Vol 46 issue 9

1111 S. DEE ROAD • PARK RIDGE, ILLINOIS 60068

VOL. 46, NO. 9

PHOTO BY MIRANDA KAHRILAS

May 14, 2010

Boys’ volleyball defeats New Trier at Pack The Place on May 6.

Fond Farewell

Phobias

iPod Games

Mr. Claypool’s last year at MS Page 2

Prom Problems

F Funny fears from Maine S South students Page 6

T ten games to get Top o your gadget Page 9 on

Jr. and Sr. proms to be combined Page 12

MAY 14, 2010

VOL. 46, NO. 9

2) Three people died and four others were trapped when a fire bomb hit a bank in central Athens on May 5 when protestors filled the streets around Greece’s parliament building protesting government spending cuts.

NEWS

1) Faisal Shazad was charged on May 4 with attempting to use a weapon of mass destruction and attempting to kill and maim after a failed car bombing attempt in Times Square on May 1.

3) The World Health Organization commended China for repealing a 20-year-old ban on foreigners with HIV and AIDS from entering the country. The ban also restricted entry and travel for people with sexually transmitted diseases and leprosy.

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Beijing

Greece

New York

Israel

Gulf of Mexico

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Somalia

4) On April 20, an explosion in the Gulf of Mexico caused 11 deaths and led to an oil spill that endangered countless species of wildlife and affected the quality of seafood nationwide (see page 3).

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5) Twin explosions at a mosque in Somalia’s capital on Saturday killed at least 45 people and wounded many more on May 2.

The mosque is a stronghold of Al-Shabaab, the militant group waging a war against the government in an effort to implement a stricter form of Islamic law.

6) On May 2, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu welcomed the Arab League’s endorsement of peace talks with the Palestinians which have been stalled for over a year.

Jackie Hazlett-Morris and Ashley Kozubal NEWS EDITORS

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fter working at Maine South for 16 years, Mr. Claypool will be leaving at the end of the school year to serve as principal for WheatonWarrenville South.

Mr. Claypool said that he would not have left Maine South for any school other than Wheaton-Warrenville, his alma mater. His children will also graduate from Wheaton-Warrenville in the next few years.

Another benefit to the move will be the commute. Instead of a 40-minute drive to work each day, it will only take Mr. Claypool about 10 minutes to reach his new job.

Mr. Claypool has said the biggest challenge about moving to a new school will be learning all the names

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of the students, but he is looking forward to building on alreadyestablished relationships with some of the faculty members at WheatonWarrenville.

However, there are things he will miss about Maine South, like the students, “the hallway smiles and hellos,” and the relationships he has made over the years with the staff.

Students are also sad that Mr. Claypool will be leaving. Junior Marissa Hyland said, “Mr. Claypool was a good principal; he always supported us students and was full of Hawk pride.”

Senior Kate O’Brien had similar sentiments, saying, “Mr. Claypool’s just a genuinely nice person. The administration will be hard-pressed to find someone to replace him and everything he brings to Maine South.”

Ms. Musolf, an English teacher at Maine South, said, “Mr. Claypool is a driving force behind Maine South; he helps make it the great school that it is. He is an advocate for what really works for students...Maine South is losing a great principal with his departure.”

Mr. Claypool had some advice for the new principal of Maine South. He said, “Take advantage of one of the best jobs…and enjoy the company of the students. Soak it all up.”

Mr. Claypool has loved every experience he’s had in his 16 years here, “I’m blessed,” he said.

“A piece of my heart will always be at Maine South.”

PHOTO BY KATIE HERNANDEZ

Mr. Claypool to leave Maine South for Wheaton-Warrenville South

Mr. Claypool speaks to Maine South students at the Homecoming assembly.

Mr. Claypool will be moving to WheatonWarrenville South at the end of the school year.

VOL. 46, NO. 9

MAY 14, 2010

Gulf oil spill could be worst ever in US waters STAFF WRITER

n April 20, 2010, an explosion on an oil drilling rig, Deepwater Horizon, resulted in a fire and oil spill that has been growing since.

The oil spill is so big that it covers at least 2,500 square miles of the Gulf of Mexico, leaching around 25,000 barrels of crude oil into the water and is said to be the worst ever in the Gulf.

The explosion occurred with 126 people on the rig. Eleven are missing and presumed dead, while 17 are injured. The rest were safely taken care of either by air transport or other aquatic vessels. The spill is reminiscent of the Exxon Valdez oil spill near Alaska, one of the largest ever in US waters. However, experts say that at the rate the oil is leaking, it could quickly surpass the disaster in a matter of days.

Government intervention came when President Barack Obama and others named BP responsible for the spill and in charge of the clean-up.

BP has accepted this claim and will pay for most, if not all of the clean-up necessary. However, BP also placed some of the blame on Transocean, the company that had personnel working

Obama saying that his administration will use every available resource they have.

The environmental impact of the oil spill is also of concern. More than 400 species native to the Gulf area, which is said to be one of the most biodiverse areas in the US, are threatened by the oil slick.

While exposure and pollution of the water from the oil is of concern, the biggest threat is the ingestion of the oil by the marine life and

birds. It is also affecting the seafood industry, damaging seafood farms, primarily prawns and shrimp, and causing economic problems that have even impacted Chicago. Other companies involved have been faced with numerous fines causing losses of tens of billions of dollars.

Obama recently announced a plan to start more offshore drilling in order to increase American energy independence. This event is causing him to rethink his position.

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the rig in the first place.

Ken Salazar, Secretary of the Interior, has issued a review of all Gulf of Mexico rigs and the oil fields as a safety precaution to prevent future problems and perhaps diagnose the present one. To stop the spill, many different approaches are being taken.

A blowout protector, an apparatus to aid in the stopping of the leak, was not as effective as it should have been and was one of the first actions taken.

Many ROVs, or remotely operated vehicles, have also been employed to aid in the mechanical fixing of the rig to further stop the slick from increasing. Transocean is also working to drill a relief well in order to take the oil out of the ground in a more controlled fashion.

Officials warn that the leaks could take “months” to fix, even with the use of sophisticated underwater robots.

To get rid of the oil already at the surface, the US Coast Guard has initiated “controlled burning” of the oil, where they use a material tube to skim it off and light it so that it breaks down. Other government organizations, like the National Guard have also been employed in the controlling of the slick, with

PHOTO COURTESY OF EPA.GOV

Austin Bryniarski

The crew aboard the motor vessel Poppa John train deployed a fire-resistant oil-containment boom on May 3, 2010. This was one of many missions to attempt to clean up the oil spill.

New Arizona immigration law causes controversy Jason Tan

STAFF WRITER

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n Friday, April 23, Arizona Governor Jan Brewer signed one of the toughest anti-immigration laws that the United States has ever had.

The new bill signed by the Republican governor is set to go in effect in July.

This controversial law would make it necessary for immigrants to have their legal documents with them at all times to show their proof of residency in the United States. The bill would allow the police to question any person that they suspect to be in the country illegally. Some Democrats and immigration activists believe that this will lead to racial profiling and discrimination against Hispanics, whether they are citizens or not.

Critics feel that law enforcement officers do not have the capability to make a determination on whether a person is legal or not without discriminating. Joe Scarborough, a Republican critic, said, “We are reentering a time when people can be pulled over for the simple crime of being a ‘person of color’.”

President Obama commented on the new immigration law. He said that this law will, “threaten to undermine basic notions of fairness that we cherish as Americans, as well as the trust between police and their communities that is so crucial to keeping us safe.” In the United States Senate, Democrats and Republicans are working on a compromise bill.

President Obama has instructed them to include tighter security and a way for current illegal immigrants to earn their citizenship.

Mexican President Felipe Calderon also has strong opinions against the bill and felt this law goes against human rights. Calderon says that his government will not tolerate these laws and plans to meet with President Obama to discuss this policy.

“Criminalizing immigration, which is a social and economic phenomena, this way opens the door to intolerance, hate, and discrimination,” said Calderon.

However, Governor Brewer, fellow Republican Sen. John McCain, and even the Arizona Police Association

believe that this law will finally resolve the immigration problems that Arizona has been seeking to fix. In a state meeting, Brewer said, “the law represents another tool for our state to use as we work to solve a crisis we did not create and the federal government has refused to fix.”

“Arizona has become ground zero. We’re number two in the world in kidnapping. ... We’re not taking it anymore. We’re going to enforce our laws, with compassion,” said Sen. John McCain.

Recently, there has been a high rate of crimes in Arizona that involved suspected illegal immigrants, which prompted the passage of this bill.

Republican State Sen. Frank Antenori supported this bill because of the recent killing of a local rancher by someone whom they suspect is an illegal immigrant involved in smuggling drugs. When asked about the immigration issues, he said, “The citizens of this state are tired of the catch and release that is going on by the federal government where they grab people, they process them, and

they take them back and drop them on the other side of the border…

They just come back, and we have no border security down here.”

Illegal immigrants also impact the government’s revenue since they don’t pay income tax. However, illegal immigrants can still send their children to school and get access to health care.

Governor Brewer did take note of the concerns that Democrats and other civil rights activist had about racial profiling, saying that the Arizona police will undergo training that will teach them how to use this law effectively in order to avoid racial discrimination.

As a response to the issue, Brewer issued a statement saying, “As committed as I am to protecting our state from crime associated with illegal immigration, I am equally committed to holding law enforcement accountable should this stature ever be misused to violate an individual’s rights.” The governor has made it clear that she will continue to persevere to make this law a success.

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Iceland volcano causes mass havoc, money loss STAFF WRITER

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PHOTO COURTESY OF WIKIPEDIA

Hope Tone

n Ap r i l 1 4 , t h e Eyjafjallajökull Volcano erupted in Iceland for the second time in less than a month.

Massive amounts of ash shot into the air, causing a thick layer of the substance to settle across the sky all the way into continental Europe.

This volcanic eruption paralyzed global air travel for more than a week and left citizens of Europe worried about the health risks of breathing in air full of volcanic ash.

T h e re s u lt of t h i s eruption on air travel was astounding. By April 15, European governments had voluntarily closed most The eruption of Eyjafjallajökull caused a significant amount of ash to be spread about airports in Europe.

Europe. The ash caused planes to be grounded and the airlines to lose an average of Since the ash was so $200 million each day. thick, it was feared that any paramount,” he said, also citing the will be the effects on plant and animal planes traveling in the conditions fact that there were several military life. would have their engines clogged and planes that had suffered damage in The ash, a mixture of rock and have low visibility levels through the attempted flights. glass, will settle on top of the Icelandic dense clouds of ash. These conditions The grounding of flights posed greenery, blocking the sunlight. led to the largest stall in air traffic problems for travelers with visas only Fortunately, the ash will soon settle since WWII. to certain countries. into new sedimentary rock.

The International Air Transport Travelers from Great Britain who Another large concern is the release Association estimated that the airline unexpectedly found themselves in of sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere. industry lost around $200 million each Delhi faced arrest after leaving the The sulfur dioxide contributes to day their planes were grounded. airport. In response to this influx global cooling, because once the It was estimated that over 5 million in unexpected travelers, the United ash settles, the sulfur dioxide in the travelers were stranded worldwide. Kingdom, Belarus, Serbia, Finland, atmosphere will reflect the sunlight Many of them were without travel and Russia eased their immigration as opposed to trapping it. insurance and were forced to dip laws in order to let stranded travelers The eruption of the Eyjafjallajökull into their savings in order to get a find a place to eat and sleep until they Volcano not only destroyed some of hotel room while they were stranded were able to return home.

Iceland’s most valuable farmland, but abroad.

Unfortunately, this was not true also indicates that similar eruptions BBC reporter Mike Gore reported for all countries, and some travelers will most likely occur in the future. paying around two thousand euros to found themselves stranded in foreign While the effects of the eruption have a taxi driver drive him and his airports for a few days before their of the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano were family home. “It was a tough decision home country’s embassy was able to severe, they pale in comparison to to outlay the extra cash, which cannot give them aid. what the effects of multiple volcanic be recovered from insurance, but with Several foreign diplomats found eruptions could cause. deteriorating prospects of a flight themselves unable to travel to the The past three recorded eruptions home any time soon and the cost of funerals of the Polish diplomats killed of the Eyjafjallajökull Volcano hotels in France, we are just relieved on April 10. President Obama was have been followed by its “sister” to be home having a nice cuppa,” he forced to cancel his trip and send volcano, Kalta. Kalta has a history said later. his apologies. Leaders from Russia of catastrophic effects that include Some felt that closing all the were some of the few who were able changing global weather patterns, and air space was not necessary, but to attend because they could travel causing thousands of Icelandic people the President of the European safely by train. to be evacuated.

Union’s Transport Division strongly This eruption also left tremendous Iceland lies on the meeting place of disagreed. environmental damage, albeit short two plates of the earth’s crust, making “This situation is causing them term, according to Newsweek. The it a frequent place for earthquakes and important losses, but safety is devastating effects of this eruption volcanic developments.

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Maine South High School 1111 South Dee Road Park Ridge, IL 60068 Signed letters to the editor should be delivered to room LRC 1 or given to a member of the editorial staff or e-mailed to southwords@maine207org.

Southwords reserves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to reject obscene/libelous submissions.

Editors-in-Chief Caileen Bazarek Anne Wave News Editors Jackie Hazlett-Morris Ashley Kozubal Features Editors Asha Kirchhoff Joanna Madej Entertainment Editors Tayler LaBellarte Lydia Ramsey Commentary Editors Katie Hernandez Kaci Zimmerman Sports Editors Jimmy Loomos Michael Unti Charlie Vinopal Production Heads Matt Eller Ted Sherbin Graphic Designers Adrian Adamiec Marjo Pajaj Photographers Chris Anderson Matt Boyce Josie Fioretto Miranda Kahrilas Abby Powell Adviser Mr. Stathakis

VOL. 46, NO. 9

MAY 14, 2010

MS well-represented at Model UN meets Joanna Madej FEATURES EDITOR

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resolutions, get signatories, pass the resolutions, and leave with a feeling of accomplishment.

Model UN conferences are usually two to three days in length, and committees meet several times a day for a few hours at a time. In order to take some of the stress off and blow off some steam, there is usually a dance on the Saturday of the conference. Also, the last committee meeting (usually on Sunday morning) is a relaxed one filled with fun. Rap battles and attacks on Narnia are very popular.

In December, one of the teams traveled to the Chicago International Model United Nations Conference, which took place downtown. This was one of the bigger conferences and included students from many schools from the US and other countries as well. Working with and talking to Model UN delegates from other countries was a great experience in itself.

The second team traveled to a

conference that took place at the University of Illinois-UrbanaChampaign in April. This was a smaller conference but it was just as much fun. Maine South’s Hope Tone and Rebecca Graf each won the Outstanding Delegate Award at the conference. The delegates at both conferences learned a lot and represented Maine South with pride. “ The teams were excellent, exciting group of students—intense and engaged in their committees and activities,” said Social Science teacher Mrs. Koshgarian, who is a sponsor of the Maine South Model UN along with Ms. Wegrzyn.

Model UN is a great activity for anyone interested in politics or just debate in general. Maine South had great teams this year and many members plan to return next year. New members are always welcome and should look out for the announcement of the tryouts in the fall of 2010.

Features

elegates scramble into their seats as the Chair orders the committee back in session. Tempers are flying, resolutions are being passed, and treaties are being made.

Model United Nations has been an exciting part of Maine South Social Science’s activities. Whether traveling down for a conference three hours away or going to one in downtown Chicago, the Maine South teams always know how to make a conference fun and memorable.

Tryouts for the teams are held at the start of the school year. Each potential delegate must write a paper on given topics and fill out an application. The essay topics differ every year and cover a wide range of political issues. They provide better insight into the applicant’s ability to research extensively, form positions on issues, and argue politics, essential skills in Model UN.

Those that make the teams then prepare for the conferences months in advance. A country and a committee are assigned to each student or a pair of students, depending on the conference requirements. The countries assigned are those that are to be represented at the conference.

Delegates prepare by researching their respective country and writing position papers on topics set by their respective committees. Each committee is unique and deals with different issues and each country has different stances on different issues, so extensive research is crucial.

Once at the conference, the heat is on. After opening ceremonies, delegates are broken up into their committees, which they go into ready to debate the politics of the world. Delegates in committee discuss the topics they prepared beforehand in their position papers, make alliances and treaties with other countries, make enemies, propose

Simple, healthy-eating tips Kathy Wabiszczewicz STAFF WRITER

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pepperoni and the number goes up to 290. A serving of pasta with marinara sauce contains 390 calories. Furthermore, a cheese calzone packs 700 calories and a pepperoni calzone as many as 720.

It is recommended by the USDA that the average American consume roughly 2000 calories per day. In order to maintain such a diet, portion control is essential.

A good plan is to have about four or five small meals in a day, with a few healthy snacks in between for when one gets hungry. By doing so, the body is regularly replenished with energy throughout the day in healthy, appropriate amounts as opposed to over stuffing during a few, spaced-out meals.

Also, when eating just focus on eating: don’t sit in front of the television or computer. Doing this divides one’s attention, making it easy to not realize when one has eaten enough.

The path to being a healthy consumer is being informed, so do some homework before reaching for that calzone.

GRAPHIC GRAP HIC H C BY YM MARJO ARJO ARJ J PAJ PAJAJ JAJ AJ

he lifestyle of a high school student is anything but relaxed.

One factor contributing to the chaos is a teenager’s eating habits.

Many teens wake up with only minutes to spare before first period starts and don’t have time to eat breakfast or make a lunch. Once fourth period hits, these hungry students hit the cafeteria and typically buy the first thing offered. There is often no time for dinner after school since many have to go straight to work or extracurriculars. During the restless evenings that follow, students munch on snacks while rushing to finish homework.

With these hectic schedules, a well-rounded meal is hard to come by. If “we are what we eat,” why does it seem that teens always eat junk food?

Eating healthy requires a basic knowledge of the nutritional value of food as well as portion management.

While many of the numbers and terms on a food label have negative connotations, it is important to know what their true meaning is.

One word that nearly everyone frowns upon is the calorie. A calorie is actually a unit of energy, and everyone

needs energy to do everyday tasks.

The body metabolizes the food a person eats and transforms it into usable energy.

While calories are necessary, many people consume far too many . It has to be understood that the human body can only convert so much food into energy at a time. Any energy that the body doesn’t use is stored up, which is why a person gains weight.

The total calories in food are made up of different components, such as carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

One gram of carbohydrates has four calories, one gram of protein has four calories, and one gram of fat has nine calories.

So how does Maine South obtain its calories? One source for many students is the cafeteria food. There are several items to choose from in the lunch line, ranging from salads to bread sticks to burgers, but Maine South students have a few particular favorites. According to the Sodexho manager, Mr. Burton, these are pasta with marinara sauce, cheese and pepperoni calzones, and cheese and pepperoni pizza. As delicious as many of these food items are, how many students really know what they are putting into their mouths?

A slice of cheese pizza at Maine South has 250 calories. Add some

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VOL. 46, NO. 9

Never fear - your strange phobia isn’t that weird Adrian Adamiec GRAPHIC DESIGNER

my firm belief “Letthatmetheassert only thing we have to

FEATURES

Some Maine South students, just making a mountain out of a however, don’t even trust the local molehill. architecture.

“Bridges, I feel like they’re going to break so I close my eyes, [when I cross them]” says freshman Delaney Thomas about her fear of distancespanning structures. As luck would have it, Miss Helton has some advice about overcoming that particular fear (from personal experience): try rolling down the windows while crossing a bridge. That way, you can swim out even if it does collapse.

A phobia can be a scary, sometimes embarrassing condition.

From anxiety toward animals, to a fear of man-made structures, almost anything can seem scary to somebody.

The best advice for dealing with these irrational fears? Close your eyes and take a deep breath; most phobias center around things that are actually perfectly harmless. So take out the paper “stress bag” and take a few deep breaths.

When it comes to phobias, most people find the real problem was

crowd-pleasers “Beat It” and “Smooth Criminal” by Michael Jackson, “La Bamba,” and a three-song mashup of hits by Third Eye Blind, Kings of Leon, and Green Day. Guitar II student and freshman Corey Wichlin was a member of the band that played the mashup and remarked that the concert, “is definitely more exciting than everyday class. It’s a full band experience.”

While the concert is only a few hours, it is the result of months of hard work. The anticipated concert serves as both a conclusion to and a culmination of all the skills learned during the year. The guitar program’s director, Mr. Boyle, remarked that, “even at the very beginning of the school year, some of my students are already asking me, ‘Mr. Boyle, when are we going to start picking songs for the Rock Show?’”

Preparation for the concert began after spring break when students voted for their favorite songs. After the votes were tallied, the students were divided into bands of four to five and began practicing. On April 20, the students were finally able to plug in and begin playing on electric guitars with full amplification. The

whole process, from song selection to rehearsal, was largely student directed with the teachers “guest” performing on some songs.

Students from outside the guitar program also had the chance to be involved with the rock concert. As with every year, several students from the choir program sing some of the songs and a student designs the concert’s promotional poster.

This year, the poster was designed

GRAPHIC BY ADRIAN ADAMIEC

fear, is fear itself.” With these words Franklin Delano Roosevelt sought to stir the hearts of a nation gripped by depression.

Convincing someone that a field mouse is not a ravenous beast, however, is a totally different story.

They’re called phobias. Everyone has at least one, whether they admit it or not. Brought on by frightening past experiences, unexplained bumps in the night, or sometimes for no reason at all, phobic “panic attacks” are recognized by psychologists all over the world as a legitimate, often treatable condition.

A phobic’s worst nightmare can be virtually anything; from the truly bone-chilling, to the downright ridiculous. Bugs are a common fear among children, but growing out of your fear of creepy-crawlies is not guaranteed.

“I make my mom kill it. I run out

of the bathroom,” says sophomore Brian Bedon when asked about his fear of spiders.

“Insects are creepy and have a bunch of legs. If they’re in my house, I get a vaccum,” admits freshman Griffin Schaffer. Though with their rows of legs and slimy bodies insects may seem a formidable foe, they aren’t the only sources of terror for those with animal-based phobias.

“I really can’t stand fish, especially the eyes. Oh… and eating them.

They’re so slimy,” says junior Catie Tabin about her particular fear.

Predatory birds can prove just as terrifying as marine life, it seems.

“Anything with talons and a beak…” Miss Helton explains.

“Canadian Geese freak me out!

They make me cry and have panic attacks.”

Though fairly common, animals comprise only a fraction of the things most people have nightmares about. Fears of heights, diseases/ germs, even xenophobia, the fear of foreign people, are among the most common phobic afflictions around.

MS rocks with end-of-year guitar concert Asha Kirchhoff

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FEATURES EDITOR

n Tuesday, May 11 and Wednesday, May 12, students in the Maine South guitar program showcased their talents at the annual two-night rock concert. The almost entirely student-produced concert concluded weeks of preparation and was the program’s last show of the year.

All guitar students were able to participate in what senior Tim Janiszewski called, “a great opportunity to perform,” with those in Guitar I performing on the first night and those in Guitar II and independent study closing the show on the second night.

The concert featured a wide variety of rock music and a few unusual twists. Classic rock was well represented with hits such as “Come Together” by the Beatles, “Baba O’Riley” by the Who, and songs from the likes of Cream, Jefferson Airplane, and Bon Jovi. Students also performed modern rock songs, among which were “Creep”

by Radiohead, “Dani California” by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, and “Everything Changes” by Staind.

Alongside these tunes were funky

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by senior Marco Malusa and features Janiszewski.

Mr. Boyle said of the student’s efforts, “My favorite moments are when the songs really start to come together and everyone looks like they are having a good time. That’s what playing in a band is all about.”

The concert was an impressive event, but it was the dedication and energy of the students that made the concert a success.

PHOTO BY ASHA KIRCHHOFF

Sophmore Don Deda practices “Looking out my Back Door” by Creedence Clearwater Revival. Deda performed on the second night of the rock concert with the rest of the Guitar II students.

VOL. 46, NO. 9

MAY 14, 2010

Stop stressing: Make the search for Constitution finishes the perfect prom dress a breeze Team strong season at Ayana Takizawa

Bright Colors A bright palette of spring colors embellish prom n just a month, the magical evening that dresses this season. Lovely hues like rose pink, countless girls have continuously dreamed of sage green, and deep lavenders are all vivid with Matt Eller PRODUCTION HEAD is about to come true. Senior prom, that colossal reminiscence of nature. Naomi Bowman is excited his season of Constitution Team saw many event titled as a “rite of passage” is the sweeping about her gorgeous soft-yellow dress she found at spectacular performances, such as winning grandeur of the high school finale. Besides the Peaches. Strapless and richly adorned with delicate frantic planning involved with organizing pictures, beading, flowing luxuriously with an empire waist, the state conference in December 2009. Unforgroups, and rides, many girls have the additional her dress came with a high price ($400) that was tunately, coaches Mr. Trenkle and Mr. Hansen may have to rethink their team strategy. Sadly, stress of managing the immense task of finding worth every cent.

Maine South did not place at nationals despite the perfect prom dress. Here are some trends for being, “across the board, the best team we’ve prom 2010 to help alleviate the stress of finding a Pretty in Pink Hardly imaginable is a prom without pink. brought there,” according to Coach Trenkle. stylish dream dress.

Lauren Plaza dreamily describes a dress on her The team consisted of 26 members which mind — decked with diamonds and lace, strappy constituted six very compatible units. Like in Party Prints Rushing the dress stores in a whirl of floral and sweet, pretty and pink. “But that’s not what I years past, the team competed in the state competals and edgy graphics is the freshest trend have right now...” she sighs. She is still looking for petition.

“The team was really nervous since it was this year: bold prints. These multifaceted designs a dress, and suggests stores like Total Wedding and cover a canvas of a classic dress with intensity and Vogue for gorgeous finds. A standard to a princess’ their first time,” Trenkle mentioned. Despite bravado that is surely eye-catching amongst a sea prom, pink dresses comes in a plethora of shades this, the team scored well above their compeof swaying ruffles and trains. Art deco inspired and shapes from coral to magenta, frilly to sleek, tition, securing the state championship for the 16th consecutive time. prints will radiate confident boldness all through and will no doubt radiate royalty.

The weeks before nationals consisted of much the evening.

Back in Black preparation. There were many evening meetings An elegant favorite is the black dress. Sleek and that the students had to fit into their schedule.

One-Shoulder A one-shoulder dress is an asymmetric chic for any affair, this dark lustrous shade can be a With many athletes on the team, this meant classy and fashion-forward choice. Like rushing out of practice or leaving early to get to aesthetic—a very modern favorite for all kinds of many, Courtney Frank is looking a game. Despite missing a team member here dresses. Alluring to the neckline, it offers a chic for a sleeveless black dress, in and there, Trenkle says that the team “came a style at an affordable price: Natalie Stam found either a fit-and-flare or mermaid long way since state.” her one-shoulder dress at Macy’s for a pleasing shape, with beads and lace. Black The days preceding the trip to the Washington, price. Satin black and curved in a mermaid dresses are timelessly slimming and D.C. nationals were filled with hard work and silhouette with a one-shoulder piece detailed with lustrous, with a debonair aura that revision. This included two of the units rewriting geometrically, ruffled folds, her dress is a classy calls for high-society treatment. a four-minute response in order to have the best affair all on its own. possible material to present to the judges. “People are motivated by deadlines,” said Trenkle, “We had to force the issue.”

With all of this work came the fun and excitement that characterizes this year’s team.

“They have had more fun together than most teams do,” Trenkle added. The classroom was always full of humor that raised everyone’s mood.

The team’s excitement continued in D.C. where the team had a pick-up Ultimate Frisbee game at the Smithsonian mall.

Once in D.C., the team was able to take some time away from preparation and explore the Capitol. Some went to see the many war monuments while others took a walk around one of the scenic lake routes. However, on competition day, the units woke up early to begin work on speeches for the competition that day.

As was the case with past years, the competition was fierce. The judges for competition ranged from political scientists to state Supreme Court justices. Despite not placing in the top ten teams as the team had anticipated, both the students and the coaches were happy with a strong performance.

While this outcome was not what was GRAPHIC BY MATT ELLER expected, the feedback from “C-team” members about their overall season was positive.

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Lady Gaga: the real deal, or just another has-been?

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ENTERTAINMENT

he Lollapalooza lineup of 2007 featured a little-known performer rocking out on one of the small sidestages with little recognition. Three years later, that same performer has sold over 8 million copies worldwide of her album, “The Fame,” has won two Grammys, and her music video “Bad Romance” has become the most watched video of all-time on YouTube. These days, it’s hard to imagine a world without Lady Gaga. But who is the mysterious Lady Gaga?

Lady Gaga was born Stefani Joanne Angelina Germanotta. Her alias “Lady Gaga” was derived from the Queen song “Radio Ga Ga,” but these days the Lady won’t even answer

to her real name. Gaga grew up in Manhattan and after dropping out of NYU headed down a one-way track to her dream of fame.

After the releases of albums “The F a m e” a n d i t s sister “The Fame Monster,” Gaga has created an entire world out of her brand. She credits everything she is to her fans, whom she addresses as her “Little Monsters.”

But with all of this praise from fans and critics, Gaga also receives sharp hatred and criticism from many, especially parent groups who claim she’s fame-hungry, a bad rolemodel, and that all she elicits are sick sexual fantasies that brainwash teens.

But does this criticism hold up to fact? In Lady Gaga’s eyes, her message is about empowerment and being yourself. The way she describes it, PHOTO COURTESY LADYGAGA.COM

Wednesday Walesa

the song “Paparazzi” is not about loving the paparazzi and wanting to be famous, it’s about falling in love so hard that you’re willing to be selfless and give all the attention that you desire to the other person.

Gaga herself says, “I want women— and men—to feel empowered by a deeper and more psychotic part of themselves. The part they’re always trying desperately to hide. I want that to become something that they cherish.”

Call her crazy, but it seems that her empowerment is actually working.

Everyday it seems more and more “Little Monsters” are popping up, willing to sacrifice their reputations in order to be who they are on the inside.

When questioned about her impact on teenagers, Gaga said, “When I was in school, I just I felt like a freak, I guess what I’m trying to say is I want to liberate them, I want to free them of their fears and make them feel that they can create their own space in the world.”

It seems that all the criticism and parent groups in the world can’t seem to stop the force that is Lady Gaga. She has sold over 35 million

singles and has been selling out shows everywhere on her mega Monster Ball Tour. Her Warhol-inspired lifestyle has infiltrated the pop music system and there seems to be no stopping her. Many do believe Gaga to be a fad, but senior and self-proclaimed Little Monster Jaclyn Barker says otherwise.

“Gagaloo has touched my life in a way no other artist ever has. I think it’s because at the beginning, the songs are just so much fun, but upon further examination you find that she is really trying to make you love yourself, not her. When you watch her in interviews you see that she is extremely intelligent and I don’t think someone that intelligent is going to go away anytime soon.

She’s created a world for all her Little Monsters, myself included, and with all of our love and support, we’ll be singing GaGa Ooh La La until the day we die.”

The choice is simple; love her or hate her. Will there be more “Little Monsters” following her or will the harsh criticism continue? Maybe one day she will be given the respect that she deserves.

There’s a new brand of superheroes on the big screen “Kick-Ass” Michael Loiacano

STAFF WRITER

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nce upon a time, in 2008, we were young, and foolish. With the release of “Iron Man,” we felt that the perfect not-too-serious, nonstop entertaining superhero film had been achieved. We were wrong.

Now, it is 2010, and the bar has been set yet again. And more than that, the bar hasn’t just been set higher, the bar has been raised all the way up to the top of the pole. Such is the new film by director Matthew Vaughn starring newcomer Aaron Johnson, “Kick-Ass.” The film tells the story of Dave Lizewski, a nerdy teenager with an astoundingly unexciting life. One day, out of sheer boredom, he decides to become a superhero. He dons a painted wetsuit and mask and becomes Kick-Ass. Through his adventures, he comes into contact with professional vigilantes Big Daddy (Nicholas Cage, in a truly amazing career turnaround) and Hit-Girl

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(Chloë Grace Moretz, proving there are still great child actors out there).

They’re out to stop drug kingpin Frank D’Amico (Mark Strong) and Kick-Ass—in a way only an untrained buffoon like him could—gets involved.

Here are the criticisms. One: the violence. Don’t let the kid-friendly trailers fool you. This movie is brutal.

Two: the juxtaposition of the violence with raunchy, zany comedy. This is another thing that might throw people off. Seeing a guy pretending to be gay to hang out with a girl he likes isn’t something you expect to see in the same movie where drug dealers explode a dude in an industrial-sized microwave. Make no mistake, even though the violence is graphic, it’s still over-the-top, and should not be taken too seriously.

Do either of those things detract from the film’s viewing potetial?

No. The movie just works. And it works beautifully. It manages to be a great satire of superhero movies while at the same time being a great superhero movie itself. Every single

frame oozes visual style and reminds the viewers why they go to the movies: to be entertained in a way that doesn’t involve you making fun of bad characters’ actions or turning your brain off. This is pure cinematic escapism, on par with the original 1933 “King Kong.” It’s serious when it needs to be, funny when it needs to be, and incredibly exciting when it needs to be. Some of the most mindblowing, pulse-pounding action you will ever see is in this movie. It’s a brutal ballet. (Think “Dancing with the Stars” plus chopping opponents into ribbons.)

The absolute best part of this film, though, is the characters, and by extension, the actors. There is no such thing as a weak character in “KickAss.” Everybody here is fleshed out and fantastic to watch including Dave Lizewski’s girlfriend, who appears to be a very dull character but instead, becomes very interesting to the viewer. The same goes for Dave’s friends, who provide some of the best laughs in the whole film. Everybody here brings their “A” game.

Johnson does a great job portraying the title character, and ChristopherMintz-Plasse (“Superbad’s” McLovin’) is quite entertaining as Red Mist. But the two characters that everybody will love come in the form of Hit-Girl and Big Daddy. On top of Chloë Moretz and Nicholas Cage doing a great job in their respective roles, both characters are the perfect blend of loving father and daughter and awesome crime-fighters. There’s something inherently hilarious about Cage impersonating Adam West as Batman, and who doesn’t want to see an 11-year-old girl spouting profanities and committing acts that would make John McClain green with envy?

This film goes the extra mile to give us glimpses into these character’s back stories and gives the audience something more to latch onto than a few laughs.

So, “Kick-Ass” knows exactly what it’s doing: creating a well-told tale that makes you wish all superhero movies were like it. It’s exciting, emotional, hilarious, and overall incredible. A perfect five stars.

VOL. 46, NO. 9

‘Billy Elliot’ a smash hit in Chicago STAFF WRITER

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Culver’s finally arrives in the Park Ridge area Josh Timm STAFF WRITER

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here is a new restaurant right outside of town for the Maine South student to claim as the new “go to” place. Culver’s in Rosemont is open and ready for the Maine South crowd. Upon entering the restaurant, you might ask yourself, “What is a Butterburger? These ‘Concrete Mixers’ faintly remind me of Blizzards–are they Blizzards?

Which are better, the fries or onion rings?” Here are the first couple of facts you should know about Culver’s.

The frozen custard is good, but not better than Dairy Queen’s ice cream. The general food (burgers, corn dogs, etc.) is better than most fast food places, especially the burgers, and although the fries are OK, they’re usually too soggy, and you are better off ordering onion rings almost every time.

The burgers, or “Butterburgers,” are why people really go to Culver’s. They’re quite good, and top those from McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, and a lot of other fast food places. Aside from burgers, there is a lot of other food available at Culver’s: chicken tenders (if asked for spicy, they are incredibly spicy), hot dogs, almost ten different kinds of sandwiches, including ribs, BLTs, fish, and even melts. There are five different kinds of salads, such as chicken cashew and the ever -popular Caesar salad. Don’t plan on picking out your favorite soup at Culvers though—there is only one kind of soup per day. If you feel like going to Culver’s for a fast dinner and don’t want any of the aforementioned choices, you can get fried chicken, cod, shrimp, pot roast, or a chopped steak.

If you’re jonesing for some ice cream, Culver’s custard is quite delicious, and it’s something different than store-bought or any other type of ice Music: cream. Custard has a different consistency than ice cream—it’s a lot smoother, and it’s definitely worth at least a try. The taste is intense, and it creates a hard standard to live up to. The custard makes for a different kind of milk shake/malt/root beer float, too, so if you find yourself in the neighborhood of the old Krispy Kreme, pass on the Chipotle and Cold Stone, and give the new Culver’s a try.

A reccomended meal for the beginner would be a burger with whatever toppings you want, onion rings, and a scoop of custard in either chocolate, vanilla, or Flavor of the Day. If you’re in the mood for a milk shake or a root beer float and not just the plain frozen custard, go ahead. The fancified versions of custard are just as delicious if not more.

The Culver’s closest to Maine South has good service. All of the employees are polite, and the food is prepared in a short amount of time. One thing that you’ll notice about going to Culver’s, is that though it’s crowded, there are a lot of tables everywhere, usually filled with Maine South students. If you haven’t been already, Culver’s should be the next place you go to eat.

SOUTHWORDS

Entertainment

he Oriental Theatre in Downtown Chicago has once again opened its curtains to an open run of an award-winning musical. This time, it is “Billy Elliot the Musical.” With performances beginning this April, “Billy Elliot” has taken the city by storm. Many Chicagoans have already felt the magic of this inspirational story.

Some may recall the 2000 film version of “Billy Elliot,” but through the musical, the story truly comes to life right before your eyes. The show’s primary focus is on an eleven-year-old boy living motherless in 1984 in industrial Northern England. During this time, the British National Union of Mineworkers are on strike to help protect their unions from England’s Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher. The mine workers include Billy’s father, brother, and the majority of Billy’s community.

After boxing practice one day, Billy mistakenly finds himself in the middle of Mrs. Wilkinson’s ballet class. Mrs. Wilkinson sees the boy’s amazing talent and pushes him to pursue a life of dance.

She offers him free private lessons to prepare him for an audition at the Royal Ballet School.

So, while everyone surrounding Billy is on strike he keeps his passion for dance a secret.

When Mrs. Wilkinson arrives to take Billy to his pivotal audition, she is forced to inform his family and friends that she has been training Billy in preparation for this audition. His father and brother are furious and embarrass Billy in front of the community. This puts Billy into such a rage that he stops dancing for almost a year. It isn’t until Christmas time when he feels the urge to dance again. With his father watching from the door sees that his son is spectacular and knows the Royal Ballet School is where Billy needs to be. Without having the money to pay for the audition, let alone the school’s tuition, Billy’s father is faced with the question of what is more important: the miners’ unity or his son’s dream.

Spoiler alert: Billy’s father decides that he must stick by his son and support him in whatever he chooses to do. At the audition both father and son are taken out of their element into a new world.

When Billy is asked what if feels like when he dances, he expresses to all his exploding love and passion of the art in the number “Electricity.” It is a number that leaves audience members speechless.

In the end, the story shows the importance of a dream and how you need to stick by your family

no matter what.

The original “Billy Elliot the Musical” opened in London in 2005 and made its way to the Broadway stage in 2008. After opening in New York, the outstanding musical received 15 Tony Award nominations, tying it for the most nominations ever given to a Broadway show. “Billy Elliot” won 10 of those 15, including Best Musical, Best Leading Actor, and Best Original Score. With lyrics and novel written by Lee Hall and music by Elton John, this show simply had to be a success, and it undoubtedly is.

Since opening here in Chicago, the musical has been receiving the same praise it did on Broadway, bringing in high-end celebrities to the official opening such as Elton John and Oprah.

Audience members warm up to the stunning performances each and every night. The most astonishing part of the show is seeing the breathtaking talent in kids so young. Currently there are four boys cast as the role of Billy in Chicago alone. Evan Rea, who plays keyboard and is associate conductor for the show states, “One of the best experiences for me has been watching the four Billys grow in the role. It is the most demanding role I have ever seen in a Broadway show. The role requires the Billys to be experts in acting, singing, dancing, acrobatics, and dialect. The four young boys sharing the role are all absolutely phenomenal!”

Words cannot describe what these boys bring to stage.

This is one show where seeing is believing.

“Billy Elliot” is on par with musicals such as “Wicked” and “Mary Poppins,” and has high hopes of staying in Chicago for a long time. This is a show you really will not want to miss. “I have played many Broadway in Chicago shows, including ‘Wicked,’ ‘Mama Mia,’ and ‘Hairspray.’ ‘Billy Elliot’ has the best story out of all of those. It takes you through every emotion possible. It feels very real,” says Rea. Regular tickets range from $30 to $100 at Ticketmaster.com or are available at the box office and are worth every penny. But if you have the time, there are student rush tickets available at 10 a.m. every show day for $25. These tickets are generally either limited view, or in some fortunate cases, whatever the theatre has not sold yet for the show that night. This means that these could be better seats than expected.

Even those who are not fans of dance can enjoy “Billy Elliot,” because it goes beyond the dance and into bare emotion. Realizing the power of a dream and hard work, this little boy will inspire people of all ages to not be afraid to step outside of their familiar environment.

PHOTO COURTESY BROADWAYINCHICAGO.COM

Noel Konken

MAY 14, 2010

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VOL. 46, NO. 9

Movies to look forward to this summer Max Mielecki and Madeline Petersen

STAFF WRITERS

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s our last Southwords issue of the year comes into your hands, the summer approaches. Here is a nudge in the right direction for this season ‘s blockbusters. Happy Viewing!

“Inception” This July 16 release comes from “Dark Knight” director Christopher Nolan, who also wrote the film and has kept details of the plot under wraps for some time. From what he’s released, a CEO named Dom Cobb, played by Leonardo DiCaprio, is able to enter peoples’ minds and steal their secrets, and he then sells them to the highest bidder. In the movie, the interiors of people’s minds are imagined as sprawling urban cities where the smallest thought can

turn a vibrant dreamscape into an agonizing nightmare, which can trap you in seconds. Cobb will go through a journey to wander through his clients after a fellow CEO blackmails him. The film also stars Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Ellen Page as Cobbs’ support team and Michael Caine as a Professor.

“The Other Guys” Another expected hit this summer is a new movie from Adam McKay, who directed both “Step Brothers” and “Anchorman.” “ The Other Guys,” starring Will Ferrell and Mark Wahlberg, is a story about two lesser-known New York City cops.

They jump in on a case to try and impress the police force’s two hot shots (Samuel L. Jackson and Dwayne Johnson). This puts them through a series of unfortunate events, leading

them into all sorts of mishaps. If you’re a fan of “Step Brothers,” then this is your summer movie to see on August 6th.

“MacGruber” For any fans of Saturday Night Live’s favorite bomb-defusing expert, the two-hour action comedy stars Will Forte as MacGruber (an obvious parody of ‘80s action hero MacGyver) who has reportedly won “16 Purple Hearts and is still man enough to sport a mullet.” When villain Dieter von Kunth, played by Val Kilmer, steals a Nuclear Missile, it’s up to MacGruber and his crew to retrieve it. Also starring SNL regulars Kristen Wiig and Bill Hader, this movie comes from first-time director Jorma Taccone, the longtime writer for sketch group The Lonely Island.

He’s produced YouTube favorites

like “Lazy Sunday” and “I’m on a Boat.” You’ll get to see what all these dynamic funnymen do on May 21st.

“Get him to the Greek” Stealing the spotlight in “Forgetting Sarah Marshall” was British comedian Russell Brand as rock star Aldous Snow. He’s back again this June in “Superbad” producer Judd Apatow’s “Get Him to the Greek.” In the film, Jonah Hill stars as Aaron Green, who has landed his dream jobaccompanying his idol Aldous Snow.

Green is an intern at Snow’s record company, and his only requirement for the job is to get the out-of-control rocker from his London, England estate to a huge concert in L.A. at the Greek Theater. The film is slated for a June 4 release and also features Sean “P. Diddy” Combs and Aziz Ansari as Record Company Executives.

The App store’s top ten: a great way to spark gaming interest Tayler LaBellarte

ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR

GRAPHIC BY ADRIAN ADAMIEC

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t seems as if everywhere around Maine South, students are on their iPhones, iTouches, and now even their iPads. Whether it be for texting or playing games, the Apple devices are always in heavy use. The Apps especially have become a feature unparalleled by any other device.

Here’s a look at the top ten iPhone and iPod touch games according to the iTunes store.

10. Trenches “Trenches” is set during WWI an d i n c lu d e s real-time battles.

It is your job to command the British troops as they overtake the Germans. With your troops set on the right side of the screen, and the

enemy on the left side, you must try and reach the oppostie side.

9. Words with Friends If you are a fan of Scrabble and texting, then “Words With Friends” is the perfect game for you. The game is set up for you to challenge a random opponent or a friend of yours to a game similar to Scrabble. It’s a great distraction from boring lectures or classwork.

8. Plants vs. Zombies Zombies are on the loose in this game. You must try and stop them by using various types of plants that have special killing tactics. It’s a unique take on zombie games.

7. Bejeweled 2 The same rules apply as the classic “Bejeweled” game; players must create a Power Gem consisting of four aligning gems. The game has been modified and now the gems really sparkle, literally. It’s a great way to test your brain and pass the time.

6. Guerrilla Bob Considered the cartoony version of “Call of Duty: Modern Warfare.”

Bob is a short little solider with a strong attitude, who’s main goal is to kill any enemies that get in his way.

This game is fun and a great way to get your aggression out on the go.

5. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 If you are an original “Sonic” fan, then you’ll love “Sonic the Hedgehog 2.” There is a virtual “A” button, and sonic is controlled by an on-screen

directional pad. It’s like playing on a Sega Genesis all over again.

With authentic graphics, this speedy hedgehog is guarantee to thrill.

4. Skee-Ball Anyone who is a fan of carnival games knows exactly how addicting “Skee-ball” can be. Once achieving substantial points you are able to collect prizes. Some prizes include a mullet wig, bouncy balls, an office chair, and stuffed animals.

3. Fruit Ninja “Fruit Ninja” gives you the chance to tap into your Ninja senses through your Apple product. It is your job to slice different pieces of fruit in many clever ways. While no actual fruit is harmed during this game, it’s a fun, nonviolent way to increase accuracy and overall have a blast.

2. Doodle Jump Based off “Papi Jump,” “Doodle Jump” is the perfect time-filler game.

The point of the game is to make your way up an infinite series of small platforms, while dodging setbacks along the way.

1. Angry Birds Green pigs vs. angry birds, how much more clever can a game get?

Using sling shots, it is your job to uncover tiny pigs from their hiding places and kill them. No need to worry, animal lovers: no blood and guts are in this game.

MAY 14, 2010

Technology is not such an evil Ted Sherbin PRODUCTION HEAD

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“Bookworm.”

-Colleen O’Keefe ‘10

“Pandora.”

-Monica Figueroa ‘11

“T-Pain App” -John Zivkovic ‘12

e are many years off from the flying cars and light-speed galactic travel of science fiction, but the way of the future is quickly being paved by today’s great technological leaders.

Companies such as Apple, Google, and Microsoft are creating devices that used to only exist in stories and films. Now, portable computers are as simple as grabbing your iPad. Cell phones are nothing but thin, slim rectangles, no bigger than your hand.

Yet the argument stands that technology is a negative power that takes the person-to-person communication out of everyday life. Sometimes, this opinion can be accurate, but that is not the way of the future.

Text messaging, e-mail, and all forms of writing, dating back to writing letters and notes, have turned communicating into a faceless exchange of words. Emotion and speech have been replaced by emoticons and abbreviations. People have taken notice, and the scholarly are taking up arms.

I have to insist, though, that the bright future of technology is much more than a light on the horizon: it is a full-on sunrise. With the constant innovations by Apple and Microsoft, as well as gadgets as simple as a webcam, communication is easier than ever. People can have face-to-face conversations over programs such as Skype. Phones are becoming hands-free. Texting allows instant mini-conversation between people on opposite sides of the world (or school).

All of these ways of communication are allowing for social experiences in ways that were never dreamed of by our ancestors. And the good news is it will only get better. All the iPad needs is a camera and a Skype connection and people can talk face–to–face almost anywhere they want.

As technology evolves, phone companies will find convenient ways to make texting a safer option, or to even exclude texting while driving all together.

With all of these gadgets, it would be easy to be swept up and lose track of them all. Fortunately, as technology evolves, so too does information tech-

nology. With the Internet, information is increasingly easy to come by and with the advent of Internet phones and such, accessing gossip on your favorite celebrities or finding out the score of the last Bears game is only a few clicks away no matter where you are. It is possible to follow Congress as they pass crucial laws and the senatorial or even Presidential elections.

With all of these facts at the tips of our fingers, a common phrase that’s floating around is “information overload.” But this phrase begs the question: Is there really such a thing?

People are constantly surrounded by news today, be it coverage of a war on the other side of the world or of a play that’s happening in the neighborhood. The argument is that people are too knowledgeable about current events, but how can anyone be too knowledgeable? Isn’t it a good idea to keep people aware of the world around them?

Shouldn’t people know how the courts are ruling on an important issue? Isn’t it the job of each American and each human being to be aware of the pressing issues?

Another common use of technology is for relaxation. Currently, many people spend the entire day working, and then go home to do more work.

Once work, interspersed with some meals, is done, people sleep, wake up, and do it again.

It seems to me like we are a society that is short on leisure time. It’s no wonder that during the few seconds of rest we encounter, people log on to Facebook or head over to Addictinggames.com. We don’t have time for a common social life. Often, the most social that people can be is when they are chatting with someone on Facebook or texting them while on the run.

As technology continues to develop, we’ll start to see equipment that gives people more free time.

And in this extra free time, people can learn to enjoy the technology that already exists, such as videogames, telephones, and even cars. Technology is a driving force for our economy and our lifestyles. Cooking, cleaning, working, and every aspect of our day will become even easier. The social aspects of life and simple leisure time will become more frequent. Technology will continue to prove its worth—as the sun rises to high noon and never goes down.

Commentary

What is your favorite iPhone application?

VOL. 46, NO. 9

“Touch Grind.”

-Sal Scardino ‘13

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MAY 14, 2010

VOL. 46, NO. 9

Maine South, we have a ‘prom-blem’ Kaci Zimmerman COMMENTARY EDITOR

COMMENTARY

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igh school is known as a breeding ground for rumors of all sorts.

Unfortunately, one rumor is proving to be true: junior and senior prom will be combined next year.

Mr. D agres conf ir med t he combined prom rumor and also mentioned that Mainee South is trying to reserve the Rosemont ont Convention Center for the event.

Cancelling junior or prom due to budget cuts is understandable, tandable, maybe even justified. But combining ombining junior prom with senior prom? rom? Really? I’d rather have no prom as a junior than o share my prom be a senior who has to with a bunch of juniors– iors– especially considering that the juniors uniors will have et another prom the chance to enjoy yet the following year.

When one thinks of prom they think senior prom—not —not junior prom and certainlyy not a united prom between two classes. Many underclassmen can argue rgue that the seniors get it all: senior nior lounge, graduation, senior prom prom offcampus, senior breakfast, akfast, ak io on senior trip, Celebration als l, ls after prom, early finals, etc. Sure, seniors gett a tiees than the lot more opportunities

rest of us, but it gives us something to look forward to. Plus, the seniors earned these perks during their last year. They worked hard for three years hoping to one day have all the benefits of being a senior. But hey, everyone will have their chance at being in the spotlight as a senior, and once you get there, you’re not going to want anyone or anything ruining it.

JJunior p prom doesn’t reallyy differ from any other yearly dance, except for the fact that it’s somewhat fancier. It is not our last prom at Maine South, it’s also not off-campus, and it’s certainly not as important as senior prom. Why juniors get all worked up over junior prom is beyond me. Why the girls get all worked up over finding the “perfect dress” is something I cannot fathom.

The dress will be ruined by the end of the night

anyway from dragging on the gross, newly polished cafeteria floor. Guys get all nervous and giddy because they have to come up with some clever way to ask their dates only to try and top it the following year.

Cutting junior prom as a whole will not only save money for the school and the parents, but it also will save an immense amount of stress. By

GRAPHIC BY ADRIAN ADAMIEC

reserving the Convention Center it’s not really a bargain, especially if the school trying to save money by combining proms.

While combining the proms would compensate for cutting junior prom as a whole, but it would only anger the senior class. Senior prom is a night that everyone remembers. I still hear my mom talk about her prom night as y if it were yesterday (I remind her that it wasn’t.) The seniors deserve to have one night to t themselves where they can finish sa saying their good byes and take a millio million pictures that they’ll take to college and a tell their roommates about. Senior Seni prom is obviously a lot more mean meaningful than people think.

If a 44-year44-year-old woman is still talking about her se senior prom, then it has to be a special night. eas The easiest solution to this bind ju is to cut junior prom completely.

Numerous high schools, like Maine East, don’ don’t even have a junior prom.

Combin Combining prom will dull the excitem excitement and exclusivity that senio prom entails. Also by senior cutti cutting junior prom it will boost the attendance for senior b prom because there will be only ch one chance to go. This will make prom more cost efficient, but most of all, it will make it all the m more alluring.

The benefits of a higher voting age Mario Pajaj GRAPHIC DESIGNER

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eenage voting must be stopped if you love your country.

As an 18-year-old, I should be all for keeping the voting age at 18, right? Wrong. Throughout the years, I have witnessed an array of teenage voters swayed so swiftly by emotions and the biased media that they completely lack the judgment to elect a proper candidate.

We’ve all witnessed the horrendous choices teenagers make when pressured by outside forces. Should we allow the fate of our country to fall into the hands of sheer carelessness?

This carelessness isn’t by choice, either. A National Institute of Health study states that the part of the brain that restrains risky behavior and controls judgment and thinking skills is not fully developed until the age of 25. This means that 18-year-olds do

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not yet have the capacity to fully understand the consequences of what they do, including who they vote for.

Evidence from a study by the National Institute of Mental Health shows that differences between a 23-year-old brain and a 16-year-old brain are the largest in the area that is used to process information and make “executive” informed decisions, proving that even though there are unintelligent people of every age, those older than 18 still hold a much larger capacity to make decisions based on information, and less on emotion and impulse.

The media, whether intentionally or unintentionally, has always played a major role in the information we receive about candidates from secondary sources. Biased news outlets such the conservative FOX News, and the liberal CNN, tend to portray their favored candidate in a better

light. Print sources like the New York Times greatly impact the information the country receives on either candidate.

Studies have shown that though the number of 18-year-olds voting has increased each year, the percentage of voters that age hasn’t changed since 1972, remaining at an average low of 17%. We need to filter the 17% into quality votes, because we know the quantity isn’t there.

We should raise the voting age to 25 for everyone, but make two exceptions for those who are so eager to vote at 18. One, let those enlisted for active duty be allowed to vote in times of war, and let the other group of 18-year-olds who consider themselves qualified to vote take a questionnaire on either candidate’s policies to separate the informed from the ignorant.

We’ve all known people over

the age of 25 who aren’t exactly the brightest crayons in the box, but we can agree that the majority of them are living alone in the real world, and are fully affected by legislation every day. Even though we are considered adults at the age of 18, there is a huge difference between an 18-year-old college freshman and a 25-year-old living alone, whether or not they have graduated from college.

I don’t want the fate of our nation to land in the hands of impressionable 18-year-olds or college students.

I’m not asking you to forfeit your inalienable rights, but voting is a privilege, not a right. This isn’t the time for ignorance, naivety, or immaturity; our country is still in a struggle to find itself, and we need those living alone or raising a family in the real world deciding what to do with our government, not those who still rely on their parents.

VOL. 46, NO. 9

MAY 14, 2010

‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ should be repealed STAFF WRITER

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Anne Wave EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

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alph Waldo Emerson once said, “every crime is punished, every virtue rewarded, every wrong redressed, in silence and certainty.” In layman’s terms, this is karma—kind people are rewarded for good deeds and the wicked are punished. But scientific experiments from 1997 to 2007 have begun to shown there actually is “a direct and proportional price to pay for any act of cruelty or injustice.”

Robert Lanza MD, known as one of the world’s leading scientists and currently sitting as Chief Scientific

completely unjustified.

Studies done by UCLA’s Williams Institute state that there are currently 66,000 silenced gay and lesbian soldiers serving within the forces.

This puts the 1,000 officers that “attested” the repeal of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” to shame. Furthermore, the majority of the American public, along with President Obama, are in support of the repeal.

Allowing homosexuals into the army would save the nation much needed money. According to Jeff Cleghorn of the Atlanta JournalConstitution, the government uses hundreds of millions of dollars of t axpayers’ money to

positive attitude. I’ve had an easy time in the past few weeks being maxed out and bitter at the amount of hard work I’ve been putting in at school relentlessly the past four years. I’ll admit it; I’ve let bad attitudes affect my days over and over, and what good has this done me? No good, all bad. Lesson learned: negativity breeds more negativity and more bad results.

This may seem like a statement of common sense, but all too many of us in this world have pushed out the possibilities for goodness because of the cynicism and negativity we all carry on our backs.

This basic theory of Buddhism has a lot more meaning than the Alicia Keys song. Karma is often referred to as the idea that if you’re heartless, something bad will come back to you: watch your back because you could

investigate and discharge any soldier that is suspected of homosexuality within the military. If “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” is revoked, it would save money that is seriously needed during this recession. It’s impractical to spend such large amounts of the country’s money on such unnecessary precautions.

In addition, the way the U.S. armed forces handles the discharge of the men and women affected by the policy is inexcusable. Men and women found to be homosexual, are dishonorably discharged. This type of discharge is reserved for the most reprehensible actions. When a homosexual is dishonorably discharged, that is putting him or her on the same level of conduct as a murderer, which is entirely obscene.

“Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” is an old-fashioned policy that needs to be repealed. It’s unjust that thousands of soldiers who courageously t r i e d t o f i g ht f or their countr y were discharged on account of their sexuality.

Hopefully, because both Democrats and Republicans support the repeal, along with widespread support around the nation, there will finally be equality within the American forces.

Commentary

ow that Congress has passed the plan for healthcare, they are in the midst of discussing the repeal of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell.” “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” is a policy that forces all homosexual men and women serving in the military to deny their sexuality.

Throughout American history there has been discrimination based on race, religion, gender, and more.

The “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy is yet another discriminatory pothole in America’s history that should be paved over immediately. One day the policy of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” and the blatant discrimination against gays and lesbians will be looked upon through the same remorseful eyes as we now view slavery.

“Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” does not provide equal rights and it’s in direct conflict to the first amendment.

Silencing men and women about their lives because their lifestyle is atypical is wrong. People serving in the military should be able to talk about their home lives without fear of being discharged. It’s not fair that a soldier can talk about his girlfriend or wife back home while another man cannot talk about his partner. Home life brings comfort and ease to those in the armed forces, and bisexuals or homosexuals are not able to have the consolation that is so desperately needed in a time of war.

The policy is narrow-minded and its supporters’ arguments are

irrational. One supporters’ of “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell,” Maj. Gen. Rick Goddard (ret.) stated his argument in an article within the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. He claims, “The U.S. military is not a laboratory for social experimentation. It is not in any way similar to the military forces of Denmark, the Netherlands, Canada or others who have embraced homosexuals. The U.S. military is the most capable, dedicated and feared force on the planet. Over 1,000 flag and general officers have attested the issue is not one of individual desires or of the norms and mores of civilian society.”

There is no “social experiment” because there is no proof to suggest that a gay and straight armed forces wouldn’t work. In fact, it’s been proven that it does work; twenty-four of our nation’s allies have an armed service open to heterosexual and homosexual people.

Allowing gays into the military would not lessen the potency of the forces. Even if being gay was a sign of weakness, which it’s not, this in no way could affect the appearance of the military.

Enemies of the U.S. army cannot distinguish the difference between a straight or gay soldier. Unless soldiers were forced to wear color coded uniforms according to sexual preference, it is impossible to say that homosexuals lessen the intimidation and dedication of the United States Armed Forces. So, Goddard’s thought that an open service would diminish the tenacity of the American forces is Officer at Advanced Cell Technology, published a blog on this experiment’s suggestion that our actions “transcend our ordinary, classical way of thinking.” Lanza argues that justice is built into nature: “Make no mistake about it, it will be you who looks out the eyes of the victim. Or you can be the recipient of kindness—whichever you choose.” He argues that the human race, animals, and plant species are all one, melted together and connected through all actions, good and bad.

This scientist, author of over two dozen books on various ground breaking studies, believes that karma is a real factor on this planet. So what does this mean for the rest of the world?

Well for someone like me, it means that I need to have a more

GRAPHIC BY ADRIAN ADAMIEC

Katie Hernandez

be next to receive that cruelty from someone else. But I think it’s more important to use the positive half of karma—that good deeds will always return to you in another form. Next time someone asks you for a favor, lend a hand. If your friend is having a bad day, give her a reason to smile.

Just as negativity breeds itself, positive attitudes breed more positivity. Maybe next time you’re having a bad day someone will help you out. Or maybe this action of giving back will allow your mind to be freed of the negativity that plagues many of our lives.

Even though in this last month of school, many of us have been itching to leave at Maine South (perhaps even Mr. Claypool), but these simple acts of kindness can brighten others’ days, as well as your own.

SOUTHWORDS 13

MAY 14, 2010

VOL. 46, NO. 9

Boys’ Volleyball among nation’s top teams SPORTS EDITOR

SPORTS

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undefeated and having taken home first place. It is important to note that this was the first time in Maine South boys’ volleyball history that they won first place in the Downers Grove South Tournament. The field of that tournament is always full of intense competition and teams with great chemistry.

Regarding the team’s success, junior outside hitter Greg Sims notes, “Coach Granell and Coach King have told us many times not to take any team lightly.”

The Hawks understand that while the talent is there, the coaching staff does a superb job guiding them to victory.

Overall this season, Maine South boys’ volleyball has gone a perfect 26-0 and their national rank has improved to number 3. They have also maintained a ranking of first in the state all season long, although they have faced some stellar competition.

Senior outside hitter and leader Eric Butch notes, “We have a majority of seniors on our team this year and we are just looking to make this season the greatest one ever. We can’t let the rankings get to our heads. We just have to go out there, relax, and play.”

Maine South has certainly done this to date as they have defeated

Warren, trumped New Trier three times, and even rolled over nationally-ranked Marist.

Recently, Maine South and Wheaten Warrenville South went head-to-head at the Downers Grove South Tournament. Maine South beat Wheaten Warrenville South in three games, with the scores 25-16, 24-26, and 25-18.

This was by far one of the biggest games Maine South has played this season.

Coach King says about the win, “It was a nice rematch from last year’s state finals. If you can remember, we lost to them [Wheaten Warrenville South] to take second in state.”

Going into the match, Spencer Groessl, junior outside hitter, knew that the pressure was on.

“We had a bad taste in our mouths after finals last year,” said Groessl. He was just as prepared for a rematch as was the rest of the team.

The victory over Wheaton Warrenville South certainly put Maine South on the radar of all their future opponents. Not only have other teams begun to take notice and strategize in preparation for facing the Hawks, but the team now truly believes in their potential.

“It proved to us that we can compete with, and beat, some of the

best teams in state, granted that we aren’t given many opportunities to fully show ourselves. When we play against better teams, we all raise our level of play,” said senior setter and leader Mike Hejza.

So far this season, Eric Butch leads the Hawks with 210 kills, Spencer Groessl with 33 aces, Mike Hejza with 538 setting assists, and Scotty Adamczyk with 143 digs. It is worth noting that Matt Butch leads the team in blocks and is a close second with 129 kills.

Recently on May 6, the Hawks competed against New Trier in the “Comcast game of the week.” Although they had already defeated New Trier this season, the Hawks remained focused. The great crowd helped bring back the Hawks as they came from behind in both games to beat New Trier in two games. Both games ended in a 25-23 Maine South victory.

“It’s been an exciting season thus far, but we now look to finish it off even stronger,” says senior defensive specialist Yanni Markos.

The Hawks know that it is necessary to remain focused to come out on top. For now, the team doesn’t want to look too far into the future.

They’d rather take it one game at a time, and play at their pace.

rom day one, Head Coach Granell and Assistant Coach King pulled their volleyball players aside and had them list their goals for the season. The coaches both believe that in order to achieve success, everyone must be of the same mindset. Many players thought about the team-aspect first and wrote that they wanted to “win state.”

Senior right side hitter John Butch commented on his goal by stating, “We have a high-caliber team this year and a good shot at winning state. Everyone needs to step up their game this year especially and everyone must contribute for us to win state.”

Both of the coaches had similar goals and knew that throughout the season they must harp on fundamentals and the basics. Each practice they stress digging, blocking, and hitting. Once they had these down, they could perform up to expectations.

For the first time ever, the Hawks took a trip down to Florida for a week over Spring Break this year.

Coach Granell knew that the Hawks could determine their own fate this season, given that they held a preseason ranking of 11th in the nation (1st in the state), and he believed the trip to Florida, which consisted of tournament play, would best serve the Hawks in getting off to a quick start.

The Jungle Queen Tournament in Florida was little competition for the Hawks. Maine South swept the field of play and came back to Park Ridge with confidence and a first place win.

Matt Butch, senior middle hitter, talking about the tournament said, “The trip to Florida helped our team get stronger; since Florida, we have bonded as a team, grown, and gotten better as the season has gone on.”

In the eyes of the coaches, this was exactly what they wanted their players to get out of the trip. Coach Granell understands from previous years that a quick start is vital to a season; it helps to set the tone.

Since Florida, the Hawks have played in two other tournaments, the Warren Tournament and the Downers Grove South Tournament, and have dominated. In both tour- Senior starter and setter Mike Hejza leads the Maine South boys’ volleyball team on to victory during their naments, the Hawks walked away Spring Break Jungle Queen Tournament in Florida. Here he winds up for one of his killer jump serves.

14 SOUTHWORDS

PHOTO COURTESY P. KING

Michael Unti

VOL. 46, NO. 9

MAY 14, 2010

Badminton looks toward sectionals Jimmy Loomos

SPORTS EDITOR

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PHOTO BY JACKIE HAZLETT-MORRIS

he girls’ varsity badminton team finished their conference season with the conference tournament at New Trier on April 30 and May 1.

They finished the tournament in fourth behind New Trier, Deerfield, and Glenbrook South.

Along with the fourth-place tournament finish, the overall result was the same in the CSL with the Hawks finishing fourth behind the same three teams.

At conference, the team was aided by the third-place finish of the doubles team of Carol Costanza and Vivian Cowan, and Tara Jakobow and Lizzy Kowalski, who also finished third.

The other athlete to place was junior Ashley Kozubal who finished third in the singles competition.

The Hawks have been led all season by their three captains who have been on the team all four years: Costanza, Abby Amelse, and Sabrina Salgia.

Now the Hawks look to sectionals where six athletes will compete.

These athletes include all three captains as well as Colleen O’Keefe, Mo Katis, and Cowan. They feel that this year they have the talent and skill to reach state.

“We have a really strong team this Senior Abby Amelse receiving a serve at the CSL Badminton Conference year and we are confident to make it meet on May 1 at New Trier. The Hawks finished fourth at conference, and far, ” says Salgia.

Amelse is one of six Hawks who will be competing at the sectional meet. first and second singles players Kevin Hemphill and Max Lojewski, and the first and second doubles teams of Mike Landreth and Andy Graf, and Nick Karas and Pete Bakopoulos.

SPORTS EDITOR

• The Boys’ Tennis team is off to a solid start. With a record of 8-11, this season has already proved a valuable learning experience for the team.

Juniors make up more than half of the varsity team, so next year they will already have the competitive

experience. In their tournaments thus far, the Hawks have finished seventh out of eight in each of them.

The CSL South Conference is an extremely difficult conference, but since the Hawks did well in the nonconference, they hope the momentum can carry them against some of the CSL’s top teams. The Hawks are led by

sophomore on varsity, Ali Cottrell.

This season Cottrell has scored two game-winning goals in games against Deerfield and York. She also received CSL Athlete of the Week, which is given to only one athlete every week in the entire conference. With Cottrell and the other young players, the Hawks will be a dominant force for years to come.

Sports

Jimmy Loomos

• After a slow start, the Girls’ Soccer team has come on strong late in the season. With a record of 13-4-3, they emerged victorious in the Chatham Tournament in the first weekend of May. In the tournament, they won their first game, tied their second, and then beat Glenbrook South in their third game, which was an important win because it pushed them into second in conference. Before their recent match that resulted in a tie, the Hawks had won eight straight games. Their goal prior to the season was to win six straight, and eight was a great accomplishment. The Hawks have a bright future ahead with many players on varsity who will return next year. One of these girls is the sole

Still, the Hawks are positioned in a difficult sectional, where they will have to go against Fremd, Palatine, and Wheaton, and beat them in order to make it to state.

Before the conference meet, the girls had several other accomplishments throughout the season. They placed first at the Rolling Meadows Tournament early in the season, edging out the home school for first place.

At the Rolling Meadows Tournament, Salgia and Katis earned first place, as did the majority of the Hawks team.

They also finished second at the Buffalo Grove Invite, as well as second at the East Aurora Invite, both of which were huge achievements because they played some of the area’s best squads.

When conference play began, the Hawks were ready to make themselves known, and they did just that.

They beat Glenbrook North, Maine West, and Maine East, and against the conference’s top teams like New Trier and Deerfield, they played the best they could and fought hard until the end.

In the end, the Hawks ended up 5-4 in dual meets, which Coach Muir-Wilson agrees “helped [them] do well in conference.”

The Hawks feel that their skill, team chemistry, and love of the game will lead them to postseason success.

• Although their record may not show it, the Girls’ Softball team has shown great poise in their bright points so far this season. With a record of 7-17, the Hawks have beaten conference opponent Waukegan twice, and they also had a big win over Maine West. However, with only seven seniors on this year’s team, the Hawks plan on a much better finish next year. Along with the returning juniors, sophomore Michelle Roberts and Chrissy Polka are both expected to bloom into the Hawks’ top stars.

SOUTHWORDS 15

BASEBALL

• GIRLS’ SOCCER • TRACK • BOYS’ GYMANASTICS • BADMINTON • SOFTBALL • BOYS’ TENNIS • BOYS’ VOLLEYBALL • WATER POLO

Lacrosse making history in year one Charlie Vinopal

Ignatius and Notre Dame.

“We have a good mix of talented kids who have played before and new s one of the fastest-growing sports kids that want to get a lot better,” said in America, lacrosse has taken senior Billy Krol regarding the team’s Maine South by storm. Last year a success. “We want to prove ourselves group of students set out to make as lacrosse players and as a team lacrosse a sanctioned sport, after one because almost everyone counted us year of it as an intramural. Now, the out because it’s the first year of the IHSA has officially recognized lacrosse program.”

The Hawks’ record is even more impressive considering the way they began the season.

They lost early on to St. Viator 5-3, and with the loss, they still took many lessons from the game.

The Hawks learned how to compete with strong teams, and also they learned how to rebound after a tough loss.

Although he would have preferred to win, C oach Tumilty was proud of his players. “Put your heart and guts into what you do, and you will accomplish unbelievable Senior Billy Krol attempts a shot in the April 17 game against Northside Prep. The Hawks things. Many times the went on to win 12-0.

SPORTS EDITOR

PHOTO COURTESY MR. MCKENZIE

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as a sport.

While most sports do not do well in their early stages, the Maine South Lacrosse team has surprised many so far. The Hawks have an overall record of 7-2, which the team and coaches are extremely pleased with considering they are going up against many of the state’s top programs, such as St.

Frank Colletti

Who is your favorite Blackhawks player?

Dustin Byfuglien D

most successful people in the world have an endless determination,” said Tumilty.

The team listened to Coach Tumilty, and after their early loss they won four straight games against Taft, Evanston, Lyons Township, and Northside Prep.

Many of these games were not even close and the Hawks displayed both their offensive and defensive abilities.

They beat Northside Prep 12-0 and then Taft 14-1.

“We started winning games by changing a few things. We switched practice around and started scrimmaging more which led to a better understanding of both our teammates and the game,” said senior Alex Spanos on the team’s winning streak.

Their biggest and most impressive win came against Notre Dame in a 10-9 double-overtime victory. Even more impressive is that many Notre Dame players have played the sport for several years, while only 20 out of the 80 lacrosse athletes at Maine South actually have prior experience in the sport.

The Hawks hope to continue to build their program and plan to make it one of the state’s finest.

Brad Egan

Becky Graf

Adam Burish

Patrick Kane

Jonathan Toews

Marissa Duric

Who will be the hit summer artist this year?

Metallica

Britney Spears

Bob Marley

Jack Johnson

What is your favorite thing about summer?

Fourth of July ly

Pretty Dresses

Kool-Aid

Doing Nothing

Peanut Butter: Chunky or Creamy?

I’m Allergic!

Creamy

Chunky ky

Definitely Creamy