Marian High School Network Student Newspaper - May 2021

THE NETWORK MARIAN

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

Even with masks, Field Day ‘21 makes up for two years of spirit

Photos courtesy of Haley Hoffman, Maddie Mitchell, Moira Hale, Olivia Ost & Mike Machian (center)

from

a total of

spanning

watched Infographic by MaddieGenoways

Data from Mr. William Deibler, Technology Director

pg 7 Field Week

Arts and Humanities

pg12 Tradition Returns

pg 8-9 End-of-Season Sports

pg 16

02 News

May 2021

TARS selected for 2021-22 school year The TARS (Technical Aid Resource Students) program allows students to gain valuable technical experience while serving the student and faculty community.

Anna Krupka ‘22 Abbie Bluvas ‘22 Lucy Hobday ‘22 Anastasia Wewel ‘22

After 6 years, Ms. Lauren Morrissey says goodbye FrannieCihunka

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ine Arts chair, choir director and Marian alum Ms. Lauren Morrissey ‘09 will be leaving Marian after six years.

Morrissey teaches both Concert and Select Women’s choirs, AP music theory and Tap and Ballet. Morrissey directs music in Marian’s annual musicals and is director of Marian’s show choir, Momentum.

Many of Morrissey’s favorite memories are with her choirs.

“There are so many memorable moments. I will never forget one particular performance of “And Nature Smiled” by Allen Koepke for the Thanksgiving prayer service,” Morrissey said. “I was so moved by how the choir was singing that my eyes filled with tears and my hands started shaking as I was conducting. The choir caught on to this and knew that it must mean they were doing really well. It was a special performance for us. From then on, their goal every time we performed that piece was to make me cry happy tears!”

“Winning first place with the show choir at Lincoln Northeast 2020 was a fabulous day,” Morrissey said. “I was so proud of how well the group performed.

And we got the coveted Cleanest Homeroom award!”

Senior Elaina Carleton has been able to work with Morrissey in just about every

class she has taught and Morrissey has taught me how to every activity she’s been practice properly, warm up and involved in. That last show warm down,” said Carleton. “I choir tournament of 2020 want to thank her for pushing was also one of Carleton’s me over the years to be more favorite memories. “My than just an alto 2 and also for favorite show choir memohaving so much faith in me and ry was our last competimy abilities. I am super sad that tion,” said Carleton. “We she is leaving, however, I’m glad had such an amazing to have had all four years with Ms. Lauren Morrissey warmup and we knew how her. I know she will continue to great our show was. We continued to win do great things in her future.” our division and I just enjoyed making Next fall, Morrissey will be teaching [Morrissey] proud. I’ve learned a great music in Omaha Public Schools for grades deal about being a small but mighty group K-6th. “I will miss being surrounded by from her and it has meant the world to me the Marian spirit every day,” Morrissey because it gave me confidence to sing out said. “There is something about Marian and work with others.” that is so unique. Being an alum as well, I Freshman Abi Howard first met Morknow I’ll have that spirit with me forever.” rissey in seventh grade when she played Morrissey wants students to remember one of the Von Trapp children in Marian’s the lessons learned from music and choir, production of “The Sound of Music.” which is more than singing properly but “I had concert choir, show choir and being a part of a community. “There are three musicals with Morrissey,” Howard so many life lessons to be learned in choir said. “My favorite memory was working about working together and listening to with her when I was a kid in The Sound each other. I hope they remember to take of Music because she was so kind to all of opportunities to grow, how to learn from us.” their mistakes, and of course, how to make Both Carleton and Howard thank a great music pun. I hope they remember Morrissey for everything she’s done for how much fun it is to sing in choir with them and the Marian community. “Ms. friends and I hope they keep singing!”

Students say adios after 11 years with Señora Cassie Craig AnnaKidder

Malerie Birkel ‘22 Maddie Gilmore ‘23 Lilith Maxey ‘23 Jaimison Henton ‘23 The TARS are moderated by Mr. Billy Deibler and Dr. Sharon Genoways.

They work out of the Haddix Academic Center and receive a tuition discount for their service.

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many memories in the classroom. ext year, Spanish “One time I fell out of my chair teacher Mrs. Cassie in the middle of class. All of the Craig will be teaching girls were so sweet and didn’t want Spanish at Elkhorn North. to hurt my feelings. I had to tell She started teaching them it was okay to laugh at me Spanish at Marian in 2010 because it was hilarious,” Craig and is currently teachsaid. ing full time. When the On top of her role as a Spanopportunity to work part ish teacher, Craig has filled the time presented itself, Craig Señora Cassie Craig position of faculty retreat leader in took the position to spend more time with her two children--Magnus, the past. “I enjoyed creating memorable experiences for my coworkers and working who is 7 and will be in second grade next with people I otherwise wouldn’t get to on year, and Penelope, who is 5 and will be in a regular basis,” Craig said. kindergarten next year. “I did this for only Spanish teacher Ms. Caitlin Gaule has three years. I was ready to come back full had the pleasure of working with Craig time this year,” Craig said.

Some of Craig’s favorite memories from for four years. “She was a great mentor my first year as I was navigating high school her time at Marian are her very first Field teaching, honors courses and all things Day, Mr. and Mrs. Bauer’s engagement Marian-related that made no sense to me!” and the Europe trip. She also has made

Gaule said. “She has always been a great friend and knowing I could ask her about anything - curriculum or otherwise - has positively impacted my time here in so many ways.”

Students are ready to welcome Señor John Paul Franco, who will be filling Craig’s role, with a warm Marian welcome.

Craig offered her advice to him: “My advice would be to go with the flow when it comes to Marian traditions and embrace them. They are a part of what makes Marian special,” Craig said.

“I wish her many years of continuing to inspire students to break down language/ cultural barriers and examine the world beyond their own. I also send her all the best as she pursues her next big step,” Gaule said. “Marian will miss you, and your next school is so lucky to have you!”

Paraprofessionals helped get school through pandemic

“They were hired for one year to get us through COVID and did a fantastic job!” Principal Susie Sullivan said.

Mrs. Ali Britt

Ms. Hannah Hennings

Mrs. Sarah Timpe

Ms. Lindsey Decker

Ms. Euwanda Jennings

Summer required reading books announced to the student body Freshman Class of 2025

Jade has always been told that she needs to get out of her poor, lower-class neighborhood if she wants to be successful. So, she rides the bus every day to her private school full of the opportunities she doesn’t have back home. The patterns of opportunity and class she sees emerging cause her to ask the deeper questions about society, what’s “wrong,” and how one girl could make a difference.

Sophomore Class of 2024

In a dystopian future of California, the citizens have been facing a drought.

When the taps finally run dry, things quickly spiral into chaos, and 16-year-old Alyssa and her younger brother have to rethink everything they thought they knew about their life. They go on a dangerous quest with their neighbors to find safety and water. This book is written by a father-son duo.

Junior Class of 2023

Annabelle Agnetti is your typical overachieving teenager. Perfect grades, sports champ, lots of friends.

All that changes in the blink of an eye in a mysterious incident involving an ex-crush.

Now, Annabelle embarks on a quest to run from her home state of Washington to Washington, D.C. to find herself, leaving readers wondering: what exactly happened?

Senior Class of 2022

In this heart-wrenching autobiography, Tara Westover describes her childhood, living off the grid with her family. Slowly, she begins to teach herself basic subjects, eventually gaining admission to Brigham Young University. She travels to new lengths for knowledge, but the further she goes, the more she wonders: how can she find her way home again?

RyleeGregg

may 2021

News 03

Gardener’s creativity blossoms, one bud at a time AnnaDailey

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fter months of walking up from the about why he likes to garden in the spring parking lot surrounded by cold, dirty and fall at Marian. Gardening is a big hobsnow, springtime has finally come. At by of Zach’s, replacing golfing a few years Marian, this means a blooming entrance to ago. With his many responsibilities--teachwalk up to, with flowers and new landscap- ing, working as a neonatologist, and being a ing. father and grandfather--gardening can act Mr. Kevin Adcock helps keep the as “mental therapy,” as Higgins would say. grounds at Marian looking great for not “I can tell you that there is nothing nicer only the springtime, but for the entire than to go up to Marian on a nice Septemyear. Adcock said his job entails “mowing, ber Sunday when there is hardly anyone trimming, some fertilizing, spraying, snow around. It’s nice and peaceful and quiet up removal, repair work on all the equipment, there.” taking care of outdoor sporting needs and When it comes to planning the landsecurity.” scaping and flowers, Zach sticks to practiDr. Terry Zach, neonatologist and father cality. “It sort of just comes down to what’s of two Marian alumnae, is the man behind available and what’s the cheapest I can get,” the tulip entrance at Marian. Zach became Zach said. “I know from experience what involved with the landusually works and what scaping in 2003 when doesn’t work.” Each year, his youngest daughter he tries to do something a started at Marian. “The little different. whole four years that The landscaping has [his oldest daughter] not gone unnoticed by the Dr. Terry Zach was [here], I kept saying to my student body. “I think the tulips are wife, ‘Boy, they could sure use a few flowreally beautiful and they always catch my ers,’” Zach said. “So I talked to the Head of attention when I walk inside,” freshman School one time and said, ‘Hey, would you Jenna Woodard said. mind if I planted a few flowers in front of Sophomore Nora Corrigan agrees with the sign on the entryway?’” Ever since then, that sentiment. “It’s nice to walk up to Zach has spent many autumn and spring school surrounded by nice flowers after a hours at Marian making the entrance come long winter,” she said. “I really enjoy seeing alive. them, and they are always beautiful.”

President Mary Higgins knows Zach’s “I think it’s a statement, when you walk family very well. Some of Higgins’ children into a building and it has pretty flowers and were in the same grades as Zach’s children it’s well-manicured, as to what the building and have been friends for years. “I deeply does and who it does it for,” Higgins said. appreciate what Dr. Zach does for Marian,” Zach’s radiant gardening at Marian helps Higgins said. “When you realize the time, to brighten the overall atmosphere and the effort, the energy he puts into it, it’s an celebrate the beginning of spring. incredible donation of service.”

Dr. Terry Zach’s efforts to spruce up the “I think it’s peaceful and relaxing, and Marian entryway are on full (and colorful) it’s such a beautiful campus,” Zach said display this spring. Photos by AnnaDailey.

they could sure “ Boy, use a few flowers. “

My queen, your queen, Marian’s May Queen: Acevedo shows spirit of Mary NatalieCusick

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ne of Marian’s core traditions came to life on Thursday, May 6, as senior Aby Acevedo was named this year’s May Queen. “I think she just embodies everything that Marian is, and I think she was the best person to be the May Queen,” senior Lizzie Pickering said.

May Crowning is held in the month of May and is dedicated to Mary, the mother of Jesus and our Patroness.

“By crowning Mary, we honor and show reverence to the example Mary has set for us,” Campus Ministry director Anna Kolterman said. Marian students are taught since the first day of school to live out the value of Marian Identity. Students use Mary’s example to show Christ’s compassion to one another through advocacy and use of our talents, linking our community and spiritual lives.

Being selected as the May Queen is a special honor for a Marian senior, as she is chosen by her fellow classmates as an example of Marian Identity. “It was like our whole grade knew since freshman year [that Aby would be May Queen],” senior Sophi Steffes said. The May Queen has the role of crowning the statue of Mary in the circle drive in front of the Servants of Mary convent.

Fifteen second grade daughters of Marian alumnae, who recently received the sacrament of First Communion, also participated in the cere-

mony by placing a flower in front of the statue. “I’ve been waiting to take [my daughter] to this [ceremony], and it was so special because it was centered around faith and celebrating her First Communion and what she is experiencing in her religious formation,” Katy Waldron-Roshone ‘01 said. Her daughter Charlotte “absolutely loved it.”

Campus Ministry assists the May Queen and the student introducing her with writing their speeches. FIAT (the student-led Faith in Action Team) plans the ceremony. Alumnae Relations Director Mrs. Nancy Kettering

Aby Acevedo ’21 places the crown on the statue of Mary.

Aby Acevedo ’21 leads the First Communicants in their procession to start the ceremony. Photos by AnnaKidder.

Casey invites the alumnae and First Communicants and organizes a tour of the building with cupcakes after the event. The maintenance department sets the stage in the morning.

The ceremony consists of a welcome, introduction, procession of the May Queen and First Communicants, May Queen speech, crowning of Mary, litany in which the First Communicants bring flowers to Mary, petitions, closing prayer and songs from the Select Women’s Choir and Worship Choir, as explained by Kolterman.

The introduction is given by a friend chosen by the

Aby Acevedo ’21 stands with her family near the end of the ceremony.

May Queen. This year, senior Molly Griffin did the honor. “Aby, to me, is just a big role model in my life. She is a really good friend, and I don’t think I could’ve gone through high school without her. She inspires me each and every day to be the best version of myself,” Griffin said. “[Aby] never likes to brag about any of her accomplishments, so I was so excited that the whole class was able to recognize her. I thought she was the most deserving person that could’ve been chosen,” Griffin said.

After the introduction, the May Queen gives a speech to the student body, faculty, staff, her family and the Servants of Mary who could be present.

“I prepared by spending some time alone and thinking about what message I thought was important about Marian identity and the Marian community. Reflecting on the many ways that Marian helps girls grow in their faith helped a lot,” Acevedo said.

“On the actual day of crowning, a lot of things were going through my mind. I was very happy that I was able to be the one to place the crown on Mary since I watched other amazing people do it since freshman year. I was nervous that my message wouldn’t reach everyone, but I knew that all I had to do was do my best!” Acevedo said.

04 Opinion

May 2021

Kids will be kids...and push their opinions Opinions by CourtneyThompson & MiaDunker

Put Gen Z on a pedestal G en Z, people born between 1997 and 2012, seem to be a different breed of American citizens. With outstanding advocacy and respect for all opinions, Gen Z stands above the generations that came before them, proud and strong. This generation has caused lots of stir through social media, as we are never one to back down from something we are passionate about. During the Black Lives Matter movement and the protests that went on over the summer, Gen Z teens across the country organized peaceful rallies while other generations seemed to argue over the right way to do so.

When faced with discrimination and police brutality, Gen Z took it upon ourselves to make sure everyone could see exactly what was going on through social media. Many of us stood for justice and were willing to get it any way we could.

When nobody would listen, instead of giving up, we protested harder, resulting in national news coverage of youth activism. Gen Z was brought to the forefront of the national psyche, forcing Boomers to take their noses out of their newspapers and finally look around.

Gen Z, along with Millennials, are a generation of feminists in both genders.

Men of our generation started a social media movement against toxic masculinity, wearing skirts, dresses, or crop tops to show that they don’t tolerate the toxicity that is often associated with “being a man” in other generations. Along with protecting our women, this generation doesn’t take the unfair treatment of anyone lightly. We have been big about acceptance, especially toward the LGBTQIA+ community, regardless of what the generations before us say.

We are the generation that rose above what our so-called “role models” taught us and discovered what was really right and just.

Something I’m not sure how to feel about is bullying in Gen Z. We have fostered the belief that nobody should be treated poorly, but continue to do so behind our screens. Being the most technologically advanced generation so far, it is easy to see that these issues have arisen, but we need to be better about knowing the effect that words have on people. This generation has made change for the better, and diversity and inclusion is better than ever with diversity directors in businesses and schools, and open conversations about race arising often. We stand above the rest, and always will.

Generation Z is just another generation “G en Z will save us.” That’s a phrase that’s been popping up more and more recently, but I’ve been questioning that sentiment. Are Gen Z really the saviors we’re made out to be? If you are stressed about seemingly having the whole world on your shoulders, I have good news for you: Gen Z is not going to save the world.

In the past years there has been increased awareness of social issues, an awareness that may be more prevalent than ever before.

A lot of Gen Z kids, especially the youngest ones, grew up in a world where activism is more common. Through social media young people have been able to get involved with movements such as Black Lives Matter and the movement for LGBTQIA+ rights. But is this a new thing? From the civil rights movement in the 60s to the environmental movement in the 70s, social justice movements have been supported and led by the young generations of the time. And even if young people have been involved

in justice movements for decades, they have never been the sole members. All movements are formed when people of different groups—and ages— come together in their belief in change.

Assuming people’s beliefs based on their age not only discounts the people of past generations that have been fighting for change, it brushes over people our age that do hold backwards, bigotted views. For every forward-thinking Gen Z there is one that still holds backwards views, whether they are conscious or subconscious. Even those of us who consider ourselves progressive or tolerant still need to keep unlearning biases and ; no one is a perfect activist.

Every generation thinks it’s the next best thing, and every generation claims to hate the generations before and after it. So maybe instead of putting all our faith in our generation, we should accept that we all need to learn and grow, and make a better future together.

Please, Principal Sullivan, can I wear pants with my uniform?

Column by GaeaKaan

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hen I first transferred to Marian from Central last year, one of the biggest differences I encountered was with the uniform. I never had the experience of wearing a skirt and polo shirt to school five days a week and I was understandably hesitant to make the shift from my normal loungewear. Although wearing a uniform is not nearly as horrible as I would have thought, I still question the reasoning behind why pants are not part of the dress code.

Now I understand that uniform khaki or black pants aren’t appealing to everyone within the Marian student body, and I respect that some people find skirts to be more comfortable and appropriate for school girls. However, after consulting old handbooks, pants and walking shorts were both part of the school uniform

until the 2016-17 school year, when the dress code in the handbook was revised. The black pants and shorts available for uniform options were reportedly uncomfortable and not worn as much as the skirts and skorts.

However, I love pants. Not only do they make me feel more comfortable, they provide a certain warmth that leggings and tights can’t hold a flame to.

Sure, we can wear leggings under our skirts now, but wearing a uniform skit on top is just not comfortable to me. Pants help me to feel comfortable in my own

body and not worry about wandering eyes that garments like skirts often attract.

They also give me the ability to move around freely and not worry about my skirt flying up or getting anything exposed which is so relieving. Being the forgetful person I am, it is often in my nature to forget to wear shorts underneath my skirt, and it really puts a damper on my day. But if I were to have the option of pants in my wardrobe, the crisis would be averted entirely.

Pants also have the wonderful perk of covering up my leg hair stubble that I

let go untamed. And of course, the best part of having pants is access to pockets, a must-have in all of my outfits. Even though there are pockets provided in some of the uniform skirts and skorts, they aren’t useful and can barely fit my phone, dismissed in my mind from being a true pocket. I am not a purse person.

Pockets are simply more convenient to my lifestyle, and I appreciate the usefulness of the design, thus making pants the superior option in my wardrobe.

Despite the many benefits to wearing pants, it still remains unclear why they are not part of the school uniform anymore.

I hope pants can someday make a comeback to Marian, if not for the comfort and convenience, then for the pockets.

Childhood fame inhibits proper development

Column by AnnaDailey

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udy Garland. Macaulay Culkin. Lindsay Lohan. Amanda Bynes. These are just a few of the hundreds of once child stars who cracked under the pressure of fame and the expectations that come along with it. Many of these stars end up spiraling the drain and become addicted to drugs and alcohol, get arrested, enter rehab and appear years older than they truly are. However, they can’t be blamed for this.

Fame brings the pressure to appear and act perfect. For a child, this is a lot to handle, which is why many child stars turn to drugs and alcohol as a coping mechanism. Judy Garland, who played Dorothy in “The Wizard of Oz,” became addicted to drugs at a very young age after being forced to take them by producers and ultimately died from a drug overdose.

What’s worse is that most children

who enter the spotlight don’t do it voluntarily—their parents force them into fame in an effort to live vicariously through them.

Many parents claim that it’s what their kids want, but I find it hard to believe a 5 year old is begging his/her parents to get them in the spotlight while understanding the effects it may have on their emotional, behavioral and social development.

I could never enjoy the show “Dance Moms” because all I could think about was how the girls in it were never able to experience so many activities of a normal child—such as going to school every day—because their

mothers wanted so badly for them to be stars. Many of the girls quit real school because their mothers wanted them to maximize the dance training they could receive during school hours. They usually defended their actions by saying something along the lines of, “My daughter begged me to let her pursue this path,” but this seems unlikely.

The young girls’ days consisted of getting yelled at by their dance teacher, watching their moms fight with each other, dancing for hours on end and having this all filmed on television for the world to critique. Sadly, the stars from “Dance Moms” are just one

example of all the famous children who face this life.

Whenever these children don’t perfectly live up to the high expectations of the ever-so-critical world, the media is always ready to make a story out of it. In Shawn Mendes and Justin Bieber’s song “Monster,” the lyric “unforgiveness keeps [the media] in control,” perfectly summarizes how too many children are exploited and diminished by fame.

No one is perfect, but this reality is much more apparent for child stars. I believe that they can escape the hardships of fame with a supportive, understanding family and work environment, but many don’t have access to this as they bring in the profit.

We can all make an effort to improve the development of these children by showing more empathy towards them and expecting less of them.

May 2021

opinion 05

Decisions made, seniors move in different directions Moving away working with my mom at her wedding venue as an assistant coordimoves senior “dayI’mnator.

I’ll be meeting with brides, and then I’ll be at their weddings on the of to set up. College just didn’t really make sense for me to spend money to (happy) tears for a 4-year college when I had this opportunity right in front of me, so I Opinion by QuinnFindley n the last day of eighth grade, I remember everyone hugging each other goodbye and crying about how much we’d miss each other.

Well, everyone around me. I didn’t cry. I was ready, you could even say excited, to leave my grade school and I knew I would stay in touch with my friends throughout the summer.

I was so prepared to come to Marian and be thrown into a whole new environment.

Now, I’m feeling a similar way about going to college. “Senoritis” started kicking in during the first quarter of school, and it’s in full bloom right now. When there was less than a month left of school, it was really hard to motivate myself to get work done which left me feeling overwhelmed and discouraged to finish it. I’m ready for a new, unfamiliar start where I’m actually passionate about school again.

When I leave Marian, I’m definitely not going to miss waking up before 6 every morning to get a decent parking spot, but I will certainly miss all my classmates and teachers.

I’ve formed so many more friendships and bonds with people who I never would have thought I could get along so well with.

The most important thing that I’ll take with me when I go to college is the confidence I’ve learned here.

Before I came to high school, I was afraid to ask questions because that meant admitting you didn’t understand what was going on. Marian showed me that asking questions is one of the most vital life skills to have, and figuring out the things you don’t understand is a lot more beneficial than keeping your hand down out of fear.

Another thing that Marian, specifically the fact that it’s an allgirls school, has taught me is to be competitive while still being able to support the people you’re competing against. The academic environment allows all the students to put in the effort required to maintain good grades and keep up with the class, but it also encourages girls to join clubs, get involved with the school, and meet all sorts of new people.

So, I want to thank Marian for instilling valuable skills that will help me not only in my career, but to continue to become a better person.

And even though I will miss all the people who have made this place feel like a home, I’m ready to pack up what I’ve learned and take it with me to my next stage in life.

talked about it with my parents, and we thought it would be best for me.

I would say definitely listen to what you want to do and don’t let other people influence you. I’m lucky because I have such a great setup. This job will allow me to travel a lot… Don’t let the stigma around going to college influence you to do what you don’t want to do. If you don’t want to do something, don’t do it.”

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

MHSbeat

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Kara Constantino ’21

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I plan on participating in a couple gap programs and traveling to many places such as Rome and India in those programs. I am planning on going into architecture and interior design so when I am in Omaha, I would intern at an architecture firm. I wasn’t 100% set on architecture and since college is expensive and getting an architecture degree is a lot of schooling, they [my parents] thought it would be a good idea to take a year off and see if that’s something I really want to do and am interested in.

Barack and Michelle Obama’s daughters actually took a gap year and I thought that was really cool. Ask yourself what you want. Then once you figure that out, do whatever is needed to do that. I would also recommend talking to your parents about it because they know you and they also can help to figure out how to get you to where you want to be. My biggest piece of advice is to do what makes you happy. At the end of the day, it is your life and you are the one living it. What your parents, teachers, and friends are doing and what makes them happy is not necessarily going to make you happy. Ignore what everyone else is doing and focus on yourself and what you want to do and what you need to do to better yourself. There are many definitions of success and there are many different ways to achieve it.”

Jayla Kuhn ’21

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Next year I am attending the Aveda Institute in Denver, Colorado for cosmetology. I’ve always loved hair and makeup and after my mom initially suggested the possibility of not going to a traditional college, I began looking into it more.

The Aveda Institutes are nationally ranked and focus on the sustainable part of the beauty industry, and that’s something I really admire. I absolutely think Marian pressures girls to pursue a traditional college path. Even though my counselor was excited for me, they were always making comments about traditional college being another option. Even if the teachers are supportive, the pressure from other classmates is another beast entirely. I didn’t tell people my plans for the future because I thought people would look at me like I’m stupid. If you aren’t happy or excited about what you are learning about, remember you can make money doing just about anything nowadays, and it’s important to value your happiness over the happiness of those around you.”

Margaret Kelly ’21

Dear Marian community, First of all, we want to thank you all. This community is the reason we have a platform and are able to report on the important and entertaining news inspired by you.

There is no school full of more creative, hardworking, unique individuals, and we were in awe of the stories you live out every day. Although this year has presented many challenges, we have been able to continue our journalistic endeavors and publish stories that mattered to us. Without every member of our community’s support, our job would not have been as easy or nearly as rewarding.

Lastly, we hope our work can serve as a positive and moral example to inspire future Marian journalists. We want to remind you all to be strong in your beliefs, remember you and your work are important and know your stories may forever impact others in ways you may not even know. The journalist within every student at Marian deserves to be heard.

Love, The Network

The Network is

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

Marian High School 7400 Military Ave. Omaha, NE 68134

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

May 2021

CAD students learn new skills, make 3D cookie cutters S LexiKetcham

ophomores, juniors and seniors in CAD I, Computer-Aided Design, recently made cookie cutter from a 3D printer. Students spent 2-3 weeks researching, creating 3D models and preparing 2D drawings of their design through various angles.

Each cookie cutter takes 45 minutes to print. In the final class period dedicated to this project, students cut, baked, decorated and enjoyed eating the cookies they made with the help of their cookie cutters.“Each semester I try to come up with a new design to use as an example. I’ve also adjusted the cookie dough recipe as I try to find the perfect combination of dough that doesn’t rise too much but still tastes good,” CAD teacher Mr. Matt Winterboer said.

Students in CAD I complete a series of activities, assignments and projects that progressively get more difficult, preparing them to make the cookie cutters. Prior to this project, students designed a whistle and a puzzle cube, teaching students how to design correctly using Fusion360, a designing software.

“Students are expected to apply what they have learned through these assignments and create their

[cookie cutter] model with much less oversight and guidance,” Winterboer said.

Senior Cecelia Hall created a starfish shaped cookie cutter by tracing an image from the Internet, cutting it out and then adding her own detail. She says a large portion of the project was sketching the design to make the perfect shape. “This class has taught me to explore new things that I might not have thought to pursue. I really enjoy this class because it is interesting to learn new things about design and 3D printing,” Hall said.

Junior Samantha Konecky decided to take CAD I because of her interest in graphic design and working with computers. She feels all the projects they completed

leading up to making the cookie cutters effectively prepared her to do so and turn her drawing into something 3D. “This class was a really good introduction to graphic design, which is something I’m interested in doing in the future, and has definitely influenced me to take more graphic design classes like CAD 2,” Konecky said.

Mr. Matt Winterboer’s Block G CAD class made cookie cutters through a 3D printer. After making their cookie cutters, they made cookies and decorated them during class.

Photos courtesy of GraceEllis.

Students prepare for 10 day trip to Dominican Republic A SophieStevens

trip that was canceled so abruptly last year due cannot wait to see what the process is like. Mrs. Amanda to a global pandemic may be on the course to Pritchard usually would be joining the others, but due to happen this year. The Dominican Republic trip having a baby, she will be watching from the sidelines. includes 16 juniors and seniors who will be traveling Pritchard and Deacon Kevin Fuller worked on the planthrough Santiago and the capital city Santa Domingo. ning, organizing and fundraising end of the process.

They will be leaving May 28 and returning on June 8.

The privilege to represent Marian on Campus Through the main course of the trip they will be Ministry’s Dominican Republic Mission Trip is like no building a greenhouse for a female-run sustainable com- other, and during a pandemic can be even more difficult. munity outside of Santiago. They will also take a day trip Pritchard said, “ILAC (Institute for Latin American to the Zona Cultural in Santo Domingo where they’ll Concern), the host site, has modeled their COVID learn about the history of the island. They will also protocols after Creighton, so things at ILAC will be spend a day at an orphanage in Santiago where they will play, color, sing and dance with the kids.

Usually, the girls would be paired up with families and would stay with them. Due to social distancing, the girls will stay in the EcoLodge with the moderators.

Moderators Ms. Caitlin Gaule and Mrs. Jaime Piernicky Students in 2019 went to the Dominican Republic and met many children. They lived with families, are excited for helped with projects and played and sung with them. Photos from Marian DR Trip Facebook page. the trip and

similar to Marian: daily screening, masks, social distancing, outside gatherings, hand sanitizer, etc.” With these protocols, the girls can hope for a fun and safe time in the Dominican Republic.

Junior Meghan Inda said, “I feel privileged to be able to go to the DR during a pandemic because I understand the hard work that has been needed to keep the trip.”

These girls are excited and can not wait to see what life-changing experiences and memories the trip will bring.

Dominican Republic Summer Mission Trip Students Attending:

Juniors: Caroline Ahsan, Avianna Gonzalez, Maddy Kmiecik, Annie Masek, Ryan Sully, Abigail Bluvas, Lauren Cannella, Brianna Dovali, Meghan Inda, Elleiana Green, Katie Sulentic & Audrey Van Dyke Seniors: Katie Corpuz, Connie Regan, Alexis Perlman & Cleo Wear

Faculty Attending: Ms. Caitlin Gaule & Mrs. Jaime Piernicky

07 Feature

Burn showcases unique talents QuinnFindley

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May 2021

Scholars present their Humanities capstone projects The inaugural class of the Humanities Scholar Program.

urn is Marian’s literary magazine that showcases creative, original art and writing SophiaVirgillito submitted he Intro to Humanities class was Each project could be presented in by students. added to Marian’s social studies different mediums. While Kripal picked The magazine curriculum in the spring of 2020.

The a speech, classmate Elaina Carleton comes out once a humanities program is led by social chose to write a paper and present it semester and is made studies teachers Mrs. Jillian Roger and orally and Jacquie Paul made a video. and published by stuMrs. Katy Salzman.

Seniors who had Carleton chose to make her project dents. But the magtaken the intro class as juniors spent their personal.

“I’ve always wanted to voice my azine doesn’t include senior year researching a humanities topopinion on this topic and give my story every piece of ic of their choice.

In May, they presented behind it,” Carleton said. art, phototheir findings.

Carleton chose to study the relagraph, poetry, Senior Ellie Kripal explained how she tionships between the performing arts, prose, creative was initially attracted to sign up for the human nature, and herself. writing, short humanities classes.“I was super ecstatic Paul initially chose to take this class to film, or song to hear about the Humanities Scholar fill her schedule, but has learned importthrown its Program, because I have always valued ant lessons about the world. way; the staff subjects such as art, philosophy, language, “My favorite thing about the class is of Burn dedand history.

I wanted to learn more about that it’s all based around conversation. icates hours those subjects and so I took the class,” You read articles and you share your to mapping Kripal said. opinion on it and try to trace it back out which Kripal presented her project about to the author or creator based on the submissions flow together for a Japanese film history and its role within subject.

The class forces you to open your coherent theme of the magazine. This Artwork to be printed in the spring Burn. the world in a speech format “like a Tedblinders and see the world from a totally semester, the suggested themes were Girl Artists: Bridget McGill ’24, Eliza Turco ’22, Talk!” different perspective,” Paul said.

Power, Isolation, Freedom, Climate Justice, Kripal chose her topic while on an adPaul chose to do her video on the Callaghan Cavanaugh ’21, Katie Corpuz and Celebrating our Differences. venture to the Joslyn Art Museum.

“I go African Diaspora because in 2020 Afro ’21, Ceci Urbanski ’23 & Emma Alm ’21.

This year’s editors were seniors Ellie to a studio each week through the Joslyn beats and Afro culture was recognized Kripal and Rachel Achola. Each issue writing incorporated into it. “We take Museum, and I was in the printmaking through music and dance on social media takes roughly two months to complete, inspiration from each other, past issues, group last semester,” Kripal said.

“One such as TikTok. “I noticed it was reconand the process begins with sorting and the artwork and writing themselves. day we talked about a specific type of necting Africans, African Americans, through all the submissions. “To decide The Burn staff decides what pieces look Japanese printmaking, known as ukiyo-e.

Afro Caribbeans and Afro Latinos, so I what pieces will go into an issue, we get good together, which often involves comThen, as I was deciding on what to do for wanted to dig into the topic,” Paul said. together as a group for a vote. All voting is plementary color schemes on each spread,” this project, I learned that ukiyo-e had a Kripal, Carleton, Paul and other anonymous, and we have various parameKripal said. direct impact on the birth of filmmaking, seniors who earned the Humanities ters for voting like who can vote and how Once the issue is published, a copy another interest of mine, so I decided to Scholar distiction presented their projects to effectively critique the art and writing,” is given to each student and the artists write about that.” in the Performing Arts Center on May 6.

Kripal said. and writers are celebrated. The Burn staff The average issue is 25 pages, and invites students, staff, familes and the stueach spread, or two pages, is designed by dents with work included in the magazine a different member of the staff and has a to a showcase event on May 17 from 5-6 LexiKetcham unique design to it based on the art and p.m. in the Performing Arts Center lobby. rt is a fun and creative form of coordinator for homecare agencies and expression for many students. Some grew up with parents as artists, felt this students may take art classes because project combined two things she cares they have a passion and talent for art. about: the elderly and art.

AnnaKidder Some may take it to make “Old people hold My project is two feet in grass painted their schedule less stressful. a special place in my with acrylic on wood. My inspiration Some may even take it just heart, and this is the for this came from my childhood. I am to get their required credits perfect opportunity to using warmer colors to reminisce on the out of the way. do something for our warm feelings from my childhood. When Students in Art I and community,” Hamra I was a child I was always outside and Art II this school year have said. playing in the grass with no shoes on. This learned that art can also The first art show project captures those feelings.” be used to help the comat Florence Home was munity. Jennifer Smith, held last semester with For this project I drew a lot of inspithe Life Enrichment and Art II, but there weren’t ration from horror movies, especially Activities Director for the Artwork by classes I and II enough pieces for all movies like “Carrie” and “Scream.” I’m Florence Home, reached out were on display so Florence of the residents, so this a huge horror fan and I wanted to do to Marian asking if students Home residents could choose semester all four Art I something related to that. I was really could make art pieces for classes and one Art II their very own. inspired by this trope in horror of “the the residents at Florence class participated. There final girl,” which is basically the character Home Healthcare Center. was a spring and Easter that survives ‘til the end of the movie to “I pulled up a google search theme to the art show. get revenge on the killer.” of high schools near our Students made crosses, community and I emailed wreaths and canvasses, “When I started my art piece I knew I every single school. There making more than 100 wanted to draw something intimate–a was only one response: Ms. pieces combined. moment in time where it was just two Hamra,” Smith said.

“My favorite part people being infatuated by one another. In With the pandemic, the was getting the pictures the photo the audience doesn’t know who Florence Home had to end back and seeing the they are or how long they’ve known each their volunteer programs residents with their other. All they can assume is that the two so residents were staying in artwork,” Hamra said. are lovers experiencing a moment in time their rooms without much Sophomore Tyler together. It’s supposed to show how even to do. Smith noticed many of the resiRaikar, who is in Ms. Hamra’s Art I the little things like looking at someone dents had bare walls in their rooms so class, participated in this project. Raikar can be so special.” decided to do something to solve these made an abstract painting with a Bible problems. “I had been on a mission to quote for the residents. “I enjoyed having For my project, I will be doing three find a way to have the youth come back creative freedom and creating something different canvases that portray my life. into our community,” Smith said. meaningful for someone to brighten From left to right, there will be past, Smith and Ms. Esther Hamra, Art I their day a little more,” Raikar said. present, and future canvases that come toand Art II teacher, talked over the phone Not only was the art show fun for gether to form a scene. My inspiration for to discuss what the students would learn the students to do, but it also made the this project came from my bulletin board in class. Hamra adapted her lesson plan Florence Home residents overjoyed to that is on the wall in my room. There are to allow for time to make artwork for get out of their rooms to look at artwork lots of pictures, pins and decorations on the Florence Home residents. and pick pieces to decorate the walls in there that relate to me,º and I just want to Hamra, who used to be a staffing their rooms. show who I am through my art.”

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Art classes help the community

Art IV students use life experiences to create

Maddie Randby

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Jess Hite

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Emily Beyer

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Lydia Rose

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08 Indepth

F I E L 2D 0

May 2021

Freshmen come together to Walk the Plank

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MollyMonahan

Freshmen began their Field Day journey with moderators Ms. Hamra and Ms. Tripe leading the voyage. However, new ideas brought in new problems. “What was unexpected was how much control the students had over the smallest details. It was so fun experiencing everything and getting to see it go from just an idea to a finished product in such little time. My favorite part about field day was getting so much closer to other people in our class.

Even in just our committees there were people I did not know very well so it was so great getting to know everyone,” freshman Caitlyn Dunham said.

The hard work that Field Day brings brought quite a shock to most of the freshmen.

Being From left to right: Addison Moline, Christal Gonzalez and Mia Butler cut a new his year Marian freshmen had to travel their way through rough waters on their first Field Day to make it to Baxter. “I had been to a few Field Days before coming to Marian because I have older sisters but I never understood what Field Week was like. I always only saw the final products from walls night and the actual performances at Baxter but I never knew how much work was really put in,” freshman class officer Mariella Virgillito said. The freshmen chose the colors royal blue and lilac for their journey through the sea.

out the waves on the freshman costumes.

student in a big school was hard enough, the freshmen class also had to persevere through COVID restrictions. “I loved how many little events we had and learning new things whether it was with building or if it was a new fact about Field Day. It was definitely different due to COVID. We had to spread out when sitting down, and we had to learn to incorporate The freshman tug of war team included Ava Reinert ’24, Marin hand sanitizer in the demo, which Momsen ’24, Mallory DaSilva ’24, Tee Kuon ’24, Maggie McGill ’24, was a challenge, but we prevailed,” Hailey Eriksen ’24, Madison Terranova ’24 and Lily McAndrews ’24.

Tori Schenkelberg said.

Class moderator Ms. Esther Hamra shows her spirit in the back.Pictured The hybrid classes at the start of above left is them in action. the year divided the classes into the first and last part of the alphabet, so most freshmen only got to know half of their class. The freshmen finally got to see their whole class when Marian went fully back to school.

“Something I already knew about Field Day before coming to Marian was only that it was a HUGE event. I didn’t really know any specific details about it, so it was fun to learn!” Hailey Eriksen said.

The freshmen pirates placed fourth in all categories, except mascot which placed third. This Field Day Freshmen: Walk the Plank placed fourth overall.

Claire Fitzpatrick ’24, Lauren Militti ’24 and Joslyn McKee ’24 paint a board with lavender and blue for the freshman walls.

Sophomores seek help from moderators, first year in Field Day QuinnFindley

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he very first year of Field Day, all classes were equally inexperienced and confused, and ever since then, it has been freshman year that serves as an introduction to how Field Day takes place. Now, Marian experienced deja vu with the sophomores and freshmen sitting at an equal level for the 2021 Field Day. Sophomore moderators and math teachers Mrs. Jaime Piernicky and Miss Megan Han had to start fresh with the sophomore class and explain the ins and outs of one of Marian’s most prized traditions.

However, Han has experience as a fresh-

man moderator so she understands that patience is a vital skill to have when helping an inexperienced class. “I would say the most challenging part for me is remembering to not make assumptions about what the sophomores ‘should know’ about Field Day like I have in the past. This means I have to be conscientious about explaining things in detail and monitoring their progress,” Han said.

The sophomores’ theme, “Sophomores Big Adventure: A Search for Spirit,” has been fun for Han to help with because her own senior year theme was “Senior Safari: The Search for Spirit.”

Han says it reminds her of her time as a student.

“The moderators have been such great help to us. Especially since this is our first Field Day. They have helped us know what will work and what won’t.

Miss Megan Han helps the sophomores with their demo. Pictured from left to right: Emma Humpal ’23, Isi Raczynski ’23, Tamyiah Nielsen ’23, Payton Kin- They continue to make caid ’23, Charli Brusnahan ’23 and Zamera Issaka ’23.

sure we are on the right track with everything and Ceci Urbanski ’23, Liv Strako ’23, Tyler add their input,” said Sarah Specht on behalf Raikar ’23, Maria McLeay ’23, Reese Mueller of the other sophomore class officers. ’23, Colette Vincentini ’23, Sian Jones ’23, Although the sophomores haven’t had Kate Hoppe ’23, McKayla Mandolfo ’23 and a live Field Day, that didn’t stop them from Amanda Loschen ’23 represent their class in being on top of the game. “My class offithe annual kick-off block tug of war, competing cers have been amazing, especially when it against the freshmen. comes to asking for help and speaking up when they don’t know something,” Piernicky much work it is or how many little details there are to coordinate,” Specht said. said.

Although the sophomore class has never “I do think that, despite not having Field experienced anything quite like Field Day Day last year, the sophomore class officers together, their adventuring attitudes on a had really good ideas for what they needed search for spirit helped them to succeed to a to do when they started planning,” Han said. third place finish overall.

The sophomore class officers expressed that although they had never experienced a live Field Day, they still had some knowledge of the chaos that takes place because of last year.

“Coming into Field Day, we knew mostly what it was going to be like from preparing last year and talking to upperclassmen. We understood some of the behind-the-scenes work, but I don’t think we all Sophomore mascot committee members work on their tent early in the fully understood how week. All four mascots were created in the west gym.

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W E E K 1

2022 Just Added Sugar, unique costumes MollyMonahan

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s the years go on and new fresh Marian faces enter the halls, new traditions rise from the surface. Field Day started in 1957 and the tradition has continued to roar through the halls. New classes bring in unique ideas for all the committees, continuing to make Marian’s Field Day ever-evolving.

The Class of 2022 brought a brand new meaning to personifying the costumes in order to look as human

Jill Williamson ’22, Bridget McGill ’22, and Emily Kriener ’22 stuff tissue paper into wire for a ground base on the junior walls.

and alive as possible.

In 2019, the Freshman at the Fair cut a face-sized hole in the center of their ribbon costumes, taking it to a new level. In the past years classes have made their costumes more similar to like outfits, rather than making the person the actual object.

The head of the Class of 22’s costume committee, Cali D’Agosto, decided to start a new Marian costume tradition. “In one of costume planning’s meetings we were going to go with usual costumes and have the ribbon hang on our shoulders, until someone suggested we actually become the ribbons and strap our heads into the costume,” D’Agosto said.

“Even though it took a lot of hard work, cardboard, fabric and even some blood shed due to the cardboard rubbing on our faces, I think everyone can agree that the costumes were definitely worth the second place costume win our freshman year,” D’Agosto said.

This year the sophomore Class of 2023 followed in their footsteps by turning themselves into trees for their Big Adventure, A Search for Spirit, by using the cut out method.

For this year’s Field Day, the juniors switched things up and used a different method on their costumes. Their costumes, consisting of their colors green and yellow, were in the shape of lemonade cups.

They cut a pool noodle in half then used it to make a circular structure on the top to form the cup rim. They then used yellow and green fabric to cover the pool noodle and hang down to make the cup of lemonade illusion.

For final touches, the costume committee colored yellow sliced lemons on paper plates and attached them to the top of the costume. The junior’s costumes placed second overall, helping with the final finish in second place.

Audrey VanDyke ’22, Ryan Sully ’22, Marin Miller ’22 and Isabelle Borer’ 22 take a quick break to pose for a picture while working on the junior walls in the east gym.

Audrey Daubendiek ’22, Anne Masek ’22, Maddie Auman ’22, Jaley McKee ’22 and Carli Ahsan ’22 work on the core structure of the junior mascot of a pitcher of lemonade with sugar cubes on top and a lemonade stand.

Class officer Emma Gunn ’21 coordinates the final demo formations for seniors’ last rodeo and Field Day on the first day of Field Week.

Consistency in committee makes mascot magic

NatalieCusick

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or the Class of 2021, their Field Days have not involved much consistency except for the mascot committee. In contrast with their unexpected journey of placings, the mascot committee has stayed with the same leadership and core team of girls since freshman year.

For their freshman Field Day theme, “Freshmen on the Farm,” the mascot committee created a tractor. Mr. Matt Winterboer was assigned as their moderator, who is notorious for building incredible mascots and having a large array of tools.

“Having Mr. Winterboer freshman year really helped teach us the basics of creating

Paige Foley ’21 and Abby Russell ’21 paint a wheel of the wagon for the senior mascot on the first day of Field Week. Both Foley and Russell have been on mascot each year.

Indepth 09

a mascot, and we used them throughout all the years of Field Day,” said mascot veteran Abbie Kellen.

The class officer who was in charge of mascot all four years, Lexxi Olsen, also brought her own tools to the table, thanks to her dad. “I grew up working with tools because of my dad. He always taught me how to use them, and I had my own tool kit I’d use as a kid, so that really sparked my interest in being on mascot,” Olsen said.

Three years later, the final mascot did not require the help of a moderator. “I look back at freshman year and how Mr. Winterboer helped us with literally everything, and then how this year we did it completely on our own,” Olsen said.

“They seemed to have it really well organized and they got along very well. I was extremely impressed,” said senior mascot committee moderator Mr. Kory Delkamiller.

This seamless way of working together was fostered through four years of having the same class officer and most of the same committee. The leader attributes her success to those who returned year after year. “Each year I had the same girls rejoin mascot and so they knew what to do and were so helpful with everything,” Olsen said.

Kellen says they owe it to “having a

great, hardworking team to complete our goals and a great committee leader who knew how to lead and was always on top of everything.”

The success, however, was never a guarantee. The committee got second as freshmen, and many even suggested it could have earned first. “I don’t think we should’ve won freshman year, because it was a lot of Mr. Winterboer’s work. I do think our tractor was cleaner and should’ve won if it was built by the students. I feel the same way about the mascot this year. The freshman mascot of 2021 might be the best mascot I’ve ever seen. I loved it. Same with our tractor. It was amazing. But no matter how much I love that tractor, the wagon will always mean more to me because it was built by us students. It was our own true work that we put our blood, sweat and tears into,” Olsen said.

Coming off the high of placing so well as freshmen, the committee never expected to drop two places with their second mascot, a bed for their “Sweet Dreams Sophomores” theme. “Sophomore year getting last in mascot was a heartbreak. I was so devastated to hear that we got fourth. I felt as if I let the class down and it was all my fault. I look back and I think the reason it got fourth was because of the weight of it and it wasn’t

as interactive. I, personally, think it deserved better than fourth, but that placement only helped me improve as the years went on,” Olsen said.

After placing last and losing a year of experience due to COVID-19, the mascot committee set out to make an 8 ft long, 4 ft wide and 8 ft tall wagon for their senior year theme, “Saddle Up Seniors.” They did just that and the mascot was able to ride into the sunset with first place. “The win this year was like a rush that I can’t describe. This year was so difficult and so to finally get first place was one of the best feelings in the world,” Olsen said.

Senior class officers pose on the first day of Field Week minutes before kick-off block. All COs sporting their class colors, pictured from left to right: Callaghan Cavanaugh ’21, Molly Smith ’21, Cydney Putnam ’21, Emma Gunn ’21, Lexxi Olsen ’21 and Tory Roubidoux ’21.

Photos by QuinnFindley & NatalieCusick

10 Feature

May 2021

Arizona

Arizona State University: Ava Kleinschmit University of Arizona: Katie Liske, Eden Opiyo

Michigan

Lake Superior State University: Celia Hacker

Minnesota

University of Arkansas: Bridget McKay

Southwest Minnesota State: Abby Russell University of Minnesota: Amanda Allbery, Olivia Ost, Cece West

California

Mississippi

Arkansas

Santa Clara University: Natalie Cusick St. Mary’s College: Elaina Carleton University of California Berkeley: Amal Imran University of San Diego: Sophia Simmons

Colorado

Aveda Institute Denver: Margaret Kelly Colorado College: Julia Becker Colorado State University: Gaea Kaan, Kate McGill Regis University: Katie Corpuz University of Colorado Boulder: Bella Bortolotti University of Colorado Colorado Springs: Madison Fitzgibbons

Florida

University of Mississippi: Aevari Kotil

Missouri

Lindenwood University: Jessica Brusnahan Missouri State: Kyra Knudsen, Amelia Zimmerman Saint Louis University: Grace Clark, Molly Griffin, Abbie Kellen, Ashley Tran, Anna Voelker University of Missouri: Carley Gregg, Lexxi Olsen

New Jersey

Princeton Universty: Lauren Harris

New York

University of Miami: Alana Kerr

United States Military Academy: Maddie Clark

Illinois

Nebraska

Loyola University Chicago: Paige Foley, Siobhan O’Keefe, Molly Smith, Olivia Turkel

Indiana

Butler University: Molly Morrissey Indiana University: Megan Carter University of Notre Dame: Aby Acevedo

Iowa

Iowa State University: Abby Jacobsen, Daphne Militti, Sophi Steffes University of Iowa: Rachel Achola, Emma Alm

Kansas

Johnson County Community College: Ary Harrison Kansas State University: Mary Cate Tabor Paul Mitchell The School: Peyton Schumacher University of Kansas: Macey Carrico, Frannie Cihunka, Iris Cunningham, Lexi Ketcham, Faith Lodes, Cydney Putnam, Megan Schalley, Mia Suter, Claire Thiele, Grace Virgillito, Mattighan Zielie

Maryland

Loyola University of Maryland: Emily Salzman

Massachusetts

College of the Holy Cross: Anna Dailey

Bellevue University: Sidney Sledge Creighton University: Anna Ambrose, McKenna Blaine, Maggie Else, Tahmina Gafurova, Moira Hale, Ola Hezel, Ava Jarecki, Lizzy Lampert, Sophia Maciejewski, Regan Peake, Samantha Pelan, Alexa Pulliam, Grace Specht, Cleo Wear Hastings College: Sophia Stevens Metropolitan Community College: Catherine Alvarez, Madison Hofmeister University of Nebraska at Lincoln: Stella Barrett, Carmie Bazis, Casey Brattain, Lea Bushey, Naomi Delkamiller, Mia Dunker, Sadie Eggerling, Grace Ellis, Bridget Gerards, Clara Glock, Rylee Gregg, Cecilia Hall, Isabelle Hansen, Samantha Jaeke, Gracie Kerr, Kelly Kozol, Ellie Kripal, Omaima Lado, Nicole Loeffler, Lauren Luedtke, Avery Marquis, Katie Mashanic, Kayleigh Menard, Barraina McCroy, Murphy Mertz, Ellie Miller, Meredith Pelton, Alexis Perlman, Lizzie Pickering, Sylvia Poulos, Julia Quinn, Jojo Randby, Alexa Richter, Sarah Rittereling, Katie Rodis, Becca Roh, Tory Roubidoux, Riley Sabin, Arianna Saettele, Sarah Schmit, Ellie Sidoruk, Anna Ulferts, Sophia Virgillito, Grace Walsh, Katie West

University of Nebraska at Omaha: Kate Asselin, Sydnee Baysa, Wren Beyer, Emilie Dankert, Alexis Forst, Elana Glassman, Ty Gross-Gusman, Megan Hoppe, Maddie Randby, Lauren Mendlik, Lydia Rose, Sophia Shafer, Anna Steinbruck, Rylee Trojan, Lucy Watkins, Jaden White, Nellie White Wayne State College: Maddie Genoways, Courtney Thompson

Ohio

Eastern Gateway Community College: Emily Crowe Xavier University: Molly Monahan, Caelan Reinhart

Oregon

University of Oregon: Sarah Burbach, Emma Gunn

Pennsylvania

Eastern University: Anna Kidder Villanova University: Katie Hedrick

South Carolina

Clemson University: Eva Watson University of South Carolina: Maddie Mitchell

South Dakota

Northern State University: Kaydence Skiles University of South Dakota: Jadyn Anderson, Tatum Vilotta

Texas

UNiversity of North Texas: Abul Mathok

Washington

Seattle University: Quinn Findley University of Washington: Callaghan Cavanaugh

Washington D.C.

George Washington University: Mary Claire Daubendiek

Wisconsin

Marquette University: Lily Dugan, Liza Heim, Amanda Hingorani

Mexico

Tecnologico de Monterrey: Connie Regan

Scotland

University of Glasgow: Ashlee Czyz

Gap year

Jessica Hite Jayla KUhn

Undecided

Jackline Paul

Workforce

Kara Constantino

May 2021

Feature 11

Farewell, oria t Seniors c n i M

arian’s 2021 valedictorian Amal Imran will be attending the University of California, Berkeley in the fall.

She plans to study global analysis and international business management.

She joined the Marian community as a sophomore. “While it was a bit of a hard transition as a sophomore, Marian made it so easy for me to succeed and feel confident in what I was doing. After those few weeks, I found my place at Marian and now I’m torn between leaving the school and class I grew to love and jumping into the college experience Marian prepared me for,” Imran said.

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arian’s 2021 salutatorian Aby Acevedo will be attending the University of Notre Dame in Indiana in the fall. She plans to major in biology on the pre-med track. “It’s really amazing to know that my character is noticed and I can make other people happy. I want to always be cheering other people on. I hope to [maintain good grades] in the future, and I’m really appreciative of this year,” Acevedo said.

Story by JessicaBrusnahan

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Students plan to study internationally AnnaDailey & AnnaKidder

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arian produces students who are able to study at a wide variety of schools all across the country. However, some students push the limits even further and leave the United States for college.

From the graduating Class of 2021, three students are going international for college.

“I have always wanted to study abroad and travel to different countries, so I knew this experience would be perfect for me,” senior Ashlee Czyz said. “Once I discovered that out of state tuition for U.S. colleges was more expensive than some United Kingdom universities, I was set on the idea of going abroad for my degree.”

Czyz is currently planning to go to the University of Glasgow in Glasgow, Scotland in the fall and will be studying Psychology.

Due to parts of the UK being on

Anna Ambrose ‘21 - Creighton University’s Global Scholars Program

lockdown until March because of COVID-19, Czyz has not received admissions decisions from all the schools she has applied to. “I’m still waiting to hear back from every school I applied to before I make a final decision,” Czyz said.

Senior Anna Ambrose is participating in Creighton University’s Global Scholars Program, in which she will begin her first semester in either Bologna, Italy or Rome, Italy.

“It’s basically every other semester abroad starting with my first semester in Italy,” Ambrose said.

This program was what really drew Ambrose towards Creighton.

“I’ve only ever lived in Nebraska, and I want to see other parts of the world and have new experiences,” Ambrose said.

Ambrose will be in the pre-law track and will likely minor in international relations. “The fact that

my college experience is going to be very unique and different from anything I’ve ever experienced before really excites me,” Ambrose said.

Senior Connie Regan will be attending Tecnológico de Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico. She plans to study international relations and entrepreneurship.

“I’m going to Tec because I feel like it’s an once in a lifetime opportunity for me, and I think the experience is really going to get me out of my comfort zone,” Regan said.

Regan isn’t scared about going far away for school. “I’m actually really excited and want to use this as an opportunity to travel as much as I can,” Regan said. “I will definitely miss my family, but I have no doubt they’ll find times to visit often.”

Looking for schools abroad and narrowing down your options can

Ashlee Czyz ‘21 - University of Glasgow in Glasgow, Scotland

take a lot of research. “I looked for schools that had a good amount of international students and that weren’t too far from London since I have family and friends living there,” Czyz said. “I also looked into the psychology programs at each school and talked to students who currently attend the universities to see which one was the best fit for me.”

“I’m excited about being exposed to new cultures and having the opportunity to live in a different country. I’m also excited that UK universities do not require students to take general education classes, so my entire schedule will include classes relating to my major,” Czyz said.

Studying abroad has many advantages, so it’s no surprise these students are excited for this new adventure.

Connie Regan ‘21 - Tecnológico de Monterrey in Monterrey, Mexico

12 Sports

May 2021

Soccer heads to Morrison Stadium after district championship MollyMonahan

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he first game of district girls soccer kicked off on May 1. The Marian Varsity soccer team has had a record of 13-3 to complete this season and are hoping to take it all the way to the state finals this year. Varsity head coach Teressa DeGeorge said “taking state is the goal every year.” The soccer program has 14 state championships under their belts.

Maria McLeay ’23 kicks the ball past half-field against the Marian was scheduled as the Westside Warriors’ defense in the district finals. Photos by host seed in the A-6 district bracket. In their bracket was MollyMonahan.

Norfolk, Westside and Lincoln Southeast. The games were played on May 1-5.

The Crusaders began districts with a win 9-0 against Norfolk with goals by sophomores Natalie Bullock and Mallory Connealy, juniors Abby Lefler, Olivia Heinert, Emma Prososki, Hannah Tate and seniors Anna Kidder and Mia Suter.

They went on to compete Natalie Bullock ’23 (#1) heads the ball at Tranquility against Westside on May 5. In Park on May 6 in the district final against Westside. an exciting game, the Crusader soccer team won, 3-1. Junior Abby Lefler scored three minutes into the game, followed by another goal by senior Mia Suter and a penalty kick by Hannah Tate.

The Crusaders were crowned A-6 district champions. The first state game is scheduled for Wednesday, May 12 at 7 pm against fifth-ranked North Platte.

Senior team captain Mia Suter celebrates the district win with her teammates.

“Playing Marian Varsity soccer for the last four years has been one of the best experiences of my life. Being able to compete at state is such a special opportunity. I cannot even describe the feeling of seeing all of your friends and the Marian student body cheering you on. As a senior, I need to really take it all in because it will be my last time not only competing at state, but it will be the last time I compete for my school!”

State trapshooting: Two girls’ quest for a quarter CourtneyThompson & RyleeGregg

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n April 30 and May 1, the Marian/Duchesne Trap team competed at their state shoot in Doniphan, Neb. The girls competed in the single and handicap categories, shooting a total of 150 shotgun shells per participant in just two days. The Marian traditions began Thursday night with a team cookout to get the team hyped up and ready to go when the shooting begins Friday morning.

The team’s top squad, DASH 1, consisted of Madi Meduna, Annlynn Casey, Izzy Jansen, Kate Denman and Shae Vaughan. These ladies took first in Ladies Handicaps and third in Ladies Overall.

Two devoted shooters, Annlynn Casey and Malerie Birkel, both shot their first 25 straight, or a “quarter,” which involves hitting every target in a set of 25. They earned a special patch for their trap vest and some serious bragging rights. Keep in mind, what makes a quarter so difficult to obtain is that someone can hit 24 targets straight, miss the last target, and lose everything.

They’ll come away with a great score nonetheless, but none of the satisfaction that every shooter dreams of.

“I tried to stay as calm as I could, but by the end, my hands were shaking. Before the last shot I said a quick prayer, kissed the shell, and hoped for the best,” Birkel, a Marian junior, said.

After her squad, Marian Blue, walked off the line, Birkel was hugged and shaken by excited team members.

Taylor Wiig ’22 accepts her letter from Coach Jeffrey Genoways at the team banquet Friday night on April 30. Photos

by RyleeGregg.

Marian Blue huddles together to share some words of encouragement and prayer before they shoot.

Malerie Birkel ’22 mounts her shotgun during her first round of singles. Her squad, Marian Blue, consists of Birkel, Lexi Rowe ’22, Rylee Gregg ’21, Emily Kriener ’22, and Sydney Schroeder ’22.

The team as a whole came in fifth overall and fourth in handicaps, leaving with great memories and motivation to do even better next year.

Varsity tennis on the road to state tournament MaryCateTabor

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ith the Varsity tennis season coming to an end, there is still a lot ahead for Marian’s team. The team has been practicing for the state tournament that will take place on May 20-21.

“We have been preparing by showing up to practice and practicing and playing hard,” sophomore tennis player Cecilia Regan said.

The team has a fierce lineup of young players competing for the tournament.

There are no senior players this year and the lineup consists of sophomore Elsa Jurrens for No. 1 singles, sophomore Ellen Crotzer for No. 2 singles, junior Sydney Schroeder with sophomore Cecilia Regan for No. 1 doubles and freshman Ava Schroeder with sophomore

Lauren Mendlick for No. 2 doubles.

The team has a tight-knit bond on and off the court. Regan describes her team as “hilarious” saying she “really enjoys being around the girls.” She hopes that the team continues the fun environment after the season and into the summer.

Freshman Ava Schroeder says “this year’s team is dedicated” and this shows with their duals record with only one loss.

“With the help from our coach, Trish Faust, we hope to place in the top three as a team at state, ” sophomore Ellen Crotzer said. Hopes are high for these young Crusaders as they head to the state tournament at Koch Family Tennis Center.

The Varsity tennis team consists of (back row) team manager Paige Foley ’21, Ava Schroeder ’24, Elizabeth Harris ’22, Cecilia Regan ’23, Sydney Schroeder ’22, team manager Sofia Pantano ’23, (front row) Lauren Mendlick ’23, Elsa Jurrens ’23, India Zier ’22 and Ellen Crotzer ’23.

Signing season wraps up with final three athletes JessicaBrusnahan

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n April 14, three seniors signed National Letters of Intent to play collegiate sports.

Maddie Clark will be swimming at West Point Military Academy in New York. Clark has swam for Marian the last four years and will miss the “amazing atmosphere that an all-girls team offers, how tightknit [the] swim family is, and the countless traditions that the team has.” She is excited to compete against athletes across the country at

a higher level.

Lauren Harris is planning to compete in track and field at Princeton University in New Jersey.

She said Princeton “seemed like a no-brainer” because she gets to keep running while getting a top-tier education. Harris has been on Marian’s track and field team for four years and says she will miss the community and support of the program.

Ary Harrison will continue her basketball career at Johnson County

Community College in Overland Park, Kan. Harrison has played on the Varsity basketball team at Marian for four years and grew up playing for the Junior Crusaders program. She decided to continue with basketball because of her passion for the sport. “I want to take it to the next level,” she said.

Clark, Harris, and Harrison are the last of 15 athletes to sign to con- Maddie Clark, Lauren Harris and Ary Harrison each signed tinue their athletic careers beyond National Letters of Intent on April 14 to continue their respective Marian. sport careers in college. Photo courtesy of Mary Catherine Ruesch.

May 2021

Sports 13

Students share experiences of coaching young athletes SophiaVirgillito

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arian is full of student athletes.

Some even choose to share their knowledge of a sport with younger generations, as coaches. Students coach sports from micro soccer, club volleyball, grade school basketball, track and even swimming and diving lessons.

Sophomore Amanda Loschen, who also plays volleyball for Marian, coaches volleyball at Nebraska Elite Volleyball. She passes on her knowledge of volleyball to 6th-7th graders as well as 6-8 year olds.

“I have played volleyball since fourth grade and I currently play for Nebraska Elite on the 17s team and for Marian’s Varsity team. I got into coaching by being asked by my coach to coach one of the many younger teams Elite has,” Loschen said.

Club sports aren’t the only sports teams

being coached by Marian girls. Students may return to their grade school to coach.

Junior Brianna Dovali helps her dad coach her brothers’ basketball team at Holy Cross Catholic School.

“My dad has coached all of my siblings’ teams starting over 10 years ago, so he asked me to join him, which I was excited to start doing,” she said.

Dovali has played basketball growing up and currently plays for Marian.

Often those who coach know the sport or have grown up playing it.

Just like Dovali, sophomore Claire Troshynski passes her knowledge of swimming to young kids as a swim and dive coach at Field Club of Omaha. She currently dives for Marian after being on the Field Club of Omaha team since she was 9.

Brianna Dovali ’22 and her dad coach one of the Holy Cross boys basketball teams. Photo courtesy of Dovoli.

“You can teach kids how to be a better athlete, person, and learner by teaching them good sportsmanship and ways to better themselves,” Troshynski said.

Not all coaches currently practice their sport though. Junior Bella Beck also coaches swimmers at GOAL (Greater Omaha Aquatics Leopardsharks). She said she’s been swimming for her whole life until she was 13. Although not actively competing in the sport, she still enjoys teaching young swimmers what she knows and seeing them get better.

“My favorite part is seeing how much the kids pay attention, use our directions, and end up improving; it always makes me so happy when I see them perfect something I know they’ve been

“My favorite part is seeing how much the kids pay attention, use our directions, and end up improving; it always makes me so happy when I see them perfect something I know they’ve been working so hard to improve!” Bella Beck ’22 said.

working so hard to improve!” Beck said.

Loschen said she hopes she can “teach them [her athletes] strong work ethic and show them how much fun volleyball is!”

Coaching can be an opportunity for students and teens to get involved in real world activities. Whether this is paid or volunteer work, it can be a learning experience that benefits a whole community.

“I definitely would recommend this for other high schoolers to get involved in because it will provide you with experience you can take with you your whole life,” Dovali said.

Amanda Loschen ’23 (top left) coaches a younger team at Elite Volleyball. Photo courtesy of Loschen.

Positive mental health of athletes can’t be taken for granted Sports Column by SophieStevens

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any athletes start off as players who love going to practice, waking up for game days and setting goals for themselves. However, for some, the love of the sport seems to fade as they get older. Appearance starts to matter more and public opinion becomes personal.

Athletes may want to be better than the person next to them, and if they are not the best in the room, then why be there at all? The overwhelming pressure of trying to be number one can become so exhausting that athletes choose to quit. It’s the easiest way out, and even if the love for the sport is still there, the motivation isn’t.

The mental aspect of sports can affect athletes more than the physical parts. Knowing that they can do something is half the battle. If the mindset is there, it can lead an athlete to shoot the ball better, kick the ball better and swing at the ball better.

The mindset going in can either set a player up for success or lead them to destruction. Second guessing yourself as an athlete and not believing in your own abilities can set you up to do worse compared to believing in yourself and just going for it. Trust me, I would know because sports have either been my getaway, or my biggest stress-

or. I have found that knowing what I am capable of will take me to bigger and better things than having a little bit of doubt.

Being active, having a routine and being a part of a team are all things every person needs.

Having practice and stepping away from reality for a short while can go a long way to benefit your mindset.

Taking your mind off of the things that stress you out most and getting a break can make your overall mental state healthier.

According to the Graphic by MaddieGenoways NCAA, the top three things that many athletes suffer from are anxiety disorders, mood disorders and eating disorders. With that being said, some athletes are physically healthy, but mentally not.

Athletics have become more harmful than they are good. Athletes specialize in one sport and don’t explore other ones (in most cases). Growing up, an athlete usually sets goals and tries to accomplish them in the short time when they are “supposed to be at their best.” They have become more harmful than good because they can deteriorate one’s confidence, self-worth and overall view of sports.

We try to be the best in one category and if it does not work out then we have nowhere else to go. Many athletes go through the cycle of wanting to quit, while others are just burnt out. Many athletes head to retirement or try to find new hobbies other than sports. The sport can become too much, or an athlete has been doing it their whole life that at some point it has to come to an end.

Sports should be a fun and competitive thing to keep people active and healthy. Playing multiple sports and keeping active will only help with the others than the one a person feels “more focused on.” Sports can be an escape from reality if that means watching, playing or coaching.

Track and Field team begins their race for state recognition MaryCateTabor

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n the next couple of weeks, the track and field season will come to an end for the year, but there is still a lot to look forward to.

The Marian Varsity track and field team competed in the district tournament on May 12. Those athletes who qualified in the district meet will be heading to the state meet. Marian athletes are now gearing up for the state tournament that will take place on May 19-20 at Omaha Burke Stadium.

There were 44 girls on the team, with seven freshmen, 14 sophomores, 14 juniors, and nine seniors, all coached by Head Coach Greg Golka, who has been Marian’s Varsity coach for 20 years. Golka primarily coaches long jump, triple jump, and pole vault. Alongside Golka is distance coach Mr. Roger Wright, hurdles and high jump coach Mr. Scot Rainbolt, sprints coach Ms. Hannah Hennings, and shot put and discus coach Mrs. Stacia Weaver.

The team has been working together all season to get to the state meet and have formed an important bond along the way. “We all have a really special bond and it’s nice to be on a team that not only supports each other but pushes one another to do our very best,” junior Audrey Van Dyke said.

“Our seniors have been terrific leaders. In a time (at the end of their senior year) when senioritis usually sets in, they have not slacked off—they continue to push forward,” Golka said.

The team has been working every day to prepare for the upcoming state tournament. Golka said, “I just want our athletes to do their best—that’s all I can ask. If we do that, we’ll be among the top 10 teams in Class A.”

Marian’s Varsity team begin their meets with a warm-up lap around the track on March 20.

Photo by Cece West.

Track & Field Front Row: Ryan Sully22, Audrey VanDyke22, Jaden White21, Sarah Ritterling21, Megan Hoppe21, Jacquie Paul21, Eva Watson21, Nellie White21, Lauren Harris21, Katie Liske21, Mary Claire Daubendiek21, Coach Stacie Weaver. Row 2: Maddy Kmiecik22, Brianna Dovali22, Erin Connelly22, Gabby Roche24, Eva Kriener24, Emily Kriener22, Audrey Ehlers23, Tyler Raiker23, Ava Velinsky 23,Brejea Glass22, Justyce Cribbs22, Shantise Pearson22, Coach Hannah Hennings. Row 3: Lauren Cannella22, Kate Timmerman22, Eizabeth Monzu22, Claire Hern22, Ella DeSmet23, Ella Plank23, Molly VonSeggern23, Claire Troshynski23, Audrey Arthur23, Caitie Slattery24, Joslyn McKee24, Coach Greg Golka. Back Row: Stella Miner24, Bridget McGill24, Maggie Stessman23, Tamyiah Nielsen23, Olivia Strako23, Anna Dyke23, Wosuk Ando23, Gozie Okafor23, Martha Hinneh24, Sanaa Slaughter22, Coach Roger Wright and Coach Scot Rainbolt.

May 2021

14 Entertainment

El Basha lives up to homemade meals

Review By AnnaDailey

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l Basha, a term given to those with a certain degree of wisdom and eliteness during the Turkish and Ottoman empires, is a Mediterranean Lebanese restaurant on 75th and Pacific. Growing up in a Lebanese family, I’m accustomed to homemade Lebanese food made from recipes by my great and great-great grandparents. So, when I read that El Basha claims to have the “best Mediterranean cuisine in Omaha,” I wanted to see if it could live up to my homemade favorites.

I have been to El Basha in the past, and I remembered enjoying it the first time, but I thought I would give it a second try since my palette is now more mature.

If you are not familiar with Lebanese food, I would do a little bit of research so you can better understand the menu before trying it. The names of the food may be a little intimidating if it is your first time. I ordered baba ghanouj, taboule, grape leaves, and the beef arayis.

Baba ghanouj is “Flame smoked eggplant puréed with sesame sauce, garlic and lemon juice,” according to the El Basha menu. It was priced at $6.99 and worth every penny because it was my favorite part of the meal. I always used to like hummus more than baba ghanouj because I could never find a good baba ghaPita bread, taboule, baba nouj, but this exghanouj & grape leaves perience changed my mind. It tasted so fresh and light, especially with the lemon juice. It was the perfect consistency of a creamy dip but it had small chunks of eggplant to bring in extra flavor. If I hadn’t ordered the other food, I would have eaten a meal’s worth of the baba ghanouj. In fact, I’m eating my leftover baba ghanouj as I’m writing this.

Next, I tried the taboule. Taboule is “a zesty salad made with finely chopped parsley, spring onions and tomatoes mixed with cracked wheat, olive oil and fresh squeezed lemon.” Priced at $7.25, it was also very good, but it wasn’t the best taboule I have tried. Everything tasted very fresh and flavorful, and I really like that they cut the

Review By RyleeGregg he devoted fans of the Marvel ly. Wanda was already a developed Cinematic Universe have been character as far as Marvel movies go, eagerly awaiting the start of Phase but this series makes her relatable and Four’s production. Release was slated only strengthens fans’ attachment to to start with the Disney+ series Wanher as a character. daVision in January, and the series has Ironically, my favorite and least left fans both reeling and favorite parts of the series desperate for more. are one and the same. I can’t The series begins as a express enough how amazblack and white sitcom ing it is to see a realistic from the 1950’s following interpretation of Wanda’s Wanda Maximoff (played struggles with mental health

by Elizabeth Olsen) and her and grief after Vision’s death. husband, Vision (played by However, as it is in real life, Paul Bettany.) They navigate I hated seeing one of my fathe challenges of suburban vorite characters facing such life with their unconvenImage source IMDB. difficult and heart-wrenchtional abilities, and people com “Wandavision” ing challenges. This was in the town realize that all only exacerbated by the fact (2021). is not what it seems. As the that this time, the cause of series goes on, Vision realizes someher troubles wasn’t any work of fiction; thing is wrong in this picture perfect it was something I could directly relate reality and Wanda has to come to to. It’s frustrating to us as outsiders terms with her grief and grow into her because we can see all the mistakes powerful, magical abilities. It starts as she’s making, but I wouldn’t consider a quirky albeit confusing sitcom and this a fault of the series; it’s a strength. grows into a thrilling drama. Marvel The idea of mental health is a fans have never seen any other type theme we’re starting to see in this new of movie genre in their franchise, so phase of Marvel’s projects. It’s refreshthis juxtaposition of a happy suburban ing to see it portrayed in such a raw, family and the tragedy that fans know realistic and unapologetic way despite from previous movies only deepens the fictional premise of the Marvel the viewers’ interest.

Cinematic Universe. WandaVision WandaVision is directed by Matt shows that even superheroes make Shakman, who has also worked on mistakes when faced with dark times. several other hit series like It’s Always To anyone who likes T.V., I think Sunny in Philadelphia and Game of this could be the show for you. If Thrones. The series gives viewers time you don’t like Marvel because ‘it’s all with their favorite characters to see fighting and action scenes, this show is beyond their superhero exterior. Olsen truly so much more, and it has someis obviously the star of the show and thing for everyone. portrays Wanda’s grief emotional-

open Monday through Saturday

Quiz by GraceVirgillito

Match the shoe to the senior, then keep a look out during the shoe parade of Senior Mass, Senior Honors Day & Graduation to see if you were right!

Summer Playlist!

Summer

Bucketlist

Explore the Old Market

11 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.

7503 Pacific Street, Omaha, NE 68114 In store dining, take out orders, outdoor seating, and catering.

Whose shoe is whose?

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Go on a (safe) vacation Try new restaurants Plant a garden Seniors: start getting stuff for college

Tory Roubidoux

Sylvia Poulos

Rachel Achola

Go on a road trip with friends

Graphic by MaddieGenoways

El Basha:

tomatoes small because that helps bring out extra flavor without being overpowering.

However, it was a little too citrusy and I thought it needed more wheat. Again, it was very good, but next time I would order it with extra wheat.

I tried the $7.50 grape leaves next.

Grape leaves are “stuffed with rice, onions, parsley, tomato, mint, and special spices, cooked in tomato paste, olive oil, Beef ariyas and lemon juice.”

I really enjoyed these. I had never had them with tomato paste before, so it was nice to try a different version of a meal that I’ve always had a certain way. The rice inside was spiced really well and it was a good contrasting flavor from the briny grape leaves. They are listed as a starter, but they came with enough for a whole meal.

The last thing I ordered was the $6.99 beef ariyas. El Basha describes it as “baked pita bread stuffed with a mixture of ground beef, chopped onions, herbs, and special spices.” The pita bread was served deliciously warm and light, and was not too thick like it can be at other restaurants. The ground beef inside was good, but I thought the spices were a touch overpowering.

The total came to about $30 to try each of these dishes that I shared with my mom.

I would rate this experience a 9/10. I really enjoyed the food and will definitely be returning again. The price wasn’t bad considering the amount of food I ordered. There were just a few things I would have changed in the taboule and beef ariyas.

My initial concerns going in was whether or not El Basha would live up to the homemade Lebanese dishes I’m used to, and it did. There is not much Lebanese food or culture in Omaha, and trying El Basha is a great way to better underBaba ghanouj stand other cultures and try new things. Photos by AnnaDailey

‘Wandavision’ goes beyond black and white, delves into mental health

May 2021

Entertainment 15

‘The Falcon and the Winter Soldier’ is more than just action sequences FrannieCihunka

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hile Marvel’s heroes are deeper than most, there’s only so much of an arc to give a character in a two-hour movie. On March 19, the first episode of “The Falcon and the Winter Soldier” premiered on Disney+, giving life to some formerly static characters. The show is six episodes long, each episode running for about 45 minutes. The show is directed

by Kari Skogland who has previously directed some episodes on other hit series including “The Walking Dead” and “Vikings,” and she has directed movies such as “Men With Guns” and “Fifty Dead Men Walking.”

The series follows Sam Wilson, the Falcon (played by Anthony Mackie) and Bucky Barnes, the Winter Soldier, (played by Sebastian Stan) as they navigate life in the aftermath of Thanos and the destruction from Marvel’s last blockbuster “Endgame.”

When we last saw Sam Wilson, he was given Captain America’s shield by Steve Rogers himself and was therefore given the title of Captain America.

Bucky Barnes is free from his previous mind control by the evil organization H.Y.D.R.A, but is struggling with his guilt and finding who he is again.

The world is in a time of crisis as it adjusts to the return of the half of the world Thanos erased. The duo is facing a terrorist group called the Flag Smashers

who are using super soldiers and illegal that the show addressed institutionalized methods to return the world to the way racism and not ignore it. Mackie gives a it was during the time dubbed “The compelling performance of Sam’s struggle Blip,” when half the universe’s population with race, America’s history and current disappeared. climate of the country. Bucky Barnes, In addition to this threat is John on the other hand, is struggling with Walker, the man the guilt of his past chosen by the govand the uncertainty ernment as the new of his future. Stan Captain America gives an emotional whose actions are performance of this not quite in line man trying to get his with his position. life back on track, and The show has action facing the problems and fist fights and all of America. the normal Marvel The series also movie tropes, but introduces some new it also adds a lot of faces and brilliant depth to some major performances. The characters and exmain antagonist is plores more complex Karli Morgenthau, themes like race and the leader of the Flag mental health.

Smashers played The show has

by Erin Kellyman. some standout perKellyman is a new formances from both actor with only three Image source IMDB.com “The Falleads. Both Mackie major movies to her con and the Winter Soldier” (2021). and Stan do a wonname, including “Solo: derful job of creating A Star Wars Story.” dimension in these characters and showKellyman portrays Morgenthau well ing their vulnerabilities. Sam Wilson as a young radical trying to spur change must face America’s systemically racist and sometimes making rash decisions. past, and how that plays into his position The new Captain America, John Walker, as Captain America. It was important is played by Wyatt Russell and his part-

Stock up for the summer, support student businesses

ner “Battlestar,” Lemar Hoskins, is played

by Clé Bennett. Russell does a great job at being unlikeable and creating a very blatant moral foil to Steve Rogers.

While the show starts out slow, the action picks up quickly and the major character development is a gift to any Marvel nerd. The most important piece is how it finally starts the conversation of race in the Marvel franchise. It was important to recognize that a black man couldn’t be Captain America without struggle and the show did a good job of demonstrating that conflict.

My favorite aspect of this show is Sam’s character development. Sam finally moves past his role as the “black best friend” and becomes the star of the show.

When Steve Rogers first passes on the role of Captain America to Sam, it seems more like the passing of a dynasty, just passed on to his best friend. However, Sam is just a good guy. He negotiates with Morgenthau instead of immediately fighting her, and he always looks for another solution. He empathizes with the “enemy” and he fights for change. Sam has become one of my favorite characters because of his arc in this series.

This show has representation, action and good characters. Whether you haven’t seen a single Marvel movie, or are a hardcore Marvel nerd, the show has something for everyone.

Summer Job Opportunities

MaddieGenoways

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enior Cyd Putnam makes each of her modern-style earrings by hand. Since she opened her business in October of 2019, Cyd’s jewelry has been popular among Marian stu- Earrings from 402pairs. Photo dents. You might have seen classmates wearing her cow print courtesy of CydPutnam rings or chunky arch earrings in the halls. Cyd’s jewelry is available on her website, 402pairs.com, or in person at Scout: Dry Goods & Trade, a vintage store in Dundee. Recently Cyd has been expanding her business and selling her jewlery at in-person markets and pop-ups.

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o party is complete without decorations, and Junior Maddy Kmiecik specializes in the floral tabletop variety at her online store, Centerpeaces. Kmiecik got her start crafting homemade arrangements for family events, which Centerpieces from Centerpeaces. slowly grew until 2019, when she opened her store and Photo courtesy of MaddyKmiecik began business on a wider scale. Centerpieces are available for weddings, holidays and everything in between at centerpeacesomaha.com. Get a preview of Kmiecik’s work at Centerpeaces’ Instagram page, @centerpeaces.

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f you’re looking for jewelry and rings are more your thing, stop by freshman Emma Koch’s online store, Emma Fae Designs. Koch’s gemstone and metal rings are handmade and affordable, pricing around $6 for an average sized ring.

She started selling her rings in December of 2019 on her Instagram page, @emmafaedesigns, and she has been growing her stock ever since. Keep an eye out for Emma’s new designs!

A ring from Emma Fae Designs. Photo courtesy of EmmaKoch

Starbucks Coffee

The Henry Doorly Zoo

The Zoo is looking to hire summer gift store workers and concession cashiers. Must be 16 years or older and able to work multiple shifts a week. To set up an interview call 402-733-8401.

Starbucks is hiring baristas at multiple Omaha stores.

Applications can be found on the Starbucks website.

The pay starts at $10/hour.

Now Hiring!

Tide Cleaners

Hiring at 147th and Maple. Looking for hardworking individuals who can work 10 hours a week. The pay is $10/hour. Call 402960-9726 to set up an interview.

Hiring at all Omaha locations. Looking for cashiers older than 16.

The pay is $1012/hour with additional signing and long standing employment bonuses.

Infographic by NaomiDelkamiller

Give your wardrobe a personal touch with these thrifting tips Graphic by GraceVirgillito

GraceVirgillito

1. Find colorful items that speak to you.

2. Try them on if you can or stand in front of a mirror and hold it up.

3. Visualize the clothes you already have in your closet and how you could style this new addition.

4. Plan on how to style them in your head.

5. Don’t be afraid to find unique or out-of-the-box items.

6. Research before by going through fashion magazines, blogs, pinterest, etc.

7. Look at what sale the store has for that day and try to plan accordingly.

8. Look for the potential of upcycling an item or making it into something else.

9. You can use labels and find more information on vintage items to potentially sell.

10. Ask when the thrift store usually restocks and choose certain days to shop.

11. You can shop online too, with stores like depop, poshmark or thredUP. 12. Shop off season for clothes.

13. Don’t be afraid to shop in the men/boys or kids sections.

16 Photo Essay

c t a o l S n i E ve s C o n t i n u e ...

May 2021

Photos by Maddie Mitchell, Cece West, Maddie Auman & Complete Music Photobooth.

Iris Cunningham ’21 & Connie Regan ’21.

Friday, April 16 the senior class pulled their senior prank. They threw Principal Susie Sullivan a “21st birthday party,” decorated the building with streamers, wore birthday hats and blocked off all parking lots, besides lower lot, forcing underclassmen to walk the hill.

Seniors decorate the Quad

Seniors at prom

Juniors Brianna Dovali, Kate Timmerman, Erin Connelly, Annie Masek, Audrey VanDyke & Katie Sulentic

Seniors Anna Voelker, Elaina Carleton, Alexa Richter, Cece West, Ellie Sidoruk, Sophi Steffes, Katie Corpuz & MaryClaire Daubendiek

Lexxi Olsen ’21 and her date Juniors Lauren Kortright, Ashley Johanek, Mckenzie Anderson, Isabella Summers, Grace Woodard & Payton Johnson

Cleo Wear ’21 and her date Audrey Daubendiek ’22 & Jaley McKee ’22

Prom was held Saturday, April 17, at the Durham Museum.

Juniors and Seniors attended with their classes at separate parts of the night. Tickets were $25 in advance and $50 a couple at the door.