The Hoofbeat Issue 6 April 2021

Millard North High School

THE HOOFBEAT

MY TAPIOCA TRIALS

FUTURE HUSKER

A search to find the best boba in Omaha

Junior pitcher makes D1 commit

Page 15

Volume 40 • Issue 6 • April 21, 2021

ONCE A MUSTANG, ALWAYS A MUSTANG.

With graduation around the corner, the Class of 2021 reflects on the legacy they leave.

Photograph by Bridget Neville

Page 19

2 • NEWS • April 21, 2021

A BITTERSWEET GOODBYE

Reflecting on their legacies, seniors prepare to end year with unconventional celebrations ISA LUZARRAGA Editor-in-Chief

were cancelled last spring,” assistant principal Susan Marlatt said. “Knowing that we still have limitations with safety precautions, it was important to get feedost seniors envision their last month of high back from seniors.”

2021’s senior-only prom on May 1 will be devoid school as a melancholy farewell to their adolescent of dancing, last two hours, and stay true to its formal selves complete with graduation parties, prom dress code. SCB representatives said social-distanced pictures, and college decisions. The four years of games and contests will replace time on the dance toil are worth it to finally hold a blue leather-clad floor and senior superlatives will also be announced diploma, a symbol for the closing of a chapter and throughout the night. the starting of another.

“I’ll be trying to attend However, like most aspects every single [event], especialof the Class of 2021’s last year,

There are ways ly the senior prom because ‘unprecedented’ times result in I was never able to go last necessary changes. that we can try to make year,” senior Bryan Cervant“Since senior year was someit a little more normal es said. “I’m very excited thing, a lot of people have been to get a somewhat normal and still have the senior looking forward to since their prom as well as joining in freshmen year, it’s disappointing experience, although it’s many graduation parties to that it can’t be like how they have a non-traditional one. celebrate our achievements been in the past,” senior class and successes.” board member Anne Shubert Following prom, senior said. “But, I’m also happy that ANNE SHUBERT honors night will undergo there are ways that we can try to SENIOR some adjustments and be make it a little more normal and held on May 13. Administrastill have the senior experience, tors and SCB said this might although it’s a non-traditional be held digitally, either synchronously via Zoom or one.” asynchronously through a pre-recorded video.

While the Senior Class Board (SCB) and “As a board, we’ll try our best to still make it fun administration are trying to preserve the typical endof-the-year activities, alterations to events like prom, while taking precautions,” Shubert said. “I’m looking forward to reminiscing the memories that we’ve senior honors night, and graduation have already made and am probably looking forward the most to been made. planning the actual graduation.”

“We wanted to provide a special event for our For the graduation ceremony on May 29 at BaxClass of 2021 seniors especially since all activities

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A TIME TO REMEMBER

ter Arena, each student is limited to four tickets. The commencement ceremony is set to be run as normally as possible while maintaining social distancing.

“It’s a relief given the past two years have been difficult for everyone,” Cervantes said. “Now that high school is coming to an end, I’ve obtained one of my many goals in life which was achieving a high school diploma. I look forward to our ceremony and seeing all the people I learned and grew up with.”

In addition to adapting to end-of-the-year modifications, seniors said they are beginning to reflect on their legacy at MN. “As I leave high school, I want to be remembered as someone who was always up for a challenge,” Shubert said. “I figured I could be involved in a lot and be fine because I wasn’t going to give up. By doing that I’ve been successful, and I figure that’s a good thing to be remembered by.”

Others note their personal growth and resilience that lead them to graduation.

“I want to be remembered as the kid that went to MN freshman year having to drive 30 minutes to school and back,” Cervantes said. “As I progressed with my academics and athletic career, things started working out in my favor. I moved closer to school, took harder classes, and earned a role on the varsity [soccer] team. I was the kid that didn’t give up when times got hard.”

When the Class of 2021 finally holds their embossed diplomas, their time as a Mustang will come to a close. And despite the academic, activity-related, and end-of-the-year changes, the perseverance of MN seniors represent a legacy worthy of remembering.

MAY 21, 2021

AUG. 17, 2021

AUG. 14, 2017

Last day of school

First football game with a student section

Freshmen Stampede

MARCH 12, 2020

Last day all in person

MAY 1, 2021

Senior Prom

MAY 29, 2021

Commencement

MNHSONLINE.COM • 3

MORIAH FRIESEN Capitol School of Esthetics

CALEIGH OSTRAND Army

“Before I decided on esthetics, I had considered traditional college, but I realized I didn’t have any passions there. It was hard for me to decide, but I love the freedom I get in choosing my career.”

“I have always wanted to go into the military, and the Army has showed me more opportunities than the other branches. I have learned to always choose for yourself and not others. Don’t change anything that you feel is right for your future.”

BEN WILCZEWSKI University of Arizona

MANAV MATHUR Rice University

“I’ve always really liked learning new things and I felt like going to college would be the best option to both continue learning new things and to secure a stable future.”

LINDSEY KOSTER DePaul University

“I chose a 4 year college because of my major and career aspirations. Good luck to everyone no matter what college or after high school plans they have.”

KENNY ZHU University of Pennsylvania

“I liked DePaul because of the city atmosphere and the programs they offered. I was attracted to the smaller class sizes yet the big city being right there so I have some variety.”

MUSTANGS ON THE MOVE College/University (52 students/86.7%) Trade School (3 students/5%) Community College (2 students, 3.3%) Undecided/Other (3 students/5%) *Survey of 60 MN seniors

“The main reason I choose a four-year university plan is because it gives me the opportunity to build a strong foundation to eventually go into the legal field.”

CLASS OF 2021 BY THE NUMBERS

549 graduates

88 students with over a 30 on 3.10

the ACT average GPA of the senior class

4 • April 21, 2021

NEWS BRIEFS LOCAL NEWS University of Nebraskka-Lincoln’s Cornhusker bowling team takes home sixth NCAA bowling championship.

Nebraska governor Pete Ricketts urges people to get vaccinated as COVID-19 variant cases rise.

NATIONAL NEWS 20-year-old Daunte Wright fatally shot by police officer during traffic stop.

Mastermind of largest United States Ponzi scheme, Bernie Madoff dies at 81.

WORLD NEWS Prince Philip dies at 99 in the Winsdor Castle, cause of death not revealed.

Russia amasses troops, tanks, and artillery near Ukraine.

EQUALITY FOR ALL

Preston Love speaks to U.S. History classes on Civil Rights Movement ANNA PIPINOS Lifestyle Editor

actions.

“Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. DEI. Those are the Civil Rights movements right now,” Love said. he biggest lesson was not to have kids remem- “When they are talking about George Floyd and womber data, but to learn that students today have convicen’s rights, they are talking about DEI.” tions and should have courage and Love ended his short, yet impactful fight for what they believe in,” U.S. speech by encouraging the students to History teacher David Diehl said. venture forth, meet new people, and As days blur into weeks and become aware of other people’s cultures. weeks turn into months, Diehl and “Keep in mind that there are things his students study the history of the about other people that are not rough, United States of America. After messy, or tough,” Love said. “Try to seven months passed by, a chapter learn as much about other folks’ cultures regarding a time of equality known and their opinions on certain matters, by many was upon them: the Civil and by doing this, you will become Rights Movement. greater leaders.”

Deciding to give juniors a break With this in mind, students in from the book, Diehl introduced a Diehl’s class let Love’s words sink in, speaker with first-hand experience ultimately changing their perspective on of the movement: Preston Love. the way they’ve led their lives. .

Love came to speak to all three “When he said that many of us Preston Love Jr. is a of Diehl’s world history classes on haven’t ‘accepted’ other cultures not political activist and the March 16 and brought with him 78 because we don’t want to but because first African American to years of experience on the matter. we’ve never thought to, it made me rerevieve the support of a A former state senator, Love has flect and realize how I truly don’t know worked as a campaign manager and many people’s backgrounds,” junior Lily major political party for political activist.

Johnson said. “It made me want to go the United States Senate “I thought it would be best if out, meet new people, and learn more in Nebraska. someone came in to speak about about what they do in their lives.” their experiences, their life, and what they saw. They got to hear authenticity and wisdom from an important RUNS IN THE FAMILY citizen,” Diehl said.

While Diehl and his students have closely Preston Love Sr., father of Preston read on the events that took place, ranging from Love Jr. was a saxophonist and sidethe Montgomery Bus Boycott to the Poor Peoman for many famous rhythm ple’s Campaign, Love’s experiential knowledge surpassed what can be found in a database. and blues artists. Alongside “I want you all to know that my views and his work in music, he toured wisdom, having lived as long as I have in the Civthe United States and Euil Rights era, are something that I want to share rope, lecturing and writing with you somehow today,” Love said.

Love began his talk to the students by about the history that he emphasizing that the people in the Civil Rights was a part of within the Movement were nothing more than just regular Civil Rights movement. In people and that just about anybody can do what they did. later years, Love moved back “Yes, it is something that you can study. Yes, home to Omaha and became it is something that you can read about in your an advertising agent for a local textbook, but you gotta understand that when newspaper called the “Omaha you see me you see a real, regular old person,” Love said. “So, don’t look at it as something Star”, and served the African special that way. It was just people, people like American community in Martin Luther King.” that capacity until his Love said modern-day movements are very death in 2004. applicable to the students and their community

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FAST FACTS Preston Love Jr.’s father, saxophonist Preston Love was inducted into the Omaha Black Music Hall of Fame in 2005.

MNHSONLINE.COM • 5

GOING GREEN’S THE GOAL

Millard recieves feedback from students regarding recycling procedures OLIVIA TORREZ Staff Writer

hand. Piercy pointed out the students and spoke on the topic.

“MNHS [recycling] is currently being picked up ccording to “Recycle The Facts: Plastic”, Amerionce per week, which costs the district $80.62 a month. cans recycle 25% of the plastic produced. That means If there are non-recyclable items in with the recycla75% of 35 billion plastic products end up in landfills ble items, we also pay a penalty on top of the regular and our oceans. That is 26 billion, charge.” Chad Meisgeier, Chief 250 million bottles alone.

Financial Officer for Millard

It doesn’t seem like Public Schools, said. “In my Currently, Millard Public Schools does not have a set recya lot when you throw one opinion, much of this starts at cling program, and all that plastic the grassroots level with individbottle into the trash can, from students across the district is ual students approaching their being thrown out with the trash into but when thousands of stu- building administrators.” landfills. That’s where the recycling Senior Anusha Deshpande dents are doing that every attended initiative comes in. Young Demothe March 8 board single day, that adds up and meeting to show her support. cratic Socialists of America is trying to convince Millard to commit to means we’re contributing a She has been involved in this iniat least one fully funded year with a tiative since early Mar. through lot to landfills. district-wide recycling program.

Diversify Our Narrative, an “As we live in the year we live organization that teamed with in, we’re having a climate crisis, YDSA to promote the recycling ANUSHA DESHPANDE campaign. and the stuff that’s adding to it is the amount of plastic and recycla“It doesn’t seem like a lot SENIOR ble goods that don’t degrade being when you throw one bottle thrown out and put in landfills,” into the trash can, but when sophomore Elle Fleming said. thousands of students are doing that every single day, Fleming has attended board meetings to get atthat adds up and means we’re contributing a lot to the tention for a petition that provides a more sustainable landfills,” Deshpande said. recycling system set up by the heads, Aiden Lewald According to the Nebraska Department of Enviand Cooper Piercy. The two organized an instance on ronment and Energy, most household waste ends up in March 8 where over 25 MN students attended board landfills. Every year, over two million tons of waste are meetings to take up space and talk about the issue at sent to landfills. The goal of the initiative is to make

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REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE

1960

6.4%

Millard schools greener, make the district more sustainable, and implement a good recycling program.

“We want to educate people about climate change and how it all is not gloom and doom. Many people see climate change as a big catastrophe that could only be changed by the government. It is a small step in localizing climate change actions,” junior Arnav Rishi said.

Millard was given a $10,000 grant from the Claire M. Hubbard Foundation for the recycling program, but they don’t have anywhere that recycles for them, so all the recycling bins get thrown into the trash.

“The idea is to talk to the school board and get together to find a recycling group that would do our recycling. If the janitorial staff can’t do the recycling, we have plans for how students could volunteer,” Fleming said.

Those plans would involve students who need volunteer hours picking up the recycling in classrooms to put them in the correct bins.

YDSA meets alternating Wednesdays at 4:30 in room 2148 and on Zoom. The co-chairs, Lewald and Piercy, put together slides and presentations on the topic to educate those who attend. They also post on their Instagram and Twitter accounts, MNHS_YDSA. “I think one [impact] is being nicer to the environment, helping out our planet, but another is when you start encouraging students to be environmentally conscious from a young age, it encourages them to be environmentally conscious for the rest of their lives,” Deshpande said. “When you start those habits early and tell them the importance of recycling when those students are older, they’ll continue to do the same.”

The percentage of Americans who recycle has increased significanly in the last 60 years.

Source: Environmental Protection Agency

1990

2020

16%

32%

6 • April 21, 2021

GOING THROUGH WITH INTERVIEWS

Teachers, students, and interviewers alike prepared for mock job interviews THOMAS BEGLEY Staff Writer

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lued to her computer, freshman Ella Ariza searches the internet for tips on how to impress a potential employer. She is preparing to blow away her interviewer. From making good eye contact to dressing for success, Ariza is ready for the real deal.

Every semester, students enrolled in speech, forensics or debate classes have to go through the Mock Job Interview process, a simulated, graded interview that took place Apr. 13-15 this year. It is a course requirement for the Oral Communications graduation credit.

For the interviews, students are graded on their verbal and nonverbal performance, their ability to answer questions on the spot, and how presentable their resumes and applications appear.

By the end of the unit, students meet up with either payback partners, retired teachers, or other professionals whose jobs require them to interview on a normal basis.

Students enrolled in these classes go over a variety of skills including the importance of being attentive, when to use small talk, and answering questions thoroughly.

Junior Emeline Burton, who has already gone through the interview process for part-time jobs, said the curriculum was very applicable to real-world experienc-

es.

“The downside is that we cannot practice all the “Overall, this unit has been a skills we teach when it is remote really good refresher and it’s been such as handshakes,” Dennice building on interview prepaney Bull said. “There is a big ration skills that I’ve previously benefit for the students to have used,” Burton said. to sit across from an adult and In years past, students would experience that in-person nerget called out of class to meet their vous energy.” interviewer in the lecture halls.

Students did their best to This year has been very differpractice and prepare for the ent. Instead of meeting the interassessment given the less than viewers face to face in the lecture normal circumstances. halls, they plan to meet on Zoom “In preparation for the in order to follow COVID-19 mock job interview, I have guidelines. While teachers would practiced with my parents and Seperated by a Screen: prefer for students to dress up, they Freshman Mansi Singh sits watched YouTube videos for are not required to. ideas on how to impress the through an online version of the Forensics teacher Sabrina interviewer,” Ariza said. mock interviews. Students parDenney Bull believes there are cer- ticipating in mock interviews do While it’s a very different tain benefits to interviewing online. so with a volunteer over Zoom. way of going about with the “The upside is that it will preinterviews, students eventually Photograph contributed by pare them for a remote interview, need to learn how to properly Morgan McCormack something they very well might present themselves in these real face in the future,” Denney Bull life situations. said.

“This essential life skill still Experiencing this through screen, however, also has needs to be taught,” Denney Bull said. “We are grateful its drawbacks. we have a safe way to do it.”

OPINIONS • 7

STOP ASIAN HATE

Increase in hate crimes against AAPI community demands support from allies THE HOOFBEAT STAFF EDITORIAL

explosion of COVID-19 outbreaks across the United States. With former President Donald Trump labeling the virus “Kung Flu”, “Wuhan ur elders are attacked on the streets, Virus”, and the “Chinese Virus”, the negative beaten until purple like a plum. I am relieved rhetorical connotation of these terms only and grateful that my grandparents live in Chi- provided backing for the surge in xenophobia na instead of America so I don’t have to worry against Asian Americans. about them being attacked and killed,” senior The overall decrease in hate crimes has Jessica Li said. “I wear a baseball cap and pull been exponential over the years but this my mask up as far up my nose bridge as possi- decrease has seen little impact in the Asian ble every time I go into public. I keep my head community. The Center for the Study of Hate down and speak in English no matter what. I and Extremism at California State Universiam terrified for my safety, and I am terrified ty found that between 2019 and 2020 a 149 for my family’s safety.” percent increase in hate crimes against Asian Watching the events and crimes committed Americans. against members of the Asian American and The constant spread of information has alPacific Islander (AAPI) community unfold is lotted a united front to move forward to bring horrific. The constant silence on this issue is awareness to these acts of hate. startling and it is ever so important to become Because of Asian culture becoming widean ally. spread in entertainment media, it is even more In Nebraska alone, authorities are invesimportant to stand with the community intigating a possible hate crime resulting in an stead of being a bystander. explosive device detonating and the Nebras“Asian culture has become huge in Amerika-Chinese Association. While they cannot yet ca with the rise of anime, matcha, Asian foods confirm the explosives intent, investigations are and snacks, and more. Yet the people who enunderway as they attempt to find the motive. joy these parts of our culture are not speaking AAPI hate’s spread coincided with the up for us. Love us like you love our culture,” Li

“O

said. “Spread awareness, speak out and donate if you can. Don’t be a bystander.”

With Asian culture becoming a new fad it raises questions why there is little support for the movement. Why do we appropriate a culture in which its members are living in fear of being attacked.

Students like Li live in fear, watching and witnessing violent acts being commited. Senior Allison Dang fears for her mother and grandparents as they own and operate their own beauty spa.

No child should ever question their safety or their families safety. In a world where inclusion in preached, the hostile environment created by attacks should not be tolerated.

To show your support for the movement, stopaapihate.org offers resources to learn, report, and donate to the movement and increase awareness.

“Be an ally to the Asian American community. We are not a virus, we are humans with families and lives and dreams and hobbies,” Li said. “We do not deserve to be beaten until purple like plums and killed because we are people, just like you. So please, start treating us like one.”

STUDENT SPEAK

WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO BE AN ALLY TO THE ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER COMMUNITY (AAPI) DURING THIS TIME?

LILY ERB

Listening to any of your Asian friends. It’s your job to learn about what’s happening. It’s not their job to teach you. Just do whatever you can to help them.

I just want to be a friend and be there for them when they need me or give them support in general.

SARAH FENTON

GRADE 9

GRADE 10

You can post on social media and make sure you bring awareness to your friends.

Just being supportive. Be nice, be aware. I think it would be good.

GRACI LEITNER

CAITLIN WILLIAMS

GRADE 10

GRADE 12

8 • April 21, 2021

Maddie’s Moments

RECASTING THE ROYALS Under fire following Harry and Meghan’s interview, the family looks to maintain their image Being an American, I know

little to nothing about England and the royal family, other than that I think they drink tea and eat crumpets…?

The royal family is the face of the United Kingdom Maddie Coffin but what really does that mean?

Staff Writer Although Queen Elizabeth II is the face of the monarchy, is she who makes decisions or is she just someone for show? According to History Network, the Queen actually has no political power whatsoever.

Instead, her role has become purely symbolic of the government, and she is simply there for admiration.

The true leader is the Prime Minister who makes all important political decisions. However, the Queen does meet with the Prime Minister to keep him updated on any new changes.

As an outsider, this information was shocking to

me. I know that the royal family is centuries deep in the foundation of the British government, but if the Queen has no real say, what is the point of the Royal Family other than for show?

The British government keeps the royal family in the world’s eye because it is comforting. The Queen’s sole purpose in her duties is for admiration. However, she still has some power in the government as she is the only person who can declare a war, and she can even issue passports.

The question in the media as of current is if the royal family could and/or should be abolished. With all the scandals and problematic encounters that have happened within the royals such as racism scandal against former royal Meghan Markle, and the allegations against Prince Charles for being involved in running a sex trafficking operation, I don’t know just how admirable or glorious the Royals really are.

Nadine Bachelor-Hunt, a political correspondent, has argued that the Royals are “becoming increasingly out of place in a contemporary society” due to the families past and present scandals.

“The time has come: let’s abolish the monarchy.”

Bachelor-Hunt said.

Now my question is what would happen to the royal family if they were to be abolished? According to Inside, the Queen would move out of Buckingham Palace as

MEETING THE ROYALS Looking into the line to the throne

Kate Middleton

Prince George

Queen Elizabeth

Prince Philip

Prince Charles

Princess Diana

Prince William

Princess Charlotte

Prince Harry

Prince Louis

it is not owned by her but she would not have to give up all of her royal residences as she technically owns them. Prince William and Kate would most likely follow Prince Harry and Meghan’s path and pursue financial independence.

However, the likelihood of the royals being abolished is very unlikely according to royal commentator Marlene Koenig. Their heritage and fame are engraved far too deep in British history for anyone to even consider abolishing them.

Personally, I don’t see what the point of the Royal Family is. If they don’t do anything political, I think it’s a little absurd to consider them as leaders of the United Kingdom.

However, I can see why a government would want a figure for admiration and comfort. It would be nice in America to have a more light-hearted figure to look up to instead of just relying on one president for four to eight years.

The line of the royals will continue, it is fact As much as they may be problematic, the royals will most likely be around for the rest of my life, my kids’ lives, my grandkids’ lives, and so on.

I just don’t think that it will last forever because when one scandal happens, another one follows, and another, and another. The admiration could quite possibly turn into allegations and abolishment.

EDITORIAL CARTOON

Meghan Markle

Prince Archie

By Rachel Kricsfeld

IN-DEPTH • 9

Sizing up

FAST FASHIO

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Mass-producing the trendiest styles can seem like a win-win for corporation and consumer, however fast fashion has largescale implications. Environmental harms, workers’ rights, and more all come into play when investigating favorite brands.

Graphic by Rachel Kricsfeld

10 • April 21, 2021

TOSSING OUT THREADS

Quilt jacket: Goodwill Outlet

Fast fashion industry affects more than just the environment AIDEN LEWALD Staff Writer

As spring rolls around, it is time for most teens to be putting away their winter clothes. Soon after, they’re

pulling out their wallets, searching the web for trendy spring clothing, ready to achieve their yearly average of $2,150 spent on personal items.

Their go-to clothing websites are the ones with the cheapest yet cutest clothing. As they scan the web, they come across stores like FashionNova, Shein, and Zara.

There is one thing these stores all have in common, other than the obvious fact that they have the most convenient clothing. They all fall into the dangerous category of rapid fashion production.

However, the negative impacts of fast fashion are much more complicated.

“What was cool last week might not be cool anymore,” junior Mia Templien said. “So companies such as Shein and H&M take things that are super popular right now and produce them super quick.”

Because fast fashion has a total of 52 micro-seasons, the amount of clothing waste produced by these big businesses causes environmental harm. Clothes rapidly go in and out of season, and the clothes that are no longer “fashionable” or “trendy” are thrown away.

“The global apparel industry produced more than 150 billion garments,” MIT News reporter Stefanie Koperniak said. “[This is] enough to provide more than 20

new articles of clothing to every person on the planet.”

In the United States alone, 11 million pounds of fashion waste are thrown away each year. This means that the average American produces roughly 82 pounds of textile waste each year.

The major impacts of fast fashion range from the depletion of non-renewable resources, large amounts of greenhouse gas emissions, and the massive amount of water usage. According to an article published by “Forbes”, this industry accounts for over 10% of all carbon emissions.

Fashion is the second most polluting industry in the world. This is a result of the widespread use of materials such as polyester, nylon, and other synthetic fabrics; all of which take hundreds of years to biodegrade.

“Fast fashion has an impact on the environment in several ways. By clothing becoming another cheap, disposable item, the garment is not meant to last, in a fashion sense or physical sense,” science teacher Jeff Machal said. “Due to the rapid and inexpensive production, the factories producing these items are not concerned with sustainability. Many are known to dump toxic metal byproducts into their local waterways.”

A study done by Building Materials Holding Corporation examines the environmental impact of fast fashion, stating that the textile dyeing techniques used by companies often releases toxicants into nearby water systems. This can severely impact the health of animals along with the nearby residents.

High-waisted jeans: Thrift World

Black Low-top Doc Martens: Goodwill

The extensive pollution, resulting from the hazardous chemicals used is simply irreversible. Not only is fast fashion the second most polluting industry worldwide, it is the second most water consuming industry. On average, one cotton shirt takes up to 700 gallons of water to produce, while a singular pair of jeans takes up to 2,000 gallons of water.

As teens continue to search the web for the season’s most fashionable looks, they have the knowledge to decide whether they want to impact the world by falling into the fast fashion business model that dominates the fashion industry.

ON THE LINE

Source: The Good Trade

According to “The Good Trade”, fast fashion brands complete around 52 micro-seasons a year, roughly a collection a week If using a pre-existing design, this process can be completed in a day. Copying a new fast fashion trend, however, could take a couple days.

Initial Design

Fast fashion manufacturers can be found in densely-populated nations like Bangladesh and Taiwan. Production of a new line can take around four to five days.

Manufacturing

Shipping the latest fast fashions worldwide involves expedited delivery straight from manufacturing centers.

Delivery

Stores receive the clothing and release it to their consumers.

Retail

MNHSONLINE.COM • 11

Thrift World 2670 N 90th Street

THRIFT SHOP FINDS Seniors wear thrifted outfits daily, here are their looks.

Striped collared shirt: Hand-me-ups

Green canvas pants: Goodwill

Homemade jewelry

Black crewneck: Goodwill

Scout: Dry Goods and Trade 5018 Underwood Avenue

Tip Top Thrift Shop Inc. 5910 Maple Street

Junk-n-Tresaure 3504 Leavenworth Street

ON THE MAP: THE BEST OMAHA THRIFT STORES

THRIFTING EQUALS GIFTING

Upcycling clothes gives students purpose, way to give back BRIDGET NEVILLE Front Page Editor

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ednesdays at Goodwill have become a favorite pastime for senior Mia Vander Zwaag. With recently restocked donation bins, she is excited about the opportunity that this shopping endeavor will bring.

“I remember the first time I went thrift shopping.

I found a shirt for only 50 cents, and I was hooked,” Vander Zwaag said.

Thrifting is defined as going shopping at a thrift store, flea market, or other retailers to find gently used items at a discounted price. Having parents interested in thrifting, Vander Zwaag is no stranger to upcycled fashion.

“My parents have been thrifting my whole life, so I really just grew up around it, spending a lot of time in second-hand stores like Goodwill or Scout,” Vander Zwaag said.

Through thrifting, Vander Zwaag has created friendships over a shared passion for thrifting. On any given Wednesday, you can find Vander Zwaag shopping at Goodwill with her friend, senior Ryan Day, who also enjoys second-hand goods.

“In seventh grade, I thrifted my first shirt. Since then, I’ve loved finding hand-me-ups,” Day said.

Going thrifting has become a form of self-expres-

sion for Vander Zwaag and Day. And it serves as a way for them to practice sustainability in their daily lives.

Being able to find uncommon items and for a fraction of the cost makes thrifting all the more exciting.

“My favorite [thrifted] item is this crazy rainbow-colored pattern sweater that was made by an Australian brand, and they range from $100 up to $1000 buying them first hand, but I got mine for $7,” Vander Zwaag said.

As thrifting veterans, Day and Vander Zwaag frequently give recommendations to anyone who wants to begin thrifting, and they agree thrifting takes a unique mindset.

Unlike retail stores, it is difficult to go into a secondhand-store with a specific item in mind. Instead, they recommend letting the pieces speak to you.

“Thrifting is totally random. You can’t go in with any expectations,” Day said.

Though formally a niche activity, thrifting has become a crucial aspect of Gen Z. As a generation known for activism, this activity has become a favorite tradition for many.

“I think the increase in popularity in thrift stores has been an amazing step toward being an environmentally-conscious generation,” freshman Makenna Jolley said.

“Thrifting keeps more clothes out of landfills and reduces the pollution and waste that is created when making

new clothing. People [who thrift] are also inadvertently helping the environment, which is a major issue in our world today.”

While people thrift for aesthetics, many people also thrift for environmental benefits. Thrifting allows for bettering the planet and directly avoiding involvement in an unethical industry.

“Rather than going to waste, people can reuse and recycle clothes for affordable prices. [Thrifting] makes shopping fun, affordable, and it’s better for the environment,” Jolley said.

Beyond wanting to avoid the waste that frequently comes with fast fashion, many people thrift in order to help marginalized communities who have to work to make these clothes.

“Fast fashion is so dangerous. Working conditions for people who make the clothes are horrible, and most times, their products get thrown away and burned within one season,” Vander Zwaag said.

While many people find themselves in the aisles of Goodwill for different reasons, it has become a safe haven for all.

“If people are going to go thrifting, they should try to give back,” Jolley said. “Donating old clothes to thrift stores is just as important as shopping at thrift stores.

Giving back to these places is important so that we can all continue to enjoy thrifting.”

12 • April 21, 2021

HOW TO DRESS RESPONSIBLY

Follow this guide to avoid common fast fashion mistakes, explore alternatives SIDNEY ANDERSON Opinions Editor

cally churning out the latest fashions. However, finding alternatives is still possible.

One main way to avoid fast fashion is to stray away from the ever-evolving trends. Clothes that are in onvenience and consumption. Philosophers for style this week will be out of style next week. Avoiding centuries have argued that the hub of society is turned by these two main concepts. In a way, fast fashion is the the newest wave of espadrilles helps make your closet sustainable. Instead of purchasing three $15 shirts, try meeting of convenience and consumption, style and to invest in one quality $45 item. Investing in materials affordability creating a desirable and craft will prevent the conindustry. stant buying and trashing of new The retail world has become

Avoid labels that clothes. consumed by fast fashion in the have environmental According to “The Guardpast several years. Stores flaunt their current styles, donning conscious or sustainable ian”, one in three women consistently throw out garments they’ve their mannequins with clothes because there is no legal only worn once or twice. Instead designed, manufactured, and action that defines these of focusing on trends, stick with shipped in just two weeks. the basics, clothes that will last Even though most can acwords. longer. Buy things for quantity knowledge the industry’s adverse not quality. Style will follow your effects on the environment, workGLOBAL ORGANIC environmental savvy. ers’ rights, and sustainability, fast Another way to avoid fast fashion has become ingrained in TEXTILE STANDARD fashion is to read the tags. Though our society. It is hard to find any it sounds simple, it can have a brand that hasn’t been involved major impact. Becoming aware of the products in our with this waste of resources. clothes brings us one step closer to avoiding brands that According to “Fashion Network”, Forever 21 and are not sustainable.

H&M are some of the most successful fashion brands According to the Global Organic Textile Standard, on social media. Fast fashion brands have become so it’s important to “avoid labels that have environmental dominant that as an individual earning a livable wage, conscious or sustainable because there is no legal action it seems nearly impossible to avoid big brands unethi-

C

“

”

that defines these words.” This means any brand can claim to be sustainable. Instead look for the word, organic. Brands are not able to claim to be organic when they don’t meet the standard. The Global Organic Textile Standard monitors brands to make sure that the term is never used incorrectly.

The most common way to avoid fast fashion is shopping at secondhand stores. According to “The Saturday Evening Post’’, the average American throws away 81 pounds of clothing yearly. Shopping at secondhand stores allows for the consumer demand to go down and also keeps clothes out of landfills.

Another plus of buying secondhand is that it is cost-efficient. Clothes that usually have significantly higher prices are now at a lower price.

The last way to avoid fast fashion is to buy from companies that practice the concept of “slow fashion”.

Slow fashion can be defined as slowing down the manufacturing process in respect to people, the environment, and animals. Some of the main slow fashion brands are Reformation, Amour Vert, Alternative Apparel, and Stella McCartney.

Researchers have noted that simply avoiding fast fashion is not a productive or feasible alternative. Consumers being informed regarding the clothes they are purchasing is the first step towards finding slow fashion alternatives. Consumption and convenience are integral to society, however, industry and consumer must adjust to an ever-changing world.

BUYER BEWARE: FAST FASHION

Breaking down the brands to avoid and the sustainable alternatives

E T H I C A L

Zara Rating: “Not good enough”

MATE the label Rating: “Great”

The Spanish-based brand uses very few eco-friendly materials for its products and packaging. Reports of labor abuse and not paying workers a minimum wage have been brought forward.

All products are vegan, and the company uses a high proportion of eco-friendly materials including Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) cotton. It has a formal statement addressing workers’ rights.

Armedangels Rating: “Great”

This German company uses renewable energy in its direct operations when producing clothing. It is a member of the Fair Wear Foundation and also ensures living wages.

H&M Rating: “It’s a start”

Close to none of H&M’s supply chain is certified by labor standards that protect workers. The company uses some eco-friendly materials but produces new styles at a wasteful pace.

U N E T H I C A L

Source and ratings: Good on You

OPINIONS • 13

NOT SO CLASSIC

THE HOOFBEAT

Alisa’s Answers

Creating a new mindset when disscussing classic novels

Alisa Prater Staff Writer

As you walk into your third

period English course you notice an illustrated cover of The Great Gatsby is posted up on the board. In big bold letters you read “Chapters 4 - 10 due tomorrow before class.” The unanimous dread fills the room and sighs surround you.

The immediate

response is to turn to SparkNotes.

Could “SparkNotes” be generating more traffic than the amount of students actually reading “The Great Gatsby?” From freshmen to seniors, American high schools provide a fixed list of prestigious novels to be analyzed by English students.

Over the years, many homework-helper applications have been created in order to aid students in the comprehension of the graded material. But recently there has been a steady increase in the use of these applications to not only guide students in reading but use as the actual book.

Reading as an extracurricular activity has decreased in interest in the previous years for the entire student body. Alternative hobbies have caught the attention and filled the needs of teens with varying interests outside of literature.

The time taken to read a book, being graded over comprehension skills and the common bias of “movies over books,” have contributed to most students’ recession from reading.

The detailed web pages provide such in depth answers to the point where one has to ask, are these

books actually being read? And from a student’s point of view, is this fixed reading list actually benefiting our learning? How can one apply 20th century themes to 21st century teens?

The great classics are supposed to teach analytical thinking to children of all ages. According to the University of Texas-Arlington, requiring reading is to help mentally stimulate and acquire knowledge and ideas, reduce stress in lives, improve vocabularies, and memories.

It is true, some required reading are supposed to address important topics such as racial prejudice, generational bigotry, and major historical events such as in Harper Lee’s “To Kill A Mockingbird” or in books such as “Of Mice and Men”. Through creative works, students experience new theories and worldly views and get a grade for it.

However, the use of new technology has reduced the need to actually read the book in order to test well.

Websites like Shmoop and Edutopia have released specific details explaining classic novels in simpler terms.

From chapter summaries to theme breakdowns, an entire reading packet is likely to be available to students online.

These applications take away from the depth and attachment that is involved in actually reading a book front to back. Most students aren’t reading and therefore not learning the lesson behind the required novels.

Undoubtedly, for those who read, the experience is a wondrous one. Required reading in schools provides entertainment for many students and is worth more than just a grade. Understandably, reading is not for the entire student population but can be beneficial for the betterment of all.

Considering the deadline requirements and assignments attached to the lesson, the thought of a new book being introduced to the class creates immediate dread but when the opportunity to actually enjoy the complexity behind these classics is presented it should be given an extra thought.

TEACHING LESSONS

The Hoofbeat staff will publish eight issues of the paper at Millard North High School (1010 South 144th Street, Omaha, NE). Type is set with the use of Macintosh and HP computers. Printing is done by White Wolf Printing, Sheldon IA. The Hoofbeat is a member of the Nebraska High School Press Association and JEA. The Hoofbeat exists for the express purpose of student information and learning.

Advertising: Advertising will be sold at $7 per column inch or by special quarter, half, or full page rates. Information can be obtained by calling 402-715-1404.

Responding to the Hoofbeat: Letters to the editor will be accepted next year and may be submitted to Room 1105 or sent to sacrotzer@mpsomaha.org. Names will be published.

Letters must not contain attacks against an individual and may be edited for clarity.

THE STAFF Editor-in-Chief Isa Luzarraga Front Editor Bridget Neville News Editor Morgan McCormack Opinions Editor Sidney Anderson In-Depth Editor Isa Luzarraga Lifestyle Editor Anna Pipinos Sports Editor Lily Taylor Online Editor Sree Kolli Adviser Sarah Crotzer Principal Brian Begley

Staff Writers Sidney Anderson Thomas Begley Maddie Coffin Mahika Kanchanam Rachel Kricsfeld Aiden Lewald Ever Loveridge Isa Luzarraga Morgan McCormack Bridget Neville Cooper Piercy Anna Pipinos Sneha Selveraj Sarah Shelton Deeksha Sridher Lily Taylor Olivia Torrez Illustrators Rachel Kricsfeld Aiden Lewald

Contemporary novels that promote proactive conversation on current issues

Read these books to find new perspective on mental health, racial injustice and LGBTQ+ representation.

Submit story tips to @mnhshoofbeat or mnhsonline.com

14 • April 21, 2021

CANCELING CANCEL CULTURE Sneha’s Insight

Intentions behind calling out others on social media have become misguided, toxic

Two months ago, I opened up

Instagram to see the face of TikToker and social media influencer Charli D’Amelio flooding my explorer page. While her image was usually Sneha Selvaraj portrayed in a fun, casual light, I saw Staff Writer nothing like that here. It took a few minutes of scrolling through the comment section before I realized why her name was trending: D’Amelio was being cancelled.

Cancel culture is a relatively recent phenomenon in which a person, brand, or company can be shut out from social or professional circles due to controversial behavior they exhibited or ideals that they hold. As the list of cancelled groups continues to grow, the topic has only become increasingly divisive.

I was not particularly shocked to read the news about D’Amelio, and it wasn’t long until it had already

slipped from my mind. Cancel culture had become such a routine part of social media that it never surprised me to hear a new celebrity’s name being added to the list.

Most of her fans simply went back to watching her videos and her follower count barely took a hit. It wasn’t until days later that I got bored enough to scroll through the angry comments and piece together the story: People were angry that D’Amelio had travelled to the Bahamas amidst the ongoing pandemic.

While cancel culture acts to hold others accountable for sexism, racism, or other socially insensitive behaviors, it has also gradually become weaponized, taking away from its effectiveness. In fact some only venture onto social media with the sole intent of simply attacking someone’s platform and borderline trolling them.

Furthermore, after someone is “cancelled”, fans tend to stay supportive of the person anyway, taking away from the intended effect.

Those participating in cancel culture often forget to check their intentions when attempting to “cancel” someone. The purpose of calling someone out is to help both them and others like them grow and learn from their errors.

It is not to simply tear them down from their positions. I do not condone or defend D’Amelio’s actions,

but I did notice that a lot of the people speaking out against her had pictures posted on their accounts in public places with large groups of people without masks.

What makes their actions different?

Of course, heinous acts of bigotry, by any celebrity or individual should be brought to the attention of the public. But for more minor instances of ignorance, we need to make an effort to care and understand where others are coming from, not view every issue as black or white, and consider the grounds on which we are judging other people’s behavior.

It is possible for everyone to change and grow from their mistakes. “Cancelling” them does not accomplish this. Cancelling someone does not simply change their mind on the issue, but rather ostracizes them from society.

Instead we should focus on open discussion of views and beliefs, which can go a long way in understanding each other. We should encourage growth not rejection.

In fact there was time in which one would be “cancelled” for talking about women’s rights or LGBTQ+ rights. New ideas don’t have to be a bad thing, and we should not automatically shut them down but rather discuss them and come to a consensus together about their validity. Maybe we might learn something new along the way.

PRODUCTIVITY IN THE COMMENT SECTION

Breaking down the correct steps to respond correctly to controversy on social media

KNOWING WHEN TO STEP IN:

CONSIDER OTHER PERSPECTIVES:

ASK QUESTIONS:

LISTEN:

Before responding make sure to double check that the disagreement involves you.

It is easy to focus on your own feelings and not consider others.

Try using probing questions to help find common ground.

Just like real life conversation, you should listen and try to understand where they are coming from.

THERE IS NO BODY LANGUAGE ONLINE: Make sure you are clear in what you are saying, some time it is hard to perceive things online.

KNOW WHEN TO WALK AWAY: If the conversation isn’t productive then it should be done.

Source: AOTA

LIFESTYLE • 15

MY TAPIOCA TRIALS

Taking an afternoon adventure through some of Omaha’s best places for bubble tea and drinks COOPER PIERCY Staff Writer

I

t was a dark and moody evening. The clouds were hanging low and looked just perfect for an intense rainstorm, but instead of lightning or thunder popping across the sky, a colorful tapioca pearl popped into my mouth from an even more colorful straw: this was my introduction to the world of bubble tea.

I’ll admit it, I was very behind the times when I started my journey to find some of the best bubble tea and drinks in our area. I didn’t even know what the tapioca pearls that gave bubble tea its name were until a few hours before I went to buy my first drink. However, I’m incredibly happy to be caught up now.

My first stop was Jones Bros. Cupcakes located in Westroads Mall, and while not a place that would usually be associated with bubble drinks, it made an excellent first impression. Jones Bros. Cupcakes didn’t specialize in normal bubble tea but instead a frozen, slushed style of tapioca drink that saw the tapioca pearls blended into a frozen slush while still having the full tapioca pearls at the bottom.

This frozen, fruity slush drink, priced at six dollars, was well worth the price, with the drink being sold in a large and unique bulb cup made to resemble an upside down lightbulb. It was this lightbulb cup where I encountered my first issues with the drink.

As I walked away from the store, I immediately noticed that the unwieldy shape of the cup made it very

difficult to unwrap and insert the straw provided to me, and after this, I made the realization that there was no way this cup could fit in my car’s cup holder. Transportation issues aside, once I did get the straw in the cup, the taste was amazing.

The combination of flavors mixed with the popping tapioca pearls left me with a drink both literally and metaphorically bursting with flavor and was definitely something I would want to try again.

This directly contrasted with my next stop on my tapioca trials: Ahi Sushi.

Taking a huge detour from the summery drink I had previously, Ahi Sushi only offered bubble milk tea made with either black or green tea. This lack of choice unique to this location was the first of my problems.

Immediately upon trying to take a drink of the tea, I found myself unable to. It took me a few seconds to realize the problem, but the tapioca pearls were so numerous in the cup that they were lodged in my small straw, preventing any liquid from getting out.

But when I finally did get the pearls unlodged, I was bombarded by a clash of flavor I wasn’t expecting.

I very quickly found myself being overwhelmed by the clash between the smooth, thick milk and the very bitter black tea aftertaste, all while my mouth was trying to process multiple tapioca balls floating around in it all.

While I did eventually get used to the flavor profile, it all felt like it could’ve been crafted into a more coherent drinking experience.

This drinking experience is exactly what I found in

BREAKFAST BUBBLES

A quick and easy recipe for making boba!

THIRSTY FOR Thirst Tea Cafe TEA?

4.6 7616 Dodge St Omaha, NE 68114 Most Popular Drink:

1. Place tapioca flour or starch in a bowl. Place black food color in a separate bowl and add a tablespoon of hot water to the food color. Add the rest of the water directly to the tapioca flour and pour the colored water to the bowl as well.

Tai Tea

2. Mix tapioca flour and water with a fork until they start to stick together.

Transfer to a flat surface and knead until the dough becomes smooth.

3. Divide the dough into 2 and roll each forming thin sticks. Cut them into small pieces. Try to make them as even in size as possible and should be small enough to pass through your straw. Roll each piece in between your palms to turn them into small balls.

Kung Fu Tea

4.7 1110 S 71st St Omaha, NE 68182 Most Popular Drink:

4. Bring 2 cups of water to a rolling boil in a small pot or saucepan. Add the tapioca pearls to the boiling water and let it cook for 15 minutes or longer until the desired consistency (soft or chewy) is achieved. They will also become darker as they cook.

Honey Oolong Milk Tea Jones Bros. Cupcakes

5. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. They will shrink back to the original size and will turn black at this point.

6. Transfer tapioca pearls into a sugar syrup or a bowl with a little water to prevent them from sticking together.

the last place and best place I went to: Yumchaa.

The high reviews citing Yumchaa as one of the best stores for bubble tea in all of Omaha had me walking into the unassuming store, almost hidden in a strip mall, with high hopes.

As soon as I walked in, I realized I would not be disappointed. With exceptionally friendly customer service, the cashier offered to walk me through the clearly displayed, digital menu. When I ordered the caramel milk bubble tea, Yumchaa’s most popular milk tea, I was also impressed with the easy to use digital payment system.

The drink itself was equally as impressive as it had additional ice to keep the drink cold and a much bigger straw, striking me as immediate improvements over the previous milk tea I had. Despite the tea likely containing the same, if not more pearls than that of Ahi Sushi, I found the larger straw and cup size capable of giving me more breathing room to maneuver and not be overwhelmed with pearls.

The flavor of the tea itself was also a massive improvement, with the milk and tea coming together in a much more coherent flavor, that while very similar to the previous tea, had a link between its main components that made it a genuinely good, consistently smooth drinking experience.

At the end of the day, I’m very happy to have seen the light of bubble tea. And while I may have once thought myself to be blissfully ignorant of current trends, I at least now know just a few places that’ll be making the rounds in my regular snack-stops.

4.2 2121 S 67th St Omaha, NE 68106 Most Popular Drink: Source: Foxy Folksy

Orange Cherry Blossom

16 • April 21, 2021

A LIFER LEAVING

Schurevich and students make his last year as debate coach as memorable as possible SARAH SHELTON Staff Writer

A

lifer: a term in debate that refers to one who takes every opportunity to stay in debate, whether that be competing in high school or college, judging, or coaching. By starting his career in debate in 2001, Schurevich became known as a lifer himself.

In 2001, Schurevich entered high school in Fremont with a low amount of motivation to do well. However, when he found debate and the community that came with it, he was driven to success and hopeful for his future with this activity.

“Without debate, I would not have gone to high school most of the time, gone into the education field, or even met my wife,” head coach Aarron Schurevich said.

What made debate special for Schurevich was that it was something that his father and him bonded over.

After performing in front of multiple judges--one of them being his own father--at a competition for debate, Schurevich entered the final round at State with fervor.

“Debate was a place for me and my dad. He used to judge, and during finals at State, my dad couldn’t watch because he was more nervous than I was,” Schurevich said.

When Schurevich arrived at MN to become the new head coach of debate, he had only six kids on the entire team. However, by the end of that year, he had recruited 35 students. Schurevich was able to maintain a consistent number of 70 students each year after that.

Schurevich went into his last year of teaching at MN knowing he wanted it to be memorable and because he wanted to find the right person to take over for him.

“I stayed for the kids. The last thing I wanted was for the kids I cared about to lose their access to an activ-

ity because I am not here,” Schurevich said.

Throughout his last year, Schurevich created the Milo Cup, which is a national tournament that teams from across the nation travel to participate in. After thinking about what to name the new tournament, Mr. Schurevich thought of MN’s former debate coach, Scott Milliken and ended up naming the event after him.

“When I was in high school, Scott Milliken was hosting a tournament that was two days [long], and it was always a super fun tournament. I wanted to honor his legacy to the team,” Schurevich said.

Schurevich’s lasting impact on his students reaches much further than just competitive success; he has also created debate to be a place where students can come together and be a family.

“We have a team of people that are as much concerned with others’ success and that would bend over backwards to make sure the team is successful,” Schurevich said. “I have always wanted to have a team unit that feels more like a family because everyone can do a competitive thing, but not everyone can be a part of a unit that wants to make people better,”.

Students feel they will always have a home to go back to and a community of friends that will last a lifetime all because of Schurevich’s hard work.

“He’s leaving behind a more accessible debate community and a community that can feel like a home to many people,” junior Ryan Lampman said.

After hearing that it was Schurevich’s last year as the debate coach, the debate team was saddened, but they did not let this get in the way of making his last year the best yet. And after working hard, the debate team won their sixth consecutive State Championship.

“Everyone on the debate team was saddened to hear that it is Mr. Schurevich’s last year, but I think knowing this has pushed everyone on the team to work even harder so they can make Schurevich proud during his last year,” junior Luke McDermott said.

MOMENTOUS MOMENTS WITH SCHUREVICH “I walked into the debate room, and there he was, booming with laughter.

When I walked in, he waved to me and said, ‘What’s up kiddo?’ There’s just something about that first impression that was warm, welcoming, and wholesome that I still can never forget.”

- Shriya Raghuvanshi Senior

“I was preparing for the tournament I was going to go to. Mr. Schurevich wanted to watch me practice, so he could give me tips and help ease my anxiousness. But I was so nervous, I slipped up while giving my speech and started swearing profoundly in front of him. What made it a fond memory of mine was that he didn’t mind and started to laugh.”

- Joann Quach Junior

“Schurevich helped in creating a supportive atmosphere that helped me grow and educate myself. Even though he wasn’t directly coaching me, he was still there to help and assist in any way he could.”

- Miranda McDaniel

Alum, Class of 2019

SAILS OF SCHUREVICH

2001:

2015:

2007-2012:

Began debate career at Fremont High School

2005:

Became state champion senior year of high school

2021:

First state championship at MN

Became assistant coach at Millard West

2012:

Started teaching at Millard North

Won sixth consecutive state championship

2020:

Largest Milo Cup ever held

2021:

Leaving Millard North

MNHSONLINE.COM • 17

TAKES A LITTLE MORE THAN A LITTLE MOXIE

“Moxie” makes effort to communicate modern-day feminism but falls flat on complexity MORGAN MCCORMACK News Editor

W

hen I hit play on the 2021 Netflix film “Moxie”, I expected a typical coming-of-age movie full of so-so production value and even more so-so acting.

However, I was pleasantly surprised to see instead an honest attempt at communicating modern-day, revolutionary feminism within the confines of a high school.

The film is based on a book written by Jennifer Mathieu that depicts an introverted high school teenager, Vivian (portrayed by Hadley Robinson), who publishes a zine that encourages women to show solidarity with one another to fight against sexism that runs rampant in their school. Vivian then becomes the anonymous leader of a feminist group at her school. By the end of the film, not only has Vivian grown as a person, but many of the problems at her school are being fixed.

With great acting and an engaging story line and cinematography, this film is very well done in terms of its production and it is clear that a lot of passion and care went into this project.

While this film is earnest in its attempt to combat misogyny, the whole process comes off as a bit starry-eyed. Even though it is inspiring, changing the worldor in the case of “Moxie”, a high school-with stickers and magazines is unrealistic. This almost quick fix to all of the problems of sexism within Vivian’s school seems to gloss over the complex struggles that feminist

Polyester

Polyester is a magazine based in London, which explores feminism and gender identity through fashion.

movements have had to deal with in decades past, such as being silenced and even arrested for fighting for what they believe in.

The movie also depicts feminism as if it is a trend.

Vivian’s bookish best friend, Claudia, serves as a perfect example because when she shows the slightest trepidation, she is completely shut out.

Rather than making an attempt to explain the movement’s importance or even attempt to look into why she might be hesitant. Vivian blows up on her, shouting, “Why don’t you care about this,” angrily in her face, to which Claudia responds, “I do, but making a big deal is just not my thing,” causing the relationship between the two to fracture.

When her friend fails to follow, she leaves her behind; even when Claudia and Vivian reconcile in the end, it once again shows a lack of representation of the complexity of the feminist movement and the struggles that come along with it.

While the movie succeeds in being empowering to women who want to change the world, it fails to truly represent issues such as men being complacent.

This is demonstrated when the English teacher, Mr. Davies makes an attempt to sidestep the issue of the dress code, to which one of the main characters responds, “If you’re doing nothing, you’re part of the problem.” This is quickly ploughed through and into the next scene without giving the message enough time to sink in.

REAL-WORLD FEMINIST PUBLICATIONS LIKE THE ZINE IN “MOXIE”

Ladybeard

Ladybeard is a feminist magazine that aims to bring into light ideas and themes that are misrepresented by the people of our world.

Sister

There is not a single message that serves as the focus outside of “girl power”, and as much as I and many others wish it could be that simple, it just isn’t. Without this central focus, the film floats from topic to topic without staying on anything long enough to create anything more than a surface deep understanding of outrage.

The movie also, despite being incredibly diverse, is still seen through the eyes of a white heterosexual girl, leaving the film flat on its face in terms of intersectionality despite its best efforts. When other characters experience discrimination, it’s moved straight through, dealt with like a bull in a china shop.

For example after African American athlete Kiera is faced with discrimination, tears are shed and the movie quickly moves into the main character throwing up on her mother’s new boyfriend after geting drunk. This sudden change in scenes can only be described as the charging through of what is meant to be the message of the film.

The feminist message ends up a blur, a messy smudge that is fueled by productive rage.

In the end, “Moxie” is a film with heart, and it ends up sending a good message: women need to fight against everyday sexism. And ultimately, it serves as an empowering message to young girls not only to fight against misogyny but to keep their head up high.

However, it fails to meet the mark, and ends up being a perfect example of oversimplification of modern-day feminism.

Sister is a magazine that publishes infromation about various opinoins, cultures, and talents of women across the world.

BRICKS

BRICKS is a publication that is independently queer led.

BRICKS touches on and reroutes the intersections between fashion, art and our precarious social systems.

18 • SPORTS • April 21, 2021

BACK INTO THE SWING OF THINGS New coach trains the tennis team after 2020 season cancellations DEEKSHA SRIDHER Staff Writer

determination in each player she trains.

“My experience with coaching the team so far has been amazing to say the least. One of the main reasons he crowd goes wild. As the board reads 9-0, the for this would be the student athletes I have on my girls tennis team cheers together, filled with a sense of team,” Wostoupal said. “Every girl on the team is driven pride. They had just won their first match of the year by and hardworking.” a landslide.

As a coach, Wostoupal emphasizes the different asEach season, the players spend hours practicing pects of finding success on the court to her players. One their strokes and perfecting their technique as they preparticular factor she highlights is the mindset necessary pare for each upcomto have while playing. ing tournament.

“I know all of the girls have talent However, with

I know they put in and skill with tennis, but it can get lonely last year’s season hardwork in the off season, out there playing singles,” Wostoupal being cancelled, the said. “Everyone makes mistakes, but I and I love to see it pay off team is adapting to want them to be able to not dwell on the the new changes that year after year. I am there to past and focus on the next point.” this year brings.

Another aspect Wostoupal focuses be their number one “The pandemic on is the importance of creating goals. took my freshman supporter.

She highly values the goals each player year experience away has for themselves. from me, so I don’t “The first step to helping them ISABELLE WOSTOUPAL achieve know how everything their goals is to ask what their works yet in high HEAD GIRLS TENNIS COACH goals are,” Wostoupal said. “In the school tennis,” sophbeginning of the season, I had the girls omore Eunice Cho write down some goals that they wanted said. “I’m just going with the flow and learning about to achieve by the end of season.” the rules and traditions along the way.”

The players are not the only ones with goals for the However, one new change that has positively team, however. Wostoupal herself has expectations for impacted the team was the arrival of their new coach, the players.

Isabelle Wostoupal. Wostoupal, who graduated from “I am excited for the upcoming state tournament,” college in December 2020, is in her fifth year of coachWostoupal said. “My goal is always to come home with ing tennis. a trophy, but I can see the team competing really well “After I graduated, I played for North Central Col- this year.” lege for a year. I ended up transferring to UNO because The players on the team admire Wostoupal for the I didn’t feel the school was right for me,” Wostoupal work she puts into coaching the team. They see her as a said. “Once I got back to Omaha, I had the amazing kind and thoughtful coach who is easy to get along with. opportunity to be an assistant coach for Millard South “All the girls love the new coach,” junior Ria Boob tennis for four years.” said. “She’s pushing us to be our best and she’s all about Wostoupal credits the team players for her enjoyteam spirit. She’s also super funny and nice to talk to as ment in coaching high school tennis. While it may be well.” her first year working at MN, she sees potential and The team enjoys working with Wostoupal not just for her friendly personality, but for her sense of community as well. They appreciate her motivation and the Woustopal’s climb to head coach importance she places on teamwork.

“Coach Isabelle is wonderful. She really wants the 2016 best for us and for us to do well during this season,” Cho Graduates from Millard West High School said. “She is very kind and motivating, and I think I will 2017 become a better team player under her coaching.”

Plays tennis for North Central College Above all, Wostoupal values the hard work and dedication each team member puts into their performance.

2018 She admires the leadership and improvement of the Transfers to the University of Nebraska team members, and supports them for their efforts.

Omaha and begins position as assistant “I am looking forward to watching the girls improve coach for Millard South’s tennis team. and get better every year,” Wostoupal said. “I know they put in hard work in the off season, and I love to see it 2021 pay off year after year. I am there to be their number Begins position as MN’s head girl’s tennis one supporter.” coach.

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MOVING UP

SEEKING A PERFECT SHOT Tennis can get technical, and each girl has their favorite shot.

My favorite tennis shot would definitely be an approach shot. It’s my favorite because when the opponent hits a ball just right, going in for an approach shot puts you in control of the situation. These shots are definitely a closing, aggresive move which is the type of tennis play I like best.

RIYA KANNAPAREDDY

My favorite tennis shot would have to be a volley. As a doubles player, volleys let the team take charge of the point from the start. It’s a way to put yourself on the offensive. They are also really fun to do, and it’s exhilarating when you use volleys to win a point.

CHARITHA BODEPUDI My favorite shot is probably my second serve because I can rely on it consistently to get the point started.

If I miss my first serve, I get a second chance with my second serve. It has to be very consistent and reliable in order to play out a point.

EUNICE CHO My favorite shot is the volley because it can be a very powerful shot and you have a lot of control over how hard you hit it as well as where you hit it. A volley can finish the point very fast if placed carefully. I use this shot a lot since I play doubles, and for half the game I am at the net ready to play volleys.

RIA BOOB

MNHSONLINE.COM • 19

LUND-QUEST TO HAYMARKET PARK

Committing to Nebraska-Lincoln, junior pitcher is ready to be a Husker MAHIKA KANCHANAM Staff Writer t started in September of my sophomore year when I went to a camp at Nebraska and got to pitch in front of the coaches,” junior pitcher Brandon Lundquist said.

Four months later he got a call from University of Nebraska’s recruiting coordinator saying they were watching him. After looking at all of his options, Lundquist had a Zoom call with the head coaches for the Huskers in July. They weren’t expecting an immediate answer.

The pitcher made his decision on that very Zoom call. He committed to the University of Nebraska-Lincoln for baseball without much hesitation.

While Lundquist has been involved in multiple sports throughout high school, baseball is his passion.

“I chose baseball because it was the first sport I was recruited heavily in,” Lundquist said.

“I wanted to solidify my future with the uncertainties of the pandemic.”

After having the call with the recruiting coordinator, it didn’t take long for them to see Lundquist’s talent.

“I had one outing against a very good team and shut them down,” Lundquist said. “This sealed the deal and they offered me the next day.”

The summer of 2020, Lundquist spoke with his summer baseball coach about colleges and which schools to consider.

“He told me to just enjoy the process because it only happens once,” Lundquist said. “This delayed my decision by about a week because I took more calls from other coaches just to see what other places had to offer.”

“I

Stopping Short:

Junior Brandon Lundquist darts to second base to help the Mustangs secure the win against Gretna 5-2 with all runs being scored in the fourth through sixth innings. In addition to playing pitcher, he also plays short stop.

Photograph by Lily Taylor

Though for Lundquist, being a Husker was always his first choice.

“UNL was the school that had to be first on my list for a mixture of reasons such as the strong new coaching staff, location in relation to me and other relatives, and my familiarity with the school,” Lundquist said.

While looking forward to being a part of the collegiate team, Lundquist is glad to pitch two last seasons for the Mustangs.

“The key for us to make State this year is to stay on our competition no matter the score or rankings,” Lundquist said.

His coach, Dave Cork, is proud to see 90 Lundquist going forward in baseball with the mph max Huskers.

“He is a very good athlete and has good fast ball velocity when pitching and has good offspeed pitches. Brandon works very hard and +6 he deserves any success he gets,” Cork said.

While being a talented athlete, Lundmph fastquist’s effort and status as a team player ball pitchshines. ing pro“Brandon is always working hard, and gression getting extra reps in, and he is always checking up on us asking us how we are feeling. He has a positive attitude and continues 96.54 always to strive for greatness which makes him a percentile great athlete, an awesome teammate, and of the class friend,” senior first baseman Josh Torrez said. of 2022 Lunquist looks forward to the many opportunities that may come his way in the Source: Perfect future.

“My goal has always been to play at the Game highest level possible and that is the Major Leagues,” Lundquist said. “If I do get the opportunity out of high school or college I would gladly take it. I am very excited to be a Husker.”

STACKING UP STATS

PROSPECTIVE PITCHING Taking a look at what division one baseball scouts look for in a pitcher.

84

mile per hour pitching velocity consistently.

3 different commandable pitches.

>2.0

earned run average, earned runs are any runs scored without the aid of an error.

1

strikeout minimum per inning.

Source: NCAA Database

20 • April 21, 2021

BE THE CHANGE

Taking a closer look at differences between women’s and men’s sports on national level

M

Lover or Hater

arch Madness Education Amendments Act of 1972, “No person in is a heavily anticithe United States shall, on the basis of sex, be excluded pated time of the from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be year for fans and subjected to discrimination under any education proplayers alike. Being gram or activity receiving federal financial assistance.” the biggest stage in Universities are legally required to give men’s and college basketball, women’s sports equal opportunities, scholarships, and ending in facilities and they are responsible for their a national athletes well being. championship, FOCUS “If the men’s teams are getting access ON THE the stakes to this type of weight room, so should are high. All the women’s teams,” civil rights EVER LOVERIDGE athletes should FIGURES attorney and founder of have access to non-profit Champion Staff Writer state of the art Women Nancy Hogsfacilities while million was head-Makar said. “They’re the budplaying in this highly competitive and pressurized supposed to be spending tournament. get for the equal amounts of money This year, huge discrepancies were witnessed equal effort on women’s 2019 Men’s and between the women’s NCAA tournament and teams.”

NCAA the men’s. A picture of the women’s weight room Unfortunately, these surfaced including just a yoga mat and a set of events are a common occurtournadumbbells, compared to the men’s spacious weight rence in women’s sports. Women ment. room full of power racks and specialized equipare continually not being treated equally ment. in the sports arena. Even in my experience A TikTok made by Sedona Prince, a forward in high school sports, the difference in the for the University of Oregon, went viral about the treatment between girls and boys sports is million men’s facilities compared to the women’s. Prince stark. was the claimed “it’s 2021 and we’re still fighting for bits The girl’s teams are continually forced budget for to ask for things that are freely given to the and pieces of equality.” the 2019 Not only was the men’s weight room of highboys. For example, the girls basketball team er quality than the women’s. Their care package had to ask for an announcement on the Women’s was bigger, and their meals substantially more intercom for their state game when the boys tournaappetizing. district game was automatically announced. ment.

Many have been defending these discrepanThe softball team had an inferior field cies by arguing the men’s tournament brings in for many years compared to the baseball more revenue than the women’s. In reality, this is teams. untrue because the NCAA is a non profit organization.

These are all events that happen at Millard North Because they are not for profit they are responsible for year after year. They are getting better but it’s important allocating equal amounts of resources to both genders. to realize that inequality in women’s versus men’s sports Also according to federal law Title IX of the is happening at a national level as well as a local level.

We all hold the keys to change the way girls sports are viewed here. If we don’t identify the problems now and try to fix them they will always be there.

Prince said in her viral video “If you aren’t upset about this problem, then you’re part of it,” This statement is true about the NCAA’s treatment of women’s athletics as well as girls athletics at the high school level.

We must all work together to ensure equality in any court or field is safeguarded.

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14.5

JOCK TALK Carson Couch SENIOR Soccer

NOT SO SWAG BAGS

The women’s swag bags included a draw string bag, shower products, socks, a hair tie, two water bottles, a puzzle, a shirt, towel, a hat, and finally an umbrella.Where as the men’s swag bags included a blanket, drawstring bag, door opener, shower products, lysol wipes, a hat, a mystery box, and dozens of other products.

How do you and your team make practice fun?

We just mess around with each other and make jokes.

We have inside jokes that only we understand. We take it very seriously, but it is a safe environment for mess ups and having fun.

Jasmine Watts JUNIOR Track & Field

Trey Ruge FRESHMAN Golf

During warm-ups and cool downs, we bond by talking to each other. It’s the people that make track fun and so enjoyable.

We play games. Competing with each other in any sport is fun when you are with other people.