Common Sense Volume 17 Issue 6 March 10, 2017

Common Sense

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

March 10, 2017

Volume 17 Issue 6

Varsity wrestlers take to the championship podium for a 3rd consecutive state title. Ten athletes placed in their individual weight classes. The Patriots earned 175.5 points ahead of runnerup Kearney with 152.5.

Wrestlers send Denson out on top Kailey Boden Sports Editor

“ The one thing I like most

Mayville secured the win and set the tone for the team going into the state championship. In With all but one varsity wrestler having the end, the wrestlers took their third consecutive about Millard South wressealed his place in state, all eyes were on freshteam state title with 10 individuals placing with a tling is that we are a family man Jake Mayville. Winning this district match top-5 finish in their respective weight class. of brothers. would mean every varsity wrestler had qualified Overall, the Patriot wrestlers had another for state individuals, something that hasn’t been superior year despite hitting a few bumps along – Blake Jackson the way. done at Millard South in a long time. Mayville could’ve wrestled in the 215 weight class but the “Every time we slightly lost focus, our team needed a heavyweight, so he stepped up to coaches immediately tell us the second they see fill the role. Therefore, he was against a wrestler it,” Hayden says. “They really ramp up the focus much bigger than him in the heartbreak round of districts. and intensity of practice to ensure that nobody outworks us,” he said. “The whole team was in his corner ensuring his confidence Coaches Doug Denson and Jay Meneely aim to always keep the throughout the whole round,” senior runner-up state champion Zac team on track by reminding them of the overall goals of the season Charity said. frequently. “The coaches would make sure we would always bounce back,” senior Ricky Hayden says, “and we bounce back high.” Hayden has been out for a large portion of the last half of the season due to a concussion but it has never stopped him from being there to cheer on his team and help them improve. The Patriots reputation full of hard work only goes up each year and especially continued to showed through with their performance for individuals at state. Senior Zac Charity reflects on his past four years of being a dominant wrestler. Zac placed second at state in his 138 lb. weight class. “The last four years has been such a fun journey,” Charity says.

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Senior Connor Olin works to pin his opponent at state. Olin went 4-1 in the tournament placed 3rd in the 152 lb. weight class.

continued on page 14

State Placers 106 - Blake Jackson (52-2) placed 1st 126 - Creighton Baughman (47-3) placed 5th 132 - Nathan Rodriguez (52-4) placed 3rd 138 - Zac Charity (50-3) placed 2nd 145 - Austin McDonald (36-6) placed 3rd 152 - Connor Olin (50-4) placed 3rd 160 - Isaac Trumble (44-13) placed 5th 170 - Braden Trimble (51-6) placed 2nd 182 - Doug Weidner (30-5) placed 4th 195 - Rajan Ellebb (44-14) placed 5th

Inside Common Sense In a panic about prom? Page 5

Legislative Bills of interest to students Pages 8, 9, 10

Art by Tori Barkus

Harry Potter celebrates 20 years Page 13

Coach Denson career profile Page 15

Photo by McKenna Krueger

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News 3 • 10 • 2017

Snow Days Conlan Custard Staff Reporter There are a few things in this world that the mere human was never meant to know. Things like the Da Vinci Code, the formula for Coca Cola, and just exactly how the MPS Superintendent and mastermind Jim Sutfin decides whether or not to issue a snow day during times of harsh weather. Each and every winter around the Millard School District, of course comes snowfall, which brings with it a storm of speculation and anticipation regarding Dr. Sutfin’s decision on whether he will cancel school on a particular day. It’s fair to say that the superintendent faces an inordinate amount of scrutiny over his choice to close schools on any given day, and if his selection does not sit well with some individuals, students take to Twitter and other forms of social media to voice their distaste with Dr. Sutfin, protest his actions, or maybe even engage in some wholesome gags

MPS Superintendent makes tough choices

with the Superintendent. So how exactly does Dr. Sutfin make the call in the wee hours of each day we receive snow? Well, the truth is, it’s a lot more complicated than you think.

“There’s a lot of conversation and watching forecasts,” Sutfin said. Along with, “some driving around and looking at what the total storm impact is predicted to be.” To be granted something as highly coveted as a snow

Robotics Club punches ticket to Louisville

day, certain requirements must be met. Now, it’s safe to say Dr. Sutfin isn’t out in the middle of the night in freezing temperatures grading the snowfall with a rubric, however there is specific criteria that he uses to aid in his decision. “Ice, depth of snow, temperature and wind are all factors,” he said. “Also, the timing of the storm makes a difference too.” Recently, snow has also been influencing local politics around Omaha. For instance, just a few weeks ago mayoral candidate Heath Mello voiced his dissatisfaction with current mayor Jean Stothert’s lack of snow removal during crucial times of the day such as rush hour, and claimed he wouldn’t settle for it. Shortly after, however, the city council president Ben Gray came to Stothert’s defense and backed her case.

Intro to Photojournalism shoots school activities

Kristin Kaipust Staff Reporter Robot 6685R, also known as “Darth Jar Jar”, and its team will be taking a trip to a galaxy far, far away. After a win at regionals, Millard South’s Robotics Club has earned themselves a ticket to the world tournament in Louisville, Ky. The club of 20 members will be sending 5 their own across the country to compete in the VEX World Tournament. South’s team, consisting of seniors Justin Trenkamp, Kyle Miller, Joseph Nielsen, Jacob Elam, and sophomore Alexandra McKee, have worked all year to create their worlds-bound robot. The robot has two forms of identifications, 6685R, which serves as an identifica- Teammates seniors Joseph Nielsen, Kyle Miller, Jacob Elam, freshtion code as well as its name man Alexandra McKee, and senior Justin Trenkamp with their Robot 6685R. Darth Jar Jar. “It’s a play on the name from various countries such as Guatemala, the of what the robot competes Philippines, New Zealand, and China, to name a in, Starstruck and Starwars,” senior Jacob Elam few. said. “People who don’t know about the tourna The robot has three skills which it will use ment like to call it nationals, however, we skip when competing in the tournament. 6685R the national tournament and go straight to the can pick up and throw stars, pick up and throw international one,” Miller said. cubes, as well as suspend itself from a post. Miller said last year’s world team was able Getting to Worlds was not an easy task for the to interact with schools of different countries, robot and its builders though. With a competispecifically making a strong connection with the tion season spanning from November to FebruPuerto Rican team. Along with this, the team was ary, and the challenge of building the robot, the team spends much of their time constructing and set up next to a team from South Korea. “The international experience is rather interperfecting their machinery. esting,” Miller said. “It’s not an experience most “The team is putting about 20 hours per week, with total build time easily over 100 hours,” people would have.” Robot 6685R and his team of five will head Coach Mason Miller said. be heading over to Kentucky this April with The Club competes in 6 to 10 competitions hopes of going 7-3 in the Qualification Rounds, throughout the season. Their win at regionals, at improving last year’s score by one. By doing this Omaha North High School on Feb. 18, qualified they hope to advance into the elimination round them for worlds. and get a Top 50 score in individual competi The world competition takes place in April tions. and hosts for teams across the country (everywhere from Maine to Hawaii) as well as teams

JROTC lines up to start inspection, which is graded. This was going on in the main hallway at 10:19 a.m. “Nope! I’m not allowed to talk,” freshman MaHaley Ruzicka said. Photo by Tristen Glynn Senior Cameron Burkard practices his persuasive speech about AP classes. Burkard also competes in OID (Oral Interpretation of Drama). Burkard will be attending districts to represent Millard South at state. Photo by Noelia Rodriguez This forensics group rehearsed their Oral Interpretation of Drama (OID) in the hallway. “I really like it,” sophomore Sidney Matthias (pictured far-left) said. “We are all a close team, and we want the best for each other, so we push each other to work harder.” Photo by Madison Kenney

News 3 • 10 • 2017

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EPISODE VIII: THE MILITARY BALL AWAKENS Emma Martin Copy Editor

Jessica Malashock Distribution Manager

A long time ago (Jan. 27) in a then the awards portion of the galaxy far, far away (the Hilton in night began. The cadets’ achievedowntown Omaha).... ments were recognized through It was the night of the military several awards, including The Air ball--a time for over 100 cadets and Force JROTC Superior Performance their guests to come together to dance, Award, the Outstanding Cadet mingle, and recognize all of the hard Award, and the Military Order of work and achievements from first the Purple Heart Award. Students semester. who received these honors dem The theme for the night was onstrated patriotism, integrity, everything Star Wars. Centerpieces leadership, and excellence. After were small glow stick lightsabers, name the presenting of the awards, new cards told you which alliance you were positions for second semester were a part of based on your meal of choice, announced. and photo areas were stocked with With that, the formal portion various props and a backdrop of the of the evening was over, and it was Death Star looming near. At one point, time to hit the dance floor. The DJ Major Ryan Bagley even took the stage took over, and people migrated to sporting a Chewbacca Wookie mask. the dancing and photo areas, and The ballroom was packed by 6:25 even to the stage, where two cadets p.m. with family, friends, and loved engaged in a rap battle. ones. People talked, laughed, took Overall, Millard South’s first pictures, and started the night off on a military ball was a smashing sucEven the place settings had touches of Star Wars, with light saber centerpieces and placecards decohigh note before the program began. cess. It was filled with laughter and rated with various characters. Shortly after 7 p.m., the presenting of an immense sense of pride for the the colors commenced, followed by an JROTC program. And at the end introduction by Operations Officer Ryan of the night, everyone boarded their aerospace crafts and Koltas. A candle was lit and a moment traveled back to a galaxy not-so-far away. of silence was held for all of the military members not in attendance. After the opening portion concluded, dinner was served. Guests had the choice of a chicken, steak, or vegetarian meal, followed by cake for dessert. The plates were cleared, and after a short welcome from Major Ryan Bagley, the speaker for the evening Lieutenant Colonel Fisher took the stage. A man who has received the prestigious purple heart, the Lieutenant Colonel shared his experience of undergoing over 30 reconstructive surgeries and learning how to walk again after being hit by an exploCadets Campbell and Kumm stand in silence by the candle lit for military memsion during his service in Afghanistan bers not in attendance while Cadet Hild recites a short message. in 2011. His speech was inspiring, and at come together. It was nice to see the cadets work hard all the end everyone in the room was on their feet. semester and be able to be recognized.” When asked about his favorite part of the evening, Seniors Wolf Lucas, Nic Greve, and Ryan Koltas pose Following the speech, Major Bagley and Sergeant Group Commander Wolf Lucas said “My favorite part was before awards are announced. Mamula gave thanks to several people who put in ample being able to see it actually come to life and all the details amounts of effort to help the program run smoothly, and

Students seek change in west lot speed bumps Miriam Cortes Staff Reporter Any one can tell you that one of the most risky and intense things that can happen at Millard South is not getting called down to the principal’s office, but approaching the speed bumps in the west lot. The speed bump at a glance looks harmless, but senior Anissa Romero says otherwise. “My muffler unhooked in my car and I had to get it fixed because it kept hitting the bumper because it rides so low,” she said. Due to the steep incline, the speed bump is always a risk to anyone driving a small and low to the ground car, because of the increased acceleration required to be able to go over the bump. Romero took it upon herself to talk to Principal Weaver about her concerns about the speed bump. “I didn’t want others to have to pay for the damages to their cars and it’s always been a concern, but I haven’t heard anyone tell an administrator,” Romero said. This isn’t the first time Weaver has been approached about the infamous speed bumps and has gone as far as having the district check to see if the speed bumps were to the district’s regulation on parking lot safety. But alas, they do meet the district Sophomore Carina Covington drives over the mountainous speed bump in the west parking lot. Photo by Maddie Rynes requirements. “I had students complain last year and we had them measured by the district to decide if the speed bumps should change, but unfortu“We would have to make a decision as a school if we want and they are within the acceptable requirements for speed nately because they are to district regulations, the money to spend the money after we get an estimated cost on the bumps,” Weaver said. would come from the school’s budget. possible changes to the speed bumps,” Weaver said. The next step in the movement would be up to Weaver

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Opinion 3 • 10 • 2017

Executive order on pipelines brings up years of mistreatment, discrimination of indigenous people What if these were white burial grounds being tampered with? Following the events that took place in Standing Rock where protesters were blasted with water and shot at while protecting their land and our water, we are reminded of the injustices the indigenous people of our country face on a daily basis. Barack Obama made the decision to listen to the people of Standing Rock and halt the construction of the pipeline just before President Trump took office. The victory was short and it wasn’t a shock when Trump called for an executive order for the Keystone XL and Dakota Access Pipelines to be continued. These pipelines would be harmful to our environment and will once again show corporate interests overpowering tribal interest. The United States seems to keep supporting the development of one of the most carbon-intensive sources of energy in the world instead of working to cut greenhouse gases. Constructing more and more pipelines means that oil will be extracted at faster rates, releasing more greenhouse gases over time adding to the long-term impact of climate change. These pipelines are potentially harmful to drinking and irrigation water due to leaks and spills since the pipeline is just a half mile away from the reservation boundary where it crosses the Missouri River. The Dakota Access Pipeline could also put animals at risk, endangering nine types of animals, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, such as the whooping crane, swift fox and burying beetles as well as their habitats through the construction of the pipeline and possible failures. Indigenous peoples have made clear that they are culturally, spiritually and economically interlinked with these lands, but they have been fighting for not only their land, but the land for hundreds of years. Tribes have been paying the price for America’s prosperity

from the moment European silence indigenous resistance shoes have touched down on and protest. Corporation their land. Bottom line is, activities have led to awthe Dakota Access Pipeline ful forms of environmental and Keystone XL Pipeline degradation, human rights will affect the environment violations and land disposand the environment affects session. Large scale extracus. tion can jeopardize the sur The Dakota Access vival of indigenous peoples Pipeline snakes across sacred as distinct cultures that are grounds and burial sites; connected to the land they bulldozers have already rehave originally inhabited. moved topsoil on the burial Native Americans have grounds. The permit for The been silenced and oppressed Dakota Access Pipeline was for generations in many approved and construction ways. In our education sysbegan without meaningful tem, we have a lack of true consultation of The Standing Native American history; Rock Sioux Tribe. The state instead, we have an inacmilitarized The Standing curate portrayal of Native Rock Americans reservain just a few tion using pages out of roada textbook blocks, liportraying cense plate indigenous checks and peoples as racial prosavages. Infiling. The digenous threat of people an oil spill deserve poisonproper, acing water curate and sources respectful frightens coverage not only of histhe Standtory in textSavannah Lacy ing Rock books. The Staff Reporter Sioux state of Tribe, but Oregon farmers and nearby towns has been working to create too. Using the words of a mandatory Native Ameria Cree Prophecy, “When can curriculum in all public all the trees have been cut schools which is a step we down, when all the animals need to take everywhere to have been hunted, when give proper coverage of Naall the waters are polluted, tive American history. Diswhen all the air is unsafe cussions about indigenous to breathe, only then will philosophy and the vast you discover you cannot eat variety of Native American money.” nations should be more The unfair treatment common than listening to of the ignored indigenous lectures about Native Ameripopulation is a reminder of cans being portrayed as savpast injustices indigenous ages throughout history. peoples have faced. This In the past, indigenous would be the third time peoples were subject to Sioux Nations have been imprisonment if they were used for its resources and to participate in traditional land. Corporations have ceremonies instead of Chrishad a history of entering tian practices. The Courts of territories with promises of Indian Offenses was put in new infrastructure, new jobs place to restrict the cultural and payment of government identity of Native American taxes, but they end up violat- tribes. Indigenous people ing the most basic civil rights have been misrepresented using torture, arson, forced through the attempt to relocation, arbitrary arrests, portray cowboy characters forced recruitment, killings as heroes and characterand detention an attempt to ize Native Americans as

Common Sense

Common Sense is the official publication of Millard South High School 14905 Q Street, Omaha, Nebraska 68137. School district guidelines determine the suitability of advertising content. To place an ad or inquire about rates, call (402)-715-8363. Common Sense is a monthly publication produced in Room 130. Common Sense uses desktop publishing hardware and software: Apple 5G computers, Adobe InDesign CS6 Adobe Photoshop CS6, and Microsoft Word software. Printing by White Wolf Web in Sheldon, Iowa. Letters to the editor are encouraged. All letters must be signed with the student’s first and last name, grade, then submitted to Mrs. Kaldahl. Unsigned letters will not be published. The staff reserves the right to edit letters for grammar, length, and clarity. Letters of profane nature or other infractions of school or district policy will not be published.

enemies in books and films such as John Wayne filmography. This mindset gets ingrained into the heads of the audience and makes this stereotype appear normal. Native Americans have been misrepresented through all types of media. These misrepresentations and misunderstandings have led to instances where land has been stolen from and pipelines are put in place without consolidation of indigenous tribes. These diverse struggles can’t be diminished to singular, one-dimensional solutions. Indigenous sovereignty is best understood by listening to the voice of indigenous peoples themselves while we show our support. I will not support powerful people who choose profit over the people. To keep history from repeating itself, there are small things to do which can make a big difference. These issues cannot be normalized in order to make it known that this is not and will never be normal. Indigenous people have suffered for centuries, it must end. Have we learned nothing from history? We, as a people who don’t have to endure their suffering, must stand with them to protect their rights. Stay informed and up to date instead of sitting back and watching these events unravel as a bystander. Call your representatives and continue to be involved in democracy by using your voice. Turning a blind eye to these things which are damaging our environment and impacting innocent people of our country is leaving a messy future for the next generations. We must be fighting for sustainable developments to cut greenhouse gases and reduce our consumption of energy and natural resources. We need to use our voices to speak out against each future and pipeline and the mistreatment of the indigenous people of our country. “Our hand continues to be open in cooperation, and our cause is just.” (David Archambault II, Chairman of Standing Rock Sioux Tribe)

Samuel Sliva Business Manager

Trapshooting provides unique experiences and entertainment It seems as time goes on shooting sports get more and more niche, there is a resurgence of things like three gun shooting or cowboy action shooting but it still isn’t very mainstream. My favorite shooting sport by far is trap shooting, I’ve spent a lot of time shooting trap with my dad and I currently play for the Millard West Trap Team. One of my favorite parts of trap shooting is that it’s a great test of the shooters reflexes, timing and accuracy. Trap shooting is a very old pastime that dates back to the 1680’s when they used glass targets instead of today’s biodegradable clay pigeons (the orange disk that comes out when you say pull). I think trap shooting is something most people will have fun with once they know where to start or get the hang of it. First off, you or someone you know has to have a shotgun, any gauge will suffice (the smaller the gauge, the more shot you have, the more likely you are to hit the target). Any gauge is good as long as the box says Target load, these loads are less powerful and loud than loads used for hunting. Next you’ll have to find a place to shoot, Seymour Smith in Ralston has a really good a trap shooting range with very helpful staff so I recommend then wholly. The trapshooting range is set up with five stations at varying angles from the house where the target launches from. After every five shots you go to the next station to your right. When you first shoot it’s important to stay very calm and to keep your head down on to the gun (if you leave a gap between your cheek and the stock of the gun you’ll get a couple of bruises pretty quick). If you need help with how to stand or hold the gun there is no shame in asking some of the people who work at a place for help. I feel that if more people tried trap shooting they’d really be into it. It’s fun, competitive and very satisfying. I hope this column helped pique your interest or helps someone get started with trapshooting. Have fun and stay safe!

Editor-in-Chief Alyssa Soppe

Opinions Editor Ryan Carter

Cartoonist Tori Barkus

Photo Chief McKenna Krueger

Lifestyles Editor John Reel

Production Editor Jordyn Kelley

Entertainment Editor RuthAnne Hale

Staff Secretaries Miriam Cortes Kathryn Willenborg

News Editor Vanessa Chavez

Business Manager Sam Sliva

Sports Editor Kailey Boden

Social Media Manager Sarah Braley Graphic Artist AJ Bierwirth

Features Editor Adrienne Bruner

Audio/Visual Editor Ellie Dean Distribution Editor Jessica Malashock Copy Editor Emma Martin Staff Reporters Tori Barkus Hailey Boden

Trent Brakel Madi Bullard Carina Covington Conlan Custard Cam Filleman Parker Geiss Macy Glinsmann Rebecca Harvie Kristin Kaipust Savannah Lacy Jessica Lukecart Sarah Braley Isabel Kimminau Eric Murcek Maddie Rynes Adviser Christine Kaldahl

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Features 3 • 3 • 2017

for Procrastinators

By Kathryn Willenborg & Ellie Dean Staff Secretary & Audio/Visual Editor

Hair, nails, make-up, shoes, jewelry, dinner reservations, and a dress are just a few of the necessities females are expected to obtain prior to possibly one of the biggest evenings of their high school career; prom. Because the weeks leading up to this extravagant event often to result in uncomfortably high levels of stress, anxiety, sleep deprivation, and emotional break-downs, below is a list of “back-up” plans in case something falls through the cracks because stuff happens; am I right, ladies? In the event that your male friend, God forbid, forgets to make dinner reservations, don’t fret. Here is a list of nice (enough) restaurants that don’t require reservations. Make sure you order the most expensive meal on the menu, of course, because literally the only preparation on his behalf is throwing on a tux. And maybe start seeing someone else. -Cheddar’s -Olive Garden -Spaghetti Works -Hu Hot -Red Lobster -If nothing else, save your appetite for post-prom or eat at home And in the event you happen to forget to purchase a prom dress or tux for prom, these stores gotcha covered! Remember, beggars can’t be choosers so don’t be surprised when your choices are limited. -Younkers -Dillards -Von Maur -JCPenney -Tip Top Tux -Mens Warehouse

Manicures and pedicures are not only really pricey, but it can be easy to over-look these trivialities. Below is a list of cheap nail salons for a basic mani/pedi. -Rose’s Nails $37 -Cher’s Nails $45 -Legacy Nails and Spa $45 -Eden’s Nails $32 -Creative Nails $39 -Royal Nails $30 -If you’re really desperate, head to your local Walgreen’s and get the stick-on nails

Personally, jewelry is always the last objective on my radar. So when all else fails, below is a list of really cheap stores to find the perfect accessories for your big night. -Charming Charlie’s -Target -Wal-Mart -Francesca’s -Charlotte Russe -Claire’s

Luckily, shoes are easily-accessible and at most places, a fairly reasonable price. -Target -Payless -DSW -Charlotte Russe

If you happen to forget to make a hair and/or make-up appointment, there’s hundreds upon hundreds of tutorials on YouTube or Pinterest. Grab a mom and get busy! And of course, it wouldn’t be prom without the glamorous flowers! -Hy-Vee -Piccolo’s Florist

Don’t forget to bring your ticket and ID!

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Features 3 •10 • 2017

Jared Shaw makes twitter his business John Reel Lifestyles Editor

The average annual wage for a high schooler with a part-time job in America is $20,800, and that’s assuming that the high schooler is working forty hours a week for $10 an hour. Jared Shaw brings home approximately a thousand dollars a week , or around $52,000 year, with hours determined by him. Only a junior in high school, Shaw has employees, advertisement deals and hopes of starting a casual clothing label he can promote himself. He lives his life like something out of The Wolf of Wall Street, and like the movie, he does so by entrepreneurship. Specifically, he buys, sells, grows and trades Twitter for profit. “Every account has a different niche to it, and the way

you would price an account is not only by the amount of them, to create a monopoly effect that brings attention to followers it has, but by the activity it has,” says Shaw. “What all of their accounts, which raises followers. that means is if I have an account that has 200,000 follow “People will pay me not only monthly or weekly, but ers, but only 20 thousand people are viewing each tweet, they will pay me daily to get their product out to millions of the value of it would only be a thousand dollars. Some people. So instead of paying for a commercial on TV that accounts I buy that already have followers, and I’ll start costs ten grand for thirty seconds on a Wednesday night on growing them from there, sometimes I’ll grow from zero.” Animal Planet at 9 p.m., if you gave me ten grand I would Shaw, is not alone in this complex system of buying make sure thirty million people would see your product and selling Twitter accounts. The people to instead of ten thousand.” Instead of paying for a comwhom he sells and buys from are entrepre Shaw’s ability to push prodmercial on TV that costs ten grand neurs like him, who are also growing and ucts through Twitter has also for thirty seconds on a Wednesday selling accounts. Interconnected by middleinspired him to start his own night on Animal Planet at 9 p.m., man apps, people in clothing brand. The label will if you gave me ten grand I would this stock markettake inspiration from the relaxed, make sure thirty million people esque process can casual streetwear popularized by would see your product - instead of existing brands such as Supreme easily buy, sell, trade ten thousand. and communicate and Yeezy. The Lazy Boy’s Club, – Millard South Junior as Shaw calls it, will be easy to with other entrepreJared Shaw promote, as Shaw already does neurs. While owning the same for other brands, and around five accounts because Shaw already has knowlat any given time, edge on how to set it up - even thrown in with collaborations on down to the manufacturing. the side, Shaw has needed to em “I would do all this from my basement. I would have a ploy people to grow his accounts to site that people can order off of, and then instead of pushtake some of the increasing working other people’s products, I would be pushing my own so load. that way I could do all my advertisement for free.” “I pay someone to run my accounts, Unlike the overwhelming majority of his friends, and I pay someone to grow my acwho plan on attending college, Shaw said he might go for counts,” Shaw said. a year just to try it out. It’s not because he does not have Growing accounts, as Shaw the money to go. In fact, if he were to go to UNL for four mentioned, means raising followyears, it is likely that he could pay for tuition outright on ers for your account by a system of his money alone, but he feels his career has already begun. retweets. This could mean a twitter Besides his Twitter empire and a possible clothing brand, user might own many accounts his next plans involve interning at Google, which doesn’t with a low amount of followers in require a college degree, but work experience instead. And each account - low meaning only for Shaw, only a junior in high school, he already has more about 40 thousand followers - and than most college kids can claim. Jared Shaw checks on his various twitter accounts. Photo by Jordan Kelley retweet tweets from their other accounts, or accounts not owned by

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Wolf Lucas continues family legacy by joining the millitary Adrienne Bruner Features Editor Millard South students may have heard activities director Steve Throne congratulate Senior Wolf Lucas during the morning announcements this semester. After a lot of effort and a long wait, Lucas was accepted into the United States Air Force Academy.

“I have been interested in the military for most of my life,” Lucas said. “Both my mom and dad served in the Air Force for 20 years, and I have a long line of family members who have served,” he said. Lucas participates in the Millard South AFJROTC program. Although this is the program’s first year, it already has numerous students. Some join for the experience

alone, but students like Lucas join in the hopes of using what they learned in future military careers. Lucas said he hopes to one day become a pilot; he will be studying engineering during his enrollment in the Academy. “The feeling was just so overwhelming. It was relief to finally be able to say that I was going to attend the Air Force Academy,” he said. “The work that I put into it and time . .. it was a good feeling to see it all pay off,” Senior and Group Commander Wolf Lucas respectfully stands by Lucas said. during the flag retirement ceremony held in November. Photo by The process takes McKenna Kreuger a lot of time and off in the end,” Lucas said. effort, according to Acceptance into the AF Academy is Lucas. The process included a medical no ordinary occurrence. As of 2016, only examination, an application, essay ques12.3% of applicants were accepted. tions, resume, board interview and final “We are so proud of his accomplishevaluation. Next to all of these requirement. That is a great honor to be nominated ments, he got the necessary nominations for the AF Academy,” Senior Aerospace from Congressman Brad Ashford, SenaScience Director Major Ryan Bagley said. tor Deb Fischer, as well as the presiden Lucas is finishtial nomination. You ing his senior year and The feeling was just so overcannot attend the graduating with the whelming. It was a relief to Air Force Academy class of 2017 in May. without nominations, finally be able to say that I Many are proud of his even if you are still was going to attend the Air accepted. According to Force Academy.The work that accomplishmanets as he goes to represent Lucas, the effort was I put into it and time, it was both the Millard South worth it. a good feeling to see it all pay Patriots and his coun “Applying for a seroff, try at one of the top vice academy is a lot of – Senior Wolf Lucas schools in the nation. work, but it does pay

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Features 3 • 10 • 2017 A face is already the foundation of beauty The year is 2017. Our eyebrows are fuller, our cheekbones are glowing and our winged eyeliner is better than ever. With the help of beauty gurus, makeup tutorials and continuously changing trends, makeup has gradually become a more prominent part of girls’ lives. I started wearing makeup daily in seventh grade. Within the five years since then, my makeup has gone from sparkling lip gloss (this trend is actually coming back), unshaped fat eyeliner and foundation that’s too dark to an actual decent, or may I say “extra”, look. I can’t speak for everyone when the question is asked about why girls wear makeup. Everyone wears it for different reasons and while some may wear it to cover up an insecurity, you may be surprised to hear that some people wear it because they simply enjoy it. Makeup is art. Your face is the canvas. We need to get over this whole mindset that makeup is “making yourself up.” It isn’t fake, and I’m tired of hearing that phrase constantly.

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Makeup: more than just beauty

Ryan Carter Opinions Editor

Makeup. People either hate it or they love it. People either think it’s fake or they paint their eyelids purple. For as long as people can remember, makeup has been a significant part of our society. It can go from a simple hobby to a career or a profession. Despite the fact that some people say they have no problem with makeup, they might have a problem with certain kinds of makeup or certain people wearing it. Ever since beauty gurus such as James Charles, Jeffree Star and Bretman Rock hit the spotlight, many people started controversies over men wearing makeup. Many people think that a male wearing makeup makes him transgender or gay. While this stereotype may be true in some cases, it’s not the makeup that makes him transgender or gay. The internet has given these youtubers a bigger spotlight for makeup. Because of that, the whole ‘issue’ of boys wearing makeup has become more relevant in today’s society. Not only have a lot of these beauty gurus created videos, but some have also created their own brands of makeup. Kylie Jenner, Kat Von D and Jeffree Star have all competed in the makeup industry. It’s a huge competition. When asking a couple of people who love makeup some questions, answers were given that really brought out the beauty of makeup. John Brock and Shaina Smith are two students who love to work their brush on the canvas. “From what I’ve seen, makeup is an art form that you can showcase every day and all day,” Brock said. “You’re not trying to be prettier, but you’re trying to show your talent. It’s an extra boost of confidence. It helps psychologically. Don’t let someone

tell you you can’t do it if it makes you happy. It’s about what makes you comfortable. You can hate on trends all you want, but if you want giant brows and excessive highlight, do it,” he said. “I started wearing it in middle school to cover up insecurities that I had since people bullied me,” Smith said. “Since then, it’s become more of a hobby and I’ve found myself being secure with and without it. Wearing makeup doesn’t make you fake. It’s just like piercings or clothes - it’s an expression. Everyone has their own reasons for it and it’s their choice to wear it. I don’t think there’s one right way to wear it. If they’re happy, that’s what matters,” Smith said. John and Shaina had a laugh when asked how their style has changed over the years. However, despite the embarrassing or cringe-worthy time, practice makes perfect. “My makeup style has definitely changed over the years,” Brock said. “I started off with halloween makeup and red eyeshadow. Over time, I was inspired by new looks,” he said. “It has definitely changed from a more simplistic and natural look to a complex and bold look,” Smith said. “Once I got into YouTube and Instagram, I learned more techniques and trends,” she said. Now since we’re in the future, what styles do people want to bring back? “I think it would be cool to bring back an 80’s look and go out of our comfort zones by trying wild neon colors,” Brock stated. “Bring back the bold lips and matte style! Maybe add in just a little blue too,” Smith stated. So there you have it. Makeup is a statement and a work of art. Appreciate it. Love it, but more importantly, love yourself.

Ryan Carter Opinions Editor I mean, think about it. It is an art, and I cannot express that enough. With a whole palette of colors and styles, your possibilities are endless. There’s never going to be an end to what you can do. It expresses how you feel and what mood you’re in. Try to tell me it’s not an art. Go ahead. It can also be a challenge. When trying a new style, learning how to work with your brush can be hard. You may be frustrated or want to give up, but that’s what also makes makeup so fascinating. Over time, you can see your progress and hard work and it’s beyond a gifted feeling. It takes skill, and learning something new is always a positive thing. Don’t get me wrong when I say that we should love ourselves without makeup, too. I can go out without a caked face and be perfectly fine, and I wish that everyone could feel the same way. Makeup has taught me to love myself with and without it. Makeup has taught me to embrace my awkwardly shaped nose and face shape. That’s how God made me, and I love it. But here’s the thing. I cannot stand it when people assume I wear makeup for other people. I wear it for me. I wear it because I feel good and it makes me feel like myself. If a boy is really bothered by the fact that my eyelids are golden (people have actually said this to me), then that is not my problem. I am not hiding anything, and I am not fake. I will not sit here and listen to people tell me, “You won’t get a boyfriend if you’d rather watch makeup tutorials than sports.” If someone genuinely loves you, they’ll appreciate your interests, and you’ll appreciate theirs. I am not here to tell people they have to like makeup. If it’s not your thing, that’s okay! I am just stating that makeup is a beautiful thing that we shouldn’t have to judge. It makes you unique. At the end of the day, regardless of whether you wear makeup or not, all that matters is how you feel about yourself. If you’re comfortable with how you portray yourself, it shouldn’t matter how other people view you. Love yourself and make yourself a piece of art.

James Charles, otherwise known as the first male Covergirl, is sporting off the fake freckles. This look is quick, easy and cute.

Junior Ryan Carter displays two different archetypes out of many that can be found in the realm of femininity. Photo illustration by Jordyn Kelley Cara is the perfect example for the natural brow look. Although some may think it’s dark and messy, the makeup world thinks it’s a hit.

Survey highlights makeup opinions In a poll, 40 people were asked the same five questions over different trends, brands, etc. Here are the results: If someone wears makeup, does that mean they’re not ‘being themselves’ ? No - 95% Yes - 5% What’s your favorite new trend of 2017? The natural brow - 47.5% Metallic Makeup - 32.5% Fake freckles - 12.5% Glitter glosses - 7.5% The natural brow is taking a come-back. With inspirations such as Cara Delevigne and Lily Collins, the natural brow is not one to disappoint.

You can’t look at Kat Von D without admiring her bold look. She’s not only decorated her face, but also her body with artistic tattoos a

Out of the following people, who is your favorite makeup artist/icon? Kat Von D - 32.5% Kylie Jenner - 25% James Charles - 22.5% Jeffree Star - 20% She serves a look unlike anyone else, especially with that flawless

winged eyeliner. Out of the following, which is your favorite brand? Tarte - 35% Anastasia Beverly Hills - 30% MAC - 20% NYX - 15% Tarte is a high-quality makeup brand, which tends to be known for its stunning eyeshadow pallets. Many people recommend their tarteist clay paint eyeliner. If you had to get rid of one trend, what would it be? Fake Freckles - 55% Excessive Highlight - 17.5% The Instagram Brow - 15% Abnormal lip colors - 12.5% Sadly, the fake freckles have gotta go. They might just be a little too much or unnecessary.

Focus 3 • 10 2017

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Teaching without a degree?

New bill would allow substitute teaching without a college degree Hailey Boden Staff Reporter Legislative Bill number 568, introduced by Senator Steve Erdman, was introduced to change the provisions related to receive a temporary teaching certificate. Sen. Erdman represents legislative district 47, which includes the Panhandle of Nebraska, an area in the western part of the state, and superintendents of this area contacted the Senator with an expressed need for this bill because often times schools in the Panhandle have trouble finding a substitute teacher. “Out in the Panhandle substitute teachers are often mothers and housewives, who are looking to make some extra spending money on the side and many times they do not possess a formal college degree” Said Erdman’s legislative aide Joel Hunt. So the superintendents Erdman talked to asked him to create a substitute teaching certificate for those with only a high school diploma. But this temporary certificate also comes with a few prerequisites. Here are the requirements to obtain Temporary Substitute Teacher’s Certificate as listed on the bill’s statements of intent; 1) The applicant must be at least 21 years of age 2) the applicant must possess a valid high school diploma 3) the applicant must complete 24 hours of inservice training 4) the applicant must complete ten hours of classroom observation at each educational level, for a total of 30 hours of observation 5) the applicant must successfully complete a course and pass an exam on the United States and Nebraska Constitution 6) the applicant submit to fingerprinting for a criminal background check and 8) the applicant must complete an application for the Temporary Substitute Teacher’s Certificate and pay the required fee.

“The Wyoming law requires candidates to pass a test on the United States Constitution. We decided to add the Nebraska Constitution as well,” said Hunt. So, candidates must take a course and pass a test for both the United States Constitution as well as the Nebraska Constitution. All of the other requirements stipulated in the bill came to Erdman and Hunt through Rick Myles, the Superintendent of the Scottsbluff School District who helped Hunt craft the bill, or they were necessary because of already existing laws, such as fingerprinting for a criminal background check. With each of these requirements fulfilled, a person may receive a temporary teaching certificate if the district they reside in does not oppose the bill. Our District however, will oppose this bill and will not change the standards in which teachers are hired in Millard Public schools. “If the bill gets passed, we will not change our hiring standards. The Millard Public Schools will continue to recruit and hire the highest quality and qualified teachers,” said MPS Human resources recruiter Jeanine Beaudin.

Teachers interviewed about their experiences as nursing mothers say they had most trouble during testing days, because they couldn’t leave or the time for lunch was switched around and they had to wait longer than their regular time. “I would have lunch four hours after testing and couldn’t pump,” industrial arts teacher Jasia Poppleton said. Another problem that would help nursing mothers would be a “Do Not Enter” sign that

Rebbeca Harvie Staff Reporter

the prosecution charge. To this day not a single Nebraskan teacher has been charged with these extreme laws. So in this brisk winter air changes are being made that may undo these laws. Nebraskan senator Scheer proposed a bill that will repeal the Nebraskan laws 79-898 and 79-899. Both math teacher Sara Bonn and social studies teacher Nicholas Kintzle say they have felt no pressure from this law or rules like it. They say they do not feel pressure to not wear certain clothing or jewelry. “I feel like Millard South has always said “dress professionally” and then leaves it to the discretion of the teacher.” said Bonn. They also do not find it pressured on them or difficult for them to separate their professional lives from their beliefs. “As teachers we are taught and trained in how to act in a professional manner. You don’t mix in your beliefs,” Kintzle said. The laws were set in place originally against the Catholics and Nebraska was not the first state to have these laws. These laws have a confusing history back to Hysong v. School District of Gallitzin Borough in 1894 Pennsylvania. The supreme court of Pennsylvania ruled that religious clothing did not affect a teacher’s teaching. Yet, the following year the state made a law against teachers from wearing religious clothing and the court upheld that law. Following Pennsylvania, New York, New Mexico, North Dakota, Oregon, Indiana, and Nebraska all implemented similar laws. Since then all of the states with the exception of Pennsylvania and Nebraska have repealed those laws. This bill is not earth shattering and should it pass then it won’t change much. Schools don’t warn their teachers about these two old laws and most dress code

breaches in schools are against the school’s dress code and not the state’s. Yet it draws into question a few different standards. For example is it right to tread upon teacher’s first amendment rights in order to keep church and state separated? What should the government decide and what decisions don’t belong to the government? Should teachers be allowed to discuss their beliefs, would this equal the playing field between beliefs or would it give select ones the advantage? Do some beliefs, whether in the divine or in the lack of the divine, already have an advantage in public schools? If you had trouble answering these questions, then be encouraged. These questions are not easy and they are not meant to be easy. This concept is the embodiment of being between a rock and a hard place. No idea is without flaw and no solution answers all the concerns. All you can do is decide for yourself if the risk is worth the reward of any decision. The separation is not perfect but it is not terrible either. “It is adequate,” Kintzle said. “There needs to be and there is a separation but religion is part of the history of the world.” “The balance is there,” Bonn said. So don’t feel pressured to know what you believe at this moment. The system still works, and if you discover a better one then awesome. Things can always be improve but you need to know your beliefs and your values before you can change anything for the better. LB62 is just a bill, it does not mean much. It may pass or fail without disrupting your daily life, but it represents the need for every citizen to know their laws and to know how they feel about those laws.

art by Tori Barkus

Here’s who represents you in the Nebraska Unicameral

really meant “Do Not Enter.” Teachers like Vickie Weidenhamer said they would pump in their room and have people walk in or students knock on her door in the hopes of being admitted to class early. That can cause a problem because they could not be done pumping or someone just walks in on them pumping. Millard Public Schools has taken a neutral position on this bill.

Kailey Boden Sports Editor

in extracurricular activities. “This defeats the purpose of home schooling, because it takes at least half a day for those four classes,” Craighead says. “So with this bill, we are looking to change the number of classes a student must take in school to two, and would still allow him/her to participate in extracurricular activities.” Senator Craighead addressed how having to take at least four classes like a traditional student while also being homeschooled would take too much time, that a child getting an education just doesn’t have. “This situation with four classes is not ideal,” Craighead says. “It could be the classes the student wants to take are 2,3,5, and 8th period, and they are back and forth between school and homeschooling all day.” This was the same in Mallory’s case. “Knowing that I did not have enough hours in the day to complete schoolwork, track, and piano,” Mallory says. “I either needed to give something up or become home schooled once again.” It took several nights of talking with her parents to conclude that they would try enrolling half time at Millard South and half time privately tutored. After many visits with the school board, state education departments, and

Nebraska seeks to clean up old laws on the books Who would have thought that choosing what to wear in the morning would be risky? But it was for teachers in the early 20th century. In 1919 the state of Nebraska passed two laws that prevent teachers from wearing any garment that indicates their religious beliefs. The penalties of breaking law 79-898 was classified as a misdemeanor and included a fine less than $100 and/ or jail time up to 30 days in a county jail. Then with the law 79-899 the penalty was changed. The fine and/or jail time was changed to a year suspension from the school by the school’s board of education. Should there be a second offense then the penalty would be a permanent disqualification from teaching in any of the board’s schools, once again the school’s board would have to charge the teacher. Should the board not prosecute the teacher then they would be guilty of a misdemeanor and pay a fine plus

Millard opposes homeschool activity bill

Senior Mallory Burton had to choose between being solely homeschooled in order to focus on her superior piano skills and pursuing athletics, particularly on the track and field here at Millard South going into her sophomore year. Burton was studying at the Omaha Conservatory of Music and competed several times her eighth and ninth grade year, including placing a victory at a state level competition and being invited to study over in Europe the following summer at the Tyrolean International Piano academy. Excelling as much as she has in piano while also wanting to spark a new adventure on the varsity track team lead to one sole question; why not have the best of both worlds? Mallory’s case is one that is addressed in legislative bill 58. Legislative Bill number 58 allows home school students to participate in a school’s extracurricular activities in the district where they reside. The Bill was introduced by Senator Kintner who has since resigned. This bill is now under Senator Joni Craighead. “One of my constituents asked if I would pick up the bill and I did,” Craighead said. Currently home schooled students must be enrolled in four classes at the school in which they want to participate

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Bill would require schools to provide nursing teen moms with privacy for milk expression and storage Sarah Braley Staff Reporter Legislative Bill 427 states that schools should provide student-parents with “a private/ appropriate place for milk expression and storage.” With this passage of this bill, it would allow teen mothers and possibly teachers to have a private room for them to express breast milk and have a place where they can store their expressed milk.

Focus 3 • 10 • 2017

Rick Kolowski District 31

John McCollister District 20

(402) 471-2327 rkolowski@leg.ne.gov

(402) 471-2622 jmccollister@leg.ne.gov

Merv Riepe District 12 (402) 471-2623 mriepe@leg.ne.gov

administration, she was set to go for her sophomore year. Senator Craighead and her constituents are working with the Nebraska State Activities Association on this bill. A factor that should be taken when considering a side being taken on this bill is the different speeds of learning for each individual student. “I went to public schools and universities,” says Craighead. “However, all students learn differently, and I believe they and their parents should have options for educationpublic, private, parochial or home schooling while still having the benefits of being a part of extracurriculars.” Millard Public Schools has taken a position of opposition to this bill. “Millard Public Schools supports the concept of Legislative Bill 58 but is opposed to the bill because the NSAA currently has pending legislation of their own that would accomplish the same thing,” Millard Athletic Director Nolan Beyer says. The NSAA Representative Assembly will vote on its own proposal in April. It is the Millard Public Schools district’s belief that this matter should be addressed by the NSAA alone and legislative action is not needed.

John Murante District 49 (402) 471-2725 jmurante@leg.ne.gov

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Focus 3 • 10 • 2017

Proposed bill would make civics test a graduation requirement Vanessa Chavez News Editor One of the requirements to become a United States citizen is to take the civics portion of the U.S. Citizenship test that tests the person’s knowledge of U.S. history and government. Senator Lydia Brasch has proposed legislative bill 155 that would require every high school student to take this civics test in order to graduate. Students would be required to correctly answer at least 70 of the 100 questions from the USCIS Naturalization Test, something that Brasch assures is doable. Her legislative aide, that has been out of high school for 12 years, took the test and got all 100 questions correct the first time, without studying. He took the test to other staff around the capitol building and had similar results, Brasch said. Seniors on the Common Sense Newspaper staff that are either currently enrolled or have already taken a government class took a randomly selected, 10 question Citizenship test ,without studying, and averaged a 74 percent. As to her reasons for proposing the bill, she refers to a letter to the editor in the Grand Island Independent by students at Elm Creek Public Schools in which they state that “It is a small but important step in ensuring that our generation, and all who follow, will understand our inalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, so that our unique and exceptional nation can continue to be a light of hope to the rest of the world”. In this letter to the editor the students pre-tested their classmates and 200 other juniors and seniors from across Nebraska,

and 80 percent failed. Following that Independence and the U.S. Constitution, examination, the school board decided to is essential for every citizen if America is start requiring that all students pass the going to continue to be a stable republic. U.S. citizenship test to graduate. “Stability is not something that should be Currently 13 other states have also taken for granted,” Brasch said. made passing the U.S. citizenship test a She explains that The Declaration of requirement for graduation. Independence enumerates the ideals of “We believe Nebraska should join that this country and the Constitution written movement to ensure that all students have and adopted by the founders are there to a basic understanding of how our governprotect those ideals while also empowering ment works,” the letter said. the people and safeguarding liberty. Brasch said she believes that one as It is for these reasons that Brash pect of being believes it is “the There are many questions within the a good citizen solemn duty of test that bring up important topics is knowing every generation that I hope piques the interest of and underof Americans every student taking the test and will standing to instruct the be the impetus for them to read and the political generation after institutions of them, to teach investigate more about that topic. the country them to love and of which you understand our – Senator Lydia Brasch are a part. institutions, and However, she to teach them understands to protect those that simply institutions with getting a passing score does not mean an uncompromising fidelity.” a citizen will have a deep and abiding Millard South government teacher knowledge of the laws and institutions, but Jamie Svatora has heard of this proposed does know that it scratches the surface, that bill. it’s a start. She too knows understanding the “There are many questions within the principles of American Government is test that bring up important topics that I essential for all citizens, which is why hope piques the interest of every student students are required to take and pass a taking the test and will be the impetus for government course in high school. them to read and investigate more about However, she said she has a few conthat topic,” Brasch said. cerns pertaining to this bill, such as the Brasch stresses that having a thorcost of implementing the test,as well as the ough understanding of the Declaration of fact that the questions and answers for the

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test are all readily available online. “Teachers would teach to the test, and students would memorize the answers. As a result, most students would pass the test, but this does not mean that they have a deeper understanding of or appreciation for American Government,” she said. Svatora also acknowledges that the test itself is already incorporated in her government class. “Our state and district social studies standards already require us to teach the major concepts that this test would be assessing,” Svatora said. She says that she uses the citizenship test in class as part of the introduction to the course and revisits the test at the end of the course. The final exam also includes many questions that are similar to those on the citizenship test. Junior Kimberly Martinez said she thinks the bill is not a bad idea that it would “really benefit the things we learn in class and would make sure we actually know the necessary things about the U.S.” However, she also takes into account that people would complain if they specifically said it was a citizenship test because they would complain about how they’re already citizens and make a big deal about it. The district of Millard opposes this bill and in a statement Communications Director Rebecca Kleeman said it is because “We do not feel the legislation is necessary as our curriculum addresses components that would be included in such exam.”

Would you pass the test?

See how many of the randomly selected questions from the national Citizenship Test (that the Common Sense newspaper staff also had to answer) you can get right!

99.) When do we celebrate Inde79.) Who was President during pendence Day? World War I?

(George) Washington

July 4

40.) Who is the Chief Justice of the United States 71.) What terrinow? tory did the United States buy from France 91.) Name one in 1803? U.S. territory John Roberts (John G. Roberts, Jr.)

46.) What is the political party of the President 25.) Why do some now? states have more Representatives than other states? 13.) Name one branch or part of the government.

52.) What do we show loyalty to when we say the Pledge of Allegiance? The United States, the Flag

69.) Who is the father of our country?

(Woodrow) Wilson

Republican (Party)

(because of) the state’s population, (because) they have more people, (because) some states have more people

The Louisiana Territory, Louisiana Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands, Guam

Congress, legislative, President, executive, the courts, judicial

Entertainment 3 • 10 • 2017

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Twenty Øne Piløts Emotional Roadshow rolls through Omaha Tori Barkus Staff Reporter

Twenty Øne Piløts came to Omaha. Yes, the Twenty Øne Piløts. And yes, I did get tickets and had the opportunity to see them. Not only was I seeing Twenty Øne Piløts, but I was getting to go to my soon to be favorite concert I’ve ever been to. (And yes, that’d obviously be this concert.) They had two opening acts, Judah and the Lion, a very underrated band, and Jon Bellion. They’re both talented groups/ artists, but I just wasn’t feeling it. All I wanted was to see Twenty Øne Piløts, I honestly could have cared less about the opening acts. But, they did sound really good live. Judah from Judah and the Lion held a little meet and greet by section 110, and I got a picture with him. At this point, I was just pumped for TØP. When we first got the tickets to see them, I literally did not care. I was more trying my best to get myself tickets to Ariana Grande (who I’ll be seeing Feb. 7) so I was not really looking forward to these two guys. I know, I know, I can almost hear the screams now. But hear me out. The closer this concert got, the more excited I got. I was becoming a fan, I was getting excited to see them, though I still was more excited to see Ariana. Not anymore. Twenty Øne Piløts was the absolute best concert I’ve ever been to. No joke. They were very involved with the audience. During their song Hometown, Tyler Joseph, the lead singer, was covered with a tarp and for the last few seconds of art by Tori Barkus the song, he appeared in one of the 200 screens to Joseph’s literally perfect vocals just made this sections. At one point, he was being held up by the people concert perfect. And I’ve seen One Direction live, because, in the first couple rows of the floor. Joshua Dun, the drum- yes, I do kind of like 1D, and they were amazing. And for mer, got into a human-sized hamster ball and ran across the longest time, they were the best concert I’d been to. But the crowd. It was amazing. He nearly tripped at one point, TØP quickly replaced them. because it’s gotta be difficult to run when the only surface I’m excited for their next tour because I will definitely you have is hands underneath you. Everything from the be coming back to see them, hopefully more than once. interactions with the audience to the visuals on the big

The Space Between Us features martians, action, romance, suspense Madi Bullard Staff Reporter I think the movie ‘The Space Between Us’ is great for all ages and was really fascinating for a plethora of reasons. Not only was the undeniable love between Gardner (played by Asa Butterfield) and Tulsa (played by Britt Robertson) a component of the movie, but it also offered an action and drama element into the mix, making it appealing to a variety of audiences. A group of six astronauts are sent to Mars with the goal of colonizing it. While on the way to Mars, the only women on the ship (who is pregnant) dies in the midst of birthing her son, Gardner. Gardner then grows up on Mars and is constantly dreaming about life on Earth. He has a photograph of his mom with another gentleman, whom Gardner believes could potentially be his father. Gardner talks to a girl named Tulsa online, who resides on Earth, though Tulsa is unaware that Gardner lives on Mars. Gardner fabricated a story that he has a disease that prevents him from being able to leave his home. Tulsa and Gardner discuss frequently their hopes to someday meet in person, though the people at NASA quickly dismiss this aspiration because Gardner’s bones won’t be able to hold up on Earth because Mars has less gravity. Finally, Gardner convinces NASA to let him visit Earth after enduring a surgery that would give his bones support on Earth. Upon his arrival to Earth, NASA prepares to do several tests on Gardner, but he escapes to go find Tulsa. Once he finds Tulsa, she is upset with him because he was unable to communicate with her throughout the duration of his trip from Mars to Earth. Eventually, Gardner and Tulsa decide to travel together to find the mysterious man from the picture with his mother. Meanwhile, they are also still being chased by NASA to perform tests on Gardner. Gardner’s body won’t last long on Earth, and the gravity is bringing him down. The director is Peter Chelsom, who also directed Hannah Montana: The Movie. Butterfield has played a role in ‘Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children’, and Roberston has starred in ‘Tomorrowland’ and ‘The Longest Ride.’

Dog’s Purpose suffers sabotage, still delivers heartfelt messages to audience Carina Covington Staff Reporter Good publicity is a must have for new releases. However, A Dog’s Purpose received an overwhelming amount of negative publicity due to a video released on social media showing a German Shepard being forced into rushing water on the set of the movie. American Humane reported that none of the animals were harmed or abused in the making of the new release despite the video posted on social media. PETA (People for the Ethical treatment of Animals) called for a boycott of the film when the video was released. Universal Studios called for an investigation. The video specifically shows a German Shepard being pushed into water being churned by motors. The dog repeatedly struggles in the person’s hands but the person still submerged the dog into the water. Then the video cuts to the dog sinking further into the water. Universal announced the premiere of A Dog’s Purpose was cancelled due to the investigation and bad publicity towards the movie. The investigation shows that the video The video was taken roughly edited. was 15 months ago when the movie was being produced. However, the video was released only a few weeks ago. It is believed by the

producer, Gavin Polone, among many others, that the video was released to sabotage the premiere of the movie. The individual who manipulated the video waited to post the video until a few days before the premier when the video was actually taken 15 months earlier. The investigation by an animal cru elty expert showed that no animals were harmed in the making of the movie. A press release by American Humane explained that the video was manipulated for the sole reason of misleading the media. It also explains that the dog selected for the movie was chosen for his love of water and the manipulation of the video was created by taking two small clips from separate days of filming edited together to look like they go hand in hand. Five experts were actually on set at all times in order to ensure that no dogs were mistreated during the producing of the film. A Dog’s Purpose proved to be a heart wrenching drama and left the audience in tears. I found the acting to be extremely realistic and the stories told in the movie to leave a lasting message with the audience about finding a purpose in life. The book highlights a dog living through many lives. In each of the lives, the dog, voiced by Josh Gad, searches for the

purpose of being alive. In the dog’s first life, he is owned by a young boy named Ethan (played by Bryce Gheisar). Ethan’s father, starred by Luke Kirby, is an alcoholic who becomes abusive to his wife as Ethan becomes a teenager. Teenage Ethan (played by KJ Apa) always turns to his dog, Bailey, to provide happiness. As Bailey changes into many different dogs and experiences different lives, his purpose in being alive changes. In his final life shown in the movie, he is a neglected dog who lives a brutal life outside. When his owner drops him off near a random field, Bailey finds the field familiar. He runs through the field and eventually makes it back to where Ethan, his first owner, lives. Despite the movie revolv ing around a personified dog, I enjoyed watching the film because of its strong production and quality acting. While I may not always enjoy movies highlighting animals, A Dog’s Purpose is a must see.

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Entertainment 3 • 10 • 2017

Lighthearted humor for the Dark Knight

If I Was Your Girl shines light on LGBTQ community

Isabel Kimminau Staff Reporter After the success of the Lego Movie a sequel or spinoff was inevitable. Sure enough one such movie has come along with hit character Batman as its lead, the Lego Batman Movie. The movie follows Batman (i.e. Bruce Wayne) after the events of the Lego Movie, as he fights crime in Gotham City. Joker, the main antagonist of the movie, hatches a plan to bring Gotham City and the Bats to his knees after being emotionally harmed by him. To save Gotham, the vigilante clad in black teams up with Barbara Gordon (Batgirl), Richard Grayson (Robin), and Alfred. Along the way, Bruce learns some lessons about how to let people back into his life and what it means to be a family. Overall the movie is a hilarious action comedy, with stunning graphics and interesting characters. With humor built for the family, the movie, although targeted to kids, is enjoyable for any age. The movie is a nice reprieve from the usual dark themes of the other movies within the Batman franchise. It introduces a lightheartedness not usually seen in typical superhero films, let alone movies starring the Dark Knight himself. It’s a refreshing take on the genre. Batman, of course, steals his own show with his personality and wit, but that doesn’t mean that he is the only compelling character in the film. All of the characters are overall well developed and they each seem to have a moment in the film where they showcase their own humorous personalities in a way that’s fun for the audience. The pacing of the film really allows for the actors to develop their characters in a way that feels like they are realistic people. Not to mention that the attention to visual detail is highly refreshing. As we saw in the Lego Movie it is a CGI made

film, but the graphics are extremely meticulous. The creators put detailed scratches in the paint, for example, and the lighting tones reflect the lightheartedness of the movie through bright imagery representative of the Lego universe. Even if the movie isn’t a film that you would always be interested in, it’s worth a viewing. With a notable cast, fun witty characters, great visuals, and in general an enjoyable plot, the movie is a great companion to the already successful Lego Movie. The Lego Batman Movie does not disappoint.

Macy Glinsmann Staff Reporter Unlike the books sitting in the back of your shelf, never being read, If I Was Your Girl by Meredith Russo, published May 3rd, 2016, will be one you want to read over and over again. Russo’s writing is more unique, as she goes back and forth between past and present time, giving the reader a look into main character Amanda’s past life. The 205 page book will take you on a roller coaster of emotions. The main character, Amanda, has a secret that no one knows; she’s transgender, and goes through the same things Russo did, being a transgender woman as well. It’s not that she doesn’t want them to know that she was born a male, it’s that they can’t. It would ruin her, just like it did back in her old town. She was bullied for years for not being masculine like the boy she was born as. Amanda, unknown to many, was born as Alex. She’s moved from across the country to start fresh with her new identity, along with her father. When she meets Grant, she doesn’t know the feeling inside

of her. Later she comes to realize she loves him. Grant asks Amanda out, to her, and the readers, shock. But he has a secret as well, that he’s been hiding from everyone for fear of hatred. Amanda and Grant do eventually date, but with many obstacles in their way. Many more people, other than Grant, have fallen for Amanda, her life basically flipped upside down. But will the struggles bring them together, or tear them apart? With all of the struggles, the ones that many of us go through ourselves, readers can learn so many important lessons from this book. Some include, but aren’t limited to, how to handle feelings, bullying, getting in trouble, first dates, and secrets. This novel had me awake for hours, reading and reading until I couldn’t tell what I was doing anymore. My many hours of free time was consumed by this book alone. I was easily entertained for hours, and I would not peel my eyes away from it. If you’re looking for a new book, I recommend If I Was Your Girl more than any other book. This is Russo’s first and only book, but it, by far, deserves many more to come.

Mobile version of Fire Emblem holds true to high standards of previous installments Trent Brakel Staff Reporter

One of my fondest memories of video games was my first system, the Game Boy Advance. The first game I received for it was Fire Emblem, a tactical strategy game with interesting characters and hard as nails gameplay. Every move your units made mattered and a character who died in battle would never come back. Ever since, I’ve played every Fire Emblem game to date, including the latest release of Fire Emblem Birthright and Fire Emblem Conquest. When I heard about a Fire Emblem mobile game in development, I, of course, was excited. I was also slightly skeptical, wondering if a mobile game could hold the same classic fun of the series. I played the game on the day it released, and I was not disappointed. Fire Emblem Heroes is a free to play mobile strategy game. There is a story mode that you and your team of heroes follow, drawing you into a simple, but enjoyable story involving lots of turn-based strategy. Your team of heroes is made up of characters from other various Fire Emblem games. You can add more heroes to your team by summoning them with “orbs”, and

dismissing the ones you don’t want for more resources. You can get these orbs by playing through the story mode or paying money (Gotta make a profit somehow!). Every hero is ranked on a 1 to 5 star system, familiar to anyone who has read an Amazon review. The higher the star rank, the stronger your unit is. And even if you get a low star hero, you can increase their star rank by collecting “badges” throughout the game. Fans of Fire Emblem will be happy to see some familiar faces, especially from Fire Emblem Awakening and the Fire Emblem Fates series. But what about people who have never

played a Fire Emblem game, or even a strategy game? Well, you’ll find a game that challenges you with ever-changing battles and events, with a combat system as easy as Rock-Paper-Scissors. Anyone who’s a fan of

fantasy or strategy games should give this game a try. After all, it’s free!

Entertainment 3 • 10 • 2017

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How Harry Potter cast a spell over millions of readers Maddie Rynes Staff Reporter

Many books have the power to move people, and The Harry Potter series does nothing less. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone was released 20 years ago, and has been circling the globe ever since. It has been translated into more than 70 languages, and been sold in hundreds of stores. The other six sequels have been just as popular, as J.K. Rowling’s debut series has sold over 400 million copies worldwide. The series has not only been in The New York Times’ Best Seller list, but is at the top of millions of book lovers’ hearts. J.K. Rowling wrote the book after ending her marriage while she was living with her daughter in Edinburgh. She received a publishing offer for the book that has changed the lives of many. J.K. Rowling has exquisitely constructed a magical world from her mind. She has built the walls of Hogwarts from the ground up, sealed the doors of the Dursleys’ Number Four, Privet Drive, guided our ride with Buck-

Which of these traits best describes you? a. Intelligent b. Kind c. Cunning d. Courageous If a boggart transformed into your biggest fear, what would it show? a. Failed test or classes b. A loved one dead c. Public humiliation d. Fear itself What professor is most likely to take away points from your house? a. McGonagall b. Flitwick c. Moody d. Snape Which quidditch position are you? a. Seeker b. Keeper c. Beater d. Chaser What magical creature seems the most interesting? a. Sphinx b. Unicorn c. Basilik d. Hippogriff What is your job after Hogwarts? a. A professor b. Owning a shop in Hogsmeade c. Minister of magic d. Auror What is your perfect house? a. A quiet apartment in the city b. A cute cottage near family

beak over the lake, and bewitched us with the flick of a pen. She has influenced many readers into believing in the impossible, and has convinced us that the real magic lies within us. In the Sorcerer’s Stone, eleven-year-old orphan Harry discovers that after many painful years living in isolation under the stairs of his aunt, uncle, and dreadfully chubby cousin Dudley’s house, his entire life has been a lie. On his eleventh birthday, he received a visit from the beloved gamekeeper at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, Hagrid. The enormous teddy-bear of a man changes Harry’s world forever, with the famous line, “Harry- yer a wizard.” He inherited this power from his parents, who were ruthlessly murdered by the dark Lord Voldemort, whose name is forbidden to speak for fear that he will return. He-who-must-not-be-named tried to kill Harry, who was an infant at the time, but his mother’s love protected him,

and friends c. A grand mansion full of riches d. A big house in the suburbs What is your least favorite subject? a. Divination b. Defense against the dark arts c. Care of Magical Creatures d. Potions What is your favorite tradition/activity at Hogwarts? a. Beginning of the year banquet b. Christmas feast c. Halloween d. Quidditch Cup Who is your favorite professor? a. Professor Flitwick b. Professor Sprout c. Professor Snape d. Professor Lupin What animal would you want with you at school? a. Phoenix b. Cat c. Snake d. Owl What would you get in trouble for? a. Breaking into the restricted section in the library b. Taking food from the kitchen c. Dueling in the common rooms d. Wandering the halls at night

making him the first to survive the killing curse, and naming him “the Boy Who Lived”. Harry goes off to Hogwarts where he learns various aspects of magic and befriends Ron Weasley, a redheaded goofball from a rather large family, and Hermione Granger, a know-it-all whose constant reading has saved their lives multiple times. They deal with typical school drama (minus the floating ghosts), with strict teachers and narcissistic bullies. The trio continues their education at Hogwarts with numerous adventures and countless run-ins with death’s hand. While the characters deal with battling vengeful wizards and studying for their O.W.L.’s, they build strong friendships and create lasting memories. J.K. Rowling has broken boundaries with her excellent insight; she shows how the magic truly lies within all of us. While we may not be able to create a distinct Patronus, we sure can touch the wizardry that is Harry Potter.

You are clever and kind. Sometimes your curiosity can get the best of you, but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Your peers enjoy your witty humor and your tendency to help out whenever needed. You seek the truth, which makes you a trustworthy friend. You can be competitive, but you also know how to enjoy yourself. You often find facts and logic to be comforting. Remember, there is knowledge in everything, you may just have to look a little further.

You are warm and well liked. You are sensitive and supportive, and that’s what those close to you appreciate. Your smile comforts those around you, and you never fail to spread your cheer. You tend to care about others’ happiness more than your own, so remember to take the time to focus on your wants. Kindness can get you to many places, and is one of your greatest qualities.

Although your house has a bad reputation, Slytherins are known for being cunning and ambitious. You aren’t afraid to go after what you want, and others admire your determination. Make sure your confidence does not lead to arrogance. Your quick wit and strong esteem will lead you to great opportunities; remind yourself to be patient for them.

You are notoriously brave with the heart of your mascot, a lion. You take any opportunity that comes your way, and your friends find your adventurous side to be charming. Your courage is evident, but be sure to think before you act, as you may be reckless and arrogant. You have a very generous, loyal heart and are devoted to your family and friends. You are a good leader and an even better friend. Bravery and resilience are important in times of conflict, so be sure to put your skills to the test

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Sports 3 • 10• 2017

Team takes home the title one more time for Coach Denson Continued from page 1

“Losing state by half a point my freshman year has made us work really hard during the offseason which has paid off the last three years,” Charity said. A huge part of their success comes through the team’s overall brotherhood bond. Most of the team has been wrestling together since elementary school. “Having some of the best kids of the state to work out with every day has made me a better wrestler as a whole,” Charity says. “For me the team is summed up as just always being there for each other throughout every high and low.” Many younger Patriots wrestlers are also showing great success. Sophomore Blake Jackson has improved from being a state finalist his freshman year to a number one state champ in the 106 lb. weight class this season. “Losing last year really drove me to get a state title this year,” Jackson said. “I live off the crowd and enjoy putting on a show for the fans.” Blake agrees with Charity in the bonds that have been created with his teammates. He sees his team as his second family he will Sophomore Blake Jackson stand on top of the podium at state as the 106 never forget. lb. state champion. As a freshman, he was runner-up. Photo courtesy of “The thing I like most about Millard South Wrestling Millard South is that we are a family of brothers,” Jackson says. in state dual championships this past weekend in “We are the closest group you’ll find because we do Kearney and they did, yet again, taking home another everything together and always push each other in state title for the Patriots. In the quarterfinals, they and outside of the practice room.” defeated Lincoln Southwest 49-13 with 11 wins and 3 Many other Patriot wrestlers had successful losses. In the semifinals they defeated Omaha Burke seasons and top 5 finishes with senior Nate Rodriguez 51-18 with 10 wins and 4 losses. Finally, in the chamhaving the best career on the team, being a four-time pionship match they came out on top 41-25 against state medalist. Kearney with 9 wins and 5 losses. Millard South was looking for a three-peat

Three time state champion and 4 time state medalist senior Nathan Rodriguez wrestles in the district championship. Photo courtesy of Millard South Wrestling

Coach Doug Denson talks with Rajan Ellebb about developing some new takedown moves. Rajan went on to place 5th place at state. Photo by McKenna Krueger

Hockey team breaks the ice into first season Cam Filleman Staff Reporter 2016 marks the first year Millard South has ever had a Hockey team. Millard South Hockey joined the OHSHL (Omaha High School Hockey League) presumably because Millard West as well as Millard North both already have had Hockey teams for some time now, and Millard South is soon going to be having an influx of hockey playing freshmen who wouldn’t have had a team to play on otherwise. Millard South Hockey consists of twelve players, five of whom actually attend Millard South, and the other seven were drafted from other schools that most likely didn’t have hockey teams. When asked if he had ever played with them before, Alex Kopf, The team’s Goalie who’s been playing Hockey for twelve years said, “ Some of them yes but others it took time to get Millard South Players left to right (Top) Head Coach Tony Kopf, Cj Harding, Caleb Waschkowski, Maddie Victor, Ben Wesch, Turner used to but we’re all pretty blended now.” Which is an Wilcox, Gabe Wilson, Asst. Coach Lee Victor (Bottom) Peyton Daniel, Cade Hopkins, Alex Kopf, Zane Woods, Conner Spencer important aspect of a Hockey team, having good team more wins for the team. ments for these dates and times and get out there and supsynergy is crucial for performing well in games. Millard South will also have about three kids from port your school’s Hockey Team! Millard South is currently last on the bracket of eleven their team at the OHSHL All Star Game, which takes all the teams with only one win, According to Connor Spencer, A best kids from the various teams and pits them against each sophomore who plays right wing, “the team has been focusother in a single game. ing on their offensive approach.” A solid offense means more Millard South usually has games on Wednesday nights and goals for and less goals against, therefore resulting in some Sunday afternoons, so be sure to listen to the announce-

Sports 3 • 10 • 2017

15

Band of Brothers says goodbye to Coach Doug Denson 1993-1994

co-head coach varsity at MSHS

Eric Murcek Staff Reporter Typically, when someone has made plans to retire, However, this doesn’t mean that Coach Denson they don’t make plans to stay any longer. This is why couldn’t still retire on a high note. “We are in head wrestling coach Doug Denson’s retirement is so position to challenge for the state title. We’ve had a unique. dynamite season so far, and couldn’t really ask for Three years ago, when Denson was already nearmore,” Denson said. ing the end of his career, he made a promise to a group The wrestling team was more than in a position of freshmen to coach them until they graduated. Now, to just challenge for a state title this year. On the those freshmen are seniors, and Denson has kept his weekend of Feb. 16, the team won the state title. promise, meaning this year is his last year at Millard Millard South with nine of its athletes finishing South. in the top five of their respective weight classes, Denson’s career here began 24 years ago, and with and sophomore Blake Jackson finished as the state that, so did the dominance of Millard South wrestling. champion of the 106-pound weight class. Then, the “The program was built from the ground up,” next weekend, the team won the state dual chamDenson said. “At one point we were at the bottom of pionships as well. the barrel, and when you’re there you have to make a “It actually feels surreal,” Denson said. “It’s plan for success. Over time some beliefs start emerging. one of those things where you could dream about Embracing those things can help build it,” he said. going off into the sunset, so the fact that it did hap In order to start rising up in the ranks, the team pen is amazing.” needed a change. When Denson began coaching in This being the last of seven state titles for Den1993, he brought the change with son, it will go down as one of him. his top moments as a coach. The program was built from “With wrestling, putting in “It’s special because of the ground up. At one point we the extra effort is so important,” the situation, ” Denson said. “2006 were at the bottom of the barrel, Denson said. We were going to do was the best year ever, because both and when you’re there you have to more and be more tenacious. We of my sons were on that record-setmake a plan for success. Over time tried to outwork all of our oppoting team and placed. That moment some beliefs start emerging. Emnents,” he said. was priceless. This moment will bracing those things can help build However, these beliefs can be always be a fond memory, and a it. hard to instill in high school stukind of closure to the career.” dents. In order to get this mindset However, just because Den– Varsity Wrestling Coach into his athletes, Denson decided son has the closure of going out on Doug Denson that he needed to get them started such a high, that doesn’t mean that before they got to high school. he’s going to just walk away from “I created the club to start wrestling. kids young and train them the way I wanted to be “Everybody wants to define retirement as being trained. When those kids started coming to high school, the end, but my definition is just that it opens up more we started having even better results,” he said. opportunities for me to help. I don’t want to look at it as Because of all this, Millard South’s wrestling team is being the end, but just the start of a different role.” one of the winningest teams in the state. Denson has led Denson plans on staying involved with the team, but is the team to six state titles in the years 2005-2008, and in giving whoever the next head coach is full control. 2015 and 2016. “I’m not going to get in the way of whoever takes When people want to leave something, they typimy place, but I do think I’m going to continue running cally want to go out on top. With state titles in 2015 and the club,” Denson said. “I don’t want to be a shadow over 2016, last year would have been a perfect time to retire. whoever takes over. I think that would be unfair.” However, the promise Denson made compromised this. Just because the head coach may be leaving doesn’t “I thought it would have been cool to go out on mean the end of the team’s success, though. As Denson top,” Denson said. “But when you make a promise to said, “The structure will carry on, and isn’t people, you have to make it mean something. I didn’t made by one person.” want to be a phony, so I decided to stick it out and go out with this group of seniors. It’s important for the kids to see that you stand behind what you say.”

“

1994-1995

first state runner-up team

”

Coach Denson and Meneely talk to then junior Stephen Medina (class of ‘06). Medina was a member of the 2005 state championship team. Photo from 2005 yearbook

2005- first state title 2006- second state title 2007- third state title 2008- fourth state title

2015- fifth state title 2016- sixth state title

At the end of practice, Coach Doug Denson discusses with his team what it’s going to take to be successful at the next meet. Photo by McKenna Krueger

2017- seventh and final state title

Sports 3 • 10 • 2017

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26-4

Winningest season in school histoy

Freshman Maddie Krull drives to the basket against Lindsay Nottleman of Lincoln Pius X in the state semi final game. Patriots won by a final score of 55-47 and advanced to the state finals for the first time since 1996. Photo by McKenna Krueger

Class A favorite battles hard

Senior Grace Rasmussen drives to the basket to help the Patriots fend off Omaha Northwest in the first round of the state tournament. MS won by a score of 47-43. Photo by McKenna Krueger

Sophomore Bailey Urban drives the ball into the heart of the Lincoln Southwest zone defense. MS lost a heartbreaker in overtime to LSW in the state finals 56-51. Photo by McKenna Krueger

Paige Huscroft Taylor Somers and Shelby Burgers lead the student section from the front row. The NSAA awarded MS with the Class A Sportsmanship award. Photo by McKenna Krueger The Patriot bench celebrates after a made three during the semi final game againt Lincoln Pius X. Photo by McKenna Krueger