Marian High School Network Student Newspaper - March 2021

THE NETWORK MARIAN

VOLUME SIXTY-FIVE • ISSUE SIX • MARCH 2021 MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL • 7400 MILITARY AVENUE OMAHA, NE 68134 • WWW.MARIANDIGITALNETWORK.COM

Anniversary of pandemic highlights struggles of online learning

AnnaDailey & FrannieCihunka

T

his month marks a year since “online learning” has ter that happens among teachers and students.” the area. become a norm at Marian and across the globe.

Luckily, Koesters has been able to find some positive “That was over 20 years ago, and we didn’t have When the pandemic began, all of Marian spent the aspects of virtual teaching.“It was difficult at first, but the technology we have today, though,” Schmidt said. fourth quarter learning and teaching from the comfort of now I’ve gotten used to it,” Koesters said. “It actually “While I would still prefer to be in an actual classroom, their homes. Although most of Marian is now in-person, goes smoothly regarding the logistics of teaching. I can the technology available today makes virtual learning some students are still learning from home and haven’t go down the seating chart and call on everyone to answer manageable and does allow for quite a bit of interaction.” entered the building in more than a year. questions. I feel there is more equal participation in the On Feb. 22, Principal Susie Sullivan sent out her Senior Arianna Saetelle has only attended one day of class since I am not observing body language.” Koesters weekly “News You Can Use” for students with the in-person classes since the beginning of the pandemic. says he believes that, “it’s difficult to know students when announcement that, “only those students on the official “The last time I was at school in person was in January. I all I see is a name and a face on a seating chart.”

Learning From Home list will be allowed to Zoom went back for a day, but didn’t feel comfortable enough Mandarin teacher Mr. Jun Shao and math teacher class,” beginning on March 15. Previously, any student to stay in person,” Saetelle said. Despite the safety was able to learn from home. Some students who and cleaning protocols Marian has put in place to were online learning have decided to come back to limit the spread of COVID-19, being around so the building so they don’t have to spend the rest of many people can still be threatening for some. the year online and can participate in sports and “The best part about online learning is that I get other in-person activities such as Surprise Day and to feel comfortable in my surroundings. The worst Field Day. part is that I don’t get to see any of my friends from Senior Jayla Kuhn had not been in the building school,” Saetelle said. since September before coming back at the beginStill, Zoom doesn’t compare to learning in the ning of the fourth quarter. “I was online learning classroom. For some students, online learning has because the numbers [of COVID cases] were getting created challenges when it comes to grasping inforhigher, and my parents thought it was best for me mation. Sophomore Kayleigh Watson has been at to stay home so I wouldn’t be at such a high risk home since September after having surgery and befor COVID,” Kuhn said. Kuhn returned to school cause she lives with her high-risk grandma. “Somebecause of Marian’s lower numbers and so she could times I feel it would be easier learning a topic if I participate in more school traditions at the end of her was in the building,” Watson said. She works extra senior year. Kuhn originally thought she could not hard to figure out the topics she doesn’t immediateattend graduation if she was not in person learning, Mr. Mark Koesters gets ready for class from his Campus Ministry office. ly understand in class and tries to stay positive about a misunderstanding that has since been clarified to Photo by NaomiDelkamiller the situation. “I have to realize I am doing this for my seniors. grandma, not myself,” Watson said.

Mrs. Lisa Schmidt have been teaching remotely as well.

“I know that my grandparents want to see me graduNot only is the school missing some students; it’s Schmidt is teaching from home per the advice of her ate,” Kuhn said. “It means a lot to them, so it’s the least I missing some teachers. Mr. Mark Koesters has not been doctor, but would rather be teaching in the classroom. “I could do.” teaching from home, but from an enclosed office in guess it has been a year since I’ve been in the classroom Virtual school has been a difficult process for stuCampus Ministry. “It’s been a year since I have been in with students,” Schmidt said. Because of Schmidt’s past dents. Learning through a screen takes more focus and front of students,” Koesters said. Koesters is at a higher experiences with online teaching, Marian’s transition to more effort to socialize with friends and family safely. risk to contract the virus due to his age, so he teaches in online learning wasn’t too difficult for her.

Despite the physical distance between some students and the building but away from the student body. “Distance Schmidt taught in a small, rural school in northeast teachers, the Marian community continues to learn and learning says it all. I feel distant from the students, and Nebraska when she was a student teacher. The calculus be together, whether literally or through a screen. there is a lack of the personal contact and friendly chatclass she taught was offered remotely to other schools in

“Distance learning says it all.

I feel distant from the students.”

“I am doing this for my grandma, not myself.”

Gr aph ics

s ay

by MaddieGenow

“I don’t get to see any of my friends from school.”

Senior retreat celebrates years of sisterhood, spirituality Photos by LexiKetcham

A senior retreat group poses with leaders Sarah Ritterling and Caelan Reinhart outside of St. Leo’s during a break.

Seniors Bella Bortolotti, Sophia Simmons and Maddie Mitchell pose between activities.

Seniors sing during Mass at St. Leo’s Church, presided by Fr. Craig Loecker.

02 News

March 2021

Marian progresses toward diversity and inclusion, but is it enough?

NatalieCusick

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n the first edition of the Network this year, an entire In Depth (center spread) was dedicated to Black Lives Matter. In the center of the pages were two lists: “steps taken” and “steps planned” for Marian to reach its goal of racial equity, diversity and inclusion within the school community specifically. Marian is now in the fourth quarter of the school year and doesn’t have much longer to check the boxes left empty of “steps planned.”

In August 2020 Marian hired its first Director of Diversity and Inclusion, Miss Devin Owens, to help work through the steps and keep adding to the list of ways Marian can become more inclusive.

The first item on the list was recently completed in January 2021 but had been in the works since the beginning of the year: a student Diversity Board. It is currently made up of four members who had been leading the work last year and were passed onto Miss Owens through teachers and counselors. “This year we have four people, next year I want 12 minimum,” Owens said.

President of the Diversity Board, senior Lauren Harris, has been passionate about this step since the summer. She was quoted in our August In Depth spread saying: “With a student Diversity Board, every color at Marian will be represented.”

Now, she says, “I think there definitely has been progress made because also along with everything that the Diversity Board has been doing, the faculty has also been doing diversity training.”

This factuly and staff diversity training

began with reading a devotional-style these conversations have continued in book titled “Me and White Supremacy” spaces such as I.D.E.A.S. club, IncluCity,

by Layla Saad. “We would have group Donuts and Diversity and CAB. Harris discussions bi-weekly. I developed the especially encourages white students to questions that the teachers and staff get involved in these spaces. “Joining answered, and at the same time we were I.D.E.A.S. club is a big thing–it’s not just also working with this speaker who works for students of color–it’s for everyone,” in racial equity named Abena Imhotep,” Harris said.

Owens said.

Two of the “steps planned” have not The next item on Marian’s list toward come to fruition due to COVID-19 a more inclusive community is “enhanced restrictions. As for an alumnae diversihandbook policy relevant to racist bety board, Owens said, “it might be an havior,” but Owens said “this is actually advisory board or just a group of alumnae something that will be bigger than who care.” A student multicultural Marian.” The Archdiocese of Omanight is being held off until it ha is working with area Directors can involve food and more of Diversity and Inclusion engaging activities which are such as Owens, high school currently prohibited. principals and students of all Even with COVID-19 grade levels to create policy restrictions, 15 Marian stuthat will affect real change. dents were able to particiThe Archdiocese is taking an pate in the virtual IncluCity educational approach to this issue workshop, “At the Intersecin order to obliterate the longtion of Race and Gender” on term thoughts and behaviors that March 5-6. Students were Graphic by QuinnFindley create racism. “It’s gonna take able to meet at Marian to a while… we’re going to middle join the Zoom and then discuss schools and elementary schools and in-person. testing it out to make sure that it’s effecFinally on the list of steps planned tive,” Owens said. This “testing” involves is “student-led programming for peeractivities such as racial listening circles, to-peer teaching,” which is happening where a group is given a specific topic and through the Diversity Board. “Our goal structure to guide a conversation. is to increase diversity awareness and Schoolwide racial awareness converinclusion inside of Marian and have the sations in small group settings took place space to have uncomfortable talks so that formally at the beginning of the school we get to know each other better and feel year after the tragic deaths of many Black more close as a community,” Harris said. people in the United States. Since then, The Board began its mission in Febru-

ary by leading the celebrations for Black History Month. “Some of the activities that we’ve done for Black History Month is on our Instagram @MarianDiversityBoard. We posted 28 Black pioneers, so one each day, and talked about what they’ve done for the Black community,” Harris said.

The Diversity Board, along with others, also created a mural to hang above Marian’s front entrance. “It is supposed to represent a tree to show roots, or Black culture. We chose 28 Black pioneers to put at the end of the roots, because they help inspire Black culture and make it what it is today. The hair is supposed to be a Black woman but also the top of a tree, and it had different words like ‘powerful, intelligent and kind’ to represent what Black people are and what our culture is,” Harris said.

Through the presentation of the mural, education led by the Diversity Board and a Crusader Activity Block that featured members of I Be Black Girl, the Marian community was reminded of the importance of making diversity and inclusion an active part of the school. “I do think we’ve been taking a lot of steps to change, but there’s always more room for improvement,” Harris said.

Even though not all of Marian’s steps planned for racial equity have been completed, those leading the work have hope. “I just have to remind myself that this work will take time, but we’re making really meaningful steps given unprecented circumstances,” Owens said.

Students take on government roles in virtual Harvard Model Congress EmilySalzman

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very year, Marian gives students an opportunity to fly out to Boston for a weekend and take on specific roles in government during Harvard Model Congress (HMC). This conference gives students the opportunity to find out how the United States government works by going through the everyday processes which a person in their assigned position would handle. This year, as many events were, HMC was moved to an online platform with students zooming in from around the country for their committee session at designated times throughout the day.

Marian and Creighton Prep decided to come together for HMC this year and took turns hosting the participating students at their schools. Marian social studies teachers Mrs. Jillian Roger and Mrs. Katy Salzman, English teacher Ms. Susie Sisson, and Creighton Prep social studies teacher Mr. Tom Haindfield were the organizers for this year’s HMC. Senior Omaima Lado prepares “Marian for her committee session. and Prep

teachers tried our hardest to try to make a few examples of the committees which the event special and give students an were available to students. Students take environment to feel like they were partic- on the role of their assigned delegate ipating in a great conference,” Roger said. within their committee and must do The Conference took place from research in order to follow along with Feb. 18-20 and hosted more than 1,500 their congressperson’s beliefs during their students from all around the country committee sessions. with 11 being from Marian and 12 from Sophomore Mariana Vazquez Rosas Prep. The students from Marian and Prep was one of the participants in this year’s began the weekend at Prep and then HMC. “I was in the Senate HELP went over to Marian for the next two committee where I represented Wyoming days. Having a virtual senator Mike conference allowed for Enzi ... I more students to pardecided to ticipate, as the cost was participate significantly cheaper in it (HMC) than it would be if the because conference had been my speech held in Boston. “Norskills were Marian and Prep students take a break from their mally, students would definitely congressional work to socialize in the Haddix. expect to spend around not at their $1100 before even arriving in Boston. highest. I also wanted an opportunity This amount includes the airfare, 4-night to meet new people! I had so much fun stay at a 4-star hotel, chaperone expenses, and learned so many life skills,” Vazquez as well as other delegate/school fees ... By Rosas said. contrast, this year’s delegates paid $120,” Overall, there were four awards given Haindfield said. to students from Creighton Prep and one In preparation for the conference, award given to a Marian student. Creighstudents were assigned to a specific comton Prep senior Michael Lukaszewicz mittee several months beforehand. The earned honorable mention for his role on Senate judiciary committee, the Supreme the National Security Council A, junior Court, the Constitutional Convention, Patrick Kealey received an honorable and the House of Representatives are just mention for his work on the Senate Se-

lect Committee on Intelligence, junior Jack McNally received the award for best Junior Melina Piperis set up for her delegate committee session. on the committee of House Homeland Security A, junior Dongkyu Lee received best delegate on his House Select Committee on Climate Crisis A, and junior Brendan Preisman won best delegate for his role on Media. Marian also had an award as senior Omaima Lado received an honorable mention for her work on the National Security Council A. HMC gives students a great opportunity to find out the everyday processes that the US government goes through and allows them to see first hand what is required to write and pass bills, argue court cases, and debate top issues in politics today.

“In a country as diverse as the United States, people are going to disagree about what the rules should be for society.

Knowing how government works is essential to solving any problems,” Haindfield said.

Seniors go forth and rise above at final class retreat LexiKetcham

S il y s b am hic elk ap iD Gr aom N ler

enior retreat, which took place on March 19, was the Class of 2021’s final retreat allowing them to bond with their classmates and prepare for their last months of high school together.

Senior retreat leader Kara Constantino prepared for retreat by attending weekly meetings and coordinating ideas with her co-leader, senior Mary Cate Tabor. Constantino was excited to work with Mary Cate knowing they would feed off each other’s energy and create a positive atmosphere for their group together.

She decided to be a retreat leader because

she feels retreats are an important way of bonding as a class and building connections with each other. “I am hoping my group got a sense of comfort knowing that they end their time at Marian on a good note and can look back at their last four years here in a positive way,” Constantino said.

Senior Sarah Burbach’s favorite part of retreat was getting to know her classmates more. She felt she was able to bond more with everyone in her group as they are people she hasn’t spent a lot of time with at Marian.

“My expectations going into retreat was

that it would help me grow closer to my class and I was able to do that through different, fun activities,” Burbach said.

She said her expectations were exceeded and enjoyed growing relationships with her classmates and God. Knowing her time at Marian is coming to an end, Burbach said, “I will spend the rest of high school trying to further my connections with my peers and cherishing my time here at Marian.”

March 2021

News 03

Reflection from Sr. Jackie

History buffs Ceci Urbanski ’23, Skylar McGarry ’22, Clare Degan ’22, Anna Rasgorshek ’22 and Abby Jurecek ’22 (inset) have projects competing at state National History Day level.

Omaha District National History Day Contest winners move on to state competition Five students have their projects from social studies class moving to the next level. “I’m really proud of them,” social studies teacher Ms. Jessica Jordano said.

“They took the effort to find resources and sift through them to find the best information to fit the theme ‘Communication: Key to Understanding’.”

In Documentaries, junior Anna Rasgorshek earned first place with her project on America’s Pastime and Communication. Junior Skylar McGarry won third place for her project on Communication Used During WWII. In the Papers category, sophomore Ceci Urbanski won first place with her

paper on The Navajo Code: The Key to Understanding Identity. Junior Abby Juracek won second place with her paper on Mr. Rogers and Communication through Television. Junior Clare Degan won third place for her paper on The Critical and Crucial Cuban Missile Crisis.

“I have high hopes for them at the state level,” Jordano said. The state competition is at the end of April. Winners there go on to the national level of competition.

Other teachers involved in the project were Mr. Chris Dziadus and Mrs. Jillian Roger.

We [the Sisters] pray for everybody. I pray for everybody all the time, every day. Like yesterday, we had a shooting in Boulder, Colorado; a few days ago, we had that Atlanta shooting.

It’s just beyond me.

That’s how this country started; [some people] felt they weren’t being treated equally in other places so they came here and … we’re still not treating people equally.

So my prayer is that we have a major conversion to God. God really loves all of us … It doesn’t matter what nationality, race, religion or age we are. God created us all equally … We’re all of the human race.

I thought we had come [a ways] for a while, but lately it just seems like we don’t respect people. I’m sure I’m not perfect at it, and all I feel like I can do is pray that God, in some way, will straighten this all out.

It might not be today or tomorrow, but I know that it will end.

We just have to help each other out and hold each other accountable.

To hear people making derogatory comments about other people, I just say, “Stop and let’s pray.”

Sr. Jackie Thorn, OSM

Petroleum demand, proposed Keystone XL Pipeline concern Nebraska farmers

Graphic by MaddieGenoways

SophiaVirgillito

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n an attempt to save the environment, protect to run through ranching and agricultural areas, and natural habitats as well as Midwestern farms and benzene [a natural consistent in crude oil] will kill reduce air pollution, plans for the Keystone XL, an a person, but if it were to leak on a farm or in the expansion of the current Keystone Pipeline, have aquifer, we would not be able to use the well [on my been canceled by President Joe Biden. land] or neighboring wells. We would not be able to The existing Keystone Pipeline travels from irrigate crops or haul water in for livestock. NebrasAlberta, Canada to Elm Creek, Canada, then south kans rely on irrigation for crops, [so] without irrigainto the United States through North Dakota, tion it would run a lot of farmers out of business,” Nebraska, Oklahoma and Texas. It carries crude oil, Tanderup said. commonly known as petroleum, which is then used Other Nebraskans support the pipeline, as it to make fuels, like the kind pumped into cars and would bring in more jobs and tax revenue to the rural jets. It is first drilled from beneath the earth’s surface communities. and then transported through the pipeline starting in The current pipeline is a way to get petroleum, Canada to refiners in Texas and distribution centers which is then turned into gasoline, from an outside in Oklahoma. source into the United States. This provides cars According to the Global Energy Institute (www. with fuel to travel. In the past year, the demand for globalenergyinstitute.org/keystone-xl-pipeline), the gasoline was lower because of the pandemic, as state Keystone XL was proposed to “provide the United guidelines encouraged many to stay home. With States with the opportunity to access safe, reliable, lessening restrictions currently, travel has increased and affordable energy supplies from Canada, and along with the demand for gasoline. The prices of reduce our need to import crude oil from less stable gasoline usually rise during this time of the year due countries and regions of the world.” to maintenance at refineries.

The new pipeline would run southeast through TransCanada Energy (www.tcenergy.com/stories/ Montana and connect to Neenergy-sources/5-reaKeya braska at the old pipeline. sons-to-support-keyBoyd Paha The Keystone XL would stone-xl) gives “five bring new jobs to the U.S. reasons to support Holt Proposed Keystone XL line Antelope but would also impact the enKeystone XL,” saying it vironment, farming grounds, could create many jobs igh Madison l e and air pollution. for Midwesterners, emStanton N In Nebraska, the Keystone power North America’s XL would run through Keya economy, strengthen Paha, Boyd, Holt, Antelope energy security, have ha a and Madison Counties, then minimal impact on m O connect in Stanton County. the environment, and Platte River Nebraska’s farmers, many have enhanced crude Current Keystone line of whom would see effects oil safety measures. of the pipeline on their lands Allowing the expansion and livestock, are working would allow the U.S. to against its production. Art reduce dependence on Counties and cities affected by Keystone XL Pipeline.

Tanderup is one of them.

Middle Eastern oil and Tanderup was approached increase access to Amerin 2012 by a representative of TC Energy, as the ican-owned options. It is argued that the pipeline new pipeline would cross he and his wife Helen’s increases pollution, but without it the transportation land in Neligh, Neb. in Antelope County. Tanderup of oil by truck would increase, creating more air is concerned about the oil leaking into the Ogallala pollution.

Aquifer, which runs under most of Nebraska. This The pipeline is useful for the transportation of would expose the water to the harsh chemicals and crude oil to cities, but critics say it could hurt Nepotentially contaminate it. braskan farms, agriculture, livestock and irrigation if “In Nebraska, it [the Keystone XL] is planned expansion continues.

Last year

Last month

The cancellation of the Keystone XL pipeline means that Midwesterners do not have a direct source of petroleum

Last week

Current

With lessening COVID-19 restrictions, people are driving to work and school again, increasing the demand for gas

Oil refineries shut down for maintenance in late winter, reducing supply and spiking prices

Accelerate smoothly Avoid extended idling to warm up engine Coast to a stop instead of braking heavily Source: American Automobile Association (AAA)

04 Opinion

The irony in the flag of freedom creates false image of U.S. Opinion by FrannieCihunka

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merica, “the land of the free,” doesn’t feel so free to me anymore. I don’t know if you noticed, but a couple hundred people adorned in American flags took over the Capitol building to stop a rightful election just because they didn’t agree with the results. It feels like every radical rioter I see sports the flag, whether it be Trump’s or the Stars and Stripes. Suddenly, our freedom flag doesn’t mean having the respect to allow others to make their own choices. To me, it’s

Graphic by Gaea Kaan starting to look like bigotry, racism and hatred.

Many extremists have an American flag, Trump flag, “blue lives matter” flag or even a confederate flag. This

March 2021

these problems altogether. Now, they are getting called out for contributing to the problem, and they’re upset by it. It’s almost as if their memories of the “better days” completely gloss over the social problems faced by minorities, women and anyone who wasn’t a white straight male.

We can’t forget this past, not because it was better, but because we can’t go back to it. We can’t forget awful things because we need to be sure not to repeat them.

Extremists just don’t see or don’t want to see the many complicated issues facing our country because they think it doesn’t affect them, or it tarnishes the image of “America the Great.” However, if America doesn’t educate themselves on these issues, the problem will only get worse. It’s not social activists who are ruining the image of America, it’s the people who think we should just “forget” slavery happened or that racism doesn’t still exist. Take one look at our justice system and tell me racism doesn’t exist. The 13th Amendment still allows slavery through incarceration.

The documentary “The 13th” on Netflix explains it better than I could, so I highly suggest you watch it to learn more about these issues.

I just don’t understand how or why the flag should be considered “sacred.” It has importance because it’s obviously a representation of the country, but why can it be as holy as a crucifix? Patriotism isn’t religion. Extremists with extreme pride need to realize America isn’t the center of the universe; it’s where we live. America is not the best country ever. There’s no such thing as the best country ever. We should have pride in where we live, but we need to make some changes. Right now, I’m not proud of America. Regardless of your political party, I think we should all be able to agree on the fact that we have some work to do.

It’s important to have pride in our country, but right now our country is a mess. We can’t be proud of mistakes we aren’t fixing. The flag doesn’t symbolize freedom to other countries anymore. To outsiders, we’re not seen as “America the beautiful,” we’re seen as “America, the land where women don’t have equal pay, we mass incarcerate African Americans and kids are scared to get shot at their own school.”

on them to be there for me when I do but feeling entirely responsible for my well on a test or swim a best time. But little sister definitely was. most importantly, when I’m left out of Suddenly, I wanted to do everything last-minute sleepovers and party plans, with Melanie. I was finally appreciative they build me up and make me feel inof all the morning Scooter’s trips and cluded. Call Nicholas me sentimenSparks movies tal, but there she would isn’t anything stay up until I wouldn’t midnight to give for those watch with simple times me. Every when we morning that were together, summer after carefree. But I got home nothing is from swim forever. practice, I was Two in her room, summers ago, probably Melanie was earlier than preparing to she would’ve Jessica ‘21 poses with her sisters Charli ‘23 and Melanie leave home liked, ready ‘19. Photo courtesy of JessicaBrusnahan for college. to ask her to I’ve always go shopping known being a sibling would be a fullall over town. At the time, I didn’t realize time job, but it got significantly harder how annoying I was. when I was the only one to look after That is, until I started my senior year Charli. I felt like I had to pick up a lot of of high school. Especially in this last the slack around the house. Maybe giving semester, I am now faced with the scary, rides and doing the dishes wasn’t so bad, at times wholly overwhelming, fact that

in five short months I will be leaving home. For good. And the questions I have for my parents and my older sister just haven’t stopped, from how to fix a dent in a fender to what qualities I should look for in a roommate.

I really underestimated how much longer I would have at home. I’ll have to get used to eating food court chicken nuggets on a Saturday night instead of my dad’s marinated, melt-in-your-mouth steaks. I’ll have to forget the ease of hopping in my Honda Pilot on a whim for a midnight drive and instead learn how to navigate on-campus transportation options. Probably the biggest change of all, I’ll have to grow up really fast and truly be independent. This homebody has to break out of her shell.

I now feel the sudden urge to tell Charli everything I felt Melanie didn’t get the chance to tell me. I want her to know that I’ll always be there for her, even if that means a weekly FaceTime just to catch up. I’m still going to be a part of our family, I’ll just have to experiment with how I stay connected when the physical aspect just isn’t possible.

summer, during the Black Lives Matter protests, I saw one or all of these flags there in the crowds of counter protesters.

It looks like extremists were using the flag of “the land of the free” to promote the disrespect of other human beings.

Patriotism suddenly seemed toxic, because these extremists define their discrimination as love for their country. When all I see on the news are extremists promoting un-American ideals waving the flag, I stop seeing the flag as representative of something good. If a racist person is holding the flag, it doesn’t represent freedom. If rioters storm the Capitol to stop a fair election waving the flag, it doesn’t represent democracy. It’s gotten to the point where when I see someone with a flag hanging off their car, or wearing a flag on their shirt, I assume the worst.

Now, of course I don’t think patriotism is a bad thing. I see patriotism daily in social activism. However, I think certain extremists are holding on to the patriotism of an older America, where we kept human beings as slaves and women couldn’t vote. It feels like extremists miss that old America because they could get away with racism or sexism, or just ignore

Separation brought out the best in relationships with sisters

Column by JessicaBrusnahan

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f I’ve said it once, I’ve said it a million times: the middle child is the most underrated person in a family.

On this stance I won’t waver. Middle children have to juggle the superiority complex of their older sibling(s) with the unruly, stubborn mindsets of their younger siblings. In simpler terms, being a middle child is incredibly thankless and exhausting. So to my sisters, you’re welcome.

Sisterhood is, and probably always will be, something only sisters (biological or chosen) will understand. There are just some things about myself that I would never tell my closest friends, but my sisters joke about every day. I’ve learned that to really cement a relationship, you have to be willing to put your full trust in someone and never look back. Sure, there’s going to be some pain, but that’s how you know there’s real love.

My older sister Melanie and younger sister Charli really are my best friends.

Even though the three of us are separated by four years, I relate to them better than anyone else I know. Literally. They know my ins and outs. I can always count

The summer the world grew up and so did I Column by NatalieCusick

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’ll always remember the summer of 2020 as the summer I became an adult.

I was soon to turn 18 and vote in my first election, but I was forced into adulthood months before I would register to vote.

But I think the whole world was forced to grow up.

All of a sudden we were all forced to drop our lives, and all of a sudden, life changed. All of a sudden we were forced into hard conversations about our political beliefs when we couldn’t ignore the violence and hardship in our own cities.

But what started as a response to injustice became a “political issue.”

All of a sudden we were forced to respond to a pandemic we knew nothing about. But what started as a means of protecting yourself and others in the midst of a global pandemic became a “political issue.” So what was a standard practice at the start of the summer of 2020 was your political affiliation written on your face by the end.

I remember what it was like to walk through the halls at school or into work without knowing every single person’s political leaning and taking that into account in conversations.

The summer of 2020 also broke my heart. It broke my heart to hear nothing from some people I love when innocent lives were lost and then outrage when windows were broken. I cried every time I had to argue with an extended family member or friend over what seemed to “naive” me were simple human rights.

It broke my heart to go on to social media every day to see people trying so hard to disagree with people asking for not much more than basic respect.

That’s the thing that was the most frustrating: people going out of their way to be ignorant. Going out of their way not to wear a mask for one minute while ordering coffee. Going out of their way to deny their own privilege.

I’ll never forget my first shift after

the mask mandate had been passed. It was 6 a.m. when my first regular came in who refused to wear a mask. I am a very hot-headed person, so I was surprised by the overwhelming feeling that came upon me: it wasn’t anger; it was sadness.

Here was this person who had made me smile every morning this summer --who I saw as such a good person-- who is now making a huge deal out of such a simple action that is meant to protect me.

This moment, and the many just like it I experienced after, felt like a crossroads of everything I believed. Can I still see this person as a good person anymore? I genuinely want to believe the best in everyone, but I can’t deny the actions or words right in front of me that say the opposite. This question got more and more complicated and saddening for me the closer someone was to me.

I still struggle with this question for a lot more people than just the regulars at my workplace, but what I do know is two

things: 1. There is a difference between difference of opinion and someone being racist, sexist, homophobic, transphobic, or downright ignorant. 2. I would not be the person I am today if I dropped every friend who disagreed with me.

In 2020 I learned the importance of using my voice, but in 2021 I’ve started to learn to stay quiet. I’ve learned not to go out of my way to seek out others to disagree with, in the same way I condemn them for going out of their way to push their beliefs. I’ve learned that my first priority will always be to do what’s right, but next will be to love others, regardless of whether or not they deserve it.

March 2021

Pandemic provides new perspective on makeup Opinion by MiaDunker

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I’m a Barbie girl, in a man’s world: How Barbie movies teach female empowerment Opinion by MaddieGenoways

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n the full year since the COVID-19 pandemic started, many of us have been forced to reconsider how we view the things most important to us and how we view ourselves. It seems like throughout quarantine, there have been countless trends on social media of people using their free time to explore or revisit themselves and their hobbies.

One of the ways people have been restructuring their routines is through their makeup, posting tips and tricks for makeup looks with masks or what products are even necessary in our post-COVID-19 world.

However, I think the biggest change in how I view wearing makeup post-pandemic isn’t the “how,” but the “why.” Sure, things like masks change how we wear makeup—I haven’t bought lip gloss in months—but I see the way COVID-19 has changed the reasons I wear makeup as so much more profound.

I’ve had trouble in the past reconciling my love of “girly” stuff, like makeup—did I actually like these things, or was our culture just telling me I should? Did I actually enjoy something that is seemingly drilled into girls’ heads constantly? Young girls grow up in this weird paradox: they are told that if they wear makeup in professional and social settings they’ll be respected, yet even when they do, women are still constantly judged on their appearance first and foremost, always compared to one another and told they’re not enough. There are million dollar industries that profit off this insecurity instilled in women, makeup being an obvious example.

A year ago, if you were to ask me why I wore makeup, I would probably pause, then say something like, “I just feel like I should,” or, “Well, I always do.” I wore makeup on a regular basis, not because I loved to, but because it just felt right. But, when the pandemic hit, we weren’t leaving our houses and, suddenly, there wasn’t that pressure to wear makeup every day.

Without that pressure, I’ve found that I can explore the reasons I legitimately like doing my makeup. I think less about looking presentable to others, and more about how I like how I look for myself.

Realizing that I can wear and experiment with makeup for myself and not for anyone else has been one of the most positive results that have come out of this otherwise difficult year.

TheNetwork Marian High School, 7400 Military Ave., Omaha NE 68134 netpaper@omahamarian.org

MHSbeat

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mhspub

opinion 05

here’s always been something missing in “classic” Disney princess movies, something that makes each heroic adventure and charming princess feel incredibly lonely: a distinct lack of other women.

Disney princesses always make a point to highlight every way they aren’t “like other girls,” constantly putting down and fighting other women for superiority in lighthearted song form.

Barbie movies are different.

From the get-go, every movie Barbie Mattel continues to release inclusive dolls, with the latest models featuring vitiligo, dolls with no hair, starts off with Barbie lifting and disabilities. Barbie toys can be found at all local toy retailers. Photo by MaryCateTabor up and celebrating other women, down an evil regime. to be possible. It’s important for them from her in-movie companEven Mattel’s lack of diversity is to see themselves reflected in product ions to the little girls in the audience. By changing. Where kids like me grew up and content.” With improved efforts to watching a strong woman support her learning that diversity meant different promote diversity and their tradition of rivals and friends alike, little girls learn hair colors, little girls of color are growing building relationships between women, my empathy for their fellow women. up with Barbies who look just like them! hopes are high for the little girls growing Barbie films are far from feminist Today’s Barbie varies from more than up with Barbie. cinema; every Barbie movie features 35 different skin colors, ethnicities and The most important lesson kids can the classic blonde-haired and blue-eyed natural hairstyles. take away from playing with these dolls or Mattel signature with no real attempt Barbie’s been shaking up tradition since watching these movies is that their greatat diversity other than a brunette villain she debuted in 1959 as an independent est ally in life will be the girl sitting right thrown in every once in a while. Howevgirl during a time when the only career next to them. So much of today’s media er, they do transform traditionally male options for women were either homemak- unconsciously plants the seed of female stories into tales of female empowerment, division into children’s heads- teacher or mother. Today, Barbie is a teacher, a complete with gorgeous glittery gowns politician, a journalist, a chef and a judge, ing them that the only way for a girl to and catchy musical numbers. Breaking and she does it all with the help of other succeed is to put down her fellow women. from the original story of irresponwomen who are equally as complex.

Slowly, we are unlearning the internalized sible women stripped of their In the statement of commitment on misogyny we absorbed as children and freedom, Barbie in the 12 their website, Mattel takes responsibility teaching the next generation of girls to Dancing Princesses spins for teaching diversity, saying: “Children’s share their toys, their workplaces and their the tale of royal sisters early experiences shape what they imagine dreams with each other. single-handedly taking

Esprit de Corps: an unofficial core value that must be kept alive

Opinion by NaomiDelkamiller

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n the first page of the 1959 yearbook, the Marian Class of 1955 wrote a dedication to Marian’s first principal, Sister Mary Marcella Sitzman. The class described her as gracious, loyal and friendly, and thanked her for her devotion to Marian. They even credited her for bringing the term “Esprit de Corps” into Marian’s vocabulary.

Sister Marcella initially used the phrase “Esprit de Corps” to refer to the Marian family. It has now evolved to be a Field Day category and an alumnae award title, cementing its importance to Crusader culture. However, how many of us actually know what it means?

For upperclassmen, we’ve heard the term at assemblies, honors ceremonies and on the floor of Baxter Arena, but most of our little sisters have only heard Esprit de Corps on the announcements. It’s time for them to have an official introduction.

Esprit de Corps is the expression of love and devotion for our school and what it stands for. It is a word that encapsulates our shared spirit, an official symbol of sisterhood among Marianites (Marian girls). Esprit de Corps must prevail among the students or camaraderie will be at risk of falling flat. To encourage classes to stay

The Network is

united during our most competitive time of year, an Esprit de Corps Field Day category was created in 2018, weighing 40 points.

This category goes beyond points. It signifies that the winning class earned it because of their “outstanding dedication, initiative, motivation, and a positive attitude during field week” (2019 Field Day Rules Book Pg 19). Judging of the Esprit de Corps award is done by 15 anonymous faculty and staff during Field Week. The judges begin to pay attention to this category starting after Color Block.

Esprit de Corps has historically been based on the presence of positive attitudes, signs of helpfulness to other classes, motivation, and collaboration. Classes are encouraged to create a committee to

a monthly publication of the journalism students at Marian High School, Nebraska’s only Class A Catholic, AdvancED accredited college preparatory school for girls. The Network is a member of the N.H.S.P.A and the N.S.P.A. It is our goal to provide an accurate and informative news source for the student community.

Students, faculty and friends are invited to voice their opinion in Letters to the Editors. Letters must be typed, signed, and sent to the address below. Or call us at 402-571-2618 x1134. An electronic version of this paper and exclusive content can be found at mariandigitalnetwork.com

remind all students to keep a positive attitude and help out other classes.

Note that this category judges the actions of an entire class, not just individuals.

“Points will be deducted for tattling, drama, parent phone calls, parent emails, yelling at classmates or teachers, and inappropriate use of social media” (2019 Field Day Rules Book Pg 20).

It is not that Marianites need this category to be civil or that sisterhood can only prevail if we have incentive, but rather that Marianites have to foster the Marian spirit to keep it alive. Without the presence of Esprit de Corps, Marian becomes just a high school we went to once, instead of the spirit-filled community that the first Marian class intended to pass on. It is now up to us to inherit, foster and build off of the foundation that we have inherited.

Managing Editors: NatalieCusick & NaomiDelkamiller Copy Editor: RyleeGregg Photo Editor: AnnaKidder Graphics Editor: MollyMonahan Online Editor: LexiKetcham News Editors: MaddieGenoways, JessicaBrusnahan & EmilySalzman Feature Editors: AnnaDailey, MollyMonahan, SophieStevens & AnnaKidder

Opinion Editors: CourtneyThompson, LexiKetcham & GaeaKaan Indepth Editor: QuinnFindley Sports Editors: MaryCateTabor & SophiaVirgillito Entertainment Editors: FrannieCihunka & MiaDunker Photo Essay Editor: GraceVirgillito Adviser: Mrs.MarshaKalkowski

06 Feature

March 2021

Working from home puts pressure Online presence creates lasting them to switch off childcare duties during know him through the magic of various relationships on mothers the week. “We basically set up our schedinternet platforms. “[A friend] told me MaddieGenoways

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rom the start of quarantine, working mothers were ready to go on the offensive. They didn’t fool themselves with delusions of their children going right back to school and peace returning to the house; instead, they made schedules, set up offices in living rooms, wrangled kids into Zoom classes, planned meals, and managed a job on top of it all. How did they survive it?

To tell the truth, they barely did.

While quarantine meant a break from school for some children and an easy commute to work for some adults, these benefits came at a heavy cost- one that mainly fell on the shoulders of the 35 million working mothers in America. “I’d simply hoped to be able to get [my kids] settled at the start of each day- dressed, fed, teeth brushed, shoes tied, lunches and bottles packed, car seats buckled and then unbuckled, daycare and school drop offs completed- and then to take a deep breath before I walked into work,” English teacher Mrs. Alee Cotton said of her usual in-person school routine. “Instead, when I work from home, the juggling act lasts all day.”

According to the last Network survey, 31% of Marian students with parents working from home believe their mother is required to work harder than their father, while only 3% see their father putting in extra effort. 42% of students believe that their parents equally share the workload, and a final 24% are uncertain either way. Of course, each situation varies depending on occupations; some parents cannot do their job remotely, and subsequently leave most of the homeschooling and housekeeping work to their spouse.

Science teacher Mr. Tim Barth found a balance while working from home with his wife, whose hours as a nurse allowed

ules so that when one of us is working, the other is watching the kids,” Barth said. However, women are often the ones being left behind to do the heavy lifting.

As hard as it is to admit, the division of labor in the remote workforce today is looking eerily like the uneven gender roles normalized in the 50’s and 60’s, back when men went off to work and their wives tidied up after them. Yet, some families have found ways to avoid this harmful pattern. “My husband and I have both made sacrifices over the last year to make this work, and it’s fair to say that is true for every parent living through this experience,” Cotton said. “While my husband might not deal with as many interruptions during the work day, he is infinitely more likely to plan a dinner that takes more than 20 minutes to prep and serve, play a board game that involves tiny pieces, and build the giant Mario Kart racetrack that I can’t find the patience for.”

Even before the pandemic, workplace burnout was a serious issue for parents, so serious that in 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) put it on the International Classification of Diseases, defining it as “chronic workplace stress that has not been successfully managed.”

Stress management has become an even more crucial skill in the remote workplace today, and most parents lack the proper training or resources needed to balance mental health with their job.

The solution to this issue isn’t to usher parents back into their “normal working lives,” where long hours and the thought of cooking triggers a fight-or-flight response. The pandemic has brought to light the unconscious tendency to place the responsibility of family on mothers. Now, the work falls to the rest of the family and workforce to find a balance between genders and work-family responsibilities.

Which Parent Works Harder?

According to Marian

students

Graphic by MaddieGenoways, responses from 64 students

3% dads

31% moms

42% equal

24% not sure

RyleeGregg

that she met a guy online, and I had a lot n the current digital age, there are an in common with him. She gave me his increasing number of ways to connect phone number, and I didn’t really have an with people from all around the world, intention of reaching out to him, but he making it easier than ever to share ideas texted me that night, and we FaceTimed a and express oneself. Such a wide variety of few days later.” entertainment means that whatever you’re While Internet relationships can be a into, there’s something out there for you. great opportunity to meet new, like-mindAnd, thanks to the constantly developing ed people, there is a huge stigma attached and changing culture of social media, to them. Some people think that having there’s always someone who shares your friends online means that you have no passion. This is fandom culture. friends in real life. “This is absolutely “It’s a very widespread platform of not true!” Kerr said. “I was a super social ideas,” senior Ellie Kripal said. She has person with super close friends in real life. long been a part of online fandoms cenSometimes, I just wanted to have a contered around Marvel, BTS, and more, even versation with someone reading the same formerly running a BTS “stan” account book series as me that none of my friends of over 40,000 followers. However, she in real life had read.” emphasized that the online culture can be What’s more pressing, however, is the a little intense for some people. “People concern for Internet safety. Computer can be overly enscience and cyber thusiastic about security teacher Dr. the shows they Sharon Genoways watch or books shares these worries. they read, and I “I guess I am inherdo not vibe with ently distrustful of that at all.” most things online.

She’s taken a While I have a close step away from friend who met her fandom life since husband online, I the pandemic just don’t think it hit. “For a lot is the appropriate of shows and venue to disclose movies I watch, personal informaAlana Kerr and her boyfriend Isaac the fandoms tion.” The increasOtwell the first time they met in person ing capabilities of have become at Kobe Steakhouse in July 2018 after too much to various social media handle, so I have communicating online for eight months. platforms mean that just focused on situations can quickly Photo courtesy of AlanaKerr enjoying the mebecome unsafe if dia itself,” Kripal said. “I will always be a users are not careful. part of, say, the BTS community, but a lot “Predators are skilled at getting [the fandoms] of TV shows and movies I personally identifiable information (PII) watch, I stay away from.” from users,” Dr. Genoways said. To stay These same conversations over books safe when using social media or commuor TV shows can lead to forming deeper nicating online, she advises that you “keep connections. Senior Alana Kerr grew up your PII private. This includes full name, in a very small town called Marianna, address, age, school, etc. Our data is worth Florida, which has a population of less big bucks, and we need to hold onto it.” than 7,000. Being online allowed her to Kerr makes sure to keep this at the find people with similar interests that she forefront of her mind when online. “I crewouldn’t have met otherwise. “For examated a separate social media account and ple,” Kerr said, “I met someone who lived didn’t show my actual face until I was sure in Rome, and she taught me about the they were real. I even had a separate name culture and sent me pictures of some of that I went by. All of those are pretty genthe ancient buildings and ruins near her.” eral practices, and real people don’t push She even met her current significant you to tell them personal information at other through a mutual friend and got to all.”

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Senior Eva Watson organizes first Trivia Night RyleeGregg

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he pandemic has stripped Marian of many traditions. Not having them to look forward to has certainly put a damper on the school year for everyone, students and teachers alike.

When senior Eva Watson was lamenting the cancellation of many events in the past year, she and her mom came up with the idea to have a high school trivia night, much like the one that the Recruitment Team holds for seventh graders.

“I went to Mrs. Sullivan, and I had an entire doc of planned out things. I basically was like, ‘Here’s my idea; what do I need to do in order to make this happen?’” Watson said. After a few more meetings and an estimated 50 hours of work, her idea became reality.

“I just kind of wanted to bring some joy back to the Marian community because it feels like this year, everybody’s gotten into the rut of thinking, ‘We’re gonna be down, it’s always gonna be bad, and we can’t do anything fun.’ I wanted to bring back the fun things, but do it in a safe way.”

On March 5, the happiness was palpable in Marian’s cafeteria. “The questions were all fun and geared toward our generation, which was unexpected, but awesome,” senior Casey Brattain, a member of the first place team “Girly Girls,” said. “The experience was great. I have never had so much fun at a school function. I loved being able to hang out with my friends in a safe environment.”

The team of seniors Brattain, Ola Hezel, Maddie Clark and Grace Clark ended up winning a cash prize of $100, as well as bragging rights, of course. “It was honestly shocking to win,” Brattain said. “My team knew almost nothing about trivia going in, so we were honestly just doing it for fun, which I think is why winning felt as cool as it did.”

The second place title and a trip to Topgolf went to “Three Raccoons in a Trenchcoat,” the team of seniors Gracie Kerr, Emma Gunn and Grace Ellis.

Coming in third was “Mateo Marcel Miller,” made up of seniors Katie Liske, MC Daubendiek and Lydia Rose. They won $10 Starbucks gift cards.

Watson didn’t work alone, however.

She was joined by the senior volunteers Jess Brusnahan, Sydnee Baysa, Naomi Delkamiller, Amal Imran, Kyra Knudsen and John Watson, as well as staff members Dr. Sharon Genoways, Mrs. Jen Christen and Ms. Susie Sisson.

“Eva approached me back in November and asked if I would be the faculty sponsor for the event,” Sisson said. “I gladly said yes! I love trivia events. For the last few years, I’ve been the emcee for the Booster Club Trivia Night, a fundraising event attended by adults. I was also a contestant on Jeopardy! back in 2005, so my love for random knowledge runs deep.”

But more than this, Sisson shared Watson’s motivation as well. “This has been a tough year, so it was really great to see students having some good old-fashioned fun—just talking and laughing and enjoying each other’s company.”

With such great success, the plan is to make it an annual event. Next year, it will be chaired by junior Josie Golka.

Marian and Prep students enjoy Trivia Night organized by Eva Watson. Seniors Ola Hezel, Maddie Clark, Casey Brattain, and Grace Clark took home first place.

Photos by RyleeGregg

March 2021

Planning Prom 2021 at the Durham GraceVirgillito

P

rom is a night that almost everyone dreams about... getting all glammed up with friends, stressing about corsages or boutonnieres, having a sweet piece of arm candy by your side and finally hitting the dance floor.

However, Marian isn’t really like High School Musical, and prom may not be what you expect.

The committee is divided into groups pandemic, with the color theme of gold, black including decorations, theme and announceand red. Prom will be held at the Durham ment, but they all Museum. work together to The committee make final decisions. members think of “This committee is ideas and try to plan really a team that accordingly, while Mr. helps and guides Craig Panning, the each other in all the committee’s moderdecision making ator, signs off on the processes,” commitideas. Panning said, tee member, junior “On my end, I’m part Annie Masek said. of booking the venue To kick off prom and ordering anything season, juniors like tiaras, decorations, Audrey Van Dyke, DJ, etc.” The meetings The front entrance of the Durham Museum.

Kate Timmerman, started at the beginPhoto by NaomiDelkamiller Annie Masek and ning of the year and Graphics by MollyMonahan Katie Sulentic continue to occur while created a prom announcement video discussthe committee plans prom. Finally, Principal ing the theme of prom, basic dress code rules, Susie Sullivan signs the contract and has final and this year’s prom princesses. The senior approval. prom princesses for 2021 are Aby Acevedo, This year’s prom planning committee Sydnee Baysa, Callie Cavanaugh, Maddie members are always hard at work to ensure a Clark, Katie Corpuz and Margaret Kelly. safe and enjoyable prom night.

Masks are required to keep everyone safe and healthy, and social distancing is highly advised throughout the night. The committee is divided into groups including decorations, theme and announcement, but they all work together to make final decisions. “This committee is really a team that helps and guides each other in all the decision making processes,” committee member, junior Annie Masek said. Mark your calendars for April 17. This year’s prom theme is “mask-arade,” playing on the idea of a masquerade ball and the current

“I just hope it looks magical and cool with the black and pops of gold. Overall, I just hope that everyone has a good time!”- Audrey Van Dyke ’22

Feature 07

Marian musicians finally get a performance at Pops Concert CourtneyThompson

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n a year full of online singing and Can Do” by Irving Berlin, and SWC Zoom calls, all of Marian’s vocalbrought it home with “Lullaby of ists and instrumentalists finally got a Broadway,” composed by Harry War“win.” The annual and most elaborate ren and Al Dubin, and arranged by Jay performance of the year, Pops Concert, Althouse. The concert was a success took place in-person. It was split into and a long time coming, as all other two shows, one with the whole Marplanned concerts have been virtual so ian’s Select Women’s Choir (SWC), far this school year. the concert choir, band and orchestra, The second show, on Feb. 24 in handbells and guitar classes, and the the PAC, was SWC only, filled with other with the small groups and solos solos, duets and small groups of no of the SWC. The split, though not more than four people. All groups and popular among all the solos brought the house choir girls, allowed down and brought tears more people to attend to members of the in the concerts, and was audience. Though both much appreciated by the concerts were successful, friends and families of some girls questioned the students. Originally, the need for two separate two separate concerts performances. “I didn’t had been planned as in like that we did solos past years, with one for and groups separate from vocalists and one for the whole group perforinstrumentalists. Snow Senior Margaret Kelly sings mance, but I like that we days, schedule changes a solo at Pops Concert. had fewer songs to stress and COVID adjusted out about learning,” sePhoto by GraceSpecht those plans. nior Murphy Mertz said.

The first concert on Feb. 9 in Vocalists found a silver lining to the Marian Performing Arts Center look for, especially during COVID-19.

(PAC) was a huge success, with a full “It was a nice change of pace, especialhouse of parents raving about the ly since the concert went by so fast,” variety of performances. The concert senior Katie Rodis said. kicked off with the Handbells I class, “I loved seeing all my talented performing “The Beatles” by Douglass friends perform!” junior Meredith Wagner. Seniors Amelia Zimmerman, Bailey said. “They made me feel Frannie Cihunka and Murphy Mertz really comfortable, despite COVID.” all had solos with the guitar classes, Nobody knows what is next to come, singing a variety of songs written by but the musicians hope to have an Paul McCartney and John Lennon. in-person Spring concert, and perGuitar II was able to be showcased for form at the District Music Contest in the first time at the concert, too.

April. Hopes are high, and Ms. Lauren Following up was the band and Morrissey, Choir Director, along with orchestra, also playing songs by the Mrs. Stephanie Dickes, Instrumental Beatles. The concert choir capped off Director, are working hard to inspire the concert, singing “Anything You the musical talents of the students.

Marian’s Momentum choir stays strong through a turbulent season

FrannieCihunka

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he COVID-19 pandemic took many elected leader,” Doehner said. “A bunch audience that we would’ve had,” Hanna ticed and put in the extra work. “It’s all things from the world this year. of girls did step up and learn the dances, said. “I motivated myself by telling myself just to help them believe in themselves,” However, when Marian girls returned but it’s hard to learn without an appointto not let the other girls down because it Beck said. to school, many athletes were lucky ed dance captain to help you out.” As was their show too; it wouldn’t be fair if I The March 1 showcase was the best enough to keep a semi-full season. The dance captains, Doehner and Golka learn didn’t work as hard as they did.” part of the season for both the directors musical even returned for the spring. the dances inside and out and help teach New leadership positions were added and student leaders. “I just love performUnfortunately, the Marian Momentum them to the team. to the team this year. The directors chose ing,” Doehner said. “There’s nothing like show choir did not have that chance.

Motivating the team was difficult for four spirit captains to recognize the hard that adrenaline rush of getting on stage.

Most years, the choir goes to four to five the directors, dance captains and officers. work of team members and keep everyIt was sad because we only got to perform competitions a season, but each of them Freshman Lily Hanna had a difficult one motivated. Junior Bella Beck was a that show once, but it was really fun to were cancelled to keep students safe. time grasping what a normal season was spirit captain this year and described the get back out on stage after so long.”

Luckily, they got to show off their hard like in a year of masks and plastic desk role of spirit captain as “doing everything Auditions for next year will be held work and talent at their showcase on shields. “The most challenging part for they can to motivate the show choir April 12-15, and more information will March 1. However, it was a long road to me was finding motivation because we girls.” Every month the spirit captains be shared as the time comes nearer. Morget performance ready. didn’t have the normal competition and recognized three or four girls who pracrissey wants the Marian community to When the pandemic hit last know how importyear, director Ms. Lauren Morrissey, ant the connections assistant director Mrs. Michelle Delisi between the team and accompanist Mr. Tim DiBlasi members are. “I knew they couldn’t cancel the season. want the Mar“It wasn’t ever a decision to not have ian community show choir at all,” Morrissey said. “We to know that it’s were going to do something, even if just a lot of fun. we didn’t know what we were going Show choir has to work towards regardless of all the a long season, so parameters throughout the year. And I the team’s togethhad a really good idea for the show.” er a long time. It Momentum’s season started with becomes a part of Zoom meetings in August of 2020. your life and your The group had to learn their set virtuday, and therefore ally and separated. Hybrid rehearsals the team gets really presented a new challenge when the close. There’s no group had to work on their first dance division, no varsity with both dance captains in one half or junior varsity; of the alphabet. Junior Ashley everybody’s Marian’s Momentum Show Choir. Front Row: Erin Hansen, Abi Howard, Josie Golka, Margaret Kelly, Katie McKeon, Riya Doehner served as a dance captain giving their all Kumar, Isabella Olguin Summers, Jadin Martinez. Middle Row: Bella Beck, Lily Hanna, Ellie Peter, Shelby Gerken, Hailey with junior Josie Golka. the whole time Eriksen, Hillary Adovlo, Isi Raczynski, Avery Kinnison, Aja Smith. Back Row: Murphy Mertz, Gabriella Roche, Macaire “The hardest part was that we to both the perHarr, Frannie Cihunka, Ashley Doehner, Katie Rodis, Meredith Bailey, Tessa Brooks. Not pictured: Alana Kerr. Band: Nick were both A-L, so on M-Z days, forming and the Swoboda, Mr. Tim DiBlasi, Josh Bell, Maddie Genoways, John Heldridge, Matt Kielian. Director: Ms. Lauren Morrissey. they really didn’t have anyone as an teamwork.”

Assistant Director Mrs. Michelle Delisi. Photo by Bailey Kollasch

08 Indepth

Ro L L

C RU

March

A Pep Rally

STATE SPEECH

The following seniors all qualified for State and received National Individual Events Tournament of Champions bids, which qualifies them to compete in a nationwide competition.

Gracie Kerr: Extemporaneous Callaghan CavanaMaryCateTabor ugh: Entertainment pproximately 1.5 million Katherine McGill: high school students enter Original Oratory, to compete for recognition and Informative Speaker scholarships. “National Merit Scholars are juniors who took Cavanaugh placed the PSAT that scored within sixth at State and the top 1% of test takers in the was also recognized United States,” National Merin a Voice for it Scholar Eva Watson said.

Democracy speech Once they are notified senior contest for the year that they have qualified Veterans of Foreign as a semi-finalist, there is an Wars. application process they must go through.

The application requires high Kerr (top left), McGill (top grades, a letter of recommendaright) and Cavanaugh (bottion, extracurriculars, recognized tom) posing for picture at achievements, and an essay.

Marian speech event.

“To me, to be a National Mer-

Marian welcomes three National Merit I have always tried to stay conit Scholar is to be recognized Scholars for hard work. They base your sistently academically-oriented

Photo courtesy Callaghan Cavanaugh

A

eligibility on the PSAT and a secondary application, and the effort that you put into these matters much more than what you know or what you have done,” National Merit Scholar Katie Liske said.

This year, all three of Marian’s semi-finalists in the National Merit Scholar Program were later named finalists. The three finalists are Eva Watson, Katie Liske and Gracie Kerr. Liske was also nominated for a Presidential Scholar Award.

This program is a national competition that provides college scholarships. “I was motivated to try to become a National Merit Scholar because

throughout high school. I also knew that the status of National Merit Scholar would help to alleviate some of my financial concerns about college,” National Merit Scholar Gracie Kerr said.

The three National Merit Scholars:Watson (top left), Liske (top right) and Kerr (bottom).

Photos by MaryCateTabor

STEM girls receive awards for aspiration in computing science MollyMonahan

T

he Nebraska and Southwest Iowa Community recognizes students who excel in technology and computing by their computing experiences, computer related activities, leadership experience, technical ability in the face of barriers, and plans for post secondary education. In the Awards for Aspirations in Computing, out of 43 students recognized, 12 were Marian students. Scholarship money can be awarded for the winners depending on their choice of college

and major. This award is also a great way for Marian students to build their professional resumes.

The Affiliate Rising stars were senior Madison Genoways, freshman Martha Hinneh, and sophomore Lilith Maxey. Awarded with Affiliate Honorable Mentions were junior Lauren Ali, sophomore Lillie Devine, and seniors Tahmina Gafurova, Kyra Knudsen, Molly Morrissey and Eva Watson.

Lastly, the Affiliate Winners of the Award for Aspirations in Computing in Nebraska and Harrison, Mills and Pottawatomie counties in Iowa were seniors Lea Bushey and Clara Glock. Glock received an honorable mention last year, but this year she won. “It’s really cool to win it. I’m really passionate about technology, so it’s great to win an award like this. Dr. Genoways was the person who encouraged me to apply for the award, and all I had to do was fill out a few questions about my interest in technology and the experience I have with technology.”

“The reason I push it so hard for my girls to apply is because there is a huge need for women in technology. It is a great way for them to meet women in the field of computer science who act as mentors for younger girls. I also feel it is important for younger generations to learn how to excel in coding because coding is going to become the new normal,” Dr. Genoways said.

S R E D U SA

h 2021

Indepth 09

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“Quantum” Tory Roubidoux

Scholastics is an annual art and writing competition that allows students to express their creative abilities. With 28 categories to submit to, students spend hours upon hours on completing their pieces.

“Illusionist” Katie Hedrick

Debate Awards

Scholastic Art Awards

Photo by QuinnFindley

Omaima Lado won the Ethos Pathos Logos award, an honor that only goes to one debate student in Nebraska each year.

“Ethos Pathos Logos is an award given to a student in their last year of debate who embodied these “Smudge” Ellie Kripal rhetorical appeals and is an excellent representative of the Nebraska debate community,” Lado said. Omaima Lado and Malerie Birkle Lado poses with one of her many awards. won the Lincoln High Public Forum Debate and made it to the Quarterfinals at State.

“Dark Fantasy” Rachel Achola

Gold Key: Emma Gunn, Rachel Achola, Katie, Hedrick, Lydia Rose and Maddie Genoways Silver Key: Ellie Kripal, Rachel Achola

Marian poets achieve in state, nation QuinnFindley

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oetry Out Loud is a nation-wide organization that focuses on enlightening students on the beauty of poetry. This year Marian decided between six ninth graders, and the English Department ended up nominating freshman Madeline Smith as the school winner.

The contest itself is judged on how well the chosen students can recite famous poems. “Poetry Out Loud is a contest where students choose a poem from the official website and perform it and then their performance is judged and graded based on things like enunciation and accuracy. It starts out with districts, then state, and then goes to the national level,” Smith said.

In Nebraska, on Friday, March 12, the state Finals were held. Smith was awarded second place in the state with the Runner Up Award. She won a personal cash prize and $200 for Marian’s library to buy poetry books to add to the collection.

Smith was drawn to this because of her natural inclination towards literature and acting. “I am really active in theatre around Omaha so the acting part of the contest just stuck out to me, especially with theatre being shut down due to COVID,” Smith said.

Ellie Peters and Grace Sparwasser also received recognitions in poetry this year.

They both will be

“Flicker” Tory Roubidoux

Smith poses with her Poetry Out Loud award. The plaque on the trophy says, “2nd Place 2021 Nebraska State Poetry Out Loud.”

Photo by QuinnFindley

featured in the 2021 Rising Stars publication that is a National Student Poetry contest run by Appelley Publishing. This will be released in April and features works by students all over the world.

Sparwasser has been submitting her writing to contests since the fourth grade

but until recently, she never tried to write poetry.

Similar to Sparwasser, Peters hadn’t branched out into poetry before this. “I haven’t submitted poems to any contest except this and Burn, but I have been submitting stuff to writing contents since fourth grade,” Peters said.

Marian’s literary and art publication, Burn, is a great place to start submitting work, no matter how experienced the author or artist is.

Feature 10

Students celebrate Irish heritage AnnaKidder & MaryCateTabor

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arch is not only a time when many people celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, but it is also Irish-American Heritage Month. What better way to celebrate it than to recognize the students in our school who celebrate their Irish heritage? According to the March Network Survey answered by 133 students, 59.4% of the student body claim to have Irish heritage.

“I think it’s really important to learn about your heritage. It allows you to connect with your ancestors in ways you wouldn’t be able to, and that’s something that I think is really special,” freshman Maggie McGill said. Most of her family is Irish, and she gets her Irish heritage from both her mom and dad. “Listening to relatives tell me stories about my great-great-grandparents is something I really enjoy, and I love learning about my family heritage.”

Freshman Abi Howard’s entire family is Irish. “My mom is from Cork, and my dad is from Dublin.

They lived there their entire lives until I was born,” Howard said. She was born in Dublin and moved to the U.S. when she was 11 months old. “Being Irish means everything to me.” Howard especially loves visiting her family in Ireland. “I am grateful that I get to experience another side of the world I may not have if I wasn’t Irish.”

Senior Bridget McKay’s favorite St. Patrick’s Day tradition is making soda bread. “I love baking soda bread because it’s super simple, tastes good and is fun to take to my friends and family. Last year I baked some and dyed it green for St. Patrick’s Day,” McKay said. “This year, I went to Imogene, Iowa, which is a tiny Irish Catholic town. It was about an hour’s drive, and we participated in festivities and a parade through town. My immediate and extended family all came together for the celebration.”

“My family celebrates St. Patrick’s Day by having a dinner of corned beef and cabbage with Irish soda bread,” said junior Avery Kinnison. “We also used to set leprechaun traps when my siblings and I were younger (we never could seem to catch one).” Kinnison gets her Irish roots from her mom, whose parents were from Ireland. “To me, my heritage is what brings my family together.”

One major tradition in the Irish culture is the Claddagh ring. It was first created as a love token by a local man from a small village called “Claddagh,” now a part of Galway, Ireland. It is a circular band with two hands clasping a heart with a crown over the heart. The heart on the ring symbolizes love, the hands symbolize friendship and the crown represents

loyalty. “Traditionally, the rings are for young Irish women to wear as a sign of relationship status,” McKay said.

She and her younger sister often wear theirs. “You get the ring at about age 16, and it is considered bad luck to wear it any earlier,” she said.

“My mom, my grandma and I each have a Claddagh that was given to us by our mothers. I was given mine when I was about 11 years old,” Kinnison said. “The tradition is that we wear the ring with the heart facing outward to symbolize that we are waiting for our hearts to be taken.

When we are married or in a committed relationship, we wear them with the heart facing toward us.”

“I think that it’s important to know your heritage because it gives you an idea of where you came from and shapes who you are,” Kinnison said.

Similarly, family connection has taught McKay a lot about the importance of knowing her heritage. “My grandma has always taught me that people who know where they come from and more about their family tree tend to be happier overall,” McKay said. “A sense of belonging can do a lot for someone’s mentality, and I encourage anyone and everyone to learn a little more about where they come from.”

March 2021

Bridget McKay ‘21

Creation station, home to Cricut sensation NaomiDelkamiller

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f Mrs. Molly Raabe and Mrs. Karen full time in 2011.

Coolidge are not around to greet stuA few years in, Raabe had some extra dents as they walk into the Haddix Acamoney in the library budget and deciddemic Center, ed to their elabopurchase rate Cricut a Cricut designed dismachine plays always to use at seem to do Marian. the trick. The Raabe crafty energy, has since bright colored used the posters and Cricut mesmerto create izing fonts designs illuminate for the creative bulletin spirit of both boards, The Cricut, pictured above, has been used to make numerous beloved faculty things for people around the school. Photo by NaomiDelkamiller. library members. This displays, yin and yang friendship has developed stickers and Field Day committees. Her over the years since the library’s purchase creative work with the Cricut has attracted of a Cricut Explorer in 2014 and benefits students and teachers alike, Mrs. Coolidge from this shared hobby of “cricutting.” in particular. “When I came to Marian, A Cricut Mrs. is a computRaabe er-controlled was cutting talking machine that about Raabe first this used as a SpanCricut, ish teacher at and I’m St. Pius X/St. like, you Leo School. have a “When I was Cricut? there with the And she kindergartners, started the teachers showing got a Crime the Mrs. Raabe and Mrs.Cooldige pictured working with the cut machine things through a fund- Cricut. Photo by NaomiDelkamiller it could raiser,” Raabe do, and I said. “When the kids were learning the was hooked immediately,” Coolidge said. alphabet, we cut out 12 by 12 inch letters When Raabe first showed Coolidge the to teach them.” Raabe said that if her Cricut, “Her eyes got big, and I’m like, she students were going to space out in the gets me,” Raabe said. classroom, why not have them space out at Raabe and Coolidge enjoy working on a wall that’s going to teach them someCricut projects together. “I love how we thing. Raabe brought this creative attitude get excited about projects,” Coolidge said, with her when she transitioned to Marian “Mrs. Raabe is 100 percent supportive of

trying new things, and we are both pretty This was Hezel’s first time using the nerdy.”

Cricut, and she wants to use it again. “It was super fun, and I loved it. Mrs. Raabe What may seem “nerdy” is actually a and Mrs. Coolidge helped me a lot,” Hecombination of complex skills. To use the zel said. The clipboards were presented to Cricut effectively, one must know how to Mr. Christiansen on Feb. 23. weld, attach, upload an image and design around it using the Cricut software and In a series of Cricut classes led by machine. Raabe and Coolidge are still exRaabe and Coolidge throughout the perimenting with the Cricut and learning month of March, students set up their along the way. When they hit a snag, they own Cricut accounts and were taught the work to figure out the problem. “I’ll come basics of using the machine. “We went back to Mrs. Raabe and say ‘Hey, watch through the process of cutting, and we this video. It’s the solution to our problem watched Youtube videos,” Raabe said. last week,’” Coolidge said. “Cricutting is “We also made iPad stickers for practice!” a small part of our job, but it’s a fun part Raabe and Coolidge both believe that the of our job,” Cricut takes practice.

Raabe con“You have to play with cluded. it,” Coolidge said.

The Cricut A permanent home is not meant for the Cricut has been for mass cutmade on the west side ting, but rather of the Haddix in the small scale second office from the projects. For left. Raabe and Coolidge example, Dr. both wanted a space Sharon Genowhere the Cricut could ways, coach of be connected permathe Robotics nently without having Team, used to store it after use. “We the Cricut to needed a space where personalize more than one person the team’s could come, because jackets. She I love sitting down ordered solid with girls and creating Mr. B.J Christiansen with his clipboards made blue jackets for together,” Raabe said.

by Ola Hezel. Photo by NaomiDelkamiller. the robotics According to Coolidge, team and then made iron on logos with “Everything is at our fingertips in this her Cricut at home. room. I never would have dreamt that we would be creating the things we are now!”

Recently, Senior Ola Hezel created personalized clipboards for swim and dive Using the Cricut requires outside of the coach Mr. BJ Christiansen. “Every year, box thinking and a time commitment to the seniors on the swim team make or learning the cricutting process. However, buy gifts for the coaches, and earlier this Raabe and Coolidge said that Marian girls season, BJ dropped his clipboard on the are prepared for the challenge and encourground at practice and it broke,” Hezel age anyone interested to email them to said, “so I bought some blue clipboards on schedule up a time to use the machines.

Amazon and cut out designs on the Cricut Marian currently has the Cricut Explorer, with the Marian shield, and underneath, Cricut Maker, and the Cricut EasyPress, it says Coach BJ.” A second clipboard says along with a variety of tools and mats “Marian Crusaders Class of 2021.” ready to be used by creative students.

Q: A:

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Q&A

MollyMonahan

“What were lunches like before COVID-19?

-Marin Momsen ‘24

“Lunches were very chaotic and loud, but it was probably the best part of my day. Going to lunch allowed me to roam around and talk to different people I didn’t see in my classes. One of my favorite parts of lunch that I definitely miss was trying to squeeze every single one of my friends at one table and catch up with everything going on in their lives.”

-Molly Morrissey ‘21

Q: A:

“Could you give any advice on preparing for college?”

-Eva Kriener ‘24

“If you have an opportunity to tour the campus, definitely take the time to visit because not having the option of visiting made it harder to choose my college.

The best way of knowing what college is the best fit for you is visualizing yourself physically on the campus and going to school.”

-Bella Bortolotti ‘21

Q: A:

“What committee is the best for Field Day?” -Emília Hoyt ‘24 “I really like being on the mascot committee for Field Day. I have been in charge of the mascot committee all four years because it’s super inclusive, allows everyone to be creative and put in ideas, and it shows that women can work with power tools just as good as any man. I would have never been able to use drills, power tools and electrical sanders without learning how to use them on the mascot committee. But, I feel it’s important to really assess your skills and what you love to do when picking a committee.”

-Lexxi Olsen ‘21

Q: A:

Feature 11

Foundation integrates diverse environment, life skills QuinnFindley

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maha has a reputation for welcoming refugees; however, in a lot of cases, the help needed to fully integrate them into a new society isn’t provided. The Simple Foundation, founded in 2012 by Osuman Issaka, alongside his brother Sal, is dedicated to helping instill key values into the kids in the program-75 percent of whom are refugees or immigrants.

The Issakas were born in Ghana and later moved to Chicago when their family came to the United States.

Growing up in a family-based culture led Issaka to learn the importance of charity. “In my culture, at least in our tribe, giving back is not a choice, it’s a responsibility,” Issaka said.

Although Issaka delegated a lot of his energy into helping others, he and his brother felt that they weren’t reaching as many kids as they were able to-so came the Simple Foundation.

“Our mission is truly providing a diverse environment to provide multiple outcomes for various different

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March 2021

“What did a typical Surprise Day look like before COVID-19?”

-Grace Sparwasser ‘24

“Surprise Day was always really fun and it is kind of disappointing that it’s not as hyped up as it has been in past years. The ridiculous rumors and anticipation were half the fun of Surprise Day. I loved the face paint and seeing all the girls with Minnie Mouse and dog faces. I really hope the incoming freshmen get to experience a safe and really fun Surprise Day.” -Sadie Eggerling ‘21

Q: A:

“What is your favorite part of Field Day?” -Zoe Wiegert ‘24

Q: A:

“How do you handle not doing good on an assignment or test?”

-Brianna Sedlak ‘24

“My favorite part of Field Day is when we do our demonstrations. Our whole class comes together and it’s so scary because your heart is beating super hard with excitement and nerves. You scream your heart out and try to be as energetic as possible. You look around and see your whole class being just as insane as you. It’s something you only experience on Marian’s Field Day.” -Amelia Zimmerman ‘21

“Usually when I get a bad grade I try and forget about it because it usually puts me in a bad mood. If I think about something else, then I am able to move past it and try harder to get my grade back up.”

-Sarah Schmit ‘21

cultures,” Issaka said. Within the organization there are multiple programs that focus on not only providing a safe environment for all those involved to flourish, but they also center on teaching responsibility, work ethic and setting up for success.

The programs include A Simple Path to Build Legacy, Academic Excellence and College for Success, Boduri (Girls), Family Advocacy and Resource, Youth Forum, International Initiative and the Youth Academy. These focus on teaching youth study tips, entrepreneurship, community service and teamwork. “One of the things we focus on is integration rather than assimilation. When you integrate, you hone in on everyone’s individuality and you respect that to create this environment of a variety of views and cultures,” Issaka said.

The Simple Foundation’s Youth Academy is an athletic program which was originally

a soccer club that competed with clubs around the area, like OFC, NFC, Lincoln and Gretna, and competed in multi-state tournaments.

Recently, they have added a track team to the program.

However, this program isn’t only about improving their playing skills. It’s about learning how to work with others by being part of a team of kids from different backgrounds. “Soccer is the draw, but learning social skills with teammates is huge. They learn leadership and understanding, and gain the ability to listen to other peoples’ point of view,” Issaka said.

With soccer being the most popular sport in the world, it’s an event that can unite everyone together, no matter where they came from.

The good work of Simple Foundation has not gone unnoticed. The Omaha community has been extremely charitable and enthusiastic to help out this organization.

Organizations as big as Good Sports, Inc. and USA Soccer have partnered with the foundation to help out their cause. The services are 100 percent free for those involved; however, they have to put work in by volunteering at the center.

The Simple Foundation provides a path for success for young people who haven’t previously been given the opportunity. The best way to do that, in the eyes of Issaka, is education. “Whether it’s a four-year college or a twoyear college, getting the skills to be a self-sufficient individual is what success looks like. We need carpenters, we need politicians and we need a president. Whatever they love, we try to hone in on,” Issaka said.

Tucker’s return brings excitement to students AnnaDailey & AnnaKidder

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urprise Day has brought the joy of dogs in recent years, but now students can see a dog no matter what day it is. Last year, English teacher Mrs. Alee Cotton’s therapy dog, Tucker, joined the halls of Marian. Due to the uncertainty of the pandemic, Tucker was unable to return during the first semester of this school year.

“At the start of the school year, we knew less about COVID-19. Since then, it has become clear that the virus is very unlikely to pass from one person to another on porous surfaces like dog hair,” Cotton said. At the beginning of February, Tucker returned to Marian and saw students again.

“I really enjoy having him back,” senior Nicole Loeffler said. “Even just walking past Mrs. Cotton’s door in the morning, I see him and he just brings happiness to the classroom.” Loeffler is in Cotton’s homeroom and Honors World Literature class, so she gets to see Tucker quite often. “Whenever I’m having a bad day, and I go home to see my dog, it instantly gets better. It’s no different with Tucker.”

Therapy dogs go through special training to provide comfort, support and affection to human counterparts.

As he roams the classroom, sits by Cotton and sleeps in his bed, Tucker accomplishes all these things for students.

“Throughout the class, he walks around and checks on the students and interacts with them. He’s the perfect therapy dog and knows how to interact with students

Anna Kidder ‘21 enjoys Tucker’s comfort in the classroom. without distracting them,” junior Alyssa Carthart said.

“Tucker definitely makes an impact on students,” Cotton said. “He thinks the world of everyone he interacts with. Is it possible to pet a dog and not smile? I don’t think it is.”

Loeffler has noticed Tucker’s positive impact on students. “I see people who are excited to walk in and see him,” Loeffler said. “He just brings an air of excitement and happiness to all of the classes.”

Therapy dogs aren’t very common among the students at Marian. According to the Network Survey, none of the 94 students who responded own a therapy dog. Tucker is not only acting as a comfort in the classroom, but as a learning opportunity for students who may be interested in having or learning more about a therapy dog.

“Before meeting Tucker, I didn’t know anything about therapy dogs,” senior Lea Bushey said. She said she would now look into having one in the future. “Tucker and Mrs. Cotton share such a special bond which

has proven to be very impressive and admirable,” Bushey said.

Cotton fostered Tucker and his sister in 2016. “We fell in love with him then, and he’s been with us ever since,” Cotton said. Tucker loves fetch, tug, flyball, sleeping and eating Cheerios dropped by Cotton’s

10-month-old son, Gavin.

“Tucker is well trained, but like all dogs, he can be a bit of an opportunist.” Tucker has not broken into anyone’s lunches, but he did catch a student eating in class.

“Tucker instantly smelled whatever she was trying to eat,” Cotton said. “He trotted right over, sat down politely and looked up expectantly, hoping that she’d share.”

For now, Tucker will only be able to see students in Cotton’s classroom. This is to ensure Tucker doesn’t get overwhelmed and to properly maintain social distancing.

However, this doesn’t mean that if you aren’t one of Cotton’s students you will never get to see him. Cotton said, “When the weather warms up, I plan to be outside occasionally before school so that everyone gets a chance to meet Tucker.”

Photos by AnnaDailey

12 Sports

March 2021

Spring sports: soccer, tennis, track and field kick off MaryCateTabor

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nticipation is rising as winter seven sophomores, three juniors “I am excited about bonding sports have come to an end and one senior as a team manager with my new teammates and and the spring sports season is on both the Junior Varsity and seeing how far we grow together. beginning. After the cancellation Varsity teams.

I love how track combines our of all spring sport activities in Sophomore Liv Toth on Junior individual athletic abilities but also 2020, teams are excited to get back Varsity tennis described her expec- putting it into a team aspect, makinto the swing of things. Although tations for this season “I am most ing sure we all work together to this past year has been faced with excited to be playing with people I accomplish the main goal. I hope many challenges, athletes and haven’t played with before and bethat we stay motivated and detercoaches are eager for the 2021 ing a part of a team. My hopes for mined to make it on top together spring sports season. this season are to win most of my because it wouldn’t be possible Tryouts for the soccer, tennis, matches and to have a good season by ourselves,” sophomore Gozie and track and field teams were to prepare me for next season.”

Okafor said about her excitement “My hope for the season is that we can win state held the week of March 1-5. PracThe track and field team is led for the track season. tices were held over spring break by head coach Mr. Greg Golka.

With high hopes for the spring, which is something I think our team can do. I am to prepare all teams for the season He primarily coaches long jump, teams are excited to kick off the also happy to be playing on varsity with my older ahead. triple jump, and pole vault. Alongseason. sister!” -freshman Ava Schroeder, Tennis Marian’s soccer program has side Golka is distance three teams: Varsity, Junior Varsity, coach Mr. Roger and Reserve. The Varsity team is Wright, hurdles and “This soccer season I’m coached by Teresa DeGeorge ‘92, high jump coach Mr. excited to meet the upperand assisted by Monica BosiljeScot Rainbolt, sprints classmen and other girls on vac ‘10, and goalie coach Haley coach Ms. Hannah Shelton.

Hennings, and shot put my team. Also, I’m excited Alongside them are Junior and discus coach Mrs. to see how we work togethVarsity coach Max Leeson and Stacia Weaver. This Reserve coach Kerry Pivovar. year 45 girls made the er on and off the field. My The girls and coaches are extrack and field team. hopes are that we all stay cited, grateful and hopeful for this The teams will fluctuate safe and have a winning spring, chasing a state title. throughout the season “My hopes for this season are as times and races are season.” -freshman Anna to win state! I look forward to recorded.

Bragg, Soccer being a part of an awesome team and surrounded by a great community,” sophomore Maria McLeay GaeaKaan said. he long list of extracurricular activi“My hopes the Nintendo Switch, playing as different ties and clubs at Marian provides an for the season... characters within the Nintendo gamoption for any Marian student to get inwell, I’m increding universe. Players compete with one volved, expand their interests and connect ibly thankful to another gaining certain advantages that with others who share similar interests. have a season, come with their chosen character, defeatEsports, a recent addition to the list, is and the goal is ing opponents until one is left standing. a new opportunity for students with a always to take The game requires extreme concenpassion for online gaming to play against state,” Coach tration and coordination to be successful, one another, as well as compete in tourna- something that the members of Esports DeGeorge ments with other schools in Nebraska.

Photos by SophiaVirgillito said. “And for a continue to improve on as the year Moderators Dr. Sharon Genoways and healthy season!” Shelprogresses. It also serves as a place for “Because COVID ended our season last Mr. Tim Barth of the science department students to hang out with others and ton adds. are working together to create a safe and The Varsity season year, I am very excited to compete in bond over their interests. welcoming environment for students kicked off March 18 “I joined because I’ve always really looking to get their game on. my first high school track meet and I with a 2-0 victory liked playing video games and being able “It’s a place for kids who may not be against Central High am excited for the new experiences. My to play with my friends in a fun environathletic to express themselves and find a School. ment,” sophomore Lilith Maxey said. kind of community of people like them,” hopes for this season are to push myJust north of the The new club meets after school on Genoways said. soccer field, the tennis self as hard as I can, and to improve my Tuesdays and Thursdays in Room 103.

Super Smash Bros. is currently the players are coached This newly introduced extracurricular only game playable, but Genoways and times as much as possible.

I am really by head coach Trish is a great opportunity for students to Barth hope to expand the gaming options Faust, assistant Katie looking forward to this season, and I get involved and welcomes any students as the club continues to grow.

Schmidt and JV coach interested in joining the Esports team at think we will have a great team this A typical Smash match includes two Bridget Mendenhall. any time throughout the rest of the year. to four players battling each other using This year’s teams con- year!” -sophomore Olivia Strako, Track sist of seven freshmen,

Esports encourages students to expand interests in online gaming

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Cheer team performs at state, brings home runner-up trophy in traditional A category

Varsity basketball team concludes the season in the A-4 district semi-finals, head coach resigns

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GaeaKaan

n Feb. 19 the competition cheerleading team concluded their season by taking home the state runner-up trophy in the Class A traditional category after competing in Grand Island, Neb. They scored an 86.5 with only a quarter point deduction throughout the entire routine. This accomplishment demonstrated the team’s dedication and hard work put in throughout the season.

“The season overall went really well.

All the seniors got really close the underclassmen never really had the chance to get those bonding experiences, so we had to take it upon ourselves to carry on the traditions,” senior co-captain Carley

Gregg said.

The team’s state performance can be rewatched on the Marian Cheer Team Instagram account @marian_cheer_team on the IGTV feed.

The cheer team cheers at Mount Michael football games and Marian volleyball and basketball games on the sidelines. They keep their spirits high through wins and losses and represent Marian High School in blue, silver and white. The Marian cheer team has kept school spirit lifted throughout this past year, despite the difficulties. For those interested in trying out for next year’s teams, check out the Google form in the Instagram’s bio or linked at the Marian website before April 9.

SophieStevens

n Feb. 23 the Crusaders headed to Lincoln North Star with hopes to win and advance to the District A-4 finals. The Crusaders, led by seniors Celia Hacker, Aryannah Harrison and Kate Asselin and coached by Mr. Peter Cunningham, Miss Jessica Abel and Mr. Eric Thompson suffered a tough loss to the Lincoln North Star Gators.

“The way we ended our season is not how any team wants to end the season,” freshman McKenna Stover said “Every team’s goal is to make it to state, and we unfortunately lost in districts. The day after districts was a hard day for the whole team.

Walking through the hallways and seeing

my teammates, I couldn’t help but tear up.”

Heading into next year, Stover said she is hopeful for a comeback. “The seniors will be impossible to replace, but between the returners and the girls on JV and reserve this year, we will be able to put together another competitive team next year,” Stover said.

Aryannah Harrison and Celia Hacker both finished the season surpassing 1000 points to end their last season with the Crusaders. Coach Cunnigham, head coach for five years, decided to resign to focus on his growing family. He made his announcement via Twitter on March 1, ending with a 52-59 record.

March 2021

Sports 13

The reality of women reffing men’s sports

CourtneyThompson

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n Super Bowl Sunday, many were shocked to see a woman on the field. She might not have been wearing Chiefs or Buccaneers colors, but she was in uniform along with the players, working as hard as they were. Mrs. Sarah Thomas became the first full-time, female NFL referee in 2015, made history yet again by becoming the first woman to referee the Super Bowl. So, the question stands: why haven’t there been more women reffing sports across the U.S.?

Throughout the history of men’s sports in the United States, no matter what level of difficulty, there has never been a large amount of female referees. The NBA has only six women on their referee team, and the NFL now has one full time.

Though most professional sports are dominated by men, millions of women watch sports every day, and most of those women can go through the required training and know the logistics of the sport enough to be a referee.

There has to be an underlying issue that the public is not seeing, and it has to come down to treatment. Long Island Soccer Referees Association (LISRA) President Cathy Caldwell spoke to Morganne Gagne, a student at Duke University, on the matter, saying, “We lose female refs three times more frequently than male refs due to verbal abuse.” This is evident in watching any woman ref a game. During the Super Bowl game, players yelled at Sarah Thomas and expressed concern about “bad calls” that were even clear to the audience. The wrongful treatment of these women, simply because of their gender, is not tolerated, and gets players ejected more often than not.

The stigma against female officials trickles down into the college and high school levels. In 2019, only four of the 70 full time refs at March Madness were women. Of more than 5,000 referees employed by the NCAA, only 500 of them

are females according to Steve Shaw, Director of Officials. At Marian, only a few girls referee boys sports, one of them being freshman Meredith Britson. “Reffing women’s is so much easier because they’re not as aggressive and treat you with more respect. Guys expect you to know everything and yell when I make a ‘bad call,’” she said. “I hate it. The guys are rude, and this is my last year.”

Nebraska history was even made at the boys state basketball tournament in Lincoln by having Elkhorn native Mary Karol McGee on the squad of officials. “My biggest hope is that it just becomes normalized,” McGee told 1011 NOW, Lincoln news. “That it becomes a normal thing to see a female amidst all the males working at not only the girls state tournament but also the boys state tournament.” This is a small feat, but a huge step in the direction of gender equality in male dominated professions.

Meet Marian’s newest college athletes

Jessica Brusnahan is swimming at Lindenwood.

When I started looking at schools after deciding I wanted to swim, I wasn’t sure how close to home. I wanted to try to be close enough that I could come home on the weekends if I wanted. Lindenwood was the second of the three schools I visited, and truly I felt bad after the visit because I knew I wouldn’t be able to give a fair chance to the third school because I was so excited after Lindenwood. It just felt like home, even six hours away. When I was choosing whether or not to swim, I think it came down to whether or not I could really give up the sport after state swimming. I still loved it and wasn’t ready to walk away, so that was it!”

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Celia Hacker is playing basketball at Lake Superior State University.

After visiting Lake State, I just got this feeling and I knew it was the right place and somewhere I’d love being my next 4 years. I’m looking forward to getting away and meeting new people as well as playing the game I love most. i chose to keep playing because i wasn’t close to being able to give up basketball considering i’ve been playing for so long. i’ve never gotten tired of the sport and being able to play basketball helps me escape from things that can get to me and it’s almost like therapy for me. Basketball has been a life changing aspect for me and not only just the game but also as a person. I’ve developed leadership skills, I get to see myself fail then turn back around and fix it, and while doing all of that I get to have fun.

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Sophie Stevens is playing volleyball at Hastings College.

I chose Hastings because it had a welcoming atmosphere and felt like home away from home. I am looking forward to meeting all of the girls and having a new environment to play volleyball in. I chose to play volleyball because it has been a goal of mine since I started playing when I was young. It has always been something I have wanted to do.”

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Naomi Delkamiller ’21referees a varsity girls high school game at Northwest High School on March 20. She has been reffing for four years and is state certified for high school games.

Dance team performs at state, places fifth in pom GaeaKaan

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n Feb. 18 the competition dance team competed for a state title in Grand Island, Neb. The team placed fifth in the Class A pom category scoring a total of 83.0 with zero deductions.

Dance team captain senior Lexi Ketcham reflected on the year positively, saying, “The year was challenging with COVID restrictions, but I’m really proud of our team and how hard we worked, with an end to a good year at state.”

The team’s state performance can be rewatched on the Marian Dance Team Instagram account @omahamariandanceteam on the IGTV feed.

The dance team performs at all-school pep rallies, Creighton Prep football and basketball games, and Marian basketball games at halftime. Tryouts for next year’s teams will be on March 22-25, for more information check out the dance team page on Marian’s website.

Swimming and diving team wins back-to-back state championship titles NatalieCusick

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he swim and dive team defended their first place title Feb. 25-27 with 16 gold medals in seven different events. They ended the meet 171 points above runner up Lincoln Southwest. Their 416-point total was the sixth highest point total in the state and third highest in Marian history.

Senior Megan Carter started the state meet out with her fourth consecutive diving state championship.

She now holds the second all-time highest score with 511.30 points and is the second girl in state history to win all four years.

Senior Jojo Randby was a part of four winning events, two of which she was defending from last year. She had the second fastest time in state history in the 50 freestyle (23.01).

This time also broke the school record, which makes two individual school records for her. The University

of Nebraska-Lincoln commit also won the 100 breaststroke.

Close behind Randby’s medal count was sophomore Josie Hood, with three gold medals. Her individual first place in the 100 freestyle placed her at number nine in state history. “Winning as a sophomore is also scary because I feel like I have to win the same event my next two years. There is a lot of pressure around it to win, but as our assistant coach says, pressure is a privilege,” Hood said.

Marian also had three winning relays. The 200 medley consisted of Maddie Clark ‘21, Jojo Randby ‘21, Rylee Trojan ‘21 and Katy Foley ‘23.

The 400 freestyle relay featured Josie Hood ‘23, Molly Von Seggern ‘23, Katy Foley ‘23 and Rylee Trojan ‘21.

Finally, Marian secured the number four all-time spot in state records with the 200 freestyle relay team of Jojo Randby ‘21, Josie Hood ‘23, Jessica Brusnahan ‘21 and Molly VonSeggern ‘23.

Following the state win, coach B.J. Christiansen received the Nebraska Swimming Coaches Association Coach of the Year award.

The swim and dive team may have experienced a lot of changes throughout their season due to the pandemic, but they ended the season with one thing that didn’t changetheir state title. “COVID has changed a lot, but it hasn’t changed the fact that we are a team and wanted the best for our teammates. We all swam really well and I’m so extremely proud of everyone that contributed to our state championship,” Randby said.

14 Entertainment

Get in the spirit: a guide leading up to Field Day SophieStevens C olor Block and Field Day are 32 days apart, meaning that there is plenty of time for your own class to get things ready and get in the spirit for Marian’s most anticipated tradition: Field Day! Every day of Field Week is a dress down day, giving

each student the ability to dress however they please in their own class colors.

Many girls participate in tie-dyeing shirts or buying bracelets, beads, wigs and facepaint. Some other things you could do is take part in gathering supplies for walls or

judges booklets. Maybe go out on a whim and taking a sewing class for costumes.

Getting cardboard, planning each day’s outfits and buying items in class colors have been highly anticipated traditions and are acivities Marian girls look forward

Gather any supplies your committees might need, go to any committee meetings and get ready to work during Field Week.

Make homemade accessories like bead bracelets, bows and scrunchies to show your class spirit, even outside dress-down days.

Getting together with friends to tie dye shirts can be a fun way to get you all hyped for Field Day.

March 2021

to every year. Dress from head-to-toe in your class colors to get hyped for Field Day and make sure to get to your committee meetings on time.

Graphics by MollyMonahan

Plan your outfits and buy wigs, shoes and other clothes in your class colors to go all out during Field Week.

We all could use a laugh right now

El Dorado offers Omaha authenticity and affordability

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MollyMonahan

hrough my 18 years of living, I Michael Cera, is a bass guitarist have watched a lot of movies. in a garage rock band and a barely At an early age, kids are plopped functioning adult. Scott Pilgrim is in front of the socially awkward television for some and usually has quick and paintrouble getting a less relief for busy girlfriend, but his parents. We would whole life changes watch movies like when he meets Disney’s “Cars” or the bold roller any princess movies skater Ramona for a laugh and Flowers. Scott’s hopefully a valuable life mission belife lesson. As I’ve comes defeating grown older, I her deadly seven started collecting exes, in sword a list of movies, fights, epic band brought to my battles, and marattention by my tial arts to win the older brother, that love of his life. are guaranteed to “Scott Pilgrim Image source IMDB.com “Scott make me laugh at vs. the World” is Pilgrim vs. the World (2010). almost every scene. messy, random Sadly, these movies and the best type are considered pretty underground of movie to get out of your comfort to my generation and definitely need zone to watch for a quick laugh. more recognition.

Another guaranteed laugh sugThe first movie, one of my new gestion I have, “Talladega Nights: favorites, is called “Scott Pilgrim vs. the Ballad of Ricky Bobby,” is a the World.” This movie received an classic. This amusing movie stars the 82% on Rotten famous comeTomatoes, is rated dic duo Will PG-13 and can be Ferrell and John found on Netflix.

C. Reilly. Main This totally out of character Ricky the box and bizarre Bobby (Will cult classic has Ferrell) grows comedy, romance up “wanting to and action all go fast” or racing tied into one cars. His dreams movie. The first come true when time I watched he becomes the this movie, I was #1 race car driver completely taken in the Unitaback by the style ed States, has of the comedy and millions, a wife action. The humor and kids and in “Scott Pilgrim” has no worries Image source IMDB.com “Tallais witty, quick and besides winning. dega Nights: The Ballad of Ricky sure to make you His life comes Bobby (2006). laugh by just watchcrumbling down ing the characters’ when another movements. Howevrace car driver er, the action is more comedic than from France comes and takes his realistic. With graphic novel-like throne. This movie is a typical Will fight scenes that inch towards the Ferrell comedy with hilarious one line of Anime style fighting, the plot liners, random twists and famous of this edgy movie is definitely out catchphrases. “Talladega Nights” of the ordinary. The main character, has a PG-13 rating, 71% Rotten Scott Pilgrim, played by the loveable Tomatoes and can be found on Hulu

NatalieCuisick

ast food Mexican chains are lying to you, was lacking; they just weren’t the best enchilaand it’s time you start eating authentic das I’ve ever had,” senior Julia Quinn said. She Mexican cuisine for half the price of the drivealso got Coke which was refilled multiple times through taco. for free, as were the rest of their Coke products.

El Dorado on 24th and Q has some of the Though we did eat rather quickly due to best Mexican food Omaha has to offer. It has our excitement, we still got the full experience been a classic for Omaha nawithout feeling rushed. I was tives and tourists alike for 21 most impressed by the speed years and is owned by Pedra of the restaurant. We got our Ayala. food less than 10 minutes after In the heart of South ordering and were in and out of Omaha, the Mexican seathe restaurant within 30 minfood restaurant is bursting utes. There was a good amount with culture and authenticity. of tables in the restaurant and Along the block are most of a hardworking staff to thank Omaha’s other contenders for for the timeliness. I was pleased best Mexican food, including to see sanitization of tables in Taqueria Tijuana across the between parties and masks worn street and the International by all staff.

Bakery two doors down. ParkEl Dorado is a real Mexican ing was definitely the biggest restaurant which doesn’t have to downside of the experience charge a lot to prove its greatness. of South Omaha, with back They are open every day except lots full of one-ways and spots Tuesday at 10:00 or 10:30. On Beef enchiladas and carne ruined by “15-minute parking Fridays and Saturdays, they stay asada tacos with sides of rice only” signs. open until 11:00 p.m. and feature and beans from El Darado.

The bright cultural decoa live mariachi band. El Dorado rations and futbol playing on also offers takeout and sells their a large screen give way to a chips and salsa at the restaurant. family-friendly atmosphere. The seat-yourself Next time you want Mexican food for cheap, restaurant with a front counter full of Mexican consider skipping the $1-$2 Taco Bell price and candies and goodies is casual and classic. get a real, authentic taco for only double the I was joined by two other Marian girls for price of the drive-through with just as much the experience, one of whom recommended convenience. And never choose an Americanthe restaurant to me and has been a long-time ized, pricey Mexican restaurant when the flafan of El Dorado. We were greeted with warm, vors aren’t as good and the prices are too high. homemade corn chips and salsa and a smiling Spanish-speaking waitress. The salsa was the perfect amount of spice while not being too hot for an infrequent Mexican food connoisseur such as myself.

El Dorado has a 10-page menu of both classic Mexican dishes and seafood, including fun desserts and drinks such as fried ice cream, Jarritos and Mexican milkshakes. I decided to go with a basic carne asada, or thinly sliced steak, taco so it would be easily comparable to other Mexican restaurants I have visited.

Each taco was only $2.25 with a side of rice, but these tacos tasted far better than their price suggests. Other than the steak being slightly chewy, I could not find anything else lacking in my meal. The flour tortilla was thick and the perfect size, the onions and cilantro complemented the carne asada perfectly, and the rice passed my picky standards of rice. For the price point, I would rate the carne asada tacos a 5/5.

Both of my friends got beef and cheese enchiladas for $8.99 which they rated a 4.5/5.

The exterior of El Darado restaurant on “The enchiladas were very filling and super cheap for how good they were. Nothing specific 24th and Q Street. Photo by NatalieCusick

March 2021

Entertainment 15

Here comes the sun: 2021 Spring fashion has bright colors, funky ’70s vibes Article and illustrations by GraceVirgillito s the spring season is approaching and the weather is getting warmer, the clothing style is changing as well.

Winter brought us the fashion of leather coats, sweaters, yoga pants and turtle necks. Though everyone has different styles, I have many predictions for trends in the upcoming spring and summer seasons. My inspiration comes from scrolling through Pinterest, looking at magazines and being on the fashion side of TikTok. For the first TOP-ic of discussion: shirts and tops. Funky shirts will become all the rage. Spring is full of bright colors and lively new beginnings, which will be reflected in the clothing. Having a top that is brightly colored and intricately designed can be easily paired with plain bottoms. Tank tops that tie in the back

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or cross over the body will become more popular and perfect for fancy summer time occasions, as will buttoned down sweaters. Sweater vests became a trend over the fall and I think the sweater material tops will continue to flourish. I think tops will become more of the focus for outfits and be very eye catching, especially when you pair them with a plain colored pant or skirt.

Another trend that I think will thrive this coming season is a LBS, or little black skirt. When you have one plain skirt that can go with anything, you can combine different unique pieces to create a fun vibrant outfit. As the weather continues to warm up, skirts may become more sought-after, and leather and khaki would be the perfect color to spice up an outfit.

And, if skirts aren’t your go-to, flared or straight pants continue to be a constant

trend among young people.

Now, let’s talk about jewelry. Usually people tend to pick two categories for jewelry: gold or silver. But what if you mixed them? Having gold and silver jewelry incorporated into your outfit can bring a unique aspect. This can be expressed through earrings, rings, necklaces, etc. Chunky rings or necklaces can be flaunted, while having simple earrings can bring the jewelry aspect of an outfit together.

Talking about outfits in general, I see one specific trend more and more while I scroll through Pinterest: outfit color coordination, which is the idea of taking one color

ack b w

Thr

o

Make a Spring “fit”

from a multicolored top and matching it to the color of the bottoms. For example, if a top is red, blue, and a little bit of purple, the bottoms of the outfit would be the same color purple as well. In other words, you are just matching your tops and bottoms together.

Now let’s talk about the spring aesthetic. I feel like we will see more floral patterns incorporated into outfits, and pops of color like pink, green, orange and yellow will make a statement. My prediction is that the aesthetic of this spring will be focused more on clothing inspired by the early 2000s and the 70s. Although fashion is ever changing, these are just a few trends I predict will come about in the near future. I suggest going to find items of clothing that you love and will make you confident!

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s i l ay

Article and photo illustrations by NaomiDelkamiller

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This just in: the blank hallways aren’t forever

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e’ve all heard the jokes (or even made them) about the clean, yet semi-hospital- looking hallways at Marian. It’s true; the Marian Room does feel like an operating room, and there is a noticeable amount of empty wall space on all three floors, but plans are being made to fill these areas with Marian displays.

On Feb. 24, Mrs. Susie Sullivan, Ms. Mary Higgins, Ms. Rochelle Rohlfs, Mrs. Karen Hotz, and Mrs. Susan Rosenlof met to brainstorm how to decorate the hallways of Marian in a thoughtful manner. Their hope is to reflect the mission of Marian in artistic ways throughout the school. Although not committed to any idea in particular, administrators are planning ways in which to creatively mark our Marian territory.

“We went to Creighton to look at how they redesigned the Heider College of Business,” Principal Sullivan said. “We heard good things about it, and so we went to take a look at it for some ideas.”

Assistant Principal Rohlfs is planning to tour a few local high schools that have creative displays in their hallways as well.

“The architects told us to live in the space for a while after the renovations before putting anything up,” Sullivan said. She said the time has come to drape the walls in Marian spirit and supports the idea of having spirited student photos enlarged

around the building.

President Higgins is glad that the administration didn’t rush to fill up the spaces left behind by construction.

“We wanted [our hallway designs] to be thoughtful, intentional and beautiful,” Higgins said. She described the planning process as an opportunity to create timeless wall displays across campus and plans to consult members of the Marian community every step of the way, including students. Higgins says the process is still in the early phases of design, but she highlighted a few ideas at the top of her list.

Among the list of ideas is a timeline of the Servants of Mary on the white wall across from the cubbies next to the chapel.

Just a few steps away in the Marian room, Higgins would like to see the new and revised mission statement in 3D lettering on the walls. She would also like to connect all members of the Board of Directors to the mission in a visual way and supports adding blue paint to break up the white

glare in this particular room.

A few broad display ideas include the evolution of Marian uniforms, an academic Hall of Fame and a place to recognize the faculty who have been honored as Archdiocesan teachers of the year. Marian Girl of the Year and May Queen are also a priority to display, but their locations have yet to be decided.

In the hallway that goes from the upper quad into the senior hallway, Higgins envisions “something lively, some kind of mural that reflects Field Day themes, maybe something that reflects student diversity.” Higgins is willing to explore the possibility of having students paint this mural, but says it will take planning.

Students want to make the most of the blank walls and support the idea of a student-made mural. Senior Emma Gunn said Marian’s physical environment affects her learning experience. “I feel like the lack of decoration/personalization that

each class’ hallways used to have really made it feel more like a home-y environment, whereas now it feels very uniform and impersonal.” Gunn is not alone; 73.3 percent of students support the idea of a mural somewhere in the building and 24.4 percent say maybe.

On the same survey, students were asked what they would like to see represented in a mural. Many ideas echoed themes of women empowerment/POC representation, relationships that form at Marian, different Marian traditions, gratitude for teachers and equality among all students regardless of race, sexual orientation, and age.

Marian is a vibrant community with a rich history full of artists, leaders and undeniably remarkable women. However, what is obvious to Crusaders isn’t automatically clear to the curious parents and prospective students who walk through the entrance to senior hall. The administration wants these visitors to see the Marian spirit on full display and so do students.

The administration made it clear that these changes won’t take place all at once due to the expenses and time commitment, but would like for some displays to be installed this upcoming summer. “We want to make the most of the opportunity we have,” Higgins said.

16 Photo Essay

step club

March 2021

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by otos Cece West &

Mrs. Molly Woodman ‘97

“Step is a percussive dance where your entire body is used as an instrument to make rhythms and sounds through a mixture of footsteps, spoken words, and hand claps. The African roots are taught throughout Black fraternities and sororities and is cherished in the Black community across the United States. Step taught me that if you get a group of powerful women together, the impact will be immense. It’s taught the minorities and me in this community to seek opportunity, take initiative, accept the consequences and prosper,” Jacquie Paul ‘21 said.

This year’s active members include: Lily Biggs ‘24, Crystal Gonzalez ‘24, Aya Khayati ‘23, Regina Anyaegbunam ‘23, Ando Wosuk ‘23, Gozie Okafor ‘23, Shantise Pearson ‘22, Justyce Cribbs ‘22, Izzy Soto ‘22, Sanaa Slaughter ‘22, Jenelle White ‘21, Jaeden White ‘21 and Jacquie Paul ‘21. The team is moderated by Mrs. Molly Woodman.

Step team pictured with Mrs. Molly Woodman’s daughter, Daisy, in 2019.