Common Sense Volume 19 Issue 6 April 26, 2019

C ommon Sense Millard South High School • 14905 Q St. • Omaha, Neb., 68137

April 26, 2019

Volume 19 Issue 6

Ten men joust for Patriot Prince crown Cassady Alberico

Staff Reporter

The thunderous uproar of hundreds of students cheering could be heard from every corner of the school as ten of Millard South’s finest men sauntered onto the stage.

Only produced once a year, the male beauty pageant Mr. Millard South had been furiously put together by several senior boys and National Honor Society members.

“I am the secretary of NHS and head of the script and backstage committee,”

senior Kristin Kaipust shared.

“We started by writing the entire script for the emcees. That meant writing a short segment between every single part of the show so there was time for the people backstage to get things situated. That was my job, there were also people who spent full days filming the boys for their video segments, there was a group who collected donations for auction baskets, people who edited all the films, and we spent a lot of time building our set this year. We spent like 12 hours rehearsing on Saturday before we finally got to the show.”

This year’s show, themed Night of Knights, was a grueling ten way competition for the prized title of Patriot Prince. 2019 marks the 25th anniversary of Mr. Millard South. While the event has changed in specifics, its philosophy has remained the same. National Honor Society Mr. Millard South candidate Connor Lammel rehearses his swing dance talent with partner sophomore Kaylee Snowardt. He danced with senior Claire Aken at in the pageant. Photo by Alex Engleman sponsor Mrs. Hartel views it with an emphasis on inclusion.

“I was looking for a chance to show shine in the spotlight. Every year more “I just love getting the sepeople here at Millard South a side most contestants hail from various sports than nior boys and girls involved in someof them have never seen and just have a any other activity. thing together, especially people who fun time performing for everyone,” Towne don’t typically get a chance to be on said. “I had a great time and I thought the At the end of the night, Mr. Millard stage,” Hartel said. It’s a great project South was given to Cassady Alberico, who is for our NHS officers who spend a lot of show went better than I was ever hoping unfortunately unavailable for interview due time making it what it is, so it’s a unify- it would.” Towne was crowned Mr. Congeniality, a title for the kindest contestant to his position as writer of this story. Since I ing experience as an officer team.” voted on by the production crew. can’t interview myself, I guess I’ll just take a Perhaps the most coveted of Mr. Mil This ‘hidden talent’ aspect of the quote from my Instagram. lard South’s appeals is its ability to get event is unique on the Millard South

“Honestly? I think that was the best typically introverted boys performing stage. While theatrical shows and music weekend of my life. I am so eternally thankonstage. Senior Jack Towne falls into concerts are held in the auditorium year ful.”

Mr. Millard South candidate Cayle Jones models this category, a normally reserved sturound, no other event gives boys more dent who wowed the audience with his formal wear donated by Men’s Wearhouse. normally tuned to sports a chance to his impressive stage presence.

Jones earned runner-up at the event. Photo by Emily Crawford

Women are a force of nature at state Envirothon Kristin Kaipust Editor-in-Chief

“At Envirothon,” says senior Grace Dempsey, “the answer is always Nematodes,” and in a competition focused completely on Nebraska agriculture and wildlife, this is often true. After succeeding at the regional level, a team of four girls will head to compete in Envirothon at the state level.

Envirothon is a competition that consists of six different tests, each containing around twenty five questions. The tests correspond to the topics of aquatics, forestry, policy, range, soil, and wildlife.

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Mr. Millard South history.

Along with the tests, each team must create an 8-10 minute presentation with a solution to a farming issue. This year’s team consists of seniors Grace Dempsey, Myranda Carbullido, Kristin Kaipust, and junior Alexa Edmundson and is sponsored

by Steph Larsen and Kim Ziegler. They must present solutions to soil erosion, limited groundwater supply, loss of nutrients, and loss of pollinators. The presentation must have an emphasis on agroecologythe study of interactions with the environment through agriculture.

“I had some prior knowledge on agroecology from AP Human Geography and AP Environmental Science,” said Dempsey.

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Everything you need to know about plants! Photo by Lindsey Assman

“I did a lot more online research to really explore the topic though.”

Dempsey is competing for her second year. Dempsey said she joined her junior year because she was very interested in her Environmental Science class. She was excited about an opportunity to use her knowledge in a competitive way.

Edmundson also found a passion for Environmental Science.

“I decided after taking Biology and Zoology that I really like studying the natural sciences,” said Edmundson. “I’ve decided to major in Environmental Science, and I thought Envirothon would be a great way to take my passion outside of

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the classroom.”

The team first competed at a regional Envirothon competition, it included seniors Grace Dempsey, Myranda Carbullido, Rachel Zook, and juniors Alexa Edmundson and Madison Kenney. This group received a high score on their tests at the regional level and received a wildcard spot for the state competition.

“This year’s team works really well together and has a wide knowledge of the topics,” said Dempsey.

The team competes on April 24th in Ericson, Nebraska.

“It’s going to be a road trip, how can you not be excited?” said Carbullido.

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Baseball hits it out of the park! Photo by Josh Ferdico Hamilton stuns viewers. Photo by Isabel Robb

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News 4 • 26 • 2019

NHS knights 25th Mr. Millard South Kristin Kaipust Editor-in-Chief

Since the 1994-1995 school year, not much has changed about the annual Mr. Millard South competition, except the number of Speedos.

“With the first show, I had to convince the principal that we would not do anything offensive,” said the 1994-2003 NHS sponsor, CeCe Schwennsen. “Selling the ‘swimsuit’ competition was a challenge, so we said, ‘one third of your body must be covered and creativity is rewarded. And no Speedos, please.’”

Mr. Millard South has evolved over the years, like the loosening on swimwear requirements. Contestants were originally nominated by clubs and teams. Now, senior boys must fill out a short application to be considered. In the past, talents were drawn out of a hat rather than chosen by the competitor. Contestants now have the opportunity to display any talent of their choice.

The show, held by National Honors Society, is a fundraiser for their end of the year scholarship. In ‘94, two scholarships were awarded for $100 each. In recent years, two to three scholarships are awarded for $500 each.

‘97 graduate, Nick Beard, recalls his involvement in the competition. Beard performed a rendition of Romeo and Juliet with a friend for his talent and modeled some arm floaties during the swimwear portion.

“Looking back on it now, I was a pretty shy kid,” said Beard. “I don’t think I was thrilled about doing the show at first. But it ended up being pretty dang funny.”

A show full of many laughs, Mr. Millard South continues to be an important fundraiser but more importantly, an opportunity for the school to gather together.

Top: 2005 graduates, CJ Greco and Alex Koch dance during the opening number. The boys were dancing to “Man I feel like a Woman.” Greco took home the 2005 crown.

Left: 1996 graduate, Ken Hupka, sings “Rubber Ducky” as a cowboy in the 1996 show.

Right: 1999 gradute, Mike Longe, displays his costume for his talent. Longe talent was an Austin Powers impersonation.

Longe won first runner-up in the ‘99 show.

Parking gets packed Hailey Bos Staff Reporter

In the 2019-2020 school year, students will lose 15-20 parking spots due to an increase in teacher parking. Towards the end of the school year, parking spots become increasingly hard to find. This is because more sophomores are driving.

Because students don’t want to park on the other side of Buell, they tend to park in either teacher parking or on medians. Millard South has increased staff every year but has not increased the number of staff parking spots. Currently there is only one parking spot for every staff member. If a student parks in a staff spot, there are no more available spots designated for that staff member, so they have to start looking elsewhere for parking.

Starting this upcoming summer, South is making changes to the parking situation. The visitor parking in the front of the school will turn into teacher spots and the visitor spots will move to the main lot so visitors have easy access from

Q street. There are also talks about adding angled parking by the baseball fields, which would add some additional parking for students closer to the school.

There are currently 821 parking spots. 222 spots are in the east lot, 188 spots are in the south lot, 172 spots are in the west lot, and 239 parking spots are in the far lot. Administration is looking into ideas on how to influence students to park in the far lot instead of parking on medians or in staff spots. New administrator, Mr. Geerts, has come up with ideas on only selling so many parking passes for the spots in the three lots closest to the school or offering a cheaper parking pass to only allow students to park in the lot across Buell.

“I don’t like the idea of increasing the price on parking tickets because I don’t want parking to become a monetary issue,” explains Geerts.

None of these ideas are official yet, but the administration team is working to improve the parking problem for all parties involved.

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News 4 • 26 • 2019

Millard Student Council’s join forces to volunteer at food bank Allison Kirkebak Sports Editor

Millard South, along with Andersen and Central Middle School Student Council members made 2,981 bags for the backpack program, along with 1,100 pounds of cereal sorted, and 1,512 pounds of chicken repacked.

“It made me feel really good,” junior Kali Herbolsheimer said.

“There is no greater feeling than knowing that you are taking a few hours out of your day to make someone’s entire weekend so much better. Overall, I was very impressed with the amount of maturity that everyone had, and the amount of work we put in while still having a ton of fun. ”

Last month, Millard South Student Council joined with Andersen Middle School and Central Middle School, Student Councils for the inaugural Millard Leadership Day. Members from all three councils came together to dedicate part of their day to volunteer at the local food bank.

“The conversation started between the advisors as simply an idea of ‘how do we build connections with our councils’,” Millard South Student Council Advisor Kyrie Nehls said. “Millard Central already did the food bank day, and we had the Unified game scheduled so we just went with it.”

All 70 of the students and advisors were put to work. Students had the option to repack chicken,

sort cereals by kind, or help make the backpacks for the backpack program, which required many helpers. The backpack program is to help provide food and meals when other resources aren’t available, like on the weekends and/or holidays. In each bag, a student gets; white and chocolate milk, a juice box, ravioli, mac and cheese, two bowls of cereal, and applesauce.

“I was excited to volunteer at the food bank because I want to help kids who don’t have the resources to have food on the weekends.” Freshman Amelia Dolton said.

After they finished up at the food bank, students went to the new Boys and Girls Club building at Central Middle School. After lunch, Millard South Student Council led the middle school groups in fun leadership games and activities while getting to know one another before going to the unified basketball game at Millard South.

“I felt like we made a lot of good connections with the middle schoolers, and we helped them to see and learn about all of the things high school student council is about.” Herbolsheimer said.

After the amazing day the councils had, it was evident that this would become an annual event for the three schools.

“We plan to do this annually,” Nehls said. “It will probably take on different forms each year, but we all really felt like this was a positive Millard experience.”

Clubs make Earth Day chalk full of awareness

Members of Environmental Club, Art Club, and Spanish Club create a chalk mural for Earth Day. This is an annual event in which the clubs come together to spread environmental awareness in the courtyard. This year, the mural consisted of a giant chalk drawing of the Earth and multiple little drawings of animals and plants, such as bees, fish, and trees. Photos by Alex Engleman

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Opinion 4 • 26 • 2019

Let’s Talk: Therapy

My ride of passage

The importance and awareness of mental health has been increasing within the past few years. This being said, there is still a stigma about seeing a therapist. People feel the need to keep it a secret and hide the fact that they see a therapist. I know I felt that I needed to hide it from others because I thought people would think of me differently.

Later I realized that there is absolutely nothing wrong with seeking help. People don’t feel the need Hailey Bos to hide that they see Staff Reporter a physical therapist.

Physical therapy is help to improve the state of your body while traditional therapy is help to improve the state of your well being or mental health. More than 27% of people attend therapy. That is over 1 in 4 people. I have found that many of my friends have attended therapy before and the quantity surprises me. I have found that more of my friends see or have seen a therapist than not.

Therapy doesn’t have to be scary. Typically when starting, your therapist will ask you questions about your life to gain background

information and they will ask why you chose

“Did you, like, not have a childturn. I threw my leg over the other to seek out therapy and what you wish to hood?” This question haunts my wakside with as much confidence as my accomplish. Sessions after that are typically ing hours. Every time I see a young eight year old self could muster. She just conversations with end goals in mind. You child pedaling his bike down the turned on the motor, and I braced get to choose who your therapist is and street, my soul is crushed a little more. myself to speed down the street how often you see them. My therapy

I will be turning eighteen in three at a whopping five miles per hour. hours lasted around 45 minutes of conmonths, and I still cannot ride a bike.

However, my glory was short lived. versation and the last 15 were for my My parents tried, Almost immediately, I therapist to document and take notes. time and time toppled to the ground, in When your therapist takes notes it is again, to teach front of all of my peers. simply something to refer back to; they me. My boyfriend, Taylor smiled, but I knew are not legally allowed to share your my cousins, my she was secretly mocking information unless your or others’ safety friend, and my me. I dusted myself off is in jeopardy. The cost will depend on sister have each and decided I would learn your therapist. If cost is an issue there given their best to ride a bike. are programs that can help with your efforts to teach

A decade later, my financial situation. me the ways of childhood dreams have There are many different kinds of the two-wheeled still yet to come true. therapists who all use different techtransportation.

However, the torment by niques. Cognitive behavioral therapy Despite their others over my inability to will analyze and change how you think best efforts, I just perform such a simple task about your life and try to change negative Nickol Kreutzian can’t seem to still persists. “It’s like riding patterns. Interpersonal therapy will identify Staff Reporter master the most a bike,” they’ll say, “Oh and address problems within your relationrudimentary form wait, but you don’t know ships. Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy of childhood how!” My parents remind will help you focus on your thoughts and feelfreedom. me that I could bring a bike to college ings in the moment. Play therapy will analyze

The first time I truly felt shame if I only I was smart enough to learn your thoughts and feelings with how you play from my inability to ride a bike came how to ride one. with toys; this is typically for younger children. when I was eight. My neighbor

One day, I dream of being able People go to therapy for a variety of reasons owned a motorbike. The shiny red to suggest going on a bike ride with different end goals. An end goal that exterior glistened in the summer sun. with my friends or renting the bikes most people have in common is to simply be Oh, how I longed to be as effortlessly downtown for a nice Sunday afterhappy. cool as Taylor. She had long, wavy noon ride. I want to go on bike rides

Talking to a therablonde hair and was the biggest girl by lakes. My shame of my bike riding pist may not work for on the street. deficiencies will no longer define me. everyone but it will help

It was July, and the heat was We need to learn to accept people guide you to a method oppressive. All of the kids spent their of all bike riding abilities. More than Natalie Schamp

Over the last month, John Baylor has been where you can cope evenings at the neighborhood park, I dream of riding a bike, I dream of a Staff Reporter adorning our screens and gracing our auditorium. best. Whether it be playing Grounders and basketball and day when society is truly equal, and He has inspired, educated and blessed every junior writing in a journal, kickball in the streets.

Taylor would people like me, living in hiding, in fear at Millard South. As the ACT approached, I searched desperately for creating art, or talking come through on her majestic bike, of what others will say about their any and every way to keep John and his life changing tips close while to people, everyone and every child from Chalco to Giles self-propelled transportation skills, I performed the highest paying job I, or any high schooler, could ever deserves to have good Ridge would clamber for an opportucan come out of the shadows. We will have. After minutes of desperate longing, which just so happened to mental health and to nity to sit on that seat. say, “Hello, this is me, and I can’t ride a take place at one of John Baylor’s live sessions, I came up with the best be happy.

One evening, it was finally my bike.” idea I will ever conceive. I would dress like John Baylor to take the ACT.

As an average teenage girl, I did not own the supplies to pull off this master plan, I would need to go to the thrift store, Goodwill to be exact. To embark on this journey I recruited three of my closest and most trustworthy friends. I made the correct choice as we quickly swept through the aisles and located many potential pieces. It was Carina Covington as well get out of some schoolrow” almost as if the universe had brought everything together for me, just Sports Editor work for it. Am I right?

“Just in case it’s sunny this once. I found a perfectly oversized light blue button up, then after 9. Listen to Ross Geller from tomorrow” I am sure you are all wondering what three tries, a pair of pants, black as night. With ease I plucked a red, Friends give a lecture on the

“The day you wear the blue seniors could possibly be doing striped tie from its rack and then meandered to the men’s shoe shelf.

Paleozoic era jacket instead of the black instead of doing our homework. In I figured this would be the most trying portion of my journey consid Season 10 Episode 35: The one” honor of the 2019 graduating class, ering I had small female feet. I was wrong. In front of me laid a shiny one where they avoid all

“Before graduation” I have compiled a list of 19 things I perfect pair of black men’s dress shoes. I slipped them on my feet and

their homework

“After graduation” would rather do than my homework with ecstasy proceeded to the checkout line. Where, with the help of 10. Watch Frozen on repeat for a

“On your way to graduation” (in no particular order: not because I one of associates I purchased my treasure trove. week.

“Just in case you get lost on couldn’t choose, but simply because I

After much anticipation the day had finally come. I awoke to the The homework page glows white the way to graduation” am too lazy). on Google classroom tonight, sounds of birds chirping and rays of sunshine shooting through my

“If you get lost on the way Not a student to be seen, window blinds. I slipped from my bed and began to channel my inner home from graduation” 1. Mow the lawn A kingdom of senioritis, Baylor, my inner hero. I ate a quick breakfast just as he would have 13.

Fall into a dark hole of Con snow on the ground? No And it looks like I’m the queen, wanted. Then with butterflies spawning in my stomach I re-entered spiracy Theories problem! Scoop the snow off The teacher is howling like this swirlmy bedroom and gazed upon my own super-suit. I briskly buttoned

“Hey, what’s up you guys! ing storm inside, the lawn, then mow it! my blue blouse and slipped into the black slacks and shoes. Lastly I Yes, I am back for another Couldn’t keep it in, doesn’t she know 2. Clean out your entire closet donned the finishing touch, my long, burnt sienna tie. With one last we tried,

*cue spooky voice and and your friends’ closets, too Don’t let them in, don’t let them see, glance in the mirror I was ready to take on the incredible challenge music* conspiracy theory

Yes, I am speaking from Be the good girl you always have that laid ahead of me. I bid farewell to my canines and set off to Millard

video”- Shane Dawson experience to be, Conceal, don’t feel, don’t let 14.

Watch Ted Talks about procrasSouth High School to ace my ACT. 3. Learn to speak 5 new lanthem know, Well, now they know, tination

I sauntered my way to my assigned testing guages and learn to tap dance

Let it go, let it go, Yes, once again speaking from room and took a moment to focus. A

Hello, Hola, Bonjour, Hej,

Can’t hold it back anymore, personal experience. moment to get into character. To be Let it go, let it go, hallo. Shuffle, Shuffle, Step, This is getting ridiculous. come John Baylor. The tests were passed

Turn away and slam the class Step- Heel, Heel Step: Jazz room door, 15. Console Michael Scott after out and I felt myself grow stronger. I hands!

I don’t care what they’re going burning his foot on his George blew through the English portion laying 4. Clean out the entire Journalto say, Let the storm rage on, Foreman grill down rule after rule–Less is more, honor ism Drive. 1.44 terrabytes of These tests never bothered me *Wraps foot in bubble wrap* thy commas. I busted through the first 10 math death (and counting) anyway,

“I’m sitting here with a questions and then pushed tirelessly through 5. Get a job at the L Street Let it go, let it go, bloody stump of a foot,” - Michael the rest. Reading was a breeze. I could feel Baylor Walmart on Black Friday Can’t hold it back anymore, Scott: Season 2 Episode 12 flowing through my veins. I finished strong as I Let it go, let it go,

*dodges pepper 16. Sleep on a bed of nails Turn away and slam the classroom knocked out the science portion. I took a breather spray and flying merchandise door

Well, that took a turn and recharged. I was ready to take on the final poralmost as well as dodging my 11.

Go to the DMV for fun 17.

Debate with Mr. Edmundson tion of this life changing test. I cranked out an eshomework assignments* Right when people get off from that the moon landing is fake 6. Dye my hair pink say with ease. And then, just like that, it was over. work would be ideal

BUT EDMO!!! LOOK AT THE Again, speaking from experiWith adrenaline still coursing through my veins, I 12.

Make a Spotify playlist for any SHADOWS IN THE PICTURE!!! ence exited the building. possible situation that may 18.

Have every future movie I 7.

Complete all of the chores I had learned so much from my superhero but now arise would ever see be spoiled my mom has given me that it was time to throw off his garments and separate

“The day the moon disapbefore I watched it I have never done Sweep the my soul from his. Although it had come time for pears”

The dog dies, Darth Vador is deck, clean the garage, do the us to part his tips would never really leave me,

“The day Dunkin Donuts Luke’s Father, They breaklaundry, clean the bathrooms, his influence had forever changed me. I would runs out of donuts”

up, she gets the job rake the leaves, paint the house, always look back on this day and reminisce, it

“The day Mcdonald’s ice 19.

Make a list of things I would wash the car, clean the gutters, would be the closest I would ever come to being cream machine is broken” rather do than do my homebut don’t worry!

You already superhuman. It would be difficult to return to

(make sure you really like work mowed the lawn in number 1. normal life, it all seemed so insignificant. I would never be the same, that one)

gotcha :)) 8. Get my wisdom teeth out I mean how could you be. He had changed me for the better, I was a

“Just in case it rains tomorI have to do it sometime, might whole new woman, a whole new me.

Becoming Baylor

Art by Natalie Schamp

19 things I would do before doing my homework

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Opinion 4 • 26 • 2019

Staff Editorial

Underclassmen crash junior/senior prom night

As a senior walking into prom this year, the situation was not quite what was expected.

A junior or senior should be able to walk into prom, a night that for some will be last time they will be with their entire class before graduation, and see the people that they have been with for the last four years. This year, though, prom was full of underclassmen who chose to go to prom before their time. The reality is, prom is not an event for freshmen and sophomores, and it should continue to be treated as such.

Although underclassmen may complain that they have a right to go to prom with their upperclassmen friends, it is intended as an upperclassmen only event. In reality, Prom at Millard South is becoming more and more an event for the entire student body. Currently, only juniors and seniors can purchase tickets to prom, but any underclassmen who can convince an older friend to buy them a ticket can attend. The policy was not originally intended for groups of sophomores and freshmen to attend prom before their time, but that is how it is currently functioning. This year especially, the horde of underclassmen taking up space on the dance floor was hard to ignore. So many younger attendees made the even feel impersonal and frankly overcrowded. As fun as it is to have a dance that is bustling and exciting, the overcrowding of underclassmen, many too young for even a drivers license, made the even lose some of its appeal.

In theory, this policy should be a positive one. It allows close friends or couples to enjoy the event together. In reality, this policy has led to the transformation of Prom from a upperclassmen event, a last celebration before graduation, into a slightly more dressed up Homecoming.

As easy as it would be to put the blame completely on the freshmen and sophomores, they are not entirely at fault. They simply want to have access an event that is more formal than homecoming and can easily ask an older friend to buy them a ticket. The majority of the blame rests on the upperclassmen who choose to buy tickets for students that are too young to purchase their own, while having no real intention to accompany them during the event.

The best solution for this predicament is a Winter Formal, an event that underclassmen could attend that would satiate their need for a more formal event. A formal dance that includes underclassmen would let them get the entire experience: dresses, suits, pictures, dinner, all while allowing the upperclassmen to celebrate the end of the year on their own.

A Winter Formal would help keep Prom as an upperclassmen only event. The current situation leaves neither group happy with their experience at their formal event of the year, but the solution, a Winter Formal that would be available to underclassmen as well as upperclassmen, is the next best thing.

Art by 2019 State Champion editorial cartoonist Tori Barkus

Cutting out sugar - a sweet experience?

“I think the most frustrating thing about building habits and about self development in general is this idea that inspiration doesn’t always correlate to change,” minimalist Matt D’Avella discusses in his YouTube video ‘12 Habits for Life’.

Cassady Alberico “It doesn’t matter Staff Reporter how motivated or inspired you are, it doesn’t mean that you’re actually going to change your life.”

I think we’ve all felt that feeling before. When we get fed up with the bad habits in our lives and try to dramatically redefine ourselves, switching from unhealthy to healthy in a matter of hours. By deep cleaning our rooms or making a super nutritious kale salad, we satisfy that craving for change. The problem is, these moments of inspiration never last. A week after that deep clean, my dirty laundry is on the floor again and I’m sprawled out on my bed munching Girl Scout cookies.

Real, lasting change doesn’t come from inspiration. It comes from repetition, from routine - building a habit. Taking notes from D’Avella, I have decided to

try and build one healthy habit every month. March marked the beginning of the Healthy Habit Challenge cutting out sugar for 31 days.

I’ll admit it, I have a terrible sweet tooth. Cookies are my favorite sweet, ice cream is a go-to comfort food, and Pop-Tarts are a guilty pleasure. I decided to cut out sugar not only for the potential health benefits, but for the inherent difficulty of the task. No other ingredient would be as difficult to eliminate. On February 28th, I set myself some ground rules. I needed to track my food intake every day, limit sugars to 25 grams or less per day, and eliminate desserts entirely. I bought whole wheat bread and almond butter to replace my normal microwave burrito breakfast, made spinach salads with yogurt dressing for lunch, and researched low sugar snack alternatives to my usual granola bars.

I had set up tools for success in my own house, but the real challenge would lie in social situations.

It wasn’t even noon on March 1st when I was faced with my first batch of free sugar. Walking to B2, sophomore Olivia Palmer taunted me with the aroma of free chocolate chip cookies. I legitimately began to shake from the smell, I absolutely adore cookies. But I said no and continued on to class, the first of many trials in my journey to be sugar free. While free donuts in Pride Time and friends with extra sweets were difficult to deny through those early weeks, saying no became the norm. Eating at home came easily, I quickly realized there were easy alternatives to most of my favorite processed foods. Sea salt chickpeas are an excellent replacement for chips and crackers, blueberries are

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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.

Editors-in-Chief Kristin Kaipust Maddie Rynes Photo Chiefs Isabel Robb Maggie Huson

a satisfying replacement for dessert, and spinach is a multifarious super food. By planning and preparing my own meals, I developed a better grasp on nutrition as a whole.

However, the challenge of cutting out sugar never felt easy. Social situations remained the most tempting. Going out to eat with friends was a normal thing for me, I loved grabbing Taco Bell after rehearsals and celebrating good nights with ice cream. Denying those moments was really hard for my extroverted brain, but I now realize that my friendships were not hurt by this.

While not necessarily bad, eating together is sometimes an excuse to hang out. Throughout March I have had more meaningful memories with my friends since I could no longer eat with them.

All of this food denial has sent my self control through the roof. Being able to say no is the most beneficial long-term change this habit challenge has taught me. Despite the very obvious health benefits of cutting out sugar, I can apply this new level of self control to other aspects of my life.

I will continue to adopt a new Healthy Habit every month for the foreseeable future. If you would like to join me, I openly encourage you to follow me on Instagram (@swagmaster_cass) and post your progress.

Take advantage of social media as a platform to hold yourself accountable and know a support network is available for you.

Entertainment Editor Sadie Brower

Staff Secretary Hailey Bos

Asst. Entertainment Editor Halle Benson

Staff Reporters Cassady Alberico Alexis Gamble Cale Goodman Alex Kopf Natalie Schamp Jack Towne Garrett Carbullido Natalie Fedde Cameron Merritt Josh Ferdico Alex Engleman

News Editor Isabel Kimminau

Buisness Managers Maggie Reimers Nicki 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

Cartoonist Tori Barkus

Asst. Opinions Editor Deniece Radford

Chief Copy Editor Myranda Carbullido

Adviser Christine Kaldahl

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Focus 4 • 26 • 2019

Greenery plants positive effects Maddie Rynes Editor-in-Chief

As weather gets warmer, stress blossoms and pressure grows as AP tests, semester finals, and college decisions come closer. Many students wish for ways to relieve their stress headaches and find peace, and nature is just the way to do that.

Plants are a great way to decorate your room, desk, or office. Not only do plants spice up a plain living space, but they also may have more health benefits than we thought.

We often think of trees as being the main air purifiers, but having a little green friend in your home can also reduce toxins in the air, such as carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, benzene, and more. These chemicals can be stifled in indoor air and can be the culprit of headaches, dry eyes, and irritation to the respiratory system; they have also been identified as possible carcinogens, which are cancercausing agents. They can be found in many items we keep in our homes and at work. For example, formaldehyde is found in paper towels and napkins, synthetic fabrics, and paper bags.

As the majority of our time is spent indoors nowadays, clean indoor air is a must for healthy lungs.

NASA through their Clean Air Study suggests that plants significantly reduce the amount of airborne exposure to chemicals. While effects of these toxins are dependent on exposure and amount, they are still very prevalent in our air. They find that the peace lily and florist’s chrysanthemum are the plants that filter the majority of common pollutants.

According to a study by Journal of Physiological Anthropology, heart rate analysis shows that indoor plants have “positive physiological effects on the autonomic nervous system by suppressing sympathetic activity, which often increases when a subject is exposed to a stressor”, as they compared a computer task to transplanting an indoor plant.

Plants have been found to not only reduce anxiety and stress, but they may also increase mental ability. University of Exeter found that houseplants can increase concentration and worker productivity by 47%. Having a plant in your classroom may also boost morale as many rooms in our own school lack windows.

Whether its a plant on your windowsill or even in the classroom, your mental and physical performance could be greatly improved simply by nature itself.

drea in gr

Mulhall’s spreads the sunshine of gardening Lindsey Assman Opinions Editor

Tropical foliage sweeps you into a beautiful getaway as you step into Mulhall’s Plant Nursery. This vibrant shop is filled with anything and everything you could need when it comes to planting and gardening.

Whether you have never cared for a plant or you’re a skilled gardener, Mulhall’s offers a variety of products to help you with your spring projects. The store has a wide array of plants that can be potted indoors, outdoors, or in your family garden. These plants include succulents, orchids, shrubbery, herbs, water lilies, and much more. Not only does the store have every plant you could wish to care for, they also have unique decor and pots for the perfect backyard.

The shop offers products with a great range in price range. Within the span of 10 feet, you can find a plant for $3.00, and a planted succulent wreath for $50.00. This provides products that can be purchased by a wide array of customers. Not only are their plants affordable, but so are their potting products.

The store offers unique, handmade pots, as well as classic clay pots for plants of all sizes. These beautiful pots can be as cheap as $0.59.

Mulhall’ has an attentive staff that is ready to help their customers at the bat

of an eye. They are well educated when it comes to plant care, landscaping, and farming. If you have a question, they will be sure to answer it with a smile on their face.

Even if you are not looking to purchase any plants, Mulhall’s creates the perfect ambiance for a sunny Saturday afternoon. If you are looking to get out of the house and into the beautiful outdoors, Mulhall’s is the perfect place to explore.

A mere 15 minutes from Millard, this shop puts a colorfully modernized twist on the classic plant nursery.

Featuring the famous green truck bed, filled with succulents and foliage, Mulhall’s is the perfect spot for impromptu photo shoots. Photographers can expect unique spots for photos, as well as, a staff that is welcoming to those who wish to make art with the help of their beautiful plants.

The shop is frequently creating new displays and getting new, exotic plants. This ensures unique findings and backdrops for all types of adventures.

If you’re an adventurer, a gardener, or simply someone who enjoys seeing the beauty of nature, Mulhall’s is definitely worth a visit.

Mulhall’s is the place to go for all your botanical needs. They offer an array of succulents and cacti, flowers, and plants for around the yard.

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Focus 4 • 26 • 2019

am reen art by Maddie Rynes

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Sports 4 • 26 • 2019

Patriot baseball led by strong junior class Alex Kopf Staff Reporter

After making a state title run the past couple years, the Patriots look to continue their success with a very talented team.

They started the season off with wins against power house teams such as Omaha Westside and Millard North. They showed off their offense beating Omaha Bryan 32-4.

In the past the Patriots have had more seniors whereas this year the team consists of a lot more juniors and underclassmen.

With only two seniors this year the Patriots are going to have to rely on juniors now more than ever. With talented juniors such as Drew Wessel, Noah Greise, and Tyson Gerdes, the State championship could be as close as ever to finally coming back to Millard south.

Led by seniors Aj Locum and Dylan Devries, the seniors are prepared to help the team particularly from the pitching mound. Locum having pitched in last year’s legion championship against Burke knows what it is going to take.

“Coming together off the field, we have guys from all 4 classes so it’s really important to develop close relationships,” said Locum on the importance of teamwork as the postseason begins to creep closer and closer. The team is strong despite the fact that they have athletes from all four classes.

Talented catcher Drew Wessel, who has played varsity since his sophomore sea-

Senior AJ Locum delivers a heater to catcher junior Drew Wessel. The game was played at Millard West. Photo by State Champion news/ feature photographer Josh Ferdico

son truly shows his love of baseball.

“When I’m on the field I can block out all distractions” said Wessel, “I can just be free and play the game I love”.

Wessel who played alongside Locum in the State Championship is among those

hungry for redemption,”My favorite memory playing for Millard South was last year in the state tournament.” Wessel expressed, “Although we came up short it made me appreciate and grow as not only a player but as a person.”

Patriots tennis serves up success on the court Allison Kirkebak Sports Editor

Few of the Patriot girls tennis athletes be very nerve racking,” Wostoupal said. “I played tennis competitively before their sometimes feel pressure before and during high school careers. Many of them, however, matches. However, the pressure motivates are multi-sport athletes, and playing tennis me and helps me become aggressive on the helps keep them in shape and improve is court.” multiple areas in all of their sports.

There is much more to come this season

“Tennis helps me with my other sports for the Patriots. Each season, the team by pushing me to become more mentally strives to get better and better, and this year tough,” junior Damaris Cuevas said. “It’s more will be no different. individualized than softball.”

“I’m excited to see the improvement we This year, the Millard South girls tennis make throughout the season,” Rodenberger team is made up of 39 members. There is 9 said. “Our girls are coachable and willing to on varsity, and 15 each on JV and reserve. change things to get better. ” The Patriots are off to a good start this season as varsity is 3-1 and JV is 4-1. The beginning of the season took a different turn this year.

“The beginning of the season was challenging due to the weather,” coach Jason Rodenberger said.

“We had to reserve indoor court time, which was at a premium since the other schools in Omaha were doing the same thing, as well as split time in the gym with the baseball and soccer teams. Practices were always at different times, so we constantly had to adjust and adapt.”

This season for the varsity team, junior Greta Wostoupal will be the Patriots’ top singles player, and seniors Madi Geary and Lauren Walenz will be the top doubles team.

These ladies face the top tennis players against other schools across the metro.

Senior Lauren Walenz gets ready to return the ball. The tennis “Being the top singles match was a doubles at Millard South. Photo by Cale Goodman player for varsity can

The Patriots have eight regular season games left with top ranked teams such as Creighton Prep and Millard North.

Track stars leap and sprint their way to gold

Freshman Maddie Mactaggart launches into the air at a Millard South track meet. She had jumped 17 feet and was fourth at the meet. Photo by Cale Goodman

Sophomore Mitchell Stever strides out during his leg of the 4 x 400 Relay at a Millard South Track meet. Photo by Cale Goodman

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Entertainment 4 • 26 • 2019

Disney needs new films instead of revamps Natalie Fedde Staff Reporter

graphic by Allison Kirkebak

Switch-ing back to co-op Cassady Alberico Staff Reporter

Senior Maddy Waterman a portable game console that does not own a Nintendo supports multiplayer without Switch, but still has hours of having multiple consoles. [The play time on the hybrid console. co-op] is really nice because “My best friend makes me play you will usually play with the very stressful cooking games on two joy-cons that are already on his Switch and I scream. I have the Switch, and, if you want to fun though; it’s a good time,” play with someone, you can just she said.

The NinMy best friend makes me play tendo Switch very stressful cooking games released in on his Switch, and I scream. I March 2017, followed by have fun though; it’s a good superstar time. games like the Legend of –Senior Maddy Waterman Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey. Both hand them a joy-con. You can titles received perfect 10s from just start playing right there.” across the video game world,

The idea of a multiplayer propelling the Switch’s record portable console is not a setting sales over the past two completely new idea. Previyears. As a Nintendo fan myself, ous consoles like the 3DS and these revolutionary games were GameBoy have supported my primary reason for owning local wireless (connecting to the console. But, after playing other nearby consoles) through through them and exploring games like Pokémon and Zelda: the Switch’s library further, I Four Swords. However, never now adore my Switch for a difbefore has a single portable ferent reason: the co-op. console allowed multiple play Senior Nathan Madvig, a ers to enjoy gaming on the go. self-admitted Nintendo fan, This idea of joy-cons, having feels similarly. “The Switch is multiple controllers attached to

“

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a single console, is the Switch’s biggest success.

When the joy-cons are attached to the Switch, the console feels like a more traditional handheld console, similar to the PlaySstation Portable (PSP) or Nintendo’s own 3DS. This makes ‘serious’ games like Breath of the Wild possible to play on the go, but the multifaceted joy-cons also allow for simple pick-up-and-play games such as Mario Kart. While some complain about the uncomfortable size of the joy-cons, their many uses only allow for a compacted design.

When playing on a TV, there are several other controller options, such as the more traditional Pro Controller, third party options or even GameCube controllers.

Two player games are certainly not a new idea, but they have waned in popularity.

After the release of the PS3 and Xbox 360 in the mid 2000s, co-op games faded away as online multiplayer became the new norm. I have dozens

Imagine your favorite childhood movies. Perhaps you thought of classics like Dumbo and The Lion King. Maybe you thought of more modern hits like Frozen. Whichever is your favorite, one thing is for sure: everyone loves Disney movies. Movies like The Incredibles and Toy Story are enjoyed by kids and adults alike all across the world, so it was no surprise how excited people were when Disney began announcing sequels and live action remakes for some of the most iconic Disney films. In the past few years, Disney has been popping out remake after remake, sequel after sequel of movies like Cinderella, The Jungle Book, and Finding Nemo. While I am always just as thrilled as anyone to see an announcement for a new remake or sequel, it has gotten to the point where I question “How many is too many?”

In 2019, Disney is coming out with four live action remakes of old animated movies and five sequels. These nine movies far outway the six new pictures coming from Disney this year, only one of which I have heard of. The most hyped of these “new” movies are Dumbo, The Lion King, Toy Story 4, and Frozen 2.

Dumbo already came out at the end of March this year. I went to see the day it hit the theaters, and while it was good, it failed to capture the magic of the original 1941 film. I am also worried about this being the outcome with the rest of these “new” movies. How can you call a computer generated version of The Lion King live action? CGI is just fancy animation if you ask me. As for Toy Story, I believe the trilogy ended well and in a way that left the audience satisfied. All three Toy Story movies are fantastic.

Disney needs to quit while they’re ahead.

Don’t get me wrong. I love Disney as much as the next person, most likely more. I can name all twenty pixar movies at the drop of the hat. I think that qualifies me to say that Disney is just being lazy. They are remaking old movies as a way to make a lot of money without thinking too much because it’s the easiest thing for them to do. I don’t want easy. I am okay with the occasional remake or sequel, but I can’t be the only one who misses the magic of a new Disney movie. In my opinion, Disney is heading fast down a road to losing that magic and becoming just another corrupt corporation, looking for money anywhere they can find it.

of memories from my childhood, playing Twisted Metal and Super Mario Bros with friends. But once my family bought a PS3, the number of co-op experiences began to dwindle. Unless I was playing Call of Duty online with friends, I was playing story-based games by myself.

While single player games contain their own unique magic, the triumphant comeback of co-op was much needed.

The Switch encourages gaming by non-gamers, by friends

and family of those who own a console. While my mom would never buy her own console, we have a ton of fun playing Overcooked, a chaotic cooking game, together. Not only is the Switch giving serious gamers a beloved portable, its multiplayer design is expanding video game audiences as a whole. The memories made through coop games extend beyond the screen they are played on, they are legitimate bondings with the people we love. Is anything more sacred?

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Entertainment 4 • 26 • 2019

Midtown Alamo instills movie nostalgia Sadie Brower Entertainment Editor

As the movie industry keeps getting bigger and better, growing right along with it are the theaters they are played in, becoming more luxurious and exciting than ever before. Going to see the latest blockbuster is one of the most common activities for people of any age. Although this American tradition has never changed, the theaters we go to on the weekends sure have!

Movie theaters have gone from black and white, drive-ins, to now reclining chairs and dinner served to your seat. While I can appreciate both of these moviewatching eras, I think I speak for everyone when I say I am loving the luxuries of the upgraded theaters! In Omaha, a prime example of the theater that changed the game is Alamo Drafthouse Cinema.

Alamo’s first location opened in November of 2015

surprising everyone with the luxurious recliners, retro movie theater decor, great service and delicious food.

When the announcement of Alamo’s new theater in Midtown got around to the public, it became a must for all the movie fanatics in Omaha.

In all honesty, before I walked into the theater previously owned by Marcus Theaters, I expected to see no change from how the theater looked before Alamo took it over, or differences from the Alamo theater currently in La Vista. I was pleasantly surprised by the unique design of the theater and the new level of luxury compared to most theaters in Nebraska. Obviously, the theater resembled all other Alamo Cinema locations, but the vintage movie posters and artwork on all three levels of the theater excited me just as much as seeing a movie for the first time.

The Alamo is not only famous for the classic movie theater decor or the Star Wars characters that walk around to take pictures on opening day of a movie. Al-

Who will meet their end in Avengers: Endgame?

Halle Benson Asst. Entertainment Editor

The wait is over. Avengers: Endgame comes out today in theaters all across America and fans are eager to find out what happens to their favorite superheroes.

Last year, Avengers: Infinity War nearly killed the entire fanbase (well, half of the fanbase) with deaths of beloved characters such as (spoilers) Spider-Man, Groot, and Black Panther. Now that we are in endgame (literally) we can expect more characters to die in this movie.

Don’t deny it.

I spent two days walking around Millard South asking students who they think will die in Avengers: Endgame out of the six main Avengers. In the poll (below), people thought that Captain America is most likely to die in the movie.

Now, I am not saying that he is going to die, you will have to find that out for yourself.

Avengers: Endgame will have all of your favorite original superheroes and new heroes like Thor, Hawkeye, Okoye, and Captain Marvel. Together, they will take down Thanos and bring all of their friends back from the dusted.

Just remember, #ThanosDemandsYourSilence and #DontSpoilTheEndgame.

Graphic by Halle Benson

Happy is a one year old Norwegian forest cat. She loves snacking on waffles, and is very sweet and talkative.

This 4 year old beagle is rockin' the shades. She loves brussel sprouts and snorts when she's nervous

This 10-week old Chihuahuha dachsund mix loves play fight and tumble all around. She's pictured with her favorite leopard toy.

This furry friend likes to run in her hamster ball and is currently trying to learn basketball. As you can see, she's getting pretty good.

Want to feature your pet in our next issue? DM @MSHSCommonSense on Twitter or contact a member of our staff!

amo is also known for its quality food service. Anytime during your showing, you can fill out an order card and the ninja-like servers will bring your food right to your seat for you to enjoy without any distractions. Aside from the unbeatable service, the theater serves food better than any movie theater I’ve been to or any sitdown restaurants. Some of the crowd favorites are the individual pizzas, bottomless popcorn, and deluxe milk shakes that will satisfy every taste bud.

Overall, I really enjoyed my visit at Alamo Cinema and it will definitely be my first choice in the future.

However, the biggest problem with the theater is the age policy, only allowing students over the age of 18 in the theater unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. With that being said, I have enjoyed multiple movies with my family at the Alamo and would suggest it to anyone else, because of the friendly and unique experience the theater offers to all of its customers.

Pet Sematary digs up mixed emotions Carson O’Connor

Assistant News Editor

Sometimes, dead is better. That certainly rings true in Ludlow, Maine, the site of Stephen King’s 1983 novel Pet Sematary. The story has now been resurrected in a film adaptation thirtyfive years later. The classic and chilling tale is undergoing its second cinematic interpretation. A modern remake of the movie made sense, considering the underwhelming 1989 movie version plagued by mediocre acting and poor production value. The 2019 iteration was more polished, but still failed at times to capture the depth of the novel and the attention of the audience.

In Pet Sematary, Dr. Louis Creed and his wife Rachel relocate from Boston to an idyllic country home with their two young children.

The very first scene suggests the tragic ending that is to come: the Creed family home is seemingly empty but surrounded by carnage and bloody footprints. Aside from this jolting introduction, the movie progresses slowly.

Soon after the family settles in to their new home, they witness a creepy funeral procession for a dog led by masked children. Their friendly old neighbor Jud Crandall introduces them to the Pet Cemetery (misspelled on the sign) where neighborhood children have long buried their fallen pets. The cemetery prompts Louis to confront the concept of death with his daughter Ellie.

As the family struggles to adapt to life in rural Maine, tragedy strikes. At Louis’s new office at the local college, a student name Victor Pascow is rushed in on the brink of death after suffer-

ing mortal injuries in a car crash. Louis struggles with disturbing flashbacks to images of the dead man in his nightmares as well as in daily life. Back at home, the family cat, beloved by Ellie Creed, is hit by a truck. Jud helps Louis to bury the cat, but instead of stopping at Pet Sematary right off their property, Jud leads Louis beyond to an ancient Indian burial ground with supernatural power. Things only get worse for the Creed family from there.

Although the early parts of the movie contain little action and lots of exposition, the movie struggles to develop characters that have an emotional connection to the audience. We see and hear only a few things about the pre-Maine life of Louis and Rachel Creed, so it is hard to get invested into their characters.

Ellie and her younger brother Gage are likeable and give good performances for their age, but Jud Crandall on the other hand is not as compelling of a character as he in the books, in which he shared beers with Louis on a nearnightly basis.

The movie made liberal deviations from the original story, but the changes mostly helped to make the movie more adaptable instead of taking a lot away from the narrative.

Because it is such a well known story, the filmmakers threw in several twists in the execution to try and catch the audience off-guard.

The ending underwent the most jarring changes, but I think it helped add to the entertainment value of the movie. It was only in the last twenty minutes of the movie that featured chilling and, at times, terrifying scenes.

Overall, I found this newest version disappointing because it was too slow and failed to develop engaging characters.

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Entertainment 4 • 26 • 2019

Hamilton left me singing ‘you’ll be back’ Isabel Robb Photo Chief

As the lights went down on the Hamilton stage and the first piano riff of the show sounded through the audience, my heart thudded along with the music that has become a part of me.

I had the privilege of getting tickets to this musical, which is one of the most exclusive shows on Broadway.

Hamilton won 11 Tony awards in 2016, in addition to being one of the most beloved new musicals of the decade.

Since its Broadway debut, there have been five new companies added - two sitting shows in Chicago and London, and three national tours.

My coveted tickets took me to Chicago. The show resided in the CIBC Theater, a beautiful building adorned

with the iconic Hamilton star logo.

Before I even got inside, I was overwhelmed by the sudden reality that had only been a dream since I had started listening to the original cast recording nearly a year and a half before.

I was getting to see Hamilton.

I can’t describe with words what I thought of the show. It was amazing, breathtaking, tear-jerking, exhilarating, and so much more. The feeling of walking to my seat and seeing the stage for the first time filled me with simultaneous anticipation for the show and satisfaction at finally getting to where I was. The same feeling only became stronger when the opening number began.

This is the thrill that watching live theater gives me. I had experienced

it once before when I went to The Phantom of the Opera in December, which left me eager to go see another musical. I love this art form as much as others love their favorite movies or sports teams.

If you haven’t yet gone to a show like Hamilton, I would consider it a must-do for everyone, whether Broadway showtunes are your idea of good music or not. It’s different than any movie will ever be, as it is performed live compared to being filmed over and over to get it just right. The actors onstage react to the audience as much as they react to each other. It really is a wonder that should be experienced by anyone who is lucky enough to get a seat in the room where it happens.

Shazam! The Warner Brothers are back Jack Towne Staff Reporter

When Warner Brothers began their film franchise based around their catalogue of DC comic book heroes and villains, they got off to a rough start.

With a growing list of critical failures and box office disappointments, until very recently many were skeptical of the Justice League ever really soaring on the big screen.

To the delight of audience-goers everywhere, however, Shazam! changes all of that. For the first time in a long time, I had an absolute blast at a DC movie. It was action-packed, surprisingly

funny, and had a lot of heart. The film stars Zachary Levi as the titular Shazam, a young boy named Billy Batson who can transform into a powerful, grown up superhero. This is the best performance in the “child magically transforms into adult body” genre since Tom Hanks in Big. (If you haven’t seen Big, do yourself a favor and change that) He is paired on screen with Jack Dylan Grazer, famous for playing Eddie in the 2017 remake of Stephen King’s It. Grazer plays Billy’s foster brother, and the chemistry between the two of them supplies most of the laughs and much of the heart in this movie.

Mark Strong plays a forgettable villain who for some reason has CGI de-

mons that come out of his eyeball. There really isn’t much more to say about this character. The rest of the movie is such a blast that I feel okay moving past this.

The overall design of the movie is colorful and fun. The action scenes feel straight out of a comic book. The backdrop of Philadelphia just meshes so perfectly with this character and the comic book aesthetic. David F. Sandberg, known for directing horror movies, shows his range as a director with a style that shines through and complements everything happening to the characters on screen. Everything in this movie just works.

The thing that really makes this

movie great, that sets it above the average superhero flick, is the strong message about family throughout. Billy’s foster family will win over even the most cold-hearted viewer by the end of this.

One particularly impactful scene might leave some in tears. The themes of family and loss and reconciliation will resonate with a lot of audience goers and gives a lot of depth to the movie.

Shazam is a blast that people of all ages will find a lot to enjoy in, and it’s perfect for anyone who wants a fun movie night.

art by Tori Barkus

The end of the school year is hard. Common Sense suggests you color and play fun games.

art by Elena Garcia Tapia

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Why do people study gravity? It’s a pretty attractive field.

Dots and boxes

Children who fail their coloring exams always need a shoulder to crayon.

puzzle by Maggie Reimers