Pages 8-9 Pages 10-11 Centerfold: Chicago Election 2006 International campaign trail Film Festival

eat Who will take his place? Northside’s Principal Selection Process

by Ashraf Abbas Dr. James Lalley,

B Northside’s principal, will retire at the end of this school year. While this fact saddens many of North- side’s students and staff, the Local School Council (LSC) has promised to find a principal that will be just as qualified as Dr. Lalley.

Northside’s LSC is made up six Northside The parents, teachers Mr. Tim

oof Devine and Ms. Mulligan, two community members, student representative Olivia Henry, Adv. 803, and Dr. Lalley. The LSC Vol. 8 No. 3 Northside College Preparatory High School November 2006 Vol. possesses powers that allow it to make many decisions that greatly affect North- side. Perhaps the most H important of these powers is to select a new principal if the current principal is ever either fired or chooses to retire. Upon realizing Dr. Lalley’s retirement plan in early July, the LSC started to exercise its power. It cre- ated a Principal Selection Committee, which consists Dr. James Lalley and Ms. Martha Mulligan carefully discuss the Principal Selection process and its recent of the LSC minus Dr. progress. Lalley and Olivia Henry. Photo by Maxwell Brown The reason for shutting bring in as many candidates as possible. They to cut down the list of candidates to those best out members is due to guidelines that specifically sent in requests to organizations like Golden suited for the job. state that Dr. Lalley, as acting principal, is not al- Apple Awards (and their winners), and the Asso- Sometime in November, the Committee lowed to vote for his successor, and Olivia Henry, ciation for Gifted and Talented Educators. They hopes to invite their list of potentials to North- as a student, cannot vote on personnel matters. also posted articles and ads in the CPS e-bul- side for a formal interview. This interview will “I think we’re really blessed to have such a letin, the New York Times, Education Weekly, include a 30 minute writing prompt and a 40 hardworking, cohesive group,” Dr. Mary Lou Principal.org, and Agent K-12.org (a website). minute interview by the entire principal selec- Schmidt, LSC Chairperson, said. “It’s an amaz- Application deadlines were set for October 6, tion committee. Although the 30 minute writing ing privilege because I do think that our school 2006, but the committee did not receive many prompt may seem unnecessary to those look- knows what we need more than the people applications. ing in from the outside, the Committee wants downtown.” “The problem was that some candidates to make it clear that they are looking for a very Before anything was set in motion, the com- called the Principal Selection Office saying that well-read candidate and that an on-the-spot mittee had to decide on a viable list of criteria by pages 1-3 they were not allowed to register as candidates prompt is one of the best ways to do this. News which to assess candidates. The list, as posted on because they were not part of CPS,” Dr. Schmidt The final candidates from this round will the LSC website, states that the optimal candi- • Debate team crushes said. then be invited back to Northside in January for competition date will possess traits that include 1) dedication This was not supposed to happen, as the plan a public forum. The majority of the forum will to the creation of an atmosphere of nurturing, • Freshman friday was to pull from a national pool of candidates. A include Northside students, faculty, staff and supporting, and challenging gifted-talented ado- few calls to Arnie Duncan, CEO of the Chicago parents asking each candidate what it is they plan lescents, 2) technological adeptness, 3) significant public Schools system, who happens to be very to do as Northside’s principal. Features pages 4-5 teaching experience, 4) demonstrated innovative, supportive of the Committee’s efforts, fixed the After this forum, the Committee will come visionary, and effective leader ship abilities in • Northside’s German issue. The LSC then extended the application together and make its final decision. The contract secondary education, and 5) a deep understand- visitors deadline to October 27th, encouraging all appli- for Northside’s new principal will start July 1st ing of multiple pedagogies appropriate for gifted, Editorial pages 6-7 cants to re-apply. On October 28th, the Commit- 2007, and with all of the work done up to that talented learners. tee, finding themselves with 23 applications, went point, the LSC can only hope that their chosen •Beresoufflé: I hate the Soon after, the committee started to advertise ahead with their plan and quickly assessed the candidate will be a good fit for the Northside College Board on both local and national scales in an effort to applications by using the aforementioned criteria community. •Topinka vs. Blagoevich: who’s got the better hair? Centerfold pages 8-9 • Election hot topics Peer Jury programs suit Northside • Rich Whitney for the Green Party by Zlatana Alibegovic administrator or offered the oppor- vital questions: Does the student lish a plan of action in which the Northside’s Peer Jury program acknowledge accountability for his A & E pages 10-13 tunity to participate in the Peer Jury student has great input. will be reinstated this year. As- program. or her actions? What skills does the “Everyone will respond better • Black Eyed Peas rock sistant Principal Lisa Moreno says “Ideally, you won’t see them in student need to learn or develop because the student has a voice in Chicago the program is intended to allow the punishment,” Moreno • Radkowski: How did your students to play a bigger role in the said. parents let you out of the Northside community. house? Ms. Moreno has seen a “The program is supposed to very positive response from Sports pages 14-16 give students a voice and to see that Northside students. She has • Northside women take city their actions can have a greater im- received at least 15 emails in volleyball and golf pact on their surrounding environ- from students who are ment,” Moreno said. interested in participating, The main goal of this program and has recruited a mod- is to offer the “Referred Student,” erator, Dr. Peggy Murphy. or the student who chooses to Moreno hopes to have, at violate school rules, an opportunity the very least, two rotating to recognize the consequences his juries so that no student is or her action has brought upon the overwhelmed. She is opti- learning environment and then al- mistic about the start of this low the student to fix the problem. program, especially with such The student discusses the issue with wide student interest. a jury of their peers and together “I want to join because they develop a written proposal, or I was wronged in the past,” contract, in which they agree to fix Benjamin and learn from their mistake. Peer Jury for the same crime be- in order not to break the same rule Each student who falls under a cause they know how their actions in the future? Will the agreement Level One to Level Three viola- impact their environment,” Moreno that the referred student completes Continued as “Peer Jury” tion, as specified in the Uniform said. enhance the safety of the school on pg. 3 Discipline Code, will either be given Before a plan of action can community? The responses to these a suitable punishment by the school be proposed, the court asks three questions are then used to estab- Page 2 News The Hoof Beat Freshmen frenzy Northside College “Freshie Friday” takes its toll Prep High School by Nadir Rashid amused by it and get a good laugh. Those men friends, not be discouraged by them. During the first few weeks of the who have experienced this form of hazing He also stated that upperclassmen and school year, upperclassmen hazed fresh- may see it as a simple joke at first, but freshmen have to learn to bond and that men on several occasions. This hazing, actually start to fear or dislike the up- they cannot have differentiation. Lalley also known as “Freshie Friday,” is an perclassmen. is against the hazing and states that it is 5501 N. Kedzie upheld tradition in many schools. This “At first it was quite scary because the unacceptable to make life miserable for year, upperclassmen have thrown pennies upperclassmen were screaming ‘fresh- freshmen. and pushed freshmen around in a circle in men!’ and they threw me in a crowd “Students should reflect on their own Chicago, IL 60625 the Second Floor Atrium. and pushed me to the back,” Khayin actions, shun inappropriate behavior, and challenge one another to act responsibly,” Tel: (773) 534-3954 Lalley said. “Northside College Prep defines itself as a commu- Fax: (773) 534-3964 nity of learners, a place where students support one another in learning and living. Hazing, in- Principal: Dr. James Lalley timidation, bullying are inconsistent with the Assistant Principal: ethos of the school. No student should suffer Ms. Lisa Moreno the indignity of being Advisor: Mr. Chester Tylinski pushed around, circled, or ridiculed. The mu- tual respect, trust, and support that students Editors-In-Chief: Damon Beres, have for one another Aliy Markowski make Northside a safe and secure place for Copy Editors: Maxwell Brown, everyone.” Most of the fresh- Natalia Emanuel men that have been in Managing Editor: Kana Yoo this circle have not been affected emotionally or Assistant Managing Editor: Rachel physically because they Freshmen took quickly to the hazing events and had strong feelings on the topic. understood the joke. Hautzinger Photo by Ashraf Abbas Still, teachers and the Chief Layout Editor: Geethi Abra- administration do not Hazing has never been a serious prob- Molokwu, Adv. 010, said. “But if I were take hazing lightly, and ham lem at Northside until this year. Many an upperclassman, I probably would have the perpetrators face major consequences, freshmen wonder why the attacks are done it myself.” such as suspension, for their actions. beginning now. Principal Dr. Lalley cites Northside’s Teachers plan to stand in the halls in an News Editor: Ashraf Abbas “It was pretty hateful of the up- Surviving Freshmen Year program as a effort to find out who is starting these perclassmen to throw pennies,” Forrest means for freshmen to get over the bar- hazing instances. Those who break these Features Editor: Elizabeth Jose Cortes, Adv. 010, said. rier of entering a new environment and rules and initiate or participate in hazing Some people see hazing as a transi- how senior leaders played a big role in incidents will be punished. Centerfold Editor: Abir Usman tion into high school. Many freshmen helping freshmen. This event was used to Editorial Editor: Muamera Hadzic who have not been affected by the “up- boost freshmen confidence and to make perclassmen circle” actually seem to be it easier for them to make upperclass- Satire: Liz Born, Damon Beres Arts and Entertainment Editor: Only as good as they feel Patricia Radkowski Northside’s Student Connection Survey 2006 Sports Editor: Geethi Abraham results Photo Editors: Neha Alam, by Ashraf Abbas Northside students who have participated within a very acceptable—and perhaps Zenobia Gonsalves The Student Connection Survey in at least one extracurricular activity. even universal—range of standards. was set up by CPS in an effort to gauge Each category has a very sensitive Many people, both students and staff feel Art Editor: Vasiliki Mitrakos student’s perceptions of their respective meaning to one aspect of the school’s the same way. Polling Managers: Shoaib Ali, Mo- school(s) in four categories: Safe and success. “I agree with the results, but I wish Respectful Climate, High Expectations, As a supplement to the survey, there it would carry over to other schools,” hammad Kahleelullah Student Support, and Social and Emo- is a section called “Suggested Next Steps” Andrea Garcia, Adv. 707, said. tional Learning. With this information, written to assist those schools with issues Of course, just because Northside CPS hopes to help all of its schools im- made relevant by the survey’s results. The scored so well does not mean there is no Reporters: Zainab Bilfaqi, Sejla prove their services to their students. The suggestions include reviewing the report more room for improvement. Dr. James general idea is to provide the lower-scor- with administrative bodies, conducting Lalley, Northside’s principal, hopes Dizdarevc, Muhammad Actar, ing schools with something to look up to student focus groups, and implementing to discuss the results with both faculty and model. some sort of action plan for improving members and members of Northside’s Mohammad Khaleelulah, Karolina Approximately 86 percent of student connection. LSC. Hopefully, by working together as Maslanka, Nadir Rashid, Michelle Northside’s students responded to the The idea here, as mentioned above, a school, Northside can go above and survey and rated Northside very well is to have all CPS schools functioning beyond what it already is. Zacarias, Liz Born, Sonya in every category. In total, 99 percent of Northside’s Dekhtyar, Sejla Dizdarevic, Ahmed students said that Imtiaz, Farrukh Mukhtar Northside had a safe and respect- ful climate; 92 precent agreed Junior Reporters: Zlatana Alibe- that teachers encourage them govic, Andrea Ljevar, Mohammad to both think and Rahman, Riaz Shaikh, Sarah Jose, work their hard- est; 90 percent Helen Liutongco, Bridget Illing, agreed that, as students, they Jordan Garcia feel listened to, cared about, and helped by teach- The Hoof Beat is a monthly publication ers and adults in the building; and, produced by the Northside Prep Journalism finally, 91 percent Class. As a student-run newspaper, your of students agree opinions are important to us. If you have that they care about others, any comments, corrections, critiques, or work produc- questions, please e-mail Mr. Chester Tylinski tively with one another, and have at [email protected]. good social skills. Along with these four major categories, the survey also ac- Students like Christina Khou, Adv. 703, and Joanna Stack, Adv. 708, feel comfortable about counted for the asking teachers like Mr. Jeff Solin for help. 93 percent of Photo by Ashraf Abbas Page 2 News The Hoof Beat November 2006 News Page 3 Missing Northside alum “Peer Jury” Paul Shuman-Moore disappears from Grinnell Continued from front page Garcia, Adv. 909, said. “I was given a punishment Campus that didn’t fit the crime.” No official date has been set for the program to begin, by Muamera Hadzic and a meeting between Dr. Murphy and Moreno is still Last seen on Monday, September 25th, Paul Shuman locations. The buses take the students on a two day pending. Training for the program should begin by the Moore, Northside alum and Grinnell College alum, is admissions visit. Each student is paired up with a host end of October. On-site training will be provided by Al- still missing. Authorities report that he last entered his student from the college and spends those two days under ternatives Inc. and Safe Schools, from where the peer jury Lazier Residence Hall at 1:23 their supervision. It was programs originate. a.m. From that point on, clear from the atmosphere Northside’s already respectful environment will be his whereabouts have been on campus that students, allowed to grow into an even better environment with this unknown as he did not take especially those who program, Moreno said. his wallet, ATM card, any attended had attended “The peer jury program would provide me with a such personal identification, Northside, were worried. unique opportunity to make very important decisions, and or his bike, Grinnell students’ “It was so sad that it would allow me to grow as a leader,” Garcia said. primary mode of transporta- to see someone we used to “I think that this knowledge will stay with me past tion. see everyday in the halls my high school years because in the real world, I will have Students report that he now plastered all over the to make decisions similar to these everyday so in a way,” had been in good spirits that school on those ‘Have Garcia said. “This will give me a head start on life.” weekend. Early that Sunday you seen this person’ post- evening, he played at Bob’s ers we have everywhere,” Underground, a popular Elizabeth Born, Adv. 705, student-run café. He partici- said. pated in a Frisbee tournament The student hosts in which his team did really at Grinnell did not talk well. He also attended two much about the disap- parties, the second which he pearance but did reveal returned from that Monday common concerns. night. “We didn’t really About a day after his know him; but when we disappearance, his roommate found out he was miss- began to worry and contacted ing, we were all wor- school officials for help. The ried,” Anna Friel, Grinell main concern became the College, said. “I mean, I note Shuman-Moore had left joined a couple of search behind. Authorities have not parties and helped out.” released the contents, and These students re- much public speculation has vealed a great deal about deemed it a suicide note. His the type of community parents argue that it is not Paul Shuman-Moore established at Grinnell a suicide note: it is simply a Photo courtesy of www.grinell.edu College. revelation that he needed a “We are all really close ‘break’ of sorts. and everyone here seems to have some core group of Regardless of much guessing and assumptions, the friends, so lonliness, seculsion and such things are not note still has not been released. However, search efforts really a problem around here,” Stephanie Potts, Grinnell have been initiated. Searchers are branching out across College, said. “So we were all very confused.” the Iowa campus and Chicago area. The main searching He was an accomplished student, an active athlete in Chicago has been taking place around several univer- and musician and desipte his quiet demeanour, Shuman- sity campuses. Northside has taken part in these search Moore established strong relationships with teachers. efforts by recruiting volunteers to be placed at designated “He just needs to come home soon,” Ms. Dianne locations to put up posters and inform the communities. Malueg, English Department, said. “Not even come A few days after Moore’s disappearance, on Septem- home, call someone, let us know he’s okay.” ber 28th, many Northside students visited the college Searching has been temporarily halted in Iowa due to campus for Grinnell’s annual “Discover Grinnell” pro- the beginning of hunting season and concerns about the gram. The college sends a coach bus to several Chicago saftey of the search parties. First year debate success Northside steals first through fourth place at CPS debate tournament

by Muamera Hadzic followed by cross-examina- tants need to be extremely petitors in total, represented like strong decision calculus the new first place team with The year’s first Chicago tions, and later, a set of familiar with as technicali- Northside on October 7th. in our rebuttals,” Elizabeth Patricia Mazur, Adv. 701, Public School debate tour- rebuttals. The affirmative ties are what can sometimes The competitors were both Granato, Adv. 706, said. and Muamera Hadzic, Adv. nament, held on October provides their first argument win a round. anxious and apprehensive as Northside expected to be 702, following in second. 7th, welcomed Northside as in what is called the Affir- In addition, contestants they walked into the com- able to leave the tournament However, speaker points a new competitor. As a first mative Constructive Speech are awarded individual petition. After two rounds, early, as schools that do remained as originally year competitor, North- (1AC). This argument is speaker points. A speaker however, the competitors not win are not required to awarded. Out of a total of side managed to win first provided in the Core Files must exhibit proficiency in slowly started to relax stay for the final exhibition 106 competitors, Muamera through fourth seat overall, and needs simply to be read. reading quickly to include because they realized how round, which determines Hadzic, Adv. 702, ranked as well as the first and sec- However, the challenge is all necessary information prepared they were. who the first place winner in first place and Patricia ond place individual speaker reading with enough speed while simultaneously show- “We were all nervous at is (meaning it becomes pos- Mazur, Adv. 701 followed awards. Although Northside to remain coherent within ing that he/she can speak first because we were expect- sible for the first place team in second. Michael Florian, does not have a debate team, the eight-minute time limit. comfortably even without ing amazing teams because to drop down to second). Adv. 708, was ranked in the Speech and Debate After this, the negative evidence for the second half it is junior varsity, but we Out of fifty-three fourth and the remaining class contains a competitive side has the chance to cross- of the round. The Core Files then realized there was noth- competing teams, Patricia competitors ranked above section in which much time examine the evidence pro- can only include so many ing to worry about since we Mazur, Adv. 701, and Mua- 20th place. is spent preparing for the vided. Each side is allowed pieces of evidence until were more than ready to mera Hadzic, Adv. 702, took The success of this structured CPS debates. two constructive speeches, logic and cross applications compete at this level,” Patri- first place overall with 119.3 first competition has many Northside competed after which they are allowed are brought up during the cia Mazur, Adv. 701, said. points. Trevor Woodland, Northside competitors at the junior varsity level, two rebuttals. rebuttals. Northside was granted a Adv. 706, and Elizabeth looking forward to their as it is new to the Chicago The speeches follow Naturally, a speaker spot on “AA Junior Varsity” Granato, Adv. 706, fol- next tournament (to be held Debate League. The tourna- that exact order in that the must also display coherent because although they were lowed with 115.5 with on November 4th – 5th). ments are divided into mul- negative and affirmative speaking ability, volume, new competitors, their status Andrew Mark, Adv. 700, This tournament is differ- tiple rounds in which two alternate speaking and cross and eye contact with the warranted a higher place- and Michael Florian, Adv. ent, however, and will allow teams debate in front of a examining until the second judge at some point. Speak- ment. Despite the bump, 708, taking third place with for elimination. The lowest judge. Teams consist of two half of the round. From ers are not allowed to ad- however, there was a general 115.0, just half a point short ranked schools are elimi- people, and in some cases then, the rebuttals are simple dress their opposing side and discrepancy as most of the of second. Idris Okere, Adv. nated after a certain amount one. The debate rounds are and straightforward with no speaker points are deducted participating schools had 703, and Ryan Jansen, Adv. of losses, leaving the top extremely structured, which cross-examination. The re- should that happen. They been involved for several 700, won fourth with 114.5. seated teams to compete for was something that most buttals are vital in any round must only address the judge years and had an established Finally, Michelle Porcelli, top rank. Northside competitors had a as they are the team’s last as they speak because the junior varsity and varsity. Adv. 902, and Zlatana Alibe- “I am extremely excited hard time adjusting to. speeches and their only way judge determines the round; “It was interesting be- govic, Adv. 902, took eighth for our second tournament The rounds revolved to stress why their respective in addition, addressing your cause a lot of the time, judg- place with 114.0 points. and hope that we do as well, around a set of “Core Files.” side should win the round. opponent directly leads to es and contestants would True to its nature, the fi- with all this practice I can’t These Core Files revolve This is done quite explicitly, increased volume, hostility tell us how we were reading nal exhibition round yielded see us not performing as around a single resolution and at times, maliciously. and confrontation – all of and competing at ‘varsity a switch in first and second well as we have in the first which all of the arguments it The above general for- which warrant a reduction level’ simply because we place. Trevor Woodland, one. Hopefully we’ll bring contains need to support. mat includes various other in speaker points. were able to read faster and Adv. 704, and Elizabeth home first once again,” Idris The rounds take the for- smaller rules that the contes- Five teams, 10 com- took advantage of things Granato, Adv. 706, became Okere, Adv. 703, said. mat of alternating speeches Page 4 Features The Hoof Beat Jammah Club jams lunchroom Club hosts 8th annual dinner by Mohammad Khaleelullah As the balloon food from home and bring and streamer-filled it,” Farrukh Muktar, Adv. cafeteria buzzed 801, said. “It allows each with excitement and member in the club to add hungry students and a personal touch to the parents, the Northside dinner.” Jammah Club’s Ra- The club arranged madan Dinner began. dinner for all their guests On Friday October 20, by serving a variety of deli- 2006, the eighth an- cious cultural courses. The nual dinner took place courses covered everything at about 6:00 p.m. in from appetizers to desert. the school’s cafeteria. Members believed the The Ramadan dinner courses were prepared to is one of two din- represent the diversity Islam ners hosted by the has within itself pertaining club each year. The to its diverse followers. Ramadan dinner, held “The food was differ- during the Islamic ent,” Lizelle Maricelle, Adv. month of Ramadan, is 807, said. “Different in a held to help increase great way.” Islamic awareness Guests were urged to throughout the school try some of the food that of the meaning behind was specially prepared in the holy month and order for them to get a feel how it affects those for the many ethnic back- who observe it. Every grounds of the club mem- year, the event has bers. After everyone chose a many returning at- few food items, the program tendees who come continued. Mr. Tylinksi, the back for the food and club’s sponsor, spoke to the atmosphere as well audience about the club and as new comers who its prominent history. Salim come and enjoy the Patel, Adv. 800, co-Presi- food and program. dent of the club, then went “The turnout for on to welcome the guests the dinners is always and inform them about the great,” Saif Rahman, importance of Ramadan Adv. 803, said. “The and fasting in a Muslim’s crowds are usually life. Abir Usman, Adv. 806, very diverse, range spoke about the meaning from many differ- Guests of Jama’ah Club’s Ramadan dinner serve themselves to platters of food. of Jammah Club and its ent ethnicities and Photo by Kana Yoo activities. religions, and are a it because the atmosphere is just The program began as Salim “Magrib,” was prayed in the gym As the dinner came to mix of students and faculty. We are amazing with so many different Patel, Adv. 800, introduced the and auditorium while the guests an end, the club members were usually satisfied with the atten- types of people there. Islamic prayer, which Muslims use either watched or stayed behind in satisfied again with the turnout and dance, but we certainly would not “We want to make sure we get to open their fast, followed by a the cafeteria looking over some of hoped “at least one person left with mind more.” a lot of different types of people,” translation into English. The fast the posters the club had made about some knowledge of Islam,” accord- The club extends their invita- Irfan Hussain, Adv. 808, Public is opened at sunset with a date and the Islamic religion. ing to Saad Ahsan, a 2006 graduate tion to the entire Northside student Relations Director of Jammah some water. Both items were passed After returning from prayer, the from Northside. body and staff. Club, said. “Because Islam is so out to the guests. Right after open- guests had a chance to sample one The club is currently looking for “I attended the dinner last diverse, we believe the dinner will ing their fasts, it was time for the of the dinner’s highlights: the home open feedback about the dinner and year,” Joseph Kanikunnel, Adv. flourish under the circumstances of fourth of five daily prayers for Mus- cooked food. can be reached at northsidejam- 807, said. “I knew I could not miss diversity. lims. The prayer, which is called “I love how we all prepare the [email protected]. An afternoon at the Goodman Northside students attend production of “King Lear”

by Helen Liutongco Festive music resonated throughout the ting was changed from artistic license with other characteristics of theater. On the stage, smoke rose from lit cig- eighth century BC to the play. For instance, the character Goneril arettes. A crowd of people in suits, fur coats, 1990’s Serbia. This shift was often involved in sexual acts not included and evening gowns cheered in celebration, in setting was accentu- in the original script. The play also included drank wine, and danced the night away. So ated by the look of the pop culture in-jokes, such as a character that went the opening of the Goodman Theater’s sets and the scenes of dons a wig with dreadlocks as a disguise. production of Shakespeare’s “King Lear.” warfare in the second Some attendees, however, disliked these Dramatic Literature students and Mr. half, which included changes. Snow’s AP Literature classes attended a mati- using body bags “There were a lot of things thrown in nee performance of “King Lear” on October as props and using for humor and comedic effect, like the scene 18, 2006. The production ran from Septem- sounds of aerial bom- where smoke came out of the car or the ber 9 through October 26 and was part of bardment in the audio weird, random dance scene. It detracted from Goodman’s Student Subscription Series, an track. Rap beats and the power of the play,” Robin Tholin, Adv. educational program designed for literature the Rolling Stones’s 801, said. students. The program includes free tickets “Gimme Shelter” were The conduct of fellow audience members for three Goodman plays, scripts of each play, used as background also caused displeasure amongst attendees. educational DVDs, and a post-show discus- music during pivotal At the start of the second half of the play, a sion with the students. scenes, sword duels student sitting on the balcony shined a laser In the early afternoon, students from were replaced with point pen onto the stage. During several in- schools all over Chicago arrived by school bus gunfights, and charac- stances, the student shined the laser onto the at the Goodman, located at the heart of the ters wore fur coats and face of an actor onstage. Theatre District in downtown Chicago. The business suits instead of “Whoever was pointing the laser pointer, play began exactly at noon. The live perfor- the Elizabethan outfits [it] was a shame” Jose Choto, Adv. 804, said. mance of “King Lear” brought out aspects of appropriate in Shake- A post-show discussion was held immedi- the play that would not be seen through the speare’s time. Other ately following the performance. During the script alone. The audience laughed at Lear’s than props and discussion, the main cast members returned comical gestures and inflections, jumped at costumes, the to the stage and discussed the themes of the the sounds of gunfire, and winced at the Goodman’s play with the students. Students asked ques- scenes of graphic violence. produc- tions about the set and if the actors were able “I think the graphicness, like tion to relate to the characters they played. the violence, was very power- took The next play of the Student Subscrip- ful,” Carla Padvoiskis, Adv. tion Series is “A Christmas Carol,” which 809, said. “Mostly in Northside students will see on November 29. the second act, the The final play of the program is “Oedipus violence really Complex,” a retelling of “Oedipus Rex,” drove the point which students will see in the late spring. home.” “I’m really looking forward to the Some parts other plays because I enjoyed ‘King of Goodman’s Lear’,” Mari Yamagiwa, Adv. 808, said. “King Lear” were modern- ized. The set- Page 4 Features The Hoof Beat November 2006 Features Page 5 Guten Tag Northside welcomes German exchange students by Brenda Ha On September 30th, 25 students a significant amount of time to ater, playing sports, or just spending attractions: Millennium Park, the friends and just joking around, and from Hamburg, Germany arrived in planning. time to get to know one another. John Hancock Tower, and the she always wanted to have fun.” Chicago to participate in North- “They’re only here for two “I ride with my host family to Lyric Opera House. The exchange The exchange program not only side’s student exchange program. weeks, but it’s an all year process,” the forest,” Gasance Nashin, one students also visited the Heming- grants learning opportunities about The entire program consisted of not Apel said. “Because when they of the visiting German students, way Museum, the University of different cultures, but also forges only Northside, but Lane Tech Col- leave, then we start planning to go.” said. “It was quite like in a fairy Chicago, and even Amish Country friendships and bonds. lege Prep, Amundsen High School, One of the most important tale because it was kind of foggy in Shipshewana, Indiana. “Some of them will email back Lincoln Park High School, Mather As the Ger- and forth all year. But from this High School, and St. Patrick man exchange program, a lot of times, the contact High School. Dr. Lowell Culver students ex- continues,” Ms. Apel said. organized this program through plored Chicago, The Student Exchange program the Chicago-Hamburg Sister Cities they discovered bases itself on reciprocity. Plans Education Subcommittee. many differ- have already begun for Northside The exchange students spent ences in educa- students to travel to Germany. two weeks in Chicago, residing tion, lifestyle, This program is not only limited to with host families for the duration and culture. In German students, since enrollment of their trip. The basic duties of Germany, there in a German class is not a criteria. the host families included provid- are less large, The most important characteristics ing shelter, meals, and transporta- flashy cars. of an interested student are a good tion. The program also encour- “Every personality and an open mind. aged hosts to partake in activities student nearly outside the designated itinerary in this school to expose the German students to has a car—an American cultures and pastimes. expensive car. I When staying with a family, asked a student guests can gain insights on how and they said it Americans handle situations and was $17,000 for what values they maintain. a car,” Gasance “It’s really important to live said. with a family because in your adult From an life, you’re going to travel and live American in a hotel or motel,” Ms. Virginia perspective, Apel, Northside’s German teacher, some hosts did said. “It gives you one perspective not encounter of a country.” cultural gaps or The idea of interacting with a major differ- student from another country ap- ences. pealed to many of the hosts. Mary Claire, Adv. 703, Meghan, Adv. 808, and Martin Schmit, Adv. 906, visit Buckingham “I was “It’s just really interesting to fountain with the German exchange student they were hosting. surprised at how speak with this teenager from the Photo courtesy of Megan Schmidt many ways the other side of the world,” Sarah Germans were Winters, Adv. 905, said. “I learned aspects of planning the trip involves and leaves in the wind kept falling just like American students,” about Germany and their culture.” the day-to-day agenda. During the down.” Winters said. “I think some teenage To ensure a successful and weekends, the host families and The weekdays were packed with ideals are universal—she [Philine enjoyable experience for the stu- guests can do as they please. Some interesting and informative activi- Gehrmann, guest student] was like dents and host families alike, the of the activities families do with ties. Some of the events included an American in the way that she coordinators of the trip dedicated their guest include going to the the- sightseeing at famous Chicago was so funny, always teasing my OctoberPage 6 2006 Editorial Editorial Page The 7 Hoof Beat Mark My Words The Hoof College application checklist Beat by Aliy Markowski The college application frenzy begins first six weeks writing college essays, one es- plying. Any and every college looks spectacu- again. Rolling deadlines for college admission say per week. Senioritis will be hard to avoid; lar with lush green quadrangles and brand have already begun. Applications for early it’s hard to balance a class load as heavy or new buildings in the view books they send Student decision and early action were due to most heavier as junior year with the burden of out to applicants. National Public Radio’s colleges on the first of this month, and the handling your entire future weighing heavy Wendy Kaufman recently reported that the Newspaper season of applications will continue until as on your shoulders. “Reading and Writing nationwide average for marketing costs of late as February for some schools. As a senior Across the Disciplines” creates a timeline for schools trying to attract students reaches into already in the midst of the craze, I’ve decided you in writing your essays and ensures that the thousands. That’s thousands of dollars Lower the to share a few pieces of advice with next in the midst of daily assignments from other spent creating the most appealing catalogues year’s rising seniors—a few notes of interest classes, your college essays don’t get pushed to stack at your doorstep; for that kind of voting age that, had I taken into account, might have to the side. On the flip side, taking this course money, those quads better look green. But in made the past month slightly more tolerable. if you don’t plan to put effort into the essays reality, not every school is picture perfect. The Education funding reform stands as a Write your essays early. You’ve certainly you write each week is pointless. Churning dorms at some schools are less than livable. pivotal issue in Illinois’s close gubernato- heard this tidbit countless times before, but out 500 thoughtless words you’d never let an And beyond the facilities and the mere physi- rial election this November. Yet among the essay matters more than you may think. admissions officer see just to complete the as- cal appearance of the campus, the atmosphere the voters who will head to the polls on According to Nancy L. Nolan, Ph. D., author signment each week is not really a step in the matters the most. Each school will have a very Election Day, teenagers, who are directly of “Ivy League Admission,” 70 percent of right direction; take the class, but don’t waste unique feeling. This may depend on whether affected by the state’s ongoing funding college applicants fall in the category of the class. the school is in an urban or rural setting, or it crisis, will have no say in the outcome of borderline candidates for the schools to which Sign up for standardized tests early. You may simply be defined by the attitudes of the the election. 16 and 17 year-olds should they are applying; for these students, the essay may end up needing to take both the ACT and students. Regardless, this is an overall senti- have the right to vote on policies such as may make or break their shot at getting into SAT, as well as several SAT subject tests. The ment you need to know. Make sure it’s a place education that affect their present and their dream school. Write your essays early SAT and subject tests are administered on the where you’d be comfortable spending the next their future. and rework them time and time again. Have same dates, meaning you must choose to take four years of your life. The Revolutionary War slogan of as many people read over them as possible, one or the other on any given day. There- If you fall in love with a school, apply “taxation without representation” rings and listen and respond to your readers’ fore, if you wind up needing early. Schools may claim that early action true for American teenagers today. While feedback. You may think your writing to retake tests, or early decision candidates have the same the National Youth Rights Foundation is superb, but if something sounds make sure you chances for admission, but the numbers show reports that 80 percent of 16 and 17 year- awkward or unclear to a peer or give yourself otherwise. Almost every institution accepts olds work and pay federal taxes on their teacher reviewing your essay, it’s time for as many significantly more applicants applying early earnings, these teens have no say in how likely something worth fixing. re-takes as are decision than regular. Many colleges attribute much tax is taken and where this money is You’re better off spending necessary. You the percentage discrepancy to a stronger early used because they cannot vote. The surfac- the time wouldn’t want to admission pool, but that argument has little ing social security problems will affect clearing miss the oppor- statistical support. At the least, applying early today’s teens in the future.16 and 17-year up these tunity to improve shows a school you are truly interested and olds should have the opportunity to vote mistakes your score simply that school is your top pick. If you get an to ensure that the taxes they pay to the fed- than risking because you waited early acceptance in December, you may also eral government now will remain available confusing too long and ran avoid the craze of uncertainty that fills second to support them when they retire. a college out of testing dates semester for most high school seniors. State and federal governments treat 16 admissions before the applica- Finally, don’t apply to too many schools. year-olds like adults in several respects. At officer with tion deadlines. Filling out 15 applications will not only be 16, teenagers can drive in 48 states. Courts incoher- If a school ac- utterly exhausting, but it is also likely to in many states try 16 year-olds as adults ent writ- cepts both the SAT deteriorate the quality of each application in for serious crimes. If a 16 year-old can be ing. and ACT, take both. the stack. Instead, focus on a smaller number punished as an adult, he or she should be Take The two tests are of schools and pour your efforts into polish- granted the voting rights of an adult. “Reading very different. It is not ing those applications to guarantee your best Teenagers have needs that differ from and Writing Across the Disciplines,” formerly, uncommon for students to do significantly chances for admission. other segments of the American popula- and I think more accurately, known as “Col- better on one than the other. Give yourself the The college application process is stressful tion. Politicians often overlook these lege Reading and Writing.” But only take the opportunity to show colleges your very best and chaotic. Follow my advice and the load of interests because youths have become a course if you plan to take advantage of the performance. Use every outlet, and both tests your future may feel just a bit lighter. voiceless constituency. The American opportunities to get a huge jump start on your in this case, to do so. political system is designed to allow the essays. In this senior class, you’ll spend the Visit the schools where you plan on ap- people to determine how society is run by voting for politicians who represent their interests, yet teenag- Beresoufflé ers have no ability to influence I hate the College Board politicians to take by Damon Beres action on They’re responsible for stan- colleges want to see SAT II sub- reasoning test across their entire those who head the company, and policies to dardized tests like the SAT and ject tests. New York University, high school career, the College considering the money they rake serve them. SAT II. In their free time, they eat my top choice, decided to require Board would rake in $150,500. in just from the SAT Reasoning Critics the souls of high school students two subject tests starting this This is a figure from Northside Test, they’re getting paid a lot. of lower- across America. “Satan’s harem year. Harvard requires three. It’s alone, and it’s a low-estimate at And if the College Board is mak- ing the of demon harpies” is a close ap- becoming a trend for colleges to that, as I’d be willing to guess that ing millions from Chicago alone, voter age proximation, but no, I speak of recommend or require these tests, the average Northside student what about the state of Illinois question the College Board. I can accept and as the years go on, it wouldn’t probably takes three AP tests over itself? Or the other states across whether that most institutions of higher be unthinkable that most schools the course of their high school America? youths at 16 and 17 years-old are mature learning would require students would want at least two. These career. In other words, as high school and informed enough to vote. The answer to take the SAT, but the fact tests also cost money ($18 reg- According to my calculations students, we’re being exploited. to this question is that Americans in this that more and more colleges are istration fee plus $8 for the tests based on data from the “Public It’s a smart business: any high age group are as capable of voting as recommending and even requiring themselves, and an additional $19 School Review” (http://www. school student that wants to go adults. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 that students take SAT II subject if the test is a language exam that publicschoolreview.com), there to college has to take the SAT. stated that voters must have completed the tests is really what bakes my eggs. requires a listening component), are about 110,000 high school Many, many students will take 6th grade to be qualified to vote. Most Il- Freshmen and sophomores might and require a lot of preparation. students just within Chicago AP tests and SAT IIs, as well. linois teens have completed the 10th grade as well hurl themselves from And why is that? Because they alone (which is just a part of Honestly, the government should by the time they reach 16. These students some sort of edifice now, because are, for all intents and purposes, Cook County, which is just a part probably tax these tests, seeing must pass the U.S. Constitution Exami- applying to college is going to be as rigorous as AP tests in terms of Illinois, etc.). While it wouldn’t as they’re essentially inelastic nation during high school and must also a nightmare by the time they’re of the material they cover, be fair to assume that students goods: the SAT Reasoning Test enroll in government and history classes to doing it. just shorter and without essay from every school in Chicago all could cost $100 and people would learn about the American political system. First, it was the AP tests. components. It’s ridiculous, and take an AP test or SAT II Subject still have to take it, though there According to the National Youth Rights Students pay $83 per test for the redundant, that students would Tests, I think it’s reasonable to would be more incentive to do Program, students taking high school privilege of sitting in an exam need to take both SAT II subject say that most students will take better the first time around if that constitutional law program courses scored room for hours just so that they tests and AP tests. the SAT Reasoning Test once was the case. better than adults in knowledge of govern- have the chance of getting some Here’s where the College (and even if they don’t, the mere While the College Board ment and politics. Therefore, high school sort of college credit. Of course Board comes in. Obviously the fact that many students who take doesn’t hold a monopoly (which students do not lack adequate political it isn’t good enough to merely AP tests and SAT IIs are quite the SAT take it twice, sometimes I’m not sure is even possible knowledge to cast a vote. spend the whole year in the class similar, and taking both can be three times, makes it fair to use for not-for-profit organizations, American 16 and 17-year olds face itself; students generally must rather costly. Perhaps it would be this as an average). Remember, which don’t have stock) as the many burdens of responsibility of adults. score fours or fives (out of five) fathomable if both tests were from $41.50 registration fee. Times ACT gives them direct competi- Yet when it comes to the controversial po- on the AP examinations for most separate companies. They’re not. 110,000. tion, it’s still an undeniable fact litical issues of today that affect teens both colleges to give them credit. Some The College Board manages $4,565,000 from Chicago pub- that every single year, a huge now in the future, this critical youth con- upper level institutions won’t even both the AP and SAT II tests, lic high school students alone, just number of American high school stituency has no voice. If these teenagers accept credit for certain classes. and they want us to think they’re from the SAT Reasoning Test. students will take these tests and are not granted the right to vote, America So why take them to begin with, a “not-for-profit organization.” I doubt the College Board engorge the College Board with will continue to backpedal on the progress and why spend that $83 (which Surely they must be doing some- needs to pay their machines very money. We’re merely the bleating of the Founding Fathers by stifling these could mean $415 a year for a thing with the $83 AP exam fee, much money to grade filled in sheep led to the inevitable slaugh- American voices. student taking five AP classes)? or the SAT II fees, or the $41.50 circles, and while it assuredly ter. What choice do we have if Because even though they may SAT Reasoning Test registration has a large staff to grade essays, colleges are going to continue The previous article is an edito- not give you credit, if a college fee (let’s not even get into the handle marketing (which, you to require these tests and if the rial written by a member of the Hoof sees that you were “slacking off ” $21.50 late registration fee, or the know, really calls the whole “not- College Board is going to charge Beat staff. Letters to the editor are by “only” taking honors classes, $36.50 standby testing fee). Let’s for-profit” thing into question on obscene prices for them? Honestly, welcome. Please e-mail questions they’ll deem you a less competi- say Northside has 1,000 students. its own), etc., obviously they don’t it’s not like they’re printing the or comments to Ctylinski@north- tive applicant. If each student took only one AP use all of their income to pay said questions with gold ink on some sideprep.org. Now, in addition to AP tests, test, one SAT II, and one SAT staff. The rest is probably going to sort of Egyptian papyrus. October Page 6 2006 Editorial Editorial Page The 7 Hoof Beat November 2006 Editorial Page 7 Judy means beauty! Rod’s luscious locks by Damon Beres by Liz Born

Judy Baar Topinka: I’ll tell you what ally, wouldn’t voters prefer some toasty apple Rumors of corruption and scandal respect, just as you or I would want to be she’s thinking. She’s thinking about being the crispers? Of course they would. seem to follow governor Rod Blagojevich treated. After all, aren’t the citizens of Illi- most beauteous governor this state has ever Even more glorious than the bunches wherever he goes, and it is high time that nois just like the hairs in a scalp? Together, laid eyes upon. Illinoisan voters need to get of tufts is the big JBT’s (that’s Judy Baar he dropped the act and gave us a truthful we make up this mane of tradition and their act together and pull themselves away Topinka) choice of color. Too good for a answer to the question that plagues us all, integrity that is our fair state. from the mud slinging on the television. They natural hair color, hers is a most pungent bur- day and night: Just how does he manage to Perhaps Blagojevich hasn’t done the need to focus on what is truly the most vital gundy. It’s sexy, passionate, romantic, and yet get his hair so shiny? best job balancing the state budget, and criterion in electing a politician. No, not their formal all the same. Such a strong color goes Governor Blagojevich, on the other he may or may not have accepted bribes, environmental policies, and certainly not their a long way in spicing up political debates, hand, treats his locks with dignity and but let’s face it: hairs make mistakes. They education funding plans. What we need to and from an aesthetic perspective, it blends respect. He is a shimmering beacon of break and get split ends, sure, but with a lit- focus on is, quite simply, their hair. elegantly into the shades of fall. It is almost hope caught in the harsh flashbulbs of the tle trimming, they grow back even stronger It’s more than just dead cells and an as if Topinka and more beautiful than obvious beacon of aesthetic concern: looking is a spirit of before. If he is re-elected, at a haircut is like peering into the innards Mother Nature I have full confidence that of the human soul. With politicians from all herself as she Blagojevich will shampoo viewpoints clashing on the veritable battlefield stands behind and condition, and this known as American bureaucracy, it’s impos- the podium on time, he won’t forget to sible for voters to make a sound decision on a crisp autumn repeat. policy alone. Perhaps one might agree with morn. The bur- Recently, Governor Topinka’s desire to build a casino in Illi- gundy luster Blagojevich has an- nois, while simultaneously concurring with also compli- nounced his plans to ex- Blagojevich’s thoughts on gun control. When ments her pand his children’s health- voters look to the filament adorning the can- juicy lipstick care program, “All Kids,” didates’ respective heads, however, it becomes choice, thus by enlisting faith-based far easier to cast votes. letting voters groups to help provide While Rod Blagojevich prefers the “I’m across the state care for Illinois’ young- three-years-old and mommy still dresses me” know that even sters. Blagojevich is giving style, Judy Baar Topinka elevates herself to 62-year-old them that extra boost, that an indefinable elegance. Her hair is short, yes, Republican pro-vitamin formula that which lets voters know that she means busi- candidates can will help them grow up ness and doesn’t need to waste hours upon have the vi- strong. Not only that, but hours primping herself in the morning. No, brant allure of he’s also working with re- she’d rather spend that time refining her “Bud- plucky youth. ligious groups—that’s like get Rescue Plan,” or feeding orphans. Most Blagojevich’s getting a priest to sprinkle of all, her cut suggests that she’s a contending dark shade of your hair with holy water. burst of femininity in what is stereotypically terror is far Garnier only wishes they viewed as a man’s world. too severe and could develop a formula But there’s also a tender kindness to her tyrannical. like that. flowing locks that dear Rod simply can’t Voters, So this election sea- compare to. Her hair bunches up in the back particularly son, we mustn’t lose heart, in wizened tufts, a style reminiscent of dear teachers and media. Behind that million dollar smile for when we stand united, Aunt Betsy down on the farm. While she those in the senior class: you know what and those adorable puppy-dog eyes is a we all benefit. One hair may be easy to means business, she also looks as though she you must do. Don’t succumb to voting based man who strives for perfection, and who pull, but a whole ponytail of hair can be could take you into her warm, caring bosom upon extremist policies that would be forced pulls through, persevering in the face his very painful when it is yanked upon. This on a cold day and whisper “I made some on you. Follow your heart, and vote for the enemies. And underneath all that luscious Tuesday, when Rod Blagojevich battles Re- apple crispers” into your ear. Mr. Blagojevich candidate whose hair could support American hair? More hair, just as luscious as the hair publican candidate Judy Barr Topinka at offers none of that comfort, and, if anything, needs: the big JBT. Remember, she has apple on top. Because he recognizes the value of the polls, you can be sure that he is going his haircut simply makes the statement of crispers! every hair, and treats it with dignity and to comb those tresses all the way to victory. “Come into my van, I have candy.” And re- Choosing extremes No middle ground in American politics

by Muhammad Akhtar A few years ago, President must be conservative, and there is has now become a spectator sport, charged television station. country and all these liberals trying Bush and the Republican Party no such thing as a middle ground. with radical political organizations “Every time I watch Fox, I see to make America a drugs-booze proposed a gay marriage amend- Historically, candidates and being the base of both the Demo- some guy ragging on Democrats,” bonanza are a real turn-off for me,” ment that would prohibit homo- voters alike have preferred po- crats and Republicans. Brennan Depriest, Adv. 806, said. John Mota, Adv. 707, said. He sexual couples from marrying. litical moderation. Even after the “All these radical groups are In fact, a recent study conduct- plans on voting this year. After its failure in the Senate, many “Republican revolution” of 1994, deciding what is right for America. ed by fair.org, concluded that 89 At the other end of the politi- predicted the Republicans would many of the legislatures elected It is like I have no say,” Salim percent of guests on Fox’s “Special cal spectrum, talk show hosts and abandon the anti-gay rights agenda into Congress were not the ideolo- Patel, Adv. 800, said. Report” held conservative beliefs. filmmakers such as Michael Moore and focus on other, more pertinent gists that they are today. However, Websites such as MoveOn.org, CNN Headline News has fol- circulate the liberal point of view. issues for the upcoming mid-term with the advent of increasingly GiveEmHellHarry.com, and Me- lowed Fox’s footsteps by introduc- “Fahrenheit 9/11,” an “exposé” election. In actuality, the gay mar- powerful lobbies (like the NAACP, diaMatters.com preach liberalism ing Glenn Beck, a self-proclaimed of the Bush administration and its riage plank was nailed even harder a now highly liberal political to their visitors and donate millions libertarian who dedicates much response to the terrorist attacks of into the conservative platform. faction) and the current War on of dollars to Democrats to see the of his air-time propagating a September 11th, appears to be more At the other end of the political Terror, choosing extremes seems to policies they favor implemented by conservative system of beliefs. of a political assault than an honest spectrum, Democrats pursued be the norm. Congress. The National Rifle As- Radio show host Rush Limbaugh analysis of events. Even public equally radical measures, including To make matters worse, com- sociation and the American Con- is another example of partisan radio stations, such as NPR, have attempts to censure the president promise seems to be completely servative Union do the same for hackery at its finest; more than half been criticized for serving a hidden after some downturns in the Iraqi out of the question. Both parties Republicans. An effective moderate of his radio talk show seems to be liberal agenda. conflict. wage war against each other, and, fund has yet to be discovered. devoted to liberal bashing. “I consider myself a moderate These occurrences illustrate the with a Republican majority in both Political The topic of “culture wars” when it comes to politics and when massive ideological rift between the House of Representatives and radicalism (or ideologically-driven aspects of I watch the news, I see radicals American political parties that Senate, it seems that every legisla- is not only politics and public policy) has from the right or left being praised gained momentum following 9/11. tion passed is in favor of a far-right limited to parties also become increasingly or shunned,” Michal Garbacz, Ideological extremes, however, are political faction. For example, the and platforms; news popular among journalists. Adv. 800, said. “The conservatives not exclusive to the political parties appointment of John Roberts, a channels, television Bill O’Reilly, a Fox News argue that the Democratic Party is alone; contemporary media outlets highly conservative intellectual shows, and even films talk show host who is driven by atheism. Liberals say that also seem to be politically polar- from Buffalo City, pleased many are beginning to promote well known for his the Republican agenda is a product ized. With the midterm election pro-life political organizations. extreme beliefs. The News catchphrase “liberal of wild, religious zealotry. I have in close-sight, there seems to be Liberal groups, such as MoveOn. Corp., which owns Fox pinhead,” routinely no clue who I would vote for.” no room in American politics for org, responded with the backing News Channels, is a examines the nega- With the majority of the Amer- moderates. of democratic legislators. Among classic example of tive impacts of cur- ican population leaning neither Campaign platforms for both these legislators were Senate mi- an ideologically rent events on the radically right nor radically left, incumbents and challengers reflect nority leader Harry Reid (D-Nev.) cultural foundations this lack of moderation is nega- this trend of polarization. For and Illinois Senator Barack Obama of America. For ex- tively influencing a well-founded example, Senator George Allen (R- (D-Ill.). It should also be noted that ample, when some political system by decreasing voter VA.), now renowned for his racist MoveOn.org contributes millions corporations decided turnout and lowering national remarks against an Indian man at and millions of dollars to liberal to alter the phrase interest in politics. one of his campaign rallies, is run- Democrats. “Merry Christmas” As Ikram Khan, Adv. 800, ning on a platform that is pro-Iraq All these instances have, of to “Happy Holidays” stated, “If the state of politics does war, pro-tax cuts, and “pro-Virginia course, left moderate voters in a last year, Bill O’Reilly not improve in the following years values.” On the other hand, Harry rather sticky situation. harshly lashed back, and more moderate politicians do Reid (D-Nev.) is campaigning for “The candidates for this elec- stating such actions not run, I plan on not voting at exactly the opposite. He proposes tion are such opposites and there is were not only an attack all.” a quick withdrawal of troops from almost no compromise. If I could on Christianity, but By not working to better incor- Iraq and looser immigration laws. vote, voting for one would be most on the moral fiber of porate moderate politicians into With these senators leading their difficult,” Gabe Aliaga, Adv. 803, America itself. our political system, these Ameri- respective parties, a basic principle said. “All these conserva- can extremists run the risk of wide seems to be suggested here: demo- Some have even come to tives wanting to instill spread accordance with the above crats must be liberals, republicans believe that American democracy Christian values into our sentiment. Page 8 Centerfold The Hoof Beat Elections 2006 What’s the big Who Would You Vote For?

difference? large corporations as well as small businesses while advocating the importance of personal responsibility, limited government, America’s present and business expansion. The Republicans also believe that the Judicial Branch should have less influence over constitutional matters and more power should be allotted to local or state gov- political parties ernments. Republicans believe that personal spending from busi- nesses will lead to economic well-being, therefore there should be by Vasiliki Mitrakos The major political parties in the United States less government intervention with trade. The income tax system government are the Democratic and the Republican parties is detested by many Republicans because they consider it unfair (with the exception of the Libertarian party as the third larg- to businesses that create jobs and promote the economy. est, which is commonly known as the Green Party). But what The majority of Republicans oppose abortion and same sex is the political perspective of each party? marriage because of moral and religious views, and support The Democratic Party, which is generally considered prayer in schools. Many Republicans support stricter punish- liberal, promotes social and civil freedoms, equal rights and ments for various crimes yet still advocate the ownership of opportunities, and a partially free economic system with guns. The party supports the accessibility of school for everyone government intervention. The Democrats believe that the through projects like the No Child Left Behind Act of 2001, and government should play a large role in social services, such as support a measure of aiding the welfare recipients, though at a aiding the poor, even if it must raise taxes. On recent issues, lower cost to the government. Democrats are opposed to the torture of military prisoners Since the September 11, 2001 attacks, the Republicans’ views whose natural rights have been taken away. On the subject on controlling terrorism have altered. They now support neocon- of same-sex marriage, most Democrats support it, but a servative policies regarding the War on Terror and have increased few members disagree based on religious and humanitarian attempts to spread democracy in the Middle East. Generally, morals. The Democratic Party is against wire-tapping and many Republicans support the reduction of illegal immigra- supports the privacy of U.S. citizens. tion and accepting new immigrant into the U.S. looking for new The party also believes that all women should have ac- jobs. The Democrats, on the other hand, support programs of cess to birth control and abortion rights though it has helped immigration and programs that reduce the level of protection of reduce the number of abortions by creating awareness of the America’s borders by reducing the number of troops positioned issue through prevention programs. Democrats focus on ways there. to prevent problems such as crime and murder beforehand Of the numerous alternative political parties in the U.S. and want to improve the communities as a whole. To carry government, the Libertarians rank as the largest. They support out this method of prevention, many Democrats support complete individual freedom on issues such as gay marriage, le- gun control. The Democratic Party also favors preserving the galizing drugs, home schooling, and free trade. In other terms, the environment and natural resources. Democrats advocate af- party’s principles are based on a “laissez faire” government which fordable health care for everyone and believe the government basically means little to no intervention or restric- should have a larger role in securing this issue. tions on trade by the government. The Republican Party is considered to be more con- Libertarians are split between servative on social issues, two factions; the moderates, while promoting greater eco- who focus on popular issues, nomic liberties. The Repub- and the “hardcore” libertari- lican Party supports ans who believe in an entirely free government. Today over four hundred Libertarians hold various offices in the government, though they tend to be minor.

Mudslinging alive and well in ’06

by Ahmed Imtiaz “Judy Baar Topinka - what is she thinking,” or some varia- other candidate. tion of the phrase is present in the majority of governor Rod Adv. 708, “Topinka was a mediocre treasurer, but after Blagojevich’s campaign ads. This particular expression is used said. “I seeing the commercials, and learning that she in commercials by schoolchildren and senior citizens alike to just as- wants to cut health care for kids, I’m turning collectively oppose Judy Baar Topinka’s bid for Governor of sumed towards Blagojevich,” Hammad Farooq, Adv. Illinois. Mudslinging is an injurious tool when running for the 905, said. public office, but many politicians consider it necessary to whole Since Governor Blagojevich has amassed get people’s attention. The repetition of the Topinka’s slogan thing was taken more campaign money than Topinka, he can continues the petty exchange of insults between the two can- out of con- afford to run several more ads, which focus on didates. text.” Topinka’s shortcomings as well as his contri- Mudslinging is traced back to the presidential election Instead of butions to the state. Given that Topinka has of 1828, in which both Andrew Jackson and John Quincy defending their limited finances, she does not have the capac- Adams were at the center of political scandals, and both de- reputations and ity to produce numerous ads. She has focused voted their campaigns to ruining their opponent’s reputation. focusing on their the ads she can afford to produce on assaulting Although this is only a gubernatorial race, which generally do cam- the Governor instead of defending her own not garner as much coverage, this trend is still observable in paign acts and protecting her image. As of June 30, Illinois. plat- Blagojevich had collected more than $12 mil- Topinka responded to Blagojevich’s negative ads with forms, lion while Topinka had only $1.5 million for slanderous advertisements of her own. One ad depicts Blago- both campaign funds. jevich under fire for accepting a 1500 dollar check from the candidates con- “There is negative media hype associated husband of a state worker. The distraught governor in the tinue to criticize each with both these candidates,” Gabe Aliaga, Adv. commercial was inept at answering questions. other, hoping to draw 803, said. “I am not in support of either. I think “The way I saw him didn’t change much,” David Ramirez, support away from the they can use the advertising funds to actually NovemberMonth Year 2006 Centerfold CategoryPage 9 Page  Hot topics on the Elections 2006 campaign trail

by Aliy Markowski As politicians race for control of Congress America’s interest this fall, a few controversial issues guide their campaigns. in the issue. Congress’s recent divide Who Would You Vote For? Voters will cast their ballots on Election Day on the basis over the issue has created more of economic, foreign policy, and domestic concerns. controversy. The Senate passed an Economic policy, the War in Iraq, moral issues, and im- immigration reform including a migration have moved to the forefront of debate. guest-worker program, while the “This is the first Election I’m going to be able House created a bill subjecting ille- to vote in,” Liza Tullis, Adv. 705, said, who will gal immigrants to felony prosecution. turn 18 just a week before the November 7th Elec- Both Democrats and Republicans are tion. “There aren’t really any perfect candidates to now wary to compromise on the guest- me whom I agree with completely on every issue. worker debate because of the potential Everyone has their flaws, so I’m just going to have to damage to candidates and their decide who the better candidate is overall.” advocated positions on the issue. As approval ratings continue to decline for the War “Immigration is a big issue in Iraq, this controversial issue is likely to be the great- because Americans think that it est factor influencing voters’ decisions on Congressional has a large impact on their jobs candidates. While the Republicans maintain that a strong and their wages,” Piotr Maniak, presence in Iraq is still needed, Democratic Party leaders Adv. 701, said. “It’s going to call for a timetable for removal of American troops. be especially important in “I think some people see the upcoming election as an the South because it’s about informal referendum on the war,” Ana Haggerty, Adv. America’s close relationship 708, said. with Mexico.” Haggerty says the country’s huge financial input into Moral issues will also hold a high stake in the November the war keeps the issue at the height of political debate. Election. Americans are not only in disagreement over posi- “If you’re going to spend so much money and lives tions on stem cell research, abortion, and same-sex marriage, on waging a war, then the government should constantly but many voters are also divided over whether moral debates be held responsible for it,” Haggerty said, “justifying should play a role in politics at all. continued occupation, updating on progress, and creating “I don’t think moral issues should play as much of a a timetable to pull out.” role,” Haggerty said. “Imposing morals and religion on Aisha Taylor, Adv. 708, agrees that the financial bur- people is really not the government’s place.” den of the War is a tremendous strain on the American Maggie O’Connell, Adv. 807, disagrees. economy. “Moral issues should definitely influence someone’s vote, “It costs our country so much to destroy a nation and and they will,” O’Connell said. then rebuild it,” Taylor said. “It’s a senseless waste of O’Connell says the discrepancy in American morality money, and it should have been over years ago.” necessitates government intervention in moral debates. Ben Ortiz, Adv. 708, says politicians must find a “I don’t think the government should have to have a say middle ground solution to the War in Iraq. in moral issues,” O’Connell said. “Ideally, we would hope “Candidates need to have a legitimate plan,” Ortiz everyone would just make the right moral decisions. But with said. “I don’t support the ‘keep ‘em there ‘til it’s done’ so many differing opinions, as a community we have to draw plan or the ‘pull ‘em out as fast as we can’ solution. We the lines somewhere.” have to set up a stable government in Iraq and then get Ortiz says politicians utilize moral debates to hit issues out.” that are close to home for many Americans, even if the gov- Trevor Woodland, Adv. 706, says domestic economic ernment has little control over the outcomes of the controver- policies on gas prices, taxes and minimum wage will be sies. a key issue for voters. A recent CNN survey reports that “I see that there are just so many people that you can Americans list health care costs, wages and soaring gas pander to their homophobia to get them to vote saying things prices as top economic concerns. like gays will move into your neighborhood,” Ortiz said. “The economy in the U.S. has the greatest impact on “Like any gay would want to live in a trailer park home.” citizens and the status quo,” Woodland said. “Moral issues are only going to be brought up to get the CNN reports that 65 percent of Americans listed most liberal and conservative voters,” Maniak said. “They increased gas prices as a financial hardship. Politicians aren’t the key issues, but they are the controversies where many people have deep-rooted opinions.” on both sides of the political spectrum have seized the th gas price issue to grab the attention of American voters, Voters will cast their ballots on November 7 choosing calling for increased energy research and short-term price candidates based on any and all of this year’s hot campaign reductions. topics. Until Election Day, candidates will continue to ad- Immigration control has also become a popular topic dress each of these issues to gain wide and cross-sectional in election debates. Huge pro- and anti-immigration American support. rallies have been held across the country, demonstrating

Candidate Profile: Rich Whitney

by Zenobia Gonsalves Rich Whitney is the Green Party candidate running provide property tax abatements of approximately 20 to 25 for Governor of Illinois for the upcoming election. He percent per school district, which would provide neces- is an attorney and partner in the Carbondale law firm of sary property tax relief for many Illinois homeowners and Speir and Whitney who practices in employment law, farmers. civil rights, and criminal defense. Born in Connecticut, Whitney has continued to stay active in other political other candidate. help people rather than demean each other.” Whitney received a Bachelor’s Degree in telecommunica- battles such as the conservation of the environment and the “Topinka was a mediocre treasurer, but after Television may be a useful tool, but there is a fine tions at Michigan State University in 1977. He graduated war in Iraq, which he does not support. He has taken on seeing the commercials, and learning that she line between presenting facts and blatantly damaging from Southern Illinois University School of Law. many cases in the past concerning the protection of First, wants to cut health care for kids, I’m turning someone’s reputation. The cost of advertising is ex- Whitney has supported labor, environmental, civil Fourth, and Fourteenth Amendment rights by combating towards Blagojevich,” Hammad Farooq, Adv. pensive and there may be other uses for the money if rights, women’s and antiwar movements for years, but political patronage in employment and the harassment 905, said. it were not spent on slandering the opposition on TV. he is running on the platform of clean energy, universal and unfair dismissal of employees, such as coal miners Since Governor Blagojevich has amassed “It seems like it’s just a big battle between all of health care, and full employment at a reasonable wage. and police officers. He is known for his opposition of the more campaign money than Topinka, he can the candidates to see who can taint their opponent’s The primary issue he feels Illinois citizens are facing to- construction of another Wal-Mart in Southern Illinois, due afford to run several more ads, which focus on record more,” Kaitlin Renkosiak, Adv. 806, said. day is the budget crisis and the lack of school funding. He to his belief that it would result in urban sprawl, and his Topinka’s shortcomings as well as his contri- “The ads focus too much on attacking the other believes that the first steps towards fixing other problems, involvement in the regulation of tobacco advertisements. butions to the state. Given that Topinka has candidate and do nothing to show the voters why like rising energy prices, is finding solutions to the flaws Whitney has also stayed involved in organizations like the limited finances, she does not have the capac- they should vote for the candidate sponsoring the of the tax system. ACLU and NAACP and is a member of Voices for Illinois ity to produce numerous ads. She has focused ad,” Preston Buehrer, Adv. 809, said. He claims that the current tax system relies too heav- Children and the Midwest High Speed Rail Association. the ads she can afford to produce on assaulting Television ads may be highly effective at captur- ily on property taxes to fund schools because they charge Whitney has an extensive history with the Illinois the Governor instead of defending her own ing a voter’s attention, with the number of televi- the lower and middle-income classes twice as much as Green Party. He was a founding member of the party and acts and protecting her image. As of June 30, sions per household at an all-time high in the United the upper classes. Whitney is proposing a tax reform wrote part of the party’s platform. In 2002, he won enough Blagojevich had collected more than $12 mil- States. Yet the focus on slandering and sensational- based on House Bill 750, claiming that it would make the votes to legally establish the party in the 115th District when lion while Topinka had only $1.5 million for izing the scandals of opponents has turned many system more progressive, which would reduce taxes for he ran for state representative for the party. He was able campaign funds. Americans away from considering politics in the the lower and middle classes and raise enough money to to preserve the Green Party’s status when he ran again in “There is negative media hype associated media at all. adequately fund Illinois schools. Whitney’s plan would 2004 and gained 3,800 more votes than in 2002 in a pre- with both these candidates,” Gabe Aliaga, Adv. “The media is tearing this country apart,” Aliaga dominantly conservative district. 803, said. “I am not in support of either. I think said. “Tearing it apart.” they can use the advertising funds to actually Page 10 Arts & Entertainment The Hoof Beat Blame the subtitles “The Collector” by Rachel Hautzinger “Kormonik,” or in English, “The Collector,” to fully understand it. Another complaint would is a Polish treasure of a movie made in 2005 by have to be that even though there is a sort of dark director Felix Falk starring Andrzej Chyra. It comedy aspect to the film, the subtitles don’t fully was up as a main competition film for the Gold succeed in conveying it. Hugo award at the Chicago 42nd International Although the plot is difficult to keep track of, Film Festival and was shown Monday, October the joy of the movie comes out of comparing it to 9, Tuesday, October 10, and Thursday, October American films. The director did an excellent job, 12. The film is the general change of heart story and many of the shots are artistically pleasing. that talks of an extremely successful tax collec- The setting shows enough that one catches onto tor whose morality levels are extremely low, but the political undertone: Poland is still struggling after a series of disheartening events he finds economically. The music constantly sets the his former almost non-existent values reversed. perfect mood. There are also some truly amazing Although the details of the plot are hard to follow scenes, such as the one were Lucek finds the only due to bad subtitles, the filming is quite impres- item worth repossessing is a sick girl’s accordion sive and the plot will warm the heart. that she loves very dearly, and he enters a physical Set in modern-day Poland, the story begins struggle with her to take it. The scene reaches with Lucek Bohme, a small town’s main tax pure genius when the next shot is of his former collector, humorously attempting to collect a res- love’s face in shock at the door, who happens to pirator with his former neighbor still hooked into be the sick girl’s mother and the previous owner it. As the story continues, one sees how Lucek of that accordion. The movie also tugs at every- does not have very high moral standards and is one’s heart strings when Lucek attempts to right thriving in a struggling time. However, a series of not so vital components of the plot were extreme- his wrongs by giving the money back, only to be events cause his life to take a turn for the worst. ly difficult to follow. The subtitles are partly to beaten severely for it. The traditional basic story He is reunited with a former love only to be later blame. They do not distinguish who is speaking of reform manages to catch viewers’ attention. caught trying to repose her sick daughter’s accor- and the dialogue moves so fast, it is hard to keep Though touching and with good filming, the dion, one of his clients kills himself, he is beaten track. For example, at the beginning of the movie story is too basic and the plot details are hard to badly for attempting to give money back, and he the filmmakers jump right into the plot, without follow. Overall, “The Collector” is a worthwhile is put to trial for accepting a bribe which he then giving any background. By the time one can film if one is looking for something different with gave away. In the end, Lucek realizes that even distinguish who is who and what their purpose a familiar story, but fails in the details due to though life has its hardships, giving is better than is, the movie is almost over. There were many as- subtitles. taking and the law might not always be right. pects to the story that the meaning is still clueless, This is the basis of the plot, but for many the and one should probably watch this movie twice Be a kid again: “Summercamp!” stirs feelings of nostalgia

by Kana Yoo six to fifteen, are surprisingly open. Documentary Feature was awarded For the audience, the opportunity Grab a sleeping bag, a flashlight, Their honesty is at times amusing, to “Iraq in Fragments,” a film to see the children more grown up, and some bug spray and take a trip and at others touching and sad. directed by James Longley about three years later, was a surreal and down memory lane with “Sum- The cameras, manned by Bradley the schisms in Iraq. The Silver Hugo pleasing experience. Many of the mercamp!”, a documentary about Beesley and Sarah Price, follow was awarded to the Exile Family children at the screening returned to Swift Nature Camp in Minong, their subjects everywhere for three Movie, directed by Arash, about a Swift Nature Camp in subsequent Wisconsin. Even for those who have weeks, catching priceless moments split Persian family that reunites at years, some becoming CITs (Coun- never been to a summer camp, the by the lake, in the dining hall, and Mecca. selors In Training). When asked film covers issues that all children in the cabins. The filmmakers form At the last screening of “Sum- how it felt being taped, Stephenson may encounter when growing up, a special relationship with two mercamp!”, the film’s directors and responded that she did not under- like popularity, self-image, and the children, Cameron Schmidt and several children, including Schmidt stand the cameras and only saw opposite sex. Holly Stephenson, who become and Stephenson, were available for people. This would account for the This documentary may not the focus of the film. Cameron is questioning at the end of the film. natural footage that was captured. be the first of its kind, with “Bug an overweight boy who Juice” and MTV’s “True Life” as struggles to get along predecessors, but the film offers a with his cabin mates, fresh and enjoyable viewing experi- and Holly is a serious ence. The children are charming young girl who has an in their antics: one boy reads Tom obsession with chicka- Clancy, and another goes around dees (the significance giving wedgies. In addition to the of this obsession is later typical problems that many children revealed in an emotion- face, the film tackles the more recent ally stirring scene). issue of prescription medications This film fell under for ADD and ADHD. The children the “Docufest” category speak candidly about their disorders at the Chicago Inter- and their medications, while one national Film Festival counselor offers her opinion on the and was probably the matter. According to the counselor, most lighthearted one parents are too quick to get their of the 13 films that were children diagnosed and medicated; featured. “Summer- all children need is a day filled with camp!” did not receive physical and social activities, which any awards at the com- summer camp can provide. Though petition, losing out to it is not a dominant issue, the film more serious films with offers key perspectives on the mat- significant reflections ter. on politics and culture. The children, ranging from ages The Gold Hugo for Best All about the 42nd Chicago International Film Festival by Damon Beres Greece, Central and South America, and the world at large showcased “Face Control,” “Soul Kicking,” and “The Wake.” South Korea had their cinematic prowess at Chicago’s 42nd International Film Festival. The quite a showing, with films like “The Host,” “A Dirty Carnival,” “Host festival opened October 5th with the premiere of Marc Forestor’s (“Finding & Guest,” “Invisible Waves,” “King and the Clown,” “Time,” and “The Neverland”) new movie “Stranger than Fiction,” which sold out as soon as Unforgiven.” Many other countries, such as Mexico and Japan, were also tickets went on sale. However, most audiences flocked to the independent represented. Forget the UN, the league of nations was right here. films that would be impossible to see elsewhere. Also of note in this year’s festival was Chicago’s first “Anime Focus,” Highlighting these foreign, indie flicks was “Fireworks Wednesday,” which featured a trilogy of films from director Yoshiyuki Tomino, who was an Iranian film from director Asghar Farhadi, which won the festival’s also given a lifetime achievement award for his work in the field of anima- Gold Hugo award for best film. The film was a dramatic piece about a wife tion. The trilogy was based upon the “Z Gundam” series, which was made who suspects her husband might be having an affair with the beautician by Tomino in the late 1980s. Fans that came for the films were treated to a next door. Of course, the basic plot could be construed as misleading, as live appearance from Tomino himself, who stayed after the screenings of the film has been praised for its perspectives on “infidelity” and “social the films for a question and answer session. Other films also had director hierarchies” (as detailed on the official Chicago International Film Festival appearances, such as “Summercamp!” which was from the United States’ website). very own Wisconsin. Iran was, of course, far from the only nation recognized in the film fes- The festival came to a close on October 19th, but will, of course, return tival. There was an entire spotlight on Greece, with films such as “Buzz,” next year. Page 10 Arts & Entertainment The Hoof Beat November 2006 Arts & Entertainment Page 11 “Mobile Suit Z Gundam” trilogy storms CIFF’s Anime Focus Countless nerdlings follow suit

by Damon Beres There’s probably an unwritten rule that science fiction animation from Japan has to be needlessly complicated, frantic, and over-the-top. These aren’t complaints, neces- sarily, but with such examples as 1988’s “Akira,” and 1995’s “Ghost in the Shell,” coming to such a conclusion is all too easy. Appropriately enough, the tradition contin- ues with the “Mobile Suit Z Gundam” trilogy. The three films were part of the Chicago Interna- tional Film Festival’s inaugural “Anime Focus,” and were screened for legions of otaku (a Japanese pop culture term for someone who is obsessed with something). Better yet, director Yoshiyuki Tomino was present for all three screenings (the three films, “Heirs to the Stars,” “Lovers,” and “Love is the Pulse of the Stars,” were shown consecutively), and stayed around afterwards to answer questions from the audience. Just as Tomino’s interpreter spoke in broken English and detached thoughts, the films were a bit disjointed and difficult to follow. Perhaps this stems from the fact that the series is, in fact, something of a sequel to the original “Mobile Suit Gundam” series that first aired in Japan in 1979. Perhaps it’s because the trilogy was actually a retelling and immense condensation of a 50-episode T.V. show, also entitled “Z Gundam.” Perhaps the script, which introduced tons of characters in a short amount of time, never really established the plethora of settings, Gundam says “Hello.” and used far too many technical acronyms, contributed Courtesy of www.gundamofficial.com somewhat to these flaws. Or perhaps, just perhaps, the answer we’re looking for nowhere, and settings come and go. Much of the trilogy feels detached, is “all of the above.” For those uninitiated to the “Gundam” series, the and while it is characteristic of the “Gundam” series, as well as science “Z Gundam” trilogy will prove confusing, convoluted, and challenging to fiction in general, to have a huge cast of characters as well as an array of follow. While the core of the plot isn’t too overwhelming to keep track of, locales for them to travel in, it is just a bit too disconcerting in this case. the script is otherwise oversaturated with references to the vast history of But so what? Surely what was confusing on the first viewing would be “Gundam” that new audiences simply won’t be able to follow. Characters a bit clearer on the second. What should truly matter is whether or not the such as Amuro Ray and Char Aznable are introduced and referenced as if plot, for all of its complexities, was riveting and compelling, which it was. everyone has already seen and worships the original “Gundam” series (set While it was difficult to get a handle on the specifics, the basic intrigue eight years prior), which is problematic because they’re as important to the wasn’t too difficult to follow, and it was certainly interesting. plot as Kamille Bidan, the protagonist of all three films. More important were the animation and fight sequences, because Layers of pre-“Z Gundam” history aren’t all that convolute the films, while the story is of course of great concern, one doesn’t go to a trilogy however. The entire violent conflict that ties the trilogy together is sparked that features gigantic fighting robots without expecting some fantastic suddenly and carries on without much build-up. Characters change alle- action sequences. In this regard, “Z Gundam” succeeds. There is a great giances like dirty underwear, grand fight sequences occur seemingly out of deal of action in all three films, and the animation is, for the most part, crisp and well-done, even though much of it is taken directly from the original 1980s television series. Those who would approach “Z Gundam” simply because of said action might be a bit disap- pointed by the frequent, long-winded bouts of dialogue. For anyone else, the reprieve found in these sequences is an absolute delight. If the films were satisfactory, more or less, then the main disappointment in the experience came from the festival itself. The sessions with director Tomino that came at the start of every film seemed a bit disorganized, and his interpreter did leave something to be desired. Even worse was the question and answer session that came at the end of the trilogy. The festival’s founder gave a surprisingly haphazard speech before present- ing Tomino his award, which was upsetting only because it made the entire experience, and privilege, of having Tomino at the screenings seem unremarkable. Further instilling this feeling was the audi- ence itself. Filled mostly with loud-mouthed men in their 20s, some of them woefully in cosplay (dressed up as their favorite characters from the anime), their questions were insultingly direct and generally didn’t have anything to do with the “Z Gundam” trilogy itself. No, many members asked about other “Gundam” series instead, which confused both the translator and Tomino him- self. These questions wasted the brief time that Tomino had, and he wasn’t even able to answer most of them (“You’ll have to ask the studio,” was a favored answer). It was surprising to witness such blatant disrespect from both the audience and the festival itself. Interestingly enough, there are also a number of typos in relation to the trilogy on the Chicago International Film Festival’s website. “Suit” is spelled “Suite,” and director Yoshiyuki Tomino’s name was spelled incorrectly on the awards sec- tion of the website. I’m sure such mistakes would hardly be acceptable in the context of any other major film of the festival, and it seems suspect that these sorts of things are allowed to slide on the Japanese animated film series. Perhaps they aren’t taken seriously because they are indeed works of animation, or perhaps the Japanese is simply too much to handle for the festival staff. In any case, it’s surprising and disappointing. But alas, such things cannot be helped, and at least the movies proved entertaining. Hopefully they’ll find their way to DVD sometime in the near future, because they’re surely worth at least a rent. Just realize that overwrought political drama and confusing plotlines come with the territory.

Film poster for the “Z Gundam” trilogy. Courtesy of www.chicagofilmfestival.org. Page 12 Arts & Entertainment The Hoof Beat A man with a mission Citizen Cope communicates global affairs through his music

by Mohammad Rahman other particularly emotional song is “Pablo Citizen Cope has been revolutionizing Picasso,” in which he utilizes symbolism to the music world by integrating different portray his love for a woman. He does this types of music genres into one album. His by comparing the paintings of Picasso to his new album “Every Waking Moment,” de- beloved. In “Bullet and a Target,” he sings buted on September 12, 2006. It is his third about the town of Freetown. In that town album, following his first album, “Cope men are not really free as the town’s name Citizen,” in the late 90s and his second suggests. Death because of street violence album, “Citizen Cope” (2002). His previous looms on the mind of every Freetowner; albums have not been very successful. discouraging teachers squelch the dreams of a Citizen Cope, whose real name is Clar- young child who wants to go to college where ence Greenwood, was born in Memphis, he can be free. Tennessee. Cope got an early introduction Citizen Cope includes all types of people to music my playing the trumpet in his in his songs from many different back- school band. This led him to appreciate grounds. This is good for marketing his new music, but not the trumpet, so he began to album because the listeners will be able to teach himself to play the guitar. Now, in relate their own lives to his songs. In his song addition to playing the guitar, he sings and “200, 000 (in counterfeit 50 dollar bills),” plays the keyboard. His intense love for mu- he talks about how a new immigrant makes sic caught the eye of many prominent music his living by trading counterfeit money. He organizations. His first experience with does not emphasize immigrants sometimes professional music was being a DJ for a hip engaging in illegal activities, but instead the hop act, “Basehead.” This had an enormous hardships and the risks immigrants often go impact on his music because his style as a through if they are not well-educated or have solo artist includes many hip hop style beats no experience in technical jobs. and topics. Citizen Cope’s songs are well written and Citizen Cope is a singer for all types of express their intended meaning utilizing the music enthusiasts because he is not just a fewest words possible. The listener is never rock or a country singer; he sings everything left with only a vague idea of the theme of that he feels is necessary for the topic of his the song; the message is clear. A recurring song. Whenever his songs have an urban theme in his songs is that of a hero’s journey setting, he uses hip hop and R & B. For and Citizen Cope introduces that protagonist example, when he is talking about earn- in the beginning of his songs to minimize ing money in an illegal manner in order to any ambiguity. By singing about the lives of survive in the city, he uses hip hop styles. To the less fortunate, most of Citizen Cope’s respect his brother who has passed away, he songs can be used to support raising funds for uses more solemn tones seen in rock. humanitarian aid to places where people have On his website, Citizen Cope claims that less opportunities or their livelihood was de- he had a passion for music in his days as a Citizen Cope’s “Every Waking Moment” CD cover. stroyed by a natural disaster, such as the disaster child. His songs acquaint the listener to the Courtesy of www.amazon.com efforts seen in response to the recent tsunami in vitality of current events that they might be the Indian Ocean. ignorant to such as the violence in Sierra Leone. He also With Citizen Cope’s managers’ intense advertising and lets the listener enter the labyrinth of his mind by telling the quality of his songs, “Every Walking Moment” has the his feelings for his wife in his song, “Son’s gonna rise.” An- potential to be highly successful in the music market. “Pump It” louder! Black Eyed Peas concert rocks the Windy City

by Patricia Radkowski The Black Eyed Peas punched out Satur- newest album, “Monkey Business” (2005), “My Humps,” “Dum Diddley,” “Let’s Get across the stands, it became a very simple day night boredom for Chicagoans at their the crowd took it all in, loved it, and always Retarded,” “Hey Mama,” and “Gone Going task to find the Filipino fans. Every person in Charter One Pavilion concert on September wanted more. Gone” did not miss the BEP (Black Eyed the audience was suddenly from the Philip- 23rd. Despite forecasts of showers, it did not The Black Eyed Peas urged fans to Peas) routine that night. During “Don’t pines and those that were not, pretended they rain on the Black Eyed Peas’ performance, “Pump It” with them, warned them not to Phunk With My Heart,” one of the other art- were. As Apl.de.Ap, the Filipino member of and it certainly did not rain on the crowd’s fall in love with ladies at the “Disco Club.” ists handed Fergie money, which she threw the Black Eyed Peas, rapped in Tagalog, the parade. The Black Eyed Peas stimulated the The audience was taught the meaning of into the crowd. Disgusted with the fake bills, language of the Philippines, Filipino flags audience with their antics and revered songs. the rule “Don’t Lie,” asked to answer the Fergie took time out of her lyrics to express waved in fervor. Rihanna, their opening act, also shimmered popular question “Where is the Love?” and her disappointment, slipping back into the Apl.de.Ap was not the only band on stage, but nothing could interfere with then told to “Shut Up” as the Black Eye song with ease. member to have his moment with the fans. the audience’s blind love for the Black Eyed Peas continued jamming. The popular songs When the first beats of “Bebot” sounded William and Taboo amazed the audience Peas. with their on-the-spot raps and Rihanna opened for the scats. The crowd was thrilled Black Eyed Peas’ show with with their impromptu tricks. songs from both of her albums, Aspects like those are the line “Music of the Sun” (2005) and between hearing songs and see- “A Girl Like Me” (2006). The ing songs being preformed by smooth choreography mixed their talents. with the energy of her dancers Fergie put her first solo and the sway of her gentle, yet album, “The Dutchess,” on strong voice created the perfect store shelves just last September entry into the show. Rihanna and did not fail to mention it put on a brilliant performance at the concert. The Black Eyed with her hypnotic hits, “S.O.S.” Peas promised their fans that and “Pon De Replay.” Singing they were not splitting up and some of her new songs like encouraged the crowd to sup- “We Ride” and “Unfaithful,” port the development of their both of which have an unusu- lead vocalist. Despite having ally slow tempo in comparison three fabulous songs on her al- to her other hits, the Barbados bum that are bound to become native twinkled like the rising classics, Fergie only preformed star that she is. Despite her best “London Bridge”. The crowd efforts, the crowd gave Rihan- treated Fergie’s single as one na’s performance a lukewarm of the Black Eyed Peas’ songs: reception. The people wanted they adored it. to see the band they came for: The Black Eyed Black Eyed the Black Eyed Peas. Peas concert eliminated Sat- As soon as the Black Eyed urday night blues for a ton of Peas’ voices boomed through Chicagoans. Two songstresses, the brisk night air, the crowd Fergie and Rihanna, launched was ignited. The energy of the their careers into prosperity. audience gushed forth as people With an unparalleled fusion got up to dance, sing, and wave of energy from the band fus- their hands/cell phones. The ing and enthusiasm from the passion of the fans combined crowds, the Black Eyed Black with the zeal of the band and Eyed Peas concert was a suc- became one. Whether per- cess. forming hits from “Elephunk” (2003) or singles from their Page 12 Arts & Entertainment The Hoof Beat Page 12 Arts & Entertainment The Hoof Beat Tell me what you’re thinking about Radtrocity Pharrells’ “In My Mind” How did your hottest album yet parents let you by Michelle Zacarias out of the house? Pharrell Williams has song is both smooth and not bad, but it did not meet by Patricia Radkowski sex appeal and unbelievably unique, a combination of the expectations of Kanye Walking down the halls of Northside has be smiling at you for various reasons. Her good looks, but Pharrell also slow jams and hip-hop. The and Pharrell. Both artists are become dangerous. With fashion sense run- smile may not be an indication of how has new tricks up his sleeve. song’s beat is very similar amazing music producers, ning stagnant at the lowest low experienced good you look in those canary yellow His new album “In My to some of Pharrell’s other but they did not have the in the last two years, accessory atrocities, bag pants; she might just be thinking about her Mind” displays a new side beats. Although it is very chemistry one would expect. blunders, clothes catastrophes, and downright commission. to his music, offering catchy simple, it captivates listeners Surprisingly, Pharrell’s duet dress disasters have become more and more Above all else: love yourself. Treat beats and flowing lyrics. through its combination of with Nelly in “Baby” was frequent. Let’s address the issues, layer by your body well. Dress it to your advan- One of Pharrells’ new lyrics and tones. The song a great deal better than the layer, starting with layers themselves. tage. Does pink or blue look better on songs is already a hit on the “Keep It Playa,” featuring song with Kanye West. Are you an onion? No? Then why do you you? It’s a simple question, yet most charts. “Can I Have it Like Slim Thug, adds a spicy “Baby” is catchy because feel the need to layer? Two shirts are under- Northsiders fail to respond to it correctly. That” is currently the most twist to the album. Slim it has a very similar beat to standable. You have permission for three only Here is another question whose answer popular song in this new Thug performs a small rap some of Michael Jackson’s if you weigh less than one hundred pounds. I you cannot copy during lunch: do those album. The track is a duet in the song. The rap creates older songs. This similar- can understand that you don’t have body fat jeans still fit you without cutting off the with Gwen Stefani, and a nice contrast to Pharrells’ ity makes sense because or a sweater and you get cold. The rest of you circulation to your legs? though she does not add buoyant background music. Pharrell cites Jackson as one have no excuse for five shirts, especially when Find out what skirt cuts are good for anything to the song, Stefani Pharrell does better on this of his biggest influences for they don’t even match. you. Are your knees kind of cute or do moves the audience with a album with duets than he starting his music career. Haven’t you learned from the laboratory they need to be hidden from the world memorable chorus. It’s a does alone. “Baby” mixes hip-hop safety video what to do in case a chemical by another three inches of fabric? The slow but surprisingly dance- Pharrell leaves room for techno and soul music. The spills on your clothing? Most girls in our miniskirt used to be a classy item found in able song, which is just a hopeless romantics in the drums for the “Baby” song school would die from chemical burns, not every woman’s closest. Ask your history slice of what “In my Mind” album with the duet with are sensational. due to modesty but due to the fact that they teacher when the race for the shortest skirt provides for its listener. Snoop Dogg in the song Pharrell has done it would not be able to take those layers off fast began. I urge you not to be the winner. Though Pharrell has had “Girl.” The most romantic again: he has revived his old enough. You are a walking, talking hazard. Sisqo may have made “The Thong just one hit song so far, there song of the album reaches fans by feeding them even Your safety should be incentive enough to Song” a hit, but honestly: leave those are many excellent songs towards a female audience, more of himself and has take some shirts off before you leave the undergarments at home. Further com- on Pharrells’ new album. drawing the listener in by managed to captivate new house. mentary on this subject did not make it “Raspy **** ” had an amus- talking about the search for fans at the same time. His Haven’t you ever been told that “less is into this high school publication. So use ing beat, something that the one girl that would be catchy beats take his simple more?” I’m certain that you have. Is your your imagination. one would expect to hear on his. The only other song that lyrics a long way. From old ignorance still bliss when I point at you and Some people come dressed as if Physi- a Nintendo Video Game, comes close to romanticism school remixes to modern laugh? Your seven bracelets, five necklaces, cal Education was the only class they which is appropriate because is “Angel,” another track techno, Pharrell is able to eighteen rings, backpack, purse, gymbag, were going to that day. Guys especially the album cover is a cartoon about Pharrell finding the experiment with all sorts lunchbag, coffeecup, and extra shoes, since consider workout clothes as proper attire video game version of Phar- one girl with whom he can of new sounds and tones in you know that you can’t make it through the for the whole school day. It is not hard to rell. The song is upbeat and share his dreams. However, his album “In My Mind.” day in those heels, are a little excessive for a buy two polo shirts, four tees, three pairs likable, though it does not this song has more of an This album is amazing and six hour school day. of jeans, and a pair of khakis that you can necessarily add to Pharrells’ old-school beat to it as op- unique and has listeners Did you catch that? School day. It’s just alternate throughout the week. Really, image as the “gangster” rap- posed to the modern “Girl.” interested to know exactly school. You are not going clubbing. You are you just might get a “yes” the next time per that he sometimes tries The biggest disappoint- what is on Pharrells’ mind. not going to a Metallica concert. You are not you ask a girl to a school dance. to be. ment of the album was in Hawaii. So obviously you shouldn’t look NCP halls are not a track, a dance, a Another strong track is “Number One,” featuring like you are about to get your groove on, rock concert, or a runway. By all means, “You Can Do It Too.” The Kanye West. The song was about to bring out your inner Satan, or about have good posture, walk with poise, and to go to the beach. Flip-flops and snow don’t let your stride express your soul, but do make you cool, but they do cause frostbite. not rap yourself in rags just because some- Heels don’t make the cut either. Although body else is doing it. Wear what looks better than flip-flops in the winter, it is un- good on you: this is the easiest and most necessary for your feet to announce your effective way of creating your own style. coming five minutes before you arrive. The click clack noise is annoying. Most of you don’t know how to walk in them any- way, so why bother? You’ll have plenty of occasions to torture your feet later on in life. Enjoy your youth in comfortable shoes, but please, no grand- ma slippers. Those hideous material things without soles supposedly belong on your feet; however, the best place to put them is in the trash. Your photogenic, blonde, blue-eyed best friend might look good in that shade of green, but you cer- tainly don’t. Mirrors: use them, preferably before you buy an item. Just because that skirt looks great on the organ-less, anorexic mannequin in the window does not give you the right to buy it. Why do you think that fitting rooms exist? It is not to figure out your size, but to see if this specific piece of clothing works with you. Sometimes, store clerks are bullies. Don’t let the hot Abercrombie & Fitch guy talk you into buy- ing something with cheap compliments. Be mindful that the Pharell’s “In My Mind” CD cover. saleswoman could Image courtesy of www.amazon.com

November 2006 Sports Page 15 Freshmen girls spike the competition Girls Freshmen Volleyball Team wins City Championship

by Vasiliki Mitrakos Coach of Girls’ Volleyball. accomplished this year. I been at almost Practicing three hours a day, five There was a strong audience turnout every game this season and at each suc- times a week, the Freshman Girls Volley- as many of the varsity players along with cessive game, the girls have played better ball Team was prepared to do their best the players’ parents came out to support than the last,” one of the player’s parents this season. The girls ended their season the freshman team. said. off in victory on October 21st when they “There were a lot of varsity players, With the end of the season the team won the City Championships. They de- and it actually was a big crowd,” Coach can only hope to improve their game for feated George Washington at their home Flores said. next year. game - two games to nothing. The Freshmen Girls Volleyball Team The competition was not too aggres- was not the only team to earn such a sive, and the team achieved victory. title this season. “[The competition] was challenging “It was pretty cool that all levels enough, but it wasn’t that bad,” Jessica went to city championships,” Jessica Roldan, Adv. 010, said. Roldan, Adv. 010 said. The team felt With such practice and determina- that they had to have learned a lot over tion, the Freshman Girls Volleyball Team this season in order to win such a game. has been undefeated in the conference In a team member’s opinion, the team games for the past five years. Anticipat- displayed their optimum talent during ing every move during the championship the game. game, they were able to gather their team “It was an amazing game; we all spirit and play with motivation. played our best,” Jeri Mcinerney, Adv. “There were moments where they 018, said. had some problems, but overall they “The game was really great. I’m played strong,” said Nicole Flores, Head really proud of all that the girls have Close, but no cigar Northside defeated in playoffs by Farrukh Mukhtar Coach Mike Keane commented Northside’s Men’s Varsity Soccer Team on the performance of the team and took the field at Montrose and Lakeshore on the crucial game against Roosevelt. Drive October 5th with high hopes against “I felt we improved a lot this year Roosevelt High School. After making it to compared to last year,” Keane, head the playoffs for the second year in a row, the coach of the men’s varsity soccer team team was eliminated in the second round since 2002, said. of the playoffs. The competition was fierce The team made it farther in the for the Northside team on the brink of playoffs this year than ever before. elimination. “We had more leadership this Roosevelt scored late, with around a year and more experienced players minute left in the first half. With so much than last year,” Keane said. riding on the game, Northside needed The strategy at the game against the victory. Early in the second half, Cole Roosevelt was to use the wings, put Frankel, Adv. 808, scored to tie the game. the ball on the outside, and to use With about ten minutes left on the clock, speed to overcome their opponents, Roosevelt scored yet again, with a header, a Keane said. goal scored with the use of a player’s head After the game with Roosevelt, instead of foot. In the remaining minutes of Northside played against Glenbrook the game, Northside was unable to deliver North in a state playoff game on and lost the game 2-1. October 18th. Northside lost the game “We felt terrible that we lost,” Eric 7-0. Along with the game with Glen- Ullrich, Adv. 809, said. “It was disappoint- brook North, they also lost the game ing because we knew that we could have with Payton for the Fire Extinguisher beaten them, but I felt that we played a Trophy on October 25th, which the good game.” coach was eagerly anticipating. Along with the players, spectators of After this year’s 9th place finish, the game were also upset with the loss. the team can only look to next year, “I felt that the team played a good for which coach Keane is already game,” soccer fan Eric Serrano, Adv. 805, strategizing. said. “It was disappointing that they lost “We need to just continue to play because I felt that the team had great dy- more together,” Keane said. namics and a strong coaching staff.” Teeing away Northside Women’s Golf does it again by Zainab Bilfaqi funded and because of the girls’ skills and placed third overall. at George Dunne National Golf Course, and On September 29, 2006, at city competi- practice. Pettinato, a rookie to the game, has been she is the first girl from a Chicago Public tions, Northside Women’s Golf Team proved “In the city, the team does not have good playing since July 2005. School to advance to the sectional level. that they do not settle for second best. In the competition,” Coach Demitropoulos said. “I had my first golf lesson in July 2005 Although she did not proceed to the state three years of their existence, Northside’s “That is why next year we will play more and fell in love with the game,” Pettinato competitions, Pettinato says she is proud and Women’s Golf Team has yet to lose a city suburban schools, so we can face stiffer said. “I have been playing golf ever since.” honored. She wished her teammates could match. Their record for this season in the city competition.” The team practices took place almost have been there competing with her. league was undefeated. In the regional com- “I was not surprised about winning city every day after school, and there was com- The team’s practice and hard work paid petition this year, the girls placed fifth out of competition because I knew my teammates mitment, hard work, collaboration, and fun off this year, and many of the girl’s have 11 teams, which is an improvement from last were good,” Pettinato said. involved in all their victories. ambitions to play golf in college. year’s tenth place out of 14 teams. Pettinato said all of the girls put in many “This year was definitely the most fun,” “In the regionals we go against suburban hours outside of practice to work on their Kristie Hack said. “Our entire team, while schools, who have a lot more experience and game. having a majority of the resources than us,” Tanya Nagatani, Adv. “Tanya Nagatani, our team captain, has same people since 2004, has 802, said. developed her short game,” Pettinato said. “I changed so much.” The Women’s Golf Team consists of think she is the best in the city now. Kristie Hack said the addition five players: Tanya Nagatani, Kristie Hack, Hack has great enthusiasm and Kaytlin Hack of Kate made a big differ- Adv. 800, Kaytlin Hack, Adv. 703, Kathryn helps keep us all focused. Our newest team ence. Johnson, Adv. 803, and Kate Pettinato, Adv. player, Katie Johnson, has dropped twenty “She was playing nearly 709. The girls are coached by Nick Demit- strokes off her game and I know we will see as well as myself, and she ropoulos, a teacher at Mather High School, great things from her next year.” had only been playing for who has been coaching Northside’s women Besides the complications, such as rain about three months,” Hack golf team since 2004. and frigid weather, the girls still proved they said. “Her improvement In the city competition only the top four are number one. has been the greatest. Katie schools go against each other. Northside “The course we played on was really bad Johnson this year helped us faced Walter Payton High School, King and just the day overall was nasty with rain out when we only had four College Preparatory, Morgan Park High and clouds,” Nagatani said. people and could not attend School, and one individual competitor from Nagatani started the game by teeing a match without another Taft High School. It was obvious that in city off. Pettinatto placed first in the individual player.” competition Northside would conquer due to competition. Nagatani, who had the best re- Pettinato participated in the fact that most city schools are not well- cord for the season prior to city competition, the Sectional Competition Page 16 Sports The Hoof Beat No Mo’, Northside serves Von Steuben Women’s Varsity Takes it to the ‘ship Ali or by Zainab Bilfaqi and Zahra Lalani As the 2006 Nothing volleyball season winded to an end, the Northside Real-life Varsity Women’s Volleyball Team prepared to play at Deal or No Deal? the game that would determine them as by Mohammad Khaleelullah and Shoaib Ali winners or losers Mohammad Khaleelullah: As I switched off my of the city competi- television in light of yet another Bears victory in week tion. On October 8, I began to ponder the ultimate prize of the four major 21, 2006, Northside sports in America. I literally heard Vince Lombardi Women’s Varsity calling. Sorry, this victory was not just another victory; Team’s hard work it was a slaughtering on national television. The bears and practice paid set or tied two franchise scoring records in the first half off with their vic- alone in week 8, most points in the first quarter, and tied tory in the city wide the most points scored in the first half. The offensive championship. explosion carried the Bears to their 7th straight victory While the team and best start since winning the first 12 games of the prepared for their 1985 season. These Bears are no less then real. game against Von The Bears so well known for their signature daunt- Steuben, Coach ing defense for the past few seasons have found a groove Flores, optimistic at on the other side of the ball. There was no doubt it was the idea of playing the defense that carried the Bears to a winning season for City Champion- last year. But because the offense lacked they were sent ships at Univer- home losing 29-21 to the Panthers in the divisional play- sity of Illinois at offs. A strong quarterback and a decent offense is what Chicago, said, “We was holding them back from bringing Vince home. Women’s Varsity Volleyball Team celebrates their city championship victory. felt really prepared Photo by Zainab Bilfaqi That’s where superhero Rex Grossman comes in. heading into City He was the man in Florida and caught a couple of bad Championships, since varsity volleyball team As the referee blew Championships from Nizio added to breaks in the NFL but I never doubted him. Even Claire we had lost to Whitney at Northside, lead her whistle, Von Steu- Von Steuben. Walther’s previous Swisher never doubted him. Now that he has the whole Young and then to her team in pre-game ben took the lead by “At the begin- statement, “We had a town behind him he has taken the 29th ranked Total Morgan Park the last stretches. The stadium serving first. However, ning of the season we rocky beginning to our Offense and 26th ranked scoring team from last year two years. Heading echoed with their the direction of the had trouble coming season; however, going and turned them into the 14th ranked Total Offense and into Saturday’s game, chants, and the bleach- game was turned and together and collabo- into city, we felt our 1st ranked scoring team in the NFL. These Bears are un- our team felt like they ers quickly filled with Northside finished off rating as a team, but intensity level increase stoppable now, crushing Super Bowl dreams with their knew better what had numerous Pep Club the first game with a in the end we really from the fluctuating utter dominance, plowing through teams like the Pack- to be done to win members; some were stunning lead, with came together both level at the start of the ers and last year’s NFC champions Seattle with ease. against Von Steuben, even bareback with several hits from the se- on and off the court,” season. In this game Combined with their continuing dominance on the since we had already maroon and purple niors co-captain Alyssa Courtney Konow, Adv. we worked more as a defensive end, 2nd in the beaten them twice in paint, spelling “M-U-S- Walther, Adv. 710, 801 said. team, for each other, NFL, these Bears are the real deal. With a force at the conference.” T-A-N-G-S”. and Kimberly Ables, “I think we ran versus just striving for offense and an ever present defense, what is to stop the “Although we “It helped that the Adv. 709. Following them over pretty hard personal glory.” bears now? Now I am not talking about a perfect, as any beat Von before, we Pep Club was there, the first Mustang vic- and we kicked butt,” In the regional team is bound to have a few mishaps, but when it comes still knew that we had and we had people tory, the players took various members of competitions against down to game time this team brings fear into opponents to put effort and work cheering us on because a water break, while the Varsity Volleyball Guerin College Prep, and leaves them feeling in despair, in the Keirkegaardian hard in order to beat both the crowd and the coaches created Team said. Northside varsity also form of despair that is, after a sorry loss. them in the city com- players were pumped a line-up. Charisse As the post-game experienced victory. The worst and best form of despair was only re- petitions,” Stephanie which helped us,” Eschmann, Adv. 700, rejoicing began, However in sectional cently shown by Dennis Saunders, Adv. 801, Sanders said. a setter on varsity, lead Walther commented, competitions when Green, coach of the Arizona Cardinals, during his said. “The crowd was her team into yet an- “After being on the Northside faced off blowup at a press conference. “If you want to crown On Saturday, Octo- loud and never stopped other victory. With two team for three years, it the number one school them, then crown [them],” yelled Green. Well said ber 21, at two o’clock, showing their pride for wins in one hour, the was satisfying to snag in their section, Niles coach. Angelica Nizio, Adv. their school,” Liliana Mustangs sweep away the title.” West, their impressive Shoaib Ali: Well of course they’re not less than real. 710, co-captain of the Leon, Adv. 804, said. the 2006 Chicago City Standing nearby, season came to an end. I can see them, so of course whatever is occurring is tru- ly happening. After I switched off my television screen, I, too, was astonished at another extraordinary half Pom-Pon’s bring spirit to the played by the Bears. I say ‘half’ and not ‘game’ because the team did not nearly play its best for all four quar- ters. In fact, Chicago did not score a single point in the upcoming winter season second half of this so-called ‘slaughter.’ A true slaughter some aspects were difficult. would have been a shut-out, yet the Bears allowed 10 “I love to dance; especially points in one quarter to the league’s 20th ranked of- for a team as good as North- fensive unit. A unit that’s led by Alex Smith, a second side’s,” Smarz said. “Tryouts year quarterback who’s made even less career starts than went very well. I was nervous our own quarterback, the fragile and inconsistent Rex when I did the technicals, but Grossman. Does this mean the Bears can’t be dominant otherwise, I did well. I am throughout an entire game? How the hell do you allow expecting an organized team a touchdown and a field goal in the last quarter after this year and loads of fun preventing a single score in the first three quarters? along with all the work.” Now let’s take another look at the man you call a The Poms squad’s former ‘superhero,’ the supposed savior of the Bears, quarter- coach Ms. Martha Mulligan, back Rex Grossman. When you say he’s turned the Mathematics Department, has Bears into the #1 scoring team in the NFL, are you high hopes and expectations referring to the same young and inexperienced kid that for the girls this year. had nothing to do with the 24 points scored by the “I am hoping they will Bears in Arizona? The same guy that single-handedly regain the city championships accounted for six (yup, six) turnovers versus the defense in which they got second last that gives up more points than any other team in the year,” Mulligan said. “It will NFL? You need to get your facts straight son, and the take hard work and much truth is that Grossman is still a relatively undeveloped effort to get first place, but quarterback and tends to make terrible decisions when they will do it. Also, I have feeling even a small amount of pressure. The game passed the torch down to Poms Team co-captain, Stephanie Arias, Adv. 703, leads the team in streches. against the lowly Cardinals is a prime example of his Photo by Sejla Dizdarevic former Northside student and inexperience, and shows how he will end up hurting Poms Squad member, Denis the season is to gain back the choose who to put on the the Bears in the postseason when the team faces much by Sejla Dizdarevic Agular.” Many people begin to fall title they lost last year. team because all the girls were tougher opponents. Instead of taking what the defense The Poms team is ready to into the mood slump around “This year, our goal is talented in their own ways,” was giving him and working with short underneath bring all they’ve got to com- this time of year as winter to add new genres into our Mascar said. ”We have put routes, Grossman repeatedly tried to force the ball petition this year. The year is is quickly approaching. The dances, such as ballet, jazz, together a very diverse team downfield and made mistake after mistake. filled with excitement for the Northside’s Pom Pon’s squad, etc.” Mascar said. and plan to go a very long Please don’t praise the Bears when most of their team members, and they will however, is bringing the spirit “We want to attend more way this year.” wins are after playing teams less than .500. The Bears be bringing this excitement to back this season with new games in school and sponsor Northside’s Poms squad is have an interesting road trip as they face the New York the rest of Northside’s student routines and surprises that school events as well,” Arias a popular conversation theme Giants, New England Patriots, and New York Jets. body as well. They have high will hype up their audiences. said. in many middle schools. Don’t forget that a majority of the 7 games already hopes of taking back the title This year, Captains Steph- On the day of tryouts, Freshmen coming into North- played were home games. as the first team in the city anie Arias, Adv. 703, and many girls auditioned for the side this year were excited The results of the next three contests would then be and will do whatever it takes Kristina Mascar, Adv. 806, team. Out of the 40 girls who about joining a team with enough when deciding to crown them. We all hope for to achieve this goal. New rou- plan to change everything the tried out for the team, there such a good reputation. Eliza- the best for the Bears, but just wait until the eggs hatch. tines and new genres will be school has seen the squad do were six new girls who made beth Smarz, Adv. 015, now a Last, but not least, it’s about time I get a football jersey. performed, and Northside will thus far. The two captains the Poms team. member of the team, says she Wasalaam. see Poms do what the team both say the ultimate goal for “It was very difficult to loved the tryouts even though has never been done before.