C ommon Sense Millard South High School • 14905 Q St. • Omaha, Neb., 68137
December 14, 2018
Volume 19 Issue 3
Teens display passion for fashion
Natalie Fedde Staff Reporter
“Modeling is more than just the pretty look. It boosts self confidence and makes you feel happy,” said Sofia Hermosillo, junior at Omaha Central High School and student at the Capitol School of Hairstyling and Esthetics. Sofia, along with many other students at Capitol, participated in this year’s annual Christmas at Capitol fashion show on Dec. 2. Capitol School of Hairstyling and Esthetics is a cosmetology and esthetics school for teenagers and young adults to give them a head start in the beauty industry. Every year, Capitol throws a fashion show that brings the stage to students. According to Keenan Taylor, purchasing director of Capitol, the show, along with Capitol school, exists “to bring stagework and fashion shows to the students to give them an idea of what it’s like in case they want to pursue that.” Taylor says the fashion show is mainly student run. The themes, outfits, and music are all picked by students at Capitol. This year’s themes included All Things Metal, The Great Gatsby, Apocalypse, Art After Dark, Fire and Ice, Lady in Red, and Glamazon Jungle. Students are given a theme, then they get free reign of costume, hair, and makeup. Some students have their costumes made professionally, but some students like Breezy Canterbury, senior at Blair High, go thrifting. Canterbury believes it is more fun to go thrifting for and make a costume than it is to spend a lot of money. Capitol makes its fashion shows accessible to all students. Besides allowing This model is glamorous students to spend as much or as as she demonstrates the little money as they want on their Glamazon Jungle theme. costumes, students do not have to Photo by Halle Benson. have modeling experience in order to participate in Christmas at Capitol. In fact, models do not have to be a student of Capitol at all. Christmas at Capitol is the first fashion show Monzeratt Valentine, senior at Omaha South High School, has every been a part of. “It builds my self confidence,” Valentine said. A large number of the models had never walked a runway, but many like Diana Gonzalez, senior at Omaha Bryan High School, are experts. Gonzalez has been modeling since she was young when her mother started her off in pageants, and she would like to pursue a career in modeling. Gonzalez says her favorite part of modeling is walking the runway because “all eyes are on you, and it’s your time to shine.” However, Gonzalez says she is planning of becoming a designer, not a model. “If I can continue modeling great that would be the ultimate goal but being a designer and having my brand is more realistic,” Gonzalez said. The world of fashion is full of opportunities and anyone who wants to get involved can. All you need to do is put yourself out there and be confident according to the models at Capitol. It’s never too late to get involved in something new. Passion can arise at any time, even in high school. These kids had the guts to follow where it led them and encourage others to follow their lead. As said by Gonzalez, “You might be wearing something that nobody’s going to like, but if you’re confident, you’re going to make it beautiful.”
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A Capitol at Christmas model shows off the theme “Art After Dark.” Photo by Halle Benson
Models spend their free time making faces in the mirror before the show. Photo by Halle Benson
Holiday focus. Art by Sean Burton. Millard South graduate Jocelyn Muhammad speaks about her success in music. Photo by Maggie Huson.
Three friends walk together at the end of the show, showing off their looks one last time. Photo by Halle Benson
A male model struts down the runway in his “Apocalypse” themed outfit. Photo by Halle Benson
A stylist shows off her “Fire” themed model. Photo by Halle Benson
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Interview with Assistant Principal Michaela Wragge. Photo by Brianna Strudthoff
Page 12-13
Jones Bros cupcake review. Photo be Kayla Andrews.
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News 12 • 14 • 2018
Laptops cool down with new batteries
Due to overheating, nearly 1,200 batteries were replaced in the HP machines of juniors and seniors over the course of a week. Photo by Deniece Radford
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Every instance when a laptop has overheated has been different and the exact cause has not been identified, but the batteries have been at the root of the problems. –Technology Facilitator Jay Hutfles
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Jordan Hatch Staff Reporter The workspace of each HP Certified Technician is strewn with odd looking tools and laptop parts as they work to replace the batteries of the junior and senior laptops. Nobody’s sure why the school laptops have been overheating, but it has become a serious issue. “It’s just a precaution,” said Technology Facilitator Jay Hutfles. “We don’t know what’s causing the laptops to overheat, but it is a safety issue,” he said. “Every instance when a laptop An HP Certihas overheated has been different and the exact fied Technician works to change cause has not been identified, but the batteries have been the root of the a battery on a problems,” he said. student’s lapCompared to other top. Replacing the battery took HP laptop models, 5 minutes each not much is and another 5 different about to restart and the laptops ensure the the school machine is opuses besides erating properly. how fragile Photo by the screens Deniece Radare. The ford build of the HP models is generally the same. Although changing the art by Sean Burton batteries has caused minor inconveniences such as spending a day without your laptop, there are a few benefits. Many student laptops had a battery life down to 3-4 hours
or even less. With the battery replacement, the life of a battery should be back up to 7-8 hours. “The battery lasts way longer than it did before. I used to have to charge it for every class but now I can go a day or two without having to charge it at all,” junior Edith Hickman said. Some students haven’t experienced this. “The life of my laptop battery hasn’t changed. The only thing that’s changed is that it doesn’t overheat as much,” senior Gabe Saighman said. Five HP Certified Technicians came to replace the batteries. These are the same people who do smaller laptop repairs. It only takes 5 minutes to change an individual battery, but it takes another 5 minutes to turn the laptop back on and check if it was placed correctly. The laptop must be disassembled to get to the battery. Following that, they unplug the old one and put in the new one and finally screw everything back together. During this process, they have to separate the keyboard face from the body of the laptop. It took a total of four days to switch out most of the 1,200 junior and senior laptop batteries, but there are still 70 that need to be switched. HP uses a battery recycling program that will take all of the old batteries.
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News 12 • 14 • 2018
Millard South’s prodigal daughter returns Cassady Alberico Staff Reporter
Almost no one saw singer-songwriter Jocelyn Muhammad’s music career coming, least of all Jocelyn. “It was freshman year,” the 2015 alum recalls, “and my friend Zack Bergmann was about to smash this guitar and set it on fire. I told him, ‘No, that is not happening.’” Bergmann let her keep the guitar under the agreement that she learn how to play it. The next day, Muhammad learned her first chord. Her early years at Millard South were characterized by poor grades, frequent absences, and zero studying. Outside of the classroom, Muhammad’s love for music blossomed at the Side Door Lounge where she performed solo every week. There, she met Jeff McClain, a manager who issued her an ultimatum: Get your grades up, and –Senior Jaeda Matthews I will manage you professionally. Muhammad took Jeff ’s advice and began applying herself in the classroom. Once she realized classes like creative writing and contemporary music ensemble could advance her songwriting ability, she flew through her remaining three years. “I taught her in creative writing as a senior,” recalls language arts teacher Tessa Adams. “A lot of songwriting was happening then; things were getting very serious. Jeff would let her travel and perform in places like Nashville over spring break, but he would make sure school was first. You graduate first, then we’ll go and do all these cool things,” Adams said. Since graduating, this up-and-coming artist has been living in Omaha, writing songs, and performing at every opportunity. Though Muhammad recently signed with a major label, her music is not well known yet. “In my mind, she is already successful,” contempo-
rary music ensemble teacher Jason Stevens said. “Other people may think she hasn’t ‘made it’, and that’s the difference between fame and success. She has the skills now, she is writing and recording music, she is performing and moving audiences,” he said. Students at South recently had the opportunity to host Jocelyn for a private performance. Senior Jaeda Matthews was impressed. “I thought her music did a very good job of expressing her emotions in a relatable way, in a way that teenagers can understand,” Matthews said. Muhammad also gave advice to her audience of writers, which Matthews took to heart. “When you have a lot to say about certain topics, writing it definitely helps get it out,” she said. “Whether through music or Jocelyn performs in front of more than 250 students on Nov. 13 during A4. Photo poetry, it makes it a lot easier to by Maggie Huson handle.” Muhammad’s music is strumming one of her original songs with a wide smile. typically upbeat with bright major With her debut album releasing in 2019, Muhamchords accompanying her bubbly vocals. Everything is mad’s music will soon be exposed to a much larger acoustic and originally written, sometimes in collaboraaudience. Even with the new exposure, mentor Tessa tion with other artists. Her most popular song ‘Just Like Adams believes Jocelyn already has a small army of loyal Everybody Else’ is lyrically reminiscent of Jason Mraz supporters behind her. and musically similar to the cheery music of artists like “It’s just the neatest thing to see kids excel at someSara Bareilles and Jack Johnson. thing they love so passionately,” Adams said. “It has been Despite signing to BMG Records and increasing her trips out of state, Muhammad still makes time to perform so fun and fulfilling, and I think all of her teachers here would agree with that.” for the locals. Occasionally on weekends, she can be seen on the streets of downtown Omaha, with guitar in hand,
her music “Ididthought a very good job of expressing her emotions in a relatable way.
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Amended policy puts AP students a bump away from a higher GPA Cassady Alberico and Maggie Reimers Staff Reporter/Business Manager
The Millard school board recently voted to alter the current policy pertaining to how AP classes affect GPA. Policy 6330.1 previously stated that students taking AP classes would receive an additional point on their GPA for each 1, 2, or 3 they earned in AP classes. The new policy states that, effective immediately, students who earn a 1, 2, 3, or 4 will earn an additional point. The student body is split on this change, with some applauding the gracious grading while others are concerned about unwelcome side effects. For some students, the obvious concern is that this will lead to complacency and general laziness among enrolled AP students. Senior Brett Ehlers, who has taken AP classes to work on college credit before graduation, confirmed. “It may encourage people to not try as hard, and then they will be underprepared for college,” Ehlers said. Others believe that the changes are rewarding their work, especially considering they could have had a much higher grade in a less challenging class.
“For students who have 4s and 5s, it could give them hope and a chance to excel,” senior Joslynn Shanahan said. AP Calculus teacher Sara. Bonn had this to say about the change. “AP classes typically have the rigor needed in college classes, and if you were taking the class in college, you would get the credit for a passing grade. I hope this will motivate students who are concerned about their GPA to take [an AP class].” For administrator Andy Pinkall, this change was a blessing long in the works. “We started having conversations four to five years ago as we started pushing more and more kids into AP classes,” Pinkall said. “I feel strongly about [this change]. If you ask students to challenge themselves, they have to feel like they are being rewarded. If a student is outside their comfort zone and falling short of a 3, they are not any less worthy of a GPA bump.”
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Opinion 12 • 14 • 2018
Being new could be made easier I stood in front of the multiple glass doors that made up the entrance to Millard South High School, I took a deep breath before entering them. I walked to the front kiosk and quietly asked for directions. My mom gave me a quick hug and I made my way into the seemingly endless labyrinth that makes up our school. I transferred to Millard South a month into Natalie Schamp second semester last year Staff Reporter as a sophomore, and it was rough. My student ambassador made sure I knew where my classes were, and that was the only simple thing about this transition. From then on I had to catch up on curriculum I hadn’t gone over at my old school, acclimate to a block schedule, and try and make friends and get involved, which is all much easier said than done. One of the most difficult tasks I had ahead of me was to find somebody to sit with at lunch. It took a long time, and a lot of counter-introvert action, but I eventually put myself out there and I stopped sitting alone. My classes were a little easier to make friends in. By the end of the year I had a friend or at least an acquaintance in
every one. It took quite a bit of work to get there and some luck with seating charts. Even with my best effort, I struggled to start conversations and make friends, which is why I’m so thankful to all the people who started conversations with me and made school bearable and even sometimes enjoyable. The last hurdle for me to jump over was getting involved, which was possibly one of my most complicated steps. With some difficulty I found out when the next drama club meeting was, and I attended. For the next few months I attempted to get involved and get to know people. It didn’t go very well. I ended up talking to one person pretty much the whole time. It wasn’t until I was cast in my first play here that I really began branching out and making friends in drama. Last year was really difficult, but things are definitely looking up. I’m going to be in my second production here, Recommended Reading for Girls. I have a group of friends I hang out with every weekend, and I always have people to sit with at lunch. It just takes a little bit of extra effort and maybe some awkward moments to make new students feel at home, but I think there is a lot we can do heading into the new semester. Invite someone who is sitting alone to sit by you and your friends, start up conversations with new people in class, and make sure people feel welcome in your clubs and activities. As for teachers, the seating chart is crucial. Almost all of the friends that I made last year were the people who I sat next to in class. The open spot in the classroom isn’t always the best one. Take a moment shortly after a new student arrives to rearrange if needed. Although things worked out for me in the end, I wish things could have been easier. In the future I hope that as a student body we can be more inclusive and welcoming to new students.
Yung Pinch, PacSun, and a ceramic Santa I was scheduled to work November 10th from 3:00-9:30 at entourage tried to buy Marquese off Alex. Alex said no because the Oakview PacSun. Little did I know that it was going to be a he wanted it, but he informed the guy of where to purchase one. more eventful shift than normal. About an hour into my shift, a Yung Pinch intervened and started screaming “It’s 2018 and we’re mob of people walked into the store. This was unusual because selling black people!” He was so loud that the Tradehome Shoes there is never really very many people in PacSun at once. Later, store across the hall could hear what was going on. I would find out that this mob of people was Yung Pinch and his At this point, my manager was the only employee who knew entourage. who this guy was. He asked Alex if he had If you do not know who Yung Pinch is, ever heard of Yung Pinch before and Alex do not worry. I didn’t either. Apparently, he is proceeded to make fun of Yung Pinch’s name only a few steps above a soundcloud rapper, right in front of his face. I went back to markand he features with Lil Skies in a few songs. If ing down items while every person in Yung you are still lost, just know that he is a rapper Pinch’s group purchased an item. I noticed and not so good. He had a show that night at that Yung Pinch and another guy kept looking Sokol Auditorium and that was why he was at me. in town. When he walked into the store, he He finally addressed me and said “Hey appeared to be this hopeless stoner who took you.” Caught off guard, I responded with “Uh, a shower about every other week. His hair yeah?” He then asked, “How old are you?” In was way past his shoulders and greasy was an my head I was like, Oh dear god no, because understatement. I had a feeling that I knew where this was Then, my co-worker Alex Engleman going. He responds again saying “No. For real, walked into the store for his shift. He had how old are you?” I tell him that I am 17. just gotten off at his other job at Target. He His response still leaves me uncombrought in his $5 ceramic black santa he fortable. He then yells a profanity. You can named Marquese that he had bought at Tarbe creative and pick whichever one fits your Hailey Bos get. I started to check out Marquese. fancy. He follows that with yelling, “I’m gonna Staff Reporter Meanwhile, a member of the Yung Pinch go to jail! Oh no!” I didn’t know how to entourage was taking pictures around the respond so I just stood there and returned to store with his digital camera which was very doing what I was before. odd. He then asked if he could take a picture of me and Marquese. After that, he offered all of us free tickets to his show that Without knowing who this person was, I said yes, and he took my night. All we had to do was direct message him our first and last picture with a ceramic black santa. Looking back, it was probably name and he would “hook us up.” I was mortified of what had just not the best decision to let a stranger take a picture of me with happened. If you were wondering, I did not direct message him, Marquese, but now Yung Pinch has a picture of me with black and I most definitely did not go to the Yung Pinch concert that santa. night. Following this, a different member of the Yung Pinch
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Lexie Pleiss Staff Reporter
First time blood donor saves 3 lives I have always heard about the blood drive and how you can “save 3 lives” which instantly had me interested in this cause. I used to be too young or I did not meet the weight requirement, but this year I was of age and just barely reached the height and weight requirement. I immediately got the paperwork and had my mom sign it. I have heard lots of horror stories of people passing out and the pain that goes with it which made me uneasy, but I am so happy I followed through with being a blood donor. In the information packet that I received about being a donor, it instructed me to get a good night’s sleep and eat a good breakfast. It was a little hard to get some sleep because I was antsy about the big day ahead of me, but, eventually, I did fall asleep. I woke up the next day and ate a big breakfast and drank lots of water. I then got to school and went to the south gym. There were lots of nurses, students, and medical equipment. It was a bit overwhelming at first, but the people working this event made me feel less and less nervous. I signed in and was directed to a desk where a nurse asked me all sorts of questions about my health. They also took my temperature and pricked my finger to test my blood. I met all the requirements so next was the moment I had been waiting for- actually donating my blood. I was directed to one of the beds to go lie down. Then the butterflies in my stomach really started to form. I was helped by a very kind nurse, and he told me everything I needed to know about the procedure and what I needed to do. He was brutally honest which I appreciated. I remember him telling me that giving blood doesn’t feel like sunshine and rainbows (he was right). Then, when he finally got everything ready, he told me to look away and take a deep breath. With a pinch of pain that only lasted about five seconds, I was successfully giving blood. Luckily, I did not get any feelings of dizziness. I was nervous for nothing. As soon as I was done, I got a T-shirt with the American Red Cross logo on it, a water bottle, and a package of fruit snacks all for free! I definitely had a good first experience. If anyone is interested in donating blood, I say go for it- as long as you have a somewhat good pain tolerance and meet all the requirements. Some advice for first time donors is to really read through the packet of information and do what it says and drink lots of water. Most importantly, don’t be nervous! It feels good knowing that you made a difference and I can say I saved 3 lives.
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Opinion 12 • 14 • 2018
Staff Editorial
Ten point grading scale would be a ‘10’ Recently, Millard Public Schools updated its grading policy in regard to the additional GPA point included with any Advanced Placement (AP) class. Now final grades of 1-4 will receive an additional point on the GPA scale, where grades of 4 were not included before. At first glance, this change seems blatantly positive. An additional point bump is beneficial to struggling students in AP classes, and the signature AP bump will now applied to any passing grade. For any dedicated student struggling in a difficult class such as AP Physics, trying their best and still earning a 4, this change is a blessing. AP classes are much more strenuous than regular classes, and not receiving a bump for a 4 when a student would likely receive a higher grade in an easier class is certainly distressing. From that end, an additional GPA point for 4s is rewarding students that are trying their best and still scrapping for a good grade. On the other hand, for students who only want to do the bare minimum, the change enables their laziness. Students who typically coast along and get rewarded in
the same fashion as their peers, who spend hours studying, are also going to benefit from the policy change. These nefarious students will continue to game the system and this policy change only conditions them to pursue the bare minimum. In looking at Millard’s grading situation, the solution that benefits the most students would be a revamp of the entire grading scale itself. Our current 7.5 percent grading scale is not comparable to the majority of colleges and universities. This scale makes earning an ‘A’ absurdly arduous. The implementation of a 10 point scale would be a beneficial change for all students. An altered scale would allow students with a 60% or higher to pass, as opposed to 76.5% required now. Nearly all student grades would increase with these wider grading scales. Considering a 10 point scale is what most universities use, this change would further streamline the collegiate process. The AP grading change, while beneficial to many, will most likely have unintended negative consequences, and it isn’t solving the root of the problem.
NBA is the best sport hands down The NFL has long been at the top of America’s sports hierarchy. The league owned every Sunday, along with most Mondays and Thursdays, consistently outperforming all other sports in terms of viewership and profit. Unfortunately, bad leadership (in the form of commissioner Roger Goodell) is fumbling this coveted position. Goodell has been bombarded with bad press, most notably his struggle to make the game safe. The league also weathered insults from Trump about their national anthem fiasco, allegations of collusion and discrimination from Colin Kaepernick and his supporters, and a deflategate controversy that spent two agonizing years in the public conscience. Meanwhile, the NBA is providing compelling story lines and expanding it’s fan base. Forbes estimates that the NBA made $7.4 billion dollars in revenue in 2017, a 25% increase from the year before. The NFL still dwarfs that figure, but its numbers ($14 billion, a 7% increase in revenue) don’t suggest the same rapid growth. The NBA still has a ways to go before it overtakes the NFL as America’s most profitable professional sport, but the league is making strides by attracting young new fans. My love of the NBA took root at an early age and only
grew with time. I was enthralled by the displays of raw athleticism, unrestrained trash talk and incredible shooting feats that can turn any game into a highlight reel. The innovative use of internet media such for highlight videos, game recaps, and even memes is a huge part of the NBA’s marketing strategy going forward.
Carson O’Connor Assistant News Editor
A long 82 game season followed by the playoffs and the eventual crowning of a champion spans eight months. That means a majority of the year, Giannis Antetokounmpo is liable to be dunking on Instagram feeds, and Steph Curry is likely to be trending on Twitter after a record setting shooting performance. Generational talents the likes of which we’ve never seen before are spotted throughout the NBA landscape. There is no shortage of highlights.
The league recognizes the potential in letting it’s fans share top plays on social media. This is a stark contrast to the NFL, a league that protects their video rights with ferocity. Because fans are allowed unfettered access to media online, basketball is ingrained within their conscience and they are more likely to come back to watch a full game. This is just one of the ways the NBA proves itself to be the more forward thinking and modern league. Another area where their organizational superiority shines through is the treatment of players. The NBA makes a point to empower it’s players in activism that they wish to participate in and encourage them to be individuals. Personalities play an outsized role in the modern game because of the freedom unrestricted free agency. The fate of dynasties can literally can change in a series of conspiratorial texts between players. Not everyone likes to watch the Warriors dynasty, but the apparent inevitability of their dominance doesn’t stop the chatter every offseason about the next superteam. Interactions between players are the subtext to every season that can sometimes be more entertaining than the on court product. All this is why the NBA is poised for growth, while the NFL’s future is shrouded in questions.
Common Sense Common Sense is the official publication of Millard South High School 14905 Q Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68137. School district guidelines determine the suitability of advertising content. To place an ad or inquire about rates, call (402)715-8363. Common Sense is a monthly publication produced in Room 130. Common Sense uses desktop publishing hardware and software: Apple 5G computers, Adobe InDesign CS6 Adobe Photoshop CS6, and Microsoft Word software. Printing by White Wolf Web in Sheldon, Iowa. Letters to the editor are encouraged. All letters must be signed with the student’s first and last name, grade, then submitted to Mrs. Kaldahl. Unsigned letters will not be published. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, length, and clarity. Letters of profane nature or other infractions of school or district policy will not be published.
Art by Dani Swanson
Behind the Mask Hockey goalie shares importance of position Hockey. inch disc of vulcaAs foreign nized rubber just and conbecause it’s fun? Or fusing as having the mental hockey is to toughness to hang the majority in there even when of Millard I’m playing the South, it’s worst game in my second life. An old goalie nature to named Bernie Parme. Growent (pa-ront) once ing up, the said, “You don’t one thing have to be crazy to that was play goalie, but it constantly helps.” Alex Kopf pushing Playing goalie Staff Reporter me and is an inconsistent keeping me stream of alarm entertained clocks. It could be was hockey. Whether it be the the most boring game ever, but, crazy schedules, team bonding, or then, all of a sudden, I’m facing 20 the road trips halfway across the shots in a span of 3 minutes and country. But, out of all those things, then right back to nothingness. I still never really fit in with the rest This can happen anywhere from of the team for one reason only: I’m once to up to 30 times a game. The a goalie. most shots I have ever faced in Goalie is probably one of the a game was in Colorado where I biggest love-hate relationships in faced 62 shots. Now, figure the avsports. For a goalie there is no “next erage shots a goalie faces is around time” or hiding mistakes or errors. 20-30 a game. Our team lost that If I mess up, the numbers on the game 3-1 but it didn’t feel like a scoreboard change. If I don’t play loss at all. The constant action and my best in a game, the hate rains thrill of the game kept me locked in down. If I play amazing, there is throughout. nothing but praise from everyone. The last thing I can truly say There is no in between. To play about being a goalie is that it’s a goalie, the training is decently hard, lot of pressure. Your teammates, but it isn’t necessarily the physicoaches, fans and parents are all cal training that you need to play relying on you to be the “last line of goalie, it’s the mental part of the defense” for them. You can’t really game. To have the nerves to throw try and become a goalie, it’s almost whatever you have in front of a 3 as if the position picks you.
Editors-in-Chief Kristin Kaipust Maddie Rynes Photo Chiefs Isabel Robb Maggie Huson
Entertainment Editor Sadie Brower Asst. Entertainment Editor Halle Benson
News Editor Isabel Kimminau
Buisness Managers Maggie Reimers Nickol Kreutzian
Asst. News Editor Carson O’Connor
Online Editor Ruthanne Hale
Sports Editors Allison Kirkebak Carina Covington
Asst. Online Editor Elena Garcia Tapia
Asst. Sports Editor Jacob Haas
Social Media Editors Makenzie Morford MacKenzie Wolken
Opinions Editor Lindsey Assman
Cartoonists Sean Burton Tori Barkus
Asst. Opinions Editor Deniece Radford
Chief Copy Editor Myranda Carbullido
Staff Secretaries Lexie Pleiss Hailey Bos Social Event Coordinators Danielle Swanson Kayla Andrews Staff Reporters Cassady Alberico Logan Foote Alexis Gamble Cale Goodman Jordan Hatch Alex Kopf Natalie Schamp Jack Towne Garrett Carbullido Natalie Fedde Cameron Merritt Adviser Christine Kaldahl
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Reindeer REPORTS
Focus 12 • 14 • 2018
How the Grinch stole the hearts of viewers Lindsey Assman Opinions Editor While the three best words to describe Mr. Grinch are known to be “stink, stank, stunk”, the new adaptation of Dr. Suess’ The Grinch does not fit that description. With a perfect mixture of humor and heart-warming cheer, this spin on a Christmas classic is stealing hearts across the nation. With a star-studded cast, including actors such as Benedict Cumberbatch, Pharrell Williams, Rashida Jones, Kenan Thompson, and many more, Dr. Suess’ The Grinch makes for a hilariously fun movie for the entire family. This film was made by producer of past films, such as The Lorax, Despicable Me, and Sing, Chris Meledandri. Similarly to The Lorax, Meledandri does a great job of creating a magnificent world that captures the essence of the original while also making the story feel exciting. This vibrant, new take features all of your favorite original characters, as well as several fresh faces. The Grinch, voiced by Benedict Cumber-
batch, maintains his hilariously bitter personality in the midst of a refreshing new spin on his attempt to steal Christmas. When the Grinch is informed by his trusty dog, Max, that he has ran out of precious food, he’s forced to leave his lonesome cave and head into town during the dreaded Christmas season. On his way through Whoville, he’s reminded of the many Christmases he spent alone in an orphanage as a child. As the disgust sets in for the Grinch, none other than the sweet Cindy-Lou Who runs straight into him whilst trying to get her Christmas list to the mailman. All Cindy-Lou wants for Christmas is for her overworked single-mother to be happy. When the Grinch gets in the way of her delivering of the message, she enlists her excited friends to hatch a plan to catch Santa on Christmas Eve. The Grinch, thinking he successfully ruined her Christmas, leaves Whoville happily. Unfortunately he is stopped by the most cheery man in town, neighborhood nice-guy Mr. Bricklebaum. To the Grinch’s horror, this big-bellied neighbor informs him of the town’s plan to graphic by Halle Benson make Christmas three-times bigger this year. This news sets the Grinch into an all-out frenzy of Christmas disgust. He decides that, with the help of Max and a fun, new reindeer friend, he will steal Whoville’s Christmas. Decked out with wacky gadgets and a decadent sleigh, the Grinch sets out to ruin Christmas in a fresh, new way. If you are looking for a bright and colorful flash from the past, Dr. Suess’ The Grinch is the perfect movie for your night out.
art by Sean Burton
Santa's Snack Mix For the puppy chow: - 1 12 oz box Chex rice cereal - 3 cups powdered sugar - 1 ½ cups chocolate chips (use milk chocolate or semi-sweet) OR for a holiday touch, use red or green candy melts - ¾ cup peanut butter - ½ cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
For the chocolate covered pretzels: - 2 cups chocolate chips (white, milk chocolate, or semi-sweet) OR use almond bark - Tiny twist pretzels - Parchment paper - Holiday sprinkles (optional) - Food coloring (optional)
For the po - You may of microwa an air popp works. I re plain/lightly lightly salte don’t beco
1. Using a glass bowl over a pot of simmering water, melt chocolate designated for pretze periodically until melted. Once melted, remove from heat. While chocolate cools a little, ro of parchment paper onto a cookie sheet. Keep periodically stirring so the chocolate does 2. Place a few pretzels at a time in the bowl of chocolate. Coat completely and using a fo pretzels and allow excess chocolate to drip off. Set covered pretzels on pan with parchm Continue until you run out of chocolate. 3. While chocolate is still mostly melted on pretzels, you may sprinkle holiday sprinkles o dye another small bit of chocolate red, green, or white to drizzle over pretzels. If you’re us bark, use gel food coloring to avoid clumping due to liquid being added. Place in fridge to 4. Using the same process as the double boiler before or using a microwave at 15 secon melt chocolate, butter, and peanut butter for puppy chow. Stir until smooth and combined 5. In a large bowl or bag, pour in box of Chex cereal. Pour melted chocolate mixture into until all cereal pieces are coated. If using a plastic bag, you may want to wait until chocol has cooled a bit before pouring into bag. 6. Pouring in one cup at a time, coat cereal pieces with powdered sugar. If you want the c show through a bit, you may use less powdered sugar. If you want it to be completely coa more. 7. Pop popcorn in microwave or on stove. 8. Gather add-ins and a large bowl. You may need more than one bowl depending on size. 9. Mix together puppy chow, popcorn, chocolate covered pretzels, and other add-ins.
10. Enjoy! Store in airtight container.
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Focus 12 • 14 • 2018
opcorn: y either use 2 bags ave popcorn or use per. Either way ecommend y buttered and ed so that add-ins ome too greasy.
els. Stir oll out a piece sn’t solidify. ork, remove ment paper.
onto pretzels or sing almond o solidify. nd intervals, d. bowl/bag. Mix late mixture
chocolate to ated white, use
art by Sean Burton
graphic by Sadie Brower
Extras: - Mini-marshmallows - Christmas M&Ms - Mini Oreos - Peanuts - Andes mints
- Chocolate chips
Ingredients: - 1 12 oz bag white chocolate chips or Ghirardelli peppermint chunks - 1 12 oz bag semi-sweet chips parchment paper - ½ tsp peppermint extract (optional)
Toppings: - Crushed oreos - Christmas M&Ms - Crushed candy canes - Chopped nuts - Pretzel pieces
1. Lay a large piece of parchment paper over a cookie sheet 2. In a saucepan, heat water at medium heat. Use a double boiler (double boiler meaning glass bowl set over pot of boiling water) to melt the semi-sweet chocolate chips. Stir periodically until smooth and completely melted. 3. Repeat process for white chocolate or peppermint chunks. Use peppermint chunks for a stronger peppermint flavor. If using white chocolate chips, add ½ peppermint extract. If desired, add food coloring. If using food coloring, gel works best to avoid clumping. 4. Pour melted white chocolate onto parchment paper. Smooth evenly but not too thin. 5. Place spoonfuls of melted semi-sweet chocolate over that. You may not need to use all of it depending on your prefered ratio of the chocolates. 6. Using a toothpick or fork, swirl chocolates together. 7. Add any toppings you’d like. 8. Put in fridge to solidify. 9. Once solid, take out of fridge and cut into pieces using a knife or break with hands. 10.Enjoy! Store in an airtight container.
Maddie Rynes Editor-in-Chief
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Features 12 • 14 • 2018
In school, Wragge raves over new position kindness is key “ for trans students Isabel Robb Photo Chief “People can be mean, but humanity always has a lot to grow. We’re gonna get there eventually,” says junior Matt Broyles, the president of Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA). Broyles is a transgender student, and along with the gender-fluid and non-binary students, he faces all of the usual troubles of high school plus more that most of the student body never knows about. “I started transitioning when I was in about sixth grade. Sixth grade is when I thought I was non-binary, which is not male or female,” says Broyles. “Then I realized later that I’d rather go by male pronouns, he/him, and now I’m just at the point where I use he/him or they/them, but I’m still always Matt.” Although Broyles has not been a direct target of negativity, he has had to deal with other issues. “I hate school bathrooms. Honestly, even though I feel more comfortable in male restrooms, I’d rather use the women’s restrooms because they’re a lot cleaner, especially at the end of the school day. I usually just use the nurse’s bathroom.” It’s not just something like the bathrooms that most people take for granted, either. Trans students experience pretty good levels of acceptance from most of their classmates, but there are a select few who purposefully create problems. “I’ve only had a real issue with one student, but I don’t talk to that person very much anyways,” Broyles said. Trans students can also face difficulties with their families, especially when coming out to them. “[My mom] still acts like when I came out, it never happened, because I came out to her last year and in seventh grade year, and there’s just nothing from her in that,” says a student who asked to be called T. “I told my stepdad, he said he would rather have me be a lesbian.” There are things that can be done to help trans students to have the best experience they can have. “If you hear other students either being bullied or you hear comments from other students that are towards their trans classmates that you don’t feel are right, speak up. It’s really important to speak up for your classmates,” Broyles said. “If you see a student and you don’t know what their pronouns are, it’s always nice to ask. If they react meanly, it’s not your fault. Maybe they’ve been misgendered. Always remember the correct pronouns for your fellow classmates, and just, in general, remember to be nice to each other.” Broyles has assumed the role of a figure his fellow students can look up to and be there to care for them no matter what. “I just want other trans students or non-binary students or LGBT students or even the straight students, I want them to know that anybody, if [you] need any emotional support at all, [you’re] allowed to talk to me,” Broyles said. “Come find me. If [you] need anything to talk about, even if it’s just to hang out, because I’m there,” Broyles said.
Elizabeth Glogowski Intro to Journalism Daily routine? There’s no such thing for Assistant Principal room teaching Wragge, also has a history of coaching sports here Michaela Wragge. at Millard South and at previous schools. “Some days are really quiet, and some days I feel like I don’t “As a principal you are not able to coach, so that’s a little bit have time for the restroom,” Wragge said. different,” Wragge said. Wragge said that there isn’t one Wragge said she coached junior varsity I always said I’m a teacher problem she deals with everyday, and soccer and cheerleading at Papillion LaVista daily problems vary. Along with an because I enjoy being around high school prior to her move to Millard unplanned schedule, Wragge said she is South and then coached volleyball for a few high school students. . . also finding uncharted territory when it years here. However, her move to adminisI just enjoy having daily comes to relationships with students since trator prevented her from any future coachconversations with students. ing jobs. becoming an administrator. “The relationships that you create One thing that is definite for Wragge with a classroom teacher are a lot differis her viewpoint on her new job. Despite the –Assistant Principal ent than the relationships that you create unpredictability, Wragge said she loves her Michaela Wragge with administrators,” Wragge said. job with a passion. Senior Dylan Thyfault had Wragge as his teacher for fresh “I really enjoy what I do. I am in education and I always said man, sophomore and junior year for his sports marketing, perI’m a teacher because I enjoy being around high school students, sonal finance and business law classes. so I enjoy going to games, I enjoy going to different activities. I “Her main goal was to get to know her students,” Thyfault enjoy just having daily conversations with students. This is, if you said. “She’s the one that actually helped me choose my career,” he want to say, my happy place. I really do love coming to work every said. single day,” Wragge said. In addition to getting to know her students through her class-
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Director earns Claiming the Throne: Activities statewide leadership award Jacob Haas Staff Reporter
At 6’9”, Activities Director Steve Throne is certainly head and shoulder above the crowd. That was even more true last week when he was chosen above other candidates to receive the Nebraska State Association of Secondary School Principals Award for Assistant Principal of the year. This is a yearly award that goes to a person based on the influence and enthusiasm they have brought to their school over the past year. Throne has been an educator at Millard South for a combined total of 12 years. Beginning in 2003, he has worked as a teacher, assistant activities director, and head boys basketball coach. He left in 2010 after earning his masters degree in educational leadership to take an activities director position in Iowa. Three years later, he would return to take the job of activities director at Millard South. Since that time, he has been dedicated to this school and the people in it by being a positive influence on the young generation of students. His influence spreads far and wide across Millard Activities Director Steve Throne formally introduc- South from students to staff, and it truly es himself to the freshman class at the freshman shows in how respected and revered he is by all of the people at South. pep rally. Photo by Logan Foote “He takes his time to get to know
everyone and learn everyone’s name whether in athletics or not,” said Activities Secretary Mo Marmesh. “I call him the human calendar, he’s really good at dates and knowing all of the athletic events,” The students at Millard South especially feel his influence and dedication. “He treats all of our student athletes like they are his own children, and he’s always there to congratulate us when something goes good,” said senior football player and track athlete Josh Reuting. The connections he has with the people here is one of the major things that separate him from other Athletic Directors, and is a big reason why he has earned this award along with all of the work he puts in to make Millard South a better place. “I think he’s a great Athletic Director because he has a genuine love for what kids do and their activities,” said Assistant Athletic Director Steve Kerkman, “It’s not like other jobs where you have to go do it, he really wants to be a part of it and promote kids,” Throne received the award on December seventh. “Millard South is the place I want to be because of the people I get to work with every day and the community of the school.” said Throne.
Want to feature your pet in our next issue? DM @MSHSCommonSense on Twitter or contact a member of our staff!
Husker, a 6 year old brindle boxer and Great Dane mix, and Bailey, a soon to be 10 year old fawn Doberman, run the show at the Kerkman house. Bailey is randomly afraid of wood floors and baby gates, and Husker will immediately cuddle you when he gets scolded. They love running at the softball field, and playing the "collar game" where they wrestle until one's collar is off.
Grubbers, an orange and white spotted goldfish, and Finnigan(again), a baby brown-hued goldfish, love to float in their tiki hut. They were relocated from a pond for the winter, but they acclimated quite well. They enjoy diving in and out of the tropical-colored plants in their tank.
Features 12 • 14 • 2018
9
More than ‘Just’ shoes
Photo by Logan Foote
Alex Kopf Staff Reporter For senior Anthony Just, the morning is one of the most challenging parts of his day. Owning over 100 pairs of shoes, it takes Just some time to decide then clean the shoes of choice that day. “I just go with what shoes I’m feeling that day,” Just said. “Unlike most people, I match my clothes after I pick my shoes.” Once he selects the shoes, Just begins the hour long process by with dry brushing to remove dirt from the outsole, mid-
tion, the soles are the next part of the shoe to receive the cleaner. The last part to get cleaned are the uppers (upper part of the shoe) which can take multiple times. Once everything has been done the shoes are set to air dry at room temperature as Just gets ready for the rest of the day. Just owns 102 pairs of shoes ranging from HeyDude shoes to Yeezy Boosts. “Sunday is the most important S word after shoes,” Just says. “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy shoes, and that’s good enough.” He is very particular in his choice of shoes only depending on comfort and looks, only now buying Adidas and Nike. Wearing a size 11.5-12, it isn’t hard to find pairs in his size, which explains the amount Just owns. “The first pair sole, and uppers You can’t buy happiness, but that really got me using a bristle you can buy shoes, and that’s into shoes was the shoe brush. Then KD7 Easter, and he make his good enough. it was for their cleaning solution looks.” by mixing warm Just, who on –senior Anthony Just water with a average gets up small amount of to 50-70% off on detergent. some pairs said he will “definitely not” “There’s nothing special about my disclose where he buys these shoes and cleaner,” Just said. how he gets these amazing prices. After the solution is made, he removes the laces to wash with the solution. Once the laces are applied with the solu-
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Photo courtesy of Anthony Just
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art by Tori Barkus
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New block scheduling means you’ll take just one or two classes at a time. This model allows you focus more intently on each class, and allows faculty to have more time to devote to every student in each class — and more fully invest in your success. The schedule also creates more time for job shadowing, research, internships, travel and other unique academic experiences. As part of this, our outstanding professors are reimagining new core classes for first-year students. The core will help you get off to a great start in college and set you up to excel in key areas.
iPad Pro + Apple Pencil When you arrive to campus we’ll set you up with an iPad Pro and Apple Pencil — and provide any support you may need to know how to best incorporate these technology tools into your studies. A bonus: They’re yours to keep when you graduate. We know a lot of learning happens outside the classroom — and we’ve built a connected campus with supercharged WiFi (indoors and out) and Apple TVs in every classroom. Why the Pencil? Combined with apps we’ll provide and teach you to use, Apple Pencil lets you take notes, sketch and do all the things that drive learning.
Study abroad experience During your second year at Hastings College, you’ll spend a two-week block studying away from campus — likely in Paris. We believe so strongly in the transformational experience of studying away from campus that we’ll cover the costs! We’re making this commitment thanks to individuals who love Hastings College and share this belief. No gimmicks or fake scholarships. Your second year at Hastings? You’ll have the opportunity to spend part of it abroad.
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Entertainment 12 • 14 • 2018
Thunderbolts and lightning! Queen biopic drowns out detractors Tori Barkus Staff Reporter
The long-awaited biopic, Bohemian Rhapsody, tells the story of legendary rock band Queen, focusing heavily on the greatest frontman of all time, Freddie Mercury. It tells of the journey of the band, however it subtly hints at Mercury’s own journey coming to terms with himself and his sexuality. It’s extremely important to keep in mind that this film is not a documentary, which means that some of the film isn’t completely accurate - specifically the timeline of certain events that have taken place in the film as compared to real life. This film is categorized as a drama, meaning that some events were made up or overdramatized to carry the film to its climax. Guitarist Brian May and drummer Roger Taylor made sure that this film would be up to their standards, taking on the role of executive producers, along with the band’s manager, Jim Beach. Personally, I absolutely adored this film. Rami Malek’s portrayal of Freddie Mercury was just incredible. At certain points during the movie, it almost felt like I wasn’t watching Malek anymore, but rather I was watching Freddie himself, and to be honest, it made me emotional. Malek
Art by Tori Barkus
Ralph Breaks the Internet hits number one on trending Natalie Fedde Staff Reporter
Ralph Breaks the Internet hit the theaters on November 21, six years after the original Wreck-It Ralph movie came out. This movie starts off in the arcade from the original Wreck-It Ralph until Ralph and Vanellope accidentally find themselves in the internet, far out of their comfort zone. Ralph just wants to get what they need and get back to the arcade. He loves his predictable life of working during the day and hanging out with Vanellope in Tapper’s, the arcade bar game, every night. Vanellope on the other hand is tired and bored of the same old routine. The internet is exciting and new. When Vanellope and Ralph head to a game called Slaughter Race, Vanellope finds herself not wanting to leave. It’s new and exciting, and she loves its unpredictability. Because Ralph Breaks the Internet takes place in the Internet, the creators had to make sure they portrayed it well, and I think they did. The use of different apps and websites brought a laugh, but the movie also showed the negative sides of the internet or, more specifically, social media. During the movie, Ralph came across a social media site where one makes videos and gets money depend-
ing on how many likes the video gets. Ralph decided to make a few videos and became an internet star. He was on top of the world until he found the comments section. Ralph Breaks the Internet showed how mean people on the internet can be because they can say whatever they want. While the insight about the adverse effects of social media was great, it was not the part of the movie that most caught my attention. The best aspect of Ralph Breaks the Internet was surprisingly the message. Throughout this movie, the characters teach about the effects of being a clingy friend and holding onto someone so tight you push them away. I thought this was a great message to show to children. Teaching kids how to create healthy, supportive relationships is very important, and Ralph Breaks the Internet sent this message in a way that kids can easily understand. This was one of the best children’s movies I have seen in a long time. It took me on a roller coaster ride through different emotions and left me both laughing and crying. The new characters like Yes and Knowsmore added a comedic touch but did not overshine the messages about social media and healthy friendships This was a great way to show kids to be careful what they say and do both on the internet and in real life because they never know what effect it might have on others.
perfectly captured the essence of Freddie. In promotional interviews, Malek spoke of spending days researching Mercury, working on making everything as precise as possible for the film. He even took movement classes to recreate Queen’s 1985 performance at Live Aid. However, despite all of the positives of the movie, I, along with a number of other people who’ve seen this film, did have a few issues with it. One of the biggest issues was focusing too heavily on Freddie’s relationship with longtime friend (and girlfriend of six years) Mary Austin. Mary was a large part of Freddie’s life, and I liked how they made sure to show that in this movie, but they didn’t show Freddie’s partner, Jim Hutton, as much as I wish they would have. Jim and Freddie were together for the last six years of Freddie’s life and he was a pretty prominent partner to Freddie as well. They show him briefly towards the end of the film, but he doesn’t have as large of a part as I wish he would have. The only other negatives to this film are just the inaccuracies but that isn’t an end all be all, because, as I said, this film is not a documentary. My favorite scene has to
be the Live Aid scene. It’s so well done, and if you compare it to the actual performance, it’s practically a carbon copy. It’s easily the best part of the movie. Watching it felt like I was actually there, watching Freddie bounce around the stage, putting on (arguably) one of the most legendary performances Queen has ever had. This film was perfectly depicted the band and is continuing to allow Freddie’s legacy to live on. It was great seeing a film show how, despite all of the good things in Freddie’s life, they showed the negatives that he had to deal with. Seeing him come to terms with his sexuality was fascinating because he was alive during a time when it wasn’t all that accepted to be anything but heterosexual, and he was quite the flamboyant man. He had to deal with constant questioning on his sexuality, and even that was depicted well in the film. All in all, I give this film a 15/10 because I think it was absolutely incredible and it was the perfect way to keep Freddie’s spirit and Queen’s alive.
Creed II delivers a knockout punch Jackson Towne Staff Reporter It’s been 42 years since Rocky Balboa went toe to toe with the heavyweight boxing champion of the world, Apollo Creed, in one of the most unexpected bouts in the history of the sport. It’s been 33 years since Apollo Creed stepped into the ring against one of the most dangerous boxers in the world, Ivan Drago, and lost his life as a result. It’s been 33 years since Rocky Balboa challenged Ivan Drago, and avenged his friend Apollo’s death with a gritty victory. And now, in 2018, a new face has seen a meteoric rise to the top of the boxing world, just like Rocky all those decades ago: Adonis Creed, son of the late, great Apollo. In Creed II, Michael B. Jordan stars as the young Adonis, who, after securing a heavyweight boxing championship, is challenged by Viktor Drago, a boxer as dangerous as, if not more so than, his father Ivan. He must deal with the emotional burden of knowing that this is the son of the man who killed his father, and overcome this if he has any chance of winning. If you come into this movie expecting the big set piece boxing matches, you will not be disappointed. There are three full fights, each building on the last. They all exhibit smooth editing and fluid fight choreography, and nothing seems choppy or guilty of the quick cut editing that many
modern action films suffer from. In between the fights, the script keeps the story moving while offering up significant character development for a cast that deals with personal struggles outside of the ring even as they prepare for the next fight in it. Now, the most impressive thing about this film is not the flashy boxing match sequences, or the training montages, but rather the heavyweight performances that swing knockout punches across the board. And, as was true in the first Creed movie, old outshines young. Both Sylvester Stallone and Dolph Lundgren, portraying Balboa and the elder Drago, respectively, step back into their roles so smoothly, it’s as if they never left. Both succeed at showing more nuanced, subdued versions of their formerly flashy selves, and it serves the overall tone of the movie very well. In addition, I don’t think it’s too far fetched to expect a repeat of the nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor that Sylvester Stallone snagged with his performance in the first one. Overall, Creed II is a surprisingly solid follow-up to a surprisingly solid follow-up, and I would be shocked if it doesn’t spawn additional sequels. It brings the same laudable performances, flashy visuals, and strong script of the first one, while expanding the mythology of the Rocky universe in a way that fans new and old will find satisfying.
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Entertainment 12 • 14 • 2018
Crimes of Grindelwald Review Kristin Kaipust Editor-In-Chief Starting as soon as the opening scene, Fantastic Beast: The Crimes of Grindelwald, was darker than its precursor. The series continues to explore the grim history of the wizarding world that was built in the story of Harry Potter. Right off the bat, the movie was thrilling and almost scary. It begins with a scene of the imprisoned Grindelwald, who has a haunting aura. This is followed by heavy action as the American Ministry of Magic works to send him to Europe. The movie not only included intense magic fights and dark concepts, but had moments that caused me to literally jump out of my seat. While the movie was engaging all on its own, it was very obviously an important set up for the next installment. This was the second of five movies planned for the Fantastic Beasts series. It contained a lot of character development and clarification to the first movie and began to show the developing divide in the wizarding world that is key to the series. Just as lovable as before, the movie starred Newt Scamander (Eddie Redmayne), Jacob Kowalski (Dan Folger), Tina Goldstein (Katherine Waterston), and Queenie Goldstein (Alison Sudol). These characters stayed true to the previous movies but were interwoven with the stories of other characters. Along with these original four, many other familiar names were mentioned. New members of the Scamander family are introduced and new characters rein from both the Lestrange and Dumbledore family. These allude to other famous wizards known from the Harry Potter series and made it fun to predict the ending. Most notably, the famous wizard Grindelwald is brought into the story. Grindelwald is a mentioned villain from
the original Harry Potter series, however, he is brought to life as the movie progresses. Played by Johnny Depp, Grindelwald works to collect followers who want to raise pure-blood wizards above all others, including the non-magic world. Depp impersonates the character well with a young but dark persona and a charisma that is perfect for the dictatorial character he is playing. One of the most anticipated parts of the movie was the introduction of young Albus Dumbledore. Played by Jude Law, Dumbledore tasks the star of the series, Newt Scamander, to find an important character from the previous movie, Credence (Ezra Miller). In the movie, Credence is believed to be the only wizard who Grindelwald thinks may be capable of defeating Dumbledore. Law portrayed a kind and thoughtful Hogwarts professor who stayed true to the character that Dumbledore is in the Harry Potter movies. Like the original Harry Potter movies, The Crimes of Grindelwald did not disappoint with thrilling music and beautiful landscapes. As Newt traveled to find Credence, there were scenes exploring the many different versions of the Ministry of Magic unique to each country. Like in all the past movies of the franchise, these buildings were ornate, beautifully designed, and fascinating to explore with Newt. The movie even gave a few peeks of early Hogwarts. While there were many very positive aspects, there were a couple of plot holes in the film. The series runs alongside information already presented in the Harry Potter movies, and several scenes didn’t align with information that had been presented in the original films. While these scenes were very obvious, it seemed possible for the inconsistencies to be fixed in later movies. Regardless of the few holes, the movie continued to be full of magic and wonder. The story was still a thrilling adventure full of strong characters and amazing scenes portraying magic. Crimes of Grindelwald left tons of excitement for the next movie to release in 2020.
Love at first bite The best cupcakes in town Kayla Andrews Staff Reporter I knew I liked this place after the first cupcake but that didn’t stop me from ordering three more. I decided on the strawberry, cookie dough, s’mores and vanilla caramel cupcakes ($3.25 each). I tried to eat all of them in one sitting but to my surprise they were really dense and the frosting was really sugary. I got through about two cupcakes and then I stopped because I would have seen those cupcakes again if I consumed another one, and I did not want to do that. They were all moist and exquisite, if I would say anything to improve them it would be to put less frosting on the cupcake because there was just a lot of frosting compared to cake. The ratio of frosting to cupcake 1:1. They also offer red velvet, vanilla, chocolate, yellow cake, chocolate raspberry, black and white, sweet and salty and they also offer gluten free options. Jones Bros. Cupcakes offers much more than just sweet treats. They have a wide variety of menu items for breakfast and lunch. The Breakfast BLT ($7) was one of the best sandwiches I have ever had in my life. Two kinds of bacon, lettuce, tomato, an egg, provolone cheese and dijon mayonnaise all served on a flakey, buttered croissant. The sandwich was pressed and the cheese melted onto the egg but the lettuce was still crisp and crunchy. The flavors
of bacon were cracked pepper and brown sugar they were thick cut and cooked to perfection so they weren’t too chewy or crunchy. Holy heck it was good. The hashbrowns on the other hand were not as inspiring. The potatoes were not crispy or crunchy at all and they were too oily to the point of oil being all over the plate when the potatoes were only plated on half of the plate. But they were cooked well in terms of the potato being firm but consistent throughout. Overall I was pleased with the wonderful experience I had at Jones Bros. They have really outdone themselves with their food and dessert menus, and their staff is extremely welcoming as well as helpful with any questions you ask them. I will definitely be going back soon.
Cupcakes (from left to right) vanilla caramel, s’mores, cookie dough and strawberry.
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Sports 12 • 14 • 2018
Freshmen charge on to varsity team Allison Kirkebak Sports Editor
Allison Kirkebak Sports Editor
“Megan is the perfect fit for this team.” the key components to this year’s season, Head Coach Bryce Meyers especially in the unfortunate absence said. of starting point guard, senior Bailey Megan Belt is a freshUrban due to a torn ACL that happened man point guard/shooting in the first scrimmage of the season guard on Millard Souths’ this year. Varsity Girls Basketball “Megan will have a tremendous team. Belt has been playing impact on the team because of basketball since 1st grade. her great skill set.” Meyers said. Throughout her eight years “She has the ability to shoot the of playing basketball, Belt ball, get to the basket and make has played for the Omaha great passes. She will need to Grizzlies, OSA (Omaha be ready to step in right away Sports Academy), and the and make even more of an newer and upcoming All impact with the absence of Nebraska Attack program. Bailey.” “Through club, I was able Throughout to play with great teammates the offseason and and form good relationships preseason, Belt and friendships,” Belt said. has been fortunate “The coaches also helped me enough to be so learn skills, fundamentals, welcomed and have and to work hard. They almuch support from her ways stressed the importance many teammates and of being a good person and coaches. She also quickly student athlete.” learned the hard work and Megan Belt stands at 5 ‘ 7” and Through some of these plays point guard/ shooting guard. dedication that high school club teams, Belt has met Photo by Deyo’s basketball demands to be some of her now, high on the varsity stage. school teammates including the other “Kids in our program don’t care if freshman on the team, Kelsey Pauli and you are a freshman or a senior,” Meyers juniors Makenna Bray, Chloe Carr, Jayme said. “When kids prove this is important Horan, and Maddie Krull. to them they become a part of our fam“Knowing some of my teammates from ily. The hard work is a huge part of what my club teams has definitely helped my creates the bond, and Megan has proved transition into high school,” Belt said. that since the 1st day of summer. Our kids This year, the Patriots hope to bring have welcomed her with open arms and we home a state title after a semifinal appearare excited to watch her grow as a person ance two years ago, and a championship and a player.” game appearance last year. Belt is one of
“Kelsey stands out as a kid that will “Overall, I think the season will go put forth 100 percent effort,” Head Coach very well,” Pauli said. “The team is very Bryce Meyers said. “Her willingness to talented, and I am very excited for learn/comprehend what coaches want, the outcome.” stands out.” Pauli plays softball as well as Freshman Kelsey Pauli is a power basketball, resulting in missforward on Millard Souths’ Girls ing some of the preseason, Varsity Basketball team. Pauli has but that didn’t affect the been playing basketball since she new bond between her new was five years old. She decided teammates, along with she wanted to start playtheir welcoming arms. ing basketball after she “The upperclassmen watched her brother always take kids in as part and sister, who are of our family,” Meyers also Patriot Alums, said. “All they have to do Garran (plays at is show commitment and Doane University) willingness to work hard and Rylee Pauli and put the team above (plays at Concordia University), yourself.” fall in love with the game. Pauli Along with the playknew early on that she would end ers being welcomup at Millard South, due to playing ing, the coaches for the Lady Patriots Basketball have also showed Club. She also played on All Netheir excitement braska Attack as well. and support for “Kelsey has been around our Pauli. Kelsey Pauli stands at 5’ 9” basketball program virtually her “The bond with whole life as her older brother Garran and plays forward. Photo by my coaches is very played here and obviously Rylee,” Mey- Deyo’s good,” Pauli said. ers said. “She knows first hand what it “I like the fact that takes to be successful and is willing to do they push me and help me to be my very what it takes to make herself and the team best every day.” better.” Belt and Pauli both said they would Pauli will also be a key component like to play college baksetball some day. this season for the Patriots as they start Belt would like to continue her basketthe journey back to the state tournament ball career after high school at Creighton this year. The Patriots are currently 3-0 University, and Pauli would also like to to start off the season, and it appears that continue her basketball career at Missisthe rest of the season will go in the same sippi State University. direction.
Girls basketball shoots for state championship Carina Covington The defense only allowed the Packers three points Sports Editor in the first half. The Packers finally broke into double digits after hitting a three late in the fourth A state championship trophy is the motivation quarter. for the girls basketball team this season. After get The Patriots kept the winning streak going as ting runner-up for the past two seasons, the Patriots they went on the road to play Omaha Northwest. are chasing the championship feeling. After a long fought battle, the Patriots were able to The Patriots kicked off the season with a scrimpull out 72-71 win. mage against Lincoln Northeast the week before Horan led the team with 37 points and 13 retheir first regular season game was scheduled. The girls came out strong and showed that Millard South bounds with junior Maddie Krull having 17 points. “I am always looking has something to prove to take care of the ball this season. We are returning a lot of girls and make smart passes.” “Our biggest strength this year, which is really helpful, Horan said after the win is our ability to score. We over Northwest. Horans’ have skilled kids that can because we can pick up where 37 points is thought to make plays,” Head Coach we left off. be a school record for Bryce Meyers said. most points in a single During the scrimgame. –junior Jayme Horan mage, starting senior, Jayme Horan and MadBailey Urban tore her ACL die Krull are two of the players that are carrying in the second half of the game. This gave freshman, the Patriots this season. Krull recently announced Megan Belt, a chance at a starting spot. her commitment to D1 University of South Da Millard South certified that shooters are gonna kota. Horan has double-digit D1 offers but has not shoot this year in their season opener against Omaverbally committed yet. ha South. The Patriots put up 81 points and kept the “Having Maddie and Jayme is a huge advanPackers to 12 to claim their first win. tage because they have the ability to make up for “We are returning a lot of girls this year which is really helpful because we can pick up where we left mistakes with their ability to make plays both for themselves and for the team,” Coach Meyers said. off,” junior Jayme Horan said. While the Patriot offense was carrying the team Junior Jayme Horan makes a shot in a game against Lincoln Pius. The Patriots won 47-41. with their incredible shooting range, the defense was Photo by Logan Foote. certainly putting in their fair share of work as well.
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AUTOMATIC STATE CUTS:
Hunter Smithson: 100 Fly, 100 Free
Trevor Edwards: 100 Back Boys 200 Free Relay Boys 200 Medley Relay
AquaPATS
SECONDARY STATE CUTS:
Connor Lammel: 200 Free, 50 Free, 100 Fly, 100 Free Trevor Edwards: 200 free, 200 IM, 50 Free, 100 Fly, 100 Free, 100 Back
Hunter Smithson: 50 Free, 100 Breast Katelyn Boyes: 50 Free, 100 Free Bryan Botkin: 50 Free, 100 Free 400 Boys Relay