Page 8 Page 16 Jama'ah Club The Saucy Holds Ramadan Pasta Bowl November 2005 Dinner

eat Northside Math Team Takes First in Division at CCML by Muamera Hadzic B As the new school year gradually unfolds, the North- side Math Team takes no time to slowly get back into their habit. They have plunged, head on, into their first City of Chicago Math League competition and have stolen first place in their division. A walk down the math wing of the third floor will suffice Northside College Preparatory High School

The in depicting this exciting win because Ms. Tomasiewicz and oof Ms. Naughton, the coaches,

have put up pictures, results, and inside jokes from the competition. The first big competition of the year was the City of Chicago Math League, CCML contest at DeVry Univer- sity. The CCML is a Chicago H Volume 7 No. 3 Volume Board of Education sponsored competition that is held five times each year. This includes four divisional competitions and one final competition for the title of “City Champion.” The contestants are given a total of fifty minutes to com- plete a twenty question exam in one of four topics: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II, and Pre-Calculus in Progress, as assigned by their coaches Ms. Tomasiewicz and her students attempt to solve one of the many practice problems as they prepare for a based on both grade level and competition soon to come. proficiency. First, the scores are Photo by Muamera Hadzic ranked within each topic, and then the scores from each topic High School, William H. Taft High ton and Lane. However, Northside placed second in the Pre-calculus are combined to give a compound School, Amundsen High School, placed second within Division A in in Progress topic area, “but the ex- score for the entire school. Marie Curie Metropolitan High Geometry, with a score of 52 and pectations were still high, so we are “This year, Northside scored School, Stephen T. Mather High had the third overall highest score very lucky to have gotten the results 246 points over all,” said Ilya School and Gurdon S. Hubbard of all schools. that we had strived for.” Chalik, Adv. 603, “which is really High School. Following behind In Algebra II, Northside not “I really enjoyed this last encouraging since this was our first Northside was Lincoln Park, with a only took second place within CCML competition,” said Harold competition and the beginning of score of 148, and Lane Tech with a Division A, with a score of 52, but Jaffee, Adv. 802. “It had a good va- the year.” score of 181. also had the second highest score riety of questions and the difficulty The 246 point score places Compared to last year’s fourth of all participating schools in the level was varied as well. And these Northside in first place of its divi- place in overall scores at this very city. Finally, they were able to place competitions are always fun since News pages 1-5 sion, Division A. competition, Northside has defi- first in Pre-Calculus with a score of we can be with our friends and • Bevington visits Northside Division A consists of Whitney nitely shown great improvement. seventy one, giving Northside an compete together.” • Northside’s AP Scholars M. Young Magnet High School, In Algebra I, Northside took eight point lead above Lincoln Park, “Though this was the first com- • National Merit Semi- Walter Payton College Preparatory first place within its division with a which placed second place. petition of the year, it was not a first finalists High School, Jones High School, score of 71 and scored highest out “This was a very exciting experience for the majority of the of all participating schools in the competition since it was our first,” Continued as “Math Team Features pages 7-9 Lincoln Park High School, Lane Technical College Preparatory city with one-point higher than Pay- said Paula Daniliuc, Adv. 701, who Success” on pg. 5 • Jama’ah Club Ramadan dinner • Thanksgiving getaways Centerfold pages 10-11 Budget Cuts Still a Problem • Mark My Words: New SAT essay • Party college vs. This Year No Exception in Lack of Funding Intellectual university Editorial page 12-14 by Max Brown CPS, state, and school- “You think things are going to • Scholarship opportunities wide budget cuts pose an • Pros and cons of the be paid for, and then they change Common Application intriguing argument about the rules,” said Dr. Lalley, referring whether or not a lack of to the unexpected expenses. “They Arts & Entertainment page 15-17 funding hinders the growth say things like ‘we don’t have that • My Bloody Life Book Review of Northside as a school. For money… you’re on your own.’” • Shakira’s Oral Fixation a school located in Illinois, Still, budget cuts are an issue far Volume I the state which ranks next to beyond the scope of Northside Prep. last in educational funding, Sports pages 18-20 Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich Northside does an outstanding appears to be struggling to fulfill his • Women’s volleyball wins job at what Dr. James Lalley, Conference responsibilities to the school system, Northside’s Principal, would especially through the eyes of the • Go to Semi-finals with call “making sure the students Men’s Softball CPS CEO Arne Duncan. Duncan don’t notice the budget cuts”. said in March that “the governor’s After Chicago Public Schools budget [for the coming year] provides realized an approximately $175 Chicago with only about $16 million million deficit last year and the in additional funding — that’s far Governor, along with the State, short of the governor’s promise and failed to provide additional far short of our needs.” financial support, CPS schools This lack of funding causes many are steadily experiencing the shortcomings, including CPS’ own effects of budget cuts. administration layoffs this past June, “I worry it’s not going to which included six resignations, nine get any better,” says Dr. Lalley. Dr. Lalley balances the budget at his desk, with the ever-present retirements, and 87 vacancies, for a “The cost of running the problem of budget cuts on his mind. total reduction of 258 positions. Photo by Max Brown school will be more, and there “He’s caught between his promise won’t be any more money.” a $7,000 to $14,000 allowance this year in order to improve and support the program. When to voters and his promise to kids—and The budget cuts affect Northside in areas it’s hard to see how he can keep them this money did not come, it had to come from ranging from staffing, to after-school tutoring, to both,” explained Duncan in reference curricular necessities such as textbooks. In the elsewhere in the budget, partially from funds that case of after-school tutoring, the school expected would have otherwise been saved. Continued as “Budget Problems” on pg. 4 Page 2 News The Hoof Beat Northside students win Northside College Prep recognition as A.P. Scholars High School by Natalia Emanuel and Kana Yoo Around May there is often a hyped sense of National Scholars and Scholars with Distinction 5501 N. Kedzie stress in the hallways. This tension eventually is a strong testament to the growth in learning that melts away into relaxation and relief after AP test- is taking place in these classes and in the classes ing is over, only to rematerialize when AP results that prepare students for A.P. programs,” said Dr. Chicago, IL 60625 are mailed to students. Nevertheless this year, Lalley. Northside as a school has done extraordinarily Students also handed some of the credit to Tel: (773) 534-3954 well. teachers. AP Scholar Awards are presented by the Col- “Teachers at Northside do a very good job Fax: (773) 534-3964 lege Board to students who perform at a high level of preparation,” said National Scholar, alumnus on their AP Exams. There are four different levels Michael Pomeranz. “I owe a lot to Ms. Beris, Mr. of merit: AP Scholar, AP Scholar Devine, Ms. Woodward, Mr Tylinski and others.” Principal: Dr. James Lalley with Honor, AP Scholar “Koreman did a great job [preparing the Assistant Principal: Ms. Lisa Moreno with Distinction, and students], and the tests show it,” said Mr. Nathan National AP Scholar. Harada, Northside’s current AP Physics teacher, Advisor: Mr. Chester Tylinski (See the box for of his predecessor. qualifications set However, it also has to by the College do with the students bring Editors-In-Chief: Ilya Chalik, Anisa Isap, Asrar Khan, Board in order to the class. Monica Wojcik, to receive these “I think the students awards). are motivated,” Ms. Healy, Copy Editor: Maxwell Brown Last year, out an AP Psychology teacher, Managing Editor: Priyanka Bhagat, Ajla Sunje, Kana Yoo of the 415 students commented. “They have who took 905 tests consistent work habits, News Editors: Ashraf Abbas, Natalia Emanuel, Rachel Ramir in May 2005, 166 and I help them to prepare Features Editors: Zainab Sozzer, Aisha Wahid, Kana Yoo students, or 40% AP Scholar— a student who has received a themselves.” of those taking the score of 3 or higher on 3 or more exams. Nancy Cheng, Adv. Centerfold Editors: Sanja Bajgoric, Anthe Mitrakos, test, were recog- Scholar with Honor— a student who has 601, an AP Scholar with Amania Wahid nized with such received a score of 3 or higher on 4 or more AP Distinction, reiterated Editorial Editor: Muamera Hadzic, Aliy Markowski honors. Northside exams and has an average score of 3.25 on all AP this thought. “The classes had 43 AP Scholars, Exams taken. certainly help if you try Polls: Syyeda Ali 47 Scholars with Scholar with Distinction— a student who has to learn,” she said. “But Arts and Entertainment Editors: Damon Beres, Honor, 57 Scholars an average score of at least 3.5 on all AP Exams it is also about your own with Distinction taken and grades of 3 or above on 5 or more exams. preparation outside of Micah Tepora and 19 National National Scholar— a student who has received class. You have to be Sports Editors: Geethi Abraham, Idrees Mohiuddin Scholars. Last year, a 4 or above on eight or more tests and has an aver- motivated to do well.” Northside had 64 age of 4 or higher on all exams taken. Max Swiatlowski, Image Editors: Neha Alam, Zenobia Gonsalves, Shoaib Khan AP Scholars, 29 Adv 603, a National AP Business Manager: Syyeda Ali Scholars with Honor, 55 Scholars with Distinc- Scholar, played down the achievement, focusing Satire: Ashraf Abbas, Damon Beres tion and 9 National Scholars. These data show a on the attitude during the school year. significant jump in the number of high ranking “Honestly, it’s a matter of knowing when to Art Editor: Anthe Mitrakos scholars from 2004 to 2005. do work and how to do work,” he said. “If you Junior Art Editor: Vasiliki Mitrakos The 19 National Scholars of 2005 were as know how to balance the workload instead of follows: Gathi Abraham, Juan Arias, Cath- looking at it like ‘Oh, I’m taking five APs!’ it’s a Artists: Rebekah Kim erine Cobb, Polina Dekhtyar, Thomas Graham, lot easier.” Moustafa Kharouta, Ian Lempke, Jacqueline Michael Pomeranz looked towards the future. Lewandowski, Emily Matthews, Andrew Miller, “I really hope Northside uses this as something to Reporters: Shoaib Ali, Zainab Bilfaqi, Sejla Dizdarevic, Timothy O’Connor, Edward O’Reilly, Harsh build upon, not something to run away from.” Rachel Hautzinger, Elizabeth Jose, Mohammad Khaleelulah, Pandya, Michael Pomeranz, Aidan Roche, Adam Max Swiatlowski echoed a similar idea, “I Rutstein, Max Swiatlowski, Sonam Velani, and welcome the day when many more students ac- Salim Patel, Amanda Perez, Nadir Rashid, Elizebeth Sobenes, Randy Yang. cept the challenges and take AP classes, and end Abir Usman, Michelle Zacarias, Principal Dr. James Lalley congratulated the up receiving these awards. After all, these honors Junior Reporters: Andrea Ljevar, Mohammad Rahman AP Scholar Award recipients and their teachers. give credit not only to them, but also to the teach- “The phenomenal growth in the number of ers and to Northside.” The Hoof Beat is a monthly publication produced by the Northside Prep Journalism Class. As a student-run news- A spooky night paper, your opinions are important to us. If you have any Northside’s Halloween Dance 2005 comments, corrections, critiques, or questions, please e-mail by Vasiliki Mitrakos Mr. Chester Tylinski at [email protected]. Also, if Festively costumed students Ryan Tobin, Adv. 709, dressed with the dance.” blissfully attended the Halloween as a girl in his blue fish net Still, students enjoyed the you have any interest of joining the Hoof Beat, please come Dance on Friday, October 28th tights, mini skirt, red tank top chance to get together with their speak with Mr. Tylinski in Room 204. to enjoy yet another fun school shirt and long haired wig. friends and go crazy dressing sponsored celebration. “Cos- Some noteworthy and well up. Even though the DJ didn’t tumed out” students paid 5 dol- organized groups attending the have time to play every song lars while the “downers” paid 7. Halloween dance were our very requested, he managed to play Letter to the Editor Tinkerbells, cow girls, bunnies, own Beatles, the Spice Girls, My Humps by The Black-Eyed fairies, cats, and pirates flooded and the X-Men. Other groupies Peas twice, and the students My name is Anna Parks, and I’m on the cross country team. I read the the dance floor. article [author’s name] wrote on cross country, and I am [upset]. Much of the infor- “The costumes are the best mation is faulty—for example he said the “team consists of well over 20 members” part of the Halloween Dance,” and we really have 58. Also, the team was initially divided into SIX teams— not four said Jessamine Fitzpatrick, Adv. (boy’s and girl’s varsity, junior varsity, and freshmen-sophomore). But WAY before 603. the month of October, we stopped having a JV, and it was reduced to varsity and The Pep club put a great freshmen-sophomore. It was just a bunch of little things, and I want him to get his amount of effort in making the facts straight. school spooky for the night and On top of that, [author’s name] was so lazy that he didn’t even bother to even the teachers and chaperones jot down some decent, honest quotes. Out of the some 60 people on the team, he dressed up. Freshman packed had to pick me. I specifically told him to not to quote me, and then he just makes the dance floor, as usual, but this up some random junk that never even came close to coming out of my mouth. As year there was also an impressive for Joe Terdik’s quote, Joe said that he did not say that and that [author’s name] did number of seniors attending. not even talk to Joe about it. I’m sorry, but I think it’s plain wrong, and I was hoping The best costumes won that you could prevent it from happening again. prizes at the end of the night, an- Anna Parks, Adv. 907. other incentive for all those who P.S. The picture was [not satisfactory] too. dressed up. The Silent Pumpkin Boy, Joe Kennedy, Adv. 809, won Editor’s Note: Thank you for your letter to the editor. According to Joe Terdik, Adv. 603, the scariest costume award. Frida he was interviewed for the article. There are 58 members on the cross country team, but sources Kahlo, Rachel Ramir, Adv. 701 (From left to right) Adolfo Luna, Adv. 603, Stella Martin, reported that about 20 consistently show up to practice. We apologize for any other mistakes won the best costume award for Adv. 607, Joseph Terdik, Adv. 603, William Hagen, Adv. and any confusion. the night. The winners for the 604, and Anthe Mitrakos, Adv. 602, enjoy their last best group were The Scooby Doo Northside Halloween Dance. Gang. Photo by Vasiliki Mitrakos “They (Scooby Doo Group) included the U.S army, the Jus- went wild dancing to this song, deserved to win. They had the Corrections tice league, and the characters which concluded the night. mystery machine and every- from The Wizard of Oz. The Halloween bash ended thing,” said Enoch Abraham, Many students claimed that at 10 o’clock, and while the last Adv. 607, “but I still think the In the October 2005 issue, on page four, Mrs. Deborah Santiago’s name the music was not as good as song had just finished playing, X-Men had the best looking was misspelled. Mr. and Mrs. Santiago did not arrive at Northside in limousines, but they expected, which is a usual the seniors were traditionally costumes.” in a two seat Mercedes SEL. complaint at school dances. yelling out “06” as they left their Others were disappointed On page six, the debt for the Pig in the Sidewalk Café was erroneously “The DJ could have been last Northside Halloween dance. with the results of the costume published as $3,500. The debt is actually $200. better,” said Ryan Keleher, Adv. “This is Northside, I loved contests. We apologize for any confusion. 604, dressed as Wolverine from [the dance],” said security guard “It was great (the dance), but X-Men, “…people were more Mr. Edwin Munos, dressed as I can’t believe I didn’t win,” said concerned with dressing up than Shrek. “We had a blast.” September 2005 News Page 3 Dr. Lalley “talks shop” with Philadelphia principals Visitors look to Northside for a new model of education by Rachel Ramir Most Northsiders are able to name at least one instance “I am totally aware that in this particular group they’re climbing wall widened a few eyes. when a group of adults, sometimes headed by Dr. Lalley, dealing with schools that are probably in really bad shape,” “They were intrigued by the crazy things,” said Dr. Lalley, have walked into their classroom unannounced. These times said Mr. Solomon. “The perception is that we have everything, citing our lack of bells as another one of those quirks. usually call for the best behavior possible, as no student wants well of course we don’t have everything.” He added, “It’s hard Mr. Solomon had the same reaction from the visitors, who to misbehave in front of the Principal. If you were in one of to convey properly to someone who comes from a situation were interested in things like the student artwork and posters the classrooms visited on October 14th, you had special cause where their resources are really lacking. So when I give a tour, that fill Northside’s walls and hallways. for such model behavior. The group touring “I encourage visitors to ‘read the walls’,” said Mr. Northside on this date had not one principal in Solomon, which includes viewing “the signs people it, but five, including Dr. Lalley, who was there make, and the birthday greetings, and the messages put to “talk shop” with his peers. on lockers.” These principals were all from Philadel- A not-so-obvious stop on these tours was the bath- phia high schools, and included Ms. Florence rooms. Johnson, Mr. Joseph Starinieri, Ms. Gloria “I think the condition of a school’s washrooms says Pelzer, and Ms. Sandra Ruffin Pearson. On volumes about the atmosphere of the school and the lev- their two-day trip around Chicago they visited el of responsibility the people have,” said Mr. Solomon. several high schools, while examining the dif- After touring the entire school, the visitors noted ferent models of education present in this city the responsible nature of the students, who are allotted that could possibly be adapted to their own. more freedom than students of other schools. Antuan This was the first year that parents were Johnson, Adv. 710, a new junior at Northside, has ex- asked to help Dr. Lalley on these tours. Robert perienced the other side of the coin. His former school, Solomon, a Northside parent and active Jones College Prep., was much different from Northside member of the Parent Network and Docent in terms of student freedom. Committee, was co-leading this tour. He used “[Instead of] having to swipe in ID to show that comments he heard from his son, Steven Solo- you are in school, Northside trusts me enough to know mon, Adv. 810, and observations from his own that I am going to go to class and learn,” said Antuan experience with Northside to answer questions Johnson. that the principals asked him from his unique, Dr. Lalley noted how significant this is in his fellow insider perspective. principals’ eyes. The fact that students are allowed to This tour was different from others, as the do things like sit in the hallways, unsupervised, or walk Philadelphia principals are presently dealing to the bathroom without a hall pass, demonstrates how with some weighty and serious issues. responsible they are. “Schools in Philadelphia are struggling “In a lot of schools, unfortunately, many teachers with problems CPS was dealing with ten years spend a lot of time on discipline problems,” said Mr. ago,” Dr. Lalley said. Solomon. “Here at Northside it is pretty rare, and this Problems like under-funding, dilapidated must be obvious to a visitor.” school buildings, disparities between suburban and city-school I try not to flaunt what we have.” After attending Northside for long enough, these kinds test scores, and teacher shortages are realities at these schools, Indeed, the visiting principals were awestruck by the new of things tend to become a part of the background for most and are situations that Northside students have been lucky to and fully functional facilities available to Northside students. students, faculty, and parents. When viewed for the first time, miss. “What we have” includes many unique programs and facilities however, Northside’s merits are better appreciated. Under- To Mr. Solomon, this meant increasing his awareness of that differ from the typical high school agenda. According to standably, Northside’s program could not work at every the situation the visitors were coming from and taking care Mr. Solomon, the visitors were especially impressed by the school, but the Philadelphia principals left Chicago with an when presenting different parts of Northside. pool, weight room, auditorium, and gymnasium, where the idea of where to go with their own schools. Future Leaders helps the Is Our Princpal community “never forget” leaving? by Micah Tepora by Salim Patel In the study of genocide, one event comes to had wanted to create a utopian society and attempt- No, Dr. Lalley is not leaving, but classroom we visited," said Mrs. Joyce mind for the majority of students: the Holocaust. ed to do so with “race cleansing.” on Thursday, October 27th, Northside Shanahan, one of the Principal for a However, members of the Future Leaders colloqui- Those who held high power positions in Cam- hosted three members of the Chicago Day. um have been trying to raise awareness for various bodian society were exterminated by members of community as acting "Principals The great experience of the Prin- issues around the community and around the world. the Khmer Rouge through mass killings or were for a Day." The guests, Jerry Fuller, cipal for a Day was also shared by the “Future Leaders is a colloquium to develop lead- imprisoned in the infamous S-21 prison. In this Executive Director of The Associated students who played an important role ership skills,” said Ms. Christine Olsen, Northside’s prison people were typically taken, along with their Colleges of Illinois, R. Craig Sautter, in the tour. Service Learning Director. families, to be tortured for information about those Author, and Joyce Shanahan, Execu- "I really enjoyed talking to the The Future Leaders colloquium works with against the Khmer Rouge. Principals for a Future Leaders Day. They were aims to distribute very interested the information in learning about they have gathered Northside and re- to schools by the ally gave us some end of this year. good advice," said They also want to Asma Ahmed. raise awareness During for the Cambo- the tour the dian American guests also Heritage Museum, asked numerous located in Chicago, questions about through presenta- what needed tions. improvement at With the help Northside. Topics of Mr. Tim Devine such as better lab of the Social Sci- (from left to right) Mr. Jerry Fuller, Asma Ahmed, equipment and ence Department, Adv. 601, Thoth Gunter, Adv. 900, Karianne Szlufik, computer software and the research Adv. 803, Paul Balik, Adv. 604, Dr. James Lalley, Ms. were brought up. done by his World Lisa Moreno, Mr. R. Craig Sautter, and Ms. Joyce Due to Shanahan participate in a discussion regarding the increasing Studies class, current issues at Northside College Prep. Future Leaders Photo by Shoaib Khan civic interest in the is planning to Chicago Public (From left to right) Adolfo Luna, Adv. 603, Ms. Christine Olsen, and Rhianna present their cur- tive Director of Industrial Council of Schools (CPS) system, Chicago Mayor Jones, Adv. 810, discuss recent developments in Cambodian Genocide riculum centered Northwest Chicago spent their day Richard Daley developed the "Prin- awareness. on the Cambodian touring the halls of Northside, getting cipal for a Day" program eight years Photo by Shoaib Khan Genocide to the a taste of the school’s atmosphere, and ago to further involve and integrate community members and special needs students National Service Learning Convention in Philadel- seeing what Northside has to offer to the Chicagoland community into the from the Northside Learning Center and Vaughn phia from March 22nd to the 25th in 2006. its student body. public schools. Occupational High School to improve an aspect of Although Ms. Christine Olsen is in charge of the The three visitors to Northside Many businesses and civic leaders the community. colloquium, the Future Leaders colloquium is run by were given a tour by Northside’s broadened their understanding of the For instance, one year the project consisted of the students. The students involved pick the projects Principal, Dr. Lalley, and several of accomplishments and challenges of raising $30,000 and building a library for Vaughn themselves so that they can appreciate the project. Northside’s own students and were schools and their occupants through Occupational High School. Last year, members of Mr. Devine, Mr. Leon Lim, and Mrs. Margaret Mur- able to observe Northside’s daily this program. In doing so, these Future Leaders worked to hold a benefit dinner to phy have also taken an active role in this colloquium. routines. During the first lunch period, businesses and civic leaders have raise money for the Adopt-a-Minefield Foundation, “How much effort [the students] choose to put two seniors, Asma Ahmed, Adv. 601, proclaimed their commitment to CPS a charity organization helping to rid Bosnia and into it really determines the outcome of the project,” and Paul Balik, Adv. 604, along with by providing materials and financial Cambodia of landmines. said Jessica Galang, Adv. 708. “Ms. Olsen provides Karianne Szlufik, Adv. 803, and Thoth resources to support schools. This year, the Future Leaders colloquium is great guidance, does her best to spread the word Gunter, Adv. 900, explained the vari- "Everyone seemed so upbeat and working on another project: raising awareness of the about our projects, and provides us with opportuni- ous courses offered at Northside as seemed to be quite excited about Cambodian Genocide of the 1970s and other occur- ties to share our ideas with others.” well as the entire Northside atmo- whatever it is they were doing - what rences of genocide around the world. “Service Learning involves the community, and sphere. could be better either in the classroom The Cambodian genocide occurred under the Northside is our community,” said Jessica Galang. "What was most amazing was or the workplace," said Mrs. Joyce Khmer Rouge regime, a name given to the left wing “So inevitably, Northside as a whole plays a signifi- the great time the students and Shanahan. "The feeling was catchy. I of the Cambodian government. The Khmer Rouge cant role in achieving our main goals.” teachers seemed to be having in each kept wishing I was a student again." Page 4 News The Hoof Beat On your mark... get set... go! National Honor Society kicks off a new year by Neha Alam National Honor Society is ready to kick-off the school side, because when NHS year with full force and dedication. In previous years, mem- takes part in service projects, bers of NHS, through their dedication and commitment, have the school’s reputation grows. displayed excellent citizenship. Northside witnessed many of More and more people want NHS’s successful events such as Participation Walks, Winter to work with Northsiders Wonderland and volunteering at Chicago Children’s Museum. once they see them in ac- The new NHS community hopes to maintain the four “pil- tion.” lars” of NHS: character, leadership, scholarship, and service. NHS has many changes However, one significant change this year are the sponsors in mind which, in the long of the club. Ms. Linda Ortiz, of the Science Department, and run, are hoped to enrich the Ms. Anna Lisa Searcy, of the Social Sciences Department, community. NHS hopes to will be teaming up to advise the club this year. reach out to more students “This year, NHS is going through a transition period,” and have the school as a said Kevin Kilgallon, Adv. 606. “Our previous sponsor, Mrs. whole more involved in [Sandra] Beris, left Northside at the end of last year, and service projects. NHS involve- everyone is trying to adapt to working without her help. Our ment in projects declined this new sponsors, Ms. Searcy and Ms. Ortiz, are doing an excel- year partly because NHS is lent job picking up where she left off, and this year NHS hopes no longer in charge of the to exceed last year’s accomplishments.” school store; the Northside The new members of NHS were elected in May of last apparel is now sold through year. The members democratically voted for the new officers. the Athletics Department. The two new presidents are Nancy Cheng, Adv. 601, and However, other classic NHS Kevin Kilgallon. The vice president is Ilya Chalik, Adv. 603, activities are still on its the secretary is Madeline Roche, Adv. 602, and Kesha Butler, agenda such as the Operation From left to right: Nancy Cheng, Adv. 601, and Jennifer Noinaj, Adv. 600, read up Adv. 605, is the treasurer. Day’s Work, which is this year’s on an upcoming project. NHS holds many expectations for its members. It hopes to major project. Many different Photo by Ashraf Abbas remain an active part of the Northside and Chicago commu- organizations around the coun- nity through various service projects and activities. try are involved in this project along with Northside’s NHS. 3 Basketball tournament, and 3 on 3 Volleyball tournament,” “National Honor Society's goal is to cultivate more young NHS continues to operate under the same structure of be- said Kevin Kilgallon leaders and we certainly hope that more students will partici- ing divided into four teams: the leadership team, in which the “We have organized, along with Key Club and Student pate in NHS activities as a way of giving,” said Nancy Cheng, officers provide guidance, the service team, which searches for Council, many events that help students give back to the com- Adv. 601. meaningful volunteering activities, the Operation Day’s Work munity such as the 3-on-3 Basketball, canned food collected “NHS is very important for Northside’s community team, which is in charge of ODW, writing a proposal for the for the Chicago Food Depository,” said Nancy Cheng. because it offers so many opportunities for students to get fund raiser, and the school team, which is in charge of decora- The new members of NHS started this year with full force involved in helping the community,” said Kevin Kilgallon. tions for dances, publicizing school events, etc. and enthusiasm, picking up where the former members and “Every month there are one or more service projects that NHS “This year, NHS also plans to continue some of its biggest sponsor had left off. They hope to exceed last year’s accom- members can participate in. NHS is also important for North- successes of the past, including Hustle Up the Hancock, 3 on plishments and improve NHS. David Bevington’s Mid-Autumn’s night lecture by Rachel Ramir Most of the students that were gathered possessed only a base understanding of the did establish the broader context of the play.” successful. He also said that Edmund’s char- in Northside’s auditorium on October 20th play, with heady specifics, he gave a general “This lecture was not really for people acter (the cunning, bravado “bastard son”) is probably did not sense the oratory skills of but very informative overview of the charac- very familiar with [King Lear],” said Mr. usually played by a “very handsome actor,” the man approaching the podium until he ters and their different situations. Snow. which he finds appropriate. actually began to speak. As he was introduced “I think it speaks to [Mr. Bevington’s] To his credit, there was quiet a cumber- The passion Mr. Bevington displayed to the audience by Edward Mogul, an enthu- brilliance,” said Mr. Snow. “He understood some generation gap between Mr. Bevington for Shakespeare throughout his lecture was siastic representative from Wright and his audience. inspiring and infectious. Though very familiar College, some may have noticed Though the ma- with the play, he seemed completely en- his casual attire, specifically his jority of his audi- grossed with the plotline as he spoke of it. At brown tennis shoes. Granted, ence was a full times he smiled or chuckled at some strange they did appear a bit awkward in 60 years younger twist or quirk in the story as though realizing conjunction with his blue sports than he, he still it for the first time, and the audience always coat, but it could be that David managed to toss joined in. Bevington, famed Shakespear- in a few jokes and ean Historian, recognized the to put things in importance of being comfortable a more modern on stage. context. Mr. Bevington’s lecture was Mr. Snow “Budget the first of four lectures at North- noted this later side regarding Shakespeare’s and appreciated problems” King Lear. Teachers in the English “the fact that [Mr. Bevington] Department geared up their AP Continued from pg.1 Literature and Composition and was so concerned AP Language and Composition with audience to Gov. Blagojevich. classes by supplying all students and made himself So what can be done about these with a free copy of the play. The accessible to the budget cuts? Fortunately, in a school like lecture series was encouraged for audience,” sug- Northside, it is not as much of a problem all students, partially due to the gesting that this as in schools without the same plethora celebrity of the guest speakers, further showed of resources. Fundraisers such as Cubby and partially for personal student his oratory abili- Walk pay for sports equipment, computer growth. ties. technology, and other things which may or “These lectures will open Mr. Beving- may not be taken for granted. Orientation windows to Shakespeare and his ton’s presence fees, which some schools do not have, plays,” said Mr. Snow, AP Lit- on stage during pay for many department necessities and erature teacher, after Bevington’s his lecture was luxuries. Also, the Friends of Northside lecture. so strong that it Parent Network fundraising is incredibly “It is important [for students] seemed to allude helpful in filling gaps in the budget. Also, to attend the lectures to get an to some level of as much as Colloquium is praised for the introduction to the types of theatrical train- experience it provides, it also allows for lecturing they will be exposed ing. His gestures, four extra faculty positions and the ability to in college,” said Ms. Malueg, facial expressions, to reduce class sizes. This is because the one of Northside’s AP Language and voice were CPS formula, used to calculate staff size, teachers. expressive, his considers Colloquium an extra class. And As David Bevington ap- Mr. David Bevington leans comfortably against his podium while speaking to manner calm but just as important is the extra effort from Northside students about Shakespeare’s King Lear . proached the podium, the audito- mesmerizing, and the teachers themselves. Photo by Rachel Ramir rium sat in an anticipated silence. his presence very "They work extra hours," said Lalley. Would this be another boring English lecture the audience [consisted of] students who had solid. Aubrey Cunat, Adv. 706, is a Northside "They all teach a Colloquium, and they produced by some dry old man in a red bow- read Lear and [Bevington’s] introduction, and student with extensive theater experience help create a community with an emphasis on respect for one another, all without tie? Mr. Bevington placed his copy of King tailored his lecture to those students. Clearly in and out of Northside’s auditorium. She taking home a bigger paycheck." Lear on the podium, and instead of standing here was a man who could have showed agreed that Mr. Bevington seemed very com- behind it stiffly, he walked around to the side off….” fortable onstage, but suggested that this may Budget cuts are and will become a and leaned against it in a very relaxed and This lack of specifics, however, was not be due to any theater training. more and more challenging problem at the nonchalant way. This calm demeanor would disappointing to some in the audience who “He came across as knowing how to read State, Local, and School level, especially in set the tone for the rest of the night. attended to hear Mr. Bevington display his the lines,” Aubrey said. “He’d obviously stud- an attempt to diminish the whopping $175 “[Mr. Bevington’s] presentation was famed knowledge and insight into the play. ied King Lear enough to know their meaning million CPS deficit. non-threatening,” said Mr. Snow. “It was Beyond the basics, he discussed the historical and what to put behind them.” Regardless, Dr. Lalley makes it formal but informal. It is important to young context of the play, including a bit of English As it is sometimes performed onstage, clear that “here at Northside we foster students to see that lectures can be interesting, geography. He also described the relationship Mr. Bevington applauded the play’s strengths imagination”, and instead of wallowing in engaging, and pleasant.” between Lear and Cordelia in Freudian terms. and pointed out its many unique aspects. He the budget cuts, “we like to think of how The content of his lecture seemed to “I recognize that some students felt [Mr. said that this play is usually done on a mostly we can make things work.” speak appropriately to his audience. Instead Bevington’s] lecture lacked specificity and bare stage, as it is the costumes and draw of of bombarding the students, most of whom insight into the play,” said Ms. Malueg. “He the characters that sets the mood and makes it September 2005 News Page 5 Students gain recognition as “Math Team National Merit semi-finalists Success” by Zenobia Gonsalves Last year the current seniors of students have achieved. The minimum Michael Burke, Adv. 601, Christopher continued from pg. 1 Northside College Prep spent a Sat- selection index score students need to Field, Adv. 606, Jessamyn Fitzpatrick, urday morning in October taking the qualify for recognition in the National Adv. 603, William Hagen, Adv. 604, team,” said Ms. Tomasiewicz. “The returning students PSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Standard- Merit Scholarship Program changes Susanna Hostetter, Adv. 607, Avi-Yona had experience from last year or the year before that, so ized Achievement Test/National Merit annually because it is developed from Israel, Adv. 604, Michael Kharouta, it was more so a new experience for the freshman, who Scholarship Qualifying Test). Some stu- the PSAT scores of juniors from the Adv. 605, Daniel Lenzen, Adv. 601, did really well regardless.” dents managed to surpass expectations previous year. The minimum selection Megan Marquez, Adv. 605, Adrian While the scores and expectations may indicate and receive national recognition. Out of index for this year’s recognized students Marshall, Adv. 600, Jonathan Nagatani, great amounts of studying, the preparation for these many Northside students commended was 202 out of 240, the highest possible Adv. 605, Seth Neill, Adv. 601, Michael competitions is not as stressful as it may seem. by NMSC (National Merit Scholarship selection index score. The national aver- Palma, Adv. 602, Sarah Shier, Adv. 600, “When preparing for a competition you do every- Corporation), eight have been named age score was 146. Jeremy Sorkin, Adv. 602, and Carolina thing you can by studying at home and practicing at Semi-finalists. “If I have any secret at all, it’s Vargas, Adv. 607. school,” said Daniliuc, Adv. 701. “From that respect, The eight semi-fi- Semi-finalists need to you can go into the competition just as calm but still do nalists are Ilya Chalik, advance to the Finalist well, although after the test is over we all feel anxious as Adv. 603, Mitchell Iso- standing to be considered we await the results.” da, Adv. 607, Michael for a National Merit Schol- Having placed first in their Division, Northside Kennedy, Adv.600, arship. They complete an anticipates that the next three competitions until the Rebekah Kim, Adv. application process that is City Finals will determine whether they will move on 600, Matthew Law, evaluated by NMSC. Their to compete at the state level. In the meantime, however, formerly of Adv. 604, SAT scores, extracurricular there are many remaining competitions the team needs Simon Swartzman, activities, and academic to prepare for. The regional and state competitions Adv. 605, Maximiliano performance from grades hosted by the Illinois Council of Teachers of Math- Swiatlowski, Adv. 603, nine through 12 are con- ematics (ICTM), the Illinois Math League (IML), and and Monica Wojcik, sidered when they vie for a the slightly more prestigious American Math Competi- Adv. 604. Finalist position. Finalists tion are all coming up. “There’s not much compete for $2500 scholar- th This past Tuesday, October 25 , 2005, the work- difference in feeling ships, which are granted sheets for the IML competition were administered between being National on a state representational to students in Ms. Tomasiewicz’s room as the largest Merit Commended and basis. student turn-out for such a competition scuffled around being a Semi-finalist,” “The entire college moving desks, borrowing pencils, and checking for said Rebekah Kim. “I application process is very calculators. don’t feel proud or any- unnerving,” said Michael The atmosphere seemed to be a melting pot of thing. I just took a test Kennedy. “Knowing that I emotions as some students anxiously conversed, others and did well on it.” have an award that might giggled, and some sat at the edge of their seats ready The National Merit put me ‘over the hump’ to complete the administered worksheets. One could Scholarship Program is when it comes to being be put in the same stage of fervor and anticipation by an academic competi- accepted at a tough school simply observing. tion that awards scholar- Max Swiatlowski, Adv. 603, looks over the statistics from last is reassuring.” year’s National Merit Finalists. However, this competition in particular is not fa- ships based on students’ Photo by Shoaib Khan In February, about vored by the students, since the worksheets are sent out, PSAT/NMSQT scores. 15,000 students are in- and students complete them at their home schools. The Students in their junior that I constantly check over all of my formed by mail that they have advanced ICTM competition, seems to be the most enjoyable of year in high school are automatically answers,” said Michael Kennedy. “If I to the Finalist standing. 8,200 Finalists all the competitions in which the students participate. entered into the program when they have time, I check once, if I have more will be notified that they have been “The ICTM is definitely most fun,” said Ilya Chalik, have completed the PSAT and fulfilled time, I check again.” selected to win National Merit Awards Adv. 603, “mainly because we have a variety of sizes of all the requirements. Students entered In the April following the PSAT, between March and June of next year. teams, and we travel together as a team to the Uni- into the program must be enrolled as full high-scoring entrants from every state Similar to the National Merit versity of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. It allows for time students who are planning to enroll are asked to name two colleges or Program is the National Achievement more bonding and general interaction with each other in college by the fall semester following universities to which they would like Scholarship Program, which is an aca- since we can have up to eight person teams, because their high school graduation. They also to be recommended by NMSC. These demic competition that provides recogni- [otherwise] we spend most of the time working on tests need to be citizens or permanent lawful high scorers are informed through their tion for outstanding African American alone.” residents of the United States. Only schools if they have qualified as a Com- high school students. Northside’s Na- Whether working alone, in pairs, or in eight person about 50,000 students, or roughly 3.8% mended Student or a Semifinalist. tional Achievement Scholarship Semi- teams, the Northside Math Team shows great enthu- of the approximately 1.3 million partici- In late September, about 34,000 of finalist is Avi-Yona Israel, Adv. 604. siasm for any competition at hand and, much like pants, qualify for recognition each year. the approximately 50,000 high scor- Hispanic students who did extremely any other team, values the bonding and interaction at “To be a National Merit Semi-final- ers on the PSAT/NMSQT received well on the PSAT also receive acknowl- competitions and practices. Hoping for good individual ist feels like owning a Victorian war ma- letters of commendation in recognition edgment. Northside’s National His- scores as well as high team scores throughout the year, chine: useless except in impressing and of their remarkable academic abilities. panic Scholar Semi-finalists are Michael the Math Team prepares and meets two or more times a scaring others,” said Simon Swartzman, Commended students do not advance Kharouta, Adv. 605, Megan Marquez, week with their fellow teammates. But due to the scor- a National Merit Semi-finalist. in the competition for National Merit Adv. 605, Michael Palma, Adv. 602, and ing processes of the IML competition, these anxious The semi-finalists and commended Scholarship awards, but some of them Carolina Vargas, Adv. 607. math magicians will have to wait a whole month for students are chosen based on their selec- become candidates for Special Scholar- “When driving, we are lead by small another set of highly anticipated scores from Tuesday’s tion index number. The selection score ships sponsored by corporations and flames, hidden, controlled,” said Simon competition. index is a sum of the critical reading, businesses. Swartzman. “I hope that others can see math, and writing skills scores that This year’s commended students are mine and I hope that mine is still there.” This one time at band camp. . . Northside’s student orchestra retreat by Aliy Markowski On Friday, October 7th, twenty-eight “Last year we worked on music “Last year was fun, but unorga- members of Northside’s student orchestra, that was what we had been practicing nized,” said Camila Youniss. “So instruments in hand, packed onto a bus and for an upcoming concert,” said Trevor this year we started planning early headed off to a weekend retreat of music and Woodland, Adv. 709. “But this year to make sure that the weekend went bonding. Two hours later the group arrived we played new and random music that smoothly and fun for everyone.” at Conference Point Center in Williams Bay, was different from what we would “We tried to incorporate bond- Lake Geneva, where they stayed in a large usually play in a performance. The ing activities that would bring the riverside mansion. The purpose of the week- pieces weren’t very difficult and it was orchestra together as a whole,” said end was two-fold: ample time for practicing more fun because it wasn’t nearly as Jenna Witkowski. “We broke the ice music and plenty of opportunities for orches- stressful.” right away, so the rest of the retreat tra members to bond. Apart from just practicing, the stu- was a lot more fun.” “The retreat is one way of bringing us all dents that went on the retreat had the The activities the orchestra together in more of a social environment,” time to participate in activities with members engaged in ranged from said Leo Park, Northside’s Orchestra Instruc- their classmates. Though the orchestra pumpkin carving to nighttime tor. “I truly believe that the social connected- classes meet daily, the size and struc- capture the flag games to ping-pong ness and cohesion of an ensemble affects the ture of the class prevents students from tournaments. Mr. Park, with the help musical connectedness and cohesion of an bonding with each other. The retreat of his student organizers, ensured ensemble.” was a special occasion for members that the orchestra members enjoyed Spending a weekend together, the orches- of the orchestra to get to know each themselves throughout the weekend. tra members had a lot of time to devote to other. “It is very important to me that their music. The long hours they spent prac- “It’s a great opportunity to get to orchestra be more than just a class,” ticing led to considerable improvement. know everyone better,” said Richard said Mr. Park. “I stress the educa- “With the academic rigor Northside Paulius, Adv. 705. “We’re all friends tional values of the experience and, imposes upon its students, many are forced after the retreat.” at the same time, isn’t having fun to go without practicing over the weekends,” Camila Youniss, Adv. 700, and value or purpose enough?” said Mr. Park. “This retreat was an op- Jenna Witkowski, Adv. 705, served as Northside’s Orchestra members portunity to make certain that a substantial the event organizers for the weekend. were more than satisfied with the amount of weekend practice time would be They began brainstorming weeks be- trip this year, and are already looking had.” fore the retreat and ultimately planned forward to the next retreat. The students also had the opportunity to a host of games and activities that “I wish I could go again next play new songs that differed from their usual Orchestra students have their fun around the fire. kept students entertained the entire year!” said Stefanie Uriam, Adv. concert pieces. Photo by Aliy Markowski weekend. 602.

November 2005 Features Page 7 The Stinking Onion “Memory House” baked right by Kana Yoo Because We All Love Procrastination, the worst Later on in the evening, Taylor with humor, and sentimental lines enemy of any high school student Miller, a mother of two Northside delivered by Maggie were answered with a deadline, reared its ugly head students, and Cassandra Bissell with quick accusations from Katia Chicago once again in “Memory House”, starred as mother and daughter in of being “corny”. a play performed at the Victory Kathleen Tolan’s “Memory House”. Both characters’ imperfections by Rachel Ramir Gardens Theatre on Thursday, Traveling in the downtown With the clock ticking towards the became loveable. Much of the perfect. Crime is October 13. area always makes for a great time, midnight deadline on New Year’s play’s humor came from Maggie’s so high that some flee to our quiet College essay writing was the whether the aim is business or Eve, daughter Katia struggled to clumsy attempts to make a pie and (or boring, depending on how you night’s theme, which began with pleasure (hopefully pleasure in the complete her college essay in three her general confusion about baking. look at it) suburbs. Segregation a pre-show seminar presented by normal high school experience). hours, while her mother, Maggie, One moment of lightheartedness and racism are practiced in a de Associate Director of Admissions Four seasons, all weather, night baked a pie. that stood out amongst the heavier facto manner that is only ignorable at the University of Chicago, Jenny and day, there is always something Though Katia originally ap- emotional issues was when Maggie when you’re on the favorable end. Connell. Several Northside students to do. Even strolling idly down peared to be a typical teenager exclaimed giddily over her revela- Politics are chaotic and indefinable, were in attendance, including distressed over schoolwork, the tion that the “oven people” had put Michigan Avenue, past bustling and a bumper sticker is able to sum business people and hustling street up your beliefs for everyone stuck performers, is an interesting excur- with you in that lovely expressway sion that one can take part in any traffic jam. The one thing that is time. truly amazing is the presence and Confessedly, the city can be celebration of so many ethnic overbearing even for the most sea- groups. Poles, Italians, Puerto Ri- soned Chicagoan, and with all of cans, Indians, Pakistanis, Japanese, the pleasing sights and city sounds, Chinese, Koreans, Mexicans, Irish, it becomes far too easy to miss out Swedish, Africans (sorry to lump the on some new experience. How 40-odd countries into one), South often do we brush carelessly past Americans (Again…), we’re all rep- some person or place that piques resented. There is neither shortage our interest for only a moment of Ethiopian, Colombian, or Thai before another grabs our attention? cuisine, nor any shortage of parades Well, think of this column as a and festivals to show us what their snapshot of Chicago. For the rest places are all about. Here, it helps of the school year, I will be docu- to be able to say “Hello” in as many menting fun places to go, people to languages as you can learn. Trust meet, and will touch on some of me: those old disgruntled Russian the very touchy issues that affect ladies love to hear it. Here, it helps every Northsider. to be as open-minded as possible As an introduction, what is Memory House lights up the stage at Victory Gardens Theatre. about all kinds of religions, cultures, Photo by Kana Yoo Chicago? Most of us are able personalities, sexual orientations, to define the word “Chicago” economic backgrounds, educations, juniors Liza Tullis, Adv. 704, Annie play gradually revealed deeper a light inside the oven for her to see from kindergarten as dubbed by etc. Of course, there is always new Lesser, Adv. 709, and Katie McK- issues behind the mother-daughter her pie. its original inhabitants (Stinking land development going on in the elvey, Adv. 708. relationship. Katia was adopted In the end, Katia was able to Onion). Ask someone from another suburbs for those who can’t stomach Connell provided college hope- from a Russian refugee family and, successfully mail in her essay, after country, and they’ll say it’s a city it all. fuls with advice about essay writing: throughout the course of the play, showing her completed work to of mobsters, or a city with shady You probably didn’t need me to be specific and accurate, make it she battled unanswered questions her mother. The essay talked about voting practices. With all there is remind you of all of this, or maybe personal, don’t procrastinate, and and conflicting opinions about Katia’s memory house and her in- to do, I’d like to think that there you did. I’ve called all of these always proofread. Connell espe- America’s political bullying. ability to belong. is more than (seemingly) ancient things to your attention because they cially emphasized finding the right Katia’s shift from anger to “The play was really good be- history to go by. It may be a city are some of the reasons that define voice, and being truthful, because vulnerability brought a tender, tear- cause it showed how personal one’s of art, music or culture, or a city my love of Chicago. These are also the purpose of college applications jerker moment between mother and essay should be and how it’s part of of sports. Really, it is up to you to the reasons why I have dedicated is to find a match between the stu- daughter. In the scene, Maggie held you and part of your voice,” said decide. Is it a city of increasingly myself to writing about and finding dent and the school. her weeping daughter and expressed Annie Lesser. expensive public transport? A city out new things regarding this place. “I felt that in some ways it was how she fell in love with her after The delightful performance was of overpriced downtown parks? Of There is something out there for you, really helpful because it showed the the adoption. The characters were topped off, for some lucky win- endless beaches? Of clean tap wa- for your little sibling, mom, dad, freedom I could have when writ- sympathetic and their relationship ners in the audience, with pieces ter? Maybe it’s a city of peddlers, great-aunt. Take advantage of what ing my college essay,” said Annie felt real because of the many layers of blueberry pie, made during the swindlers and homeless? A city of this city has to offer- it will only Lesser. “But I also felt that it wasn’t that each character had. play by Maggie herself. For anyone free music events? Of museums? be what you make of it. After all, as helpful because it discussed a lot Like the shifting characters, who has ever written a college essay, Of schools? Of politicians? Chicago doesn’t smell too badly of of things that people would already the play never stayed in one mood. or fears writing one in the future, Granted, this place isn’t stinking onions anymore. know.” Moments of rage were touched “Memory House” is the play to see. A misunderstood Puerto Rican tradition Teacher extends cultural lessons beyond the classroom by Rachel Ramir The first sight to greet Northside students as they entered found it barbaric and wrong. The scene is depicted truthfully, “Even though some people at Northside are of Latino the school during Halloween was a flowery display, filled with complete with a joyous mother wearing a traditional white descent, they are unaware of this custom, and in general un- icons of angels and… a dead baby. head-cloth, but in a way that makes it appear sinister. As Ms. educated on this area of my culture,” said Ms. Villodas. “They This display was an extension of Spanish teacher Ms. Villodas has explained to her Spanish classes, this is because lack understanding.” Wanda Villodas’s “Day of the Dead” festivities, though the he just did not understand the culture of the Puerto Rican Though she has shown a calm acceptance of this general two ideas are from different countries. reaction, she was still shaken by what she viewed to be a nega- When Ms. Villodas began her position at tive reaction to her culture. Northside’s World Language Department “It hurts me that people are so ignorant, you know? last year, she brought with her a love for ¡Caramba!” said Ms. Villodas. “I realize that they are totally Latino culture and a passion for educating ignorant, and I make it my duty to educate them, not because others about it. This love has manifested it’s my culture, but because we’re so afraid of what is different. itself conspicuously in the school’s hall- It is easy to disrespect it rather than value it.” ways ever since, especially in the first floor There was also a bit of misunderstanding on the part of atrium. For the second year, students in her Ms. Villodas’ students, at least at first. When assembling the Spanish classes have adorned tables with display, many in her Period 7 Spanish 3 class were confused as decorations made in class and appropri- to the significance of all of the angelic symbols, and reacted ate items brought from home. This artistic much like the teachers did. This did not last very long, how- approach was combined with lessons about ever. Latin American traditions. “At first I thought this tradition was odd, and it made me “The way I see it, there are two unedu- uncomfortable,” said Julie Bujnowski, Adv. 710, a student of cated audiences at Northside,” said Ms. the 7th Period class. “I mean, making a wake for a dead baby? Villodas. “One [is] in my classroom, which But over the last two weeks, Ms. Villodas has really opened my is my responsibility. The other is the North- eyes. Some cultures may be strange, but they’re not wrong.” side community, and I welcome them to use Magdalena Cassel, Adv. 801, had a similar initial reaction. this display to educate themselves.” “At first it seemed strange, but I think [El Baquiné] is a The “dead baby” was actually a doll healthy way to deal with [death] compared to the morbid belonging to one of Ms. Villodas’ daugh- thinking [in America].” ters, and a part of an elaborate reproduction Having Ms. Villodas for a few months as a teacher has of El Baquiné. El Baquiné, or El Velorio made some students in the same period realize the importance (literally, “the wake”) was a Puerto Rican of culture to their foreign language education. tradition practiced by the “peasants” of “There are so many teachers that think learning a lan- the country. When a baby died, all of the A doll representing a dead infant rests on display in Northside’s first floor guage is just about learning the words – but culture is a very friends and family of the parents would atrium. important part,” said Mary Claire Schmit, Adv. 703. gather for a large party, where no mourning Photo by Rachel Ramir “I didn’t know about [El Baquiné] before Spanish class,” for the dead child was to take place. The peasants. This was a peasant tradition, and he was from the said Delilah Santiago, Adv. 704. “Now that I do, I don’t see belief was that the baby became an angel and ascended to upper class. anything wrong with it. It’s a Puerto Rican tradition, and I heaven. At the sight of a doll representing a dead baby, many in think we should leave it alone and respect it.” The inspiration for Ms. Villodas’ display came from a the Northside community reacted just as Oller did. Members Angie Nizio, Adv. 710, summed up Ms. Villodas’ intent painting by a treasured Puerto Rican artist, Francisco Oller. of the faculty have told Ms. Villodas that they find the display clearly: Oller painted his “El Baquine” in the mid-19th century, not “freaky” and “sick.” Though offended, she has a ready expla- “This is important to us. We are really immersing our- as recognition of the beauty of this custom, but because he nation for this: selves in the culture.” Page 8 Features The Hoof Beat A memorable fast break: Northside Jama’ah Club holds Annual Ramadan Dinner by Mohammad Khaleelullah

opening their fasts, it was time for the 4th of 5 daily prayers for Mus- lims. The prayer, called “Magrib”, was conducted in the gym while guests either watched or stayed be- hind in the cafeteria looking over some of the posters the club made about the Islamic religion. When returning from prayer, the guests had a chance to sample one of the dinner’s features: the actual food. The club arranged dinner for guests by serving a va- riety of Indian and Arab cuisine. The courses covered everything from appetizers to desert. “The food was yummy,” said Claire Swisher, Adv. 802. “I don’t know exactly what it was, but it was delicious.” Guests were urged to try some of the food that was prepared in order for them to get a feel for the ethnic background of many of the club members. After everyone choose the food items they wanted, the program continued. Irfan Hussain stepped up to the microphone and explained the clubs purpose and activities. Then the next speaker, Mr. Tylinski, the club’s sponsor, expressed some words on the club. Next came Salim Patel, Adv. 800, who spoke about the religion of Islam and what this month means to Muslims. “I hoped they would get an understanding of what Rama- dan is,” said Salim Patel. “What Ramadan is and why we do it. Sarah Hanif, Adv. 809, serves a plate of Indian and Pakistani delicacies to (left to right) Zahra Lalani, Adv. 905, and Sara Nasser, Adv. 800. That is why I tried to connect with Photo by Kana Yoo them. Even if they learned the smallest thing from my speech. I’m As the cafeteria buzzed with balloons and streamers, an ees at the dinner have always been diverse, bringing those of glad they at least learned something.” aura of excitement, and hungry students, the Northside Jam- different religions and different cultures to the event. The club Near the end of the dinner, Aisha Wahid, Adv. 704, spoke mah Club’s Ramadan Dinner was about to begin. On Friday invites the entire Northside student body and staff to attend of the recent tragedy in Pakistan and how the earthquake has October 21, 2005, the 7th annual dinner took place at 6 p.m. at the event. affected those abroad. She explained what the club was doing Northside’s cafeteria. The Ramadan Dinner is one of the two “I heard about the dinner from a friend,” said Joseph for the disaster and how those at the dinner could help. dinners Jammah Club hosts every year. The Ramadan dinner, Kanikunnel, Adv. 807. “I came to check out what the whole As the dinner came to an end, the members of the club held during the Islamic month of Ramadan, is held every year event was about. I was surprised to see how many different were pleased with the turnout and reaction they got from the to help others gain knowledge about the religion of Islam, the types of people there were, so that was cool.” crowd. They were also satisfied that the goals of the dinner meaning behind the holy month, and how it affects those who The program began as Irfan Hussain, Adv. 806, introduced were successful, as in spreading the knowledge of the religion. observe it. Every year, the event has many returning attend- members of the club, who recited the Islamic prayer, with “I got to learn a lot about a new religion and culture,” said ees, as well as newcomers who come to enjoy the food and which the fast is opened, followed by a translation into Eng- Claire Swisher. “That doesn’t happen very often. They were program. lish. The fast is opened at sunset, traditionally with a date and very informative and event was fun. [I] got to meet some new The turnout for the event has always been high. Attend- some water. Both were passed out to the guests. Right after people as well. It was nice to experience something like that.” Ghouls at school for a Halloween scream by Michelle Zacarias For the first time in two years and Flavor Flav. Stella Martin, Adv. who have approached Halloween dressed in a variety of costumes and to celebrate, just as they would have Northside has once again held the 607, and Susanna Hostetter, Adv. in a festive and joyous manner. blended in with the excitement of in second grade. Whether people much loved Halloween holiday dur- 607, came dressed as the Wayne’s Teachers have taken the holiday Halloween spirit. agree or not to this year’s Hallow- ing a school day. World Garth and Wayne. into account as well. Some of the Although many don’t celebrate “Wayne’s world, Wayne’s more original costumes the typical Halloween ritual of trick World, party time, excellent,” belonged to Ms. Janet or treating and converting their they jammed out to the lyrics of Walcoe and Mr. Robert homes into haunted houses, there the short, but well-known, song Albritton, who cre- were a number of students who from the movie. All day students atively came up with the took the opportunity to dress in a struggled to fill in their character idea to dress as the well festive occasion. roles. Princesses gracefully glided to loved Betty and Al who “Halloween is okay,” said Ona advisory with a tiara on their heads can also be found in the Wang. “But I like dressing up bet- as Tiggers bounded down the hall IMP 1 math book. ter; it’s a way of wearing short skirts as bouncing orange blurs. “I don’t know how without being yelled at.” Regardless of how popular it we came up with it,” Some students were a little was to dress up during school this states Mr. Albritton. worried about appearing silly when year, there were many that chose “We were just sitting at dressing up to school for Hallow- not to come in any type of Hallow- the table, like us math een. een costume. teachers do, and it just “I was so scared,” said Jennifer “I don’t know, I just didn’t feel dawned on me. I’m that Gonzalez, Adv. 705. “When I first like it,” said Ben Sword, Adv. 703. much of a nerd.” came to school, I thought no one Many students didn’t necessar- Not all teachers had on a costume, but then I saw a ily feel any emotional attachment related back to their text clown. Man, I was so relieved.” to the holiday and therefore came for ideas. Mr. Jeff Solin Without taking peer pressure to school on Halloween dressed as dressed as Hulk Hogan into account there were many any other day; without a costume. and added character students who chose to dress up, However there were cases where by shaving his mus- from a muscular Batman outfit to a students chose not to celebrate Hal- tache on top of dying it fussy life-size Scooby Doo costume. loween for personal reasons. blonde. He tied in first Characters from shows and movies “I hate Halloween,” said Bonnie place for the best staff flew down the hall in a race to get Mark, Adv. 804. “It’s influencing costume, which would to class on time. Some of the more children to take candy from strang- make it his second popular costumes this year were ers.” year in a row winning school girls, anime characters, Mar- Halloween has been known to this prize. Mr. Marcos Riscarte Bayon, Adv.606, dressed as a muscular Batman, fights crime with vel comics and Pimps. cause safety concerns for younger Alcozer, a member of his much-loved sidekick Scooby Doo, also known as Peter Vroustouris, Adv. “I would dress up as a pimp,” children trick or treating, but North- the Northside technol- 600. said Julian Martin, Adv. 707. “But side provides a safe and festive ogy staff, tied with Mr. Photo by Michelle Zacarias I’m a pimp anyways.” environment where teenagers can Solin, ironically winning Northside displays students’ show off their costumes without the his first place prize by Halloween has become a part een success, one thing is undeni- abilities to revive older trends; many constant worry of being cautious dressing as Mr. Solin. Marco wore of their Northside’s holiday routine, able: whether you are six or sixteen students brought back old school towards strangers. a paste-on beard and had tattoos regardless of age. Students continue pulling off a Power Ranger costume costumes such as the Blues Brothers Students are not the only ones up and down his arms. Teachers to arrive at school dressed and ready takes a lot of work. November 2005 Features Page 9 Stress free into college Tips for a smoother college application process by Sanja Bajgoric The college application process is a stressful time for many Some students might have kept the Choices handout given a teacher to write a recommendation for him, he should give seniors. Just the thought of meeting deadlines, writing essays, at the beginning of the year to most Northside juniors and the teacher early notice. This will give the teachers ample time deciding what schools to apply to, and getting recommenda- seniors, while others might have misplaced it. Many students to write a well-assessed recommendation despite their busy tions is too demanding for many students. remember receiving the paper. They just forget how it landed schedules. If students wait until the last minute, the teacher “I don’t think people prepare over the summer as they in the garbage. So to refresh the memories of those who does have the right to refuse to write the recommendation should,” said Northside Guidence Counsler Patrick Tassoni. unfortunately misplaced the Choices Planner handout, it is or in other cases, it just might not be as good as the student “In order to make their senior year a less stressful one, they a student portfolio in which a student discusses their plans, would like it to be. need to begin planning as early as Essays are another important the spring of their junior year.” factor in the college process. Col- The first early step for juniors leges will usually ask students is to attend a college informa- to write a short essay, or group tion night where each counselor of essays, ranging anywhere has the opportunity to meet with from 200 to 500 words. Though their advisory students to give an students think that such an essay overview of how to do things and can be written the night before what will be expected as they go the deadline, this is simply not into their senior year. Following the case. These essays have to be the information night students so succinct that it may become a should ask their parents to call the disadvantage to some students, counselor and arrange a meeting and it then becomes important to in which they would be able to carefully make language choices discuss the college planning pro- and write a well developed essay. cess specifically for that individual So what is the obvious solution? student. To avoid anxiety over last- Start looking at college applica- minute test taking, it is always best tions and essay requirements to take SATs and ACTs as early as the summer before senior year, possible, preferably in the spring and even begin writing up drafts, of junior year. because in most cases when It is important that a student students apply to more than one takes the initiative upon himself college, they will also have more in this process and not be overly than one essay to write. dependent on counselors or wait At the end of the day, how- until the last minute. Computers ever, even if the student is able in the counseling office provide to complete the process with as students with the tools to research little stress as possible, he will some colleges on their own and never completely have the load look over the applications. Cur- lifted from his shoulders until rently most colleges have switched he actually opened up those en- over to online applications, though velopes from colleges and truly PDF and paper applications are knows if he got into the schools still available for a lot of colleges. he applied for. Applying over the internet might “The biggest stress factor of be much easier for some people the whole process is wondering because sometimes complica- if you will be accepted to the col- tions might come from traditional lege of your dreams,” said Dao mailing of the application, such as Northside Student, To Dang, Adv. 603, starts college process early in order to avoid a stressful rush later Nguyen, Adv.604. the mail getting lost or not arriving on. Though stress can’t be on time. This year, Mr. Tassoni Photo by Sanja Bajgoric completely eliminated, it can be reports that due to the new online reduced. So remember, that it is methods of applying this year, interests, and courses they have taken. This portfolio can be never too early to begin preparing for college. Many who have some students have gotten replies from colleges like University accessed at http://www.portfolio.bridges.com, where besides gone through this process highly recommend starting the col- of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign as early as October. the portfolio, one will be able to explore over 1,200 different lege process as early as junior year, if not earlier. Another simple task that can be done is accessing the careers and learn about different programs, courses, and schol- There are many benefits of getting a head start that will student e-mail as much as possible. Most counselors com- arships available. This site is highly recommended by counsel- show when one reaches senior year, and the process is noth- municate to students through e-mail in which they send them ors, as it is the one of the ways counselors will be able to write ing more than a breeze. The college process doesn’t have to important application information and scholarship opportuni- good recommendations for individual students, besides the be a horrific story that one will recite to grandchildren in the ties. mandatory Northside Self-Assessment Form that students fill future; instead it can be a very intriguing experience as one “Begin to utilize the Choices program,” stressed Ms. Ma- out at the end of junior year. indulges in the variety of opportunities available to capable rina Medina, head counselor. It is also important to remember that when a student asks students. Staying home or getting away What can we offer for Thanksgiving you? by Aisha Wahid “Thanksgiving is a time for fam- preparation and planning. ties, fancy swimming pools, and the Northside provides ily,” said Stephanie Yang, Adv. 700. Fall in New England can mean beach. In addition, by September “We gather at my house, combine an incredible annual show of the hurricane season has already our food and eat.” color. Maine, passed its peak. volunteer opportunities for While a clichéd Thanksgiving While many may enjoy weekend may include a luscious traveling, others like staying students turkey meal with family and near home and visiting areas by Shoaib Ali friends, followed by a around Chicago. Service opportunities at Northside strive to lead the school to a new game of American Visiting a family farm, world of growth and opportunity. Various clubs, such as Key Club, and football, there are an orchard, or zoo may be summer internships, such as the Amigos de las Americas program, focus various other ways some of the activities on volunteering. The counseling department provides information about people like to spend families look forward. programs outside of school, and Northside’s website and e-mail system the holidays. Fall Siegal Cottonwood inform students about upcoming events. Ms. Christine Olsen is service vacations can be Farms in Crest learning coordinator at Northside, and she can suggest service projects for quite advantageous, Hill, IL offers any student interested in getting involved. since kids aren’t in pony rides, Service projects play such an important role in the school that the Hoof school, autumn pumpkin pick- Beat is considering reserving a section for service learning. This segment prices are low, ing, touring would list service opportunities that students can volunteer for. and crowds a corn maze, and “I think it's a great idea,” said Editor in Chief of the Hoof Beat, Asrar are smaller. In a petting zoo all Khan, Adv. 603. “Northside’s students need to get more involved with the addition to this, in one. Many other numerous opportunities created by the Service Learning Department, and a the weather in places do the same, section in the newspaper devoted to this topic will certainly aid in that.” early autumn is and it doesn’t require This project has the potential to be the ultimate source for announcing still nice in many much research or the service learning opportunities being offered by Northside. places. planning to find a One familiar service that Northside sponsors is volunteering at the Autumn may be a great time to spot that suits one’s school library. Students can earn service learning hours for doing such visit the outdoors, especially when interests. librarian activities as re-shelving books and checking books in and out to resorts are offering some of their Thanksgiving can students, teachers, and other faculty. best packages and deals. New Hamp- also be a traditional night “I have heard around school about working as a volunteer, said Subhan For those who enjoy out-of-state shire, and Vermont may be great in front of the television, or it can Ali, Adv. 908. “I even plan to ask about volunteering to Ms. Murray tomor- traveling, New Hampshire’s White for visitors on the looks for leaf be an adventurous outing for those row.” Mountains offer many outdoors peeping. One can enjoy the autumn stressed over work and school. Service learning projects are all around the city, and the school. It is activities, including hiking, back- foliage while visiting various family “Usually we get together with already known that 40 hours of community service are required in order packing, paddling, cycling, and resorts in the area and planning grandparents and enjoy a home to graduate; however, a new requirement of 20 hours before completion of fishing. Packages offered include recreational activities for kids. cooked meal, instead of going out,” sophomore year is obliging students to earn their hours sooner rather than lodging, meals, activities, and gear, Autumn rates for Caribbean re- said Amanda Mantilla, Adv. 801. later in order to proceed to the next grade level. Northside’s services are starting at a base price of $64. This sorts are at a bargain when it comes Depending on one’s appeal, there to help students in accomplishing the district wide goal, and to make makes it easier for busy families to to Thanksgiving. They offer a great various places offer good deals dur- available opportunities that will enhance students’ experiences in any field get outdoors without much advance chance to sample a resort’s ameni- ing the season. they desire. Page 10 Centerfold The Hoof Beat The End of the Beginning... or the Beginning of the End? Preparing for the College Application Process Start earning for college without a job Scholarship opportunities by Elizabeth Jose Scholarships should be a topic of dents have, in the past, been able to re- endeavors. Another way to do this is to length, in response to certain questions. concern for freshman and sophomores as ceive scholarships that have amounted enter essay contests. The following are The top prize is $2,000. The deadline is much as it is for juniors and seniors. The to over $112 million from universities essay contests which are not too difficult March 20, 2006. More information on sooner a person starts applying for schol- that are partnered with the founda- and yield great profits. either of these competitions can be found arships, the more money and amount of tion. This foundation recruits students The Distinguished Citizens Society at www.aynrand.org/contests. awards he can accumulate by the time he from around the U.S. and put them International of Greater Chicago, Inc. The Humanist essay contest is open looks at colleges. into groups called posses. There they is offering an essay contest for high to anybody under the age of 25 who has Although many scholarships are do a lot of rigorous work that prepares school students. The topic of the essay is thoughts on the topic of humanity. First intended for particular groups of people them for top-tier universities. More “My Most Inspirational Teacher”, and prize is $1,000. For more information or and have certain requirements, there are information about this can be found at the essays should run for questions that may be addressed visit many scholarships out there, and it is www.possefoundation.org. between 1,000 and www.americanhumanist.org/events/ possible to find one that suits the indi- The AXA Achievement scholarship 1,500 words. Prizes essaycontest. The deadline for this vidual needs of each person. Essay and group is associated with US contest is December 1, 2005. art competitions are an excellent way to News and World Report, A World Connected essay contest earn money that can be put into funding and it awards fifty-two is open to all high school students, for the future. $10,000 scholarships and but the topic for the year of 2006 is At Northside, students can obtain ten $15,000 scholar- not yet decided. First prize is $2,000. a great deal of information by simply ships. The requirements For updates on this contest and more checking their school email. Ms. Erin for this scholarship are information about the requirements Kato, a guidance counselor at Northside, that a student must be visit www.aworldconnected.org/ sends out information regarding scholar- doing well in school, subcategory.php/311. ships on a regular basis. they must be determined Creative Communication is a “There are even scholarships out to do their personal best, and they program that offers essay and poetry there for people who are left-handed,” must have demonstrated achieve- contests. There are different require- said Elizabeth Todd, a graduate student ment at a job, sport, or extracurricu- ments for each contest, but the informa- at the University of Chicago who gave lar activity. Applications are avail- tion on it and how to enter is available a lecture that was attended by some able at www.axa-achievement.com. at www.poeticpower.com. Work that students from Northside. The deadline for this is December is entered in these competitions may There are many scholarships that 15, 2005. be published and there are many cash satisfy people of all types, as in the case The Emma L. Bowen Founda- rewards. of the scholarship for left-handed people. tion offers internships and scholar- There are also scholarships that are An excellent source for personalized ships. These are open to students quite popular among Northside students, scholarships is www.fastweb.com. This who have completed their junior range one being the National Merit scholar- site is free and by simply entering basic year, have a cumulative grade between ship. When students take the PSAT in information, one can receive emails point average of at least 3.0, are $100 and their junior year, their scores are sent to about scholarships especially applicable interested in pursuing a career in $500. Specific the National Merit Board, and they are to them. There is a listing of other the media/communications indus- information on entered into the competition. This allows websites like Fastweb in the Counseling try, and plan to attend a four-year how the essay is to be sent to The each participant the opportunity to be Department’s section under Student Life accredited college or university. Stu- Distinguished Citizens Society can be commended by the National Merit group on the Northside website. dents who participate in the program found on www.dcsiofillinois.com. The or for them to become National Merit Many scholarships are created and receive an hourly wage during summers deadline for this essay is December 31, Semifinalists or Scholars. funded by different companies. Even par- and school breaks and they will receive 2005. There are many scholarships that are ents can assist in the search for scholar- a matching compensation to help pay The Ayn Rand Institute offers essay available to students that have not been ships; often, companies offer scholarships for college tuition. contests annually. The Fountainhead included on this list. Resources such to offspring of employees. Applications are available in the essay contest is open to 11th and 12th as the internet are accessible to most The Society of Automotive Engineers Counseling Office and the deadline for graders and the only requirement is that people. Scholarships can be accumulated (SAE) offers many scholarships for stu- the summer 2006 opportunities is Janu- you must read The Fountainhead by and used when they are needed, and it dents who are interested in engineering ary 6, 2006. Ayn Rand and write an essay, which is is possible to start at any point in life. and related sciences. Although there is a Another group is the Joseph Blazek 800 to 1600 words in length, in response Freshmen and sophomores can begin processing fee and some of the scholar- Foundation which awards renewable to certain questions. The top prize is applying for scholarships and competing ships are university specific, there are scholarships to students who want to $10,000. The deadline is April 25, 2006. in contests now. many scholarships that have few restric- major in engineering, mathematics, The Anthem essay contest was also At the same time juniors and seniors tions and they are open to all people. Ap- chemistry, physics, or related scientific formed by the Ayn Rand Institute. This can busy themselves with such things plications are available at www.sae.org/ fields. The applications are available in contest is open to 9th and 10th graders because the time is drawing near for them students/engschlr.htm. The deadline is the Counseling Office, and the deadline and, as with The Fountainhead contest, to apply to universities. Scholarships December 1, 2005. is March 15, 2006. the only requirement is that you must may be accumulated after you have been The Posse Foundation offers a very Scholarships are not the only way read Anthem by Ayn Rand and write accepted or after you have applied to a interesting program and scholarship. Stu- to make money to put towards future an essay, which is 600 to 1,200 words in university or college. Perfecting college applications by Sejla Dizdarevic Not worth it There are seven months left until the seniors thought into them. It is also a bad idea to write about they come one after the other. This makes it difficult graduate and begin to go off to college. As exciting as one’s life history. Some biographical information is to write good essays. Starting to write essays during it sounds, college application deadlines are happen- acceptable, but it should not be in excess. Although it junior year, or during the summer is always a good Cons of common applications ing right now, which means that college essays are is a good idea to get each essay reviewed and edited idea, though during senior year, when most students also due. There are numerous topics to write about, by a few reliable people, avoid getting feedback are writing essays it is recommended to space out by Amania Wahid As college appli- but it is up to the writer to pick the right one. from too many people writing each essay, so as to ensure that you will not be cation deadlines are When writing an essay, one of the because that might take stuck with writers block on deadline day. approaching, seniors most important things a student can away some originality “It’s challenging,” said Jade Ibrahim, Adv. 600, are beginning to stress do is to express themselves and their from the initial piece. “to express everything you want in less than 400 out about writing their personality. Another tip is to words. The deadlines are OK, but it is very important essays. Some, however, When a writer focuses on one top- proofread the essay. An to remember when all of them are.” have put off writing ic or event in depth, it will make the essay should not look It is important not to put fluff in an essay. Instead until the end, thinking essay more interesting and focused. as if it were written in take the space you have to write the important parts that they will have to An essay can be even more unique if thirty minutes. Also, a that need to be expressed. Sometimes it is better to write only one essay for one chooses to write about an uncom- key point to remember write less than is necessary than it is to write about a the common applica- mon topic, a path that many students is that an essay is assessed lot of unnecessary ideas. Make the 400 words worth a tion and send it to all tend not to follow. Many students also on its quality, not on the lot more, if the prompt calls for 400 words. the universities and col- have problems when writing a thesis. It way it looks or the quantity. The Writing Center at Northside is more than leges they are applying is necessary that a thesis be understand- Thus, more time should be happy to help perfect the essays of those applying for to. The advantage to able and informs the reader of the essay’s spent on thinking about the college. the common applica- purpose. There is a tremendous difference in prompt, organizing, and “An essay should be read out loud before it tion is that there is only an essay where the writer is reveal- proofreading the essay, is turned in, and someone else should go over the one application and ing himself and expresses his own than writing a very essay,” said Jill Swanson, Adv. 702, Writing Center only one essay, which opinions, as opposed to an essay in lengthy essay. member. “Also, when reviewing someone else’s essay, can be used for multiple which a writer is merely trying to There are many a writer can get ideas on what he should write about colleges, reducing some please the reader. different essays to be written for colleges, especially in his own essay.” of the stress of applica- Thus, having a clear and candid introduction for different applications; therefore, a distinctive essay Remember: proofread, be original, be unique, and tions. tends to produce better results. Using the same essay for each is needed. don’t procrastinate. Those who take these tips into However, this for all college applications is not recommended. “There are too many essays to write,” said Saad consideration are bound to write an essay that says prevents students from Essays are designed to be written individually, with Ahsan, Adv. 606, “and the deadlines are pretty tight.” quality and perfection. each prompt in mind, so it is implied that one has put All the application deadlines are different and November 2005 Centerfold Page 11 One step to success The End of the Beginning... or the Beginning of the End? and less stress Preparing for the College Application Process The benefits of the common application

by Monica Wojcik The fall of senior year has been known to cause spikes in stress levels, as home- work and extracurricular commitments are compounded with college applications. The application process for most schools is lengthy, requiring multiple essays, short answer statements, and recommendations in addition to filling out dozens of general information forms. As college admission becomes more competitive and students apply to more schools, the work builds up and so does stress. Students find them- selves at the end of their patience, and then they discover the soothing balm of the Common Application. The Common Application allows students to fill out their information only once and write one essay that can be sent to multiple schools. It is also helpful for teach- ers and counselors, who can write single letters of recommendation for multiple schools. Copies of these materials are then either submitted electronically or sent by post to the various schools. Thus this one step process relieves some of the hassle of completing multiple applications. “Most [of the counselor portions] are similar,” said Mr. Patrick Tassoni, of Northside’s Guidance Office. “This [the Common Application] just makes them the same.” The personal essay section for applications is of- ten the biggest worry for students. Writing multiple essays can divert effort and diminish the quality of the essays; if there is one personal statement, a student’s efforts can be better channeled toward a single stronger essay. One common complaint about the Common Application is that it generalizes the students’ ap- plications and decreases individuality. With different schools looking for particular strengths in the students they accept, the Common Application’s one-size- fits-all process presents students as good fits for many schools instead of great fits for a particular school. However, that is not the case with many of the colleges accepting the Common Application. Several of these colleg- es request a school-specific supplement in addition to the Common Application. Mr. Tassoni also highlighted that the supplements decrease the homo- geneity of the Common Application questions. If colleges expect elaborate additional information, which provides an opportunity for students to show why they are interested in particular schools. The Yale College Supplement gives applicants the opportunity to write an optional essay providing additional information they state students “are unable to convey in the Common Application’s Short Answer and Personal Essay.” The supplements also ask for more detailed school-specific information, such as alumni connections, interest in the school, and possible majors. While still allowing room for expression, the Common Application provides a simpler way of applying to colleges.while students can still express specific personal qualities to particular selec- tive schools. According to the Common Application website, 227 colleges and universities ac- cept the Common Application, including prestigious schools like Harvard, Yale, and Dartmouth. Slightly less competitive schools, large universities, and smaller liberal arts colleges also accept the Common Application. Although the Common Appli- cation is not used in the majority of U.S. colleges, as there are over 4,000 colleges in the country, the decision to use the Common Application is up to the individual colleges, and not the decision of the Common Application Board. The Common Application was created with students in mind. The application process is still very challenging, but the Common Application, for the schools that utilize it, allows students to focus on the more important aspects of the application, instead of doing piles of paperwork. “It is efficient for the counselors as well as the students,” said Mr. Tassoni, “and if it wasn’t efficient for the schools [colleges], they wouldn’t do it.” Not worth it Cons of common applications Avoid a last minute rush

by Anisa Isap doing their research. Another drawback to Unfortunately for the official on these days. It should Filling out the common the Common Application seniors, the deadline for deadline of also be noted that the application may save is its limited acceptance. college applications is the college. guidance department is time, but it may also About 276 colleges and not merely a date subject Therefore, closed during all holiday prevent a student from universities currently to further negotiations. applications breaks. noticing that the college accept the application, Rather, the deadline due on Many teachers has a required supple- but that is still a fraction should be considered a January 1 have advised students ment, or it doesn’t offer of the 4,000+ institutions brick wall that students should be to give them at least the major. around the country. Some cannot smash through submitted to one month prior to the “You still have to do of the 276 colleges have and it is very important the counseling deadline also in order your research,” said Ms. their own application, to get applications done, department to have sufficient time Erin Kato, a reception- and will accept either and done on time. on or before to thoughtfully write a ist in the counseling their specific application The counseling November 22. recommendation. department at North- or the Common Appli- department requests that Applications In general, taking side. “It’s tempting to cation equally, and the the counselor portion with January into account comments just send the application applications are function- of the application, 10 or 15 from alumni, teachers, to a number of schools, ally equivalent. However, which usually includes a deadlines and counselors, because it’s easy to do. many will admit that recommendation form, should be there appears to be a But before you send the submitting a Common a transcript request submitted by consensus: don’t be application, you have to Application for these in- form, and an addressed November the students that are know something about stitutions does not allow enveloped stamped with 29, and 9 and January 13, to process applications trudging through the the school, and don’t students to personalize the appropriate postage applications due respectively. Since prior to the holidays, snow to the post office at send in an application their essays and effec- be submitted to Ms. on February 1 and the staff will be using they will not be able 11:30 pm in order to get unless you want to at- tively stand out from the Kato approximately February 15 should be November 23 and to accommodate for applications postmarked tend.” other applications. one month prior to submitted by January December 12 to 16 students submissions by the deadline. Page 12 Editorial The Hoof Beat Mark My Words The new SAT: Will we pay for the College Board’s mistake? by Aliy Markowski For students across the nation, junior year of high school nent that will inevitably be graded subjectively? As of March It simply cannot, and for students taking a test as significant is marked by the stress of seemingly endless tests that are 2005, students are now required to write a twenty-five minute as the SAT where the results determine college admissions, proclaimed to determine the rest of our lives. College admis- essay as a part of the SAT. The essay was added in an effort to sending the score of an unrepresentative writing sample to sion is getting tougher and tougher, and scores on the ACT, create a more complete assessment of students’ abilities, and their dream schools could be hazardous. PSAT, SAT, and in many cases the SAT II Subject Tests are it was also a response to the criticisms the College Board has Beyond the impractical time allowance, the largest crucial factors for acceptance at most schools. At Northside, received for racial and economic biases within the problem by far with the new essay is plainly that there is where 100% of students went on to college last year, we test. However, it seems to me that in addressing no objective way to grade a piece of written work. feel particularly pressured to score high on these tests. The the first and main issue of constructing a fuller Consider the scoring guide provided by the College SAT, which a large percentage of college-bound students measure of aptitude, the newly-improved Board that the essay judges will follow in grading take every year, now has even more cause to cause student SAT falls short. The essay the SAT essays on a scale from one to six. The nightmares: a twenty-five minute essay, part of a brand new question requires guide defines an essay receiving a score of six writing section that will be scored at the mercy of partial test-takers to de- as one that “demonstrates clear and consistent human judges. fine and support mastery,” while an essay given a score of three Setting aside the issue of the new essay momentarily, their position should demonstrate “developing mastery.” historically there have been many critics of classic standard- on an issue, This vague language largely leaves the scoring ized tests who question to what extent a three or four hour process to the judge’s prerogative. Who’s to say how multiple choice exam can legitimately measure a student’s much more likely a judge will be to dole out scores of intelligence. How is it possible to put a single number on an sixes to the first essays he reads than after hours of read- individual’s intellect based on arbitrary questions in a few- ing through hundreds of similar mundane and rushed hour time span? Each version of a test is unique, although compositions? Furthermore, with the evaluators ranging supposedly equivalent in difficulty, causing test-takers from high school to college teachers, who determines anxiety over which questions may happen to appear on their to which standard each essay is held? One judge’s test. Whether they’ll be asked a recent vocabulary word idea of clear and consistent mastery may be consid- from English class or an equally challenging word they’ve ered only adequate mastery by someone else. We never before seen is entirely random. Beyond the hit and know something is wrong when we hope for the miss nature of standardized tests, there are also those mercy of the grader to give us a higher score on a students who simply are unable to perform to their high- standardized test. est ability in an intimidating test setting. Who wouldn’t be Until now, the SAT’s strongest defense as a overwhelmed by nerves before taking a test that is said to quality assessment was the test’s objective nature. The determine where you’ll end up for the next four years, objectivity provided a method of comparison among which may in turn have consequential effects on the rest students nationwide, even if the exam might not have of your life? painted the perfect picture of a student’s intelli- But although the standardized testing system may gence. With the addition of the essay, the impartial- be overtly flawed, at the end of the day, students ity of scoring was essentially thrown in the garbage. with a wide breadth of knowledge are likely to score It will be impossible for thousands upon thousands well. These tests may be an imperfect method of of essays, all graded by different judges, to be graded assessing intelligence, but they are a necessary evil that identically. Furthermore, with the addition of the essay has stemmed from the demand by colleges across the adding weak subjectivity to the scoring process, the es- United States to have a consistent basis for comparison say provides little to no counterbalancing improvement among their thousands of diverse applicants. Colleges based on their own experiences, and in the test’s ability to measure student aptitude. Something and universities consider it necessary to be able to gauge stu- to organize and produce an essay in only written hurriedly in under a half an hour is unlikely to show dents with at least one measure that is undoubtedly objective, twenty-five minutes. The short time span a student’s best efforts; and, with an unreliable method of as- even if there may be imperfections in the system. seems to be one of the most glaringly obvious issues with sessing the essay, it is doubtful that the score will provide any So, if the strength of standardized testing lies in its the new essay. How can a composition reasonably reflect a deeper a glimpse into a student’s abilities. The College Board objectivity, then what happens now that the College Board student’s greatest writing abilities when the process of orga- has made a mistake in adding the essay to the SAT - one that has decided to add a written essay onto the SAT, a compo- nization and writing is crammed into less than a half hour? we, as students, may pay for in our college admissions. Partying too hard Major in Partying! by Ashraf Abbas by Damon Beres College is supposed to be the place where eases? All of that down the drain just because College is supposed to be a place where For instance, imagine you’re fresh out of you build your future. The place where you of some stupid party. you build your future. The place where you college and at a zesty mixer with a group of choose a major and go on to become one of This isn’t saying that others will fall choose the friends that you’ll keep for the co-workers. Suddenly, Suzy from account- society’s most respected people. With that because of your foolish choice. No, not at rest of your life, whether they are loud oafs ing starts “juking” all up in your business being our train of thought, we can only all—it affects you too. Parties are what we or intellectually supreme beings. While the (pun fully intended) and you’re at a complete guess at why people opt not to take call ‘addicting’. The first is okay, the second daunting rigors of everyday college classes loss as to how to function. The beverage in a college seriously, and give higher is cool, and the third is usually ‘WOW!!’ The are understandably impor- tant to your left hand begins to tremble under the preference to a “party” school as average human being follows this basic any developing young per- son compounding pressure of the situation, and opposed to a good school. pattern. Once you’re hooked, it’s in today’s society, academ- Suzy’s posterior begins to grow weary of “I need a break every now hard to become unhooked, even ics can only go so far in gyrating without the warm and then” is what you hear with emotional support. And developing a real educa- presence of a friend. them say. “I get to take my so, you go to party after party tion. The proper way Round and mind off the classes and without ever thinking of your to round out any round it what essay I have to turn in academics. In fact, you actually college student’s goes (and next.” Yeah, right. You go try to schedule your academ- diet is nightly boy how it to the party, have a few beers, ics so that they fit your party partying, which goes), yet it smoke a few whatevers, and schedule. Now that’s just sad. may or may not finds no com- call it a night. Wow, you’re To care more about going include excessive pany and eventual- definitely building a future for to an event in which drinking (only of ly ceases its sultry yourself. people just smoke, fruit punch and spinning. You are What’s even funnier is drink, and move Coca-Cola if the left alone on the how obvious your future is go- around like zom- student is under 21, dance floor, frozen and ing to be after attending a par- bies than about of course). with a quivering soda. ty school. Druggies are bound your academics is Suffice it to If only you hadn’t gone to to be at the party, and they something no one say, getting an that exceptional economics are bound to put something should go through— education at school. in someone’s drink—anything and yet, people do it, giv- a school like Even in a setting that isn’t really. That someone could ing a ‘reason’ for it every Harvard or Yale is strictly social, not getting a party be you. You. Imagine that. time. actually putting one school education can lead to trouble. You sip your beer and taste Deciding whether or not to at a severe disadvan- Imagine that you’re sitting in a high- something weird—your go to a party school is a decision tage when entering the pressure meeting with another firm that life will never be the that almost everyone comes real world. Stone cold, wishes to do business with you. Your same. You might face-to-face with. And there are humorless people are the boss turns to you and says, “Why don’t get addicted to the some people who go to college only products of those you tell a joke?” Unfortunately, being drug—whatever it not knowing that their school is types of schools, and fresh out of the University of Socially- was—and spend the rest a party school—and I’m not nec- given the choice, a high Awkward Machines, so you merely of your life searching for the essarily blaming them. However, school student would stutter and fail to tell even the simplest drug, doing whatever it is you have those who know the college and be wise to select a of anecdotes. You receive notice the to do to get it. And to say you went still choose to go to it, they are the school such as the Uni- next day to clear out your office and to college to become a doctor? morally repulsive. They are run- versity of Wisconsin or ship out. Just the idea of an on-campus ning the risk of becoming addicted University of Colorado There is not a single person on the party is repulsive to me. What if to drugs, of over them. After all, face of this planet that would wish such someone is working on something losing their you can major in any an intensely morbid fate upon himself. that’s bound to make or break his sense of re- of the normal subjects Yet, the lack of true informative educa- future and the blaring music sponsibil- in every college, but tion on the subject of college leads us to and satanic screams coming ity, and of only certain schools believe that the Ivy League will give us from the party make him lose possibly destroy- will provide you with the best learning experience money can his train of thought? Would you ing human kind’s the social curriculum buy. However, that’s simply not the case. want that to be on your conscience for the future as we know you need as a human Don’t be the person to give Suzy the cold rest of your life? What if that person were to (or don’t know) it. being in our world today. shoulder: get a real education. go on to find a cure for one of our worst dis- Think about it. November 2005 Arts and Entertainment Page 13 The Hoof Chalik on the Sidewalk Beat Student Prepping for the Northsides of colleges by Ilya Chalik What do the CSS Profile and Mid-Year Report, Gra- that would best fit you, a task easier said than done. College Newspaper ham’s Law of Effusion, and the Fundamental Theorem of visits are useful, but may end up costing you or your parents a Calculus have in common? At Northside, they are a few of sizeable lump of change, mainly for transportation and food, the words inundating seniors who are trying to balance too depending on where you visit. Student e-mail: much at the same time. These words are familiar to seniors, Finally, after you attend all those information sessions, like me, juggling the college application process among a there is still a matter of filling out the application and paying a more is less multitude of AP courses and participation in athletic and hefty application fee, which often ranges from $20 to $75 dol- academic extracurricular activities. lars for each school. Besides the mundane paperwork, a slight- The number of student e-mails swamping our inboxes via Just stating that last sentence makes me shudder; imag- ly above-average application requires from one to four concise the mass student address list has already led to widespread ine actually accomplishing these objectives. Clearly, seniors essays, one to three teacher recommendations, a counselor’s frustration this year. Northside student e-mail accounts were have a lot of goals on their plate – trying to ensure their portion with transcript, official test score reports, mid-year set up two years ago to increase and encourage communica- near future, while balancing their present as full-functioning grade report, financial aid profiles (which, like the CSS, can tion between students, teachers, the administration, and the people and students. And if you aren’t a senior, chances are, actually cost over $18 per school to file), an interview, scholar- counseling department. However, students are misusing you’re dreaming about senior year at Northside, not entirely ship forms, and often other frustrating components. All that the server, sending out message after message of personal aware of the obstacles you will have to overcome. But stu- creates a drain on your brain and your wallet that makes one concerns to every student in the school. As a result, many dents should be dreaming about senior year because it is an want to point fingers at the College Board, which charges all students choose not to check their Northside e-mail accounts exciting time, which culminates the momentous experience that money for many of those grueling tests and document. at all, not wanting to sort through countless messages about that is Northside. However, dreaming will only get you so Yet, being aware of the application hodgepodge can save lost calculators, binders, or even misplaced coupon books. far. Putting dreams into reality is partly what senior year at some time and effort. Imagine sitting down and doing all that The line between appropriate and unacceptable student Northside is about. work the week before a college application is due and you e-mail usage has recently been crossed. During the past two The fact that the seniors feel a lot of anxiety about col- come to the realization that a good application takes much years, we received the occasional student message announc- lege is part of what makes us Northsiders. Because we go more time. Few of these things actually come knocking at ing a lost belonging. These messages were largely ignored by to a college preparatory high school, our stated goal is to your doorstep. You have to take the initiative to seek them out, most students, but some desperate to find their math binder go beyond the regular high school experience to learn the and coordinate all the pieces of the college application puzzle. would choose to send out an ineffective e-mail from time to skills needed for college. A college prep curriculum is thus But the worries aren’t over once applications are sent in time regardless. These e-mails seemed to be an annoyance, supposed to make us ready to go to college, with a – there’s the matter of waiting from one to three months to but a harmless burden that we would simply have to delete more rigorous preparation than a regular high know if you got in, and once those fat envelopes every once in a while. This year it has been a different story. school can offer. arrive, you’re left with the task of actually This year students have been sending a greater number of e- However, just because Northside is a picking the college that fits you best. Some mails announcing their most recent lost treasures than school college preparatory high school, it students know exactly where they want to go announcements. We hear more about beloved key chains than does not necessarily mean that the and utilize the binding Early Decision or the key club meetings. formal education we receive non-binding Early Action programs offered Around the time of the World Series, Sox and Cubs fans here prepares us entirely for at some colleges. However, most of us wait battled out their differences, cluttering our inboxes repeatedly either the college applica- until March and April, when we receive ac- with pointless e-mails. With the hassle of deleting pointless tion process or for college ceptance (or rejection) letters and financial e-mail after e-mail, many discouraged Northsiders disregard itself. This fact hit me on a aid packages. Finally, we have a few weeks their e-mail accounts altogether. What good is an e-mail recent college visit. The kind until May 1 to shop around. But how does server if students are not checking their e-mail? The purpose of learning that happens at a Northsider pick a suitable institution of of the accounts is to enhance communication, yet by selfishly Northside often provides us higher learning? abusing the network with trivial mass e-mails students are at with the tools with which to Going back to my college visit, fault for degenerating the system. learn, but certainly not the full which to the curious, was to Washington Perhaps we should be grateful that our inappropriate stu- body of truth available on any University in St. Louis, I have realized dent e-mails do not reach a level of severe impropriety, but at subject. Learning everything that it is an incredibly fun, though tiring, Northside we expect more than just decency. We expect stu- about Physics, US History or experience, especially if you do it with dents to practice common sense. We expect students to think Calculus in one or two years is friends. To get any real insight on the not only about their own missing hat, but of the 1000 other an impossible task. Therefore, college, however, the visit should prob- students whose inboxes they will fill, none of whom have any no Northsider should delude ably span more than 24 hours, and interest in their favorite hat whatsoever. How many of the lost himself into thinking that such include audits of multiple classes, belonging e-mails have begun, “I swore I’d never do this, but I a feat is possible, even at an as well as a stay in one of the dorms. lost my…” Yet students still choose to send the same fruitless intellectually exciting high There is also the question of when to do messages. Some students have responded to the influx of use- school like Northside. A the visit, from before applying to less e-mails with more e-mails, pointing out the stupidity of good Northside education immediately after acceptance, or sending out messages to every single student each time a pen gives us the ability to impar- even both. The benefit of visiting early is lost. These e-mails accurately point out that we have a lost tially interpret and analyze, but exists for schools that aren’t at the very and found, and it isn’t the responsibility of the entire school also stimulates the mind to unravel and deal with multiple top of one’s list, like Washington University to look after an individual’s belongings. Yet while correct in intricate, challenging problems simultaneously. was for me. I had only heard some vague statements about the their evaluation of the uselessness of lost item e-mails, the Such an intricate and challenging problem is the college college, and I had received a few letters from them. Although students who are sending out these critical messages are just application process. There are so many details to keep track I’m a very skeptical person, my visit there was incredibly pro- icing on the cake, further cluttering student inboxes. If the of, so many deadlines to meet, and all without any class ductive. I realized that it would be a decent match for me, if I missing item e-mails are SPAM, the e-mails attacking them periods to prepare. One might call the college application decided to go there. However, in order to fully weigh Washing- are just as worthy of that title. process a mandatory extracurricular activity for seniors, ton University as an option, I still have to be accepted there. We live in the 21st Century; we’ve all grown dependent one that habitually requires a great deal of effort outside of And getting accepted is not easy. No matter what people on AOL Instant Messenger and text messages to talk to each school, except that there is no sponsor and there aren’t any say, there is no one formula for getting into college, except other outside of school, means of communication that are teammates to work with. However, this activity is not some- maybe doing your absolute conscious best in high school and foreign to our parents. We use technology because it’s fast and thing to panic over, but something to approach with careful with the applications. Yet what I want to emphasize is that it’s convenient. On top of living in a technologically progres- forethought, as opposed to regretful afterthought. no senior year teacher will give you a big break in homework sive era, we go to Northside, one of the most unique and in- Seeking easy answers, many students strive to learn ev- during college application season, and no counselor will fill novative schools in the state. We are lucky to have the means erything they can about the process through outside sources the application out for you. The applications are your own to incorporate technology into our school and education— of information like handbooks, college representatives, or responsibility, and though there is help and advice, I don’t our student e-mail accounts are one of the most advantageous friends that have already completed the task. However, until know anyone who has escaped the anguish of doing them examples of this. But if we, as students, choose to misuse the you actually sit down and do the applications, chances are altogether. advantages we are given, we are the ones at fault. you will not be fully prepared. Many Northsiders are concerned about education; Student e-mail has the potential to enhance communica- The list of requirements for the applications can be otherwise, they would not be applying themselves in such an tion and aid Northside’s entire community. It is neither a slightly erratic if you’re not organized and expensive if you educationally challenging environment. Naturally, we want pointless nor overrated device, simply each individual student don’t have a fee waiver. Checking off points on the list, as to go to an outstanding college and utilize the foundation must take the responsibility to use our e-mail accounts prop- early as junior or even sophomore year, is definitely the we received in high school. The kind of critical thinking and erly so we can all reap the benefits. So next time you lose your better option, though a lot of students wait until senior year. strategic planning that one should learn at Northside should favorite pen, do us all a favor: go look in the lost and found. First, sit through multiple grueling sessions of the ACT, the be applied when choosing the right college, and during life at SAT, and often the SAT II, while paying from $20 to $50 college as well. The previous article is an editorial written by a a test, and often from $5 to $30 for each report you later The volume and deadlines are harsh, but feasible, as dem- member of the Hoof Beat staff. Letters to the editor decide to send to colleges. Then, to make sure your grades onstrated by the millions of students applying to college each are welcome. Please e-mail questions or comments to stay afloat and to try to score well on AP exams, which cost year. So when it comes to college applications treat them like [email protected]. over $80 apiece. You also have to take the enormous list of the biggest project of your high school career, yet with a much colleges and reduce it down to five to fifteen possibilities greater reward than an A on your report card. Page 14 Polls The Hoof Beat Combining junior and senior prom is a good idea. 1.93% 8.69% 45.54% 13.61%

Strongly Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Agree 45.54% 13.61% 30.23% 8.69% 1.93%

30.23%

I’m satisfied with the current classes offered this year. 0.96% 8.73% 22.50% 14.47%

Strongly Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Disagree 53.38% 0.96% 8.73% 14.42% 53.38% 22.50%

There should be stricter enforcement of the dress code policy. 3.85% 4.81% 12.73% 49.58%

Strongly Strongly Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Agree 49.58% 29.04% 12.73% 4.81% 3.85%

29.04%

The Bears will end the season with a winning record. 12.73% 4.81% 26.42%

Strongly Strongly 35.70% Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Agree 26.42% 22.27% 35.70% 12.73% 4.81%

22.27% November 2005 Arts and Entertainment Page 15 I like it, I love it, I want some more of it The Like releases their debut album by Michelle Zacarias Three girls are on fire; no, it’s not the start of a really lame joke, but rather a metaphor for the new up and coming girl band, “The Like.” The group is made up of three teenage girls, all of them tall, beautiful and slender, which means nothing if they don’t know how to entertain. Lucky for them they’ve composed a series of incredibly captivating songs on their new album Are You Thinking What I’m Thinking? Each band member significantly contrib- utes to the CD. Tennessee Thomas, for ex- ample, is an extraordinary back up drummer; she displays a remarkable amount of energy through an intense ritual of striking sounds that bounce off the walls in every fashion and form. Tennessee’s style of percussion is very traditional in the sense that it reminds you of the early 90s style of drumming; yet, it is distinctly unique in its own way. The drum solos, which appear often, are the best part of the songs: they draw the audience in by creat- ing an appealing rhythm and a catchy beat. Tennessee has come a long way since her all girl high school band, where she first started playing the drums. Recently, her mode of drumming has acquired a more sophisticated taste. The bass player, Charlotte Froom, has a distinctive fashion of playing. Although the bass is very low key, it completes the music and the appealing string tunes allow their songs to posses a classic sound. Charlotte allows the other instruments to flow over her sounds, and thus by supporting the rest of the song holds her audience. Her role is to serve as the backbone of the band and one hardly ever realizes the significance of the bass until its absence. However, Charlotte does not allow herself to be forgotten as she takes matters into her own hands, tuning herself up with the rest of the band to create numerous impressive harmonies. Z Berg is the lead vocalist, guitarist, and Angelo Bennet, Adv. 705, and Tommy Albano, Adv. 704, jam out to The Like’s newest CD, Are You Thinking What I’m Thinking? also functions as the band’s songwriter. Her Photo by Michelle Zacarias singing is probably the most mediocre part of their music. However, her simple vocal on the contrary, is emphasized within their aspects of volume. The drumming, on the Too Late. Yet it will take a lot more than one presentation is a relief to a certain extent; songs. Z seems to have quite a hand with the other hand, continuously improves until it song for “The Like” to be successful in the her straightforward approach fits excellently guitar and her technique oddly resembles finally peaks in Too Late, where the song music business. Their style is so conservative with the rest of the group because it doesn’t that of Kurt Cobain. The tunes she produces starts off with an outstanding quick paced that it’s hard for them to expose themselves in distract from the superb instrumental sounds. are absolutely captivating and, they confine beat and then moves into a captivating slower a way that is appealing to a diverse audience. The same goes with her lyrics: they are simple the listener through a range of slow and fast tune. The guitar also creates a fantastic swift The instruments, however, are put to excellent and understandable, and they transcend a rhythmic tunes. melody that rises and falls with Z through her use, and the unique sounds bring the audience message to an audience with no expecta- There were a few songs that stood out in vocals. in. Are You Thinking What I’m Thinking is tions. This allows listeners to just enjoy the “The Like’s” new album Are You Thinking The band’s overall performance on this highly recommended if you like similar bands undemanding lyrics without having to worry What I’m Thinking, such as What I Say and album is definitely above average, but not top like Maroon 5 or Phantom Planet. Despite about horrendous blood curling, screaming, What I Mean and Too Late. Both display an notch. The group needs that one song that these flaws, they are generally a good band and other unbearable sound effects that many excellent use of instruments, while Z manages will emphasize their talent and make them and many listeners will walk away saying “I rockers seem to portray nowadays. The guitar, to diversify her voice by controlling certain known to the world, that song just may be like the Like.” Findings of Oral Fixation Shakira spices it up in new album by Elizabeth Sobenes Colombian and Lebanese and received a great response. tastes in music. The Eng- artist, Shakira, released Within the first month, “La lish version of a few of her latest album, Fijacion Tortura” made its debut her songs will be included Oral Volumen I, or Oral as the ninth most popular in Oral Fixation Volume Fixation Volume I, on June video on MTV’s TRL and as II that is anticipated to be 7, 2005 in the United States. the first ever Spanish music released in on November The entire package, from video to be included in the 29th. the photography on the countdown. Most of the songs, cover to the last notes of This song was a lively however, are completely the final track, provides an duet with another great different than those entertaining and exquisite Latin artist, Alejandro Sanz. included in Volume I. If experience for the listener. Shakira’s strong and recog- Volume II consists of any The front cover captures nizable voice complimented of the strong vocal talent Shakira holding a child, Sanz’s thick and masculine Shakira exerts within which in actuality is her in- voice pleasantly. Shakira’s the first volume, it will fant nephew. Shakira’s cover ability to change vocal ranges undoubtedly be another reflects the album’s title Oral attributes largely to her suc- success. Fixation which is a reference cess for she does not sound Shakira’s unique style to the first stage of infantile like any other Latin female is ever present in various development according to vocal artist and has her own songs on Oral Fixation, Sigmund Freud. Originally, individual style. attracting people of all Shakira wished that the cover Being a Colombian and kinds of musical tastes. portray herself breast-feeding Lebanese artist allows Sha- Some songs, such as Strongly Strongly the baby in order to better kira to include sounds from “En Tus Pupilas” and Disagree Disagree Neutral Agree Agree illustrate the meaning behind both parts of her heritage and “Un Dia De Enero” the CD’s title. this contributes to the diverse have a melancholic tone. 26.42% 22.27% 35.70% 12.73% 4.81% However, when Wal- sound of her music. For ex- However, in compliance Mart refused to sell the CD ample, in one of her previous with today’s well known due to the controversial songs, “Suerte” which was reggaeton style dominat- cover-art, the selected cover included in the 2001 album ing Latin music, there is was changed to something Laundry Service, incorpo- a “Shaketon” mix of “La more suitable. rated Andean instruments Tortura” as well allowing The album clamored at- that added to the musical to express herself in a va- tention before its release ow- uniqueness of the song. riety of tones. All of these ing to several other factors as Shakira’s wide vocal approaches together make well. Previous to the album’s range abilities are displayed for a great combination The new version of Shakira’s Fijacion Oral Volumen I album after Walmart refused to sell release, one of the songs, “La in Oral Fixation and the that leaves the listener her original cover art, which depicted her breast-feeding an infant. Tortura” aired on the radio CD satisfies several different more than satisfied. Photo courtesy of www.shakira.com Page 16 Arts and Entertainment The Hoof Beat Pussycats belong with the kitty litter The Pussycat Dolls release debut album by Michelle Zacarias The Pussycat Dolls, an up and coming However, if The Pussycat Dolls can prove pop girl group, has made a struggling attempt their critics wrong, most are open-minded to touch everyone’s hearts with the remake enough to consider the possibility that the of their chart topping song featuring Busta group may actually have talents that Rhymes, “Don’t Cha,” which was originally are currently being overlooked. released by Tori Alamaze in March 2005. The music industry is a It is arguable that their number one battle field and The Pussycat song has only been successful because of the Dolls are struggling soldiers strikingly beautiful physical appearance of all hoping to get out alive, six members. Each of the group members is but if they don’t put unique and sexy in her own way. The girls’ their heads together personalities vary: the group displays punk to develop an rocker styles, sexier conservative styles, and amazing song, but even the typical “ghetto” couture. The diverse begin exploiting personalities of the each member bring a themselves in- mixture of sounds to their music. stead, the chances “Don’t Cha” was a standout song when are that The it was originally released, but now that it is Pussycat Dolls are continuously heard on the radio, MTV, in not tough enough to nightclubs, in restaurants, and just about flourish. They, and everywhere else, it has lost its novelty. their inferior version It is impossible not to get “Don’t Cha” of “Don’t Cha,” will be stuck in your head after listening to it over a history and The Pussycat hundred times, which makes it easy to mis- Dolls will be sent to the take it for a “catchy” song. Nice try, but most pound. will put “Don’t Cha” in the same category For whatever reason as “The Macarena” and “YMCA,” both of “Don’t Cha” has reached the which are one-hit-wonders. And it is highly 96.3 B96 “Nine Most Want- probable that in a few months, many will ed,” and topped the billboard have a difficult time even remembering who charts, received a following The Pussycat Dolls were. from high school teenagers The lyrics, however, do have some ap- that seem to enjoy the song, pealingly strong and seductive aspects. The regardless of how many times song, engaging mostly to the female popula- it is played. tion, has lyrics such as “Don’t Cha wish your The song, although not girlfriend was hot like me, don’t ya wish your completely degrading to the girlfriend was a freak like me.” One can’t original, is also not unrivaled deny that they want to say those very lyrics in its quality. The girls are to a long time crush themselves. each captivating in their own However, the one alluring part of the way, the lyrics are exciting but song, the lyrics, cannot even be credited to not their original lyrics, and the The Pussycat Dolls because the song is a song looks as though its will land remix of the original with little or no changes The Pussy Cat Dolls in the kitty to the verses. litter. “You will not be disappointed…” or will you? “The Pasta Bowl” in all of its saucy glory by Abir Usman Hustle and bustle, overflowing conversa- Once inside the restaurant, the next right next to them over tions, and an aroma of marinara sauce and mission is to find a place to sit, because this the noise of the numerous basil. These are the little things that make up is one small restaurant. The owners, Greg televisions, with small the ambiance at “The Pasta Bowl”, located Staeck and Chris McDermott call it “cozy” screens but unnaturally in Chicago’s north side on Clark Street, spe- on their webpage. Sure, it’s a cozy place, loud volumes, and the di- cializing in Italian cuisine with various types especially if people like to dine with random verse, awkward conversa- of pastas, meats, and sauces. strangers because there is not enough room tions others are having. The ambiance of “The Pasta Bowl” fits for a table of their own. It’s a tight area, but The Capellini Pomo- right in with the hustle and bustle of Clark it’s not the type of area that would make doro, which is an angel Street. However, before one can experience people who have claustrophobia break out hair pasta dish with fresh the joys of “The Pasta Bowl”, the first mis- into a panic attack. tomato marinara, basil, sion is to find parking. It’s close to impos- Popular restaurants can be busy, and if and fresh mozzarella, is sible and therefore, the trip must be planned it’s a good restaurant, a little claustrophobia by far one of the restau- accordingly. isn’t bad every once in a while. However, rant’s best pastas. That, Fortunately, if one is parked somewhat when there isn’t any elbow room, there is a however, cannot be said far away, Clark Street has a lot to offer, so a problem. for their Penne Puttanesca nice stroll along the various novelty shops Once people have found a place to sit, it’s which consists of pasta and viewing the busy late night atmosphere smooth sailing. All there is to worry about tubes with fresh tomato isn’t such a bad thing. is not having the ability to hear the person marinara sauce, calamata olives, capers, The sweet-tasting Penne Puttanesca served with bread white wine, and and mozzarella cheese. Photo by Abir Usman oregano. The Puttanesca was sweet tasting, which is a quality no The average cost for an order of Capellini pasta should ever have. Another dish Pomodoro and a drink is around $7.50. Or- that stood out as above average is the dering one dish for two people is a good idea, Ravioli stuffed with ricotta cheese especially if one does not like to waste food. and served with a fresh tomato mari- Otherwise, take the rest home for lunch on nara sauce. Thursday. Sorry Sloppy Joes. It actually ranked higher than One of the resturant’s best features was its the usual cheese ravioli from a excellent service. The waiting staff was there Chef Boyardee can. The Fettucine whenever needed, and had impeccable timing. Alfredo, however, was average. There They did not mind answering questions about was pasta, creamy sauce, and an the dishes and were very gracious. Another overwhelming heap of mozzarella unique and new aspect of the restaurant was cheese. that everyone could plainly see the prepara- It tasted as if it had come from tion of the dishes. the Olive Garden, where garnish was The chefs create the dishes in the open in short supply and it was decided and people can watch their tasty Ravioli with on the whim to load the dish with marinara sauce being created right in front of mozzarella cheese. Did they run out them. of garnish which led some genius to All in all, “The Pasta Bowl” is a great deal believe that cheese would work just for the price, but the food could be better. If as well as oregano? Please people, people cannot decide on what to do for din- don’t abuse the dairy products. ner, they should try out “The Pasta Bowl” on A teasing Fettucine Alfredo, one of many dishes offered at The Pasta Bowl. The portions served are enor- 2434 North Clark Street and decide if “dining Photo by Abir Usman mous and come for a great price. with random people” works for them. The Hoof Beat will be having a contest to revamp the current Mustang seal (the image that is located on the bottom left hand corner of the front page). Look for details about submission guidlines in the next issue. November 2005 Arts and Entertainment Page 17 Beresilicious: From the streets Savoring the sweet nectar of film of Chicago: My by Damon Beres Everyone has a favorite film, or at the very least an ever It is through their perfections increasing list of movies worthy of such a title. Personally, I that we acknowledge our im- Bloody Life stick to my guns that Hayao Miyazaki’s Princess Mononoke perfections, or through their is the finest film ever produced, animated or otherwise, but actions that we reflect on our by Zainab Bilfaqi Wayne’s World could be held in such high esteem by any own. Characters are integral Reymundo Sanchez’s suspenseful autobiography My number of my fellow peers. Why is this? Any film critic to the audience’s ability to Bloody Life portrays the everyday hardships of being aban- worth his weight in salt contends that there are distinct dif- connect to and have a dialogue with the film, and are thus doned by negligent parents and having to endure a life of ferences between a well-made film, and a shoddily made one a huge persuasive factor pertaining to the degree in which gang violence. This remarkable novel takes place in Chicago’s regardless of one’s personal taste, yet, that doesn’t mean that a person enjoys a film. After all, without characters, there very own Humboldt Park area in the late 1980s. The universal there is going to be unanimous love even for a film like The would be no movie. Despite their importance, characters theme of this incredible novel includes the main character’s Godfather. The difference, then, is how well an individual is are not everything. The three other factors that will vie for most noted saying: “Be a leader not a Follower!” The main able to relate with a movie. the audience’s favor are soundtrack, direction, and plot. character Reymundo, nicknamed Lil’ Loco, experiences the It’s an easy generalization to make, but what really A soundtrack can truly make or break a film for a person, devastating misery of growing up with no parents, drugs, gang speaks to us in a film? How is it that a single two-hour but it is perhaps the most difficult component to define and violence, and ultimately the turning point of his life—jail. movie can resonate so fiercely within a viewer, a flesh- mold. Direction is a bit more clear-cut, though good direct- Reymundo joins his gang “brothers” in the dangerous gang and-blood human, whose consciousness is a yarn ball of ing is rather rare in the Hollywood drivel most people are wars in the Kedzie and Armitage area allied with or against memories and experiences? There is certainly not just one subjected to on a regular basis. A camera is a potent tool in the constantly changing gangs: the Outsiders, the Gaylord’s, reason. Unlike our typical daily lives, movies are comprised sparking enlightenment within the audience, but it is often the Latin Disciples, and the Spanish Cobras. of refined soundtracks, perfect camera angles, characters misused by the director, leading the film down a bland path that never sneeze, and elegant dénouements. In other words, laden with cliché and boredom. Plot very much speaks for no matter how true a film feels or how deeply familiar a itself as a vital device for a person’s connection to the film: character seems, a trip to the cinema is not at all a parallel to an audience needs a driving story to experience and relate looking in a mirror. to; otherwise the film is hollow and worthless. Yet we see ourselves in movies from time to time. Not No matter how amazingly zesty a critic or friend claims on a literal level, of course: a young girl could see shards of a film is, their praise fails to matter unless one can form herself in The Nightmare Before Christmas’ Jack Skellington some sort of a connection to the movie through a character, in the same way that a lonely old man could see himself the music, direction, or plot. Therein lays the subjectivity of as Scarlett Johansson’s character in Lost in Translation. this art form: because of the highly personal experience of However, these characters, as aforementioned, are clearly not the cinema, it is rather hard to define a movie as “good” or exemplary of the average human living on planet Earth. A “bad.” As such, there are favorites but no bests in the realm movie character is a wretched abomination, a creature that of film. So just remember the next time you’re ferociously some script writer has birthed to convey an idea, entertain debating a film’s merit with your fellow man: one person’s audiences, or force the story onward. We love them anyway. Alien Versus Predator is another’s Chariots of Fire. Batman Begins: On DVD An action-packed thriller by Nadir Rashid Once again the classic Batman is As the story unfolds, it is shown that to the family fortune and is left with a back, and with 2005, there’s a new twist. Bruce Wayne had been scared for life close member outside of the family, the This movie, which has been recently since his childhood, when he fell in a butler. Bruce’s butler, Alfred, (Michael released on DVD, is the must have col- well near his house and was swarmed by Caine) is the only person who Bruce lectors’ item for those die-hard Batman a pack of bats. This event torments him feels can understand what he is going fans. The whole story revolves around for the rest of his life, but it also helps through. Bruce Wayne, (Christian Bale) and his him reveal his true inner powers. Bruce When Bruce remembers what hap- attempt to make the city of Gotham Wayne is also scarred by the traumatic pened to his parents, he is overcome cleaner from criminals. Gotham is well- death of his parents. with the idea to free the city of crime. known for being infested with vandals Bruce went to a play with his par- He invests money into a weapons base, and criminals literally crawling through ents and is suddenly reminded of the which is already officially his, and gets Cover of Reymundo Sanchez’s autobiography My the streets, and to this, there are menda- bats and asked to leave. As soon as the all of his weapons and armors. As soon Bloody Life, which takes place in Chicago’s own cious political figures that are in on Wayne family left the auditorium, they as this idea of freeing the city of crime Humboldt Park area in the late 1980s. these criminal acts. The richest of these encountered a street thug with a gun is implanted into his head, he becomes Photo courtesy of www.amazon.com political leaders can easily climb their that not only robbed them but took the Batman. Some of Batman’s qualities include being slick, stealthy, and intel- This engrossing page turner is so profoundly written that way to the top and can finish anything lives of Bruce Wayne’s parents. the reader feels he is actually experiencing the events with with the power of their cash. Bruce Wayne is thus the rightful heir ligent. The fighting scenes in this Reymundo. This suspense-filled book appeals to younger read- movie are really ones to wait for ers, but the older generation may view it as a chilling reality. and they truly deliver a lot of The parts of the book that will most appeal to readers are action. There is one in particular those that apply directly to teenage pressure points: sex, drugs, that stands out: a drug deal is violence, gangs, etc. When analyzed critically, it is horrify- going down and Batman makes ing to realize the accuracy of the events that take place in the a big entrance and dispatches the book. criminals. This is just one of the Love, honor, and loyalty are all important principles in many amazing scenes which show Reymundo’s life. These principles brought him and his “broth- how far we have come, from the ers” together. The strength of this bond is expected to surpass classic Wild West gun fights, to the all; they should be willing to die for one another. Reymundo’s contemporary special effect fights. boys all say “I have your back,” but when he really needs their The special effects are some help and support, he is left alone. The irony is that Reymundo of the best effects in any current is punished when he’s not there for his “brothers,” but when it movie. These special effects are is their turn to support him; nobody seems to mind the lack of best seen in all of the fighting assistance. scenes and show how Hollywood An aspect of the book that I found distasteful was the has improved over the years. In graphic description of the sexual scenes. With the authors’ one specific scene, Batman turns awareness of the intended audience being of such youthful the tables on the villain Scarecrow age it was absurd that he would include every detail of himself by injecting him with the Scare- engaging in sexual relations. It is reasonable that the author crow’s own fear: toxin. Scarecrow included this in the book, but such description was not neces- hallucinates and Batman is thus sary. portrayed as a dark and violent An important aspect of the book is that it addresses the monster. This scene is one of idea of greed. Everyone wants something and the gangs are those you have to see to believe. usually fighting over territory, girls, drugs, or money. They are The best movie of the year also so driven to fulfill these desires that they actually commit mur- is the best DVD of the year. This der. This can be analogous to the desires of members living DVD includes many things such in contemporary society; people kill each other over the most as 5.1 Dolby surround sound. The irrelevant and materialistic things. main thing that this DVD has to Some objectors of the book view the book a promotion for offer is the second disk provided, because it contains behind-the- and sympathy for gang violence. However, the author clearly scene features which show the base states in the first few pages that My Bloody Life is “by no of the special features. This be- means a justification for gang involvement or gang crime. My hind-the-scene feature is known as Bloody Life is the story of a lifestyle and the destruction it cre- “Batman - The Journey Begins.” ates.” This verifies the fact that the intention of the author was The special features in this DVD not to promote gang membership, but rather as a cautionary are astounding and truly remark- tale to the youth of America. The author hits on exactly the able. topics that influence teens today and does an impressive job of Other than this, the commen- composing very pessimistic topics into a positive outlook for tary in this movie provides tons of his readers. information on how the actors felt Though the author is, at times, unbelievably blunt in My working on this, and the type of Bloody Life, the subsequent emotional impact on people’s environment they had to do it in. lives is enormous. Although the author was very graphic in Overall, this movie DVD is certain scenes, the reality of his tragic life was clearly por- The box office hitBatman Begins looks to add to its $205 million gross in great, and many people who have trayed. Indeed, the overarching themes of love, honor, and theatres by the release of its DVD version. seen it have complimented its spe- loyalty, as well as the price one must pay for them, resonates Photo courtesy of www.warnerbros.com cial effects and its fantastic action. deeply within My Bloody Life. Page 18 Sports The Hoof Beat Spirit, attitude, and determination Potential in new cheerleaders by Andrea Ljevar and Vasiliki Mitrakos It’s a whole new year for the varsity cheerleaders, and choosing a sense of relief when it was over new cheerleaders is a tough task. Tryouts for the new season were because I felt confidence in myself.” held on October 20th, in Northside’s gymnasium. With practices Three girls at a time were lead three times a week, a new routine and goals, the new cheerleaders into a room and had to perform should be ready for a grueling season. what they learned at the clinics to There were an equal proportion of freshmen and sophomore the coach and the judges, who all girls with the exception of some juniors and one senior. Before the had previous cheerleading experi- tryouts, girls interested in trying out had to attend mandatory clinic ence. meetings on Monday, October 17th, and Tuesday October 18th in As girls performed the routines, the third floor atrium. Throughout the clinics, the girls were taught they were taught in clinics. They a new cheer, a dance, jump, and a stunt, all of which were to be appeared upbeat and confident. performed during try-outs. They were also asked to display The new cheerleaders should expect to learn more complex their strength by holding up a fellow routines that are more gymnastics oriented. Cheerleaders on the cheerleader. After the girls finished, team already went to a camp this summer, where they worked on they left with a look of daunting their routines. anxiety present on their faces. “Camp was a bonding experience for us, we grew closer,” said The judges deliberated, with Barbara Battaglia, Adv. 805. “But it was very grueling. We cheered input from the two team captains, for more than 12 hours, from waking up at 6 a.m. and not getting Chelli Zantoni, Adv. 602, and Kath- back in our beds till well after 10 p.m.” erine Thomas, Adv. 606, on which The girls trying out showed instant potential. Both Coach Men- girls to choose for the squad. The doza and the cheerleaders on the team noted this fact. try-outs paid off even though the “We are looking for attitude and spirit,” said Coach Mendoza. turnout out wasn’t large. Either way, “We saw potential skill and strength in a good portion of the girls.” the judges and cheerleaders were “I can see a lot of potential in the girls,” said Jenna Witkowski, pleasantly surprised by the talent Adv. 705. “It may take them time to adjust but they seem willing to these girls seemed to possess. make it.” “Northside has been improving Aside from cheering for the varsity basketball team, the squad from year to year, and it can only will participate in multiple competitions. This will be their second get better from here,” said Coach year entering the city competition and the team hopes to enter Re- Mendoza. gionals, where they can compete with suburban schools. The squad Although the tryouts went well, will benefit if they obtain more competitive experiences. the lack of boys disappointed the The members on the squad have formed tight bonds, which can squad. be evident from the friendly aura given off during tryouts. “Boys have a stereotypical view “We are accepting and easy to get along with,” said Jenna Wit- of cheerleading that they aren’t pre- kowski. “We will form strong friendships with them.” pared to grow out of,” said Coach Mendoza. “Plus many of the boys Standing outside the gymnasium the girls anxiously perfected The cheerleaders practice their stunts as bases Rhianna Jones, Adv. 810, and their routines. The cheerleaders previously on the team were a help- worry more about academics that Tatiana Karpouzian, Adv. 801 lift flyers Jill Swanson, Adv. 701, while Ben Ortiz, ing hand. As the new girls practiced their routines, the cheerleaders they wouldn’t be able to commit to Adv. 701, spots from behind. were eager to help them perfect the position of their arms, where our schedule.” Photo by Kano Yoo their hands were suppose to be, and other small fixes to make their The try outs left the judges con- performance better. sidering many potential cheerleaders. Northside’s cheerleading squad will no doubt grow competi- “It was nerve wrecking,” said Katie Fuentes, Adv. 905. “I felt Even with the lack of the opposite sex present on the team, tively and bring home some crucial and prestigous victories. Back-to-back—how ‘bout that? Women’s Golf Team repeats by Ashraf Abbas They’ve done it again; the Northside so that they could take a good look at their Women’s Golf team played hard this year and strengths and weaknesses. Having won the reigned as City Champions. City Championship last year, the team’s play- “I felt that the girls really gave it their best ers were in their prime and needed nothing shot,” said Coach Nick Demitropoulos. “It more than to polish a few strokes and refresh has been such an honor for us to win the City their memory of the game plan. Championships in back to back years, but this “Preparing for the competition was noth- year was twice as nice.” ing out of the ordinary from what I usually practice,” said Kaytlin Hack, Adv. 703, who currently holds the number two spot for top high school women’s golf players. “I was just putting, working on long iron shots and was driving at the range.” The players’ practice regimen paid off well. The team easily advanced to the Regional Championships and played against tough suburban high schools like Maine West, Glenbrook South, and Evan- ston Township. Considering the fact that suburban schools have more advanced golf programs, and that this was the team’s first regional competi- tion, Northide’s Women’s Golf did very well. The players took these schools on one by one to the best of their abilities and finished tenth out of seventeen. As for their future ambitions, the team is looking to set the bar much higher than it had been set for this year. Coach Demitropoulos hopes to finish seventh in the Regional Cham- pionships next year. He also hopes that Tanya Nagatani, Adv. 802, will be able to move The driver poses no problems for Kate Pettinato, Adv. up to sectionals. 709, who hits a long shot down the fairway of the first “Tanya Nagatani will have tee. a great shot if she works hard Photo by Maxwell Brown [in the off-season],” said Coach The hard work and dedication of Kaytlin Demitropoulos. Hack, Adv. 703, Kristie Hack, Adv. 800, Fueled by their greatest ambitions, the Kathleen Pettinato, Adv. 709, Tanya Na- players hope to push themselves up and out gatani, Adv. 802, and Elizabeth Hausheer, to new heights. With their coach as their ally Adv. 802 contributed to this fantastic achieve- and each other as support, the players plan to ment. bring everything they’ve got together and put In the days before the competition, the it into their game. This recent accomplish- players trained as hard as they played. Along ment can act as their launching point, their with their usual team practices, members springboard into the Regional Champion- allowed themselves time to practice alone ships, and maybe even something greater. November 2005 Sports Page 19 Conference, region, does not guarantee city by Mohammad Rahman The Northside Women’s Garcia, Adv. 605, had Varsity Volleyball Team had four blocks; Ashley a very successful season Rivera had twelve digs. this year, winning the Red There are four Conference Champion- seniors on the team, ship. The team narrowly Massiel Garcia, Lizzie defeated Lane Tech to win O’Meara, Adv. 601, the championship of the Cory Craig, Adv. 606, most competitive divisions and Kristen Byrne, Adv. in CPS sports. After going 604, who will be gradu- undefeated in their confer- ating from Northside. ence throughout the regular “I am very sad these season, winning all ten seniors will be unable games, the Mustangs made to play next year,” said it through the City Playoffs Katy Ceisel, Adv. 909. successfully. Unfortunately “But I anticipate that they lost the City Champi- the volleyball team will onship match to Whitney have a great season Young, 22-25. next year and maybe by “Whitney Young played practicing very hard we their game,” said Maggie might be able to grab O’Connell, Adv. 807, who the City Champion- plays the outside position on ship title from Whitney the team. “Northside Col- Young.” lege Prep started off slow “Very excited about and by the time we were on next season,” said Liz the top of our games, it was Kivel. “I expect great already too late, but we did things from Women’s come in second place in the Varsity Team on ’06.” city.” The volleyball team The players have is composed of many positive feelings about their athletes who aside from performances this season. being on the school “After a tough loss in team are also currently game one, the team started on club teams, such as off strong in game two with Powerhouse, Impact, a strong lead, led by juniors Volleyball players, Angie Nizio, Adv. 710, Courtney Konow, Adv. 801, and Reese Eschmann, Adv. 700, back away as Kim Edge and Adversity, to Angie Nizio, Adv. 710, and Able, Adv. 709 dives in for the ball. improve their gameeven Alyssa Walther, Adv 710,” Photo by Shoaib Khan in the off-season. said Coach Flores. “Ashley With such dedicated Rivera, Adv. 811, led our defense ended in the sectional playoffs with juniors that will be seniors next give 120 percent every time they are volleyball training all year round, against a strong Whitney Young of- a loss to Niles North. year, so we have high expectations.” on the court.” the Women’s Varsity Volleyball fense. Their offense came out strong “We are the first volleyball team The energy at the volleyball Such players are Massiel Gar- team should be more than ready to in the end and our blocking couldn’t in Northside’s six year old history games was beyond description, with cia, Adv. 605, Angie Nizio, Alyssa launch a successful season next year match it. We played strong through- to be the regional champion against nearly deafening cheering ringing Walther, Adv. 710, and Ashley as well. out the match. It was a great game Von Steuben,” said Liz Kivel, Adv. from the bleachers. Rivera. For example, at the city “One of things I love about fall and season.”Subsequently, the 706, who plays the position of “Every single player is a valu- championships Angie Nizio, Adv. is going to the women’s volleyball varsity volleyball team defeated middle on the team. “Our goal for able asset to the team,” said Coach 710, had one block, two aces, and games.” said Patricia Mazur, Adv. Von Steuben to seize the Regional next season is to represent the city Ms. Nicole Flores, “but there are four kills; Alyssa Walther, Adv. 710, 701. “I can’t wait to watch them Championship title. Their season and go down state. We have strong some players who stand out and had five kills and two block; Massiel dominate again next year!” Defending against the rebuilding process Improved division challenges Bulls’ Playoff aspirations by Idrees Mohiuddin At first it wasn’t too apparent that Bulls’ move by the front office. He and Michael covery from that horrible lot, but they should be able to be competitive General Manager John Paxson was going Sweetney should bring a new and excit- start was pretty impres- in the playoff chase with the caliber defense to alter a successful 2004-2005 roster that ing frontcourt for years to come. Ben sive. This team is still they have. I see them ending up in the middle narrowly lost in the first round of the playoffs Gordon and Kirk Hinrich should be young though, and of the conference and in the lower end of the to the Washington Wizards. Many experts in All-Stars this year.” they have lost a few playoffs. the sports media predicted minimal changes Last year’s squad began the season key pieces from last Many NBA franchises would love to have to the roster, possibly one or two moves so in a major slump, starting out 0-9 and year. I don’t think the level of talent the Bulls have consider- that the Bulls could maintain cap room for winning only one of their first eleven they’ll outperform last ing the age of the team’s players collectively. the 2006-2007 season. Yet, it turned out that games during the month year’s success by a However, due to the inexperience of many of this scenario was far from the case as six new of November. It ap- the players, they lack a potent offensive threat players have joined the Bulls’ roster via trade peared as though the that the Bulls can rely on day in and day out. and free agent acquisitions. franchise would Last season’s Sixth Man of the Year Award Last season, Paxson and Bulls’ Head never arise from went to guard Ben Gordon who was able to Coach Scott Skiles were very successful at the depths of contribute 15.1 points per game off the bench instilling a defensive-minded mentality in in 24.4 minutes per game. His clutch shoot- their crop of young players. With the likes ing down the stretch earned him a reputation of point guard Kirk Hinrich, shooting guard as one of the NBA’s most fearless and clutch Chris Duhon, small forward Luol Deng, offensive performers. power forward Antonio Davis, and center “Ben Gordon was big for the Bulls last Eddy Curry, the Bulls were able to compile a season,” said Darrel Johnson, Adv. 700. respectable record of 47-35, second best in the “He’s clutch when it counts, but I think Central Division and third best in the Eastern the Bulls will struggle this year. They’re Conference. a good defensive team, but the fact that However, two-fifths of the starting line- they don’t have a go-to guy like Tracy up is no longer with the team as both Eddy McGrady will hurt them in the long-run. I Curry and Antonio Davis were dealt to the think they’ll suffer to catch-up at times and New York Knicks via trade in return for will be unable to take control of games early forward Mike Sweetney, guard/forward Tim on.” Thomas, and guard Jermaine Jackson. Tyson The Central Division in the Eastern Con- Chandler has replaced Curry at the center the Central ference is surprisingly competitive this year. position while newly acquired power forward Division and from the Both the Milwaukee Bucks and the Cleveland Darius Songaila, a member of the Sacra- bottom of the Eastern Cavaliers have added necessary components mento Kings last season, replaces Davis at the Conference and would to their respective squads, making each team power forward position. In addition, small continue to be in the legit playoff contenders. The Indiana Pacers forward Andres Nocioni continues to start at “rebuilding process” that have the 2003-2004 Defensive Player of the the small forward position, after he filled in began from the 1999 Year back in Ron Artest, who was suspended for Loul Deng following Deng’s wrist injury lockout season. And last season for 73 games following a brawl in last season. then the team began Detroit. His presence alone instills the Pacers “Despite the loss of Eddy Curry, the Bulls to increase its defensive back into the elite of the NBA. And the De- should have another strong season because of pressure and contained troit Pistons are the reigning Eastern Con- their strong core of young talent,” said Ikram the opposition to less than ference Champions with one of the leagues Khan, Adv. 800. “They’ll be fine as long as 100 points for 25 consecu- most balanced teams, automatically inserting they follow Skiles’ defensive philosophies tive games, which helped themselves into the elite of the NBA as well. and continue to hustle as they did last season. propel the team into playoff “The Central Division is just too tough Hopefully, the team shouldn’t have another contention and atop the Eastern Confer- this year,” said Darrel Johnson. “I hate to poor start to the season as they did last year.” ence standings. admit it but the Bulls might end up at the bot- “They lack interior presence but still are “Their defense was amazing last year,” tom of the division if they aren’t able to build strong defensively,” said Saif Rahman, Adv. said Geoffrey Wang, Adv. 700. “The fact that on what they had last year. I personally don’t 803. “Re-signing Tyson Chandler was a good they were able to make such an amazing re- believe that they’ll make the playoffs.” Page 20 Sports The Hoof Beat Khan-Ya Batting Leadoff Hear Me? Men’s Softball at Semi-Finals \by Max Brown Reaching the semi- President finals for the first time in the history of the sport Chappelle? at Northside, the Men’s by Asrar Khan Softball Team had a lot to It takes a real man to admit his be proud of this year. The mistakes. Climbing atop a mountain and team had a strong season yelling to the world “all right folks, I was in the Blue North Division wrong, I was stupid” is indeed difficult to with a record of seven do (which I am finding out as I write this wins and three losses. column). But, nevertheless, it has to be Their only defeats were done, for the integrity of sports journalism. at the hands of Roosevelt Enough of this though. Let’s get it over and Schurz high schools. with. “Every game was In my first column ever—the one exciting,” said Elliot Rem- released hot off the presses the first day of bert, Advisory 704, “even school—I wrote the following: “I am sick when the team lost.” of Sox and Cubs fans who think their team After last year’s is always supreme and must unnecessarily sub-par season with an create arguments as to which team is better. inexperienced roster, the Though I’m a hardcore Cubs fan, I’m not team was moved from the completely brain dead. Neither team will Red Division to the Blue win a championship until Dave Chappelle Division this year, where becomes president.” it excelled without some Now, as I’m sure you know by now, of its former competi- the Cubs did not win the championship, or tion, Lane Tech and Von even come close for that matter. However, Steuben. The team placed people tell me the other Chicago team, second in conference. In which apparently preaches clean socks, fact, the team argued that had a magnificent run to the World Series, they were not content with The Mustangs support their teammates from the sidelines at one of their Winnemac Park games. From capped off by winning the title. All right the level of competition left to right: Kevin Hom, Rory Staiger, Travis Boewadt, Sergio Mendoza, Wade Killman. Sox fans, I’ll give your team the props. The they faced. Photo by Kana Yoo Sox are (or were—Reinsdorf hasn’t resigned “We should prob- Captain Konerko yet) a damn good team, ably be back in the Red Division next year the team in home runs, or even Billy Figueroa good as Hancock,” said Rory Staiger, Advi- and play the style of baseball that my be- considering we were in the final four [of the lending us support from the sidelines, I have sory 710, “but it was an accomplishment to loved Cubbies ought to prioritize. And last City Tournament],” said Michael Florian, been extremely glad to have joined the softball make it to semi-finals. Next year we should time I checked, no, Dave Chappelle hasn’t Advisory 708. “We had a good season, better team this year.” come back and be even stronger.” submitted his name for the Democratic than anyone expected us to do.” The last game of the season was on the The team wishes a heartfelt goodbye to ballot. Entering round three of the playoffs, 26th of October against Hancock High School its two seniors, Sergio Mendoza and Ryan You may think I’m bitter, but I’m really Northside had no problems at quarter finals at UIC. After scoring four runs early on, the Powers, who contributed both offensively and not. I may not be that happy for Sox fans, where they faced Lakeview, with an impres- team started the sixth inning leading four to defensively to the year’s success. but I’m happy for our city. Chicago was sive win at a score of five to two. The win two. Four runs were scored on the Mustangs With an excess of confidence, the Mus- put on the map this October, something made them the most successful Northside in the bottom of the sixth, credited to fielding tangs look forward to next year. we’ve lacked since the infamous days of Men’s Softball Team, surpassing the 2003 errors, which included rarities in the regular “We will have a team full of seniors,” said MJ and his crew. The city was vibrant, as team. season such as bobbled grounders and missed Michael Florian. “We’re going to have a lot evidenced by the hundreds of thousands of “Everyone played a vital part in making it fly-balls. of experience on the team; we should be able fans that flooded the Sox parade. Northside that far,” said Elliot Rembert. Neither would score again in the game, to take city.” was buzzing too, especially over the student Elliot was eager to point out the team ef- and the team finished with an unfortunate The feeling is clearly shared throughout email system. The annoying email argu- fort involved, and not at all reserved about his loss to Hancock by a score of six to four, the team. ments and little “GO SOX” messages were four home runs in only the ten regular season eliminating them from the playoffs. Still, “Eight of our ten starters will be coming a little lame, but demonstrated how hungry games. though a depressing loss, the team got to back next year,” said Elliot. “I feel confident Sox fans were for a title. “Whether it was Tito [Garza] pitching celebrate making it to semi-finals. that we will bring home a long-awaited city However, certain things, or more every game for us,” said Elliot, “my leading “It’s heartbreaking to lose to a team as championship." specifically, certain people irked me of the whole “I’ve always been a White Sox fan” situation. Let me make it clear: I’ve lost Putting their way to regionals my respect for Bernie Mac. First of all, he initiates the infamous NLCS collapse with his "Take Me Out to the Ball Game" Men’s golf team challenges during Game Six. Instead of singing, "root, by Shoaib Khan root, root for the Cubbies," he sang "for the Although the Men’s Golf Team per- Competition. tition were Jonathon Nagatani, Max Brown, champs'' or "champions," depending on formed well at the Conference and City com- “I knew that if four members of our team Brian Lynch, Charlie Benandi, Eric Nelson, whose memory you tap. So, after acting so petitions, they were left in awe at the Regional shot the lowest they could realistically shoot and Eli Tullis. giddy over the Cubs, why is Mac, in lieu of Competition by New Trier. Even though that day,” said Jonathon Nagatani, Adv. 605, At the Regional Competition the subur- the Sox Championship, now saying: "I ain't some new members of the golf team were in “then we would have a reasonable chance ban teams dominated the scores. Northside never been no Cub fan. They hate us, and denial, some senior members knew what to of moving onto sectionals. However, taking was in 12th place, trailing back with a score we hate them." expect as they participated at the Regional into account it was the first regional tourna- of 366. New Trier, however, came out to be Wow. What a joke. Mac is nothing but ment for over half of victorious with a score of 298 followed by a lame celebrity trying to get in five minutes the team, I had a feeling Glenbrook North and Glenbrook South with of limelight. It seems every year these mys- nerves might hinder the scores of 304 and 312 respectively. terious celebrities come out of nowhere and performance of our new Nonetheless, the Men’s Golf Team pledge their fake allegiance. It’s sickening players.” deserves credit for qualifying for the Regional for not only Sox or Cubs fans, but sports in The Men’s Golf Competition. In its Conference, Northside general. Fake fans have no place in sports. Team consists of eight placed third behind Walter Payton, who won Next year, when the retooled Cubs, with players in total. There first, and Lincoln Park, who won second. marquee Rafael Furcal leading off and bat- is one senior, Jonathon In the City Competition, Northside’s ting .325, reach the World Series, Mac will Nagatani, Adv. 605. The Men’s Golf Team placed fourth trailing take off his Sox jacket, revealing a “Prior” two juniors on the team Lincoln Park, Walter Payton, and Whitney jersey underneath. Then he will proclaim are Max Brown, Adv. Young, who all were ranked first, second, and to the world, “When I said they hate us, I 706, and Brian Lynch, third respectively. Over the past four years, wasn’t talking about the Cubs. I was only Adv. 706. Currently the Men’s Golf Team had four varsity golf referring to Cub fans. Go Cubs. Take my there is only one sopho- coaches. However, this year the Northside’s picture, yo.” more, Charlie Benandi, Men’s Golf Coach is Chris Oehlerking, a pro- But let’s digress from dissing Bernie Adv. 804. The rest of fessional golfer at the Winnetka Golf Club. Mac here; he isn’t worth the limited print the team consists of four “I have experienced three of Northside’s space. Let me continue on my apology to- freshmen: Eric Nelson, four varsity golf coaches,” said Jonathon Na- wards the Sox. The Sox were a great team. Adv. 905, Eli Tullis, gatani, Adv. 605. “This year’s coach, Coach They played the basics. They hit clutch; Joe Adv. 907, Corey Leher, Oehlerking, is undoubtedly Northside’s Crede hit .252 all season, but erupted to hit Adv. 906, and Marshall most organized and professional golf coach, like .700 in the playoffs (well it was actually Lesueur, Adv. 908. especially considering this being his first year .289, but it felt like a lot more because of During the golf working as a CPS high school golf coach. He the timeliness of those hits). There was competition, six mem- is seriously considering coaching Northside’s solid defense, as evidenced by the two bers from every school Men’s Golf Team for 2006, with an emphasis amazing plays Juan Uribe made to record compete against six on earlier and more efficient training for the the final two outs of the World Series. If members of other teams. team.” that had been Derek Jeter, we would be In the end, the top four The golf team is holding high prospects hearing so much about Jeter’s courage, scores from each team for next year and hopes to advance through bravery, leadership, blah. But because it count towards the final the Regional Competitions. Moreover, the was Uribe, the two plays have been quickly score for each team. Men’s Golf Team is also looking forward for forgotten outside of 40% of Chicago. The Regional Com- the freshmen of this year to carry the team Look, the point I’m trying to make here petition was held at the through next year. is that even though I don’t like the Sox, I re- Glenview Golf Club “The Men’s Golf Team will definitely im- spect them. They accomplished a lot. Dave on Thursday, October prove next year,” said Brian Lynch, Adv. 702. Chapelle didn’t have to become president Eli Tullis, Advisory 907, sinks a long putt at Winnetka Golf 6th, 2005. The six team “The team this year had a lot of freshmen, for them to win the World Series. Let’s all Club, the team’s practice course. members that competed and with their improving skills, we can win thank God for that. Photo by Maxwell Brown in the Regional Compe- the City Championship next year.”