Marian Network April 2016

j u The niorNetwork MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL 7400 MILITARY AVENUE OMAHA, NE 68134 www.MARIANHIGHSCHOOL.net VOLUME 60 ISSUE 6 APRIL 2016

Dedication Cast members of “Much Ado About Nothing” point to heaven during Saturday night’s bows in honor and memory of former Marian receptionist Mrs. Karen Brown. “As soon as we found out the news, we knew we needed to do something in her memory,” junior Emily Doll said. photo by katerideterman/yearbook

Much Ado About ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ Saturday performance dedicated to Mrs. Brown’s legacy kateschwaller

“M

uch Ado About Nothing,” a comedy by William Shakespeare, took the Marian stage at the beginning of April. The cast and crew worked very hard to bring the play to life in a more modern light.

The director of the play, Mr. Michael McCandless, changed the play to take place in the 1950s, and the original 16th century play was given new life among rock and roll and poodle skirts. “I was already looking for a play set in the 50s, in honor of Marian being founded in the 50s, and couldn’t find anything I really liked. I’d already done this play set in the 50s at Creighton and decided it’d be perfect,” McCandless said.

McCandless has been involved in theatre since he was in high school and had his first ever audition at Marian. He is now a theatre professor at Creighton and still acts in shows when he can. Much Ado About Nothing was the fourth show he directed at Marian.

The cast of “Much Ado About Nothing,” composed of 30 Marian and Prep students, brought William Shakespeare’s lovable characters to life. The play centers on two couples, Hero and Claudio and

Beatrice and Benedick. In the duration of the play, they fall in love, leading to a classic “happily ever after” ending.

Freshman Audrey Ana Otwell plays Hero, and senior Claire Davis plays Beatrice, with Prep students Michael Brown (Claudio) and Ian Salzman (Benedick) as their counterparts. “My favorite part about playing Benedick has been the character development. He has some funny moments, some intense moments. Mixing the two has been a challenge but a fun challenge,” Salzman said.

The show was open from April 8 through April 10. Throughout the four long months of practice, the cast always did its best to continue having fun, despite the mounting stress as opening night grew closer. “The cast exceeded my expectations a long time ago, they just need to keep doing what they all do well and enjoy the experience,” McCandless praised the cast.

“My favorite part has been getting to know the cast and crew and all the fun we have while still putting on a serious production,” Otwell said. The cast developed an arsenal of inside jokes to always keep laughing.

Dress to Impress: Marian brings back uniform sweatshirt, sock options

annikazimmerman to Principal Susie Sullivan last July ave you ever walked into n e e w h that ONE class, t u nif by senior Mairin Rochford, while els or od volunteering at the Winnebago bracing yourself as m m Indian Reservation. “I have to the chills of the say no so often in my position, icy tundra set in, so it’s very fun and exciting wanting nothing to finally be able to say yes more than to to such a reasonable idea pull on a comfy like this,” Sullivan said. sweatshirt even The royal blue quarter though it’s not zips will be available for quite Wednesday? purchase at the Bluetique.

Along with the new Now, you sweatshirt addition, Marcan do just that. ian girls will also now be Maybe not any able to wear white socks. sweatshirt, but administration is Talk about not having to worexcited to anry about matching two differnounce, starting in ent colored grey socks when you the 2016-2017 school run out! year, students will be able

“I’m so excited. I can’t wait to wear the royal blue Marian quarter to finally put all of my white socks to zip pictured in the above. good use without getting in trouble.

The pull-over will be a uniform Plus, the pull-overs are warmer than option for each day of the week. Howthe sweaters so that will rock!” junior ever, students will need to wear a blue Morgan Hobbs said. uniform polo underneath, not just a White socks must still be six inches t-shirt. from the floor, as do the black and The sweatshirt idea was proposed grey socks. n‘

ats

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pg.6 state speech Done for the Day State competitors Claire Davis ‘16 and Rachel Walet ‘17 pose for a picture on March 23. They clearly have distinct emotions on how they felt about being at UNK for over 10 hours. photo by laurenmayer

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“Much Ado About Nothing” may have originally been Shakespeare’s comedy, but the cast members made it their own with their memorable humor and personalities. “Though it’s Shakespeare, the acting talent of the cast has brought me close to tears and made me crack up at least once every practice,” Salzman said of his fellow cast members.

“It’s a great introduction to Shakespeare and it’s very energetic, so you’ll leave the show energized as well,” McCandless said.

The Saturday night show, on April 9, was dedicated to the memory of Mrs. Karen Brown, the former Marian receptionist who lost her battle to cancer that morning. The cast pulled together in the time of grief and did the show for her.

“Mrs. Brown would love this show. She would be so proud of each and every single one of us,” senior Sofia Hingorani made a speech to the cast and crew minutes before the curtain opened. Mrs. Brown’s passing affected the students greatly, and the show that followed was very emotional. The play members put a lot into the show and had as much fun with it as they could. “Have half as much fun as the cast does, and you’ll have a great day,” Otwell said.

pg.15 Prom 2016 Pumped At Prom Hannah Uhl ‘16 poses for the camera at Marian’s 2016 Prom. Marian juniors and seniors, along with their dates, danced through the night in their dresses and suits. photo by emilydoll

pg.16 Surprise day A Sweet Surprise Mia Esparrago ‘19, Hannah Dehn ‘19, Ellie Fangman ‘19, Madison Bezousek ‘19, and Sophie Hassenstab ‘19 pose with cotton candy as they celebrate their first Surprise Day. Cotton candy has proven itself to still be a Surprise Day favorite! photo by amaleapoulos

The Network • April 2016

than they did last time. “The goal of the class would be provided, so some 3MT is to help students reach the students were taking two classes at top of their range,” Leatherman said. once. “Taking two prep classes at once However, students must be willing to was confusing because the classes put in the work, even if that includes contradicted each other and didn’t coming to school one hour and 15 have the same material,” junior Reese minutes early.

Hartman said.

“Anything you want to do well on, Originally the class costs $225 per you’re going to prepare for. You have student. Marian got a deal on the to do the work to group class. “Well, my mom get the score,” wasn’t too happy about it be“Anything you Janata said. cause they just started offering want to do well on, The question is it this year, but... I think it’s a you’re going to raised: should the great step into making Marian class be required students less nervous and not prepare for. or optional? Some having the pressure of paying You have to do juniors have and taking a class for the ACT,” the work to get the already taken an senior Lily Boyle said. score.”

ACT prep class.

Everyone knows that higher Ms. Kathy Janata ACT scores can enable students “The first time I took the class, I to get into better schools and thought it was qualify for more scholarships. very affective, and it increased my While the ACT is a vital component to score a lot, but since I already knew the college process, it isn’t something what the class was going to cover, it to pull your hair out over. was hard for me to stay focused each “I think it’s great that Marian is Wednesday morning, which I felt was offering an ACT class. It’s comforting the issue for most people—trying to knowing I’ll be prepared for a test that pay attention and stay awake for that impacts my future,” sophomore Tara long,” junior Rachel Johnson said.

Sanchez, who will be taking the class It was announced on Nov. 24 that next year said.

Students have a nice spring break in Nice susanapettis

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aves crash softly against the rocky Mediterranean shore.

Small clusters of people sit in front of a patisserie, enjoying their freshly baked treats. Children laugh and weave through crowds on their scooters. A woman enjoys her gelato while walking down the narrow streets of Vielle Ville. The tram slides smoothly on the tracks. Tourists stop to snap pictures of the old Italian architecture.

In Nice, France these things are a regular occurrence. The small French town is incredibly diverse and full of exciting things to do.

On March 5, a group of 26 Marian girls and three chaperones made a trip across the Atlantic Ocean to Nice [nis], France. Nice is located in the French Riviera, nestled between Cannes and Monte Carlo and just a few miles from the Italian border.

The girls stayed with host families spread all over the small coastal town. In the morning they would take classes at the French Language Center, and their afternoons were spent exploring places like the Fragonard Perfumery and the Aix-en-Provence, a small university town about three

hours from Nice.

The girls bonded as they continued to explore the small town. However, there was one small issue: the language barrier. “So at first it was difficult to communicate with our host because she didn’t know any English. I found our French classes each morning to be super helpful because we learned conversation skills, how to ask for directions, and how to ask about places to sightsee,” senior Anna Domet said.

“I never felt like I couldn’t communicate something that I had to say because of the language barrier. Most people were helpful and could tell what we were saying. It was an awesome experience to get

to use our French skills with native French-speaking people, and I think everyone improved her speaking skills a lot from this trip,” Domet said Every day the group visited a different place along with its tour guide Noël. The first day, the girls took a walking tour of Nice and visited many historical spots hidden between shops and restaurants. On the second day, they took a train to Cannes, home of one of the most famous film festivals in the world, and Wednesday, a visit to the Fragonard Perfumery and the medieval town of Eze. Thursday included a visit to Monte Carlo, home of the Grimaldi family and the royal palace. Finally, on Friday, students visited Aix-en-Provence, home of renowned painter Paul Cézanne. Between classes and visits, the girls made sure to squeeze in time for relaxing and of course—shopping.

Captivating Coastline The view from above Nice revealed the beautiful landscape. On the way to Fragonard Perfumery, the bus stopped to allow the girls to snap a few pictures.

Secret Streets A small street in Vielle Ville bustles with activity. The small town contained many twists and turns.

Carefree in Cannes The group of 26 crowded on the stairs of the Palais des Festivals, home of the Cannes film festival. The girls were chaperoned by Mrs. Janet Tuttle, Ms. Megan Piernicky, and Mrs. Sharon Genoways. photos by susanapettis

source: 280 student responses in April Google survey

t’s Wednesday morning on March 16 at 7:05 and juniors are rolling into Marian’s parking lot, but they aren’t fighting for spots in upper lot. By 7:15 on late start days the PAC parking lot was full and inside sat 177 juniors with coffee and pencil in hand as they began the 3 Moms and a Test ACT prep class in preparation for the April 9 ACT. It’s not news that colleges are becoming more competitive. However, it was news that for the first time ever Marian provided mandatory free test prep to all juniors.

Why is the ACT even important?

Colleges use ACT scores to test students’ readiness for college and to get a sense of their academic strength. “It’s very fair of colleges to ask for an ACT score,” said Mrs. Mary Kay Leatherman ‘81, teacher and manager of 3MT. Schools have various intensities of curriculum and the ACT creates a level playing field.

“The ACT will probably always be a part of college admissions, they [ACT scores] aren’t going away,” school counselor, Ms. Kathy Janata, said.

ACT classes seek to provide students with skills that will prepare them to get a better score on the test

Other 9%

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Pat Coyle 21%

emilyevans

Which prep classes are Marian students taking?

John Baylor 43%

Juniors trade in early mornings for higher scores

3 Moms and a Test 27%

News • 2

graphic by emilyevans French students and their chaperones made memories on the trip, ranging from funny to nail biting.

While in the lavish principality of Monte Carlo, Marian girls shed their shoes and walked around barefoot.

“Basically I had really bad blisters already from the day before, and then I bought new shoes, then wore them that day without socks. I added onto my already painful blisters, and then I was in so much pain I ended up taking off my shoes walking barefoot throughout Monaco. The next day I did wear Birkenstocks and my heels are still healing to this day,” junior Sarah Englert said.

French teacher Madame Janet Tuttle excitedly experienced a new part of France with her students.

Previous trips were made only to Paris. “I thought this was one of our best trips!” Tuttle said. “I had been thinking about making the change for a while. We had a larger group this time, and I didn’t feel it would be fair to ask for Servite school to host families for that many people.

With going to Nice, we could have as many people go who wanted, because it’s easier to get around, and with paid host families versus volunteer, it was okay to have so many people.” The cost of the trip was approximately $3,000.

It included travel fees, a week of language lessons, bus and train costs, any entrance fees to tourist attractions, room and board, and any other small costs.

“Something that I will always remember from the trip is the journey. I really want to travel after college, because there’s so much to see. I want to experience others’ cultures. The freedom of the trip made me excited for college and ready to break out of the nest,” junior Rachel Weremy said. To the girls, the experience was unforgettable. It’s not every day that one gets to truly immerse themselves in a completely different culture.

The Network • April 2016

News • 3

Resurrected SAME team presents with engineering success

emmaherold AME, or Society of American Milentire Marian community,” freshman competition, itary Engineers, challenges stuAudrey Laney said. These plans have the team had to dents to create innovative engineering been creatively and carefully thought do a 20-minute or architecture designs. The design out since September. This year’s team presentation in the team created? An elevated indoor was Marian’s first to compete since front of judges, track at Marian.

2007. all of whom are “The Marian Skywalk travels The team presented its proposal professional through the Main Gym, onto the on March 17 at the Scott Conference engineers and existing roof of the school, and loops Center on the UNO campus. At this architects. back to Not the Main only was Gym this Marthrough ian’s first the Quad. compeSAME Blueprint The SAME team created this blueprint. It shows the indoor The whole tition in track running around the school, through the gym and the quad. track nearly is com10 years, pizza fund,” Laney continued. pletely the team won first place out of Part of the program matches teams enclosed 17 teams. up with professional engineers and and is 245 The award included a first architects as mentors. Both mentors meters place trophy, $1,500 cash were Marian alums. The professional long. We prize for the club, and $1,500 engineer, Sarah Shay Gudeman ‘01, believe in scholarship money to be and the professional architect, Stephthe track distributed to seniors in the anie Peterson ‘01, helped this team would not club next year, as there were no work its way to victory. only beneseniors in the club this year.

“I thought the presentation went fit stu“We plan to save the money great. I was very impressed with the dents, but for field trips and technology professionalism that the team put it would for next year. We didn’t take out,” physics teacher and moderator benefit the any big field trips this year, but Mr. Matthew Winterboer said.

SAME Victory Pose The team poses with physics teacher Mr. Matthew Winterboer at its faculty, with $1,500 we could do a lot The SAME team represented competition in March. There are eight girls on the team: (left to right) Alexis Jordan ‘19, Austaff, more. We were even thinking drey Laney ‘19, Alison Monzu ‘18, Mr. Winterboer, Sarah Villarreal ‘17, Vienna Tang ‘17, Lily Marian well and will continue to excel sisters, about buying a 3D printer. The Foley ‘17, and Isabelle Swanson ‘17. Not pictured: Maddie Mingo ‘17. photo courtesy of Mrs. in the STEM field!

Elizabeth Foley and the money would also go to our

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Administration opts for modern, digital calendar

amaleapoulos & laurennovacek t the beginning see what’s going of the school on at school year, Marian girls on a printed 175 flipped through their calendar than crisp, freshly printhaving to find it ed calendars. This online,” sophtradition will be left omore Emma in 2016; Marian’s Raabe said. Some 61 calendar for the students find the 2016-2017 school physical version year will be solely to be more user 23 online. friendly.

For more tion is than makSAT SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI 20 ing 1 2 4 5 6 3 years, SUMMER several OLYMPICS the other 12 8 9 10 11 13 7 GOLF & NATIONAL Marian changLAZY DAY SOFTBALL comes for 15 14 16 17 18 19 20 VBALL SCHOOL munity FRESHMAN the PICTURES AND XC ORIENTATION has goal of 22 23 24 25 26 27 21 been going BOOK TALKS BOOK TALKS given com29 30 28 31 a print pletely HALF calenDAY paperdar. less.

The graphics by amaleapoulos These calendar showcased In an effort to include progress photos from the make the school reports only being previous school year more eco-friendly, online and sending and was marked Marian’s administra- registration papers with all the importtion made the decithrough email. In ant dates for the cur- sion to have only an years to come, all rent year. For many, online calendar. “It information for the receiving the calendoesn’t really affect beginning of the year dar was a staple of me too much. I usu(usually mailed) will the new year. ally just look online be received online.

“I don’t like the because it’s more Printing the calfact that we don’t convenient. I think endar was an expenhave a printed calit’s smart because a sive project. Adminendar because I use lot of people don’t istration believed my printed one all use them and it will the cost was not of the time. It’s so save paper,” freshnecessary, especialconvenient having man Mia McGrath ly with the field of an actual calendar said. According technology growing in front of me. I also to Principal Susie each and every day. think it’s easier to Sullivan, administra- The online calen-

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August 2016

dar is a new way to save money while still providing current information.

The online calendar will also be more accurate.

If there’s a wrong date, it can be fixed with the click of a button.

Once the print calendar was put to press, there was no fixing it. Wrong information proved to be a problem in the past. It was incorrectly stated in the 2015-2016 print calendar that students had Feb. 19 off. Mishaps like Feb. 19 were common. With the new calendar, there should be minimal mix-ups and fewer complaints.

The new calendar has the option for notifications. An email or text can be sent out if a date or time for an event changes.

Although the print calendar is a beloved tradition, the online version will be an interactive, more accurate green way of getting information.

Giving back to Omaha

lucyboever hours.

24 hours to give and 24 hours to receive.

Omaha Gives! is a 24-hour online event where donors may give money to nonprofits in Douglas, Sarpy, and Pottawattamie counties. All the money raised through this program must be used in service of these counties.

The program was started to increase philanthropy in the Omaha area.

There are certain qualifications a nonprofit must meet to receive money. They must be recognized by the state and the IRS as being eligible to receive tax-deductible donations. However, the Omaha Community Foundation does have the ultimate say in whether or not an organization is allowed to participate.

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Marian is one such place that qualifies. The high school receives a significant amount of donations through this cause.

Mrs. Sue Mickey as the Assistant Vice President for Advancement and The Marian Fund Director deals directly with Omaha Gives! and raises awareness of it for Marian. “A strategic marketing plan is organized and followed to raise awareness through social media, Marian publications, and direct mail,” Mrs. Mickey said The minimum donation is $10, however there is no maximum amount that can be given.

In 2015, Marian received $303,433 and more than $3,000 in additional gifts through promotional programs.

Almost all of the money received from this program

goes into The Marian Fund. According to Mrs. Mickey, “The Marian Fund (Marian’s largest fund-raiser) uses this money for tuition assistance and other budgetary needs.” Almost half of the student body at Marian receives tuition assistance of some kind. All of the money earned goes back to the students of Marian in some way or another. “Realizing how much people donate to Marian makes me feel so fortunate I can have the best materials to further my education,” freshman Morgan McCarthy said.

This year Omaha Gives! is on May 25.

For 24 hours on this day, much can be done to give back to the community. There is much to give and much to receive.

Much can be done in 24 hours.

4 • Opinion

The Network • April 2016

When break breaks you, you break down

I

love a good break. Who doesn’t?

I mean, I love watching Netflix at home or shopping with my friends.

But wait, what’s that? Oh...just the term paper I have to finish, the statistics test I have to study for, and, oh, maybe just the entire “Huckleberry Finn” book that I still haven’t started reading because it was assigned the day before break. Well, there go my plans.

I cannot be the only one who complains every minute of break because I have impending homework. I’m convinced teachers just sit there and say to themselves, “Hmm, I’ve given

homework every single day of the voicing my opinion? Then before I week, and now that a break is comknow it, it’s 11 p.m. the night before ing up, I should opinion by viennatang school with a tub of assign another ice cream on my right essay!” and a bunch of soggy What is the tissues on my left. point of a break I understand asif it is spent in signing a little homework for the profront of a screen gression of the class, worrying about but when students whether gramare forced to spend mar-meticulous the majority of their teachers would roast me for break studying, this can contradict the using the first Illustration by viennatang purpose of a break. person when

Marian students are as hardworking as they come, but even we deserve a real break once in a while, as do the teachers, of course.

Students and teachers are both swamped with work, having little to no time to themselves. When we do have time to pause all these busy activities, we indulge in it. But when a stress-filled school break becomes a stress-filled week, then we have ourselves a little problem.

One day, I believe we will all get a real break, besides summer vacation... oh, just kidding, I forgot about the summer read.

Blurred lines: Is parking really that hard?

D

riving is a blessing.

You can go wherever you want, whenever you want (as long as your parents are okay with Keepin’ It Real With KConst: it). However, Kayla Constantino sometimes getting from point A to point B is a lot harder than it sounds.

Sometimes it seems as though the entire city of Omaha decided to drive and hog the roads all at once.

There are slow drivers, construction zones, accidents, random horses downtown, city buses, and other unforeseen delays, yet here in our very own parking lot, there are so many more things going wrong.

At Marian, our parking skills are a little subpar, and that is okay! As long as you are in the lines and not overlapping, PLEASE DO NOT TRY TO REPARK FIVE TIMES! You are

holding up the line of cars trying to park in the morning. Also, do not park in carpool lot if you do not have a carpool that day. I personally do not have this problem, but there is not a full week that goes by without some complaining about this.

Skipping spots will make you disliked among your peers. It’s the worst feeling thinking there are no spots left in Upper Lot, parking in Soph Lot, then walking up to realize that there was a skipped spot.

Also, real quick, do not have a pow wow by your car in the morning when people are trying to park. It’s annoying and not nice, so just walk in with your pals and talk in the hall, not in an open parking spot.

Everyone gets here at the literal crack of dawn to get a spot in upper lot. I just want to sleep in a little and still know I can get a good spot.

During my freshman year, my carpool and I arrived at school at 7:20 a.m. or 7:25 a.m. and almost always found a spot in Upper Lot. This year, if you are not here by

Letter to the Editor

Dear Editor, I loved reading about Charlie Crockett in the January issue of The Network (“Service dog in training”). I’m looking forward to meeting Charlie; he’s training to be in my Love on a Leash therapy dog group! :-) Just a gentle correction to the story … most people (and some dogs) don’t realize there’s a big difference between service dogs and therapy dogs. Charlie is training to be a therapy Max dog, not a service dog. Service dogs go through much more extensive training beginning as a young puppy. After puppy training, they generally go to a special school where they learn to assist a person with a disability or medical condition. Some work as guide dogs for someone who’s visually impaired, some alert their handlers when a seizure is coming, and some open doors and pick up things for a handler who’s physically challenged. Service dogs are amazing, hard-working dogs and not considered pets. It’s serious business and a seven-day-a-week job.

Therapy dogs, like me, have a pretty good gig. We also go through training but not as extensive. We learn manners, how to get along with other dogs, and not to react to loud noises, people who yell, or kids who pull our tails. (We don’t like anyone pulling our tails but we rely on our trainers to handle the situation.) We’re pets who work to spread happiness and help people relax. We work at schools, nursing homes, hospitals, the courthouse, daycare centers, crisis centers, and anywhere we can make a difference.

People get therapy dogs and service dogs confused all the time.

But it’s important to know the difference when you see them. You should never pet a service dog who’s working. But therapy dogs like me, we’re all about the love. #bringiton XOXO, Max @HappyToTheMax

7:10, you can be sure you will have to park in Soph Lot and have to walk up the dreaded hill. Some people have just accepted this fact and decided they would rather sleep in or get some Dunkin’ coffee than get a spot in Upper Lot. As for me, I prefer coffee over a spot in Upper Lot any day. Caffeine is a necessary part of my day and a little walk is nothing major in comparison to what my day would be if I didn’t have a good cup of coffee.

Now, after school, can we all agree to take a break? Cutting people off, racing out of the lot, and not letting others go is just rude. We are all friends here who want to go home.

Also, if you are one of those people who drive up from Soph Lot trying to get out, you DO NOT have the right of way. You have a stop sign and no one else does. You just have to wait until a kind person lets you go.

There are two stop signs in Marian’s parking lot, yet no one seems to acknowledge them. I mean, do you see them? I’m not making this up, right?

Some days it seems as though I am the only one who notices them. The first is the previously mentioned one coming up from Soph Lot. The other is when you are driving to Upper Lot right at the bottom of the first aisle. This one is constantly run through and that’s a major issue. By not stopping at the sign, you are running the risk of hitting pedestrians walking up from Soph Lot. I get it. We are all trying to limit our walk each day, despite our Fitbits telling us to park in Soph Lot to get all our steps in. Sometimes the parking lot is crazy after school, almost as if you are out on the streets, but if everyone just follows these simple, common sense rules, we can all get along and get to home or work in a timely fashion.

That’s all for this time around, folks. Drive safe, listen to your favorite jams, and remember that your driving skills do not define you.

Carpool 101: If they drive you to school, don’t drive them insane T

aking one or two underclasswomen to school? Easy. Trying to keep your cool while doing it?

Sometimes impossible.

There are definitely right and wrong ways to be in a carpool and dealing with that in the morning while running on three hours of sleep and two cups of coffee is QUITE the task. Here are some tips and tricks on how to be the perfect carpool and not drive your driver insane.

Situation: Justin Bieber’s newest song begins playing, but you absolutely hate it. What do you do? Do NOT touch. If the driver is playing music, and the song is not being skipped, that means she probably wants to listen to it. Do not change it or turn it down! Why would that be necessary?

No one likes when people touch his or her music, so if you have a request, ask rather than take over.

This can help to avoid any awkward tensions or looks throughout the rest of the ride.

It’s understandable that often-

times girls wake up five minutes before their carpool arrives; high school girls are busy! Eating breakfast in the car may happen WHAT’S elkINs: frequently, but Sam Elkins the mess it occasionally makes is not okay.

The easy solution to this problem: avoid crumbly food and do not spill. Choose your breakfast carefully because the second a crumb or spill lands on your seat, good luck.

A napkin never hurts.

One last thing, absolutely do not be late. If there is a designated time for pick up or leaving school, make sure you go out of your way to make it there by or before the time. A late carpool can be extremely annoying.

Avoiding these behaviors is key to being the perfect carpool.

As long as all rules are followed, there should be no issues. Definitely don’t forget to give her a nice tip!

April 2016 • The Network

Life is a little less RUFF with man’s best friend

H

i, my name is Anna and I am an avid dog lover. I will stand by my opinion on dogs until the day I die. Dogs are indeed the most beautiful, affectionate creatures to walk this Earth. Yes, I may be pretty biased because nearly everyone I know likes dogs, but honestly, HOW can you not!?

I have two golden retrievers, Bentley and Stella, and I am 100 percent in love with them.

Dogs are completely God-sent. No animal is as gentle and amiable as a man’s best friend.

Anyone with dogs of his or her own will understand what I am talking about here (except Ellie).

I am not totally opposed to cats, but frankly, they are not my dearest furry friends. I

Opinion • 5

annamantini

promise I will not put cats down in this column, but just remember....dogs are literally so much better.

To make this a little bit easier, I have also put together a list of the reasons why dogs are so incredible.

Reason 1: Large. The bigger and fluffier the animal, the better! I want to be able to put human clothes on my dogs, and you should aspire to do so too.

That’s all.

Reason 2: KISSES! Slobbery dog kisses are the most desirable things to receive when getting home from school. How could someone not enjoy them? They make me realize how much dogs truly love their owners!

Reason 3: Dogs

No time for fairytales with full schedules

I

am always busy, and I have been since the sixth grade. Over the years, computer classes turned into finishing eight-page essays and hip-hop dance classes turned into practicing that one dance move for show choir. The activities may have changed over time, but the time spent doing them never has. From extracurricular activities to a challenging course load, I am always doing something.

When I talk to adults about college and my work load, most of them advise me to settle for one or two activities.

They don’t understand that what they are advising me to do is impossible. I simply cannot quit anything.

I always complain to my family and friends about how stressed and busy I am, but if we’re going to be realistic about it, it’s really all my fault. I was the one who signed up for six extracurricular activities. I was the one who signed up for four honors classes, one AP class, and three electives without a study hall.

I was the one who over-packed my schedule with meetings, assignments, and practices to the point where missing a day of school is more stress-

ful than walking on a tightrope in heels over the Grand Canyon. It’s all my fault, and I fully take the blame for it, but I will probably never clear my schedule. I love doing what I do, even if it results in a mental breakdown once every two days.

If I am at my peak in life, and if I have enough time, why shouldn’t I do everything I can? I’m not saying that a heavy and compacted schedule and workload is best for everyone, but I don’t know what I would do without it.

It is my personal goal to experience as many new opportunities as possible during my time and to continue taking part in activities that I love. Making the most of my limited time in high school has always been important to me, and it inspires me to do what I enjoy doing, even if it is time-consuming.

Embrace the mental breakdowns on Monday mornings. Own the

I

am a diehard cat person.

Last week, I lost myself for a second and let a dog lick my face.

0/10 would not graphic by emilydoll recommend. actually don’t care. They There. I said accept me for who I am it. I am a girl, 17 years and what I do. Most of young, who prefers cats the time, I think that my over dogs. It is not that two dogs love me more I don’t appreciate dogs than my family does. and all that they have This is not a joke to offer, and it’s not at all. Dogs don’t care that I am trying to be a about how messy my ~quirky~ girl who dancroom is. They don’t care es to the beat of her own if I get my homework drum. I just really, truly done either. They are think that cats reign LITERALLY the perfect supreme. For any dog best friends. lover who is trying to I am utterly concall my bluff, I have put vinced that dogs are together a list of three everything I’ve ever reasons why cats rule wanted or needed in my and dogs drool. life.

Reason number 1: Frankly, I do not Kitten paws, kitten need anything or anyone paws, kitten paws. Kitelse at this point. I could ten paws are the eighth go on forever about how wonder of the world. great dogs are, but it’s They are so, so sweet time to be done. and always there when I

Beauty and the books: emilydoll

The art of PURR-suasion

ellierommelfanger

advise it, but you could probably leave a cat alone for multiple months and they’d be fine. They bathe themselves, they don’t need to go on walks, and they take care of their business in a litter box, which is basically just an old fashioned toilet I think. Dogs, on the other hand, have to be let out, taken on walks, groomed, and bark when things don’t go their way. They’re basically really weird looking big babies. What’s the appeal?

I could go on and on with reasons why cats are the best, but I think I could’ve stopped at reason number 1 and people would’ve gotten my point. I mean, come on, kitten paws are the sweet sweet sweetest and I couldn’t imagine living in a world without them. Peace, love, meow.

Marian girl and the seven classes:

Study hall has become my personal godmother

morganhobbs kay, let’s see,” fact that you haven’t I think after a been home for dinner hard seven hours of, for more than a week well, thinking. “I have a straight. Acknowlpaper due for Lit which edge the fact that should take about an cramming for your hour. After that, I have math quiz during two chapters to read your lunch block for government, so isn’t ideal, but add another two continue to keep hours. Then, math convincing corrections will yourself that probably take you won’t another hour. proMaybe I’ll crasfinish physics tinate today; that’ll ever be another again. half hour.”

Admit I sigh, trying to yourself to exhale all of my that you broke that urges to go promise less than a downstairs week later. Accept and eat an enthe fact that your new tire package best friend is of Oreos out caffeine. It may of stress. This seem overis usually how whelming my nights go at times, as a student but the at Marian. feeling I come of doing home what you from love makes school ready it all worth it in to relax, the end. graphics by when in all victoriaackermann

The Network

need reassurance. They are my safe place. Let’s all take a break and Google image search “kitten paws.”

Thank you, I believe that argument is over.

Reason number 2: Cats play hard to get.

Now, for some of you, this might not be what you’re looking for in a partner. However, I’m all about the chase.

I don’t want to come home and be showered with love that I don’t deserve. You could be the most despicable human in the world and your dog would still give you hugs and kisses when you come home. Cats see right through that because they are wise as heck. I want to come home every day with a new reason for my cat to love me.

Reason number 3: Cats are the most self-sufficient animals in the world. I wouldn’t

“O

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 the N.H.S.P.A. and the N.S.P.A. As tradition, the seniors in Journalism II encourage the juniors in Journalism I to produce an April showcase issue.

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 types, 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@wordpress.com Follow us on Twitter @MHSbeat

actuality, I should probably be starting my next tasks for the evening.

Study hall is my safe haven. It is the sanctuary, the uncovered jewel in my schedule. I look forward to it more than any other class of the day. When I learned people weren’t taking study halls sophomore year, I was aghast. People claimed they didn’t use the period, that it took up a spot in their schedule.

However, even if I didn’t use my study hall to get ahead (or more commonly, in my case, catch up), I would still welcome it with open arms. The mere thought of taking eight classes a day tightens my throat and sends chills down my spine.

I understand that there are a lot of interesting, unique classes to take at Marian and only a limited amount of time to complete them all, especially when you take in the amount of classes that are required

to graduate. The fact that I’m sitting here as a junior and have not taken handbells yet is outrageous. Freshman me was all over that.

But in my time here, I’ve realized I would much rather have that time out of my schedule than cram another class into my already-overloaded schedule. Not only that, but actually using study hall gives me a whole new advantage.

Those 45 minutes or so make it very easy for me to knock out an assignment or two, and it’s during the day while I’m still in my school mindset. I come home already having the upper hand over some people because I’ve had the time to complete assignments that they didn’t.

For example, this very article is brought to you by my Block C study hall, to whom I am eternally grateful. Thanks kid, for everyone knows I couldn’t do it without you.

JUN IOR ISSU E

Managing Editors: elliemulligan & beccawilliams Copy Editors: maddiemingo & isabelleswanson Photo & Graphics Editors: annamantini & gracegustafson Online Editors: mariagallegos & carmenmiller Front Page Editor: annikazimmerman News Editors: amaleapoulos, clairekilborn & emilyevans Opinion Editors: annanulty & natalieplewa Feature Editors: briannawessling, laurenmayer, ellierommelfanger & erinwalter Indepth Editors: tehrafinn-jackson & lucyboever Sports Editors: courtneydoherty, meganszwanek & juliacrump Entertainment Editors: anahingorani, morganhobbs & emmaherold Photo Essay Editors: nataliekemler & marykategarriott Staff: victoriaackermann, emilydoll, blairekratochvil, susanapettis, kaylaconstantino, samelkins, sydneymonahan, alliemorrissey, laurennovacek, kateschwaller, viennatang & delaneyvillarreal Adviser: marshakalkowski

6 • Feature

The Network • April 2016

Marian Speech Team goes to State Tournament in Kearney laurenmayer

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t all began 3:30 p.m. when a group of teenage girls rushed into a charter bus headed for Kearney, Nebraska.

The three hour bus ride felt more like three years, but the girls all found ways to occupy themselves. For instance, some watched Inside Out while others pigged out on cosmic brownies and some did both. After the long ride, the girls arrived at their destination.

Everyone set up in her hotel room and rushed to Old Chicago to eat real food. When they got back to Holiday Inn, the girls went to their rooms and debated which Marian girl they were going to watch perform the next day.

The seniors were anxious for their final meet and everyone was excited to participate in a day full of walking and clapping...mostly walking. These girls were ready for anything with their handy-dandy emergency box. This box was packed full of all the essentials to save a speech girl’s life.

The day started at 6:30 a.m. Everyone loaded her belongings onto the bus and was ready to do her best and

take In State.

HuAll the morcomous petInteritors pretahad on tion, a their comsuits, petitor hair picks set in a place piece with such hairas a spray, show, State Speech in a Photo Speech team members come together for one and by last photo to illustrate the whole experience. photo by abbieherbert movie, some or somemiracle, everyone’s pantyhose were thing specifically written as an HI. He perfectly intact. or she then presents his or her interMarian girls placed in Extemporapretation of the piece. It is similar to a neous, Poetry, Humorous Interpretaone-woman show with quirky charaction, and Informative. ters and an engaging story.

Extemporaneous speaking inInformative is where a competitor volves a competitor being presented delivers a speech on the topic of his with three topic choices and he or or her choosing. They must provide she must choose one. They then have visuals, typically through boards. Each 30 minutes to write a speech on the board presents one of his or her three topic. The topics involve political and points. The speech is written similar to foreign issues. The articles used to a five paragraph essay. write the speech must be gathered All of these events require high skill prior to the competition, making this levels and each Marian girl brought event a challenge. those skills to the table and truly took Poetry is where a competitor seState. As a team, Marian got third lects an array of poems falling under place in Class B. the same topic and arranges them The bittersweet feeling of the into a single program to present. speech season being over spread

throughout the bus, especially among the seniors, on the way home. After all, it was their final speech competition. “If I was buried alive, the last tournament would be equivalent to digging me out...like Kimmy Schmidt,” senior Maggie White said.

They laughed together, cried together, and accepted each other no matter how weird. “The girls put in a lot of hard work throughout the season, and I was glad to see their efforts pay off at the state tournament,” head speech coach Halli Tripe said. In addition, the girls rocked colorful power suits and learned to survive in heels for 10 hours straight. It is hard to find the words to describe the unbreakable bond between these girls, which is ironic. But after years of sticking together, this team is tighter than Jenna Taylor’s ponytail.

graphics by laurenmayer

Classroom teachers recognized for their hard work, positivity beccawilliams

nce a year, the Archdiocese of She goes above and beyond her job Omaha honors a select few educa- description to ensure her students tors or administrators for dedicating feel welcome and achieve their full their lives to education. Anyone who potentials. “As a freshman this year, enters the front entrance of Marian, I was really intimidated by all of my walks ahead 15 feet, and looks up will teachers. I honestly thought they were encounter pictures of four smiling fac- going to be really strict with their es: Mary Baker, curriculum and Tom Baker, offer no leeway Elizabeth Kish, with plans or and Connie become flexible Cavel. These to help me. Mrs. instructors have Genoways really received this understands that award in the a student might past, and soon need a little extra another frame aid in order for will join them her to be her on the wall, best. When I am Sisterly Love Sister Mary Gehringer congratueven if she feels having a hard lates Mrs. Sharon Genoways as she approaches the podium to accept her award. photo by undeserving. time processing “It is still hard meganszwanek anything in my to comprehend because when I think biology class, she has no reservations about the teachers who have received when it comes to helping me. Mrs. this award in the past, they seemed so Genoways is like a star in the fact that experienced, a master of their subject she can shine really bright for all to and so well prepared all the time....I see. I am so grateful to have had her don’t feel like this is me,” this teacher this year,” freshman Taylor Arnold said. said.

On March 31 after Easter Mass conGenoways also encourages girls to cluded, Principal Susie Sullivan ‘80 become excited about science. “I love announced that science department being in her class! I look forward to chair Mrs. Sharon Genoways earned it every day because I actually underthe title of Metro Secondary Teacher stand physics and love her teaching of the Year. In addition to local fame, style. She always is willing to help and Genoways will receive $5,000 and a really good at what she does!” junior dinner will be held for her and other Emma Shoemaker said. recipients of the area in September.

“Mrs. Genoways is one of the best Faculty and students throughteachers that Marian has. She made out the building adore Genoways. learning easier through her funny and

down to earth personality. I’m super thought she could teach some science. grateful that I had Mrs. Genoways I am so grateful that I am able to teach as a teacher,” senior Eva Drzaic said. in a place where love, kindness, and Genoways has a special way of concaring are the norms,” she said. necting to students and creating a fun Even if great teaching and constant learning environment. selflessness might be a “norm” at MarAs Sullivan began talking, several ian, Genoways is valued within and ideas flew through Genoways’s mind. outside the school walls. When Marian At first she believed students were students hear, “...confident, indep—” it about to get a “talk” about putting a is almost always finished with a chorus stop to Field Day meanness. Then she of girls reciting, “—endent, thinking noticed her parents walk in and worleaders.” It is common knowledge riedly thought something was wrong.

Marian’s staff members strive to Soon the rest of her family arrived, prepare students for post-college life and even though Sullivan kept speakas much as possible so they can move ing, she no longer could really hear on and leave an impact on the world; anything. “The entire trip up to the Genoways reflects this. podium is a blur,” she said.

She walked to the middle of the gym with the bleachers erupting in cheer behind Optimist International her.

Outstanding Educator Award Genoways obtained this award through nominations sent into the Archdiocese from the Marian community, but she remains humble and insists that her success can be attributed to everyone at Marian.“This award really belongs to the entire faculty, staff and student body. Every single person here is responsible for “I was so honored to receive this award, making Marian what it is. especially from an organization like Optimists I would not be the person International. The volunteer work they do in I am today, if back in 1993, their communities is so important, and their former principal Elizabeth dedication to student leadership aligns with Kish hadn’t taken a chance my personal values,” Sisson said. on a brand-new teacher who

Ms.Susie Sisson

photo by anniesoener

O

April 2016 • The Network

Feature • 7

College Trippin’: Isabelle’s Declassified College Tour Survival Guide commentary by isabelleswanson

T

oo much of the time when adults talk to students about college, they talk about college in general. They talk about what the students need to do to

had an internship at the SAC museum, is a member of the Omaha Astronomy Club, and her Honors discuss what factors students need to Independent consider when choosing what colleges Research project was related to space. She also recommends trying out for amount of money, energy, and time) leadership positions and at a college. It might as well be the getting involved in a perfect one.

It is incredibly important to deterities. mine what needs a student has before College visits might driving across the country to go on a seem intimidating, but a college tour. little preparation can ease If someone is adamant about staya lot of anxieties. If posing close to home, it’s probably safe sible, ask your tour guide to say there’s no need to check out the questions about his or her University of Hawaii (although going personal experience. His just to make sure might not be a bad or her answers can give an idea). Similarly, if a student refuses to honest look into everyday spend another moment in a state with life on campus. brutal winters, the University of Maine Although a bad tour guide might be somewhere you check out might leave a sour taste, online, and that’s about it. try not to let it impact your overall The list of important factors chang- opinion of the school. es from person to person, and once a Underclassmen may sigh in restudent goes on a few college tours, lief when they realize they have two those factors may change. whole years before they have to worry.

Senior Collette Gillaspie was comUnfortunately, stressing sooner may pletely set on going to Purdue Univerbe helpful in the long run. College sity in Indiana. That is, until she heard applications can be a lengthy process, from the University of Notre Dame, and depending on your schedule for also in Indiana. Appropriately enough the fall of your senior year, it may be for the Fighting Irish, she heard from worthwhile to get college visits out of them the day after St. Patrick’s Day. “I the way early. got an email from Notre Dame sayFreshman Mary Neppl has not gone ing the admission on any tours decisions had been of her own yet, “The process was released. I had to but seeing her make an account two older sisters stressful, but [knowing to see whether I what to expect] makes me go through the got in or not. I was college search has feel a little better.” shaking the whole helped relieve Mary Neppl ‘19 some anxieties.

I saw was ‘CongratNeppl’s priulations!’ and that’s orities include all I needed. I ran downstairs to tell the quality of professors, quality of my family.” Gillaspie will be attending campus life, and success statistics of Notre Dame next fall. graduating students. Both of Neppl’s Her advice to students preparing to siblings are happy with where they ended up (Columbia College Chicago their passions and pursue them in as and Creighton University), which she many ways as possible. Her passion is space. It’s something she has always College visits can often be been interested in, and it shows. She awesome experiences. In sixth grade,

by graphic

onahan

sydneym

junior Janna Whited accompanied her older brother on a tour of Boston University. During this tour, she saw celebrity doctor Dr. Drew. “He was on the phone the whole time. Only his daughter was paying attention,” she said. She recalls saying hi to Dr. Drew, but as Dr. Drew and sixth-grade Janna Whited had little in common, the conthis experience would leave anyone star-struck, Whited still remembers her experience at Boston University. schools.”

Whited considers location (preferably a college on the East Coast), feel of the students, and quality of the tour guide to be important factors when looking at schools. She has toured at least eight schools, including Boston University, Boston College, Northeastern, New York University, and Texas Christian University. By getting a feel of all these colleges, she has more information and experiences that will assist her in making a well-informed decision.

Throughout the entire process, stress and worry will be bombarding you from all fronts. It’s like a war zone. Every once in a while, it’s okay to take some time for yourself. Last

summer, my mom put my grandma in charge of taking me on a tour for a certain Ivy League school in Providence, Rhode Island. I wasn’t particularly excited to go, and honestly, neither was my grandma. Long story short, one of the most stressful moments of my life was calling my mom and telling her I was going to “Water Wizz,” a mediocre waterpark, instead of going on the lence was tormenting, but Water Wizz was pretty fun, so it’s all good. It’s all about priorities.

Some students may be waiting for a “Say Yes to the Dress” moment when they just know they found the perfect college. When the gates open and they step in, they may expect a magical tour of a chocolate factory or a Disney’s Hercules-esque musical number describing exactly how they are where they are meant to be. Unfortunately, this is usually not quite the case.

When it comes down to it, a lot of deliberation, spreadsheets, and pros college decision.

No matter where a student ends up, she can prosper. Colleges are about preparing for the future, and Marian girls have futures so bright, they’re going to need to wear shades.

Post-Prom PROMises fun with food, friends gracegustafson & clairekilborn owling, laser tag, and food, oh my!

These are just a few of the things that juniors and seniors encountered at Marian’s Post-Prom.

After an exciting night of taking pictures, going out to dinner, and dancing, juniors and seniors had the option of attending Post-Prom. This year, Post-Prom was held at the Alley V, located in Oakview Plaza from 12:30 to 2:30 a.m. on Sunday, April 3.

Even if someone did not go to Prom, she still had the opportunity to attend Post-Prom. Students were required to stay until 1:30 am but could leave after that. If a student chose to leave before 2:30 am, a parent chaperone called each person’s parents to make sure it was okay with them if their daughter (and her date) left.

According to Mrs. Michelle Delisi, this year, 265 students attended PostProm. More people stayed until the end this year than in past years.

Along with bowling, the Alley V offers arcade games, laser tag, and food.

All of this was included in the $15 per person Post-Prom ticket. Students were able to win arcade tickets and

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buy prizes at the end of the night from the prize store. Along with the venue’s

the second time. “It was super fun like last year. I had a great time at both.

I really liked hanging out with my

of gift cards and other fun prizes. You had to be present to win, but it was very exciting for people when they heard their name announced over the loud speaker.

“I won a Scooter’s gift card at PostProm. It was really exciting winning a prize because I wasn’t expecting it at so a Scooter’s gift card was perfect,” junior Grace Mortenson said.

After going to Post-Prom as juniors, there was an abundance of seniors who were excited to attend Post-Prom for

Post Prom Victory Emma Eaton ‘17 smiles in surprise as she scores against Julia Crump ‘17 in air hockey at Alley V on April 3. She went on to win the game. photo by isabelleswanson

friends and playing video games,” senior Katie Petersen said.

Casino Laser Tag was one of the most popular things to do. Groups of around 10 were allowed to go in at the same time. Each group was split up into two teams and got to play in the “It was a fun, non-violent way to release my pent up frustration that has been building since the beginning of the school year! I was running around, ducking behind walls with James Bond theme music playing inside of my head,” junior Ione Enderez said.

Providing a safe and fun environment after Prom is one of Marian’s top priorities. Marian’s Post-Prom has been an organized event for more than 10 years. This year, Mrs. Michelle Delisi and Mrs. Kim Neppl were in charge of planning the whole thing.

“I think it is very important to continue to have a safe place for students to go to after Prom. It is a fun event and it goes by really fast! I think students enjoy playing games, bowling, and just hanging out with their friends,” Delisi said.

Marian girls take on

Presidential Politics Democractic caucus draws Marian politicians

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White said. “I went to Beveridge middle school with Fiona Kennedy (‘15), but we ended up being four hours late.”

Junior Brigid Elbert also attended the caucus, despite not being eligible to vote until the general election in November.

Elbert attended with her mom to show her support for her nominee: Bernie Sanders.

“My mom and I caucused at Beals Elementary. Every caucus location is determined by whichever legislative district you live in. The sign-ins started at 8:00. We arrived around 9:00 and took our places in line to sign in. The sign-in process takes a while because it’s alphabetized,” Elbert said.

Junior Brooke Huerter also attended the caucus and com-

mented on the lively environment. “I was on the Hillary side sitting with my dad, but it was really fun to see how Rally up Crowds gather at Beals Elementary for the NE Democratic Caucus on March 5. “My favorite part of the day was the energy of all the caucus-goers around me,” Elbert ‘17 said. rowdy photo courtesy of brigidelbert and fun the BerUltimately, it was Bernie nie supporters were! They winner takes all state for Sanders who won Nebraska started chants and overall whichever GOP candidate and 56 percent of its delegates. gets the most votes. The looked very excited to be The Republican primary takes general election will take there. Kinda like Marian place May 10 and will be a girls!” Huerter said. place on Nov. 8, 2016.

How to Register to Vote graphic by nataliekemler Requirements: √ Be a U.S. citizen √ Live in Nebraska √ Be at least 18 on or before the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November (November 8, 2016) √ Have not been convicted of a felony √ Have not been officially found to be mentally incompetent How to register for the first time: Only need to declare party affiliation if you want to vote in primary In person: √ At the County Clerk/Election Commissioner’s office √ Through the state DMV when applying for or renewing your driver’s license Deadline: √ 6 p.m. on the second Friday before an election By mail: √ Applications are available at many locations: banks, post offices, libraries, and online from www.sos.ne.gov Send in: √ Voter registration application √ Copy of a recent photo ID or a copy of a utility bill, bank statement, or government document (must be dated within 60 days before with the same name and address on the voter registration application) Deadline: √ Mailed on or before the third Friday before an election Online: √ www.nebraska.gov information courtesy of: www.sos.ne.gov and www.dmv.org

n io ct t le lo E l y Ba ar le im p r m P Sa

juliacrump olitics. Politics.

Politics. After months of politics between Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton dominating the news, it’s hard to believe that the national primary election hasn’t even happened yet.

We are still in primary season, and on Saturday, March 5, Nebraska held its Democratic caucus. Marian girls who are registered voters attended a few of these events to support the two democratic nominees.

“I actually volunteer for the Bernie campaign,” senior Maggie

Everything You Need to Know:

Student Opinions

The Candidates & Their Issues cartoon by viennatang summaries below by lucyboever

graphic by carmenmiller

8 • Indepth

Hillary Clinton ≈ make college tuition affordable ≈ comprehensive immigration reform - keep families together ≈ defend American values; American safety is top priority ≈ defend the Affordable Care Act and reduce cost of healthcare

Bernie Sanders ≈ make college tuition free ≈ comprehensive immigration reform ≈ emphasize diplomacy and make sure war is an absolute last resort ≈ universal and affordable healthcare for all

Ted Cruz ≈ return education to states and communities rather than Federal Government ≈ stop illegal immigration by building a wall; triple border security ≈ restore leadership around the world, defend our allies, and whatever is best for America is best for the world ≈ repeal Obama care and make healthcare more affordable

The Network • April 2016

“In my opinion he is the most genuine, moderate conservative. I think he is capable of being a successful president, and I agree with most of his policies.”

- Kelly Gehring ‘17 in support of John Kaisch “I support Bernie because I side with his views on most issues, such as environmental, education, and world views. He stands for what I stand for.”

- Brighid Welchans ‘16 in support of Bernie Sanders

John Kaisch ≈ believes welfare and education programs should be run locally ≈ if illegals are law-abiding they may stay ≈ stand by our friends and allies; strengthen alliances ≈ does not support Obamacare; wants to expand Medicaid and have adequate healthcare for all

Donald Trump ≈ humanities-based education ≈ stop illegal immigration by building a wall along the Southern border; deport all illegals ≈ bomb ISIS and strengthen U.S. military ≈ end Obamacare

Indepth • 9

10 • Features

The Network • April 2016

Therapy dogs unLEASH stress Marian girls vs Twitter courtneydoherty olor Block + rabbits. However, said when asked Surprise Day + the Omaha chapter about Marian’s homework and tests does not have any future involvement in one week = lots of current therapy cats with the company. stress for a Marian or rabbits.

“Hopefully Walls girl!

Student Board Night will go well Thankfully, Love on a Leash provided a cuddly way to relieve the buildup of stress.

On March 16, Love on a Leash brought in three therapy dogs for girls to visit Life is Ruff! Kate Kellen ‘18, Lauren Phillips ‘19, Diana Elizalde ‘18, during and Julia Hingorani ‘18 gather around one of the Love on a Leash dogs during their surprise day. photo by beccawilliams their free time. It also turned out to decided it would be and we will get a lot be Surprise Day, a great idea for Love of donations.” but that didn’t stop on a Leash to come Students look forstudents from comto Marian, espeward to the potening to see the dogs. cially for Surprise tial return of Love Throughout the day, Day. “Originally we on a Leash. “Everythere was a consiswere trying to think one was so excited tent line going down of fun things for about it. Maybe over the Quad stairs.

Surprise Day. That’s finals week?” junior Love on a Leash when we thought Natalie Sterba said. is a company deterof puppies!” junior According to Sterba mined to brighten Bunny Nelson said. and Harvard Health someone’s day.

The Student Board Publications, petThere is no charge girls wanted to ting dogs has been for a session and bring something scientifically proven everyone involved new and exciting to relieve stress. is a volunteer. Dogs into the Surprise Sterba said that seem to be the most Day tradition. her dog is always common therapy “Walls Night there for her when pet, but Love on fundraiser is actushe is stressed out. a Leash also has ally going to Love “She comes to me, therapy cats and on a Leash,” Nelson and she knows when

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I’m freaking out,” Sterba said.

Betty Jo Addison is the leader of the Omaha Love on a Leash chapter.

“It is proven that petting an animal lowers a person’s blood pressure and anxiety!” Addison said.

She noted that the company often has dogs in schools and learning environments.

“Some of our members are teachers and they take their dogs to school with them each day, and they are in the classrooms,” she said.

Love on a Leash often does one time visits, similar to the one on Surprise Day. “We do one time visits during finals week at Creighton, Clarkson, and UNO,” Addison said.

Therapy dogs can have a great effect on people, especially stressed out students.

If Love on a Leash has proved anything, it’s that a dog can truly be a Marian girl’s best friend!

The ultimate Field Day beefdown commentary by victoriaackermann Beef: (noun) to have a grudge or start one with another person. hanks to Twitter, 140 characters is all it can take to start some major beef. Much like the saying “one spark starts a fire,” the same goes for tweets. One controversial tweet can start a long string of angsty and defensive tweets that seem to be never-ending.

Unfortunately, Marian students are often the targets of these “controversial” tweets and it’s up to us to be the confident, independent, thinking leaders we are and dodge these bullets.

For whatever reason, students at other schools like to antagonize Marian students via the Twitter. Whether it be about joyous traditions, such as Field Day or Surprise Day, or just about the “authenticity” of Marian as an academic establishment overall, the tweets are frequent. At least once a week I see a tweet from a male on my timeline making fun of Marian in one way or another.

Now that Field Season is upon us, these negative tweets are far too common.

Field Day is a fun and anticipated time for any Marian girl.

It is also an anticipated time for an angsty student of another school who likes to express his or her “displeasure” with the event on social media. I am almost convinced that these individuals make anti-Field Day tweets year long and save them in their drafts, just waiting for the proper time to release them to the world.

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Typically, it’s the same few individuals who make an effort every year to get the “most popular” tweet playing at Field Day and the joy it causes students.

While I appreciate their efforts, I have to question why they are spending so much time and energy on mocking other people’s happiness.

Not only is it just these “brave” tweets that fill up my timeline, but it’s also the Marian students who try to defend their honor.

While I commend my fellow Crusaders and what they’re trying to do, I just have to say that it’s not worth it.

These individuals tweet these things to get a reaction, and while I have no doubt you are capable of putting them in their place, I say let the children have their little fun. They aren’t worth our energy and efforts. Because, in the end, Marian students have Field Day and we get to have the real fun.

I’m at least 97 percent sure that there are better things these people could be doing than trying to belittle people’s happiness on social media, like going for a walk or petting a dog. I know they’ll be cool amongst their peers and maybe even get a few retweets or follows from their “comedic masterpiece,” but is it really worth it? Is it worth filling up my timeline with things other than mouthwatering recipes and equally mouthwatering pictures of Zac Efron with the same useless conflict I see every year during the month of April?

Absolutely not.

Omaha Fashion Week puts students on the runway inspire other Marian girls because of their part in such an important event for Omaha.

Some girls took a chance and modeled for the first time! “It was my first year modeling and it was so cool!

I was in the Sunday night beauty show and I modeled accessories. It was really fun to wear all of the expensive

accessories for the night!” junior Emily Kleinschmit said.

All of the models have put in a vast amount of work, and it obviously paid off, looking at the beautiful photos and runway shots.

Stay updated to possibly see these girls and more in the next Omaha Fashion Show next spring.

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the other hand, acted as a proud friend. “I was THAT loud and obnoxious ‘proud mom’ screaming my friends’ names as they walked down the runway while all the chic, important people elegantly peered over their shoulders to watch my friends strut their stuff,” Kiscoan said.

The girls continue to

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eled Friday, Saturday, and Sunday and seemed to enjoy it a lot. “It’s always a very fun event to be a part of because you get to know so many girls from other schools...on Saturday we put together a Cane’s fund and had Cane’s catered backstage (very important),” Ruffalo said.

Senior Mary Kiscoan, on

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Emily K lie n

annamantini few Marian girls participated or attended the Omaha Fashion Week this past month (March 15-20), which they claim to be the fifth largest fashion event in the nation. The girls held a variety of positions, including models while others were some proud friends.

Senior Kate Ruffalo mod-

April 2016 • The Network

Features • 11

Blood drive leaves students feeling good, raises questions erinwalter n March 30, Marian’s Student Board hosted its annual blood drive with the American Red Cross.

Needles, tubes, blood bags, and a whole lot of eager Marian girls filled the West Gym in anticipation to save lives.

The blood drive was a huge success.

According to Ellie Wagner, a representative from the American Red Cross, 65 pints of whole blood were collected.

This blood could potentially save up to 195 lives. Along with this, there were 48 first time donors and two double red donors.

Marian girls donated blood because they want to help people and make a difference. It may have caused them to pass out on their way to class or their vision go blurry during a big test, but saving the lives of others was what mattered most for these girls.

Junior Lucy Fishburn is one of the 48 brave souls who faced the needle for her first time this year. “I finally decided to give blood this year because I wanted to help save lives, and I figured that this would be a really easy way to do it. All of my friends planned on donating, so I decided I would join in,” Fishburn said.

As is turns out, donating blood

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really isn’t that terrifying. “I was Republic in June, she was not eligible obviously super nervous beforehand, to do so again this year. “A represenbut everything was totally fine. I have tative from the Red Cross calls me all a very low pain tolerance, but it didn’t of the time to talk to me about giving even hurt...it was just a little strange blood, but I told her she didn’t have to to have bother somecalling thing me inside again of my because arm I went for so to the long,” DR Fishin the burn sumsaid. mer, On and I the know other malarhand, ia is though, There’s a First Time for Everything Lucy Fishburn ‘17 describes giving blood for the promthe inent first time as a “whirlwind of emotions.” Fishburn was one of 48 first time donors at the Student Board sponsored Red Cross Bloodmobile on March 30. blood there. photo by laurennovacek drive She left a endhandful of girls frustrated this year. ed up telling me that I was fine to At least 20 people tried to give blood, give blood if it has been more than a but later found out that they were not month since I was traveled there, so I eligible to do. signed up to donate this year. When I Junior Ellie Rommelfanger gave checked in, I double checked with the blood last year, but she thought that lady at the table to make sure I was since she traveled to the Dominican okay to donate; she said yes. Then I

Servite Corner:

Sr. Kerry Larkin, O.S.M.

elliemulligan ith a welcoming demeanor through high school, so I decided and warm smile, it comes as to check it out.” Since that mono surprise that Sister Kerry Larment, Sister Kerry has stuck with kin is a longtime Servant of Mary. her passion and showed her faith In fact, for the past 48 years, through her commitment to God. Sister Kerry has been developing In her time as a Servite, Sister her relationship not only with God Kerry has learned to trust God and as a Servite but also with the other realize his significance in her life. sisters.

She’s a shining example of fol“I joined when I was 19,” Sr. lowing your heart and listening to Kerry said. In the time since she’s God, and she provides an inspirajoined, Sister Kerry has acquired tion to all us students to explore lots of experience, which she says our faith. attributes to the development of Since joining the Servants of her faith. Sister Kerry not only Mary, Sister Kerry has moved enjoys the variety throughout the but the lessons United States. she’s learned as a She taught in Servite: “I learned Denver, Colorado that no matter and lived in Iowa. what I experience, On top of this, God is always Sister Kerry has faithful to me learned a lot in her through it, and I Kerry & Company from left to right: time as a Servant. never have to go Ellie Rommelfanger ‘17, Brooke “All people are Huerter ‘17, Sister Kerry Larkin, Sarah through it alone.” Englert ‘17, and Lindsay Livengood looking for the From a young ‘17 gather for a picture in the convent. same thing,” Sister age, Sister Kerry Kerry recalls. “Evfelt a deep connection with God. eryone wants a meaning to their At her high school back home in life and a deeper relationship with Sioux City, South Dakota, seven God. different religious organizations Outside of her life as a Servite, did their work—one organization Sister Kerry enjoys spending time in particular stood out. with friends, going to movies, or Sister Kerry recalls choosing to spending an afternoon out at the join the Servites; she was drawn zoo or botanical gardens. in by the exciting, faithful commuSister Kerry spent 30 years nity of the sisters. On top of this, teaching for the archdiocese as Sister notes that she’s always had well as a long career as coordinaa deep connection to Mary. As she tor of the motherhouse here in felt this calling, she knew that the Omaha, as well as being an assopotential relationship with Mary ciate director at a Jesuit retreat was not one she could miss out on. house in OshKosh for eight years.

“Freshman year, I was sitting in Sister Kerry’s dedication to the religion class... I was sitting there, Servite values and her committhinking, ‘a Servant of Mary, that ment to a life that served the will sounds cool. I’d love to be a Serof God make her a perfect examvant of Mary.’ It stayed with me ple of a Servite.

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waited for about 25 minutes and had my finger pricked, all for the nurse to finally be the one to tell me that I was not able to give blood this year because I went to the DR,” Rommelfanger said.

Aside from travel, a couple other common reasons for deferral from donating were low hemoglobin levels and the presence of cold or flu like symptoms in potential donors. To make sure that you are in the clear to donate, visit redcrossblood.org or call the eligibility specialist at 1-866-2363276.

“It was really frustrating that two people told me I was okay to donate, but then the one said no,” Rommelfanger said.

Vanessa, a donor client support specialist at the Red Cross, apologizes for the frustration and applauds the efforts of students like Rommelfanger, but it is better safe than sorry when it comes to questions regarding donor eligibility.

For the most part, though, the blood drive left Marian girls feeling brave, accomplished, and maybe just a little bit nauseous. For many, giving blood was a simple and easy was to help save lives.

Grease is the word: the controversy is hair washing commentary by victoriaackermann ociety often undervalues the magic of five minutes. In that time you could cook an EasyMac, pay some bills, tell your mom you love her, or wash your hair. Five minutes with two good friends called shampoo and conditioner could completely change your life.

Now, there have been rumors floating around that you’re supposed to wash your hair every other day, but there are very few people who follow this. A majority of friends and classmates either wash their hair once a day or once a month.

Where does this drastic range come from? What encourages people to, or to not, wash their hair?

When thinking of someone who washes her hair frequently, someone who really has her life together comes to mind.

After asking various avid hair-washers why they practice this ritual every day, they all delivered similar responses.

“I like my hair to feel soft and clean at all times.”

“It gets greasy super fast and I hate the feeling of it.”

“I enjoy my daily shower time and like to live it to the fullest.”

Now, all of these contentions are reasonable and understandable, but a hair-washing shower isn’t something one can just squeeze in at any time. It takes planning, precision, and around 45 minutes of precious time.

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More often than not, people face the moral dilemma of having to choose between washing their hair or going to bed at a reasonable hour.

Perhaps this is why apathetic hair-washer junior Mia Lahood replied with “ain’t nobody got time for that,” when asked about her practice.

Some apathetic hair-washers take a scientific approach for their reasoning by saying that washing their hair less makes their hair less greasy and is better for the scalp.

According to WebMD, it is beneficial for hair to be dirty as the oils in it moisturize naturally and protect the scalp and hair. Those with fine hair and those who work out frequently should wash their hair daily in order to keep the amount of oil from becoming too great and harming their hair. The thicker the hair, the less one needs to wash it. So sit back and relax thick-haired friends, science is finally on your side.

Hair washing is one of the many necessities of life that people can choose to deal with as frequently or infrequently as they like. How frequently one washes her hair depends on how put together her life is.

When things are going well, it’s every other day, but when life is more brutal, it’s less constant. In high school, it depends on the type of week life presents.

Crusader Hair Washing Habits

source: 280 student responses in April google survey

graphic by sydneymonahan

The Network • april 2016

12 • Sports

The truth behind an NSAA designation for sanctioned sports

meganszwanek henever someone walks into Marian’s East Gym, he or she is welcomed by the many state titles won by Marian athletes that decorate the walls on royal blue banners. But the feeling is not so satisfying for members of the cheer, dance, and trap teams. For these athletes, there is no grand banner recognizing their state titles and accomplishments because these sports are not part of the NSAA. The Nebraska School Activities Association (NSAA) governs and organizes the high school activities and sports programs throughout the state.

According to the executive director of NSAA, Dr. Jim Tenopir, a number of schools within the state must be sponsoring that sport or activity, and the activity must pass several districts in order to be considered for NSAA. Cheer, dance, and trap are just a few of the many sports and activities at Marian that are not a part of NSAA. Because of this, they do not get a banner in the gym or portraits hung in the Quad. Trap team members have their trophies on display outside the S.T.E.M. lab. Cheer and dance have display cases outside of the cafeteria entrance. Some teams and activities, like bowling, end up with their tro-

phies in the moderator’s classroom or in these sports like it is in soccer and office space. basketball.

“It’s really frustrating because we Another factor is that not every work just as hard as any of the other Class A school has a cheer, dance, or sports,” senior cheerleader Emily trap team. For example, only 10 out of Witzenburg said.

28 current Class A schools in NeAccording to junior trap team braska have a dance team. Compared member Sarah Villarreal, “Trap is to other sports that are sanctioned, considered an international sport and every single school has a team that is an Olympic competes. In order event, so it’s for a sport to be “I think the portrayal is that weird to me that considered for NSAA, we are not recognizing them it’s not considthe sport needs to be ered a sport as sports. I absolutely believe present in closer to by the NSAA.” 50 percent particithey are sports, and they Whether or not a pation of schools in are committed, athletic, and sport or activity the state so that the talented.” is proposed to competition field is Athletic Director Rochelle Rohlfs more equal to those become a part of NSAA is up to of other NSAA sports. the school administrators across the But not every sport at Marian state. wants to be a part of the NSAA. “The However, there are reasons why cheer team doesn’t really want to be administrators have chosen not to sanctioned by the state as a sport ask the NSAA Board to propose to through NSAA because of all of the make these sports a part of NSAA. rules and regulations about practice Unlike other Class A sports, the state and stunting,” senior cheerleader championships for cheer, dance, and Katrina McCutcheon said. What they trap are often nonqualifying, meaning really want, according to McCutcheon, anyone can enter. The challenge and is recognition in the form of a banner competitiveness to even qualify for in the gym. a state championship is not present In order for that to happen, the

sport must become a part of NSAA. Because there are more than 50 clubs and activities at Marian and limited space in the gym, the administration has to put a limit on which activities are allowed to have banners on the gym walls.

According to Marian’s athletic director, Ms. Rochelle Rohlfs, “We want to make sure that every student at Marian would have the same opportunity to be recognized. If we start [hanging banners] for one group, and deeming them more important than others, we are then dis-including other sports.”

There have been misconceptions regarding the administration’s decision in the past. “I think the portrayal is that we are not recognizing them as sports,” said Rohlfs. “I absolutely believe they are sports, and they are committed, athletic, and talented.”

So what can Marian fans do to make the cheer, dance, and trap teams feel equally as supported as NSAA-sanctioned sports?

Come watch and cheer them on!

Just because these sports are not NSAA-sanctioned does not mean they are any less meaningful to the Marian community. photo by meganszwanek

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Spring Sports Update!

Track races to a great start maddiemingo

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am! The gun sounds and echoes around the track as runners push off their blocks. Noise from coaches surrounds them, and the runners stride even harder to pick up the pace.

They finally come around the bend and onto the home straightaway, where teammates line the track and cheer them on.

Team chemistry describes the Marian track team this year. With fewer numbers than in previous years, track team members have gotten to know their teammates better and form a stronger bond. They connect through eating team dinners, riding the bus, and braving the weather to watch the 4x400 at the end of the meet.

The team has high hopes for this season. If every athlete strives to reach her potential, then the track team

could match very competitively with other top teams through District and State. Most athletes have set personal goals for themselves to stay on track.

“My goal is to keep working and get better,” sophomore Grace Hern said.

“To reach that goal, it will take a lot of commitment and pushing each other.”

So far this season, Marian has competed well. The team was fourth at Wesleyan, sixth at Doane, first in the JV meet at Bellevue East, sixth in the varsity meet at Bellevue East, fifth at Kearney, and sixth at Central.

In addition to these successes, many athletes have already reached personal records. With hard work through the rest of the season, the team hopes to further build upon its accomplishments and set its sights for higher heights.

The athletes have a meet every week until the end of May and would very much appreciate any fans willing to cheer them on. After many hours of hard work and training, the team prepares itself for a successful finish to the season.

Just Keep Striding Kirsten Meyer ‘17 sprints along the back stretch of the track to gain position. She finished with the top time for Marian in the open 400 meter run at Doane. photo by maddiemingo

Distance Pals Grace Hern ‘18 and Audrey Lane ‘17 share a hug after Audrey’s 1600 meter run. The two trained together before competing at Doane. photo by maddiemingo

Varsity soccer kicks off the season with team bonding

natalieplewa

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arian is known for two things: its athletics and its sisterhood.

Varsity soccer players combine their skills with the sisterhood that keeps everyone together.

“Already you can tell that this team is closer than it was last year,” sophomore varsity member Laurel Edwards said.

Her older sister, Mallory Edwards, one of the varsity captains, thinks that the closeness of the team is due to the team bonding events.

“We had team bonding at a high ropes course, so that helped us bond,” Mallory said. She also talked about the team’s group chat and members hanging out outside of soccer. The two captains were both amazed by the incoming freshmen.

“I was very surprised by how not shy the freshmen are. When I was a freshman I was intimidated by the seniors, but they talk non-stop to us,” Mallory said.

All three of the freshmen on varsity this year said the seniors were great at making them feel welcome.

“They make us feel like we’ve been a part of the team for more than just one month,” Lily Gonzalez, one of the freshmen on varsity, said.

“This year I was nervous to be on the team with all new girls, but all the seniors were super nice and made a point to involve everyone,” Kira

For the Win Molly Kuehl ’16 steals the ball from a Bellevue West player at a varsity soccer game at Marian on Monday, April 4. Marian proceeded to win the game with a score of 7-0. photo by natalieplewa

Bravo, also a freshman on varsity, said.

Another freshman on the team, Mia McGrath said, “It helped carpooling with a senior, Lily Boyle, too.”

This team has formed a close bond already, and the captains believe their closeness will show in how they play this season.

“So far this season has been going really well, so I hope we keep that up, continue to work as a team, and hopefully go to State,” Ellie Begley, a varsity captain, said.

With this team growing closer as the season goes on, there is no doubt that they will continue to improve and continue on the road to state.

April 2016 • The Network

Trap team members trapped in a tough situation isabelleswanson ew events get Marian girls more excited than Field Day. The Marian halls begin to buzz with anticipation of April 29 weeks before the actual event.

It seems like every student is looking forward to this day, but there was one important group feeling left out this year.

The trap team has known for weeks that they would have to make a difficult choice. The state trap meet was scheduled for the same day at the same time as Field Day. Unfortunately, there will be no High School Musical shenanigans where teen heartthrobs dash between several events and pull off a quiz bowl, basketball game, and musical all at the same time. These teen heartthrobs had to make a choice to either compete at the state trap meet or compete at Field Day. The state meet was in Doniphan, Nebraska, which is two hours west of Omaha and 20 minutes south of Grand Island. This means the members of the trap team embarked on this long trek on the Thursday before Field Day. That night, the competing girls practiced in preparation for their competition. The state meet lasted two days, Friday and Saturday, with each shooter shooting at 75 targets each day.

Freshman Samantha Tracy had to make the difficult choice between her first Field Day and her first state trap meet. “My decision for missing my first Field Day was an easy choice because I have never known what Field Day really is, and I still don’t know too much about it, but I have been shooting for three years,” she said.

Tracy said she has had great

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experiences through trap and feels a Zuerlein still contributed to her strong sense of community with her class in every way she could, from teammates. Her long practices are learning every word of the demo to spent with a group of girls who have using her veteran experience to help welcomed her and made her feel like on the costume committee, as this was a part of the group. With any difficult her fourth year making costumes for decision, she still feels torn. her class.

“I feel like I might be missing out, The first day of the meet, Friday, but I think trap only falls on Field Day all shooters shoot at 75 targets from once every four years, so it’s better my 16 yards from the trap house, the big freshman year than my senior year,” metal box that launches the clay pishe said. geons. The Unforsecond day, tunately, the shootthe exact ers either opposite stay on the is true 16-yard line for senior or move Allison back. Their Zuerlein. score on “Choosthe first day ing determined between the distance my trap they move family back.

Trap Queens After a long practice with the squad, the Marian trap and my The team members huddle together and show their love for the sport Marian staggered and their coach. This team spends an incredible amount of time with family shooting each other, so the team has grown close. photo courtesy of Ms. Megan Leonard was one distances of the allows hardest decisions of my senior year,” shooters of varying abilities to comshe said. She was urged by many to pete on an equal playing field for the choose Field Day, but her family was handicap category. There are also two supportive of either decision. She ulti- other categories, individual and team, mately chose to go to state trap. that were also up for grabs.

“The final deal breaker was that Junior Sarah Villarreal also chose if I went to Field Day and was on trap over Field Day. “I’m kind of sad the ‘Field Day squad,’ it would mean because I like being there with my shooting later in the day on Friday, class. Field Day’s a fun day, but I’m reso I wouldn’t be able to shoot on ally committed to trap. It was an easy Marian’s top squad and possibly win decision.” She still helped her class by a team award. The trap family is my working on the costume committee. second family. I have dozens more This was Villarreal’s third state trap moms and dads that I want to make meet. At her first state trap meet, she proud,” she said. recalls she learned her “own definition

JV tennis team’s season makes a racquet marykategarriott

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ennis is a competitive sport that of being on the tennis team is meeting “I’m glad Elly decided to play tendoesn’t seem to be discussed new people and going to team dinnis because I think doing a sport at frequently at Marian. Players need ners,” Mayer said.

Marian is a good way to get involved. mental, physical, and emotional skills “My favorite part of being on the Having someone to goof around with to be strong players. tennis team is making new friends and is fun,” Huerter said.

Marian’s JV team possesses these getting to know them at practice and “I am glad to have been able to skills, making it one of the best teams matches,” Harrington said. know someone so well coming into in Omaha. JV tennis has won almost Junior Emma Shoemaker has Marian and now have the chance to all its matchbecome best buddies with play tennis with her,” Minnick said. __________________ sophomore Emma Farhart. es this season This team has skills, wins, and most (against Bellevue Last year was both of the importantly—friendships.

West, Papillion Emmas first year on Marian’s Keep watching them succeed this LaVista South, tennis team. “We met in art season because they are making a Duchesne, Belclass and bonded over family racquet! levue East and friends. Then Millard West). we got on the These wins tennis team show the team is and became working hard this really close. season, but what Emma (Farreally makes this hart) is great Lily Foley ’17 team unique is its ______________________ because she is community. The always willing relationships on to listen to this team go beyond just teammates. me,” Shoemaker said.

Junior Kaitlyn Baysa joined JV “Emma Shoe and I met this year but has quickly found new through tennis and friends. “Trying out for tennis is one we just really bonded of the best decisions I have made at because we were both Marian. I was nervous to try out since newbies. It’s a sport I I have only played tennis for fun. The can see myself playing team is very welcoming and even for a long time. Trying though we have only been together for out was a good a month, we have an evident bond,” move,” Farhart said.

Baysa said.

Junior Brooke This tight knit group gained five Huerter is lucky to Get your Heads in the Game The JV tennis team circles up before practice with all smiles. (Counter-clockwise startnew players this year: three freshmen have one of her best ing bottom center: Emma Shoemaker ‘17, Elly Minnick ‘17, and two juniors. friends play with her: Brooke Huerter ‘17, Katie Kennedy ‘19, Montana Harrington ‘19, Two freshmen, Morgan Mayer and junior Elly Minnick, Morgan Mayer ‘19, Emma Farhart ‘18, Tehra Finn-Jackson ‘17, Montana Harrington, have become who transferred this Lily Foley ‘17, Brianna Baumberger ‘18). photo by marykategarriott friends this season. “My favorite part year from Duchesne.

“It’s a fun sport.

The practices are very relaxed, which makes the sport that much more enjoyable.”

Sports • 13

of integrity.” She remembers watching a round when an opponent shot a clay pigeon, but the scorer thought the girl missed. The Marian girl competing raised her hand to alert the scorer of his mistake. The Marian girl ended up winning anyway, but it was the honorable act of winning honestly that made a lasting impact on Villarreal.

One group of shooters was able to shoot trap and attend Field Day. It was a busy day, but it was possible.

They started their day at Field Day and drove the nearly 150 miles to the shooting range to compete for their school.

The most competitive groups shoot in the morning, since conditions are most ideal early in the day. The wind tends to only get worse as the day goes on, making it more difficult to shoot later in the day.

The Marian trap team has earned prime spots early in the morning, and understandably, the team does not want to give them up. If the team gave up the time slots this year, another school would swoop in and grab them for this year and years to come.

Because of this, only five girls had the option to do both.

Many trap stars made their final, difficult decision to go to state trap and miss the anticipated Marian Field Day. This decision was not easy, since they were forced to choose between two groups of people who have impacted them in so many ways. On the morning of April 29, as most of the Marian student body were preparing for Field Day, the Marian trap team was shooting for the stars.

Field Day cheerleaders can do track blairekratochvil

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ield Day cheer and spring sports have always conflicted. Once spring rolls around, students contemplate and stress over which one they should engage in. However, in 2016, the normality has changed.

Track athletes and Field Day cheerleaders now have the ability to participate in both activities. “I get to be a part of something I’ve always wanted to be a part of...but now I have to wake up early,” junior Kelly Gehring said.

In past years, the coaches made the rule clear that it was either one or the other. On the other hand, no rule is stated in the athletic handbook or the Field Day rule book that a student must focus on one.

Track coach Greg Golka decided to challenge this regularity after a student asked to take part in both.

Golka said, “After some discussion among the administration, it was decided that there should be no obstacle to a student’s ability to do both.”

“My fear about allowing it was two-fold: first, if the athlete was injured doing either activity, both teams would be affected. Second, the physical demands and the time demands of both might affect the performance in both activities,” Golka said.

This new opportunity allows spring student athletes to get more involved in the Field Day tradition.

14 • Entertainment

The Network • April. 2016

Promposals

“My date pushes carts at HyVee so I sat in a cart in the middle of HyVee’s parking lot with a sign that said, ‘Can I cart you away to Prom?’” Julia Manganaro ‘17 said about her promposal.

“I just wanted to do something fun! I definitely stepped out of my comfort zone with this one, but seeing the look on my date’s face when he saw me sitting in a cart was priceless. It’s something I’ll always remember!” photo courtesy of Julia Manganaro ‘17 “I was over at his house the night before St. Patrick’s Day, and his mom was telling me all about their extremely Irish heritage, so I thought it would be a good idea to ask him to prom on St. Patrick’s Day,” Gigi Hausman ‘17 shared. “I think the thought you put into a promposal is what makes it special. Gifts are nice but if you have a personal and clever poster I think that’s even better.” photo courtesy of Gigi Hausman ‘17 “I had a scavenger hunt for him around Omaha and his goal was to try to find me. I hid the last clue in the visor of his car, because I knew he wouldn’t check it,” Meredith Ziele ‘17 described her promposal. “I got the idea from a friend. I was very unsure about what to do but she reminded me about the prom theme ‘Around the World.’” photo courtesy of Meredith Zielie ‘17

Prom Queen: Sofia Hingorani '16

graphic by elliemulligan

Prom Princesses:

Mary Kiscoan ‘16 Shayla Taute ‘16 Katelyn Gochenour ‘16 Kateri Determan ‘16 Carllie Meeks ‘16 Claire Davis ‘16 MaryKate Mulhall ‘16

Flo Rida concert was a ‘Wild One’

meganszwanek he Flo Rida concert had UNO’s Baxter arena in a “Good Feeling” on the night of April 7. Once he hit the stage, Omaha fans knew it was “Going Down for Real.” Singing all the recent and old fan favorites, Flo Rida made fans put their hands “In The Ayer” and “Jump” along to all the popular tunes. Flo fans didn’t just like it—they loved it.

After getting free glow sticks and customized #FloAtUNO sunglasses, fans took their seats and waited for the show to start. The opening acts consisted of a DJ group called Deaf Audio and a rap duo from Omaha called Both. Deaf Audio’s remixes of current, popular songs were actually very entertaining and easy to dance to. However, Both’s loud rap style, which consisted of mostly shrieking and yelling and awkward dance moves made for an uncomfortable performance that left many wondering if they should have skipped the opening acts and just come for Flo. Nonetheless, Flo’s outstanding performance and catchy songs made up for the unsatisfactory opening act. After starting with “Good Feeling,” Flo sang other fan favorites such as “GDFR,” “Right Round,” “Low,” “Wild Ones,” “Club Can’t Handle Me,” and even a verse from “Where Them Girls At.” Flo closed the show with his 2015 hit “My House.”

Unsurprisingly, Flo’s banging songs put the entire crowd on its feet and made everyone dance “Right Round” to his hits. The colorful spotlights and booming speakers made the entire arena feel like one big party. Flo also stayed connected with the crowd by bringing fans on stage during “Low.” He even had a body guard carry him through swarms of concert goers just so he could take selfies with fans.

Marian math teacher and committed Flo fan, Peter Cunningham, was spotted at the concert. Cunningham said his favorite Flo song is “My House” and that his favorite part of the concert was when Flo was carried through the crowd. According to Cunningham, if there was one thing he could say to Flo, it would be, “Come to Marian!”

Going to a Flo Rida concert is a “Once in a Lifetime” opportunity that I would highly recommend. Even if you don’t sport your Apple Bottom jeans and boots with the fur, you’re still guaranteed to get “Low” with Flo and have the time of your life.

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PRO M 2 0 16: Around the World anahingorani

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pray tans. Manicures. Teeth cured, a DJ had to be booked, counted up all the votes for whitening kits. High heels. tickets had to be sold, and of Prom Queen, and handed the Stiff hair after it has been course, the eight seniors who flowers to the Princesses at the doused in hairspray. Bow had been elected by their class coronation. “All eight of the ties. Floor length dresses. All as Prom Princesses needed a Princesses are classy, sophistithese words have one common coronation ceremony. cated, and hilarious,” Weremy connection: Prom.

“The most stressful part said. “I hope to be as confident On April 2, almost as them next 281 Marian girls and year when I’m their dates piled into a senior.” the Scoular Ballroom in When the downtown Omaha from time came for 9 p.m. to midnight and the emcee, danced the night away.

Social Studies While at Prom, no teacher Mrs. guest thinks about the Amy McLeay, Prom Com Prom Committee poses for a picture in the Scoular Ballpreparation and stress to announce room on the morning of Prom after setting up for the dance. the Prom Committee Prom Queen, The girls spent five months preparing for the big night. endured to make this Weremy simphoto courtesy of Bella Carollo ‘17 night magical for everyply smiled. one. Or about the fact that the about Prom was probably “I’d known for almost three entire Prom Committee was getting our ideas to come to months. Sofia is like an older at the Scoular Ballroom the life. That and making sure sister to me,” Weremy said of morning of Prom at 8. prom looked good, not like the 2016 Prom Queen, Sofia A team of 13 juniors and the it was thrown together last Hingorani. two Prom Committee moderminute,” Prom Committee Members of the Prom ators, English teachers Mrs. member, junior Lucy Fishburn Committee also had to stay Amy Bauman and Ms. Megan said. after Prom and clean up, but Piernicky, met for the first Another junior, Rachel none of them minded. time before school on Aug. Weremy, had her own opinion.

“Prom this year rocked. I 25, and almost every Tuesday “Deadlines were difficult to was very impressed with how morning after that. meet, and ordering everything cool the ballroom turned out.

It was during these early we needed wasn’t easy. We Here’s hoping that next year meetings that this group of got through it though, and the goes just as well!” the Prom hardworking juniors decided best part was seeing it all come Queen, senior Sofia Hingorani upon a theme: Around the together. Hearing everyone tell said.

World. us we did a good job was very With the consistent flow of From there, the real work rewarding,” Weremy said. creative junior minds who join began. Decorations had to be Weremy was also the memProm Committee every year, bought, a venue had to be seber of prom committee who that shouldn’t be a problem.

Quiz: Which teacher are you?

1. What do you like to do in your free time?

a. Go to Starbucks and read

b. Go out to dinner with friends

c. Relax and maybe pick up a good book

d. Play basketball outside

e. Babysit

f. Travel

If you answered mostly “As”...

You are most like theology and Latin teacher Mr. Mark Koesters! You are a big fan of kickin’ back, relaxing, and reading a good book in Starbucks, and you could eat lasagna forever!

If you answered mostly “Bs”...

You are most like English teacher Ms. Susie Sisson!

Dogs are the all-time greatest animals, and you will never hesitate to sing along with those jazzy 80s songs!

2. If you could be any animal what would you be?

a. Bird

b. Dog

c. Tiger If you answered mostly “Cs”...

d. Gorilla You are most like science

e. Grizzly Bear teacher Mrs. Stacy Tunink!

f. Dolphin You are always down to sit

and watch a Big Bang Theory marathon with some awesome pizza, and you can also jam out to some 80s rock music.

3. What is your favorite kind of music?

a. Golden oldies from the 1950’s

b. 80s power ballads

c. 80s Rock

d. 90s or early 2000s

e. Any Bob Dylan song

f. Lesser known artists who tell stories 4. If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life what would it be?

a. Lasagna

b. Steak

c. Pizza

d. Chicken Parmesan

e. Breakfast Burritos

f. Seafood

If you answered mostly “Ds”...

You are most like math teacher Mr. Peter Cunningham! There is nothing like listening to a classic 90s song and chicken parmesan can be life changing.

If you answered mostly “Es”...

5. What is your favorite TV show?

a. Seinfeld

b. Blackish

c. Big Bang Theory

d. Sports Center

e. Meet the Press

f. Everybody Loves Raymond Take an online version of this quiz at mariandigitalnetwork.wordpress.com graphic by mariagallegos

You are most like social studies teacher Mr. David Anderson! You love hanging out with little kiddos just as much as Mr. Anderson loves spending time with his kids, and grizzly bears are way cool.

If you answered mostly “Fs”...

You are most like theology teacher Mrs. Lori Spanbauer!

If you could travel all the time, you would, and the perfect seafood plate of baked fish, crab legs, and lobster would make you the happiest person in the world!

April 2016 • The Network

Entertainment • 15

Let’s acknowledge the elephants in the room

annanulty ew friends have arrived and new sites are coming soon to the Henry Doorly Zoo. The new elephants arrived in Omaha on March 11 in a group of 18 and were ushered straight into quarantine.

The elephants were living in Swaziland in Africa.

The group of 18 elephants sent over from Africa was in danger of being killed as a result of overpopulation in Big Game Parks.

Big Game Parks are large areas of land where wild animals are able to live safely or be hunted in a controlled way.

The Omaha zoo is keeping six of the 18 elephants, while the rest will be divided between two zoos in Wichita, Kansas, and Dallas, Texas. In exchange for these elephants, the United States will pay $450,000 over the next five years to the Big Game Parks in Swazi-

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land in an effort to conserve rhinos in Swaziland.

The excitement surrounding the elephants was palpable and was even felt throughout the halls of Marian.

Teachers and students were abuzz about Omaha’s new, bigeared pals. Elephant-enthusiast and theology teacher, Mr. Kevin Fuller promoted the live feed of the elephants on opening day.

“I was very excited when I heard about elephants coming! According to trip advisor, we had the number one zoo in the world but San Diego stole it from us. With elephants, ours will be number one again because we’re the best,” Fuller said.

“They hide food all over the cage and walk on sand so their feet don’t get hurt. The boy elephant is injured, so he can’t be displayed. The mom is in charge and the dominant elephant, so she gets to eat first. The zoo will be

selling peanuts to feed the elephants!”

Fuller can hardly contain his excitement.

“Elephants are my favorite animal and I was so excited to see them back at the zoo,” junior Sophie Dineen said.

The original elephant exhibit left the zoo in 2010, and the new elephants will be housed in the Elephant Family Quarters in a new exhibit on the eastern border of the zoo. The exhibit is called African Grasslands. This exhibit will include an African style lodge, the Elephant Family Quarters, and Giraffe Herd Rooms. The exhibit is a $73 million investment and will turn out to be about 28 acres.

Along with the African Grasslands, the zoo plans to unveil The Alaskan Adventure, an Alaskan-themed project complete with life-sized whale sculptures and running water.

“The Humpback is about 7 tons and the Orcas are about 2.5 tons each,” said Kyle McCawley, the Larkin Aquatics Project Manager who helped design the water features for this exhibit.

The Alaskan Adventure, located in

Home, Sweet Home Six elephants were introduced to their temporary living quarters and the public on March 11. The elephants will hopefully be moved to the African Grasslands exhibit by the end of summer 2016. photo by annanulty

the northern part of the zoo near the Aviary, is predicted to be open to the public around Memorial Day. This summer will be a great time to visit the zoo and see all the new exhibits. Gather your friends and stampede over to the zoo; it’ll be a whale of a time! graphics by emmaherold

Do Space: Technology library of the future here now

review by tehrafinnjackson o Space is a place of the future; a space where all of the current technology is available for everyone. You don’t have to be skilled in technology or own all of the Apple products in the world to enjoy the innovative facility.

Do Space is the new Omaha technology library located on the southwest corner of 72nd and Dodge in the former Borders building.

It officially opened Nov. 7, and it’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

As you enter, you can see rows and rows of computers.

Do Space provides free­ access to 219 desktop computers, laptops, and tablets that are all equipped with the up­-to-­date software, applications

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including Adobe and Microsoft. The open wi­fi makes it easy to bring your own devices in and work on whatever you want.

One of the greatest aspects for students is the teen room. This is a special space designed for youth so that they can check out laptops, finish a creative project, or go to play games. The abstract design and cool furniture draw all eyes in. It’s a fun spot for groups or just a place to study alone after school.

With a Dunkin’ DoCOFFEE nuts located in the same building, sugar highs and caffeine-­filled study sessions just got more convenient.

The only thing in the building that needs to be paid for is the printing, specifically the 3D printing. The 3D lab has 3D printers, a 3D scanner, and a laser cutter. The 3D printing only costs $3 per cubic ­inch, which

is a deal for the new face of printing. All you have to do is send in a design and a member of the staff will help you print it.

Simple, easy, and enabling.

I highly recommend trying out the library. All you Much to “Do” at Do Space The new technology library on the corner of need is a cur72nd and Dodge has a modern yet welcoming atmosphere. It opened last rent Do Space November and provides all of the up-to-date technologies. Do Space is run membership

by Community Information Trust, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization formed card. It can

by Heritage Services and launched with private donations. photo by tehrafinnjackson be applied for online or in bring a flash drive to save any work. person and you can pick it up at the It really opens up technology to front desk. everyone in the city, offering the It is easy to lose yourself and spend facilities and equipment to go out and hours in the facility. They wipe all of “Do.” the computers and laptops clean at the end of the day, so make sure to graphics by emmaherold

Easy May Day Basket Step 1: Cut off 1/2 inch of colored construction paper.

Step 2: Using the larger portion of the construction paper, cut out a large circle.

Step 3: Cut a radius into the center of the circle (see step 3 photo), then roll into a cone and staple to secure it.

Step 4: Staple the strip of paper to each side, making a handle, and decorate if you want (see step 4 photo).

Step 5: Using a marker, write a fun spring or May Day message on the paper.

Step 6: Add popcorn and fun treats, such as M&M’S, Skittles, or other candies.

Step 7: Deliver in person or leave on a door handle (see step 7 photo). graphic by sydneymonahan

16 • Photo Essay

The Network • April 2016

Cotton Candy Monster

Student Board Vice President Claire Davis ‘16 hands cotton candy to Mya Bell ‘18 while enthusiastically celebrating Surprise Day. “It was hilarious seeing everybody get really surprised, then go absolutely bonkers. I had such a great day, and I’m going to miss looking forward to it next year!” Davis said. This year Surprise Day was sneakily planned to be on the same day as Color Block, March 16. Student Board members revealed the surprise while students were in an assembly and the lights were killed. They emerged from the locker room hallway with flashlights and a choreographed dance. photo by alliemorrissey

Surprise Day 2016 So Much to Do,Yet So Little Time

A herd of juniors bounce around from room to room, deciding what fun activity to enjoy next. Do they run to the Quad to get their pictures taken in the photo booth or head over to the West Gym for the legendary dance party? So many options! photo by marykategarriott

Cheesin’

Kierstyn Wattier ‘16 and Katrina McCutcheon ‘16 show off their new face paint in the photo booth. McCutcheon rocks the puppy paws to go with her classic dog face, while Wattier sports the new and popular giraffe. photo by alliemorrissey

Who Let the Dogs Out?

Caitlin Wessling ‘18, Kaylie Ewing ‘18, and Anna Mikulicz ‘18 (from front to back) started off Surprise Day by heading to the top of the Quad steps to go play with Coco, B.J. Hicks-Addison’s chocolate lab.

Student Board worked with Mrs. Jane Campbell, technology specialist, and her boxer-beagle mix, Max, to coordinate bringing in therapy dogs from Love on a Leash. See page 10 for more information on Love on a Leash. photo by alliemorrissey

Today's the Day

#Winning

After completing the inflatable obstacle course, Katie Kennedy ‘19 and Lily Blake ‘19 shared laughs as they wiped out in a race for first place. “Obviously, I won!” Blake said. photo by alliemorrissey

Sarah McMeen ‘17 starts screaming in excitement as soon as Surprise Day is confirmed. “The second I saw those red sweatshirts and flashlights, I knew Surprise Day was finally here! I was so surprised it was unreal!” she said. photo by amaleapoulos