Vol 34 issue 9

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Lonergan awarded coaching honor

by Brian Price After sixteen years of coaching track at his alma mater, Maine South English teacher Jim Lonergan has been recognized by his peers for outstanding enthusiasm and abiUty. On January 10, Lonergan was awarded the Dave Pasquini Award as the Illinois Track and Cross-Country Coaches Association's Assistant Coach of the year. This award, which is in memory of a former Glenbrook South track coach, was presented to him at the organization's annual clinic at Oak Park-River Forest High School.

Since 1983 he has served as Assistant Coach to Head Coach Bill Drennan, helping primarily with jumping and vaulting at every level.

I Many of these jumpers and vaulters have had tremendous success, including numerous conference champions at all levels and fourteen state qualifiers. Of the many he has coached, Mike Vukovich tops the list of outstanding athletes. He was the seventh person in Illinois history to break the photo by Ines Coach Lonergan 7'0" barrier and eventually finished third in the state. Other standouts include coaching. He enjoys coaching track at all Steve Stephens, whose 14'0" vault tied an levels because, he " can develop relationindoor record; Dino Gardiakos, who had a ships with the young people and see their remarkable jump of 22'3" in competition development through the four years. I conlast year; and countless others. sider many of the former jumpers and vaultAlthough he enjoys these exceptional ers I coached to be good friends."

Even after the season he continues to performances, equally rewarding for him are the personal bests and individual goals that work with track athletes in his "Air Time" are achieved through hard work. The indi- clinic for pole-vaulters. This clinic has viduals who may not receive the great acco- drawn 100 vaulters, both male and female, lades but still strive to do their best and help ages 8 to 72.

Among the notable participants are a nathe team are a part of his deep affection for

tional-level female and a 72 year old Senior Olympian. He started the camp seven years ago to "create something anyone could try and improve in for their own sake. I keep it low-key and the participants can go to the limits they want to." He also enjoys the fact that entry is purely on a voluntary level. Unlike other sports camps, where students' summers are scheduled by their coaches, the participants simply come to have fun and challenge themselves. Coach Drennan sums it up in saying, "Jim's great love is the pole vault. Coaches who know him appreciate his uncommon dedication to this unique event."

The people he coaches feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to benefit from his guidance. Says junior jumper Kevin Geist, "He is extremely friendly and knowledgeable.

He teaches us a great deal and seems to know exactly how we're thinking because of his experience."

His fellow coaches have also come to appreciate his abilities as a coach.

Adds Coach Drennan, "Jim is the first one out at practice and usually the last one to leave. He is the coach with all the keys, with a bag of tools and with a full complement of his own gadgets which make the track program run smoothly."

In addition to his duties as track coach, he also serves as sophomore girls' volleyball coach. He also contributes as the familiar voice on Friday nights announcing the Hawks basketball games. After over twenty years at Maine South as a student, teacher and coach, he continues to exemplify the ideals of "Hawk Pride."

Freedom of expression, what is it?

by Elizabeth Gibbons Freedom of expression is a right inherent in the American system. Guaranteed by the first amendment, it has sparked much controversy during the course of history. Yet, many do not realize that freedom of expression is not limited to speaking and writing; it extends into art as well. The supreme court

has held that if a work of art is of merit and appeals to appreciation of culture, the artist has the right to display it publicly. This view, however, often comes into conflict with community standards, and that is where the batde begins.

The controversy regarding art and freedom of expression has reached even the

acclaimed Maine South Art Department. The art department has won over one hundred sixty National Scholastic Art awards and participates in seventeen different categories ofcompetition in four shows. But can a work of art be considered good, yet still unsuitable for display? continued on page 8

2 Coixinientary property ot

The Editors

by Sushila Dalai Names such as "Crisis in the White House" and the "White House Under Fire" beckon viewers to hear the latest news on the current status of the Clinton-Monica Lewinsky scandal. Perhaps in these past weeks more Americans than usual discussed their views of the president with one another. They speculate on his innocence or guilt and ponder what should be done.

This interest can be traced to the press.

The press captured the attention of the public with its sensationalisuc coverage of speculation regarding the CUnton, his alleged affair and his possible crimes. As of January 28, newsmagazine TV shows carried over one hundred stories on the presidential scandal. But how many hard facts is the public learning? What is the public learning except for what appears to have happened and commentators' opinions on the situation? Surely not enough hard facts about the situation could fill that much space. If all the facts of the case were known, then perhaps it could be resolved.

However, the informational value of their reports seem of littie consequence to the media. Perhaps they are more concerned with drawing in viewers and readers.

Those who believe in the importance of the current Chnton situation might argue that the significance of the whole affair comes in the question as to whether a president, who might have had an affair with a young intern and then asked her to lie, is worthy of carrying the responsibility of the nation. The media should have the responsibihty to factually inform the public of significant world events.

Through reading a newspaper or turning on the news, the public should learn information that teaches them something new about their world, makes them understand their fellow humans, or simply makes them aware of events that may impact their lives.

If the media followed this philosophy, perhaps more time would have been spent covering the pope's historic visit to Cuba or the delicate situation in Iraq.

Perhaps the public should be focusing on what they have learned through watching the media: that its hunger for an audience skews its responsibility to inform the public.

Those darn teenagers

by Tom Forde A couple of days ago, seven teenagers and I went to go see Titanic. As we walked into the theater, I could see the eyes of many people from the elder generations focusing on what they saw as a bunch of loud, obnoxious teenagers. We sat in front of a row of young kids and I heard many sighs comingfrombehind our seats. Here we are, rocking in the springy chairs, kicking the chairs in front of us and talking really loudly amongst ourselves. After about a minute, we decided that these seats just wouldn't do, so we all stood up in unison and fumbled across our row and into a new row of seats. Behind us and to the right was a married couple in their thirties, constanUy glaring and shushing our group.

acted calm. Since this was my third time seeing the movie, my friend. Matt, asked me if I could get him some candy. I reluctantiy said I would, since this was Matt's first time seeing it.

As I stumbled over the row of my peers and walked down the aisle, almost every eye around where I was walking focused on me.

Had these middle- aged adults forgotten what it was like to be young and to have the right to be irresponsible? It seemed as though their teenage years had been wiped out of their memories. I thought to myself, "I'll never be like that." But what if this brainwash is imminent? What if I'm subject to becoming an adult who looks at teenagers as if they were the enemy? Is there any way out of it? Is there any hope of escaping the The other people around also seemed a grasps of this disease? All these questions bit aggravated. We figured that since it was are mysteries to the teenage mind and hopestill the previews, no one would really care. fully they'll remain mysteries for a long time Then the manager of the theater sat down a to come. As for right now, I'm proud to say row in front of us and gave us a warning. I'm a teenager. Being a kid isn't so bad as I "You have to be quiet. You are disturbing once thought it was. Here's a word of adthe other patrons around you. If you don't vice: enjoy it while it lasts, because it's onl{ setUe down, I'm going to have to ask you to a matter of time before the disease of adultleave." As he walked away, we basically hood gets you.

All a matter of your perspective

by Jeff Clapper Nearing the end of my Maine South days I wonder whether I have earned my seniority or if I'm just a fourth yearfreshman.I've had so many questions and perspectives that have changed in the last four years, and I think it's time to find out if it's just me.

Is it just me or were the seniors a lot bigger when we were freshmen? I remember looking down the row of brasses at my first rehearsal and seeing GIANTS like Joe Dietlin,JefifCamon and Todd Herring. Even the juniors were monsters. Paul Berko made his mba look like a Fisher-Price toy. Whenever I see any alums around now I wonder if I still look like a freshman to them, because they still seem huge to me. Do I seem huge to this year's freshmen?

Freshmen year I didn't even know what a progress report looked like, let alone when it came out, but by sophomore year I had my work down to a science. The first three months were mine to flaunt, quarter grades were a gauge for how much longer I could relax and then I had a few weeks before I

really had to work. However, last semester my few months seemed like a few weeks, and I was working hard the wholetime.Do the underclassmen think about this now, or do they think at all?

Is it just me or does nothing really matter now? A few weeks ago before the Maine Township Choral Festival I was complaining about the event. I mentioned to a few other seniors there that we really could just leave, but Graham Schmidt replied "yeah, but it's really just a matter of pride for me now." Then I realized what the whole senioritis thing meant to me. I COM just blow off any obligations I have, but do I really want to do that? At my ten year reunion do I want people to see my name tag and ask, "Oh, Jeff Clapper! Why did you quit?"

After writing this I've decided that there's a lot more to talk about, but the imj portant thing is that while the school and i have changed, I'll always have great memories. Note (to the freshmen reading this): you will probably still seem like a freshmen to me whenever I see you again.

fCoinmentary 3

How was your day today?

by Matt Haak Since President Clinton's State of the Union address last week, I've heard many reactions from all different types of people as to what he had to say about the nation.

Mostly, people were relieved to hear someone say that things are going well. In the president's own words, "The state of the Union is strong."

This is an interesting and ironic statement. How exactly did he arrive at that conclusion? For 200 years, the state of the union has been reported as good. Will it ever be bad? What president would get on national television and say, "Members of Congress, my fellow Americans, I report to you that the state of the union is pathetic?"

If Clinton's speech isn't an accurate barometer of how things are going, what is?

Certainly we can't find out from the media.

Imagine a headline, "Things are going well," or a TV show, "Why everything is so great."

Turn the page, or flip the channel and you'll see equally compelling arguments for the opposite: "TTiings are not so hot" and "What went wrong?"

The nation can be at its best and its worst at the same time. The government can be both rich and poor. Chnton says the military is strong, but the media tells stories of decreased spending, closed military bases, docked nuclear submarines and frustrated officers.

No one is lying to us, nor is anyone telling the entire truth. We live in a huge nation; 1 in every 20 people in the world Uves in the U.S. What if everyone gave a State of my Life speech? Think about what that speech would include. At the end of just one day, you kick back, watch TV, and give your day an official rating: "Today was a good day," or "Today was terrible." Sometimes

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it's hard; you have days when both great and bad things happen. What if you had to rate entire weeks or months. It would be really hard to judge all the events. I'd feel just as safe saying, "It's been a good month" as I would saying, "It's been a really bad month."

What if you tried to rate an entire year?!

Good year or bad year? At this age, one year is about 7% of your entire life. Try rating that! Think about EVERYTHING that has happened, everyone that has died, all the money you earned, all the gifts you got...

What if you had to rate the year for the entire school? You'd have to know the intimate stories of over 2000 people! You'd waste the rest of your life trying to understand all that happened to just one person, in just one year. What if you had to rate the year for the state of Illinois, with millions of people? I couldn't do it.

Then there's Bill, who says the state of the Union is good. You should probably take that statement with a grain of salt the size of Texas.

I would like to see a president who has the courage and the intelligence to recognize that an infinite number of things happen every year, and to try to sum it up is foolish. Clinton said the U.S. is in good shape because, for instance, unemployment is at an all time low. Do the miUions of unemployed Americans think unemployment is low? Clinton said welfare reform has been successful. Do the millions of Americans on welfare think so too?

Of course Clinton had to say something, I understand that. He was making statistical conclusions. It is important to realize, however, that everyone who thinks the state of the union is strong is forgetting the unique, sad, inspirational and triumphant stories of each of his 250 million fellow Americans.

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Headlines from the past

and what they mean for tomorrow...

1983 Girls' soccer comes to South When will girls' football arrive?

December 1980 Nine periods return Board decides an eight period day was a bad idea; goes back to old policy.

When will board return to old ID policy?

November 1980 Windmill on A-Wing provides power Used to power radio station.

What are they using to power the station now?

September 1982 Computer age comes to Southwords Southwords installs one $3000 computer.

When will the internet come to Southwords?

May 1982 Art, Music, and Speech/ drama departments will be combined Will they disappear altogether?

September 1991 What is Southwords anyway?

What is Southwords anyway?

4 Entertainment Editors'

Harold and Maude: a movie review

by Annie Kehoe This movie is not exactly a new release.

It was made in the seventies and was a very popular film with that generation. I have chosen to comment on it because (a) about half the English department is watching it and writing about it and (b) to clear up any gossip you might have heard.

The first thing I was told about the movie Harold and Maude, other than that it was made in the seventies was that Harold is eighteen years old and Maude is seventy nine. The remainder of my class, hearing the same thing I did, proceeded in making gagging sounds and pretending to vomit.

Apparently they had heard some, shall we say, racy details about the things that went on between Harold and Maude. Some people labeled the film as "disgusting" before they had even seen it. Can we please grow up a little?What tended to turn people off to the film was the fact that Harold and Maude do, towards the end of the movie, end up in a sexual relationship. They even consider getting married. It isn't as weird as you might be thinking. The movie is tastefully done, and I really came to have empathy for each character's situation.

Even if you're not watching this movie in your English class, I highly recommend renting it (comedy section). Not only will it make you think, it will make you cry happy tears and it will put you in a good mood. I was dancing through the [empty] hallways. * * * 1/2

What to do after the dance We asked students what to do and not to do after the dance... Here's what they said:

Good Ideas: •Sledding •House of Blues •Second City •Odyssey •Italian Village •Fondue •Bowling (dressed-up) •Hotel Rooms •Karaoke •Ice Skating

Bad Ideas: • Bowling (after changing) • Limos • Hackney's • Baker's Square • Motel Rooms

Features 5

Effects: accelerated credit on classes

by Nick Disabato and John Fahrenbach By the administration's offering accelerAccording to a recent survey of random schedules, kids don't take art often," explains students, most believe that accelerated credit Alderson. "Kids also think that foreign lan- ated credits for the arts, Alderson thinks that does affect the way students choose classes. guage is required in college, but it's just the "[the] Arts would expand in all directions: history, culture and more work, As we all know, the stressed though you still can't teach evcourses—math, science, En- How does accelerated credit effect students decisions? erything in one class," he stated. glish, social science and for"Of course, accelerated classes eign language-all offer ac45would require more commitcelerated credit, but very few •HllaYeslPPiiMWkt^ .

40ment than regular classes." of the other classes have this There are over forty-five art benefit. classes to choose from. By creA recent survey focused ating new opportunities on the Fine Arts Department, : 3 0 - .-. i ^^H through accelerated credit, it which requires at least two i would create more variety for credits to graduate. About i 25the students and be useful for 36% of students polled plan students whose talents are in the to earn these credits by sim20arts, but are afraid of hurting ply taking foreign language 1 • their G.P.A.'s classes. ^^H ! 10• If students had the option of The vast majority of stuHBH'— accelerated credit throughout dents at Maine South take 5 ^^^^I^M^ all fine arts classes, they would Spanish as their only foreign learn more while retaining a language. "Most people Boys Qrts Total high G.P.A. According to don't take French because Alderson, "if these students take art pass/ they think Spanish is the easiest," explains fine arts credits that count."

41% of the students surveyed do not take fail, they don't have a grade to watch, so they French teacher Mrs. Nica," but the only real problem with the French language is the pro- art, drama or applied arts; yet only 7% do will put less effort into their projects." nunciation." But would students possibly not take any foreign languages. The amount take art or drama instead of a foreign lan- of students who take the arts could increase by possibly offering accelerated art courses. guage?

Many people do not realize that the purOf the students surveyed, 78% felt that accelerated credit affects the way students pose of high school is not just to prepare for choose their classes. "G.P.A. conscious stu- college, but also to give students the last dents will always take art pass/fail because chance to experience new avenues of intereven an 'A' will hurt their average," com- est that may not be available later; and for students who are watching their grade point ments art teacher Greg Alderson. averages, that chance may quickly disappear.

-ABC News "Because of the tightness in students'

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Senior

Activities: •Cs^tain Swimming •Cross-Countr>' •Volleyball •Spanish Club •M Club •Math Team •Scholar Athlete •Junior/Senior Leader

Matt W a n a t Teacher's Comments: "In 19 years of teaching/coaching I have never worked with a person who has focused his energy on improving himself and his teammates in such intensity and magnitude as Matt has. He is an excellent leader who goes beyond what is expected, has an offbeat sense of humor, and a desire to bring out the best in himself and his teammates. I fear that I shall never again see such tend of intellgence, drive and humanity at diis vel."

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^ Featurei

Valentine's Day Student Excellence «

by Anna Mieszaniec St. Valentine's Day has roots in several different legends that have found their way to us through the ages.

Three hundred years after the death of Jesus Christ the Roman emperors still demanded that everyone believe in the Roman gods. Valentine, a Christian priest, assisted St. Marius and his family in the persecution under Claudius 11. He was ^prehended, and sent by the emperor to the prefect of Rome ,who, on finding all his promises to make him renounce his faith ineffectual, commended him to be beaten with clubs and then beheaded on February 14, about the year 270.

History also claims that while Valentine was in prison awaiting his fate, he fell in love with the blind daughter of the jailer, Asterius. Through his faith and his medical abilities he miraculously restored her sight. He then signed a farewell message to her sent"From Your Valentine."

Valentine would 0ftM.l>t»>iM«Ttftl later become a patron saint and spiritual overseer of an annual festival. On February 14, young men randomly chose the name of a young girl to escort to the festivities. The custom of choosing a sweetheart spread through Europe and later on through the American colonies. In 1969, the feast of St. Valentine was removed from the Roman Church Calendar because the church felt there were too many pagan associations and lack of honor.

HAve you stew w/

by Susan Wilson Each issue of Southwords contains a section to acknowledge and honor students who display such exceptional qualties as leadership, dedication and excellence. This section. Focus on Student Excellence, recognizes the accompUshments of outstanding students, some of which one would otherwise know nothing about.

In order to be nominated for Focus on Student Excellence, a student must demonstrate leadership in class, on the playing field, or in an extra-curricular activity. They

should also demonstrate mature and moral attitudes and be committed to excellence.

The students selected for Focus on Student Excellence for the first semester that have not been mentioned in Southwords are: Maggie Witek, Liz Sirmbardis, Caroline Kuhr, Bill Heerman, Chris Schutt, Brian Price, Jeff Clapper, Kate Boychuck, Tim Barounis, Theresa House, Kate Rogers, and Dan Pellegrini..

Congratulations to all and keep up the hard work!

Community Beat Dedicated service

by Dave Smith In the Paric Ridge area, a community based organization called T.O.F.Y.S. has been operating in an effort to help those in need. The group is composed of Maine South students and a couple of sponsors.

It receives approximately $7,000 each year from its prominent sponsor—the city government of Park Ridge. But what exacdy does T.O.EY.S. do? For starters, the youth group is involved in an activity called "Beat a Cop." This is a basketball tournament organized by the students and their leaders. T.O.EY.S. also sponsors the annual Christmas Toys for Tots drive, which helps to bring Christmas to those children in need. Through sponsoring the group, the Park Ridge city government "shows

the city's concern for its youth," states Mrs. Deines, a great supporter and leader of the group.

The youth committee oversees many of its projects and, according to Mrs. Deines, "the real power comes from the teens that show up on Monday nights who have the strength to make a difference in this community.

T.O.EY.S. meets on Monday nights and anyone can join the group at any time. The next T.O.F.Y.S. sponsored activity is a pickleball tournament on February 16.

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Features 7

Another country, another culture

by Cynthia Barounis Have you ever wondered what it would be like to live in another country? For most of us, this idea remains just that. However, for senior Havalah Backus, this dream became a reality when she spent 5 1/2 months in Sweden.

"You see things from different eyes," explained Havalah as she recounted her experience abroad. Her host family consisted of a mother, father, a seventeen year old sister and a twenty year old brother who was married, but often visited. She lived with them during her entire 5 1/2 month stay and became good friends with her host sister, who is very close to her in age.

Havalah did notice many things that were considerably different from what we are used to in America.

"You're with the same group of thirty kids all your three years of high school," she says, illustrating a very big difference from the American high school system. She noticed that the kids in Sweden had a greater I sense of responsibility than American high school students. However, with this responsibility came privileges such as an absence of hall passes and an open campus, which allowed students to shop between classes.

Havalah also attended class parties, which were gatherings of the thirty students in her class. This occurred usually before a big dance, which the entire school attended.

In addition, fashion took on a new form-

clothing was much tighter than Americans commonly wear. Stretch pants and legwarmers are a sharp contrast to the loose baggy clothing commonly worn here.

Another drastic change that she noticed was the absence of in censorship. Nudity on television and unlimited, unrestricted Internet access during school were a few differences. Almost every student carried a mobile phone. Free lunches were an added bonus.

American music and culture has rubbed off on Sweden. Havalah notes that many of the television shows were American. American musicians are also very popular.

Havalah and her host family Havalah not only learned a new language, Swedish, during her experience in Sweden but also gathered memories to treasure for a lifetime. AFS allowed her to cross cultural borders and experience a new way of living. She now has friends in several different countries of the world and has expanded her realm of experience far beyond Park Ridge.

"Going to Sweden really changed my life," reflects Havalah, "I learned a lot about myself and I really reconmiend this to anyone who wants to experience something different. It was unforgettable."

A look at what's happening at other area schools

Should We Ban the Books?

b\ Kathleen Dunne

A few weeks ago, two Maryland public school superintendents banned the works of two African-American authors from high school English classes after the urging of some parents who refered to the works as "trash" and "anti-white."

Superintendent Carol S. Parham declared Maya Angelou's autobiography, /^now Why the Caged Bird Sings, banned from ninth grade curriculum, even though it will be allowed in eleventh grade classes. Patrick Richardson, superintendent of Saint Mary's County, removed Toni Morrison's Song of

Solomon from the approved curriculum list.

Both superintendants overruled the faculty committee and their recommendations to keep the books approved. Parham and Richardson both listened and yielded to the small group of parents speaking against the authors and their works.

Parents and teachers who support the books are in disbelief over the ruling. They believe the works to have much more of an effect on the students than an old text book.

The parents objecting the authors claim the book is racist-against whites. One par-

ent claimed that \ "Angelou pormmmsmemmm trays white people as being horrible, nasty, stupid people." The parents against the works do not want their children to have the self-image that they believe Angelou and Morrison describe in their books.

The community is still in debate over whether or not the banning of the books was correct. However, the books remain banned and are not included in the curriculum.

Information from the Chicago Tribune

December students of the month The December students of the month are: Science: Colleen Foy, Michelle Fricke, Sean Garbutt, John Jacobsen, Christine Kabat, Juhe Lucchesi, Angela Marshall, Colleen Matheu, Dominic Morris, Brian Price, Meghan Sexton, Andy Sanders, Daniel Smart, Melissa Trahame, Eric Wackman, Holly Warchol.

Mathematics: Gregory Bagnall, Angela D'Aviero, Angela Evola, Patrick Freeman, Emily Gallagher, Basilee Gonzalez, Colleen Matheu, Maxi Mathew, Jennifer Miles, Andrew Neumann, Joanne Schomack, Bonnie SkowTonski, Katherine Skwarczek, Joseph Slezak.

Music: Elizabeth Hughes, Tara Larsen, Colleen Matheu.

Art/Photo: Tiffany Apolinski, Erin Lazer, Chalatom Warapanyaseni, Christina Ander-

Expression One student, Liz Michalec, received the second highest grade in her class on a three dimensional collagraph of a nude woman nose to knees. Generally the most outstanding projects are displayed in the hallway.

Liz's was not.

According to art teacher Mr. Alderson, there is no guarantee that a student's work will be displayed, as there is display room for less than half of the works.

In class he tries not to limit students' creativity. As long as there is meaning behind why an artist does something, it is acceptable. But art created purely for the purpose of shock value might be technically sound, but inappropriate for display.

Although he did not indicate that Liz's work was created for the purpose of shocking viewers, the decision not to display the collagraph was his alone, and concern over viewer sensitivities was on his mind.

The same collagraph was entered in an art contest at Randhurst where it received a ribbon. All honored artwork was to be displayed at the mall. Liz, however, may be again deprived of the opportunity to have her work displayed, although the decision is not yet final. Once again, concern for the sensitivity of some viewers may limit the ability of others to see her work.

son, Patricia Grivas.

Drama/Broadcasting: Nicholas Bolton, Susan Palermo, Graham Schmidt, Megan Kamani.

Physical Education: Brendan Smaha, Timothy Sapieka, Anthony Enright, Stephanie Rifkind, Robert Hanson, Sara Douglass, Elizabeth Hughes, Krista Diestel, Michael Kain, Timothy Eberline.

Health: Michael-Mary Conlon Home Economics: Amy Angarone, Mary Stankiewicz, Kimberly Pahati, Adriana Bartucci, Jesse Howard.

Business: Karen Hutchinson, Melissa Vensas.

Applied Arts and Technology: Paul Enderle, Humphrey Gidd, Daniel Cassettari.

Driver Education: Amy Goodwin, Daniel Schwartz. continued from page I

Social Science: Som Dalai, Michael Kemerer, Mark Phillips, Craig Stankiewicz, Magdalena Szymczak, Matthew Wanat, Nathan Zureikat.

English: Natalie Divalerio, Brooke Fillippo, Anthony Fonseca, Rahel Gazso, Ellen Gartner, Kristin Joyce, Kim Kapusnik, Peter Krol, Maggie Myszkowski, Andrea Ocasio, Vanessa Ramos, Eric Sapp, Tim Siewert, Katherine Swarczek, Jennifer Steele, Matthew Wanat.

Foreign Language: Margherita Barone, Jennifer Caccomo, William Heerman, Colleen Matheu, Andrew Ziegenhom.

Colleen Matheu received a total of four student of the month awards for December. Although Soutliwords does not keep a running tally, this could very well be a record. A special congratulations to Colieen for her academic achievement! >

SOUTITWORPS A student-produced newsoapepof:

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Maine South Hig^i School n i l South Dee Roadq i f ark-Ridge, IlJsboeO Letters to tfe^jtorsh^d be delivered lelivc to room V-131 or gi>;en to a memt^r of the editorial suq^^S^yqrHWpRDS reserves the right to edkiBai|eijaIfoR clarity and brevity and to reject ^bse<ua$::ÂŤr' 1libeloiffii submis se<ia^::ÂŤr1il sions.

Editors in Chief

Tastes vary, making decisions about appropriateness difficult. This painting made the cut and was placed on display with only slight objection. A collagraph

by Liz Michalec has won honors, but has not been displayed photo by Mike Tomassi

Sushila Dalai Elizabeth Gibbons News Editors Anne Edison-Swift Karin Vonesh Commentary Editors Tim Barounis Jeff Clapper Features Editors Anna Mieszaniec Susan Wilson Sports Editors Lynn Janik Brian Price Production Editor Matt Haak Photographers Kate Boychuck Ines Tiu Mike Tomassi Artist Annie Kehoe Staff Heads Maj^aret Byrne Ahson Milnamow Advisor T. R. Kerth

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ews 9

District 207 Clioral Festival

by Anne Edison-Swift After homeroom on Wednesday, January 28, members of Maine South's Chamber and Concert Choirs boarded buses and traveled to Maine East High School to begin rehearsing for the Maine Township Choral Festival. For five years choir members from Maine South, Maine East and Maine West High Schools have been brought together for one day to both rehearse and perform as one choir.

In preparation for the concert at 7:30 p.m., students put in ten hours of intensive rehearsal, with the occasional break for lunch and dinner. Although many would agree that it was a sweaty, wear., foot-achey kind of day, most would also say that it was worth all the physical ' discomfort to be a part of some thing so different and exciting.

Courtney

of Maine South's Chamber Choir.

Participants in the Chorus Festival were directed by professors of choral music from area universities. Dr. Hansen from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, led the alto-soprano sectional, chose soloists and directed the Jazz Choir, a group made up of students from Maine South's Vocal Jazz Ensemble and the small ensembles from Maine East and Maine West.

The larger group, the Festival Choir, was led by Dr. Brad Holmes of Millikin College.

"I want students to learn that there's a lot of life in art, from Mozart to Les Mis. Life is what makes it art. My goal is to show some of the things that lie under the surface of these pieces of music."

The musical selections were varied and complex. Mozart's TeDeM/n challenged students to su-etch and expand their singing abilities, as did All That Hath Life and Breath Praise Ye the Lordâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;an arrangement that included a very difficult soprano solo, beautifully performed by Maine South senior Amanda Eich.

Auditions for solos were held during the day and were open to all participants.

Satin Doll, sung by the Jazz Choir, and a medley from Les Miserables featured soloists from all three schools. The soloists from Maine South were Natalie Levendoski, Jenny Beacraft, Dave Wilson, Amanda Eich, Annie Kehoe, Christy

Norwood, a Maine South junior and member of ConStevens, Emily cert Choir, comKnoblauch, mented that, "It John Bang and Dave Wilson are featured in a medley from Les Miserables was an overwhelming experience, singing Dr. Holmes encouraged students to think of Natalie Berg, Andy Schneider, Jeff with such a huge group of talented people." themselves as artists and to find the emo- Clapper, Bobby Hanson, John Bang, The district-wide event also gave students tion behind the lyrics in order to bring out Kelley Lake, Jamie Foltz, Allison Wagthe feeling of being part of a broader com- the true meaning of the songs with their oner and Kristen Church. The concert munity. "I felt closer to Maine West and voices. When asked why he agreed to lead went off without a hitch and the audience, Maine East students than I have in past this group and what he wanted the group to composed of family and friends, rewarded years," said senior Taso Fourkas, a member get out of the experience, Dr. Holmes said, the perfonners with a standing ovation.

Delegates, please maintain decorum

by Karin Vonesh The first weekend in February Maine South students participated in the University of Chicago's annual Model United Nations. This year's MUNUC motto was "All of the action, none of the debts." The students joined hundreds of others from high schools across the country in a four-day adventure into the policies and procedure of the United Nations. Through hands-on committee work, students experienced what UN

participation truly requires.

Representing Belgium, Maine South students became delegates to various committees. Working in parmerships, they explored the treatment of criminals in the Economic and Social Committee, the threat of banking crises on developing countries in the World Bank and medical problems in the Worid Health Organization.

Although the focus of the conference was on academic development, social activity

was encouraged as well. The final night of the conference students were invited to the Delegate Dance, a time to enjoy music and dancing in a more casual environment. Overall the experience was one of learning.

Maine South has offered MUNUC participation to students for many years, hoping it will help them to broaden their minds and understanding. This year's University of Chicago's Model United Nations proved to be no exception.

lO

Sporti Conference Champions!

Gymnasts finish season successfully ^>' Lynn Janik This year the Girls' Gymnastics team hasspnmg onto a victorious level. Miss Wendy Lahucik and Mr. Chris Hare are proud of the girls for their constant effort dedication and hard work.

Tlie team faced tough meets against Hij^tilamiPark, Niles West and, finally, the entire conference on January 29. Many crucial high varsity scores in the season have led the Hawks to victory.

In a difiRcult meet against Highland Park, Danielle McCullom scored 8.0 points and Sarah Jindoyan had 7.8 points on the vault At die Lake Forest meet Kate Miller, Jindoyan and Maireen i ^ c Âť i placed highly on the vault with scores of 7 5 points, 8.4 pomts and 825 points, respectively. On the beam, Jindoyan received a 7.8, and at Deerfield, Helena Beladakis scored a 7.5. Also in the Deerfield meet, the Hawks stunned tlÂť WarriOTS with an 8.1 point vault contributed by Jindoyan and a 7.9 point vault by Fallon. On the bars, in the sante meet Beladakis scored a radng of 8.4 points and AimieOravek achieved 7.9 points. With strong competitors on the floor at the Highland Park meet McCullom still managed to receive a 7.9. In the Lake Forest meet Jindoyan secured a solid 8.2 points on herfloOTroutine. Finally, at Deerfield Jindoyan was awarded a score of 8.3 and Ckavek 8.1 points in their individual floor routines.

The varsity team, composed of Beladakis, JimJoyan, Fallon, Erin Tyrrell and Oravek all worked to their full abilities and have the potential to lead the Hawks to even greater levels next year.

The junior varsity and freshman teams also worked very bard this year and promise success in years to come. The junior varsity conference meet was held on January 31.The varsity conference meet was held on January 29, and Regionals on February 2.

by Denise Pavichevich After a heartbreaking loss to then unbeaten and nationally ranked #3 Loyola, Coach Mike Deines's Maine South Girls' Basketball Hawks have reeled off seven straight victories leaving their opponents in a virtual cloud of dust and the local media bewildered with their success. Talent teamwork, tenacious defense, unselfish basketball, patience on offense, relendess hustle and a spirited determination to win have the 22-3 Hawks ranked fourth in the Sim Times, fifth in the Chicago Tribune, fourth in the Pioneer Press and sixth in the State polls.

The Maine South girls have one of the most balanced scoring acts in the area with both starters and bench contributing significandy in the Hawks domination of their opponents. The guard tandem of Denise Pavichevich, Sarah Cohen, Kori Bieszcad, Vickie Manko and Colleen Van Hoesen play heroically underneath the supporting cast of Liz Pugliani, Colleen Foy, Maureen Mulvihill, Kathleen Dunne, Amy Angarone, Ellen Crawford and Lauren Colletti showing quahty playing time and putting up nice numbers on the scoreboard in many Hawk victories.

With the Hawk's success and super record, they have been awarded second seed behind #2 Loyola in the state's ehte and competitive New Trier Sectional that includes state ranked #4 Maine West and #10 Glenbrook South.

Victimized by the Hawk attack over the past month were Niles North, New Trier, Maine East, Deerfield, Glenbrook North, Lake Forest and Elgin. In those 7 games, the average margin of victor>' was a bit over 25 points. From the beginning of the 97-98

season throughout the Thanksgiving Tour^^ nament and beyond, the Hawks have shown they can play anyone in the state.

Coach Deines, with the assistance of Coach Walker and Coach Kerr, has provided the Hawks with superb game plans and preparation. The Hawk seniors have shown excellent leadership paving the way for their underclass teammates to get significant playing time and make sturdy contributions in Maine South's domination over its opponents.

The Hawks are in sole possession of the conference dtle. Maine West came to Park Ridge to fight for its share of the conference title on February 4th, and lost 44-28 to our own lady Hawks. In the first quarter alone, the Hawks led 12-5, with the only Warrior points coming from free throws.

Even though the Warriors were in bonus the entire second quarter, Maine South still managed to lead at the end of the first half with a score of 24-12. Biesczad and Cohen were unstoppable scoring sensations, Pavichevich was a rebounding rebel and Friesl a n d ^ .

Manko played superb defense against Daw?W Vana. In the third quarter, Maine West came back strong and brought the score up to 2524, Maine South lead. After a fabulous shot

by Biesczad, the Hawks regained their poise and shut out the Warriors until the last 2 minutes of the fourth quarter. At the end of the third quarter, the Hawks led 32-24. In the fourth quarter the entire Hawk team dominated the Warriors on defense as well as offense which is demonstrated through die final score of 44-28. The Hawks have truly proven that they will be a strong compedtors in Normal due to their determinauon and ability.

.Mr. Deines instructs the team on how to win another game.

sports 11

Swimmers enjoy fast start in '98 disappointing fourth, a mere two points firom

by Matt Wanat third place. Only the 2(X) yard breaststroke The swim team has been enjoying a sue cessful 1998, ringing in the new year by winning three of their last four meets and improving their record to 5-3. The year began with a meet against District 207 rival Maine East. Both levels easily beat their competitors with the varsity winning 119-53 and the JV winning 13640.

The second meet of 1998 proved to be much tougher against a quality Glenbrook North team. The Spartans nosed out the Hawks by 20 points despite the fine efforts of first place finishers Ryan Evans (200 and 500 yard ft-eestyle) and Brian Maine South swimmer Matt Wanat glides gracefully Pick (100 yard breaststroke). water.

Many valuable second and third |place finishes allowed the 'Hawks to stay in contention, but they were nipped in the end. relay of Eric Pick, Rob Gliwa, Evans, and At the Hawk Relays the host team took a B. Pick were first place finishers.

The team was able to recover in the next week of competition. They pummeled CSL foe Niles North B e so, winning eleven out of twelve events.

More importantly, the Baywatch Relay (B. Pick, Evans, Frank Ramirez, Matt Wanat) crushed the previous state record by two seconds.

At the Titan Relays, the Hawks took third and the 200 yard breaststroke took home the only blue ribbon. Later that week they trounced Highland Park 110through the 73 despite the abPhoto by Ines Tiu sence of a couple of key swimmers.

Presently, the JV is undefeated in conference while the varsity is 2-1.

Nine Wrestlers named All-Conference

by Sterling Chung TTie Hawk wrestling squad has finished their regular season with a 4-1 Conference record, good enough for second place. For only the second time in Maine South history, nine wrestlers were given All-Conference honors: freshman Nick Palumbo, juniors Luke Murchie, Bret Harman (third time) and Brad Shemluck, and seniors Josh D'Auria, Will Stanke, Greg Goodrich, Scott O'Donnell and Cohn Johnson.

Even after a loss in their last meet of the season to Maine West, the Hawks are confident that they can advance far into the postseason. The Hawks are looking forward to the IHSA Regionals and Sectionals after finishing another successftil season with an 184 record. Bret Harman, with his extraordinary record and confident leadership, has een a great asset to the team. Palumbo and captains D'Auria, Goodrich and Johnson have also performed at exceptional levels this year and plan to show the field what Hawk Wrestling is about come post-season.

m

â&#x20AC;˘/7

^ ) Hâ&#x201A;Źiwk Highlights 2/14 2/16 2/17 2/18 ^"^ im Boys' Basketball

Niles North SA' 6/7:30

Niles North FrA/B/JV 9:30/11

'Wheeling S/V 6/7:30

Girls' Basketball

@Niles North FrA/B/SA' 6/7:30 @CSL North/ Highland Park V 3:30/6

@ Niles North JVllAM

IHSA Regional Semi TBA

Boys' Swimming Wresding

@CSL North/ Highland Park rv 9:30/1 IHSA Sectional TB A

Girls' Gymnastics St. Patrick, Fenwick F.S.V 4:30

Boys' Indoor Track Girls' Indoor Track

Niles North, St. Viator JV,V 4:30

SOIJTHWORDS WTNTER Suiiiimin-j

Hawks fly high

by Mike O'Malley Hey fans! Where have you been?

Although the boys' varsity basketball team has shocked the CSL North with three decisive victories and an impressive 115 record, their fans remain AWOL at every away game.

The team loves you and needs your unbridled support at each battle, home or away. In each game lies the opportunity to jump on the "Vas equals victory" train before playoffs and "March Madness" approach us. They encourage you to, "Get on the donkey, and ride it baby!"

The Hawks sought to penetrate the seal of a new year with a spark. South's initial challenge came from the always competitve Niles North Vikings.

Unfortunately for Niles North, the Hawks sensed the urgent need to rebuild a winning streak and the Vikes stood in their path.

Maine South responded by putting on an unprecedented defensive clinic by forcing turnover upon turnover.

Junior Todd Geirke (above) and his teamates currently boast of an 11-5 record and a three-game win streak. ^

phoio by Ines Tiu

Eventually, the countless forced turnovers led to an impressive half-lime lead showcased by the Hawks.

At the same time, the coaching staff seized the opportunity to play everyone. The coaches astutely mixed varsity and Junior-varsity players in and out of the lineup while slowly building on their immense lead.

In addition, the varsity squad's quest for a true team effort was realized in an unusual 78-29 victory where 13 out of the Hawks' 15 players scored.

The next task encountered by the Hawks featured a match against the former three-time conference champion Deerfield Warriors. In the past two years.

the Warriors have remained undefeated in conference play: However, during the present season Deerfield is struggling after the loss of University of Kentucky standout Ryan Hogan. The Hawks treasured the prospect of defeating their rivals in a showdown. An explosive offensive start by the quickfooted Hawks left the taller Warriors pursuing an unreachable lead all game.

Phenomenal offensive performances by Eric Schmidt and Eric Thalhanuner led the varsity crew to a 56-45 triumph over the Warriors.

After this win, the varsity contingent challenged the Glenbrook North Spartans for sole possession of second p l a c a ^ and a 4-1 record in conferenct^^ The Spartans featured a perimeter attack from their star point guard Peter Carroll and a noteworthy inside presence created by their other starters. Nevertheless, the Hawks were on a mission to succeed.

The first half saw a tough defensive brawl between both teams but the Hawks attained a nine-point advantage by halftime thanks to a buzzer-beating shot by Kevin Barrett. Immediately, the Hawks broke loose in the second half, grabbing a nineteen point lead.

Despite this, the Spartans mounted a comeback which trimmed the lead to four. But time and clutch free-throw shooting by the determined Hawks ultimately overcame the rally in a 65-59 victory.

The team would like to thanlc the fans who follow them w h ^ ^ ever they play, esf)ecially Mrs. Bowbin (Ms. Cain), Adam Knight and Jason Kacprowski.

The Hawks play again tonight at home.