FIRST DAY OF

SCHOOL

FAINTING AT THE BLOOD

DRIVE

HALLOWEEN MOVIE

SURPRISE DAY

continued to learn from their different competitions. They eventually received fourth place at the Lewis Central competition.

Principal Susie Sullivan ’80 has enjoyed a successful first year at Marian, too. “Every day is Surprise Day when you’re a new principal!” Sullivan said. Sullivan’s favorite memory happened during the Senior Class Mass. “When all

of [the seniors] put [their] arms around each other and were singing. [It was] very special to witness,” Sullivan said.

For the 193 freshmen of Marian, however, every moment

was a novelty. Each of their experiences can be defined as a “first.” Freshman Joey Carollo especially enjoyed her recent experience at her first Field Day.

“I honestly can’t pinpoint one part that was my favorite, but performing my Field Day cheer with some of my closest friends was definitely something I’ve looked forward to for a long time,” Carollo said.

Carollo’s “freshman experience” has been enjoyable, though it did take some getting used to. “Too many times have I walked to the wrong block or forgot to go to homeroom and end up sprinting down the halls to try and get to my class,” Carollo said.

Though sometimes difficult, Carollo has enjoyed her freshman year. “It’s so much better than grade school, and I’ve met so many new people,” Carollo said.

The 2015-2016 school year has truly had an impact on the Marian community. The memories that have been made will remain as historical moments.

The NetworkMARIAN HIGH SCHOOL 7400 MILITARY AVENUE OMAHA, NE 68134 www.MARIANHIGHSCHOOL.net VOLUME 60 ISSUE 8 MAY 2016

Year of firsts: Marian looks back on memorable 2015-2016As the 2015-2016 school year

draws to a close, a look back reveals a year of firsts for the Marian community. Though the year was full of exciting moments, a few stuck out as particularly memorable.

This fall marked a momentous season for the Marian softball program. Senior Emily Cheloha’s favorite memory from this school year was helping her team take home Marian’s first ever softball State title. “Winning State Softball for the first time in Marian history was the most amazing thing I’ve ever experienced,” Cheloha said. The team ended with a season record of 29 and 3.

The outcome of the exciting game was decided by a grand slam, hit by junior Brook Linderman.

“The second the ball hit her bat, we all went crazy … I will never forget the way I felt in that moment,” Cheloha said.

Both Marian’s Dance Team and Show Choir enjoyed new experiences this year through their first year competing. The Dance Team competed in the State Tournament and received seventh place in the

category of Pom. “It was such a good feeling to show other people what our team could do and what we had worked so hard for,” junior Dance Team member Meg Gudenrath said.

Marian Momentum, Marian’s show choir, also enjoyed their first year of competing. “Being a part of the first show choir was absolutely amazing! It took a lot of hard work and dedication … but I can’t wait to see how far the show choir goes,” senior Molly Fisher said.

Marian Momentum’s first competition was a learning experience. “Our first competition was honestly terrifying,” Fisher said. “Though we didn’t place highly, we learned a lot from the first competition and also decided that we could only go up from there.”

The rest of Marian Momentum’s season was a successful one as they

Junior Jockey celebration Junior Jockey cheerleaders Grace Lathrop ’17 and Laura Tatten ’17 embrace after the April 29 Field Day results are given to the Sokol Auditorium audience. The entire junior class stormed the floor and dog-piled once they found out that they won overall. See the Indepth pages 8-9 for a full report.

MAY QUEEN

PG 2

LEAVINGTEACHERS

PG 10

CAMPFOSTER

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ATHLETICS

PG 12

kellyndaly

Junior Jockeys take home the Field Day win

Marian memories Clare Kidder ’19, Jamie Rosenthal ’16, Grace Gustaston ’17 and Telly Mounto ’18 share their favorite memories from the 2015-2016 school year. From the first day of school to the last, Marian students enjoyed countless experiences together. graphic by marykiscoan

Emily Cheloha ’16

“The second the ball hit her bat, we all went crazy … I will never forget the way I

felt in that moment.”

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2 • News The Network • may 2016

May Queen captures the Hearts of Marian On May 10, 2016, senior Kateri De-

terman stood like a Degas sculpture before the student body to crown a wreath of flowers atop a statue of Mary. Every year, the senior class selects the student they believe to lead a life most like Mary to be the May Queen.

The students of the senior class were not the only people to see the presence of Mary in Deter-man. Hearts of Marian parent volunteers Mrs. Susan Heim, Mrs. Christine Vosik, and Mrs. Katie Stahlneck-er also attested to Determan’s Mary-like qual-ities.

"Kateri has such a humble presence like Mary but walks firmly and is very strong in God's plan for her life. She is a perfect person to receive the Crown of Mary," Heim said.

"Kateri embodies all of the qualities of Mary. She is a shining example of what it means to be thoughtful, selfless, gentle, modest and humble," Vosik said.

"Like Mary, Kateri is a model of holi-ness, purity, and faith. She is most deserv-ing of this high honor," Stahlnecker said.

Determan’s elegance and poise mask her inner strength. She is involved with Hearts of Marian and Decade Darlings, where Heim, Vosik, and Stahlnecker call her the “prayer warrior.” Determan has an

exceptional ability to remember the inten-tions of her numerous peers, neighbors, and family members and offer them up to God. She compassionately helps them carry their worries, illnesses, diseases, and concerns. Determan also has the humility to ask for prayers from her peers. “She is very good at reaching out to her faith

commu-nity for prayer when she needs us! She has such trust,” Heim said.

When asked about her faith life, Deter-man took a deep breath and asked how long this arti-

cle could be. On the surface, it seems that Determan leads a pretty normal faith life: she goes to church every week, she prays before meals, and she does her best to talk to God throughout the day. Nevertheless, the Determan sisters approach their faith differently than other Catholics.

“We aren't as you could say ‘faith shar-ing’ kind of people; it's more of a personal commitment and relationship with God. We both have our respective faith lives and relationships,” sophomore Maria Deter-man said.

Those who know the Determan girls

This summer, 44 Marian students and eight faculty members will depart on a

two week journey to Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. After a full day of traveling, the group will spend their time riding elephants through the jungle, watching a Muay Thai fight, and enriching their worl-dview of these eastern cultures.

Spanish teacher Mr. Andrew Bauer has planned and organized the trip through-out this school year. “I’m really looking forward to ... going to the genocide muse-um in Phnom Penh. It’s called Tuol Sleng,” Bauer said. “It’ll be a really hard day, but it’s important to see.”

Junior Claire Devereaux will be one of the 44 students attending this trip. “ I have never traveled out of the country, and I have always wanted to travel somewhere extremely far away with a completely dif-ferent culture than ours,” Devereaux said. “I am most excited to ride elephants, learn about the culture, and try new foods.”

The group leaves on June 14 and re-turns June 27. While the trip will be a fun vacation, it will also be a chance for them to learn about new countries and cultures. “I think it’ll be a great experience,” De-vereaux said. This group will return ready to share their newfound worldview and cultural experiences.

collettegillaspie

The queen and her crown Kateri Determan ’16 smiles grace-fully as she is crowned May Queen. The senior class voted for Determan because she exemplifies Mary in her everyday life. photo by anniesoener

Students embark on summeradventures, aim to experience new cultures in Southeast Asia

through their faith-based activities, like Hearts of Marian, know the depth and strength of their faith.

At “Hearts,” as Kateri calls it, the members take to their journals after lift-ing up their intentions to God, prayer-fully reflecting on Scripture passages, and listening to religious songs. Usually, Heim, Vosik, and Stahlnecker give the girls a prompt to open up the conver-sation with God. After the journaling period, the girls have the option to share what they wrote.

Kateri’s journal entries truly reveal her relationship with God. “I have heard a voice of God before. It was not so much a voice as much as a thought or phrase that pops in suddenly. I knew it wasn’t my voice, but God’s,” Kateri said on her journaling.

Kateri’s humility toward uncanny occurrences such as these is an admira-ble aspect of her faith. “It just happens,” Kateri said about sharing her faith. She does not force her beliefs onto every per-son she encounters. Rather, she express-es her faith through a text that states “God’s Not Dead,” through her service at Camp Fun and Faith, or through one of her warm hugs.

When Kateri’s name was announced over the intercom for May Queen, audi-ble exclamations of joy infiltrated senior hallway. This was a confirmation of the honor bestowed on her.

“Kateri is a ray of God’s light to this world,” Stahlnecker said at the end of her interview. She is an inspiration who brings smiles to people’s faces. Kateri’s grace and beliefs serve as models for the entire Marian community, and she is truly worthy of this honor.

Next year, Kateri will continue her journey of faith at Benedictine College.

Wrapping up an eventful year...Sept. 22, 2015 Pope Francis arrives in the United States!

Oct. 7, 2015 Lice, lice baby.

Oct. 23, 2015 Students finally take a victory in the student versus teacher volleyball game. Students then flood gym that night for a Hal-loween-themed Gnimocemoh!

Oct. 16, 2015 Marian Softball Team makes history with their first State Championship!

Nov. 14, 2015 Volleyball celebrates with a three-peat State Championship!

Dec. 18, 2015 Luke, I am STILL your father! Star Wars returns with The Force Awakens.

Marian girls assist with local farmers marketsmarykiscoan

Nebraskan April showers have already brought their May flowers, along with other summer-

time produce. A select few Marian students have been gearing up to assist local farmers with their har-vests. The girls have ties to the farmers markets that provide Omahans with the freshest produce possible.

Senior Molly Fisher’s dad, Mark Fisher, will have a stand at the Aksarben and Old Market farmers markets in the summer and fall, where they will sell homemade soap. Mr. Fisher has sold soap for the past four years at each location.

“My favorite memories of the farmers markets are honestly just meeting new people. I also really love seeing how many people are interested in the soap, because it’s really special for my dad,” Fisher said.

Fisher helps her dad out by playing the guitar to intrigue buyers.

In addi-tion to the Fishers, Marian has more farmers market ties. Junior Megan and freshman Sarah Anderson have an uncle, Brian O’Malley, who is the head of one of Omaha’s culinary institutes. He will occasionally bring students and give food demonstrations on site at the farmers market at Village Pointe.

kellyndaly

Rub a dub dub, thanks for the scrub Mr. Mark Fisher’s assortment of soaps attracts customers at farmers market. photo courtesy of mollyfisher

graphic by devongottsch

May 2016 • The Network News • 3

Meet Marian’s 2016 Valedictorian, Salutatorian

Plot Twist! Summer reading program will empower students

Female characters, the power of words, and breakfast food; the

English Department is throwing plot twist after plot twist into the Sum-mer Reading Program. During the summer, each incoming grade will be required to read a book chosen specifically for their class. All students enrolled in an Honors English class will also be required to read a second book.

Although this is different than in past years when the whole school read the same book, teachers are confident this new system will be a big hit. “I think it will be very successful to have each grade read its own book, the rea-son being we have handpicked from a pile of books what we think is a really perfect read for each specific grade,” English teacher Ms. Adie Magistro ’09 said.

Magistro was able to correspond through e-mail with the author of the sophomore book, Meg Wolitzer. Wolitzer will Skype with the sopho-more class at the beginning of next school year.

The English teachers rallied togeth-er after researching and reading their hearts out to decide on books. Ms. Megan Piernicky and Mrs. Amy Bau-man attended a panel at the National Council of Teachers of English Annual Convention to listen to the junior au-thor, Elizabeth Wein. “[Wein] said she

was interested in writing stories about young women where they are the hero of their own story and trying to rewrite the standard definition for how wom-en fit into literature,” Piernicky said.

The English Department will give each student sticky notes adorned with “#MarianReads” to encourage annotation and involve social media. The Summer Reading Program aims to actively engage students in a com-munity of readers.

Despite these changes, classes will still bond together through book talk breakfasts and interesting speakers. During the first week of school, each grade will have a morning to meet in the Performing Arts Center.

The freshmen and sophomores will Skype with the authors of their books, Michele Weber Hurwitz and Wolitzer. A female Air Force member working at Offutt will come speak with the junior class, whose book is about two women involved in World War II. The seniors will listen to Dr. Lydia Cooper, Assis-tant Professor of English at Creighton, who is an expert on western literature. A character in the seniors’ book writes her own western story about a cow-boy. Then, the class will reconvene in the cafeteria and discuss what they learned over breakfast.

Although each grade will be reading different books, all the stories contain certain truths that overlap and mingle.

“In some way, all of the books have to do with the power of writing, the power of language, the power of words. They all really speak to that trans-formative nature of literature, how a book can kind of change your life. I think that’s powerful,” Ms. Susie Sisson said.

The English Department hopes to offer students relatable and impactful stories. “... the literature we choose to teach to women are the messages and roles they are going to apply to their lives. Why not find someone who is really, really bold, or fierce, and have

students try to emulate that in their lives?” Piernicky said.

Armed with #MarianReads sticky notes, word power, and inspiring, fe-male-driven stories, incoming Marian classes will be a force to reckon with.

kathrynbaginski

annporter

College & Major? Studying advice?

Favorite class?

Which teacher do you thank?

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Creighton. Business-Finance and Marketing double major.

Tulane. Engineering.

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Study, but don’t focus too much on it. Sometimes studying seems like the most important thing, but honestly I wish I would’ve skipped studying sometimes and gone to a game or more things on week nights.

Challenge yourself, always keep a positive attitude, never take yourself too seriously and always remember to have fun with whatever you are doing

Physics--learned a lot, or Art-spe-cifically [Art] IV.

Speech--I got to learn a lot about myself and speak in front of peo-ple, and I found my best friends.

Mr. Baker--AP Gov and Re-search--I feel so prepared for college.Mr. Koesters--Latin--we have fantastic conversations, and I have had him for all four years.

Feb. 17, 2016Human Trivia Crack.

Feb. 28, 2016 Leonardo DiCaprio finally wins first Oscar. Jack never let go … of hope.

March 16, 2016 Double whammy: Color Block and Surprise Day all in one!

Jan. 13, 2016 Obama speaks at Baxter arena in Obamaha.

May 4, 2016 Mimes entertain student body by impersonating their teachers at a dance!

Dec. 20, 2015 “I have to apologize” … Steve Harvey flips the world upside down with Miss Universe mixup.

The finals schedule gets a makeovertessamclaughlin

In past years, students have been accustomed to having finals be scheduled by blocks, but this semester, they are in

for something new. Instead of a typical Marian schedule, such as Monday being DAB, finals will be scheduled by subject. For example, Wednesday’s finals will be Math, Theology, and AP Biology. If you are not taking a final for a class scheduled at the end of the day, you are allowed to leave.

“The purpose of the new schedule for May finals is to see if it is something we want to do in the future. May finals are a good time to try the schedule,” Assistant Principal Mrs. Kath-leen Tompkins said. “It will be interesting to see what teach-ers and students like and do not like about testing by subject area instead of by block.”

This new initiative’s goal leads to less test sharing and cancels out any advantage students taking the test at a later block than their peers might have. However, teachers will not be proctoring their own exams, and students may not be able to ask questions during their tests.

“I don’t like how you can’t ask the teacher for help because everyone’s taking it at the same time, but I like how people won’t cheat,” sophomore Mia Hamilton said.

Finals schedule changes may seem daunting at first, but stu-dents can expect the outcomes of an improved schedule to be positive. The exam schedule will help students transition into college more smoothly and aims to improve academic integrity.

5/248:00- English9:10- Social Studies10:20- Geography/Other English/AP Chemistry II

5/258:00- Math 9:10- Theology10:20- AP Biology/Other Math

5/268:00- Science9:10- World Language10:20- Other World Language/ Other Science

* Most electives will test prior to May 24 *

4 • Opinion The Network • May 2016

column by devongottsch

Looking back over writings I have from a year ago, I have realized

that I am fickle in my opinions. Last year, I had an extreme dislike for the mornings because I had to start the day off super early. I would roll at of bed between 4:30 and 5 a.m. to get to swim or weight practice. I will be the first to admit that I was a bear. I snarled at people and had a grumpy attitude all day.

I have recently come to the conclu-sion that it was my dislike for two-a-day swim practices that led to my disgruntlement. I was in a continual state of sleep deprivation and stress. Now that I have moved on from those grueling morning workouts, I find myself enjoying the promises of what a morning has to hold.

One of my favorite parts of the morning is experiencing the sen-sation of waking up. I love the slow aware-ness of opening my eyes and recogniz-ing it is a new day. I am warmly tan-gled in my blankets and feel content and appreciative that I am alive. Then I quickly reach over and tap my alarm clock off, because my sister does not necessarily appreciate being called out of her dreams at 5:30 a.m. like I do.

On the occasional mornings that I am unprepared to get up right when the radio plays, I hit snooze and try to fall back to sleep for just a couple of minutes. I make it a goal to only hit the snooze button once every other day. Otherwise, I would never actually get out of my comfy bed.

After getting up, the first place I drift to is the kitchen in search of the coffee pot. Usually, my parents are also up and shuffling around and a fresh pot of coffee has been made. In a dazed state, I grab a mug and

Open letter from a current senior to future seniorsHi, my name is Elsie Stormberg. I

am a senior this year. I am going to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and studying Journalism with an em-phasis on Photojournalism and maybe a minor in Art or Graphic Design. I thought I should get my future plans out of the way now since I know you are all wondering. That is all people ask me these days. What they do not ask me is about how I came to be.

They never ask about how Marian created the person I am today. They never consider how hard it would be to say goodbye to everything you are so familiar with just as you start to get into a groove. It’s just as everything seems to be falling into place that life decides to shake things up a bit. Here it is, my goodbye.

I have heard my fellow classmates say what they are going to miss about this magical place called Marian. They have said it is like Genovia or Narnia; there is no other place like it. Looking back now, I wish I would have taken more advantage of the time I have had here. I am going to miss the cookies, messy buns, and Mr. Tom Baker’s shenanigans. Heck, I learned how to wall surf on day one in Mrs. Marsha Kalkowski’s Honors Composition and Literature class. I am going to miss

I don’t care what the dumb quote says; I’m crying because it’s over

Hazelnut creamer to fix the coffee up. High school has forced me to depend on coffee to help me kickstart the day. The warmth and smell usually has me waking up as I make my way to the couch.

The couch is my favorite place to lounge after waking up because it is soft, cushiony, and a nice transition from my bed. There I can swaddle myself in a blanket and decide what I want to do to begin the actual day. I can comfortably read, study, stare or think. Being still gives me both the

time and the quiet to ap-preciate the newness of the morning. I am lucky that my five siblings would rather sleep in, because I don’t have to hear them running and screaming all over the house.

I love the quiet house-hold for another reason, though. Early morning is the time when I have the best brain capacity. I can get my homework

or studying done much faster because I can concentrate better. When my brain is at its sharpest, my time man-agement skills are also much more effective, and my productive level is through the roof.

Because I love the feeling of accom-plishment first thing in the morning, it makes going to school a little easier. I feel as if I have things under control, and I have checked at least a little bit off the to-do list for the day. Since I have learned to appreciate the morn-ing and be more productive, I look forward to continuing this routine in the future.

While I understand that some peo-ple would call me crazy for embracing the early morning, it doesn’t bother me. In fact, I am looking forward to early classes next year. To all those 8 a.m. college classes, here I come!

Surprise Day conspiracies and Field Day chaos. I am going to miss the shameless sleeping in hallways, the outbursts of Miley Cyrus, the Jonas Brothers, or High School Musical, and the beautiful, makeup-less faces.

As I attended Gnimocemoh and Welcome Dance this year, I sadly real-ized they would be my last. I remember slowly counting down each day in first semes-ter. Then came the whirlwind of second se-mester where I cannot believe I am in my last quarter at Marian. I beg for the days when I was still that awkward freshman who sported a crisp ponytail and got chills every time I did the Marian Beat. I was so un-aware of where Marian would take me.

Out of all the laughter, tears and memories that come along with being a Marian girl, there is one thing that has truly stood out: my classmates. I have had the opportunity to get to

know these 178 young women, and let me tell you, they are an impressive bunch. From lawyers to astronauts, these ladies have proven to me that I can be anything I want to be. They have helped shape me into the confi-dent, intelligent woman I am today. The bottom line is, get to know your

classmates. I promise you it will be worth your while.

It is difficult to think that by this time next year I will be living, hopefully comfortably, in a dorm at Lincoln enjoying my

life without my friends and family always there. It is a scary, intimidating thought that makes me wish I could go back to being an innocent freshman with nothing on my mind but who I was going to nugget next.

Oh, but now I am here, sitting in my bed wondering how I should end this. Should I thank my teachers and

friends? Should I tell you that I am in tears right now? I should thank my teachers and friends, and I should be crying right now because Marian means so much to me. I have been through many ups and downs, and all I can say is that I would not have survived if I went to any other school than Marian.

To all you freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and future Marian girls out there, please listen to me when I say to value your time here. Come to school every day so you can squeeze out every last drop of high school. It gets sour sometimes, but teachers will not assign more than you can handle. It is in your hands to keep this school together. It is in your hands to make what you can out of this experience. A lemon is a special thing. When it is handed to you by life, you have to put it to good use. Marian is your lemon. Do not let it rot; make lemonade.

I am Elsie, and yes, I unplugged the entire school bell system to charge my laptop. Thank you all for reading my rants about my name, tampons, and other thoughts. I am signing out, Marian. Thanks for everything.

XOXO, Elsie Stormberg (Class of 2016)

Early bird gets worm ... most of the time

I was drinking my Scooter’s coffee, checking my email, when the subject

of a particularly daunting message made me forget all about my vanilla soy latte. “Attention all Marian Al-ums.” Yeah, just let that sink in. Can I have a quick sec to just say, “WHERE IN THE NAME OF SWEET BABY JESUS DID THE TIME GO?”

Seeing this email made me relate so hard to the overly stressed, dramatic, yet pathetically humorous Kim Kar-dashian. You know how I feel about graduating; why would you say that? You put me in such an uncom-fortable situation. You know I’m not happy, you know that I’m trying to see if going to college will work out here. We all know that it’s not.

Just like every other senior, I have procrasti-nated all of my projects, studying, and home-work until the last possible second. The same mentality was applied when I was supposed to write this column, which I finally got around to two weeks after it was due. However, as graduation looms closer and closer, I know that my time left at the best place on Earth is alarmingly limited.

If Disney World is “officially” la-beled as the best place on Earth, Walt himself clearly never stepped foot into Marian High School. However, all good things must come to an end, and my ending is very near. Even though I’m not physically dying, I feel like I need to share some last words of wis-dom before I depart.

This will be my final column I ever get to write in The Network. My some-what pointless and random thoughts will no longer adorn the pages of this paper. That being said, I have some thoughts and advice I need to make sure are published before my time is

“wrapped up.”First of all, to all my underclass-

women out there, never ever take a single second at Marian for granted. I know that’s cliche, but DON’T WASTE IT! Yes, physics might make you want to crawl into the fetal position and eat your weight in ice cream, but toughen up, sister. Learn from every experi-ence and every lesson.

Take your teacher’s advice and ac-tually study prior to the night before.

Honesty makes or breaks a person.Stay humble; don’t let

that pretty little head get filled with senseless words (boys).

Be a fruit loop in a world of cheerios.

Most importantly, I hate to say it, but moms are always right. Don’t argue with me on this one. Appre-ciate the time left with her and other loved ones. As my Marian path is coming to

an end, my conscience is haunting me. Did I do enough? Did I truly make the best of every high school experience? Holy moly, the pressure is on.

If Marian has taught me anything, it’s to stand out and be proud. A prime example would be the Walk-A-Thon skit my junior year. I came rolling into the gym dressed as an old woman in a wheelchair in front of the entire stu-dent body and faculty. That was one of the most enlightening and liberating moments of my life.

I can’t now, or ever, summarize my experience at Marian. Coming to this school was/is the best decision I could have ever made. Who knew my heart was capable of so much love? Just like the Grinch, my heart has grown three times as large since I walked into the doors of Marian in 2012. Unwillingly, this is where I say goodbye. This has been an experience I wouldn’t trade for the world. I Gottschya covered now and forever, Marian.

column by elsiestormberg

column by lindsaymuse

Gottsch-ya Covered

May 2016 • The Network Opinion • 5

Managing Editors: tessamclaughlin & clarawertzbergerCopy Editor: kathrynbaginskiPhoto Editor: elsiestormbergGraphics Editor: makenziefussOnline Editor: noellepickSport Media Director: lindsaymuseFront Page Editor: marykiscoanNews Editors: allykmiecik & anniesoenerOpinion Editor: racheljohnsonFeature Editors: kellyndaly, makenziefuss, anyalindholm & annporterIndepth Editor: collettegillaspieSports Editors: devongottsch & lindsaymuseEntertainment Editors: andreahuber & mollymillerPhoto Essay Editor: megankeyserAdviser: marshakalkowski

The NetworkThe Network is a monthly publication of the journalism students at Marian High School, Nebraska’s only Class A, Cath-olic, 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 be types, signed, and sent to this address:The Network, Marian High School7400 Military Ave.Omaha, NE 68134Or emailed to us here: netpaper@omahamarian.orgOr call us at 402-571-2618 x 1134An electronic version of this paper and exclusive content can be found here:mariandigitalnetwork@wordpress.comFollow us on Twitter @MHSbeat

Gillaspie takes ‘Out of the Box’ approach to her conclusionBack in sixth grade, my English

teacher told me that conclusions are the neat little bows that wrap up essays. I begged to differ. My conclu-sions were long and awkward. I was the dweeb in grade school who turned in 14 pages of work when only two paragraphs were required. Comments like “Too wordy,” “Tone it down,” and “Please stop writing novels for the love of everything holy” constantly ap-peared on my papers.

I likened my conclusions to heavy-duty Scotch packing tape: exhaustive and tedious. I struggle with conclusions because they signify the end, and “the end” is a hard concept for me to grasp. As tough as it is for me to admit, I am frighteningly close to the end of my time here at Marian, and this is my final column.

Naturally, I put off writing this column for a few days (weeks). Though I’m a procrastinator, born and raised (0 putting off things is how I spend most of my days 0), this was unlike me. Usually, I jump at the chance to write my column, but this time, it was different.

It hit me like books in Mr. Tom Baker’s Tunnel of Terror that this would be my last Marian column. This is the last time to talk about things like my weird gum obsession, my toasty yoga experience, and my entrapment in the DMV (Don’t Move, Victims).

I feel so honored to have been granted my own column this year. Next year, I am going about as far away from the journalism field as pos-sible. People actually asked me why I took journalism instead of additional science classes. They did not see the point of journalism for a girl going into aerospace engineering.

I took journalism because I love writing. Journalism taught me how to network, take criticism, work un-der stress, interview, and approach disagreements. Marian Journalism helped me develop my voice and love my school.

During the course of my years spent at Marian, I have learned several things. For one, writing a column ded-icated entirely to gum was bad luck. A couple weeks afterward, I found out I have temporomandibular joint disor-der, which is fancy talk for “popping jaw from chewing too much gum.” I may create a GoFundMe and will be accepting hefty donations.

I have also learned that my Marian skirt is the equivalent of my grandpa’s hankie. Next year, who knows where I will wipe my hands? I might even have to … wash them. *Gasps.*

Friend-moms make the world go ’roundcolumn by makenziefuss

When it was my birthday a couple months back, I received two

cards labeled “To Mom.” When I opened my first gift, I pulled out the book “Are You My Mother?” by P. D. Eastman. To some, this would be strange, but to me this is a common occurrence.

I am proud of being labeled by my friends as “mom.” This means my friends believe I love and care about them, which is true. (Awww, I know.)

I suppose being the mom of my friend group means when someone does something well I am probably more excited than she is. I once went to a friend’s swim meet and ended up sitting alone in the stands waving at her every time she looked up at me.

My friends consider me to be “straightforward.” When I need some-thing, I ask for it. On several occa-sions I have had to request boxes at restaurants or ask a question everyone needed the answer to.

When I have reason not to like a particular outfit or even boyfriend, I will voice my opinion in a polite and caring way. In this way, I believe my friends began to respect my opinion after I forced it upon them enough times, as any mother would.

Being a friend-mom is far from a negative thing. I am sure most read-ers can think of a friend who could be considered a mom, as well. I encour-age you to take the quiz below to find out if you are a friend-mom.

1. How excited do you get when a friend wins an award? a) I’m indifferent. b) Good for them! c) I’m more excited than they are!2. True or false: You are forever driving your friends around. a) False, I usually ask for rides. b) False, I mostly just drive myself around. c) True! I always end up driving someone.3. Who always ends up asking questions at stores or restaurants? a) One of my friends usually asks the questions. b) It switches up. We take turns. c) ME! Every time!4. Have you attended a friend’s sporting event/extracurricular activity? a) No, and I probably won’t. b) No, but I just haven’t gotten to it yet. c) Yes! It was so fun!5. What do you do after you take a group pic? a) I’ll probably just save it. b) I might post it on social media. c) I’ll post it on social media and send it out to everyone. Of course, the picture was taken on my phone. It may or may not be my lock screen photo. 6. Your friend is upset. What do you do? a) I will comfort her if I see her. b) I will find her and give her a giant hug. c) I will bear hug her and seek out and destroy whatever hurt her.7. Do your friends often ask you for advice? a) Not really. b) They have once or twice. c) Yeah, once or twice. A day.

I Coll-Ette As I See It

column by collettegillaspie

For all you freshmen perpetually waiting for rides, embrace it. Believe me, you are going to miss rides with your parents one day. Also, don’t be too mad at your mom when she’s late to pick you up. Waiting outside a Prep dance for your ride is a good way to meet other frosh.

Sophomores, the slump can be overcome. This is the year of your sweet 16, after all. Push through, push through. The end is in sight.

Junior year is a beast at Marian. However, it is also the year when friendships solidify and parents grant more freedom. *Teachers and ad-

ministrators, please skip the following sentence.* Juniors, though homework is exceptionally import-ant, remember that sometimes time spent with friends and fam-ily should take prece-dence over time spent on homework.

This year, I have learned several more things.

Honors Independent Research is simultaneously the most fantastic and the most horrendous class offered at Marian.

Grocery shopping like a suburban mom on a Friday night can actually be pretty fun, especially when it’s with your actual mom.

Receiving a genuine compliment and/or hug from a teacher is one of the best feelings ever.

The freshmen in my Weight Train-ing and Conditioning class are incred-ibly rad.

Rapping on top of a car during Field Night is surprisingly liberating.

Leaving Marian is harder than I ever anticipated.

Even though this is my concluding column, I don’t consider it the end of my writing career. That’s melodra-matic. In fact, I have a future filled with writing assignments ahead of me. Term papers and lab reports, here I come!

When I think of goodbyes, I like the philosophy of “Out of the Box,” my favorite television show as a kinder-gartener. Though Tony and Viv tell their viewers farewell, they include the caveat “until we meet again.” Simply put, goodbye doesn’t always have to mean forever. As I prepare to move out of my box to Indiana next year, I leave you with this.

0 So long, farewell, to you my friiieends. Goodbye for now, until we meet again. It’s been great to play and sing together in the box, and now it’s time to say goodbye. *Rub hands, snap, clap.* So long, farewell to you my friends. Goodbye, for now, until we meet agaaiiiinnnn! 0

Are you a friend-mom?

Qui

z Res

ults

: Mostly B’sYou’d be considered a friend-sister. You do not have all the characteristics of a friend-mom, but your inner friend-mom certainly comes out when needed.

Mostly C’sYou are a friend-mom! Embrace your role as a parent, and care for your chil-dren like they’re your own. Your friends will remember you as the cool mom!

Mostly A’sYou’re not very friend-mom. This is totally okay! Friend motherhood isn’t for everyone. Without her kids, a friend-mom would be noth-ing. Keep doing you!

We want to hear your opinion!

Write a Letter to the Editor atwww.marian-

digitalnetwork.wordpress.com

6 • Feature The Network • May 2016

Thwap. Thwap. Thwap.Junior Rachael Hueftle absent-

mindedly pulls on the straps of her iPad cover as she tries to speak of the disease that turned her life upside down. Hueftle was diagnosed with a Wilms tumor when she was 8.

“It was actually really weird,” she said. “It was at the end of second grade, the very, very end, and almost every morning before school ... I’d wake up in the morning, and I’d throw up, and then I’d be fine the rest of the day.” Hueftle and her parents knew something was wrong, and a visit to the doctor showed a distended, swol-len stomach that neither Hueftle nor her parents had noticed before.

“I thought I was just sick or some-thing,” Hueftle said. When the diag-nosis came out, Hueftle’s parents were more shocked than she was.

“I knew what it was. I knew it wasn’t a good thing. I knew it was something serious,” Hueftle said.

“I don’t really remember every-thing, and sometimes my parents are just like, ‘I’m glad you don’t because it was a lot,’” Hueftle said. She had most of her treatments completed over the summer of 2007 but still had to finish things up at the beginning of third grade.

“My friends all knew what was going on, but it was just hard for other people to really understand,” Hueftle said. Other students around her would frequently question why she was wear-ing a baseball cap and wig, and why she was often out of school.

Though people around Hueftle had questions and concerns, “I was fine with it,” she said.

Some eight years later, that calm, resolute attitude helped Hueftle face cancer again. In December of 2015, a visit to her doctor for a virus result-ed in a recommendation to have her enlarged thyroid checked out. After her next checkup with her oncologist, Hueftle knew something might be wrong; her oncologist ordered scans. The scans revealed that her enlarged thyroid contained a cancerous tumor.

When her

old surgeon came to discuss surgery op-tions, the news set in.

“Mom starts cry-ing,” Hueftle recalled. “My dad is just like, ‘Let’s figure this out.’ And as soon as we start talking time-lines, I start crying for a few seconds, and then I pull myself together.”

The diagnosis had an immediate impact. Hueftle went in for surgery Dec. 21, and returned home Dec. 24, just in time for Christmas. With her thyroid removed, she was given radioac-tive iodine pills for a thyroid scan, which revealed cancer in the lymph nodes and the thyroid bed.

In January, Hueft-le was given a radio-active iodine treat-ment again so that any thyroid cancer cells would pick up the iodine and die from radiation. Hueftle was placed un-der quarantine for the first week of the treatment, which is still in effect now. She was able to stay at home (though a lead-lined room was the initial plan), but she and her parents had to wear gloves around the house and use other precautions. Despite the comfort of spending time with her parents, Hueftle typically slept 22 hours a day and didn’t have much time for family, friends, or school.

Hueftle assumed she would be able to stay caught up with schoolwork, “... but it ended up not being like that at all,” she said. “I had completely zero energy. Going up six steps would make me completely worn out, and I’d have to sit down.”

It has been four months since Hueftle’s second diagnosis. She has regained some strength and is caught up with school. Her family and friends have been a great support system. When junior Audrey Wagoner was

in Children’s Hospital with her own cancer, Hueftle’s mother brought

the two girls together. Huef-tle’s mom, an employee at

Children’s, would bring Wagoner smoothies

that summer, and talked about

how her daughter

had had can-

cer. Soon, the juniors began texting. “Rachael would text me before I’d

go in the hospital,” Wagoner said. Wagoner appreciated the chance to speak with someone who had gone through a similar experience. She was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma May 28, 2015. In the weeks before her diagnosis, Wagoner knew something was wrong. She noticed a large lump on her neck and often showed it to her peers.

“I had a pretty bad feeling, and I was telling people it was Hodgkin’s lymphoma,” Wagoner said. “I was looking at [my] symptoms on WebMD and found it on there, and I diagnosed myself on WebMD.”

She was met with dubious respons-es from friends. “She talked to us, she’s like, ‘I found this on WebMD,’ and we’re like, ‘You don’t have cancer, Audrey! Calm down!’” junior Julia Crump, one of Wagoner’s closest friends, said.

After she sprained her neck in a car accident, Wagoner showed her injury to athletic trainer Mrs. Melissa Brus-nahan, who told her to get the lump checked out immediately.

The lump on Wagoner’s neck blocked her airway and limited her ability to run during tennis practices. After the pain spread down her arm, Wagoner knew it was time to go to a doctor. The doctor ran several tests on that day in late May, and the results reached Wagoner that night.

Wagoner’s treatment involved a mix of chemotherapy drugs given to her over three days, followed by a sev-eral week-long rest. Wagoner received

her treatment through a PICC line, a tube inserted

into her arm, and the treatment was repeated four times.

Several months later, she went to the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., for proton therapy. According to the Mayo Clinic, proton therapy uses pro-tons instead of x-rays to allow higher doses of radiation with fewer risks.

Wagoner appreciated the support she received from Marian during this treatment. “I’m so grateful for the sup-port of the girls in the school, with the bracelets, the videos, the prayers, and the kind words,” Wagoner said.

Some of Wagoner’s friends and relatives visited Wagoner while she was receiving proton therapy, giving her the support she needed to over-come cancer. “As of right now, I don’t have any more treatment, but they don’t call it cured for like five years,” Wagoner said.

“[There’s] nothing positive to take out of it,” Wagoner said. “I don’t think there’s one thing that I want to do again.” Wagoner admitted that she blocked out most of the events of the past year, and she prefers to simply move on from the situation.

Hueftle feels the same way. “Some people, when they find out, they’re really mad, they’re really depressed, or they’re really angry. But I was just fine with it. I mean, no one obviously wants it, but it was just something I had to do,” Hueftle said.

Cancer is far from pretty. According to the American Cancer Society, about 10,380 American children under the age of 15 will be diagnosed with cancer in 2016. Fortunately, more than 80 percent of children with cancer survive more than five years. Despite improve-ments over the years, nausea, fatigue, and numerous other side effects still

plague those unfortunate enough to experience it. Hueftle and Wag-oner’s matter-of-fact attitudes helped them face those challeng-es with immense determina-tion. Rather than dwell on their encounter with cancer, these two juniors are ready to put the past behind them and not focus on sorrow or pain. With the help of their loved ones and support from the Marian community, Hueftle and Wagoner hope to beat their cancers and enjoy a hope-filled future.

Juniors fight cancer, defy statistics, rally onclarawertzberger

Friendship fortifies strength Rachael Hueftle ’17 and Audrey Wagoner ’17 pose for a picture. It has been months since they were both diagnosed with cancer.photo by clarawertzberger

Winning in more ways than just one Junior Jockey Audrey Wagoner ’17 performs in her class demonstration. Wagoner has gained back strength and showed it on Field Day.

Here and ready to cheer Field Day cheerleader Rachael Hueftle ’17 cheers on her class at the 2016 Field Day. Hueftle helped the cheerleaders earn first place.

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ers diagnosed each year. • About 10,830 children in the U.S. under 15 will be diagnosed

with cancer in 2016. • About 3% of childhood

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ancers diagnosed each year. • About 10,830 children in the U.S. under 15 will b

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eath in children.

graphic by clarawertzbergerSource: American Cancer Society

I have heard the line, “Gosh, Noelle. You are so emotional,” more times

than I can count. It is people’s auto-matic defense during the uncomfort-able moments when I burst into tears over something they hardly bat an eye at. Why is being emotional such a bad thing?

No matter how you express your emotions, you should never be ridi-culed for it. I understand that not ev-eryone conveys their sadness through tears like I do, and that’s okay. No one should feel bad or weird for it.

Being an emotional person, I have had my fair share of public crying moments. My journalism class has learned to never play the song “Riv-ers and Roads” by The Head and the Heart around me without fair warning. If there’s a movie with any remotely sad part in it, I break out the tissues with no shame.

For me, crying just feels good. Finally releas-ing emotions that have been bottled up inside me for so long is such a refreshing feeling. It de-stresses me and helps clear my mind. I always walk away from a good cry knowing that I will feel 100 times better. This outweighs any public humiliation I may experience.

Because I am so in touch with my emotional side, I also consider myself to be empathetic. If anyone is feeling down, I will do whatever it takes to make them feel better. I have sent silly BuzzFeed quizzes and cute cartoons to friends countless times, but my favorite means of comfort is a classic, heart-warming hug.

I know it may shocking to hear, but I love hugs even more than I love the feeling after I cry. I am a very touchy-feely person, and hugs make me feel warm, fuzzy, and enveloped with love. In addition, I am a firm believer that the best cure for a bad mood is a good hug.

A hug is a cleansing experience. Being squeezed tightly by someone I love helps me walk away more hopeful than when I went in. I can humbly say

Everyone should embrace emotionscolumn by noellepick

that I have been told by many that my hugs are the best of the best. Feel free to stop me in the halls if you want the blessing of experiencing one yourself or wish to challenge my title.

If you combine my propensity for tears and love of hugs, I will effectively transform into an incoherent, blubber-ing puddle of emotion. Just ask any-one who has seen me during the emo-tional moments of the three Freshman Retreats I have experienced.

Sadness is not the only emotion I express so openly. I wear all of my emotions on my sleeve, so you should be able to tell if I am happy, angry, annoyed, afraid, or surprised after a few conversations with me. If I am happy, odds are I will not be able to

wipe the smile off my face. If I am angry or annoyed, I get sassy and unsociable. Finally, if I am scared or surprised, don’t be shocked if you hear a shriek or holler come from my mouth.

I understand that many members of the student body will identify with this column. (Shout out to my fellow cry babies!) I also understand that many people will not identify with this col-

umn, and I respect that. No matter how you display emo-

tion, you should not feel insecure about it. If your eyes prickle with tears of happiness at the thought of cuddling with a pile of puppies, own it. If you didn’t even sniffle at the thought of Zayn leaving 1D but fully felt the heartbreak, know that you are probably not a sociopath. People just express their emotions differently, that’s all.

The next time you stumble upon someone crying in the halls, don’t judge. What they need is a shoulder to cry on, not someone who will make them feel insecure. If someone isn’t visibly shaken when their class song is played, don’t pressure them to get emotional when that’s not their style. Everyone is entitled to feel the way they feel and express themselves how-ever they want.

If you looked at my Twitter right now, you’d find a handful of refer-

ences to my life as a teenage old lady. I love cookies and I get cranky when I’m not in bed by 8 p.m. I’ve also been told I should be a motivational speak-er, counselor, psychiatrist, or other advice-giving person too many times to count. However, I’ve let everyone down. I haven’t given school-relat-ed advice to any underclassmen in months. I haven’t been able to warn them about classes or remind them that time here goes too fast to worry over little things.

During my freshman and soph-omore years, I was able to talk to several upperclassmen about Marian. I asked my IDEAS club presidents for advice on writing papers, dis-cussed the merits versus challenges of Honors/AP Government with my Acting buddies, and so on. I was so excited for the day when I’d take my classmates’ places and become that stressed junior or ready-to-leave senior who could give advice to the

younger girls. I pictured myself as one of those sage old ladies who could spin a story faster than a knit scarf.

It wasn’t until the fall of my senior year that I put two and two together and realized I had chosen a schedule depriv-ing me of any non-senior interaction. I also dropped a few after-school activ-ities, so I no longer saw my sophomore and junior friends. Now, we seniors are less than a week away from graduation, and I have had no chance to tell underclassmen about my Marian experiences. I feel like my yarn’s been ripped from my hands.

Because of all the com-petitive drama between classes in the past, some of you may think this granny should sit quietly in her rocker and stop complaining. I get your point, but one of my favor-

Senior (citizen) misses underclassmen interactioncolumn by clarawertzberger

ite things about Marian has been the sisterhood between the grades. I saw those bonds most in my electives and extracurriculars with mixed grades,

and my big sisters gave me some of the best advice a student could ask for.

Back when underclass-women were registering for courses, one struggling junior called me over after school to ask for advice. I was so excited to finally give some advice that our con-versation could’ve been a TED Talk. After telling her what my classes were like, she and I commiserated over AP Gov. I told her she could get through it, and looking back, I’m so glad I said something. Being told “You’ll make it through!” by someone who’s been through what you’re experi-

encing can be a huge confidence boost.We seniors need you, too. Many of

us are scared to leave Marian behind and go off into an entirely new envi-ronment. Picture a bunch of elderly people moving into assisted living: scared, uncertain, stubborn. We senior citizens have stories to tell, and if you don’t hear them, they may die out. It’s important not to forget about us.

Graduation is just around the corner, and I’m sitting on my porch in my favorite rocker, iced tea in hand. My experiences may make you say, “Oh, Granny Clara. At 17 years old, you’re already sounding like a broken record.” To which I would say, “I have no comeback for that because you’re completely right.” I would add, how-ever, that when planning your years at Marian, include a class or two with mixed grades. If you don’t senior year, I guarantee you’ll regret it. No matter where you go in life, your family will always be a part of you. There’s no de-nying that I’ve cherished every minute of high school with my 707 Marian sisters, and I only wish I could’ve done things differently.

If you see a girl in a green sweatshirt furiously typing on a laptop with a

camera around her neck, chances are she’s a journ girl. The Network has been a constant project for the staff, and it has been a major part of the last two years. Of course, it can be stressful at times, but it is a labor of love. Who would have thought that this group of girls who came into room 304 as ju-niors would be sending papers to press several times this year? Journalism has taught us so much more than how to write a paper and conduct a profes-sional interview. It has taught us how to work with deadlines, be creative, and network with peers and adults.

Journalism has not only been a huge part of our senior year, but it has given us the skills and tools that will aid us in the future. It has given us a voice and has allowed us to find inter-esting and unique stories about the Marian community and student body.

We have also been able to form a sisterly bond among the staff. We each have so many girls that we can reach out to next year if we need inspiration for writing papers, or someone to edit a paper and give us style advice. We have been working with each other constantly over the past school year, and there isn’t another group of girls who could put together a paper like ours. Our indescribable bond will keep us close in coming years.

If we had not taken journalism, our senior year would have looked incredibly different. Sure, it would

have been less stressful, but there are so many opportunities that we would have missed out on. Journalism has given us the chance to travel, meet new people, gather valuable life skills and become, for three of us, State champions.

We, of course, would not have been able to complete our publications without our adviser, Mrs. Marsha Kalkowski, or Mrs. K. She has been absolutely irreplaceable throughout our years on the staff. She is constant-ly making herself available to students and is always willing to help in any way she can. She truly cares about each of her students and the work they create.

As our final issue comes to a close, and we move on to college, The Network will be left into the more-than-capable hands of the juniors. They will have the opportu-nity to learn the things that we have enjoyed these past nine months. Journalism is an experience that has helped us become more involved in the community and has allowed us to form and use our own voice. The last six issues of the paper have been so important to us, and it has been our privilege to be a part of such a unique staff and quality publication.

We would like to extend a collective thank you to all those who read the paper, as well as those who give us feedback, and support us as we put out the paper. We have the privilege to say for a final time, “Thanks for reading!”

Pretty in Ink says goodbyeMay 2016 • The Network Opinion • 7

Pardon my tears Noelle Pick ’16 cries quietly after concluding her final Field Day. Pick proudly embraced her emotions in the middle of Sokol Arena. Photo provided by shellyranck

These darn kids Clara Wertzberger ’16 pouts because of her lack of classes with underclass-men. Granny Wertz-berger encouraged all upperclassmen to take classes with their younger peers.

editorial by mollymiller

JUNIOR JOCKEYs SENIOR CINEMA

makenziefuss

The Class of 2019 was restless waiting for their first Field Day. They rallied their team for

all the Field Day traditions: an exciting game of tug-of-war, class skits, and announcements for Kick Off Block. “It was really fun. I really liked doing the skit and watching all the other skits. I didn’t realize how intense tug of war could get,” freshman Class Officer Lily Blake said.

Rumors circulated the freshman class of just how crazy Field Day could be. “I heard it was really crazy and intense, and a lot of people go all out. Also, no one goes easy on anyone: their own class or other classes,” freshman Student Board member Bailey Hanus said.

Freshman Fastball: Swinging for Spirit hit a homerun with their theme and were excited to begin the Field Day festivities. The first and arguably most stressful Field Day committee is Walls. “Everyone told me Walls would be the most stressful few days of my life, and I didn’t expect them to be so right,” Blake said.

The Walls Committees spend two half days (not including planning) building these three-dimensional stories for all to see on Walls Night. Each class must be accounted for in every class’s wall, and the storyline must be creative and easy to understand. Judges critique the walls on Walls Night, but the big reveal is held off until Field Day itself.

Whether on Walls Working or Planning, members have to sketch, paint, and create a wall in a matter of hours. Teamwork and leadership rose to the challenge as the freshmen resurrected royal blue and green walls from almost nothing.

“My favorite part about being on Walls was being able to look at the finished project and knowing at the beginning it was literally just a pile of PVC pipes,” Blake said.

“I was really proud of us and just seeing it all put together. It made me happy to see the final product,” Walls member freshman Annie Foley said.

In the last hour of Walls, some students panic, but the freshmen did not. “[In the last hour] I was feeling oddly calm. We had everything done, and we were just doing finishing touches. I was very stressed the end of the first day, but towards the end I thought, ‘We actually did it, and there is really nothing else to do,’” Blake said.

The freshmen are very excited to be a part of such a valued Marian tradition. “The whole week was overwhelming, but once we got [to Field Day] I felt so accomplished. I got a huge adrenaline rush, because I had heard about Field Day many times and now I was actually a part of it for the first time ever,” Foley said.

Field season is over, but the lessons learned by the freshmen and every other grade will live in them for the rest of their lives. “It was very fun. It’s really cool to see all the people working so hard for a common interest, and I liked the whole vibe because the whole school gets into it,” Blake said.

Freshmen may not know their whole class yet, but they’re a step closer because of Field Day. “I felt like we really bonded and everyone was so loud and energetic. For demo you’re holding hands with someone you don’t really know and standing across from someone trying to get them pumped up,” Hanus said.

Freshman Fastball wrapped up their first Field Day with excitement and enthusiasm. Time can only tell what the future will bring for the freshmen, but they swung their way through a memorable and successful first Field Day.

allykmiecik

They kicked off Field Day 2016, they danced right into the hearts of many, and they didn’t

start practicing until Monday of Field Week. This year’s sophomore Judges’ Booklet Skit Committee pulled together a jivin’ skit for their performance on Field Day.

The group consisted of Diana Elizalde, Shannon McSweeney, Grace Woltemath, Rayna Bartling, and Colby Lemkau. “Our entire Judges’ Booklet Committee is just a dream team. We’re all fun people and I love working with the energy we all have,” McSweeney said.

Their skit, “American Sockhop,” mimicked the popular reality television show, “American Idol.” Each grade represented a familiar judge on the show while their very own classmate played the role of the sophomore contestant who danced to all kinds of themed music.

The show would not be complete without famous host Ryan Seacrest, who was played by sophomore Rayna Bartling. “I wore Shannon’s brother’s graduation suit without his or his mom’s agreement, and I sweat in it a lot,” Bartling said.

There were many small changes to the committee this year. “There were about eight less girls on committee this year than last year, which called for a lot more people having to pick up extra slack,” McSweeney said.

McSweeney herself was also a change to the dynamic of the group. Although she was part of their gnarly Freshman Surfers’ skit last year, this

year she was the Class Officer in charge of the whole committee.

Another new addition, Diana Elizalde, transferred to Marian this year. “Having this amazing group of friends to help me through my first Field Day was heart-warming. Judges’ Booklet accepted me as one of their own, and I’m glad that I had the opportunity to know such beautiful humans,” Elizalde said. Her beat-

boxing skills allowed the group to have some funky tunes during the skit.

Grace Woltemath was new to the skit this year as well. “Being a part of a close knit group that learned to work together [helped us] get to know each other as not just classmates, but as friends,” Woltemath said.

The girls worked during Field Week all while helping monitor the booklet side of the committee as well. The booklet girls put together a jammin’ bubble gum pink and purple jukebox to accompany the skit.

The group agreed that deciding on a final script proved to be their biggest challenge. Colby Lemkau stated that work done in the skit committee was not always as smooth as her dance moves. “We went through so many ideas. We started with one and then changed it about five times then finally went back to the original idea, but made a few changes to it,” Lemkau said.

Despite so many changes and a last minute script, the sophomore girls danced in Sokol Arena on Friday, April 29. The girls created many laughs that will continue to be remembered throughout their years at Marian.

anyalindholm

Senior Class Officer Mary Kate Mulhall has learned the do’s and don’ts of Field Day

Demonstration over her four years in charge of the committee. Through years of trial and error, she has created first-place-worthy criteria for usable songs: short, catchy, and well-known.

“Freshman year we used ‘22’ by Taylor Swift and the ‘Suite Life of Zach and Cody’ theme song. I can’t believe we did that. Now I always ask my dad if he knows the song before we use it,” Mulhall said.

The Demo process began immediately after Color Block. It took weeks to perfect the storyline and lyrics. Senior Demo moderators English teacher Ms. Megan Piernicky and theology teacher Mr. Andrew De Leonardis reviewed the songs about two weeks before Field Week, counting syllables and making sure the storyline was clear.

“I pride myself on parody writing and draw from my musical background to assist. I was able to take a hands-off approach and not rework much because this class had some of the strongest lyrics I’ve seen,” De Leonardis said.

However, De Leonardis was sad to see his favorite part of the Demo get cut. “They had a line in ‘Old McDonald’ that went ‘Here a horse, there a horse, horsey horsey horse horse.’ I knew it was just a filler while they were thinking of lyrics, but I wish it would’ve made it in. I think it would’ve gone over really well with the judges,” De Leonardis said.

Once Field Week began, the Demo team recorded the Demo to share with the class and choreographed the formations. “We have always been talented lyrically, but not in formations. I knew this year we needed to impress the judges by forming recognizable symbols,” Mulhall said.

Finally, on Wednesday, the class practiced as a whole for the first time. Because of an increase in the number of formations, the class did not have time to fully run the Demo by the end of the day. De Leonardis gave an inspirational speech to the entire senior class because he could not be there to help on Thursday. “The class went through a lot last year. I was so proud to see them come back strong and spirited. They had a choice to make, and they made the right one,”

DeLeonardis said. When their last Field Day came, it was time

to perform their last demo. “I think there’s something special about Demo because it’s the only category that incorporates the entire class. Each member of the grade is on the

working committee, so it really felt like a team win when we won,” Mulhall said.

When Marian alumni meet, there is no doubt Field Day will be a topic of conversation. Demo lyrics will play in Marian girls’ hearts for the rest of their lives. Field Day is something bigger than performing in costumes for 10 minutes; it symbolizes how a class has grown together. For the Class of 2016, their final scene in Demo represented their journey over four years and the love they have for each other. “Graduation was it, that was the one!” the Class of 2016 said. “Now that’s a wrap, our movie is done!”

clarawertzberger

On April 29, a line of Marian juniors dressed in jockey uniforms broke apart like gates

at a racetrack. With the clomping beat of four distinct hooves, the mascot of Junior Jockeys: And We’re Off passed between the girls, entering its race to a first-place win. This PVC-pipe equine was in the stables for weeks, and the students behind it couldn’t be happier with their accomplishments.

“The best part was definitely seeing the final product at the end and also seeing the class’s reaction when we revealed it to them,” junior Lauren Merfeld said. “It’s just an awesome feeling knowing that your hard work pays off in the end.” Merfeld and junior Melissa Geis were inside the horse, and Class Officer junior Megan Anderson lead the committee.

The junior Mascot Committee began officially planning the mascot the week before Field Week, though ideas had been tossed around three weeks prior. The physical construction of the horse put the girls in a tough position, and two remarked that zip ties were life-saving. As Geis put it, once the girls got the proportions right, they could go for broke.

“I was nervous, too, because I knew that our mascot wasn’t necessarily the cleanest, but that it was very interactive,” Geis said. “It all depended on whether the judges were looking for extremely clean, or more interactive.”

First, the mascot had to be strong enough for Demonstration. At one point, a misshapen PVC pipe threatened to get in the way of the

girls’ dreams. A quick fix, however, put the mascot back in the running. “We shoved a full PVC pipe down the middle of them and, I kid you not, it bent into the exact shape of a horse, so I screamed, ‘Don’t move!’ and grabbed a Sharpie to mark the exact spots where it hit. It was absolutely incredible, and I have never seen anything so beautiful,” Merfeld said.

Aside from that stress, the juniors’ Mascot is not a typical Field Day committee. “Our committee is very laid back,” Geis said. “We

usually stay pretty relaxed, and there isn’t a lot of drama.” Despite having no clear plan, the girls were true workhorses, and it paid off.

Anderson described her immediate reaction when hearing the Mascot results on Field Day. “After they announced us as the winners, I gave the biggest and most aggressive hug to Lauren Merfeld and started screaming in her face as she was

yelling in mine, and it was straight joy. Such a rewarding feeling!” Anderson said.

The race is over and won. The winning horse and the group of girls that created it looked back with pride. “Honestly, I think it’s really important for everyone to understand that I was extremely impressed with the other three mascots,” Merfeld said. “I even spent 10 minutes talking to the seniors about how good theirs looked! Also, for everyone wondering, the beautiful velvet horse is, in fact, in Sokol’s dumpster, but I do have his tail hanging in my room. He will always live on in my heart!”

Freshman walls hit fast homerun Jump, jive, and Judges’ Booklet: Sophomore skit is dancing dream

Junior mascot says ‘neigh’ to challenge

S ph m re S ckh pFRESHM N F STB LL

Okay ladies, now let’s get in formation: Senior Demo earns Academy Award

Teamwork makes the dream work ZaZa Nelson ’19 and Ashley Stanek ’19 attach green and blue cupcake liners to a string of lights. Walls girls work quickly and efficiently in order to make their Tuesday Walls Night deadline. photo by allyhermanek

Hey, batter batter batter

The freshmen hit the grand

slam with the wall

dedicated to their own class. Their

final section commem-

orated the Class

of 2019. photo by

mollymckillip

Giddy up The junior mascot stands tall as cheerleaders approach it. The rest of the juniors prepared for a transition. photo by makenziefuss

g

No horseplay Junior cheerleaders dance with their classmates around

their beloved mascot. Lauren Merfeld ’17 and Melissa Geis ’17 were inside the

horse. photo by makenziefuss

8 • Indepth Indepth • 9The Network • May 2016

Express yourself Senior girls smile, scream, and shout as their cheerleaders “graduate.” The girls aimed for an Oscar-worthy performance. photo by natalieplewa

Picture perfect Senior cheerleaders pose as celebrities during the red carpet scene of their Demo. The senior class applauded as bystanders and paparazzi. photo by natalieplewa

Kicking and screaming Sophomore Judges’ Booklet girls flaunt their kick line during their performance. Their “American Sockhop” skit kicked off Field Day 2016. photo by abbyhermanek

Hand jive Colby Lemkau ’18, Grace Woltemath ’18, Diana Elizalde ’18, Rayna Bartling ’18, and Shannon McSweeney ’18 show off their hand jives to Sokol Arena. Lemkau sported pink and purple in order to represent her classmates. photo by marykiscoan

[h

After 35 years of teaching at Mar-ian, Ms. Pat Hess Travis ’64 has

made the decision to retire. As an eleventh grade theology teacher, she has taught her students so much more than just morality and the sacraments. She has helped students grow in faith and their love for God, others, and themselves.

Travis started teaching at Marian in August of 1981. Theology came natu-rally to Travis, as she was a member of the Servants of Mary right after high school. “The second year as a nov-ice, everything we stud-ied had to do with Theology, Church teachings, [and] documents of Vatican II,” Travis said. However, she decided to pursue music as her major, a rarity in those days. Because of this unique degree, she has been able to live in Massena, NY, Denver, and Pueblo, Colo. Eventually, after leaving the Ser-vants of Mary because of her own need to branch out, she received a degree in theology at Creighton University.

After nearly three decades spent at Marian as teacher, as well as four

years of high school as a student, Tra-vis’ memories of Marian are abundant. “There is such a large number of mem-ories that race through the scrapbook in my memory … LOTS of favorites,” Travis said.

As for retirement plans, those are yet to come. “Retirement is a mys-

tery… I will discover it as it happens. I hope to be able to sleep until I wake up with no alarm!” Travis said. “I also hope to substitute once in a while, to spend time in New York City with [my son] Andrew and in Elko, Nevada with [my son and

his family] Mark, Tamara, Liam, and Durin, to travel with [my dog] Dillon to the mountains and just soak in the beauty, get closer to God through peace and prayer, to spend time helping in the parish. I am a bit scared, but very open to whatever unfolds!”

Travis’ legacy will definitely live on through the next years, even with-out her in the theology department at Marian. Students will remember her as a loving and devoted teacher who was always open to the ideas and thoughts of others.

Teacher leaves legacy of loveandreahuber

10 • Features The Network • may 2016

to be!” Kehm said. A combination of her friends’ en-

thusiasm for teaching at Marian and her desire to one day teach in a Cath-olic high school made the opportunity impossible to pass up. “I had gone to

Catholic schools my entire life, so Catholic education is very important to me,” Kehm said.

She will teach at Iowa Central Community Col-lege starting next year, but she knows she will miss coming to work and seeing blue uniforms in the hall-ways. However, she plans on missing more than just the plaid. “I will miss the

teachers. They’re truly passionate about what they do. They have in-spired me, and I have a lot of them to thank for making me the teacher I am today. Obviously the students, as well, you guys are what makes this place so special and what makes us seniors want to work so hard!” Kehm said.

Her formula seems to be one for success. Her new students won’t be mean, or median, or even mode. These puns are going off on a tangent, but her range of skills is so large that the limit does not even exist!

This teacher has problems. She has math problems that is, and lots of

them. Beloved mathematics teacher, Mrs.

Mandy Kehm, has decided to make the move to Fort Dodge, Iowa to allow herself to be closer to her extended family. Both her and her husband have family there and are excited to allow their new ad-dition to the family, their lovely daughter Evey, to grow up with cousins and grand-parents close by.

Kehm started her journey in Omaha back when she made the move to the good old cornhusker state in order to attend college at Creighton University. She then fell in love with the city and decided this is where she wanted to have a job.

After working for Omaha Pub-lic Schools for one year, she heard through some friends who taught at Marian that a math position had opened up. “I also knew some girls from Marian that I went to Creighton with, and they were obsessed with this place, so I figured it was a good place

Math teacher makes move to Iowaallykmiecik

Math teacher Mrs. Molly Witzen-burg’s four year Marian career is

almost all summed up.Witzenburg graduated from Marian

is 1986 and continued on to University of Nebraska at Lincoln to earn a Bach-elor’s degree in educa-tion and endorsement in secondary math. She started her math work at Burke High School, where she taught class-es for six years. She continued on to work in the actuarial depart-ment at an insurance company for eight years. When she was not busy caring for her two daugh-ters, Maggie ’14 and senior Emmy, she worked on the side as a substitute teacher. She then taught math part time at Creighton Prep High School and then full time at Marian in the fall of 2012.

Her daughters’ attendance at Mar-ian was not the only motivation to teach here. “It’s the people. I have loved meeting so many great girls and working with great faculty and staff

members,” Witzenburg said.Students who have taken Witzen-

burg’s math classes appreciate the time and energy she has applied to the topics. “Mrs. Witzenburg is very passionate about what she teaches.

She has a unique way of teaching that helps her students be successful. I feel like she’s a really cool mom,” senior Mad-die Kirchofer said.

After leaving Marian, Witzenburg plans to start using math again in a financial analysis setting. “I’m not going to have kids at home now, so I

don’t need my summers off,” Witzen-burg said.

Witzenburg said she will miss working in a Catholic community. “It’s really nice to work in a faith filled envi-ronment,” Witzenburg said. Traditions like Surprise Day, talent shows, and

Masses are Witzenburg’s favorite memories. “I’m going to miss the opportunities that we have when everyone gets together, the energy and excitement,” Witzenburg said.

Witzenburg SINEs out of Marianmegankeyser

“Look, if you had one shot, one op-portunity to seize everything you

ever wanted in one moment, would you capture it, or just let it slip?” Mr. De Leonardis, more commonly known as Mr. D, passionately sings those Em-inem lyrics quite frequently, encourag-ing students to take every chance they can get.

His influence on the Marian com-munity has been nothing short of legendary. However, with heavy hearts and teary eyes, this rap god will be packing up his desk and sick rhymes in order to move to Chicago.

“Marian has given me so many opportunities I could never forget,”

De Leonardis said. He explains that the past three years have been in-credibly memorable. Every day, Mr. D is a shining model of positivity.

Mr. D, a senior theology teacher and the head of Campus Ministry, has made the decision to move to Chicago where his girlfriend lives. He hopes that he can get a new job in the vibrant city, but he could not leave without addressing the Marian community.

“My most favorite part of Marian

was the opportunity to teach seniors because the whole year is crazy for

you. But then you get to a point where everything clicks, and the lessons Marian has taught you come together. It’s so exciting seeing you seniors develop into the people you’re going to be,” De Leonardis said.

He encourages bonding and respect between classmates and will do so in the most creative ways possible. For anyone who doesn’t already know, Mr. D and Mr. Peter Cunningham are #bestie goals and are constantly seen together at Marian.

Last year, they came up with the idea to label themselves as Jack Gilinsky (Mr. D) and Jack Johnson (Mr. Cun-ningham) when they dressed up like the Vine-famous duo for Halloween. The departure of De Leonardis has raised the question, “What will happen to Jack and Jack?”

“Me and Jack (Cunningham) have a connection that will never be broken. Ain’t no mountain high or valley low will keep Jack and Jack apart. We will definitely be having a comeback tour in the near future. Don’t worry,” De Leonardis said. From rapping encouraging

Mrs. Susan Juza has given Marian something unforgettable. She

has made her mark in the Social Stud-ies sector with Katherine the First, her amazing volleyball skills, and the unforgettable freshman-made trench. At a 4-foot-10-and-a-half-inch stature, she taught Marian that small-sized is fun-sized with her love of blazing hot Cheetos, Reese’s Pea-nut Butter Cups, and Peter the Great. What is the reason behind writing a story prais-ing all of her won-derful aspects? Well, that would be because this confident, inspiring woman is leaving.

“The main reason is because my parents are getting to the age where they need some outside help. I’m seven hours from them, and ever since my sister passed, away the majority of the responsibility falls on my shoul-ders. It’s been too difficult to get up there when they need me,” Juza said. She attempted balancing teaching and taking care of her parents, but in the end she found that ending her teach-ing career would be the way to go.

After 11 years of teaching at Marian, Juza has learned the importance of teaching at an all girls school com-

pared to teaching at a public school or raising her four sons.

“Well, I used to teach boys in public schools, and the boys would throw spitballs. I’ve never seen a Marian girl throw a spitball. I just think that boys are louder; my boys were louder.

They always talk sports, whereas at Marian they talk about other things besides sports. Marian girls are just sweet. I call it the Marian Aw. As soon as they see a puppy dog, ‘Aww.’ You know, boys don’t do that. I hear you out in the hall and you know you say, ‘Have

a good day, love you.’ Boys don’t do that. It’s just so nice to have that in my life,” Juza said.

Juza later explained what she would miss most about Marian. “Teaching subjects that I’m passion-ate about to girls that are passionate about learning,” Juza said. Another aspect of the Marian community that Juza has cherished is the “teacher camaraderie.” Recently, her husband suffered a heart attack. About a week later, he had to have open heart sur-gery. “Since Bob’s had his heart attack, just the well wishes and thoughts from the faculty. I mean that really speaks volumes,” Juza said.

Queen of history takes bowelsiestormberg

The rap king of Marian, Mr. De Leonardis, is on his last versedevongottsch

Mrs. Pat TravisMrs. Molly Witzenburg and

her family

continued on page 11

continued on page 11

Mrs. Mandy Kehm and her family

Mrs. Susan Juza

Mr. Andrew De Leonardis and Mr. Peter Cunningham

Juza takes a bow Juza leaves students, present faculty, and incoming faculty with pieces of advice. “To Marian students, learn what you can in high school, and most kids do. Absorb what you can and take out of it what you can to college.” To the present and incoming faculty she says, “Teachers should tap into the creativity because you guys are really abundant with it. It makes it enjoyable not only for the students, but for the teachers.”

Sadly, as Juza says goodbye, she explained the difficulties of leaving. “It’s hard because, for it being 11 years, it’s been a big part of my life, and you guys are just so cool. I don’t know how else to say it; you’re just so cool ... That’s going to be hard for me to leave, but it’s just the way it has to be,” Juza said. With that, the queen of history, volleyball, and flaming hot Cheetos takes a bow.

Mr. D’s last verse messages over the intercom to dress-ing in ridiculous costumes, he is never shy of entertainment. Mr. D has added such a bright light to Marian. With his future absence, many students are afraid the light at Marian will become dimmer. Mr. D says that he will al-ways hold Marian close to his heart.

“I know it’s the right choice to move to Chicago, but it’s definitely bitter-sweet. Man, I’m going to miss this place a lot,” De Leonardis said.

De Leonardis / Mr. D / Jack Gilin-sky 2.0 has put his whole heart and soul into Marian, and the students have definitely felt that impact. He encourages students to be the best versions of themselves inside and outside of the classroom, and that is something the entire community will never forget. One of the many reasons Mr. D is adored by students is because of his influential, upbeat attitude and empowering advice.

“When in doubt, sing Tupac in class,” De Leonardis said, laughing. “No, the biggest thing is thank you. Coming into a school with such a vibrant community, I have felt so welcomed and loved. Thank you to the students, staff, and faculty. It’s been quite the ride, and this is definitely not goodbye.”

anniesoener

The Network • May 2016 Features • 11

Students complain about school al-most as much as they attend it. The

homework load, the tests, the concepts students may not completely under-stand; school isn’t normally portrayed in a positive light. However, deep down, every student loves something about it. Whether it’s the teachers, the fellow students, or the class material, school means more to students than they let on.

Honors Composition and Literature has helped freshman Becca Townley seamlessly transition into high school. The class challenged her and helped her to grow as a student. “The writing and vocab skills we learned this year can apply to any class that I take in the future,” Townley said. The class has also created fond memories that Townley will never forget.

Though literature classes are popular among students, whenever chemistry class is mentioned, a collec-tive groan is often heard in response. However, sophomore Mali Seran can hardly contain her excitement when it comes to the notorious subject.

“I am inter-ested in science and math, and chemistry is a combination of the two,” Seran said. Seran enjoys the mix of a traditional classroom en-vironment and the opportuni-ties for hands-on learning that Mrs. Stacy Tunink incor-porates into the sophomore-level class.

Because of her experience in Hon-ors Chemistry, Seran plans on taking AP Chemistry II as a junior next year. Tunink will be Seran’s teacher for a second year in a row, something Seran is looking forward to.

“Mrs. Tunink makes the class enjoyable,” Seran said. “She explains everything thoroughly and will help whoever needs it.”

Not only has chemistry helped her achieve a greater understanding of math and science, but Seran is also able to apply the skills she has learned to other aspects of her life. “I will take away the fact that there is always more than a single way to do something,” Seran said. Chemistry has taught her about the periodic table, but Seran realized that this class has helped

shape her as a person.

Chemis-try isn’t the only class that teaches outside the curriculum. This year, junior Sophie Dineen spent time learning about Shake-speare and King Arthur in Mrs. Amy Bauman’s AP

English Literature class, along with valuable life lessons. “Every day in class we have fun, and it’s never really dull. [Mrs. Bauman] always has a good sense of humour about everything,” Dineen said.

Through various projects such as making “Jane Eyre” videos, Bauman engaged and entertained students in a way that will never let them forget what they did in class. This class was meaningful to Dineen because she learned skills applicable to the world beyond literature.

“I learned that English is supposed to be fun, and I will take that with me to all the other classes I will take in the future,” Dineen said. Being able to see things in a positive light will serve Dineen well into her final year at Marian.

Sophomores, juniors, and seniors traveled around the world without leaving their desks in Mrs. Susan Juza’s Geography class during this school year. Geography is senior Cait-lin Ricker’s second class with Juza, af-ter having Honors World History with her during Ricker’s freshman year.

“I knew I wanted to take a class with her again. It was cool to start with her and end with her,” Ricker said.

The Geography class expanded their educational opportunities miles outside of the classroom. “We got to Skype people for classes. We Skyped her son who is living in a Latin Amer-ican country, and we learned about a lot of the customs there,” Ricker said.

Geography class has meant the most to Ricker this year because of the educational edge it will give her in the future. “I’m learning a lot. I know that it will help me in college because I will know so much about all of these countries. It’s really interesting and really useful,” Ricker said.

Although students may grumble when they have to get up for school in the morning, there is something spe-cial about the classes at Marian that keeps students from sleeping in until 11:00 (other than a nagging mom). Whether its discovering a passion like Seran or learning to see the fun in ev-erything like Dineen, classes at Marian mean so much more than learning basic subjects.

After trekking on less-than-sce-nic highways for what seems

like a lifetime, a bumpy gravel road appears and suddenly the three-and-a-half hour drive doesn’t seem so long anymore. After passing the infamous yellow Camp Foster sign in the middle of Iowa, the log cabins start to appear. Campers of all ages hobble to the check-in line armed with sleeping bags and suitcas-es. A universal feeling of both anxi-ety and excitement hangs in the air. When arriving at the cabin inhabited by two counselors and a mixture of friends and strangers, campers realize that this is their new home for a week. The counselors confiscate cell phones right off the bat. The thought of being totally detached from the outside world for a week seems impossible at first. What am I going to do if I can’t text my friends? How will people know I’m having fun if I don’t tweet about it? What offensive thing did Donald Trump say this time that blew up the news?

As the week goes on, these thoughts become secondary. The little device that seemed impossible to live without a few days ago is suddenly forgotten. Home means living in a simple log cabin without air condi-tioning. Lord knows the last time campers and counselors alike show-ered. It’s not uncommon to eat 40 chicken nuggets at lunch and feel no shame, because that’s how camp is. Everything that is socially unaccept-able in the “real” world is welcomed with open arms at ol’ Camp Foster.

Senior Tessa McLaughlin, who attended seven summers, compared Camp Foster to Field Day. It is be-yond explanation unless experienced firsthand. In fact, Camp Foster draws various parallels with Marian, Mc-Laughlin said. The main connection is the universally accepting community.

Ode to ol’ Camp Foster: campers explain why there is no place like home

noellepickHaving meaningful classes leads to meaningful lessons learned

Becca Townley ’19 reads aloud a poem to her classmates The Honors Composition and Literature class concluded April with their poetry unit, where students had the opportunity to write and share original poetry.

continued from page 10

Beached whales Annie Soener ’16 (first), Tessa McLaughlin ’16 (third), and Megan O’Konski ‘16 (seventh), join their Camp Foster friends for a whale of a good time.

“Camp is a week every year I go into knowing I can be the real me, not the person I think people want me to be. For that reason I will always hold camp close to my heart,” junior Syd-ney Monahan said.

The friendships made at Camp Fos-ter do not disappear when the week is over. Senior Elle Putnam said she feels lucky to have met her best friend at camp, which is an opportunity she would not have been given had it not been for Foster.

“What makes Camp Foster so spe-cial is the sense of community every-one experiences from having gone to camp. Everyone is in their truest, most pure form when at camp. You get to see a side of people that is not always visible outside of that campground in Okobo-ji,” Putnam said.

Freshman Ava Bettger still keeps in touch with her camp friends in Iowa and Kansas.

Bettger added that her experience at Marian reminded her of being at camp.

“Last year I went to Mini Surprise Night. When it was time for dinner, we all went into the Marian cafeteria and stood on the benches of the table and started to sing songs. We sing songs at EVERY meal at the top of our lungs at camp. We always sing the L.O.V.E. song from ‘The Parent Trap’ too, and that moment at Mini Surprise Night

made me happy because I felt like a little part of camp was with me,” Bettger said.

To paint a picture for those who ha-ven’t experienced the magic of camp, it is pretty much like the movies. The lake is murky and green, but carefree campers are unphased as they pad-dle along on kayaks and canoes. Any Camp Foster alum knows that when “Sandstorm” comes on at a dance par-ty, grab the nearest wall. Screaming and chanting nearly every sentence is standard at camp, which may look like

a cult activity to outsiders. That’s what outsiders say of Marian Field Day, too!

Bettger said that camp in-spires her to test her limits. Pulling pranks with her

cabin mates is just one example. Bet-tger recalls sneaking into the Dining Hall and replacing the tables with canoes from the waterfront.

A popular question campers are used to hearing is, “Aren’t you a little too old for camp?”

“If someone told me I was too old for camp, I would probably just tell them that if they could act like a child again for a week, I bet they would take up that offer,” Monahan said.

That’s what camp does. It builds character. The harsh reality of the real world is imminent, but the little piece of the simpleness that is camp stays with everyone who has been to Foster.

12 • Sports The Network • May 2016

Spring signers declare sports’ commitment

New summer gym class means open schedules for students

Varsity Tennis takes another swing for State title

elsiestormberg

racheljohnsongraphic by lindaymuse

Player Position School Logo Taylor Asche NAIA softball Hastings College

Lexie Linderman NAIA softball Hastings College

Makenzie Fuss Div II golf Rockhurst University

Madalyn McKeone Div I rowing Creighton University

Savannah Nichols Div I swimming

Saint Louis University

Taylor Nihsen NAIA dance Midland University

Lily Boyle Div I soccer South Dakota University

Taylor McHugh NAIA soccer & tennis

Doane University

Katie Petersen NAIA trapshooting

Doane University

Mallory Edwards Div I soccer UNO

2016 College Team Roster

Superstar Signers On April 13, 2016, nine out of 10 seniors signed Letters of Intent to play sports in college. In addition to the back row of Madalyn McKeone, Taylor Asche, Taylor McHugh, Makenzie Fuss, and Lexie Linderman and front row of Savannah Nichols, Taylor Nihsen, Lily Boyle, and Katie Peterson, Mallory Edwards (not pictured) also signed. photo by lindsaymuse

The Marian tennis team has always been a force to be reckoned with,

and this season proves to be no different. With a record of 9-3, the Varsity team will go into the State competition as the team to beat. The team, however, did not get to where they are without consistent determination, practice, and pushing limits.

Getting second place at State last year has motivated the girls to do everything in their power to finally get the gold. In addition to being physically difficult, tennis is very mental. “I just focus on being confident on the court, because if you aren’t confident, your mind will lose the match for you,” senior Macie Kubat said. Kubat said that it’s all about remaining focused and moving on from past mistakes. She said she believes that the team is strong mentally.

In addition to persistent practice, the team owes much of their success to Coach Beth Dye, who challenges the players to reach their fullest potential. “[They are] very well-rounded tennis players and a very deep team. [We’ve] done a lot of mixing and matching to find the right combination of doubles teams,” Dye said.

A lot of thought and strategy goes into selecting the State competitors, and luckily the girls all have State experience under their belt.

Competing in one number singles will be freshman Julia King, with sophomore Carol Lahey competing in two singles. The number one doubles team will consist of seniors Claire Crockett and Sara Flaxbeard, with seniors Macie Kubat and Anna Slezak competing in number two doubles.

Though only a select few team members will actually compete at State, the competitors could not have made it to where they are without the

efforts of the entire squad. The team will have the opportunity to get a sense of where they stand in comparison to other schools at several invites prior to the State competition. “The two invites will give us a real good idea where we fall and what we will need to improve on as the year goes on,” Dye said.

With State just around the corner, the team is focused on surpassing last year’s second place finish.

“This year I do not want to go into matches thinking we

have the automatic win. At the State championship [last year], my partner and

I went into our match thinking we had the State championship, and we lost. We need to focus on each point and match and hopefully come out with a medal,” Kubat said.

The team will compete at the Koch Tennis Center on Thursday, May 19 at 9 a.m. and would greatly appreciate attendance from the Marian community. This is the last time several of the seniors will ever compete, and they hope to end on a good note with the support of their peers.

Ball is up Berkley Beene ’19 swings away during a Varsity match against Millard West on Tuesday, April 19. Marian won the home match and is one step closer to taking on the State competition. photo by racheljohnson

The sun is shining. Birds are chirping. Summer is here. Not an

inkling of books, pencils, or teachers are on the average Marian girl’s mind. Unless, of course, she is partaking in the newly offered Marian gym classes coming to students this summer.

As part of the recent advances in optional electives, Marian has begun to offer gym classes in the summer that will allow students to have a more open schedule during the school year. Although this is offered at many other schools within the Omaha Public School system, it is not usually available for private schools.

“... There is kind of a whole group of kids that really want to do more with their academics to the point where some of them don’t take study halls. Some of them still not giving [students] enough time to fit in some other types of classes that they really want to do. It will be more affecting the science classes and maybe some English classes,” Ms. Ronda Motykowski, Dean of Discipline, said.

Along with gym teacher Mrs. Beth

Dye, Motykowski will hold these classes during the month of June. Each class will be from 8:30 to 11:00 a.m. from June 1 to June 30. The total class fee will be $250 plus the cost of a $25 gym uniform.

With Dye and Motykowski splitting the days, the class will be a combination of three gym classes, Team Sports, Dual Sports, and Lifetime Fitness, with three different activities each day. “It’s a way to do a trial with this to see how many kids it really hits. We really had two gym classes and moved down to one because only 14 kids signed up. We’re trying to see if it will give them that extra time in the year to get credit done so it opens up their schedule,” Motykowski said.

According to junior Delaney

Villarreal, the beneficial aspect of the summer gym classes are not as meritable as they may seem. “In general, I think that PE is a good class to take during the school year because

then you are staying active in the midst of studying, while in the summer you have a lot more time to be active, so you don’t necessarily need a PE course to do that. Plus, if you have enough time to take PE in your credits, then you shouldn’t have to come in during the summer,” Villarreal said.

Villarreal went on to explain her other issues with the class. “In the summer, people want

to take vacations, and I’ll have college searches. I think it’s important to have my schedule more flexible during the summer,” Villarreal said. It is an automatic failure if a student misses three classes.

Sophomore Audrey Hertel agrees to disagree with Villarreal. She feels classes are going to be helpful for students with a more creative side. “I think it’s beneficial because people who want to take other classes like art or something can take them and not have to worry about having two gyms. It can be kind of a struggle for people who are more creative and aren’t as athletic and don’t want to take a gym class,” Hertel said.

Hertel explains how she felt clueless as a freshman signing up for classes. “I remember freshman year, I didn’t really know what I was doing. All I knew was that I needed to get my gym classes done. I never really thought about maybe taking art or speech instead,” Hertel said. When freshmen register, they are informed of all the possible electives, but it is typical for freshmen to take a gym class.

Whether they are with Dye or Motykowski, the summer gym classes are a great opportunity to expand horizons, make friends, and open up schedules.

Partners in crime Gym teachers Ms. Ronda Motykowski and Mrs. Beth Dye look forward to this new experience with the students. photo by elsiestormberg

On Friday, April 29, while most of the school screamed songs at

the top of their lungs at Field Day, a select group of girls shot at the State Trap meet. The meet continued on to Saturday, and the team emerged with smiles on their faces and a fan-tastic second place finish.

The Marian Blue squad, consisting of freshman Sa-mantha Tracy, sophomore Ellie Messerschmidt, junior Sarah Villarreal, senior Katie Petersen, and senior Allison Zuerlein placed second overall in the compe-tition, and Petersen placed second as an individual. Eleven other students on squads White and Red also competed at the tournament.

One of the most extraordi-nary features of the 2016 team is the wide range of classes rep-resented on each squad. “Blue squad this year was really unique because we had girls from every single grade. For the past two years, it’s been made up of mostly seniors,” Villarreal said.

Despite the difference in age, nothing has come between these girls. Through practices in bad weather and multiple bonding events, the team has become as close as family.

“My favorite moment at State was when Allison Zuerlein gave our squad handkerchiefs with our initials on

them. We were all in need of tissues at every meet. It was a great gift and something that probably won’t ever leave my shooting vest,” Villarreal

said. In addition

to a stellar team connection, the trap team’s huge amount of motivation helped them achieve this great honor. “I think the girls on our squad get on the line for every shoot very deter-mined to win.

We shoot because we love to shoot and we love each other, but we also shoot to win,” Villarreal said.

Doing well at State was not the only team’s achievement that week-

end. At the assembly honor-ing the trap team on the following Wednesday, national medals were also award-ed. Sophomore Megan Doehner, Messerschmidt, and Petersen each earned Scholastic Clay and Target

Program medals. These girls were recognized for their State perfor-mance on a bigger, national level.

The trap team put in countless hours of work on Saturdays, Sundays, and Wednesdays competing and per-fecting their craft.

“The girls on the trap team know what it really means to work hard and play hard,” Villarreal said.

This dedication resulted in a State finish that all members should be proud of.

May 2016 • The Network Sports • 13

Marian is known for having an amazing athletic program that

strives for State Championships, and that is no different for this year’s Mar-ian Varsity soccer team. With former assistant coach Mrs. Teresa DeGeorge as the head coach this year, she is trying to keep the players focused on each individual game instead of only thinking about state.

“Tere-sa always says to take one game at a time, and we will get better with more practices. We have to just take ev-erything as it comes,” senior Lily Boyle said.

Boyle knows what it feels like to win a State Championship and wants

to push the underclassmen to better themselves as players.

“I don’t want them to take it too serious. We have to stay positive to push through the hard games and al-ways have fun while doing it,” Boyle said.

The soccer team’s goal was to not let any goals in and to score 100 goals over the course of the season. Even

though they have let some go in, they have kept it at a minimum. Also, as of dis-tricts, they have scored 68 goals this season. They push each other during practice every day but try to take it one game at a time. Players connect effortlessly on and off of the field even though

they are from all four grades.

“My favorite part of being on the team is being a part of the team. Yes,

I love winning, but being a part of a team that is this close is so much fun. I also have loved improving as a player and helping the underclassmen grow,” Boyle said.

The team agreed that this is one of the closest teams they have been a part of. Boyle spoke on behalf of the seniors when she said how much they will miss Marian soccer.

“I have loved playing these past four years for Marian. We are all sad

to go but thankful for the memories we have created through soccer,” Boyle said

The team won districts on May 4, defeating Bellevue West 3-0.

The first State game was on Wednesday, May 11. The team is crossing their fingers for another win-ning outcome to send the seniors off on a good note and put another State Championship on the East Gym’s wall.

Varsity Soccer strives for gold one game at a time

Track stars run circles around competition

Trap team forges friendships, secures runner up at State

annporter

anyalindholm noellepick

Sarah Villarreal ’17

“I think the girls on our squad get on the line for every shoot very determined to win.”

Out of the 38 girls on the 2016 Track and Field Team, two seniors

stand alone. Seniors Mary Kiscoan and Emmy Witzenburg made the decision to run this year despite know-ing that many of their fellow classmates would not.

“I knew that it was just going to be two of us this year, but I didn’t mind because I love track. I really enjoy having something to do after school,” Witzenberg said.

Both Kiscoan and Witzenberg say they enjoy running track because of the team atmosphere. “I love the envi-ronment at track meets and practice. Since I’m one of the only seniors, my team pushes me to be the best ‘track mom’ I could possibly be. Running, for me, is a great stress reliev-er, and it’s even better when I’m surrounded by under-classmen who enjoy it as much as I do,” Kiscoan said.

As seniors, the two act as big sisters to the team, carrying many responsi-bilities on their backs ... or their spikes for that matter. “It was really import-ant to us to build a team atmosphere because it’s such an individual sport. We planned team bonding activities

like team dinners where we played games together,” Witzenberg said.

Head Coach Mr. Greg Golka was happy to see the seniors come back

for anoth-er year and work with the juniors to lead the team. “The seniors are wonderful people and add to the flavor of the team. The juniors have stepped up with the se-niors to take ownership of the team. It

was neat to see the seniors recog-nize the juniors as leaders and to work in tandem with them,” Golka said.

Kiscoan and Witzenberg are confident leaving the team in the

hands of the juniors next year. “I am really proud of every-thing the underclass-men have achieved this year.

The juniors showed great leadership qualities this year,

and I know they will only continue it next year,” Kiscoan said.

The Track and Field Team has had a successful season, placing third at the Omaha North Invite and fourth at the Omaha Central Invite. District Track was on May 11 and State Track is May 20-21.

Trap queens Ellie Messerschmidt ’18, Samantha Tracy ’19, Katie Peterson ’16, Allison Zuerlein ’16, and Sarah Villarreal ’17 pose with their hard-earned trophy. They finished in second place at the State competition. photo courtesy of samanthatracy

Racing for the Finish Lucy Boever ’17 sprints toward the finish line in the 400m at the Benson Invite. photo by marykiscoan

Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose Marian track ath-letes huddle up before their races. The team values friendship just as much as winning. photo by maryki-scoan

Can’t stop won’t stop Laurel Edwards ’18 proves she has what it takes to shine on Varsity. With the help of her sister, Mallory Edwards ’16, the powerful dynamic duo impress on and off the field. photo by annporter

Marian Varsity Soccer is all smiles (From top left) Anna Mantini ’17, Madeline Shaffer ’17, Rachel Johnson ’17, Emma Nelson ’17, Sophie Dineen ’17, Delaney Stekr ’18, Delaney Gunn ’18, Mali Seran ’18, Grace Thede ’19, Bela Gonzalez ’18, Asst. Coach Monica Bosiljevac, Head Coach Teresa DeGeorge, Clara Kidder ’19, Megan Valenuzuela ’18, Mia McGrath ’19, Lily Gonzalez ’19, Kira Bravo ’19, Laurel Edwards ’18, Mallory Mumby ’19, Katherine Pelton ’19, Maggie Forbes ’16, Mallory Edwards ’16, Lily Boyle ’16, Molly Kuehl ’16, Ellie Begley ’16, Kenzie Meola ’16

Two years ago, senior Tay-lor Lazio had no idea the

weird music she was listening to would soon become her fa-vorite band. She and her twin sister, senior Hannah Lazio, became fast fans of Twenty One Pilots, an eclectic mu-sical duo, and even dressed up as the two band members this past Halloween. “People that we knew thought it was funny,” Taylor said.

Most of their friends and family know of their love for the band, even if it’s only enough to recognize them on TV. One day, Taylor was hanging out at her grandparents’ house when her grandpa walked in, announcing that he had seen the group they like, “those pilot peo-ple,” featured on TV. Twenty One Pilots consists of singer/rapper/pianist/ukulele player Tyler Joseph and drummer Josh Dun.

Later, Taylor had the chance to see Twenty One Pilots live, not just through a TV screen. On Sept. 23, Tay-lor, Hannah, and their cousin waited outside in ominous weather for three hours before the concert of a lifetime. “... the environment was great, the people were all really nice, and you could talk to anyone that was in line next to you. Some guy passed around a poster for everyone in line to sign, so that was pretty cool,” Taylor said.

Though the show was cut short because of a heavy downpour, Taylor recalled singing along to all of her favorite songs and having a blast. “It was raining, and by

the end everyone was soaking wet, but that made it more fun. The energy and the way Tyler and Josh interacted with the crowd was amazing to see live,” Taylor said. “It was really cool to be surrounded by other people who loved the band as much as me.”

Taylor can often be found listening to her favorite song, “Fall Away,” which she likes for the lyrics and her personal interpretation of them. “I just

like that all of the songs have meaning behind them. They’re just a unique band,” she said.

Taylor may have dressed up as her favorite band for Halloween, but freshman Avery Street-er made her own One-Di-

rection-inspired uniform. Throughout 2011, Streeter often wore only stripes and suspenders, emulating Louis Tomlinson, her favorite mem-ber of the pop-ular boy band One Direction. “I wanted to do it because I looked up to them so much since I had followed them almost religiously, and Louis was my favorite, so I figured I could be just like him,” Streeter said.

Although Louis is no longer Street-er’s favorite member of the band―that honor goes to

Twenty One Pilots, One Direction fans share concert, wardrobe, music experienceskathrynbaginski

Disclaimer: The Network staff does not condone

writing on the bathroom stalls as it is illegal and punishable with disciplinary points.

Picture this. It’s a Monday morning, you’ve just been destroyed by a test and are feeling a little down, so you decide to go to the bathroom to regroup. As you’re re-evaluating life and deciding whether or not to call it quits and go home for the day, your eyes wander to the half-erased but still legible writing on the door. It reads something like, “I CAN’T HELP IT IF MY MOM MADE BEANS LAST NIGHT,” and all of a sudden, just for a moment, everything is a little more right in the world.

While some prefer inspira-tional notes like, “Her wings let her fly, but her strength makes her soar,” sometimes a little comic relief is exactly what is needed after being personally victimized by an AP Government or European History test. It’s comments like these that make a bath-room the perfect refuge during a rough day at school.

Nothing says school-wide bonding like a nice collabora-tive note right above the toilet paper. If the second floor middle bathroom is your go-to, then you’ve probably seen the progression of writing in the second stall. What once started out as “Impossible” was changed to “I’m possible” and is now “Kim Possible: what’s the sitch?” That right there is art. There is some-thing truly special about girls from different classes coming together for a little bathroom entertainment.

Though the majority of stall messages are harmless and sometimes even uplifting, there certainly have been in-stances of slander and gossip. The anonymity and absence

Stall talk becomes source of inspiration, gossipracheljohnson

of cameras in the bathrooms make it easy for students to write offensive messages without anyone knowing who did it. However, Marian girls are held to a high standard and should rise above this behavior.

Senior Shayla Taute has experienced stall libel first hand. “Someone wrote a rumor about me, and they didn’t even have the cour-tesy spell my name right. I thought it was kind of funny, but someone could definitely take it the wrong way,” Taute said. Though she may have been able to find humor in the comment, not everyone would take such a rumor so lightly. Taute would like to publicly confirm that the rumor is untrue and specify that her name is not actually spelled “Shala.”

Though actual gossip is few and far between, one can find an abundance of class spirit written in stalls all over the school. Whether is reads “2019 will win Field Day” or “xoxo 2016,” Marian girls are always displaying pride in their class. Other than the occasional crossing out of one class year and replacing it with another, the writing is mostly good clean fun and should remain that way.

It’s important to note that there is a rule against writing on the bathroom stalls, so students should take it upon themselves to stop doing so. If inspiration comes to you mid-bathroom break, consid-er enlightening the student body with a sticky note rather than directly on the stall. In the meantime, as notes will probably continue anyway, make sure to keep it clean and harmless. “I want prune juice” scribbled on a blood drive poster never hurt anyone, but slander written in Sharpie certainly has.

Niall Horan–her love for One Direction has never waned. Since Streeter heard one of their songs on the way to school in fourth grade, the band has encouraged and consoled her many times, especially during the difficult middle school years. “I found comfort in their music, the way that their lyrics had posi-tive vibes and always seemed to give me the confidence I needed,” Streeter said. Now-adays, Streeter jams out to their tunes while doing home-work to make accomplishing her tasks a little more fun.

Streeter has gone to two One Direction concerts in her life and had an absolute blast at both. “The vibe is so energetic, and you can see how much everyone is en-joying it and how happy it makes them,” Streeter said. Surrounded by like-minded people, she felt like she was enjoying the concert with family. “At times, I thought I had known people my whole life while I had known them

for about two hours,” Streeter said.

Streeter connects with One Direction’s lyrics and has learned to accept her flaws by lis-tening to the song “Little Things.” “I don’t like my freckles or a scar on my ankle, but just hearing someone say that every imperfection that you have is what

makes you, you―I love how simple, yet deep it is,” Streeter said.

Most of Streeter’s friends are not fans of One Direction, and many people think she is weird for listening to music that is “not cool” anymore. However, this does not stop her from listening to what she loves. “... I like what I like, and anyone can listen to what they want,” Streeter said. She may not don stripes and sus-penders every day any more, but Streeter wears her love for One Direction’s music on her sleeve with pride.

The Lazios and Streeter may enjoy extremely different types of music, but they all have experienced the kind-ness of a concert family and the comfort of their favorite band’s lyrics. Whether it is the life lessons they have learned or the new clothes they have donned, these girls have shown that a love for music can go beyond popping ear-buds in every once in a while.

A whole lot of history Avery Streeter ’19 sits by her One Direction covered door, surrounded by her One Direction covered walls. Streeter has been a fan since 2011.

Definitely not stressed out Sisters Taylor and Hannah Lazio ’16 stand in their Twenty One Pilots costumes. They dressed as the lead singers of the band for Halloween.

May 2016 • The Network Entertainment • 15

To sum this whole thing up, I am basically the Kourtney Kardashian of my family. All of my

younger siblings have passed me in height, my fashion sense is the savviest of them all, and to top it all off, I actually cried when I found out Kourt and Scott Disick broke up. Our biggest similarity? We

are both the oldest child of the family. We are the guinea pig child that leads the way for the rest of our dysfunc-tionally lovable families. Granted, my biggest claim to fame is the one time I hit over 300 likes on my Insta, where she has her own reality show, but I promise, we’re practically lifestyle twins.

I was born on June 25, 1998. I will speak for both of my parents to claim that I was the absolute light of their lives. One day my parents announced to me that I would have a little sister. A smaller and cuter version of me that I had to SHARE my parents’ attention with? I wasn’t a fan. If there is one thing to explain how not so enthused I was about this sister and how still focused I was on my 4-year-old self, I think the fact that I named her after my favorite character on Dragon Tales

sums it up quite nicely. The whole experience was a culture shock for my

4-year-old self. Although the idea of not being the center of attention at all times was a scary thought, I finally had a role. I was no longer just the little human that my parents doted over at every minute. I was now the big sister.

The sister who is named after a Dragon Tales character is currently in that phase where she lives to copy me, but never in her wildest dreams would she admit that to anyone, especially me. My sister’s 14th birthday occurred in March. On her birthday, all of her friends were posting pic collages. I found 26 different pictures of her in my outfits.

I understand how it can be hard for younger sib-lings and how they can end up being “jealous” of the oldest child. I get it! I know I’m a tough act to follow and honestly feel sorry for my younger siblings who have to try to live up to me. No matter how old we all get, they’ll always be my little sisters and brother who need my protection and guidance, especially when they don’t want it.

Washing dishes after dinner in the Keyser household always turns into one of two

things: a Disney karaoke session or a towel-snap-ping duel until I call truce.

As neither the oldest nor the youngest of three children, I’ve discovered being the middle child is the best place to be. I’m the lettuce of a BLT sand-wich, the letter “M” of the alphabet, Khloe of the Kardashian/Jenner sisters, strong-willed, competi-tive, and independent.

I’ve learned to negotiate for what I want, like the last Oreo in the package, and I stand up for what I believe in, like a redo when I lose an arm wrestling match.

I’ve perfected the art of peacekeeping. For exam-ple, I avoid fighting by choosing not to tell my little brother, Ian, that I spit in most of the Sonic shakes I buy him.

I’ve also grown independent after being forgotten a few too many times, like that one time I was left at

a garage sale. Still not sure if I believe it was “by accident”.

I never felt neglected growing up, but my parents’ focus has always been different for my two brothers. My par-ents had enough to worry about, from 16-year-old Alex wiping out mailboxes with his Chevy to 6-year-old Ian chok-ing on his Cheerios, that 8-year-old me was usually left standing in the middle.

It may be the fact that I’m the only girl of the family, but I’ve always been treated differently than my brothers.

My mom tells me that because there’s an eight year difference be-tween my older brother, Alex, and I, I display more oldest child traits, in-cluding the fact that I always think I’m right. I told her she was wrong.

As the middle child, I’ve learned that $5 will convince your little brother to do just about anything. I’ve learned

that embarrassing stories and prepubescent home videos will be unearthed at the most unfortunate times. I’ve learned that I’m never going to beat Alex or Ian at Disney Scene-It. Most of all, I’ve learned how blessed I am to have two amazing brothers.

I may want to kill them from time to time, but I couldn’t live without them. I have a big brother looking out for me and a little one I’ll always look out for. I’m stuck in the middle, the middle of two brothers I love to death.

One time, someone asked me why I liked the Kardashians. Bible, I could

not answer the question. I once spent five straight hours glued in front of my TV, and for what reason? I was watching Kendall and Kylie fight in St. Barths. I even made my mom watch it with me, hearing the occasional, “This is garbage! How can you watch this?”

The bottom line is that the Kardashian/Jenner family is so entertaining. I’ve been a fan of the show for so long, I remember what Kylie’s real lips look like. To be hon-est, these girls are unbelievably ridicu-lous about a lot of things, but that’s what attracts viewers.

Despite getting constant eye-rolls from the public, I really respect their hustle. Some would argue that the girls are tal-entless, but I disagree. For starters, Kylie

and Kendall apparently wrote a book once. Literally no one talks about it, but it’s out there. If you’ve read it, please shoot me an email at 16mclaugh-lint@omahamarian.org. I would love to discuss.

Also, let’s not forget that a long time ago, before Kim K was Kim K, she was employed as Paris Hilton’s person-al closet organizer. That’s THE Paris Hilton whose catchphrase was “That’s hot.” Honestly, I’m disappointed the friendship didn’t last past the early 2000s. Today, Kim

is sitting pretty with famous rapper Kanye West and their two chil-dren North and Saint. I’d call that a pretty suc-cessful life inside of the Calabasas bubble where getting spray tans and eyelash extensions is a greater concern than deforestation or world hunger.

I am extremely amused by Kardashians. Their life is so oth-erworldly and unat-tainable that it leaves

my mouth gaping after each episode I watch. Truly, it’s humbling. I sometimes picture myself in their shoes (probably

Louboutins), pondering how hard my life would be trying to decide if my Balmain dress would look better with my Mercedes G-Wagon or my $320,000 Ferrari. My 2004 Dodge Stratus isn’t close in quality and is a lot less flashy, but I’d say it rivals in personality and it looks amazing with blue plaid.

It’s 2016, and you can’t escape the Kardashians. Maybe at this point you don’t want to. Or maybe you really, really do. But you’d be lying if you said you were never interested. In a literal sense, keep up with the Kardashians. Scroll through their Instagrams, watch their show, keep refreshing Kylie Cosmetics, and don’t feel any shame about being entertained by their madness. It might make you take a good look at your life and appreciate the normal things that you’ve worked hard for.

‘It used to be all about me’allykmiecik megankeyser

column by tessamclaughlin

In the middle with Megan

Kardashian family: the krazy kweens of Calabasas

old

est

child

mid

dle

chi

ld

andreahuberBeing the baby has its benefits

Growing up, my name was not Andrea. It was Baby Hubes, Lil’ Hoob, or [insert sibling name

here]’s little sister. I used to hate being the baby of the family and always begged my parents to have another kid. My childhood consisted of hand-me-

downs from the late ’90s and early 2000s, getting experimented on with different colors of lip gloss and eye shadow, and being the dumb student when playing “school” with my older siblings. Having an older sister and brother was a curse as a young kid. My brother and I were known in our extended family as being the ones always fighting and beating each other up (mostly him beating me up), and I was popular among my friends as the girl who would come to school with a black eye or a rug-burned knee because my brother and I had been wrestling the day before.

Now that I’m older, I’ve realized being the youngest is actually quite a blessing. I’ve learned everything I know about my parents from my older siblings. For instance, I know exactly how they are going to react,

and how I should respond, when I’m late for curfew or when my room is a disaster. This is not from my own experience, but from seeing my siblings make the same mistakes so many years ago. I’ve seen my sister get grounded for burping at the dinner table or getting her door taken off for slamming it when she’s mad, and guess what? I don’t do that because I’ve grown up seeing the wrath of my parents, and I’m scared of it.

Now that I’m older, I actually love having an older brother who taught me to be tough and suck it up when things aren’t going my way. Also, as the youngest, I’ve gotten to be a maid of honor in my sister’s wedding, and my nephew was born when I was 16, one of the biggest blessings to ever happen to me.

Growing up as the youngest was difficult, but it has taught me so much in life. I have learned humility, respect, and mediation because of this. Being the baby may have been a curse years ago, but now it’s kind of an awesome thing.

youn

gest

chi

ld

graphic by tessamclaughlin

Oldest Child Ricky (10), Ally (17), Emmy (14), and Maddy (12) Kmiecik smile while crashing Ally’s senior photo session.

Youngest Child Andrea (then 1), Allie (then 7), and Scott (then 5) Huber in their early years in front of the Christmas tree.

Middle Child From left to right: Megan (then 15), Ian (then 13) and Alex (then 23) Keyser demonstrate their family dynamic.

16 • Photo Essay The Network • May 2016

Oh, the places we’ll go!

CaliforniaAddison Baffert - University of San DiegoTehillah Alphonso - University of Southern CaliforniaBrielle Divis - University of Southern CaliforniaColoradoJenna Taylor - Colorado State UniversityLauren Beduhn - University of Colorado at Fort CollinsMolly McKillip - University of DenverMary Kate Mulhall - University of DenverFloridaSierra Strattan - University of Miami IllinoisCarllie Meeks - Loyola UniversityMaggie White - Loyola UniversityIndianaMary Beth Apker - Butler UniversityLaura Theisen - Butler UniversityCollette Gillaspie - University of Notre DameAnya Lindholm - University of Notre DameIowaMcKenna Simpson - Drake UniversityMadi Golden - Iowa State UniversityMimi Kelly - Iowa State UniversityAmanda Skalka - Iowa State UniversityAllison Zuerlein - Iowa State UniversityClara Wertzberger - University of IowaMadi Miller - University of IowaKansasKateri Determan - Benedictine CollegeLindsay Muse - Benedictine CollegeCarly Schmitt - Benedictine CollegeJulia Smith - Kansas State UniversityMorgan Stessman - Kansas State UniversityMolly Coghill - University of KansasMaddie Duncan - University of KansasMeredith Faust - University of KansasElizabeth Geske - University of KansasRachel Johnson - University of KansasAlly Kmiecik - University of KansasMolly Kuehl - University of Kansas Madeline Matz - University of KansasKenzie Meola - University of KansasMacie Moylan - University of KansasPayton Ranck - University of KansasKate Ruffalo - University of KansasAnnie Soener - University of KansasAnna Stienike - University of KansasNatalie Ashbrook - Wichita StateLouisiana Claire Davis - Tulane UniversityMichiganNithali Sridhar - University of Michigan at Ann ArborMinnesotaAly Freeman - Gustavus Adolphus CollegeEmma McGill - University of Minnesota Twin CitiesAndrea Huber - University of St. ThomasEmily Pape - University of St. ThomasMissouriMolly Miller - Northwest Missouri State UniversitySara Flaxbeard - Rockhurst UniversityMaggie Forbes - Rockhurst UniversityMakenzie Fuss - Rockhurst UniversityMolly Haddick - Rockhurst UniversityNatalie Hayes - Rockhurst UniversityEmma Pink - Rockhurst UniversityCaitlin Ricker - Rockhurst UniversityMadeline Walz - Rockhurst University

Side by side or miles apart, we’ll always be sisters in our hearts.

Holly Banark - St. Louis UniversityMaia Delkamiller - St. Louis UniversityJenna Gornall - St. Louis UniversityJulia Griffin - St. Louis UniversitySofia Hingorani - St. Louis UniversityHaley Mick - St. Louis UniversityHannah Mueller - St. Louis UniversitySavannah Nichols - St. Louis UniversityElle Putnam - St. Louis UniversityMaria Sakowski - St. Louis UniversityCiera Farrens - University of Missouri at Kansas CityAndie Hanus - University of MissouriCatherine Mormino - University of MissouriElise Pape - William Jewel CollegeNebraskaAmber Jimenez - College of St. MaryOlivia Leatherwood - College of St. MaryMorgan Crockett - Creighton UniversityKatie Ely - Creighton UniversityMolly Fisher - Creighton UniversityKathryn Fuxa - Creighton UniversityBella Herrera - Creighton UniversityLauren Manganaro - Creighton UniversitySophia Marasco - Creighton UniversityEmily McKenna - Creighton UniversityMadalyn McKeone - Creighton UniversityGreta Portis - Creighton UniversityShayla Taute - Creighton UniversityMary Townley - Creighton UniversityBrittany Witt - Creighton UniversityTaylor McHugh - Doane UniversityKatie Petersen - Doane UniversityTaylor Asche - Hastings CollegeLexie Linderman - Hastings CollegeMaddie Gaukel - Metropolitan Community CollegeTaylor Nihsen - Midland UniversitySydney Bonnett - Nebraska Wesleyan UniversityMaddie Shely - Nebraska Wesleyan UniversityKathryn Baginski - University of Nebraska at LincolnEllie Begley - University of Nebraska at LincolnAbby Birkel - University of Nebraska at LincolnMelissa Bohan - University of Nebraska at LincolnLauren Bolamperti - University of Nebraska at LincolnKierstyn Davies - University of Nebraska at LincolnAnna Domet - University of Nebraska at LincolnKate Drobny - University of Nebraska at LincolnElise Duryea - University of Nebraska at LincolnMegan Eastman - University of Nebraska at LincolnLauren Gamm - University of Nebraska at LincolnDevon Gottsch - University of Nebraska at LincolnJillian Gray - University of Nebraska at LincolnShannon Hertel - University of Nebraska at LincolnMegan Keyser - University of Nebraska at LincolnMary Kiscoan - University of Nebraska at LincolnAbi Knapton - University of Nebraska at LincolnSophie Knoblauch - University of Nebraska at LincolnMacie Kubat - University of Nebraska at LincolnMary Paige Lewandowski - University of Nebraska at LincolnSkye Manley - University of Nebraska at LincolnElizabeth Mattern - University of Nebraska at LincolnBlaine Matthies - University of Nebraska at LincolnMaren McGuire - University of Nebraska at LincolnKaitlin McKenna - University of Nebraska at LincolnSydney Miller - University of Nebraska at LincolnJulia Nulty - University of Nebraska at LincolnLizzie O’Brien - University of Nebraska at LincolnMegan O’Konski - University of Nebraska at LincolnKaitlyn Pfannenstiel - University of Nebraska at LincolnNoelle Pick - University of Nebraska at LincolnAnn Porter - University of Nebraska at LincolnJamie Rosenthal - University of Nebraska at LincolnNora Schuele - University of Nebraska at Lincoln

Rachel Sedlacek - University of Nebraska at LincolnAvery Shepherd - University of Nebraska at LincolnElsie Stormberg - University of Nebraska at LincolnRuva Tsoka - University of Nebraska at LincolnHannah Uhl - University of Nebraska at LincolnHannah Walz - University of Nebraska at LincolnBrighid Welchans - University of Nebraska at LincolnEmmy Witzenburg - University of Nebraska at LincolnErin Wolf - University of Nebraska at LincolnMadeline Allen - University of Nebraska at OmahaClaire Bidroski - University of Nebraska at OmahaClare Crockett - University of Nebraska at OmahaSavannah Dannenberg - University of Nebraska at OmahaEva Drzaic - University of Nebraska at OmahaMaddie Dushan - University of Nebraska at Omaha Mallory Edwards - University of Nebraska at Omaha Kayla Gilbride - University of Nebraska at Omaha Abby Hermanek - University of Nebraska at Omaha Ally Hermanek - University of Nebraska at Omaha Hannah Johnson - University of Nebraska at Omaha Carly Kelly - University of Nebraska at Omaha Alex Lager - University of Nebraska at OmahaHannah Lazio - University of Nebraska at OmahaTaylor Lazio - University of Nebraska at OmahaCecilia London - University of Nebraska at OmahaMichaela Moriarty - University of Nebraska at OmahaAlex Muniz - University of Nebraska at OmahaMargaret Reding - University of Nebraska at OmahaClaire Schneckenberger - University of Nebraska at OmahaRachael Steier - University of Nebraska at OmahaEmily Vlach - University of Nebraska at OmahaNorth CarolinaAnna Slezak - Duke UniversityKellyn Daly - University of North Carolina at Chapel HillElizabeth Sheehan - University of North Carolina at Wilm-ingtonNorth DakotaMorgan Kahler - North Dakota State UniversityOklahomaAshley Yakopec - Oklahoma State UniversityKatelyn Gochenour - University of OklahomaOregonCarma Draney - Southern Oregon UniversitySouth CarolinaCassie Heisey - University of South CarolinaSouth DakotaSophia Terwilleger - Augustana UniversityMairin Rochford - South Dakota State UniversityEmily Cheloha - University of Sioux FallsLily Boyle - University of South DakotaAshlyn Hruska - University of South DakotaElizabeth Loschen - University of South DakotaTexasKatie Belford - Texas Christian UniversityKatrina McCutcheon - Texas Christian UniversityWashingtonFaith Vinton - Seattle UniversityWisconsonHannah Saalfeld - University of Wisconson at Eau ClaireTessa McLaughlin - Marquette UniversityCourtney Schincke - Marquette UniversityWyomingMaddie Kirchofer - University of Wyoming

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allykmiecik

For the longest time I didn’t believe 2016 was an actual year, but a set of numbers to add onto the end of “xoxo”.

The month of May is actually here and our time together has about come to an end. Switch out the royal blue plaid and polo for a cap and gown, but always remember that you are a part of the Marian Class of 2016. We are not going to say goodbye, but see you later and good luck.

Next year, we will be away from each other from the first time in four years. It will be insanely weird to look down the hall and not see all 179 of our best friends, but it will be even better to see what we all do with our amazing talents and where they take us in life. This end of senior year is the beginning of whatever you can dream it to be, so dream big.

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