Vol 56, Issue 1 Southwords

September 6, 2019

1111 S. Dee Road • Park Ridge, Illinois 60068

Vol. 56, No. 1

TECHNOLOGICAL PHOTO BY CHARLOTTE GEIER

DIFFICULTIES Phone pockets are implemented in classrooms to curb distraction but are receiving mixed reviews.

See pages 2 & 5.

System Switch Sound Check

Infinite Campus replaces Southwords rates popular Aspen. music festivals.

Page 2 Pages 8-9

Guten tag

30 students travel to Germany.

Page 12

Eye on the Ball

Alumna works in MLB commissioner’s office.

Page 16

NEWS

| September 6, 2019

School safety monitor brought happiness to all around her Charlotte Geier

Editor-In-Chief his past summer, Maine South lost a dedicated staff member, school safety monitor Ms. Maria DeVivo. Her commitment and wit will be dearly missed by members of the Maine South community.

Ms. DeVivo worked at Maine South for many years and had three daughters that all attended Maine South. South staff members recalled Ms. DeVivo as a funny, respectable, and caring person.

“When Maria was around, you knew it,” Registrar Ms. Kerry Belville said. “Her smile lit up the room. Her sense of humor was the best; she was sarcastic and always had a one liner.

We had so many laughs together.”

Ms. DeVivo’s selflessness was evident throughout her time at Maine South.

“I remember her warm and welcoming smile,” administrative assistant Ms. Marie Lang said. “[She was] someone who put her own problems on the back burner so she could care for those in her presence; always positive about life.”

T ho s e w ho k ne w he r a l s o recounted her interactions with students. All of the students valued Ms. DeVivo as well, respecting her stern yet caring approach as a hall monitor.

“Students would always stop and

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hang out with her,” Ms. Belville said.

“I could see that they enjoyed her company.”

In addition to working with care as a hall monitor, Ms. DeVivo’s dedication as a Maine South parent, friend, and member of the Park Ridge community was cherished and will be greatly missed.

“I could always rely on her when I needed help,” Assistant Principal Mr. George Dagres said. “Whether it was with a work-related issue or to talk about our families, she was always willing to listen.”

Ms. DeVivo welcomed friendships with open arms, creating lasting connections through her strong sense of the importance of family and friendships. “ We w o u l d m e e t t o w a l k for exercise, [and had] lots of conversations while we were walking,” Ms. Belville said. “Those conversations always came back to our kids and the importance of family.”

Ms. Belville recalled Ms. DeVivo’s love for cooking, and how she always welcomed people into her home for meals.

“Whenever you would be by her house, she would make a meal for you… always! She loved cooking, and it was something she did very well.

She introduced me to kale salads and dinners in Greektown.”

Ms. Devivo’s loyalty and honesty

PHOTO COURTESY DONNA BERINGER

will be missed by all who knew her.

“Maria was not afraid to tell you what was on her mind,” said Mr. Dagres. “However, once you connected with her, she cherished the friendship. She was a great person, and I know the Maine South hallways won’t be the same without her. She has left us with so many wonderful memories. I will miss her very much.”

Ms. Devivo’s impact can be seen through her daughters. “[Her biggest legacy was] her three daughters, Maine South graduates,” said Ms. Belville. “They were her world, her everything. She raised three beautiful young ladies, and she was so proud of them. All three daughters look just like their mom and have so many of her qualities.”

Infinite Campus implemented as new student information system

Luke Olafsson News Writer

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n June 2018, the District 207 school board approved Infinite Campus to be the district-wide student information system for the 2019-2020 school year. The change happened after some issues and complications arose from Aspen, the system that was used for the previous seven years.

“There were things we have been dealing with where there were some data limitations that we could not overcome the way things are currently structured in Aspen,” District 207’s Chief Technology Officer Mr. Mark Ordonez said. “The way around that was to either completely redo Aspen or search for another student information system that had these capabilities.”

The district was looking for a

2 SouthwordS

program that would include online registration. The other program under consideration was PowerSchool, which is used by other local school districts.

“We found that between the two products, Infinite Campus had the best features for our needs, as well as helping us deal with some of these integrations with third party products,” Mr. Ordonez said.

Students have begun to notice the multiple new features Infinite Campus has.

“I like how they have an app which makes it easier to access and navigate,” junior Gaby Gawedzki said. “At first, using the app was a little confusing because I struggled to find my grades, but once I got the hang of it, Infinite Campus was fine.”

The student portal app provides online access to grades, schedules, transcripts, fees, and attendance.

The app also allows for notifications if students like to be up-to-date on their grades.

“It is very nice that we are able to be notified every time a new assignment is posted or when our grade is updated,” junior Mackenzie Wright said. “My parents also like that they can be updated regularly as well and can check up on my sister and I’s grades whenever they want.”

Another change is that progress reports will no longer be sent in mail form.

“Instead of sending home progress reports, we are going to be contacting families to remind them that now would be a good time to log into the portal,” Mr. Ordonez said.

While Infinite Campus has multiple new features and different functions from Aspen, students and teachers are all adjusting to the change.

“I am still ‘team Aspen,’ just because I was so used to it and had it all figured out, but Infinite Campus doesn’t seem too bad,” Gawedzki said.

While some students are just on the fence with the new system, others are not happy with the switch.

“I find it to be annoying that they switched systems my last year,” said senior Marissa Horning. “It is harder to use than Aspen, and I have trouble accessing my GPA.” Teachers have found the new system more challenging to use than Aspen, but believe it has promise.

“There is a lot Infinite Campus has that Aspen doesn’t,” Social Science Teacher Katie Kaye said. “But, there is a lot that Aspen had that Infinite Campus doesn’t. I liked Aspen because I was used to it, but I am still learning Infinite Campus so I have no valid opinion on the new system currently.”

September 6, 2019

| NEWS

Frazier’s lifesaving efforts earn him scholarship PHOTO BY CHARLOTTE GEIER

Emma Crosson News Editor

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n Monday, April 29, 2019, a tragedy was avoided at Maine South High School. During a P.E. class in the fieldhouse, a junior student went into cardiac arrest, and the quick actions of students and staff saved his life.

“A student collapsed at Maine South High School on the track,” Jeff Sorensen, Chief of the Park Ridge Fire Department, stated. “We had another student who had witnessed this event who also came to the aid, provided CPR, and helped staff on the scene provide life saving care.”

The other student who came to the rescue was Michael Frazier (‘19).

Despite the circumstances, Frazier remained focused and proved to be an asset to the team.

“My student, Michael Frazier, who was by the weight cage, calmly walked over and stated he was trained in CPR and asked if he could help,” Mr. David Inserra said. “Michael was so calm and composed that we welcomed his assistance.”

The process of CPR and the use of an Automated External Defibrillator is what saves lives, according to the

LIFE SAVERS Those involved in the lifesaving efforts pose for a group photo at a Park Ridge city council meeting. Michael Frazier (‘19) is pictured in the center.

Park Ridge Fire Department.

“Every minute that goes by in cardiac arrest, someone’s chance of survival goes down ten percent, if not more,” Sorensen said.

Considering that the local police and fire department typically respond within five minutes, actions of those already present are critical.

“The nurse that received us at the hospital said only about 10% of people in this situation survive, and she said it is all credit to the work Frazier and Mr. Lee did in the fieldhouse,” Dean Mike McGreevy said.

There were numerous people who helped that day.

“It is estimated approximately 50 people assisted in saving [the student’s] life” Mr. Inserra said. “Every single person was essential in this process.”

While everybody involved was honored at a city council meeting, Frazier earned special recognition in honor of his quick, heroic efforts.

“He was awarded a full scholarship from the Park Ridge paramedics to pay for his own paramedic school training after winning an award for

negative impacts on learning has also encouraged the policy’s implementation.

“There is growing research about the detrimental effects of cell phones in the learning environment because of the distractions they cause and the chemical reactions in the brain,” Dr. Collins said. “For developing brains in particular, this has lasting results.”

Faculty determined that the best way to address these problems was by establishing a school-wide rule, making the impact of the change more effective for every student; however, it is still the teacher’s discretion to decide an appropriate time for cell phone use. During block days, teachers have the option of allowing students to access their phones while taking a five minute brain break, typically in the middle of class.

“Students can still use cell phones in the classroom, it’s just when teachers say so,” Dr. Collins said.

A few resulting challenges have made some students critical of the

policy. For example, the 207 Time app, designed to assist students in knowing when class starts and ends with the new schedule, has been rendered useless by some students since phones are now inaccessible.

“I never know what time my classes are ending since I can’t use the 207 Time app during class,” sophomore Aiden Lefler said.

his heroism,” Mr. McGreevy said. “His dream is to become a paramedic, and his lifesaving career is just beginning.”

As for the other student, Sorensen described the family as, “doing well, and taking it one day at a time.”

Everybody involved was grateful at the outcome of the day.

“This extremely emotional scene was only rewarded when we found out [he]was going to survive,” Coach Inserra said.

“I could retire tomorrow from education and knowing I helped that day in a small way to keep a student going on the earth brings me a lot of solace,” Mr. McGreevy said. “It certainly was a day I will never forget, and hope and pray we never have another like it. To have played a role in a team effort that saved a student’s life is sublime.”

“We were extremely proud of the quick thinking and heroic actions taken by the staff and by Michael,” Dr. Collins stated. “The outcome for the situation was the best we could have hoped for, and that’s in large part to many people from our PE faculty, to our nurse, to our custodians, and deans. Having Michael around was an extra blessing.”

School-wide phone pocket policy introduced Jessie Beck

Editorial Assistant

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ith the start of the new school year came the implementation of a new school-wide policy regarding cellular devices. Upon arrival to class, students are required to place their cell phones in a numbered pouch and leave it there for the duration of class. The purpose of the policy is to eliminate the distractions that cell phones can provide and improve the focus of each student during class.

There were several reasons that the administration decided to take this approach.

“Many teachers and parents were noting that cell phone use distracted from the learning environment,” Principal Dr. Ben Collins said. “This came up during meetings with the faculty during the 2017-2018 school year and then again in the 2018-2019 school year when a working group of faculty members administered a survey.”

Research drawing connections between cell phones and

 PHONE POLICY The Southwords editorial board examines the impact of the phone pocket policy at Maine South.

See page 5 In addition, many have been critical of the dangers that the policy may cause in case of an emergency.

“It takes up potentially life-saving time if the entire class is crowding around the classroom pouch to access their phones to contact family or police,” said junior John Ciprian.

Some students in opposition to

the policy believe it is unnecessary to confiscate phones if they aren’t causing a disruption.

“A student’s phone should only be taken away if it’s distracting them or other students from doing their class work,” junior Ana Birkett said.

Other students are indifferent to the policy and recognize some of its potential benefits. For example, the policy would be useful for prevention of cheating on days when students are taking tests or quizzes. Another benefit is it can increase the focus of the student and eliminate distractions.

“I definitely am a lot less distracted during my classes because I am not tempted to go on my phone,” junior MaryAnne Nguyen said. “There are still games on the Chromebook that can distract me, but overall, the policy has helped me focus.”

Several parents have expressed support of the policy to Dr. Collins and other faculty.

“I have had a number of parents reach out to me and say how much they appreciated it,” Dr. Collins said.

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NEWS

| September 6, 2019

Ten new staff members join Maine South

From left to right: Dr. Pikul, Ms. Dehmlow, Ms. Zobrist, Ms. Haman, Ms. Claiborne-Naranjo

Georgia Fosse Editor-in-Chief

Ms. Pam Melinauskas

Mr. Meyer had prior experience as a summer music instructor at Neuqua Valley and a private trumpet teacher.

“I am excited to see the band program grow and provide students with many happy memories of their time in high school,” Mr. Meyer said.

Ms. Melinauskas is a new addition to the CTE department, teaching Culinary Arts 1. In her spare time, Ms. Melinauskas likes playing recreational sports and binge watching reality TV. She will also be coaching girls’ soccer Ms. Brittany Claibornein the spring. “The staff and teachers Naranjo here are amazing, so I’m excited Ms. Claiborne-Naranjo, a Savannah, to learn and grow as a person and GA native, joins the mathematics teacher,” Ms. Melinauskas said. department as a Math 1, Foundations of Problem Solving, and Precalculus teacher. In her free time, Ms. Ms. Alissa Zobrist Ms. Zobrist is another new culinary Claiborne-Naranjo enjoys walking arts teacher in the CTE Department. her dog and going out with friends She previously taught at Batavia for brunch. “I’m excited to learn more High School. She hopes to coach about the school community and get Powderpuff and is looking forward to to know all of the wonderful students, getting to know the staff and attending staff, and families,” Ms. Claibornestudent events. “[The students] Naranjo said. make each day so different and their personalities make the class very fun Ms. Lauren Haman to teach,” Ms. Zobrist said. Outside Although Ms. Haman officially joined of school, Ms. Zobrist enjoys being the math department this year, she outdoors with her friends. worked at Maine South as a student

Mr. Dylan Meyer

M r. Me y e r i s t h e F i n e A r t s Department’s newest addition, serving as a co-band director for the concert and marching ensembles. He also directs the Jazz Band and teaches Piano 1 at Maine East. A recent graduate of the University of Illinois,

teacher in the spring last year. Ms. Haman is also an assistant coach for the JV Hawkettes. A native of Palatine, IL, she graduated from Fremd High School and Illinois State University. “Because of all the influential teachers that I’ve had in my life, I look forward to helping students learn about themselves, life lessons,

From left to right: Ms. Perez, Ms. Wood, Mr. Meyer, Ms. Tipperreiter, Ms. Melinauskas

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and, of course, how to be problem an extensive teaching background, solvers,” Ms. Haman said. including five years at Lake Zurich High School and a year and a half at Metro Prep Therapeutic High School.

Ms. Jenne Dehmlow Ms. Dehmlow is the new Social “I love that everyday is different and Science Department Chair and is that I’m constantly learning from my also teaching Sociology. She brings students,” Ms. Wood said. a wealth of knowledge to Maine South with 30 years of teaching experience. “I also love the Social Science department because [the staff members] are brilliant and opinionated and they care about our world deeply,” Ms. Dehmlow said.

Outside of school, Ms. Dehmlow enjoys spending time with family, doing yoga, and eating dessert.

Ms. Monica Tipperreiter

Ms. Tipperreiter is one of two new Spanish teachers in the World Languages Department. When Ms. Tipperreiter is not teaching Spanish, her favorite activities are running, cooking, traveling, reading, and practicing her Spanish. “My favorite part of my job is getting to know my students and helping them learn to love Spanish as much as I do,” Ms. Dr. Melissa Pikul Dr. Pikul is the Assistant Principal Tipperreiter said. for Student Services. Prior to her arrival at South, Dr. Pikul was a Dean Ms. Andrea Perez and an Assistant Principal at Lake Ms. Perez joins the World Languages Zurich High School. When she’s not Department as a Spanish 4 and at work, Dr. Pikul enjoys spending Spanish 2 teacher. Although Ms. time with her two-year-old daughter. Perez currently teaches Spanish, “[I’m excited for] getting to know she has previously taught English in everyone. I’ve already met so many Strasbourg, France. Outside of the great people,” Dr. Pikul said. “I’m classroom, Ms. Perez likes traveling excited to come to South every day, to new places and spending time and that is the best feeling!” with friends and family. “My favorite part of my job is seeing students grow through the year,” Ms. Perez Ms. Meghan Wood Ms. Wood is a counselor within said. “Their charisma and their the White SST. A University of determination to succeed make my Illinois alumna, Ms. Wood brings job incredibly rewarding.”

September 6, 2019

STAFF EDITORIAL

Phone pockets lead to immaturity, not engagement

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Maine South High School 1111 South Dee Road Park Ridge, IL 60068 http://www.southwords.org

Scan this QR code to e-mail Southwords

ILLUSTRATION BY GRACE ANELLI

tarting this school year, Maine South implemented a new policy, requiring all students to place their phones in a holder at the front of the classroom during all class periods.

This policy was developed due to teacher’s complaints over lack of consistent rules regarding phone use during class. In past years, some teachers required phone holders during their classes while others had no regulation on phones.

While consistency can provide s t u d e nt s w i t h mu c h - n e e d e d structure, this policy contradicts the school’s aim to ready us for the “real world.”

The block schedule was implemented last school year with the intent to prepare us for higher education. Yet, the removal of phones from the classroom does not give students the opportunity to learn how to self-regulate cell phone use during class.

Additionally, many students feel that they are being stripped of privileges they had previously earned by entering into high school. Even 18 year-old adults find themselves relinquishing their phones as they did in middle school.

Because many of these students don’t abuse their phones during class, they feel that they’re being punished for no logical reason.

On the other hand, students who did use their phones in class prior to this rule feel their freedom is gone.

While it may seem that phone pockets would guide these types of students towards engagement, students that truly want to use their phone in class have found ways around the phone pockets: bringing in empty phone cases or old phones and utilizing smart watches have been simple ways for students to keep their phones instead.

While it is necessary to curtail phone usage in class, the phone

| COMMENTARY

pockets actually waste more time than necessary for all students. Most classes allow one to two minutes at the beginning and end of class for students to put away or pick up phones from the pockets. Classes that don’t offer this dedicated time to retrieve phones inconvenience students as they have less time to get to their next class, or they leave their phones in the pockets during the after-class rush.

We agree that the district needs a phone policy that is consistent across classrooms; however, we do not believe a “one size fits all” solution is appropriate for teenagers of varying ages and maturities, nor does it make the most efficient use of class time. Instead, we believe a policy that requires repercussions only for abuse of phone privileges should be implemented instead.

The school-wide rule should be

that phones remain in backpacks throughout the duration of class, unless otherwise directed by a teacher.

Phone pockets should remain up in classrooms, but only as a response to offenders of the baseline phone policy.

If teachers do catch a student on their phone, the student will then be required to put their phone in the pouch.

Phone dependence is undoubtedly an issue our generation faces.

However, encouraging students to manage their own phone addictions during class will ultimately be much more impactful than taking away phones all together.

Not only will this new rule make the most of class time, it will emphasize the importance of privileges. If we truly want to prepare students for the real world, it is necessary that we are encouraged to be responsible for our actions.

What do YOU think?

Deliver signed letters to the Southwords office (B-115B) or scan the QR code on the masthead to e-mail southwords@maine207.org.

S outhw ord s i s a s tu d e nt - r u n publication designed as a public forum for student opinion and balanced reporting on topics relevant to the Maine South community.

Unsigned staff editorials represent the consensus opinion of the Southwords Editorial Board. Personal commentaries represent the opinion of the author alone and do not represent the opinions of the publication nor District 207.

Stu d e nt p ar t i c ip at i on i n t h e newspaper, whether through readership, submitting articles, or voicing comments or concerns, is encouraged.

Signed letters to the editor can be delivered to the new Southwords office (B115B), 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.

Editors-in-Chief

Georgia Fosse Charlotte Geier Erin Martin

News Editors

Emma Crosson Luigi Laudando

Commentary Editors Gabriel Blindauer Laura Pomilia Features Editors Victoria Murphy Lily Niziolek Elizabeth Ryser Entertainment Editors Veronica Espinoza Ella Melcher Kristen Meyer Sports Editors

Sam Corbett Tyler Houck Amalia Laskaris

Production Editors Keeley Flynn Isabel Gibson Aly Trunzo Editorial Assistant Adviser

Jessie Beck

Mr. Stathakis

SouthwordS 5

COMMENTARY

| September 6, 2019

Should we have stricter gun control?

Karolina Bisiak

Adam Ferraro

Commentary Writer

Commentary Writer

ut of the 233 days we have lived through in 2019, there have been 263 mass shootings.

That comes out to more than one shooting per day.

That’s 279 dead and 1,092 wounded, constituting a total of 1,371 people who could have continued to live their lives unaffected by gun violence if only our federal government could step up and improve gun control policy on a national level.

America has a unique gun violence problem.

We live in one of the only countries in which the right to bear arms is constitutionally protected, so it shouldn’t be a surprise that firearms have always been a part of American culture. It also shouldn’t be a surprise that guns kill more people here than in the rest of the developed world.

I don’t think that it is practical to take guns away or to repeal the second amendment. I understand that many Americans believe that they have the right to defend themselves with a firearm or enjoy hunting as a sport, and believe that they are entitled to do so. What I do think, however, is that the reason that so many people here are dying because of guns is because of the sheer number of guns available and the lack of regulation regarding their purchase.

Norway, Canada, Germany, New Zealand, Ireland, and Australia all require that candidates for the purchase of a gun must provide a reason for the purchase, pass safety training, and acquire a license.

The purchase is then recorded in an official registry, and safe storage of the weapon is required by law.

The United States has none of these regulations in place at the federal level. What we do have, though, is more guns than people: Americans make up less than five percent of the world’s population, but own forty-five percent of all firearms in the world.

Possible solutions can be achieved if Congress, in a reasonable time frame, passes extreme risk protection orders, more commonly referred to as red-flag laws. These laws allow people to be banned from possessing firearms if they are reported to pose a danger to themselves or to others. Seventeen states currently have such laws, with most implementing the laws after Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida in 2018.

Although the topic of gun control in the US is a touchy and controversial subject, this does not mean that we can stand by in silence while innocent people continue to die because of senseless violence.

Thoughts and prayers are not the solution to a problem perpetuated by a culture of romanticized Westerns and traditional images of little kids receiving toy guns on Christmas. The Western idealization of guns is what caused this problem in the first place. The solution is regulation of firearms and, at the very least, background checks to make sure anyone buying a gun does not have an ulterior motive.

t is no secret that mass shootings are a problem in our country, and after the two recent shootings in El Paso and Dayton, gun control has been a rising topic of conversation in America. However, blaming a weapon for these shootings overlooks the fact that there always has to be someone firing it.

With these two recent shootings, each weapon was fired by men who both were dealing with signs of mental instability that existed long before each of these shootings. It is clear that these are two men should have been given help before these atrocities were even committed.

There is much to suggest that gun control is ineffective in reducing gun violence. Opponents of gun control point often to the fact that gun ownership deters crime more than gun control laws. In one study by Applied Economics Letters it was found that, “assault weapon bans did not significantly affect murder rates at the state level” and “states with restrictions on the carrying of concealed weapons had higher gun-related murders.” Taking away weapons and restricting concealed carry does nothing in states were these laws are in place. The best defense against a weapon is not written legislature, but the ability for others to have guns to defend themselves with.

Gun control laws would also be denying people this sense of security. In a survey by Pew Research, a non-partisan think-tank based out of Washington DC, 61% of men and 56% of women surveyed said that stricter gun laws would make it “more difficult for people to protect their homes and families.” Gun control laws take away the sense of safety and would only lead to more people being unable to defend themselves in a dangerous situation.

Violent criminals will almost always have the means to buy a weapon illegally, and higher restrictions on owning weapons will do nothing to stop them. Chicago, for example, banned gun shops, shooting ranges, assault weapons, and high capacity magazines, yet still had 561 murders and 2,948 victims of a shooting in 2018, according to the CPD. Criminals will always have the means to obtain a weapon illegally, as has been clearly shown in Chicago. Legislature would do nothing to stop this.

These recent mass shootings are clear indicators that there needs to be a greater discussion about the future of guns in America. However, placing careless and blind restrictions on weapons will not be effective or productive for the future. What is needed is a bipartisan discussion on how to deal with the mass violence occurring in our country.

With cooperation from both sides, our government can and should work to pave a safe and secure future for our country without taking guns away from the millions of responsible gun owners in our country.

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Does America need stricter gun laws?

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“We have the second amendment. We need more background checks, but guns should be accessible for people who qualify so they can protect themselves.”

-Billy May '22

“We need to be stricter on guns. If you have a child, you should be required to surrender your weapons.”

-Cian Gaskin, ‘20

“I am an exchange student from Italy and we have strict gun control and we do not have a gun problem. America needs to do the same.”

-Flavia Tinaglia, ‘21

“We need stricter gun control because anyone can get guns and it should be more restrictive.”

-Lexi Gurgone, ‘20

September 6, 2019

| COMMENTARY

Immediate changes needed for school start and end times

fellow classmates falling asleep during my morning Another issue is transportation, specifically, the bus system. The PACE buses attempt to coordinate classes compared to last year as well.

For me, being able to set my alarm a little their schedule with Maine South, but the time bit later so I can wake up and still have time to change has already caused issues even after the mentally and physically prepare myself for the day school’s attempts to work with PACE because has been absolutely fantastic so far. students are still being dropped off at times that Lane Pruban The second noticeable benefit is an increase in cause them to be tardy to their first period classes.

Commentary Writer Due to prior tardiness, many students are now cognitive ability throughout the day, but especially student’s worst nightmare is waking up at in the morning. Many students’, including myself, forced to now take earlier PACE buses which have 6:00 a.m. every day, moseying along to their tend to have difficulties thinking deeply right away them arriving at school a half an hour or so before method of transport and starting school at the at 8:00 a.m. their first period class.

Administrators at Maine South must find a bright and early time of eight o’clock. I understand If our brain isn’t functioning at full capacity, from personal experience that waking up at 6:00 we struggle with retaining information and common ground with PACE so that students aren't arriving tardy or waking up unnecessarily a.m. isn’t fun, and I believe that most of my peers comprehending what is being taught. also agree. When you wake up that early, you feel Even if a teacher hands early to avoid becoming sleep deprived, and because of this, your ability to out a test at 9:00 a.m., I still tardy. The company has feel more capable during this been shifting schedules each pay attention drastically decreases.

To combat this issue, Maine South moved the year over last to take said test year to accommodate these changes. However, with the time at which school starts to 8:20 a.m. Even though because of how much more it is only a 15-minute delay from the previous year, focused I am. current, strict scheduling of it gives students the opportunity to briefly postpone Despite these positive the bus system and school, the coordination between the morning rituals and allow for more time to sleep. aspects of the new schedule, This newly-implemented system of starting an issue that has been plaguing two can be difficult, especially later has most definitely increased my motivation the school for several years working around the current to be at school, but with the benefits of this change, now is the end time, which ILLUSTRATION BY ISABEL GIBSON busing system. there are also a some definite issues that must be currently sits at 3:19 p.m. I Because these challenges and many other students have extracurriculars or impact so many students, another schedule addressed.

Two years ago, when school started at 7:45 a.m. a job directly after school ends. adjustment is necessary. Instead of having it was common for students walk in to class with Making it to my job on time every day is 48-minute periods, the school should go back to heavy bags and dark circles underneath their eyes, nearly impossible. Extracurriculars that require 45-minute periods on non-block days; this would and within ten to fifteen minutes, they were asleep. the student to leave Maine South can also pose allow school to end before 3:00 while retaining the later start time.

I have already noticed a significant decrease of this same issue.

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My blended family made me the leader I am today Erin Martin Editor-In-Chief

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he Brady Bunch was a '70s television show about a blended family with six children.

My story is similar to this, except that both of my parents are remarried and there is a grand total of eight of us kids.

My mom and dad had three kids: Meghan,Catie, and me; I am the youngest. My mom was remarried first to my step-dad who had three children in his previous marriage: twin girls Mackenzie and Casey and one boy, Daniel. My dad was later married to my step mom who had two girls, Gessica and Gianna.

I am the second youngest, and my younger step sister and I are only a year apart. Needless to say, I have a plethora of influencers in my immediate family.

With four parental figures, six over-protective adult siblings, and one goofy younger sister, I am surrounded with people to learn from every day.

There is no doubt in my mind that my crazy blended family has helped shape me into the person I am today.

My own personal “Brady Bunch” made me accustomed to change. At a very young age, I was dealt a hand that suddenly forced me into a different kind of life.

Once my parents got divorced, my regular routine shifted. I was now packing a bag every other weekend, driving back and forth from each parent’s house, and eventually welcoming in step-parents and new siblings.

However, these changes became normal and soon enough I was playing Barbies with new people who felt like sisters to me—no “step” necessary.

One of the most important lessons I have been taught came from this shift in my life. The divorce of my parents and the addition of new family members taught me how to deal with the bumps in the road.

I have learned how to make light of situations that really scare me. When faced with something negative, like the split of my parents, I found the positive side by making strangers my best friends and greatest role models.

Having seven siblings has allowed me to follow by example and learn from both their mistakes and their successes.

My biological sister Catie was a captain of

Hawkettes when she was a senior and I was a freshman on the team. During that season, she showed me how to be a powerful and unifying voice in a group of people very different from one another.

My many sisters—both older and younger— are the reason for my strong confidence. My brother, Daniel, has shown me that struggle is inevitable and taught me to always reach for my goals no matter what others say.

Throughout the years, I have taken the role as jester in my family. In my family, instead of experiencing the "terrible twos" we have all experienced the "terrible teens." Seeing arguments between my siblings and parents was really upsetting to me. Learning to manage this tension became my priority, and I used my humor to ease uncomfortable situations.

In my case, this skill has been very valuable and I have become a sort of glue in all of the craziness.

My position in my family has led me to rise to similar positions in my life, as I have taken on a variety of leadership roles.

Whether it be sports, clubs, or even friends, I find myself comfortable being both a strong voice and a unifier.

I credit my crazy Brady Bunch for these qualities and I am thankful everyday for how they have shaped me.

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ENTERTAINMENT | September 6, 2019

Festival Veronica Espinoza, Ella Melcher, & Kristen Meyer Entertainment Editors

Country LakeShake VARIETY

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ver the summer, country music’s biggest stars performed at Chicago’s Country LakeShake on June 21, 22, and 23.

Taking place at Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island, concert goers took in the music festival with the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan as their backdrop.

LakeShake first began five years ago and has become a country music lover’s dream.

Musical performers included country music A-listers like Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, Luke Bryan, Marren Morris and more. The festival was also praised for an all-female lineup on the first day of the weekend. Despite being country music heaven, LakeShake lacks some diversity, even among a country lineup.

Fans of other genres may want to stay clear of this country music sing-along. Ticket prices range from $50 for singleday lawn tickets to $650 three-day VIP passes. Considering the high prices for other Chicagoland-area music festivals, LakeShake provides a lot of high-profile performers for a relatively low price.

Filled with popular country music, beautiful views, and lots of fun, Chicago’s Country LakeShake is a must-see musical festival for country music fans everywhere.

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Juniors Gretchen Brown and Siveen McCarthy

Seniors Samantha Mayer, Caroline Tully, and Fiona Maloney

LOLLAPALOOZA

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owards the end of the summer, rising and well-known artists performed at Lollapalooza from Aug. 1 to Aug. 4. With Lollapalooza being held at Grant Park, music lovers were able to enjoy scenic views of Millennium Park and The Bean in the background, while watching their favorite artists perform on stage.

Established in 1991, Lollapalooza draws huge crowds of fans from the Chicagoland-area and across the country.

The music festival’s lineup this year was filled with all genres of music, and some of the biggest singers that performed this year included pop singer Ariana Grande, country singer Kacey Musgraves, rapper Childish Gambino, and psychedelic rock band, Tame Impala, just to name a few.

Although the lineup included many popular artists, some might argue that there were better lineups in the past. As far as a variety of music, Lollapalooza included genres of indie, rock, hip-hop, R&B, and pop performers, perfect for fans that wanted to see music artists of different genres.

Ticket prices can range from $150 a day for general admission to $400 for a four-day pass. Because tickets usually sell out, ticket prices from third-party re-sellers will usually cost more than face value. Every summer, Lollapalooza delivers a variety of music, Chicago’s breathtaking views, and an enjoyable weekend of fun.

September 6, 2019 | ENTERTAINMENT

Music festivals have become a favorite summer event for Maine South teenagers. It’s a fun time to hang out with friends and listen to their favorite music artists. We rate four of the most popular music festivals attended by students during the summer.

Summerfest

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Juniors Blaine Mallory and Malena Johnson

Country Thunder

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n the middle of summer, Jul. 18 to Jul. 21, country fans from all over the Midwest flocked to Twin Lakes, Wisconsin for a weekend full of country music. There are also Country Thunder festivals in Florida, Arizona, and Saskatchewan. This festival has been an annual tradition since 1983.

This year, Country Thunder featured a few fan-favorite artists such as Luke Bryan, Toby Keith, and Sam Hunt.

Although Country Thunder has an exclusively country music lineup, at nights, the festival includes “Electric Thunder.” Electric Thunder is when upbeat, dance music is played by a DJ in order to keep the crowd engaged and entertained during the later hours of the day. Country Thunder usually has a smaller number of artists performing throughout the day than most festivals, so they use Electric Thunder as a way to keep festival-goers excited and to make nighttimes more fun for them.

Country Thunder is priced very reasonably, starting at $75 for one day and $130 for three days. They also offer lounge and VIP tickets that can go for up to $300. When compared with other festivals in the Midwest, it offers a decent variety of artists at a very good price.

It provides country lovers with a weekend of the music they love, the beautiful scenery of Twin Lakes, Wisconsin, plus an additional fun way to spend the nights at the festival.

ummerfest is an extremely popular festival attracting between 800,000 and 900,000 people each year, winning itself the title of “World’s Largest Music Festival” by the Guiness Book of World Records in 1999.

Taking place at Henry Mair Festival Park in downtown Milwaukee, Summerfest is known for its beautiful views of the city and Lake Michigan. For eleven days at the end of June and the beginning of July, concert-goers enjoy a wide variety of music including country, rock, pop, EDM, soul, alternative, and rap music.

This year, popular performers included Thomas Rhett, Bon Iver, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez, Billie Eilish, Lil Wayne and others. Fans of all genres were satisfied with the variety of music offered by the Summerfest music festival.

The cost of attending the festival ranges from $23 for a single-day admission ticket to $57 for three day passes.

Summerfest also offers special deals to buyers such as $15 tickets for weekday admission and $5 Throwback Thursday tickets. Compared to the high prices of other Wisconsin and Chicagoland music festivals, Summerfest offers a large variety of music and performances from popular artists for a very low price.

Every year, Summerfest provides a large variety of music, entertaining performers and 11 days filled with excitement and new experiences.

Freshman Sadie Nelson and Junior Lily Nelson

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ENTERTAINMENT

| September 6, 2019

Taylor Truckenbrod Entertainment Writer

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s the school year comes to a start, the Fine Arts Department is preparing for its first play of the year, “Shakespeare in Love.”

The cast has started their rehearsals and the crew have been working on the unique set and extravagant costumes, hair, and makeup for this play.

The show, based in the 1500s, is about William Shakespeare’s writing process and how he found his love.

Along the way, other interesting characters like Viola’s Nurse, Queen Elizabeth, Spot (a dog), and many others are involved.

The main characters in this show are William Shakespeare and Viola De Lesseps played by juniors Joe Coyle and Erin Weiss. Viola and Will are both emotional and poetic characters.

“Viola defies all the social constructions of Shakespearean time in order to become a stage actor, which is what she’s always wanted to do. She is an important part of helping Shakespeare write Romeo and Juliet, a story we all know,” Weiss said. “Even though the show takes place in the 1500s there are still elements and themes that you can relate to that are still important today.”

Throughout the play, the audience will see that William Shakespeare is similar to Viola.

“My character, Will, both falls in love and writes his most famous play, arguably, ‘Romeo and Juliet,’ Coyle said.

Some of the exciting things to look forward to in this show are the dog, Spot; British accents; the costumes, hair, and makeup; and the Swan stage set.

“It basically is a representation of the theatre where William Shakespeare put on the show Romeo and Juliet for the first time,” senior Aidan Gentile said. “There is a fake stage built in the set, we call it ‘the Swan Stage,’ which is a type of stage they performed on in the 1500s. It has a balcony, which is on the second floor and all the rehearsals in the play take place there. My favorite part of the set is probably the whole Tavern scene set. With the bar, tables and even the music—and besides, the scene itself is just fantastic and adds a lot to the show.”

There are many set pieces being

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moved on and off stage which takes detailed coordination.

Gentile noted that the crew works very hard to produce a set they can be proud of.

“This show has a lot of cool set features, and the set is my favorite set out of all the sets I’ve been a part of and I have done many sets.”

Aside from the set, another exciting feature of the play is the dog.

“One of the really unusual elements in this play is that one of the characters in the show is a dog named Spot, which is a reference to the play Macbeth,’’ director Ms. Carrie Saurer said.

Ms. Saurer, like the cast members, is very excited for the dog, especially dog auditions. Having a real live dog onstage will be a new and exciting challenge for Maine South theatre.

Ms. Saurer has been excited for this show for quite awhile.

“I remember watching the movie when it first was released and the very last moment of ‘Shakespeare in Love’ is an homage to ‘Twelfth Night’ and the way my mind exploded when I was like, ‘Oh my gosh! This is so smart the way Tom Stoppard wrote it.’ I was obsessed.”

Although this play includes the name “Shakespeare,” it is not written by him. In fact, only some parts of the play include Shakespeare’s language.

“What’s going to surprise people is that a lot of people have negative feelings about the man Shakespeare and that comes from the challenge that many p eople have ab out understanding his writing, but what’s so unique is that you’ll see William Shakespeare as a guy, not somebody we study,” junior Charles Bliss, who is portraying Ned, said. “Audience members should look forward to a night of emotion, and whether that be intense grief, raptures of joy, or uproarious laughter, ‘Shakespeare in Love’ has it all in its spades.”

Bliss also expressed that the British dialect is something new for many of the cast members.

“I am super excited to work with standard AA British Dialect, it has always been something I have wanted to do as long as I’ve been an actor,” Bliss said. “It’ll be a lot of fun for both the actors onstage and the audience.

It’s challenging, but the cast and the directing staff are putting in a lot of hard work, so I’m sure all of our accents will end up being pretty good.”

PHOTO BY ALY TRUNZO

Not your typical Shakespearean love story

CAN I HAVE THIS DANCE?

Juniors Joe Coyle and Erin Weiss rehearse a dance scene as William Shakespeare and Viola De Lesseps. Cast members have been rehearsing since the beginning of August.

Charles’s twin, junior Elliot Bliss (playing Kit Marlowe), also expressed that the British accent will be a challenging and interesting component of the play.

“I’m really excited because it’s going to make the play so much better,” Elliot said. “That being said, I’m a bit nervous because we have to be really mindful of keeping them up while acting.”

While the play presents a unique challenge itself, the Fine Arts Department has had to deal with the the difficulty of losing two long-time staff members.

Last year, not only did director Ms. Laurie McCleneghan retire, but costume designer Ms. Hoag retired as well. Though Ms. Hoag retired, she remains with the program to help with hair. Luckily, they found a new costume director: Ms. Beth Miller.

Ms. Miller said she’s worked on smaller companies in Chicago because she finds them to be more creative with the costumes, but she’s also worked at Shakespeare theatre downtown and The Goodman Theatre.

This show will be a challenge because it includes about 75 costumes.

Miller is most excited for Queen Elizabeth’s costume.

“It’s the fanciest and a good challenge,” Ms. Miller said.

The two student directors of this play, senior Bella Marzano and sophomore Mia Parangalan, have been busy preparing for the play.

Marzano expressed that directing is exciting.

“It’s new. I’ve never had this much authority for anything before, and it feels amazing,” Marzano said. “I love that this is just another outlet for my creativity that I’ve discovered. I can’t wait to see all of this artistry takes place on the stage, and for our audience to be wowed.”

The production process takes time and effort, which is proven with the daily practices and diligence the cast and crew delivers.

“Making art is extremely satisfying for so many reasons,” Ms. Saurer said. “We always have high standards and do good work, and that’s very important. The experience of working with an ensemble is the experience that people remember for the rest of their life.”

“Sha kesp e are in L ove” has something to offer for everyone.

“When you’re not into Shakespeare or writing, there’s still some plain language in it and comedy,” Weiss said.

“Shakespeare in Love” will run at the Watson Auditorium on Sept. 26, 27, and 28 at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $7 at the door for general seating.

September 6, 2019 | FEATURES

Summer jobs bring financial and personal responsibility Juliana Parisi

PHOTO COURTESY ELIZABETH AHNE

Features Writer

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PHOTO BY GEORGIA FOSSE

ON THE LINE

Senior Elizabeth Ahne takes a call at Elements Massage. Along with answering the phone, she also greets those who walk through the door.

be more patient and understanding of other people’s situations,” VucskoCameron said, “I worked in a tech class, and when the teacher asked the students to type in a certain website, a student raised his hand for help. This particular student couldn’t spell yet.

It was really eye-opening because I assumed that this kid would be at the same level as everyone else; everyone has different levels of experience and skill and I should never assume someone’s ability.”

Senior Megan McKay was a counselor for camp Wannalottafun!, also working with children. As McKay grew closer to the campers, she found herself becoming more understanding as she learned their stories.

“It was surprising to find out what some of the kids went through,” McKay said. “Despite their situations, these kids would still come to camp with a smile on their face. They

PHOTO COURTESY OLIVIA NIZIOLEK

hether it’s for purchasing the latest video game or buying a new pair of cute jeans, it’s common knowledge that teenagers burn through their parents’ money.

However, many teens acquire summer jobs to earn money of their own, which changes the way they shop.

Senior Liliana D’Alesio worked for Lil’ Kickers this summer as a soccer coach.

“It’s awesome to see the smiles on their faces when they score a goal and give them high fives when they do a good job… working with kids that young and teaching them necessary skills is so rewarding.”

D’Alesio noticed a shift in her spending patterns when she began working.

“I like saving up money rather than spending it,” she said. “Working for money has allowed me to be more careful about what I spend money on.”

Andrew Vucsko-Cameron, a junior at Maine South, worked as an aide for Worlds of Wonder the past two summers.

He believes that working for his money taught him to respect it more.

“I started thinking about my money less as something you get for your birthday or holidays and started thinking of it more as a resource that I had to put time and energy into; it made my appreciation infinitely greater.”

Vucsko-Cameron’s role as an aide gave him experience working with kids, which he is now considering as a possible career pathway in the future.

Furthermore, Vucsko-Cameron learned the value of empathy.

“My job really showed me how to

TAKING FLIGHT

Niziolek works with the children at Kid’s Quest to make kites.

Olivia also spent time helping the kids create slime and friendship bracelets.

SWING INTO SUMMER

Senior Daniela Marin spends time with the camp kids. They often visited the park.

taught me that no matter what has happened, it shouldn’t affect how you carry yourself. Even a little kid who is struggling can still brighten up someone else’s day.”

McKay was inspired by her campers to hold herself to higher standards. She was further motivated as she discovered her income was proportional to her education, solidifying her college aspirations.

“I realized that if I don’t get a degree, a minimum wage job will not support a family,” McKay said. “ I barely had enough money for what I wanted, let alone what a whole family needs.”

Olivia Niziolek (‘18), a counselor at Kid’s Quest in Park Ridge, noticed a change in her spending habits once employed.

“I would equate what I was buying to the number of hours of work, and I realized it was not worth that many hours of work,” she said.

Niziolek, additionally, learned the importance of being aware and alert of her surroundings.

“Whether that meant interpersonally being aware of how the kids were feeling or of being aware of the physical surroundings at places like the playground, I had to be hypersensitive to what was going on around me because I had a lot of little kids under my guidance,” Niziolek said.

Senior Elizabeth Ahne had a different experience, working with adults rather than children.

She worked for Elements Massage this summer and had positive things to say about her job: “ T he st af f is f r i e nd ly and supportive, the location is great, and I have learned a lot,” Ahne said. “I answer the phones, schedule appointments, match clients to massage therapists, open and close the store on my own, greet and check in and out customers, and sell memberships.”

Ahne detailed how this experience has taught her important lessons, many of which will help her in college.

“I feel much more comfortable talking and selling memberships to adults, despite being only 17,” Ahne said. “I have learned to manage my time better while juggling school, work, and sports. This will definitely help me to manage my workload in college.”

Senior Daniela Marin worked at Worlds of Wonder, and she saw her job as taking strides toward self sufficiency.

“I think it’s important for teenagers to work over the summer so they can learn how to manage money and how to take responsibility of themselves in a professional setting,” Marin said.

Marin, however, admitted that jobs don’t have to be all work and no play.

Marin’s job was enjoyable because of the people she was surrounded by.

“The best part of the program was building relationships with the kids,” Marin said. “Working with them, I was able to be a role model.”

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FEATURES | September 6, 2019

Students say ‘wilkommen’ to new experiences

Victoria Murphy, Lily Niziolek, using public transport more than they did their cars. & Elizabeth Ryser “We were always on the train,” Features Editors

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his summer, Maine S outh students left the comfort of their homes and ventured into the unknown: Wiesbaden, Germany.

Many students had a meaningful experience on the trip because it was vastly different than life in Park Ridge.

“I really liked that Wiesbaden was a mid-size city,” senior Grant Rizzo said. “Park Ridge can feel like the suburbs, but Wiesbaden didn’t.”

For junior Lydia Keller, the exchange was unique from her other trip to Europe because she was “more directly involved with the German culture.”

Keller attributes this to living in her German partner’s home and being hosted by her partner’s family.

The exchange gave students a more authentic experience by providing students a German family to live with, rather than placing them in a hotel.

“It felt so nice to be welcomed into their homes and to get to see the way they lived their lives,” Keller s aid of t he host families.

Senior Tim Bresnahan appreciated how the exchange paired German and American teenagers together for their travels.

“It was different than traveling with family because you were with people your own age, doing things you like to do,” Bresnahan said.

Favorite activities among students included summer tobogganing, watching horse dressage, and having fun at outdoor picnics.

“I went to see the Germany versus Estonia soccer game,” senior Zaid Bin Mahfoudh said. “Germany crushed and you could really feel the energy from the crowd.”

Students noticed a myriad of differences between their homes and the Germans’. Maine South’s taller students noted how much smaller the German showers were. Washing machines and dryers were in the kitchen. Additionally, Germans were more environmentally conscious,

senior Rachel Dupke said.

Students noticed differences in the food, too.

“Food was fresher there.

Everything tasted better— even the eggs” Bresnahan said.

“Breakfast was more formal; everyone had a place setting and ate quietly,” Keller said. “Dinner was later, around 8:00 p.m. It was a smaller meal. For example, one night we all shared a platter of cut up veggies and dips.”

Students, however, still saw similarities between the cultures.

“School was pretty similar to ours,” senior Rachel Dupke said.

“The only difference was that there wasn’t a lot of technology. They didn’t use computers. The clothes were similar, too. Germans dressed just like Americans.”

G e r m a n t e a c h e r Ma r g a re t Wolf directed the program, and highlighted how the exchange can enrich a student’s education beyond what a classroom allows.

“Student exchange is different than learning from a textbook because students are able to use what they’ve learned in a real context: speaking with native speakers,” Ms. Wolf said. “Beyond just the language, students are able to grow socially and learn from each other.”

After exploring Germany and immersing themselves in the culture, students returned to Park Ridge with a new perspective and a more open mind.

“I had no idea what this experience would be,” Dupke said. “I’m really glad I did it.

Ms. Wolf believes that one of the most important aspects of the exchange is the friendships it garners.

“A lot of students maintain relationships beyond the program,” said Wolf. “Students have told me years after that they are still in contact with their partners­­­­— visiting, traveling, and spending time with each other as young adults. I think that is what’s really powerful about this program.”

PHOTO BY SEAN QUINLIVAN

PEACE OUT, RHINE!

Ella Melcher, Peter Knapp, Rian Zeman, Aiden Bushman, Evan Simpson, Jordyn Porter, Sean Quinlivan, Rachel Dupke, Cole Schmiesser, Andrew Vuckso-Cameron (left to right) take a selfie to remember the Rhine River. They took a walk down this famous river path.

“I made lifelong friends and made memories I’ll never forget.”

-Rachel Dupke

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SAY ‘SCHNITZEL!’

PHOTO BY ELLA MELCHER

PHOTO BY JORDYN PORTER

Senior Katlyn Zeman, sophomore Emily Hein, juniors Emma Heller, Ella Melcher, and sophomores Ema Oldham and Mackenzie Juris (left to right) explore Mainz. They spent a whole day exploring the town.

CULTURE CLUB

German student Susanna Ridder (right) shows junior Jordyn Porter (left) the Lorelei on the Rhine River. On certain days, German students were exempt from school to join the Maine South group on their excursions.

September 6, 2019 | FEATURES

The unofficial Maine South school supply list

PHOTO COURTESY MS. KRUKOWSKI

Lily Niziolek, Victoria Murphy, & Elizabeth Ryser

Features Editor eing prepared for the school year may mean not sticking to the basics when shopping for school supplies. Many students find that the essential supplies are the ones not listed on the school shopping list.

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THOREAU-LY ENJOYABLE

While at the American History and Culture Retreat, Ms. Krukowski visited the Walden Lake in Massachusetts. There, she learned more about the history of Henry David Thoreau and took in the landscape.

Summer turns teachers into students

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Pods 1. Air Airpods are a necessity because of their convenience.

"Air Pods don't get tangled and you don't have to worry about plugging them in like headphones," sophomore Nicolette Mayer said. Additionally, many students connect their Bluetooth earbuds to their imprisoned phone in the classroom pockets.

2. Sweatshirt

"I bring a sweatshirt to school because the air conditioning system is unpredictable," senior Kendall Koenen said. "Every class is a different temperature, especially in the A-wing."

3. Planner

Because the school didn't provide student planners last year, the demand for them has increased. Many students treasure their organizers, stashing them in their backpacks.

5.

Gum

"Gum is something people should have because it keeps you focused during class, and offering it to others is a good way to make friends," said sophomore Patrice Andrews.

PHOTO COURTESY JOHN CONRADI

4. Tissues

Unfortunately, despite the fact that they help prevent the spread of illnesses, tissues are absent from most classes. "I have bad allergies," senior Erin McManus said. "I always keep tissues on hand and give them to other students."

Features Editors reoccupied by their own summer plans, students may not think twice about what their teachers do over the summer.

While some assume that teachers relax all summer, in reality, many teachers use the summer to become students once again. They partake in educational courses to improve their own curriculum or expand their knowledge.

Biology teacher Ms. Amy Capps attended Chicago Coaching Center training to prepare for her new role as the science department's instructional coach.

"I needed to attend the training to better serve my colleagues," Ms. Capps said.

Ms. Capps gained an improved understanding of how to be an effective coach.

"I learned strategies to help my colleagues in the classroom and the best ways to conduct observations of colleagues."

Recognizing the benefits of continuing her education, Ms. Capps said, " [education] definitely does not end when you leave school. There is always something new to add to your 'bag of tricks' and continuing your education helps you grow and improve in your profession."

Ms. Christine Headley went to a blended learning seminar at Maine East. This class gave her the qualifications to blend her classroom.

A blended classroom can allow teachers to assign schoolwork to students that doesn't always require their attendance in class.

"For any teacher, educational theory is important and interesting, but we are more interested in how this

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ILLUSTRATION BY ISABELLA TORNABENE

P UP

works in real time and real practice,"

Elizabeth Ryser, Lily Niziolek, Ms. Headley said. "That's what this & Victoria Murphy workshop was to clarify: how to use

blending to the students' benefit."

Although Mr. Donald McArthur did not attend any formal classes, he found educational value in reading AP European essays for the College Board in Kansas City last June.

"Being at the AP Reading helps me to practice and crystallize the essay standards and how they apply to the course content and rubrics, so that I'm able to help my students better develop their writing skills," Mr. McArthur said.

Mr. McArthur also gained insights from presentations which showed him "how the [AP] exams are created and various questions are balanced, as well as some general data on overall student performance on the main exam essays."

"This year we also got a preview of the new 'AP Classroom' resources," Mr. McArthur said.

Mr. McArthur finds his continued education beneficial when teaching "many interpretations of events to students and describing complexities of issues and events in history."

Ms. Amy Krukowski of the English department was accepted into the competitive NEH Landmarks of American History and Culture Workshop, Living and Writing Deliberately course this past summer.

She was able to study Henry Thoreau in Concord Massachusetts, a significant place in Thoreau's history.

This course allowed Ms. Krukowski to "get into the students' shoes" as she learned about Thoreau's history.

"Some things teachers do things in the summer are directly connected to the classroom, but some things we do are just for enrichment," Ms. Krukowski said.

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SPORTS

| September 6, 2019

Girls’ golf prepares for a more demanding season

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long with the rest of the fall sports, the girls’ golf team is gearing up to overcome a disappointing end to the 2018 season.

With plans this year to defeat rivals New Trier and Glenbrook South and to send at least one girl to State, the girls are excited for the upcoming meets to reach these goals.

“We have a returning sectional qualifier, Kalena Sultana, that has high potential to repeat her sectional qualification this year,” Coach Hansen said.

In last year’s 2018-19 campaign, the team sent Noreen Daly (‘19) to State and Sultana qualified for Sectionals. Taylor Gatz (‘19) and Daly were recognized as All-Conference athletes. This year, Coach Hansen wants the golfers to embody the techniques of visualization and improve their resilience on the course.

“Many of our varsity squad will spend four hours at a meet after school, and if they are not happy

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with the results of their score, they course, for practice rounds. will go to the range that night “When we are at the range we can to work even more,” Coach really focus on the fundamentals of Hansen said. our swings and then implement Led by their senior captains that when we go out to the Theresa Daly and Natalie Eng, the course,” junior Ali Biagi said. team has bigger expectations than last Coach Kayla Hansen is year, thanks to their new technology proud of how much energy that adjusts their swing mechanics. these girls put into their Over the summer, the sport, even spending girls participated in hours after a meet at their summer the course if they camp, which aren’t happy with met every their results.

Wednesday for “Giving up is not a majority of the summer. something they do, when This is a key step in building we see a lot of golfers on camaraderie and trust among other teams give up after the team. a bad round,” C oach Beyond the camp, many Hansen said. “Our team’s returning players would head competitiveness keeps us out to local courses and driving on our toes to work even ranges to practice together. harder when we are doing When the season starts, poorly.” four days out of the week, Their most valuable the team can be spotted asset is their athletic mindat the driving range, or set, which propels them out on Billy Caldwell, to rigorously prepare, Senior Theresa Daly t h e t e a m’s h o m e re m a i n c a l m u n d e r PH

Courtney Lee

pressure, and endure wins and losses with an expectation to improve next time.

This team puts an emphasis on working together despite the focus on individual results.

There are many nights set aside for team bonding, as all grade levels get to know each other. With the demanding stress from this sport, it is very important to the girls to have their team supporting them every step of the way.

“We are always laughing as a team,” junior Kalena Sultana said.

Pasta parties, ribbon-tying parties, and listening to music during practice rounds are ways this team de-stresses, so they can put all of their focus into their 9-hole and even sometimes 18hole tournaments.

Coach Hansen commends the team’s athletic mindsets, which she believes is the team’s strengths.

“This team always wants to be better than they were yesterday,” Coach Hansen said. “We have true athletes who know how to stand up to competition.”

Girls’ cross country has a strong mentality for the season he girls’ cross country team hopes that the senior captains’ preparation for the upcoming season will lead to a rebound from last year’s disappointing ending. Last season, the team missed State for the first time since 2017.

Although this was a major setback for the team, the girls look forward to this season to recover after this unfortunate defeat.

“The team’s ultimate goal this year is to make it to State,” senior captain Niki Iatrides said. “We didn’t make it last year for the first time in a while, but this year we’re hoping to make a comeback.”

C oach Jeff Downing has encouraged all three senior captains, Courtney Lee, Marissa Horning, and Iatrides, to lead the workouts and welcome all newcomers.

He wants to ensure that all underclassmen are placed in an environment where they feel welcomed. Horning hopes her leadership skills will create a closeknit relationship within the team.

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“Trying to start the season without to be more prepared for their next having run enough during the pre- intense workout. Having the trainer season will lead to injuries for most roll out their muscles after practice is runners.” the best preventative measure against The team hopes that a less stressful injuries. start to the season will pay dividends “The typical warm-up is a lap come time for the push for State. around the field which is a little The team’s average workout under a mile,” Horning said. “After consists of at least five that, we warm up our muscles miles a day either with a by stretching which prevents concentration on pace or soreness and injury.” tempo. If the team runs The expectations for without a pace, they will run this year’s team are high, at least six miles. Training but C o a ch D ow n i ng with longer distances believes the girls’ vigorous prepares the team workouts will help in the physically and mentally long run, better preparing for the season ahead. the team for their three“Running longer distances mile runs. prepares our minds and “To be a good runner, bodies to race three miles you need to b e able because we are used to to handle the toughest running for longer periods weeks of training during of time,” Iatrides said. “Varsity the season,” Coach runs about five miles a day, Downing said. “We so the distance of running are in the process of three miles for a race is not doing just that right daunting.” now.”

Horning also adds that T he te am w i l l stretching after warmcompete in the Lake Park ups allows the runner’s Invite on Sept. 14.

Senior Niki Iatrides JULIA BUON

Sports Writer

“Many newcomers have lots of questions, so I make sure they are aware that they can come to me for anything they need,” Horning said.

Iatrides has faith that the many miles run during the summer will lead to success in the upcoming meets.

“We definitely trained harder over the summer at camp this year compared to last year, which we’re hoping will pay off this fall,” Iatrides said. “Getting more miles under our legs over the summer should help us further along in the season.”

Because of this training, the girls are now used to putting in the time and effort for the team. The basis of this workout has helped lay out the foundations to allow all runners to be on the same page.

Downing believes slowly building up weekly mileage over the summer is best in order to decrease the number of injuries for the team. He was very impressed with this year’s incoming freshman training during their preseason.

“It was nice to see some really talented incoming freshmen log a lot of miles to get prepared for this season,” Coach Downing said.

PHOTO BY

Molly Deely

September 6, 2019 | SPORTS

Boys’ cross country competes as a unit after Brady graduates Julianna Moore Sports Writer

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he boys’ cross country season is just beginning, and the boys have many goals they want to reach towards. They have been preparing all summer, as the boys went to a camp in Madison, Wisconsin.

“Madison’s camp is one of the best weeks,” senior Sean Bauer said.

“Everyone there is a runner and gets along really well. As a team, it’s a great bonding experience playing frisbee, going on runs, eating meals, and other activities.”

For a team intent on coming together as a unit, this camp was just what they were looking for.

“We have one of our smallest teams in awhile but it is one of our deepest in quality,” Bauer said.

Not only did they train in the camp, but a lot of the boys achieved several personal goals throughout the summer. Working hard to achieve these goals helped build each runner’s stamina for the upcoming season.

“One of my own personal goals for this season was to run 500 miles over the summer, which I accomplished,” senior Niko Koupas said. “In order to have a good summer training as a Varsity athlete, each runner should run about 500-800 miles over the summer.”

A rigorous workout effort along with lofty goals has created an intense and motivated culture among the team.

KEEPING TRACK

PHOTO BY JULIA BUONSANTE

Senior captain Joey Kasch nears the end of his warm-up run. The team uses smart watches to keep track of the pace and mileage.

Coach Greg Nordahl acknowledges his team for the vigorous workouts and training they did throughout the offseason.

“They look very strong and I believe make us an extremely competitive team,” said Coach Nordahl. “I thought we would be in rebuilding mode this year, but the way they have worked makes me think very differently. We have a group that looks to start with a 15:30-16:00 pace.

That should translate into a very solid 15-15:30 group at the end of the year.”

The boys’ practices are rigorous and fast-paced, with a set schedule to focus on their endurance. Every week, the team has two or three hard workouts that consist of low mileage at a higher intensity.

“We typically start every practice

with a .75 mile warm-up,” Koupas said. “On our easy days, we usually run 7-8 miles at a 7:00 pace. After that, we either do core strength exercises or we lift in the weight cage.”

The leadership role has been taken on differently by each member of the team. Senior captain Joey Kasch tries to create an atmosphere for all of his runners to feel welcome.

“It’s imp or t ant to cre ate a brot h e r h o o d a n d m a k e y ou r teammates enjoy coming to practice always,” Kasch said. “With this group of guys, it is very easy to lead them due to the fact that we are all chasing one goal. This is very essential if we want to do well this season.”

This year, the team deals with the loss of Tommy Brady (‘19), who is now running at the University of

Michigan as a long-distance runner.

Replacing a talent like Brady is not necessarily the goal of each runner, though.

The team is looking at the situation as more of an opportunity for the runners to work together as a team towards their common goal of competing at State.

“Obviously, losing Tommy is a huge blow to the team as he was the best distance runner in all of Maine South history,” Bauer said. “However, we have a lot of depth this year with around ten guys running really solid to pick up the slack.”

Senior captains Luke Burkum and Adam Christopher have been praised

by Coach Nordahl for their dedication to the team.

“Burkum and Christopher have really begun to shine as two of the top five athletes,” Coach Nordahl said. “Adam ran the second half of last season with a bad stress fracture and was not able to train until mid-track season. He and Luke have stepped up their senior year to be leaders and a very competitive tandem.”

Eamon Brady, Tommy’s younger brother, has high expectations as well.

“I think that our team has a lot of potential this season,” Brady said.

“I definitely think we are capable of placing well at the state meet.”

This season is one that the team is looking forward to as a unit.

Boys’ cross country will compete at the Lyon’s Invite held on Sept. 7.

Blend of school and sports draws in two Northwestern commits

Amalia Laskaris Sports Editor

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wo seniors at Maine South have committed to Northwestern University to continue their athletic careers.

Next year, seniors Annika Wagner and Peter Skoronski will be competing in the Big Ten as Wildcats.

After receiving offers from nine other prestigious schools, Skoronski committed to Northwestern on May 4, 2019. He was drawn to this college for its successful football program, and its combination of quality academics and athletics.

“Even before I started getting recruited, I was a big Northwestern football fan,” Skoronski said. “I really liked the coaching staff, particularly Head Coach [Pat] Fitzgerald and O f fe ns ive L i ne C o a ch [ Ku r t ]

Anderson.” football and college memorable.”

Coach Fitzgerald has also been In a d d it i on , Nor t hwe ste r n known to tailor his practice schedule University women’s swimming to fit each player’s academic goals and diving team has landed highand needs. In school record addition to the “Northwestern is different holder Annika coaching staff, because it has a great Wagner, who this football specializes program allows balance of both athletics and in the IM, their players to academics that are breaststroke, major in almost challenging, but not too and freestyle. anything they Wa g n e r overwhelming.” want. was drawn to -Annika Wagner ‘20 t h i s s c h o o l This was also another deciding because of the factor as to why Skoronski chose number of resources given to their Northwestern. student-athletes, which ensures no “I am probably most excited trouble in balancing academics and about just getting with my future athletics. As of 2019, Northwestern teammates and starting workouts and was ranked the 10th-best university practices,” Skoronski said. “I think it’s in the nation. the friendships you make that make “Northwestern is different because

it has a great balance of both athletics and academics that are challenging, but not too overwhelming,” Wagner said.

Having been a six-time Illinois State Champion finalist, USA Swimming Scholastic All-American and NISCA All-American brings a lot of pressure for Wagner as she joins her new team, but she is not overwhelmed.

Wagner is excited for what she has to bring to her new team. She hopes to bring a positive and competitive attitude to the team.

“I’m most excited to be a part of a new, rising team,” Wagner said. “I have met most of the girls there, and it just feels like the kind of environment that I want to be a part of and that I know I can thrive in both in and out of the pool.”

SouthwordS 15

CROSS COUNTRY | FOOTBALL | GOLF | BOYS’SOCCER | GIRLS’ SWIMMING | GIRLS’TENNIS | GIRLS’VOLLEYBALL

Alumna Krall earns unique opportunity in MLB Commissioner's office Tyler Houck Sports Editor

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ome Maine South Alumni dream of playing for their favorite professional sports team, but few are able to realize these dreams. While Katie Krall (‘15) may never see the field, she is playing on her own personal field of dreams at the MLB Commissioner’s office.

After graduating from Northwestern University in just three years, Krall was able to land a prestigious fellowship at the top of the professional baseball food chain, joining a nucleus of members focused on Major League Baseball’s daily operations.

Two years ago, the MLB brought in an independent reviewer of their hiring practices. The league scored poorly in a PHOTO COURTESY KATIE KRALL review of diversity in their workplace.

“Commissioner [Robert] Manfred LIVIN' THE DREAM Krall pauses for a photo on her first day of work at the 2018 MLB Draft with Sandy Dengler, Director of Major wanted to take a top-down approach to League Operations for the Tampa Bay Rays and Tyrone Brooks, Director of Diversity & Inclusion at MLB. She received the call that she got the job the day after her 21st birthday. solving this problem,” Krall said.

Krall’s desire to get into baseball is Krall will be placed with a MLB team class. Also, Mr. McGreevy and my As a result, the fellowship Krall currently occupies was created. She not surprising with her background and continue on her path to achieve her counselor Tim Spiegel. All of them were applied in the fall of 2017 after receiving in the game. As a girl, she learned ultimate goal, becoming the first female integral and amazing people.”

In her four years at Maine South, a recommendation from Northwestern the ins-and-outs of baseball from her general manager in Major League baseball traditionalist godfather, Rick Baseball history.

Krall was on the varsity girls’ golf team professor Dr. Bill Savage.

In the short term, she is looking to as a freshman, a co-captain with her However, this was not Katie's first Stelmaszek, who was a bullpen coach move away from the duties associated twin sister, and an academically highopportunity to get into the game, nor for the Minnesota Twins.

Her mother was on the board of the with her all-encompassing league office achieving student, being accepted was it the only job in baseball Katie had Illinois Sports Facility Authority, which job in order to join a team. Her priority into top institutions for her academic searched for.

“I took a notebook, I wrote down all oversees Guaranteed Rate Field, home is to find a club that will be a good fit and athletic success before ultimately for her style and what she wants to deciding to attend Northwestern.

30 team’s names and I went online to see of the Chicago White Sox. Krall said that her daily duties accomplish.

Despite her athletic ability at Maine what I could find,” she said. include focusing Her first choice is the hometown South she had a mature realization.

Jobs such as o n l o n g - t e r m team, the Chicago Cubs. When the Cubs “I said to myself, ‘Look, I may never being a ball girl “I said to myself, ‘Look, I initiatives for the ended their 108-year championship play shortstop for the Cubs, but that for the Reds advancement of drought, Krall was tasked with helping doesn’t mean that I can’t have a role in a n d a j o b i n may never play shortstop the sport, league plan the massive parade downtown. this game,” Krall said. marketing for for the Cubs, but that economics, and That experience has made her desire She credits her double-digit number the Marlins were trying to “make to bring another championship back to of AP classes for her early graduation in the running doesn’t mean that I can’t sure the game is her home even greater. from Northwestern. She was able to for Krall until the have a role in this game.'” as interesting of “I think it would be really special do this thanks to Maine South's robust fellowship came -Katie Krall ('15) a product for our if after helping plan that celebration, I course offerings. across her desk fans as possible.” could help with the construction of the “Without Maine South, I don’t from Savage.

More specifically, she deals with next roster that brings a championship think I would be working in baseball,” After an arduous interview process, Krall said.

Krall was hired the day after her 21st more currently relevant issues like to the North Side,” Krall said. salary arbitration, contracts, discipline, In order to achieve her ambitious Although the work gets hectic and birthday. goals, Krall knew from a young age Krall can be spending 14 hours a day From her experience, Krall said that or rule changes.

Krall and her coworkers are focused that she needed to have a precise plan. in the office, she believes that what she a lot of the opportunities in the game are decided on timing and having mentors on where the game is headed, and She credits Maine South counselor Tim does and the substance of what she is how to make it marketable to fans for Spiegel with helping her begin her path. working with makes it all worth it. willing to help.

Krall raved about her teachers as “It can get stressful, but the quality “Being around the right people decades to come.

"We're all working towards the same well. of the work is so engaging that you can and showing that you can produce the “My favorite teacher was Mr. never really feel bored or overwhelmed," quality of work that’s expected will get goal, and that's really exciting," she said.

After the three-year program ends, Trenkle,” she said. “He had an amazing Krall said. me to where I want to go,” Krall said.