C ommon Sense Millard South High School • 14905 Q St. • Omaha, Neb., 68137
South strides through first 2 rounds at State
May 17, 2019
Volume 19 Issue 7
JROTC honors flag in solemn ceremony
Sadie Brower Entertainment Editor
Tyson Gerdes (#5) congratulates #24 TJ Urban for making it home to help defeat Elkhorn South 7 to 1 at the state tournament Tuesday. Photo by Josh Ferdico
Millard South Varsity Baseball is fighting their way through State for the 11th consecutive year in a row. The Patriots took game two against Elkhorn South Tuesday. With leading hitters, Tre Mungin and Matt Guthmiller, Millard South pulled off another beautiful 7-1 win, highlighting 6 great innings pitched by Jerrett Novak and the 1 by senior AJ Locum to finish off the game. In the first round of the tournament Sunday, South played Grand Island in a close game, scoring in the final inning for a 2-1 win. The Patriots face Millard West Wednesday at 7 p.m. at Haymarket Park.
Services commander cadet Kathryn Riley cuts a stripe from the flag that is being retired in an annual ceremony performed by JROTC. Flags that are faded or shredding should be properly retired. (inset) The flag pieces are then burned to properly dispose of it. Photo by Josh Ferdico
Every celebration needs a little Wine Garrett Carbullido Staff Reporter
I wouldn’t even be on stage at state, but I decided to tune those people out and focus only on the people who wanted to help me,” he said. On April 30th, the annual DECA Inter After the first competition, Wine talked national Career Development Conference with the chapter advisors and decided to came to a bittersweet end. For most of switch into the retail merchandising category Millard South’s competitors it was their where his background working at Scheels last DECA competition of their high school would help him relate better to role plays and careers, but for others it marked a new come up with ideas. beginning and became a huge confidence “Going into ICDC I put in a lot of hard booster. The biggest of which came to Juwork just mentally preparing for the environnior Jake Wine, Millard South’s lone comment,” Wine said. “I had to use everything I petitor to make it on stage where he won learned from my previous competitions in a medal for his outstanding performance order to relax and perform my best.” in his first role play for retail merchandis Heading into next year, Wine, along ing. with all the other soon to be seniors in “My heart dropped,” Wine said. “I advanced marketing, will have to shift focus wasn’t expecting to go up there, so when from role plays to a year long project that I heard my name, I got a little takes a lot more preparation and emotional. I wasn’t even thinkmemorization. Even with this draI was just so happy to be ing about making finals, I was matic shift in presenting style, Wine standing on stage in front of just so happy to be standing says he isn’t rattled in the slightest. on stage in front of 22,000 22,000 skilled competitors “For anyone who’s thinking skilled competitors from all about joining DECA, all you need is from all over the world over the world,” he said. confidence. No one will listen to you While Wine isn’t new to if you don’t believe in what you’re being on stage, he got first –Junior Jake Wine saying. Just go in with a positive place in the same category at mindset and relax, there’s no need state, it hasn’t always been the to put unnecessary pressure on easiest road for him. yourself. Most importantly though, just be open to new “I remember how at my first competition I didn’t experiences, talk to people, and have fun,” he said. even place. People told me that I couldn’t do it and that
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Blazing speed and a winning attitude make a champion Jack Towne Staff Reporter
Junior Isaiah Harris won the 100 meter dash at the 2019 Metro Conference Invite with a blazing time of 10.895 seconds, a personal record. “To be honest, it felt like a normal race,” Harris said. “ I didn’t really start feeling like a metro Junior Isaiah Harris champion until I started Photo by seeing it on the news.” Cole Herbolsheimer Harris seemed to take winning the race against some of the fastest runners in Omaha in such a dominant fashion in stride. “I was coming off of an injury, so I was just excited to run again,” Harris said. An interesting note that makes this all the more impressive is that this is Millard South’s first Metro champion in the 100 meter dash in school history. He followed this feat up with a State-qualifying performance at the Districts competition. Harris hopes to use this performance as a springboard as he and the rest of the track team prepare for the State Track competition later this month
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Seniors
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Senior . Photo by Alex Engleman
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Softball complex renovations and upgrades. Photo by Alex Engleman
Pages 4-7
Common Sense assembles to create last issue of the year. Photo illustration by Kristin Kaipust
Pages 8-12
Common Sense staffers advise and entertain with parting thoughts. See what’s next for our 24 seniors.
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Common Sense challenges JROTC to end of year kickball game Alex Kopf Staff Reporter
bang in their final semester of high school. Junior JROTC member Mikayla Brandl is looking forward to the event. “I have played kickball in every gym class I have ever taken,” said the two-year JROTC member. “I think if the two flights can work together, we will do well.” The JROTC group for B1 is composed of two flights containing a total of 34 members. Meanwhile the newspaper can’t wait for the game. “It’s gonna be a fun way to spend our last few days at South,” said senior writer Jack Towne. “I don’t think the JROTC will know what hit them.”
The matchup you didn’t know you needed is here. On April 26, Common Sense, the school newspaper, challenged the JROTC program to a game of kickball on May 20. This will be the first matchup between the two groups. The period B1 JROTC class is composed of mostly freshmen through juniors with few seniors. The Monsters of the Media, AKA the newspaper, are senior heavy, with 13 of the B1 class period graduating this year. Assuming the weather holds up, this could be the seniors last chance to go out with a
Softball field renovation is out of the park
“There are two buildings, one is restrooms and concessions and the other is press box and storage,” Head softball coach Steve Kerkman said about the construction. Kerkman said he is excited for the improvement to the softball field as well as the players are excited as well. Photo by Alex Engleman
Both the concessions/restrooms, and press box/ storage buildings are beginning to come together. “I am very excited to have a press box, concession stand, and bathroooms for the softball field. It will be so convenient to have bathrooms and food up at the fields next year,” Junior Varisty player, Roni Foote, said. Photo by Garrett Carbullido
Cadet prepares for navy career Hailey Bos Staff Reporter Joseppe Suarez will be leaving everything he knows behind on July 11. Following family tradition, Suarez plans to join the military after graduation. He is following the footsteps of his father and grandfather who were in the air force and navy. “I wanted to go into the Navy to travel,” explained Suarez. On July 11 Suarez will be taken to the Great Lakes boot camp in Illinois for eight weeks to complete basic training. “I am prepared to learn the values of the navy and to be broken down to be built back up,” Suarez said. If he fails, he will be sent home and cannot join any other branch in the military. If he succeeds, he will have a five year commitment to the military. Suarez will be making $22,000-$25,000 a year after basic training. He then will get to travel to Pensacola, Florida, for six months for AIT, also known as tech school,
for job training in aviation ordnance. Suarez plans on making a career out of it. If he is first in his class he will be able to pick his first shipment. To prepare, Suarez is now training with the navy every Tuesday in Council Bluffs. Suarez says that JROTC has helped teach him proper morals, how to march and dress, and guided him to understand what military life is like. He is also thankful for JROTC because depending on what branch you go into, every year that you spend in JROTC sends you up one rank in the military. Before Cadet Suarez can officially be a seaman, he has to be a trained firefighter, in case anything bad happened on the ship. “I am beyond excited for July 11 and I can’t wait to start my journey serving the country.”
Staff say final farewell to MSHS Jacob Haas Staff Reporter Jan Grazziano, Nancy Annin, and CR Goodin, along with Stephanie Beisch, Jean Determan and Terry Langer, will call 2018-2019 their last year of service in education as they head for retirement.
Stephanie Beisch Q:How many years have you been here? A: 19 years. Q: Where did you receive your education? A: UNO mostly and did a little bit at Peru. Q: What are some of your favorite books? A: I Heard the Owl call my Name, The Shepherd of the Hills, The Five Love Languages, and Q is for Duck is one of my favorite children’s books. Q: What kind of future do you think the library might have? A: I think it will grow in the makerspace area, and I think it will grow in technology such as E-Books. While we love to have books in our hands, books online are so crisp and clear that they draw you in. Q: What are you going to miss most? A: The students and staff.
Joseppe Suarez stands attentively as he waits for the next instruction. Photo by Alex Engleman
Jean Determan
Terry Langer
Q: How many years have you been here? A: 27 years.
Q: How many years have you been here? A: 22 years
Q: Where did you receive your education? A: Creighton University and have a degree in mathematics.
Q: Where did you receive your education? A: Marian High School
Q: What courses have you taught? A: I’ve taught everything from algebra all the way to pre calc and even taught a little bit of statistics.
Q: Can you tell me about a time when you knew you made an impact? A: You kinda feel like you always make an impact on the students. It always feels good when a past student comes to see you.
Q: What course(s) do you enjoy teaching the most? A: Pre calculus and I guess I could say foundations 4. Q: What are you going to miss most? A: I will miss the connections with students and staff. I will also miss knowing that I have made a difference in some people’s lives.
Q: What advice do you have for our graduating seniors. A: Reach for the stars. Q: What are you going to miss most? A: The connection with the staff. Q: What are you planning to do in retirement? A: Enjoy life.
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How to have fun in Omaha this summer Sadie Brower Entertainment Editor For the 10 months that us students are locked into a classroom for seven hours a day, I know I am not alone when I say that all I do is think about how excited I am for summer to start. Now don’t get me wrong, summer is my favorite time of the year, but in reality I spend most of my summer that I’m not working, complaining that I am bored. Well this year, I decided to get a head start on this common problem and do some research to discover the most exciting things to do in Omaha that will keep you off the couch, and won’t break the bank. 1. Of course, first go for a swim. (Best water parks, pools, and lakes around Omaha) With summer being so short, if you’re anything like me, you might spend 90 percent of it at the pool. Although the pool is one of the best parts of summer, regular pools can get a little boring and even expensive. So after my four years of high school, I have found that my two favorite places to swim are Zorinsky Pool, Papio Bay, and Mahoney State Park. Now some people might say these water parks are too expensive making it not worth it but, if you are balancing out your visits wisely these pools aren’t much over the price of any other pool
(and you can even save a ton on a season pass). That being said, if you’re not a fan of the water slides and wave pools, you can visit many lakes around the area at a low price including Louisville State Recreation, Fremont Lakes, or Two Rivers because who doesn’t love a day at the lake. 2. Keep your body movin’ and take a hike! Everyone loves having a blast while also getting a workout in, and the best way to do that is to go on a hike! Obviously hiking doesn’t get too treacherous in Nebraska but, it makes for the perfect activity to do with a group of friends and bring along a picnic or of course your dog. Some parks in Omaha with the best trails are Schramm Park, Hitchcock Nature center or anywhere in Mahoney state park! Every one of these parks offer trails scenic views, exciting plants or animals and full day of adventure just in our backyard. 3. Obviously… go to the #1 Zoo in the world! The Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo is most likely the one place on this list that you have been to a thousand times and if you haven’t it should be on the top of your summer to-do list. Even though the zoo may be a common trip to you, it is still one of the greatest summer activities
that guarantees a solid day. The reason the Omaha Zoo is the place to be is not just because of the uncomparable number of animals you can find, but also the continuously growing attractions. At least one time a year Henry Doorly Zoo is bound to host a grand opening of a new and exciting exhibit, which makes going each year even better. 4. See a movie inside, or maybe even outside. When the heat starts to get to you, going to a movie is the perfect remedy. Now, movie tickets most definitely end up burning a hole in your pocket if you’re not careful, but many theaters offer awesome summer deals to help you save. Both AMC and Marcus Theaters offer a $5 tuesdays deal and AMC also offers discounted tickets before noon if you are ever feeling a early morning movie! If you want to spice up your movie watching, outdoor or drive in theaters have become very popular in Omaha and the number one spot to watch tons of classic movies is Falconwood Park. 5. Grab a insta worthy bite to eat. Omaha is getting trendier by the minute and if you like taking a trip downtown, you can find the best coffee, ice cream, tea or even breakfast in Omaha.
One of the most popular spots to visit in midtown is Thirst Tea which is guaranteed to satisfy but if that doesn’t hit the spot, just down the street is BOB’s doughnuts, archetype coffee, early bird cafe, Noli’s pizza, and Coneflower creamery. These places may be far but they are without a doubt my favorite places to grab some food and relax. 6. College World Series. Along with the zoo, the College World Series is a large part of what Omaha is famous for. Although most of us probably grew up going to games, it is still one of the most exciting couple of weeks in summer time for baseball fans. Tickets can be expensive of course but many people can grab some general admission tickets at a much lower price and still enjoy the excitement of T.D. Ameritrade park. Another way to enjoy the vibes of the College World Series for free is by walking around baseball village where fans visit to hang out, shop for team apparel, and grab some food! 7. Grab some fresh food at the local farmers market. Taking a trip down to the old market is the perfect night out in the summer, but the old market also hosts the Omaha Farmers Market every Saturday
from May to October! You can find find many vendor booths filled with delicious food not only in the old market but also in Aksarben Village on Sundays from May to October. Finally, the Omaha Farmers Market offers another event called the night market on the last Friday of every month from May to October, where there are food vendors, games and music! 8. Take a last minute road trip. Last but not least, sometimes it’s fun to just get out of the house for a while, but the problem is vacations normally come with a large budget. I have found that all you REALLY need to make a road trip fun is a good group of friends, or family that you will have fun with not the cool hotels, beaches, or resorts. An easy way to have a ton of fun is to gather some friends and take a short trip to somewhere close like, Lincoln, Kansas City or even just downtown Omaha. Then all you need to do is bring some games and get a decently priced, but safe hotel and you will have the night of your life. Another fun way to do this is by taking a trip to a nearby campground with some friends and spend a couple days swimming, playing games and enjoying your summer while it lasts!
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Infinity War has not come to an end Natalie Fedde Staff Reporter
Infinity means ongoing, but, somehow, Avengers: Endgame has managed to bring an end to the fight that started just over a year ago when Avengers: Infinity War came out. Being the second highest grossing movie of all time as of May 7, everyone is talking about Avengers: Endgame and how great it is. Many people are even claiming that it is the best movie of all time. While Avengers: Endgame is a great movie, it may be getting a little more credit than it deserves. When really looking into the qualities of Avengers: Endgame alongside its predecessor Avengers: Infinity War, one might come to the conclusion that Infinity War is a better quality movie. What aspects make a movie a good movie from a critical standpoint? To truly figure out which movie is better, technically speaking, requires thinking like a movie critic. Features including but not limited to character and plot development have a huge effect on this. Throughout Infinity War, characters like Scarlet Witch and Doctor Strange had huge growth curves. At the beginning of infinity war, Scarlet Witch wanted to stop fighting and pursue a calm life with Vision whom she had fallen in love with. By the end of the movie, she accepted that Vision’s death could save billions of people. She listened to what Vision wanted, allowed him to be destroyed, and fought valiantly to save everyone, even though it was in vain. Doctor Strange started the movie under the impression he would not give up the time stone at any cost, but as he got to know Tony and Peter, he realized that maybe the only way to protect the stone was to give it away. This relinquishing of power was a huge arc for Doctor Strange, who had a huge reputation of arrogance. In Avengers: Endgame, there is a clear split between characters who developed after the outcome of Infinity War and those who spent five years stuck in the past. Bruce Banner, also known as The Hulk, is one character that grew. After Infinity War, Bruce decided to stop treating The Hulk like a disease that needed to be cured and learned to accept The Hulk as part of himself. Through this, he figured out a way to merge his brains and personality with the body of The Hulk, making Bruce Banner and The Hulk one identity rather than two sides of the same person. Another character who saw tremendous development in Avengers: Endgame was Thor. Thor did lose himself for a period after Infinity War like many of the other character. However, by the end of Endgame, Thor figured out what he truly wanted out of life which was adventure. Thor didn’t want the life of King he was destined to have. He wanted to travel and fight to help people. When he handed over his crown to Valkyrie at the end of Endgame, it showed how Thor had finally learned to accept who he is. Looking at character development, I would say Endgame probably succeeded more than Infinity War. In Infinity War, many characters were just fighting to save the world as always but didn’t change personally along the way. However, every single character in Avengers: Endgame has complex personal identity struggles going on. Each character had to learn how to live after the outcome of Infinity War, allowing more room for individual character development all throughout Endgame. While Endgame had better character development than Infinity War, there were some technical elements that it fell short in, the main being that Endgame was far too predictable. Before people even entered the movie, they knew Iron Man and Captain America would not come out on the other end. Even more, anyone with two brain cells can think for a few minutes and come to the conclusion that Tony Stark would sacrifice himself to save everyone else, the Avengers winning but Tony dead. Not only are there elements of Endgame that can be guessed beforehand, but the movie gives itself away. The second the audience found out that Clint and Natasha are going to Vormir, everyone knew that Natasha would end up dead. Of course the writers intended for the audience to figure out that one of the two would have to die to get the soul stone because this was how it worked in Infinity War. However, the audience didn’t just figure out that one
would die. It was obvious that Natasha had to be the one to sacrifice herself because, unlike Clint, she had no family or life outside of the Avengers. Crucial plot elements like this being given away took from the suspense of the movie. On the other hand, Infinity War was very unpredictable. For one, no one could have imagined that the Avengers would have to fight split up, most of them in Wakanda, but a few crucial Avengers lightyears away. However, the part of Infinity War that truly kept the audience engaged is that no one thought the Avengers wouldn’t win. Every time the Avengers got close to beating Thanos up until the second he snapped his fingers, the audience still believed that the Avengers would pull through. Throughout the movie, there were multiple times when it seemed like Tony, Peter, and the Guardians would defeat Thanos or at least slow him down. When the heroes were taking the gauntlet off of Thanos, it truly seemed like they would succeed, but Peter Quill had to let his temper get the best of him, ruining the plan. This was okay, though, because there was plenty of time left in the movie for the Avengers to save the day. What the audience initially thought to be the true turning point of Infinity War was when the Avengers destroyed Vision and therefore the soul stone. At that point, the entire audience was sure the Avengers had one. However, as everyone found out five seconds later, they were all wrong. Because Thanos possessed the time stone, he had the power to alter time and go back and get the soul stone, securing all six infinity stones. While this seems like the point the audience would get the picture that Thanos’s plans were inevitable, people still held out hope, and for good reason. Before Thanos could snap his fingers, wiping out half of the population, Thor thrust an axe into Thanos’s chest. Unfortunately, this didn’t kill Thanos, and he succeeded. Up until the very last second before failure, no fan predicted that the Avengers were going to lose. This added a layer of surprise that kept the audience engaged and made the movie more interesting which is something Endgame just didn’t have. From all the points laid out here, Infinity War is the better movie, despite what fans have to say. Despite this, Endgame may be more enjoyable than Infinity War for longtime fans who enjoyed the references to past movies and all their favorite characters coming together. While Avengers: Infinity War is probably the better movie from a technical standpoint, there is no shame in saying you enjoy Avengers: Endgame more; To each his own. Whatever your opinion, we can all agree that in the realm of entertainment, Earth’s mightiest heroes will never let us down.
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REPORTERS, ASSEMBLE! photo illustrations by Kristin Kaipust
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 Imac computers, Adobe InDesign, Adobe Photoshop, and Google word processing 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.
Editors-in-Chief Kristin Kaipust Maddie Rynes Photo Chiefs Isabel Robb Maggie Huson News Editor Isabel Kimminau Asst. News Editor Carson O’Connor Sports Editors Allison Kirkebak Carina Covington Asst. Sports Editor Jacob Haas Opinions Editor Lindsey Assman Asst. Opinions Editor Deniece Radford Entertainment Editor Sadie Brower Asst. Entertainment Editor Halle Benson Buisness Managers Maggie Reimers Nicki Kreutzian Online Editor RuthAnne Hale Asst. Online Editor Elena Garcia Tapia Social Media Editors Makenzie Morford MacKenzie Wolken Cartoonist Tori Barkus Chief Copy Editor Myranda Carbullido Staff Secretary Hailey Bos Staff Reporters Cassady Alberico Alexis Gamble Cale Goodman Alex Kopf Natalie Schamp Jack Towne Garrett Carbullido Natalie Fedde Cameron Merritt Josh Ferdico Alex Engleman Adviser Christine Kaldahl art by Tori Barkus
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Which
1. Iron Man
2. The Incredible Hulk
better buckle up buttercups: Movie Should I Watch First? You You've got 47 hours and 42 minutes of movies to w
5. Captain America: The First Avenger
3. Iron Man 2
4. Thor
6. The Avengers
7. Iron Man 3
9. Captain America: The Winter Solider
8. Thor: The Dark World
10. Guardians of the Galaxy
11. Avengers: Age of Ultron
12. Ant-Ma
Does Endgame Deserve Top 10? You can’t be
Halle Benson Asst. Entertainment Editor Let’s be honest here: Endgame was a really good movie. It has really good ratings all over the internet, it is the top grossing movie of all time, and the movie is pleasing marvel fans all over the world. Here’s the thing, does Avengers: Endgame deserve to be a top rated movie of all time? No. Don’t get me wrong, I loved watching the movie on opening day. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and most importantly, it made me excited for the future of marvel movies. The storyline is good, the acting is good, but the movie isn’t as strong as Infinity War. Infinity War made a huge impact on marvel fans. It brought unfamiliar heros together on Earth and in outer space and we watched the Avengers lose a battle against Thanos. The outcome of our favorite superheroes was terrible, but it was so
good to watch them all fight for their lives. Neither of these movies should be top rated of all time, they aren’t as good as some of the ones that are up there like The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King and Star Wars: Episode V. Other movies on the list are The Godfather and The Dark Knight. In the last couple of days, though, Endgame has gone down on the top rated list of all time. It started at number 5 at the end of April and ended at number 15 (as of 5/14/19) this last week. The movie has officially made over 2 billion dollars in just 2 weeks of being out, passing Titanic and on its way to pass Avatar in the worldwide box office. But, we can confirm that Endgame is the top grossing movie of all time. For updates on these results, look on IMDB for top rated movies and Google search Avengers: Endgame box office sales.
This movie may have actually been the Endgame for me
Cassidy Alberico Staff Reporter
Ten minutes after the final shots of Avengers: Endgame, I was lying on the floor of my movie theatre unable to move, medical help from a 911 call on their way. Saying that Endgame nearly killed me is no joke: the movie was that significant. Before you worry: I’m fine. I had a minor case of carpopedal spasms due to acute hypocarbia - in layman’s terms, I hyperventilated. A popcorn bag to breathe into and 30 minutes of rest was all I needed to recover - recover from the emotionally straining three hours that was Endgame. After the Snap at the end of Infinity War, half of our favorite on-screen characters were wiped from existence, leaving the original six Avengers and a handful of others to handle the aftermath. Endgame begins shortly after where Infinity War left off, but this prologue only lasts about 15 minutes before the film shows the horrifying reality of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, or MCU: five years has passed since Thanos’s massacre. Endgame explores two significant themes throughout the film. The primary theme is that of grief, coping with the loss of your loved ones. This is heavy subject matter, but the genuinity shown by the actors is heartbreaking. In the first act, there is a scene between Captain America and Black Widow in which they discuss the difficulty in ‘moving on’. It wasn’t until my second viewing of Endgame that I realized this dilemma’s significance. All of these superheroes are also real people with the same fragile emotions that the rest of us have. This turns a film all about space exploration and superhumans into a fear-evoking drama, connecting with anyone who has ever felt the infinite weight of loss. Alas, ‘infinity’ is the key to this story’s second theme: redemption. If the Avengers can travel back in time and recover the
six Infinity Stones, they can un-Snap everyone back to life. Iron Man’s Tony Stark discovers the secret to time travel early in the plot, but he struggles with his next action. Stark lost very few people in the Snap, in fact, he gained a daughter. The slim possibility to bring everyone else back weighs heavy on him. When he eventually decides the risk is worth it, his priorities still lie elsewhere. Talking to Captain America, Stark says “I gotta tell you my priorities… bring back what we lost, I hope, yes. Keep what I found, I have to, at all cost.” Throughout their time traveling escapes, Stark stumbles into a few situations that make him question his morals, including a talk with his much younger father. Since the very first MCU movie in 2008, Tony Stark has been a smart, indifferent and self-focused hero. His eleven year character arc comes to a close in Endgame, with Stark making the ultimate sacrifice: his own life for the rest of the world. Iron Man’s sacrifice is the emotional high of Endgame. But this three hour epic is much more than an Iron Man movie. It blends the all-star cast of Infinity War, time traveling adventures reminiscent of Back to the Future, comedic relief of solo films like Thor: Ragnarok, and more. Most impressive to me was how Endgame sets up the next phase of MCU movies. Both Steve Rogers and Tony Stark are now out of the spotlight, and Thor is now a part of the newly nicknamed Asgardians of the Galaxy. This leaves room for new heroes to step up. Sam Wilson will be donning Captain America’s shield, but who will claim the title of Iron Man? Perhaps Stark’s wife or daughter? Or maybe Wakanda’s Shuri? Or maybe the suit will be left in the background for now, paving the way for less known heroes to shine. Either way, I appreciate the risk Marvel is taking with shrinking its most popular characters, and I hope this is used as an opportunity to increase the MCU’s diversity. Avengers: Endgame is the culmination of 11 years and 21 different films. Whether you are a longtime fan or a film effecianado, Endgame has something for you. An all star cast with standout performances, an unapologetically complicated plot, beautiful cinematography, and more. Even incorporating a Star Wars-esque score, the fourth Avengers movie improves on its predecessors in nearly every way, earning a deserved spot as the iMDB’s fifth best movie of all time. art by Tori Barkus
RuthAnne Hale Online Editor
There is no doubt that Universe has become a cultu May 12th, the newest additi had passed $2.48 billion in box office revenue, a zine. This massive success can be attributed to th that treat this universe as if it was a religion. One one of the biggest fans of them all, is Millard South Junior Fox Nervig. Nervig’s super-fan claim to fame is that he
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watch
an
13. Captain America: Civil War
14. Doctor Strange
15. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2
17. Thor: Ragnarok
16. Spider-Man: Homecoming
eat his Nervig
t the Marvel Cinematic ural phenomenon. As of ion: “Avengers: Endgame” according to Variety magahe many die hard fans e such fan, and perhaps
19. Avengers: Infinity War
18. Black Panther
21. Captain Marvel
20. Ant-Man and the Wasp
22. Avengers: Endgame
graphic by Isabel Kimminau
has watched the movie “Avengers: Infinity War” 112 times. Nervig said that this feat originated between him and his cousins, saying “My cousins were like, Hey fox, you should watch so you can watch it for the hundredth time on Christmas. My cousin Alex didn’t watch it, so her first time would be my hundredth time.” Although the 100 viewings began when “Infinity War” premiered in theaters on April 27th, 2018, the challenge officially began in August. Nervig accomplished the feat, keeping track by posting each new viewing on his Snapchat story. He watched it mostly at home, finding time in his daily life. “When you do homework, you just have it on,” Nervig said. “I don’t think I took it out of my dvd player from august to December.” When asked how his constant viewing of Infinity War affected his family, Nervig said, “When my mom gets home I already have it playing, and then like, as soon as it would end, I would start it again and I would be like ‘oops it was an accident’.” Nervig is not sure he will attempt the same feat with “Avengers: Endgame”, but has seen the movie in theaters 10 times already, and 6 of the viewings were during opening weekend. Nervig spent the time between finishing his 100 viewings of Infinity War and the release of Endgame in many ways. “I watched every TV spot, I read Marvel Studios reddit every day, I favorited the google search ‘Endgame’,” Nervig said. When asked if Endgame met his expectations, Nervig responded with a simple “Yes”. Nervig was among the first to see Avengers: Endgame, seeing the first IMAX showing available. With a runtime of 3 hours and 2 minutes, some were worried about having to leave the theater to use the restroom, but Nervig was determined not to let that happen. “The first showing of Endgame, I didn’t get a drink,” He said. “I wasn’t gonna drink anything and have to get up and leave.” As a frequent moviegoer, Nervig is a fan of watching movies in the way they were meant to be seen: on the big screen. “I think it’s cool to see it in a theater,” He said. “Then you get people who cheer and clap at the good parts.” When asked what his favorite theaters were, Nervig said. “I just go to AMC a lot, cause I have friends that work there. I also like Alamo, cause they have cool stuff before the movie.” Spoilers have been a hot button issue for “Avengers: Endgame.” The directors released a statement issuing a spoiler ban for the first few weeks after the movie’s release. Nervig does not have a high opin-
ion of people who spoil, saying “They’re bad people.” “The directors straight up came out and said don’t spoil cause it’s a culmination of 21 movies and it had to end so many things,” Nervig went on to say. “People have been waiting for 11 years so it’s a special experience in the theater to see it for the first time.” When asked if Nervig might beat up someone who spoiled a movie for him, he said “Maybe, if they spoiled endgame”. At his core, Nervig is a Marvel fan. He believes that the Marvel Cinematic universe is unlike any other franchise. “The MCU has been consistently good movies, and even the bad movies are watchable, unlike other franchises,” Nervig said. According to Nervig, there is a lot that sets Marvel apart. “They perfectly cast all their characters,” Nervig said. Nervig said he believes that not only are the casting choices excellent, but the care that Marvel puts into the logic of the heroes is also superior to other superhero creators. “Marvel takes time to explain the sciences, and everyone is different,” he says. Nervig best illustrated his super-fan-level allegiance to Marvel, when in response to a question about his favorite hero in Marvel or DC, he said “DC doesn’t count.”
Unexcused for the Avengers
Jack Towne
Staff Reporter
In 4 years, I have missed 2 days of school. The first, a moment of weakness, was a sick day that I begrudgingly took during the winter of my sophomore year. The second, a moment of defiance, a moment of triumph, was the day that Avengers: Endgame came out, and I decided for the first time ever that something was worth skipping school over. And boy was it worth it. I won’t get into the film itself too much, because this isn’t a review. Be sure to read the full review somewhere else in this paper. But this was the cinematic event of the decade, and one of the most epic things I’ve ever seen. This is required viewing for everyone and anyone. The plan had been in the works for weeks. My group of friends and I knew that if we were going
to avoid spoilers, which was an absolute necessity, we had to see this movie as soon as physically possible. We were all going to get called out of school, under false pretenses, and go to a 9 a.m. showing on the day of its release. We bought the tickets weeks in advance, reserving the best seats, right in the middle of the theater. It was perfect. The tickets were cheap in the morning, less than 5 dollars. The theater wasn’t crowded at all. There was no line for drinks or popcorn. The bathrooms were clean and for the most part empty. And as I was sitting there, finally experiencing something that I had been waiting for since it was first announced in 2014, I couldn’t help but ask why I hadn’t done this more often. Taken a day, done something that I really wanted to do instead of going to school. Because, man, this felt good. As I sit here writing this, Avengers: Endgame sits near the top of the all time box office charts, having risen to the 2nd spot in just 11 days. With any legs, it is expected to take the top spot at
some point in the next few weeks. This is the biggest movie in a long time, and I have a feeling that I wasn’t the only one who decided that this was more important than going to school. I could have been at school for 3 hours that morning, working on some busy work assignment or another, or idly playing games on my laptop, or sitting on my phone. Instead, I was at AMC Oakview, having an absolute blast with my friends, watching a movie that I had been waiting for with bated breath for literally five years. I really don’t want this to become an Endgame review, but seriously, if you haven’t already, go see this movie.
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Common Sense
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Kristin Kaipust
– Attending University of Kansas to study Strategic Communications
I was thinking about my high school achievements the other day when it hit me. My most important, absolutely impressive high school achievement was something I had been working at all along. I had built up skills and style all aimed at one thing, getting as many people to agree with me that Chacos are the best shoes in the world. Here, right now, is my final attempt of high school to tell the people the truth. For those uninformed souls, Chacos are a pair of rubber soled sandals made for hiking and outdoor adventures. Not only is the footbed of these shoes as comfortable as your favorite pair of tennies, but they are waterproof. I repeat: waterproof. Can your Birkenstocks do that? Also, Chacos are totally sockable shoes. As in, you can bring back the socks and the sandals. They are adjustable and can be set to hold your foot tight but not too tight. The company supports National Parks and is environmentally conscious. And they are stylish as heck. Enough said.
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I got my first pair of Chacos as a freshman. This pair has lasted me four loyal years of almost constant wear but are finally meeting their last days. Rest in Peace. Which is another selling point of Chacos but I digress. I learned about these sandals at my favorite summer camp. Every counselor had them and I was obsessed. When I returned from my second trip, I quickly invested in a pair. And soon after that, I began talking them up to the friends who had attended the camp with me. Using some of the points I shared earlier, I continuously encouraged my friends to snag a pair of these mindblowingly good shoes. And a few did. This was only the beginning. Sophomore year, I got a job. Somehow or another, I convinced myself that the best use of my first paycheck was to buy myself a second pair of Chacos (forget saving money*). I knew I would wear them so it was a good investment. But at that point, my campaign became more adamant. I was slowly convincing everyone around me they needed these shoes. In the school realm, started with my close friends. A few began asking me questions, feeling out the brand, trying to decide if it was the right move. It was, I promise. I received many screenshots of cute styles and
I knew I would eventually have to submit my final article: the senior column. Each year, I read stories of struggle and achievement, and I was sitting and trying to think about what to tell my fellow students about to let them know about me or life lessons they might need. I didn’t want to sit on my soapbox and say high school was the best part of my life, or that I will long to come back to being a Patriot. Although my high school experience was all around great, there were a few times where I sighed and asked “Why did nobody tell me this months ago?” So, from freshmen to future seniors, I hope these little bits of advice might be helpful to you in making the next few years the best possible.
offered. College preparation is important, but that’s what it is: preparation. You might not be able to handle 7 AP
1. Get involved in at least one thing. Whether it’s the music department or math club, find one thing to regularly be apart of. You’ll find some of your best friends, and you can create something for yourself to be infinitely proud of. 2. It’s okay to branch out. It’s okay not to have a specific friend group. You don’t need one best friend or a single group of people with exactly the same interests as you. Talk to people in your classes, make new memories. It’s better to have a few in different realms so you can expand your perspective. That being said, don’t cut ties just because you’re interested in other things as well. Sometimes you need those friends you can talk to once in a while but feels like no time has passed. 3. Do not take every single AP class
Maddie Rynes
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-Attending UNO to study chemistry and pre veterinary medicine classes, and honestly colleges would never let you take that many at once. If you are anxious about how much work you’ll have, ask the teachers of the classes what they think of your schedule, ask former teachers if they really believe you’re ready for that much responsibility. I wished I had enjoyed having off blocks more instead of full day schedules. It’s okay to get ahead, but it’s also okay to enjoy your last few years you can call yourself a kid. 4. Spend more nights at home. Don’t
options, helping them find the right pair. Soon, I was convincing all my friends they needed Chacos, and they were convincing their friends. Over the past four years, I can count at least 20 people around me who I have either directly or indirectly convinced to get Chacos, and that’s just counting their first pair. My success in selling Chacos has been no easy feat, or should I say feet. It’s taken a lot of learning and trial and error in my tactics. After receiving my third pair of Chacos* (which is a whole different story), I do think I have the game down. I know what you’re thinking. Wow Kristin, why haven’t they hired you? I’m asking myself the same question. So Chaco Footwear, if you are reading this, hire me.
Seniors 5 • 17 • 2019
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3 My best memories at Millard South have been winning a State Championship in softball my sophomore year, competing in the state track meet my freshman year, and celebrating my senior night at softball this season.
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-Carina Covington
– Attending Simpson College to study Business Management
*Protip: if you have small feet, order kid
sizes! *My mother ordered a pair of womens size 8, orange Chacos online from a website that looked legit. It said it would ship from another country, which is not where Chacos ship from. So we learned it was fraud and she quickly canceled her card. A month or so later, a mysterious box appeared on the front porch. We warily opened the box and pulled out a really weird smelling pair of mens size 7, green Chacos sent from China.
use home only as a place to sleep. Watch movies with your mom on a Friday night, walk your dog everyday (you’ll miss them in college), practice spelling words with your little siblings. Make sure school isn’t your entire life; making social interactions a priority is okay too. It’s all about time management. 5. There’s more than one way to be smart. You can be a great dancer or athlete and not be good at math, or vice versa. Find your thing and practice it, but make sure you still succeed in school so you can move to fuel that passion. On the other hand, just because someone isn’t good at a certain subject doesn’t mean they’re stupid. Help your fellow students succeed and you will too. 6. If you ever feel overwhelmed by schoolwork or friend drama, take yourself to get ice cream. Go to the Culver’s on Q street and get your ice cream (definitely the 2 scoop sundae), walk down to Walnut Grove, and take a break to breathe. Walking around the park is good too. Sometimes you just need 30 minutes and some fresh air to feel accomplished again. 7. Be excited for the future. High school isn’t everything. You should try on the ACT, but don’t let it ruin you. You are more than any grade or any progress report. You have so much to look forward to after you graduate!! High school has been a period of growth and change, but I wouldn’t ask for anything else.
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When we leave this place, we must decide to do for others what Millard South has done for us. To fill the world with people who are brave, who are hard working, and who are people of abundant pride. -Lindsey Assman
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– Attending UNO to study Creative Writing
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Seniors 5 • 17 • 2019
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High school isn’t your entire life, but cherish every happy memory you make because you will never forget them. Everyone always says get involved in high school, but I didn’t realize until just this year how much doing so will positively affect your four years here. The activities I got involved in brought me life long relationships that I will never forget and that is why I am so thankful for my time at Millard South. –Sadie Brower
There isn’t much to say for my high school career. I got good grades, made a fair amount of friends, and I had fun. But I don’t think high school is all those movies make it out to be. I didn’t go to many parties, and I don’t have any stand out memories like others seem to. I lead a middle of the road high school career. However, I know how stressful the transition from middle school to high school can be, no matter how prepared you are. As a friend of mine said, “They over-prepare you for middle school, and then middle school under-prepares you for high school.” The biggest thing to understand is your commitment coming into high school. If you’re just at school to get your degree, then I wouldn’t worry Isabel Kimminau about taking difficult courses. That’s going to put added stress on yourself – Attending Nebraska and probably won’t be worth it in the Wesleyan to study Political long run. Also, taking classes because Science and Global Studies your friends are taking them hardly
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– Attending UNL as an undeclared student, with plans of attending nursing school
art by Tori Barkus
– Plans on a gap year
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As much as getting involved is important, don’t put all your energy into things that don’t make you excited. If it’s not a thing you care about, it’s not worth your time, and it’s not something you should stress about. Unless it’s class work. Then you should probably put a little energy into that. –RuthAnne Hale
ever works out. A lot of the time one friend drops the course or the two end up in different class periods. Going along with commitment, junior and senior year are totally different ball games in comparison to freshman and sophomore year. Be prepared to have an hour or two of extra homework a night. Don’t be afraid to go to the counseling center and ask questions for anything, credits, graduation, college stuff, etc. They’re the best source of information when it comes to these issues (and it’s also free!) Really, what everyone should know, though, is to leave time for fun. It’s so easy in high school to over schedule yourself. Between jobs, school work, and extracurriculars, sometimes it’s hard to find time to hang out with friends or relax at home. But find that hour of time to do something not related to the rest of your stresses. Finding that hour to relax is so beneficial to your health; it can really keep you from going crazy through four years of constant stress.
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– Attending Cornell College to study English and Politics, minor in Vocal Performance with an interest in pre-law
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10 – Attending UNL to study History and Political Science
– Attending Grinnell College to study pre-law
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Talk to everyone that you wish you were friends with. They might actually like you! –Nicki Kreutzian
Tori Barkus
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Choose at least on thing to get involved in that is outside of what you’re normally comfortable with. For example, if you’re a football player, try writing for the newspaper. –Jack Towne
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Seniors 5 • 17 • 2019
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Hailey Bos
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If I could give any advice to underclassmen, it would be: Get involved in high school, because I have made my best memories through being involved and I have been provided with opportunities that I never would have had before. -Hailey Bos – Attending UNL to study Business Administration
I’ve been in this place for four years course-and just experience something now, that’s like 22 percent of my life. new. Being locked in a public school It’s definitely been a ride. When I was a system for around 13 years really makes freshman it seemed like senior year was you want to leave it. so far away, but it really I don’t think I could’ve wasn’t. It really goes asked for a better senior by fast. Honestly, I’m year. Sure, some pretty having trouble trying crappy things happened to decide what exactly but when does it not. to write about. I could I applied to colleges, write about fun experigot accepted, decided ences I’ve had, but let’s which I was going to, be honest-I’m not the met some super nice fun person who takes people there, and risks and has amazing signed on with the band stories because of it. for college. The college If you know me then I will be attending is you know I’m the kind Buena Vista Univerof person who sits sity. It’s a small private quietly in class, does all university, and I don’t my work, gets decent have the money Deniece Radford actually grades, and doesn’t get to go there-I got some out much. scholarships to – Attending Buena Vista decent There are many attend. I’ll be studying people who talk about University to study computer science, and how high school is the I guess we’ll see where Computer Science best time in your life, that that takes me. All in all, we need to cherish every moment now, I’m pretty excited-since I haven’t already and yeah, I guess this is a pretty good said that enough-to move ‘on to college’. time in our lives compared to others, To all of my friends who’ve known but I don’t think in 50 years I’ll think of me, even if it has only been for a small my high school days as the best of my amount of time, thank you for being whole life. So, I’m not the kind of person amazing friends. I wouldn’t be where who loved every minute of high school, I am without you, and I definitely but I’m also not the one who hated high wouldn’t be who I am either. I know school with a burning passion. I expecommunication becomes harder when rienced this kind of person and they we won’t see each other for long periods seemed miserable. Now I’m not saying of time, but I truly hope that we’ll keep everyone who hates school is, but they in touch. Maybe one day, like 20 years seem to sometimes come hand-in-hand. from now, we’ll get back together and it As I move forward with my life, I’m will be like we never left. I love you guys, looking forward to college. I’m excited and you made however many years I’ve to meet so many new people, do things known you truly amazing. that I haven’t before-all perfectly legal of Goodbye Millard South.
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My favorite memory from my time at Millard South is interrupting Career Academy by showing affection for Brant and Josh. –Alex Engleman
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– Attending MCC to study Cyber Security
Alex Engleman
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My advice to underclassmen is to talk to your teachers! They are going to be your best supporters during your years at Millard South. –Maggie Huson
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– Attending UNO to study Microbiology
Maggie Huson
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Whenever I am asked No other series has organically changed and grown with “what are some good shows characters and their audience like Game of Thrones. As to watch”, I never know how the characters come and go, we always stay, I have never to respond, I don’t know what heard of a show that killed off all of the main characters kind of things actually interest and still had amazing ratings (besides Grey’s Anatomy- but others and what other people let’s be real, that doesn’t even hold a candle to GoT). prefer to watch. But when It’s so easy to get attached to a lovable character and so asked “what’s the best show hard to watch them get ripped away from in a blink of an ever?” the answer is very obvieye, meanwhile the character that did the ripping stays ous. Game of Thrones. perfectly fine and healthy- the hate I have for Queen Cersei Although, if you have is so real, but I know the show wouldn’t be the same if she never seen the show, this was killed right away. It’s almost like checks and balances article will contain spoilers with the bad and the good. and the show is rated TV-MA Although there are characters that I hate and love, for graphic violence and some I have learned to grow, overcome, and come to like the Alexis Gamble inappropriate imagery, so characters I once hated. For example Jaime, the Kingslayer, if blood and gore isn’t your was introduced to us first by pushing Brandon Stark, the – Attending Colorado thing, watch at your own dismain characters 10 year old son, out of a window because Mesa University to study he saw something he wasn’t supposed to see (which cretion. First off, this series has ended up paralyzing him, and actually turned out for the Elementary Education propelled such a massive yet better). But as the plot thickened and we see what he’s incredibly individualized cast through such an impossibly intri- going through and his motivations for all of his actions, I have cate cat’s cradle of a storyline, that seems so hard to keep up truly come around to loving him as a character. with, but as long and you know the names of the characters, Now I’m going to be honest, I have never been a huge fan of you’ll survive. action/medieval shows, so when I first heard about GoT, I was No other series has the shock value killings and sacrifices. very skeptical and refused to watch it just for that reason, but They may seem insignificant to the actual outcome of the my aunt showed me one episode and I instantly fell in love. show (besides your favorite character dying and not beIt’s not just about the battles and the action (which is actually ing able to sit on the Iron Throne), but actually it affects the very interesting to watch) but the character development, the ENTIRE plot of the series. If Ned Stark would have never been betrayals, the back stabbings, the murders and mysteries, and executed by King Joffrey, there would have been no battle of the love and the hate are what help make this show the best Winterfell (which may I add was the longest battle sequence in TV series to ever exist in the history of the world. TV and film history), there would have been no “red wedding”, And if you still don’t feel the need to watch Game of Arya would have never been sent to Bravos and ultimately Thrones for the awesome battles, intense fire-breathing dragwould have never defeated the Night King. One death affects ons, and intricate storylines, at least watch it for the adrenaline the entire outcome of each character, it’s crazy how the plot pumping, heart racing theme song. Trust me- this is a show can build from that. you do not want to be missing out on.
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Jacob Haas
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My best memory of Millard South is walking out of school at the end of junior year finally becoming a senior.
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–Attending UNL to study Sports Media
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Seniors 5 • 17 • 2019
1. Get involved. Your teachers and parents have told you time and time again, “You need to get involved with something.” I would get annoyed with how many times I would hear that and thought that they were wrong, but they could never be more right. Get involved with at least one activity or club, or many more. You may feel like you are always so busy and stressed out due to everything you have to go to and get done, but trust me, it will be so worth it. You will meet some amazing and incredible people that you will be so lucky and happy that you met and soon they will become a second family to you. You will also get outstanding opportunities that you wouldn’t have otherwise. It is a chance to get to know so many of your peers and teachers throughout the school. But most importantly, it will give you the memories that you will never forget. Be open to new things. 2. It is okay to step out of your comfort zone. I know it is scary at first, but in the end you will be happy if you at least try it. If something isn’t your thing, I totally understand, but try it at least once before you rule it out completely. At Millard South, there are so many things that help you brighten your horizon, along with many great opportunities that will help you grow and succeed.
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art by Elena Garcia Tapia
– Attending University of Minnesota Twin Cities to study Architecture
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My favorite memory at Millard South is when a large chunk of the ceiling in the cafeteria collapsed due to a giant leak while people were still eating lunch. I like to watch the Snapchat video I took of it from time to time, it’s extremely amusing.
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Elena Garcia Tapia
3. Your teachers truly want you to succeed. Most of the teachers here at Millard South will take you under their wing and care about you as if you were their own kid, (shout out to you KBL.) They will come Allison Kirkebak in before school, stay after school, – Attending Nebraska time during Wesleyan as an undecided take their plan period, student to help you out if you are not understanding something and/or need help. They truly care about your well-being in and out of school. They are very understanding and flexible, but you have to work with them, and let them help you. You are not “too cool” for extra help, or “too cool” to listen and pay attention during class, or “too cool” to do your work on time. Your teachers will be your life preservers and savers throughout your years here. Oh, and it’s not cool or funny to be disrespectful to your teachers. Grow up, swallow your pride, be respectful, and #BeKind. 4. People change (and that’s okay). You will soon begin to realize people change, your best friends change, and you change. You meet a lot of
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I pass the Platte River every day on my way to school. Never did I think it would have such a negative impact on my life as well as the lives of many other Nebraskans. I have lived on a lake for the past five years and have enjoyed every second of it. One of the best things about lake life is that there is a real sense of community and that has been even more apparent during and after the flooding this spring. On March 14, news of the approaching flood was on every local news channel. My stepmom decided that we needed to leave our house in Ashland so my three young sisters and my stepmom left for my grandma’s house while I left to go to my mom’s house. We live on Lake Allure which is very close to the Platte River, which is why the danger of the flood was so prevalent. A lot of the roads surrounding my house were already shut down and the fire department was rescuing stranded people by boat. The next day some of our neighbors informed me that the police were going door to door to evacuate the remaining residents due to the rising lake. Many of our neighbors’ houses were damaged as well as those on nearby lakes. My house didn’t end up actually flooding until that Sunday. When it was all said and done there ended up being two and a half feet of water in the basement. That water soaked up into the insulation and completely destroyed
new people. Your friend group may not stay the same throughout your time at Millard South, and that is totally okay. As you meet new people, get involved in other clubs and activities, you spend a lot of time with those people in it with you. It may gradually happen that you and your friends start to drift. It doesn’t mean you aren’t friends, it just means things have changed. Surround yourself with people that lift you up, and who you enjoying spending time with. Friends that will ride along beside you through this crazy journey we are all on, and friends that value you for who you are. The people you surround yourself with will make this all so much more bearable and worth it, and they will give you the best memories that you will always remember and cherish. 5. Enjoy it while it lasts Most of you will think high school will never end, but trust me it does, and it happens very quickly. Sit back, relax, keep your senioritis contained for as long as you can, and soak it all in while you can. Go to all the football games you can drenched in paint, scream as loud as your lungs can handle at pep rallys, get as many cookies at the post until your heart’s content, do your work to the best of your ability, take advantage of all the photo opps with your friends in class and as you show of your Patriot Pride, display #TPW in the best way possible, and most importantly, have fun. I feel so lucky to have been able to be a part of the Millard South family for four years, and will cherish all the memories I’ve had here. Once a Patriot, Always a Patriot.
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all of the walls and obviously the flooring. Right now my once finished basement is now merely an empty your dad, space with a concrete stepmom, a floor and wood framfive year old, ing from the once a three year standing walls. The old, and an clean up process was eight month very extensive and felt old. I was the never ending. luckiest one Luckily, tons of my in my famneighbors, who were ily, because I also dealing with their spent about own damaged homes, half of that came over to help in Makenzie Morford time at my whatever way they mom’s house – Attending UNK could. Our former and only had to study Elementary next door neighbor, to help clean who is a highly rated Education the house on contractor, offered the weekends to redo our basement for a more since I was at school while my parreasonable price than we would ents were working on the house. have been able to get from anyone Now that it’s two months after else. Home Depot also gave a lot of my family was struck with the supplies, free of charge, to families hardship that many of our fellow affected by the flood which was Nebraskans faced I realize how extremely helpful. lucky my family is. Sure it sucks that Once we were able to get all we lost a lot of our belongings and our undamaged belongings out have to redo our basement, but it of the basement, we had to get it could have been so much worse. I sprayed with a cocktail of various read countless articles about houschemicals in order to rid of any es getting completely demolished. bacteria that would cause mold My house is still standing strong, it or anything else that would be just needs a little TLC to return to harmful to the health of my family. its former glory. The only thing that During this whole ordeal we had matters to me is that my family is to stay at a hotel for about 2 and a fine and everything else will work half weeks which feels a lot longer itself into place. when you’re stuck in a room with
20 – Attending UNL to study Sports Media
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Alex Kopf
Throughout my four years here at Millard South I have learned a lot. A lot about myself, growing up, others, and a lot about Millard South. For those who follow, this is my information and advice to you throughout your years here at Millard South.
My best memory at Millard South was winning the hockey state championship with everyone cheering us on.
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Despite the really fun parts of Pat, there were some really crappy things. My least favorite part was when people were incredibly hurtful. It would only happen about once a game, but it still felt so discouraging. I’d be wandering the stands and some kid would get right up in Pat’s face, asking questions about who was underneath the helmet and trying to rip Pat’s head off. It was scary, honestly. It made me really mad. They wouldn’t back down either, blocking me from walking past and touching me pretty forcefully. As a pretty fearless white male, I never encounter harassment normally. But as Pat? I don’t understand why people feel a costume gives them the right to harass other Cassady Alberico people, but it happens. There was one time my junior year where this kid would not leave me alone, calling me – Attending Arizona State University to study Journalism names and trying to… get me to fight him? Eventually I just kinda fell back and Drama on his friends when he pushed me and then I jostled past him. I had to go take a break after that one, I was really up I need to tell you something. This may come as a shock - I advise you take set. I think people treat Pat poorly because he’s faceless, in a way. They don’t a seat. Ready? Okay, here goes. I Am the Mascot. That’s right. I, Cassady Alberico, have been donning the identity of our very own Patriot Pat the past two years, making appearances at football games, pep rallies, and the occasional classroom visit. That oversized eagle who looks perpetually in pain? He and I are one in the same. I am Pat. Pat is me. Overall the eagle and I have a very good relationship. He’s pretty sensitive, especially when people try to put things in his mouth (which is all the time), but we learned how to cope. I’ve learned to love the guy, everything except the smell. Big surprise, the inside of a human-sized eagle is incredibly odorous. That guy needs a haircut too, too much fur. Being the mascot is kinda like the opposite of being a fly on the wall. You’re a very bright, very tall fly in the middle of the room that catches everyone’s attention. Probably the best part of Pat was interacting with people know who they’re hurting. But I know I never would as Cassady. So many who you are. There are some people times I’d wander into the first few rows whose respect I have completely lost of Buell Stadium and have the funniest knowing how they treat Pat. However, I dance-offs with kids who won’t even am happy to say that the large majority smile at me in the hallways. EVERYONE wants a picture with Pat. I would always of people were endlessly kind to me, offering water and cheering along. smile in the pictures, even though Turns out I have a life outside of you can’t see my face. Force of habit, I Pat, too. I’ve spent four years at this guess. Some people knew that it was school, had some pretty great memome under the mask, but I would never respond to ‘Cassady’, only to ‘Pat’. It hurt ries. I came in as an overexcited and overmotivated freshman, joining as his feelings otherwise.
Seniors 5 • 17 • 2019 many activities as I possibly could. Cross Country, Macho Voce, Show Choir, Drama, 40 Assets. “Pile it on, I can handle it!” I cried, looking to fill as much of my free time as possible. I think back then I just wanted to avoid being alone at all costs. That’s when my demons would always come for me. Since freshman year I’ve only become more involved, doubling down on theatre and joining a few more activities like Newspaper and Jazz Choir. While I still stay super busy, it’s no longer to fill a hole. I’m not exactly sure when, but sometime in my four years I learned how to accept myself. I can now be alone with my thoughts without turning to a dark place, and I really enjoy my quiet time. I went from having zero hobbies to far too many. I can play video games, guitar, Magic: The Gathering, read a book, take some pictures, or sit and write in my journal. Maybe it was Pat who healed me. No, I can’t sell myself short. I healed myself - growth always comes from within. Speaking of growth, I learned a valuable lesson my junior year. Through a few quizzes and a lot of introspection, I discovered my primary value: Growth. Everything I do relates to growth. By challenging myself with hard classes and a million activities, all along I was looking for ways to adapt. Even Pat gave me a new perspective on the student body. Looking back at my four years, I can confidently say that I have grown. I am better than I was four years ago, better than I was even yesterday. To our underclassmen: the best advice I can offer you is to always stay true to yourself. Discover your values and pursue what gives you that vital sense of life. We all know how hard it is to just get out of bed some days. But you have to find something that inspires you, some drive to live. Find your passion and commit to it wholeheartedly. Time passes and friends shift, but you will always have yourself. Accept that everyone else is trying their best and above all, take no shit. You’re too valuable to yourself for anything less.
Yo. I’m the Chief Copy Editor of Common Sense, so I usuthe 5-point jump club, so I made sure that I didn’t score too ally edit stories instead of writing them. But, since it’s my last high and only got a 30 or 31. Side note: on another ACT test, issue, I figured I should write something for once. I decided not to use a calculator and I ended up getting a 35. Honestly, I haven’t particularly enjoyed my last four years Those things are lame in comparison to some of the here, and, quite frankly, school has always bored me. Ever other stuff I’ve done, though. Over the years, I’ve learned since I was little, I’ve been a quick learner- I learned how how to exploit every loophole and rule. As top of my class to tie my shoes on the first try, I was pottyand a member of over a dozen trained in a day, and I learned how to ride a clubs and activities, I’ve become bike in an hour. This “gift” made it easy for me acquainted with and built a rapport observe, learn, and adapt, and, for a few years, with many of the teachers and staff that was enough. I was able to fit in with the here. They see me as trustworthy nerds, the jocks, the cool kids, the bad boys, and responsible, not the kind to get and every other group, but even that stopped into or cause trouble. One such perk being a challenge and I was bored again. So, I of building this kind of reputation is started to create my own challenges. that I can get away with a lot. Leave From simple things like running my own class and go wherever I want, no experiments (one of the reasons why I wear questions asked? Yep, I’ve done that. a jacket every day is because of an experiI even left the school in the middle ment I started in 3rd grade) to silly things of class to go thrift shopping. Walk like hiding juice boxes and other things all around during a hold and even over the school without anyone noticing, I’ve leave the school? I’ve also done that. done some pretty weird stuff. Some of them Stay at school overnight without are quite crazy and harder like trying to fix ever getting caught? Ha! Easy. Myranda Carbullido my test scores- by which I mean figuring out Moral of the story: I have way exactly how many questions to get right in – Attending undecided as a too much free time and I do riorder to get a certain score. It’s quite complidiculous things when I’m bored. student to study undecided cated, to be honest, but it’s more fun to me Considering: Vanderbilt, than getting 100%. I particularly enjoy doing this on standardized tests since they’re harder DePaul, Williams, and to predict how many questions you can miss. I Univertity of Tulsa did this on the first ACT I took. I wanted to get in the 30+ club (for the t-shirt) while also being able to get in
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Start your first semester out strong. Earning a good GPA will serve you well later down the road in your high school career. -Cale Goodman
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– Attending Oregon State University with an undecided major
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Sometimes, when you are stressed and can’t see the point of high school anymore, it is really easy to want to quit. The truth is, as corny as it sounds, you learn so much in high school, not just in the classroom. The people you meet and the experiences you have are what makes it all worth it.
Maggie Reimers
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-Attending UNL to study Biology/ Pre-Med