Marian Network October 2015

The Network MARIAN HIGH SCHOOL 7400 MILITARY AVENUE OMAHA, NE 68134 www.MARIANHIGHSCHOOL.net VOLUME 60 ISSUE 2 OCTOBER 2015

Grandparents share faith, wisdom, danishes with granddaughters elsiestormberg & makenziefuss

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n Oct. 8, a record-breaking 704 grandparents joined the Marian community to celebrate life. The celebration included a Mass, valued conversations, and delicious danishes from Pettit’s Pastries.

“The purpose [of Grandparents Day Mass] is an opportunity for the girls to bring family members who would not normally have an opportunity to come into the building to experience Marian in a way they do not normally get to through Mass,” Mrs. Shari Gilg,

Advancement Events Director, said.

This occasion could not have happened without the help of several volunteers.

“The night before, the Advancement Team set up the Quad, cafeteria, and old gym for the Mass and breakfast.

We had 15 adult volunteers, five [Creighton] Prep boys, and Campus Ministry to help. On the day of, we had 30 student volunteers and 20 parent volunteers. The students had a variety of jobs, such as greeters, servers, clean

up, and photographers. The parents helped with seating and setting up for breakfast,” Gilg said.

Grandparents Day Mass has been a tradition for at least 15 years. Students annually invite their grandparents to Marian for Mass and breakfast. The unusually large group of grandparents entered the building around 9 a.m. to begin the search for their granddaughters. A whopping 424 students swarmed into the Quad and started the mad

Glory and Praise Grandparents join hands with their Marian granddaughters at Mass on the morning of Oct. 8. More than 700 grandparents joined the girls for the day’s festivities. photo by emilymckenna

Marian’s Halloween traditions evolve over time noellepick

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alloween is one of the few holidays that the student body is able to spend together.

Because of this opportunity, traditions have been established to create a fun and memorable experience for all. Traditions include the seniors’ costume competition and a classic Halloween movie shown for the entire school in the West Gym. As a student, alumna, and former English teacher, Ms. Connie Cavel, ‘68, did not experience Halloween like current students do. “When I was a student at Marian, there were no real Halloween traditions. There was a fall dance called The Harvest Hop. Sometimes, that dance might have had a Halloween flavor, but never a Halloween theme,” Cavel said.

Seniors began dressing in costumes for Halloween just before Cavel began her teaching career, but the tradition “really took off when the Class of 1976 were seniors,” Cavel said.

Almost all costumes were made by

hand, and students paraded during year’s movie was Disney’s “Twitches,” an assembly. “I remember that starring Tia and Tamera Mowry. the costumes were great–very Halloween traditions prove to be ingenious!” Cavel said. memorable for many, including Cavel “Other grades love watching and Townley. “My favorite Marian seniors parade around, and it’s so Halloween memory is the year that much fun for the seniors to dress up,” the movie was ‘Young Frankenstein.’ senior Mary Townley said.

It has some suggestive lines and A school-wide showing of a scenes, nothing by today’s standards, Halloween movie began in 1973 with and all the students couldn’t believe the famous Audrey Hepburn thriller that we let them watch it!” Cavel said.

“Wait Until Dark.” “The movie “Who doesn’t love watching a continued scary movie in the gym until about when they should be in 1983 or 1984,” class?” Townley said.

Cavel said.

Halloween This tradition traditions are just one was revived in thing that make Marian 1988 and then unique. Each year, again in 2012, students look forward repeating to curling up with 711 history by of their best friends, showing enjoying a Tootsie Pop “Wait Until and a spooky movie, Dark.” and watching seniors Since then, parade in their creative the movies costumes.

Mary Townley ‘16 “Dial M for Murder” and “Birds” have been featured. “Normally, I am not a scary movie person at all, but when everyone is supporting each other, I can bear them,” Townley said. This

“Other grades love watching seniors parade around, and it’s so much fun for the seniors to dress up.”

dash to find their grandparent(s).

“You do not know the definition of struggle until you try to find your grandma who is 5 feet tall in a sea of giants,” sophomore Maddie Robertson said.

Originally, the Mass was held in February during Catholic Schools Week. Due to the cold of Nebraska winter, many grandparents opted out of making the icy trek to Marian which resulted in around 50 attendees. In the years since, Grandparents Day Mass has developed into a beloved autumn tradition. Grandparents and students alike look forward to this day every year.

“It’s my favorite day of the year.

I love meeting Keara’s friends and spending quality time with her,” John McCarthy, grandfather of junior Keara Compton, said.

McCarthy’s granddaughter feels that this tradition is important as well.

“It creates a special bond between two generations and provides something where you can share something special with your grandparents and vice versa,” Compton said.

Grandparents Day Mass is a beneficial tradition that helps Marian girls connect with their grandparents.

This tradition proves to be valuable for grandparents and granddaughters for creating memories that will last lifetimes.

TAKE A LOOK INSIDE!

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2 • News

The Network • Oct. 2015 Emily Schneckenberger ‘19 and Claire Scheckenberger ‘16 smile as they talk to Phone-A-Thon donors. Funds goes to tuition assistance, curriculum improvement, and faculty and staff enhancements. photo courtesy of Sue Mickey

Leadership workshops inspire confidence in Marian students

kathrynbaginski ot everyone can be born a Jennifer The leadership workshops also offer Lawrence, a Michelle Obama, or a two unique opportunities for seniors.

Malala Yousafzai no matter how much she In the past, seniors have only been fawishes. However, even these strong leaders cilitators of small groups. The seniors are had to start somewhere. English Departnow invited to participate in the workment staff members Ms. Megan Piernicky shops as well as offer specific leadership and Ms. Susie Sisson set out to establish stories to the freshmen. that starting point here at Marian.

Beginning on Nov. 23, freshmen will For the past six years, Piernicky and have their own specialized workshops, Sisson have offered free leadership training which will focus on communication, workshops to Marian students. They hope organization, and interpersonal relations. to see students walk out of this building Seniors will lead small groups and offer confident in their unique abilities. personal stories about leadership.

“The skills that we are teaching students “This year is all about making lead… are the ership skills that are tangible for going to enthe student able them to body. It’s be successful not this regardless floating of whatever idea in the career path sky, it’s or vocation something you girls are that we can choosing,” all particPiernicky ipate in,” said. “Those Piernicky are skills said. that you To cap can transfer off the to not only workshops, leadership there will positions be an that you girls all-school are in but to assembly in Leading Ladies Courtney Kilroy ‘18 (right) and Diana Elizalde anything out ‘18 laugh at the Oct. 21 leadership workshop. Ms. Sabrina March.

Schalley accurately and humourosly described the girls’ in the rest of A diverse personalities using colors. photo by kathrynbaginski the world.” panel of The first session, “Discover My inspiring women will speak to the entire Strengths,” took place on Oct. 21 in the student body, displaying the variety of Marian cafeteria. leadership roles in the world.

Students took a personality inventory With this training and experience before this session, which assigned them under their belts, Marian students can to one of four colors--blue, green, gold, take on the world confidently, knowing or orange--that corresponded with their that their unique differences will make personality types. the world a better place.

“It helped me to learn my weaknesses “Even though some of us are natural and strengths, so I can improve upon my born leaders,” Piernicky said, “we all have weaknesses,” sophomore Caroline Lahey the instinct to lead inside of us, and we said. all lead Ms. Sabrina Schalley, in differa licensed mental health ent ways, practitioner, guided which the girls through their is part personality results and of what offered an outside voice makes it so on the importance of beautiful.” acknowledging one’s Ms. Megan Piernicky strengths and weaknesses.

Schalley described specific situations and how each personality color would react. The room erupted into gigannporter gles as each girl recognized how accurately aying it and spelling it might be hard, Ms. Schalley could predict their reactions. but it is definitely a recognizable word.

“My favorite thing was learning not Gnimocemoh is “Homecoming” spelled only your colors, but the colors of those backwards, and it is one of the many around you and how true they really are,” things that make Marian unique. Gnisophomore Courtney Kilroy said. mocemoh Spirit Week started on Oct. 20 The next two sessions, which will focus and ended with the dance on Oct. 23. on personal values and community contriSenior Class Officers came up with butions, take place on Nov. 19 and Feb. 3 themes for each day during Spirit Week in the Marian cafeteria. and also a theme for the Friday night The second session will include visits dance. from Dr. Joe Ecklund and Mrs. Michelle Everything is backwards at Marian Morrison, two Creighton University staff Homecoming, along with this year’s members who lead Emotionally Intelligent theme.

Neewollah, Halloween backwards, Leadership workshops. was the theme this year.

During the third session, students will “Neewollah was an easy choice. Since learn how to use their strengths and values it is so close to Halloween, we thought it to contribute positively to their commuwas the perfect fit,” senior Class Officer nities.

Jenna Taylor said. Girls were asked to “We hope it gets them thinking about dress up in their favorite Halloween costhemselves and their own abilities in a way tumes as they danced to the “spook-tacuthey’ve never thought about that before,” lar” DJ Hotboy.

The class officers created Sisson said. a haunted house vibe in the West Gym

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“This year is all about making leadership tangible for the student body.”

Students phone for funds

megankeyser rmed with cell phones, pens, and is used for tuition assistance, curriculum multiple bowls of M&Ms, Maridepartment improvement, and faculty and an girls to call Marian alums as part of staff necessities.

Phone-A-Thon, the school’s annual giving “A myriad of cash flow is what we’re program. giving this school,” Mickey said. “It funds Freshman Emily Schneckenberger the financial community’s need.” grinned across the table at her sister, Daily compensations and prizes rangsenior Claire Schneckenberger, and the ing from BLUEtique items to gift cards are room erupted into celebratory congratprovided as incentives to the students to ulations. She thanked the woman on the keep making the calls. phone for her $500 donation, ended the Mistakes and misdials have lead to call, and dialed multiple humorous another proconversations with spective donor’s strangers. “Somenumber. times you call and it’s “Phone-Athe wrong number.

Thon allows us That’s awkward,” to connect with Claire said. “One time the donor on a I called a lady and personal basis,” she said, ‘I don’t want Ms. Sue Lindto talk to you,’ and sey Mickey ‘69, hung up. But then director of the most people are really Ms. Sue Lindsay Mickey ‘69 Marian Fund, nice.” said. “You really As the Schneckenwant to mainberger sisters sat for tain a conversation and relationship with hours at a time powered by candy and mothe donor.” tivation to get donations, they exchanged Marian’s Phone-A-Thon program laughs. “If she [Emily]’s on the phone and began in the offices and cubicles of insurtrying to talk, I’ll make her laugh, and we ance companies in the early 1990s. After just giggle with each other,” Claire said. the implementation of privacy laws, the “We have to apologize and keep laughing.” program transferred to cell phones. It has “I hire students to supplement the taken place after school in the College amount of volunteers we need to call the Center ever since. Volunteers and stualums and parents of alums because there dents are given a script and instructions is such a huge amount of people we need to follow as they solicit funds. to connect with,” Mickey said.

“Phone-A-Thon builds relationships,” Students are not only offered a financial Claire said. “It’s really great to talk to reward, but also gain experience to bolster the alums. When they ask you how your their resumés. year is going, it’s fun to be able to talk to “It really helps with communicating them.” skills,” Emily said. “Before starting, I was The Marian Fund’s financial goal this really nervous talking to other people on year is $600,000 and “Phone-A-Thon is a the phone but now, I’m comfortable with good percentage of the Marian Fund. It’s it.” critical to the school because it brings in “You’re really making an impact on the more money than any other fundraiser in school,” Mickey said. “You have to convey the school,” Mickey said. that to the donors, because it’s their money The Phone-A-Thon program generates we’re using to increase the programs we 30 percent of the Marian Fund goal, or have, to enhance faculty programs and $160,000-$200,000 every year. The money technology.”

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“[Phone-A-Thon] is critical to the school because it brings in more money than any other fundraiser in the school.”

Ghouls just want to have fun at Gnimocemoh

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and Quad area with fake spider webs and defeated the teachers in an intense game. lights.

On Friday, Marian turned from an allSince there was no school on Monday, girl’s school to an all-dad’s school. The dad Tuesday’s theme of Animal Print kicked theme caused girls to dress in cargo shorts, off the week. On Wednesday, the theme polos, and visors. was Two Peas in a Pod (twin) day. With a This year, Gnimocemoh was a BOSS partner, girls event. “It is unfortuchose their nate that it is a BOSS See p. 16 for PHOTOS from event, because not favorite pair to dress up as. many juniors and GNIMOCEMOH Week!

There was evseniors will be able to erything from go because the ACT Scooby Doo is the next day and and Shaggy to state cross country is the Weasley that same day, but it is twins. good that there is an “My favorite incentive to go!” senior pair was the Starbucks frappuccino and Class Officer Mary Kate Mulhall said. barista. They were so creative!” sophomore The “fang-tastic” night brought crazy Sunday Geek said. costumes, laughs and a whole lot of The annual staff versus student voldancing. “Gnimocemoh was really fun! leyball game was on Thursday, and girls It was so unique and I am so glad I chose wore jerseys with their skirts. The students Marian.”

Oct. 2015 • The Network

News • 3

Rumors spread faster than lice:

Students are itching to know what’s bugging the school racheljohnson

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ne can only imagine what would have been going through a visitor’s mind on Monday, Oct. 7.

Marian girls crowded the attendance office and walked through the halls with sweatshirt hoods cinched tight, careful not to get too close to the person next to them.

Was there an intruder in the building? Was there a disease outbreak? The only thing spreading through Marian on that Monday morning were rumors—and a few lice.

A variety of rumors circulated about the source of the lice. Some claimed that the lice started with a certain individual, the sophomore class, or the dance team. “Because I’m on dance team, people probably expected that I had lice. Just because one person might have had it, doesn’t mean the whole team did,” freshman dance team member, Jenna Grote, said. Because there are many rumors, it is nearly impossible to pinpoint exactly how the lice got to Marian, nor does it matter.

Though it is unknown how the lice reached Marian, the principal, Mrs. Susie Sullivan has heard of several cases of lice at Omaha schools. These schools include three or four different grade schools, as well as Omaha Burke

and Duchesne Academy. students have returned to school.

A nurse from the Visiting Nurse Many rumors exaggerated the Association was brought in to help number of girls that actually got sent check the home. “I was walking heads of down the hallway and concerned overheard someone Marian girls say 85 girls were sent for lice. The home,” Sullivan said. nurse came to Even though only five Marian four girls were actually sent times over two home, bringing in the weeks, just to nurse helped ease the be cautious. frenzy.

“The line In addition to of girls to be checking heads, Marian checked was had the locker rooms so long that it cleaned thoroughly. extended down Though lice are most the hallway,” commonly spread front office through head-to-head supervisor, contact, cleaning the Mrs. Diane locker rooms was a good Hancock, said. precautionary measure Many girls that also helped settle were checked, everyone down. but only five As the variety of graphic by collettegillaspie were sent home as a rumors about the lice precaution to be treated increased, so did the for lice. amount of panic. “The attendance Of these five girls, two did not office was extremely busy between actually have lice. Marian did not students getting checked and officially hear back from the other hundreds of parents calling,” Sullivan three, but all potentially infected said. There was also an unusual

Mock trial participants close the case

tessamclaughlin ock Trial is back at Marian, and students are ready to put their lawyer skills to the test. “The best part about Mock Trial is getting to actually go to competitions; it’s really fun to see everyone’s hard work finally coming out, and when you ask really good questions,” senior Emmy Witzenburg said, “and when you impeach your witness, it’s a really good feeling.”

These are just a few of Witzenburg’s favorite things about Mock Trial.

This school year marked the resurrection of Mock Trial, and it was all thanks to lawyer Jennifer Icenogle and social studies teacher Tom Baker.

Baker has “enjoyed watching the girls work extremely hard to meet their

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goals.”

The team this year is composed of freshman Lily Gonzalez, freshman Taylor Hofbauer, junior Vienna Tang, junior Sarah Villarreal, senior Morgan Crockett, senior Collette Gillaspie, senior Emmy Witzenburg, and senior Ashley Yakopec.

Dressed for success Vienna Tang ‘17, Ashley “Mock Trial is basically an Yokopec ‘16, Sarah Villarreal ‘17, lawyer Jennifer activity where you compete Icenogle, Morgan Crockett ‘16, Collette Gillaspie ‘16, against other teams, so you reand Emmy Witzenburg ‘16 post for a picture at the ceive a case and argue it in front courthouse after a competition. photo courtesy of Amy Gillaspie of a real judge and jury that is composed of two real attorneys,” School in the trial of Taylor Tomte Witzenburg said. versus Estate of Orville Earhart, an The first meet on Oct. 13 went well; imaginary case that involves a drone the team defeated Elkhorn South High and $1,000,000 worth of gnome dam-

Father-daughter Mass and breakfast deepens bonds

Father Daughter Duo Maia Delkamiller ‘16 and theology teacher Mr. Kory Delkamiller give an introductory reflection at the Father/Daughter Mass and Breakfast on Oct. 18.

The father-daughter pair shared what it was like having each other in their daily workplace/learning environment. photo by clarawertzberger

age. “The case is the same throughout the whole year. Before our first trial we practiced every day after school for two hours. Now we practice whenever we can find the time,” Witzenburg said.

The second meet on Oct. 19 against Duchesne Academy of the Sacred Heart was tough. The team did not end up winning overall, but they felt they put up a good fight. “Our most recent competition was a big challenge, but I think our team performed really well. In case you don’t know, Duchesne is the defending national champion in Mock Trial. It was kind of intimidating going up against them, but considering it was only our second trial ever, we did a really good job, and we made a lot of good points,” Witzenburg said.

Watch the savvy Mock Trial team compete against Northwest High School at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 5 at the Douglas County Courthouse.

The girls on the team are only getting better, so come and witness what the team has worked hard to accomplish.

amount of girls that went home sick.

According to Hancock, the absentee rate was the highest it has been all school year.

Lice are more common among grade schools, but Sullivan has heard of a popular trend that might be causing an increased presence of lice in high schools and college campuses: the selfie. Some think it may sound crazy that taking a selfie can heighten the chances of getting lice, but it makes sense. When people take selfies, they often pose with their head right next to someone else’s. This direct head-to-head contact makes it easier for lice to spread.

Regardless of how the lice made their way through the doors of Marian, the issue can be put to rest.

The girls who needed treatment have been treated, and many others went out to buy treatment, even if they didn’t need it. One Walgreens employee even asked a girl buying lice treatment if she went to Marian.

With that being said, it is safe to say that Marian has taken all of the necessary steps to resolve the issue. “I don’t think we should worry about it,” Sullivan said. Just stay diligent about not sharing brushes and sweatshirts.”

Mock Trial Breakdown

collettegillaspie & allykmiecik

1. Get dressed in your power suits with makeup and hair on point.

2. Navigate your way through the treacherous one-way streets of downtown Omaha.

3. Finally find the parking garage after many panicked calls to lawyer coach Jen Icenogle.

4. Enter Douglas County Courthouse.

5. Go through a metal detector and make small talk with policemen.

6. Ride in a cramped elevator to meet the competition.

7. Enter the courtroom in a cold sweat.

8. Freak out a little over having all the required papers together.

9. Rise to meet the judge.

10. Lawyers from both sides introduce themselves and their fellow council members (teammates).

11. Lawyers from both sides give the opening statements.

12. Begin the trial.

13. Lawyers from both sides kindly direct examine their own witnesses.

14. Witnesses answer in as charming a manner as possible.

15. Lawyers from both sides interrogate the other team’s witnesses during the cross examination.

16. Lawyers from both sides prepare and deliver stellar closing statements.

17. The two lawyer jury members and Mock Trial main judge tally up. scores.

18. The three performance judges give constructive criticism.

19. Marian wins the trial.

4 • Opinion

The Network • Oct. 2015

Spooky situations Haunted houses, scary movies, not a problem are not up my ALLeY “W

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have never seen either of the full movies of Willy Wonka or “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” all the way through. Why? Because of utter terror.

The last time I tried to force myself through the full 1971 or 2005 movie, I was in full blown tears by the opening credits.

It takes a nice scenario of kids and candy and makes it twisted by throwing in rabid squirrels and Wonka’s minions who look like they got a bad spray tan. It’s like the world is begging for Ally Kmiecik to be forever in terror. I will never be able to eat a chocolate bar or piece of candy again without remembering my slightly traumatizing experience with the brief portion of the movies I did glimpse.

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hy would you pay to be scared?” This is a question I get asked every fall. In fact, I remember the first time I was asked this question. It was October of my eighth grade year, and I had been dying for my mom to let me go to a haunted house like my older siblings had been doing for years. After weeks of begging, she finally said yes. I was absolutely exhilarated.

The next day at school, I excitedly rushed up to my best friend, invited her to go to Scary Acres, and anxiously awaited her answer. She looked appalled.

“Why would you pay to be scared? I don’t get it,” she said. I was completely disheartened.

“Why would I pay to be scared? I don’t know, maybe the same reason you paid for a ticket to Worlds of Fun last summer.” Our friendship soon ended.

I’ve come to ponder this question quite a bit. At first, I really didn’t have an answer to why I would pay to be scared. Why do I like being chased by bloody clowns through an old creepy house? Why do I enjoy sitting through two hours of intense psychological terror shown on a 30 by 70 foot screen? I have one answer, my friend. It’s called thrill.

Everyone loves a good thrill, whether it’s a roller coaster ride or a fantastic rom-com. Mine just happens to be the suspense of not knowing what’s going to pop out in front of me.

The build up of anxiety and fear gives some sort of indescribable adrenaline rush, the same reason avid rock climbers and skydivers keep going back for more.

We’re all just adventure-seeking adrenaline junkies, only I prefer to find that adrenaline where there is no real danger.

I know I’m not the only person who feels this way about scary movies

and haunted houses. With more than 1,200 paid haunted house attractions in the U.S. and an incredibly in-demand horror film genre, there is an obvious interest in this sort of unnerving thrill.

I honestly believe you just have to give it a chance. I, too, have had traumatic childhood experiences of watching “Childsplay” and “The Shining” with my older siblings when I was far too young. I promise you, though, haunted houses aren’t nearly as traumatizing when you’re a high school girl with several other friends sharing the experience.

In fact, I’ve had funny experiences in haunted houses.

Let’s be honest, the blood and the nasty-looking lacerations can be so blatantly unreal to the point of humor. And the different gruesome characters wandering around can actually turn out to be quite friendly once you get to know them.

Don’t even get me started on scary movies. Eighty percent of the scary movies I’ve seen are flat out humorous with barely any plot.

I understand if you’ll be in the corn maze or on an innocent hayrack ride this fall. But while you’re taking it easy and relaxing in the comfort of a nostalgic Vala’s campfire, I’ll be at Mystery Manor or catching up on the latest episode of “American Horror Story.” After all, paying for fear is worth every penny.

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My family, friends, and peers have deemed me a “scaredy cat.” The scariest Halloween costume I’ve ever worn was Winnie the Pooh three whole years in a row. (It was probably scarier that the costume fit me for three years).

We are approaching the one year mark of watching “The Birds” at Marian to celebrate Halloween, and I

STILL make an “are there any crows in sight?” check before walking outside. Those things could attack at any given moment. I take pride in not having common phobias. Brussel sprouts? Delish, sign me up. Public speaking? A breeze. Denim on denim? Come at me. However, anything even slightly scary is definitely not up my scaredy cat ALLeY. I’m not saying I hibernate all October, I just choose to celebrate this festive month in a less scary manner.

While all my friends are haunted housing and planning their scary costumes for October 31, I prefer adding toppings to my caramel apples and painting pumpkins because carving pumpkins involves holding a sharp object, which can be scary within itself.

I absolutely ADORE the fairy tale haunted house at Vala’s. I can make it though the baby one if I close my eyes the whole time and have people holding both hands. My friends love making fun of me for my huge imagination, but I don’t see any problem with it.

On the outside I may seem calm, but when it’s time to tuck myself into bed, I can promise you ALL my lights are on. I am thinking about how there are things more terrifying than Mr. Baker’s double multiples or the walk up sophomore lot.

I just can’t fathom the desire to pay big bucks to be petrified for months after a “fun night out” at a haunted house.

I am in no way saying those who can brave the terrors of spooky situations are wrong, even though you seem a little BATTY to me.

Major props to you. Leave the spooks at home for me, because this GHOUL just wants to have fun.

Secrets from a senior: A true story about how 7th semester is abusing me

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reparation for college has me analyzing everything I do. I now narrate my life in the form of a college essay. Every time I open the fridge, I ask myself, “Are you going to eat something noteworthy today? How can your choice in a snack show the meaning of food in your life? Describe the vital steps you take in choosing a snack.”

Putting it lightly, lots of things have changed since junior year. For one thing, I now stare at my assignment notebook longer than I stare at pictures of Chris Pine. I also have the strange need to call my counselor “Mom,” considering I see her more than my actual family.

In addition, my attention span has decreased dramatically.* I now have the unique ability to glaze over during any conversation.

If you are wondering what I think about during these “zone out” times, let me tell you: not much. I like to think that my vacant thoughts revolve around profound and inspiring revelations, but they usually revolve around the many flavors of Papillion’s Just Pop’d popcorn. Did you know that Just Pop’d has more than 60 flavors?

Lack of sleep is another side effect of senior year. Let’s be honest, though,

lack of sleep is an issue all four years full-blown adult. of high school. Why I ever intentionGoodbye kiddie menus and hello ally pulled all-nighters during middle 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Reschool, I will never know. I like to trick turn! This reminds me: I have to work my brain into thinking that I get a lot on my will! Who wants to be includof sleep. ed? Your options are my gently used On parsnorkel ticularly late and fins, column by collettegillaspie nights, I go a “Nancy to sleep with Drew” the mindbook with set of “I’m missing just going pages and to take a a torn quick nap cover, now.” When and my I wake up sweet the next ride–the morning, Millenmy mind nium says “Gee! Falcon.

What a long, The Milrestful nap!” It’s all about perspective, lennium Falcon is my precious 2001 ladies. gold Honda Civic. It’s a fourth generBeing a night owl is not a bad thing, ation hand-me-down that you can call though! It has its benefits. For ex“vintage” and “hipster.” But I digress… ample, you can–Well, you are–Um, Adults often ask me the terrifying yeah… I got nothing. question, “What are you going to do Another gem of both senior year with the rest of your life?” I simultaneand the general high school experience ously hold back screams of horror and is that everyone wants to know what despair. More likely than not, I usually your future holds. All of a sudden, I respond with the equivalent of a dry went from meek middle schooler to heave, “BLEGHUGH!”

I Coll-Ette As I See It

After responding to The Question, I’m really angsty for the rest of the day.

Mom: How was your day?

Me: WHY DO YOU HATE ME?!

(Screams. Runs into room. Slams door.)

Let me tell you a secret. The person who said high school is easy is a liar.

High school is physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting. One week, there are 40 tests. The next week, you are the middle woman during a fight between friends. Sometimes, both crises occur at the same time.

To stay sane, I like to imagine my future self, specifically the elusive Eighth Semester Collette.

What a pro. She has the whole college thing figured out. Until then, I must focus on the things that are important in life, like getting enough sleep and choosing my next flavor of Just Pop’d popcorn. I’m thinking white chocolate drizzled kettle corn with Mike and Ike’s… *CAUTION: The reader should take note that the author exhibited times of “zoning out” during the production of this article. She takes full responsibility for any confusion on behalf of the reader.”

Oct. 2015 • The Network

Opinion • 5

If you love me, let me speed walk: a message to slow walkers clarawertzberger

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or the past four years, I’ve always felt that walking through a hallway is like driving. Staying in your lane is crucial. If you need to stop, you go to the far side. You should always obey the speed limit. I must admit, I do have a bit of a lead foot, so it’s no surprise that I am one heck of an irritable walker.

Now, I understand that different people have different priorities. Maybe your next class is only two rooms down, and you want to take a breather between classes. Maybe you’re a senior headed to study hall, so you’re in no rush at all. Maybe, you’re one of my favorite types of people who just like to walk slowly, and you aren’t aware that the female human embodiment of Sonic the Hedgehog is right behind you.

My gotta-go-fast mentality started in middle school. I was an anxious young girl who was always afraid that no matter the distance between my classes, I would somehow arrive late. I developed a speedy walk that allowed me to zip across the building regardless of how much I was carrying.

My walk is perfect for me: it gets me where I need to go when I need to get there, aka three minutes before the class even starts.

Obviously, there are some downsides to my speed walking. My tendency to carry several heavy books in my backpack forces me to walk through the hallway like some abnor-

mally fast turtle. Also, my need for speed can leave my friends irritated and in the dust. But the greatest issue I have with my pace is not actually with me, it’s with others.

As I said earlier, different people have different priorities and, therefore, different paces. I respect that, but they must realize that my long gazelle legs cannot be hindered by what they would consider a “normal pace.” Often my peers like to stroll through the hallways while talking with friends. I understand their desire to chat, but there’s a time and a place, people, and that place is not the middle of the hallway!

Slow walkers, I know that you may not place much emphasis on walking quickly, but I do. I like that I’ll never have to worry about being late or forgetting something. Because I’ll be so early to class, I can go to my locker and be back in time for the late bell.

Contrary to common beliefs based on this article, I do not run track.

While many of you probably have athletic activities before or after school and don’t want to tire yourselves out, my exercise is done in the halls of Marian.

It’s silly, I know, but three stairwells are more than enough for my easily exhausted lungs.

If you decide to stop in the hallway or walk slowly, that’s fine. Just know that I will patiently, kindly make like a track star and jump over you.

#Relatable: Singing in the car

elsiestormberg

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t was an absolutely gorgeous day. I had the windows rolled down, sunglasses on, and music blaring. Beyoncé’s “Love on Top,” to be specific.

I was singing along with Queen Bey, quite loudly and not too well if I might add, when I looked over and saw kids in the back of their stereotypical soccer-mom minivan glaring at me. I understand I was not #blessed with a voice as magical as Beyoncé’s, but why judge me?

1) Respect my privacy: I can sing in my car if I want to. I wouldn’t judge

you if you were singing. In fact, I might just join you.

2) Manners: Didn’t your mother ever teach you manners in between soccer games?

3) Don’t you have a soccer game to attend?

All I am saying is next time you see me jamming to some J-Lo or Maroon 5 and you do not like it, then, please, do me the honor of moving on with your life.

Singing in the Car

PLAYLIST

1. love on top // beyonce 2. this is how we do // katy perry 3. beautiful soul // jesse mccartney 4. burnin’ up // jonas brothers 5. lip gloss // lil mama 6. misery // maroon 5 6. put your records on // corinne bailey rae 7. replay // yaz

*Be sure to comment your favorite song on the online Network! mariandigitalnetwork. wordpress.com

elsiestormberg sings in “Mario.”

speedipus reginae

speedipus interruptus NO PASSING

cartoon by clarawertzberger

This 5’7” trick-or-treater is still in the game

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rowing up, Halloween was by far I might have been lit up like Times the best holiday. Months of hard Square, but my intricate ensembles work and anticipation had gone into underneath the glowsticks always one memorable, magical night. My made a statement. This is what really young curly-haired and wide-eyed self sparked my love for trick-or-treating. spent a countless amount of time flipI’ll admit: I was that teenager. I ping through Halloween magazines didn’t care if it was “uncool” to go trying to figure out who I was going trick-or-treating in middle school. to transform into that year. My mom If there was going to be free candy, had spent night after night slaving your girl was there. I am unashamed away on her sewing machine, making to admit that I did this all the way sure that my handmade costume was up to sophomore year. I realized my absolutely perfect. (Yes, she made all window of opportunity was closing my costumes growing up... What a rapidly, and I knew I had to go all woman.) out with my costume because my I am not ashamed to 5-foot-7-inch height admit that the costume column by devongottsch blew my cover. I did I rocked as a 1-yearwhat any desperate old was a Hershey’s 15-year-old would Kiss. The metallic, do. I dressed up as puffy fabric proved the a chicken, because typical chubby Halwho could say no to loween baby syndrome a chicken? was alive and well. My However, the mom still says to this unanticipated cold day that my cheeks shoulder was never alone filled out the fun, and I expeentire hole for my face. rienced it often.

Gottsch-Ya Covered She said I was just Eventually, I started so “kissable.” Haha... receiving, “Aren’t You’ve got to love mom you a little old for jokes. trick-or-treating?” Lady, please do not As the years went on, I rocked evtell me how to live my life. I could say erything from Cinderella, to a gypsy, you’re a little old to be wearing those to Ariel the Little Mermaid complete PINK sweatpants, but you don’t hear with the red wig. The countless, tiring me saying anything, do you? hours I spent with a measuring tape As Halloween approaches, I can around various parts of my body was feel my inner child resurfacing once well worth it. again. I passed the costume section Getting compliments on my at Walmart the other day in complete costumes just amped my adolescent envy because I know I can never turn confidence. Trick-or-treating was the back the clock, no matter how much I best part because, honey, I knew I want to. looked good even though I had dozens Even though this former profesof glowsticks anchored around my sional candy consumer is now a candy body so my mom could keep track of “passer-outer,” I can’t help but still me. What can I say? I was a girl on love Halloween with my whole spooky a mission and tended to wander off. heart.

The Network The Network is a monthly publication of the journalism students at Marian High School, Nebraska’s only Class A, Catholic, North Central Accredited college preparatory school for girls. The Network is a member of the N.H.S.P.A, N.S.P.A. and the C.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 by 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

Managing Editors: tessamclaughlin & clarawertzberger Copy Editor: kathrynbaginski Photo Editor: elsiestormberg Graphics Editor: makenziefuss Online Editor: noellepick Sport Media Director: lindsaymuse Front Page Editor: marykiscoan News Editors: allykmiecik & anniesoener Opinion Editor: racheljohnson Feature Editors: kellyndaly, makenziefuss, anyalindholm & annporter Indepth Editor: collettegillaspie Sports Editors: devongottsch & lindsaymuse Entertainment Editors: andreahuber & mollymiller Photo Essay Editor: megankeyser Adviser: marshakalkowski

6 • Feature

The Network • Oct. 2015

Teachers pursue higher education racheljohnson

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photo by noellepick Helpful smile in every aisle Janna Whited ’17 works the checkout lane at Hy-Vee. Whited works at the 156th and Maple location.

Marian girls check out job experience at local grocery stores

lindsaymuse irst jobs can be difficult for some people to find, but not for Marian girls. With the incentive to earn a little bit of pocket cash and job experience, girls turn towards their local grocery stores.

“I was drawn to Hy-Vee because the pay was good, it looked easy, and I was able to interact with people,” junior Meredith Zielie said.

Many other Marian girls are drawn to local groceries for the same reasons. They are able to gain first job experiences and share common bonds with both coworkers and customers.

Junior Brianna Wessling applied for a job at Baker’s for these reasons as well as an additional one. “I wanted a job, but not many places were hiring girls at 15 years old,” Wessling said.

For Marian girls, the most common first positions at local groceries are as checkers and customer service workers. As a checker, senior Payton Ranck has learned a variety of skills in dealing with customers. “I have learned how to put a smile on my face when customers come through my line and how to handle situations when a customer becomes rude or demanding,” Ranck said.

Marian girls have gained valuable first job experiences that include learning how to be more helpful, understanding people of different backgrounds, balancing work and play, and recognizing that there is a solution to every problem.

These experiences have reaffirmed the core values that Marian has introduced to them. Senior Sophia Marasco feels that Hy-Vee’s motto truly represents service to its employees and customers. “Hy-Vee is all about serving their customers, as you can hear in their slogan ‘Where there’s a helpful smile in every aisle.’ This shows that we are willing and ready to serve our customers,” she said. These girls bring the core values of community, compassion, and service to their workplaces, spreading the mission of Marian to grocery stores all over Omaha.

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arian students are accustomed to investing is a wealth of knowledge,” Raabe said. hours upon hours of their time in homework Raabe has also noticed improvements in her and studying. As the work piles up, it is easy to look teaching methods, especially in terms of technology. forward to the day when homework, papers, and She finds herself using more tools in the classroom, tests are no longer daunting aspects of their lives. as well as introducing girls to online cataloging However, it rarely occurs to students that the very systems and emphasizing the importance of source people that give them these assignments might have citations. Though Raabe’s endorsement does not a heavy homework load themselves. involve Spanish, what she has learned has proven to Several Marian teachers have been working to be beneficial to her Spanish students. further their education and earn an additional deRaabe and Bauer are not the only foreign langree. On top of teaching full time, they take classes guage teachers involved in programs to further their to better themselves as educators. Science teacher education. Spanish teacher Mrs. Cassie Craig is Mrs. Julia Pick and Spanish teacher Mr. Andrew participating in a 36-credit-hour course called The Bauer are both working Master’s of Arts in Language towards earning a Master Teaching Program (MALT) of Science in Educational through UNO. Leadership through Creigh“I always knew I wanted to ton University. Both Pick and get my master’s degree, and the Bauer earned scholarships MALT program is particularly from the Archdiocese of beneficial, because it consists of Omaha that will pay for the both Spanish classes and classclasses, provided that they es on how to teach language efteach at Catholic schools for fectively,” Craig said. She feels five more years. she has made adjustments Mrs. Sharon Genoways that Earning a second master’s in the classroom by monitoring degree is beneficial because student progress and employit allows teachers to continue ing new reading strategies. learning and improving. It also opens up new opporScience teacher Mrs. Sharon Genoways is also in tunities for the future. With an Educational Leaderthe process of boosting her credentials. Genoways ship degree, Pick and Bauer will have the qualificais earning a doctorate degree through UNO in the tions needed to do administrative work, curriculum Department of Educational Leadership under the directing, and much more. umbrella of science, technology, engineering, and As the course continues to unfold, both teachers math (STEM). have noticed positive changes in the way they teach.

The construction of Marian’s STEM lab is what “You need to know and establish what effective sparked Genoways’s interest in pursuing a doctorteaching looks like. I feel that I’ve reflected that al degree. She knew that being involved in such a more as a teacher. Even program would help her make though it’s not related to connections and develop Spanish, there are things I do relationships that could open differently now that I’ve gone up new opportunities for her through this process,” Bauer students. There is a hole in said. the STEM field that Genoways Spanish teacher and librarifeels Marian girls are capable an assistant Mrs. Molly Raabe of filling. More opportunities ’89 is also involved in a highly and exposure could help make Mrs. Molly Raabe ’89 it possible for them to do so. sought-after program to further her education. Raabe There is no question that is earning an Endorsement continuing to take classes to in Library Sciences, a nationfurther their education has al program through the University of Nebraska at been valuable to these teachers.

Omaha (UNO). Members of this program come “Teachers always have the desire to keep learnfrom all over the United States, as well as from ing,” Raabe said. Knowledge of different teaching Dubai. Raabe will earn the qualifications needed to methods and exposure to new technology benefits eventually become Marian’s librarian when current their students and improves their quality of educalibrarian, Mrs. Donna Broekemeier, retires. Raabe tion. has been working alongside Broekemeier this school “We are trying to encourage you girls to become year, learning the ins and outs of the library. lifelong learners,” Genoways said.

“Mrs. Broekemeier is a fantastic librarian, and it Seeing teachers pursue higher education shows has been an honor being able to mentor with her.

Marian girls the value of learning and how it does Students should use her as a resource, because she not have to end with high school or college.

“We are trying to encourage you girls to become lifelong learners.”

“Teachers always have the desire to keep learning.”

Equestrians saddle up for successful year

makenziefuss arian’s Equestrian Club, moderated by Ms. Kathy Janata, is trotting into its fourth year of horsing around. The club will be involved in activities such as volunteer opportunities and barn visits. Students do not have to own a horse to be a part of Equestrian Club, and all are welcome.

In the past, Equestrian Club has visited and donated to HETRA, Gretna’s Heartland Equine Therapeutic Riding Academy. HETRA’s mission is to improve the quality of life of adults and children with disabilities. They have also watched demonstrations of different riding styles to learn as much as they can about riding while having a lot of fun along the way. Although Marian does not have a competitive riding team, these equestrians compete in events outside of school.

Junior Grace Mortenson is a competitive rider. Although not in Equestrian Club, she rides four to five

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times a week, each lasting two to three hours. Mortenson has competed in several riding competitions, and even travels out of state.

Mortenson often goes to St. Louis, Mo., Colorado, and Iowa, but she also gets opportunities to travel outside of the Midwestern area. So far the farthest away from home she’s gone was Gulfport, Miss.

Seniors Julia Smith and Haley Mick are also experienced equestrians. Both Smith and Mick ride and compete on a regular basis.

Smith and her Dutch Warmblood, Nimador, have more than 50 ribbons under their belt. The duo has also won several events in their categories, including hunter classes, jumper classes, equitation, and several others.

In hunter classes, movement of the horse is judged mostly on the ground; jumper classes include jumping; and equitation includes the position of the

rider.

Mick also rides on a competitive level, and she has had high expectations for herself from the start.

“My goal in high school was to compete in the Grand Prix, and I have competed in three so far, so I have reached that goal!” Mick said.

Along with competing in the Grand Prix, Mick also qualified for National Medal Finals. Riders from across the country earn points to participate in this invite only event. Mick and her friend from Duchesne, Molly Laughlin, traveled to Pennsylvania to compete in the finals. They were the only people from Nebraska who qualified.

Marian’s equestrians are very

photo courtesy of gracemortenson Jumping into competition Grace Mortenson ’17 competes in the Modified Junior Jumpers in Parker, Colo.

unique, and it has proven to be a successful way to involve students with their passion, along with their community. The success of equestrians at Marian is developing, as is the Equestrian Club as they add new activities to their calendar.

The Network • Oct. 2015

7 • Feature

The ‘Rags’ set crew recreates 20th-century ghettos of New York City megankeyser

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After many trips to The Home he whir of power drills, fumes Depot to collect supplies, the crew of spray paint, and energy of an excited set construction crew filled the spent most of October designing and constructing sets.

PAC’s set shop as This musical’s stage students designed was minimally and assembled the “The setting brings the decorated in comprops for Marian’s story to life... It makes parison to last year’s fall musical, “Rags.” productions “The “The set deterit real” Little Mermaid” and mines the artistic di“Cursing Mumrection of the show,” Junior Anna Nulty mies.” The musical’s art teacher Mr. Jereplot, the struggle my Cisco said. “The of immigrants in cast determines the New York City in 1910, required a direction of the show, but the artistic less extravagant setting than previous side sets the visual mood.” performances.

While the cast of “Rags” appeared “For this show, we have a lot of on stage to the audience, the set crew leftovers. We recycle a lot of materiworked hard behind the curtain. “It’s al,” Cisco said. “Rolling platforms and good that we have Marian students steps we always keep, because we rehelping [to build], and we’re not just use and redesign them to make them taking props from other schools,” look a little specific for each show.” junior Courtney Doherty said. “The The recycling of props kept the conplay has people involved besides just struction fees far below the projected the actors.”

budget. The crew also used the set pieces on loan from Creighton University.

The set construction crew gathered weekly to build and reconstruct wooden frames to create a sweatshop, wheelbarrows, Props to the set crew Junior Emily Kleinschmit shows concentration while boats, and drilling planks together for a prop. The set construction crew put in at least platforms. four hours a week to make sure “Rags” will be a success.

When photo by megankeyser the curenjoyed “Rags.” tains parted for the first performance “The setting brings the story to on Oct. 29, audience members were immediately drawn into the 20th-cen- life,” junior Anna Nulty said. “It makes it real.” tury bleak New York setting as they

19 Marian Girls and Counting: Juniors continue long family legacy kathrynbaginski

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Kerri Kirby '83

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Although they were able to decide for themselves, Monahan and her cousins had no trouble choosing to don a royal blue uniform and march through the Marian halls every day for the next four years. Marian identity was in their veins, and they already felt at home.

“I decided to go to Marian, because 7 it’s an awesome school, and I wanted 1 ' na An to continue that legacy,” Freed said.

After lots of stories and anticipation, Monahan, Freed, and Kirby Michaela '11 are finally experiencing Marian for themselves. They have 3 learned time management 0 ' e ggi skills, tolerance, and Ma Kiley '07 perseverance all on their own.

“Even if things 75 ' r o aren’t going 100 pern on cent your way, don’t ’C give up and keep O n e trying to achieve what r '80 4 Ka you want to achieve. n '8 a h Don’t let things stop a ) n Moton Prep you from doing what n i h Kev(Creig you want to do,” Monahan said.

Monahan, Freed, and Kirby have all benefited from the all-girls, compassionate environment (grandmother) at Marian. “I like the environment and everything not a Marian grad they teach us at Marian. I like the all girl community. It has had a big impact on me,” Kirby said.

Kirby even wishes to continue the legacy when she has daughters of her own. “I’d give them an option, but I’d tell them all the good things about Marian,” photo by vickiackermann she said.

Not all Marian girls are as lucky as Monahan, Freed, and Kirby to be surrounded by actual family while here, but classmates become friends, and friends become sisters.

Monahan and her cousins have proved that, at Marian, anything is possible. Cousins can even become sisters.

Kat

'17

wo’s company, three’s a crowd, but 19 is just right. Junior Sydney Monahan and her two cousins, juniors Mackenzie Freed and Anna Kirby, are three in a long line of Marian girls.

Monahan, Freed, and Kirby are not the first set of three to roam Marian’s halls, and they may not be the last. Three of their older cousins, Kaitlyn Barnard, Michaela O’Connor, and Jenna Wiest, were all members of the Class of 2011.

Monahan’s two younger Ki m sisters and cousMa nn in could make up ing another set of three Jan '91 e' 06 in Marian at the same time in Liz '02 years to come.

Kelley B These terrific arnard '77 trios prove that good things really do come in threes.

Jil JoAnn Monahan, l '0 Kris Wiest 7 the girls’ grandmother, made the decision to send her daughters to Marian more than four '08 ki k i decades ago. Besides N the outstanding academics, Mrs. Monahan knew Marian had something special to provide.

“Take advantage of what Marian has to offer,” Mrs. Monahan said. “... there is a lot of opportunity to succeed.”

Whenever they spend time with their family, Monahan, Freed, and Kirby see the influence Marian has on its students. “All my aunts and cousins have been very successful, and I think [Marian] has pushed them to achieve what they want to do with their lives,” Monahan said.

Field Day is a hot topic of conversation among their family. As graduates of Juniors at the Barre (2001) and Juniors in Bloom (2010), their aunts and cousins still reminisce about their Demonstrasions and mourn their losses. Despite any lasting bitterness, their graduated relatives are still happy to discuss their Marian memories.

The family competition does not end with Field Day. Walk-A-Thon is a race for money among the three cousins.

“During Walk-A-Thon, it’s whoever gets to the aunt or uncle first,” Freed said.

JoAnn Monahan

graphic by makenziefuss

8 • Indepth

H ealthy. ..

graphics by collettegillaspie

Healthy kick excites student body anyalindholm, kellyndaly & annporter

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arian girls army crawl across the floor, dust in their eyes and determination in their hearts.

A drill sergeant barks orders from the corner of the room, urging them forward.

A sense of camaraderie fills the room as each and every girl struggles to complete the final drill.

This is what most Marian students pictured when they heard of the upcoming boot camp. But when the October Wellness Wednesday rolled around, Marian girls were happy to discover that “boot camp” was actually a fun event.

It is a well-known fact that Marian isn’t the most health conscious school in the world. Between bake sales, Marian Moms, and the half baked cookies at lunch, Marian girls could all do with a celery stick or two.

To combat this issue, the Varsity M Club, an organization of Marian athletes who have earned a Varisty letter, has been tasked Ms. Ronda with increasing health consciousness at Marian.

“Ms. [Mary] Higgins and Mrs. [Susie] Sullivan are very health conscientious women...They would really like to see our school become a little bit more healthconscious,” Ms. Ronda Motykowski ’80, the M Club moderator, said.

“[Higgins and Sullivan] wanted to figure out a way to get the whole school active,” Motykowski said.

Almost every week at Marian, a club or team hosts a bake sale.

Although, it is a great way to raise money, the bake sales are stocked with sugary snacks, drinks and desserts.

President The Marian administration along with the Varsity M Club is trying to promote healthy living and eating.

On Oct. 21, the Varsity M Club sponsored a bake sale, but instead of countless dozens of donuts, various types of cookies, and an assortment of sugary beverages, there was trail mix, fruits and vegetables.

“There are good choices for food out Motykowski ’80 there that are really good and good for you and don’t just send

“There are good choices for food out there that are really good and good for you and don’t just send your blood sugar over the top.”

“Ms. [Mary] Higgins and Mrs. [Susie] Sullivan are very health conscientious women...They would really like to see our school become a little bit more health-conscious.”

Releasing Endorphins Carma Draney ’16, Carllie Meeks ’16 and Skye Manley ’16 laugh as they walk the campus of Marian on Wellness Wednesday. The students walked around the track twice. photo by noellepick

your blood sugar over the top,” Higgins ’69 said.

The healthy bake sale isn’t the only thing Marian is doing to create a healthier environment.

Once a quarter, the M Club is sponsoring Wellness Wednesdays, an activity during extended homeroom, for Mary Higgins ’69 the whole school.

In September, students and teachers walked two loops around the track during extended homeroom. Although it doesn’t seem like much, the goal is to get the students moving during a day of sitting and promote exercise.

On Oct. 28, the second Wellness Wednesday took place. The school completed an 18-minute bootcamp led by two enthusiastic senior instructors, Andie Hanus and Kate Ruffalo, via video played in each homeroom.

“I feel like we have a moral obligation to help girls understand the importance of health, wellness, nutrition, the importance of maintaining your energy and overall health,” Higgins said.

The M Club is continuing to plan future Wellness Wednesdays. The next Wellness Wednesday in January will feature a jazzercise session.

To share your ideas about the next health-conscious event, contact an M Club member or Motykowski today.

A Healthy Helping Rachael Hueftle ’17 looks over the decadent Marian Mom’s dessert table before finally choosing the healthy option available—a fruit cup. She made the decision on Oct. 22. photo by megankeyser

Boosting the Mood and Getting in Shape Riley Miller ’19 and Sophia Moes ’19 demonstrate the benefits of exercise by showing off their pearly whites as they walk around the track. They happily walked during extended homeroom on Sept. 16. photo by noellepick

The Network

Indepth • 9

.. . Liv ing

9* tips to train for your first TRYathlon tessamclaughlin

Network Staff

allykmiecik

Network Staff graphics by collettegillaspie & tessamclaughlin

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1.

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2.

Binge-watch your favorite show on Netflix (obviously “Gossip Girl” ... watching Serena and Blair sit on the Met Steps is basically the same thing as the stair climber at the gym).

Eat literally all of the microwave taquitos in your freezer as a reward because you obviously deserve this.

3. Channel Britney Spears and werk out.

4. Walking up soph-lot with a backpack full of books is a workout in itself.

5. Open Twitter, close Twitter, open Instagram, close Instagram, repeat. You

6.

7.

8.

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gotta work those finger reflexes, as well.

Try to do one sit up or push up. “A” for effort am I right, ladies?

Take a walk … straight to Cold Stone.

Zone in your arm muscles by perfecting your hair flip, channeling your inner-Beyoncé.

Did I already say binge-watch Gossip Girl? Chuck Bass wasn’t built in a day.

*We were too lazy to come up with 10 tips

A lazy student’s guide to healthy living

anniesoener riorities. We all have them.

Priorities are deciding that greasy hair is worth it if showering will prevent you from snagging a coveted spot in upper lot. Priorities are afterschool naps that sometimes last until the next morning because mental health is important and shouldn’t be swept under the rug.

Life tends to feel like a cruel balancing act for many students.

Luckily there is a solution to this earth-shattering issue: exercise!

According to WebMd, exercising works wonders for the brain.

We all have busy schedules, but it’s time to drop some truth: if you can make time to binge-watch “The Office,” you can make time to do some quick exercises.

Some people find peace of mind while taking a nice, long run.

Some people can barely struggle

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k • oct. 2015

Browse Pinterest to wake up up sophomore lot without getting those creative juices. Do you want a embarrassingly winded. chiseled chin? Make that No matter what your dream a reality. You can workout regimen is, it’s do ten chin exercises important to get that in the time it takes blood flowing.

Netflix to load your Start out simple. next episode. Substitute Some people will never a box combo from enjoy physical activity Raising Canes with a quite as much as others protein shake. Pinterest do. Maybe you and the is a gold mine in this elliptical will never have department. You plus a good relationship. You one smoothie made of can’t help it that you went Frappulicious Carly Kelly ’16 flaunts raw egg, tears, and grass on that yoga kick for a her Grande Double equal instant health week but couldn’t make Chocolate Frappucino. guru. it past the downward dog She really respects the ideal of “Treat Yo’ Self.”

Exercise shouldn’t stage. Now, you just have photo by anniesoener feel like a chore. Make a surplus of Lululemon it a game! Every time Spotify asks athletic wear, and that is a-okay! Not you if you’d like to listen to this short everyone has natural athletic ability. video for a month of music without That’s just how the sugar-free cookie crumbles. ads, take that time to do some

jumping jacks, or squats, or pushups! The possibilities are endless.

Regardless, everyone should find a way to squeeze exercise into their daily or weekly schedule. Exercise makes for a clear, happy mind.

Also, remember the importance of TREATING YO’ SELF. This is not only an article on exercise; this is an article on healthy living! You deserve that Grande Double Chocolate Chip Frappucino after all of those ACT practice problems.

High school is an overwhelmingly busy time. In order to stay sane amidst your constant obligations, make sure your mental health is on top of the priority pyramid. Exercise is a game-changer for your brain both physically and mentally. Give your brain a break. Stay motivated by using incentive, and above all else, TREAT. YO’. SELF.

10 • Features

The Network • Oct. 2015

Christmas Queen reigns three months before Christmas party with her friends. But, this came as no surprise to them. She’s a pro at playing Name That Tune Christmas Edition.

“You can name any Christmas song, and I know every word to it,” Walz said.

“Our friends will be having a sleepover and she’ll wake us all up by saying, ‘Wake up, it’s Christmas,’ while playing Christmas music in the background. You want to die, but I hate to say that it’s funny,” senior Macie Kubat said.

Walz hosted a “halfway-to-Christmas” party on 25 June. She has even named her car, or “sleigh” as she refers to it, Prancer. She feels that this title describes her to a T, so much so that she wrote her college application personal statement on this unique aspect of herself.

“Sorry, who’s Hannah? I go by CQ,” she said. Her friends have learned to respect the fact that CQ is not just a nickname to Walz; it’s who she is.

“It’s odd for me to call her Hannah.

Sometimes when we are in public places and people overhear me calling her Christmas Queen, we get weird looks. That’s okay with us though,” Kubat said.

Christmas Queen's Playlist “All I Want for Christmas is You” // Mariah Carey “Baby, it’s Christmas” // Jessie James Decker “Santa Baby” // Michael Buble “Grown Up Christmas List” // Michael Buble “Mistletoe” // Justin Bieber “Let It Snow” // Michael Buble “O’ Holy Night” // Celine Dion “Baby It’s Cold Outside” // Elf “Last Christmas” // The Glee Cast “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” // Mariah Carey “I’ll Be Home for Christmas” // Martina McBride

graphic by annporter

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tudents walk into Costco with their moms hoping to score some free fall samples, but then what to their wondering eyes do appear? Instead of a jack-o’-lantern, they find a sleigh and eight tiny reindeer. Most people are under the impression that there are 12 distinct months in a year, but the Christmas joy has spread all the way into September, blurring the last four months of the year together.

Most students mark the changes of seasons by the release of flavored holiday Starbucks drinks, but for senior Hannah Walz, Christmas comes not once a year, but all year long.

She dubbed herself the “Christmas Queen” (CQ for short) sophomore year. “I bring Christmas everywhere I go, whether it is school, home, or out with friends. Christmas will always be around,” Walz said. She realized her undying love for the holiday when she chose to listen to Christmas music during art class in October two years ago.

This event marked the beginning of the CQ’s reign. She listens to Christmas music all year long.

Walz even turned on “Hark! the Herald Angels Sing” when handed the auxiliary cord during an intense dance

Ky

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all ’18

anyalindholm

photo/graphic by noellepick

EyeWOWs: Eyebrows become latest beauty trend noellepick

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ecently, eyebrows have gained a cult following. The phrase “on fleek” (adj. /‘ȯn flēk’/: the quality of being perfect or on point) has been integrated into the average teenage girl’s vocabulary. Women spend copious amounts of time making sure their brows are just right before heading out with friends.

Celebrities such as Cara Delevingne, Zendaya Coleman, and Lily Collins have helped usher in the latest eyebrow trend. Long gone are the days of pencil-thin, barely-there brows; standout stunners are what’s poppin’ now.

“Eyebrows really help frame your face and bold ones do a really good job of it,” sophomore Kyleigh Gall said. Gall was nominated by her peers in the Network Google survey as an example of having great eyebrows.

The key to wow-worthy brows is proportion. Super skinny eyebrows can make it look like you got a little too crazy playing with mom’s new tweezers. Brows that are too thick can make it look like a toddler used an XXL Sharpie to draw on your face.

To achieve this perfect proportion,

there are three general guidelines to follow when it comes to eyebrow shape (see diagram). The most important guideline to remember is that eyebrows are perfect as long as they make their owner feel like a fearless, sassy, girl-boss, ready to take on the world.

“It is such a nice feeling when I know my eyebrows look good. It makes me feel more confident,” junior Lucy Boever said. Boever was also nominated in the Network survey for her stellar brows. “I love it when people compliment my eyebrows. It makes me feel good and gives me so much confidence.” Gall said.

The amount of upkeep brows require is completely up to the their owner. The most popular forms of maintenance among Marian students are tweezers for the occasional stray hair or doing nothing to them at all.

“Eyebrows are a weird feature in general, and you can do so much with them,” Boever said. Like a fingerprint, everybody’s eyebrows are different.

Some experimentation is required to find the shape, size and style perfect for each person. graphic by allykmiecik & annporter

Gal Pals hit the grocery store allykmiecik & annporter

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etail therapy might be a girl’s favorite stress reliever, but we prefer trading in the shoe sales for shopping carts and hitting up the grocery stores to get our inner mom on.

It’s your Network moms, Ally and Ann, here to give you the scoop on all things groceries. We will tell you what to buy and where to buy them, including some of our top favorites!

Fall is here, so we have the down low on all those pumpkin goodies for you all.

That’s our goal: fall so hard your bloodstream turns to pumpkin spice lattes.

Get out your grocery lists, gals. We’re

going shopping!

First off, our love for Trader Joe’s is bigger than their pumpkin selection. All their products are fairly cost friendly, the atmosphere of the store is enjoyable, and the packaging of their products is almost as good as they taste. That’s why we chose two pumpkin items from Trader Joe’s to share with you today!

So next time your mom needs milk and eggs, volunteer as a tribute to head to the store and man the grocery cart.

It’s a great feeling to be in charge of that much power. Pick up some tasty fall treats, and dig in!

Source: http://www.traderjoes.com

The Network • Oct. 2015

Features • 11

Marian girl by day, haunted porcelain doll by night devongottsch

If

you ask a Marian girl where she works, she will probably respond with something like a pool, a daycare, or a coffee shop. However, this is not the case for junior Sam Schueler. Unlike most teen girls, she doesn’t work with kids or impatient customers, instead she works with mangled porcelain baby parts and fog machines.

Schueler works at Carnival of Terror on 12th and Jackson located in the underbelly of Hollywood Candy, the popular tourist hot spot in downtown Omaha.

“I’ve worked there for two years, and it is the best job ever,” Schueler said. After tedious hours of hair, makeup, and costume preparation, she is ready for the show to begin.

“I dress up as a cracked porcelain doll, and I am stationed in the room with all the baby parts hanging from the ceiling. Last year, people told me that with full makeup and costume, I look a lot like Annabelle. It’s very cool.”

Every night, Schueler has different “victims” and that is what makes it

so exciting for her. She never knows There are many pictures on the if the next Internet that person depict hauntto walk ed-house-goers through the scared out of door will be their minds, calm and obviously quescollected or tioning their about to wet decision to enter their pants. the building.

“The reSchueler encounactions are ters these types by far the of people all the best part of time. my job. You “You would can always think that the tell when best reaction the group is would come from going to be little kids, but fun to scare it was actualbecause ly a group of you can grown women. photo courtesy of samanthaschueler hear them I could hear screaming them screaming Marian girls DO wear makeup. Samantha Schueler before they very loudly in ‘17 awaits her next victims. She spent hours preparing even walk the room before her costume and makeup for her role as a porcelain doll at the Carnival of Terror. in,” Schuelmine, so I knew er said.

I had to be good.

I silently waited in anticipation for them to come in, then I jumped out and gave my best creepy giggle. They took off running, but they ran so fast that they fell into the pile of baby parts on the floor and screamed even louder. I couldn’t stop laughing,” Schueler said.

Haunted houses aren’t for everyone, but if a person is peer pressured into entering, Schueler has some tips for the scaredy cats of the world.

“If you look scared, you’re going to get scared, plain and simple. The one hiding in the middle that is whimpering profusely is always the target. It’s just more fun that way...maybe not for them, but it’s fun for me,” Schueler said.

Attractions like Carnival of Terror are very popular during the Halloween season. However, it is important for visitors to realize what they’re getting themselves into. Everything isn’t always what it seems to be, especially at a haunted house. A lingering presence might be mistaken for a friend.

Think again.

Servite Corner: Sr. Peggy Miller, O.S.M.

marykiscoan

“I

had the feeling that God was calling me to be a Servite, but I didn’t know for sure if that’s what I really wanted to do. I figured I would try it out, and if I didn’t like it, I would walk home to what He has put me on Earth to do,” Sr. Peggy Miller ‘65 said.

Ever since she became a Servite Sister in 1967, Gretna-girl at heart Sr. Peggy, has traveled all over the country, teaching and spreading the Servite mission.

Sr. Peggy’s talents have taken her to numerous locations all over the U.S. She has been a math teacher in Detroit, Sioux City, and Omaha, where she worked at the middle schools St. Pius X and Holy Ghost.

She also taught music at those schools because nobody else on staff would. In addition, she has taught computer classes at St. James.

“My favorite part about being a Servite has been all of my experiences that I’ve been able to have in different parts of the country,” Sr. Peggy said.

Though she has always wished to be a mother and grandmother, she spends her time playing guitar for the Mother House and loves being outdoors. She also enjoys a nice mystery book.

“I love to travel and have been to 49 states,” said Sr. Peggy. Sure enough, two weeks after her interview, she made it to her 50th state, Florida.

Today, Sr. Peggy manages the database for Advancement, which includes contacting alums, parents of alums, friends, and grandparents.

She is in charge of contacting and keeping track of donors and anyone who might be invited to a Marian event.

Sr. Peggy said she is very grateful for all of the opportunities that come with being a Servite. Though Marian students may not spot her walking through the halls, she is busy as a bee back in the Advancement office where she works everyday to fund Marian.

“I wouldn’t want to spend my days funding any other school,” Sr. Peggy said.

Sr. Peggy Miller, OSM ‘65

ConAgra executives close up shop after 93 years in big “O”

collettegillaspie & elsiestormberg inety-three years plus the elimha, it started here,” Stracke said. ination of 1,300 jobs equals Junior Tara Wanser’s older sister, ConAgra Food Incorporated’s ecoKristin Wanser ‘08, has worked for nomic proverbial slap across the face ConAgra for five years in finance. of Omaha. On Oct. 1, 2015, ConAgra “It affects my sister, but we don’t announced its permanent move out of know if she will have to move to Chithe Omaha area. cago yet,” Wanser said.

Since 1922, ConAgra Foods Inc. has Freshman Emma Williams’ mother resided in Omaha. Now, ConAgra will Amie Williams has worked for seven call Chicago its new executive home and a half years as a Consumer Affairs in the summer of 2016. A Fortune Specialist at ConAgra.

500 Company, ConAgra was a crucial “It’s kind of complicated for my employer to the Omaha economy. family because my mom works in Both Omaha and the Marian commuprivate brands. We are just waiting nity will take the hit to see what hard. will happen,” Many Marian Williams said. families are now Megan in a state of limbo.

McKillip ’07, From Omaha...

Sophomore Sadie older sister of Stracke’s father senior Molly worked at the 90th McKillip and street location for sophomore almost 10 years in Customer Service.

Maddie McKillip, is a financial analyst “I do not like this move and how in inventory accounting at ConAgra. families are going to be moved beShe, like many other employees, does cause it separates from their town, not know the stability of her job. and most of the workers didn’t think “Decisions are being made at such that ConAgra was going to be moved a high level. My coworkers and I do because it has always stayed in Omanot know the stability of our jobs yet.

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Our group has been told that we will as a Director of the Group Protection find out if we are still Project Management Office. employed around “The first thing we did was Thanksgiving,” McKiltry and find out what areas were lip said. going to close. We found out As for the ConAgra that project managers might be atmosphere, McKillip impacted. We had a position said there is definiteopen up so that ConAgra emly some tension and ployees could apply to become a ...to Chicago stress.

Senior Project Manager if they If she were to be had the skills,” Cook said. laid off, McKillip said Internally, Cook has been that ConAgra at least contacted by a few people askhas the decency to ing for information about the give its employees new position. three weeks worth of “If I hear that they are not a pay to cover the tough Project Manager but they have transition. Other than other skill sets like a Business that though, McKillip, Analyst, I try to put them in like many other employees, may be touch with partner organizations who forced to reenter the job market once can help them. If they are interested, again.

I share contact information with local Luckily, there are other options. resource venders so if they can not Considering the amount of workers find a full time job they can find a part being laid off, many companies are time job,” Cook said. opening up positions in order to aid The upheaval of ConAgra’s departhe unemployed. For example, Lincoln ture has affected numerous Omaha Financial has opened up a position for families, but the community has come a senior project manager. Ruth Cook together to make the best of a difficult has worked at Lincoln for five years situation.

12 • Sports

The Network • Oct. 2015

Fall sports dominate record books

Non-Varsity teams build up sports program

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ith undefeated seasons, winning records, and many accomplishments throughout their games and tournaments, the nonVarsity fall sports teams at Marian have been anything but unnoticed.

The girls on these teams are constantly building up the sports programs and showing new leadership and success year after year.

The Varsity teams are only as strong as the people who build the program, so the confidence and leadership of the non-Varsity teams are crucial to Marian sports’ success.

The fall sports teams that have selected non-Varsity teams include volleyball, softball, and golf.

Cross country has a selected group of girls who run Varsity, but not a named Junior Varsity team.

Another interesting fact about Cross Country is that seniors who aren’t running with Varsity are still permitted to run in Junior Varsity races.

This differs from other sports where seniors are only allowed to play on the Varsity team.

The Junior Varsity volleyball team had a stellar record of finishing undefeated.

The Reserve team finished with only one loss.

Both the Freshman volleyball team and the Junior Varsity softball team finished with winning records.

The Junior Varsity golf team’s accomplishments ranged from winning a scramble to placing first as a team at the Millard North Dual.

Sophomore Avery Ost was a team leader for the JV softball team and looked back on the season with nostalgia.

“We started off the season knowing each other, but by the end we were sisters,” Ost said. Being a sophomore and going through the JV season the year before, she knew it was her turn to lead.

“I needed to step up and show them how Marian softball is played,” Ost said.

The theme of team connections was clear throughout all fall sports teams this season. Junior Ellie Mulligan played on the JV golf team this past season and enjoyed meeting all the underclassmen on the team.

“Without golf, I wouldn’t get to know the girls that I do, so the bonding aspect is definitely a huge part of it, but we all also get to learn and improve together,” Mulligan said.

All teams had amazing seasons filled with lots of laughs, team bonding, and, of course, lots of wins.

Cheerleaders raise pom-poms for breast cancer awareness makenziefuss

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or the second year in a row, Marian’s cheer team has found something new to cheer about this October. Sporting bright pink shirts and bows for sporting events, the girls are cheering for breast cancer awareness. Coach Allie Clark, a former cheerleader for Gross High School, introduced this idea in 2014.

“I choose to have the cheerleaders do this because I believe that by simply wearing pink it brings about a conversation on breast cancer, and it allows for awareness of breast cancer to spread. The girls wear pink in support of those who have won their battles with cancer and in remembrance of those who, unfortunately, did not,” Clark said.

For Clark, this means more than simply a change in uniform. This is personal. “I have had several women

in my family suffer from breast cancer, most recently being my cousin Kim who is a mother of three young girls.

She, thankfully, won her battle with breast cancer, but some women are not always so lucky,” Clark said.

The girls have been more than willing to swap their Marian blue for hot pink. “I really like wearing pink because it supports a great cause,” freshman Cecilia Kolterman said.

This seems to be the popular opinion of the cheer squad. Marian’s core values of service and compassion lead students to not only understand the suffering of others, but also to want to do anything they can to help.

With the holidays right around the corner, there is plenty to be thankful for, including the bright pink shirts and even brighter smiles of the cheerleaders.

Think Pink Marian’s cheer team sports bright pink shirts and bows as they cheer for the JV volleyball team at Millard North on Oct. 22. The team swapped their blue for a good cause, using their spirited cheers to raise breast cancer awareness. photo by makenziefuss

Junior Varsity Victory The JV volleyball team of Back Row: Ashley Straub ‘19, Tatum Kuti ‘19, Emma Hern ‘19, Megan Anderson ‘17, Ashtynne Alberts ‘18, Maddie Wiedenfeld ‘18, Lauren Isenberg ‘18, Kalli Pettit; Front Row: Grace Hern ‘18, Sophia Moes ’19, Clara Roth ‘19, Maggie Mullen ‘18, Kennedy Stormberg ‘18, Grace Nelson ‘18, and Coach Ms. Ronda Motykowski celebrate their win, holding up number one signs. The team won against Millard North on Oct. 22. photo by makenziefuss

Dance team tackles 3 consecutive halftime shows marykiscoan

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lot of glam remained on Burke High School’s and Mount Michael’s fields during halftime on Oct. 2, Oct. 7, and Oct. 16. Marian’s JV and Varsity dance team united in order to astonish football fans three consecutive Friday nights in a row. Crisp kick lines, toe touches, and superb formations impressed onlookers in the stands.

On Oct. 2, the dance team executed a “throwback” routine from the 2014-2015 school year at the Creighton Prep versus Bellevue East football game at Burke High School.

With stellar audio assistance from seniors Julia Nulty and Macie Kubat, the dance team was able to dazzle the crowd with energetic, clean-cut moves.

“It’s fun to perform at Burke, because all our Marian friends come and watch and cheer us on. The boys are usually pretty loud, and they get really excited, too,” junior Allie Morrissey said.

With supreme audio assistance from senior Rachel Johnson, Marian’s JV and Varsity dance teams performed the same routine at the Mount Michael versus Bennington football game (Oct. 7) as the Creighton Prep versus Bellevue West (Oct. 16), which was Prep’s Senior Night.

“The bigger stadium at Burke made me feel thrilled and like I was on top of the world,” sophomore Katherine Martin said.

“We perform at all of Creighton Prep’s home basketball games; the Varsity dance team will perform at the Varsity basketball games and the Junior Varsity dance team will perform at the JV basketball games.

For Prep’s Basketball Senior Night, we will do a glow dance as a whole team, which is new, but will be cool,” Varsity dance team captain senior Taylor Nihsen said.

Homecoming Halftime Marian Dance Team helps Creighton Prep celebrate their homecoming night. They performed during Prep’s game against Bellevue East on Oct. 2. photo by elsiestormberg

Huddle of Happiness Eva Wieczorek ‘17, Amalea Poulos ‘17, Cora Ridenour ‘17, and Allie Morrissey ‘17 gather with smiles and excitement in the Marian Dance Team’s pre-game huddle before their second consecutive performance.

The girls danced at Mount Michael game on Oct. 7. photo by lindsaymuse

Final Pose Marian’s Dance Team strikes their final pose, finishing off three consecutive performances at football games. The girls’ final outdoor performance took place on Oct. 16 during the Prep versus Bellevue West game. photo by lindsaymuse

Oct. 2015 • The Network

Sports • 13

Marian fall sports update: Crusaders end seasons strong State Golf

kathrynbaginski fter a phenomenal victory at the Class A-1 District Tournament, Marian’s Varsity golf team advanced to State. Twelve schools gathered at the Norfolk Country Club for the State Class A Tournament on Oct. 12 and 13. With guidance from Coach Robert Davis and Assistant Coach Connie Cavel, the Marian golf team chipped, putted, and swung their way up the ranks.

“I’m proud of my team for not giving up after the first day, and continuing to do their best and move our way to Runners-Up,” Jalea Culliver ’19 said.

The five golfers catapulted from fourth to second place with a fantastic final round. The girls made up 20 strokes, ending with a total score of 737 strokes. Makenzie Fuss ’16 tied individually for ninth place. At the end of the day, the girls took home the trophy, proud of their new title of State Runners-Up.

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photo by makenziefuss

State Softball

State Cross Country collettegillaspie

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noellepick arian’s Varsity softball team celebrates by raising the State Championship trophy high above their heads. The team went undefeated at the NSAA Class A State Softball tournament, finishing off their season with a 29-3 record. Two home runs, one by right fielder Aly Freeman ‘16 and a grand slam in the top of the seventh inning by Brook Linderman ‘17, led to the victory against Papillion-LaVista. The final score was 8-5. Going from a silver medal in 2014 to a gold one in 2015 brought a feeling of great pride and accomplishment to the team. This is the first State Championship won by Marian’s softball program, filling a slot on the once-empty State Championship banner.

t 12:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 23, Marian students ran like the wind at State Cross Country. The Kearney Country Club offered its course to 102 of Nebraska’s most talented runners. Three of Marian’s fastest freshmen, Emma Boever, Kira Bravo, and Maria Kleinsmith, really brought their A game. Boever placed 67th, Bravo placed 68th, and Kleinsmith placed 90th. At 64th, sophomore Julia Hingorani was the second highest scoring Marian runner. Juniors Katie Williams, Emily Evans, and Laura Tatten also blew the shoes off the competition. Williams was the fastest Marian runner, placing in third. Tatten placed 84th and Evans placed 77th. Overall, Marian finished in ninth place out of 28 Class A teams, a solid end to a great season. The future of Marian cross country is in good hands, or rather, good feet.

photo by elsiestromberg

Brittany Witt: libero takes volleyball career to Creighton

marykiscoan ard work and dedication are essential in order to be a Class A Varsity volleyball libero all four years of high school. The ability to dig concussion-threatening spikes requires highly advanced skills that can only be acquired through years of practice.

In fall of 2012, freshman Brittany Witt started on Marian’s Varsity volleyball

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team, which was unheard of at Marian. Since then, Witt has played in three Nebraska Class A state tournaments, and her team has taken home the state championship trophies her sophomore and junior years.

How does one acquire two consecutive state titles?

Practice, of course. Perhaps the most intense conditioning Witt has ever experienced

took place during the first two weeks of the summer of 2015, which included two hours of competitive practice each day.

“Every time I step foot into practice I have to remind myself to never take a day off and use every opportunity as a chance to improve,” Witt said.

In addition, over this past summer, Witt was invited to attend an international tour-

nament. She put in work for six days, twice a day, for two and a half hours each practice for her A1 National Training Team.

Witt has already committed to play volleyball at Creighton University and hopes to play in the Olympics or with an overseas professional team after college.

Bump, Set, Division 1 athlete Brittany Witt ‘16 gets ready for the serve. photo by erinwalter

Senior is no stranger to the slopes Sophomore steps into ring

anniesoener ost people ski as a leisurely vacation activity. For senior Claire Bidroski, skiing is a lifestyle.

Bidroski is more than familiar with the sport; she’s been skiing since she was 9 years old. Although Nebraska isn’t necessarily known for its ski slopes, Mount Crescent Ski Area, located in Honey Creek, Iowa, is only 15 minutes away from the Big O. “During the winter, I ski between four or five days a week at Mount Crescent Ski Area,” Bidroski said.

When Bidroski’s best friend asked her to go skiing with her years ago, the sport was love at first slope. “I feel like I am being myself most when I ski and I have such an abundance of confidence in myself,” Bidroski said.

The senior made the decision to go to college close to a ski resort.

Regis University, which is located in Denver, Colorado, seemed like the perfect fit. The university offers a club skiing team that Bidroski hopes to be a part of.

Bidroski does not plan to stop

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graphic by devongottsch

her skiing career after living in the mountains for her college years. “I would love to compete in big name competitions, such as the X Games,” Bidroski said.

A downside to the sport is the lack of ski slopes in Nebraska.

Mount Crescent Ski Area is the closest option in proximity to Omaha.

Bidroski’s family occasionally travels to South Dakota for competitions, although skiing tends to be costly.

A season pass costs about $400.

In addition, new skis are $300. Ski gear for the season pushes the price up another $50.

Even though the sport comes with some extra baggage, Bidroski always manages to pursue skiing purely for her love of the sport. If she’s in competition or teaching her younger sister how to master the sport, Bidroski said she feels most relaxed when surrounded by the slopes.

With college right around the corner, the Denver mountains will be easy access for Bidroski. The almost weekly 15-minute trek to Mount Crescent will be no more because the slopes will practically be in Bidroski’s backyard next year.

For this ski queen, it’s all downhill from here.

elsiestormberg s sophomore Hailie Rydel steps At the young age of four, Rydel into the gym, she can hear her began her fighting career. heart pounding. Rydel climbs under“My uncle was an MMA fighter neath the ropes and onto the sticky and he fought for awhile. I started out floor of the ring and adjusts her plastic when I was about four for the tradimouth piece. As she faces her optional martial arts like TaeKwonDo. I ponent, Rydel can gradually escalated, feel the adrenaline and my coaches pumping through thought I was someher veins, and her thing special so they hands start to get put me in MMA. My clammy inside her main style is Muay gloves. The referee Thai*,” Rydel said. brings the two girls In the past, Rydel together to start the has had an array fight. “Let’s have a of coaches. A few clean fight. Touch of those coaches your gloves. Go back are Mick Doyle and to your corners…”

Ryan Jensen. Many Rydel is like any students know Doyle other Marian girl. from the self defense No sparkles for this tough chick She’s involved in class in Sophomore Hailie Rydel ‘18 is ready for her next a few clubs, does Seminar. Presently, opponent. photo by elsiestormberg trap shooting, plays her coach is John violin, etc.. She enjoys Marian cookies Miller. Miller is a fourth degree black and loves puppy chow at bake sales. belt.

She goes to sporting events to support Compared to other sports, the her fellow classmates. But what many off-season is unique. people in the Marian community do “Our off-season is about eight to not know is that she is a Mixed Martial nine months. During the summer, we Arts (MMA) fighter. have our official fights,” Rydel said.

“MMA is a mix of wrestling and Rydel and her fellow fighters always boxing. It has TaeKwonDo*, Hapkihave a great time. “It’s a stress relief. do*, grappling*, wrestling*, and more My favorite part is the team atmocombined. The same rules apply, like sphere. There are four of us, so it is when you’re grappling you can’t bite, really tight knit,” Rydel said. scratch, or pinch people. You can get *Go to our Online Network at someone by a knockout or submission www.mariandigitalnetwork.wordthrough different holds,” Rydel said. press.com for term definitions.

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14 • Entertainment

The Network • Oct. 2015

A Peek at the Past:

Halloween Costumes

mollymiller

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4.

1. Alex Lager ’16 busts out the cheer

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is the season to be afraid. With Halloween right around the corner, monsters, ghosts, and witches are starting to come out. Most people stopped being afraid of the supernatural a while ago, but for some Marian girls, their fears are a little more realistic, and a little unusual.

For most people, plugging in the toaster is a normal task that doesn’t even require much thought, but for sophomore Maria Determan, it’s a daunting job.

She has a fear of outlets and plugging in cords. She’s been wary about a specific outlet in her kitchen for many years, but after an incident with a George Foreman grill, her fear has intensified.

“A series of sparks, smoke, and screams resulted from the incident. I broke the outlet and was scarred for life,” Determan said. The outlet was not the only broken object. The family had to buy a new George Foreman grill afterwards. Determan now refuses to ever use that outlet again. “I’ve always had the fear of an outlet sparking on me, but this incident ‘blew up’ my fear!” she said.

Junior Anna Mantini has a slightly more relatable fear: her driver’s ed teacher. Everyone can appreciate that getting behind the wheel can be a little nerve wracking, but imagine learning to drive with a biggest fear sitting in the front seat.

“I cannot look at him without wanting to cry. It’s so funny to people, but I am completely serious about this fear,” she said. Mantini also dreads seeing her instructor outside the Marian parking lot picking up

5.

moves from an early age. The pom-poms were Lager’s mothers’ back in the day.

2. Molly Fisher ’16 buzzes away from

the camera as a baby bumblebee.

3. A cow and her cowboy make the

perfect pair. Carina Welker ’17 and her brother stir up some double trouble.

4. Sydney Bonnet ’16 is sassy in her 50’s attire. The cat-eye glasses really complete the look.

5. Emily Vlach ’16 poses as a plump pumpkin.

October Teacher Feature: Mr. Mark Koesters andreahuber

Q: Where did you grow up?

A: In Iowa on a farm.

Q: How long have you worked at Marian?

A: This is my 29th year.

Q: What clubs/organizations have you moderated?

A: We had the fake football club in the early ’90s, I ran Student Board from ’90 to about ’95, I’ve been in charge of Operation Others for about 15 years, I’ve been in charge of the Latin Club for about 15 years; I started a knitting club that lasted a year or two, we started an environmental club that lasted a year, and when I first came there was a club with Prep and Marian to deal with current issues.

Q: What other hobbies/organizations are you involved in outside of Marian?

A: I’m so busy with Marian that my organization is to sit at home, be quiet, read books and relax.

other girls for driving lessons. “I avoid all eye contact with him,” she said.

Sophomore Grace Apker is plagued by a fear of mouths. “I’d say I’ve been afraid [of mouths] most of my life. I don’t think I’ve ever been comfortable with them,” she said. Most people hate going to the dentist, but for Apker, it may be the root of her fear.

“Personally, I blame those pictures of mouths they show at the dentists’ office to get you to floss,” Apker said.

Senior Abby Birkel’s fear is on a larger scale. She is Anna Mantini ’17 afraid of whales and has been since middle school. The enormity of these animals is what creeps her out the most. Birkel is adamant that whales are actually much scarier than sharks. “Just the thought of whales makes me cringe.

I have had a lot of nightmares about them,” she said.

Halloween is definitely the time of year to be afraid. While some Marian students’ fears are a little on the strange side, there are likely some fears that unite all Marian girls. After all, walking up soph-lot in the dead of winter will strike fear in any girl’s heart.

“It’s so funny to people, but I am completely serious about this fear.”

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Weird fears cause tears

Q: Any funny stories that come to mind?

A: I used to hate chaperoning dances because people danced very very very inappropriately, and I finally just got really angry and Q: Who is started the most walking interesting around with person a big you’ve met flashlight at Marian? at dances. I A: Mr. [Al] would Di Mauro. actually He was break up kind of my couples mentor in that were learning too close to and each other. teaching Mr. Mark Koesters I mean I Latin, would yank guys away. So I he taught me a lot about got a reputation of being with the style of teaching. He’s an interesting flashlight, and sometimes the girls person. didn’t know that the guy had been Q: What’s your favorite thing about Marian?

A: The thrill of being here and the actual teaching and just the interaction with the students.

graphics by andreahuber

yanked away and that it was me behind them.

Q: What classes have you taught while here?

A: All four years of religion: Scripture, Church History, Morality, World Religions, Sacraments. We used to have a whole semester just on marriage, I taught that. For the last 10 years I’ve been teaching Latin as well.

Q: Anything else you want to say?

A: Well, I’ll say this: I taught four years at a different school, 28 years here. These 28 years have gone quicker [than the other school]. I own nothing from that other school except one yearbook. I have multiple yearbooks [from Marian]. Over the years, I’ve gotten about 100 T-shirts from here. I have a box of about 20 T-shirts in storage. So just the spirit and excitement. People who have taught at other places and come here say they’ll never teach anywhere else.

oct. 2015 • The Network

Entertainment • 15

Which sweater should I wear?

Abby McLaughlin ‘18

Fall is upon us, and everyone’s busting out their favorite sweaters. Are you in a sweater-shopping rut? Not sure what sweater to get? This guide will tell you which type of sweater suits you best.

Marin Waters ‘19

Clara Roth ‘19 < You have some boss T-shirts to show off. < You like the freedom of flexibility. < “Be a Pinterest model” is on your bucket list.

< You imagine yourself living in a city loft. < You carry a camera with you at all times. < You will use any excuse to wear leggings.

Baggy/ Oversized

> You like to be organized and professional. > You worship Juicy Crew necklaces. > Wear with: riding boots, copy of your resumé.

Open/Cardigan

Mia Partridge ‘17

Brighid Welchans ‘16 Victoria Ackermann ‘17

From Goodwill

< You like the luck of the draw. < Macklemore is your idol. < You’re a smart shopper who likes to save money.

Over a dress shirt

Made (with love)

by Grandma

< You are oddly attached to cats (or small dogs). < You watch Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune before the Nightly News. < You love the smell of freshly baked cookies.

> You frequently hum “It’s Beginning to Look a lot like Christmas,” even during the summer. > You are VERY attached to your cats. > You regularly shop at garage and yard sales.

Deliberately Ugly graphic by clarawertzberger

Marian’s declassified fall flavors school survival guide: fall editon formulate a fancy fall fix megankeyser

graphic by collettegillaspie

1. Wrap an infinity scarf around your neck to keep out the chilly evening winds.

2. Indulge in as much comfort food as you want, because, gosh darn it, you won’t be seeing a bikini for seven months.

See oversized sweaters.

3. Splurge on sweet pumpkin spice scented candles.

4. Snap over-filtered pics of your #UGGboots in the #leaves, ’cause #fall.

5. Cry as your skin continues to become pale and dry out.

Invest in self-tanner.

6. Wear a football jersey and pretend you understand the terms “first down” and “halfback”.

7. Find a hot cocoa thermos and a group of buddies for a visit to the pumpkin patch.

8. Watch “Halloweentown” on repeat.

9. Go “glamping” in your backyard with the girls. Note: don’t forget to pack the pumpkin-shaped marshmallows for the campfire.

10. Enjoy the season, because it’ll leaf before it even arrives.

Great Grandma Collette’s pumpkin bread This sweet treat is great for an after school snack. Add cream cheese frosting and pumpkin candy or candy corn on top for that extra special fall feeling. Be sure to look up the recipe on the Online Network.

Grandma Marjean’s sour cream apple pie with spicy topping This pie is sure to be a new family favorite! Try it this Thanksgiving for a twist on the traditional apple pie. Or make both! Be sure to look up the recipe on the Online Network.

Gladys’s pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting This rich, decadent cake is sure to make you feel like the queen of fall. Eat it chilled for the optimal flavor experience.

Be sure to look up the recipe on the Online Network.

Gnimocemoh Week

16 • Photo Essay

megankeyser he highly anticpated week had finally begun. Gnimocemoh was quickly approaching, and Marian was celebrating.

Cheetah spots and zebra stripes sprinkled the halls on Tuesday, Oct. 20 for Animal Print Day. Girls planned coordi-

T

The Network • Oct. 2015

nating outfits with their best friends on Wednesday for Twin Day, flaunted their favorite sports memorabilia on Thursday for Jersey Day, and dusted off their fathers’ Crocs and suspenders on Friday for Dad Day.

“Everyone really put effort into what the themes were and had fun with it,” sophomore Emmanuela Ahianti said.

Students battled staff members in a volleyball game on Thursday. Students stormed the court once the timer buzzed,

because the students pulled off a victory.

On Friday night, students flooded the school gym for the Neewollah (Halloween-themed) dance and danced, fullycostumed, from 8-11 p.m. #gettinspooky

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Gnimocemoh: n. Marian’s themed dance, dedicated to sister bonding and creating lasting memories; an event similar to many high schools’ annual dance to celebrate the return of a student body, but backwards.

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7 photos by anna slezak, clara wertzberger, kateri determan, mollymiller & megan keyser

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1. Sadie Andrews ‘18, Emma Raabe ‘18, Sarah Wing ‘18, Olivia Tate ‘18, Annie Gregg ‘18, Maggie Prosser ‘18, Audrey Yost’ 18, Caroline Johnson ‘18, Lily Heim ‘18, Emma Roth ‘18, Delaney Stekr ‘18, Cassidy Jorgenson ‘18 & Olivia Putnam ‘18.

2. Kate Ruffalo ‘16 & Sophie Knoblauch ‘16, announced the volleyball game as frenemies Nicki Minaj and Miley Cyrus.

3. Maddie Duncan ‘16, Abby Birkel ‘16, Maggie White ‘16 & Mairin Rochford ‘16 show support for their class’s team.

4. Michaela Moriarty ‘16 holds indestructible infant, Nicholas Minaj, up in the air for the student body to admire.

5. Claire Davis ‘16 & Sofia Hingorani ‘16 dressed as Scooby and Shaggy for Twin Day. 6. Gnimocemoh princesses Kristin Beduhn ‘19, Lily Blake ‘19 & Carolyn Griffin ‘19 pose at the photo booth.

7. Quinn Ruff ‘19, Olivia Hess ‘19, Lilly Gonzales ‘19, Maria Piperis ‘18, Taylor Hofbauer ‘19, Katherine Pelton ‘19, Samantha Tracy ‘19, Joey Carollo ‘19, Lucy Bazis ‘19 & Abby Butler ‘19 8. Gnimocemoh Queen, Kateri Determan ‘16, accepts her crown with senior class officers Mary Kate Mulhall ‘16, Jenna Taylor ‘16, Sofia Hingorani ‘16. Devon Gottsch ‘16 & Julia Nulty ‘16 beside her.

9. Rachel Walet ‘17 clowns around in a dance circle.