MHS 2017 February Network

The Network

Marian High School - 7400 Military Avenue Omaha, NE 68134 - www.marianhighschool.net - Volume 61 Issue 6 - February 2017

Servite night provides good conversation, fun times T

anahingorani

he Servants of Mary are universally known for their kindness, compassion and willingness to help everyone, not just Marian students.

One way the community of Marian makes an effort to give back to the founders of the school is through a longstanding tradition called Servite Night, held this year in the Convent Servite Center of Compassion on Feb. 15.

Servite Night is a tradition started by the Marian Moms, one of whom being Carol LaHood, mother of senior Mia LaHood.

“Servite Night is a group effort to celebrate their [Servants of Mary] community service, service to Marian and them being great role models for the girls. We want to recognize them, honor them and bring them together,” LaHood said.

The Marian Moms ordered pizza from Mangia Italiana, provided beverages and desserts and supplied gifts such as fuzzy socks and stationery for the Sisters to chose

Pizza party time Seniors Kiera Leppert, Emma Shoemaker and Claire Pelan join Sr. Joy Weideman and Sr. Midge Peterson at Servite Night on Feb. 15.

Servite Night brings both Marian students and servites from the Omaha area together around good pizza and good laughs. anahingorani from.

Just like every year, Marian students were welcomed to join the servite community from both the Motherhouse and Omaha area for this event.

“I’ve been coming as long as they’ve been doing it,” Sister Terese Lux said. “It’s wonderful to be able to get together with everyone around the blessing of good food and the gracious welcoming of the

Marian Moms!”

“The gifts are small tokens of appreciation, usually donated by the students,” LaHood said. “This is a fun, happy event that really just comes together.”

The night was filled with laughter, love and board games. “We played Headbandz with the Sisters, a game where you attach a card containing a person, place or thing to your head and ask questions to the people in your group to try to figure out who or what you are,” senior Maria Gallegos said.

“All the servites are so sweet and nice, and they’re so much fun to be around. I hope they had as good of a time as I did!”

“The Marian Moms plan a nice pizza dinner and serve us themselves. We don’t even have to get up! It’s so relaxing. We get all the time in the evening to sit at the round tables with each other and the Marian students,” Sister Mary Alice Haley said. “It makes for good conversation and great jokes!”

Mass drummer has Grammy-worthy influence A emmaherold

ll-school Masses are arguably one “Terrace Martin is a maestro of the of the liveliest monthly occurmargins, the sort of musician who’s rences at Marian. The loud, soulful often at his most effective just on the music with a jazz twist is something edges of the frame,” The New York many girls look forward to. Behind the Times writer Nate Chinen said. drums at these Masses is Omaha Black “After I was working on the KenMusic Hall of Fame member, Ernest drick album, I needed a break from “Curly” Martin, father and counterpart Los Angeles. I just needed different of Grammy nominee, Terrace Martin. scenery. Me and a couple of amazing Los Angeles-based music producother producers and musicians all flew er, musician and songwriter Terrace down to Omaha, Nebraska, to meet Martin is credited for producing Kenmy father [Curly],” Terrace said in drick Lamar’s 2015 album, “To Pimp A an interview with MTV in April 2016.

Butterfly.”

“We all got a giant loft in downtown This album was not only praised by Omaha. We lived there and wrote David Bowie, but also withholds Pressongs every day and just ate good food ident Obama’s favorite song of 2015, and talked. Just lived life in Nebraska “How Much A Dollar Cost.” “To Pimp where it was clean, where it was quiet.

A Butterfly” won “Best Rap Album” I got a chance to think about life. One and was also a nominee for “Album of of the reasons I wanted to be with my the Year” at the 2016 Grammy Awards. father was because I almost lost him “Terrace won two Grammy awards to pneumonia. It took that [situation] for his contributions to longtime to remind me how great he was as a collaborator Kendrick Lamar’s 2015 al- musician.” bum, To Pimp a “Curly Butterfly,” Marcontributed ian Liturgical on the album,” Minister Mrs. Kolterman Anna Koltersaid. “He man said. played drums Terrace has [for] some of also produced the songs for records for sevthe album.” eral acclaimed On April 1, artists including the multi-inStevie Wonder, strumentalist Snoop Dogg, released his To the beat of his own drum “Curly” Martin plays Busta Rhymes, the drums at the Servants of Mary Mass on Sept. 15. sixth album, Charlie Wilson, “Velvet PorHe, along with Nate Bray and Mark Nelson, provide YG and many traits.” Reinstrumental background to the Worship Choir at others. corded in Los nearly every Mass. carmenmiller

Angeles and Omaha, drummer Curly Martin and renowned soul group, “The Emotions” were featured in this album.

“I received a text message from Curly: ‘Velvet Portraits just got nominated for RB album of the year. God is good,’” Kolterman said.

“Velvet Portraits” was nominated for “Best R&B Album” at the 59th Grammy Awards, taking place on Feb. 12. Previous nominees in this category include Alicia Keys, John Legend, Mary J. Blige and Boyz II Men. “Lalah Hathaway Live” by Lalah Hathaway won the Grammy in this category.

Among the 14 songs on this album, one song is named after Terrace’s father, “Curly Martin.” “He’s one of my favorite drummers in the world,” Terrace told MTV. “With my father being a jazz musician, he’d always turn me onto different records, like John Coltrane, Sonny Stitt, Charlie Parker.

On a lot of these records, on the back of the records, they would have credits. . . I realized one of my favorites was [drummer] Billy Higgins, and he happened to be from Los Angeles. And my father introduced me to him,” Terrace said in an interview with David Drake from The Fader.

“All my life I never thought about using my father on a record, but when I put him on [‘Velvet Portraits’], a whole ‘nother level of connection and spirituality just came out the music. I was like, ‘Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!’”

In addition to working with Herbie Hancock, Terrace is currently producing albums for Fergie, YG, SZA. “This is a great honor,” Martin said.

Pops Concert Pg. 2

Black History Month Pg. 6

Yesterday & Today Pgs. 8-9

Marian Fest Pg. 16

The Network (February 2017)

(2) News

Pops concerts allow students to shine briannawessling

I

nstrumental “I thought that the and vocal musicians were amazing pops concerts and super talented!” give students sophomore Mary Watson a chance said. to show off “I am glad they took their talents the time to play with us, using songs and while we rehearsed, that everyone they gave us great advice knows for playing these songs. and loves.

They also sounded Instrumental really great when they Pops occured performed with us,” on Tuesday, sophomore Jazmin Ready, set, play! The students in Marian’s band get their instruments ready as they Jan. 7, and Torres said. start the show. Conducted by band and orchestra teacher Mr. Paul Niedbalski, the Vocal Pops Vocal Pops was kicked show lasted for an hour and included tributes to musicians who had passed in 2016. happened on off with a performance Sunday, Jan. from social studies Mr. Kansas City, Conservatory and we’re exploring the 19. Both took place in Tom Baker, as he helped of Music and the Lynn possibility of featuring Marian’s Performing Arts the choir to sing “Let’s Go University Conservatory one of our own for the Center. to the Movies.”

The show of Music, performed with spring concert. I was Instrumental Pops was directed by Ms. Lauren the band. Tyser currently really excited about started off the night with Morrissey ‘09. works at Thompson bringing in two incredibly the Muppets Theme, and The night was truly Music. Bass player Dani talented female musicians, included performances a night at the movies.

Meyer performed with particularly since they from both the band and Students in small groups the orchestra. Meyer both play instruments that orchestra. The night was and individually sang graduated from Indiana aren’t typically thought dedicated to honoring songs from “Hairspray” University Jacobs School of as ‘girls’ instruments,” famous musicians and “Footloose” and even “Toy of Music with a bachelors Niedbalski said. performers who died in and masters in music 2016, including tributes performance. She is to Carrie Fisher, Debbie currently a part of the Reynolds, Leonard Cohan Omaha Symphony. and Gene Wilder. The “Bringing in soloists show was directed by is a very common thing instrumental music teacher for most professional/ Mr. Paul Niedbalski. college bands and Instrument Pops orchestras. Sometimes also included musicians they feature musicians from outside Marian from within their ranks who did solos. Trumpet and sometimes they bring Bust a move Marian’s Select Women’s Choir finishes off their player Jamie Tyser, who in outside musicians. I has degrees in trumpet opening number “Let’s Go to the Movies.” The girls had some help wanted to bring in some performance from local professionals for from social studies teacher Mr. Tom Baker to start off the show.

University of Missouri our February concert,

Story.”

“My favorite song to perform was my solo, ‘Happy Working Song’ because I could dance around the stage with all my props and act like Giselle from ‘Enchanted,’” junior Rachel Brich said.

The concert was made up of Marian’s Select Women’s Choir and Concert Choir, so there were students from all grades participating.

“I think it went incredibly well. My favorite song to sing was ‘Anything You Can Do,’” freshman Annie Compton said.

“I was so excited about how the show turned out —the group numbers were a lot of fun and the solos and small groups were phenomenal! My favorite song to perform was ‘Footloose!’ The dance was sassy and we were able to pour our personalities into it,” junior Maria Determan said.

The Select Women’s Choir also took a moment to honor the seniors on the choir, giving them each a survival kit for their freshman year in college without the Select Women’s Choir. The kits included flower petals with compliments on them, a wand (to remember how magical they were), cough drops, gum and many other items.

Superintendent, student, teacher choose school choice carmenmiller

A

ll eyes have been on Nebraska’s Legislature in recent weeks as they discuss the topic of school choice.

School choice, in essence, argues that the government should allot more money to alternative schools, such as private or *charter schools, in order to give parents more options that would best fit their children.

This money would come in the form of *vouchers, *tax scholarships, tax deductions and *education savings accounts, all provided through taxes.

The argument against school choice is that it would potentially take away money from public schools, which could possibly deteriorate the quality of education at public schools, according to the opposition.

Those against believe that if the government

puts this money into Villarreal also touched public schools, they can on her experiences within revamp programs within the public school system. existing schools to make “I went to a public middle them more suitable for school prior to coming to more children.

Marian,” Villarreal said.

On Feb. 13, senior “This gave me the opSarah Villarreal testified portunity to compare my about her experience at experience there to the a Catholic experischool to ences that It is so hard to a group of I’ve had at eight senMarian.” chose a side...” ators and Omaha Mrs. Jennifer proponents ArchdiChristen ’96 of school ocesan choice.

Superin“They gave me about tendent, Patrick Slattery, five minutes to discuss my is adamantly in support experience in a Catholic of passing legislature in school and how finanfavor of school choice. cial aid helped me to be “LB 295, a tax credit successful in this environ- scholarship bill (Opportument,” Villarreal said. nity Scholarships) is a bill “I testified in favor of that I testified at a couple school choice because I weeks ago in Lincoln. It do not believe that it takes is a form of school choice away money from public that does not impact one schools, rather it gives penny of the public school parents more options to funding model, but that seek out the best educadoes not stop opponents tion for their child.” from still fighting against

“

it,” Slattery said.

“We hope to have it voted on in committee soon, and ideally making it out of committee and onto the floor for full debate later this legislative session.”

Learning Services Coordinator Mrs. Jennifer Christen ’96 is in favor of school choice, as she has two daughters in a private school. However, she understands the public school perspective because her husband teaches at a public high school.

“It is so hard to chose a side,” Christen said.

“On one hand, I believe that every parent has a right to choose where their children go to school. On the other, I know that my husband has expressed concerns about how tight money is at his public school, and it is so important to have quality public schools for our children.”

Defining school choice *Vouchers: set aside public funding for parents to spend on private education for their children *Tax scholarships: gives tax breaks to those who donate to nonprofits that provide private school scholarships *Education savings accounts: allows parents to withdraw their children from public district or charter schools and receive a deposit of public funds into government-authorized savings accounts with restrictions *Charter school: a publicly funded independent school established by teachers, parents or community groups under the terms of a charter with a local or national authority source: edchoice.org

The Network (February 2017)

News (3)

Students promote potential Pro-Life club carmenmiller

A

s a Catholic school, Marian year,” Bauman said. upholds a strong Pro-Life In a survey of Marian students tradition. It is incorporated in the with 257 responses, 99 students classroom, prayers and everyday said that they would be interested conversation. in joining a Pro-Life However, there ... I would love club, and 74 said that was no Pro-Life they would be interto share such an ested in attending the club this year.

“We used to March for Life — a amazing experihave a Pro-Life Pro-Life march held ence with some in Washington D.C. club a few years ago, but it never year since Roe amazing girls.” every really took off, vs. Wade, the Supreme Megan Rutten ’18 Court case that legaland I was so busy coaching ized abortion. swimming that I did not have time This year, seniors Lily Foley to keep up with it,” history teacher and Shania McAmis attended the and former moderator Mr. David March on Jan. 27, despite the fact Anderson said. “We used to go that Marian did not send a group down to Bellevue and pray at the down, while many other high abortion clinic down there, as well schools did. They instead went as hold prayer services at Marian.” down with their individual parishThere is some talk of starting es on the Archdiocesan pilgrimage. a club next year. Some students To read more about their experihave talked to English teacher ence, visit www.mariandigitalnetMrs. Amy Bauman about being the work.com. moderator.

Some girls said that they would “We are still in the process of have even gone this year, had Margetting the club set up with Ms. ian sent a group down. “I definitely Mo, but Mr. Anderson and I hope would have attended the March to have the club ready by next for Life if Marian would have had

“

a group, and I would go if they provided the opportunity,” junior Delaney Stekr said.

Other girls agreed, concluding that it would be great to go down with their sisters. “I would have loved to go to the March for Life, and if Marian went in the future I would for sure go,” junior Megan Rutten said. “The reason I didn’t go this year was because I didn’t want to go alone, but if Marian girls were to go, I would love to share such an amazing experience with some amazing girls.”

Others are hopeful that the opportunity will present itself in upcoming years.

“I would have loved to go to the March for Life this year and would definitely go in the future if a trip was organized, because it is such a powerful event in history,” sophomore Jolie Peal said.

Regardless, students have still found a way to incorporate their Pro-Life beliefs into their everyday lives, because it is important to them.

“I strongly believe that abortion should no longer exist. I feel

Smilin’ in D.C. Lily Foley ’17 and Shania McAmis ’17 pose outside of the Archdiocesan bus on Jan. 27. Photo courtesy of Shania McAmis. that everyone has the right to life, whether in the whom or here on earth, no matter the circumstances,” freshman Madison Tomich said. “I feel there needs to be more awareness of this awful case [Roe vs. Wade] and more education about it to make people aware that taking a life is not the answer.”

Q&A: Highlights and updates with clubs at Marian graphic by emmaherold & maddiemingo

Maddie Mingo ’17

Questions 1. What is your position in the club?

2. What is the mission of this club?

3. What is the importance of your club in the Marian community?

4. What have been some of the most memorable activities of your club?

5. Are there still ways for students who aren’t current members to get involved?

Answers

Questions Answers

French Club Rachel Weremy ’17

Robotics

Slam Poetry

Ms. Adrianna Magistro ’09, moderator

1. The moderator provides supervision and input, 1. French club officer, Mrs. the coach provides the student poets with direct Janet Tuttle is the guidance with writing and performance skills. moderator.

2. To connect through written and spoken word 2. To embrace in preparation to showcase talents at the Louder the French culture in fun Than a Bomb teen poetry festival in the spring. ways.

According to the LTAB website, the event aims 3. Every language has a “to bring teens together across racial, gang, and club oriented to it. socio-economic lines. LTAB is a friendly compe4. After four years, my tition that emphasizes self-expression and comfavorite part was getting munity via poetry, oral story-telling and hip-hop used to the club in a spoken word.” sense. I like being a 3. The team is vital to the Marian community senior and seeing because it offers students a safe, supportive all the freshmen avenue for self-expression. The team is a unique enjoy their first club blend of voices, backgrounds and artistries. activities like the Many students are able to find their place in French movie and Slam. chocolate and 5. All are welcome to attend Slam practices cheese tasting. on Tuesdays from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. in Stu5. Any student dent Services. Currently, the team memcurrently taking bers are preparing from the LTAB festival a French in March. They perform on March 20 Illustration by course can and 21 at 5:30 p.m. at UNO. Vienna Tang. join!

1. I am the senior leader on team Aquaphoenix.

Mrs. Sharon Genoways is the moderator.​ 2. The mission of Robotics is to teach its members basic mechanics and coding software.

3. Robotics Club encourages Marian girls to embrace their love for STEM (Science, Engineering, Math, Technology) and have fun with their friends.

4. The CEENBoT Showcase this year was memorable.

For the first time in history a robotics team made it to the semiDomo Arigato Ms. Roboto Sarah finals on the Villarreal ’17 and Maddie Mingo driving course, ’17 steer their robots around the and we came Pokébot Go! course. The team extremely finished first in Presentation, first close to com- in Documentation and third in the peting in the Driving Course at their competition championship. on Feb. 18 at the SAC Museum.

Also, I will Photo courtesy of Tehra Finn-Jacknever forget son. our attempt to raise money for Walk-a-Thon with our Glow-inthe-Dark Pacman.

5. There’s only one competition left this year, but next school-year there will be many competitions: CEENBoTs, VEX and Project HALON (High Altitude Learning Over Nebraska). We will welcome any student with a desire to join.

(4) Opinion

The Network (February 2017)

A consumer’s purpose: buying power comes from within

T

he recent controversy associated with the movie “A Dog’s Purpose,” released Jan. 27, has turned to public’s attention toward the way animals are treated in the movie industry. TMZ released a video of the shooting of a water scene for the movie in which a German Shepherd named Hercules showed signs of distress.

The following boycott of the movie became the center of the media buzz around what would have otherwise been a light-hearted, feel-good movie for the whole family.

According to the New York Times, this incident was taken out of context, and in reality, the dog had trained for several months for the now infamous water scene.

Several trained professionals were also on scene and constantly monitoring the animal’s well being. After diving into this topic for several days, I have personally concluded that this whole incident is a mis-

understanding, and it saddens me you tell I’ve been paying attention to see false accusations of animal in Entrepreneurship?), companies abuse. are free to make profits, and conI am, at the same time, interest- sumers are free to support what we ed in the resulting boycott. As con- wish to support with our almighty sumers, dollars. we have I can talk until I am an obligablue in the face about how the movie industry tion to be doesn’t portray women thoughtwell, and believe me, ful about I have, but if I conwhere we tinue to buy tickets to spend our those movies, I’m only money. adding fuel to the fire.

The purpose As Thomas Jefferson column by isabelleswanson once said, “In matters of “A of principle, stand like a rock.”

Dog’s Purpose” (and every other As frustrating as it is to say, the movie, service and product) is not way we spend our money is the only to make us feel something, most impactful way we interact but to make us feel so strongly we with the world]. Whether it is buyreach for our wallets. Until that is ing cruelty-free products or tickdisrupted, companies will continets to cruelty-free movies, every ue to do as they have always done.

And there is nothing wrong with transaction is a signal to the world about what we find important. that.

The discussion about the “A In the free market we have (Can

Dog’s Purpose” incident, I believe, is misguided. I do not believe there is an epidemic of animal abuse on movie sets in Hollywood. In fact, I would say Hollywood as a whole is doing a great job when handling animals. In (my favorite movie) “What’s Eating Gilbert Grape,” several people were on set for a single grasshopper.

Although large companies can seem to be only cold boardroom meetings where CEOs yell about bottom lines, we need not look further than the shelves in stores to see what kind of an impact people can make.

Businesses stay afloat so long as they are meeting the needs of their customers. When customers are upset or not taken care of, they have not only a right, but an obligation to speak out.

P.S. If anyone knows where to apply for a position as a grasshopper wrangler, please contact me at 17swansoni@omahamarian.org.

It’s my room, Staff speaks: mini-editorials I’ll cry if I want to

I

’m the type of person able to take advantage who needs my life to of this super-personalbe organized. My room ized living space. is absolutely an excepSenior year means tion. a lot of things; anothRecently, I took a few er era of life ends and days of a long weekend huge decisions are to clean it. I had let it made. I’ve cried about get so messy, I wasn’t some ridiculous things even sure if I had hardwood or carpet floors anymore (I have carpet, by the way).

I had strategic ways of walking to get column by amaleapoulos from the door to my bed in order to avoid this past semester (if stepping on someyou saw me at the end thing slippery — or the of Welcome Dance, absolute worst: the sorry) but I’ve also dumbbells I occasionhad some pretty major ally take to Jazzercise. epiphanies.

Talk about a terribly Change happens, stubbed toe! and it’s not always bad.

I took a few hours of If I have learned one each day to make my thing this year, it’s that room clean and bebig life choices, such as came emotional about choosing where to go something I’d never to school for four years, thought I’d be emotion- aren’t something to al about — hanging up fear. They’re an oppormy clean clothes. Who tunity to grow closer gets sentimental about to your friends and putting laundry away? yourself.

The answer is me, I get Long story short: sentimental about putI love my room and ting laundry away. change will be scary As I cleaned, I realat first, but my dorm ized that I’m leaving for room will soon become college in a few months, so special to me I’ll be and I won’t always be sad to move out. illustration by briannawessling

Visitor Wi-Fi

The Network (February 2016)

‘Back when I was your age, I never...’

W

e all know the feeling. You’re sitting there on your phone, scrolling through Facebook or checking your email, when you see the glimmer of hope in your parent’s eye. Oh no, you think. Here it comes.

And then they say it. They start a sentence with those five horrible words and smile proudly, feigning offence, once they finish it. “When I was your age, I never sat around on my phone.” You roll your eyes, maybe stomp away and mutter something resentful under your breath.

I’ll admit it. It’s annoying and disrespectful when people are sitting on their phone or laptop instead of talking to you.

There’s a fine line between catching up on the group chat and leaving reality to be absorbed by Twitter.

Still, I don’t think it’s exactly fair for parents to be nagging us about checking our phones. It’s not

exactly our fault that we happened microwave or a ballpoint pen as we to be living while the most relevant do with an iPhone. More recently, technological advance in modern can you imagine your own parent in the 80’s sitting, staring blankhistory came about. ly at a Doppler What a lot of Radar while their parents don’t realize is that our genparents nagged them? That’s eration’s “obsescalled clinical sion” with iPhones insanity. and MacBooks is The only just the result of a reason that teens generational gap. today use their You wouldn’t hear phones so much parents in the 50’s Mull-ing it over is that they are yelling at their kids with Ellie Mulligan over an obsession useful — arguably more useful on a with the polio daily basis than vaccine. the polio vaccine. Our phones conThe reality is that phones, tabnect us to our friends and family, lets and laptops are all just more whether they’re five feet or 5,000 useful. It’s not that past generamiles away. tions had a longer attention span, While seeing your friend laugh it’s just that, frankly, all the releover FaceTime is better than a vant inventions of their time were kind of the worst. simple “lol” over text, it’s still equally meaningful to cherish the It would be weird for a kid in 1945 to spend as much time with a time and memories you have with

Opinion (5)

your family by being a part of the conversation.

Even though the inventions of generations past pale in comparison to today’s touch screen smart phones and laptops, it’s still important to take out the headphones every now and then and listen up.

Sometimes a simple iMessage or text is all it takes to make you smile, but there is truly nothing like a physical back-and-forth conversation between family or friends. However, don’t feel guilty just because you feel a compulsive need to refresh Twitter. Just like everything, social media absorption is best in moderation.

So next time your parents are getting on your back about being on your phone, just remind them that the equivalent invention of their adolescence was a Cabbage Patch Kid, but afterwards save yourself from a full-on brawl by politely participating in the conversation.

Keeping up with the cousins: Marian style

“O

hana means family. Family means no school and school drama is discussed at family one gets left behind, or forgotten,” is a events. beloved quote from the movie “Lilo and Stitch.”

I’d now like to paint a picture of this with a To most people this quote is completely refew examples. latable in the sense of immediate family. To me, It’s a normal Monday morning, and I waltz this means all my aunts, uncles, grandparents into school expecting today to be like every and cousins. other day, but wow was I wrong.

Other Marian girls think they might have a As I turn the corner, I am suddenly being cousin Sue who lives somewhere obsolete like smashed into a locker by none other than Wisconsin, but in my case, I am so close to my Beaming Bella. extended family on both my mom’s side and She is yelling some nonsense about a family dad’s side that it would be really hard to forget bowling outing. Most of the hallway is chantor leave anyone behind. ing “fight, fight, fight,”–you know, like in the To be exact, I have 38 first cousins. My dad movies. has six sisters who all attended Marian and Bella claims that I have betrayed her because they all have at least three children.

I will not be attending the family bowling event I’m sure at this point you are unimpressed this upcoming weekend with our younger couswith these numbers, but wait, here comes the ins. When she states that I have abandoned her, shocker. she is not dramatic at all.

Of all these cousins, A sacred cousin oath is that we must I have a total of four stick together, especially when it comes cousins who are in to “family bowling outings” or any othmy grade.... yes four. er family event that makes you sick just One of them lives out thinking about it. of state, but I know I knew I was letting her down and that if she would have no one would assume the position of the been raised in good “So what college are you going to?” quesole farming Nebraska tion blocker. She would have to fend for she would have been herself. column by sydneymonahan a Crusader too. So After about ten more minutes of hallthat leaves me with three way yelling, Bella calmed down and accepthere at Marian. ed her fate.

I like to think of us as a super hero squad- we Now for an example of school mixing into have Mighty Mackenzie Freed, Amazing Anna family life: imagine a Monahan family SunKirby, Beaming Bella Carollo and me, their day spaghetti dinner at our grandma JoAnn’s fearless leader, Super Sydney. house. The only problem is I’m sure you can’t When you have three cousins that you see ev- because there is nothing like it. ery day in school, family drama is discussed at There are children running around yelling

The Network Staff

The Network is a monthly publication of the journalism students at Marian High School, Nebraska’s only Class A Catholic, North Central Accredited college preparatory school for girls. The Network is a member of N.H.S.P.A. and the N.S.P.A. It is our goal to provide an accurate and informative news source for the student community. Opinions expressed on opinion pages do not necessarily represent those of the entire community. Students, faculty, and friends are invited to voice their opinion in Letters to the Editors. All letters must be typed, signed, and sent to this address: The Network, Marian High School, 7400 Military Ave., Omaha, NE 68134 Or emailed to us here: netpaper@omahamarian.org Or call us at 402-571-2618 x 1134 An electronic version of this paper and exclusive content can be found here: mariandigitalnetwork.com

Follow us on Twitter @MHSbeat

Follow us on Instagram @MHSpub

Friend us on Snapchat @MHSpub

for their parent’s attention, while the parents are attempting to have non-political discussions.

Meanwhile, across the room the older cousins are fighting for the last sacred meatball, and JoAnn is probably making 13 pies or something else outrageous.

Eventually the dust settles and everyone more or less has a place to eat. One of the many aunts asks the trio of Anna, Mackenzie and myself, “How is school going”.

Trying to think of something quick to say I blurt out, “Great, and I’m so glad I finished that huge essay!” I see across the table how the color drains from both Anna’s and Mackenzie’s face.

I broke yet another sacred cousin rule.

I talked about a school assignment that most of the trio probably hasn’t completed. Anna and Mackenzie shoot out of their seats and run in the opposite direction of their yelling parents ignoring the screams of “You told me all your homework was done!”

On the flip side of cousin drama there is also a daily assurance that, if I need it, I have three people in the same building as me that I have known almost my whole life and I know would do anything for me. If you ask me, that’s pretty special.

The moral of these stories is that going to high school with four of your cousins has benefits and drawbacks.

In the end, I got the opportunity to spend four of the best years of my life with these BC4L (best cousins for life, it’s a cousin thing, you wouldn’t get it).

One thing is for sure, I am going to miss my crazy, crime-fighting cousins when we all go off our separate journeys next year.

managing editors: carmenmiller & isabelleswanson copy editor: erinwalter photo editor: amaleapoulos graphics editor: sydneymonahan online editors: susanapettis & briannawessling front page editor: erinwalter news editors: amaleapoulos & sydneymonahan feature editors: emilydoll, susanapettis,

ellierommelfanger & briannawessling opinion editors: anahingorani & laurenmayer indepth editor: elliemulligan sports editors: morganhobbs & maddiemingo entertainment editors: emmaherold & nataliekemler photo essay editor: alliemorrissey social media queen: victoriaackermann reporter: kateschwaller adviser: marshakalkowski

(6) Feature

The Network ( February 2017)

Bone marrow donors save lives nataliekemler

I

f someone was sitting across from you and asked if you were willing to have a sore back for a few days in order to save their life, most people wouldn’t hesitate to say yes. However, many people aren’t always this eager to donate bone marrow.

Not many people even think about bone marrow — unless they are in need of it. Healthy bone marrow is crucial for survival. According to medicalnewstoday.com, bone marrow is responsible for many processes in the body. One of these important processes includes creating more than 200 billion new blood cells every day.

The process for someone to be tested and entered into a worldwide registry is extremely easy — a cotton swab of your saliva — but not enough people know this. Only 2 percent of the U.S. population is on the national registry, according to the Institute for Justice. Mrs. LesLee Hacker, science teacher and mother of a bone marrow recipient, addresses the lack of education on bone marrow transplants and describes the process as, “So removed you don’t know who that person is.” This distance between donor and receiver could be one of the reasons people hesitate to donate.

Freshman Emily Monzu said she might change her opinion on donating if she received more information, specifically “who you were giving it to and why they needed it.”

Dkms.org and bethematch.org are two websites that do their best to connect those who

want to donate with the people who need it.

At a local level, Lolo’s Angels is doing its part as well. Hacker said that Lolo’s Angels plans to have a mass training of high school students so that they will be able to organize bone marrow drives. Branching out into universities and further out into Omaha is also a goal for the organization. Lolo’s Angels will specifically try to target minority populations, whose odds of surviving without a bone marrow donation are much lower.

A critical component of Lolo’s Angels’ intent is education.“We need to get out in Omaha and realize that their [minorities’] odds are lower.

Our mission is to change that,” Hacker said.

There are two ways to donate bone marrow.

One form of donation is non-invasive and is taken from a simple blood donation from which stem cells are harvested. According to dkms. org, this donation is used in 75 percent of cases and it takes 4 to 8 hours over the period of one to two days.

Some people, generally children, receiving bone marrow can only accept it directly. This process involves the donor going under anesthesia and bone marrow cells are taken with a syringe from the back of your pelvic bone.

Donating bone marrow is generally a oncein-a-lifetime occurrence, although some donors and recipients stay connected after the initial transplant, and donors have been eager to help again.

Hacker hopes that by educating people in

Omaha and beyond about the importance and need of bone marrow, more people will register, and therefore, be able to save the lives of those, like her daughter, who are suffering from blood cancer.

Like Hacker’s daughter, freshman Kate Jensen’s brother received a bone marrow donation.

Seven years ago, the donor was influenced to register because her friend was diagnosed with cancer and sadly passed away. A couple years later, Jensen’s little brother was diagnosed with cancer and was in need of a bone marrow transplant. “Laura, my brother’s donor, got the call and said yes — thank goodness,” Jensen said.

“It [donating bone marrow] is so important.

Lives are changed all the time.”

Bone marrow donation by the numbers More than 130,000 Americans will be diagnosed with a serious blood disease this year.

2% of the U.S. population is on the national

Only registry.

3,000

At least people die every year because they can’t find a matching donor.

Bone marrow donation requires less than marrow cells.

5% of

30%

Only of patients who need a transplant have a matching donor in their families.

source: ij.org

Kelly Jean is a lean, mean, fighting machine alliemorrissey

S

een on the softball field, sprinting around the track or doing crazy ninja moves in the talent show, senior Kelly Jean Gehring is considered by her teammates and classmates as one of Marian’s strongest athletes.

She brings her passion for athletics to every sport she’s committed to, but she also dedicates time outside of school to more adventurous activities. On the weekends, Gehring heads over to Approach Climbing Gym on 72nd and L, and spends her time rock climbing both during and after the softball and track seasons are over. “Rock climbing is my favorite because it’s challenging and something that I can progress in and watch my progress,” Gehring said.

Gehring has been rock climbing since she was 12, for recreational purposes only, but claims that it helps her tremendously in other sports. “It takes a lot of upper body and core strength

to do. I can see myself getting stronger the more I do it, as I start completing harder routes,” Gehring said. She travels to Colorado every other month and climbs outdoors in the Steamboat Springs area during the summer. In the past, she has even climbed a frozen waterfall in an outfit complete with pick axes and crampons.

The outfits and required gear are elaborate for boulder climbing as well. Gehring suits up in a harness and climbing shoes for each climb and brings her own carabiners, chalk and belay device. “It’s a fairly expensive sport, but it isn’t a major time commitment, so I just go whenever I want,” Gehring said.

When Gehring isn’t crushing it in centerfield at a softball game or breaking records in the 300 meter hurdle or pole vault on the track, she’s either Jazzercising with friends or running for fun. “I enjoy running during the off-seasons. I ran a half mara-

thon last year, and I’m planning another one this summer after track season,” Gehring said.

Even with her busy and adventurous lifestyle, Gehring still has time for friends and fun. “As far as juggling it all, I’m definitely no superstar. I think that staying busy actually helps me to get my school work done faster because it doesn’t allow me time to procrastinate,” Gehring said.

She finds that living a healthy lifestyle helps her to have more energy, and she thoroughly enjoys the exercise she’s doing, so it doesn’t seem like exercise at all.

To the girls that are wanting to get into an adventurous sport or activity and want to incorporate exercise into their routine, Gehring suggests, “Try things that you’re interested in, even if they aren’t the norm or they push you outside of your comfort zone. You never know what sport or activity you might fall in love with until you try it.”

Climbing queen Gehring heads over to Approach Climbing Gym at least once, sometimes twice, a week. A day pass costs $17, or a climber can purchase a $125 10-visit pass. Equipment is also available for rental, but Gehring brings her own. She typically chalks up her hands and heads to the boulder wall first. This wall consists of a variety of courses all with differing levels of difficulty where Gehring climbs without any ropes or harnesses. After contorting her body into strange positions, lifting her entire body weight with her arm muscles alone and completing a few complicated routes, Gehring heads over to top rope. She straps on her harness and hooks herself up to the automatic pulley machine. Top roping is the closest to what Gehring does when she climbs in Colorado. It’s similar to boulder, except the routes are taller and the climber is strapped in. After about an hour, once her muscles are shaking and she’s all worn out, Gehring heads home. alliemorrissey

The Network (February 2017)

Feature (7)

Black History Month: students reflect on diversity susanapettis & briannawessling

Jess Hudson ’17

“Being a Marian girl is different in my community because I’m viewed as selling out. It’s hard to fit into each different demo-graphic, so at Marian, I will never fully assimilate to white culture and in my community, I won’t be black “enough” because of how I talk and my taste in music. I think that it’s important to be opened-minded to other cultures besides your own, and there is more to us than what you see in mainstream culture. There are a lot of negative stereotypes surrounding black people. Be sensitive towards other people’s cultures. I just want to say that it’s a fun time being African-American. I love my Photo courtesy of Jess Hudson. culture.”

Noel Olson ’19

“[When I was younger] It never crossed my mind as to why my mom and my brother had darker skin than me. The older I got, the more I realized how segregation was still implanted in today’s society.

I know I’m privileged just because my skin is white, and with that came a sense of reali- Photo courtesy of Noel Olson. ty. People would be openly racist to me without knowing I was mixed.

I had a friend who would typically talk about people of color in a derogatory way in front of me, like many who were born in a predominantly white community would. With my skin being white, and only truly experiencing racism second hand, I have never felt fully accepted by the black community. Likewise, I hadn’t felt fully accepted by the white community either. In the end, I know that culturally I have both, and I can benefit from it. My mom, brother and sister stand beside me in the awkward mix of black and white that has been, and always will be, a part of my life. In the end, I want to use my privilege so that I, like all others who are mixed, can live life in the racial bliss that we did in our childhood.”

Vicky Bongomin ’18

“There are difficulties that come with celebrating diversity, especially at a primarily white school like Marian. In some of my classes, I am the only black person there, and some I have one or two other black sisters.

But I knew what I was getting myself into freshman year. At the end of the day, Marian has one of the best education systems in the metro and that is what I love. At Marian, I wish we could celebrate other cultures as much as we celebrate American culture.

What I love the most about my ethnicity is how inclusive, strong, creative and determined we are. We are understanding and welcoming of every ethnicity, especially minorities. There are definitely hardships of being a black woman/person in society, but like I said, we are strong and creative and do well in making our own paths to success.”

Photo courtesy of Vicky Bongomin.

Geonasha Agbelety ’20

“Black History month is really important to me because it’s a whole period of time to celebrate black people in this country and black culture. I don’t think it’s hard to celebrate diversity [at Marian] because of IDEAS club and because a lot of the girls are open-minded and want to learn about other ethPhoto courtesy of Geonasha Agbelety. nicities. Most of the girls have black friends, Indian friends, Hispanic friends or Asian friends. What I love most about my ethnicity is that I can be who I am and be unique. Generally, my parents have told me that you have to work harder than most people because you’re black or you have to work twice as hard because you’re African. You have to work harder to get to a high place in life. My family celebrates our diversity a lot. My family is from Ghana, and we make a lot of African food and clothes. Every March we celebrate Ghana independence day and all the Ghanaians from Omaha and Lincoln come together to celebrate our culture. It’s important to be proud of your ethnicity because it makes you who you are. Don’t be ashamed or hide who you are. Be proud of who you are.”

Students celebrate diversity through Historically Black Colleges morganhobbs

F

or most Marian girls, the thought of goin predominantly white schools, and I feel like ing to an HBCU after graduation doesn’t I need that experience of being around more even cross their mind. In fact, out of the 261 people who look like me and share the same responses to the Feb. Network survey, only 48 dreams that I do,” Welch said. percent knew what an HBCU even was.

Senior Asia Rollins is another student who HBCU stands for historically black colleges feels a desire to go to school with people who and universities. The Higher Education Act of share the same background as her. Rollins was 1965 defines an HBCU as “…any historically impressed by the strong amount of diversity at black college or university that was established HBCUs. She went to a camp over the summer prior to 1964, whose principal at Hampton University that mission was, and is, the eduhosted people everywhere [Students] can cation of black Americans…” from Jamaica to Latin The concept of a predomiAmerica. figure out who they nantly black university startWelch applied to several are and become ed back in 1837. The first different HBCUs including historically black university comfortable and then Hampton University in was founded as the African Hampton, Va. and Clark go back out in the Institute in Cheyney, Pa. It Atlanta University in Atlanwas made possible by a man ta, Ga. Clark Atlanta has the world and use what named Richard Humphreys strong film program that they’ve learned” who donated $10,000 to she’s looking for and also establish a school for African has joint classes with MoreTylin Welch ’17 descendants. house and Spelman, two Today it is known as the other HBCUs that will give Cheyney University of Pennsylvania and has her an opportunity to meet even more people graduated more than 30,000 students of all she shares a similar heritage to. different races.

Rollins applied to Howard University in Now, 180 years later, there are more than Washington, D.C., as well as Hampton. Howard 100 HBCUs across the country. HBCUs have is ranked by U.S. World & News as the No. 2 been responsible for providing education for HBCU and Hampton is ranked at No. 3. thousands of college graduates, black and nonRollins said a big part of her decision to apblack. Senior Tylin Welch is one person who ply to Howard was because she had four family wishes to be a part of this rich, diverse commu- members graduate from there and lots of family nity. in DC. “I’m fascinated with historically black colAside from her family, Rollins also wants to leges and universities because I’ve grown up go to an HBCU because she understands that

“

they have a deeper cultural significance.

“They’re important because some institutions don’t have the same opportunities for black people as their peers, and that’s just kind of built-in at HBCUs,” Rollins said.

Outside of the African American community, it’s common for many people to assume that only people of color attend historically black college and universities, but Welch wants to combat that misconception directly.

“They’re not just for black people. They started as predominantly black and now they’re rich in diversity,” Welch said.

In fact, one-fourth of historically black colleges and universities have at least a 20 percent non-black student population.

“They’re not all party schools, either,” Rollins said. “Many people think they’re not up to par with other universities.”

The impact of HBCUs cannot go without notice. Currently, according to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, HBCUs are responsible for 22 percent of bachelor’s degrees granted to African Americans, in addition to 12.5 percent of black CEOs, 40 percent of black engineers, 40 percent of black members in Congress, 50 percent of black lawyers and 80 percent of black judges.

It is this widespread impact among the African American community that’s the driving force behind Welch’s desire to attend an HBCU. “I think it gives people of color a sense of self when they go these institutions,” Welch said.

That’s a world in which Welch and Rollins both wish to thrive in once their Marian education is complete.

(8) In depth

The Network (February 2017)

photos courtesy of past M arian

Throwback: Teachers, alums reminisce on Marian traditions throughout time

yearbooks

sydneymonahan

O

5 7 9 1 T WA

WAT 2016

In depth (9)

arian left): M l Walk-Ar e p p annua 975 (u for the WAT 1 t u o d a s he student ity. ctiv Thon a ear, er this y e i l r a E : n th ight) photo o 016 (r WAT 2 iors pose for a sen n.

Marian -A-Tho k l a W f go mornin emFour m : ) t f e l ile in lower oard sm 1986 ( B o t B n e u t d S Stu the ’86 bers of s. eatshirt w s r i e h t

n an average day in the life of a Midge Peterson.

Passing the middle staircase, Marian girl in 1980, the mornstudents would see ing would begin by piling into a car with the sewing room as many Marian girls used in the home economics course. as the small four-door Even as students sedan could fit. Carpassed the bathpooling was not only rooms, the stench of the norm, but almost a prerequisite in order cigarettes filled the hallways. Principal to get to Marian.

Some classes Susie Sullivan, who graduated in 1980, throughout the day would include regurecalls the way she lar math, science and selected the college Food is a girl’s best friend she would attend literature courses, but the students had a few Mrs. Aleecia Taylor Cotton ’05 post graduation. “I hands back money at a Marian remember looking unique choices, too. bake sale her junior year.

The favorite theology at few tri-folds of various colleges. course was Death and Dying, taught by the beloved Sister Based solely on the cheesy photo-

graphs and slogans, I selected my college. I proceeded to fill out one side of the tri-fold and mail it in, and that was that,” Sullivan said.

Jumping all the way into the early 2000’s, substantial changes were made to Marian. Curriculum was improving including adding dual enrollment as an option for students. Mrs. Aleecia Taylor Cotton, who graduated in 2005, remembers only small changes compared to Marian now. “We were always getting in trouble for untucked shirts and gum, which are not even things we give students points for now,” Cotton said.

As the uniforms changed from green to blue, Marian started working on some

major improvements. In 2013, the STEM lab was in the works and the PAC was being built. A very recent graduate, and now math teacher, Ms. Megan Han, could think of very few differences between Marian then and now. “It seems like I never even left Marian, despite the building improvements,” Han said.

Despite Marian growing and changing throughout the years, Marian graduates point out something that never changed. “After returning to Marian so many years later, the overall attitude of Marian girls has not changed at all. The silliness of students along with their amazing work ethic is what has pushed the school to want to improve along with the students,” Sullivan said.

StuBo 1986

The Ne twork 1 990

Ladies who lead: Marian, traditions carry down through families F elliemulligan

StuBo 2017 5 7 9 1 y a D ld ie F

Board Today, Student ): p o (t 7 1 0 2 StuBo udent body ue to lead the st in nt co rs be em . 2. m rise Day, on Feb rp u S on n io at in celebr arian girls 5 (middle): M Field Day 197 ttle in the eshman class ba fr 5 7 9 1 e th from tion. of War competi g u T l na io it ad tr man (lower): Fresh 6 1 0 2 ay D ld Fie shman nning their Fre cheerleaders, do ng s, sing out duri Fastball uniform demonstration.

or most girls, Marian is simbut Claire feels that while she ply high school. For others, wants to make her own impresit’s a legacy. As a girl entering the sion at Marian, the pressure uncharted territory wasn’t a hindrance, of high school, but encouragement nothing is more instead. “It’s nice, stressful than the because it turns added pressure out that we were of the prospect of involved in differfollowing in your ent things. It was mother’s footso awesome to have steps. someone who went This is a strugthrough the same gle that senior things as me and Claire Pelan encouraged me to knows too well. “It try new things I Throwback Thursday Peggy was intimidating never knew I would coming to Marian O’Doherty ’69 smiles in her like,” Claire said. freshman yearbook portrait. because all of the For other stuToday, her granddaughter teachers knew dents like senior ‘Katie Crouchley Emma Morford, Emma Morford is a senior.

Pelan’,” Claire rather than leaving said. “She would an impactful legacy, always tell me stories about Mr. Marian serves as a family scrapBaker, trips they took and tradibook of sorts — her mother, Kara tions throughout her four years. I Kalal Morford ’95 and grandwas so excited but they were big mother Peggy O’Doherty ’69 also shoes to fill!” attended Marian.

Katie Crouchley Pelan ’90 may “It’s nice to have people have left behind a big footprint, around who are as excited about

Field Day as I am,” Emma said.

“We all cried last year.” As far as pressure goes, Emma doesn’t experience it — to some degree.

“I’m not really familiar with the pressure,” Emma said.

“They never really set standards grade-wise or said ‘Oh, you need to do this’. The pressure made me more open; being able to bloom when no one was judging was great.”

In each girl’s four years at Marian, the idea of carving her path is one that can be especially daunting. However, rather than using this pressure to close herself off, Morford is one of the many Marian daughters who made it her mission to channel it into enthusiasm.

“Take your own path, because if you were to be the exact same as your mother or grandmother, you wouldn’t be you,” Morford said.

Keep it up Seniors Emma Morford and Claire Pelan do their best each day to make the most of what’s left of their Marian experience.

The Network (February 2017)

(10) Feature

Senior star performs at Carnegie Hall

morganhobbs

I

t’s a place most musicians can only dream of visiting, let alone playing in. It’s an accomplishment that looks incredible on any musician’s résumé. It’s a national historic landmark and center of American culture.

Opened in 1891 and renowned around the world for its classic architecture, Carnegie Hall has been home to thousands of concerts of the most famous and respected musicians around the world from Yo Yo Ma to Joshua Bell.

And up until this year, it was all a dream for senior violinist Natalie Sterba. This year, her dreams finally manifested into reality.

Sterba was selected to be a part of the 2017 High School Honors Performance Series. The program gives elite high school performers an opportunity to travel to New York City and play at Carnegie Hall under the expertise of accomplished conductors with professional musicians as their audience.

The program’s admission is highly competitive. Out of more than 18,000 nominations from all over the country, only the 750 most gifted performers are chosen. This year’s series ran from Feb. 2 to Feb. 6.

“You always hear about how that’s when you’ve made it, when you make it to Carnegie,” Sterba said.

It all started at age 7. Sterba started playing violin under the influence of her musically inclined father who had been in a band for a long time. She had originally started on the piano, but once the violin program started at Standing Bear Elementary, she decided to give it a try.

“I kind of just saw it and said,

Virtuoso Natalie Sterba ’17 ‘Let’s do this,’” Sterba said. She eventually fell in love with the instrument and began to really perfect her craft. Little did she know that 10 years later, she would be playing on one of the biggest stages of them all.

Sterba also auditioned for the program in 2016 after she saw Brooklyn Venteicher ’15 go through the process her junior year. She was chosen as a first runner-up, meaning that she would get to go if someone ahead of her dropped out.

She did not get discouraged, though, instead going through the process again this year.

Sterba arrived the Big Apple with her parents on Feb. 2 in the midst of a huge group of student performers at the airport. After about an hour of waiting, they arrived to their hotel and were split into groups of 15 people.

“My group was super diverse with a bunch of people from differ-

ent states who play different instruments,” Sterba said.

Afterwards, the group went out to eat and got to know each other. The real work started the next morning, when the performers began rehearsals.

To make up for the strenuous eight hours of practice every day, the trip also included various social activities through the evenings.

One of Sterba’s favorites was the third night when the group got to see a Broadway show of their choice.

“Seeing ‘Phantom of the Opera’ was amazing,” Sterba said. “It was cool to see the live orchestra because it’s like another path you could take with music.”

Other activities included a tour of Times Square and a yacht party after the concert.

However, these could not compete with the experience of playing at Carnegie.

“Playing at Carnegie is almost like a different level,” Sterba said.

“I walked in and immediately started tearing up because it’s magical. There’s so much history in the building.”

“When you start playing, the noise just carries to the back and bounces back,” Sterba said. “It was just this feeling like you’ve made it.”

Amongst the many emotions Sterba felt in arriving at Carnegie, apprehension was not one of them.

“I just felt excited. Once you’re there, you’re with a bunch of people there for the same reason,” Sterba said.

After going to camps where people just performed music as a hobby or because their parents made them, Sterba was inspired to see the dedication that her fellow high school musicians showed towards their craft.

“Everyone is there because they want to do music in the future...It just feels like you’re supposed to be there.”

Former instrumental music director Mrs. Rachel Misiolek ’98 is someone who has experienced Sterba’s love for music.

“Natalie is a hard-working, extremely motivated student who sets high goals for herself” Misiolek said. Misiolek taught at Marian for 10 years from 20052016 and has seen her fair share of talented musicians but was impressed with the high expectations Sterba has for herself.

Misiolek also said that the program is a great opportunity for young people to see what it’s like to play in professional spaces.

“The acoustics in these recital halls really set the stage for having tremendous performances.

It motivates students to see what they could achieve. I’m very excited Natalie got this opportunity,” Misiolek said.

Sterba plans to use the experience as a stepping stone for future endeavors. She plans to go into violin performance next year in college, although she has yet to decide which school is right for her.

Mass and Breakfast bond mothers and daughters carmenmiller

2 1

1. Maddie Warrick ’20 embraces the mom of one of her closest friends during the Sign of Peace. “My favorite part of the Mass and Breakfast was walking into all the smiling faces from mothers, daughters, grandmas or special friends,” Warrick said. “It was so welcoming and exciting. Immediately, you felt the love shared between mothers, daughters and friends radiating throughout the room.” 2. Emma Morford ’17 photographs her mother, Kara Morford ’95, and Kara’s former classmate, Lisa Bazis ’95. The two were reunited on Feb. 26 at the Scott Conference Center and shared a Mass and Breakfast with their daughters. 3. Mothers and daughters alike dish out their breakfast, catered by the Scott Conference Center, following the Mass. Some of the tasty treats included muffins, fresh fruit and scones.

3

The Network (February 2017)

Feature (11)

Future Business Leaders lead way isabelleswanson

T

he future of the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) is bright after success at recent business competitions. Marian’s FBLA chapter won third place at the High School Business Competition hosted by the University of Nebraska at Omaha on Feb. 3.

Junior Morgan Hodges won first place in the Entrepreneurship category, and junior Lauren Klingemann won third place in Business Calculations. Junior Nina Oleynikov won fourth place in Sittin’ pretty FBLA competes at the High School Business Competition hosted Business Calculations, junior Mali Seran won fifth place in Marketby the University of Nebraska at Omaha on Feb. 3. The club placed third overing and fifth place in Banking and all. Photo courtesy of Mr. Craig Panning. Top row, left to right: Mali Seran ’18, freshman Emma McClellan won Lauren O’Leary ’18, Nina Oleynikov ’18 Bottom row, left to right: Danelle Mcfourth place in Intro to Business.

Morrow ’17, Melissa Geis ’17, Megan Anderson ’17, Lauren Klingemann ’18, The members who attended Catherine Franco ’18, Emma Johnson ’20, Hope McLeay ’20, Emma McClellan the UNO competition created ’20, Brianna Baumberger ’18, Morgan Hodges ’18 fond memories, including Hodges’ memorable moment of “Mr. three rounds of tests administered Nina Oleynikov, Vice President of Panning’s shocked face when we about business topics. Each test Communication senior Meredith got third!” was 50 questions long and mulZielie, Secretary senior Danelle “Mr. Panning was so excited… tiple choice. At the competitions, McMorrow, Treasurer junior LauHe was one proud FBLA moderathe participants dress in business ren O’Leary and Reporter senior tor!” Klingemann said. attire.

Lauren Kirke.

Mr. Craig Panning, business Marian has had an FBLA chapAlthough many upperclassteacher and FBLA moderator since ter since May of 1970. This year, men have stepped up to the plate, 2013, has an explanation for his the team feels especially optimisunderclassmen have gained a lot surprised reaction. “The way UNO tic. “A big piece of it is preparation. through their FBLA experience. did it, they announced the top Before the UNL competition, they “I have learned that there is a lot three in each category, and we only took practice tests on their iPads. more to building a business than heard our names twice. It was a We have a lot of good seniors with I thought. I’ve learned so much complete leadabout business, things like what ...having some knowledge of ershock the definition of entrepreneurship for me. I ship is and that you don’t have to be a busincess is important in any knew they who math whiz to calculate interest or could do it, set a do other simple business math,” career you go into.” but I was good freshman Emma Johnson said.

Lauren Klingemann ’18 shocked because examAlthough not all FBLA members I thought the ple,” plan to go into business careers, announcements meant they were Panning said. they find value in their participaalready out of it. It was a memoraA major source of success was tion. “The job interviews help me ble moment.” the involvement of the FBLA out a lot. [Judges] give you a lot “Us placing third, us being able officers. “I couldn’t be more proud of feedback. It was nice to get that to compete with the other schools of my officers. They did a lot of rehelp from professionals,” senior is a really big accomplishment for cruiting and got the right members Meredith Zielie said. “It looks great our members. Now our girls know in the right places,” Panning said. on a resume, and it’s a really helpthey can compete with them,” PanThe officers include President ful club you can take a lot away ning said. senior Megan Anderson, Vice from for the future.”

The competitions consist of President of Membership junior “Although I do not want to work

“

in business, having some knowledge of business is important in any career you go into,” Klingemann said.

“I probably won’t go into business, but the skills we learn are applicable to many other things. I would love to someday travel the world as a missionary doctor,” Hodges said.

FBLA is active throughout the school year. The club has monthly chapter meetings, biweekly sub-chapter meetings and competitions between schools throughout the year.

FBLA also runs the Blue Brew, where students can purchase coffee on Wednesday mornings from 7:50 to 8:25.

All of the knowledge they gain and projects they work on throughout the year are valuable on their own, but they are also a large part of their preparation for State, which is a three day conference from Thursday, April 6 to Saturday, April 8, held at the Hotel RL (previously known as the Ramada) on 72nd and Grover.

FBLA members are chosen to go to State based on a point system.

Members gain points by taking part in the various FBLA activities, so the most active participants go on to compete at State. “[State] is kind of like our Field Day. It’s their big accomplishment at the end of the year. They all earn their ribbons.” It’s all activities we’ve done throughout the school year. It’s all a culmination,” Panning said.

Any students interested in joining FBLA are encouraged to sign up at the beginning of the school year and contact Panning (cpanning@omahamarian.org) with any questions.

Students are also encouraged to follow the FBLA Twitter and Facebook accounts (links are available at mariandigitalnetwork.com).

Q&A: Surprise Day dance emergency explained Q Q C kateschwaller

otton candy, face painting, an ambulance and a caricature artist all have one thing in common.

They were all present at Surprise Day this year.

On Surprise Day, Feb. 2, for possibly the first time ever, an ambulance was called.

Freshman Meredith Forster dislocated her knee while enjoying the dance party held in the West Gym. Shock spread throughout the entire student body as whispers began about the girl who went too hard on the dance floor.

Looking back, Forster laughs about it, but she wasn’t laughing then. The gym was cleared for about 15 to 20 minutes while she was brought out to the ambulance on a gurney.

Forster was brought to the hospital, and when she arrived, they popped her knee back into place.

She would like to thank everyone who helped her through the whole situation.

Any funny reactions you remember, looking back?

What exactly happened?

“I was just walking backwards, and then I slipped and fell because my socks were super slippery.”

Q

Did it take long to get back on your feet?

“Once my knee was popped back into place, no. I had an MRI on Feb. 16 to check up on it.” Forster also wore a brace on her knee for a few weeks following the injury.

Q

A

A

What advice would you give others to help them avoid something similar happening?

“Don’t walk backwards in slippery socks.”

A

“Jordan Funke freaked out.

She was on the ground crying,” Forster said.

“I thought she was dead or something!” freshman Jordan Funke said.

Dance the day away Meredith Forster ’20 (pictured at the right) dislocated her knee during the dance party on Surprise Day, Feb. 2. The dance party (pictured below) was held in the West Gym with DJ Devon Dupree.

A

The Network (February 2017)

(12) Sports

Cheer and Dance make waves at State amaleapoulos

M

arian’s Cheer and Dance teams competed at the Nebraska State Cheer and Dance Championships on Friday, Feb. 17 at the Heartland Event Center in Grand Island, Neb. The teams loaded a yellow school bus the day before the competition and drove to Grand Island. “We practiced outside in the grass of the hotel parking lot the night before,” sophomore Laura Tooley said.

The state competition began at 9 a.m. but the first warm up time was at 8:30 a.m. “We woke up around 6:15 a.m. and it took about an hour to get ready,” freshman Holly McCutcheon said.

Dance Team was the first Marian team to take the state stage. Nearly Arc de Triomphe Members of the Dance Team performed an arch during the last minute of their routine. The team two and a half hours after the compebegan practicing for State last fall and worked with Brittany DeWitt ’11, an out-of-state coach, once a month. tition started, Dance Team finally had the spotlight. “I was a little nervous ing. “The nerves [before performing] did build Routine was very polished and executed very before we went on, but we just told ourselves to tremendously. Watching the competition just well. Their tumbling routine was very good as have fun and do the best we could,” sophomore made me even more nervous because I knew I well. All in all, both groups were a Class Act!” Jenna Grote said. The team was made of 15 would be competing against those great teams Delisi said. Both Cheer teams earned runner girls. “The routine was very polished and crisp really soon,” junior Mia Hamilton said. up spots, falling to Millard West in both Game despite a few minor execution issues!” Dance Cheer’s first performance, their Game Day Day and Tumbling. Dance Team placed third Team Moderator Mrs. Michelle Delisi said. routine, happened a little after 11 a.m. Their behind Millard North and Lincoln East in the Both Cheer teams had to wait until the comnext performance wasn’t scheduled until 3:41 Pom A category. petition was well under way before performp.m. “The large chunk of time between Game Awards didn’t start until a quarter after Day and Tumbling 5 p.m. “The worst part of the entire day was was awkward. We waiting for the results. I rewatched our perforwere in the arena for mance so many times! The whole team watched a total of seven hours. the other dance teams anxiously,” senior Laura It was very easy to get Tatten said. bored or go over on Marian’s cheer team is no stranger to the your data limits! It state competition. Dance Team, on the other was nerve racking just hand, competed for the second time in nearly because I had noth15 years. Placing third as newcomers was an ing to do to distract impressive feat. “I think getting third is a great me from my nerves,” stepping stone for our team’s future. We went Hamilton said. from not going to state at all, to seventh and “The dance team then to third, so I am excited to see what the routine choreografuture has in store,” Grote said. phy was creative and “I hope future teams will use this third place challenging and used win as an inspiration to always dance their the team’s dance abilbest, continue to challenge themselves and stay ities to their fullest. focused and persistent! I had no doubt in my Cheer on The cheer team members gave their all in the State competition on I thought the cheermind that this team would place high! I’m so Feb. 17. They finshed in second place overall. alliemorrissey leaders Game Day proud of them!” Delisi said.

Collegiate rower rows her way toward the Junior National Team maddiemingo

M

arian graduate, Madalyn McKeone ’16, attended Creighton this school-year to study philosophy and law and compete with the Bluejays rowing team. She signed with the Bluejays last spring and has since found many great experiences as a collegiate athlete.

“Joining the Creighton rowing team this year was great!” McKeone said. “Coming to college was a huge transition and having a sport on top of it was definitely overwhelming at times, but I have made several good friends on the team, and I have developed great time management skills.”

One of the good friends that McKeone made on the team is also her biggest role model in rowing. “Isabelle Buhr is a senior captain on the team and I am seriously blessed to to get to row beside her as a freshman. Her leadership, heart, character, and dedication inspire me every day to be a better teammate, student, and person,” McKeone said.

Like her role model, McKeone dedicates a lot of time and effort to her sport. As early as 4:15 in the morning, she is awake and ready to train.

“I am on a totally opposite schedule than most college students. I’m in bed by 8 or 9, and I am

awake by 4:15 a.m., ready to start my day,” McKeone said.

In the spring, conference season starts, and the Creighton Bluejays will face Southern Methodist University (SMU) in their first regatta on Mar. 11. For those who are not familiar with rowing competitions, a regatta is a rowing competition where races vary depending on the number of rowers, the boat or the length of a race. McKeone will compete in her first conference season this year, and she has high hopes for the future.

“I have discussed with my coaches about the possibility of rowing for the Junior National Team and attending some national camps to gain exposure. That will all just depend on where life takes me and how my times are

All smiles Madalyn McKeone ’16 and teammate Bridget Slavin pose for a picture during a regatta last fall.

The Bluejays will compete at SMU on Mar.11. Photo coutesy of Madalyn McKeone.

looking. You do not peak in your rowing career until you’re probably 28, so I would have to go row professionally out east and then try to get on to the National Team after college some time.

Overall, I’ll just have to see where life takes me,” McKeone said.

McKeone also has advice for any Marian girls looking to try something new or different like rowing. “Pick whatever you’re passionate about and throw yourself into it. You can always give your all and your whole heart to something and I promise you won’t regret it. Just set the bar high, because you never wanna look back and think ‘what if’ about anything.”

The Network (February 2017)

Sports (13)

Crusaders finish second at state swimming meet

erinwalter

M

arian’s performance at the 2017 Nebraska state swimming meet at the Bob Devaney Sports Center in Lincoln on Feb. 25 was anything but disappointing. The team brought home the runner-up trophy, earning a total of 297 points, placing only behind a powerful opponent of Lincoln Southwest, who earned 496.5.

The loss of senior divers Taylor Carter and Kelly Straub to leg injuries was definitely a setback for the Crusaders, but they didn’t let that set a tone of defeat for the rest of the meet.

The Marian team earned numerous individual medals in various events throughout the meet.

The 200-yard-medley relay team of juniors Molly Miller, Lily Nelson, freshman Isabella Palmer and sophomore Kayla Gornall took the bronze; junior Cassie Palmer received two individual bronze medals for her 3rd place finishes in the 200-yard-freestyle and the 500-yard-freestyle; the

Eat my bubbles Naeleah Hadford ’17 gets interviewed by NET sports after winning the 50-yard-freestyle with a time of 23.04 seconds. Her score was the second-fastest time recorded by a Nebraska high school athlete in the 50-yard-freestyle. Photo courtesy of Grace Sall.

200-yard-freestyle relay team of juniors Delaney Kottke, Olivia Tate, Gornall and senior Naeleah Hadford brought home the silver and the 400-yard-freestyle relay team of Kottke, Tate, Palmer and

Hadford added another silver medal to the count.

Perhaps the most exciting of the individual performances at the state meet, though, was that of Naeleah Hadford.

The skillful senior took the silver in the 100-yard-freestyle and, by just a few hundredths of a second, snagged the gold medal in the 50-yard-freestyle, beating three speedy Lincoln Southwest swimmers. The opponents were astoundingly fast, but Hadford was faster.

Hadford’s winning time in the 50-yard-freestyle will go down as the second-fastest time in Nebraska high school swimming history.

“I really don’t know how I did it,” Hadford said. “I’m usually really nervous and jittery before I race, but this time I wasn’t, which is very surprising, considering it’s the state tournament.”

Hadford’s senior leadership and unwavering dedication was key to the attitude, energy and, eventually, success of the entire team at the state meet.

“The team put forth a good effort,” Marian head coach B.J. Christiansen said. “They were definitely deserving of the runner-up trophy.”

The history and mystery of March Madness F

H

ly impossible, there are ways to ment Challenge alone.

On March 12, the appointed Se- get a good enough bracket to win the bracket competition against lection Committee will announce friends and family. the teams and bracket setup for The safest bet comes in the first the 2017 tournament during an round of games by choosing the event appropriately called SelecNo. 1 seed team to beat the No. 16 tion Sunday. seed team.

As soon as the lineup is anA No. 16 has never beaten a nounced, the frenzy begins. d o e u No. 1 in the history of Millions of people rush t ill ou f ket in an NC y the tournament. to their computers c t he e ra pa A av n’s b It is your or printers to fill st e wisest and out brackets most hisand try to torically achieve the elusive persafe bet.

The fect bracket. next The chances tip is to according to pick your NCAA.com of upset team getting a perand ride fect bracket are to 22 ded r Fe 2 stude n o p with it into the approximately 1 s nts re bru su le ary g o Network Go sunset. in 9.2 quintillion.

While creating a Almost every graphic by amaleapoulos year, there is one perfect bracket is near-

43 % no

ve y

yes 57 %

A ?

or college basketball fans, March 14 will spark the hysteria that is the NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Tournament. The tournament begins with 68 teams in a single-elimination, bracket-style format and ends with the National Championship on April 3 in New Orleans, La. between the two top teams. The bracket is broken up into four regions, with teams seeded from No. 1 to No. 16 (with No. 1 being the top team in the region and No. 16 being the lowest-ranked team).

The tournament goes far beyond the emotion and excitement of watching the games. It also is home to the biggest “bracket challenge” known to sports. The challenge is believed to have started in 1977, with 88 people paying $10 to fill out a bracket in a Staten Island restaurant. In 2016, an estimated 13 million people filled-out brackets through ESPN’s online Tourna-

m

column by victoriaackermann

Cinderella team that makes it pretty deep into the tournament. Pick your Cinderella team based off of mascot, team colors, school name — whatever works best for you. Be confident in your Cinderella team and hold onto it tight.

Overall, be on your toes. Various upsets are usual with the tournament, so pick a quick upset here or there. Even the best teams can fall a bit short during March Madness, while unexpected teams rise to the occasion.

Every year, the NCAA Men’s Division I tournament is filled with highs and lows, and this year is no different. Whether you like basketball or not, it is always worth a shot to fill out a bracket.

Making an effective bracket is almost pure luck, and being able to tell your dad that your bracket was superior to his is worth much more than the five minutes it takes to create it.

Students reveal embarrassing sports moments laurenmayer

Aker Ajak ’20 “All of a sudden my legs got really tired. When I tried to jump over the hurdles, my leg got caught and fell over it. When I tried to get up by walking over to the next hurdle, I knocked it down. I ended up knocking down a few before someone came and helped me up. It was the worst!”

Maureen Flanery ’20 “I was jogging back to serve at a volleyball game, and I tried to leap and turn around at the same time. My legs got tangled up in midair, and my ankles gave out when I landed. I fell on my caboose and slid on the floor. My team was cracking up, so I just sat there and laughed for a bit.”

Jordan Hatcher ’19 “I was at softball practice when a ball smashed me in the face. It didn’t hurt, but my eyes were watering, and my nose was gushing out blood. My dad had to take me to the hospital.

When I left, my coach shouted, ‘Maybe next time you should use your glove to catch the ball and not your face.’”

Rachel Walet ’17 “I was at state softball this year, and it was super cold, so we had to have a bunch of hand warmers. I decide to maximize the potential and put a hand warmer in my bra to really warm it up, and it ended up giving me a second degree burn on my [breast]. I still have the scar.”

(14) Entertainment

The Network (February 2017)

Band puts on memorable show in Lincoln

Young the Giant, with opening act Lewis Del Mar, impress at the Bourbon Theatre review by amaleapoulos

I

spent my Valentine’s Day with more than 300 people.

Young the Giant, with opening act Lewis Del Mar, sold out the Bourbon Theatre on O Street in Lincoln on Feb. 14.

After taking one wrong exit and accidentally pulling into the perfect parking spot, a friend and I stood outside the venue for nearly 30 minutes before paying the $2 entry fee all minors have to pay (because “we make our money off booze sales, and you can’t buy any” as put by a security personnel) and getting a yellow wristband that indicated we are underage.

The entry fee was an additional cost to the ticket, which was less than $30.

The Bourbon Theatre is the perfect

venue for a general admission concert. It’s not too small or large and is enclosed so you don’t feel like you’re floating in space. My favorite part of the venue is that

the floor isn’t all one level. I was able to go up a level — a couple of stairs worth — so I could actually see the stage.

Lewis Del Mar, the opening act, was enjoyable even though I had never heard of them.

Usually, opening acts are just subpar and boring; Lewis Del Mar broke the stereotype. I found their electronic, chill music on Spotify and added it to my playlist.

Young the Giant came out promptly after Lewis Del Mar’s closing. There was a 15-ish minute break between the acts.

I had only heard a handful of Young the Giant’s songs before the concert, so I expected there to be a boring or awkward moment here and there during songs I didn’t know.

I was wrong.

The quintet, led by Sameer Gadhia on vocals, put on an entertaining show. Gadhia’s energy was contagious — he was electric. Young the Giant exuded a cooler-than-ice

Follow the Network’s Spotify account to listen to the playlist! (mariannetwork)

59°

61°

SPRING

(but approachable) persona. They sang 17 songs with a few breaks sprinkled in for speaking to the crowd.

The lights, vocals and instruments worked in perfect harmony to create a nearly flawless show. I danced to every upbeat song and felt the passion in each mellow, toned down song. I left the Bourbon feeling jazzed and excited about a new band to obsess over.

Young the Giant is continuing their tour in the United States until June. Tickets can be found starting at $40 on StubHub. The Bourbon will be hosting a multitude of shows in the spring, including Memphis May Fire on March 7 and Hippie Sabotage on March 9. Visit bourbontheatre.com/ upcoming-shows for more dates and showtimes.

65°

BREAKDOWN: Things to do over spring break

Picnic with friends • •

6232 Pacific Street • Enjoy the nice weather

Baking day

Put all of your favorite

•

Bike ride

•

Keystone Bike Trail

Movie day

Cuddling up with cozy

End points: De-

blankets, popping some

mocracy Park and

popcorn and binge

and pack a picnic with

Bellevue Loop Trail

watching your favorite

friends. Don’t forget to

Pump up those wheels

movies is perfect for the

pack a picnic blanket.

and enjoy a bike ride.

middle of spring break.

66° •

Elmwood Park

• •

71° •

Craft day

68° • The

Escape Room

6315 Center Street

62° •

Fontenelle Forest

Go to your local craft

•

Tasty videos and saved

supply store and pick up

•

pins to use and have a

some supplies to do crafts

baking/cooking day with

of your choice. Some fun

Hours: 5pm-10pm • Grab a group of friends and

your friends. You could

ideas are: jewelry, tissue

use your brains to

yoga in the forest from 9 a.m.-

even turn it into a cooking

paper flowers and a picture

escape from a locked room.

10:30 a.m.

competition.

collage of you and friends.

weather source: accuweather.com on Feb. 28

$99 per team

•

1111 Bellevue Bvld

$7.50 per person • Go to Fontenelle Forest to hike around various trails or enjoy

graphic by ellierommelfanger

The Network (February 2017)

Entertainment (15)

Local places to snack, study, socialize

reviews by nataliekemler

s

is r C O y UN brar Li

e

c pa

S o D

ra e n Pa ead Br

D

U

P

Location: 7205 Dodge St Hours: Monday - Friday 7 am to 9 pm

Saturday - Sunday 9 am to 7 pm Free Wi-Fi (with membership)

Location: 6001 Dodge St Hours: Monday - Thursday 7 am to midnight

Friday 7 am to 5 pm

Saturday 9 am to 5 pm

Sunday noon to midnight Free Wi-Fi

Locations: 10 locations in Omaha area Closest location to Marian: 7825 Dodge St Hours: varies with location Free Wi-Fi

o Space is situated next to a Dunkin’ Donuts, but that’s not the only thing it offers.

Do Space is the perfect place to go for anything technology-related. With rows of computers, meeting rooms, technology help and even a 3D printer, Do Space allows customers to utilize all kinds of technology for free. A free membership allows people to access the technology available, including Wi-Fi. Do Space is full of people of all ages and is extremely accommodating for everyone. Technology help and classes are available as well as various rooms for children to be occupied and learn. It can get a little loud, so I recommend bringing headphones to listen to music while you toil through homework.

NO’s library is a great place to quietly study or work on group projects. UNO’s library allows access to computers, printers, a vast selection of books and a place to eat. The cafe offers drinks, snacks, sandwiches and soups. With different sections, the UNO library offers different environments for different studying needs. There are rooms for groups to get together, similar to Marian’s Collaboration Room. There are also quiet areas to study solo: one floor is completely quiet. The library is open late, so it is the perfect place to cram for finals and grab a coffee and sandwich.

anera is the perfect place for collaborative projects. With a bustling atmosphere, groups can snack on salad and soup while discussing the details of their projects. It is an exceptional place to get something delicious to eat and to study with a friend, but it can get loud. Plan on buying a coffee or snack if you’re going to take up a table. Panera offers delicious bakery treats and a large coffee bar menu with hot and iced drinks. Some locations have community rooms, which are easy to reserve by calling the location and speaking with a manager. They offer a break from the noisy dining room. With multiple locations in the Omaha area, Panera is a convenient spot to meet up!

What to give up for Lent: Follow the flowchart to decide!

Love ’em

Jimmy John’s

Best place to get a sandwich?

Hate ’em

Hoodies or crewneck sweatshirts?

Best song of 2008?

Crewnecks

“No Air” by Jordin Sparks feat. Chris Brown

Hoodies

Who are you most excited to see in 2017?

Subway

Soft Shawn Mendes

Chance the Rapper

Marian cookies at lunch every day graphic by emilydoll

“Bleeding Love” by Leona Lewis

Crunchy or soft tacos?

Crunchy

Don’t give up anything, start a gratitude journal

The dog filter on Snapchat graphic by anahingorani

MarianFest (16) Photo Essay

The Network (February 2016)

Feb. 10, 2017

Fest Facts • 600 people • • • •

Hilton Hotel Omaha

superhero gala

attended $450,000 raised for Marian 31 items were sold during the live auction 404 packages were sold during the silent auction 100 student and 50 adult volunteers helped the Advancement Office acheive a successful MarianFEST

Coat Check? More Like Cape Check Telly Mounto ’18, Amou Majok ’18, Vicki Bongomin ’18 and Evelyn Paul ’18 worked the first shift of the coat check. There were two shifts — one at the beginning of FEST and one at the end — with four girls working. It’s a hectic and busy night for both groups that keeps girls on their toes. amaleapoulos

Going once...going twice...SOLD Rob Mayer, father of Morgan Mayer ’19 and Lauren Mayer ’17, found himself in an intense bidding war for a dinner with Governor Pete Ricketts where Mayer came out victorious. laurenmayer

A Strong Power Stance Is Always the Answer Freshman and senior theology teacher, Mr. Kory Delkamiller is his own superhero as he stands tall, proud and ready to take on MarianFEST in his Captain America-inspired shirt and suit jacket. laurenmayer

Marian: Where Singing Saves the Day Students Go “Up, Up, and Out of their Way” to Support Marian Students volunteer at FEST every year. Zaza Nelson ’19 explains her job as a raffle ticket seller to an attendee. “My favorite part about being a raffle ticket seller was knowing that I was helping raise money for more girls to experience the incredible opportunities that Marian offers who might not be able to without FEST donations,” Nelson said. amaleapoulos

Belle Kenney ’17, Emily Doll ’17, Juliet Kolterman ’17, Nikki Taylor ’17 and Cora Ridenour ’17 sang “The Parish Family Blessing” to begin dinner. The Select Women’s Choir sings at FEST each year. amaleapoulos

With Great Power Comes Great Responsibility Taylor Sterba ’19 poses as Spiderman at the 35th annual MarianFEST on Feb. 10. This year’s theme was Superheroes.

Every student volunteer was given a blue t-shirt with an “M” in the style of Superman. amaleapoulos