THE NETJUNIOR WORK Edition
Marian High School - 7400 Military Avenue Omaha, NE 68134 - www.marianhighschool.net - Volume 62 Issue 7 - April 2018
I N S I D E Shakespeare’s ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream’ shakes up the stage macysalerno
NEWS
March For Our Lives
OPINION
What to do in Omaha Dancing with a smile The performers Matthew Lemar, Olivia Ramaekers ‘19, Rachael Brich ‘18, Fin Herrera, Isaac Kenney, Isaac White, and Nyanar Kual ‘19 dance in the opening scene of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The play debuted on Friday, April 6 in Marian’s Kish Auditorium. Photo by Kaitlyn Rosenbaum.
F FEAT URE Summer Trips
SPORTS Spring Sports
rom William Shakespeare to southern accents, Marian’s spring play had it all. On April 6, Marian opened its spring play, Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream.” The show was performed from Friday through Sunday, and audience members enjoyed the comedic talents of the cast. This play was directed by Michael McCandless and starred Marian’s senior Grace Woltemath, junior Mary Watson, and senior Diana Elizalde and Creighton Prep’s Tyler Harris, Isaac White and Caleb Meyers. The play required many practices and a ton of time. “We started practices the first week of February, and had practices every Monday through Thursday and Sunday from 4-7 p.m.,” Elizalde, who played Titania said. The cast and crew spent at least 15 hours per week preparing for the show. The backstage crew also put in countless hours of hard work behind the scenes. From helping with costume changes to moving props on stage, the crew does it all, they even help the boys with makeup. Sophomore Cassie Wolf, a member of crew, said, “I love getting to know everyone on the cast and crew and being with
everyone off stage.” eternity, the members of the cast and crew The props and sets are created with the build relationships with people from every help of various people. Ms. Halli Tripe’s grade and make unforgettable memories. Theater Seminar class, a fine arts class “The long hours get to be too much, so offered at Marian, created the props in having everyone to make you laugh and the play. Marian art teacher, Mrs. Lindsay have a grand time until 11 p.m. is the best Cisco, and part,” Elizalde said. former Marian Balancing school art teacher, Mr. and the play can be Jeremy Cisco, tough, but somehow, created the sets these performers do it. “I have to mentalfor the play ly prepare myself along with the that I won’t get help of 10 girls more than 15 hours who applied of sleep this week,” to be set crew Elizalde said. members. The seniors had The props and Pre-show painting Rayna Bartling ’18 paints the a show-stopping sets necessary face of Elaina Carleton ’21 before going on stage on last performance for for the play April 5. The cast performed for parents and teachMarian. As much required hard ers. Photo by Macy Salerno. fun as the cast and work and time. The members crew had throughout met twice a week for six weeks prior to the experience, they were certainly excited the play. When the play was finished, they to have some free time when the play was spend five hours just taking apart the set over. With a huge success and classical designs and cleaning up. story, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” was Although the long hours can feel like one to remember.
New lunch opportunities promote jumping aboard the healthy express
lydiadelkamiller
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n Jan. 31, Marian administration sent the entire student body an email consisting of questions regarding the lunch system. The questions asked what new variety of foods the students would like to see, if they agree with prices, and how often they buy Marian’s lunches. Changes were made to the system, based on the survey, which include a new lunch line with healthy options. It consists of daily sandwiches
like ham and cheese, turkey and cheese, and peanut butter and jelly. The cost of unhealthy desserts are now 50 cents more while the fruit bowls are now 50 cents less. As of April 11, about 61 percent of the student body approves of the idea of the healthy express lunch line. Ideas have been suggested for lower salad bar prices and a smoothie machine. Ms. Ronda Motykowski runs the healthy express line that the ad-
ministrators set up based on the survey. “A quicker take and go system was the idea, to stress the importance of healthy lunches. I’ve been selling out every day.” Motykowski said. “I want the one dollar cookies back!” sophomore Katelyn Malick said. The famous threefor-$1 cookies are now $1.50, and it does not seem to be resonating well with some students. However, other students like the changes.
Junior Aidan Remmick said, “I get a PB&J and fruit bowl every single day.” Remmick approves of the price changes because the fruit bowl price is now lower. “I like the new line because it is shorter. I asked for more variety in the survey, and I like the new sandwiches,” freshman Ashley Huftless said. These new healthy lunch options are provided every day and will Healthy options Ms. Ronda Motykowski hands out sandwiches in the continue to help promote healthy express lunch line. Sandwiches are a new addition and are for a healthy lifestyle. sale every day, among other healthy options. Photo by Lydia Delkamiller.
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
(2) NEWS
s e v i l r u o r o f MArch The movement taking over America joliepeal
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How many more Zoe Zier ’19 questions, “How many more?” at the March For Our Lives. Photo by Caroline Drew.
Bridge to gun reform Adults and students of Omaha come together to march over the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge in downtown Omaha. Photo by Taylor Sterba.
#enough Protesters sport orange in solidarity with national protests against gun violence. Photo by Maria Piperis.
risk with weathcliper and boards freezing for peowinds did ple to not stop the register thousands to vote of stuin the dents and upadults who coming marched on election. Saturday, Many March 24 at particLewis and ipants Clark Landmarched ing for the with March for signs Our Lives. showMarch casing for Our support Standing in solidarity Anna Swoboda ’18, Diana Elizalde ’18, Makayla Lives was for Sedlacek ’18, Caitlin Wessling ’18, and Maddie Robertson ’18 exercise stricter gun organized their right to protest at the march. Photo by Taylor Sterba. by students control. from Parkland, FL who are fighting for Gerards held a sign that said “Protect people better gun regulation. The Omaha march not guns.” Another sign read, “We hear you was one of more than 800 planned across kids and have your back.” Protesters held the the world. The central march took place in signs up while walking across the Bob KerWashington, D.C., where attendance was in rey Pedestrian Bridge, stretching between the hundred thousands. Nebraska and Iowa. Once they reached the High schoolers from the Omaha Student Council Bluffs side of the bridge, the student Union planned the local march to call on protesters yelled various chants in unison. Nebraska elected officials to take action “I feel passionately that we should have against gun violence. Several students spoke better gun control. It’s a time to take action,” at the protest. Brooke Wilczewski, a senior Gerards said. While the overall theme was at Millard North, read the tearful testimostricter gun control, student speakers at the ny of her friend Sarah who survived the March repeated its other goals several times: Valentine’s Day mass shooting at Marjory a ban on assault rifles, universal background Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, checks, a ban on high-capacity magazines, Florida. She later said in her speech, “We funding the Center for Disease Control to will become the movers and shakers and research the gun violence epidemic, and lawmakers because we have had enough!” making the ATF into a digital database. Students from Marian, along with severAlthough the March for Our Lives is al Servants of Mary, also chose to attend the over, students still continue to find ways to march. Junior Sarah Gerards attended with speak out. Parkland students continued their juniors Abby McGill and Julia King. “When protest with the Town Hall for Our Lives, people come out in big numbers like that it an event planned to help students speak to really shows lawmakers what public opinion their state representatives. This happened is and what we want them to do,” Gerards nationwide on April 7. The March for Our said. McGill was one of many young adults Lives has proven itself to be more than just who took advantage of the voting registraa moment. It is the movement of the next tion at the March. Volunteers walked around generation.
Marian blood drive saves lives “W
Start
Senior saving lives
Even those who are unable to donate can sign up to volunteer for Red Cross blood drives. The actual donation takes just 30 minutes of your day. Some students have a special appreciation for blood donations. Freshman Madison Mitchell shared about a personal experience with blood donation. “My aunt and uncle (twins) got total blood transfusions when they were born to save their
lives.” Even if you don’t realize it, everyone has a connection to someone who has benefited from a blood transfusion. Every two seconds, someone in the United States needs a blood transfusion (according to redcrossblood.org). How do you know someone is really going to need your blood? One way to see how your donation affects others is to download the “Blood Donor”
Let freedom ring Protesters wave the American flag and encourage government officials to ban weapons of war. Photo by Maria Piperis.
Nuns against guns Servants of Mary Sisters Nancy Marsh and Linda Hess attend the march in response to recent acts of gun violence. Photo by Maria Piperis.
SHOULD YOU DONATE BLOOD?
marywatson
hen I walk out I always leave feeling better then when I walked in. I leave feeling like a better person,” senior Lily Veylupek said. She was one of several students who donated blood at Student Board’s annual blood drive on March 23, and for most donors, it’s an easy way to give back to the community. “I choose to donate because it is an easy way to save lives,” Veylupek said. Marian’s goal this year was 75 pints of blood, to which Veylupek contributed. Blood donations are used for many medical emergencies, the most common of which include major surgeries, serious injuries (such as in a car accident), and anemia, or a low red blood cell count. Without a blood transfusion, most patients who are given blood would die, so blood donations are extremely important.
Posters to protect Caroline Drew ’19 and Rayna Bartling ’18 carry signs in protest of gun violence. Photo by Taylor Sterba.
Lily Veylupek ’18 gives the camera a thumbs up while donating blood. This was Veylupek’s second year donating. Photo by Mary Watson.
I am 16 years old.
NO
YES
I weigh at least 110 lbs.
You can’t donate blood right now, but this might change in the future! Keep checking to see if your status changes.
NO
YES
I have a disorder or chronic illness that would result in a blood clotting deficiency or cause me to easily faint.
YES
Unfortunately, you are not able to donate blood, but you can still volunteer and encourage your friends to donate!
NO
Congratulations! You are eligible to donate blood. If you missed Marian’s blood drive on March 23, or you’ve only recently turned 16, go to www.redcrossblood.org/ for more dates and times to donate.
app. By inputting some basic information, you can track your blood donation and see who is receiving your blood. Sophomore Sara Lighthart said, “I love the fact that I can see who received my blood. I strongly believe if more people use the
app, then they would be more inclined to donate because they would be able to see that they saved a real person’s life.” If you missed the blood drive, go to www.redcrossblood.org/ and input your zip code to find more locations to donate.
NEWS (3)
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
Senior Retreat: Memories in the making O
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n March 16, 148 members of the Senior class headed to Gene Eppley Camp and Retreat Center in Bellevue for their final Marian retreat, which was sponsored by Campus Ministry. Founded and operated by the Salvation Army, the Gene Eppley Camp and Retreat Center serves as the perfect place for any event. The camp’s 118 acres and endless activities make the time spent there unforgettable. Although the girls did not really get to explore much of it, they had the pleasure of listening to the wise words from Marian alums and their fellow classmates. The retreat seemed to be off to a rough start with overcast conditions. The rainy weather was not ideal, but it did not stop any of the girls from having an
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they learned from high school. The retreat allowed them to open up after all their years at Marian and strengthen old bonds with their fellow classmates. Marian seniors were able to lead their classmates in their retreat. “It was cool to be a leader because we were able to lead our class through the retreat, yet we got to experience all the same emotions,” senior Anna Kilzer said. It was a very special experience that allowed students, no matter leader or participant, to create bonds with friends that will last long after they leave the halls of Marian. The best advice for anyone going into a retreat at Marian is to go in with an open mind. The memories and bonds made with classmates will live on forever.
Retreat was a great time to revel in the bonds we have with our classmates and realize that what we have is special. - Megan Doehner ’18 amazing and eye-opening experience. In reality, the weather set the mood for retreat and as senior Lauren Klingemann said, “It made you feel as if you were in a movie when the people run through the rain.” Many seniors spoke to how the retreat may not have been life-changing, but mind-changing. It put the past four years of high school into perspective. Next year, they will be out on their own, ready to conquer the world with all of the life lessons and philosophies
Language honor societies change induction celebration mariaalessandro
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t is considered a prestigious achievement to be inducted into an honor society, and at a competitive school like Marian, students have the opportunity to be inducted into multiple societies for different subjects. The honor societies at Marian include: National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Science Honor Society, Rho Kappa (Social Studies), Mu Alpha Theta (Math), National Spanish Honor Society, National French Honor Society, Junior Classical League (Latin) and Quill and Scroll (Journalism). Different organizations have different academic requirements to get inducted that are listed in the curriculum handbook. Some of the general requirements include having an A in the specific subject of the honor society and maintaining at least a B average in the other classes. Most stu-
dents are inducted in their junior or senior year in the springtime; the ceremonies usually take place before school. Marian’s mornings are quite hectic in the spring, filled with both club and Field Day meetings, and sometimes it’s hard to fit in a ceremony. The foreign language teachers were having trouble finding a date for their ceremony. French teacher, Madame Janet Tuttle was having difficulties finding an open morning, so she decided that the French students would not have a formal ceremony, those inducted would instead have a casual presentation during their French III class on Friday, April 13. “There were hardly any openings in the April schedule, so I thought it would be easier and less stressful to do the induction during a class period,” Tuttle said.
The Spanish department had an informal induction on April 19 in the morning, and the Latin III class will have theirs on April 26 in class. Though, more than 62 percent of students, particularly freshman and sophomores responded that they would be upset if the ceremonies were taken away even if they were to still get inducted into the honor societies. In the upcoming years, some of the specific subject honor society inductions might be a lot more informal, but there has been no official change yet. When it comes to the ceremonies, the teachers in charge of the inductions will be the ones who make the call on their decision for change with the administration approval as well. Another factor that will be considered is the input that faculty and administration will receive from students on their opinion of the matter.
Peace out, Marian Megan Doehner ‘18 and Rachael Brich ‘18 pose as they get ready to depart for their final Marian retreat. The girls bonded as a class, creating new friendships and rekindling old ones. Photo by Audrey Otwell.
Bittersweet moments Mary Trainer ‘18, Olivia Putnam ‘18 and Kate Bilyeu ‘18 embrace their fellow classmates during Senior Retreat. Seniors cherished this experience to bond with their classmates one last time before heading off to college. Photo by Cassidy Jorgensen.
The ultimate ACT checklist Illustration by Lexi Schorg
3 Moms and a Test: A recipe for success madisonbezousek
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he juniors have participated in three prep courses put on by 3 Moms and a Test (3MT). The required prep classes covered verbal and general strategies, math strategies and science reasoning; with an optional writing session. These classes took place from 8 to 11 a.m. on March 16, 23,and 28. The juniors were provided with an ACT prep book containing six full practice tests and a “captain cruncher” or review book of concepts on the ACT. Besides reviewing content on the ACT, 3MT provided the juniors with skills to relieve stress on the day of the test. Following
the review sessions, the juniors were encouraged to practice “bursts” or timed sections of practice tests. According to the 3MT website, the mission of the program is to “give every student the advantage of a general ACT prep course that will both calm anxieties and provide strategies to improve test scores.” Marian provides this review session in order to boost the students’ scores and instill confidence in test taking. About 95 percent of Marian’s junior class took the ACT on April 14 at various locations around the metro area. Junior Kira Bravo recalls how 3MT pre-
pared her for the reading section. “During the reading section, I jumped straight to the questions and answered the ones with direct line references first and that sped up the time I used for each passage,” she said. “ I did a few bursts from the practice test book the week before and I thought it helped me to feel more comfortable with the amount of time given for each test,” Bravo said. Results of the April ACT test will be released after April 24 and before June 8, according to act.org. The next national test dates are June 9 and July 14.
(4) Opinion
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
Nanny life is the good life H
ave you locked down your summer job yet? If not or if you’re not sure what to do this summer, be a nanny! You might be cringing at the title “nanny” because work and kids are involved, but a good summer nanny opportunity might be the best thing for you. Watching and entertaining kids comes with responsibility and hard work, but it’s not all work and no play. Aside from messy kids and early mornings— there are perks to a nanny job. Five reasons to be a summer nanny are:
1) You
have fun.
Bright Ideas with Butler
Summer is a kid’s dream. Pool days and popsicles on the daily make nannying fun. You are abbybutler getting paid to be a kid in the summer again. What could be better?
2) You watch movies all the time. Need someone to watch all your favorite childhood movies with? A movie is the perfect way to re-watch your favorites and relax while on the job.
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4) You stay creative.
A nanny is also a kid’s friend. This job helps you stay creative and keeps your imagination alive.
5) You indulge in great food.
Their pantry becomes your pantry and everyone knows kid food is better than adult food. Fruit snacks, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, ice cream bars, and all things finger food is the ideal summer diet. You get to keep your Kraft mac and cheese cooking skills fresh and enjoy some good processed food all summer long. The nanny life is the good life. You get paid all summer be a kid again, to play, and have fun. You are paid upfront and aren’t losing money due to taxes. Looking for a job? Get your imagination ready, and become a summer nanny.
C
OLLEGE. The big seven-letter word. affiliation, Greek life, gender mix, Some dread it, while others wait campus setting, tuition costs and any impatiently with anticipation. I have other specific aspects of college matter to been excited for college since my first you? I wanted a college on the smaller to day of high school. I cannot wait to go medium side and public/private was not far from Nebraska to meet new people important to me. and see new things. Whether you think I started looking online and found college is exfour colleges citing or scary, in California I picking the was interested right college JEWELS in. Over spring for yourself is break I schedOF essential. a visit at WISDOM uled Visiting each school, and WITH colleges you my mom and JOEY are interested I took a trip to in is the best California to joeycarollo way to see check them out. what is right Although the for you. First school visits may start with the basics: Do you want to have been boring, I learned so much, stay close to home or go away as far as and my opinions on some of the schools possible? Do you want to be somewhere drastically changed. I would really warm or cold? I wanted the warmest recommend going during a time that weather possible and the farthest from the students are in school. By seeing the Nebraska. This narrowed it down to the daily business of some schools, I figured west coast, specifically California. out what felt comfortable to me. Now, you have an idea of where you Overall, the visits helped my deciwant to be, and your search has been sion immensely, and I am sure I will be refined! Then start to think about the going on many more. Figure out what is specifics of your perfect college. Do important to you and set up visits to the you want a big, small, or medium size colleges that look interesting. I wish you school? Does public, private, religious good luck, and happy visiting!
What fun Omaha can be! Never boring if you look hard enough, have spirit of adventure
f you think that Omaha is boring and doesn’t have much to offer, then you aren’t looking hard enough. Omaha has plenty of things to do if you look in the right places. Besides the famous Henry Doorly Zoo and the College World Series that brings people from around the United States, Omaha has more than enough to keep people entertained for a while. Here are some of the most fun things to do in Omaha this spring!
I’ll take you to the Donut Stop
Whether it’s a Girl’s Night Out, some forced family fun, or a photo shoot with friends, the Old Market is the place to go. From dozens of top-notch restaurants to carriage rides to the beautiful scenery of the famous Old Market passageway, the Old Market has it all. A lesser known treasure the Old Market has to offer is the Donut Stop. It has various donuts for 50 cents a piece and board games for days. Note that this is a cash only store. It is open from 7:45 p.m.- 1:15 a.m. on Mondays, 5 a.m.- 10 a.m. and 7:45 p.m.1:15 a.m. on Tuesdays through Fridays, 5 a.m.- 10 a.m. on Saturdays, and closed on Sundays.
3) You get to be outside.
Kids love to ride bikes, color with chalk, and go to the park. A summer nanny is guaranteed to be outdoors at times, so you can get your tan on and get paid to play.
The college visit: Necessary or no-go?
Louisville Lake provides the perfect Omaha escape
Next time the sun is out, take a day trip to Louisville Lake! In the small town of Louisville just outside of southwest Omaha, it is perfect for a picnic among the cotton trees, to float around in inner tubes, or just a day for tanning. Louisville Lake is the perfect escape from Omaha a mere 30 minutes away. It is just secluded enough to be relaxing but with enough jennacusick action to be interesting. After a day of swimming, head to the nearby Old Fashioned Blake’s Soda Fountain. Their menu includes breakfast items, hand dipped ice cream, ice cream soda’s and phosphates, malts and shakes, and daily lunch specials. It’s open 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Their old-fashioned ice cream treats are perfect to help you cool down after a day in the sun.
Here’s what JJ has to say
The Net work Staf f
The Network is a monthly publication of the journalism students at Marian High School, Nebraska’s only Class A Catholic, North Central Accredited college preparatory school for girls. The Network is a member of N.H.S.P.A. and the N.S.P.A. It is our goal to provide an accurate and informative news source for the student community. Opinions expressed on opinion pages do not necessarily represent those of the entire community. Students, faculty, and friends are invited to voice their opinion in Letters to the Editors. All letters must be typed, signed, and sent to this address: The Network, Marian High School, 7400 Military Ave., Omaha, NE 68134 Or emailed to us here: netpaper@omahamarian.org Or call us at 402-571-2618 x 1134 An electronic version of this paper and exclusive content can be found here: mariandigitalnetwork.com Follow us on Twitter @MHSbeat • Follow us on Instagram @MHSpub • Friend us on Snapchat @MHSpub
Hooray hooray, it’s Farmers Markets day!
The days of Omaha Farmers Markets are upon us! Both the Old Market and Aksarben Farmers Markets have tons to offer. From jewelry and bubbles to lemonade and cannolis, they really do have it all. The Old Market Farmers Market opens May 5 and is open until Oct. 13 every Saturday from 8 a.m.- 12:30 p.m. The Aksarben Farmers Market opens May 6 and is open until Oct. 14 every Sunday from 9 a.m.- 1 p.m. I have purchased some of my favorite jewelry and gifts for friends from farmers markets, and it is one of my favorite spring activities! The vendors have more unique items than in any store I have seen. I suggest checking out the bubble wand and homemade popsicle stands at the Aksarben Farmers Market.
Hey
Marian girls, can we go thrift shopping?
If you are looking to save big this spring, Omaha has plenty of thrift shops to offer. Located in Dundee, Scout Dry Goods and Trade is an eco friendly thrift store named after the character in To Kill a Mockingbird. The owner buys clothes and accessories from customers and sells them back at bargain prices. On Sundays, they have $1 sales- with bins of items for only $. If you are a shop-’til-you drop kind of girl, this is one place where you can buy tons to add to your closet without spending much; shopping doesn’t get better than that! These are just a few of many things that you can do to combat boredom in Omaha. Our city has much more than just cornfields, cows and Nebraska football games. From restaurants and coffeeshops to fun-in-the-sun activities to farmers markets, Omaha has many unique things to do. If you look hard enough, it is never boring, you just have to be a little creative. Next time you are bored, channel your imagination, and go find something fun to do with your friends!
managing editors: emmawilliams & lilyblake copy editors: jennacusick & carolinedrew photo editors: kaitlynrosenbaum & hannahbena graphics editors: abbybutler & qwynnwatts online editors: joeycarollo & audreyotwell front page editor: macysalerno news editors: mariapiperis & elliefarner & lexischorg feature editors: joliepeal & marywatson & kaylagornall & mackenziekilton & taylorsterba & tomihuber & laurenelliot & lydiadelkamiller opinion editors: katherinepelton & kristinbeduhn & aileenzitek indepth editors: emilydiesing & livramaekers sports editors: mariaalessandro & emmaschafer & caitlynvirgillito entertainment editors: marianainciarte-balza & sallynoble & clararoth photo essay editor: lizziebyrne reporters & photographers: kajiloro & madisonbezousek & lilygonzalez & dayleedaubert & paigeconnelly & friedanomenyo & annakenney adviser: marshakalkowski
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
OPINION (5)
Perfect preparation brings a paycheck T
he day has come–you have finally answer any question the interviewer throws found the perfect job, you filled out at you. Since you can’t know exactly what your resume and sent in an application. Afquestions will be asked, you should to be ter a week of anxious waiting, they call you ready to answer standard questions such in for a face-to-face interview, but oh no! as–‘Why do you want to work here?’ ‘How You’ve never had an interview before! flexible is your schedule?’ and ‘What makes You have no idea what to expect, what to you the best candidate for this job?’. Also wear, how to act, or what to say. Fear no be prepared to ask any questions that you more, for I, a job interview expert, am here might have to the interviewer. to help. Along with your First let’s talk about verbal answers, Keeping up with your appearance. Even interviewers are Connelly though it may seem very looking for noncomfortable, sweatpants verbals such as: the and a sweatshirt are way you sit, the probably not your best way you talk, and bet. You want to dress to the way you carry impress and wear someyourself. In order thing like a simple skirt or paigeconnelly to succeed, confidress. Make sure you look dence is key. When put-together, professional, and ready for answering questions, be sure of yourself, the interview. As Marian girls, brushing our sit up straight, and maintain eye contact hair isn’t always a top priority. However, on throughout the entire interview. This shows the day of your interview you should whip your potential employer that you are not shy out the brush instead of throwing your hair or uncomfortable in new situations. into the typical messy top knot and calling Overall, if you show them the confident, it good. independent, thinking leader we all know Now that you’re dressed to impress, you are, you are sure to get the job. Go get you want to make sure you are prepared to ‘em girlfriend!
Normality is a paved road. It’s comfortable to walk on but no flowers grow on it. -van gogh Quote of the month qwynnwatts
The power of youth, amplifying voices to change the world
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he Civil Rights protests in Selma. The Greensboro sit-ins. Little Rock Nine’s fight for desegregation in schools. The fight for women’s education around the world. The Black Lives Matter movement. The women’s marches. And most recently, the fight for gun control. These are only a few examples of times when young people like us have led the crusade for social and political change. America’s rich history of youth activism has paved the way for an even bigger and more powerful surge of activism in recent years that shows no signs of stopping. Even though young people are excluded from the process of decision-making through voting, society is still greatly affected by our voices. The personal impact of past events has caused many young people to become involved in the political process by using our voices to influence the views of the enfranchised. This is done through small acts such as participating in political marches and walk-outs, or larger acts that call attention to a specific issue, such as creating or being
active in an organization aiming to drive change. We, as young people, are continuing to work together to make a global impact and create a better planet and society, but the work will never be complete. David Hogg, one of the young organizers for the March for Our Lives, said it best: “We have marched an inch but have a light year to go”. We must continue to listen to opinions different than our own and come to compromises to fix societal problems. By listening and working with young activists, adults can help us establish a better society for future sallynoble generations that will ensure every person has a strong voice and an equal chance to succeed. Youth voice has always been a pivotal aspect of society, because it brings a fresh and critical point of view that can introduce new perspectives to a traditional agenda. Young people are notorious for being open-minded and able to embrace change,
which allows us to accept all kinds of people and learn from their unique experiences and perspectives. Accepting and learning from these unique people is an important way that young people differ from our older relatives, and it is one of the best tools we can use to learn about issues and drive change. The increasingly independent and confident youth has proven time and time again that we don’t have to follow any certain path that has been laid out for us. Our willingness to take an unconventional route through life by following our passions and learning from mistakes along the way brings new ideas and mindsets to the table. Numerous organizations made up of young people are in action every day, holding events to educate people and attempting to influence legislation to create a better future. It is the ideas of young people that are being spread all around the world through new forms of communication and technology. By supporting one another and the ability to drive change, young people have so many opportunities to make a difference. One thing will always hold true; we need to take advantage of each opportunity to create a better world for us, our children, and future generations to come because young people ARE the future.
Women’s Marches
Fight for gun control
free speech movement
Civil rights protests in selma, alabama
Greensborough sit-ins Fight for n’s wome n tio educa
Occupy wall street
Black atter M s e Liv ent m e v Mo
Apartheid divestment
Little rock nine’s fight for desegregation in schools
(6) FEAT URE
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
Speech bonds go beyond school walls T
kristinbeduhn
here is only one class that requires you to carry around a doll of Edward Cullen, know the song “Can’t Touch This,” and ensures that you dance like a funky chicken. Not many of your classes at Marian have these odd requirements, but speech is the one exception. Marian’s Speech Team, led by Ms. Halli Tripe, has succeeded not only in their competitive achievements, but in their team chemistry and bond. The Speech Team has placed at multiple competitions across Omaha this year including The Creighton Prep
Varsity Tournament and the Westside Speech Tournament. They continued on to Districts in Norfolk where 11 girls placed and the team won the tournament. Senior Kate Kellen, District champion for persuasive speaking, described the team’s accomplishment, “That feeling was indescribable. We have worked so hard all year, and we dedicated so much time to speech. Seeing this hard work pay off was amazing!” Being District champions is not the only accomplishment this team achieved this season. Senior Diana Elizalde and
sophomore Shruthi Kumar will be representing the team at Nationals on May 10 in Denver. Kumar will be competing in Persuasive Speaking and Elizalde will be competing in Dramatic Interpretation and Poetry Interpretation. Despite going to nationals, Kumar said her favorite part, “is knowing I am a part of a team that is a group of girls that will support me in my success and failures.” This response attests to the incredible bond the Speech Team shares. “During tournaments having such an amazing group of people to hang out with makes the super long hours and nights totally
worth it,” junior Abby McGill said. The team bonds though banquets, pumpkin patch visits, sleepovers and unique traditions such as carrying around a bobblehead of Edward Cullen for good luck and warming up for tournaments by dancing like chickens and singing “Can’t Touch This.” While succeeding at competitions and making unbreakable friendships, the speech girls have learned a lot. One lesson junior Elaina Sperry will always take with her is, “the speech suit does make you feel powerful.” The powerful confidence the speech girls have gained from this experience will stick with them for many years to come.
Sporting speech power suits The speech girls celebrate a wonderful season after State Speech at the University of Nebraska at Kearney. Several girls competed in state events. Photo courtesy of Kate Kellen.
Music students prepare for District competition carolinedrew
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istrict music may sound exactly like a District competition in any other sport or school activity, but it is more than just a competition between Nebraska musicians. It’s an opportunity for growth and improvement for vocal and instrumental musicians alike. “It’s a really cool opportunity to get some performing experience and feedback from an expert,” band director Mr. Paul Niedbalski said. Choral student, senior Kylie Ewing agrees, “My favorite part is performing it for the judges and hearing their comments about our performance,” she said. All music classes— band, orchestra, choir, etc— participate in District music as a whole class. Students also have opportunities to enter District music as soloists, duets, trios or
other small groups, such as the handbells quartet that is a new addition to the competition this year. Students perform a piece in front of a panel of judges. “Small groups and solos are heard by only one judge, but large ensembles play or sing for three judges,” Niedbalski said. “They [the judges] have their eyes and ears on every aspect of performance, and their job is to find the things that the student is doing well, or doing not so well, and offer suggestions on how they can improve for the future.” Each entry is given a score for their overall performance, based on tone, timing, phrasing, balance, dynamics, general appearance, and piece selection, among other aspects. “Each entry is graded on a scale of 1-5,” Niedbalski said, “one being the
Irish melodies The orchestra performed “Irish Jig” and “Aire” at the District Music Assembly. They have all worked hard to perfect their pieces and will be well prepared to perform on Friday, April 20. Photo by Caroline Drew.
best, and if you earn a Superior Rating (1), you’ll receive a congratulatory certificate.” Last year, Marian’s choir was rated 1+, meaning they received a one from all of their evaluating judges. Marian’s band took home Soulful singing Marian’s Select Women’s Choir performed the song “I Am Not Yours” at the Dis- a 1 rating as well. trict Music Assembly. They will perform this piece at the District competition on April 20. Photo Participating by Caroline Drew.
in Districts is hard work, often requiring two to four months of hard work to master a challenging piece. “We’ll usually start looking at options pretty early in the second semester,” Niedbalski said. “The class and small groups will work on their selections for a month or two, but sometimes soloists will start working on their piece much longer. Some of the more advanced individual instrumental works take a long time to master!” “The most challenging part is making it [the performance] artistic after just learning it,” senior vocal soloist Mia Soulliere said, “because that is
what sets apart the top vocalists.” Soulliere will be singing “Willow Song” by Shakespeare at this year’s competition, “I enjoy learning a classical piece because I enjoy classical music,” Soulliere said. For Ewing, the most challenging part is often finding time outside of class to practice their pieces as a full class and as a smaller chamber group. Whatever the challenges may be, Marian’s music students are determined to overcome them and give stellar performances. District music began on April 18 and continues through April 21 at Fremont High School.
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
FEAT URE (7)
Summer Trips
Iceland
Ice, Ice, Iceland is the place to be
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n the summer of 2020, a group of Marian students will depart on an adventure to Iceland. Only Marian students are allowed to attend. The Classes of 2020, 2021, and 2022 have the opportunity to take advantage of this outstanding and educational experience. They will depart on May 26 and return on June 3. In between, there is an array of activities and tourists sites on the itinerary. The trip will be lead by multiple teachers which include science teacher, Mrs. Sharon Genoways and French teacher, Mrs. Janet Tuttle. Spanish teacher, Ms. Caitlyn Gaule, visited Iceland in March of 2018 and said, “Iceland has something for everyone including the nature and sightseeing. It was like somewhere I had never been before. It almost felt like a dream.” The trip will include visits to famous destinations such as the Blue Lagoon, Grábrók Lava Field, and multiple waterfalls. Over the span of nine days, the group will also
visit the Icelandic Saga Museum and the Hauganes Fish Factory. In addition, the tour includes an excursion to the Golden Circle, consisting of the Thingvellir National Park, Great Geysir, Gullfoss Waterfall, and Strokkur Hot Springs. Another once in a lifetime activity included is the opportunity to take a whale watching boat ride in the mountainous northern region. To put the cherry on top of this trip, the itinerary includes gelato tasting at Efstidalur farm. The trip is priced at $5,438, which includes a variety of accommodations. Seven overnight stays, tours, attractions, and daily breakfast and dinner are all included. The last available day to sign up for this trip is June 21, 2018.
Europe
Marian students to embark on a trip to Europe mariaalessandro
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ver the course of 10 days, 162 Marian students, along with parents and teacher chaperones, will venture through Europe, visiting five different countries, which include Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Austria and France. School trips are an exciting time for Marian girls, as the opportunity to travel a country only comes every other summer. Every other year, Marian takes a trip to a different country, or countries, offering the travel expenses at a comparably cheaper price than if a person were to go on the trip unattached. For the trip this summer, the cost for students was $4,118, and includes the flight, hotel, breakfast, dinner, the bus rides, and all excursions. The 2018 trip, which departs on May 31, is Marian’s biggest ever. Many different interesting and historic places will be visited including, but not limited to the Neuschwanstein Castle in Munich, St. Mark’s Basilica in Venice, Mt. Pilatus in Lucerne, and the Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris. Throughout the trip, students will also be able to witness new cultures and try different foods. “I’m most excited to go to Italy to try authentic Italian food and learn about the different cultures in all of the countries,” junior Melanie Brusnahan said. As the trip comes closer and closer, there are many important essentials to remember for traveling
to foreign countries, especially in Europe. The most important item to remember is the passport, as travelers need it to go to any foreign country. Specifically with this trip, it is important to exchange dollars to Euros beforehand, as it is easier and cheaper to do so in the States. Don’t forget that if travelers are planning to use their credit card, they need to notify their credit card company that they are leaving the country. Packing. It is always a struggle to pack, and international travel, isn’t any easier. Girls are advised to only bring a backpack and carry on suitcase. Be aware, and check the dimensions allowed on international flights for luggage size. Other accessories that are recommended to bring include fanny packs, a collapsible water bottle, Febreeze, an adapter for foreign outlets, and thick socks. The European adventure this summer will include a lot of walking, so Chacos or a comfy pair of walking shoes might be a smart idea. Although the little specifics for the trip can be overwhelming, going to Europe with fellow classmates and friends is surely going to be the trip of a lifetime. Girls going on the trip should put their phones away too. Pictures are just as amazing in someone’s head as they are on screen. Immerse into the culture and pay attention to all of the beautiful and historic places that can be discovered on the trip.
Destinations:
Map Source : https://www.askideas.com, Destination Ping by : Courtney Kilroy
Winnebago
Winnebago provides summer service opportunity close to home
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ast July, five students were selected to represent Marian for a week in Winnebago on a service trip. Winnebago is an Indian Reservation located in Eastern Nebraska filled with a beautiful and unique heritage. Throughout the week, the girls participated in service activities each day. They weeded the parking lot so it could be repaved, helped the nuns with their garden, and cleaned up at the local daycare. When the girls were not doing service, they were able to immerse themselves in the Winnebagan culture and experience a simplistic lifestyle. Before the week came to an end, the girls experienced Winnebago’s powwow and further
immersed themselves in the culture. The girls left with many new friends and memories that will last a lifetime. “I am so grateful that I got to go to Winnebago!” junior Lauren Philips said. “I feel like the service we did had an impact on the community, and I made some amazing memories with my Marian sisters.” Six students have been selected to represent Marian this summer, from July 22-28. Campus Ministry sponsors this opportunity through the national organization Youth Neighbors in Action. This opportunity costs participants $500 and they urge the student body to watch for fundraisers in May.
Dominican Republic Backpacks are zipped, ready for the Dominican Republic service trip
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arian’s earliest trip in the summer of 2018 is a mere two days after students take their last final. Chosen after a two-step application process through Campus Ministry, 12 girls will start their journey to Santiago, Dominican Republic on Friday, May 25 and will be returning Tuesday, June 5. Each girl has only a backpack for their necessities during the trip. This year, the trip will cost around $2,100, but it won’t be official until the flights are booked. Team members send out fundraising letters to friends and family to help them with the price. Social Studies and French teacher, Mrs. Katy Salzman and Spanish teacher Mrs. Amanda Pritchard are the Marian chaperones for this trip. Both teachers hold a special place in their hearts for the D.R. and the people who inhabit it because they have already experienced life there. While a student at Creighton, Pritchard followed in her friend and role-model Bridget Ruane’s footsteps to study a semester abroad in the D.R. Pritchard said, “I realized the immense benefit of sharing with others.” She learned to “slow down, spend time with people, and take in ordinary graces” that surround her daily. Salzman took a group of Creighton Prep students to the D.R. in 2011. “The most magical part of spending time in community with those who have so few material possessions is that you discover how actually rich they are in so many ways,” Salzman said. This year’s trip is 12 days long, two of which are travel days. The team will spend four
days in Santiago at the Institute for Latin American Concern (ILAC) center through Creighton, five days in the campo, and the last full day on the beach reflecting on the week. The campo is different each year. For the 2018 trip, it is located in Dajabón, in the village Peñita, a farming community close to the Haitian border. In the campo, the girls will be stay in groups of two with their host families. This is a full immersion trip to experience the rich culture and language of the D.R., while the girls learn more about themselves and their faith. They will get the opportunity to create deeper bonds with each other and the Dominican families. The community that will be served in the campo has requested that their church and community center be repainted. Each day there, the Marian team will grab their paint brushes and get to work. The service in the campo is just one part to the whole experience, though. Dancing and games with the locals also create fond memories. As Salzman reminisced on her past experience in the campo, she said, “It is really telling when, after only five days in the campo, you get teary eyed saying goodbye.” The team is already preparing by practicing their Spanish and discussing the trip at their Tuesday morning meetings. “It’s surreal how close the trip is. I know that it will have an extremely positive impact and I’m excited to share the experience with the other girls in the group,” Ashley Stanek, a 2018 team member said.
(8- 9) IN-DEPT H
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Sisters share their take on Field Day
aileenzitek t’s field season. School spirit and lively discussion can be found all throughout the halls at Marian, but what is it like in the halls at home? Sister duos senior Katherine and sophomore Maggie Martin, and junior Nyanar and sophomore Achay Kual, give an inside look at what it is like to have a sister at Marian in another grade. “I tend to talk about Field Day a lot, but then Maggie gets annoyed, and avoids it at all costs,” Katherine said. “Field Day is a big topic,” Nyanar said, “especially because Achay is a class officer in her grade, so I learn about the inside works of Field Day too.” For the Martins, the competition aspect between the two sisters isn’t really there, Katherine explains. “Since Maggie’s grade is my little sister class there really is no drama, we really support one another through the season.” The Martins keep their sisterly bond and don’t let anything Field Day
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Sisterly spirit! Sisters Maggie Martin ’20 and Katherine Martin ’18 pose for a picture on Field Day 2017. The girls shared Field Day spirit and a unique experience as Maggie experienced her first Field Day. Photo courtesy of Katherine Martin.
related get in between them. For the Kuals however, the competition is very present. “Since we are only one grade apart, we get super competitive with each other. Sometimes during Field Week we each try to yell our demo louder than the other,” Achay said. As for their parents, they do not root for any specific daughter. “They tried to do a cycle so we each got three years,” Katherine explained, “they would root for me my freshman, sophomore and senior year, then root for Maggie her freshman, junior and senior year. Now, they just root for both of us.” The Martin’s mom also gets excited for Field Day. “Now, she gets to wear a blue outfit because we both have shades of blue as our colors,” Maggie said. The Kuals mom does the same thing. “She tries to wear one color from each of our classes to show equal support.”
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
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Field Week Do’s and Don’ts: A Guide to Survive Field Week hannahbena
All a Marian Girl needs to survive the most hectic week of the year
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DO express your creative side. DO contribute to your committee. DON’T criticize your peers’ ideas or put them down. DO give your classmates constructive criticism, but always do it nicely! DO help other classes if you see them struggling or in need of help. DON’T gossip about what other classes are planning to do. Focus on your class and its unity! DO participate as much as you can! A bad attitude gets you and your classmates nowhere. DO clean up after yourself! Remember to always clean paint up if you spill it!
DON’T steal other people’s supplies. Just don’t do it. DO put your name on all supplies you want back. DO listen to your classmates, committee coordinators, and class officers. They are there to help and guide you through Field Week. DON’T complain to teachers or class officers if you have a problem with someone. Go directly to the person and have a friendly conversation with them. NO DRAMA! DO have fun and help others! Field Week is meant to build class AND school unity.
Esprit de corps category promotes sportsmanship among classes with committee of ‘Secret Spirit Judges’ mariapiperis
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our homeroom teacher, Tim from the lunch line, the maintenance guys, Sister Margaret— any of the above could be one of the 15 Secret Spirit Judges for Field Day 2018. Probably the most notable addition to Field Day this year, the spirit award, or Esprit de corps, is defined by 15 secret people within Marian, and it is worth 40 points. No, that’s not a typo; the spirit award carries the same weight as both walls and demo, and could possibly be the deciding factor of the overall winner of Field Day. Mrs. Mary Steiner, co-StuBo moderator, explained why the award is worth so much. “Sportsmanship is of equal importance to walls and demo. The purpose is to create a positive competitive spirit as opposed to cutthroat competitive [atmosphere].” The judging for Esprit de corps
began at Color Block on March 22. The award is unique in the fact that it is not announced at Field Day, it is just included in each class’ total. Every class starts at 40 points, and the judges determine whether points are deducted. Spirit judges will obtain their information simply in passing, so there are definitely some do’s and don’ts during Field Week for the spirit award. The Esprit de corps category provides opportunities to display both your spirit and your creativity! You can cheer on all your friends both outside and within your class during Field Week, you can make bracelets for your friends (but no t-shirts!), you can bake themed cupcakes and bring them to school (as long as you eat them in the quad or cafeteria!), you can even host an impromptu dance
party (but probably not in the middle of a math test!) For upperclassmen, helping struggling underclassmen and offering uplifting comments and advice are great ways to represent their class well. It’s the trash-talking on classmates and committees of both other classes and your own that will hurt your overall score. “Just encourage and support teamwork and positive energy, within the class itself, and between all classes” Steiner said. Ms. Jessica Abel, the other co-Student Board moderator, offered some valuable advice, “Stay off social media, unless it’s positive. Just be nice to each other! That includes within your class and to other committees. It’s about healthy competition.”
Shhhhh! Mrs. Mary Steiner (above) and Ms. Jessica Abel, the StuBo moderators, encourage students to promote school and class unity by keeping negative comments to oneself.
(10) FEAT URE
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
PINNING DOWN THE NEW HOTSPOT taylorsterba
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arry Richling is a family man and alum of Creighton Preparatory, who runs Hollywood Candy with his sister, a Marian alum, and his wife. The trio usually collaborate with each other on new projects, but the pinball museum has primarily been Richling’s brain-child. “He has worked on the pinball [museum] pretty much on his own...” said General Manager and sister, Michele Gifford. Richling has also hired technicians to aid in the development of the pinball machine museum. Richling has always been a collector, starting with Pez candy dispensers which became the foundation of Hollywood Candy. Any antique you see in his store is something he has acquired over his years of collecting. When a seller approached Richling with an extensive collection of 35 pinball machines, he could not pass up on the opportunity. He said that these pinball machines tied in to the store extremely well and they had the perfect place to showcase them in the back by the movie theater inside Hollywood Candy. Construction began in mid-February and has gone smoothly and quickly with workers filtering in and out putting up lights, making sure the machines work, and finishing the prep before customers arrive. On the first week of May, Richling is hoping to officially open his collection of pinball machines, which he calls, Hollywood Pinball-Arcade Museum to the public. The front end of a retro car doubles as the registration desk with a pinball machine enclosed where the hood should be. The $15 entry fee earns you a punch card for an hour of unlimited play. Although it is a little pricey, the punch card eliminates the need
for a pocketful of change and being hit with the reality that you’re out of money when you reach into an empty pocket. As you walk in, the reflection from the small disco ball makes red and blue light dance around the room. The antique pinball machines illuminate players’ faces with a yellow light while pings and rings of metal pinballs echo as they ricochet off assorted number of themed bumpers and point multipliers. Each game has its own theme, ranging from famous television shows that are still well-known, such as “The Simpsons,” to various entertainment destinations, such as “The Isle” and the “Flying Circus.” It doesn’t matter whether you pull a red or black lever to send your marble on an adrenaline-filled journey, you are sure to ricochet from game to game in an attempt to play them all. Whether you are there on a date night with your significant other or to beat a top score, the smile won’t leave your face. Plus there is no need to worry about feeling overcrowded as there are plenty of alcoves filled with various antiques and collectibles available for peruse and purchase while you wait for the crowd to dwindle. There are also candies ranging from smooth chocolate to sour gummies for you to indulge in while you explore the colorful world of Hollywood Candy and Pinball Arcade. So pull into one of many metered parking spaces and give Richling a “hello” before you start making your way through all of the pinball machines.
TEACHER SP
Christen gains leadership skills at Creighton University
In the 2017 - 2018 school year Mrs. Jen Christen decided to take the next step in her career by completing an additional degree in Master of Science in Educational Leadership through Creighton University in addition to her Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education of Language Arts and Master of Science in LiterMrs. Jen Christen’s senior year acy. Christen has been in the educational field picture from Marian 1996. for more than 15 years and said that additional
Han relates to students while taking classes at UNO
Miss Megan Han came to Marian in the fall of 2016 fresh out of college with a Bachelor’s Degree in Science and Mathematics. Now, a year later, Han is going to classes two nights a week at The University of Nebraska at Omaha (UNO) to get her Master’s in
Señora Cassie Craig is currently working towards a Master of Arts in Language Teaching (MALT) with a Spanish concentration at the University of Nebraska at Omaha to gain further expertise and accreditation in the
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education and leadership training was what she needed to help further the Marian mission through helping not only the students of Marian, but the teachers as well. Going to classes has not been easy, especially while completing all the work for her job as the Dean of Student Services, school studies, and spending time with family. Christen said that she has been able to relate to her Marian students as she is attending school herself, “I am reading, doing discussion posts and presentations, and writing papers just like our students,” she says. She further relates to her students on a technological level, “I also use
Mathematics. Math has always come easily to her, but it is tough this year due to the fact that she has no time to ask for help and has to teach herself when she doesn’t understand something. On the other hand, Han feels that she is able to put herself into her students shoes more than ever before. “It is harder to relate to students who don’t get it right away, but the last two semesters I took really difficult classes with terrible teachers that didn’t explain things, so I would
Craig learns to balance family, career and studies while taking classes Señora Cassie Craig’s high school graduation in 2004.
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a learning management system - similar to eBackpack - so I know what that’s like to use and process all the assignments and posts that my professors put up,” Christen said. Although it is difficult to work towards an additional degree, Christen is excited to show her family and friends all that she has accomplished. “I want my daughters to see what all the time away from them and the hard work that I did matters. I hope that they too will become lifelong learners and value the power of education” Christen said. After Christen graduates in May, she will gain the title of Assistant Principal in the 2018-2019 school year.
get lost in class and it made me realize, ‘Oh this is what it feels like to not get it; to be confused, to feel lost.’ It has helped me as a teacher a lot to make sure that I slow down, make sure I know that my kids are understanding before I just jump to something new cause just because it makes sense to me, doesn’t mean it makes sense to somebody else,” Han said. This summer Han will continue school with two classes a week, ending with a comprehensive exam in July.
Spanish education field. Craig acknowledges how challenging it is to be a student, but she plans to work hard, stay motivated, stick it out, and be strong even when it is difficult. She said she loves her job and strives to be the best teacher she can be. Raising a family, working part time, and going to school can be overwhelming, but she has been able to apply herself, although her family life has had to adjust with all of the studying and time away from them. “I have had to be extremely efficient,” Craig said.
Miss Megan Han’s college graduation picture from 2016.
“I put in an hour or two every night for reading, homework, or projects, and I even spent many of my weekend nights working on grad school. This way I have more of the waking hours to give my full attention to my family. I have also had an amazing family support system which always helps,” She currently has a Bachelor of Education in Secondary Education with a Spanish concentration and sought her MALT out of motivation to improve her language and teaching skills.
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
(11) FEAT URES
Marian, Prep choirs spring into song for Easter Mass H kajiloro
armonies resoand it’s really nice and nated around the encouraging,” junior P.J. East Gym as a group of Mooney said. Creighton Prep choir Seniors Caleb Myers students joined Mariand Anna Swoboda were an’s Worship Choir to featured in solo perguide the school in a formances during “Oh celebration of Easter. Happy Day,” a song that Two days of rehearsal, has always provoked a led by choir directors positive response from Mr. Robert Chesire of the Marian faith comCreighton Prep and Mrs. munity. Anna Kolterman ‘94, “Singing at Prep produced a joyful choir is our usual setting, to lead Mass on April 6, It’s a happy day The choir leads the congregation in so when you come to celebrated by Fr. Kevin “Oh,, Happy Day.” It was very popular with the student Marian and sing with body at the Easter Mass. Photo by Lily Gonzalez. Schneider, S.J. all the girls, a different “As an all-girls choir, “‘Oh, Happy Day’ it’s really fun to see sound is produced, and we sound amazing on [was my favorite song everyone get into the it’s a different uplifting our own, but we always to perform] because music even though it’s experience,” Mooney love adding the boys it’s probably one of ‘Mass music.’ Everysaid in agreement with to produce a new and the loudest things and one still gets into it, Carleton. inventive sound,” freshman Elaina Carleton said. The choir led the Mass congregation in renditions of “Oh, Happy Day,” “You Raise Me Up,” and “Awesome God” among other songs. The community was even treated to a new version of “Start a Fire” performed with members of Marian’s band directed by Mr. Songs of Spring Mrs. Anna Kolterman leads the choir at Marian’s Easter Mass. The Paul Niedbalski. boys from Creighton Prep joined with Marian girls to make beautiful music for a special service. Photo by Emma Williams.
Responses were taken from a Nework survey sent to the Marian student body where 238 of the students responded.
The importance of internships: Getting the dream job kaitlynrosenbaum ooking for a job or discerning future career paths can be stressful without the right experience or qualifications. Internships can be the perfect opportunity to make the connections needed Calling all the Marian Girls Katie Harris and to pursue your Paige Patton ‘19 are making calls to inform voters for upcoming elections. They also collect dream job or survey information about past registered voters. even to impress Photo by Olivia Glock. the admissions offices of your top college. They allow students to acquire new skills and gain experience in the “real world” before they are sent off into an unfamiliar place. Internships can be extremely important to employers when searching for the most qualified applicant, possibly setting yourself apart from your competitors. The benefits to completing an internship can amount to many, making it a worthwhile experience. While internships can be useful for gaining experience in a desired place of employment, they can also simply relate to a person’s interests. Juniors Katie Harris and Paige Patton, along with other classmates, are currently involved in an internship at the Congressional Leadership Fund (CLF). CLF is the leading super PAC dedicated to promoting candidates that meet their ideological views. While this internship doesn’t necessarily relate to the jobs they want to pursue in their future, they are gaining other useful skills from hands-on experience. While making phone calls and walking door-to-door, Harris recognizes of the benefits of their internship. She said, “It gives me connections with people that can be beneficial, help me grow and learn, and make me more responsible.” Her favorite part of the job is “getting to meet new people, learning more about politics and political activity, and how to be a good civil servant,” she said. The people that they meet along the way can be valuable when in need of references for jobs or even applying to college. Patton said, “Interning with CLF gives me an opportunity to work with and be recognized by a national organization that extends just beyond Omaha and Nebraska. We can get a really good recommendation for college.” Finding an internship that relates to your interests and participating with friends can be the perfect combination. This can prove to be valuable when paving the way to college and eventually a career. The people available to make connections with through internships are truly one of the most substantial ways to ensure success and support in your future.
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Mothers and daughters bond over brunch
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family. Senior Emma Roth, junior Clara Roth, and their mom Molly Roth gave some advice for the moms and daughters of Marian and showed appreciation for all that Marian has done for their family. Fr. Kevin Schneider, S.J. celebrated the Mass with help from mothers and daughters who read the Scripture readings and brought forth the gifts. After the Mass, delicious pastries, bacon, eggs, potatoes, and fresh fruit were provided for the attendees. Ms. Mary Higgins gave plenty of words of wisdom for Marian girls and their mothers, and Mrs. Susie Sullivan closed with a prayer. Higgins said a few quotes about mothers and
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laurenelliot arian’s annual Mother Daughter Mass and Breakfast was held on Sunday, April 8. Marian girls and their moms and grandmothers gathered to spend some quality time together to pray and eat a delicious breakfast. The event was held at UNO’s Scott Conference Center and put on by Marian’s Campus Ministry Group. The tables were all decorated with Marian plaid table runners and flower vases. A professional photographer was even there to take photos of the students with their mothers and grandmothers. The event started out with a few words from the Roth
My mom shapes me into the person I am. And I love being around her. - Maddy Kuiper ’19
daughters. “By the time a woman realizes her mother was right, she has a daughter who thinks she’s all wrong,” she said This event proved to be a very valuable bonding experience for Marian girls and their female role models. Maddy and Hana Kuiper, juniors at Marian, attended the Mass and breakfast with their mom, Elena Kuiper. They agreed that it is very important to spend quality time together. Maddy said, “My mom shapes me into the person I am, and I love being around her.” Pastries, Bacon and Eggs! Oh My! Mrs. Molly Roth, and her daughters, Emma ‘18 and Clara ‘19, hit the buffet with Principal, Susie Sullivan. The breakfast topped off a pleasant morning of bonding between girls and their moms. Photo by Lauren Elliot.
Brunch Bond Emmy Kmiecik ‘20 and her mom, Mrs. Sandy Kmiecik, enjoy the annual mother daughter Mass and breakfast. Mothers and daughters spent time together and enjoyed a delicious meal. Photo by Emma Roth.
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
(12) SPORTS
Seniors sign off for the next four years lilygonzalez
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n April 11, three Marian students officially signed to continue their academic and athletic/musical careers at their future colleges. The girls signed at 8 a.m. in Student Services with their families and friends in attendance supporting them. “I’m excited for Tulsa because the city reminds me of Omaha only it’s warmer. The academics will challenge me and being a part of such a driven team is an amazing opportunity,” Isenberg said. The seniors who signed were Lauren Isenberg, Olivia Tate, and Maria Determan. Lauren Isenberg will be attending the University of Tulsa in Oklahoma to play division I volleyball, competing in the American Athletic Conference. Olivia Tate signed to Saint Louis University in Missouri. She will be swimming at the division I campus in the Atlantic 10 Conference. Maria Determan will be attending College of Saint Benedict/ Saint John’s University in Minnesota on a music scholarship. Each commit got to sit
down to sign their official papers as Athletic/Activity Director Rochelle Rohlfs read aloud their individual accomplishments. “The two athletes, Olivia and Lauren were very patient in their process. The two of them worked very hard in their four years and had to keep working to get their scholarships. It is extremely difficult to get a music scholarship, and Maria is such a well-rounded girl who put herself out there in her service and school. I am proud of her for achieving such an uncommon thing,” Rohlfs said These talented girls have
worked especially hard on the court, stage, and in the pool. This fall, Isenberg, Tate and Determan will begin their journeys as student athletes/ musicians.
Olivia Tate signed for swimming at St. Louis University. Photo by Paige Connelly.
Earlier this year more Marian girls signed to commit their college lives to athletics. In November the seniors that signed were:
• Maggie Mullen, volleyball at the University of Louisville • Delaney Kottke, swimming at the University of South Dakota • Emma Raabe, softball at the University of Missouri • Kate Bilyeu, volleyball at the University of Massachusetts Lowell • Sarah Wing, volleyball at the University of Iowa • Maddie Wiedenfeld, volleyball at the University of New Hampshire • Lily Heim, volleyball at Southern Methodist University • Grace Hern, volleyball at Colorado State University at Pueblo
The March signers were: • • • •
Maria Determan signed for singing and music at the College of Saint Benedict/Saint Johns. Photo by Paige Connelly.
Lauren Isenberg signed to play volleyball at the University of Tulsa. Photo by Paige Connelly.
Kennedy Gochenour, track & field at Dartmouth College Delaney Gunn, soccer at Saint Louis University Jaedyn Johnson, soccer at Texas A & M (Corpus Christi) Malika Seran, soccer at the University of Nebraska at Omaha • Delaney Stekr, soccer at the University of Minnesota • Megan Valenzuela, soccer at Drake University • Patty Kliver, soccer at Oral Roberts University
Tracking the field stars: Returning coach for field events
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he track season is well underway and the field events are playing a pivotal role in the team’s success. The track field events consist of pole vault, high jump, triple jump, long jump, shot put and discus. The track team competed at Doane University and freshman Lauren Harris beat the school record in high jump. “It has been a successful season so far,” junior Emma Boever said. The team traveled to Kearney on Thursday, April 15. “For me, this season has been super fun because Miss Mo is our coach,” senior Lauren Klingeman, who throws shot put and discus, said. Ms. Ronda Motykowski holds the school record in shot put and has the second place school record in discus. “She has been able to share her throwing experience with us,”Klingemann said.
Ms. Motykowski is coaching discus and shotput this season for the first time in eight years. “I realized we needed coaches with background in throwing, and I was more than happy to coach,” she said. A discus is a 1-kg disk shaped object and is thrown for distance. Shot put is the same idea but with with a spherical weight of around 7 kilograms. “I’ve been concentrating on teaching the techniques for shot and disc because being a thrower is based on technique, and we are improving that,” Motykowski said. During the Papio LaVista meet sophomore Emily Saalfeld competed in the pole vault and accidentally broke the high jump bar. “I hadn’t realized it at the time, but I knew it hurt a lot,” Saalfeld said. Despite the accident, Saalfeld keeps a positive attitude.
Track is open for anyone to join at the beginning of the season, and everyone is welcome. “Participating in track is a super great way to meet new friends!” Klingeman said. There are no cuts when trying out for track. “I am really going to miss all the new people I meet, especially all my friends who are seniors,” Saalfeld said. State track will be held at Burke High School on Friday May 18 and Saturday May 19. Until then, Marian will compete in several more meets, but the junior varsity track team’s last meet will be on Tuesday, April 24. Varsity only has one last regular season meet before they start prepping for the upcoming races at Metros, Districts, and then finally, the Track and Field State Meet.
Pole vaulting Emily Saalfeld ‘20 vaults at the Bellevue East meet on Thursday, April 5. She has competed in the pole vault at varsity and J.V. meets. Photo by Maria Alessandro.
Teaming up and rising up: Marian tennis update
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and buying into the team arian’s tennis team is workconcept to make each ing hard to make this season other better every day.” even better than the last. At this There are four sophopoint in the season they have lost to mores, three juniors, and Elkhorn South, won against Burke, one senior on the team lost against Millard West (last this year. Senior Anna year’s state champs), beat Bryan, Cook said she is excited lost against Papio South, and lost against Lincoln Pius X. The team to see her team develop captains are Emma McClellan and over this year and next Julia King. King, a junior on varsity, year, and the camaradewas hard at work training during the rie of Marian’s small off season, and said her game has teams makes bonding Varsity singles Julia King ‘19 battles against Papio South Doubles duo hard at work Emma McClellan ‘20, plays a changed greatly since freshman year. during a singles match on April 12th. Last year, King all the more important. doubles match with junior Berkley Beene against Papio “I have been state runner up both my finished second overall in no. 1 singles. Photo by Hannah It is Cook’s last year at South on April 12th. Last year, this duo finished third in no. 2 freshman and sophomore years, and Marian and on the team. Bena. doubles. Photo by Hannah Bena. have been first team all state both “I’ll miss my teammates fun to get to know girls from different years as well,” King said. This year she the most. They make playing will prepare for Districts, and then finally, classes,” she said. has hopes to be the state champion. She tennis worth it,” she said. Nonetheless, the State matches. There is no doubt that The team’s coach, Mrs. Beth Dye, said said her favorite part about playing tennis the season is not over yet. They will play the Marian tennis team will continue to she has enjoyed seeing the girls improve at Marian, though, is being able to be a Westside, Millard North, and Duchesne prove their talent and sportsmanship for their game and grow as friends. She said, part of a team. “It has also been really before Metros. After Metros, the team the remainder of the season. “This year’s varsity team is more athletic
SPORTS (13)
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
Soccer focused on achieving ‘big goals’ this season S
emmaschafer
occer season is upon us, and changes. Players graduate, girls the two-time defending state are moved within the program, champions are back on the field and new freshmen come in. Difdoing their thing. Seven seniors ferent goals and expectations are returned to desired, lead the team new chalto a hopeful, lenges third state and roles title. Playing arise, and alongside new exthese seniors periences are 10 are made. juniors, four With all sophomores these and two changes, freshmen. what Each individ- Locked in Alexis‘Huey’Christiansen ‘19 brings a caught her breath and stayed focused on ual girl will new team bring all they her coaches tips against rival, Millard togethNorth. Photo by Emma Schafer. have to come er? The together as one, and achieve answer is simple, chemistry, and their collective goal… a state this soccer team has a lot of it. championship. Senior Mali SerBetween grueling practices and an said, “We don’t have expechard fought games, this team tations for this season, instead knows how to bond and have we have goals. Every year our some fun. Throughout the seateam and other teams change, son, they have had many team as new players join and leave. bondings and activities such as We just want to be cohesive and completing The Escape Room win one game at a time.” With and eating team dinners. They this mindset, The Crusaders will seemed to click right off the bat, have the opportunity to go above which helps them a lot on the and beyond what they intend to field. “I am looking forward to achieve. bonding with this team and beEvery season, the team coming a support system for one
another.” Senior captain Megan Valenzuela said. “I think this year we are definitely a lot closer than last year already.” As a new team, they even have some pregame traditions already. For every home game, the team runs up ‘the hill’ to touch the sign that says ‘Marian Soccer’. This sign is subscripted by the phrase: “greatness is reserved for the few who will do what no one else will.” Another tradition is their prayer circle before every game. They do this to make sure that they are watched over safely as they play. Individual team members have more personal rituals: senior Megan Valenzuela always performs personal handshakes with specifically junior Mia McGrath and seniors Delaney Gunn and Delaney Stekr - always in that order. Freshman Mia Suter always puts her left shin guard on before right, every game since was 12 years old. Whether it’s handshakes or shin guards, these superstitions help the girls perform their best. In her fourth season, Coach Teresa Virgillito DeGeorge ‘92 is back guiding her team one game at a time. This year she is
focused on hard work and on team unity. “We are a very talented team but talent doesn’t Strategizing The Crusaders huddled and discussed their game win plan as they got ready to start the second half. Photo by Emma games, Schafer. [we] of the team and their strong must fire on all cylinders. My mentalities.” goal, of course, is to win state The soccer community is and if we play our potential, well aware of not only the domhopefully we will accomplish inance of Marian’s varsity team, our goal,” DeGeorge said. but the program as a whole. VarThis group of seniors are very sity, Junior Varsity and Reserve special to her, as she has seen teams will all compete with the them blossom from shy freshroyal blue and white on their men to strong leaders. They will back this spring. With nearly 70 be a big factor in the success of girls in the program, soccer at the team this year. “The very Marian is a strong and well-repfirst week, I told the girls to get resented program! Make sure to on the line to run hills and there catch a game this season! were no complaints,” DeGeorge continued. “I was impressed by Follow the soccer team on Twitter for more updates! the sacrifices and the dedication they were willing to make for their team and coach. It @MarianHSSoccer really showed the resilience
Track team forms unbreakable bond Behind the scenes of track’s finest coaches, managers elliefarner friedanomenyo “M R oncalli and Mount Michael alumni use their wisdom to better the Marian track team. Molly Belling has been coaching sprints at Marian for six years and Abiola Kosoko has been coaching high jump and hurdles for three years. The track team is important to the head coach Mr. Greg Golka and assistant coaches, Roger Wright, Ronda Motykowski, Abiola Kosoko and Molly Belling. Their favorite part about coaching is the girls and the long lasting friendships that have created. The coaches love watching the girls progress throughout the season. Kosoko said, “They always want to listen and get better. They keep me young, and are always making me laugh.” Belling said, “We laugh, joke, and have fun; because even though it’s a competitive sportit’s not considered a sport to me if you are not having fun.” The sport is a hard mental game, but with lots of laughter and dedication, the athletes can do anything; that is what the coaches preach. Belling and Kosoko both ran track in high school for all four years. Kosoko ran hurdles, sprints, and high jump at Mount Michael and went to college at Creighton University. Kosoko day jobs consists of being a marketing and social media manager at Database USA, freelance photographer, DJing, photography instructor at Metro Community College and owns Demo Lives. Belling also ran sprints and went to state all four years at Roncalli. She later went to college at University of Nebraska at Omaha to break more records. Some of her accomplishments over her track career include,
NCC Outdoor Championships Track Athlete of the Meet in 2006 and 2007 and many more. Belling’s day job is a Instructional Facilitator for Omaha Public Schools. She taught for seven years at Gilder Elementary School and currently working on getting her Master’s in OPS Teaching and Learning Leadership Cohort. Belling and Kosoko have been friends since high school. At a meet, Belling asked Kosoko if he would hold her blocks, and he responded “anything for the fastest girl in Nebraska,” and they have been friends ever since. The power duo has worked hard to whip the athletes in to shape and push them to their best ability. A new addition to the track team this year are track team managers: senior Evelyn Paul, sophomore Agoum Monydhel, and freshmen Kori Bullard, freshman Arianna Harrison and freshman Wejuic Majok. An ordinary day for them consists of taking out equipment for sprints which includes: taking out the hurdles, lying down the ladders, taking out the medicine balls and batons. They lead stations, and tell the athletes when to switch stations. They play music to hype up the team and get them ready for a great practice. This years track team managers have lots of great traditions, one of them being riding together to Northwest (where the team practices). The girls enjoy jamming to music, eating food and laughing on the short car ride to Northwest. The Marian track team would not be as amazing without the help of all the coaches and team managers.
Victory lap Lizzy Lampert ‘21 ran the 4x800 meter relay in the JV track meet at Papillion La Vista High School. Photo by Anna Kenney.
Jump to the sky Janelle White ‘21, Sarah Montague ‘20, and Garce Hahler ‘18 ran the 100 meter hurdles in the JV track meet at Papillion La Vista High School. Photo by Maria Alessandro.
Teamwork makes the dream work Ashley Stanek ‘19 and Katie Tiojanco ‘20 struggled to pop each other’s balloons during a track bonding event. Photo by Abby Butler.
y favorite part [of track] is probably just all the friendships I have made throughout the years,” senior Grace Hahler said. Hahler’s feelings are not uncommon among other track girls, either. “We always have each other’s back,” said freshman Jackline Paul “We’re always cheering each other on through the difficult times.” The bond that the track team forms is one that is simply unbreakable. “The distance girls are such a small group, and it’s very easy to get to know them all. The varsity meets are also very few people, so you spend the whole day together in an atmosphere that’s so unlike school,” freshman Emma Gunn said One of the team’s favorite bonding activities is playing the card game Spoons during the meet. Meets can take hours to finish so playing spoons helps pass the time, relax the girls, and form closer friendships among them. Head coach Greg Golka, who has been coaching track at Marian for 17 years, sees the bond of the team and how that bond positively affects the girls. “Track is unique in that when you’re at a competition its not just a game that you’re all involved in for an hour and a half, or whatever, but it goes on a little bit longer, three, four, five hours but you’re only competing for part of it. So, the rest of it is just a lot of social time,” Golka said. Being on the track team is more than just fun and games. Running track and being apart of the team is a lot of hard work and commitment. Gunn spends her off season training hard for
the next year. “I try to get in 15-25 miles a week on my off season, depending on how close track season is and what the weather is like.” Paul spends her off season training by doing basketball conditioning and running club track. “You don’t have to be good, you just have to try your hardest,” junior Rylee Roberts said. For anyone thinking about joining the team next year, Coach Golka says, “Give it some serious thought, we want a commitment that you’re going to really work hard because while we hope that the experience is a positive one, it is not about fun. The workouts are not real fun and the meets are long, so it takes some commitment. But, as part of that, it will be fun and hopefully it will be a really positive and rewarding experience if you stick it out.” Varsity’s first meet of the season was an indoor meet at Nebraska Wesleyan on March 16. They placed fourth out of eleven teams without having any senior runners, due to senior retreat. At their second meet, on March 23 at Doane University, they placed fifth out of 15 teams. On April 4, the Varsity team ran their third meet of the season at Bellevue East and placed first of five teams. Varsity placed fourth out of seven teams in their fourth meet of the season on April 5 held at Kearney. The junior varsity team has also placed in a couple of meets. Their first meet was on March 20 at Papillion LaVista and they placed second out of six teams. Their second meet of the season took place at Westside on April 10 where they placed third out of six teams.
(14) ENT ERTAINMENT
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
Mr. Koesters and his iconic shopping cart: The history behind the unstoppable, motivational duo annakenney
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ou snooze through your alarm Monday morning and it’s already 7:30, you don’t have time to get Dunkin, and now you must face the inevitable: Soph Lot. Panting, sweating and gasping for air, you make it through the doors of Marian just as the clock strikes 7:45. Typical day for you, right? Barely making it, not sure if you have your homework done or if you’re ready for that quiz. You turn down senior hall, and in that very moment, something you never expected turns that frown upside down. How many high schools do you know that have a gladiator tie-wearing teacher pushing a shopping cart down the halls? Mr. Mark Koesters is a rare and curious man, who sparks your interest and makes you contemplate the history of the strange and iconic grocery cart that he pushes behind you in the halls. “To me, having a shopping cart in a classroom is just normal. It’s abnormal but it’s become the normal,” Mr. Mark Koesters: Latin teacher, theology teacher, wearer of multicolored ties,
and someone you can the dumpster. always borrow a Koesters kernel of corn saw that or a can the cart had of beans a bad wheel from, and, all of a says sudden, it hit about him that this one of cart needed his many to be rescued, treasured because it had possesa greater sions. purpose in The tiny shopping cart bought for His life. Koesters by a Marian graduate. He beloved fills it with his favorite miscellaWhen collecKoesters neous items. Photo by Anna Kenney. tion of began other teaching items includes an owl statue, world religion to seniors 24 a bust of Julius Caesar, a years ago, one of the topics copy of The Saint John’s covered was Buddhism. Bible , his bucket of corn One of Buddhism’s main kernels, several mini John lessons comes with an Deere tractors, and of interesting analogy about course, the iconic shopping life. Koesters explained cart which plays an unexthe analogy; “Life is like pected role at Marian. a cart with a bad wheel. It Koesters has been works, but it’s still bumpy. teaching at Marian since There’s something wrong 1987. Around the time he with life and everybody began teaching nearly 31 experiences it. In Buddhism, years ago, he noticed that this is what causes the bad there was a shopping cart wheel, or causes problems.” in the kitchen. As years Buddhism teaches that the progressed, he often waxed greatest goal in life is to floors in the school in the reach nirvana and escape the summertime, and one sumcycle of reincarnation. mer he noticed that someone As a visual to aid to had left the shopping cart by this teaching, Mr. Koesters
Exclusive Trader Joe’s finds do not disappoint
would push the cart with the bad wheel around the room and it would bounce, making everyone laugh and smile. Students were inspired by this teaching technique and loved the shopping cart. “Everybody laughed, but they got the lesson,” Koesters said. Today, Koesters no longer teaches senior world religion, but the shopping cart is still in his room. Now with no handle to match with the bad wheel, it still has great purpose and meaning. In fact, most of Koesters’ students would be very concerned if the cart suddenly disappeared. “It’s taken on a life of its own,” Koesters explained. “It’s kind of an institution.” Now, Koesters uses it in his classes for teaching and uses it as a visual in different PowerPoints. It also comes in handy for hauling things around. Koesters and other teachers and students use it to bring things to their cars or move boxes and heavy items around the school. One student, after graduating in the late 90s, was at Target when she saw
Blake’s Trader Joe’s goodies
Room 214 has two special shopping carts close to the hearts of both Koesters and his students. Even though life has bumps in it, everything will be okay and will work out for the best. Koesters and his shopping cart help Marian girls get through the bumps in their lives and put smiles on everyone’s face.
A Prized Possession Mr. Mark Koesters poses with his iconic and symbolic shopping cart. He incorporates the cart and its meaning into his classes. Photo by Anna Kenney.
Easter: Not always the same celebration marianainciarte-balza
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aster is one of the most important Christian festivities, typically observed in March or April. On this holiday, Christians celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead. Even though the reason to celebrate remains the same, the way people celebrate has developed throughout the years. A very common tradition is eggs hunts where children run around, searching for plastic eggs with candy in them. Anoth-
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f I know one thing for certain, it is that I am a foodie. Whether I am out at a restaurant inquiring about the menu, or at home trying a new recipe, good food is my haven in this world. I love everything from French escargot to Korean pork belly; the phrase “picky eater” is simply not in my vocabulary. So you can imagine, when I walk into the doors of a grocery store, it is like I have struck gold. Trader Joe’s especially, makes every bone inside of me quake with excitement. The $5 flowers at the entrance of the store, the constant flow of delicious samples and the wide variation of delicious produce and premade food makes my little foodie heart boil over with joy. As I paced the aisles of the store, my eyes feasted upon a plethora of foods I was dying to try, however for the sake of timeliness, I only picked up four goodies. I selected Cookie Butter Sandwich Cookies, Meyer Lemon Cookie Thins, Tomato Basil Hummus and Creamy Tomato Soup Flavored Crackers. With a watering mouth and a grumbling stomach, I was ready to devour my snacks. The first thing I tried was the Cookie Butter Sandwich Cookies. They came in a package of 20 for $3.99. I will be honest; they were not my favorite. The cookie itself is essentially a heap of Trader Joe’s Cookie Butter, sandwiched in between two shortbread cookies. Cookie Butter is a gingerbread and spice flavored spread that is found exclusively at Trader Joe’s. I am a big fan of Cookie Butter alone, however I found the shortbread cookie butter combo, a little too heavy and dense. The dryness of the shortbread and stickiness of the Cookie Butter made me reach for a tall glass of water, even though the flavor was quite nice. The usual strong notes of cinnamon and nutmeg found in the Cookie Butter were toned down by the shortbread which made for a perfect flavor ratio. Overall, if you are looking for a mildly flavored, rich cookie, the Cookie Butter Sandwich Cookies from Trader Joe’s are certainly for you. My sweet tooth also found its way to the Meyer Lemon Cookie Thins which were phenomenal. They came in a package of 80 for $3.99.The cookie is an extremely thin wafer with strong notes of lemon. This lemon flavor however, is not overly sweet, but
a mini shopping cart that was missing a wheel. Immediately she remembered the lesson about Buddhism from her senior religion class, bought it, and gave it to Koesters as a gift. He was grateful for the mini-cart and happy that she had been impacted by the lesson. The mini-cart has been a part of the story ever since. Now,
just the right combination of sweet, sour and bitter. These are a tea party must-have. As I was aimlessly wandering the isles of this beloved grocery store, I came across a box that said “Creamy Tomato Soup Seasoned Crackers.” I was intrigued. How could a cracker be creamy? Instantly, I picked up the box and added it to my basket. These crackers came in a package of about 45 crackers for $1.99. These crackers are made with brown rice and oats and are coated in a dusting of tomato soup seasoning. They truly do taste just like tomato soup which I found delicious. The seasoning was just right and left me licking my fingers after each bite. One thing that I have loved about Trader Joe’s since their doors opened in 2010, is their expansive hummus selection. From plain ol’ hummus to edamame hummus, they truly have everything you could possibly imagine in a chickpea blend. This time, I went for the tomato basil hummus and it did not disappoint. One tub of hummus went for $1.99. It had a strong punch of that tomato flavor we all know and love, while still including notes of garlic and basil. I tried this dip with the tomato soup crackers and let me tell you, it was an out of body experience. When the hummus touched the cracker, I heard a harmony escaping the snack, which I quickly devoured. Per usual, my trip to Trader Joe’s was a success and I will certainly be back to fill up another basket.
er common tradition is families coming together for Church and brunch. Smiles are shared as families celebrate their faith together and enjoy their favorite brunch dishes. Although these traditions are common, not everyone decides to go with the flow. Unique traditions have erupted from this wonderful holiday and some Marian girls share how their families and themselves decided to challenge the Easter status quo.
“My family has a piñata every year which makes no sense because we’re Irish-Italian, but we line up outside and the oldest cousins run it. The youngest cousin gets to hit the piñata first up until the oldest cousin which is my sister Mary. We’ve been doing it for as long as I can remember.” - Eva Watson ’21
“We usually go over to our grandparents’ house and we make different Italian dishes like meat-boats, cannolis, and ricotta pie. It’s really fun because my grandpa also teaches us how to make dough sometimes. I think it started once we moved closer to our grandparents. They would give food to us and then we started making it every year.” - Sophia and Grace Virgillito ’21 “After we eat we go outside and play baseball. It’s boys vs. girls. All the boys in my family love/play baseball. My girl cousins and I are always watching baseball games so it’s fun to play against them even though we lose.” - Paige Patton ’19 “We started this new tradition of going to Vegas last year and we are planning on maintaining it until I’m out of college. My family wanted to try something new on Easter and my mom just wanted to have fun and shop. Before last year, neither my brother nor I had been to Vegas and that’s when my family decided to go to Vegas and see a show or two.” - Katherine Hedrick ’21
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
ENT ERTAINMENT (15)
Finding your inner hippie on the rural route at Junkstock
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unkstock is one of the best festivals for junk, music and food around the country, and it’s right here in the heartland. Refurbished junk, vintage finds, unique antiques, handmade jewelry, one-of-a-kind food and groovy tunes are all featured at Junkstock. For all the newbies, Junkstock is located at a place on your Google Maps called ‘Junkstock Omaha.’ It can be found on the property of Sycamore Farms. The farm is located on the western edge of Omaha right off 228th and West Dodge at 1150 River Road Drive in Waterloo. You can follow all the colorful signs that lead to the proper entrances that they have set up although parking in the fields can be quite confusing. Junkstock is held twice a year: once in the spring and once in the fall. In 2018, it was open April 6-8 and it will be open again Sept. 28-30. You can come join the fun, Friday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. If you’re an early riser, come for the early bird hours which are from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. to beat the crowd. You can buy a weekend pass for $20
and you can dress with less layers and comfy shoes but if that happens, fingers crossed, don’t forget sunscreen and sunglasses. You don’t want to have a bad experience at Junkstock solely due to forgetting sunscreen and looking like a lobster the next day. If you are to purchase an item at Junkstock that is too large to carry out yourself, you can make a stop at the loading area where you will be greeted by the Junkhunks that will assist you. I have attended Junkstock several times and have listened to many bands from around the country while enjoying freshly squeezed strawberry lemonade and funnel cakes. I strongly encourage all to attend and hopefully take home with you a momento or memory that lasts you a country mile. Prized junk Finding things you did not know you need is a staple of Junkstock. Junkstock is always stocked up with different things to discover. Photo by Daylee Daubert.
which includes all three days to Junkstock. Or if you’re not really feeling like going all three days, you can purchase the one day pass general admission ticket which is $10. If you come for the early bird hours, make sure you purchase the early bird ticket which is $30 and you will receive a weekend pass and an early entry on Friday from from 8-10 a.m. Vendors from all over the nation come to JunkGet a plain white stock and sell shirt and hold the their one-of-acenter of it and
These tips are
for
lizziebyrne
twist to make a spiral shape. Then, apply rubber bands as guides for where to place the dye.
I prefer to use Rit Dye More which can be found at any arts and crafts store. Apply the dye. Create a pattern of colors, and be sure to completely cover all visible white spaces with dye.
Let the dye sit for at least 12 hours. Rinse the shirt in the sink with cold water until the water running off the shirt is clear. Then, wash and dry the shirt with no other items of clothing in the washer and dryer.
SHOW IT OFF!
L U F S S E R T S D G F D A R
kind jewelry, clothes, furniture and more! Every vendor has a unique style, so make sure you check out all the treasures that catch your eye. The items that the vendors sell are handmade vintage pieces. They refurbish old furniture which makes many of the pieces hard to resist. Vendors use their different styles to make the old items look hip and cool. Junkstock’s atmosphere is hipster-like and radiates good vibes, even if the weather may not be on your side that day. You will not be disappointed because there are also several indoor venues to take shelter, and the relaxed atmosphere of the people and surroundings can chill the crowds. Hopefully, Junkstock will land on a beautiful sunny weekend in September,
NEXT JUNKSTOCK SEPT EMBER
28 - 30, 2018
F I E L D D AY W O R D S E A R C H G A M A S C O T G G K E H D E
T L W C P R T C D L M Z R N E
V J I B O I V B R O C A C O H
H M O T R M Q G N G O P O I C
BOOKLET BOWS CARDBOARD CHEER COMPETITION COSTUME
U W D I T J P S I B C B S T K
S Y P S S E T E D Q O W T A E
Z S T J M R R R T O J V U R D
S M S I A E A B K I O F M D S
E O U T N C B L O K T Y E Y O
V G I G S U E I M H H I O H H
DEMONSTRATION GLITTER HYDRATION KEDS LEADERSHIP MASCOT
W O H V H T O S L B O Y O S N
N W V T I Y E J Y P P K V N V
G N W L P C S Q A V S L L A W
A X V M L E A D E R S H I P J
SPIRIT SPORTSMANSHIP STRESSFUL UNITY WALLS
clararoth
(16) PHOTO ESSAY
THE NET WORK (April 2018)
PROM 2018 All hail the queen Megan Doehner ’18 poses after being announced Prom Queen. “I was absolutely not expecting to be Prom Queen-- I felt like I was in a movie. I’m incredibly honored that my classmates chose me, and I know that it is thanks to every single one of them that our senior prom was a night to remember,” said Megan. Senior students voted for the other princesses and queen prior to the dance.
Friends and fun Tatum Kuti ’19, Hali Hansen ’19, Lydia Hogan ’19, Alyssa Meisenbach ’19 and Sophia Moes ’19 smile in their prom dresses while taking a break from dancing. Only juniors, seniors and dates were allowed to attend the enchanted event.
Fun in the photo booth Maggie Prosser ’18, Olivia Tate ’18, Mary Trainer ’18, Cassidy Jorgensen ’18 and their guy friends take a goofy picture in the photobooth provided at prom. The unlimited photobooth was available all night long. Photos courtesy of Maggie Prosser ’18. Hit the dance floor Lily Veylupek ’18 and Colby Lemkau ’18 danced the night away from 9 p.m. ’til midnight. After the dance was over, many students made their way to Sempeck’s bowling alley for a fun-filled post prom. A night in the enchanted forest On Saturday, April 14, juniors and seniors attended prom at the Scoular Ballroom downtown. Students danced the night away and enjoyed what the night had to offer.
Photos by Hannah Bena, Lily Gonzalez, Tomi Huber & Clara Roth