The Hoofbeat, Vol. 42, Issue 4, Feb. 6, 2023

THE HOOFBEAT

Photograph by Jack Durkan

HOW WAS THE ROBOT BUILT?

The building of the robot is divided into three parts - design, construction, and finally, programming. The team lays out a design first, and soon after constructs the chasis together. To finish it off, the team works on programming mobility in C++.

WHAT IS THE ROBOT ’S GOAL?

Although it differs by year, the goal of this robot is to play disk golf and change colors on double-sided rollers. The robot can pick up disks and fire them into goals to score points for MN.

ROLLER MECHANISMS AND SCANNERS

Used to spin and orient the double-sided rollers. Paired with sensors to detect color, these wheels help MN rake in points by positioning their color on top.

ROBOTIC ROLES

THE VARIOUS PARTS AND

PIECES OF TIME WELL SPIN’ T

Created by Brayden Hemje, Bryce Closman, Nathan Hartman, Nathan Hoer, and Cooper Wilkinson, Time Well Spin’t is a bot designed to fling disks with precision into goal-cages, with multiple parts in play, all at once.

Used to launch disks, as well as the expansion string. With two tanks total, the robot has 200 PSI available for use when necessary.

Contains string utilized later in the match for point-scoring. Makes use of air tanks and expansion mechanisms for prime coverage.

POINT-SCORERS

EXPANSION MECHANISM

Used to launch a string, which, when touching a certain amount of tiles in the ring of activity, allows for a corresponding amount of points to be given to MN.

LICENSE PLATE

Used to differentiate the team each robot is on.

Referees make use of this feature for identification purposes for issuing warnings and penalties when necessary during matches.

Stored for battle, the yellow foam disks are used to score or give away points in high and low goals around the arena

THE GEARS

84-tooth gears spin at 200 rotations per minute, and are used to control driving speed for the robot.

The barrel that lines up disks before and during launch. Loaded from pre laid-out disks, the barrel contains disks that move at an estimated 10 miles per hour.

THE BRAIN

Holds all written programs for actions and robot protocols. The Brain is the connection between robot and controller, and all commands are processed here.

On The Cover Pregame Prep: Juniors Brayden Hemje and Bryce Closman prepare their robot for battle. MN hosted the robotics tournament on January 6th and 7th.

THE DISKS

REBOOTING THE PROGRAM

MN robotics program undergoes changes in recent years

NATALIE HILL Staff Writer

N’s auditorium and stage, typically used for theatrical and musical purposes, took on a new role on January 6th and 7th as the robotics team hosted their second annual tournament, the Vex Expo, this year’s much larger than the previous. However, the program has had to grow tremendously over the years to get to this point.

In general, the robotics team’s goal is to provide an outlet for students to channel their knowledge in STEM subjects into a tangible result, while collaborating with their peers and learning along the way.

“The way I look at it is that each person has a nebula of ideas in their mind, an entire tool set given to them by public education, but they don’t have anywhere to apply that in a career oriented setting,” senior Victor Chan said. “Robotics aims to fill that gap.”

Robotics coach and progam manager, Jeffrey Brady, oversees all nine teams across MNHS and MNMS. He has helped the program grow and change over time, especially the past two years, and aims to further it’s success in the years to come.

tournament, and keeping it on track throughout the day. Tasks included ensur- ing all necessary equipment was where it needed to be and making sure the technological aspects were set up correctly.

“Overall it became a really fun event,” Stolinski said. “Towards the end I was like ‘Okay, it’s running smoothly. I don’t have to do anything now.’”

Between competition prep work that begins up to a year in advance, consistent practice before and after school, and even a two week summer camp, robotics has proven to be a considerable time commitment.

“We have other varsity sport athletes that compete with the robotics team, so [the time commitment] isn’t something that should discourage people who are involved in other activities,” Stolinski said. “As long as you’re communicating with your team on when you’re going to be gone and know how to be accountable for your responsibilities, it hasn’t been an issue.”

We have people that are from all walks of life, but we all share one thing in common, and that is trying to find solutions, use critical thinking, and apply those to real world problems.

“I would like to… [grow] the competitive nature of our teams,” Brady said. “Just like any varsity sport, competition matters, and a level of program success is measured as a result.”

This year, the team was able to host their own tournament, inviting a variety of schools from Nebraska and surrounding states. Students from all over the city came to compete on the MN stage and show off their skills in what is considered to have been an extremely successful competition.

“All teams that participated [gave] great reviews,” Brady said. “We were able to provide a World’s level tournament experience for the teams [attending].”

Chan and senior Patrick Stolinski, two team captains in the robotics program, played key roles in planning the

1:

Rollers - in order to “own” them, a robot must switch them to their team’s color, and is granted 10 points for each “owned” roller. In total, there are four around the arena.

By and large, members of the robotics team find their time participating well spent, and seem to thoroughly enjoy the culture and experience that go hand in hand with the learning opportunities.

“We have people that are from all walks of life, but we all share one thing in common, and that is trying to find solutions, use critical thinking, and apply those to real world problems,” Chan said.

Those on the robotics team want their peers to know that anyone can join and learn as they go. While the activity may seem excessively challenging to many, both Chan and Stolinski believe that isn’t the case.

“Robotics is an activity that anyone can be involved in, even those with no prior experience whatsoever,” Chan said. “As long as they come in with an interest, they are able to succeed in our program and develop that interest into actual ability.”

2:

3:

Goals - accuracy is required here. Robots aim for the “high” goal, and get three points for making a disk in here. If they miss and make it into the “low” goal, they risk giving their opponent 1 point.

Expansion - at ten seconds left in the match, robots are advised to make themselves large, so as to cover as much space as possible by whatever means necessary. Every square touched is 3 more points for the team.

“

VICTOR CHAN TEAM CAPTAIN

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Three ways that robots can win points for their team in disk golf:

NEWS BRIEFS

LOCAL NEWS

A shooting occurred at Target on 178th and Center, suspected shooter dead, no victims (Jan. 31)

Hundreds attended the hearing for the “Nebraska Heartbeat Act,” a bill that would ban any abortions after cardiac activity is detected in a fetus (Feb. 1)

NATIONAL NEWS

President Biden’s vacation home in Delaware investigated following classified documents controversy; no documents found (Feb. 1)

Punxsutawney Phil predicts there will be six more weeks of winter (Feb. 2)

WORLD NEWS

More than 100 people dead in suicide bombing of Peshawar mosque in Pakistan. Pakistani police have arrested several suspects in connection to the bombing (Feb. 1)

Australia to replace the image of the late Queen Elizabeth on its $5 bill with an Indigenous design (Feb. 2)

SET FOR STATE

DECA students make preparations for their upcoming state competition

UZIN SHRESTHA Staff Writer

Marketing, management, and entrepreneurship are some of the key skills and values of students in DECA (Distributive Education Clubs of America), an international organization dedicated to developing future leaders in business. It gives students opportunities to compete and have a positive impact on their community.

“We’re an organization that is centered around leadership competition and community service,” business teacher and DECA advisor Allison Goodman said.

A key part of DECA is the competitions that students can participate in. There are small ones throughout the year and then bigger ones such as State and ICDC (International Career Development Conference). These competitions range from projects to roleplaying different aspects of business and entrepreneurship. Each student can choose a business cluster to compete in.

“You can choose what cluster you’re interested in like marketing or finance and within those clusters [are] multiple events you can do,” senior and vice president of community outreach Basie Spurgeon said.

DECA students did well in their Metro competition with MN placing in the top three. New DECA participants placed well also.

itors for three of of them,” vice president of competition

Aanya Mishra said.

DECA students are now preparing for one of their biggest competitions: State. Different resources such as quizlets and practice tests are some of the ways students get ready for their competition in March.

“Everyone in Nebraska goes to Lincoln for state and competes, and the main goal is to get first, second or third so then we can qualify to go to ICDC,” vice president of leadership Sophia Lancaster said.

To get more people involved in the competitions and opportunities that DECA provides, students share information about DECA through DECA week. They partake in various activities that involve both in and out of DECA.

Some examples of these activities are a shark tank social where students can pitch their business ideas and a scavenger hunt where students can redeem a prize for finding items placed around the school.

DECA students remain devoted as they spread the word of DECA and get ready for their upcoming state competition using a variety of resources.

Overall, students enjoy the community and support that they gain whilst preparing for competitions and appreciate being awarded for their hard work.

“Everyone is just so supportive of each other and it’s

Seniors Isabela German and Sophia Lancaster’s Buying and Merchandising Operations Research State DECA project focuses on partnering with a company (their project is on Mulhall’s) to improve their products by enhancing their hyper-personalization digital marketing approaches.

Senior Lewis Nguyen will compete at State DECA in the Project Management category. His project involves managing the Mustang Mart and designing new clothing options and graphics for the store.

FAST FACTS

Over 60 colleges and businesses partner with DECA. DECA offers more than $300,000 in scholarships annually to members.

Source: california

MILLARD MISUNDERSTANDING

Pre-winter break, MN administration faced heavy backlash for misunderstandings regarding classroom inclusivity

OLIVIA TORREZ Editor-in-Chief

n Dec. 5, 2022, Millard superintendent John Schwartz released a statement regarding the recent misunderstandings of inclusivity and pride flags in the classroom.

“This is a two-pronged situation-- two things that were not related that intertwined and created some concern,” Rebecca Kleeman, Director of Communications for MPS, said.

Within a month of each other, Millard both removed a classroom display that had happened to contain a pride flag at the advice of their legal team, and gave staff a routine reminder about what can and cannot be brought into classrooms, causing discordance across MN.

Principal Aaron Bearinger and Kleeman made one thing explicitly clear: there is no policy in place that bans any sort of pride flag from classrooms. This originated from a misunderstanding with an existing advertisement policy, specifically the 1115 advertising policy.

“There’s no new policy or rule change about any of that. This was a process of reminding staff of what can and cannot be brought into classrooms. But that said, there is nothing that says that you cannot show [support], in fact, we want to show support for everyone,” Kleeman said.

Rumors of the policy circulating the building in early December had led to numerous concerned students

reaching out to Bearinger, such as junior Scar Connor.

“I talked to my teachers and they were all under the impression that they couldn’t have pride flags, so I went to Bearinger with it, because obviously I was upset about that because he’s taking away the inclusivity [in] classrooms by not allowing us to have advocacy groups that advocate for LGBTQ rights,” Connor said.

Connor was dissatisfied with Bearinger’s response to the situation.

“He didn’t clarify much. I brought up the pride flag thing, he said he never said anything about that. But I’m still confused how if he never said anything about that, how all the teachers were under the impression they couldn’t have them,” Connor said.

With a lack of direct response from Bearinger’s office, Connor decided to take her concerns to both the news and to a Nebraska State Senator.

“It’s important because you need to know that you have a safe space where you’re able to be yourself and not be judged for that or discriminated against for that,” Connor said. “I think it definitely caused a lot of people to feel not as welcome as they were not as accepted, just in general.”

Bearinger recognized the negative effects it has had on the general student population.

“Because of the misinformation that is out there, it has caused a disruption to our building, it’s causing disruption to our students,” Bearinger said.

1306: POLITICAL ACTIVITY

Not all students share Connor’s opinions, howev-

Materials relating to candidates for public office or holders of public office or issues, which are or may be presented on the ballot at any primary, general, or special election shall not be distributed on District property when school is in session. Informational materials relating to District bond issues, referendums, initiatives, and legislative issues may be discussed and distributed at meetings held on school property when school is not in session, subject to District policy.

The District will provide facilities to the Douglas County and Sarpy County election offices for local, state, and national elections and on election days, materials may be distributed at District facilities in accordance with the election laws. All election laws will be observed.

5510: FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

Students are encouraged to freely express their opinions and ideas provided, however, that due regard is given to good taste, District Policy and Rule, and the District’s need to provide a learning environment free from substantial disruption, material interference, and injury to the rights of others.

er. The head of the Sexuality and Gender Acceptance, SAGA, junior Fynch Vanderpool, reached out to guidance counselor Paul Gabel to talk to the club in the week before winter break. Bearinger came to speak too.

“Initially, I was also upset at Dr. Bearinger because I didn’t know the full story, but after I learned I was like ‘Okay, he’s doing his best to help us and he has our best interest in mind too,’” Vanderpool said.

Since this meeting, they have come to understand the district side of the situation as well as the students.

“[I learned] that you know they’re not all out to get you and just get two sides of the story. You have them talk about their side of the story because they can’t really control it anyways,” Vanderpool said.

However, Vanderpool and Connor both recognize student concern with how the situation was resolved.

“I think it hurt [the student body] because he didn’t send out a formal apology. He just apologized to some people and a group of students. So, he didn’t send out a whole clarification,” Vanderpool said.

Nevertheless, the administration has tried to make it clear to those they have spoken to that the student’s wellness and safety have always been their top priority.

“The biggest thing I can say is that we want everyone in Millard Public Schools to feel welcome, included, and safe. And I think that is a huge point that has gotten lost in this. And I understand why, but above all, I want to put that on the record and speak to that,” Kleeman said.

1115: ADVERTISING

The facilities, staff and students shall not be involved in advertising or promoting the interests of any political or commercial interest or interests during school hours or during school functions except as approved by the Board of Education or the Office of the Superintendent as hereinafter provided in Rule 1115.1.

The District may permit advertising in recognition of contributions supporting the District and/or student activities. Such advertising or recognition shall be limited to areas and locations approved in accordance with the District Policies, Rules, state statutes and applicable regulations, and applicable city ordinances.

Pertinent Policies

With confusion permeating Millard following the recent misunderstandings surrounding district advertising policy 1115, listed here are district policies regarding advertising, freedom of expression, and political activities. Visit mpsomaha.org for more information on Millard policies.

5510.1: FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

Students have the right to freely express their opinions and ideas under the First Amendment. This right, however, is not unlimited, and students are prohibited from using the following types of expression:

Vulgar or obscene... Defamatory... Invasion of privacy of others... Criticism of school officials or advocation of violation of District Policies or Rules (if it disrupts the normal operation of school)... Discriminatory... Substantial disruption or material interference with the educational process... Highly controversial... and sexual harassment.

PUSHING THE PROPERTY TAX Voters will determine the re-approval of tax levy on March 14

SADIE HUGELMAN Sports Editor

oing to school has become a steady routine in student’s lives. We have become accustomed to classes with our favorite teachers, after-school activities, and programs offered within the district, but most students aren’t aware of the complex budget that goes into each program, activity, and job at MN. A large percentage of the school’s budget comes from property taxes.

In 2017, Millard asked its community to vote on a tax that increased the average annual revenue by 1.09%. After voting, the district passed the tax levy to stabilize the district’s budget. The levy is voted for approval every five years, and on March 14, Millard voters will again have to decide whether to pass or override the levy.

Before the initial pass of the tax levy in 2017, Millard had to cut multiple programs and jobs due to selective abandonment. This selective abandonment took place from 2016 to 2019 and involved cutting programs and people to stabilize the district’s budget.

The first approval for the tax levy came after this selective abandonment. This has made the district more reliable on property taxes. Millard currently has the second lowest total levy in the Omaha Metro area, and is the second most efficient per person district in the area. Superintendent John Schwartz is serving his first year as superintendent and takes pride in the district’s humble spendings with hopes of continuing the current budget.

“This is such a great chance to be a part of telling Millard’s story as someone new. So to get to the point

where I could be a part of telling this story, it meant that I spent a lot of time listening and engaging,” Schwartz said. If the levy is not passed in March, the district will have to cut its budget. Mostly programs and people’s jobs in the district will be at stake. Eighty percent of the tax levy goes towards staff salaries and benefits. This is a substantial amount of money that pays for 4050 teacher’s jobs. This is equal to two elementary schools worth of staff, or one-third of the para education workforce in Millard.

Taxpayers for Freedom, a local taxpayer advocacy group, helps to spread the message and inform the community of property taxes including the upcoming vote. They advocate against higher property taxes. MPS Chief Financial Officer Chad Mesigeier met with the group and went through the budget, reviewing the expenses and outcomes of students. Taxpayers for Freedom is now in support of the levy after meeting with the district’s financial advisors.

“I think it’s a challenge of how you get the facts to people. I think once they hear the facts then they’ve usu-

ally been pretty supportive,” Meisgeier said.

Currently, Schwartz and his team are making an effort to spread information about the tax levy. Getting the information out to the community and students has been a struggle, especially to those living in the district without students enrolled in school.

“We’re really about facts and just trying to share factual information, and answer questions honestly and transparently to make sure people have the right info to make that decision,” Schwartz said.

There is a worry that with inflation on the rise and housing prices going up, the levy will not get passed. From the last vote five years ago, 63% were for it while 37% were against it, and the state aid has only decreased since then, while the student population has increased. The district now receives $2.5 million less in state aid than they did from 2009-2010, despite the student enrollment growing by over 1,000 students. The district is more dependent on the tax levy now and is advocating for its continuation.

The district’s main goal is to inform the community and students about the levy. Stabilizing the budget is important for the district, but also impactful on the people and programs that Millard supports.

“It’s not a new tax and nothing is being asked in addition to what we already have. We’re simply asking for support to continue access for what we already have as a school district,” Schwartz said.

Bond Issues vs. Tax Levies: Clearing up the difference between these monetary matters

A levy override is a voter approved property tax that is used for ongoing general fund expenses and operational needs.

17- year olds who turn 18 by November 7, 2023 can participate in the tax levy vote as long as they are registered by March 3rd.

“

If you recall what that felt like, you don’t want that to ever occur again. The worry is, have people forgotten that and is that sense of urgency still there.

JOHN SCHWARTZ MPS SUPERINTENDENT

”

A bond issue is meant to pay for the upkeep and renovation of buildings:

In 2020, MPS passed a bond issue of $125 million to fund the remodeling and improvements of district buildings such as Norris and Cody Elementary, Central Middle School, and Millard South High School.

CAFETERIA CRITIQUE

Maintaining a quality school environment, starting in the lunchroom

THE HOOFBEAT STAFF EDITORIAL

With 100+ students packed in the cafeteria and Mustang center daily during lunch time, messes are inevitable, but as high school students, we should be mature enough to prevent clutter and clean up after ourselves to the best of our abilities.

At MN, huge messes are few and far between, while little things like left behind trays or wrappers on the ground are more common.

Lunchroom monitors watch over the cafeteria during lunch and make sure students are acting in a civilized manner. Lately they have been noticing spills happening daily, and they don’t end up being cleaned up by the students themselves.

As high school students, we are on our way to becoming adults, so picking up after ourselves should be simple, it also shows administration that we can be responsible.

Lately, it’s been harder to maintain a cleaner school environment because of the current custodian shortage, so, to make their job a little easier, doing little things like bringing our trays up and pushing in our chairs should be the bare minimum.

Cafeteria etiquette also extends to respecting lunchroom staff. Lunch monitors have been noticing a spike in foul language and talking back, but most of the time the students are let off without consequences.

Even though the lunch monitors report this bad behavior to administrators, there are times when it gets dropped completely and they don’t end up facing the issue. By not addressing the student’s wrongs and sweeping it under the rug, the whole system can fall apart.

Even though it’s only a small percentage of disrespectful behavior each lunch period, this small amount can be a source of anxiety that makes lunch monitors want to avoid the task altogether.

Some small ways of showing respect to lunchroom staff include using please and thank you when getting your food, greeting lunch monitors, and, overall, being kind to the staff.

We need to remember that lunchroom staff are just trying to keep the cafeteria clean and orderly and we don’t need to make their job more demanding.

To ensure a smooth lunchtime, there are expectations put in place for students to follow. The administrative team works with lunch monitors and custodians to discuss what problems have developed and possible solutions to be made, including the following:

STUDENT SPEAK

HOW DO YOU CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY?

1. Students are expected to receive their lunch and remain seated in the cafeteria or Mustang Center

2. Underclassmen are expected to stay in the Mustang Center or cafeteria during lunch. Students found in unauthorized areas at lunch may receive a lunch detention or other disciplinary penalties.

3. Students are expected to sit on a chair or bench, due to possible health concerns, eating on the floor is not permitted.

4. During the last ten minutes of lunch, administration asks that students stay in their area to ensure that the Mustang Center and cafeteria can be cleaned up for the next group of students.

5. Students are expected to leave their area the way they found it. Now that we’re experiencing a custodian shortage, students and staff are welcome to keep an eye out for anything that may be left behind on another table or things that have fallen on the floor.

By showing the administrators and lunchroom staff that we are respectful during lunch, they will begin to trust us more and won’t need to put rules in place that may deter our lunchtime enjoyment.

To maintain a school environment that we can be proud of, we are all responsible for cleaning up after ourselves and being respectful to those around us.

EDITORIAL CARTOON

By Violet Bredenkamp

“After school, my grandma brings over flowers and chocolate things and we watch a movie.”

“It’s just a nice opportunity to get to know people and to like especially like with your significant other. You get to hang out with them and show your appreciation for them.”

“I spend time with [my girlfriend] and we buy each other gifts... we enjoy spending the day together.”

“I go out to dinner with friends. This year we’re going to Olive Garden.”

JORDAN WEBBER GRADE 10

KARLEIGH MILLER GRADE 9

SPENCER SIEBE-WALLACE GRADE

12

AMARMATH KARRI GRADE 12

THE HYPE AND HEART OF VALENTINE’S DAY

Looking beyond the box of chocolates at when we should be celebrating

alentine’s Day: A holiday that comes with overly sweet candy and sappy couples…it’s got to be one of my least favorite days of the year. No, it’s not because I’m single, or because I’m morally opposed to all things cheesy and romantic. It’s because I am tired of seeing people use Valentine’s Day as an excuse to prioritize their partner more than any other day.

Being the observant high school student that I am, I’ve noticed the heavy reliance of couples doing something special on this one particular day of the year.

We’ve all seen those extravagant Valentine’s Day proposals. Flowers, chocolates, giant stuffed animals, you name it.

The real question is, what about the other 364 days of the year? Why do we feel the need to up our standards just because a holiday tells us we should? Why does a holiday make us expect so much from our significant others? Why do we praise our partners for things as simple as giving us a heart shaped box of chocolates?

In many high school relationships, Valentine’s Day is used as a reason to validate your partner and give them extra special treatment. But why aren’t they getting treated like that everyday?

For some reason, the bar is raised on Valentine’s Day. Sweet comments float through the air, and the word “love” is dropped left and right. It’s sad to think these young couples put so much pressure onto such an elementary school holiday.

Personally, I’ve never liked Valentine’s Day for a number of reasons. Mainly because public PDA is at an all time high. Just because it’s a holiday dedicated to “love” does not mean you should go around smothering

your partner under the school stairwell.

But seriously, the amount of times I’ve walked past couples full on caressing each other is absurd. Physical affection rates are even worse on Valentine’s Day…my guard stays up and my eyes stay down.

This concept of a day dictating how you treat your significant other seems rather demanding.

For relationships on the rocks, Valentine’s Day can make things go from bad to worse. Statistics show that Valentine’s Day puts a tremendous amount of pressure on relationships.

According to Economic Times, there is an increase of breakups on and around Valentine’s Day compared to the rest of the year. As you can see, February 14 can add additional pressure that some relationships cannot withstand.

Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for appreciating our significant others, but it’s how we treat the relationship year round that matters most. It’s remembering to show appreciation for your partner more often than on one excessively commercialized holiday.

For example, I know a couple who have a monthly date night. Whether it’s going to the zoo or simply just grabbing a bite to eat, they have set aside special time for each other.

Putting a creative spin on this, a fun idea is making a “bucket list” where you and your partner take turns deciding what your date night will entail. It could be something that takes more effort like planning a picnic in the park, or something as easy as binge watching a favorite series.

Another important aspect of Valentine’s Day is having a mutual understanding of how you and your partner view the holiday. Discuss your expectations and communicate your desires for the day. Not only does this benefit the relationship, but it also ensures that you and your significant other are on the same page.

So, let’s stop putting this one day on a pedestal and start being mindful of appreciating our partners the other 364 days of the year.

In the meantime, I’ll never say no to a box of chocolates!

FAMILY A PARTNER “BESTIES” OTHER 54% OF PEOPLE LOVE WRITE THEM A NOTE

VALENTINE’S DAY BUY OR MAKE THEM FOOD WATCH A SHOW TOGETHER

192.80$ 21%

GIVE THEM A HUG

Emily Schmucker Staff Writer

Navigating Online Privacy

Whether negotiating with parents for phone privacy or knowing what and what not to post, the world of online privacy can be complicated.

Illustration by Carley Stych

POV: PARENTS VS. PRIVACY

Different viewpoints on how much a parent should track their children’s cell phone usage

CALLIE MENKE Staff Writer

even hours and twenty-two minutes. This is the average screen time of teens ages 13-18 in the United States, according to ABC news. Of those seven hours and twenty-two minutes, every single second is accounted for and traceable to your own device. With such precise data tracking, how much privacy does any one person really have?

No matter what you do, you always leave a digital footprint. So is it a parents’ responsibility to guide and support their kids? As technology is ever-evolving, people find themselves in a position where every picture, every text, and every post becomes public, whether you intentionally share it or not.

It’s parents who introduce technology and often purchase devices for their children. Therefore, it’s their responsibility to guide their children to make good decisions with their phones. When guiding kids through the potential dangers of phones, overseeing is often the preferred method.

English teacher Monica Kauffman says she starts with open communication with her family when it comes to the conversation of privacy online.

“I can see the dangers. In my Media Analysis class, we actually [study a] whole unit on social media. So there are a lot of dangers with it, and I see the dangers. But as a parent, I try to talk to [my kids] about the dos and don’ts. And I hope that they’re responsible for it. We talk about what you could post and what not to ever post, different things like that,” Kauffman said.

Kuaffman’s son, Junior Sebastion Kauffman, says he has social media apps such as Snapchat, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook. Social media safety is often a big concern for parents.

“But I don’t really use any social media except for Facebook. Sometimes I post, and sometimes I don’t. It might just be me looking at stuff,” Sebastian Kauffman said.

Sebastian understands that he could lose phone privileges if he doesn’t keep a good balance between schoolwork and technology. To avoid losing privileges, Kauffman not only utilizes clear communication to open up the conversation of internet safety, but she also has clear, set rules when it comes to social media.

“They can’t talk to people they don’t know; high school people [are] okay, but if somebody contacts them from

another city, they know that’s a no. I have set some limits, and I just hope that they follow them. I’m trying to build that trust. But you never know if what you’re doing is the right thing when it comes to social media,” Kauffman said.

Mrs. Kauffman and Sebastian have a mutual agreement when it comes to internet safety rules. They both make good compromises and have similar ideas when it comes to technology. Although Kauffman has expressed not feeling the need to check Sebastian’s phone, Sebastian expresses understanding toward it.

“I mean, there are certain things that a parent should be able to look at, like if they are worried about the kid and they want to know what’s going on, and the kid won’t tell them, then the only choice they have left is to go through their phone,” Sebastian said.

While the Kauffman family focuses on communication, others, like Junior Emma Rhode, think teaching before giving kids phones is important.

“I think they can [check their phones] to a certain extent, but I think they need to educate their kids on the importance of social media and trust them more instead of just invading their privacy all the time,” Rhode said.

Fellow Junior Morgan Beckley, however, has a different opinion. She believes parents should trust their kids.

“I don’t think parents should check their kids’ phones because it’s a violation of privacy, and we don’t check their phones, so I think that they should give us this privacy as high schoolers because we’re going to be going to college in a couple of years anyways,” Beckley said.

While Sebastian tends to be considerate towards parents checking one’s phone, he does have a little less appreciation for the screen time rules his family has in place, stating that if he does poorly on a quiz or gets in trouble, his apps will be restricted.

“I will set screen time limits, which means they don’t get it at all. I turn everything off, except for the ability to communicate with me and then school apps they can have, but nothing else,” Kauffman said.

By using tools like screen time, Kauffman is able to help balance technology use and other aspects such as school work. In this way, she offers guidance.

Although opinions may vary, one thing is clear, the relationship between parents, privacy, and you is a complicated one.

PARENTAL CONTROLS ON THEIR TEENS’ CELLPHONE

OVERSHARING ONLINE

MAHIKA KANCHANAM In-Depth Editor

Oversharing increases need for validation and blurs line between online life and reality I

n our rapidly evolving world today, technology becomes easier and easier to use, and posts can go up with a single click. With easy accessibility to posting, it doesn’t take much to fall into a habit of constant posting and oversharing on social media platforms.

With each post, views, likes, and follow requests come flooding in, and our brain releases dopamine which gives us a strong feeling of reward. This motivates social media users to continue posting.

Eventually, users become highly dependent on validation from their online lives.

“Our addiction also ties into a need to find validation from others and the need to share our lives online, in the process neglecting our own happiness,” states a 2019 article from The Medium, an online journal.

The article continues to explain how “keeping up a certain online identity increases self-esteem but can mask our true personas.” Users are constantly posting their highlights and start competing with others in an attempt to one-up other posts and have the most “perfect” life online. As individuals start taking certain actions and live a certain lifestyle for the sole purpose of their image on social media, it’s easy to lose one’s sense of self and individuality.

The effects and harms of oversharing go even further and can harm our mental health as we look for validation from strangers online.

“Not knowing what kind of impression you’re making online can cause stress and anxiety,” said Fallon Goodman, an assistant professor of psychology at George Washing.

With continuous oversharing amongst teens, these feelings of anxiety and depression can start to be much more prominent than that hit of dopamine you get when someone likes your post.

While these are direct effects of oversharing, it’s also important to understand the possible negative consequences of oversharing in the future for students.

“I think there are a lot of things on social media that will probably come back when a person is older. You think it’s just a blip in time, and then it’ll go away,

and it won’t matter, but I think some of it will matter. And I think it can make a difference in job opportunities and social opportunities,” MN counselor Jodi Therkelsen said.

Oversharing could hurt an individual’s career. While students mature throughout and after high school, the habit of oversharing leaves a trail of moments that may have the potential to ruin one’s reputation when it comes to finding a job they desire. It’s important to set boundaries and think before you post.

Though dependent on the individual, Therkelsen explains how many teens use social media to work problems out, which is an unhealthy use of social media.

“Sometimes I think that it’s an outlet that’s sometimes inappropriate or not the right place to air things out. And I think it’s used like that too often, especially by younger teens,” Therkelsen said.

Through setting self-boundaries with social media use and finding healthy outlets for our private matters, we can preserve our individuality and prevent falling into the trap of oversharing.

“Knowing yourself and knowing what your limitations should be to keep you healthy is going to become more and more important,” Therkelsen said.

It’s important to remember that the likes and shares aren’t what should defines our self-worth.

STUDENT PERSPECTIVE ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Srilaasya

“Sometimes the small moments in life are meant to be enjoyed ourselves, in the moment. With apps such as BeReal and Snapchat normalizing sharing every aspect of our lives on social media, we put focus on glamorizing our life for others. In-turn, the vaalue of privacy and genuity can be put into jeopardy.”

“I think when we look at social media or any media, people tend to lower their self-esteem when they see that other people have a better life or they have a better circumstance than you. That can lead them to feeliing or having negative emotions such as envy, lonliness, or body image concerns.”

“I think oversharing on social media leads people to criticize every aspect of their life. Rather than doing things because they like them, they do things based on how they think other people will perceive it and they want to look cool.”

Nedunoori

Lila Mock

Sarang Kim

SNOOPING SOCIAL MEDIA

Social media platforms track and steal user information and put users’ privacy at risk

ADITHI DEEDUVANU Staff Writer

BeReal, TikTok, and Snapchat are all names that sound familiar. They are all apps that are part of recent trends and have been popular for varying amounts of time. However, what may sound less familiar is that every one of these apps tracks, sells, and listens to your information.

The Digital Journal reveals how BeReal, the 2022 App of The Year, actually tracks and sells your information. Their article goes on to explain how BeReal and apps like it have several privacy issues.

“There are several privacy risks involved in the case of an app like BeReal. Due to the fact that it pushes users to post content once every day, there will undoubtedly be privacy issues there…one of the top risks is that your location may be shared without your consent. When you share a ‘BeReal’ publicly in the Discovery feed, strangers can see your location clearly,” Mirza Silajdzic, a privacy expert, said.

However, it isn’t just social media that listens to your preferences. Search engines such as Google do as well. To receive personalized ads, Google filters through your previous searches, finds keywords, and sells your information to buyers.

“It seems like these days, every app or site you use or download knows your information, and there’s not any way to prevent that,” Junior Tejal Parajuli said.

If you’re worried about your apps or phone listening to you, the truth is that it’s almost impossible to avoid. Even built-in apps on your phone, like Siri, listen to you.

As Norton VPN, a security app for your phone, explains on their website, “You shouldn’t be too concerned about your phone listening to you. You might even appreciate the personalized advertisements that result from it.”

The reason why apps like BeReal or search engines like Google often listen to you is in order to understand your preferences or things you are interested in. However, many people, such as Freshman Nithya Khandavalli, were surprised to learn this information.

“I was a little taken aback when I heard that many of the apps on my phone were tracking me, but then I realized that in the world we live in, that’s pretty common,” Khandavalli said.

While some people have come to accept it, others have decided to try to limit the apps that can listen to them.

“When I heard that Gas App was listening to what I was saying, and when there were rumors about its

consequences, I decided to delete it. It wasn’t like I use the app every day, so it didn’t have a huge impact on my daily life when it was gone,” Parajuli said.

Some people decide to be wary of these apps in the first place, not downloading them in general. “I’ve never really been interested in getting apps like Gas App. However, I do have BeReal and TikTok, just because those apps are more appealing to me,” Senior Lila Mock said.

Regardless of whether you get apps like TikTok or if you ignore the trend, it can be important to understand the consequences apps like this can have.

ONLINE PLATFORMS TRACK INFORMATION AS A MARKETING STRATEGY TO ATTRACT MORE USERS

Dangers Online

Cyberbullying

A 2018 survey found that 60% of childring on social media have witnessed cyberbullying and around 47% of users are victimes of cyberbullying. Cyberbullying can occur through comments, posts of an individual without approval, and through online gaming.

Cyber Predators

There is a big danger of sexual predators and stalking online. With the ease to be anonymous on social media, it’s hard to identify who we truly are interacting with on social media. This makes it easier for cyber predators to exploint children.

Phishing

Phishing is when people use tricks to try to get online users to click on malicious links or emails. This is hard for younger populaitons to recognized because it appears like a safe, normal link. Phishing can be used to gather personal information about users which puts users at danger and violates their privacy.

Kaspersky, cybersecurity company

PERCENT OF U.S. TEENS USING SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS IN 2022

Source:

SCARY SELLS

Detriments of constant negativity and polarization in news

onflicts, natural disasters and polarized views consistently top the charts of news stations. There is a constant scroll that only seems to show the world in a negative light. But why? Why do my social media and news feeds only show me negative news?

Well, negative news sells. According to the Outbrain, bad news is 30% more likely to catch our attention than good news, due to our inherent biases such as the negative bias. The negative bias is a cognitive bias that results in us giving adverse situations a greater effect on our psychological state than neutral or positive situations. In other words, it is our tendency to register negative stimuli more.

News stations are aware of this and use it to their advantage by manipulating headlines and pushing out more and more negative news to get our recognition. For example, the title “Scaring Sells” is more likely to catch the readers’ attention than, “Benefits of Reading the News.” This is otherwise known as clickbait, the advertisement of sensationalized, misleading, and stimulating writing to generate revenue.

This constant negativity around news affects the mental health of many individuals and creates a pessimistic view of life that can increase stress, creating anx-

Processes

How does the source go about finding information? Is it ethical?

iety in many lives. According to the National Center for Biotechnological Information, around 26.7% of people exposed to negative news go on to develop anxiety.

The constant distressing news the news stations put out also starts to numb us to traumatic events happening and causes us to lose our sense of empathy.

Take mass shootings, for instance. They pop up on the news almost daily– leading us to think of it as an event that happens commonly in life– when in reality, school shootings, mall shootings, and public shootings are not the norm.

To combat this mindset we must take our time to learn about the people involved and each individual case to build back the empathy that the news stations have desensitized us to.

On the other hand, they also tend to be very polarized, to the point viewers from opposite ends are inclined to believe each other to be crazy. On average, 79% of media companies print biased stories for advertisers. This, in return, gives us stories that are meant to fit a certain agenda. Those who believe in that particular agenda tend to only read news from the news station that reinstates their pre-existing beliefs. This is due to the confirmation bias, a cognitive bias in which we only search for information that fits our previous opinions.

By doing this, news stations create a toxic environment which results in split opposing populations that are set on their beliefs. They think anything that goes against their beliefs is insane because the news they have been reading does not show these opposing viewpoints.

Overall, news stations need to take a more neutral, non-biased side because their goal should be to inform, not entertain. This will help decrease the overwhelming amount of negative and polarizing news.

Know What You’re Looking For

THE HOOFBEAT

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 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

Co-Editors-in-Chief

Olivia Torrez

Rebecca Jacobsen

Front Editor

Elias Pipinos

News Editor

Rebecca Jacobsen

Opinions Editor

Teagan Lynch

In-Depth Editor

Mahika Kanchanam

Lifestyle Editor

Olivia Torrez

Sports Editor

Sadie Hugelman

Online Editor

Check the Sources: Are they there and do they seem reliable?

Anuj Singh

Social Media Editor

Anuj Singh

Cross-Reference Other News Sites

How to Choose Your News

Errors

Is the information true?

Good news sources are commited to fixing errors and checking facts

Transparency: Opinions marked as columns, conflicts of interest avoided, etc.

Goals of the News Source: Good sources should used to only to inform

Co-Editors-in-Chief

Cartoonist and Artist

Molly Murch

Violet Bredenkamp

Lucy Tu

Photographer

Jack Durkan

Front Editor

Lucy Tu

Staff Writers

Mia Castro

News Editor

Lahari Ramini

Adithi Deeduvanu

Isabel Gross

Opinions Editor

Natalie Hill

Anjali Pullabhotla

Callie Menke

In-Depth Editor

Molly Murch

Emily Schmucker

Uzin Shrestha

Lifestyle Editor

Cece Vlieger

Isa Luzarraga

Amina Hussain

Sports Editor

Grace Evert Adviser

Lily Taylor

Online Editor

Sarah Crotzer Principal

Sireen Abayazid

Social Media Editor

Aaron Bearinger

Gracie Schweers Adviser

Sarah Crotzer

Principal

Brian Begley

Amina Hussain

Staff Writer

AN AI ABDUCTION

ChatGPT is making its mark in education, for better or for worse?

very student knows the feelings that come with staring at a stark white page with a small black cursor blinking as if it is taunting you. We all have agonized over a screen for countless minutes wondering why Photomath or Sparknotes can’t help us with our assignment. With the exception of outright plagiarism, writing assignments have long been considered “unhackable”. This is because writing isn’t a formula, like those commonly found on your math homework, it is a process. This quality has allowed it to be used as a benchmark of language intelligence for generations. After all, Google has never been able to write an essay for you, has it?

That just changed. November 20, 2022 marked the beginning of a new era in English classrooms. OpenAI introduced ChatGPT, computer software that can generate thoughtful responses to any prompt under the sun.

Although ChatGPT may sound beneficial in many ways, I think it may do more harm than good, especially in education. I fear that the days of brainstorming and imagination may slowly be moving behind us. Now all students need to do is plug their topic into a queue, and voila! An essay appears.

Since its recent birthday, ChatGPT has not only been used to write essays, but to generate resumé cover letters, explain math problems step-by-step, write lyrics and poetry, give relationship advice, and simplify topics.

But consequences come with having this much information at our fingertips. I expect that students already lacking motivation to write won’t see the point in trying if a computer can write their essay for them. Although ChatGPT may sound like a great short term solution to writer’s block, it completely defeats the whole purpose of writing, communication through language.

To make this AI more personable, everything ChatGPT generates is unique, and the software can even incorporate tone and mood into its delivery based on the user’s request.

At Northwestern University in Chicago, a research group led by Catherine Gao asked ChatGPT to write medical research papers, which they mixed with their own papers. The software effectively fooled scientists when they were asked which papers were written by AI, and which were written by humans, so ChatGPT’s work could be under the eyes of teachers every day.

For the thousands of students who stare at a blank GoogleDoc, ChatGPT sounds like a miracle. The teachers who have told us, “I know writing isn’t your favorite, but you will need these skills to write a cover letter, college essay, or even an email to your boss,” are now wrong.

The once commonplace English fundamentals that I believe are crucial to convey our ideas and emotions might not be necessary any longer if AI can do the work for us.

Now don’t assume ChatGPT is a flawless supercomputer. It can capture main ideas and support its points

What can CHATGPT do?

“BENEDICT ANDERSON AND ERNEST GELLNER BOTH HAVE THEORIES ABOUT THE ORIGINS AND NATURE OF NATIONALISM, BUT THEIR PERSPECTIVES DIFFER IN KEY WAYS. ANDERSON BELIEVES THAT NATIONALISM IS A CULTURAL CONSTRUCT, ARISING FROM THE DEVELOPMENT OF PRINT CAPITALISM AND THE CREATION OF IMAGINED COMMUNITIES. GELLNER, ON THE OTHER HAND...”

FROM ESSAYS

(When asked to write an academic essay comparing the theories of nationalism of Benedict Anderson and Ernest Gellner)

with coherent thoughts, but it isn’t always totally accurate in its information. If students begin to believe ChatGPT is smarter than our teachers, misinformation could spread like wildfire.

Since its debut, ChatGPT has captured over one million users, and continues to gain momentum. Colleges and school districts worldwide are frantic to understand the software and determine its place in education.

School districts in California, New York, Alabama, and New Jersey have blocked the program on student devices until they can better understand ChatGPT and how its use may fit in curriculum.

This is leading me to question if the writing prompts educators have assigned are worth continuing if they aren’t considering the place AI may have in the writing process. Is this invention like a calculator, saving people from the inner workings and delivering a polished product? Or is ChatGPT taking the place of the most human of creations, language?

In this new era, I fear students may never have to learn the intricacies of grammar or the complexities of tone. The fundamentals of writing will be a given, and students may never need to think critically when writing.

With a new generation of students and a new generation of technology, maybe the question we should ask ourselves is not how to prevent the use of ChatGPT in the classroom, but instead, have these writing assignments served their time? Is this the reset button English curriculum needs?

After all, ChatGPT is likely just the beginning of much more intelligent AI to come. So, as you gain curiosity around the future of writing, shall you also be questioning who (or rather what) wrote this article?

A Teacher’s Perspective

HARRY POTTER: HELLO WONDER WOMAN, IT’S AN HONOR TO MEET YOU.

WONDER WOMAN: THE HONOR IS MINE, HARRY POTTER. YOUR BRAVERY AND DETERMINATION ARE KNOWN THROUGHOUT THE WIZARDING WORLD.

HARRY POTTER: THANK YOU. I’VE HEARD OF YOUR INCREDIBLE STRENGTH AND WISDOM, AND I HAVE SO MANY QUESTIONS FOR YOU.

WONDER WOMAN: OF COURSE, ASK AWAY...

TO DIALOGUES

(When asked to write a dialogue between Harry Potter and Wonder Woman)

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN, I AM WRITING THIS RECOMMENDATION TO EXPRESS MY SINCERE ADMIRATION FOR [NAME OF THE PERSON], WHO IS A PERSON OF OUTSTANDING CHARACTER, SELFLESS, KIND AND HARDWORKING.

[NAME OF THE PERSON] HAS DEMONSTRATED A STRONG COMMITMENT TO SERVING OTHERS AND HAS MADE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THOSE AROUND THEM THROUGH THEIR ACTIONS AND WORDS...

TO RECOMMENDATIONS

(When asked to write a formal recommendation for someone who is selfless, kind, and hardworking)

Grace’s Glance

Grace Evert Staff Writer

“

I can see it being useful for a lot of people to develop ideas. In terms of English, it’s kind of scary to think ‘Oh, it’s gonna be hard to tell if one of the students is having the computer writing their paragraphs or essays’ or something like that, but I think it could really be useful... to be able to improve student examples.

JOSHUA Lingenfelter MNHS TEACHER

WITH SUCCESS COMES A SEQUEL

Sequel to sophomore Harmony Banwo’s first novel in works

ELIAS PIPINOS

Front Page Editor

Aquarrel between written by an eighth gradveloped across 145 pages, Shattered Windows: It’s Bet Than To Be KILLED now has

After publishing her wo seeks to work on her writing and to use her new skills in the production of the sequel. In fact, many of her skills come from the education she receives at MN.

“Taking Honors English, I feel, has helped me learn to write better, and I’ve gotten more advice from teachers,” Banwo said.

Along with these new classes, Banwo has noticed a spark in her interest, much like the fire she felt while writing her first book.

In fact, Harmony was so enthusias tic while writing her first book that she found more difficulty nearing the end of the writing process.

“I really enjoyed writing my first book,” Banwo said, “but I was really hard on myself and I didn’t want to end it. Writing those last couple chapters was a [big] stress relief.”

With this renewed enthusiasm, and with a goal in mind, Harmony feels strongly about the sequel in progress.

“When I write [now], it’s deeper because [before] I was just writing to write,” Banwo said. “I didn’t know my writing was going to be a book, but now that I know my writing will [be published], it’s written much more intentionally and with purpose.”

Similarly to how she utilizes her education now, Banwo found use in the school environment around her at Millard North Middle School and sought advice from her

ter development and growth, Prince noticed changes in Banwo’s word-by-word writing as the book progressed.

“The biggest development with Harmony’s writing during her eighth grade year would have be her motivation to elevate her vocabulary,” Prince said. “She really wanted to make her descriptions specific and vivid.” Throughout the technicalities and decision-making skills that come with writing a book, Prince stood by and supported Banwo, and even advertised her student’s book.

“I mainly played a part in Harmony’s works by reading her work in progress, providing encouragement, and promoting others to read her book,” Prince said.

Along with Prince’s advertising, Banwo received massive amounts of support from her fellow students at MNMS, and even had a book signing.

book developed.

“Harmony showed me copies of her book in different segments, and I would read them and provide both encouragement and con- structive feedback,” Prince said. Along with chapter-by-chap -

“[Having a book signing] was a good time, with lots of people showing their support for me and my book,” Banwo said. While making big strides forward to the completion sequel, Banwo finances and marwith the support of her father. took care of the majority of Banwo said. “Selling the book pretty well, with some of the sonal enjoyment, some put the next book, and with 10% the National Alliance on Menport and sales funding she received for her first book, and with the connections she makes being a part of school clubs, Banwo’s motivation withstands the test of time, and the well of ideas for her next book never runs dry.

“I use the experiences with the people I am around in life in my book, and exaggerate them to [have] happy and sad moments,” Banwo said. “I have always written stories, but writing books has been a way to write the way I feel, and to be able to exaggerate [and make] life exciting.”

“It’s gripping as it is disturbing. Though the story is fictional, it speaks to some real-life issues that many in society either did not know existed or chose to ignore. I feel so much for Nivea.”

–Jennifer Hammond.

“Harmony has created a sympathetic and young fictional character that I strongly believe will soon capture the imagination of the world in this book. I hope Harmony will bring out some sequels to this fascinating saga of Nivea.”

–Dr Itohan Igudia

TOUCHDOWNS AND TRADITIONS

Students and staff look back on past Super Bowl celebrations ahead of Super Bowl LVII

REBECCA JACOBSEN Co-Editor-In-Chief

Youpile your plate with chips, dip, pizza and endless snacks. Picking up a can of Mountain Dew, you walk into your living room just in time to hear cheers erupting from your family– your team has just scored a touchdown. Meanwhile, your younger sister is sitting in the other room, waiting for the next commercial break and, more importantly, the halftime show.

This atmosphere could only be used to describe the Big Game, the Championship of Commercials, and Nacho Appreciation Day– otherwise known as the Super Bowl.

With the Super Bowl coming up on February 12, it’s time to get excited for the Big Game and start preparing for Super Bowl traditions. Senior Carmella Chavez is one student looking forward to celebrating the Super Bowl once again.

“Football is kind of our [Chavez’s family] life, so I’d say the Super Bowl is pretty important to all of us. My mom’s really big into the halftime performance, but me, my brother and my dad, we always really get into it,” Chavez said.

Every year, Chavez and her family watch the Super Bowl– they even have three different screens to play it on. With the big game being such a big deal for Chavez’s family, they have matched the occasion with an equally huge part of Super Bowl Sunday– hosting parties.

“The past couple of years we have done more parties. A couple years ago we did a huge party where we had a whole pool of who would win the Super Bowl, and I was in charge of keeping track of who would

win the pool, so that was really fun. But a lot of times we like to have a lot of people over,” Chavez said.

Science teacher Tyler Pearson also enjoys watching the Super Bowl with his family every year. One special Super Bowl activity Pearson has participated in with his family is “prop bets.”

“[Prop bets are bets on] who’s gonna get hit, heads or tails in the coin flip, who’s gonna score the first point, how long will the National Anthem be, will there be a wardrobe malfunction at the halftime show– legitimately you can bet on that– will there be a pass over 80 yards for a touchdown; there’s some really interesting ones,” Pearson said.

While Pearson tried out prop bets for only one year, science teacher David McEnaney has turned them into a tradition, held when he goes to his in-laws’ house every year to watch the game with his family.

“We have done [prop bets] with all of the kids every year… We loved it. It’s so much fun, the kids get so into it,” McEnaney said.

McEnaney’s family does not bet money on the prop bets, but every year, they pass around a trophy, along with bragging rights, to the winner of the bets. But beyond friendly competition between family members, there are many other reasons to enjoy watching the game. For McEnaney, it also provides a fun way to spend time with loved ones, especially as the kids in the family grow older.

“I think it’s been so much more fun now that the kids are getting old enough to participate. Bragging rights between us aunts and uncles, some of the older people, that was always fun. But now that the kids are really getting involved with it, it’s something that they look forward to. We watch football religiously at my house anyway, so it’s just an-

other excuse to get everybody together,” McEnaney said.

Chavez, on the other hand, loves watching certain aspects of the game itself, such as the halftime show and the initial kickoff. This year, she is hoping to see an exciting, close game.

“Honestly, I want to see how they call penalties this year; I wonder how that’s going to go. I’m really hoping to see a couple of challenges, because that’s such a cool part of it, when the coach challenges a play that they [the referees] give. I really want it to come down to the wire; I don’t want it to be a blowout,” Chavez said.

Hanging out with friends and family and watching the game are both integral parts of the Super Bowl experience– but what is the Super Bowl without the essential tradition of snacks each year?

“Every year, my dad actually cooks and he makes a cheese dip, and then he does either burgers or ribs– we always barbecue,” Chavez said.

For Pearson, eating a special snack combination is his family’s biggest tradition– he and his son always purchase what Pearson calls “dude snacks” for the Super Bowl.

“Dude snacks [are] a combination of either Chili Cheese Fritos or Frito Scoops, the Frito-Lay Bean Dip, and the Frito-Lay Jalapeño Cheese Dip. You just scoop, you put the Bean Dip in, and you dip it into the cheese, and then you eat it. That’s our big tradition,” Pearson said.

After replaying student and staff Super Bowl traditions and memories, the call has been made: beyond the snacks, the commercials, and the party logistics, watching the Super Bowl is ultimately a yearly tradition of great importance. It brings friends and family together, helping to make memories that will last a lifetime.

Aidan Hagan RJ Eggley

“I’ve grown up watching them my entire life. My dad was a Chief’s fan and he passed that on to me.”

senior junior

“I’m an Eagles fan. Always have been. I’m always down in Philadelphia, so I’m a Philadelphia fan for most sports.”

Super Bowl Fun Facts

Travis and Jason Kelce are the first brothers to face off against each other in the history of the Super Bowl

The Super Bowl is the second highest eating day in the USA, right behind Thanksgiving

The University of California has produced the most quarterbacks for the Super Bowl

Source en.as

Photograph by Emily Schmucker and Natalie Hill

Photograph by Olivia Torrez

A RECONNAISSANCE FOR RECORDS

Exploring Old Market’s musical scene to find best record store in town

MIA CASTRO Staff Writer

Iglance at my phone. It’s 7:07 PM. I have to get home, tomorrow’s a school night! Still, I feel I’m missing something on my visit to my favorite spot in Omaha, the Old Market.

My exhale in the frigid winter air clears to reveal a wide window covered in posters. I tentatively step toward the entrance, slowly creaking open the door, shivering slightly. The air of old records, incense, and worn wooden floorboards waft through my nose.

As a friendly staff member welcomes me in, my eyes take in the sight of bright records stacked high, music posters stationed around the walls, and a colorful assortment of CDs.

ing in price depending on the artist and song popularity. From Drake to the Arctic Monkeys to the Beatles, Homer’s has something for everyone. In addition to vinyl, Homer’s sells CDs, cassette tapes, and small gifts such as magnets, bracelets, rings, tote bags, t-shirts, and movie and artist figurines.

After warming up in Homer’s, I started my trek to Vinyl Cup Records. Vinyl Cup Records is another must-see spot if you’re a fan of more vintage records. It’s a smaller place, but just as charmingly friendly. With old-aesthetic brick walls and vinyl-holding crates, this shop is perfect for a quick record pit stop.

Vinyl Cup Records also connects to Raygun, a clothing shop that sells brand t-shirts, hoodies, and jackets in all styles, adorable dog clothing, aprons, mugs, and more. I simply couldn’t walk out of there without purchasing something fun. I bought a mini magnet for a friend.

After these two visits, I was feeling hungry for two things: a quick bite and a last trip to Drastic Plastic, another hot spot in the Old Market area. The Drastic Plastic Vinyl Lounge is also a record store, found on the second floor of the Monster Club building.

The Monster Club is a family-friendly pub with an eerie aesthetic. The dimmed green lights shone over me as I giggled at the hilarious zombie, vampire, and Freddy Krueger statues when seating myself to munch on a basket of fries and sweet tea.

Once I was done eating, I hurried upstairs to check

out Drastic Plastic. Similarly to Vinyl Cup Records, Drastic Plastic exhibited their vinyls in large black bins, but the feel of the establishment was much different.

Outlining the perimeter of the shop, lava lamps, record-shaped tables, and Christmas lights provided the lounge with a kaleidoscopic, cloudy vibe. I sifted through the record bins, humming the rock tune playing through the speakers.

Store prices are reasonable as well. Sometimes when buying vinyls on Amazon and other websites, they’re put at an astonishingly high price. Homer’s, Vinyl Cup Records, and Drastic Plastic all present spectacular prices for the records they sell.

After a while in Drastic Plastic and buying a new record, I knew it was time to head home.

Ranking the three record shops I visited, I decided that Homer’s takes the first place prize.

First off, Homer’s is open longer than the other two shops. With a 10:00 AM-9:00 PM schedule Saturday through Sunday, you can visit any time.

Whether you’re into vinyls, CDs, cassettes, movies, Funko Pops, or all of the above, Homer’s had the best variety of music and gifts and the most delicate, “homiest” aura to it.

All the shops I visited undoubtedly scratched the record-seeking itch I’d been sensing for a while. I would recommend all of these places to someone looking for a unique, exciting night in downtown Omaha.

SIDELINE SAVIORS

Student trainers play an important role in athlete’s safety

ANUJ SINGH Online Editor

ports stars are among the most recognizable figures in our lives. From Serena Williams to Lionel Messi, athletic all-stars are celebrated as brave and resilient, receiving great honors.

But often, those on the sidelines are overlooked. Recently, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on-field. Thankfully, he recovered, largely due to the prompt actions of his sideline saviors: sports trainers.

Just like professional competitors, high school athletes also require sports trainers to aid with treatment for debilitating injuries. At MN, there are many students who take on this responsibility.

“Our students are responsible for making sure all the water coolers and bottles are filled and that athletes are drinking enough as well as immediate first aid care of cuts and scrapes and such,” athletic trainer and student supervisor Lisa Moore said.

As some of Millard North’s most essential sports staff, student trainers receive detailed, extensive training, beginning with a semester-long introductory course and followed by a year-long internship course along with 80 required hours of athletic training room coverage.

“I think for anyone interested in sports or going into a healthcare career in their future, it’s great exposure to another version of a profession in healthcare. It is a great way to be involved in extracurriculars especially if you enjoy sports but don’t enjoy playing them or no longer play sports,” Moore said.

In addition to this training process, student trainers must commit a significant amount of their time to hone their skills and gain experience, a large portion of which involves exploring complex concepts surrounding human anatomy and physiology.

“The hardest part [of being a student trainer] is the amount of memorizing and learning we do. We will talk about and will have to remember how to treat five injuries on a daily basis. Most days, in class, we cover five to seven injuries and so retaining all of the information is a lot,” student trainer Ellie McCarville said.

Working together for so many hours allows the student trainers to develop a special connection with each other, allowing for long-lasting friendships.

“My favorite part of being a student trainer is the friendships, since we all work together we get to spend a lot of time hanging out when we are ‘on duty’,” McCarville said.

As student trainers, they also develop many beneficial life skills that will help them long after they have left the program.

“I think [being a student trainer] helps a lot with time management. Most of the students have jobs or play sports or both so this is one more thing to fit into their schedule to make sure they get their 80 hours. I also think it’s a big ask of kids to be ready to help in an emergency situation and to remain calm and they handle it well,” Moore said.

Many of the student trainers are athletes themselves and have developed a deeper understanding of themselves through the program.

“Becoming a student trainer has impacted my growth by changing my mindset about how things work. Baseball is all about how well you can move your body. [As an athlete,] understanding beneficial patterns as well as the prevention of injuries has led me to grow as a person and through baseball, regularly assisting teammates with easy ideas to help them grow as well,” student trainer Carson Obrecht said.

Additionally, many student trainers use the program to gain helpful experience to move closer to achieving

future goals.

“For the future, I am considering going into the field of sports medicine, which could lead to many different jobs which fall under the criteria. I want to go to college for baseball as well, so learning about how the body works and moves is beneficial in my process,” Obrecht said.

The student trainer program presents an opportunity for students to branch out and encounter completely novel situations and circumstances and, most importantly, to adapt to them.

“This is definitely a new experience for all of them taking the class and they get thrown right into it sometimes. They help us with immediate first aid for injuries and that first hot football game of the year they jump right in making sure everyone is drinking enough and helping us when athletes are cramping and those things. Athletes and coaches can be intimidating sometimes but our students do a great job working with everyone,” Moore said.

Though it is a significant commitment of both time and effort, the students encourage others interested in sports training to pursue the opportunity.

“My biggest advice is to not be afraid to fail. Being a student trainer is a difficult class just based on the demands on your knowledge and readiness. Being able to fail is one of the best ways to learn how to grow. You just always have to be willing to try in order to grow, because trying will build calmness and calmness builds confidence,” Obrecht said.

With the intensity and excitement that sports bring us, it is no wonder that athletes are so celebrated. But these factors are also the reason why sports trainers are so important. So the next time you are at a sports event, avert your eyes away from the stars and appreciate the sideline’s saviors. 1. 2.

Both MN and NSAA follow the EAP’s as it is standard across class A schools.

This protocal designates where the emergency equipment can be found, how to direct an ambulance to the location, and who is assigned to each role.

A CLICK AWAY

Athletes using social media to promote themselves

TEAGAN LYNCH

Opinions Editor

rom masterfully edited action pics to carefully designed graphics detailing when, where, and who an athlete’s team will be playing, athletes use social media in all sorts of ways.

While these posts may become lost in most of our own feeds as we scroll, they can be pivotal for an athlete when it comes to getting re cruited.

Social media platforms provide a more convenient outlet for athletes to be dis covered by coaches or sim ply to display their talents.

Twitter is one of the most popular platforms used by student-athletes, includ ing senior and South Dako ta State University softball commit Maddie McGee.

“[Twitter is] where most coaches go to see stuff; you’ll post your highlights and stuff like that, that’s where you’ll follow all the coaches and when other people retweet your stuff, that’s when they can see it,” McGee said.

Social media is effec tive when it comes to quick communication and sharing talents to a large audience, in comparison to the past when sole communication was through email.

“Instead of using emails or anything, like the old-fashioned sort of deal, with Twitter I was able to expand it to around 15 colleges that I could pick and talk to the coaches, and constantly be in the loop,” senior and University of Mary football commit Chris Frazier said. “It’s a lot more effective than the past couple years of recruiting.”

Prospective recruits post content on their pages to promote themselves and showcase their abilities. This content often includes highlights, events they’re attending, and even academic or community accomplishments.

“I post things such as events or college showcases I will be at so they can come and watch my games,” junior

soccer player Ella Rodgers said. “I also post highlights to showcase my talent online.”

This strategy has proven very effective for athletes looking to play sports at any col-

“Through Twitter I had a bunch of D2 coaches message me, and it really widened out my areas where I could go for playing foot-

Using a social media feed, coaches are able to get a well-rounded view of the athlete without needing to meet them in

“You can follow [coaches] on there and they can track you, not only with sports stuff but with school, like you earning grades and different stuff you do in the community,” McGee said.

Not only can athletes showcase themselves, but they can also be supported by others on social media through retweets, likes, and shares. Sports team accounts also play a big role in showing off their

“Social media can also help support your teammates. You can repost and help them and spread positivity,” Rodgers said. “The high school team helps me by having people who follow MN’s account also get a sneak peek at

Additionally, athletes can focus on building up their own reputation and brand by posting content about their beliefs and goals.

“I want to be able to play football and also be a role model for other people,” Frazier said. “I would…push for movements and other stuff that I agree with and I believe in and help spread awareness for other things… even helping out with my own brand if I were to ever get that big.”

Social media has created an opportunity for athletes to reach more people, showcase themselves, and communicate quicker and more effectively than ever before. With it, the athletic recruitment process has entered a new era.

ATHLETE’S POSTS

A MAN IN A UNIFORM

Swimmer commits to swimming for the U.S. Navy

CECE VLIEGER

Staff Writer

plashing, with each stroke down the lane. Pushing each muscle to its limit for victory. For senior Kalvin Hahn, swimming is not only his passion but is also streamlining him to success. After graduating in May, Hahn will attend West Point Military Academy where he will swim for the school.

“Swimming has gotten me to places I could never go without it. Because of swimming, I have gotten to meet so many people, see so many new cities and colleges, and have gotten me to be able to swim at West Point,” Hahn said.

Hahn started swimming in 7th grade because it helped with cross training for football, but after improving at swimming, he decided to quit football to focus on swimming. He started swimming year-round, getting faster and stronger to get to the point where he is now. Hahn’s main swimming event is breaststroke.

Hahn even had the opportunity to compete against Olympians in the US Open. “Everywhere I looked there were stars. I stayed in the same hotel as the Irish National Team, I met a junior record holder, warmed up with a world record holder, and raced with Olympians. It felt unreal to be swimming with all these stars,” Hahn said.

He had his cut to be able to swim in four events for the US Open. It took place in Greensboro, North Carolina at the GAC Aquatic Center. Though not getting his best times, Hahn swam times he was proud of.

“Swimming is a way I can push myself to complete and be the best I can be. It is a constant challenge every

JOCK TALK

day to better myself and is constantly exciting. I love racing and it’s fun to do every day,” Hahn said.

Having a hard working athlete is something to be excited about. Swim coach Andy Cunningham helps Hahn work to be the best he can be. Hahn swims about six to eight times a week and lifts three to four times a week.

“It’s fun, it takes a lot of pressure off of coaching be-

cause no matter what I do, he always wants to do more, do better. So it’s driven from him,” Cunningham said. With Hahn joining the Army at West Point, he won’t be able to swim as much when going through basic training.

“We can swim for one to two hours a week but you got to go do basic, so you don’t get a lot of time to swim. So six weeks out of the water,” Hahn said.

The recruiting process started in the summer of sophomore year for Hahn, with him narrowing it down to five schools, Auburn, Georgia Tech, Wisconsin, and Westpoint.

“I went out to Auburn for my official. Then I went out to West Point, I committed on my visit.” Hahn said.

A teammate of Hahn, senior Mimi Mcleay loves work when Hahn on the team.. When looking at the swim team it’s a tight knit group that looks for leaders. Hahn is one of thoses leaders always encouraging the younger swimmers.

“I think the younger boys really look up to Kal. Something funny Kal does is he yells “Stang Gang” as loud as he can before each meet. As a team we love it and it really gets everyone going,” Mcleay said.

Hahn is always the first and last out of the water according to Mcleay always working 110% percent to be his best possible.

Swimming for a Cause:

Senior Kalvin Hahn is swimming the butterfly stroke. Hahn holds school records in the 200 Free, 200 IM, 500 Free, 100 Breaststroke, and 200 Medley Relay. He is currently #6 all time in Nebraska for the 100 Breaststroke and #5 all time in Nebraska for the 500 Free.

With all this in mind, Hahn has a lot going for him. A man in uniform swimming his way to his future.

Hahns goal is to compete in the 2024 Olympic Trials in Indianapolis.

“The goal for this year is get him on top of that podium,” Cunningham said.

What is your most interesting/weird pregame ritual?

I always eat the same thing before I compete. PB and J and it’s always the same.

I always eat something sweet; like gummy bears.

Usually I do handshakes with people. I always try to find a person on the team and do a handshake with

Jessica Vihstadt SENIOR

Brian Petry SENIOR Wrestling

Kayla Preston SENIOR

Photograph by Jack Durkan