Vol 48 issue 8

1111 S. Dee Road • Park Ridge, Illinois 60068

PHOTO BY JOSIE FIORETTO

May 11, 2012

Team Illinois

Constitution Team competes in DC Page 4

Summer of Fun

What to expect at this summer’s biggest concerts Page 6

Vol. 48, No. 8

During the first three weeks of the schoolwide fundraiser, “Month of Mayhem,” Maine South students came together to raise $4,317 for the Cystic Fibrosis Institute. The school hopes to raise enough to push the total amount raised over $5,000.

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Double Ditch Spring Sports 411

Why taking multiple ditch days ruins tradition Page 12

Updates and highlights of spring sports Page 15

NEWS

| May 11, 2012

Hindsight: noteworthy news from the past year Take a look at the headlines that grabbed attention in 2011 and 2012.

Wall Street Protest Begins, With Demonstrators Blocked New York Times, 9/11

Steves Jobs, the co-founder and former CEO of Apple Inc., died at 56 from pancreatic cancer. Jobs was the mastermind behind such innovative and overwhelmingly popular products as the iPhone, iPod, and iPad. His death came two months after his resignation as chief executive of Apple.

Assistant News Editor

Protesters in New York “occupied” Lower Manhattan in demonstration of their discontent with the current financial system. City officials met the protests with blockades of sections of Wall Street, while the occupiers prepared to camp out for weeks or even months at a time.

Steve Jobs dies at 56; Apple’s co-founder transformed computers and culture

Moammar Gaddafi is captured, killed as last loyalist holdout in Libya falls

Washington Post, 8/11

Fans of Suzanne Collins’ best-selling novel “The Hunger Games” lined up in front of theaters several hours before the premiere of the widelyanticipated film. The movie marks the beginning of a three-part series based on Collins’ popular trilogy.

Dora Bialy

Los Angeles Times, 8/11

After 42 years of rule, former Libyan dictator Moammar Gaddafi was killed by pro-democracy fighters in the country. Libyans expressed their joy over toppling the brutal autocrat in various celebrations on the streets of Tripoli.

‘Hunger Games’ Brings Out Legions of Fans, and Inflatable Mattresses

New York Times, 3/12

Fallico wrestling era ends at MS After years of coaching, administrative changes prompt his retirement Katherine Miles Staff Writer

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fter being part of the wrestling program for 25 years, head coach Craig Fallico has resigned as the Hawks’ head wrestling coach.

Despite several successes and fond memories over the years, his stepping down is mainly due to what he calls a “change in atmosphere” at Maine South. Still, Coach Fallico plans to remain connected to Maine South wrestling.

“When you give your life to something, it is hard to stop,” said Coach

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Fallico. “But it is inevitable because it has to end sometime. I have absolutely no regrets from a single season that I coached in 31 years. I have built dozens of relationships with the wrestlers who have gone through the Maine South program. I have been in three wrestler’s weddings; and I am the godfather to one of my former wrestler’s child. These wrestlers are now in the 20s and 30s and we are friends. These kinds of relationships are special and can never be broken.”

Fallico joined Coach McCann in starting the program at Maine South in 1987, working over the years to form it into the respected one that it is today. Fallico became the head wrestling coach in 1997. In those 15

years, his record with the program is impressive: 270 wins and 90 losses.

His teams captured 10 CSL championships (five of them in a row); four regional championships; 30 individual state qualifiers; and seven state medalists.

In addition, he was named to Maine South’s Athletic Hall of Fame in 2010 and was also inducted into the Illinois Coaches and Officials Association Hall of Fame earlier this year—two notable accomplishments.

“Wrestling is like no other sport,” said Mr. Fallico. “Really it isn’t a sport, but more of a lifestyle. Wrestling teaches you to be mentally focused because whether you win or lose is totally up to you.

The entire time you are on the mat is like being at the free throw line in basketball, with the game tied and one second on the clock. It is that kind of pressure all of the time.

Wrestling gives you courage. It gives you mental toughness. We like to say, ‘After wrestling, everything else is easy.’”

Coach Fallico reminisced about all of the teams he has coached, remembering something special about each one. His favorite memories are of coaching his sons Nick and Cody.

“I am a lucky person because I get to do every day what I love to do, and it is all thanks to my college wrestling coach,” he said. “There hasn’t ever been a day I woke up and said I don’t want to teach today.”

May 11, 2012

| NEWS

Dora Bialy

Assistant News Editor

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n an effort to increase teacher morale, one of Maine South’s Spanish teachers, Mr. Craig Fallico, has taken the initiative to honor teachers. Students can write a letter to their favorite teacher, expressing their gratitude and appreciation for him or her, and place it in a box outside A227 marked “My Favorite Teacher.” Mr. Fallico will then deliver these letters, keeping the identity of the student anonymous.

According to Mr. Fallico, the response from teachers has been overwhelming. He has received numerous letters from teachers thanking him for initiating the positive outreach, and has even had some teachers approach him personally to express how great these letters made them feel.

“One of the teachers came up to me teary-eyed,” Mr. Fallico said. “It was the right time, the right day. One of them said, ‘It made my day.’ It’s the little things like that to help deflect the economic picture, which filters down to attack the teacher, which filters down to, ‘Geez, why do I do this job if nobody likes me?’”

Fallico published an editorial in the Park Ridge Journal Online on April 26, criticizing how the perception of teachers has drastically declined from its previously noble reputation, and discussed how this discouragement affects the classroom.

“It can bring down teacher morale and motivation,” he wrote.

“It can discourage talent from entering the workforce. It can dull the classroom as it clouds enthusiasm.

And it ultimately affects the way the next generation learns and the degree to which they’ll succeed.” Mr. Fallico also argued

that the criticism comes from communities, not students.

Mr. Fallico’s efforts are exclusively aimed at increasing appreciation for teachers, not increasing salaries or making policy changes.

“You don’t have to knock them down, and then hit them economically,” he said. “I think you can tell them they’re good, but then say, ‘Sorry, that’s just the way it is. We think you’re awesome, but this is all we can do.’ That changes the whole perspective on it.”

In addition to this positive project to boost teacher morale, an anonymous group, called the Positive Taskforce, has emerged to help make teachers feel more appreciated.

It currently consists of a teacher and a community member who place a Starbucks card and a note in a teacher’s mailbox each week that says, “Thanks for everything -the Positive Taskforce.” The goal of the teacher heading this project is to solicit two students, two teachers, and two community members for next year to be a part of the Positive Taskforce and spread appreciation to all teachers.

Student Council is also doing a small project in celebration of Teacher Appreciation Day on May 8.

They are making bookmarks for each teacher with an inspirational quote about teachers and the profession in general.

PHOTO BY CAROLINE MURPHY

Students write letters to favorite teachers

PHOTO COURTESY KEN KOVACIN

Teachers receive anonymous praise

BOP TILL YOU DROP The Maine South freshman team prepares their “‘50s kitchen”-themed machine before running it at the competition.

Freshman Rube Goldberg places fourth nationally Team showcases machine with continued success Matt Weiss

Staff Writer n Feb. 17, the Maine South freshman Rube Goldberg team placed first in the Rube Goldberg competition at the Chicago Children’s Museum. The team received a trophy to display at Maine South, as well as a trip to Argonne National Laboratory on May 14 to showcase their winning machine for the scientists there. Additionally, they advanced to the national competition at Ferris State University in Big Rapids, Michigan.

Eleven teams from the Chicagoland area competed at Navy Pier that Friday, and were scored by a panel of judges from Argonne National Laboratory. The two Maine South teams that competed advanced following a preliminary intra-school competition. In addition to the freshman winners, the senior team from Maine South placed second at Navy Pier.

Immediately after school on March 16, the freshman team travelled to Big Rapids, Michigan, for the national competition. There, they placed fourth, based on their score from the judges. The team also took their project to Carpenter Elementary School to demonstrate it for the young students at the Science Fair.

The winning machine includes mock household items such as a

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YOU’RE MY FAVORITE box outside of A227.

toaster, cardboard dishwasher, wooden stove, coffee maker, and mixer.

“Basically, Rube Goldberg [machines] are just complicated ways to solve simple problems,” explains Chris Tulban, one of the seven members of the freshman team, which also included Ryan Kovacin, Grace Mauery, Jimmy Connolly, Andrew Lazara, Matt Weiss, and Lisa Soderlind.

Due to the large number of entering teams, Maine South had to host its own competition to narrow them down. A total of five teams congregated after school on Feb. 1 in the meeting room of the Ralph J. Frost Administration Center. The top two teams from that competition advanced to the regional competition at Navy Pier. The group of seven freshman placed second, while the group of ten seniors placed first.

Both of these teams had a distinct theme, of a “‘50s Kitchen” and “Office,” respectively.

Goldberg’s legacy is reflected in the high school and college Rube Goldberg machine competitions.

These competitions take place every year, and require teams of at least three students to build a physical Rube machine to complete a simple task. This year’s national task was to inflate and pop a balloon in at least 20 steps, while staying under the two minute mark.

Those interested in starting their own Rube Goldberg team can contact Mr. Marino or Mr. Downing in the science department.

Students can deliver anonymous letters to the

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NEWS

| May 11, 2012

Constitution Team competes in D.C. PHOTO COURTESY ETHAN CAMPBELL

Seniors participate in simulated congressional hearings for ‘We the People’ National Competition

Natalie Kirchhoff and Sarah Tarabey

Staff Writer and News Editor

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rom April 27 through April 30, the Maine South Constitution Team participated in the ‘We the People’ National Finals, an annual competition held in Washington, D.C. that tests high school students’ familiarity with the study of the American Constitution. After months of preparation following their victory at State, the Maine South team traveled to D.C. for the three day competition.

Fifty-six teams from across the country assembled for the competition, which took place at George Mason University. Within each high school’s team, members were divided in six distinct units, each of which covers a different aspect of Constitutional study.

The six Maine South units competed individually in the first rounds on April 28 and 29. The ten highestscoring schools then advanced to a third round of competition, held at the Capitol Building. Maine South did not rank among these schools.

During each of the first two days of competition, a simulated congressional hearing took place in front of a panel of three judges, ranging from attorneys and professors to scholars and officeholders. Notable judges that the team encountered included Florida state representative Anitere Flores and retired Oregon Supreme Court justice Susan Leeson.

Team members first presented a four-minute prepared speech (three prompts were released in early February) as selected by the judges.

After giving the speech, each unit engaged in a six-minute free response session, during which the judges asked a series of questions related to the prompt and to the unit’s general area of study. This was meant to showcase the breadth of each unit’s specialized knowledge, a result of year-long research during

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WE THE PEOPLE

In addition to competing, Consitution Team extensively toured Washington, D.C., including a visit to the Supreme Court.

which they educated themselves in their specialized sectors. These vary from the early intellectual, philosophical, and historical foundations of the American political system all the way to the effect of present day challenges on the Constitution and American democracy.

Criteria for judging included the extent of each unit’s understanding and reasoning of proposed questions, its use of supporting evidence and constitutional citations, as well as its responsiveness and overall participation.

The ten advancing teams were revealed via the ‘We the People’ website, Facebook, and Twitter on the night of April 29. It was then that the Maine South team learned that they would not be proceeding to the third day of competition.

The top three teams, in ascending order, were Arcadia High School from California, Maggie L. Walker

Governor’s School from Virginia, and Lincoln High School from Oregon.

Despite the news, the team was proud of its performance.

“I thought the team did really well,” said Coach Andrew Trenkle. “I really didn’t think anyone answered anything wrong. It’s just unlucky that we didn’t come away with a better tangible result. I think top to bottom this group was probably the first I’ve ever had where there was no weak link in terms of individuals and units. I don’t think another team [from Maine South] has been as well prepared, talented, and smart as this year’s. I was also really pleased with how the team treated other teams. I thought they represented the school really well.”

“To see students perform with such excellence and to behave as such fine young people is everything you want to see as a teacher,” added

Coach Kevin Hansen. “It was a very, very positive experience on all levels.”

Team members agreed, citing both the competition and the trip as memorable.

“It was thrilling to be able to finally present all the information we’ve been learning throughout the year,” said member Paul Ansani. “We’d all been looking forward to the trip for a long time and there’s no doubt that the team performed to the best of its ability.”

“I’ll be the first to admit that it was a bitter disappointment when we didn’t win,” said Lindsey Zawila.

“But not all victories are measured by medals and titles. I left with a team and came back with a family. It was an amazing experience, and that’s where the real victory is. I wouldn’t trade it for the world.”

“I am so proud of the entire team,” agreed Katie Solberg. “I was impressed by the knowledge and dedication shown by the everyone, and the fact that we didn’t place in the top ten didn’t change that. Constitution Team brought me closer to some of the greatest people I have ever known.”

While in D.C., the team also had the opportunity to visit many of the landmark locations in the nation’s capital. They toured the Congressional Office, which included meeting with members of the Congressional staff, at the Capitol Building, along with the White House and the Supreme Court. They visited many other cultural landmarks, including presidential and war memorials and George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon.

The competition itself is a yearlong affair, beginning with the statelevel competitions held within each individual state earlier in the school year. Once the winning team in each state has been determined, they are then given several months to prepare for the national competition.

This past December, Constitution Team competed in the state competition held at the Dirksen Federal Courthouse, securing the state title and their position at the national competition in May. This year’s victory at state continued the longstanding tradition of State victories for the Maine South team that has been in effect since 1994.

May 11, 2012

| ENTERTAINMENT

A bucket list for the modern teenage cinephile Five pre-1990 movies to put in your Netflix queue

Joshua Timm & Soren Ramsey Entertainment Editor & Commentary Editor

“Blazing Saddles” he 1974 Mel Brooks parody of the Western movie genre, “Blazing Saddles” is a lewd, vulgar, and satirical comedy that led to other hilarious films like “Space Balls” and “Young Frankenstein” (two other must-see comedies). The movie follows the story of Rock Ridge, a town in danger of being torn down by Hedley Lemar, who wants to build a railroad directly where the town sits.

The sheriff of the town is killed, and the Governor sends in his replacement, Bart, the first black sheriff the West has ever seen.

The movie ends in a preposterous fight scene in which the actors break through the Western set into the Hollywood studio, ruin tours, destroy the sets of other movies, and even break into traffic to hail a cab, completely destroying the illusion of the Western movie in a hilarious surprise.

Overall, the best thing about “Blazing Saddles” is that it’s filled with scenes that are surprisingly funny; a lot of the jokes in the movie are completely unpredictable, which has become exceedingly rare in today’s comedies. Mel Brooks’ comedy is often basic, slapstick, sight humor, but it’s also really smart at times and makes audiences think.

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“The Graduate” 1967 movie starring Dustin Hoffman, this is a story about youth, sex, ethics, and outright defiance. Its humor is great because it isn’t obvious and overplayed; the comedy comes out of the things the actors do and the things that happen to them. The movie itself is funny, unlike some movies in which the jokes are forced and patronizing. The story follows Benjamin Braddock, who graduates from college and returns home to be pressured by his parents about what he is going to do next in life. At a family party, he is seduced by Mrs. Robinson, the wife of his father’s law partner, and while at first Benjamin frantically scampers

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out of the situation, he eventually has a fling with her. He falls in love with her daughter, Elaine, and goes to great lengths to win her favor, going so far as to perform a kidnap/rescue at her wedding, fighting off guests with a large cross and using it to bar the doors of the church to prevent the guests from following them.

The greatest thing about the movie is Benjamin, the protagonist and anti-hero. He isn’t a perfect guy, and makes some morally questionable decisions, but it’s hard to imagine yourself doing things differently, as he is always earnest in his actions.

Too often, people dismiss movies because the main character isn’t likable or perfect, but that’s only because people identify with the protagonists in movies, and nobody wants to see their own flaws projected on the screen.

“The Graduate” is a fantastic story about youth, and doing what you want despite what everyone else says or thinks. It’s been emulated many times, but it’s one of the first, and one of the best, movies about the youth experience.

“Goodfellas” gangster movie on the same level as “The Godfather,” this 1990 Scorcese picture is one of the best films of all time. Horribly violent, sadistic, vulgar, and even funny at times, “Goodfellas” is an extremely diverse film that impresses in every aspect.

The story is based on the book “Wiseguy,” which itself is based on a true story. The plot centers around Henry Hill and his associations with the Lucchese family, a large crime organization. Getting involved with “wiseguys” as a child, Hill goes on to become an important player in the Lucchese family. From petty theft and destruction of property to armed robberies and participation in murder, Hill was always happiest as a gangster; if he wasn’t living on the edge, he wasn’t living. The movie is an exciting, dramatic, and accurate depiction of a very exciting, fastpaced lifestyle.

“Goodfellas” has influenced films since it’s premiere, and it has been referenced, emulated, and parodied countless times. From “Swingers” to “iCarly,” the movie has its hands deep in Hollywood. It’s interesting to see this movie, and better under-

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stand where a number of Hollywood ate fear through things jumping out motifs stem from. or gruesome violence, but through dead silence, and subtly. It’s the sort “Rear Window” of movie that can be watched repeatlfred Hitchcock’s “Rear Win- edly, with new details to be discovdow” remains one of cinema’s ered every time. most iconic and influential films.

“Rear Window” is a movie that Shot entirely without special effects, should be on everyone’s “mustcomputers, or dubbing, “Rear Win- watch-list,” from die-hard Hitchcock dow” is far more captivating than fans to casual viewers. any multi-million dollar Michael Bay explosion-packed blockbuster.

“My Cousin Vinny” The template for 2007’s “Disturhis movie is by no means deeply bia,” “Rear Window” tells the story of moving or artistic, nor does L. B. Jeffries, (James Stewart), who is it claim to be. It’s just a genuinely confined to his apartment after an ac- smart, funny movie. The movie is cident leaves him with a broken leg. based around two boys who, misTo entertain himself, Jeffries takes takenly charged with murder, must to watching his neighbors, when he call upon a cousin who failed his Bar notices the suspicious behavior of exam six times and had never taken his neighbor Lars Thorwald (Ray- on a case in his life. Vinny Gambini mond Burr). Jeffries is drawn into (Joe Pesci) is the quintessential New the mystery of the disappearance of Yorker, completely out of place in ruThorwald’s nagging wife. Hitchcock ral Alabama. immediately pulls the viewer into his However, what makes him great is web of suspense and danger. the way he can look at any situation What makes this movie so impres- and immediately sort the truth from sive, however, is it’s use of more sub- the falsehoods. Gambini’s witty, selftle means of conveying its message. confident arguments with the judge, Long periods without dialogue allow the prosecution, a meathead at a bar, viewers to form their own opinions and pretty much anyone show an as to the reason for the neighbor’s acute talent for honing in on people’s collection of knives and saws, as well weaknesses. as the disappearance of his needy, Vinny is perfectly complimentbedridden wife. The omnipresent ed by his fiancée Mona Lisa Vito plinking a of jazz piano creates an (Marisa Tomei), who, if anything, is air of a relaxed summer afternoon, even more acutely aware of the way which turns to distant horns and si- things work around her. Tomei endrens when Thorwald’s apartment is ed up winning an Academy Award shown. Hitchcock’s ability to control for Best Supporting Actress for her the audience’s nerves makes a scene role as a snarky sidekick to Gambini. in which Jeffries’ girlfriend scouts for The movie stands out for its beautiful evidence in Thorwald’s home almost wordplay and smart writing, and can unbearable. The film doesn’t cre- be appreciated by just about anyone.

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ENTERTAINMENT

| May 11, 2012

Music festivals coming to summer stages S

ummer is a time for vacation, relaxation, and for most seniors, preparation for college. Many students look forward to going to camp or traveling to a different country, but some are, once again, stuck in Park Ridge. There will, however, be plenty of music festivals to go out and experience. Whether you listen to country, heavy metal, or dubstep, at least one of these will suit your music needs.

Paolo Bacigalupi visits Maine South Entertainment Editor

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gible problem and predicting what might happen as a result of it, a story can be written.

In addition to writing stories by augmenting the severity of the current problems the world faces, Bacigalupi sees science fiction as more than just a way to tell a story, but as a two-pronged tool. “If science fiction can function as a warning, can it also inspire change?” he asked students.

“Can it identify roads you don’t want to go down… and create an opportunity to move in a new direction?”

When students asked Bacigalupi advice for starting a story, he said, “I start with a theme, add an idea or concept that I like, and expound on that.” As for the actual writing process and the body text, he said

n Thursday, May 3, author Paolo Bacigalupi visited Maine South to talk about his novels, answer questions from students, and sign copies of his books.

Bacigalupi spoke about serious threats that modern humanity faces and how he uses globally relevant problems as a guide to his writing.

He spoke about water crises, public opinion, global warming, democratic failure, and asked, “What does the world look like if we [magnify] these?” Bacigalupi mentioned several specific problems like water scarcity in California and Wisconsin union issues.

On the political gridlock in Wisconsin, he commented, “suddenly WRIST BREAKER Students you had this moment where democ- line up for autographs after the seminar. racy did not work.” By taking a tan- Bacigalupi’s books are a part of Maine

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South’s English curriculum.

that he constantly deletes his writing and rewrites it. “A lot of times [when I write,] it’s like bad choice, bad choice, bad choice, finally good choice, yes!”

“Ship Breaker” is the required summer read for all sophomores, and “Drowned Cities,” its compan-

ion novel, is a summer choice read for students. Bacigalupi is winner of the Compton Crook, Michael L. Printz, Theodore Sturgeon, and Hugo awards. In addition to those awards, Time Magazine named his novel, “The Windup Girl” one of the top ten books of 2009.

PHOTO BY JOSHUA TIMM

Joshua Timm

May 11, 2012

| ENTERTAINMENT

Alternative returns to Chicago airwaves Horoscopes Hawkoscopes Nicole Shammo

Entertainment Editor ast July, Chicago’s only alternative rock station, Q101, was sold by Emmis Communications to Merlin Media and its format was changed to FM news. Languishing at the bottom of the rankings, 101.1 FM News fired two news anchors and their sports reporter on April 27. In addition, a third news anchor resigned.

Now, Merlin Media, the owner of that frequency, is bringing alternative rock back to Chicago radio, and is even reviving the Q101 call letters “WQKX.” On the far end of the dial was a smooth jazz station, ranked 26th most popular among Chicago stations. Smooth 87.7 was owned by a Los Angeles-based company, Venture Technologies Group, who also owns WLFM-LP on television.

In fact, the radio station was actually the TV channel’s audio.

The station was contracted to operate until 2015, but because it broadcast on a TV signal, it opened doors for Merlin Media to add a third frequency to their company. Smooth 87.7 had been on the air for about three years and officially signed off on Sunday, April 29.

Another reason for Smooth 87.7’s end stems from a mandate by the Federal Communications

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Commission (FCC). The FCC asks that all low power TV channels (like WLFM-LP) convert to digital by 2015. Ultimately, the station would end up changing to a new format regardless of Merlin Media’s purchase.

In an attempt to attract younger listeners, Merlin Media chose to bring alternative rock radio back to Chicago. The station will be marketed as “Q 87.7 Underground Alternative.” Merlin reserved commercial spots for its fledgling station on its popular classic rock station, The Loop, in hopes of bringing in traffic to the station.

It’s uncertain why Merlin Media would have changed Q101’s format into a news station only to later buy another frequency and change its format to alternative rock. Some hypothesized that Randy Michaels, CEO of Merlin Media, didn’t find Q101 to be a flourishing station, failing to provide anything new to listeners and therefore wasn’t worried about losing that small share of audience members. Others say that he wanted to compete with the city’s top news station, 780 AM, run by CBS Radio.

Even though Q101 is not on terrestrial radio anymore, it still exists online, broadcast live at Q101.com, where listeners can chat with each other while they are listening. Q101 can also be heard while on the go with an iPhone or Android app.

Joshua Timm

Entertainment Editor Aries—You’ll be very concerned with relationships this summer. Just remember to stay flexible, as Twister is a very popular game at parties, and staying limber is the key to winning.

Taurus—You will find success by stepping out of your comfort zone this summer.

However, you will not have to physically step outside your comfort zone, as local single moms can make $800 a day just by working from home, and so can you!

Gemini—You’ll find a companion that you spend most of your time with over break, and you two will be thick as thieves. But seriously, you’ll start to shoplift and gain some weight.

Cancer—One event this summer will stand out in your memory for years to come. Just remember to chronicle everything you do so Rachel McAdams can remember the love you once shared when you’re old.

Leo—You are very organized, and even have a strict schedule for relaxing over the summer. You’ll face a conflict of choosing between watching iCarly reruns and checking the Domino’s Pizza Tracker.

Virgo—Heights are a real problem for you, and you’ll often feel dizzy, even when stationary. Sorry—that’s vertigo. I read that wrong.

Libra—You’ll find inspiration from all around you this break, so don’t write off any ideas as crazy. Except for the one where you break into a retirement home and steal all the bingo boards. That is crazy. And pure genius.

Scorpio—You like to think you interact well with others and have a heightened world view. However, giving pretend voices to the stuffed animals at your tea party doesn’t qualify you to talk about Turkish economic policy.

Sagittarius—You’ll accomplish something great, but won’t be recognized for it.

Don’t worry, it’s only because the rest of the world doesn’t see eating a tablespoon of cinnamon as a legitimate accomplishment. But it is.

Capricorn—Consuming a wide variety of books and other media over the break will expand your mind and change the way you think, making you smarter. Then, when school starts, you’ll remember “The Jersey Shore,” and the brain cells you’ve accumulated will be drowned in a sea of cologne, sweat, and Italian seasoning.

Aquarius—You will spend a lot more time outside this summer, and do some gardening—maybe even spend some time on the front lawn. However, when shady teenagers start stomping on your grass, you will become distraught and make friends with Morty, the crotchety old man from across the street who truly appreciates how much work goes into lawn upkeep.

Pisces—You wish others would be more sharing and welcoming, but you first have to learn to share more yourself, which probably won’t happen, as you have some really nice things.

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 Maine South dolls up for annual fashion show Tara Garvey  been done before, so that's exciting.”

The unique dollhouse theme of this year’s show attracted a lot of attention. This year’s director, Kayla Katz, took past ideas and revamped them to create a whole new look for this year.

“The show is definitely more modern than it has been in the past,” Katz said. “We tried to focus on incorporating mainly new music to give the show a modern feel.”

Through these new incorporations, the show captured the most popular trends of this year.

“Also, for the first time ever, we haven’t included a model search for the show,” Katz said, “so it’s a much closer-knit show than it ever has been before.”

Those who worked behind the scenes for the fashion show chose models who were either fashion students or friends of the students.

Along with the dollhouse theme, the show was broken down into various acts revolving around popular childhood dolls. Some of the acts that were showcased included pajamas, casual wear, trash-to-treasure, semi-formal, spring clothes, summer clothes, and prom. Each act was paired with a specific doll to represent it. The dolls used ranged from American Girl dolls, to Malibu Barbies and Bratz, to porcelain dolls.

The captains of each act carefully considered to incorporate music, GET TRENDY Freshman Rachel Frank focuses on her design. props, and styling to emphasize the Measurements need to be precise for any design to be successfully overall dollhouse theme. made.

Staff Writer unway fashion nowadays is always a little bold. Last weekend, the Maine South-Maine West Fashion Show brought student-inspired designs and other non-runway fashions to light.

The fashion show is the one school-hosted event that showcases the work of the fashion students and raw modeling talent of the student body. With each year, the popularity of the fashion show undoubtedly increases, and that is sure to be the case for this year as well.

“Every year we try to find a new theme, which is starting to become harder to do,” said fashion teacher Mrs. Inserra. “This year, the theme, ‘Welcome to the Dollhouse,’ is a fresh idea. It's never

PHOTO COURTESY MEAGAN BOATRIGHT

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FEATURES

| May 11, 2012

Prom

Getting a date: a how-to

REAL

Staff Writer

Becky Nedza “Prom is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so why would you ask someone to prom in a generic, unoriginal way? For me, I wanted to ask in a fun and creative way. First, Katy Lohens, Anna Toulon, Kate Makowski and I wrote lyrics about prom, including lines like ‘prom is coming up and I sort of need a date,’ and ‘what do you know about Maine South,’ and then we picked a melody. We voiced over a whole song and created our own track!

After that was done, we made a three-minute video of us all obnoxiously dancing. I know, it’s embarrassing, but it was totally worth it. Kevin ended up seeing it on YouTube after his friend referred it to him, and I ended up with a date!”

Emily Kelly “Lawrence told me he wanted to take me to prom a while ago. But one night, all my friends texted me apologizing and saying he wasn’t taking me anymore. So they started listing freshmen I could go with, which only upset me more. I was pretty mad at Lawrence and said some mean things about him to everyone else. I came home that night to find my room was completely full of balloons and streamers and there was a giant poster saying ‘Prom 2012?’

Lawrence was asking me that night all along and my friends were just throwing me off. I don’t think I’ve ever been that embarrassed in my life. I felt terrible but we laughed about it after. The whole process was pretty bad, though.”

Brianna Cloney

T

hroughout the years, it has become a tradition to ask a date to a dance in a creative way. People attempt to ask their date in unique and crazy ways in order to impress the one they want to spend the night dancing away with.

People tend to personalize the requests in ways similar to a person’s personality, or sentimental to memories between the pair. It doesn’t take much effort to carry out some of these ideas; adding a little effort will make the person you’re asking even more inclined to say yes.

For those of you who are somewhat lazy or are procrastinators who like to wait until the last second to do these kinds of things, the following ideas are simple, yet have the ability to make a girl or guy smile.

• Show up at his or her doorstep with flowers and a poster rhyming something with the word “prom.”

• Tie balloons to his or her car and write out “prom” in shaving cream on the sides or windshield.

• Buy cups and spell out “prom” in a fence (this works best in a tennis court or gated in area).

• Get goldfish and leave the bowl on his or her front steps with a note saying, “Of all the fish in the sea, will you go to prom with me?”

There are those who want to ask their date early, saving themselves the worry of their date getting asked by someone else, or just not having to deal with it after. These ideas involve a little more time to get ready, and a little bit more planning.

• Create a puzzle, cutting it into pieces and put a different letter on each piece for a message.

Cut up the puzzle and have the

disorganized pieces delivered to the person for them to solve the puzzle.

• Make directions, like a pirate map or poem, leading your date around town solving tasks and following directions until they find you at the end with flowers, waiting to ask the question.

• Go to a professional sporting event, like a Cubs or Bulls game, and get it written on the message board or jumbotron (warning: this can get pretty pricey).

No matter what kind of person you are when it comes to these kinds of things, creativity is key. Ask around with friends and family a few days before to see what kinds of ideas you can get. You can also find millions of ideas with a simple Google search.

Just remember, this is the initial step to an amazing prom night.

a remarkable time. Groups can get the low price of $10 per person per hour, with the requirement that only one person pays for the entire group.

Having a blast at Sky High Sports is a given and a perfect opportunity for all Maine South students interested in an extraordinarily fun-filled time.

Laser Zone is an adrenaline pumping site to enjoy prom night with friends. Welcoming to shifty shooters and swift snipers, Laser Zone allows for an hour of exceptional fun.

They have a party bus for groups and they supply food and drinks. The action zone is quite dark, is equipped with flashing lights, and has slick hiding places, all set up to mislead the players. Players can either be organized in groups or in pairs. The price for an hour of fun is low at $20 per person. Laser Zone allows for the complete prom night experience.

A common and popular prom option is renting a party bus for the night. Party buses allow for dancing, socializing, and sightseeing. The bus can act as a tour and take the passengers to multiple destinations.

These fancy-mobiles can make stops at the “Bean” or other downtown attractions. Students can utilize buses to all night for a fair price.

Ed Debevic’s is an extremely entertaining restaurant with a humorous atmosphere. Ed Debevic’s will take you back to the ‘50s and ’60s era.

The spunky waitresses are dressed to fit the groovy mood. The restaurant is covered with red and white tiles and pink appliances. Along with great-tasting food, you can expect some tough-talking waitresses who will make you roll over with laughter at their harsh c om m e nt s an d s arc a s t i c criticisms.

Dick’s Last Resort, located in the Marina C it y Towe rs ove rl o ok i ng t he Chicago River, presents delicious barbecue and steaks. With one-ofa-kind entertainment and mingling servers, you are guaranteed to have a marvelous time.

Any one of these thrilling activities will make your prom night an extravagant success. Whether you enjoy bouncing at Sky High, shooting your date with a laser at Laser Zone, or having an exuberant time at Ed Debevic’s, Dick’s, or on a party bus, enjoy a safe and sensational prom night.

Planning your prom after-party No need to stress about finding fun places to go after prom Colleen McErlean Staff Writer

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ith prom right around the corner, there is a flutter of striking prom dresses, fancy shoes, and expensive suits. However, in the midst of arranging these important details, planning for after the dance is often forgotten. As any Maine South student well knows, organizing plans for Homecoming or Girls’ Choice are a struggle; multiply that by ten, and you have prom. Last-minute plans are abundant due to teenagers lacking the ability to ever come to agreement on anything. However, in order to help in your last few weeks, here are a few enjoyable places to go after the dance.

Sky High Sports is a thrilling bouncy house. Adorned with multiple trampolines, Sky High Sports offers a wild dodgeball area, foam pit, and open bounce area. For only $11 an hour, Sky High is a bargain for such

8 SouthwordS

STORIES

Michael Nieder “I took Nicole to the Bulls game, and she was under the impression that we were going for my brother and sister’s birthday (they’re twins). Once we were at the game, I told Nicole that my siblings’ names would be on the scoreboard at halftime wishing them a happy birthday.

When halftime rolled around, I was ready with a camera, and we were all watching the scoreboard. After five minutes or so of ‘Happy Birthdays,’ the board read, ‘Nicole Schaul, will you go to prom with Michael Nieder?’

She said yes.”

Ally Stevens Features Editor

M

ost people make a bucket list of items to complete by the end of their lifetime, but Southwords has compiled a list of everything one must do before graduation from Maine South.

Find your doppelganger on the Athletic Wall of Fame.

The walls opposite our Spectator Gym are strewn with opportunities to find one’s doppelganger. Starting in 1964 and continuing through last year’s athletes, this wall provides students with a looking glass in which they can find themselves, say, playing badminton in 1984 with a pretty Hawktastic hairstyle. A Hawk becomes a Hawk once he or she finds her twin on this grand wall.

Have an awkward exchange with a teacher from your past.

We all have that one teacher we were not sad to part with. Generally, those teachers are the ones who graced us with several 45-minute naps and countless abstract art drawings. Unfortunately, Maine South is a four-year program. The teacher you had freshman year who does not remember your name will walk past you a guaranteed three times a week.

No matter the number of fake texts you create or MCYAF posters you read, sooner or later, you will have to say, “hello.” So, muster up that Hawk honor and strength you were born with, rotate your hand 180 degrees, and let out a squeaky “hello.” You’ll be happy when it’s over.

Step on the Hawk.

Despite the rumors upperclassmen spread to freshmen, stepping on the Hawk will not result in any punishment or bad luck whatsoever.

What it will result in, however, is a shorter and more straightforward route to your destination. We all know the inconvenience of breaking a walking line of friends, so go ahead, step on it. (Southwords is not liable for any injuries incurred when a varsity athlete tackles you after committing this crime against tradition.)

Photobomb a club’s yearbook photo.

Channel your inner Gordo from “Lizzie McGuire” and hop into a random club’s yearbook photo. Jumping in a photo is a great opportunity for a decent story. The rest of the club will detest you for your laziness and

attempt to break their strong club bond, but that photo and memory will forever rest peacefully in your heart. Sure, your name will be removed and you will not have nearly as many numbers next to your name as your mother would like, but when you sit your children down to tell them the story of your life, their appreciation for you will skyrocket. Or they might roll their eyes.

Actually read an English book.

When paired with an already-existing pile of homework, reading 40 pages in one night is inconvenient.

However, inconveniences like these are what make SparkNotes ridiculously tempting. Unfortunately for you, the books in our English curriculum are there for a reason—they’re good. Shakespeare may be a little difficult to get through, but come on, where would we be without “West Side Story” and “10 Things I Hate About You”? You may be surprised by just how enjoyable books can be.

Check out a book from Maine South’s library.

Because of its large collection of computers and calm studying environment, the LRC’s book shelves often go unnoticed. Contrary to popular belief, however, students are allowed to make use of those of those strange shelves behind the LAN. So go ahead, venture into the back of the LRC and check out a book. Just make sure to complete this task before graduation. Seriously. Your diploma will be held if you have failed to return a library book.

Eat a breakfast sandwich.

Don’t be fooled by their lessthan-desirable appearance: these delightful sandwiches are a great way to start off your day. While they probably won’t help you improve on your mile time, the perfect combination of eggs, meats and cheeses all on a fresh bagel certainly will make you wonder what sort of culinary witchcraft makes them so irresistible.

Wear a daring outfit.

In order to check this box, a Hawk must do more than wear his dad’s Tommy Bahama shirt on Hawaiian day. Hawks worthy of checking this box must have, at some point, put all self-respect and humility aside during their early-morning rituals.

This means throwing on a bunny suit, slipping into a clown costume, or donning a bright red suit and hat around the holidays. To those of you

who have completed this task, Southwords salutes you for embracing your courageous Hawk instincts.

Go to a sporting event other than football.

It goes without saying—Maine South has a great football team. Topnotch. But everyone goes to these games, and other teams are equally as talented. Spend a Saturday afternoon at the pool watching your fellow Hawks strut off the diving board.

Throw on your best pair of khakis and follow the golfers around on the green as they channel their inner Bubba Watson. No matter the event you choose to attend, don’t forget to bring your rowdiest rah-rah and some nice war paint.

Print to A317.

Oh, wait. As a result of the Microsoft network operating system implemented at the beginning of this school year, when printing from a Maine South computer, everyone has printed to A317. Despite it being May, we still always send our first print of the day to this unsuspecting room. Thankfully, for both the environment and A317’s inhabitants, this room’s printer has been turned off.

Have a conversation with Mr. Beauprez.

District 207 offers a large selection of interesting and well-qualified substitute teachers. One teacher, however, provides an unsurpassed amount of joy to any student in his presence. After decades of experience in teaching language arts, Mr. Beauprez has a knack for turning an otherwise boring 45 minutes into the greatest class period of your life.

With a charm suitable only for that adorable grandpa whom everyone wants in their life, Mr. Beauprez has the ability to turn an ordinarily ordinary class period into an hour of pure bliss and happiness.

Have your name in Southwords.

Having your name printed in Southwords should be a top priority. Within the four short years you spend at Maine South, make sure to somehow play your part in your school’s newspaper. Not only will it be surrounded by journalistic gold, but it will also spend eternity locked away in a drawer in LRC-1 for alien archaeologists to find after the apocalypse. Who knows, your future children could be pawing through old issues and see proof that his or her parent went to high school.

| FEATURES

What would you add to your Maine South bucket list?

A Hawk’s to-dos before leaving the nest

May 11, 2012

“Wear a costume around school.”

- Meg Patrick ‘12

“Slip n’ slide down the A-wing stairs.”

- Mike Klimmeck ‘12

“Turn a Saturday detention into ‘The Breakfast Club.’”

- Anna Muiznieks ‘12

“Study.”

- Colton Cannon ‘12

SouthwordS 9

FEATURES

| May 11, 2012

HECTIC SPEC GYM

Sophomores and seniors awaited t-shirts that were being thrown by various extracurricular organizations.

“Month of Mayhem” comes to a close Alex Heyde Staff Writer

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his past April was the “Month of Mayhem” at Maine South in which thousands of dollars were raised in support of the Cystic Fibrosis Institute. The highlight of this month of school spirit and fundraising was the weekly “Minute of Mayhem.” “‘Minute of Mayhem’ was a fundraising competition run by Senior Class Council that involved each grade,” Senior Class President Patrick Wohl explained. “During an unannounced period every Friday, teachers would use an envelope to collect as much money as possible.”

The competition began with a surprise announcement by principal Mr. Messmer, followed by a chaotic

HIPS DON’T LIE

minute of student donations while an upbeat song played over the loudspeakers.

“I loved doing ‘Minute of Mayhem,’” junior Jane Acker said. “A little healthy competition never hurts, and it was nice to see that Maine South kids were willing to share what they had.”

Sophomore Dawn Ewald first experienced “Minute of Mayhem” during a study hall. “Although I had seen posters, I didn’t know what ‘Minute of Mayhem’ actually was until it happened,” she recalled. “It was a fun way to raise money because a lot of people got involved.”

But Ewald also pointed out that for some classes, rapid fundraising was not always feasible. “One time it happened during a math test, so no one could give any money,” she noted. Other students reported a similarly low participation rate in their lounge periods and physical education classes.

Overall, however, “Minute of Mayhem” was a sweeping success.

On one particular Friday, the student body raised over $1,416 in a single

Mr. Bellesario, Mr. Kura, Mr. Fermanich, Mr. Dohr and Mr. Downing dance at the assembly.

10 SouthwordS

PHOTOS BY JOSIE FIORETTO

Cystic Fibrosis fundraiser raises funds and school spirit minute — a tremendous feat for Maine South.

Over the entire month of April, “Minute of Mayhem” raised more than $4,300, exceeding the Senior Class Council’s ambitious original goal of $4,000.

The freshman class raised the most money, $925, between the four classes in donations. In second place were the juniors with $850, followed by the seniors with $662 and the sophomores with DO THE WORM $562. (Final numbers Even though Mr. Bellesario is an English teacher, his dancwere not available at ing clearly shows that he knows his sinusoidal functions. press time.) teacher that they wanted to see dance “All proceeds benefit the Cystic for students at the assembly.

Fibrosis Institute, or CFI,” said Wohl.

A school assembly on Wednes“The CFI is a local organization that day brought a fitting close to the deals primarily with providing treat- “Month of Mayhem.” While at the ment and equipment for Chicago- assembly, students had the opporland CF patients.” tunity to sit with their respective The “Minute of Mayhem” was cre- clubs, cheer on their favorite teachated in response to a similar school- ers and peers in a long overdue wide fundraiser at Maine West, dur- dance-off, and show their Hawk ing which the school raised over pride. $15,000 in just two weeks in March “I think this month has refor the American Brain Tumor As- ally helped improve school spirit,” sociation.

Acker observed. “I’ve never seen At Maine South, the “Month of students be so generous for a good Mayhem” culminated with what the cause at school before. Maine South school called the “grand finale” week could always use a boost of much of April 30. Students throughout deserved Hawk pride.”

Maine South showed off their school The assembly provided a boost spirit by wearing Chicago sports to students to come to school with gear on Monday, Hawaiian apparel their wallets full for the next and on Tuesday, and class colors on final “Minute of Mayhem.”

Wednesday. In addition, the Maine “Looking around I could assume South cafeteria sold two student fa- everyone in the Spec Gym had vorites, Spuntino’s pizza and Jamba contributed,” said senior Mairead Juice smoothies. Teacher “bucket McKenna. “Not only was it unifywars” were held in which students ing, but it was for a good cause. I put donations in the bucket with the

May 11, 2012

| COMMENTARY

Hawk Pride lesson contradicts anti-stereotyping campaign Sarah Householder Staff Writer

H

awk Pride generally focuses on topics such as school spirit and universal acceptance. The most recent lesson about “minorities,” however, caused some to scratch their heads. Why would a lesson plan previously preaching from a platform of tolerance encourage students to stereotype specific groups?

The lesson was engineered off a timeless quote from “To Kill a Mockingbird”: “You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view... until you climb inside of his skin and walk around in it.” So, to promote tolerance, Hawk Pride created an activity designed to do exactly that. Students were paired off and assigned a label: blind, female, Muslim, non-English speaking, poor, Hispanic, or having cystic fibrosis. Students were then handed a good old-fashioned Tchart and asked to discuss how their lives might be if they were members of these groups. The class then came together to make a master list, ending finally with the message that our differences are what makes us strong.

Where did students get the information necessary to make such wide assumptions about the lives of those who lack eyesight or are in a different financial situation? Ironically, our only provided sources were common stereotypes, perceptions that many previous lessons have tried to refute.

By the end of the period, whiteboards were filled with such open observations as “Workplace Con: Girls don’t get the same jobs,” and “Social Con: Muslims don’t eat pork.”

How does this open the minds of students? In our quest to walk around in someone else’s shoes, the only provided option was to classify traditional stereotypes as distinctly positive or negative. It is impossible to give the statement, “They may need a seeing-eye dog” as an improvement or detriment to someone’s life. The quality of someone’s life can’t be wrapped up in a series of stereotypes relating to their statistical characteristics.

Consider this hypothetical situation: There are two Maine South

students. One is Irish on the lacrosse team. The other is Polish and takes art classes. How would you decide which of these labels should be considered positive or negative? It seems like it wouldn’t be possible for a group of kids in their Hawk Pride class to adequately define either of those very different people. The entire process would seem like an exercise in futility.

Clearly, this situation is absurd.

It would be difficult to find an entire classroom at Maine South with enough non-Irish or non-Polish students able to make an objective decision without someone shouting out that the exercise is completely unfair.

It seems that it is only due to the relative lack of diversity in our student body that such an activity was even carried out.

Creating a list of someone’s stereotypical characteristics and using it to judge his or her quality of life is not the way to go about understanding him or her.

“How was listing stereotypes of different cultures a way of celebrating diversity?” asked sophomore Molly Butler. “It seemed very insensitive.”

The contradictions of this lesson can be seen when considering a previous Hawk Pride lesson in which students were given social labels and then asked what it felt like to be judged based on those labels. The point of that lesson was to show the dangers of judging someone before you know them. In our latest exercise, we did nothing but heap judgement onto wide sectors of people we didn’t know at all.

Hawk Pride’s attempt to right social ills still doesn’t get to the heart of the matter: Because students don’t take the lessons seriously, the true messages of these lessons don’t resonate.

Hawk Pride lessons are presented in and environment that makes the message difficult to sink in. Still, one can’t help noticing the contradictory lessons, which are undeniably a larger issue than ineffectiveness.

Not only did this lesson miss the mark, but it sent potentially dangerous mixed messages about what we should and should not do in terms of addressing stereotyping and discrimination.

SouthwordS 11

COMMENTARY

| May 11, 2012

STAFF EDITORIAL

Taking two ditch days goes against tradition for high school seniors M

12 SouthwordS

Signed letters to the editor should be delivered to LRC1, given to a member of the editorial staff, or e-mailed to southwords@ maine207.org. Southwords reserves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to reject obscene/libelous submissions.

Scan this QR code to e-mail Southwords ILLUSTRATION BY ADRIAN ADAMIEC

ay 18 will be a day like any other for the staff at Maine South. As a matter of fact, it will be a normal day for most students at the school.

For the seniors, however, it marks a tradition as old as Maine South itself. Although the administration does not recognize senior ditch day, the senior student population certainly recognizes it, as it has been the Friday after the AP Tests are finished for decades.

While the accepted “official” ditch day is May 18, some students felt that April 23 would also be ideal as it was sandwiched between a weekend and the two dates of testing on which the seniors didn’t have to come to school.

The prospect of a five-day weekend proved too tempting for some seniors.

On the “unofficial” ditch day, the attendance office received 445 calls from parents excusing their children from class—over double the daily av e r a g e . Ma ny t e a c h e r s scheduled tests or projects on this day so as to deter students from skipping class, and the deans of the school strongly discouraged the ditching of class. With all of the potential drawbacks of a second ditch day, the necessity of that day certainly comes in to question.

For the past four years, most seniors have been following the strict guidelines set forth by the school.

In fact, throughout the 12 years of formalized schooling most of us have had, we have been told right from wrong by educational authority figures with few opportunities to break free of this routine. As it has been for legions of students before this year’s graduating class, participating in the ditch day is a small, relatively safe, opportunity to flout the rules without regard for—while still accepting—the penalties.

“If you want to ditch, ditch,” Dean Thetard remarked, “but you may face the consequences later.” If you understand the possible disadvantages, the Senior Cut Day can be the time that

Maine South High School 1111 South Dee Road Park Ridge, IL 60068

Editors-in-Chief

Jimmy Loomos Charlie Vinopal

Managing Editor Austin Bryniarski Production Head Adrian Adamiec News Editors

you symbolically break free of the “system” and make an independent decision. This is your day to no longer hide behind your parents and finally pull a truly Ferris Bueller-esque moment.

If you ultimately decide that it is important for you to participate in this small act of defiance, then why negate this organized rebellion by getting called out by your parents? Just look at the name itself—it’s called a “ditch” day for a reason. It is not called “senior have-your-parents-cover-for-you-soyou-don’t-get-in-trouble-for-doingsomething-wrong-day.” Besides the obvious fact that this revised title is far too long to roll off of the tongue, it’s a complete cop out. Having mom or dad call you out is a cowardly act that ruins the whole motive for a ditch day.

If you don’t feel comfortable ditching school, that’s completely fine, and you should come to school. If you have your parents call you out on May 18, though, you are just involving them in your dishonesty.

While the administration certainly

does not support either senior ditch days (Principal Messmer even sent out an e-mail to parents last week urging them not to call kids in on the “official” day), they seem to be aware that the “official” one is an inevitable part of Maine South tradition. Dean Thetard said that the teachers are instructed to plan for the ditch day as if it were any other day and assign homework and tests normally. He also said that students have, in fact, been punished for cutting class and ditching school in the past, so if one is to ditch, he or she must be aware of the repercussions—and it’s important that the student faces those consequences head on.

There is a fine line between defiance and delinquency. If you decided to take that unofficial ditch day, you are crossing that line. After four years of conforming to the rules, a slight act of defiance is acceptable. With that being said, missing multiple days towards the end of your high school career is leaning more towards flat-out negligence.

Dora Bialy Caroline Murphy Sarah Tarabey

Entertainment Editors Nicole Shammo Joshua Timm Features Editors

Des Mustafa Ally Stevens

Commentary Editors Gianna Carrozza Sarah Hands Soren Ramsey Sports Editors

Hope Allchin Nicole Johnson Erin Martelll

Photography Editor Josie Fioretto Copy Editor Adviser

Adam Smith Mr. Stathakis

May 11, 2012

| COMMENTARY

The journey, not success, is what is important Jimmy Loomos Editor-In-Chief

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his past month, I had the exciting opportunity to compete in the We the People National Finals in Washington, D.C. as a member of the Maine South Constitution Team. Although we did not finish in the position we had hoped for, the realization that something that we had worked on for a long time was about to end made it clear that the obstacles and path itself is more important than the prize.

It’s difficult for me to remember a time when I wasn’t staring at a federal document in preparation for the competition. Our 26-member team and two coaches had spent countless hours preparing for the event, and the initial shock when our name wasn’t announced on awards night was devastating. Despite this, as the weekend came to a close, our

achievements became more evident.

Sure, we didn’t win—but we have all grown as people. We have improved our speaking ability, increased our confidence, and mastered the Constitution while collaborating with individuals not typically in our social circles.

Normally, success overshadows the journey, but in this particular instance, I was amazed at how many other ways our team had “won.”

This experience translates directly to one’s high school experience, as well as various other adventures in life.

As a senior, my high school career is ticking away. The part of my life that has included sleepless nights, crammed study sessions, and Friday night football games is slowly fading.

While sad, it’s difficult to not feel anxious for my walk across the Akoo Theater stage. But, as I reflect on these past four years, it’s becoming more obvious to me how much I’ve learned and grown as a person and how important the journey of high school really was.

From my classes, I have learned

the imp or tance of hard work and time management. From my extracurriculars, I have learned to move out of my comfort zone and both work with and lead a team. From my peers I have learned to collaborate with others and listen to opinions that may differ greatly from my own. The truth is, the obstacles I have faced throughout high school have helped me as an individual and will only aid in my future endeavors.

The minute one begins high school, his or her mind is set on graduation.

Often times, the little moments of high school—the ones that are most important—are overlooked. These are the moments that teach us to be better and smarter individuals. Without these experiences, our diplomas would be worth nothing because they would solely represent our academic achievement.

As high school graduates-to-be, we are more than little Einsteins.

The internal self-improvement that occurs during high school is just as, if not more, important than the diploma itself.

As I look back at our team’s results

from Nationals, I realize that, while it would have been amazing to have been named national champions, the lessons we learned and the skills we acquired along the way were far more valuable than any medal. The same can be said regarding any activity or experience in life.

Winning the championship in soccer pales in comparison to the skills one develops throughout the season. Being elected to a leadership position doesn’t last as long as the relationships and connections one makes along the way. A diploma is a paper document far more perishable than the eternal life lessons learned during the course of high school.

Looking back, I would encourage everyone to live in the present without focusing solely on the success of one goal. Oversight like this can lead one miss priceless life experiences or fail to develop new attributes. Whether it is concering high school, future professional aspirations, or life in general, narrow-minded focus on one goal will inhibit to personal growth. In the long run, success isn’t as valuable as the journey taken to get there.

accomplish in one day.

“I pay attention in class more, even though the periods are longer, because we have the chance to do more than one thing a day,” said Katie Galuska, a freshman at Carmel Catholic High School, which uses the modified version of the block scheduling. “Students don’t get bored as easily.”

We’ve all felt the time crunch when teachers try to go over homework, review material, teach a new lesson, answer questions, and pass out new homework, in 45 minutes.

It never seems like there’s never enough time for the information to really sink in. Block scheduling would fix that problem; while classes would not meet every day, there would be more time to accomplish things in one period.

However, block scheduling poses a problem for standardized tests.

Popular dates for the ACT are in February and April, and AP tests are always in May. On a traditional block schedule, students—especially AP students—might forget a large amount of material by the time testing rolls around. Modified block

scheduling would be a better choice than traditional block scheduling because classes would remain constant throughout the year rather than rotating each semester.

Another issue some have with the block scheduling is the fact that people’s attention span may not be able to handle the length of block schedule classes.

Some teachers, in order to maintain attention, might water down classes with movies, games, and time for homework.

Instead of fitting two days of content into one, teachers may be forced to skim certain things for the sake of attention.

Many people are unsure about the prospect of block scheduling.

Student opinion at Maine South generally reflects a need for more information about the ramifications of the change.

“I think it’s an interesting idea, and I can see the benefits, but I would want more information before any changes were made,” said sophomore Molly Butler.

This does bring up a concern: no studies have actually shown that

block scheduling correlates with increased academic achievement.

Because of this, it’s important to be careful.

While it’s unlikely that Maine South could completely switch over to block scheduling within the next year or two, it’s important to keep block scheduling on the radar as a potentially beneficial change as more information is reported.

With our current schedule, it feels as if classes are too short to do much other than listen to the teacher lecture. Often, there’s not enough time to work out examples or ask questions during class. Without classroom discussion or further exploration of the topics being taught, it’s difficult for lectures alone to really sink in.

Block scheduling would allow for teachers to really get to the meaning of what they’re teaching, and has potential to really improve our education.

Though an immediate change might not be a viable option right now, block scheduling would be a good possibility to consider for the future.

Block scheduling could be the way of the future Potential scheduling change presents many benefits Jenna Galuska Staff Writer

S

chools across the nation are beginning to adopt block scheduling, a system with fewer classes per day for longer periods of time. Bringing block scheduling to Maine South is an idea that should be seriously considered, since it could potentially improve our schooling experience as a whole.

There are two types of block scheduling: traditional and modified.

With traditional block scheduling, students take three or four classes every day for a semester, then they switch to another group of classes for the following semester.

With modified block scheduling, students take the same class for the whole year but don’t attend every class every day.

Block scheduling has its benefits.

Longer periods mean that classes can

SouthwordS 13

SPORTS

| May 11, 2012

2012 Maine South sports season wrap-up Nicole Johnson & Hope Allchin Sports Editors

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he spring sports season brings about finals, warm-weather, and thirteen different sports teams. While competing for starting positions, practice space and championship titles, the Hawks are successful across the board. Here is a quick look at some of the sports that recieved less coverage this season.

Boys’

TRACK

Boys’

Girls’

Record: 2-9 Highlights: Beating the Nazareth Academy Roadrunners by a landslide, 12-4.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: To continue to improve our skills this season and win the early playoff games. Since the program is fairly new, develop the team further to prepare for a playoff run in the future.

Record: 10-5 Highlights: Placing second in the Rolling Meadows invite as well as bringing home 24 medals this season.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: To perform well at sectionals, and hopefully make it to state.

LACROSSE

BADMINTON

Record: Finished fourth in the CSL indoor track meet; defeated Deerfield 106-62 in a head-to-head meet.

Highlights: Robbie Taylor ran 4:28 in the mile, Michal Filipczak ran 1:53.35 in the 800, and Tom Fritz ran a 50.80 in the 400.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: Despite struggling a little outdoors, we hope May and good weather will improve performances.

The next few weeks will determine the postseason. Several athletes hope to place well at State, including Michal Filipczak, who is hoping for first in the 800.

Girls’

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Record: 13-10 Highlights: Beating Deerfield, head coach Gershon’s former team; defeating Resurrection on Senior Night.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: To go far in the playoffs and look to develop girls for next year.

Girls’

SOCCER

Girls’

TRACK

Record: 7-5-1 Highlights: Beating Hersey in April.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: To perform well in regionals and hopefully make it to sectionals. The team has been plagued by injuries but hope to come together for a deep playoff run.

Record: Won two out of three indoor meets.

Highlights: Winning the Wheeling Invite and setting six school records.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: To perform well at sectionals and qualify several individuals for state. The team is led by juniors Emily Leonard and Megan Lemersal, who has been struggling with a knee injury.

Boys’

Girls’

Boys’

Record: 6-9 Highlights: Beating Niles North and Maine West, which allowed us to compete for third in conference.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: To perform well at regionals and qualify for sectionals.

Record: 2-9 Highlights: Great sportsmanship was displayed by each player despite challenging losses.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: To end the remainder of the season on a strong note in the remaining few games.

Record: 19-5 Highlights: Being ranked 23rd in State and winning the Maine East tournament for the second year in a row.

Coach’s Post-season Outlook: To perform well against challenging opponents in May as well as going far in playoffs.

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LACROSSE

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May 11, 2012 | SPORTS

Baseball off to ‘Rebuilding’ no more promising start Nate Wolf

Adam Smith

Staff Writer

Copy Editor

W

ith an unblemished Central Suburban League South mark and a 20-3 overall record, the boys’ varsity baseball team certainly seems to be playing up to their reputation, especially as they recently faced rivals Evanston and New Trier.

Eight seniors will move on to play at the collegiate level—southpaw John Forsythe will head to Cal-Riverside, center fielder Kyle Richardson to Notre Dame, three-year starting catcher Jimmy Frankos to Iowa, outfielder Brett Slager to North Park, infielder/pitcher Keenan Kelly to Webster University, righty Pat Aloisio to Oakton, shortstop Rocky Saavedra to Lindenwood and first baseman Nick Mitrovich to Concordia.

The Hawks—ranked 15th in the state, according to ESPN—faced the Wildkits twice in three days last week. Despite their nearly .500 record, Evanston kept both games close—almost too close.

“They were a good opponent,” said Richardson, who leads the Hawks in batting average, home runs, and runs batted in. “Facing that kind of adversity for the first time all season helped us come together as a team.”

The first game of the series went to Maine South in extras, 2-1, with Aloisio throwing eight strong innings with seven strikeouts and Rocky Saavedra making the save.

That game was followed by another successful extra-inning affair two days later, as Frankos, batting in the bottom of the ninth with one out and the bases loaded, hit a deep single to center field to clinch a Hawks victory.

The beginning of their series with the 10th-ranked Trevians was no less

A

Photo by aisling rowland

dramatic, as South pulled out yet another extra-inning win in Wilmette.

After stranding runners on second and third in the eighth inning, the Hawks led off the top of the ninth with a Rocky Saavadra single and Nick Calabrese sacrifice bunt. An intentional walk to Richardson (.436, 4 HR, 17 RBI) set up a game-winning two-run double off the bat of Kelly (.410).

The 7-0 Aloisio, starting on the mound for the second time in just a week, further cemented his reputation as a big-game pitcher; he threw a nine-inning complete game, allowing just four hits while striking out seven.

As impressive as the team has collectively been thus far, there have been multiple individual accomplishments this season nearly as remarkable.

Especially notable was a home game against Waukegan on April 17, when Rocky Saavedra no-hit the Bulldogs en route to an 8-0 win, the first such game by a Maine South pitcher since Mark Ori’s gem during the 2001 season.

It was a family effort, too: his younger brother Chuy, a junior infielder/pitcher, ended the game by throwing out the batter on an attempted bunt down the third base line.

“It was a team effort offensively and defensively, and the guys really backed me up,” remarked Saavedra, who also doubles as the team’s starting shortstop. “I just threw strikes.

They did the rest.”

Good pitching, timely hitting, and nearly flawless defense seems to be a state-caliber formula for a squad with a double-digit win streak.

lthough many considered this season to be a rebuilding year of sorts, the Maine South boys’ volleyball team has exceeded expectations by starting their season with a 13-6 record and a 5-1 conference record.

Although five of the team’s six losses have come against top-20 competition, varsity head coach Gary Granell is not satisfied with these results.

The Hawks have proven to be contenders in tournament play by winning the Warren Tournament.

The team competed in the Downers Grove South tournament in late April. They started with a 2-0 record, but hit a rough patch, losing the final three matches of the tournament. However, the team rebounded to beat Hinsdale Central and Glenbrook South, who was ranked ninth in the state.

The Hawks have some familiar faces from last year in the line-up, but some fresh faces also provide a spark. Senior captains Scotty Adamczyk, an outside hitter who has committed to play at Carthage College next year, and setter Matt Garvey have led the charge for the Hawks so far in the season.

Coach Granell was willing to let Adamczyk, the previous year’s libero and a member of the varsity team since his freshman year, move to the outside because of his skill set.

“It’s a combination of him being

PREPARE TO STRIKE

a good passer and a developing outside hitter,” said Granell. “We needed him both offensively and defensively this year.”

Middle hitters Ivan Zelic and Adam Forbes provide instant offense in the middle of the court with their hitting and blocking abilities. Tommy Calandriello, the team’s libero, along with Colin McGuire, help the passing defense. Some new faces include right side hitters Mike Hopkins and Mike McGovern.

“It’s a good mix of older and younger guys,” Granell said.

Coach Granell believes that the team can compete offensively with any team in the state, but defense has been the team’s biggest weakness this season.

“Passing is something we’ve always worked on as well as defense,” said Adamczyk. “We’ll definitely improve and be where I’m sure we want to be.”

Hopkins has his own perspective about the year so far. “At the varsity level, we have had success primarily because of the work ethic of the entire team and of both our head coach and our assistant coach, Terry Dohr.

The bi-los, or the lower level teams, have done pretty well.”

Although achieving the same success as past years will be tough, the Hawks are confident that they can put the pieces together to make a deep playoff run. All year long, Coach Granell has preached to the team to have poise and to always carry around a little smirk of confidence. The team has rallied from large deficits numerous times this year, giving the Hawks the experience that they will need to channel in tight playoff matches.

Scotty Adamczyk receives a set against the Niles West Wolves on Tuesday May 1.

Photo courtesy mrs. Adamczyk

Major changes bring success to boys’ volleyball

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BADMINTON | BASEBALL | BOYS’GYMNASTICS | LACROSSE | GIRLS’SOCCER | SOFTBALL | BOYS’TENNIS | TRACK | BOYS’VOLLEYBALL | WATER POLO

Softball shines within conference play

Lauren Smith Staff Writer

Many talented Maine South athletes continue playing after high school. Here is a look at a few of them.

Brian O’Toole, Class of ‘08 Sport: Baseball Elmhurst College (IL) Position: Catcher/Infielder Emily Epifanio, Class of ‘09 Sport: Softball University of Wisconsin (WI) Position: Catcher Bailey Patt, Class of ‘09 Sport: Softball Alabama State University (AL) Position: Pitcher Nick Contorno, Class of ‘09 Sport: Baseball Concordia University (IL) Position: Outfielder

aine South’s varsity girls’ softball team has been off to a solid start this spring, earning a conference record of 8-2 midway through the season. The team is a mixture of experienced varsity players and new arrivals. Nicole Johnson, Kaitlyn Mullarky, Chrissy Polka, Michelle Roberts, and Maddy Vogg are all seniors returning to the varsity team along with one returning sophomore and two returning juniors who were pulled up for playoffs last season. Two new juniors, two new sophomores, and three freshmen complete this 15-player team.

The girls have been working hard since the end of February, attending before- and after-school tryouts for a week, then immediately jumping into the full motions of daily practice.

To help cut the cost of varsity uniforms and new program bats, purchased earlier in the season, all members of the softball program participated in several fundraisers. The girls first sold “Hawk Cards” to Park Ridge and Niles residents. Each card was $20 and had discounts for local businesses. Team members had practice off to take part in “Blitz Night,” when players had until 7 p.m. to sell the remainder of their “Hawk Cards” and turn in the money.

Photo courtesy Mr. johnson

M

GROUND OUT

Starting sophomore pitcher Jenna Christie throws a fielded grounder to first baseman Kaitlyn Mullarkey for an out in a game against New Trier.

Two years ago, the money earned from the “Hawk Card” fundraiser was put towards a new state-of-the-art pitching machine for the program. Maine South Softball also sells Lou Malnati’s pizza every year to raise money.

Opposing teams believed this to be a rebuilding year for the Hawks; however, the girls and their coaches thought otherwise.

Sophomore player Emily Wolf commented that the hard work and team bonding will pay off this season.

“Coach [Pasier] said this isn’t another

Mary Diduch, Class of ‘10 Sport: Softball Lawrence University (WI) Position: Infielder/Outfielder Steph Mathe, Class of ‘10

Sport: Softball Elmhurst College (IL) Position: Infielder

Phil Tallman, Class of ‘10 Sport: Baseball Knox College (IL) Position: Outfielder

Photo courtesy Mr. johnson

Mike O’Connell, Class of ‘10 Sport: Baseball Knox College (IL) Position: Outfielder

HUDDLE UP The varsity team comes together before their conference game against Waukegan on April 14.

rebuilding year for Maine South,” she said. “We’re still the same team we’ve always been.”

On Friday, April 29, the team made their way to the St. Charles weekend tournament. Sophomore Cara Laskowski was the starting pitcher for their first game against Hoffman Estates. A few pitches into the first inning, the batter hit a line drive straight back at Laskowski, hitting her in the wrist.

“It hurt a lot, but I didn’t think it was as bad as it was,” said Laskowski.

She finished the inning but was unable to go back out and play. After supporting the girls from the bench, Laskowski was taken to the hospital and informed that her left wrist was fractured. The varsity team pulled up freshmen Nina Anderson to help out starting pitcher, sophomore Jenna Christie with the upcoming four games.

The Hawks finished the tournament with a record of 1-3.

Despite losing recent conference games, the girls are confident they can come back and finish on top in the CSL. “We can still do well in conference,” commented senior starting catcher Chrissy Polka. “This is our year and we have the talent to make it far.”

Despite the recent stretch of rough games, the varsity team continues to work hard and plans on doing so for the rest of the season.