Maher, Kelsey Mckenzie, Jessica Mroz, Lindsay Rogers, Corby Ryan, Alexander Stolfo, Kenneth Weber, Peter Engle Purdue University-Tricia Adreani, Nidia Calderon, Kendra Johnston, Robert Larsen, Brian Masuoka, Douglas Schimpf Jr, Andrea Solomon, Alexander Tzortzakis, Phillip Wagner Rose Hulman Institute Of TechnologyMichael Williamson, Gregory Piekos, Mark Wlodarski University of Notre Dame-Lisa Daul, Patrick Johnson Valparaiso University-Caitlin Doherty Iowa: Cornell College-Melissa Ryan Drake University-Joseph Orlando, Eric Ryczek, Michael Thornton Iowa State University-Jack Rice, David Wypych Saint Ambrose University-Alyssa O’Neil, Matthew Tucker University of Iowa-Stephanie Aguilar, Juliann Berzins, Matthew Burian, Brendan Cronin, Juliana Fabiano, Christin Ferro, Ian Friedman, Andrew James, Elizabeth Karabetsos, Jacob Kulpa, Catherine Lamonica, Alexandria Lucas, Leigh Mcginnis, James Novak, Mia Pappalardo, Justin Praznowski, Matthew Schueller, Stephanie Spencer, Nicole Thomas, Sean Tyrrell Kentucky: Bellarmine University-Michael Lau Lousiana: Louisiana State University-Taylor Campbell University of New Orleans- Halloran Massachusetts: Massachusetts Institute of Technology-Kyle Hannon Tufts University-Meagan Maher University of Massachusetts-Patrick Holmes Maine: Bowdoin College-Alexandra Alvarez Maine Maritime Academy-Matthew Whitenack University of Maine-Monika Kasiulis

Brazil: Universidade Rederal Rio De Janeiro-Joao Marcelo Lima Canada: Mcgill Univesity-Selga Muiznieks Poland: Poznan University of Medical SciencesCatherine Olczyk

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Unsung heroes of Megan Auld

Amy Kearney

by Bess Featherstone

by Emma Briars and Kristin McGuire

by Maris Witry

Danielle Fritz is an all-around great person. She is known for being outgoing, funny, and friendly, but an important part of her life is a bit undercover. For many years now, Danielle has dedicated hundreds of hours towards working with children with special needs.

As the current president of Maine South’s chapter of the Best Buddies organization, Danielle puts a lot of effort into planning events for members and their buddies as well as fundraisers for the organization. Whether it is having a pizza party before going to see the school’s current play together or promoting Best Buddies at local shops and restaurants, Danielle is constantly thinking about others and how she can help them.

Danielle is also a member of Maine South’s CEC Club and works for M-NASR (MaineNiles Association of Special Recreation) where she works with a number of different special needs children, building friendships and promoting smiles.

The time that Danielle spends with these different programs greatly affects every student that she comes in contact with. She has the perfect personality in order to sincerely communicate and assist these students.

Danielle has also participated in two of Maine South’s plays, was on Cheerleading for two years, and was on the Soccer Team for a year. It is obvious that she is a well-rounded person who has chosen to focus her attention on what she is most passionate about: special education.

Danielle will be attending Illinois State University next year where she will pursue her work in this field in order to become a special education teacher. Danielle’s enthusiam in the area, together with her ample experience, will make her an unforgettable teacher.

Hurrying through the herds of students in Maine South’s crowded hallways, you may not always have time to recognize every astounding and excellent person who passes by.

Not normally in the spotlight, a friend of mine is one of those students who deserves some recognition. Although she is lacking a cape, cannot fly, and has no nemeses (that I know of), Megan Auld is a true hero.

She may seem quiet at first, but it does not take long to discover Megan’s eccentric personality. She is one of the most intelligent, interesting, and genuine people I know. Megan can quote the entire movie, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, has a sarcastic remark for just about anything, and I’m not sure where I’d be in math right now had it not been for her help before almost every test.

At Maine South, Megan has been a faithful member of the Maine South band and Drum Line. She has participated in Crew, as well as V-show. As a member of Constitution Team, Megan used her vast knowledge and love of history to help take the team to nationals.

Because of her interest in government, Megan was also able to attend a political leadership camp in Washington DC last summer.

Megan has spent countless hours at Have Dreams, an organization centered on helping children with autism. It is with the amount of time and effort that she has put into this organization that her generosity shows.

Usually sporting blue converse and a White Sox shirt, Megan may blend into the crowd.

But this confident, authentic young woman is not someone to be overlooked.

She will be attending Ohio State next year and will undoubtedly succeed in her endeavors. I cannot wait to see what great things Megan will accomplish.

Her laugh is as contagious as they come.

Her loving nature and commitment to school and extra curricular activities are just the beginning of the impact Amy has made on Maine South.

Amy is the type of person that says hi to everyone in the halls. She is outgoing and always willing to lend a helping hand. Over the past four years, she has touched the lives of more people than she will ever know and for that, we will be eternally grateful. As my best friend since Kindergarten, Amy has been impacting my life for much longer than that. I could not ask for a better friend. She is honest, trustworthy, loyal, and I’ve known her longer than my sister. Amy is respected among not only adults but her peers as well. I mean, they all voted to be stranded on a desert island with her; I’d say thats quite the compliment.

Since freshman year, Amy has been involved in all aspects of the school: sports, Hawk Pride leader, Junior Class Council Secretary, CEC club, and many more. She was also this year’s Editor-in-chief of the yearbook, a daunting task that would intimidate most of us but Amy faced it with confidence. Not only is she involved in school but she is also involved in the Mary Seat of Wisdom Youth Group. She was a co-leader of this year’s teen retreat and has participated in countless service projects. The best part about Amy is that she does everything with a smile on her face. Amy is a leader, a teammate, a student, and a friend. For all her effort she deserves a pat on the back.

Next year Amy will be attending the University of Colorado at Boulder. I am confident that she will have no problems adjusting to college and all the new experiences she will have. Her personality and willingness to accept others truly makes her a hero.

UNSUNG HEROES

Danielle Fritz

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the class of 2009 Ken Weber

Bobby Carskie

by Anne Wave

by Colin Baer and Connor Mullen

by Erin Galiger

Google his name and see what shows up.

The first three pages are just the beginning of a laundry-list of accomplishments that he has made as an 18-year old.

Matt Przekota is the definition of a committed high school student. Matt is involved in countless activities at Maine South: he was on varsity Cross Country, Swimming, and Water Polo; he earned a spot on the IMEA All-State Choir his senior year; he was a 2008 State competitor for Cross Country; he was involved in the musicals, both on stage and in the orchestra pit; he is a Senior PE Leader; he was the captain of the Water Polo team this past spring. And despite his impressive, long list of extracurriculars, he has remained a great student who even has a life outside of school.

What is really admirable about Matt is that he has achieved a perfect balance; he juggles being a student, a fine arts performer, and a tri-sport varsity athlete, and he still is a dependable family member and friend. It’s not rare that he will whip out a picture of his newest nephew or ditch his books to lend a hand to someone who needs it. His dedication to all aspects of his busy high school life is remarkable—it would be difficult to find another person who can do what he does.

Even without all of the outside activities, Matt would stand out. His face is always gleaming with a genuine smile when he says hello. His personality shines, and his neverfleeting kindness and sense of humor mark him a great pal to have.

This fall, Matt will attend the University of Texas at Austin to study music and further expand his talents in the performing arts.

I am so proud to see his efforts being recognized. Congratulations, Matt – Texas is lucky to have you.

There are about 650 kids in this year’s graduating class of 2009, and almost every one of them knows who Ken Weber is. Whether it’s through his success in wrestling, dedication to Eagle Scouts, participation in Lacrosse, or just his effort in class at school, it’s hard to forget him.

I first met Ken in the wrestling room at Maine South. He wasn’t the most technical wrestler, but you could always count on a big move from “Spider Webs.”

This year, he earned his apot as a dedicated varsity starter and was honored by receiving the prestigious Coaches Award. He also was my drill partner for most of the season, and we forged a bond that can only be made between two people that beat each other up on a regular basis. He is a leader both on the mat and in everything that he commits himself to.

Ken always offers his opinion, and people always show respect and appreciation to what he has to say. He is also one of the most genuinely nice and caring people I have ever met.

Because of his considerate personality, Ken is always offering suggestions to help others improve, another example of his selfless attitude. He has a great sense of humor, and we would always get in trouble during Accelerated Physics for laughing during class.

Ken will be attending the University of Indiana at Bloomington next year, where he is bound to accomplish many of his life goals and make a positive impact on both the school and the student body. Ken’s positive approach to life will help him pin and overcome any obstacle.

I am honored to be one of Kenny’s friends and I am sure he will succeed at whatever he does in life. Good luck, Ken, and I wish you the best in all that you do.

There have been some unsung heroes in Maine South’s past that have done their duty without complaint; Bobby Carskie is not that kind of hero. If you’ve ever worked with him or ran around with him in high socks on the soccer field; you have probably experienced his signature hyena cackle or maniacal demeanor. Despite all of this, you better hope that you are on good terms with him because he is the one who built the 20-foot that you might have seen during the musical.

Something also has to be said about a man who won’t forget a thing for years. Trust me: Once I threw a drill at him, he continues to bring it up 850 days later. Like all of this, he has kept us entertained with his own brand of comic relief while he built everything from a one foot house to a very complex “poof.”

That round couch has been and still is a landmark in the back stage of the Maine South auditorium. Through the past three years, the people who work backstage rarely saw Bobby.

He was always working on something; arriving to crew first and always leaving last. Carskie rarely got any credit for it.

Probably the most important thing to know about Bobby Carskie is that he will be loyal to you until the end. When you are feeling awful, he’ll make inappropriate comments that cause instant, “What did you just say?” which are always followed with laughter. He will be there on a serious note as well, always looking out for your best interests.

Bobby has the ability of bringing a smile to a face no matter how filthy you feel for laughing at such outrageous jokes. He has shown much dedication to the Fine Arts during his time at Maine South. University of Wisconsin-Platteville will be a completely changed school with Carskie attending next year.

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Unsung Heroes

Matt Przekota

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MEMORIES

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Memories

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VOL. 45, NO. 10

“Seeing dedicated fans at baseball games.”

-Peter Engle

“3 Fire Drills in a Row!”

“Starting a Christian Club at Maine South, something I never imagined, to take leadership in and fulfill the responsibilities.”

-Annie Chung

-Ceci LaMonica

“Going to Champaign and getting first in state.

Undefeated.”

“Going on the P.E. leader field trip.”

-Nellie Maher

MEMORIES

-Brandon DeLeon

“Bomb Threat 09.”

-Dave Martin

“Junior year, the first day of school. My friend and I were walking into school and it had been raining out and as soon as we took one step into MS we completely wiped out and a bunch of people saw... The start of a great year!”

“Winning Conference.”

-Ryan Lynn

“pulling knives out of my friends’ backs.”

-Nick Virgillo

-Tricia Adreani

“Life Lessons by Andy Trenkle.”

-Chloe Hawkins

“Rushing the fields after some of the football games.”

-Shannon Lewensky

“Watching sophmores fight in the cafeteria while eating my lunch.”

-Alex Tzortzakis

“Doing absolutely nothing in all of my classes and having fun in every single one.”

-Jim Kenevan

“Rain Day!” -Nicole Bertini

-Nicole Thomas

“Jeffrey Downing!

“Going down to the state Enough said.” game and watching the Hawks win.”

-Joanna Miscerewicz

-Elila Hamer

“Cheering at the state game.”

“Period 8 Trig/Stats Class! Boxplot it!”

-Bianca Vallone & Kate Kreisel

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“Water fight in Italian!”

-Lindsay Rogers

VOL. 45, NO. 10

SENIOR ISSUE

Some sound advice from a veteran slacker My advice for those who have more years in high school left is to keep your goals in mind when you are setting priorities. I wanted to go to a prestigious college and I am. Maybe not as prestigious as some other universities but Illinois fits my goals and aspirations in life. The plus side is that I get to go to a prestigious school but also got to uphold my priorities of friends and family through high school, and I will continue to do so when I get to college.

There may be some students who slaved over an open book and enjoyed the experience of doing so. I have no idea how someone could enjoy that, but hey, to them I say, “whatever floats your boat.”

Because I decided that OK grades were not the end of the world, I can walk away with exp eriences instead of the “achievement” of a high GPA. Sure, a 4.96 looks great, but when the dust settles, I think I won.

with people I love and allowed a few others to enter my life. I’ll always remember the Ho-ho that was smushed behind the passenger seat mirror, a kid named Woulds who taught me how to tell a lie, the nights with constitu-

ing. It goes to show that life isn’t perfect. And if life isn’t perfect, why do I have to be?

My friend asked again what I’m going to do in the future. I smiled at his question and was happy to reply with three easy words: I don’t know.

To be given a mere eighteen years to figure out what I am to do with the remaining eighty-two seems crazy. Who knows what is going to hapEditor pen? Maybe I’ll travel the world. Maybe I’ll become the first woman president.

But then again, maybe I’ll die tomorrow.

If my eighth grade teacher were to ask me that same question again, four years later, I still might raise my hand. However, that question was the defining moment in beginning to see who I am—something more important that who I might become.

This is not to say that their hard work hasn’t paid off at all. Some are going to MIT, Northwestern, and other schools that required a lengthy resume. Other work horses finished high school in the same boat as those who decided to enjoy their lives and take grades

My teacher in eighth grade instructed us students to raise our hands if there was a quality we would like to change about ourselves. It came as no shock that everyone’s hand hesitantly went up in the air. She scolded us, saying that not a single hand should be raised. “You are going to have to live with you for the rest of your life, and since life is much easier to spend living with people you love, you might as well learn to love yourself.”

The other day I went out to lunch with an old friend. He asked how I have been doing and where I was headed in the future.

I told him all about how I am a senior and going off to college soon.

“I’m pretty much done with high school,” I said. Then I stopped and thought: I’m pretty much done with high school. I remember as a kid wondering what high school would actually be like. It seems nearly impossible

that now all of it is over.

Reflecting back on my high school career, I realize I haven’t fulfilled any of the goals I set out to accomplish. Not one. I wanted to break a school record.

I wanted to star in the musical.

I wanted a 36 on the ACT. I wanted to be homecoming queen.

I wanted to be number one in the class.

To cut my long list short, I wanted everything. However, just because I seemingly accomplished nothing doesn’t mean I’m leaving empty-handed.

For one, my best friend who came over after kindergarten one day to sword fight still comes over today to play the same game. Another childhood friend, one who threw the bracelet I made for her off a pier in second grade, will forever be in my speed dial.

High school surrounded me

Steven Wear

Something creative, and possibly witty

Commentaries

What warms my hear t is that while my grades and extracurriculars were good, there are plenty of seniors that are going to U of I who slaved to get grades far better than mine, and yet get the same reward as I do.

I’m not trying to be mean, but there are many things to learn from this situation.

You should enjoy life by doing what you want to do, and not what you think others want you to Entertainment do. The easy thing to do Editor in high school was to do decide to work extremely hard regardless of what a little less seriously. I was one of you wanted to do in life or where those students who decided not you wanted to go to college. to completely slack off or work to Perhaps having experiences as the point of psychological break opposed to straights A’s in high down; I chose to take it easy and school is the better way to go in have an enjoyable high school the long run. Experiences are experience. I am going to U of I valuable until Alzheimer’s and with countless other Maine South senility kick in; high school A’s are worthy until graduation. alum.

The end of senior year is when all is revealed.

Up until May 1, when college attendance was determined, the goal of education was to get into college. Elementary school was to teach you how to exist in a human fashion; to prevent children from turning into feral little apes and to form them into proper human beings. Junior high was meant to prepare us for high school; high school, for college.

Now existing in the transition between our lives as we know them, to the lives we will live through college and beyond, seniors are in purgatory where they show who they truly are.

Seniors who have always been diligent in their studying and pursuit of grades now are like fish out of water; their place no longer exists. And it’s hilarious.

Lesia Witkowsky Sports

tion team, the cupcake fight during basketball, the homecomings that never went right, the laughs that made me cry and pee at the same time, and how much owls love ice cream.

It seems like an odd trend that the memories I’ll remember most from high school all stemmed from something strange happen-

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SENIOR ISSUE

VOL. 45, NO. 10

Looking ahead, but treasuring the past

I

COMMENTARIES

t was a brisk Friday afternoon, just this past October. I was driving home from school, playing my music at a pretty decent volume, when I had a very staggering epiphany.

I drive this metallicgreen 1998 Pontiac Grand Prix, in case you’re unfamiliar with my ride. I happened to be going down Fairview, the street I live on, about a block or two away from my house, following behind a big yellow school bus that likely departed from Roosevelt Elementary not ten minutes earlier.

Right as I’m about to reach my block, the bus pulls to a complete stop, opens its’ side doors and begins flashing its’ red stop lights.

On any other day, this would have infuriated me; if you know me, you know I’m not the most patient person on this planet,

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driver/passengers, hoping to illicit any kind of response.

So, of course, I satisfied that craving for them. I waved back, I saluted them, I gave them the reactions they were hoping for, and they looked pleased afterwards.

The bus then pulled away, leaving me to drive the remaining third of a block to get Entertainment to my house. It wasn’t Editor until I pulled into my driveway and took the keys out of my car that I realized the sheer gravity of the what happened next: As I sat there, listening to moment that just transpired.

It hit me like a rock: That my music in my metallic-green Grand Prix, the kids at the back used to be me, sitting in the back of the bus started to frantically of that bus, waving to random drivers behind me. wave at me.

It wasn’t until that moment Anyone who has ever ridden an elementary school bus as a that I knew the vast depth and little kid knows this game. When scope of what I’ve accomplished sitting at the back of the bus, so far in life. All my memories, whenever a car pulls up behind spanning from infancy to my the bus, you wave hello at the Roosevelt years, to Lincoln, and and waiting behind a bus wasn’t exactly on top of my to-do list for the day. But it was a nice day, and I was in a peaceful mindset, so I chose to wait.

Now, the interesting part is

Thomas Berg

then finally to Maine South, flooded my consciousness and reminded me that I’ve been through a lot in my time in Park Ridge, Illinois.

These past thirteen years in the Park Ridge school system have taught me not only English and arithmetic, but who I am, and who I want to be, and I thank every one I’ve met in this time for that opportunity to shape my life.

But, if anything, those kids on the school bus made me realize I’m ready to move on. In actuality, they made me realize that I didn’t miss being on that school bus, stuck behind the glass, helplessly waving to the outside world. I’m glad to be in the car outside. I’m out there making my own future, writing my own history, leaving my mark on the world, and the school bus prepared me well for that. Sure, it was fun while it lasted, but it’s time to drive on to bigger and better things.

VOL. 45, NO. 10

SENIOR ISSUE

The Zen art of avoiding stress in school Like many senior commentaries before mine, I will continue to instill a very important piece of advice: relax. Some students have mastered this technique of taking a nonchalant approach to their school work; however, I am directing this advice to students like myself. Students whose schedule through high school is drenched with AP and Accelerated classes.

Students who spend more hours studying than they do sleeping.

Students whose parents don’t have to tell them to do homework, but rather try to get them to take a break. Students who put schoolwork above all else.

Now that senioritis has hit me like a freight train, I look back on high school and one of my biggest regrets is stressing so much about

school and trying so hard. I lost track of what is really important: friends, family, and doing what you’re passionate about. When I reflect on high school in a few

the harder it will be. Once you find yourself all settled in, the ACT comes your way and before you know it, you are mailing out college applications. However, no matter what comes along in high school, take it easy and don’t stress.

There is no way to study for the ACT, and freaking out will not help Sports Editor your score. As far as college, keep your options open; you never know what is coming years, I’m not going to remember up. Personally, I applied to nine what I got on my Chapter 10 math colleges and had my decision test sophomore year, rather I’m made for me by December 15. going to remember all the fun A year ago, I would have never times I had. High school is not been able to predict what I would easy and we often find ourselves be doing in the fall of 2009, feeling trapped. Not to rain on but now I could not be happier anyone’s parade, but the further about my future. More important you go through Maine South, than finding a college is finding

Patrick Mirski

something that you are passionate about. Be open, take new classes, try new things, find something you love to do and follow it. If you find that one thing that you want to do, it does not matter where you go to college, as long as you keep following your dream, things will work out. Believe it or not, things ALWAYS turn out the way they should. If you are not accepted into a college, think of it as a good thing; that school is crossing itself off of your list for you; they think that you will not be happy at this school. They are making your decision easier, and saving you from going to a place where you may not fit in socially or academically.

The main thing to take away from my rambling is that you can work hard but also have fun. I’m not advising students to slack off; I am simply advising to not let school dominate your life. Take it easy, and live your life.

If my high school career were a fairy tale, my commentary would go something like this: “Courtney is amazed at how effortless the past four years have been. It seems that she blinked, and suddenly senior year was upon her. Amazingly, high school presented hardly any challenges for our heroine—she was one of those students who embraced challenge with a courageous mind, and seemed to succeed in whatever she did.

“Courtney was pleased with her achievements, and her attainment of a kindhearted, dashing, British exchange student who was loosely affiliated with the royal family. As he talked to her lovingly with that faint accent, they rode off into the sunset, and Courtney felt no fear of the future whatsoever.”

A more realistic tale might sound different: “Courtney is tired. Very tired. Although many high school students remark on how fast the time seems to go,

Courtney feels that four years was quite a long time, especially considering all the hours she spent awake when she should have been sleeping.

“Courtney is ready. Ready to leave and take in three glorious months of summer.

Ready to meet new people, to travel, to explore. In other words, she is ready to be done with high school. And yet, she is anxious.

She worries about college life—roommates, meningitis, and bad food.

“Nevertheless, Courtney has grown quite restless in the past few months, and can’t help but wonder, ‘So this was it? This was high school?’ It seems that after four long years, the end of high school is quite anticlimactic. Sure, some of it has been amusing, and

interesting, and exciting, but much of it has been…high school. So, contemplating her future and her past, Courtney sits down at her computer to think of something meaningful to say to future Maine South Seniors—and cannot think

daydream your own personal high school fairy tale.

You can also make high school as fun as possible, which is something I wish I had been better at. Try to find fun wherever you go—skip through the halls; sing the answer to your math homework at the top of your lungs; stick it to the man (at least once); spend one day in lounge where you actually lounge; pretend Editor-in-Chief you’re a secret agent that lurks around the halls, trying to complete a dangerous mission for Mr. Claypool. of anything. The end.”

In short, always remember that I was seriously considering high school (much to my dismay) ending this article with that has never been and will never be declarative statement, but felt a fairy tale. that I could think of at least one Even though Maine South will parting sentiment—school, in give you a top-notch education, general, is whatever you make it’s not going to do you any favors of it. If you want, you can make in the fun department…you have high school miserable. You can to figure that out for yourself.

Commentaries

Life as a fairy tale proves unfulfilling

Courtney Vinopal

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VOL. 45, NO. 10

A toast to Maine South teachers

COMMENTARIES

As the people who know me will probably say, I have had a very Dr. House-ian approach to dealing with people since I was a freshman. At first, I had a few minute fears that this would alienate me as a person, but over time, I found a group of friends who appreciated and complemented this humor in their own ways.

But while these friends were important to me in my years here, there were more vital ones that go unremembered in the private jokes, stay mute in the roaring laughter and are miles away once you walk out of the building: the teachers.

Shocking, no? Hear me out on this one. Yes, everyone complains about their teachers for one reason or another and every student in the world has had a run in with

the infamous “evil teacher,” but most teachers are sometimes entirely underestimated in the positive influence they can have on your life. They assign work, give tests, report grades, so, by

tired of having rules added every week.

The problem is that that’s where our consideration of them always ends. Few are the students (me included) that feel as though they can talk to a teacher like a friend, or, in some cases, like a parent.

However, sometimes the situation shifts ever so slightly and the Editor relationship quickly follows. Change the setting and you see a teacher as more than that; they transcend that role and can become a key facet in your life, even if they only say one thing that forever changes your perspective on yourself. I can say from experience that there is no more humbling an experience than to have a teacher say, after shaking your hand, that they value you as a colleague more than a student.

The point I’m trying to make here is that, over four years of

Xander Tapling Commentary

nature, we despise them. But let’s take a moment to look beyond these conflicts.

Ever had one of those teachers that “got” you? They were able to understand your moods, realize what kind of attention you needed, and just got along with you. These teachers weren’t thought of as just teachers, but instead as cool adults, people who understood that teens are

enduring batteries of tests that occur more often than most people get medication, you begin to appreciate things that didn’t occur to you before. At Maine South, we have teachers that are a breed apart and a class above those at other schools. Not only do they take an interest in their students, but they also dress up like Power Rangers (props to Mr. Fallico) and form faculty drum lines.

These little things may seem utterly ridiculous now, but tell me about one college or university that has a staff so willing to put itself out there for the sake of the students? Every college will advertise their highly accessible faculty, but do you get to know every one of your teachers? The answer is no.

Here’s to the teachers.

Without them, four years would be impossible to imagine. As the cliche goes (apologies to Mr. Parrilli): you can’t live with them, and you can’t live without them.

Four years of school, a lifetime of friends I never thought that high school would go by this fast. The four, full years that I once had in front of me, are now almost past and I find myself in the same position I was at eighth grade graduation: eager and ready to move on.

Although summer and college are the main things on my mind right now, as I can’t even imagine spending another year at Maine South, it’s going to be hard to let go. This school is its own community that I have grown to love every part of: my friends, my teachers, the activities I’ve done, and our school’s pride.

Saying goodbye to all that I have become comfortable with is going to be the hardest part about going away to college. For me, there will no longer be the group of ten girls that I meet with every day before school and hang out with every night of the

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weekends.

There will be no more fall football games, lounges, and no more of the hundreds of people I have spent my life with up until this point. Leaving high school will be leaving my comfort zone, and although I feel ready, I’m also afraid.

When I think about high school in general, the first thing that comes to mind is my friends.

For the past four years (and more for some) my group of friends has become family. As cheesy as it sounds, they are my sisters.

No one knows me better or spends more time with me than they do and not having them within a five block radius anymore is going to take some

getting used to. So, I want to say thank you. Thank you to Carolyn, Audra, Lisa, Nicole, Liz, Danielle, Lauren, Margaux, Shannon, and Caroline. Without each and every one of you, I would be lost.

Not having you all with me

mean ‘stanky legg’), so the “Clean Teens” will forever remain in my heart.

Maine South has provided me with the best four years of my life so far, years I will surely never forget. For those of you with time left at this school, treasure it. The education you receive and the friends that you make will follow you, so make the most of them before the short years disappear.

Editor-in-Chief But, if for some reason high school is not all that you hoped it would be, there are during those first few weeks next plenty of years and opportunities year is going to be intimidating, available beyond Maine South but visits and weekends home that are awaiting you. will be remedies for that.

All of us are now going on to I know that no one I meet fulfill our own separate dreams. will ever be able to fill the shoes In my case, Marquette holds the that you all have for me (even if future and I am so ready to see they do ‘lean like a chola’ or do a what it has in store for me.

Bess Featherstone

VOL. 45, NO. 10

SENIOR ISSUE

Ten things to do before turning 18 cultures go, we seem to become a bit more accepting of things unfamiliar to us.

3) Go to the party you’re not sure you should; life is all about rolling the proverbial dice, high school in particular. I, personally, would rather blindly roll, taking the results as they come instead of meekly sitting off to the side and skipping my turn. A close friend of mine lives by the motto “I’d rather experience life rather than letting chances pass me by and spend my time wondering about what I’m missing out on”; true, attending a function you might deem as “potentially awkward” could be a bit unnerving, but I’d personally rather go and experience the “awkwardness” instead of sitting at home torturing myself about whether I should have attended or not.

4) Try a new sport; to me, this is one of the more obvious tips. High school is really the last time most of us have the opportunity to try different fields of athletics. Whether if it’s the love of the sport, the drive to get in shape, or a venue to meet new people, giving sports a try is

It has slowly been sinking in that this year will finally mark the end to my high school years.

Though I have been looking forward to the close of this chapter for much of my high school career, the idea of saying goodbye to my good friends does anything but fill me with excitement.

D u r i ng my fou r years as a high school student I have taken a lot of classes, had a lot of experiences—some good, some bad—and learned a lot of valuable life lessons.

The most valuable lesson that I have learned in my life so far, however, did not come to me in the form of a classroom activity

during these four years of high school, or middle school or even elementary school.

The lesson I treasure most came to me as a preschooler in

to do. You may surprise yourselfyour family may be cooler than you think; I don’t know about you, but I’d like to be missed.

8) Do your homework; I vowed I wouldn’t put anything academic in this lists of musts, but this is one thing I think many could benefit from. I’m not the best test taker but I always try to do what I’m supposed to; doing homework and the like is really the easiest way to earn points, without having to ace a test.

9) Get a job; learning how to cooperate with News Editor different types of people in situations that can sometimes prove to be out); yes, the general consensus stressful (such as the workplace) is mumbled in the halls during the a skill all should strive to develop. yearly Homecoming Assembly is Having a job teaches responsibility, that staying is a waste of time and improves people skills and forces us many opt to take off a half an hour to appreciate the “value of a buck.”

10) Learn to accept yourself; to early. Really, this seemingly trivial event will end up taking a total me, this one trumps all of the others. of two hours of your four years at If you aren’t satisfied with the person Maine South. I mean, you only have you’ve become thus far, it shows; if you don’t like yourself, college will four in your life, why not attend?

7) Befriend your family; with be an agonizing experience for you. the prospect of leaving for college Why should people waste their in mere months, spending time time getting to know you when you with your family (especially if you don’t think you’re worth getting to have younger siblings) is crucial know? always a must in high school!

5) Read for enjoyment; true, our English department offers us a variety of literature to read, but almost all of it is obligatory. Yes we read the classics, but I believe in reading something that sparks your interest ‘just because.’

6) Try to attend as many school assemblies as you can (hear me

Keely Patt

Lesson learned: accept yourself and others those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

Though I read these words over a dozen years ago, I did not understand the brilliance and absolute truth in them until very recently.

In high school, it’s very difficult not go get caught up on what others think, but obsessing over Editor-in-Chief t he i ns i g n i f i c ant comments of classmates is totally u n n e c e s s a r y. I’ l l the form of a Dr. Seuss book, be the first to admit that for a though the meaning of this wise majority of my time in high man’s words did not have much school, I worried a lot about what significance to me at the time. my peers thought; but as this year Dr. Seuss wrote “Be who you is coming to a close, I am realizing are and say what you feel because that it doesn’t matter whether

Erin Klein

Commentaries

This past September, I reached a major turning point in my life and turned eighteen. I can distinctly remember blowing out those candles, realizing that with the welcoming of adulthood, I was also bidding adieu to my childhood.

While I mourned my loss, I thought of a way high school students could better prepare themselves for the world after, the “adult world” if you will. Thus the “10 things to do before turning 18” was born.

1) Dye your hair a crazy color; true, I may be biased as half of my mane is currently a vibrant shade of sapphire, but even if it’s only temporary, dying one’s hair is an oddly liberating and satisfying experience.

High school, in my mind, is the perfect time for kids to experiment and really discover their true style selves. What better way is there to discover than trying a couple far-out things (like a few magenta streaks perhaps)?

2) Travel outside of the country; I am a firm believer in switching up the daily routine. While the United States is a splendid place to call home, it’s really important to step out of the bubble that is Park Ridge and see how other parts of the world live. I also feel by seeing how other

everyone likes me or not. I have great friends that I will continue to be friends with throughout my life. I know that it’s hard not to care what people think about you, but I have now realized that it’s not worth my time to worry. If other people want to waste their time with trivial nonsense, they’re not worth the time or energy.

With this newfound knowledge, I have tried to become more accepting of both myself and others.

If I’ve gained any wisdom from my four years at Maine South, it is that there is absolutely no reason to be afraid to “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.”

Best wishes and good luck.

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VOL. 45, NO. 9

Maine South’s 2008-2009

Gabby Whittinghill Soccer

Nicole Moersch Natalia Wojnarowski Badminton

Track

Nicole is an exceptional badminton player. She not only plays with heart, putting one hundred percent effort into every match, but she is willing to help out her co-players to better the team. A two-year varsity member and first-time captain, Nicole leads the girls in conditioning, helping others improve their shots, and takes practice seriously. Win or lose, Nicole is a gracious player who has embodied the true spirit of a Hawk athlete.

At conference, Nicole placed fourth for second doubles, and second for sixth singles. Nicole then went on to place fourth at sectionals, and qualifying for state. Nicole plans to attend Dominican University to pursue pharmacy.

Natalia has been a varsity letterman for the past three years. Specializing in shot put, Natalia has been constantly improving not only her own throws, but the entire throwing corps at Maine South. Her positivity and genuine Hawk Pride have helped encourage others to do their best. Throughout her track career, Natalia has helped the girls’ track program win many meets and invitationals. She was also a major contributor to the team that won the State Sectional championship last year. Natalia always brings an energy and desire to have fun.

Her fun-loving attitude and unique sense of humor will leave a void that will be hard to fill next year.

Emily Epifanio

Johanna Norman

Julie Demarke

Emily has been a very important part of the Hawk softball program. Epifanio impressed her coaches with her “anything is possible if you work for it” attitude. Emily has been on the Varsity softball team all four years, and has been an All-Conference selection for three. Emily is a co-captain for this year’s team, and Coach Emmy Pasier says, “She has done an outstanding job!”

Emily has played in every single game this season, and plans to attend the University of Wisconsin at Whitewater in the fall where she will continue her softball career in their outstanding program.

For the past two years, Johanna has been the varsity girls’ outside hitter and team encourager.

Her teammates voted her Most Valuable Player due to her endless compassion. On the court, Johanna was among the top players in digs, kills, and serve receive status. Off the court, everyone knew Johanna would do anything for them. The team was brought closer due to Johanna’s determination.

Four words that easily describe Johanna as a person and a player are caring, compassionate, determined, and positive. She enjoys the opportunity to improve herself and the team. Johanna will be missed as she heads to the University of South Carolina.

Julie DeMarke has been on the girls’ tennis team as a varsity member for the past two years.

She played second singles while she was a junior and first doubles as a senior. Julie not only is the team’s captain, but she is a Scholar Athlete and has been earning All-Conference honors. Julie placed second at the Lake Park Invite as well as third at conference. Time and time again, coaches from opposing teams commented on Julie’s toughness and outstanding sportsmanship. As one of the team’s fastest players, Julie takes each challenge she is given with the pride of a Hawk and the heart of a champion.

FEMALE ATHLETES

In her second year as a captain, Gabby has demonstrated tremendous leadership both on and off the field. She has always had a competitive edge that has been contagious to her other team members. Over her past four years on varsity, Gabby has shown nothing but extraordinary skill, scoring the most points in goals and assists. Her unselfish actions speak for themselves, as Gabby can play midfield and forward with ease. There is nothing Gabby can’t do with a soccer ball. Though it is obvious she is a great player, those who know her can agree she is an even greater person. Next year, Gabby will attend the University of Wisconsin at Parkside.

Softball

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Volleyball

Tennis

VOL. 45, NO. 10

SENIOR ISSUE

Senior Female Athletes

Jackie Rieger

Nicole Williams

Leah Artwick

Jackie has had an extremely successful basketball career here at Maine South during the past four years. At the Bison Classic and the State Farm Classic, Jackie was selected as a two-time AllTournament player. She was also elected AllConference, All-Area, and was chosen as third team All-State. Jackie sits in the top ten in Maine South’s school history for her total points scored, rebounds, and three-pointers. Jackie was offered a full scholarship to Western Illinois University, which she accepted, and is now planning on playing Division I basketball for the Bulldogs.

Nicole Williams has been on gymnastics for all four years during her time at Maine South, and has competed on the varsity team for two years. While on gymnastics, Nicole competed on the vault, as well as on the floor. She was chosen as a top player by her coach because she has proven herself to be a hard worker who has been committed to the team and sport, and she persevered through lagging injuries and proceeded to progress. Teammates describe Nicole as a leader, and someone they could look up to because of her positive attitude and the encouragement she gave her teammates.

Leah has been on the varsity swim team all four years at Maine South. Leah specializes in the backstroke as well as freestyle sprints. Based on her performance, Leah was recognized as this year’s Pioneer Press All-Area Team, as well as a CSL scholar athlete for fall of 2008. Teammates would describe Leah as a hard-working, motivated, and caring individual, as well as with a positive role model. Leah’s coaches say, “Her willingness to give 100% effort every day is exactly the type of attitude that is an inspiration and positive example to people around her.” Leah is attending the Rhode Island School of Design in the fall.

Basketball

Gymnastics

Swimming

Colleen Gavin

Abby Miller is a three-year varsity member of the girls’ golf team. She was recognized as the number-two player during her senior year, and became one of the most respected players in the conference. Fellow teammates describe Miller as someone who always found a way to make her teammates laugh, even during the hardest times.

Miller was All-Conference 2008 and her season average ranks in the top 15 in program history.

Her scores have broken two different records for the golf program, one for the 9-hole record and one for the 18-hole record. Abby is planning on attending University of Illinois this fall.

Colleen Gavin is a four-year varsity letter winner who has run as a member of the school’s top seven in each of her four seasons. As a two-year captain of the varsity team, Gavin was a good example for the younger runners on the squad as she led the team to their first state championship since 1988.

Gavin is a two-time All-Conference runner in the CSL, along with earning a medal for being a top-five runner at the IHSA regional meet. This helped lead the track team to a regional championship for only the third time in school history. This fall, Gavin will be attending DePaul University in Chicago, and she may run there in the fall.

Golf

Cross Country

FEMALE ATHLETES

Abby Miller

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SENIOR ISSUE

VOL. 45, NO. 10

Maine South’s 2008-2009

Michael Szpak Swimming/Diving

Charlie Goro Football

Patrick Mirski Tennis

Described by his coaches as talented and full of promise, four-year varsity member, Mike Szpak, has been an excellent all-around swimmer. He can swim any stroke and works hard in and out of season. Mike has been a three-year IHSA Sectional Medalist and one of few Hawks in to win a medal at the CSL South Conference Championship. Among his numerous list of achievements in the sport, Mike currently holds two varsity records: one for swimming the breastroke in the 200-yard Medley relay and one for his contribution as the third leg of in the 200-yard freestyle relay. His contributions will be remembered.

Charlie Goro is one quarterback who has left a strong legacy on the Maine South football team.

This year, Charlie lead the team to the first ever 14-0 perfect season and the 8A State Championship, while being the first All-American in Maine South history. Charlie was voted MVP by his teammates, all of whom believed he was truly the most outstanding player. He threw for 3,171 and 38 touchdowns, the second highest total at Maine South. Charlie has also been awarded as the SunTimes player of the year, and the Old Spice National Player of the Year. Charlie has a full scholarship to Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee.

Patrick Mirski has been a varsity tennis player for the past two years. Patrick played doubles, and earned the title of MVP since he has such a strong commitment to the tennis team and to improving his game. Varsity tennis coach Mr. Young says, “He leaves as a senior with the distinction of having brought about the greatest transformation of his game of any player I have seen.” Teammates describe Mirski as a hardworking, competitive player who plays with class and integrity. Mirski and his partner Kevin Weber led the team in wins for the season. Patrick plans on attending University of Illinois in the fall on a full scholarship.

Gabriel Arenas

David Atas

Matt Schueller

Gabe Arenas has been a varsity member on the boys’ cross country team for two years. Gabe was the team captain for the boys’ team and helped carry them to their first-place finish in conference, second-place finish at regionals, and first showing at the State meet in school history. Teammates describe Gabe as a very hardworking, dedicated athlete. He ran almost 700 miles this summer just to help the team achieve their goals. His 15:53 course time is 15th on the school’s top course time, and his 50th-place finish at the state meet is the fifth best in school history. Gabe will attend the University of Wisconsin at Madison in the fall.

Three-year varsity member David Atas has demonstrated that hard work, persistency, and attention to detail are the keys to success. He was the captain of this year’s team and was always very coachable. When Dave needed to make a good shot, he always followed through. David’s average this year was 39.6 and he qualified for State in which he placed 46th, shooting a 78 and a 77. During his career at Maine South, Dave really raised the bar for boys’ golf. He helped the underclassmen varsity golfers by setting an example of how hard they must work. Dave will continue to golf as part of the University of Iowa team.

MALE ATHLETES

Cross-country

18 SOUTHWORDS

Golf

Volleyball

Matt is someone who has always brought a high level of skill and experience to the team. His three years on varsity as libero have made major contributions to the team. Being on varsity since sophomore year, Matt uses his knowledge of the game to encourage other players to work their hardest. Matt was part of the team that won the state title in 2006, yet he remains humble and continues to improve. Matt works hard in the on and off-season, raising the bar higher and higher for himself and his teammates each time. As captain, Matt has brought the team closer together and will truly be missed.

SENIOR ISSUE

VOL. 45, NO.10

Senior Male Athletes

Chris Brassell Wrestling

John Alviti Basketball

Nick Virgilio Baseball

Chris is an All-State heavyweight wrestler who placed third at the IHSA State Tournament, was CSL All-Conference Selection three times, and the Pioneer Press All-Area Selection, along with being their 2009 Winter athlete of the year. At Maine South, he was the wrestling team’s Tri Captain and MVP. Chris holds the record for the most wins in a single season in school history, with 44. Next year he will continue to wrestle at St. Cloud State University. His coaches and teammates describe him as someone with a mature and strong attitude, and like to say, “He was All-State from day one.”

John Alviti earned the title of a two-year letterman and is also the defensive player of the year. At first, John was a successful guard, but switched to a power forward and helped lead the team to a successful 17-10 record, and a secondplace finish in the CSL South. John led the team in rebounding during 10 games, and had the highest number of assists four times. He was also performance player of the game five times. John had 33 steals during the season, and has had season highs against three schools in rebounding, steals, and points. John plans to attend Indiana University to study business.

Nick is the captain and starting catcher for this year’s Hawks. Nick has caught every game this season and has consistently played solid defense.

Head Coach Bill Milano says, “Nick calls a fine game. He works very well with Coach Marsicano, our pitching coach, and he blocks, recieves, and throws very well.” Offensively, Nick is hitting .300 with an on-base percentage of .410. Nick also has 12 walks and is the team’s lead-off hitter.

Academically Nick is one of the top students in his class, and next year Nick will be attenting the University of Illinois, where he plans to major in engineering.

Piotr Kikolski

Zach Glasebrook

Matt Przekota

Soccer

Track and Field

Zach Glasebrook has been a varsity track member for two years, and is very well-rounded, participating in pole vaulting, 110 meter high hurdles, the 4x100 meter relay, and the long jump.

Zach was the leading point scorer out of all athletes at the conference meet this year, and also for all invites. As a football player and track athlete, Zach is a great example of how competing in multiple sports builds greater character, competitiveness, and athleticism, than only competing in one sport. Next year, Zach will attend The University of Wisconsin at Whitewater. Coach Fee says, “He would make an outstanding decathlete on the track team there, should he choose to.”

Water Polo

Matt Przekota was the captain of the water polo team for the first year of its existence. He and his brothers pushed for a team for years, and their efforts came through this spring. As the only member of the team with previous experience, Matt showed great leadership in and out of the pool, being a strong member of the team and also making personal connections with each player. He was the second leading scorer, but was the most efficient scorer in terms of shooting percentage with roughly 40%. Coach Deger noted that “Matt was the overwhelming choice for MVP by the team.”

Next year, Matt will be attending the University of Texas at Austin to study music.

MALE ATHLETES

Piotr has been a member of the varsity soccer team each of his four years here at Maine South.

He had an outstanding season, earning a .91 goals against average while making 127 saves and recording 5 shutouts. Piotr was selected to first team Illinois, All-Sectional, and All-Conference. He was also selected to the highly prestigious Chicago Fire Academy Soccer Club. Coach States says, “Piotr is a physical specimen that has all of the tools to become a top tier collegiate goalkeeper.” Next year Piotr will be attending the University of Illinois at Chicago and he will be playing division one soccer as a walk-on athlete.

SOUTHWORDS 19

SENIOR ISSUE

VOL. 45, NO. 9

2008 2009

OUTSTANDING

SENIOR ATHLETES

FOOTBALL •All-State •Team captain

BASKETBALL TRACK & FIELD

Zach

Timm

BASKETBALL •Two-time, All-Tournament player •All-Conference •All-Area •All-State

Jackie

Reiger