MHS 2016 November/December Network by Marian Student Publications

The Network

Marian High School - 7400 Military Avenue Omaha, NE 68134 - www.marianhighschool.net - Volume 61 Issue 4 - November & December 2016

Young Politicians Club holds mock election

erinwalter

n the days leading up to the 2016 Presidential Election, Marian’s Young Politicians Club conducted a mock election in which Marian students were able to cast their votes for who they would like to be elected to office of the President and Senate. Students also voted on whether they wanted to retain or repeal Nebraska’s existing ban on the death penalty, as this issue was also on the official ballot in the state of Nebraska. The results of the mock election were announced to students during homeroom on Tuesday, Nov. 8. “I think that it’s important to have a school wide election to give those who are too young to vote a chance to go through the process of deciding their opinions on the issues,” Young Politicians Club Vice President senior Rachel Walet said. “Although administration asked us not to print the results of a few of the questions [“due to the contentious nature of this election”], the mock election was still a great opportunity for students to be active in politics,” Walet said.

What was your main source of news for this election?

News outlets (CNN, Fox, ABC, NBC) 61% Twitter 19% Parents 12% Candidates’ websites 2% Other 5.9% Do you believe major news outlets accurately portray the candidates? Yes 13% No 46% Maybe 41% graphic by erinwalter

Are you content with the current state of political affairs in America?

Yes 8% No 65% No opinion 27% What do you think the most important issue in this election was? International affairs/ terrorism (ISIS) 18% Healthcare (Affordable Care Act, healthcare costs) 6% Women’s rights (abortion, maternity leave) 21% Immigration (building a wall, gaining citizenship) 28% Economy (taxes, jobs, trade) 19.4% Other 7% source: 462 students surveyed by Young Politicians Club

Leadership workshops focus on organization, communication, strengths, values All-State Music C Pg. 6 alliemorrissey

ommunication and organization are essential qualities leaders must utilize. Marian’s Freshman Leadership Workshops are working to instill these critical skills in the freshmen. For the last seven years, leadership workshops have evolved from one workshop for all grades to an individualized workshop for the freshmen and another for sophomores, juniors and seniors. English teachers Ms. Susie Sisson and Ms. Megan Piernicky are leadership enthusiasts and come together to plan both freshmen and upperclassmen workshops. “Ms. Sisson and I sit down at the end of every year and ask, ‘What do we like, what do we not like, and what do we need to make adjustments to?’ We really geek out together,” Piernicky said. The two work side-by-side to plan fun activities for students to complete, which are individualized to their specific age group’s needs. One activity the freshmen have fun with is planning out a Marian girl’s crazy schedule and figuring out different ways to manage her time. Some girls found it to be nearly impossible to cram all the required activities into her schedule and had to teach this Marian girl how to say no to some activities. “I really liked planning out the schedule for the girl who had a ton of stuff going on,” freshman Chrissy

leadership workshops as freshman and has utilized her leadership skills while at Marian. Courtney O’Brien, Lauren Kirke and Meredith Zielie were the three senior leaders, and they all agreed that organization and communication are two valuable skills each leader needs. “I think helping little freshmen figure out that you need Becoming leaders Chrissy Gulseth ’20 and Olivia good leadership skills is super Sullivan ’20 work together at the Nov. 16 Freshman important and fun,” O’Brien Leadership Workshop while attempting to plan out the said. “I want each freshman to schedule of a busy Marian girl. The girls smile in disbelief as they are given more activities to add to student’s really learn and understand the importance of staying orcalendar. “This girl has too much going on!” Gulseth ganized. If you don’t have evsaid. alliemorrissey erything in one spot or on one Gulseth said. schedule, it’s really hard to “I liked that, too, because it was restay committed to all of your responally realistic, except I don’t have a job sibilities,” Kirke said. Sophomores, juat Burger World like she did,” freshniors and seniors have the opportunity man Olivia Sullivan added. to participate in leadership workshops Just when the freshmen thought second semester. The first session will they had it all planned out, each group be held on Jan. 11 and will focus on was given another list of commitments leaders “knowing your strengths and they needed to pencil into a hectic weaknesses.” Feb. 8 is the final leaderschedule. ship workshop in the spring semester “I learned I can’t overcommit to and will focus on “understanding your activities, and I’m actually going to get values.” Both sessions will be after a planner and start writing everything school in the cafeteria, and cost is free. down,” Sullivan said. More information will be coming out Each small group was lead by a via email. Online registration opened senior who had participated in the on Dec. 5.

Mental Health Pgs. 8-9

Bilingual Students Pg. 11

Open House Pg. 16

(2) News

The Network (November & December 2016)

Goodwill Hunting

Bargain shoppers question local policies after OWH investigation laurenmayer & carmenmiller

Meet your new freshman Class Officers and Student Board members graphics by victoriaackermann

Class of 2020 Officers:

ot all students have $50 to “I don’t feel like I’m giving monspend on a single shirt. A typ- ey to the executives when I shop ical student has to pay for gas, car there. Goodwill employs people insurance, who need jobs. Marian But, I don’t spirit think it is shirts right for the and executives perhaps to lie to their even employees or part of the commuher own nity. It’s not tuition. fair to anyone A new involved,” trend Gornall said. lately has Others shifted to completely Goodwill agree. “It’s Poppin’ tags Female clothing racks from the hauls: not fair for where a them to conGoodwill located on 72nd and Ames. The store is group of sume the profit open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. carmenmiller friends and not treat raid Goodwill for good deals. As their employees fairly,” freshthey say, one girl’s trash is anothman X’Zajanai Stewart said. She er girl’s treasure. Girls can get a has also done some shopping at vintage sweatshirt and the money Goodwill, but she said these recent goes toward helping families in events will probably not affect her need. It’s a win-win for everyone. Goodwill shopping habits. In reality, it’s a bit more comAfter the news last month, plicated. Before October, the junior Andie Mikuls admitted that amount of money Omaha’s Goodher mom told her not to shop at will received seemed to be more Goodwill anymore. “My grandma beneficial to the executives of the works in a thrift store in Friend, organization than to the employees Nebraska, and all the profit goes to and their families and community their hospital. My grandma says programs, which are the basis of we should shop there because it is its nonprofit mission. a great cause,” Mikuls said. In an investigative series of As frequent shoppers, Marian the Omaha World Herald, which girls prefer to know where their began publication on Oct. 23, money is going and what good Goodwill executives were forced causes they are supporting. This to answer some tough questions Omaha Goodwill investigation about their policies and executive by the Omaha World Herald has compensation. Five days after the affected Marian students and how series started, the CEO resigned they see Goodwill and the society and Board members were forced in general. to make statements and promise While most girls go to Goodchange. (For full details, visit will for the “good deal”, morals http://dataomaha.com/media/ outweigh money. “I think the fact news/2016/goodwill/) of today is that most people care At the Goodwill store directly more about money than they do across 72nd Street from Marian, about other people and making the employee Valencie said they were world a better place, and I think notified immediately of the situawe should try and change that, ” tion. sophomore Zoe Zier said. “Our managers explained the situation to us, so we heard it from them before we heard it on the news,” she said. “We haven’t seen a drop in shoppers or in donations, most people understand that is an issue with corporate Goodwill, not necessarily the stores.” Thrift World In the latest Network Google 2670 North 90th Street survey of the student body, 80 Omaha, NE 68134 percent of students said they have donated to Goodwill in the Thrift America Omaha last year and nearly 55 percent of 1901 N 73rd Street the student body has purchased something from Goodwill in the Omaha, NE 68114 last year. Sophomore Kayla Gornall Hand Me-Ups shopped at Goodwill last month 2820 North 90th Street and bought a T-shirt. “I don’t go Omaha, NE 68134 on shopping sprees or anything,” Gornall said, “but I think they have really good deals.”

Other thrift stores in the Omaha area

Achay Kual

Natalie Brennan

Her favorite movie is “Finding a Family.” As a CO, she’s most excited about being able to get people pumped for school.

Her favorite Christmas treat is chocolatecovered pretzels. She can’t wait to help plan class Mass as a CO.

Bella Syslo

Zoey Armstead

Her favorite coffee drink is an iced mocha. Bella is excited to work on the class shirt and Field Day.

Her favorite Disney show is “That’s So Raven.” As a CO, she’s most excited about planning Field Day.

Cassie Wolf

Bella Pantano

She would be a monkey because she’s “quirky”. Cassie’s excited to plan class Mass.

Her favorite Harry Potter book is “Deathly Hallows.” Bella is happy for the opportunity to be a leader.

Student Board members: Her favorite “High School Musical” song is “Gotta Go My Own Way.” Lucy is super excited to go to Monday meetings after school.

Lucy O’Brien

Emmy Kmiecik

Her favorite winter activity is ice skating. She’s most excited about becoming a StuBo member and organizing events and helping to make the school better.

Grace Crockett

Her favorite Christmas song is “Mary Did You Know” by Pentatonix. Grace is excited to be a part of a group that involves all four classes at Marian.

Finals Schedule Friday, Dec. 16

8:00 World Language 9:10 Science 10:20 AP Chemistry, Anatomy, Second World Language

Monday, 8:00 Social Studies 9:10 English Dec. 19 10:20 AP Biology, Second Language 8:00 Theology

Tuesday, 9:10 Math Dec. 20 10:20 International Studies, Second Math graphic by kateschwaller

The Network (November & December 2016)

News (3)

Students give thanks, acknowledgment to donors at annual Scholarship Breakfast briannawessling

Marian education is something all students have to be thankful for, however there are some students who have more than just their parents to thank for it. On the morning of Nov. 9, students and donors headed to Marian’s Performing Arts Center for the annual Scholarship Breakfast. The breakfast provided many girls with the opportunity to meet with the people who made it possible for them to attend Marian. The 81 girls and 33 donors in attendance were treated to a buffet-style breakfast with seniors Sarah Villarreal and Natalie Sterba playing violins softly in the background. Many girls looked forward to the opportunity to meet with their donors. “I really enjoy getting to know the scholarship donors and being able to thank them for all that they do,” senior Emily Kleinschmit said.

“I enjoyed meeting my donors The opportunity to attend and learning about why they Marian is definitely something the decided to set up the scholarships,” girls don’t take for granted. junior Vicky Bongomin said. “Marian has really given me a Many of the girls who attended voice. I am a more outgoing and the breakfast admit that they confident young woman because wouldn’t be able to attend Marian of the lessons and qualities that if it weren’t for the generosity of Marian values so much. I think the donors. that I am most thankful for the “I would like to empowerment that tell my donor that Marian provides I enjoyed me and my parents for young women. meeting my are so thankful for Without Marian, them and that I I wouldn’t have donors and will work hard now the courage to go learning about that I am a Marian after my dreams,” girl!” freshman Jolie said. why they decided Kleinschmit Falcon said. Students aren’t “Without your the only ones who to set up the generosity, I look forward to the scholarships.” wouldn’t have met breakfast. Donors Vicky Bongomin my sisters and also enjoy the ’18 continued to push opportunity to meet myself to work really hard, so with the girls they donate to. thank you,” Bongomin said to her Sr. Peggy Miller ’65 is a donors. representative of the donors that

“

Scholarly smiles Emmanuela Ahianti ’18 and Courtenay Bolam, sister to the late Shana Morris ’91, bond over breakfast and laughter on Nov. 9. The donors and the recipients of scholarships talked about what Marian means to them. briannawessling

source: Marian Advancement office

make Marian a possibility for many girls. “It was my parents who named Marian in their will. They greatly valued education, especially Catholic education. Since I am a graduate of Marian, they know the kind of education Marian offered then and trusted it continued through the years and wanted it to be available to more young women,” Sr. Peggy said. Sr. Peggy said that she enjoys meeting with the girls who receive the scholarship her parents provided. “There have been students from every grade. They are all so different but excited about their Marian education and their future. It makes me even more grateful my parents established the scholarship.” As the breakfast came to a close, many girls thanked their donors one last time, making sure that they know how much of an impact they have made on their lives.

graphic by briannawessling

#ripVine: The life and death of the hit app victoriaackermann

“D

o it for the vine.” It’s a simple statement that would confuse those who believe that a vine is nothing more than a thin plant, but the statement carries a heavier meaning to those that are aware of the app, Vine, which allows creators to share sixsecond videos. More often than not, describing these six-second clips takes much longer than six seconds. Nonetheless, it is a craze that created many jokes and videos of cats falling off of things. “It’s fun to go on every once in awhile and it’s got some good music on it,” freshman Chloe Degan said. Vine was created in June 2012 by Dom Hofmann, Rus Yusopov and Colin Kroll. In October of 2012, the app was sold to Twitter for an estimated $30 million. The app debuted to the iOS App Store in January 2013. By March of

2013, Vine had become the most popular video-sharing app and rose to the best-selling free app in the iOS App Store the following April. The app consisted of comedy sketches about nerds writing math equations on cars to videos of a dog trying to eat a chicken nugget. There was littleto-no limit as to what could become popular on Vine. As with any social media platform, some stars emerged. Vine stars, such as Nick Colletti and Omaha natives Jack & Jack, used the app to gain an audience and have since used their

popularity to release music. Shawn Mendes is currently a Billboard Top 100 Artist who started his career off of the app. Other Vine stars, such as Cody Ko and Lele Pons, have managed to gain themselves a strong following on Twitter and Instagram. Not only has Vine created international celebrities, but the app has also popularized certain phrases. Such phrases include clucking one’s tongue and saying “or nah” and describing things as “on fleek,” more specifically when describing one’s eyebrows. It is said that all good things must come to an end, and Vine is no different. On Oct. 27, Vine’s

official Twitter account released a statement announcing the end of the application. “Today, we are sharing the news that in the coming months we’ll be discontinuing the mobile app,” the statement read. The statement did not mention specific details as to why the application is shutting down, but it is believed that it is due to lack of user engagement and the loss of once-popular Vine creators. As of now, the Vine company does not plan on deleting any Vines or the app itself. For now, all viewers can do is continue to watch their favorite Vines and hope the app isn’t deleted. Whether it be of a teen flipping a water bottle or of a lizard resting on the head of a toddler with a nervous expression on his face, Vine’s legacy will live on. Check out mariandigitalnetwork.com to see The Network staff’s favorite Vines!

(4) Opinion

The Network (November & December 2016)

A pocketful of sunshine?

adies, do me a favor. Next time you’re out on the town and find yourself wearing a nice pair of jeans, try to fit your hand in your pocket. Yeah. Odds are, you won’t make it past your middle knuckle before you have to uncomfortably scrunch your hands up and leave your thumbs hanging over the front like an old cowboy from the Wild West. What could you possibly fit in there? Not a whole lot, maybe a speck of dust or a crumb on a good day. Dear reader, let me take you back to a time when everything made sense. Sophomore year. State volleyball. I was presented with, no, blessed with, the opportunity to wear my friend’s younger brother’s cargos for the frat theme. What started out as simply showing my school spirit quickly turned into an unparalleled epiphany. How could I fit my wallet, my phone, my keys, my water bottle, a ruler and my lunch in my pockets? All while still having plenty of room left over? And why are these cargos more comfortable than my pajamas? Naturally, instead of watching the volleyball game, and even afterwards while I was at my house, I tried to fit various things in my pockets. I had a pocket for every need and every mood. A hair brush? No problem. A 32 oz. water bottle? Piece of cake. Three hamburgers from Freddy’s and two sides of fries? That was the reason my friends and I didn’t end up having to buy $6 sodas and $12 burgers from the Bob Devaney Center in Lincoln. At one point I was even able to fit an iPad keyboard in one of the side pockets.

Not in women’s jeans, Natasha Bedingfield

So why can I fit the entire solar night, I’m doomed to walk around guest column by Junior Audrey Hertel If you have a Twitter, Instagram system in men’s pockets, but in paralyzing fear, worrying about or Facebook, you have probably seen getting a single dime into my own whether I still have all of my behashtags such as #NoDAPL and #Wajean pockets is such a struggle? longings. terisLife, but did you take the time I’m looking for more than just a So how has this pocket injustice to read about what was happening in “sometimes it be like that” answer gone unnoticed for so long? One of North Dakota? The Dakota Access Pipeline was a here. the most consistent answers I keep proposed 1,200 mile-long pipeline that If anything, women deserve hearing as to why women have would have stretched from North Dakomore spacious pockets. I’m sick smaller pockets is because large, ta to Illinois carrying 470,000 barrels of and tired of losing my keys evspacious pockets have a tendency crude oil. This pipeline was supposed to erywhere I to not look as ‘cute’ bring around 8,000 to 12,000 new jobs. go because and ‘stylish’ as most More jobs are great for a stable economy, but the creation of these would have I can’t fit clothing companies stemmed from a violation of sacred them in my would prefer. lands and human rights. pocket. I Cute? Really? I’m On Sunday, Dec. 4, the U.S. Corps shouldn’t pretty sure if my of Engineers, part of the Department of have to carry phone falls out of the Army, decided to seek an alternative a purse to my pocket because route instead. Although seen by some as keep track of my pocket isn’t deep a major victory for indigenous peoples and sovereignty, others believe it is just my phone, enough, the meltmy keys and down I’ll have when I another political ploy with only temporary relief. Whichever side you think my strawlook at my shattered you’re on, you should at least consider berry sugar screen is going to be the side of the Native Americans. wafers. a little less than cute. If your family members’ burial site A popular Some people say was to be plowed through for a company’s project, or if your water was (yet entirethat you might have column by anahingorani undrinkable, wouldn’t you want to speak ly unreato sacrifice comfort up? sonable) opinion I keep hearing and practicality for the sake of That’s exactly why the Sioux, other among dudes is that men can’t fashion. But who says long pockets Native and non-Native people were carry purses. They argue that boys can’t be stylish? I guarantee you, standing up in North Dakota. have no other way to carry their if flare jeans were once a trend, Native American culture is rooted in connection to their ancestors, and they things around other than in their practical, functioning pockets can hold the land of their ancestors to be pockets. To this, I have one combecome one. sacred. With the Dakota Access Pipeline, ment. A message to women’s cloththis sacred land was at risk of being deIt’s 2016. Men can carry handing lines: don’t make me resort to stroyed in a form of genocide. Genocide bags. And satchels. And murses. vests. Or suit jackets. I’ve seen the is killing a mass group of people. But it’s Another slice of grade-A, paspocket action going on there, and not only just the physical killing, it is the ture-raised, grass-fed, ground beef I’m jealous. killing of culture. The genocide and oppression of I have with women’s jeans is the I’m sure the masterminds beissue of fake pockets. More than hind cargos wouldn’t mind sharing Native Americans has been occurring for more than 500 years, and it still cononce, I’ve been swindled into buywith us how they accomplished to tinues today, but building this pipeline ing a pair of jeans and worn them pair practicality with comfort and through their sacred lands caused them out on a Friday night, tried to fit style. in a more aggressive manner. Their something in said pocket and came I’m not messing around here culture was being dismissed, and their to the earth-shattering realization people, the fight for pocket equali- sacred way of life was getting pushed that I didn’t have pockets at all. ty starts now, and it starts with us. aside due to corporate greed. Along with this, clean water was at TRIGGERED. For the rest of the #PocketEquality2k16

A soda by any name would taste just as sweet

lthough every issue nowadays seems to be intensely polarizing, one battle has endured through the ages: Coke or Pepsi? Both sodas taste like bubbly maple syrup to my unrefined palate, but I do feel an odd, unearned allegiance to Coke. The same is the case with Dunkin’ Donuts. If you lined up five coffees and asked me which one I like the best, I would probably be able to positively identify most of them as coffee. My loyalty to Dunkin’ Donuts has manifested into obsessively refreshing the DDPerks app to see how many points I can rack up with my next medium iced coffee, cream no sugar. If I had to define the year 2016 in one word, I

Dakota Access Pipeline: more than hashtag

Jefferson), with the name of the party becoming as or even more important than the ideology itself. Current politIs-a-bout to ical issues have get real with been presented as Isabelle two-sided dilemSwanson mas, when in reality, many conflicts on the political would probably use the word “AAAAAAHHHHH- stage are complex. Solving an issue with HHHHHH.” If I had two one approach could words, my second word present another, more would probably be “or.” Just about every question damaging problem in the asked today has the word future. Having two sides implies that there is a “or.” Every issue seems correct and an incorrect, to have become an issue a good and a bad, an us of two sides, when in reversus them. ality, very few issues are The truth is that just black and white. about every issue is comSaying the word “politics” is kind of like taking plex and requires serious debate to get to the root the pin out of a grenade. of the matter. Most of the You have to run away time, if something seems afterward. Our political too simple or too good system became a pretty to be true, it probably is. binary system almost With the one exception immediately (@Thomas

being the Shamwow. That thing is straight up magic (and not a sponsor). It’s important to question, even briefly, the motives and intentions of those around us, especially those trying to change our opinions. I believe almost all Americans want the same basic things, but the way we want to achieve those goals differs from person to person. This is something that gets lost with cartoons of a donkey and elephant duking it out. It's easy to get caught up in names, but that does not do us any favors. Being blinded by labels removes the ability to logically decide the merit of a person, place, or thing. So maybe, just maybe, instead of judging a book by its cover and a laundry detergent by its bottle, basing judgement on substance is a better way to go through life.

risk. The protestors against the pipeline were not calling themselves protestors, but protectors of a basic human right: clean water. The pipeline could leak or break causing oil to threaten the water supply of the Sioux and everyone, including many of us in Nebraska, who rely on the Missouri River as a source of water. Several people who are not Native Americans went to help protect water, including U.S. veterans. They have been peaceful and prayerful in their protecting, but that does not mean that violence did not occur. Attack dogs (that were not licensed), water cannons (in freezing temperatures), concussion bombs (these led to a 21 year old student’s arm being severely injured, almost to the point of amputation) and mace were being used against prayerful people. All of these terrible things were happening in North Dakota and not many people understood the issue. I went around to several lunch tables last week and asked if students had heard about the Dakota Access Pipeline. The majority of people said no. This left me in shock because so many cruel things were occurring, and if more people knew about it, more people would have stood up. They would have stood for not only environmental rights, but human rights as well. I didn’t want to be a part of a generation that turned its head to injustice. I want to be a part of a generation that understands the issues, speaks out on injustice. I want to be a part of a generation that changes the world.

The Network (November & December 2016)

It’s more than just mashed potatoes A

s we turn the page of the calendar to November, spooky skeletons and bags of sugary Halloween candy are immediately replaced by plastic Santas and miniature Christmas trees. All traces of Halloween vanish, and spirited Christmas music fills stores and homes across the country. There are 55 days in between the two holidays, so what gets people through those 1,320 torturous hours? For many, the thought of buttery mashed potatoes and Grandma’s stuffing are lifesavers. A five-day weekend, a feast complete with turkey, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie, another feast the next day at Friendsgiving dinner, fall vibes, friends and family: these are all special parts of the Thanksgiving season and are main contributors to its glory. Yet for some reason, being thankful never really pops in our heads when we think about Thanksgiving. Being thankful is assumed to go along with the holiday, but do we really stop and reflect on what we are most thankful for? And if we do, is it for more than a few seconds and soon forgotten? Thanksgiving is arguably the best holiday, but its true meaning is commonly disregarded. Once people’s bellies are stuffed and their plates are cleared, Thanksgiv-

ing, and all it embodies, is steamThanksgiving is about family. rolled by Christmas preparations Laughing together. Enjoying each and festivities. other’s presence. Don’t get me wrong, I like It’s about watching football Christmas. I’d even say I love it. together and having the Macy’s It’s a holiday full of cheer, hapThanksgiving Day Parade on in piness and family, which are all the other room. It’s about playing things we acknowledge we’re board games with your cousins thankful for. while your tummies rumble. It’s It’s quite ironic that we find our- about having a family sing-along selves feeling while making thankful more dinner, and on Christmas your grandpa than on a holis sitting on the iday with the couch looking word “thanks” up the lyrics so in the name. he can follow So why not along. hold off a bit It’s the little on the Christmoments that mas craziness we cherish the and embrace most and the Thanksgiving overwhelming a little longer? feeling of love column by alliemorrissey Christmas is and happiness celebrated for that make the basically a month and a half (both holiday so special. before and after Dec. 25), but The food and the days off school Turkey Day only gets a meal, and that come with Thanksgiving areven that time is being cut into by en’t bad, they’re fantastic actually, Christmas. but we can’t let them take control Black Friday has gotten so of Thanksgiving and disguise the extreme that families are skipping true meaning. their Thanksgiving dinners to go Now that Thanksgiving is over stand in lines to get the best deals. and Christmas is quickly apAre we so obsessed with mateproaching, I hope you seized the rial possessions that we can’t hold opportunity to be truly thankful. off a few more hours before we go But if you didn’t, no worries! wrestle someone for a flat screen? We can all strive to live Thanks-

Opinion (5)

giving’s true meaning in our everyday life. Eating until you’re so full you have to unbutton your pants, spending time with family and friends and being thankful for every moment seems like a pretty awesome life to me. Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a single meal, so let’s make it a lifestyle.

Don’t let your future Thanksgivings be like this.... Mom, I’m not coming home for dinner. There’s a Victoria’s Secret sale right now!

Illustration courtesy of Vienna Tang

Down in the dumps(ter): the ULTA-mate disaster

that matters. oup (n.): the mixture of rainwater and Life on the inside of a dumpster is strangegarbage juices that collect at the bottom of a ly peaceful. A dumpster is like a tiny house, dumpster. except that it’s not a house, it’s illegal for you to Unless you’re a well-versed dumpster divbe inside of and it’s full of week-old garbage. er, you would be unfamiliar with this term— When I called ULTA to ask and up until about two months ago, I was too. if dumpster diving was really illegal, they refused to give a If you’re a watcher of comment. niche YouTube videos You spend a fair amount like myself, you will have of time considering differheard of ULTA dumpster ent strategies to enter the diving. dumpster. If you’re lucky, If not, just know that when you jump in, you’ll land ULTA Beauty throws on cardboard. If you’re me, away all of their returned you’ll land in a mixture of products—even if those sun-baked trash and exproducts have never been Mull-ing it over tremely cloudy soup. opened. with Ellie Mulligan After that comes the It only took about two realization. “I’m really in a hours of these videos to convince two of my friends and me to climb in- dumpster,” you say to yourself. “This is who I am now. There is genuine, 100 percent organic side an ULTA dumpster late that night. I won’t garbage water on my body.” Is this rock botgo too far into the details, because I’m truly tom? ashamed of what precisely went down, but just a few hours later, I was inside it, and that’s all The answer is that probably, yes—this is rock

The Network Staff

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

bottom. But as I slowly began to realize that I wasn’t finding unopened $30 eyeshadows or a sold-out shade of liquid lipstick like all the girls on YouTube, I was getting more and more disappointed. I was finding a whole lot of trash, and it was just about as exciting as opening a present in front of the Christmas tree and finding that it’s really just… trash. Which is to be expected when one is inside a dumpster, but for whatever reason, I was shocked and offended. I guess the moral of my short-lived dumpster occupancy is that you should always keep your expectations pretty low. If I hadn’t expected to find the contents of my beauty Pinterest board in that dumpster in perfect condition, I wouldn’t have been so disappointed when all I found was murky trash water in my Nikes. So here’s my advice: keep your expectations low and stay out of dumpsters behind strip malls, and, you’ll never know such severe disappointment or know have chunky garbage fluids in your socks.

managing editors: carmenmiller & isabelleswanson copy editor: kateschwaller photo editor: amaleapoulos graphics editor: sydneymonahan online editors: susanapettis & briannawessling front page editor: erinwalter news editors: amaleapoulos & sydneymonahan feature editors: emilydoll, susanapettis, ellierommelfanger & briannawessling opinion editors: anahingorani & laurenmayer indepth editor: elliemulligan sports editors: morganhobbs & maddiemingo entertainment editors: emmaherold & nataliekemler photo essay editor: alliemorrissey social media queen: victoriaackermann adviser: marshakalkowski

(6) Feature

The Network (November & December 2016)

All-State music conference showcases talent in Marian students emmaherold

he Nebraska Music Educators Association (NMEA) is a non-profit organization of music educators founded in 1937. The NMEA provides its members and member students with countless musical opportunities. The annual All-State Conference and Clinic held in November is among those opportunities. All-State instrumental auditions began on Sept. 21 and vocal auditions began on Oct. 7; however there was something different about the audition process this year. While in the past, participants were allowed to submit a pre-recorded audition, this year they were only allowed one attempt with a live audio recording.

“I was a little more nervous because I knew that if I messed up, I wouldn’t get another shot, I would just have to keep going. I had to work really hard to stay calm and keep my nerves under control,” junior Megan Doehner said. Auditions were open to NMEA members and their students who paid the $20 audition fee, along with purchasing the Choral ($14) or Jazz Band ($5) audition rehearsal recordings. Marian choir and band students auditioned at Marian. Despite this new intense audition process, six students in Select Women’s Choir and nine students in band tried out for All-State. On Oct. 19, the results were announced. From choir,

Soprano I Megan Doehner made All-State. Grace Mortenson made it to play clarinet and Katie Williams was an alternate for tuba. All-State took place Nov. 16-18, in downtown Lincoln, Neb. on the UNL campus. The chorus rehearsed in Kimball Hall, which is connected to The Lied Center. “The first two days are pretty much dedicated to rehearsing. Every day I had hours of vocal rehearsals with the other 440 members of the choir. We went over our pieces and worked on them together. It really is incredible when you have 440 individuals together who all love music— we truly can create some beautiful things,” Doehner said.

Playing her heart out Grace Mortenson ’17 played the clarinet at the All-State music conference. Mortenson also played for the pit in Marian’s musical “Singin’ in the Rain” and was a part of the UNO BOCH festival. susanapettis

Singing her way to the top Megan Doehner ’18 has shared her singing talents many times at Marian, between Select Women’s Choir, the musical, Worship Choir and Show Choir. This year Doehner also took her talents to All State. Photo courtesy of Julia Crump.

Tuba-tactular Katie Williams ’17 was chosen as an alternate for her tuba playing. Williams isn’t new to competing at state, as she competed at state cross country this year, and state track last spring. susanapettis

Students support service members on Veterans Day O AIR FORCE ACADEMY maddiemingo

n the 11th day of the 11th month, ty, but we don’t always recognize that Americans set aside time to honor they have served our country because their country’s veterans and commend they might be our teacher, banker or them for their service. Some showed even the guy who washes our car. My support through words of gratitude family puts out a green light to show to military family and friends, while support for all the veterans within others went as far as constructing a community, whether they are recogbanner for eastbound traffic traveling nized or not.” down Ida Street. Marian currently has one veteran Marian students, on Veterans Day, on staff, Mr. Matthew Winterboer. He found numerous creative ways to served as a Naval Submarine Officommemorate military members. “My cer for seven years, with time spent grandfather served in the Vietnam on submarines in both Virginia and War,” freshman Kaviana Shelton said. Connecticut, and also served at the “[On Veterans United States Day] we gathered Strategic ComI want to be able to at our family cotmand at Offutt tage in NebrasAir Force Base for serve and give back to ka and invited a while. the country that has veterans who As seniors look didn’t have family given my family so to the future, at members to celeleast two students brate with us. We much.” have decided Sarah Villarreal ’17 to pursue a had a huge and amazing barbecue military acadand reminded the emy education veterans that they were all loved. At the and follow in Mr. Winterboer’s end, we set off Army green balloons for footsteps. Both Emma Nelson and our fallen heroes.” Sarah Villarreal are in the process Over the past year, the color green of applying to the Air Force. “I has become a recognizable sign of have grown up in a military family honor for members of the military. and enjoyed both the blessings Walmart started an initiative called and heartache of a military life“Greenlight a Vet” which encouraged style,” Nelson said. “I feel called consumers to purchase green lights to serve, and right now this is the and turn them on at night as a way of path God is leading me down.” thanking veterans for their commit“I want to be able to serve and ment to the country. give back to the country that has “I first heard of the green light when given my family so much,” VillarI was watching the CMA awards a coureal said. “The Air Force values ple of weeks ago,” sophomore Melanie integrity and hard work, much like Brusnahan said. “There are many, I do, and I plan on devoting my many, many veterans in our communi- life to this.”

information from the United States Air Force Academy website

“

GETTING INTO THE

SPRING OF JUNIOR YEAR Take the ACT/SAT more than once. Request and complete the United States Air Force Academy application.

Start conditioning for Cadet Fitness Assessment (CFA). Contact your admissions liaison officer (ALO).

SUMMER BEFORE SENIOR YEAR Complete United States Air Force Academy Candidate kit and read Instructions to Candidates.

Request nomination from all sources (congressman, your two state senators and the vice president or president

FALL OF SENIOR YEAR Schedule and complete Department of Defense Medical Examination Board (DoDMERB) exam.

Return candidate kit and forms. Complete nomination packages. Prepare for congressional interview. Complete your Cadet Fitness Assessment.

WINTER OF SENIOR YEAR Contact your admission liaison officer for a formal interview and complete the interview.

Receive your congressional nomination. All paperwork complete. All medical followups complete.

SPRING OF SENIOR YEAR Return your letter of acceptance!

The Network (November & December 2016)

Feature (7)

Marian girls refuse to let refugees down carmenmiller

efugees in America have been a hot topic recently, but at Marian, the issue hits close to home. Freshman Aluth Lual is the daughter of two Sudanese refugees who fled to America due to conflict in their country. They went through the lengthy process of refugee resettlement in America, which typically includes a series of interviews, medical exams, a citizenship test and a variety other requirements, according to the U.S. Department of State. Although not a refugee herself, Lual has seen first-hand how important this resettlement program is and the effect that it has on the people involved. “It is important for everyone in America to realize how great they have it here,” Lual said. “Because of the experiences my parents had, I am so much more grateful to be at an amazing school like Marian, and my mom always talks about how great it would have been to have the opportunity to go to a school like this.”

Creighton Prep For students interested in helpto help buy the ing refugees localfamily groceries ly, social studies and furniture and then help and French set up their new teacher Mrs. Katy Salzman founded home. The first Operation Welmove-in was held on Oct. 21, come- a club that and the club offers a variety hopes to parof services to ticipate in at refugee families. She taught at least two more throughout Creighton Prep the year. “My prior to coming source: dataomaha.com favorite part to Marian and helped with a similar club there, so was seeing the finished product it was important to her to continue once we finished getting the house ready. It was very rewarding seeing the tradition at her new home. “I the house completely put together have been involved with helping refugee families for more than 25 and decorated. It showed that a years, and I wanted to continue lot can get done in a little amount of time with a lot of help,” junior that service here at Marian, and Megan Rutten, participant in the I’ve been absolutely delighted to move-in, said. see the response that I’ve gotten,” Salzman said. Though the move-ins are only offered to upperclassmen, unThe largest service event that the club offers is the refugee move- derclassmen are encouraged to participate as well. “I joined the in, when the club partners with

club because I wanted to help the family who was moving into the home and make sure they felt safe and secure. Even though I couldn’t help with the move-in, I wanted to help as much as I possibly could by making blankets,” freshman Sarah Burnett said. The club had a bake sale on Dec. 7 to raise money for their fleece blanket drive, and the blankets will be made on Dec. 16, following the last final exam on that day. They also hope to hold a diaper and feminine product drive, tutor refugee children, host a movie night and go to dinner at a refugee-owned restaurant. Salzman also hopes to have a refugee speaker come to talk about their experiences. All students are encouraged to partake in the service opportunities that Operation Welcome provides, not just those who are in the club. “I really encourage everyone to participate in the drives, we greatly appreciate all the help we can get,” Salzman said.

Thanksgiving prayer service: Club, class contributions help student body celebrate in gratitude

ellierommelfanger

he Marian student body and staff gathered for a Thanksgiving Prayer Service on Nov. 22. The event was centered on gratitude, and President Mary Higgins made an introduction highlighting the importance of being grateful for everything that blesses the Marian community. Many moving parts made the service a success, including contributions from several clubs and classes. As students walked in, they admired the paper flower art pieces made by the Art Club. Art Club meets every other Wednesday, but in order to get the Thanksgiving flowers done, they came in every Wednesday. “We like to do new, unique and seasonal projects. The flowers were a fall theme for the Thanksgiving Prayer Service and we plan on trying a Christmas project. We experiment with things

from mixing medias to sketches to Thankful voices Lexi Riley ’17, Jessica Hudson ’17, Davine Francis ’18, painting and origami,” sophomore Tori Dunston ’17 and Diana Elizalde ’18 prepare to sing in the Worship Ashley Straub said. Choir at the Nov. 22 Prayer Service. Photo courtesy of Julia Crump. The music was provided by various clubs and classes of Marian. Worship Choir and Select Women’s Choir led the service in prayer, and the Orchestra prepared and performed “In the Bleak Midwinter” by Gustav Holst. Marian’s Mime Troupe stole the show with a rendition of the Parable of the Prodigal Son, narrated by Mrs. Michelle Delisi, while the Decade Darlings wrote and recited a prayer poem with special guest Sr. Lucille Beaulieu. The service ended with a slideshow of the year thus far created from photos from journalism students and Ms. Maggie Hinrichs, Digital Media Director. Seniors Sarah McMeen and Kaitlyn Baysa compiled the slideshow that featured each class song.

Just miming around Jolie Peal ’19, Carolyn Griffin ’19, Olivia and Leah Ramaekers ’19, Eleanor Ricketts ’19, Meredith Zielie ’17, Brigid Elbert ’17 and Roseclaire VandeVegt ’19 break out some dance moves as they mime to the story of the Prodigal Son. The group practiced on Mondays for two weeks to prepare for their performance. ellierommelfanger

Peace be with you The junior class exchanges hugs during the sign of peace. This is one of the more beloved traditions at Marian Masses and prayer services, and it highlights the gratitude students have for their fellow classmates. ellierommelfanger

Flourishing through Thanksgiving Many clubs contributed to the Thanksgiving Prayer Service on Nov. 22. Students admired this art piece made by members of the Art Club. Their masterpiece was displayed in the Quad in the following days. carmenmiller

(8)In depth

The Network (November & December 2016)

Learning disabilities deserve to be understood

ne thing that all humans should up the stairs to “just do it.” You know by now is that everyone is would see if they need help, and different. This manifests both phys- provide whatever assistance they ically and mentally, but we tend to need. recognize the physical differences Why, then, is it any harder for much more than the mental ones. us to understand that we can’t Doing so can tell someone with a learning be dangerous disability to “just try because it harder”? We have to discounts try to understand millions these differencesPRESSo of people es and change whose our approach in brains order to ensure work in that everyone has unique an equal playing ways. field. An examHowever, there ple of this is a can be a fine line learning disabilbetween helping someity. Learning disabilone achieve equal results and ities are classified as “conditions treating them like they are lesser that give rise to difficulties acquirthan others. ing knowledge to the level expected The ACT levels the playing field of those of the same age, especially by allowing people with diagnosed when not associated with a physical learning disabilities more time. handicap.” This can generate angst in people Having a learning disability who don’t have learning disabilities, doesn’t mean that a person doesn’t because who wouldn’t want to have want to or can’t learn, it means that more time on such an important they might just require different test? methods of teaching in order to get However, that isn’t fair due to an equal level of education. the fact that people with learning You wouldn’t tell someone in a disabilities have a different reality full body cast who is trying to walk when taking tests; they utilize that

extra time in order to yield similar results to students without learning disabilities. Just because someone with a diagnosed learning disability might be granted more time on the ACT doesn’t mean that they need to be treated with “kid gloves” outside of the testing room. This exemplifies the difference between how we should treat someone in school situations versus social situations. In school, it is important that the teacher understands his or her students and adjusts based on their varying needs. Education is important, and it is not okay to let students slip through the cracks because of something that they can’t control. On the other hand, in social situations there is no need for someone with a learning disability to be treated any differently because of it. They are people too, and most likely don’t want to feel limited by their peers. Another non-physical difference is mental illness. In this case, being understanding is the best we can do. A chemical imbalance in the brain is not a choice, so it shouldn’t

be treated like one. Just like people with iron deficiencies have to take iron supplements to be healthy, people with mental illnesses have to take their medication to be healthy and functional. There can be a lot of shame that comes along with a mental illness or a learning disability, but in reality, there is nothing to be embarrassed about. In the grand scheme of things, these differences are small. Increasing tolerance and learning how people with learning disabilities and mental illnesses function is one way to dispel this shame. At the end of the day, everyone is just trying to live their life and feel comfortable in their own skin.

In depth(9)

Anxiety, mental illness show adverse effects in girls E elliemulligan

veryone is familiar with anxiety. Whether you know someone who has it, you experience it in small doses, or it’s something you deal with daily, anxiety is all around us. It can be brought on by anything from a traumatic event to simply being in a crowd of people. The symptoms are easily recognizable: restlessness, difficulty concentrating or making decisions, increased heart rate, shortness of breath and even insomnia. Any or all of these accompany anxiety. It can affect anyone. Whether it’s your little brother or your great grandma, anyone and everyone can have problems with anxiety. When it comes down to gender,

the way that anxiety manifests itself can differ. According to Mary Lutz-Priefert ’80, Marian alumna and licensed counselor, anxiety rates in girls show a relevant gap when compared to the rates of boys. While 30.5 percent of females are affected by anxiety, only 19.2 percent of males are. After the scope of mental health is broadened outside of anxiety, the gaps are even more glaring. Post Traumatic Stress Disorder will affect 10.4 percent of females, yet it only appears in 5 percent of males. In addition, females are much more likely to develop body dysmorphia and eating disorders like bulimia. “Much of the school stress can be avoided by keeping up with school work instead of cramming at the last minute,” Lutz-Priefert said. Here at an all-girl’s school, the concerns of

mental health that affect females are especially important. While these statistics may seem daunting, there are plenty of treatment options that can benefit anxiety sufferers. If you or someone you know, whether they’re male or female, is experiencing anxiety, there’s no reason to create even more stress for them. Keep an open mind, and if you choose to consult them, do so sensitively. “One important thing to keep in mind is that in its earlier stages, anxiety is very treatable,” Lutz-Priefert said. There are plenty of ways to treat anxiety. Whether it is taking a test in a room away from other students or taking medication, the best way to figure out which treatment is best for you is to talk to a trusted adult or to a therapist. While anxiety is present and prevalent in today’s world, especially in girls, the first step to understanding and tackling it is to get educated.

MENTAL HEALTH

3 %

2 %

of those who develop anxiety,

10% From stressing out to studying for finals, mental health plays a role in everyone’s day-to-day interactions. In high school, with stress about your social life and your academic life, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and let anxiety take over. If you have any concerns or curiosities about mental health in school, whether it’s learning disabilities or staying organized, give this in-depth a read and be informed!

5% graphic by elliemulligan graphic by sydneymonahan

Getting for finals

graphic by carmenmiller

graphic by briannawessling

to reduce test anxiety

The Network (November & December 2016)

(10) Feature

Marian retreats inspire community, character, compassion

Freshman Retreat overview On Nov. 4, freshmen started the day being escorted into Marian by Shadow Crew. (1) Caijah Anderson ’20, Reagan Boex ’20, Katrina Boesch ’20 and Pamela Reynolds ’20 walk into Freshman Retreat with pillows, sleeping bags and snacks in hand. After being placed into small groups led by juniors and seniors, freshmen had lunch and went off to do service around the community. morganhobbs (2) Liz Brisbin ’20 helps a young student with his homework at Miller Park Elementary. Other service sites included Nelson Mandela, Heart Ministries and the Open Door Mission. After service, there were more small group activities and some special guests. Photo courtesy of Becca Williams (3) Daisy Owen ’20, Haley Ertzner ’20, Kirsten Meyer ’17, Hannah Heinart ’20, Emily Evans ’17, Claire Albers ’20, Jolie Falcon ’20 and Maya Reed ’20 pose for a picture with their small group, which was beach-themed. Dinner was provided by sophomore members of Shadow Crew. They transformed the cafeteria with decorations of each group’s theme. moganhobbs (4) Shadow Crew members Katie Banark ’19 and Riley Miller ’19 scooter into the building. They used bubbles, balloons and smiles to welcome the freshmen. After dinner there was a dance party, Mass and more small group activities before sleep. morganhobbs (5) Retreat leaders Grace Sall ’18 and Megan Rutten ’18 break out the moves in the East Gym after dinner. The retreat closed the next morning with a ceremony and picture slideshow. morganhobbs

WHO: Entire sophomore class

Junior Retre

WHO: Groups of 7-9 juniors with one faculty member

WHERE: Gene Eppley Camp and Retreat Center, Bellevue, Neb.

WHERE: Open Door Mission

WHAT: Ziplining, praying in the chapel and various bonding/ team-building activities

WHAT: Serving lunch, packing lunches and assisting in donation organization

WHEN: Monday, Sept. 19, 2016

WHEN: Mondays throughout the year

nataliekemler

omore R etr e

ph So

Senior Retre at

WHO: Entire senior class

WHERE: Gene Eppley Camp and Retreat Center, Bellevue, Neb. WHAT: Spending the night, class bonding WHEN: Friday, March 17, 2017

(11) Feature

The Network (November & December 2016)

Bilingual students contribute unique cultures to Marian community

susanapettis

oday, almost 6,500 languages are spoken worldwide. What is even more surprising is the diversity of language at Marian. According to 323 student survey responses, 18 different languages (not including English) are spoken by Marian students. This includes languages like: English, Spanish, Arabic, Catalan,

French, Cantonese, Vietnamese, Urdu, Tamil, Kannada, Nuer, Dinka, Sign Language, Mina, Acholi, Russian, Ewe and Fante. Although all of these languages are vastly different, the Marian bond is stronger than any language barrier. For more student profiles and content, visit mariandigitalnetwork.com. Agoum Monydhel ’20

1) Vietnamese 2) Fluent enough that I can get around, but I am pretty illiterate. I can sort of sound things out sometimes but mostly I can’t. I can understand the language when listening, but struggle to coherently spit Emily Nguyen ’20 it back out. 3) My parents and grandma and— basically my entire family. 4) The ability to speak more than one language is pretty awesome, and since my entire family speaks Vietnamese, it makes communication a lot easier. (Especially when it comes to delicious food you want to eat) 5) Vietnamese has three different accents and various dialects. There’s the northern accent, the middle accent and the southern accent. There’s also a southern dialect that is distinct from the northern, but technically speaking the northern dialect is correct. I speak the southern dialect with the southern accent. Vietnamese language programs are taught with the northern dialect and accent. It throws me off a lot.

1) Arabic and Dinka (Dinka is a tribal language back in Sudan) 2) I could say that I am fluent in Arabic, and partially fluent in Dinka. I was raised speaking both of these languages. 3) My parents came from Sudan to America speaking these languages. 5) When writing Arabic, you write from right to left, and there are many letters in the Arabic languages.

Questions 1) What language(s) do you speak? 2) How fluent would you say you are in said languages? 3) Where did you learn this language? 4) What are some perks of speaking this language? 5) Any other interesting facts about your language?

1) Catalan and Spanish 2) I am fluent in English and Catalan, and I have been learning Spanish since the 1st grade. 3) I grew Claudia Archer ’20 up in Omaha, so English is my first language. My mom is from Barcelona, and the main 1) Urdu language spoken there is Catalan. My 2) I can understand and speak mom talks to her parents, who are in it pretty fluently, however I can’t Barcelona, everyday on the phone. write or read it. Because of this, from a very little 3) I learned it from my family age, I was able to pick it up without because they came from Pakistan anybody teaching me. I am learning where it is spoken. Spanish in school. 4) I can understand my parents’ 4) Some perks about speaking Arij Khan ’20 conversations and I can also speak these extra two languages is that you to my grandparents and other fam- can get better job opportunities, as ily members from Pakistan. well as more experience. Catalan isn’t 5) I actually learned Urdu before English, but I a very common language for people Shruthi Kumar ’20 became more fluent in English when I started school. in America to use. 1) Tamil and Kannada 2) I would say I am very fluent. 3) I don’t remember ever learning it, I just grew up speaking it. 4) When I go to India, people find it unbelievable that I live in America and speak my native languages. Also, if you’re in public and your parents are being embarrassing you can tell them to stop, without it being awkward to other people. 5) Tamil is one of the oldest languages, dating back to ancient times. There are two “dialects” in Tamil, there is an everyday dialect, which is what I know. And the other one is more formal, like people who read the news on TV would use.

Service through donations: process to be reformed in future sydneymonahan

ervice is one of the six core values of Marian. All around the school, different groups are constantly organizing drives and fundraisers to help people in need. The success of these drives is based solely on student participation. A large portion of drives and awareness campaigns are run by the service side of Campus Ministry FIAT, or Faith In Action Team. They seek out non-profit organizations in need and petition these ideas to Campus Ministry. Each month, a donation drive or awareness campaign is started. Some upcoming opportunities to contribute are the Advent “Deck the Halls” awareness campaign and the “Hearts for the Heart” collection for the Heart Ministry Center in February. Operation Others (O.O.) is also a major source for service opportunities. In November, they collected 2,592 peanut butter and jelly jars for local families in need. “It’s disheartening when students are so willing to buy shirts that O.O. makes, but they aren’t willing to bring in peanut butter and jelly. I know that $8 is a bit of an investment, but this donation is so important because it is going directly to families in need,” senior and O.O. Core Team member

Emma Shoemaker said. Gornall on this jersey drive, but “Over the holiday season, for it was so much fun and not hard two weeks, O.O. provides 15,000 to organize. The administration families with meals and peanut was so easy to work with, and they butter and jelly is a staple for these were really excited about the projfamilies. I would like to personally ect,” Nelson said. thank everyone who did particiAlthough drives from various pate in the drive. Many families groups at Marian are organized, will have a brighter Christmas students should be aware that serthanks to you,” Shoemaker said. vice drives and campaigns will be It is a common misconception changing next year. that only Campus Ministry or O.O. “I love the idea of helping as start campaigns and drives. This many people as possible, but the is not at all the administracase. In fact, tion is looking I’m glad that the Deacon Kevin to narrow Fuller, Camadministration saw that down the pus Minister, amount of there was a problem...” drives each encourages all girls to get school year,” Emma involved. Principal Shoemaker ’17 “We are Susie Sullivan always looking said. for new drive ideas and campaigns. The idea behind this is that MarIf the exact drive or campaign does ian has many drives that somenot fit specifically into our schedtimes even overlap. The excessive ule, we are more than happy to amount of drives also limits the help the student start this camparticipation and can make them paign on their own,” Fuller said. less successful. In October, junior Lily Nelson “I think it is important to be decided she was very passionate absolutely sure that the drives that about starting a jersey drive. Studirectly impact Marian and or the dents were encouraged to bring in Omaha community are reaching old uniform jerseys that would be their goals because the success of donated to children in Uganda. these organizations solely depend “I worked with sophomore Kayla on Marian,” Sullivan said.

“

Next year, the administration plans to organize the process differently with the hope of it being easier for all students to participate. When looking at all drives, rewards are a huge factor. The O.O. goals in the past years were not met. A goal of 2,500 jars for the peanut butter and jelly drive was set this year, but the reward of a school day off was put on the table. “I do not like the idea of rewards to help those in need, but there are people and organizations that rely on us. I wish that we would reach our goal just because girls wanted to help, and then after, I could reward the students with a day off, but more initial incentive was needed,” Sullivan said. “It is disheartening that there needed to be a reward to encourage people to help the community, but the overall success of the drive was due largely in part to the free day being offered. I’m glad that the administration saw that there was a problem and offered the free day as a way to fix this problem,” Shoemaker said. As the holiday season approaches, girls should be listening to announcements, checking the daily bulletin and asking others what they can be doing to help.

The Network (November & December 2016)

(12) Sports

Make it happen: Basketball strives for success behind new coaches morganhobbs

ake it happen: three simple thing it can to make their dreams of state a reality. “It’s basically a words that might not mean more assertive approach to getting anything to most people. But for the Marian basketball team, these it done,” Cunningham said. three words drive everything they It’s been a few years since the do. “It [‘Make it happen’] came up Marian basketball team has been part of the state compein the spring. This tition. Six, to be exact, group has talked as the Crusaders’ last a lot about going to State. There’s appearance in Lincoln took place in 2010. It’s been a lot of talking and wantan event many of the team’s current players ing it to happen, and we’ve gotten have been aspiring for closer and closer,” ever since they first stepped foot in the gym. Mr. Peter Cun“’Make it happen’ is a ningham, varsity constant reminder of basketball coach, said. “It just what our ultimate team Wish together, swish togoal is this season: comes down to making it to state and making it happen. gether The Marian basketball team meets together before the competing to the best They can control start of the 4th quarter in their their effort and of our abilities,” sophogame against Kearney on Dec. more varsity basketball how much they 3. The Crusaders fell 40-35. player Lily Gonzalez put into it.” morganhobbs said. After this, “Make it happen” In order to make it became the team’s new motto. happen, the basketball team has It’s the team’s pledge to do everymade some changes to its lineup.

The first includes a new set of coaches. Cunningham has been a varsity assistant since 2014, but this is his first season stepping up as head coach. Coach Jessica Abel moved up from the reserve team to become a varsity assistant. There’s a brand new addition to the team, as well: Mr. Kent Bray, another new varsity assistant coach who has spent the past 30 years coaching varsity and club basketball teams. “I’m excited to come to a school that has the athletic recognition that Marian does,” Bray said. “We’re going to try and take that and make basketball as much a part of that as we can.” The new coaches have been embraced by players familiar to the program. “I’m very excited to see how their coaching styles add to the development of the team. It will be nice having various perspectives on different areas of the game and [to see] how it will make the players better this season,” senior basketball player Megan

Anderson said. Although the team lost a solid group of seniors from last year--including starting center Tehillah Alphonso and starting point guard Holly Banark--Cunningham and Bray are both confident with the amount of talent returning. “There’s a good group of girls coming out, with a lot of potential. I’m excited to continue improving from last season and work our way to state,” Cunningham said. In addition to competing at state, the girls on the team have a few additional goals. “Our team goals for this season include going hard during practice and even harder during games, working on our weaknesses, bonding as a team and trying to have some fun while playing the sport we all love!” Gonzalez said. “I’m really looking forward to working hard this season and continuing to get Marian Basketball back on the radar as a tough competitor in Class A,” Anderson said. “This is the year.”

Crusaders fall short at state volleyball tournament

erinwalter

t was nail-biting. It was a fierce battle with a feisty opponent. It was unpredictable. But in the end, it was heartbreaking. Marian’s varsity volleyball team fell just short of clinching a fourth straight Class A title at the 2016 NSAA State tournament on Nov. 12 in Lincoln. It was at the bitter end of an already long, tough game against the season-long rival Papillion-La Vista South when the Crusaders dropped the fifth and final set, resulting in an overall devastating defeat. On Nov. 11, the Crusaders showed up to the state tournament with fiery energy and unparalleled strength. Their 25-14, 25-21, 25-15 sweep of No. 7 Lincoln Southwest helped to set the tone for the rest

of the tournament. This definitive win advanced the team to the semifinals where they met Papio South. “We came out onto the court prepared,” Coach Mrs. Amy McLeay said, “and then we unfortunately let them creep back in a bit, but we wanted to set a precedent.” Throughout the entire tournament, Marian played without junior middle blocker Sarah Wing because of an accident in practice resulting in a broken foot the week before state, but the Crusaders were still close to the finish line of their semifinal match against Papio South with a 21-19 lead in the fourth set. Right-side hitter Mary Katherine Wolfe, Marian’s lone senior,

you can’t ask for a better match,” had 19 kills, three blocks and 25 digs to lead the McLeay said. “We got too comfortable with Crusaders. Outside hitters junior Ashthe lead there in the fourth set. That can’t tynne Alberts and happen when you sophomore Emily play a team as talentBressman finished ed as Papio South.” with 18 and 16 kills, respectively, The state tournament ended early while junior Lily for the Crusaders on Heim totaled 54 Friday night, as they assists. Overall, it was a hard-fought had hoped to advance to the championship game on Marian’s match on Saturday. part--by no means Team members are did the Crusaders Sky-high Lily Heim ’18 jumps hopeful for redempgive the win to Pato block a ball against Lincoln pio South easily. tion next season, Southwest. The Crusaders won though, as they have “It was a great game. A two-point- against the Silver Hawks in three a young team, hungry sets. erinwalter for more. er in game five,

Winter Sports Schedules

Sunday

Monday

December 2016 Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

5:30 at Lincoln Northeast 7:15 at Lincoln Northeast

5:45 at Bellevue West 7:15 at Bellevue West

4:30 at Westside

4:30 at Burke

4:30 at Millard South 5:30 at Omaha North 7:15 at Omaha North

6:00 at Omaha Northwest 7:30 at Omaha Northwest

TBD at Westside TBD at Omaha South

4:30 vs. Omaha North 6:00 vs. Papillion-La Vista South

4:30 vs. Papillion-La Vista

Friday 2

5:45 at Papillion-La Vista South

4:00 at Elkhorn

Metro TBD at Westside

Metro at Ralston Arena

Sunday

Saturday 3

12:30 at Burke 1:00 at Millard West 2:45 at Millard West

9:00am at Burke 9:30am vs. Lincoln Southwest 11:00am vs. Lincoln Southwest 1:30 vs. Lincoln East 3:15 vs. Lincoln East

January 2017

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

4:30 vs. Millard West 6:15 vs. Millard West 6:30 at Millard West

4:30 at Omaha Central 5:30 at Benson 7:15 at Benson

Metro at Ralston Arena

Metro 4:30 at Millard West 5:30 at UNO

4:30 at Papillion-La Vista High School

5:30 at Omaha South 7:15 at Omaha South

4:30 at Bryan 4:30 vs. Millard south 5:30 at Bellevue East

Friday

Saturday

Metro at Ralston Arena

6:00 at Ralston

4:30 vs. Omaha Cetral 5:30 at Westside 7:15 at Westside 4:30 vs. Benson 5:00 at Lincoln East 5:30 vs. Millard South 7:15 vs. Millard South

10am at Elkhorn 1:00 vs. Columbus 2:30 vs. Columbus

Thursday

Winter Sports Pictures

9:00am at Ralston 1:30 at Prep 3:15 at Prep 2:00 at North Platte 3:45 at North Platte

5:30 vs. Omaha South

9:30 at Westside

TBD at Duchesne

8:00 at Westside 5:30 at Omaha Central

5:30 vs. Millard North 7:15 vs. Millard North Note: Locations and times are subject to change Varsity Swimming and Diving Reserve Basketball

Varsity Basketball Freshman Basketball

Junior Varsity Basketball graphic by maddiemingo

The Network (November & December 2016)

Sports (13)

Marian swimming welcomes Coach Christiansen anahingorani

rom simply observing the banner in the West Gym, one can see that Marian Swimming and Diving has a long-standing tradition of excellence. They’ve captured 13 state championships and seven state runner-up titles. While striving for greatness will always be consistent in Marian Swimming and Diving, one thing has changed for this upcoming season. Marian’s swimming head coach, Mr. BJ Christiansen, now teaches at Marian. This is Christiansen’s second year being the head coach of Marian swimming but his first year teaching at Marian. Christiansen, originally from Omaha, attended Burke High School, where he swam as a student all four years. He has graduated from the University of Wyoming and the University of Nebraska-Omaha and is currently in graduate school at the College of St. Mary. At Marian, he teaches physical education and oversees study halls. “Everyone at Marian

said. is very disciplined, but Hadford at the same shares a time everyone similar opinion to enjoys being her teamhere. The atmosphere and mate. “He culture here [Christiansen] is is very cool,” willing to Christiansen listen to said. each girl ChristianCan’t weight for class Along with coaching sen has met and unswimming, Christiansen also teaches a weight derstand with many of training class and moderates study halls. He is what will the returning, one of six coaches who teach at Marian. be best and also the anahingorani new, swimfor her,” mers, two of which being returning Hadford said. Christiansen centers his teachsophomore Erin Smith, and reing philosophy on the idea of comturning senior Naeleah Hadford. “I like that he [Christiansen] plete preparedness. “I believe it is always tells us before every invite/ important to prepare an athlete in all aspects,” Christiansen said. dual to have fun, because that is “This can include physical training, truly what it’s about,” Smith said. mental training, nutrition, social, “And I like how he always has a way to make me come out of my etc. A swimmer will compete at shell in swimming and push myself their best when they feel most prein ways I’d never be able to,” Smith pared and when there will be no

doubt that they can do their best.” Like any coach, Christiansen has set high goals for the team this season. “We hope to improve on how we did last season, win our invites, win our duals, take Metros, and place as high as we can at State. And a goal we had from last year and are going to carry over to this year is for every girl to attain a state qualifying time. We almost met it last year, and we’re hoping this year we will!” Christiansen said. Leading up to the start of the swimming season, there have been Friday morning workouts in the gym, which consist of basic conditioning and swimmer-specific exercises. “They [workout sessions] were nice because I got to meet the incoming freshmen ahead of time and get a feel of what this season will be like,” Smith said. No matter how much changes in Marian’s Swimming and Diving program, the tradition of excellence will live on.

Hockey: the coolest game on ice

National Letter of Intent Day

column by isabelleswanson

s soon as sweater weather rolls around, millions of fans throw on their hockey sweaters (jerseys) and cheer on their favorite teams. There’s nothing better than snuggling up with some hot chocolate and watching two teams fight over a rubber disk with blades strapped to their feet. If you are in desperate need for a new hobby, checking out a few hockey games may be the coolest (pun intended) thing to try! If the notoriously rough-andtumble action of a hockey game isn’t enough for you to drop everything and turn on the NHL (National Hockey League) Channel or don a hockey jersey and drive to your local hockey graphic by isabelleswanson arena, the narratives that develop around the players might be. One of my favorite players, Adam McQuaid of the NHL’s Boston Bruins, is now earning a seven-figure salary playing a sport his parents made him try when he was 5 years old because they were worried he was too shy. If stories about little kids growing up and reaching their lifelong dreams like that doesn’t melt your heart, I can’t really help you with that. A fun little bonus of following a hockey team is accidentally learning a ton about Eastern Europe and Canada. Hockey players come from dozens of countries, so you inevitably learn a

lot about the world. Impress (or scare) your friends when you can name a few too many Slovakian hockey players while watching Olympic hockey. Or in casual conversation. The possibilities are really endless. Being able to pronounce Finnish names is something you learn while watching hockey, and also probably something you can put on college applications. The price of hockey tickets can range from a few Frappuccinos at Starbucks to skipping a few car payments, depending on the league and whether the game is during pre-season, regular season or the championship of that league. You can grab a few friends and road trip to Chicago to see the Blackhawks take the ice, or you can see the University of Nebraska-Omaha Mavericks play right here at home! In 2015, the Mavericks made it to the Frozen Four, the NCAA championship semifinals. Hockey games are a lot of fun to watch live with friends, and at the very least, they are a great excuse to eat popcorn and yell a lot. The rules can be a little confusing at times, and the 226-page NHL rule book is a little overwhelming, but my best tip is to just yell, “Aw, come on!” every time the whistle is blown. Or check out mariandigitalnetwork.com for a flow chart on hockey rules!

morganhobbs

rom the court to the pool, Marian athletes are constantly making names for themselves through competition. With a lot of time and dedication, sports can lead to more educational opportunities for athletes when it comes time for college. This year’s Early Signing Day for athletes from the Class of 2017 was held on Nov. 9 in the Marian Room. Marian is proud to congratulate these four seniors on signing their National Letters of Intent.

Taylor Carter

Why IU? “It was the best fit for me and what I wanted in a university. It has also been a dream of mine to dive for IU ever since I was 10.”

Maddie Mingo

Why SDSU? “They have a mechanical engineering program...The coaches are amazing, the athletes are extremely nice, and the campus is beautiful.”

Kelly Straub

Why ND? “I fell in love with the school. It is so beautiful, and I could really see myself living on campus. I love the atmosphere.”

Mary Wolfe

Why UNK? “It has a very good nursing school and the volleyball program has been very successful over the past years.” graphics by morganhobbs

The Network (Novermber & Decembedr 2016)

(14) Entertainment

Fantastic movies and where to find them amaleapoulos

.K. Rowling’s tremendous screenwriting debut, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” is a Gryffindor in a world of Slytherins. “Fantastic Beasts” is the ninth film installment in Rowling’s Wizarding World. The film is based on a book of the same title (published in 2001). Fans might recognize the title because it was mentioned in “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone” as one of Harry’s first-year textbooks for Hogwarts. Eddie Redmayne, an Oscar award-winning actor and the owner of many girls’ hearts, stars as English wizard Newt Scamander—a man on a mission in 1926 New York. He’s traveling the world to find and document fantastic beasts. Upon arriving in the Big Apple, Newt has a mix-up with No-Maj (a Muggle, or non-magic person) Jacob Kowalski (Dan Fogler) and ex-auror (a sort of policewoman in the magic realm) Tina Goldstein (Katherine Waterston).

The chemistry between Redmayne, Fogler and Goldstein is obvious as the characters’ trio attempt to save the city in classic Rowlingfashion. All aspects of excellent filmmaking came together in “Fantastic Beasts” to create a whirlwind of source: Warner Bros. a movie. It’s almost impossible to tell that New York wasn’t actually destroyed by magical creatures because of the convincing special effects. The film is similar enough to the “Harry Potter” series to make

Teacher’s pet:

graphic by nataliekemler & kateschwaller

Match the teachers with their pets!

A. Jack the Jackalope

1) Mr. Tom Baker and Mrs. Mary Baker

Loves to wear costumes

B. Peeta the Cat

Eats paper when stressed

2) Mrs. Jane Campbell C. Hawk the Fish

Given to the teacher(s) by students

3) Mrs. Kim Remmick D. Tulla and Dakota

4) Mr. Matthew Winterboer

Live with three cats

E. Tucker

5) Mr. Paul Niedbalski

Was a pilot for Halloween

F. Nutmeg and Pepper Called “The Spice Girls”

6) Mrs. Aleecia Cotton

Look on the online Network for more pet photos! mariandigitalnetwork.com

it feel like each movie. “home.” The “Fantastic Beasts” has the cinematography potential to reach an audience has the same beyond the already dedicated overall look Harry Potter fans. as the last few I had extremely high films in the expectations before seeing the “Harry Potter” movie, and was not disappointed series, though once. The new spin-off is “Fantastic promising and with at least two Beasts” other films coming (Nov. 16, leaves a more 2018 & Nov. 20, 2019), Potter sophisticated fans everywhere should prepare impression. themselves for another story that There are little will touch their hearts. to no similarities Director: David Yates between (directed last four “Harry Newt and Potter” films) Harry, which is what this Genre: Action/fantasy franchise needed for success. Running time: 2 h 13 m As someone who listens to the Harry Potter movies soundtracks daily, Rating: PG-13 I appreciated the use of “Hedwig’s Theme,” the iconic Amalea’s rating: 5/5 stars song used in the beginning of

‘Occupation: housewife?’ No thanks. amaleapoulos

redited with sparking the second wave of Feminism and published in 1963, “The Feminine Mystique” by Betty Friedan is a compelling read. Delving into “the problem with no name” facing American women in the 50s and 60s, The Feminine Mystique gives fact after fact describing why women are unhappy as housewives. Friedan interviews many women frustrated with their everyday routine of getting the children ready for school, coming home to try and find something that needs cleaning, picking up the children and making dinner. Friedan’s argument is that women have won the right to vote but haven’t really done much since. Comparing the “career women” of the 30s to the “occupation: housewife” women of the 60s, Friedan’s own frustration is evident. Their heroes in magazine literature were superhousewives, complete with a new vacuum. As an 18-year-old finishing my first semester of my senior year of high school, I found this book incredibly troubling. It’s no secret that I believe in equality and the Feminist movement. I had to

double back multiple times when reading “The Feminine Mystique” because I was so flabbergasted at how women were treated. I can hardly imagine leaving school right now to marry a man (that I probably barely know!). Many women went to college to find a man, although there were some who went to learn. The women who went to college to learn usually ended up in a housewife situation despite their education. I felt so much pity for the women who regretted not making something of their education. Being a housewife definitely isn’t a bad thing, but having the option to have a career is vital. It was frustrating to me that women were expected to marry so young, especially after their mothers had careers in pre-World War I America. I can’t decide what’s worse -- the relevance Friedan’s message still holds today or the lives of housewives in the 50s. “The Feminine Mystique” is important for people of all genders and identities to read. It will change the way you think about Feminism. At some points the book was a little dull with fact after fact being listed, but overall, it was a fascinating call to action.

1.D 2.B 3.F 4.C 5.A 6.E

The Network (November & December 2016)

Entertainment (15)

Making a passionate pitch for Pitch nataliekemler

ith two Omaha locations at 5021 thin slices of pepperoni. The comte mac Underwood Ave and 17808 Burke and cheese included house-cured pancetta, Street, Pitch offers its customers a pleasant baby spinach and truffle oil. Each item we dining experience with a variety of meal ordered was bursting with flavor; I would options. The Dundee location was opened definitely order it all again. The truffle fries in 2009 by founder and previous owner were $7, the mac and cheese was $14, and of Godfather’s pizza, Willy Theisen. After the pepperoni pizza was $15. Our waitress splendid success with the first location, a was extremely helpful and quick, and she second location in West Omaha opened in boxed our food up for us separately. The 2015. Pitch’s impressive reputation inprice is reasonable for such a great expericludes being named as an OpenTable Top ence. Pitch platters. Pictured are Truffle Fries ($7) and Comte Mac 100 Hot Spot Restaurant in America for The only possible downside to eating & Cheese ($14). 2016. at Pitch in Dundee is the crowded, loud Regular hours: Sunday-Thursday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The Dundee location has a bustling atatmosphere. Many tables fill up a relatively mosphere, with a mix of modern and rustic Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. small space, and generally all tables are full. Lunch hours: Monday-Friday: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. decor. Its menu covers a wide variety of Although I can’t complain about being able Brunch: Saturday and Sunday: 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. foods including: pizza, burgers, pasta, salto listen to Frank Ocean while savoring mac Dinner hours: Monday-Friday: 3 p.m. to close. ad, seafood and beef and chicken entrees. and cheese, the crowded dining area and Although there’s a lengthy wait on Frimusic could make it difficult for conversaSaturday and Sunday: 2 p.m. to close. day and Saturday nights, going on a Suntions. day night allows customers to walk in and Pitch is open on Christmas Eve from 11 peroni pizza. We received our food about 15-20 get a table without a prolonged wait. a.m. until 7 p.m. If you plan on heading to Pitch minutes after ordering. Shared between us, it My friend and I went to Pitch at 5:30 p.m. on was more than enough food. on Christmas Eve with your family, there are taa Sunday evening. We were seated right away, bles that are able to accommodate large groups, The truffle fries were thinly sliced and sprinalthough it took us a while to find parking. We as well as bar seating. Calling ahead to make kled with cheese and hot truffle oil. The pizza’s ordered truffle fries, mac and cheese and a pep- thin crust was completely covered with large, reservations is a sensible idea.

Study breaks 101: The ultimate stresseliminator list suggestions by emilydoll

1. Take an online quiz Forget BuzzFeed! Check out Marian’s Online Network to find out a little bit about yourself, such as which teacher you are most like. Hit up www.mariandigitalnetwork.org. 2. Rest up Just pass out for 10 to 20 minutes. You can’t worry about homework if you’re unconscious! Also, power naps are a great way to refresh your mind. 3. Eat your feelings Hungry or thirsty? Eat your stress away! It’s not bad if you eat a piece of fruit or do a couple jumping jacks afterwards, right? 4. Read up on something that interests you Have you ever wanted to know where the longest piece of spaghetti is located? Well, it’s located in Tokyo. Look up something else. Know anything about taxidermy? No? Then, get on it! 5. Chat with a pal Have you ever talked to that eccentric neighbor of yours? If not, start up a convo about politics! 6. Watch an episode from your favorite TV show Make sure to only watch one, though! 7. Listen to some pump-up jams Iggy Azalea? Check. Jacob Sartorius? Check. A 10-hour loop of that vine of a little boy saying “LeBron James”? You betcha. You can also check out The Network’s Spotify account, mariannetwork, for some fun songs! 8. Take a shower Wash off all the dried tears and feel refreshed at the same time. It’s a winwin! Feeling clean is a great way to relax your mind. 9. Play a game Feel productive while playing a game. It feels even better if you win!

On this cold December night, I’ll be home for Christmas under the mistletoe laurenmayer

1. *NSYNC: “Home for Christmas”

“Home for Christmas” will always be a classic when it comes to Christmas music. It’s almost timeless. You can jam to it in 2016 the way you could jam to it in 1998. I actually own this CD and play it during Christmas time no matter how mad it makes my sister. The album is a perfect demonstration of the group’s voice. *NSYNC included not only the traditional songs, but original songs as well. You won’t be able to get “Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays” on another album or out of your head. The song brings out the true meaning of Christmas, and this album is great for any *NSYNC supporter.

2. Justin Bieber: “Under the Mistletoe”

This one is for all the Beliebers out there! His Christmas album not only includes the CD but also a DVD of the making of his music video: “Under the Mistletoe.” His album “My World 2.0” resulted in a new epidemic known as Bieber Fever. Unlike *NSYNC’s “Home for Christmas,” Bieber’s Christmas album does a fine job of standing on its own. On the other hand, it’s hard to imagine a group of friend’s jammin’ to “Mistletoe” on the way to the beach. Bieber isn’t the only celebrity voice on this album, Mariah Carey, Band Perry and Usher joined in on the album to make it a one of a kind. On the album, “Only Thing I Ever Get For Christmas”, doesn’t get enough attention. Everyone knows “Mistletoe” was the lead single but “Only Thing I Ever Get For Christmas” would have been a better fit. It’s romantic wode had a way of engaging you.

3. Michael Bublé: “Christmas” The album “Christmas” came with a complimentary ornament! The album starts with “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas.” Listening to it is an experience that will get you in the Christmas spirit. Bublé seems to add an amazing twist to a somewhat traditional playlist. The music on the album really makes you feel like you’re sitting in front of warm fire on Christmas Eve. It’s about love and Christmas is all about love. He did one original song called “Cold December Night.” This song will make you hate being single during the holidays. He also did a cover of Mariah Carey’s “All I want for Christmas” which is a risky move. No one knew if it was going to flip or flop. He takes the whole song down a few notches to create his own unique version of Carey’s hit.

(16) Photo Essay

The Network (November & December 2016) Open doors and open arms Welcome to Marian! Open House, held on Nov. 20, outlined all the numerous things Marian girls do. From clubs to classes and everything in between, Marian hoped to show that any girl can find her place at this school. “I hope prospective students were able to feel the energy and spirit that fills our halls,” Recruitment Director Molly Woodman said. ellierommelfanger

All hands on deck Student tour guides anxiously waited in the cafeteria before they were assigned to a tour. There were 129 tour guides, and they led 242 future Crusaders and their families through the halls of Marian, explaining what it is like to be a Marian girl and giving first-hand experiences every step of the way. ellierommelfanger Blast from the past Room 304, often referred to as “The Journ Room,” gave girls a little history on Marian, as the past 10 years’ yearbooks were displayed, along with past issues of The Network and a constant stream of MBeats. Tour guide Jess Hudson ’17 walked through the room with a prospective family and explained the importance of journalism at Marian. amaleapoulos

Lil’ sis takes Marian Theology is a vital part of Marian’s Catholic curriculum, so meeting the teachers and getting a vibe for how the classes are taught is essential to understanding what it would be like to be a Marian student. Mr. Kory Delkamiller and Mr. Greg Golka were stationed in Room 208 to greet students and introduce them to how theology is shared at Marian. They shook each potential students’ hand, such as Olivia Ost’s, sister of Avery Ost ’18. carmenmiller Clubbing with my girls Marian has so many clubs and activities to offer, so the activity fair in the East Gym can feel a little overwhelming at first, but the students running the clubs did their best to explain their activity and make it seem as appealing as possible to interested students. Eva Wieczorek ’17 and Rachel Weremy ’17 ran the Operation Welcome table to inform future students about their work with refugees and inspire them to join the club. carmenmiller

Centering in style The art room provides a colorful and exciting break from the dull walls of the typical classroom. Students were spread throughout the room working on their current pieces, from intricate self-portraits to throwing on the pottery wheel, as Lily Hauser ’17 is demonstrating. carmenmiller New and improved Madison Bezousek ’19 showed her sister the new chemistry labs while science teacher Mrs. Stacey Tunink, all suited up in her lab coat, talked about their debut and Marian’s science program. amaleapoulos