Vol 40 issue 14

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Home of the Hawks?

As Mciiiic ScJinh Liwu::. .: details.)

In This Issue:

s, these stand as temporary ones for spring sports fans.

(See page 3 for

NEWS:

COMMENTARY:

FEATURES:

SPORTS:

LOCKER ROOM DISPUTE

U.S. MlUTIA

FINE ARTS

GIRLS' SOCCER

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SOUTHWORDS'APRIL 30. 2(X)4'VOL. 40. NO. 14

Amnesty's fight for women*

by Annie Berndtson In the unlikely event that students walking through the halls notice signs that do not advertise food, they might note that Amnesty International's ongoing campaign to end violence against women has come to Maine South. If the startling posters in the halls are not enough to bring the severity of this problem into conscious awareness to the average American teenager, then these additional facts probably will not help, but maybe hearing personal stories will inspire some people to write letters.

During the Democratic Republic of Congo's five-year civil war, women and girls, ages four to eighty, were raped, beaten, and murdered as a repulsive and ridiculous military tactic. Soldiers raped and mutilated women of rival ethnic groups, and the women couldn't seek treatment or justice.

In Colombia, women activists are being abducted and assassinated in front of their children. Most women know when they are being targeted and seek protection from police, who do nothing in response to their repeated reports of endangerment.

For the past decades, young girls and women have been disappearing by the dozens from Cuidad Juarez in Mexico. Most of their bodies show up weeks later in remote

areas of deserts and mountains, mutilated beyond recognition. At least forty percent of the victims found were sexually assaulted before they were murdered cites amnesty.org. There have been no police investigations into the deaths of these women.

The breakdown in law and order in Iraq, after the American-led invasion and occupation of Iraq, has fueled epidemic levels of violence against women. More than 400 women were kidnapped, raped, or "occasionally sold" between April and August last year. Faced with daily newspaper reports of sexual violence, many women have effectively dropped out of society, as well as the political process of reconstruction, by locking themselves in their homes. Once locked inside their homes, these women are subject to domestic violence, which goes unpunished in the absence of law and order under the occupation. A nineteen year old girl's husband of seven years beat her with a piece of wood and shot her in the legs. She is still in the hospital and her husband remains free.

These atrocities warrant the attention of these countries' leaders. Any and all are

welcome to come to Amnesty International meetings to write urgent action letters on Thursdays after school in C-134A. Amnesty's website, www.amnesty.org, also has information on how to sign and send pre-written urgent action letters.

Don't Forget Celebration 2004's Car Wash Fundraiser When? May 8 from 8:00 a.ra.2:00 p.m.

Where'' Maine South AiKiitoriiim Drive *Donations are welcome ...and Celebration 2004 at Park Ridge Auto Repair!

When? May 10-12 Where? 316 Higgins Road, Park Ridge * $5 will be donated for every scheduled oil change and $0.25 for every gallon of gas purchased.

For more information call 1-847-825-AUTO

J orJay Jf! Jiictor^^ /

April 30, 1789 - George Washington is inaugerated as the first president of the United States.

April 30, 19D4 - The ice cream cone makes its first appearance.

April 30, 1933 - Willie Nelson, famous country singer, is bom.

April 30, 1943 - Beatrice Potter Webb, British writer of the famous character Peter Rabbit, dies.

April 30, 1945 - Adolph Hitler. German dictator daring WWH, commits suicide in bunker.

April 30, 1952 - Mr. Potato Head becomes the first toy to be advertised through television.

April 30, 1982 - Kirsten Dunst. actress from Bring It On and Interview with the Vampire is bom.

3 The truth about the bleachers SOUTH WORDS* APRIL 30. 2004ÂŤVOL. 40, NO. 14

by Carly Calkins and Kristi Katz Now you see them, now you don't. As some may have heard or seen, the bleachers on Wilson Field were demolished over spring break. There has been much controversy over the reasoning and timing of Maine South "s new construction project.

But when the question was posed to Mr. Rees, Maine South's Athletic Director, he responded by saying, "We needed to replace them. For ten years we've been trying to push this. The bleachers that we had were 40 years old, and they were the original bleachers. They really had surpassed their lifespan."

The bleachers have been adjusted several times within the past four years. Maine South had to actually replace 90 boards during this year's football season because of excessive damage. Before making the decision to tear down the bleachers. District 207 called inspectors to come in and they too confirmed that the bleachers needed to be fully replaced. After the inspection, the school was faced with a choice: tear down fie bleachers completely or replace every "single board on the bleachers. The latter of the two would not be feasible because new boards should not be put on old steel supports.

Ultimately, the decision to completely replace the bleachers was up to the district.

It has been a long process that started with

looking at what material would be used to replace them—the final decision was to go with aluminum. After the material was chosen, a plan needed to be devised regarding the style of the new bleachers. In Maine South's case, the new set of bleachers will be almost an exact replica of Lincoln Way-East's. The next step in the process was the big 'OK' from the school board concerning costs, which took several months in itself. The project, as of now, is costing the district over S800,000 to construct. After the budget for the bleachers was approved, architects were hired to design the bleachers.

These architects drew out blueprints that gave the bleachers' exact measurements.

Next, a notice had to go out to the Park Ridge community, informing the public of the plan to tear down the bleachers (this is approximately the same time all of the commotion started about plans to stop the construction, or at least the timing of the construction). The final step in the process was for the board to accept a bid from a construction company, and so they did, giving way to the groundbreaking over spring break.

There is a major drawback to these new bleachers: less room. The new bleachers will almost be the same size as the old. They will stretch from goal line to goal line. Their height will be the same as the old ones and

will consist of twenty-one rows. The total capacity of the home side will be 3.377. about 100 less than before. One plus would be that the front row will be entirely accessible to the handicapped, with thirtythree wheel chair spaces.

On the visiting side, which will be much larger, there will be a capacity of 978. This section will also include ten wheel chair spaces. Also, these bleachers will be raised from the ground, different than before.

The stadium will not include lights because of the issue of cost. The concrete will begin being poured in about two weeks.

The new bleachers will be colorful, with the vertical panels being 'Hawk red.' There will also be an entirely new press box at the top of the home side's bleachers, about 48 geet long. Unlike before, where there were only two exits from the bleachers, there will be four new exit portals constructed underneath the bleachers, making exiting easier for Hawk fans. The custodians will be doing all of the electrical work, which explains all of the current holes in the ground on the site.

Although there has been a lot of controversy over the construction of these new bleachers, the fact is that the construction is way over due and when the bleachers are completed. Hawk fans know they can cheer their teams on safely.

Title IX in girls' locker room

by Veronica Katz No longer do Maine South girls need to feel cheated out of equal facilities. The storage room adjacent to the girls' locker room, where Ms. Pfierfer was formerly stationed, is to be converted into a sports locker room. Perhaps it is the change in administration that has allowed these changes to take place. It was only earlier this year that the dwarf bathroom stall doors, a grotesque invasion of privacy, have been exchanged for full-length doors in the girls' locker room.

The issue of unequal locker facilities was Irought to Mr. Claypool's attention several weeks ago, when concerned students informed the new principal of this long standing problem. Although the first

meeting didn't include a demand for more comparable facilities, the students were piqued with a sense of hope. Initially, a positive outcome seemed probable. Within no time, Mr. Claypool sent word to Dr. Snyder.

However, the superintendent displayed little interest in the matter. Despite the setback, Mr. Claypool was still working to ammend the problem, keeping in contact with the seniors Veronica Katz and Kristina Johnson through meetings and e-mails. A course of action was finally proposed over spring break after Mr. Claypool had contacted Mike Gillis to investigate the situation. This is a step forward not only for female athletes, but for the school as a

whole. Any institution, especially a public school, needs to prioritize equality. Some believe that this course of action is a step in the right direction, but are worried that this will be the last time Maine South students will stand up for equality. Some cite the lack of student concern on this issue, especially from female athletes, as a cause of worry. It is another concern that after this spring, it will only be a matter of time before another circumstance will emerge, and again students will react apathetically.

As of present, the girls' locker room is 1700 square feet smaller and 400 lockers shy of the boys' locker room. Hopefully, the proposed changes will help narrow the gap-

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SOUTHWORDS'APRIL 30. 2(X)4«VOL.40, NO. 14

Student Opinion

[me cdiiorcSj

by Kristi Katz Those were the 'good ole' days." There would be flyers being passed around the stands, informing the crowd of the new cheer invented for the day's game.

Hundreds of orange towels from the locker rooms would be swinging high above the fans' heads like a mesmerizing sea. The bleachers shook every time the fans started "Here we go..." Yes, those were the 'good ole' days' when we were proud to be Hawks.

Funny how things change so dramatically in just four little years. For each of my four years here at Maine South, every senior always says their most memorable moment at South was the football game against Lincoln Way-East on that snowy day that sent Maine South to the State Finals. It wasn't just a memorable game because the team won, we've gotten pretty accustomed to that these past few years, it was something else—it was the passion and intensity of the dedicated fans People came to the games to not just watch the team, but to be apart of the spirit of the Maine South fans. And it wasn't just football that these fans cheered on. You name the sport, these fans were there. It was dedication—it was Hawk Pride.

However, slowly but surely, that passion and dedication the current seniors experienced as freshmen has been on a steady decline. As much as fans tried, there were no cheers truly in unison or filled with the amount of passion that has been experienced just three years prior. And there might as well not be another sport besides football here at South because no one comes out to support the teams except for the parents. What's happened? And at the State Finals this year for football, the Hawk "fans" (and I use the term loosely) resorted to vulgar language to 'cheer' on their team. Three years ago, that was not the case down in Champaign. Again, I ask—what's happened?

And so I have a challenge to the remaining classes here at Maine South. As the new bleachers will be up and ready for next year, so too should be the spirit of the school. Bring some new Hawk Pride along with the new set of bleachers.

Double trouble

by Tom Drazba reported, "at this time, it is morally Imagine getting out of bed and seeing a unacceptable for anyone in the public or copy of yourself exactly as you looked private sector, whether in a research or when you were five years old. Some may clinical setting to attempt to create a child ask how this is possible, while others think using somatic cell nuclear transfer cloning." that it would be interesting to watch Another reason why cloning can be themselves grow up. extremely difficult on the "new" child are This cannot yet happen because cloning those factors concerning emotional risks. If is still just an experimental scientific someone was cloned, that person wouldn't process, though it has • ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ ^ _ want to have her sister been successfully It may sound confusing, but being her mother or her grandmother being the achieved with at least basically the girl that gave biological mother of her two animals.

Cloning is the birth to the child would be sister. It may sound confusing, but basically process of developing her own mother. the girl that gave birth to identical animals from the child would be her stem cells of the umbilical cord. Reasons for cloning human own mother. Another emotional risk is beings, however, have been a topic of knowing that you are the twin of a deceased controversy between many distinguished brother or sister. The child would be raised biotechnologists and geneticists. Some in an abnormal household where the family^ argue that human cloning is acceptable has not adjusted to the loss but instea(^ because of the need for helping terminally settled for the clone of their deceased child."

The final, and probably the most compelling ill children.

If a little boy had leukemia and could factor against cloning is that of the risk of only be saved by a bone marrow transplant, abuse of the technology. No one knows the but there were no matching donors. That price that future generations would pay to boy could be cloned so that a perfect bone get their hands on the cloning technology, marrow candidate could be found. If and what they will do with it once it is cloning the boy was successful, the "new" available to them.

Just look back at Hitler's Regime over child would have virtually no birth defects and would serve as a bone marrow donor Nazi Germany in the 1940s. It shows how for the terminally ill child. After the he could have created the superior Aryan transplant, the family would consist of two Race, and those that created could have healthy boys who are identical but in served as guards or snipers in his attempt to rule the world. And these clones would not different stages of life.

The National Bioethics Advisory be missed because they did not grow up with Commission (NBAC) heard the testimony families, and probably never would have of the family above and stated that the had a chance to live out their hopes and example "makes what is probably the dreams. At the beginning, cloning may strongest case for cloning a human being, seem like an important factor that should as it demonstrates how this technology be embraced and researched upon, and could be used for live-saving purposes... according to Gayle Schmeckenbecher said, It would be a tragedy to allow the sick child "I have Lupus and autoimmune hepatitis. to die because of a moral or political My brother has Type I diabetes... objection to such cloning." Even though I, for one and my brother for two do not such technology could be used in treating think this is the way to go. I know that ifJ such illnesses, the factors against the issue were told that my life could be saved by anj are like a ten-ton elephant stepping on a treatment involving this research I would not mouse. There are too many factors that be interested. I would be rather die affect the use of cloning, as the NBAC tomorrow than be cured today."

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SOUTH WORDS* APRIL 30. 2004ÂŤVOL. 40. NO. 14

Student Opinion

#Keep your tongue to yourself hy Kate Funkhouser In his poem. "Locksley Hall." Alfred Loyd Tennyson describes spring as a time when "a young man's fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love." While light thoughts of love are darling, proof of Tennyson's thesis is neither light nor demonstrated in thoughts in the Maine South hallways.

Already in a chipper mood after a math test, my friend and I decided to count the number of happy couples affectionately sucking face at 8:47 in the morning. We got to "eight," before quitting.

Eight couples, mind you, entails sixteen people with no qualms about publicly rounding bases varsity • ' s fast as Hawks' baseball. In fact, there are probably more people in the halls than there are regular baseball fans, and these participants often wear tighter pants.

What does messing around with the partner of your choice during school really prove? How much gratification can you enjoy during a five minute passing period against a cold glass wall?

If you are choosing to forgo lunch for your desperately needed twenty minutes of cuddling, couldn't eating during that half-

period provide energy to fool around even more after school when you are not in our Orange Love Shack?

1 am by no means criticizing sexual activity. I am just saying that school is not a great place for such actions. For one thing, adults who grade you watch. Personally. I really have no desire for any teacher of mine to picture me making out each time she sees me in class. 1 find that disturbing.

The majority of the student body has no desire to see other people jump each other like excited, magnetic bunnies ^'\j^ during or after V'^^ school.

If it takes more than two seconds or leaves a freshman horrified, you should probably save it for later in the day.

I'm over sixteen. Sometimes I wonder why I come to class day after day, but 1 know that it is not to ascertain whether or not your sexual appetite is flilfilled, much less whether it is fulfilled during the first few minutes of homeroom.

I'm happy for you, really. You have been blessed with homes, cars, and dark alleys in which to mess around.

Do us all a favor and keep your tongue out of the mouths of others while in the building.

2^/o/7

o

Cf3

I don't really care.

Nick Rice, '04

o

CM

O

A deserving legend

by Emily Hayden According to Down Beat's review in 1971, "Chase will give you good kicks."

Bill Chase's self-titled album was released over 30 years ago, yet his legend continues to live on in the minds of jazz-rock fiision enthusiasts and trumpet freaks even after dying in a plane crash in 1974.

As a lead player and arranger. Chase is 'first rate. He played lead trumpet with chops that would put Maynard Ferguson to shame.

The band uses vocals in all seven tracks

except the first one, but the horns really give the band a distinctive sound. Three other horn players utilize their range, precision, and bite to give the band a universal interest.

With a solid rhythm section and tight horn licks. Chase effectively blends lead playing and swingin' riffs with a rock beat that will appeal to devotees in both categories.

If you're looking for some classic 70s rock with a mad horn section that will mess with your head, than this is it. Check it out.

As long as it's me, it's cool for sure.

Audrey Bliss, '05

It gets to be a little bit much. Save it for the house.

Marie Guillo, '04

o o

I usually don't care, but some people gross me out.

Alex Meihofer, '06

SOUTHWORDS'APRIL 30, 2004«VOL. 40. NO. 14

Freshman Opinion

farewell to

by Kelsey Keith As one of the most beloved comedy series comes to an end after its tenth season, it is important to reminisce and appreciate the many laughs Friends has given us.

Remember the black out episode with Chandler's famous ATM vestibule scene, "Gum would be perfection?? Gum would be perfection!? 1 could have said "Gum would be nice,' or 'Yes, I'll have a stick."

But no, for me... gum is perfection!! 1 loathe myself!" Who could forget Monica's come back after she is mocked for bringing Richard's son home for Thanksgiving, "Haha, that's so funny. Left a guy at the altar, married a lesbian, fell in love with a gay escapades dancer, threw girlfriend's wooden leg on the fire, lives in a box!!!"

One of the funniest Ross and Rachel encounters takes place at the poker table, "Your money is mine, Green!" "Your fly is open, Cellar!" Phoebe will always be a flake, but she has her good days, "Your tombstone can say whatever you want it to

Friend^

say. It could say "Ross Geller, Good at myself, "Oh, look there's Chandler and Marriage!" Y'know? Mine's gonna say Rachel." To me these people are real; I have "Phoebe Buffay, Buried Alive." Lastly, how grown up with them. 1 have missed family could we ever forget Joey the bachelor: events, feigned illness, arrived late at "Actually, you know what? 1 am. That functions, and refused to answer the phone whole thing with Rachel made me realize so that I can watch Friends uninterrupted. that maybe I'm ready for a more serious Whenever 1 was angry or depressed, I could always count on Friends to cheer me up. relationship. You know? Like I'd like , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , After May 6th, 2004, to meet a nice ^O me these people are real; Thursday nights will m a t u r e r r never be the same. No c o m m i t m e n t - ^ / j ^ f ^^^ ^.^.^F^Jlll I • i".' - - ^°"S^' ^'^^^ ^^^ minded lady. And Rembrandts serenade looks aren't as important as...Nah, she's us with the theme song. No longer will I have the hope that something might happen gotta be hot."

Each of the six characters are known for between Ross and Rachel that night. I won't there little faults: Ross for his many wives; be wondering what wacky song Phoebe has Joey for his one and only love- sandwiches; composed. Unlike Michael Jordan, Friends Monica for her obsession with cleanliness; will not be returning in three years. They Phoebe for her many renditions of "Smelly will say their goodbyes, and there will be Cat;" Chandler for his stupid jokes, and no more Central Perk gatherings. To all who have partaken in this weekly ritual for so Rachel for her fashion sense.

When I see Matthew Perry or Jennifer long, don't miss the opportunity to sayj Aniston in a People magazine, 1 say to farewell to your Friends.

•Junior Opinion

America's

by Erik Johnson A few weeks ago I turned 17. and I was overjoyed. Now the whole world opened up before me. I didn't have to sneak into 'R' rated movies anymore... and... that's pretty much it. But that wasn't enough for my dad. Harnessing the all-knowing Google search, he found me yet another thing that happens when one turns 17.

According to Title 10, Subtitle A. Part I, of Chapter 13 of United States Law, all males age 17 to 45 who are or plan to be US citizens become part of the.... United States Unorganized Militia! That solicited a thoroughly unenthusiastic 'Oh boy" from myself 'Militia' made me think of the revolutionary war minutemen, and I found myself wondering how that would work in Park Ridge...

"The bell rings at the Park Ridge town green and Paul Revere races past in his

last

line of defense

2004 Ford Mustang convertible yelling But wait, I don't have a tri-cornered hat 'The British are coming, the British are or a musket. coming!' So, being a good militiaman I grab ".. .So the officer would yell, "Johnson!

Where's your [dam] musket you [very very bad] militiaman! What the [heck] do you think you're doing, you [dumb, incompetent, illegitimate son of a prostitute]!?' 'Well, sir, we didn't have a musket at home, but my dad said I could take this shovel, as long as I bring it back.

He'd be pretty angry if I brought it back with bullet holes in it or something.'"

Yeah, okay, so that's not going to happen anytime soon, but I'm still part of the militia, whether I like it or not. I'm not going to be called to the 'town common" to launch a pre-emptive strike against Canadian aggression or anything, but I found it interesting that my country expect^ my trusty tri-corner hat and my flintlock me to defend it in its time of need. It's almosf musket and assemble at the town common touching to be part of my country's line of defense, even if it's the last, most crooked, with the town mayor serving as and most brutally neglected one. head officer..."

: 7 ^nti-abortionists take a huge leap SOUTHWORDS'APRIL 30, 2004*VOL. 40, NO. 14

by Dana Tourloukis Although many people feel that it is With so many activists against abortion and pro-life decisions, the decision in unfair, others think that this is the best Florida to make all women under the age of decisions that could be made to keep 18 required to notify at least one parent prior teenagers aware of what's going on and also to an abortion was signed by Governor Jeb provide them with an out if needed.

Bush. According to nrlc.com, April 30, Although the decision is up to the woman.

1998, was a mraing point for many people Bush feels the law will have an impact on in Florida when the bill was passed and teens and their decisions, which could affect signed. While many people are agreeing the rest of their lives. with the decision, others feel that it is unfair The law states that an unmarried minor and many have voiced their opposition. girl under 18 is required by law to notify a Today there are still many controversies parent of her decision by phone or registered about this issue and they continue to be mail at least 48 hours before the operation debated through the government and in local is considered.

According to communities. womensissues.about.com, 5,523 abortions President Bush agreed with the decision performed on minors were reported to the made by his brother and has agreed to Texas state health department in 1998. The another law that requires parental laws made prevent minor girls from notification. They are almost identical laws traveling to other states in order to have an in what they stand for. This is the first big abortion and not have their parents find out. step towards pro-life, a position which Many other states, including Illinois, are people have been fighting for the past 20 slowly starting to follow Florida and Texas' /ears. Both Florida and Texas are states with lead.

I lot of impact on the country. Although they Many people feel that parents owe a lot seem to feel this is a good thing, some of gratitude to Governor Bush for his people and activists around the country are decision on the issue. Experience with this concerned that womens' rights may be lost. new law has shown that it saves innocent

Hey Seniors!!!!

Southwards needs pictures of all the seniors for the collage in the final issue of the year. Please drop off pictures in V-131 to make sure that your face is part of the collage. Pictures will be returned if labeled with name and homeroom.

babies lives and also strengthens a bond between the teenager and her parents.

People are seeing the law as "just short of miraculous." It shows the teen that she shouldn't be afraid to talk to her parents and come to them with her problems. They are her family and that's why they're there.

Along with many pushes for antiabortion ways in these states, communities are trying to promote adoption more and get more people to practice abstinence. It has been shown across the coimtry that when laws like this are enforced not only do fewer minors choose to abort, but also fewer minors become pregnant.

The law has both helped and harmed many people, which created much controversy and brings out the activist in all of us. According to cnsnews.com, future plans in Florida include banning the partialbirth abortion completely, hoping other states will follow their lead.

^

SOUTHWORDS A student-produced newspaper of:

Maine South High School n i l South Dee Road I^ark Ridge, IL 60068 Signed letters to the editor .should be delivered to room V-131 or given to a member of the editorial staff. SOUTHWORDS reserves the right to edit material for clarity and brevity and to reject obscene/Iibelous submissions; Editors-in-Chief

Monika Bysiecki Kristi Katz i News Editors Carly Calkins j Ashley Rezaeizadeh Commentary Editor Kate Funkhouser | Features Editors Kara Collins; Corinne Ullrich i Greg Mitchell Sports Editors Katie Waller Bobby Crismyre Production Editors Kris Johnson | Kiley Borowski: Core Photographers Kathleen Pinter Joyce Ann Santos j Core Staff Artist Advisor T.R. Kerth y

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SOUTHWORDS'APRIL 30, 2004*VOL. 40, NO. 14

Fine Arts takes the stages

by Mallory Gullo Exactly 406 years ago, on April 30,1458, department, which was the first of its art the magic of theatre became part of the programs to gain national fame.

"Maine South has a lot of talented United States. The Spanish comedy, Rio students... Each year we Grande, made history by grow in range of how being the first theatrical difficult the musicals are performance in America. becoming to make. This Many years later in year we have had to learn 1962, Maine Township over 300 pages of music," began its annual, wellAya Nakamura, a senior at anticipated musical The Maine South says.

King and I. Every year since then, each school in Through great Fine Maine Township has Arts, people shall grow. produced a full-scale There are currently Broadway-style musical. over 40 different Fine Arts classes offered in the All great theatre grows Maine Township district. in stages.Maine South's With the Fine Arts theatre is still expanding.

Maine South students curriculum available to its Our curriculum is participate in Fine Arts students, it helps to particularly strong in the improve the theatrical area of speech and drama.

A Maine South Alumni and news anchor outcome. for KDKA-TV in Pittsburgh says, he "My favorite theatrical performance at learned to "overcome shyness and be a Maine South would have to be Titanic. I confident public speaker by participating in think everyone fit the roles really well. Plus forensics at Maine South." you could feel the emotion that all the actors Maine Township is known for its entire pulled forth," states Lauren Zmija, a Maine Fine Arts department, especially the music South graduate.

War in '04

hySumi Wiesen War is possibly the scariest word in the English language. In almost every decade, the youth of America has had to face the unrelenting horror that is war. Reluctantly, so does our generation. Tomorrow. May 1.

2004. will mark the one year anniversary of President Bush's announcement to end major combat in Iraq. But does this mean that the combat has ended and everyone can go home? It is far from that.

Since the declaration of the end of major combat in Iraq, the United States has encountered more opposition than ever. Of the 1,124 soldiers wounded in action, more than half, 574. have been wounded after May 1.2003. According to cnn.com. of the 638 U.S. soldiers. 499 have died since the end of major combat. The first year death tolls of American Soldiers in Operation Iraqi Freedom are so high they have already

surpassed the number of Americans deaths during the first three years in the Vietnam War! But who are the soldiers that are giving their lives so bravely for their country?

They average age of an infantry soldier in the United Sates Army in Iraq is only 19.

One year out of high school and instead of looking forward to the life their about to live, they have to fight to defend it. That is what is asked of them.

In these trying times, it is of the utmost importance that America's youth speak out about the injustices of the world. Analysis fromglobalsecurity.org shows that 18 to 30 year olds represented 16 percent of the total voters in the 2000 presidential election. Too many people falsely believe that their one vote doesn't make a difference when in fact it does. According to mtv.com, the 2000 presidential election was one of the closest races in history, decided by less than 600,000 votes. It is impossible for anyone

Through Maine South's Fine Arts curriculum, students become more logical, direct, and creative in organizing thoughts for presentations. They learn to control the fear of speaking or performing before an audience, and, as a result, they become more confident. These are all critical aspects of great theatre.

The performers and educators are not alone in making Maine Township's theatre a success. Many parents give their support by providing both funding and hands-on assistance. They work with faculty and students in building sets, making costumes and ushering. Some even assist with major equipment purchases on occasion.

"We are very fortunate to have such a great Fine Arts department," Nakamura said.

As Maine Township's Fine Arts departments continue expanding their reputations, a "muchas gracias" shall be given to those who helped withi?!0 Grandg to bring theatre into America.

"Theatre is live entertainment," says Zmija. "It gives you the chance to feel like you are up there with the performers. It doesn't get much better than that." to know how close this year's presidential election will be.

A group's support to a major political issue can change the opinions of the country's leaders. During the presidential elections of 1968, President Lyndon Johnson, who supported the Vietnam War, decided not to run for re-election because Eugene McCarthy, who had opposed the war, had gained adamant support among America's voting youth before the New Hampshire primary.

So what should the U.S. do? Apologize, leave, and hope for the best? Maybe send 20.000 more troops to help fight and kill?

Whatever the answer is, it is cenain that the current means of action is not creating a resolution. In the meantime, soldiers from across the United States and across Illinois are losing their lives. ^ ^ As this Election Day rolls around, plea.* ^ remember to cast your vote to help express your opinion.

SOUTHWORDS'APRIL 30, 2004'VOL. 40, NO. 14

.Where have all the IDs gone?

by Anthony Gonka, Andrew Hayden and Damian Oleksiuk "I don't see why it's such a hassle," comments Mr. Dagres. "It is district policy and the kids have to wear it." Apparently wearing IDs has become quite a hassle for Maine South students as only 11 percent of the student claim to wear their IDs all day long.

The math shows that an astounding 89 percent of Maine South chooses to disobey a rule that is clearly stated in the Maine South rulebook. The Student Chandler quotes, "While in the school building during the regular school day, students shall display only their own current ID card and no others on a school approved lanyard on the front area of their chest."

So let's put this in perspective.

Considering there are about 2,500 students at Maine South. 89 percent leaves us with approximately 2,225. Multiply this number by the number of school days to date, about 147, which gives us roughly 327,075 ID violations.

Obviously, these many punishments for ID violations have not been issued. To be exact, only a little more than 150 consequences for ID violations have been given out so far this school year.

The following deals with the statistics from students that say they wear their IDs. Most other students claim to only wear their ID during certain parts of the day. 18 percent of students say they wear their ED in the Library, Math Lab, Writing Lab and CRC, while 14 percent of students claim to only wear them in study halls. 38 percent of students say they put on their ID when they are told to, and 35 percent only wear their ID in specific teacher's classrooms.

Of course, there is that 21 percent of students who claim to never wear their ID under any circumstances, which is probably somewhat exaggerated.

While walking out of the cafeteria, only about 14 percent of students are wearing their IDs. This number is a tad lower than

the 27 percent of students that wear their ID while coming out of the A-wing.

Students, however, do not believe there is as big of an ID problem as 76 percent of them believe that about 30 to 50 percent of students wear their ID during the average passing period.

Although off topic, our survey showed that the students who wear their IDs the least often like the color blue and the shape circle.

And for those who are wondering and took our survey, we found no connection between zodiac sign and ID wearing.

In any case, the student's view on ID wearing is still a problem. Maybe if Maine South changed the IDs to a circular shape or the color blue instead of red, which surprisingly was the students' least favorite color, more current non-ID wearers would more voluntarily wear their IDs. Until then, students are just going to have to put forth a little more effort to appease an ID policy. which has been rather fair to them.

•Tradition vs. equality

by Damian Oleksiuk Seven years ago today, Ellen Morgan, the character from the ABC sitcom Ellen, played by Ellen DeGeneres, announced she was gay to millions of viewers. For the first time in history, a primetime television character revealed that she was gay.

America has come a long way from that special hour-long episode seven years ago.

Numerous shows and movies now feature homosexual characters. Currently, though, a new topic has brought more controversy than ever to homosexuality in America: gay marriage.

The first gay marriage took place in San Francisco, on February 12 of this year. Del Martin and Phyllis Lyon were the first gay couple to marry in the United States "after Mayor Gavin Newsom ordered officials to wed gay couples and issue marriage licenses in an act of civil disobedience against a state Jaw that bars same-sex marriages," said the san Francisco Independent Media Center.

The prospect of the marriage of two people of the same sex has impacted all types of people across the country. People's

opinions vary from strongly supporting marriage to definitly disagreeing with it.

Locally, there are groups that promote the wellness between homosexuals and heterosexuals, including the new Maine South club, the Gay-Straight AUiance. Such groups have a message of equality and acceptance. Many groups see nothing wrong with the marriage of two people of the same gender "If a man and a woman are able to get married, so should two men, or two women. We should all have equal rights towards marriage," says an anonymous Maine South student.

However, there is another side to the story. Some people across the country and at Maine South do not support the idea. "I think gay marriage is horrible," says senior Andrew Hayden. "Marriage is supposed to be the joining of a man and a woman in holy matrimony, not two people of the same sex marrying one another."

The issue of gay marriage has risen to the national level and infused politics. The two major presidential candidates for the

2004 election seem to have somewhat similar opinions on the matter, but approach it in different ways. According to CNN, President Bush, who called for a Constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage on February 25, says, "I think marriage is between a man and a woman, and I think we ought to codify that one way or another."

According to The Boston Globe, Democratic canidate John Kerry says, "I'm for civil union, I'm for partnership rights. I think what ought to condition this debate is not the term marriage so much as the rights that people are afforded." While Kerry is not enthusiastic about endorsing the issue, he thinks it should be handled differently than Bush does.

The question of whether same-sex couples should be allowed to marry has been and will continue to be a controversy. It may take a long time before Americans make a definite decision whether homosexuals will be able to legally engage "in holy matrimony."

10

SOUTHWORDS'APRIL 30. 2004»VOL. 40. NO. 14

Gonna soar two-thousand fo' ^v Kaitlin Moran "We gonna soar 2004" was the slang chant the Maine South girls' badminton team yelled right before they took the court on April 13. This was a sad night for it was the last home meet for the 8 seniors: Hilary Antosh, Sarah Burke, Meghan Carlson, Kelly Demakis, Nora Kaitis, Kaitlin Moran, Amanda Raz, and Katie Waller.

The Hawks' Senior Night was quite early in the season, due to the shortage of home meets, but the wonderful underclassmen. Coach Muir, Coach Danon, and Coack Kamesik made it very memorable.

The gym was decorated with posters, the girls were given special t-shirts made

by Kristen Burke and Maria Ry welski, the senior parents received beautiful flowers, and best of all, there was food and lots of it!

The Hawks played a tough match against New Trier and received a victory at number 9 singles with the incredible play of Sara Parnitke. This is the second

e-^))!

Boys' Baseball

time (previously against Evanston) Sara has prevented the Hawks from being shut out— the girls are forever in her debt.

The Hawks made the Trevians fight for every point and caused many sets and splits.

The hard loss however d i d n t put a permanent frown on the badminton players' and their numerous fans' faces—there was cake to be had.

The following Thursday, the girls traveled to Glenbrook South, waving white flags as they passed the GBS lacrosse team.

Inside the gym they faced hard competition. Kaitlin Moran and Ellie Papadimitriou won a tough match at number 3 doubles, and Liz Poli also claimed victory at number 10 singles.

Unfortunately, these victories were not enough and the girls finished with a final score of 2-13. The girls were very upset because of the loss and lack of no cake.

The girls' next competition was at New

Trier for the annual Featherfest Tournament.

This tournament consisted of 16 teams, numerous ones who are ranked high in the state. Katherine Cien made it to the number 2 singles bracket but lost in the first round.

Kaitlin Moran and Amanda Raz won their pool, moving on to the brackets and receiving two 3rd place medals at number 4 doubles.

The girls played a great tournament, beating Downers Grove North in the pool, who eventually took first place at their positions.

With the hardest of the conference behind, the Maine South girls' badminton team looks forward to several competitive and hopefully successful matches. Any spectators will have to do some traveling to attend the next meets, but due to the high number of fans, finding people to carpool. with shouldn't be a problem. The girls wilf play in the CSL Conference tournament on April 30 and May 1, so be sure to come and support your Hawks.

/-/aw/c Highlights 4/30

5/1

5/3

vs. Libertyville 4:30pm

vs. Maine East 1:30pm

vs. Glenbard West 4:30pm

5/4 @GBS 4:30pm

@IHSA Sectionals

Boys' Gymnastics

Boys' Track

@ GBN Relay 2/4pm

Boys' Volleyball

@ DGS Tnmt.

5pm

Badminton

@ CSL/GBN

@ GBS 4:30pm @ DGS Tnmt.

8:30am

vs. Evanston 5pm @ Rolling Meadows 4:30pm

@ Naperville N. Inv. (S Naperville N. Inv, 12/2pm 5/7pm @ Larkin Slugfest 10/12/2:15pm

Girls' Softball Girls' Track

vs. New Trier 4:30pm

GBS Inv. 9am

Boys' Tennis

Girls' Soccer

5/5

@ Elk Grove Inv. 4:30pm

@GBS 4:30pm vs. Regina 4:30pm

@ New Trier 4:30pm

f

11 ^Solid performances SOUTHWORDS'APRIL 30, 2004»VOL. 40, NO. 14

score of 88 points with Maine West and

by Benz Ng Coming off of a successful meet agaisnt Maine East scoring 67 and 26 points Deerfield and Highland Park, the Maine respectively. First place finishers on the South boys" Track team looked to continue varsity level were: the 4x100 meter relay it's early outdoor season success at the of Al Pinter, Chris Ryan, Dane Volden. and District 207 meet. Both levels performed well at the meet, handing in solid performances.

The freshman and sophmore team garnered a first place finish, scoring 100 points to Maine West's 58 and Maine East's 28. The team took first place in 12 of the 18 events.

On the Varsity level, Varioufi ineinbers of the boys'track team liiu up at the .start. the Hawks won with a

Gilby Lifton (45.9): David Spencer in the high jump (5'10"), long jump (19'2"), and triplejump (42' 1/2"): Chris Ryan in the 110 meter low hurdles (15.4) and 300 I.M. hurdles (42.8): Tom Janczura in the pole vault (13'0"): the 4x200 meter relay of Matt Blair, Benz Ng, Matt Lucas, and Peter Lesny (1:38.8): Gilby Lifton in the 400 meter run (52.8); and the 4x400 meter relay of Al Pinter. Dane Volden, Pat Moran, and Gliby Lifton (3:38.0).

Continuing these positive results, the Hawks look to continue their intensity with the outdoor season winding down.

The Hawks have big upcoming meets in the Cougar Track Classic and CSL Conference.

r/?e rumors are true Continuing their flight to state

•

by Melissa Rauschenberg The rumors around school are true: girls' varisty softball is in first place in conference. The Hawks took on Evanston at home looking for their first conference win. In the first half of the game the score was close but in the last few innings, the girls sealed a 10-5 win. The next evening led to another conference game agaisnt rival New Trier. The MVP of the game, Nicole Cummings, hit a bomb over the outfield, earning a triple and an error by New Trier brought her home. The Hawks went crazy as the score remained 1 -0. Hoping to break the five year losing streak to New Trier and earn their second conference win. The girls had three straight practices to perfect their skills for the upcoming games of the next week. On Monday, the Hawks took the long bus ride out to Waukegan to face the Bulldogs. Danielle Janero started her first game at second base after being out from an ankle injury and had a huge triple.

Outfielder Becky Novatni also hit her first single. The two biggest hits of the day, however, came from Megan Granger and ioban Mischke who both hit home runs to lelp the Hawks slaughter the Bulldogs 120. The girls play Glenbrook South in hopes to keep their undefeated conference record intact.

by Kara Collms & Claire Forde The girls" track team took to the desolate Maine South track to begin their outdoor season following Spring Break.

On April 7th all three of the Maine Township schools got together to compete in the annual District 207 meet.

After a few sad seasons without the championship, the high-flying girls regained their pride.

The Maine South • • • • • • • • • • Hawks track team snagged the title with 84 cumulative points. The Hawks crushed the competitors, as Maine East was the runnerup with 63 points, followed by the host Warriors with 44.

The Hawks captured seven individual championships, including Katie Coppin in the 3200-meter run (12:11) and 1600 run (5:42). Claire Forde in the 400 dash (1:02).

Katie Kloess in the triple jump (29-10), Claire Gilpin in the 100 hurdles (17.3), Jenny Curry in the pole vault (7-0), and Antonia Rapatas in the shot put (32-3). The Hawks also snagged titles in the 800-meter

relay (1:54) and 1600-meter relay (4:26).

These outstanding, yet not surprising, victories as well as the numerous 2nd, 3rd and 4th place finishes, earned the Hawks the championship.

On Saturday, April 17.2004,attheWheaton North Invite, Claire Gilpin had quite an exciting day. She started off by breaking the school record in the 100 hurdles during the preliminaries. She then went on to break her own "••"""•• newly set record during the finals with a time of 16.9 seconds.

Numerous other Hawks had good days against some of the toughest competition in the state.

Last Friday, the Hawks continued their success at the Glenbrook South Invite. With the recent successes the girls' track team has been experiencing, they are psyched about their meet tonight.

Tonight the Hawks will be competing in the Elk Grove Invite. Although competition will be good,there is no doubt that the Lady Hawks will continue on their flight to the state meet.

''The Maine South Hawks' track team snagged the title with 84 cumulative points."

S()iTiJ«i)iii)!^

^sQO* SPORTS Boys' Tennis • Baseball • Softball • Outdoor Track • Badminton • Soccer • Boys' Gymnastics • Boys' Volleyball

T h e s e girls have got heart

by Carly Calkins Not much has been said this spring about girls' soccer. It seems the team's talent, heart, and unity have taken back seats to its lack of rank. However, while the team has not yet been in the public eye, this has not stopped it from plunging into a challenging season and turning it into a success.

This year's varsity squad is under new management; T.R. Kerth, the head girls' soccer coach for the past 21 years has taken the assistant position under new head coach J.J. Crawford. Maine South graduate and ex-player, Laura Paine, also devotes her time to helping the team.

The coaches have made improvements to the program and, along with the players, work to make T.R. Kerth's last season here at Maine South one to remember Starting the season out right, the senior co-captains Alycia Dinvemo, Arma Gartner,

and Kathleen Hayes have made huge efforts to get the team psyched for a great season.

And a great season it has been so far Although there have been a few set backs, including losses to Barrington and Loyola, the season has been quite triumphant. It has included wins over Providence, Niles North, Lane Tech, Maine East, and Highland Park, making the team's record well over 500 at this point.

However, in the weeks ahead, the girls' face real challenges against opponents, such as rivals Evanston and New Trier, along with other top ranked teams.

These challenging matches will test not only the team's togetherness and stamina, but most of all, it will test the team's h e a r t y With this said, the girls continuously w o ^ A hard to prove to themselves that just becaus^^ the team isn't ranked doesn't mean it isn't one to reckon with.

Boys' tennis eager for a successful season

by Matt Bochenek The Maine South boys' tennis team began their season with an arduous schedule. Six meets in an eight-day span tested their stamina; however, the team displayed their immense experience, winning three of the five dual meets and placing fourth in the Rolling Meadows Invite. At one of the Hawks' meets, East Leyden squealed as the guys pounded them relentlessly. Every member performed to his abilities and varsity won the meet 7-0. Later in the week, Nick Gallo won a key match against York, which sealed the team's victory. Longtime varsity members. Ken Dollaske and Matt Bochenek, are not only attractive, charming guys, but also tigers on the court. They have won all but two of their matches and are looking

forward to a successful season. A senior student, Allison Pullman, even proclaimed, "The new facial hair has made them rise to an unbelievably magnum status. Yeah!"

The varsity tennis team has had significant contributions from new members, including Mark Pullman, Tom Kafkas, Arjay Ardonis. and Steve Douglass.

They add comedy to practices as well as tenacity on the court. It is great to hear some of Coach Young's patented phrases, such as, "I got it, you got it, nobody's got it." and "It's just ridiculous." The entire team is eager for a successful season and they even have brand new bleachers that are waiting to be actually used, so come out and watch the team in action.

South Stats

4-0 Outdoor record of boys' varsity track team.

21 Years T.R. Kerth has coached the girls' soccer team.