69 issue 2 dec 2025
Year in Review
KC Concerts
pg. 8
Then vs. Now 2026 Predictions pg. 9 another year in the books looking back while moving forward
dear reader,
I am so excited to present to you our second issue. This issue is packed with stories that reflect our student life and athletics. Our goal is to bring the activities at Miege to celebrate our community and diversity. We want to thank each person who takes the time to read our issue. We appreciate your excitement, support and encouragement. Please continue your feedback and encouragement to help us share the stories that matter most to the Miege community. Thank you for sharing, reading and being part of our story.
Sophia Hart social media editor
Photo by
news briefs staff list
editor-in-chief
Mary Thompson
local
shifting into gear
Andretti Indoor Karting opened a new location in Overland Park, KS, on Nov. 18, bringing more than 250 new job openings to the area. The attraction offers virtual reality experiences, superkarts on a multi-level track, racing simulators and a two-story laser arena. There is also a full bar and restaurant serving pizza and barbecue.
design editors
Elise Oblepias
Jack Gelhaus
photo editor
Norah Murtha
social media editor
tis’ the season
The second annual Hallmark Christmas Experience will be returning to Crown Center. The event is available on the weekends from Friday to Sunday and began Nov. 28, continuing to Dec. 21. The free event features a Holiday Hallmarket, nightly tree lighting ceremonies with light shows, festive food and drinks and numerous photo locations around the square. There will also be ticketed experiences, including a Hallmark writers and stars meet-and-greet.
local state national
fueling up
Buc-ee’s, known for its massive convenience stores, has begun construction and is set to open in 2026 near the Kansas Speedway. The Kansas location will mark its first entry into the state. Buc-ee’s has promised 120 gas pumps, 12 electric charging stations and 560 parking spots and it is set to feature a 74,000 square-foot building and bring in around 200 jobs.
back in business
The U.S. federal government officially reopened on Nov. 12, ending a record-long 43-day shutdown after Congress passed and President Donald Trump signed a short-term funding deal. The agreement funded most agencies through Jan. 30, reversed recent federal layoffs and restored funding to programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which helps low-income individuals and families buy groceries.
Sophia Hart photographers
Paul Olson
Megan Ball Franny Philgreen writers
Hailey Hodge
Emma Lonergan
Kayla Lueckenotto
editorial policy
The Miegian and Bishop Miege Press are published by the newspaper staff of Bishop Miege. The editorial board decides the content of each issue. Opinions expressed are the views of the writer. The Miegian welcomes material (letters, guest columns, feedback) from the community. This material will be reviewed by the editorial board and published based on the publication’s letters policy criteria. Materials can be dropped
off in the journalism room, emailed to newspaper@ bishopmiege.com or mailed to the newspaper in care of Bishop Miege. All letters and columns must be signed. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for length, language or potential libel, and to refuse any articles or advertising submitted. All opinion pieces submitted should contain an email address and a phone number where the writer can be contacted because the staff will confirm all letters.
I PIXABAY
red bag
From One Family to Many: Red Bag Makeover Extends Holiday Help Across KC
by Emma Lonergan staff writer
While charity and gift giving have been a student tradition for nearly 30 years, the annual Red Bag program had a new look this year. Instead of herds adopting one family to shop for, each herd was now responsible for some specific items for the Holiday Shop that would be donated to the Don Bosco Centers. For instance, Reardon collected toys and art supplies, while Lucas collected housewares.
“This year we were was asked to help increase the donations for their Holiday Shop,” campus ministry director Bill Creach said. “They would like to spread the holiday cheer and help a greater number of families this year by beefing up their donations for the Holiday Shop.”
According to Creach, the Don Bosco Centers has dedicated itself to cultivating self-sufficient neighbors for a strong community.
“I wanted to make sure all the areas of the Holiday Shop got good support and didn’t get lopsided donations,” Creach said.
The holiday shop is a place where families can go Christmas shopping with the donated items. This allows people to get what they genuinely need and ensures a fair system where all famlies recieve the same support.
“I think that the change is really awesome,” senior Tylicki herd Executive Devyn Davis said. “By donating to the Holiday Shop we get the chance to help more people.”
This year, students and teachers worked hard to gather all the requested gifts for the holiday shop. While students decorated doors and trees, herd execs gathered their gifts to put under the tree. Each herd collected several gifts. Students noted that the amount of support was overwhelming.
“I think this year was a huge success,” senior Izzy Hyde and herd captain, said. “It feels good knowing we get to help more people this way.”
1. How many ghosts visit Ebenezer Scrooge in A Christmas Carol?
A. Two
B. Three
C. Four
D. Five
2. What popular Christmas song was originally written for Thanksgiving?
A. Jingle Bells
B. The First Noel
C. Hark the Harold Angels Sing
D. Silent Night
3. How many towns in the United States are called Christmas?
A. One
B. Two
C. Five
D. Seven
4. What is the most popular Christmas beverage in the U.S?
A. Eggnog
B. Apple Cider
C. Hot Chocolate
D. Peppermint Mocha
Based on a survey of 57 Bishop Miege students
I PAUL OLSON
faith in action
by Hailey Hodge staff writer
Confirmation preparation classes are in full swing for the first time ever at Bishop Miege. The new faith formation program, launched last fall through campus ministry team and led by Father Andrew Strobl, allows students who have not yet been confirmed, or who are interested in becoming Catholic, to prepare for the sacrament during the school day.
The program grew out of a long-standing faith formation need among students.
“Every so often, we would meet students who wanted to receive their sacraments but weren’t sure how to begin,” campus ministry director Bill Creach said. “Now, instead of sending them elsewhere, we can walk with them right here.”
The initiative follows collaboration between Catholic high schools and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, which has
sacraments for students
Father Andrew Strobl kicks off the first confirmation training class of the year in September With a few students already enrolled, these lunch time sessions are faith and bonding experiences. “Having that one-on-one experience with Father Andrew is a comforting,” Nancy Baca Olivas said.
encouraged schools to create more consistent and accessible faith formation opportunities.
The course focuses on Scripture and the core teachings of the Church, with lessons designed to connect faith to daily life.
Each session, held during lunch period, emphasizes reflection, discussion and prayer. It also centers on the upcoming Sunday reading, along with a topic such as the Eucharist, Mary or the Church, helping students think with the mind of the Church and grow in understanding, while coninciding and complementing each class in the school’s academic faith curriculum.
“This program strengthens what we already do in theology classes by giving students a more personal, lived experience of faith,” Father Strobl said.
Expanding our Catholic identity of rooted in faith and growing in spirit, the program highlights Christ-centered living here at school.
“I think there are many aspects of living the faith here, we’re here to evangelize, we’re here to live the faith and we’re here to serve,” Father Strobl said.
holiness in the hallways
by Hailey Hodge staff writer
Arare moment in Catholic history occurred on Nov. 12 as the student body welcomed a first-class relic of Saint Carlo Acutis, the 15-year-old Italian teen known worldwide for his devotion to the Eucharist and his modern path of holiness.
Acutis, who died in 2006 from leukemia, spent his life as many teenagers do: playing sports, studying and even playing some video games. At age 9, he began designing what would become a global catalog of Eucharistic miracles. He once wrote, “The Eucharist is my highway to Heaven,” a line that inspires young Catholics worldwide.
Students were presented with a lock of Acutis’ hair, a first-class relic, and an actual physical part of the saint. Such relics, according to Father Andrew Strobl, are extremely special because they are rare and few exist.
“It’s a beautiful reminder that we are all called to be saints,” Father Strobl said. “Carlo died at such a young age, and he shows our students that holiness isn’t distant. It’s possible now.”
Patrick Bruggen, international coordinator for the Marian Catechist Apostolate and national coordinator for the Real Presence, presented to students and described Acutis as a teenager in love with the ‘who’ of the Eucharist.
“He lived his faith outwardly,” Bruggen said. “He played soccer, the saxophone and video games. After practices, he’d invite his friends to help at a food kitchen. The difference wasn’t special talent—it was that he chose to participate in the grace he was given.”
In addition to presenting the relic, Bruggen brought a small-scale miracles display to the school’s media center, an exhibit inspired by Acutis’ online catalog of Eucharistic miracles. Theology classes explored the panels throughout the day, learning about documented miracles from around the world.
As students moved through the exhibit, many found them-selves struck by the personal impact of encountering a saint’s relic..
“The relic helped me to feel closer to him,” senior David Zavala said. “Afterwards, I researched more about his life, and I felt very inspired.”
Prior to the relic’s arrival, Father Strobl participated in intentional prayer and reflection. He hoped the relic’s visit would encourage students to look outward toward God and one another.
“At the heart of Miege’s identity is the belief that young people are capable of becoming saints, and of leading others toward Christ,” Father Andrew said.
shining saint
A reliquary containing a first-class relic of St. Carlo Acutis is displayed in the media center on Nov. 12 during a schoolwide event introducing students to Acutis’ life.
Photo by Norah Murtha
Photo by Patrick Charles
one last trip to the upside down
Saying Goodbye to the Kids Who Saved the World (Again and Again)
by Megan Ball staff photographer
It’s strange to say goodbye to a TV show, but “Stranger Things,” a Netflix series produced by the Duffer Brothers, was never just a show. For many students who grew up with the teenagers from Hawkins, Indiana over the last 4 seasons, and even adults who grew up in the 1980s, the show’s pop-culture relevance was at the forefront of every episode. From childhood sleepover viewing parties to late-night premieres, viewers have grown up with the characters. Now that the final chapter chapter, season 5, has launched, it marks the end of an era.
Junior Henry Hogard enjoyed seeing how the characters progressed along with the viewers.
“It’s kind of cool to see the characters because I’m growing at at the same time as them and its like we’re growing up alongside each other,” Hogard said.
According to Variety.com, season 5, Volume 1 debuted on Nov. 26 with the first four episodes, and had 59.6 million views in the first five days of streaming— the best premiere-week viewership an Englishlanguage Netflix series has ever achieved. The additional volumes will roll out over
Christmas break: Volume 2 (3 new episodes) releases Dec. 25. Volume 3 (the finale) will release on Dec. 31,
Since its debut in 2016, the series has taken viewers from the nostalgic streets of Hawkins to the eerie deep corners of the Upside Down.
“I think Hawkins is gonna experience a fall and won’t exist anymore,” junior Sadie Lepper said.
“I unfortunately think Steve Harrington and Will Byers are gonna die in the upcoming season,” junior Joseph Clark said.
Beyond the story itself, “Stranger Things” have had a huge impact on the world’s pop culture, during the release of Season 3 in 2019, 80s era fashion made a comeback.
“People started wearing scrunchies and other 80’s and 90’s fashion came back,” Lepper said.
Between the return of mall culture, the soundtracks and bright patterned clothing making a return, the neon lights of the Starcourt Mall became a major symbol of nostalgia, blending the sci-fi tension with a fun 80s style as the show made a generation fall in love with a decade they never lived through.
nostalgia and echoes from their adventures growing up, woven into the storyline.
“I grew up in the 80s, so its definitley nostalgic for me,” Barreca said. “I can relate to all the fashion trends and all the little things like the mall.”
Part of what’s made “Stranger Things” stick with viewers is how realistic the characters and connections have felt.
“Steve is my favorite, he’s had so much growth and character development we’ve got to see, and I love how supportive he’s been of all the kids we’ve gotten to grow up with,” Barreca said.
One of the biggest lessons to take is to be honest with your friends.
Jane Barreca
Viewers have watched the heroes go through loss, change, friendships, drama and finding their places in the world. The friendships, the heartbreaks, the growing pains— the messy, confusing parts of finding themself, mirroring what high schoolers wrestles with: loyalty, change and trying to figure out who you are.
For algebra teacher Jane Barreca, the show was a nostaglic throwback to her childhood. While younger viewers are drawn in by monsters and mysteries, adults who remember the decade firsthand find a familiar
“One of the biggest lessons to take is to be honest with your friends,” Barreca said. “‘Friends don’t lie’ is a big one in the show, and true friends will always stick together, even through tough times and bad choices.”
by Sadie Leper
year in review
by Emma Lonergan staff writer
kc concerts in a wrap top 2025 trends
Source: TikTok
by Mary Thompson
As the calendar flips to 2026, what made pop culture headlines in 2025? From artificial intelligence reshaping the world to “six-seeeeven” jokes taking over classrooms, 2025 was an influential year with most trends being led by social media.
“Social media affects trends because it makes things more popular, and can easily influence people online to do things,” sophomore Angelina Arvizo said.
One of the biggest trends, according to students, was saying “six-seeeeven”. The joke originated from Tiktok and the song “Doot Doot” by Lord Skrilla.
“At first I thought it was really annoying,” sophomore Kaitlyn Dulle said. “But now, it’s stuck in my head because all my friends say it.”
Energy drinks are also popular, especially among young adults trying to keep up with their schedules. Many different brands have gained popularity due to the energy drink craze, with some of the biggest brands
being Alani and Redbull.
“Energy drinks are really helpful,” sophomore Naomi Ortiz said. “They help me get through school and volleyball tournaments.”
Fashion trends have especially been influenced by social media. One of the biggest fashion trends this past year has been chunky jewelry and bracelet stacks. This new trend leans into mixing metals, textures and sizes to upgrade simple outfits.
“It ties your outfit together and adds personality,” sophomore Brooklyn Masters said. “You can tell a lot from a person based off their jewelry.”
The most controversial trend of the year has been the rise of A.I., especially ChatGPT. The platform experienced exponential growth since its release in November of 2022, becoming a helpful resource for students. It’s use has become a large debate among educators, questioning if its being used correctly.
“It saddens me to think that a generation will grow up believing that the craft of writing is not worth pursuing,” english teacher Jacob Taylor said. “There are doubtlessly good and innovative uses of Chat-GPT.”
“All the dancing was amazing, and the whole show looked really put together and was really good.”
From screaming in the pit to singing along in the nosebleeds, the Kansas City 2025 concert lineup did not disappoint. Each concert brought its own energy and unforgettable moments. As the year comes to a close, here is some of the top concerts that came to Kansas City with ratings and reviews from students who were there. Esmerelda Garrido
“It was unlike any other concert I went to because it was at the World War I Memorial. There were tons of food trucks and the people there were getting really into it.”
Claire Weber
“We had pit tickets which made it a little hard to hear cause the bass was so loud, but during “Dark Thoughts,” the whole crowd was singing, which was hype and made it much easier to hear.”
Ryan Hutchinson
Joseph Charles “The energy was so high the entire time, and, as sad as I was for it to end, the last song was he most hyped moment.”
then vs. now
As the year comes to an end, it’s the perfect time to look back at how much our school has changed since its opening in 1958. From new additions, like the media center, to the change in hairstyles and uniforms, everything is looking a little different. Here’s a look at our school then vs. now and how far its come.
By Sophia Hart, Social Media Manager
The original stained glass window was installed in the chapel and was part of the original school building when it was constructed in 1958. In 2004, the new stained glass window was built with a more complex design that shows the story of Jesus calming the storm.
Hair styles and uniforms have changed drastically from 1967 to 2025. Uniforms have been altered so that every student wears more similar clothes, including the boys who did not previously have one in the 60s. Hairstyles have changed from big hair with a side part to middle parts and smaller, simpler hairstyles.
girls’ sports
Nineteen years after the school opened, the first girls’athelitc teams were formed. In the beginning, tennis and volleyball were the only two at Miege. It has grown to include 17 girls sports programs that are a strong part of the Miege community.
media center
The media center is an addition to the school that was built in 2003. The media center is used as a library, a math tutoring center and a writing center was added in 2025. The media centers purpose is to give students extra resources for learning. The guidance office is where the old library preiovously was located.
NORAH MURTHA
MURTHA
snack attack
Celebrating Trader Joe’s New Store with Our Must-Try Bites
by Megan Ball, Paul Olson and Kayla Lueckenotto staffers/photographers
In anticipation of Trader Joe’s expanding to Merriam, Kansas in 2026, at the corner of Antioch Road and Shawnee Mission Parkway, we reviewed some of their most popular snacks.
The popular national chain of grocery chain is known for its unique, private-label products, including gourmet, organic and
Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cups
PAUL OLSON: This was my favorite snack. I love dark chocolate so it automatically is one of the best. The only thing that takes a star away is that the peanut butter was too smooth. I liked the crumbly peanut butter in Reeses.
PO: MB: KL:
Sweet Plantain Chips
KAYLA LUECKENOTTO: Very tasteless, and has no real flavor. Not a fan of dried fruit things like this, plus it has this weird dry texture to it.
PO: MB: KL:
Peppermint Pretzel Slims
MEGAN BALL: Thin, crunchy pretzels, dipped in white chocolate and crushed candy canes. Between the sweet, salty and minty flavors, this snack is a 10/10. The kick of peppermint can be a little overwhelming, so it’s definitely more of a holiday-time snack.
PO: MB: KL:
health-focused items. With the new location, students can soon look forward to grabbing their favorite snacks before or after school.
When every visit feels like a treasure hunt with a chance to find something new and constantly changing flavors you won’t find anywhere else, Trader Joe’s is the perfect snack destination.
Of course, if you cannot wait until 2026 to get your snack fix, current locations include Ward Parkway Center in Kansas City, Missouri and the Leawood, Kansas location off of 119th Street and Roe Ave.
Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips
MEGAN BALL: Crunchy, tangy and totally addictive. The chili-lime seasoning hits just right without overpowering the tortilla base. Understandably, such a classic!
PO: MB: KL:
Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches
PAUL OLSON: These are the most basic ice cream sandwiches. The include two chocolate chip cookies smashing a hunk of vanilla ice cream. While they taste incredible, the cookie is a little too crumbly for me.
PO: MB: KL:
Sour Scandinavian Swimmers
KAYLA LUECKENOTTO: Sweet with the right amount of sour coating and chewy but not too much. Reminds me of a better version of Swedish Fish. The different variety of flavors in the bag is a bonus, but the star-shaped ones were my favorite.
PO: MB: KL:
teacher feature GET TO KNOW: Statistics Teacher Jeffrey Reed
by Kayla Lueckenotto staff writer, photographer
New to the Bishop Miege Math Hub is director Jeffrey Reed. By way of China to San Diego, and now to the middle of the United States, Reed’s teaching journey has taken him all around the world. As one of the newest teachers on staff, we wanted to know more about Mr. Reed.
Q. What has been your favorite place to live and why?
Shaman, China is probably the place I would say is realistic, because I could go sailing, and to the beach. I could also go hiking in the mountains, skydiving or paragliding, all in one place. It was warm, but if I went way up in the mountains, it got pretty chilly in the winter.
Q. What’s your favorite thing about working here at Miege?
The positive attitude of most of the students
finals study tips
and the teachers. I’ve been on an adventure with the students and the parents here. Many of them have been here for several generations. There’s three generations that have come to the school. I love my own life, but I’m also jealous of having that community that who knows each other in and out.
Q. What is the most unique hobby you have? I’m a scuba diving instructor, so I got to scuba dive around the world for free. Instead of having to pay to go to Indonesia, I got paid to go to Indonesia on my own time.
Q. What is the most different about working in American schools versus schools in other countries?
I’ve worked in public schools in China where a lot of the students were poor. I’ve also worked in private schools. I think one difference is how family express the importance of doing well, which means they pay more attention to what their kids are doing.
Q. What is your favorite Chinese snack that you wish we had in America?
I would say my mala tang, or youtiao. Youtiao is this fried bread. They take the dough and then make it into a hot dog shape and then throw it into super hot grease. It is amazing. And then mala tang is this big bowl of spicy curry soup that is also delicious.
Finals week is an important part in any high school student’s education journey. From G.P.A. updates, to finalizing grades for the semester, here are five study tips from oxfordlearning.com that will help you prepare for finals.
1. Study the week before your final, not just the night before
When you study for all of your classes the week before your final, you will retain more knowledge about the class rather than just cramming it all in the night before, maximizing your study time.
2. Make a set of flashcards for each class
Making a set of flashcards is not only a great way to study, but it’s also extremely easy to do. You could even make flashcards online.
3. Have a good sleep schedule
When you have a good sleep schedule, you’re
more aware as you take your tests. When you get a good night’s sleep, it’s more likely that you’ll remember the things you’ve studied.
4. Avoid distractions
It’s extremely important that you avoid distractions while you study. Put your phone on silent and in another room while you study in a quiet place, with little to no distractions.
5. Ask for help
Go to a teacher before or after school and receive help from them, or ask a friend or family member to quiz you on what you’re studying.
by Franny Philgreen, staff writer
Photo by Sophia Hart
winter sports preview
by Paul Olson staff photographer
BOWLING
Overview:
BOYS
Boy’s basketball retained most players this year, leading to more bonding between the members. They hosted the Basketball Jamboree to scrimmage other teams and hone their skills.
The biggest goal is to win a state championship. To win would be huge, but also, having a great time will be another big goal.
Senior Luke Nelson
GIRLS
The girls basketball team practices during “open gym time” and use team bonding exersises to bring the team closer together.
One of our biggest goals is to be united through it all. That’s what’s going to be written on the back of our shirt, United. It means, staying together when times are tough.
Overview:
The bowling team holds weekly practics to sharpen their skills. The team is excited to enjoy the electric atmosphere of their matches and fully prepared for the season.
WRESTLING
BASKETBALL SWIM AND DIVE
Overview:
The Wrestling program has doubled in size this year and is hoping for a state title.
I love the weekly bowling matches with my fellow teammates and I am excited for the energy that comes with the season.
Senior Jayla McClinton
Schedule: Schedule:
Junior Rafael Pollina
Schedule:
freshman fights
Student continues tradition through boxing
by Franny Philgreen staff writer
As freshman Daniel Mendez steps in the boxing ring, he puts in his mouth guard and receives last minute advice from his dad, Daniel Mendez, who is also his coach at Kansas City Kansas Police Athletic League. He also carries determination, a prayer in his heart and a family legacy.
Techniques like jabs, hooks and precise footwork to be able to reach the goal of knocking the other person out.
Daniel’s journey began a year and a half ago, when he was in the 7th grade at Our Lady of Unity School. His dad set up a training schedule for him, and since then he has since committed to a rigorous routine that includes sprints, technical
I think it’s gonna go really well. We have a lot of new young guys who came in last year. Now they have a year under their belt and they’re experienced and they’re ready to go.
Senior Brady Beaver
Schedule:
Overview: Swim and Dive are preparing for the season through rigorous workouts and being diciplined in their official and unofficial practices. They hope to place at state.
My goal for the (swim) season is to medal at the state meet, which is top eight.
Senior Declan Rydzel
I think we’re gonna have a good season. We have a new freshman diver, so it’s gonna be fun to mentor him and see how he progresses.
Junior Justin Pullen
Schedule:
drills, core conditioning and sparring sessions.
“The feeling of knowing that you accomplished something and just wanted to have that gets me up in the morning,” Mendez said.
Mendez’ commitment to boxing signifies more than just participation. It reflects the continuation of a family tradition rooted in discipline, determination, intention and a deep sense of pride.
According to president Joe Schramp, boxing is a rare outside of school activity for students. Students who box are among a small number of students to pursue the sport at a competitive level.
“It’s a very unique story,” Schramp said. “We don’t have a lot of boxers here at Miege.”
“I love all my teammates who surrounded me after I (win fights),” Mendez said. “I also love how my coaches always prioritize our safety as boxers.”
“He’s really good at boxing,” freshman Sophia Dominguez said. “I went to go see him box at one of his tournaments, he did good and he’s still working on getting even better.”
staff picks christmas edition
The Christmas countdown has officially begun, and it’s that time of year when the lights start to twinkle, nights get colder, and nothing sounds better than snuggling up on the couch with a blanket, hot cocoa, and a good Christmas movie. To help start the Christmas season right, the Miegian staff recommends the following Christmas movies to be at the top of your watchlist:
“I feel like it has a really good message and really shows the Christmas spirit. It shows how important it is to spread positivity.”
- Emma
National
“My family watches Christmas Vacation every year, and my dad has a sweater with Clark Griswald’s quotes. The movie brings us together as a family.
- Franny
Jack, Emma, Hailey Franny
Home Alone The Grinch
“It’s such a classic that I grew up watching it every year with my family, and the scene where the robbers are going through the house has stayed funny every time I’ve watched it.”
- Megan
Paul, Mary, Megan, Norah, Sophia
“My favorite scene is the one where the Grinch steals all the presents on Christmas Eve. It was so cute when his dog, Max, tries to help him.”
- Elise
Kayla, Elise
time to be thankful
feasts and friends
Millie faith family captain Brianne Sutherlin enjoys a Chick-fil-a feast during Herdsgiving. “I didn’t have as much time to prepare as I thought I would, but everyone brought in a lot more than I expected, and it came together very nicely,” Sutherlin said. “I was a very proud captain.”
Photo by Megan Ball
millie mayhem
Sophomore William Scaletty carries sophomore Cole Whitmore out of the room during Herdsgiving, an annual school tradition. “I was just sitting when all of the sudden my friends picked me up and started carrying me around the hallways,” Whitmore said. “It’s fun to be able to spend time with our faith families, and eat food together.”
Photo by Paul Olson
blessed with the best
Junior Josephine Astor laughs with her friends while playing a game of four squares during herdgiving activities. “Traditions like Herdsgiving are so special and make me feel like I am a part of the family and community of generations of Miege students and faculty,” Astor said.
Photo by Norah Murtha
community
Junior Michaela Tinoco laughs and colors with her friends during Herdsgiving activities. “I enjoyed eating food and getting to talk with people in my faith family,” Tinoco said. “I also like being with everyone as a community, not just with people in our own herds.”
Photo by Megan Ball
jenga wars
Senior Nathan Brentano competes in a game of Jenga with his friends during herdsgiving activities. “Herdsgiving is important because this tradition allows us to reflect on the spirit of Thanksgiving and strengthen our community,” Brentano said.
Photo by Norah Murtha
Junior Griffin Bloemker pulls up for a shot during his game of King of the Court during the Herdsgiving open gym. “Herdsgiving allows us to have a fun time to end the week off before we go on Thanksgiving break,” Bloemker said. “I love when our whole faith family eats together, it’s nice to just chill and talk with everyone.”
ballin’
Photo by Paul Olson
strong bonds
Team captain Liza Martinez focuses on smiling and hitting her marks while performing one last time at the state competition. “What’s been different this year has definitely been just like the bond of the team overall, we are all a lot closer,” Martinez said. “I love getting to cheer with some of my best friends.”
Photo by Paul Olson
poms up
Junior Isabella Lipari feels the surrealness of her final performance as she cheers in the state competition. “We had been practicing the routine so much and it was finally time to show it off,” Lipari said. “I was ready, and excited to perform.”
Photo by Megan Ball
cheer state
loud and proud
Senior Tabatha Stockton runs onto the mat excited to show her spirit in the state performance. “What I love about cheer is all the friendships I have made along the way these past 4 years,” Stockton said. “Cheer has taught me teamwork, discipline, commitment and that the small things matter.”
Photo by Megan Ball
pressure’s on
Sophomore Esmeralda Garrido feels the weight of the importance of the state competition as she cheers on the mat. “I was just so anxious thinking about all the people that were watching us,” Garrido said. “But once we were actually performing, I got a rush of adrenaline.”
Photo by Megan Ball
big finish
Team captain Mary Noblitt leaves everything on the mat as she strikes her final pose during their state performance in Topeka on Nov. 22. “I am super proud of the hard work every girl put on the mat during the months of preparation and during the final performance,” Noblitt said. “Every single girl has something amazing to add to our team this year, which is what makes it so special.”
Photo by Megan Ball
perfect preparation
starting strong
In his lane, senior Luke Allen locks in during pre-season swim practice for his first ever varsity year. “I am working on getting back into the rhythm of things by working out on our day off,” Allen said. “I think that this season has the potential to go really well, and the team is working hard to accomplish that.”
Photo by Jack Gelhaus
soarin’ stag
Going for the dunk, sophomore Samuel Blything eyes the hoop at a varsity practice. The team had open gyms over the off season and began their practices before Thanksgiving break in order to prepare for the season. “I’m super excited for his season as we return almost all our varsity guys from last year so I’m hopeful we can make a good run at state,” Blything said.
Photo by Paul Olson
lovin’ layups
Senior Mary Grant works on her layup form at a Varsity basketball practice. The girls have bonded with each other through retreats and the Terry English basketball camp to prepare for the season. “I can’t wait for the season to start, I love the team and I think it’s going to be a great year,” Grant said. Photo by Paul Olson take down
Ready to make his move, sophomore Emilio Santoyo practices with teammate, senior Brady Beaver. The wrestling team has grown this year and they practice their skills in their large practice area at the north campus. “I am ready for the season because there are a lot more people going out for wrestling and I can’t wait for more team bonding,” Santoyo said. Photo by Paul Olson