Adam's American Studies

An American Finale

2009-06-01T11:59:00.002-06:00

My final blog post relates back to our final exam. For the exam propmt I chose to write about materialism and its relationship to our past, present, and future. I think that materialism is a value and cultural concept that is really relevant in my life and at my high school. Every day I see a new product that I feel I need to have. Material possesions mean a lot to me and although it seems selfish, I can't imagine a world without my computer, Ipod, cell phone, and Tivo. Though I think materialism means even more than the clothes, cars, electronics, and other consumer goods people own. I think it relates further back to the motives and advertising that make these products so inviting and necessary. What's more, materialism relates back to competition amongst individuals. By this I mean the concept of keeping up with the Jones'. I think a lot of us are involved with these ideas. Lots of people in the Chicagoland area and throughout the US are always looking to purchase and aquire the newest product. It seems no one is contempt with the current technology and resources we have. There is a thirst for more. I know that as a consumer I abide by these trends and all though I look down on them, I cannot seem to resist them. Our current consumer trends are looking very similar to the roaring 20's wear materialism was a growing trend amongst Americans. Though these trends led to an economic depression. Eighty years later we are in a similar less dire economic scenario. We are at a breaking point which has left many Americans wondering where we are moving next.Will we plunge into depression or survive the current recession? I used a picture of an Iphone to represent this growth. Five years ago Americans were content with having a computer, phone, and mp3. With the iphone, we can get all items in one and the trend isn't stopping there. New applications and technology make internet faster and the phone more efficient. I think the continual movement of the iphone technology represents an aspect of materialism. The idea that consumers always want more and more,no one is content. My final I wonder question is what will it take for consumers to be content? I wonder if this will ever occur and if so I wonder when? The bottom line is that this trend dominates our society. For now I honestly doubt that I will be able to control some of my consumer habbits. Though I think being aware of personal habbits is the right start.

Far From Finals

2009-05-31T08:48:00.002-06:00

With finals right around the corner I find myself distracted from my main goal, studying for my exams. For the past three years I have set aside designated time for studying during the week before and of finals. Though during these periods, I always find myself distracted and finding ways to get out of studying. This year has been no different. I think that finals seem to fall during the two parts of the year that are the most fun. By this I mean, first semester finals are during the heart of the winter. They conflict with vacation time, exciting outdoor activities, and sports. I always seem to have something fun to do during first semester finals. And then there are second semester finals. The summer is right about to begin, the weather is great, part-time jobs are beginning, and sport seasons are in the playoffs. These activities always seem to get me out of my room and away from my books. I think many New Trier kids will agree with me that it is really hard to study for finals (second semester especially). In a blog post by Fretzilla, he references how many schools out east don't give finals to students with an A or higher in a class. I think this is an interesting alternative to our current situation. Having the incentive to get an A so you don't have to take a final could be a huge motivating factor for students. This idea could possibly increase the all-year work ethic of New Trier students. Often times students will be extremely flustered with four or five finals to study four. Though with the new system, they may only have one or two finals depending on how many A's they have. I think New Trier needs to re-think finals and their overall effectiveness. I believe our school should look to other schools who use the A system for advise in order to re-evaluate their current system.

The Brat Pack

2009-05-27T20:25:00.002-06:00

This weekend I swallowed my pride. On a monday afternoon I sat down, swallowed my pride, and watched the movie Sixteen Candels. Originally, I thought this movie was a complete chick flick and I was embarrased at the fact that I was watching one of the infamous "Brat Pack" movies. At the time, I didn't know how much I would end up enjoying several of these movies especially Sixteen Candels. The movie stars Molly Ringwald as a teenage girl turning sixteen years old. Though her parents forget her birthday and she goes through an entire day of struggles including staying quiet about her crush, Jake Ryan. I know that so far, this sounds prett cheesy, but the movie has a good message. The main character, Samantha is no more than a confused adolescent. I think that a lot of high schoolers can relate to her character, which is why the movie has been so succesful. She embodies the less than perfect teenager who is living day to day in the suburbs. She is nervous about her family, the opposite sex, and other students who are constantly disrupting her day including one individual played by Anthony Michael Hall. In the end, she is able to work things out and rise to the occassion by confronting AMH and her crush. At the end of the movie, she is clearly in a better state than she was at the start. It's as if she has been on a redemptive journey that starts with her as a fifthteen year-old and ends with her as a much more mature character at sixteen. I think a lot of teen movies embody the idea of redemption. I think as teenagers, we are naturally drawn to this concept. Who doesn't want to become the best athlete, grow as a student, or get the hot girl in the end? These are all common themes I see in movies. Though I am beggining to wonder how realistic these dreams are. I think these movies may be giving some teenagers false hope. Because many teens can relate to brat pack characters, I think they believe they can make similar transformations during high school. MTV was able to utilize teen lust through their reality show, MADE. The show pairs teens up with motivated stars and experts in certain areas to help these teenagers become a star athlete, prom king, a rapper, violinist, or a pageant girl. At the end of the show, the main kid usually suceeds and does something well. They may not become the best, though they always partially accomplish their goal. Either way, I think that not every American teen will get the chance to be on MADE. I still think it is interesting how media and film have teenagers hooked on the redemptive art. I am now wondering whether or not you the reader believe this art is truly possible for teenagers?

Old Glory, Keeping Kenilworth Safe

2009-05-10T18:04:00.003-06:00

I took this picture of the flag outside of the Kenilworth Police station. It seemed conditions were perfect for the photo. The wind was blwoing just the right amount, which helped me to capture the flag stretched out completely. Everything about this picture seems nice and crisp. The landscape of the police station is well manored and the building is sleek and has a clean apperance. Then there is the flag, the flag sits well above the roof of the station. It is almost there to look over Kenilworth. It's as if the flag is protecting the town and keeping things safe. This sunday, things were very tranquil in Kenilworth. My friends and I were over at a near by school shooting lacrosse balls and the entire town was very still. I think this may be the flag's doing, it is making the job of Kenilworth's policemen easier. Because of this, I named my caption: Old Glory, Keeping Kenilworth Safe.

Why Do I Hate You?

2009-05-04T09:51:00.002-06:00

A couple weeks ago we played our biggest rivals, Loyola Academy in Lacrosse. The past three years we have beat them to win the state championship, though this year they beat us in overtime in a regular season game. Before the game I noticed everyone was getting motivated through their hatred of Loyola's players. I myself am not fond of Loyola's lacrosse team and I often hear myself and my teammates saying, "I hate these kids." The rivalry between New Trier and Loyola has been occuring for the past century. It is a rivalry that extends to all sports and academic decathalon. It is one thing to be competitive against consistant competition, though it is another thing to hate your opponent. The New Trier Loyola rivalry has made me wonder why we hate each other. When ever my friends and I see Loyola lacrosse players we always make rude jokes about their attire or social habbits. The truth is when I have hung out with Loyola players at lacrosse camps I have gotten along well with them. Regardless, I still find myself disliking their team, coaches, and school. Now I am beginning to wonder why many New Trier kids dislike Loyola kids. From the Loyola kids I have spoken to, their is definately hatred for New Trier at Loyola. At the same time, it is easier for me to make generalizations about New Trier than it is Loyola. Now I am left wondering how this rivalry began. Take a look at some of sports' other rivalries, UNC DUKE, Yankees Red Sox, and Cubs and sox. How were these rivalries created? What has fueled these athletes to hate each other over the yaers? Looking back, this may have been a decent JT question. Either way, I think it is an interesting question to look into. For now, I don't really think I can answer it.

Why is the drinking age 21?

2009-04-05T19:53:00.002-06:00

For my Junior theme I really wanted to tap in on a current event that I can relate to myself and my community. There are a great deal of significant historical and current events though I wanted to find the right one that would give me an oppurtunity to relate and connect to. I found my answer while watching the Colbert Report. Stephen Colbert had the former president of Middlebury college, John McCardell. McCardell is one of many University heads who is in favor of lowering the drinking age to 18. This and some helpful blogging from Cpatt helped me to form a topic question. Why is the drinking age 21? This topic has correlations from the 19th century, the 20th century, New Trier, and the current event itself of lowing the age. In my paper I'm hoping to make some of these connections. The drinking age was originally 18, but in the 1980's all 50 states changed it to 21. In addition to the change in age, I plan to tie in the age of prohibition when alcohol was illegal. What's more, I am banking on drinking at New Treir and college campus' to be a significant aspect of my paper. There is plenty more to go, but I feel I am on the right track.

Transition Time

2009-03-15T21:09:00.004-06:00

The March to April transition is in full spring. (No pun intended). The weather is getting better, we are approaching fourth quarter, and spring sports have just begun. It seems New Trier especailly is at a transitional phase. As students, we have several hard choices to make. The improving weather is always luring us away from our homework and outdoors. This is the time where we can choose to buckle down, or slack off. The past three years, I have chosen to slack off and seen a significant decrease in my gpa. Now, it's Junior year and I need to string together a couple more grades. This is really the time where we can all define the rest of the year. And not only in the classroom. This tuesday, I am going to get surgery on my broken knee cap. After the surgery, my goal is to make it back to lacrosse for the state playoffs. Though if I want to get back in time, it is going to take a lot of hard work, just like in school. I think we are all at somewhat of a crossroads. The next couple of weeks have pretty big implifications over the rest of my year. I encourage everyone to think about the phases of the school year and the year in it's entirety. Right now, I am convinced we are about to make a big move. For some of us, this move can make or break or grades, social lives, love lives, sports careers, etc. So think about how you are going to finish out your junior year. Are you going to ride the back row in the slums of Winnetka or finish strong?

Be Careful What You Wish For

2009-03-08T14:32:00.002-06:00

I just finished up a long week of lacrosse tryouts. Coming into the tryouts, I felt sure that I would be a lock for the team. I had been the JV captain and leading scorer, so I wasn't too worried. Every year I get the same depressed feeling about trying out for lacrosse. I always know my status on the team before, and it is irritataing repeating the same drills for five days strait. The process is incredibly tedious and repetative. What's more, my tryout schedule conflicted with the big varsity basketball game on Wednesday. Early in the week I was hoping for some way I could miss tryouts and see the game. At first, I considered faking sick though it would be too easy for word to get back to the coaches that I was at the game. Eventually, I decided I would have to miss the game. Little did I know, that I would get my chance. On tuesday night I got hurt during a 1 on 1 drill. I slammed my knee on the floor and ended up at the doctor's with the fear of a torn ACL. Fortunately, I did not tear my ACL and I should only be out a couple of weeks. Though it seems that I got my wish. Wednesday night, my knee was the size of a grapefruit and I was sitting out of tryouts. Now, my parents had a ticket to the game and I had the oppurtunity to join my friends in the student section. All of my life, I have never truly believed in carma. The myth of carma is always floating around, I always here others use the expression, "be careful what you wish for," or, "what goes around comes around." In the end, I got my wish. I had the chance to go to the game. All though I chose to stay at tryouts, I feel like carma got the best of me. All I wanted was for a way to see New Trier play and I got that chance. Though now, I am paying the price. My teammates are out working hard while I sit on the sideline waiting to heel. I guess it's true what they say.

Sending False Messages

2009-03-05T21:52:00.002-06:00

Today in class we were asked to write a blog post about some of the art work and images we see every day at New Trier. As we discussed this I started to thing back to the imagery around NT. I thought of the lunch room, where flags from other countries hang. This triggered me to the P stairwell where hello is written on other languages on the wall. New Trier is sending an interesting message with all of these signs from other countries. I feel it is the school attempting to be worldly and multi-cultural. As if the school is displaying how other countries are represented on campus. I feel as though the message they are trying to send is false. New Trier is not as diverse as the flags and banners make it out to be. The fact of the matter is, the majority of our school is caucasian and wealthy. I think that with all of these other cultural representations, our school is sending a false message. With all of the uniformity at New Trier amongst students, it seems the school is making a desperate attempt at diversity. It is interesting to try and interpret the administrations intentions when decorating the school. I feel that we are trying to show others we are diverse, while we truly are not.

Good Will Hero

2009-02-24T18:23:00.003-06:00

I just finished watching the movie Good Will Hunting. I was home sick today, so I decided I needed to do some critical thinking at home. As I begun to watch the movie, I started to think about Matt Damon (Will Hunting) as a hero. In the movie, Damon plays a hard-nosed 20 year-old from South Boston who works as a janitor. Early in the movie, you find out he is also a math genius who has a brilliant gift. I had a good feeling that Damon would go through somewhat of a Hero's journey throughout the movie. As I kept watching, I saw his journey unfold. At the beggining of the movie, he recieves a call to action, when an MIT professor catches him solving a graduate-level math problem at night. The professor tracks Damon down in a Boston court room and saves him from a detention center. The two cut a deal where Damon has to work with the professor on math, while seeing a phsychiatrist or go to jail. From the get-go, Will Hunting works with the professor though does not see why he must attend sessions with shrinks. The professor takes him to several world-class psychiatrists who have trouble connecting with him. This is the hero's early threshold, he cannot seem to work with these men. Eventually, he discovers his mentor, the person who will challenge him and who he can look to for help. Look at Luke Skywalker, JD (Scrubs), the Karate Kid, they all had mentors. Finally, the professor has will see and old roomate of his, played by Robin Williams. After several sessions, the two connect and it becomes clear that Williams is his mentor. Eventually, things start going pretty well for Will Hunting. He meets a girl who he falls in love with and continues to achieve in math. What's more, his relationship with Williams is going well. Then he hits his belly of the whale, his hardest task. He breaks up with his girlfriend, and gets in several arguments about his future with his MIT professor and Robin Williams. Will Hunting looks like he is down and out in this stage. He has returned to a life of construction with his best friend Chuckie, played by Ben Afelek. At this point, it seems Will Hunting is destined for a life of little league baseball, bar hopping, and construction in South Boston. The climax of the movie and maybe even Will Hunting's life occurs at a construction site with Chuckie. The two are talking and discussing Hunting's future. Will says he will be satisfied is he can mantain the lifestlye he is living now for another 60 years. Chuckie then tells him he will actually kill him if he says that again. This climatic moment occurs when Chuckie explains how lucky Will is and how any other man would kill to have the gift he has. At this point Will reconciles with Williams and takes a job at a security company as a code cracker. One of the best scenes in the movie occurs when Chuckie and the boys swing by Will Huntings run down place for a night on the town. Earlier in the movie, Chuckie tells Will he anticipates the moment when the boys come by Will's house and he is no longer there. Chuckie knows that when Will has left, he has gone on to a better life where he can truly utilize his gift. When Chuckie shows up at Will's house, Will is gone. He has left to track down his ex-girlfriend who is studying at Stanford. As the movie ends, Will is the master of two worlds. He got the job and the girl. I am curious to see if Huck Finn's journey turns out like Will Hunting's. It is clear that Huck is on a journey, though I am not yet sure if it is a Hero's journey. Reguardless, it was nice to watch a movie from a different angle. I think there are other movies that I have seen with a similar Hero's journey, and I have failed to recognize it. In retrospect, watching this journey unravel made for a more satisfying movie experience.

Save Rihanna!!

2009-02-11T16:40:00.002-06:00

Right now, everyone is talking about how Chris Brown supposedly physically abused his girlfriend, Rihanna. I have heard lots of different reports about what happened or didn't happen. Right now, I am not quite sure what to think. The reports are just starting to surface so it is hard to say what truly happened. Either way, this brings up an interesting theme about how celebrities and athletes especially, have been acting lately. A week ago, a picture was taken of Michael Phelps smoking weed, A-Rod has admitted to taking steroids during his glory years, and now there is the controversy surrounding Chris Brown. These recent events are really dampering the image of celebrities in general, which has never been great to start with. These people are role models, people look up to them, and not just kids. Their actions are setting terrible examples for the American public. It's unfortunate that this is what American celebrities have come to. Chris Brown, Phelps, and ARod are all extrmeley famous and well-publicized. Celebrities are another aspect of American culture that I have yet to truly examine through the fine lense of American Studies. They under such a tight radar and truly have no room for error. I think it will be interesting to see if this recent trend in celebrity conflict continues. What's more, I am curious to discover the truth about Chris Brown and Rihanna.

Look at my Friends

2009-02-11T16:20:00.003-06:00

In this progressive integrated class, we are asked to look critically at certain aspects of our lives. Over the course of the year, I have though about my family, sports, high school, though I have yet to take a look at my friends. In class today, we were asked to blog about our friendships and the conversations we have with our friends. In the group of friends I hang out with, we are constantly making fun of each other. Now I know what you are thinking, friends don't make fun of each other. We joke with each other in a non-malicious way. If you sit with us at lunch, you may hear the word tool used at least 100 times. And everyone always gets it, one person never dishes it and doesn't take it. Everyone gets the tounge lashing which makes things even and fair. And no one ever runs out crying, we never take it too far. I've always though Junior year was about maturing, though this thought is ruined when I look at what we talk about at lunch. In fact, it seems we are going the opposite with all the joking and naughty humor that is used. Though just like my favorite show Scrubs, things can get serious. When a serious discussion comes up I think everyone changes. True opinions start to come out, especailly when politics come up. People start to get into it, suddenly the tone of the conversation can change. I think that's what makes my friendships even better. For all the time we spend goofing around, we can do a 180 and be serious. I value these aspects of my friendships. I think everyone can also be sincere at times, which is rare among high schoolers. When they need to, my friends can be compassionate (though rarely) which is a nice feature. Though this compassion only comes out on rare ocassions. Whether we are joking or being serious, I am pretty satisfied with the gang I am rolling with at NT. I think it is important that we view are friendships through a critical lense. Sometimes, we can't appreciate something untill we take a good hard look at it and begin to conceptualize it. Just like a quality tv show I know starring Zach Braff that I am right about to watch.

Super American

2009-02-03T15:30:00.002-06:00

Yesterday in math class we were discussing the recent Super Bowl. I was surprised when I asked my teacher if she watched and she said no. I was even more surprised with the followup comment from another student in the class. Upon hearing my teacher did not watch the game, he called out, "you didn't watch the super bowl, are you un-american?" After hearing her student say these words she immediately defended herself. My teacher asked our class why everyone views the Super Bowl as such an American event. She explained that not everyone likes football and that it was unfair to say someone was un-american if they didn't watch the game

looking back, I agree with what she said. Her comments also gave me the chance to look back at some of the mythology associated with the Super Bowl. The Super Bowl is easily the most-viewed American sporing event. Each year on February 1, entire households shut down for the viewing of this game. It is clearly a popular event, there is no doubt about that. The next thing I thought about was the pregame show and festivities. Throughout the pregame show, anaylsyts reference our troops over seas. This year, Matt Lauer even interviewed Obama before the game. What's more, a US army commander did the toin coss this year. It seems each year the Super Bowl becomes increasingly patriotic. This year, they had Bruce Springstein perform during halftime. The Boss is a staple of American music, he is a patriotic homegrown musician who Americans love and can relate to. I also noticed the commercials that air during the game. All of the commercials are for patriotic American products, such as beer, food, and cars. The Super Bowl truly caters to the blue-collar patriotic American. Reguardless, I think that you can still be patriotic even if you don't watch the Super Bowl.

Comparisons

2009-01-25T20:25:00.002-06:00

This past wednesday, we recieved our final grades in American Studies. When I recieved my final grade, I was extremely happy though I still believed that I deserved a better grade. When people began talking about their grades I found myself comparing my work in class to theirs. In the end, I couldn't help but wonder how certain individuals had gotten higher, lower, or the same grades as me. At the end of the class, I was comparing myself to everyone. It is easy to get caught up doing this. Once people start sharing grades and test scores, it is only human to compare each other. I know that I start to wonder whether or not I am better than someone at a class or sport based on a grade our score. When I shared this with my parents, they felt it was wrong for me to go around comparing myself to other students. I honestly think that it is impossible to go a week at New Trier without comparing yourself to other students. It has something to do with the competitive aspect of the school. Whether I am in the classroom, on the lacrosse field, or in extra-curriculars I am always comparing myself to others. Why do you think NTHS students and I are like this? What is it that makes us this way? Next time you get a score back and people start discussing their grades, think about this post.

Forget the Hype

2009-01-20T16:19:00.002-06:00

Today, Barack Obama was sworn in as the forty fourth president of the United States. The presidential inaguration has been one of the most built and hyped up moments of the year. Americans and individuals around the world have been awaiting and anticipating it since early November. What sets this inaguration apart from the past 44 is the hype that surrounds President Obama. No other President has recieved the attention or publicity that Obama has. We see his face everywhere, magazines, pins, the internet, television, and even t-shirts. Like many, I was excited to see our president get sworn in. It was cool to see the hundreds of thousands who endured the cold to cheer on the president. What's more, this is a significant moment in US history with president Obama being the first African American President. At the same time, I am getting tired of the hype. For the past three months and the entire election period, I heard non-stop about change, progress, and our country's bright future. Frankly, I am somewhat sick of this talk. I m happy to see President Obama in office, though it is time that people stop talking about what he is going to do, and focus on what he may actually do. I know that he is in his first day of office, though I truly feel people need to focus on him as our president. Not as this basketball-playing rockstar that he is often portrayed as. We can't be 100% sure that president Obama is going to bring change and bring us out of the perilous times we are in. For all we know, he could end up as the next George W. Bush (all though highly doubtful). What I do know, is that it is time for Barack to put his money where his mouth is. It will be interesting to see his first strategic moves as President of the US. It is going to take a lot more than a cool button or t-shirt to change this country.

Old Habbits Never Die

2009-01-18T11:14:00.003-06:00

Every year, when first semester ends, I look a my grades and ask myself , "Could I have done better or worked harder?" In the end, I always end up thinking that I could have worked harder in school and swearing to myself that I will put more effort in the next semester. It's easy for me to make these resolutions with finals being shortly after the new year. I promise myself that I will spend more time studying, and less time watching Scrubs or not working. Unfortunately, I have never kept this resolution. It seems every year I end up getting a lower gpa in the second semester than I did in the first. During this transitional period after finals, I have been promising myself that I will truly bear down second semester. Honestly, I'm just not sure if I will be able to. During second semester, I get caught up with the lacrosse season, the Cubs, and the improving weather. Something tells me that I'm doomed to get lower grades second semester. I encourage readers of this blog to take a look at their own grades. Think about whether or not your grades change during the second semester. I think others will agree with me that their grades have moved in the pattern similar to my own over the course of their high school careers. Reguardless, for now I am telling myself that I will have strait A's second semester. Though who really knows if it will happen?

Save Me From the National Guard

2009-01-11T12:46:00.002-06:00

In thursday we broke down the National Guard's promotional video, Citizen Soldier. We talked about how the guard is using patriotic scenery and rock music to target movie-goers. The armed forces are having trouble getting people to enlist, which is why they are spending so much money and going to great lengths to advertise. We also talked about how much effort they put into going to high schools to talk with high school kids about the armed forces. A day after this discussion, I went to the Maine South football game and guess who was in ful force at the game? Not the New trier student section, but the national guard. They were out going through the crowds and handing out t-shirts to high schoolers and young children. What's more, they did an entire presentation during half time to honor Maine South's football team, and talk about their job in the National Guard. I couldn't help but laugh when I saw the National guard at the game. Just after we had talked about this in class, I saw the national guard at Maine South which is a predominately white high school with somewhat of a "blue collar" mentality. And here was the scary thing, the kids and high schoolers were really into it. After the game I saw troops surrounded by kids and teenagers. I just couldn't get over how interested these kids were in the national guard. In the end, I felt obligated to write this post. Its one thing to talk about something, but it's another to witness it first hand.

Who cares, I'll be dead anyways

2009-01-07T19:41:00.003-06:00

Every five years or so my friends and I take a break from talking about girls, sports, and scrubs and discuss something that is actually relevant to the news and current events. A week ago the topic of our environment came up. We began discussing cars effect on the atmosphere and the heavy CO2 emission they give off. I was trying to prove that reguardless of the price of gas, people should still be conscious about the kind of car they drive and how often they drive. To convey my statement, I looked to one of my friends who I was positive would back me up. Though when I asked him what his opinion was, he shocked me. "Honestly, who really cares, by the time things start to get mad we will be dead anyways." I nearly fainted after he said this. In the heat of the argument I was tempted to tear him a new one, but I refrained. He then went on saying he should be able to drive what ever kind of car he wants, because his car won't even make a lasting impact on the atmosphere. I coudn't believe what I was hearing when I heard this. How could one person be so selfish? Essentially, he was just going to let his ancestors and future relatives deal with a serious problem that he basically ignored. If we want to preserve this earth, especailly our ozone layer attitudes like this need to go. It may be true that one individual alone won't make a difference, but one if another joins in and then another does. If people can start to unite and get on the same page, then we can really get down to fixing (or in our environment's situation, improving) the problem. I want to believe that the majority of New Trier students don't think the same way my friend does. With so many Americans moving in such a positive direction, it hurt to see someone doing the exact opposite.

The First Amendment of The Student Section

2009-01-04T11:51:00.003-06:00

I am a huge New Trier basketball fan, many even call me a super fan. I am part of a group of about 10 seniors and juniors who go to every basketball game home or away. Our job is to enthusiastically lead the student section in chants during the game. We show up to every game in wild apparel to represent our school and our team. We also make signs about our players and the players on the other teams. While we always cheer hard, we know that we have limits as fans. We never swear or make offensive chants that personally effect opposing players. There is an un-written code between the fans and school officials about what we can and cannot say. We know we will get tossed out of the game if our chants go too far. Super fans have been a tradition at New Trier and other high schools since high school sports begin. The passion of the fans makes the game more intense and fun. It only intensifies the rivalries between schools. The fans at New Trier have been using some of the same chants for the past thirty years. These chants are essential to pumping up our team and distracting the opposing team. As a super fan this year, I have done a good job of following the code. Though recently I have noticed a change with the game's support staff and school officials. They are beginning to closely monitor our chants and posters, something they have never done. In fact, they have even begun to take away the same chants super fans have used for the past thirty years. What's more, all posters are being taken away and a parapro has been stationed in the middle of the student section to baby sit us. He stands there looking for posters and stopping us before we chant. As one of the leaders, it has really upset we when the school has taken away some of our liberties as fans. Our speech is being completely surpressed. This entire situation has come out of nowhere. Suddenly, everything we do and say is being limited. Our fans are well-behaved and we never use bad language. I recently confronted the athletic director, the man who overlooks all sporting events and teams at New Trier. I believe that he is the man who is behind the limiting of our rights at games. What's more, he has violated this un-written code. When he and I spoke, he asked me why I was going against him. I told him that throughout New Trier, my teachers have encouraged my to question authority when my speech has been limited. When I told him this, he said he didn't have any more time to talk and that we needed to talk again later. As of now, this issue is currently un-solved. My fellow super fans and I feel that what the school is doing is unjust. We have done nothing to spark the school's actions. A close friend of my mon's was the judge in the case against ex-governor George Ryan. Mrs. Palmeyer says that their have been several precients similar to this case. Do you feel that the athletic director and the athletics staff have a legitimate reason for limiting our speech? Here is a copy of the email I sent our AD.

Mr. Oberembt,
My name is Adam Gutman and I attend New Trier High School. I am emailing you about the recent Waukegan basketball game. As an avid fan, I try to go to almost every basketball game, home or away. I love to support the Varsity team, which many of my friends are on. I try to do this in any way possible, whether it be signs, chants, or dressing up for games. After the Waukegan game, I was dissapointed with the loss. Our team played well and I think we deserved the win. Though there was another matter on my mind after the game. Since Freshman year, I have been to a great number of New Trier sporting events. The passion of the fans always intensifys these high school showdowns and makes them more fun for the players and the fans. Obviously as fans, we have limitations as far as what we can and cannot say or do. In previous years are fans have always respected these rules and we still do to this day. At the same time, there are certain chants and rituals that we do after a play in the game. These chants have never been limited in the past by school officials, though at this game specifically, they were greatly limited. In fact, I have never been at a game where this has occurred at such an extreme. Normal chants, like the "push it" chant to the referee were abridged by the school official sitting and watching over the student section. I have no problem with him doing that, though I felt he was extremely rude and malicious towards us. He even used force when trying to get my attention, violently grabbing my arm. What's more, he took away a sign of mine that had nothing to do with Waukegan or Jereme Richmond. In fact, it was a sign about the stellar play of Tyler Sugyama. It was not offensive to anyone and I even showed it to Tyler before the game. In addition, a close friend of mine, Walt Lyon was forced to leave the game by this man after chanting with the entire crowd. He was one of 50 kids chanting, so why was he forced to leave. I understand that you have an extremely hard job and that you are very busy. I just want to be sure that our rights as students are protected during the game. Ejecting Walt was un-called for, he was chanting with 50 other students and it was unfair for the man to pick him out of the crowd. I have a great deal of respect for you and your position and I am not trying to pick a fight with you, at all. It's just, for the past three years my English teachers have taught me to question authority when my freedom of speech is being significantly abridged. They use historical precedent to teach us about times in our country and other countries when rights and liberties were abridged and taken away. In conclusion, I understand that you have a job to do. Calling out specific players is un-fair and something that we as a student section are moving away from. I just hope we can continue the legacy of past seniors and superfans by using their legendary chants. I hope that we can reach a mutual agreement on this matter. I know that you were busy at the game, so we didn't get the chance to talk. If you are at school over break and at New Trier, I would be happy to meet with you to discuss these matters. When I first considered this email, I was planning on saying that are first amendment rights are being limited and taken away at times, during the games. Then I realized that because we are at a school sponsored event, the officials like yourself dictate the ruels and regulations. I think that the administrators and the fans need to come to an agreement. Maybe even creating a fan constitution that says what we can and cannot do during games. These are obviously just thoughts and ideas. Thanks for everything and your patience, I know I can get out of hand. Though honestly, I think the passion of the fans makes high school sports great. I hope you have a happy holidays and a good winter break. Hopefully I will see you at the Proviso tournament.
Sincerely,
Adam Gutman

C for Civil Liberties

2008-12-14T21:56:00.006-06:00

I just watched the first twenty minutes of the movie V for Vendetta. I have wanted to see it for the past month though I just finally got down to watching it. I originally rented it to see my favorite actress, Natalie Portman. Little did I know that the movie relates well to the themes and topics we have been studying in class. The movie begins with an early 16th century terrorist attack. A man trys to ignite dynamite, though he is caught and hung. I though that this was an interesting way to start the movie. I would later discover that this man is very similar to V, with their viewpoints and radical actions. Further more, the movie is about V, a terrorist living in England. Within the first five minutes of the movie V blows up a large monument of an event that occured in 16th centuray England. During the twenty minutes I watched, V continues to attack and threaten the British government. During these twenty minutes, you also see the executives of the Englsih government meet and discuss their counter-terrorist plan. They immediately talk about taking individuals into custody and tapping phone-lines. From what they discuss, it is manifested that they are clearly beginning to violate the rights and civil liberties of English citizens. They are doing this in order to keep the country safe. The prime minister directly says that this country cannot experience anarchy again. This relates to the Perilous paper that we just wrote in class. The British government limits and abridges the civil liberties of their citizens to keep them safe during perilous times. V is at large and a threat to the country and the government. I already have my own opinoins, though I would like to know yours. Here is an example of the limiting of civil liberties, because it didn't happen in real life, I feel it is easier to come to a conclusion about. Though when you think about it, the answer should be smack dab in the middle of your perilous paper.

Corruption Strikes Again

2008-12-09T19:05:00.004-06:00

The last several year's of Rod Blagojevich's time as Illinois governor have not been easy. He has been accused of fraud, conspiracy, and misusing the state's money. His approval ratings have hit all time lows and today he was arrested on attempted conspiracy charges. By conspiraccy charges, I am refering to how Rod Blagojevich accepted bribes in order to sway his decision over who would replace Barack Obama. He was trying to profit off of his decision of the next Illinois senator. I have never been a huge fan of Rod Blagojevich, though to be honest I never knew that much about him. Today, I took the time to learn a little more about our ex-governor. When I talked read about his senate bribing, I was intrigued when I learned his phones had been tapped. In fact, federal investigators had gathered the majority of their evidence through wire tapping. This greatly relates to my perilous paper. In my paper, I made the argument that civil liberties should never be limited during times of war no matter what the circumstance. I took a stand on this issue. For some reason, I felt that like a hipocrit because I was ok with the fact Blagojevich's phones were wire tapped. Though now that I think of it, I do think it is ok that his phones were tapped. First of all, Blagojevich's situation is different than any of the ones in my paper. Blagojevich is a politician, not your average American citizen. I feel that Federal investigator's have the right to investigate Blagojevich and abridge his civil liberties. It is important that a man representing our state is loyal and un-corrupt. In Blagojevich's case, he was not. All in all, I am arguing that it is ok to limit a politician's civil liberties, but not a normal citizen who is not involved in politics. If someone is going to represent us, we need to know that they are good, safe, and loyal. While I feel like somewhat of a hipocirt, I am glad that investigators tapped Blagojevich's phone, regardless of the fact that his right to privacy was violated.

A light shade of Black, Sunday

2008-12-07T21:33:00.004-06:00

Every year on the day after thanksgiving, millions of people make up extra early to buy their holiday gifts. It is a known fact that the best sales are always on the friday after. Some people even wake up at 4 am to wait in line at stores. Each year, many stores like Best Buy, Dicks, Target sell in record amounts. This year, during these perilous times, that was not the case. With the economy in it's current state sales went down big time this year. The average American just can't afford to buy as extravigantly as they once did. All though not just the average American's will be cutting back this Holiday season. New Trier families are cutting back too. Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, and Kenilworth are some of the wealthiest suburbs in the US. It seems hard to believe that families on the northshore will be cutting back this year. Though when you think about it, it makes sense. A great deal of residents in these suburbs works in finance or a profession that is affected by the economy. With it's current state, it is only obvious that the people in the economic field have taken a significant financial hit. I've found this out from talking to some of my friends at school, who's parents are financial analysts, stock brokers, etc. My dad too is a accountant for a consulting firm, all though his job is not affected very strongly by the economy. Every year, I love to ask my friends what they are puttting on their christmas list. It is always fun to see what the must-have's are for my friends every year. In the past, my friends and I have asked for items like computers, new cell-phones, sporting event tickets, and pricy game-councels. This year, it seems everyone has toned down their lists, including myself. People are forgetting about the big-time expensive gifts, and asking for smaller, moderately priced presidents. This year just isn't the year to buy a Xbox and a computer. Nevertheless, I am still curious to see what my friends and I will recieve Christmas Days. During these perilous times, you never know.
My wish list: Barack Obama Pin
NPR-On the Media Poster For My Room
Bill Ayers, signed communist Manifesto copy
The Crucible, extended text
A new ping pong paddle
Sharashka, greatest hits CD
OJ Simpson signed memorbillia

Give Me my Bong HIts

2008-12-03T21:24:00.004-06:00

For the past two days, we have studied the supreme court case Bong Hits for Jesus. The case was a result of an incident where a teenage boy help up a large sign that read,"Bong hits for jesus." He did this during an olympic torch ceremony on a school excurssion. Upon seeing the sign, the boy's school was livid over the statement. They though that it was inapropriate and that it reflected poorly on the school's drug policy. In the end, the supreme court sided with the school, and the side of Joseph Frederick lost the case. When I first heard about the case, I assumed that the court sided with the boy. After all, he was not on school property when he made displayed the sign. I was suprised and a little upset when I found out that the court sided with the school. I don't understand how the boy was under school sanction, if he wasn't on school property. I feel like, that siding with the school is taking away Joseph Frederick's first amendment right. When he is not on school property, he should be able to express himself freely. What's more, I hope that this case does not give the supreme court precedent for future rulings. In the future, this case may influence other cases to side against freedom of speech, something I think is unfair. After studying this case, I am disapointed with our Supreme court for taking away an important civil liberty of a US citizen.

My New Computer

2008-11-24T21:30:00.003-06:00

Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. There is nothing better than hanging out with my friends and family, watching football, and stuffing myself. It is a sacred ritual in my family, and something I plan on doing this year.As much as I enjoy thanksgiving, I often feel guilty for ignoring the true meaning of thanksgiving. The truth is, I'm not sure what exactly the true meaning of thanksgiving is. I am vaguely familiar with the idea of the native americans and the pilgrams sitting down for a meal. Though I still don't have a great grasp on the meaning of the holiday. If there is one thing I have learned this year in class, it is that some things, you need to define for yourself. I applied this theory to thanksgiving and after brainstorming about what the holiday means to me, I came up with something. For me, it's not just the meal, but the idea about understanding and appreatiating certain aspects of your life. In my life, I think the biggest aspect I overlook and take for granted are material possetions. Sometimes, I forget how fortunate I am to own multiple pairs of shoes, expensive lacrosse gear, video games, and attend a school like New Trier. Just yesterday I complained and wined to my father about how slow my computer is. Looking back, I am lucky enough to have my own computer, or a computer in general. As I celebreate this upcoming Thanksgiving, I need to appreaciate and be thankful for the luxuries I have, not dwell on things I don't have. Family is another thing I take for granted. This thanksgiving, I am happy and very lucky to be with my family members. Their health and safety is something that I often take for granted. I think it is important that this Thanksgiving, I am thankful for their prescence in my life. There are lots of people who don't have to parents, or who can't spend the holidays with their parents. Nevertheless, this Thanksgiving I am going to take some time off from Football and pumpkin pie, to reflect on what I am thankful for.

Don't Say it On the Radio

2008-11-17T16:22:00.006-06:00

I am on the board of directors for New Trier's radio station, WNTH. For the past two years, a close friend and I have had a radio program on Tuesday nights from 8:30 to 10:00. On the program we discuss New Trier sports, Chicago Sports, small amounts of politics, and life at New Trier. We recieve a lot of callers on the show who voice their opinions over the air. Sometimes, things can get pretty heated and racy. When this happens, we have to settle down our callers or drop their calls. Our station head has a strict set of rules that are enforced by the station and FCC. Some of these rules refer to swearing and what we can and cannot discuss. Every morning on the way to school, my mom and I listen to NPR in the car. This morning, I turned on B96 before she got the chance to bore me with the words of Renee Montane (only kidding). On the morning show, the DJ was discussing a innapropriate sexual topic. This would never be tolerated on WNTH. I had a similar experience over the summer. My friends and I were in Virginia at a lacrosse camp. While on the bus going to a game, the bus driver had on talk radio. The host was discussing Barack Obama and his presidential campaign. Over the course of several minutes, he made at least 10 offensive racial marks. As I continued to listen, his racism continued. Once again, I knew his content would be unacceptable on WNTH. I'm just having trouble understanding how some stations get away with trash talk and innapropraite language, while others do not. How can this happen if we are all regulated by the FCC? And is it really fair that the FCC can control what we say over the airways. Aren't they taking ways our first ammendment rights by controlling and limiting our speech? These are all questions I plan on asking our station head. You should also consider them the next time you turn on B96, or NPR.

Obamapooloza

2008-11-10T21:54:00.002-06:00

Last Tuesday, Grant Park was the place to be. There, hundreds of thousands of people celebrated the election of Barack Obama as our new President. Obama supporters partied into the night celebrating the historic win of America's first african american president. As an Obama supporter, I was extremely satisfied with the outcome of the election. As great as it is to see Barack in the whitehouse, I haven't started my celebration yet. Just because Obama won the election, does not necesarilly mean our problems are solved. I feel as though Chicagoans especially are over-celebrating our presidents win. As historic and magical as it was, there is so much Barack will have to do after the election that makes the election itself seem insignificant. Our country is in perilous times, our economy is weak, there are environmental issues at hand, and we are fighting two wars. As happy as I am for Barack, I just can't celebrate. It is possible that he could end up where George Bush is now, you never know (Personally I feel there is a less than 1% chance this could happen, you could never compare Barack to W). So for now, I am happy, but no satisfied. I feel as a soon-to-be voter, I will only be satisfied with a president when he has finished his term/terms and accomplished what the country needed. Reguardless, I am excited to see what Barack Obama can do for this country. I am optimistic and ready for the change he plans to bring

Bill Ayers, to like, or not to like

2008-10-29T15:12:00.010-06:00

Bill Ayers is a name that is coming up more and more in conversations about the elections. A year ago, I knew nothing about this man. As the election grows closer, reports have begun to surface about Barack Obama's connection to Bill Ayers. When most people hear the name Bill Ayers, they think back to his days in the 60's as a radical activist. The Republican party has even gone as far as to call him a terrorist. My first introduction to Bill Ayers was from Mr. O'connor, a close friend to Bill Ayers. He has called him a mentor and it is clear the two are close. Mr. O'connor immediately defended Bill Ayers when I asked him about Mr. Ayer's questionable past. After hearing what Mr. O'connor said I had my mind made up that Mr. Ayer's was not a terrorist and was being falsy accused by the republicans. Two days later I talked with my neighbor about Bill Ayers. He did not have as many nice things to say as Doc Oc did. He told me how Bill Ayers was involved in a series of public bombings with a group called the "Weather Underground." After hearing this, I started to question what Mr. O'connor had told me in class that day. Isn't it possible that Doc Oc might be slightly bias towards Bill Ayers? After all, the two are close friends. I know that if someone made accusations towards one of my friends I would defend them. At dinner sunday night I asked my mom what she thought about Bill Ayers. It turns out that one of her close friends was roomates with Mr. Ayers brother many years ago. When I asked her about his involvement with the Weather Underground, she defended Bill Ayers. I'm still not convinced. I decided that it was time I find out the truth so I can develop my own opinions on Mr. Ayers. Here's what I found out. Bill Ayers has lived in the chicago area all of his life. He attended the University of Michigan where he earned a degree in "American Studies." In the late 60's to early 70's, Ayers became involved with the Weathermen, a left-wing radical organization from Chicago that were a part of several bombings and riot acts. It's a known fact that Ayers was a leader amongst the Weatherman. That does not necesarilly mean he was responsible for their actions. Learning about Mr. Ayer's past has helped me come to conclusions about him as a person. Bill Ayers made some mistakes in his past. That doesn't mean he should be punished in the present. He is a well-respected and highly educated man who has done a great deal for the city of Chicago. People should forget about his past and think of all the great things he has done for the city. His accomplishments clearly outweigh his mistakes.

Give Me Structure!! Please!!

2008-10-27T06:12:00.002-06:00

I spent the following weekend in Madison, Wisconsin visiting a friend's older brother. My friend Ryan and I lived in the Kappa Sig fraternity for three days. Leading up to the weekend, I had extremely high expectations of what college was going to be like. There was this idea that I had envisioned in my mind about what college was going to be like. I was expecting a crazy, ruthless, and fast lifestyle that had no rules. For the most part, college lived up to my expectations. There were basically no rules. I was able to eat what I wanted to when I wanted to. I stayed up as late as possible and I was out to as late as I felt. With the exception of the law, my life had no limits or rules. As much fun as I had this weekend, I was somewhat relieved to be home. As I got home Sunday night, I was confused why I was happy to be home from college. This was college, where you can live your own life and anything goes. For the past three years I have dreamed of living the college life, so why is it that I was partially unsatisfied with it? With my life at home, I am so used to structure and consistency. I wake up every day and do the same things for the most part. My parents are always there to help me make decisions and care for me. This weekend, these concepts were thrown out the window. We acted spontaniously and independently. And after living this "college life" for a couple of days, I can't imagine doing it for an entire year. There are so many distractions that can keep you from studying and working in college. If you don't want to go to class, or write an essay, you don't really have to. That being said, if you do not do your work you will most likely flunk out of college. I also missed the authority that I am so used to. My parents have always been there to keep me out of trouble and focused on the important things in my life, like school, sports, family, and friends. Suddenly, they were gone and I was forced to act independently. Looking back, I am glad that I have two more years at New Trier. It was nice to get a taste of the college life, but for now I am happy with the structure and authority that currently surrounds me. This weekend also influenced my consideration for college applications. After visiting Madison, I've began to reconsider where I want to attend college. Big schools like UW are tough because your 1 in 20,000. No one is going to give you personal attention like what you recieve from teachers at New Trier. I feel like I might be a little more protected at a smaller school. Where I can recieve more attention and help. In the end, I have two more years of a sane life, I've decided to enjoy them while I still can.

Levi Who?

2008-10-14T19:33:00.004-06:00

In only 22 days there will be a new president in the United States. Though this post isn't about Barack Obama, John Mccain, or even Sarah Palin. It's about America's new "it" couple. Forget about Brad and Angelina, or Bennifer, or even Posh and Becks. I'm talking about the soon-to-be newlyweds Bristol Palin and Levi Johnston. When the news first broke about that Bristol Palin was pregnant, Levi Johnston's name was everywhere. Several weeks later I noticed that the buzz about Levi was over. It seems that most of America had just moved on, though I haven't. I took some time tonight to get to know the real Levi Johnston. Here's what I discoverd. Levi Johnston is an 18 year old high school student from Alaska. He played hockey for his high school and enjoys hunting and fishing. He is currently dating Sarah Palin's daughter Bristol and the two are planning their wedding. The media has really made Levi out to be a bad guy. This dirty bad boy who knocked up Bristol Palin; obviously that's not what the Mccain administration wants us to think. The more I learn about Levi the more I am beginning to realize that he's just like most high school kids. He plays sports and hangs out with his friends just like I do. I feel bad for Levi because he is in a terrible situation. He made a mistake and now he has to suffer some pretty miserable reprocusions. He had his whole life ahead of him and now, at the age of 18 he has a kid on the way and he's locked into a marriage. When interviewed, Levi says that he and Bristol were planning on having children and marrying, but how can I believe that? it's not like Levi or Bristol ever had a choice of an abortion. Sarah Palin is pro-life, letting her daughter get an abortion Isn't it possible that Sarah Palin's people want Levi to appear a certain way to the public. The republican party is not going to let this kid ruin the election for them, and I don't blame them. It just seems sad that Levi Johnston has his life set at age 18. Who knows, maybe this is what he wants. I'm not sure if we will ever know the truth. Oh well, New Trier is playing Maine South this saturady. I'm not that excited about watching my own team play. I'm much more interested in watching Maine South QB and Vanderbuilt recruit Charlie Goro tear apart the Trevians. I can't wait to watch reserve lineman Walt Lyon cry when Goro stares him down after his 5th touchdown pass. This kid is the closest thing to god I have ever seen. Plus, I will finally have a chance to wear the Maine South jersey I bought on ebay. It's official, rocktober is in full swing.

Those Cubs.....

2008-10-05T18:07:00.003-06:00

Cold feet, nausea, fever, isonmia, heartburn, eyes dried up, don't worry if you have these symptons your not sick, just a cubs fan. It's October, the time of the year that can make any baseball fan nauseaus, but we Cubs fans get it the worst. We've spent the past century waiting for a world championship. The Cubs won their last world series in 1908; here we are in 2008 desperatel hoping for a WS. The worst part about this is that we were so close. If you look at the Cubs on paper they have a stellar resume. They won 97 games this year, the best record in the NL. At the plate the Cubs had one of the best overall batting averages in the MLB. They have a good rotation of pitchers with Zambrano, Dempster, Hardin, Lilly, and Marshall. Not to mention the solid bull pen of Marmol, Samardzija, and Wood. But in rocktober anything goes, its Aussie rules. The playoffs are all about momentum, who can get hot at the right time. The Cubs were a good team, they just couldn't get hot. But is momentum really to blame? After this embarrasing NLDS defeat I've spent a lot of time reflecting on the Cubs as a whole. I'm starting to wonder how good they actually are and how strong the NL central is. What really makes me sad is how much time I've devoted to this team. The MLB season lasts over 1/3 of the year. I have spent so much time watching them play well and thrive. All along I had a feeling they were going to win their division. And all along the playoffs have been in the back of my mind. Now, their entire season means nothing after getting swept in the playoffs. 97 wins mean nothing. It's going to be a long winter. Scrubs, Entourage, Bears, here I come.

Is Junior Year the Real Deal

2008-09-29T09:39:00.003-06:00

I just finished reading Brian's post about his own struggles this year. He talked about how hard Junior year is and the troubles he is currently facing. His post reminds me of my own personal junior year saga. Every day my parents tell me that I am spreading myself to thin. Normally I just brush off their comments. As my junior year continues, I am starting to realize they might be right. My fall schedule is packed so tightly I barely have time to watch an episode of Scrubs. This year I am taking 5 majors and one minor. That minor happens to be running WNTH, New Trier's radio station. And trust me it's a lot more work than goofing off for fourty minutes in consumer seminar or pottery class. At times, I find myself doing more work for the radio station than I am for my major classes. In addition to my major and minor classes, I am enrolled in KW leaders and Peer Helping. Looking back, I wish that I had considered giving myself an extra free period when creating my Junior schedule. It pains me to watch as my clost friends finishes all of his work in school with the four free periods he has daily. (Out of gym for soccer) And my schedule doesn't let up when school gets out. All year long I train for lacrosse. With fall tournaments coming up, I need to get back into my best form so I can impress the coaches against Maryland and New York's finest players. When I am not running, lifting, or shooting lacrosse balls, I have ACT prep. I meet with a tutor two times a week for two hours each. Hopefully if the sessions pay off, I will reach my goal of the low 30's range on my ACT. At the start of my sophomore year I had no worries. As I watched the class above me stress out about Junior year I swore to myself that would never be me. But look at me now, I am your average Joe New Trier trying to balance a competitive sports career, my studies, extracurriculars, and a social life. The scary part about this is that first quarter is barely over. I have along way to go and things are only going to get harder. Though if I manage my time right, this entire situation can go smoothly. The problem is, I am not handeling my time well. I am spending too much time watching my favorite shows and playing lacrosse than I am studying for tests. If I don't change my ways soon, I am going to crash and burn. Wish me luck.

Life is Perfect at New Trier

2008-09-22T07:55:00.002-06:00

This weekend my mom's close friends visited us from New Jersey. She lives in a small rural town in east New Jersey where she works as the town's principal, superintendent, math, and spanish teacher. She and I hadn't seen each other in a while, when the topic of High school came up she was astonished that I was already a Junior. So, what's it like attending the New Trier High School," she said in a half joking half serious voice. "Your mother has told me about the school's facilities and programs. You must be getting an incredible education." For the next 30 minutes I listened as Nancy rambled on about New Trier and its greatness. I began to feel sorry for her, she seemed envious of the basic things that I took for granted. Here is a woman working three jobs, one of which requires her to teach a language that is completely foreign to her. The past couple of weeks we talked about the aspects of our school we take for granted. I started to feel guilty, because as Nancy and my parents continued to talk, I began to realize that even with all of the extracurriculars, powerhouse sports teams, good teachers, and clubs New Trier wasn't all that it has been cracked up to be. Now I'm not saying that I haven't enjoyed the past three years, but I feel like some people have this idea instilled in their mind that New Trier is heaven on earth. When I look back at the past three years I've spent at New Trier I am beginning to realize they haven't been that great. In fact, I've had some pretty crummy teachers. Though it's not the teachers that are leaving me unsatisfied with my high school experience. I'm not actually quite sure what it is that has left me somewhat unsatisfied. I've had success on the lacrosse field, surrounded myself with hundreds of great friends, and gotten involved with fun after school clubs and service groups. To be honest, I can't pinpoint what it is that I haven't liked about New Trier. Though when watching a younger friend of mine go off to a distant expensive boarding school, I can't help but be somewhat envious. It was after he described his experience at the school in Conneticut that I really began to question my "love" for New Trier and my longing have a diffenret high school experience. For now, I am going to continue to enjoy my fun life at New Trier. Though a part of me will always wonder what life could be life somewhere else.

A country without 9/11

2008-09-15T14:46:00.004-06:00

9/11 was a huge and monumental event in our lives. It impacted the majority of the country in some way. Seven years later, we are beginning to acknowledge that 9/11 has had many permanent impacts on our country. It's a really hard subject to think about, had 9/11 not happened. The event impacted so many aspects of our lives. People didn't just die and the world trade centers weren't just destroyed. Theres so much more to this event. When I think about it, there are a chain reaction of events that have occured because of 9/11. I could do this for days, though I will narrow this blog down to possibly the most significant result of 9/11, the war. 9/11 forced us to enter Afghanistan in order to capture Osama Bin Laden and break up the Taliban. What's more, our government used 9/11 as an excuse to enter Iraq to find supposed weapons of mass destruction. Seven years later, we have not found WMD's, Osama is still in hiding, and many people have argued Iraq is not in the best of shape. We now are tangled up in the Sunni-Shite war that has been going on for years. Currently, we still have troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. Our government is also investing billions of dollars into our military which has lead to a huge financial deficit for our next president to deal with. All of these events are directly related to 9/11. What is it never happened, would we be in Iraq or Afghanistan? Would we be in debt billions of dollars and would 4000 troops have died? These are all questions and topics that we need to think about on the aniversery of an event that has forever changed our country.

The perfect Kickoff

2008-09-07T21:49:00.003-06:00

This sunday was supposed to be a repeat of super bowl 41. The Bears were supposed to come out fired up only to be ripped apart by the Colt's aggresive passing offense and balanced run game. With Tom Brady injured and the Patriots coming off a super bowl loss, this game was the perfect oppurtunity for the Colts to begin their reign of dominance over the AFC. With a new stadium and a national crowd watching, the Colts did just the opposite. They fell to the Bears 29-13, a score that shocked just about everyone to watch the game. As a die hard Bears fan I will always root for the Bears, though I have to admit I did not have them winning this game. After a 7-9 season the future did not look too bright for the Monsters of the Midway. They were starting a young in-experienced quarterback in Kyle Orton, a rookie running back Matt Forte, and they had lost their top two wide recievers. With top pick lineman Chris WIlliams out, this game seemed destined to be a blowout. The Colts on the other hand were returning a star studded cast of offensive player along with a veteran defensive core, led by last years defensive player of the year, Bob Sanders. Though the Colts did not remind us of the Super Bowl champions that made a mockery of the Bear's cover two in February of 06. Their recivers were sloppy and they failed to capitalize on several plays. Joseph Addai was lack luster in the backfield while running behind a rookie center in Jamey Richard. Throughout the night the Bears defensive line and line backers pressured quarterback Peyton Manning. In these situations, Manning failed to exploit the Bear's young secondary and burn their new safeties. Offensively, Kyle Orton did exactly what he was asked to while rookie Matt Forte thrived. He rused for over 120 yards while Orton threw for 150 yars and a touchdown. Orton played mistake free and did not have any turnovers, something that relieved Bears fans after the Rex Grossman era. Orton was also able to utilize tight ends Greg Olson and Desmond Clark, while throwing to new recievers Brandon Lloyd and ex-Bear Marty Booker. In the end, Chicago fans should not get too exited about the win. It's a long season and a lot can happen in 16 weeks.

My First Blog

2008-09-03T08:11:00.001-06:00

This is my first Blog