The Hoofbeat, Issue 5, March 28, 2022

Millard North High School

THE HOOFBEAT

BAFFLED BY BATMAN

TWO-PEAT

Page #15

Page #19

Quick review over new Batman movie

Boys basketball team wins for second time

Volume 41 • Issue 5 • March 28, 2022

TAKING HER TITLE

Senior Faron Medhi crowned Miss Nebraska Teen USA after nine years of competing in pageants Page 17

2 • NEWS • March 28, 2022

UNANNOUNCED TO UKRAINE

MN teacher Michelle Edmundson integrates Russian and Ukrainian war into curriculum is happening around the world, let alone be able to differentiate between false information.

“It’s so important to have the background information of why this is happening now and what is his war is something that affects us all in happening,” Edmundson said. “I think the larger lessome sort of way, some economically and others phys- son coming out of this is that oftentimes it’s easy to find ically or emotionally,” senior David Hagberg Chinell information on social media but don’t rely upon it as said. “Personally, it is important to know what is go- your main news source. Look at Russia. Russia is shuting on as Sweden is pretty close to Ukraine, which ting down a lot of their social media and a lot of their can definitely impact my family if things escalate.” information outlets and giving their people less and After eight years of growless information.” ing tension between Russia and When Ukraine, Russia invaded Ukraine I think it is always good Edmundson first on Feb. 24, 2022, leaving many to be aware of what is happening brought up what Ukrainians dead and many more had occurred to fleeing to neighboring coun- around the world because it will her students, the tries in hopes of finding safety. affect you one way or another, room went deadly With this horrific ongoing silent as eyes and war taking place across the sea, and it is possible for that same ears perked up. Afteacher Michelle Edmundson exact event to happen to people ter hearing more has taken it upon herself to help you know or even you. information about her students in her Internationwhat was happenal Relations class dive deeper into in Ukraine, LUCAS LEE ing what is currently happening befruitful converSOPHOMORE STUDENT sations began to tween the two warring countries.

“We take a good chunk arise amongst of time of our class to look at the classmates. different news sources, such as NBC and BBC, to “I think that the humanitarian side of them get different perspectives. We also pick a different was kind of surprised and shocked. They were all intertheme every day, whether that is looking at human- ested, and then they asked a lot of follow-up questions. itarian and looking at refugees or looking at resis- I always try my best to find answers to them or even find tance and what the Ukrainian people were doing to sources that have those answers,” Edmundson said. fight back against the Russians,” Edmundson said.

With questions being asked every day As a teacher, Edmundson also finds it in class, sophomore Lucas Lee closely listens important for students to fully understand what in order to better understand what the conse-

ANNA PIPINOS Editor-in-Chief

“T

“

”

Dec. 1, 1991

Ukraine becomes an independent country.

April 21, 2019

Volodymyr Zelenskyy is elected president of Ukraine & promises to end war with Russia.

Dec. 2021

Putin deploys thousands of Russian troops to Ukraine’s border & demands Ukraine to not be a part of NATO.

Dec. 5, 1994

The Budapest Memorandum is signed after Ukraine becomes a non-nuclear power.

Feb. 2014

Russia seizes and annexes Crimea, causing international outrage.

Feb. 21, 2022

Donetsk & Luhansk break away from Ukraine, and Putin sent troops in to “keep the peace.”

Nov. 2004

The Orange Revolution overturns election results, resulting in the election of Yushchenko.

•

April 3, 2008

Russia fights against Ukrainian NATO membership.

Feb. 24, 2022

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, invading the Ukrainian territory of Donbas first.

Source: U.S. News

TIMELINE OF CRISIS

quences of the war between Ukraine and Russia may be and how it is affecting the world.

“I think it is always good to be aware of what is happening around the world because it will affect you one way or another, and it is possible for that same exact event to happen to people you know or even you,” Lee said.

Lee also finds the discussions in class to help him and his classmates not only grow professionally but also personally.

“Another reason why it helps to be informed is that it can help you be more empathetic and understanding of what other people have to go through.

I guess it helps you be a better person,” Lee said.

As a foreign exchange student, Hagberg Chinell has noticed some attempts from students to joke around with such an intense and momentous part of history.

“Misinformation is usually spread because a lot of young people get their information from TikTok and other social media. A lot of the information shown in videos is taken out of context,” Hagberg Chinell said. “What is happening right now is also pretty far away from the U.S., so it is easy for people to joke about being drafted and saying that they are ready to go to war. If you come from Europe or live in Europe, it is a lot more serious because we are seeing the refugees coming from Ukraine.”

As the conversation of the waging war continues to spur in the classroom, the students look forward to holding these discussions outside of the classroom in hopes of hearing new information and sparking meaningful conversations.

“I usually talk to people online about what is happening, but I also enjoy talking to my friends as I look forward to hearing what they have to say about the topic,” Lee said.

• •

LENDING A HELPING HAND

Donate money to charities that are providing food, shelter, and relief to Ukrainian citizens.

You can donate to: • • • • •

Ukrainian Red Cross World Central Kitchen GlobalGiving’s Ukraine Crisis Relief Fund Voices of Children UNICEF

Contact government representatives and urge them to accept as many refugees as possible Don’t glorify the war or the struggle people are going through

MILITARY MIGHT

According to Global Firepower, Russia is ranked as having the second-most-powerful military force, while Ukraine is ranked as 22nd. The graphic below shows the differences between each other’s military force.

Ukraine

UNANNOUNCED ATTACK

On Thursday, Feb. 24, 2022, Russia invaded Ukraine, killing 902 civillians and wounding 1,459 others. The image below shows where Russia attacked Ukraine.

Russia

Sumy Myrhood

200,000

Active Personnel

900,000

Dnipro Mykolaiv

KEY

900,000

Reserve Personnel

2,000,000

= Reported Explosions = Movement of Russian forces = Kyiv

Odessa

Melitopol

Kherson Crimea Source: Insider

SLIPPING TO SAFETY

2,000

Tanks

1,800

Artillery

4,700

125

Combat Aircraft

1,160

13,000

Source: BBC News

After the invasion of Ukraine, many people have fled to neighboring countries.

The image below shows the number of refugees gone to each country.

Poland 1.9m refugees Slovakia 230k refugees

Hungary 283k refugees Romania 491k refugees

Moldova 351k refugees Russia 169k refugees

Belarus 2k refugees In Ukraine 3.2m people

Source: BBC News

4 • March 28, 2022

NEWS BRIEFS LOCAL NEWS March 16: Millard West student charged with manslaughter after accidentally shooting a friend March 17: Assistant Nebraska Basketball coach Matt Abdlemassih parts ways with the team in mutual agreement

NATIONAL NEWS

March 17: U.S. allows Ukrainian refugees in from Mexico March 17: U.S. signs collaborative agreement concerning migration and protection of immigrants

WORLD NEWS March 15: Ukraine First Lady, Olena Zelenska, pleads to the world for an end to the war March 21: A Beoing 737 plane carrying 132 on board crashed in the mountains in Southern China, with no signs of survivors.

CRAFTING A STRONGER COMMUNITY German and Latin Club strengthen their community with activities ANUJ SINGH Staff Writer

M

arch Madness has started and it’s getting wild.

Fans are yelling at the top of their lungs while flashing bright colors across the arena in support of their team.

The crowd roars as their favorite college team’s star player slams the ball into the hoop.

But arguably the most important part of the March Madness tradition is the brackets. Fans often create brackets predicting winners of both games and the tournament overall. In recent years, it has become increasingly popular to adopt this tradition for other media.

The German Club has adapted this decade–long tradition to build its own community. German Club sponsor Wendy Brennan picked songs from multiple sources to create her own version of the March Madness bracket titled Musik March Madness (MMM). She chose songs from a large variety of genres, including rap, hip hop, pop, rock, and folk music.

“Just like the real March Madness, students fill out a bracket before the tournament begins, basing their choices on having watched a portion of the video. And just like real March Madness, sometimes your bracket gets demolished after a few days,” Brennan said.

It is the third year that the German Club is participating in this activity, and Brennan believes that the activity is essential in building the German community. Additionally, MMM helps students become more immersed in the language as well as gain interest in their community’s culture.

“We are invested in the outcome and it gives us something to talk about during and outside of class.

I also think that it’s fun to see the percentage that the songs win by. It’s like ‘Who were the two people who voted for the other song?’” junior Alida Grobbelaar said.

But the impact of the German Club extends much further than German students. In fact, Brennan believes that MMM can be used as a tool for breaking stereotypes about German as a language as well as German people.

However, the German Club is not the only group that is using unique activities to create a stronger sense of community among students.

Latin Club recently participated in an extremely novel and exciting event that brought their community closer together. They built Roman buildings to gain a deeper understanding of ancient Rome’s buildings, culture, and architectural style.

But what made this activity so new was its platform: Minecraft. The platform that is often used for gaming was instead repurposed by the Latin Club for educational purposes.

“I think that the Minecraft activity was more fun and entertaining and encouraged students to be interested in

the activity. Rather than just drawing the buildings, we could really visualize them and examine the ancient architecture. It was an experience in which we could play games and learn at the same time,” sophomore John Dondlinger said.

The Minecraft activity allowed students to develop one-to-one models of ancient Roman buildings, including the Roman forum. However, its effects extend much further than just educating students.

“I think the Minecraft activity has been able to bring kids who have different interests to become more involved in Latin Club and in the community overall. It intersected well with both technology and Roman culture, architecture, and buildings,” Latn Club sponsor Matt Meyer said.

Additionally, Latin Club members hope that the Minecraft activity can bring a larger amount of attention to a group they believe is truly special.

“It’s a really fun community. One memory that really sticks out to me is when we watched the Disney film Hercules during a meeting. We had a lot of people just enjoying the movie, singing along to some of the songs, and laughing. Also, sometimes the older students will tutor the younger ones when they need help, so it’s definitely a teaching community too,” sophomore Harrison Smith said.

Meyer and Brennan both hope that the activities will have an impact on students outside their repective language community “Music is a natural connector for people and cultures, and Musik March Madness is a great way to introduce students to German music,” Brennan said.

So whether you are part of the Latin or German communities or not, the sense of community that Musik March Madness and the Minecraft architecture activity both create has a large impact on everyone around.

FAST FACTS A 2006 Harvard Study found that groups that were more familiar with one another worked better and more efficiently in teambased situations.

Source: team building.com

MNHSONLINE.COM • 5

SPINNING TO DAYTON Varsity winter guard gets ready for first ever World Championships April 6-10 REBECCA JACOBSEN Staff Writer

I

n the year 2020, the varsity winter guard team was preparing to travel to the Winter Guard International World Championships for the first time. However, like so many other opportunities in 2020, it was canceled due to COVID. “We all cried. It was upsetting because we had worked so hard to go to Worlds and then everything just shut down. We had more competitions in between Worlds, so that kind of sucked that we didn’t get to go to any of those either. It just hit super hard,” senior Katelyn Handley said.

Now, fast forward to spring 2022. “Everybody Wants to Rule the World,” (performed

by Sammy Rae and the Friends) echoes in MN’s quiet gym while flags swirl and spin into the air. The girls in the front of the gym drop to the floor, working through their dance choreography to the music. The team is practicing hard for their long-awaited debut at WGI World Championships, taking place April 6 to April 10 in Dayton, Ohio. “[Varsity’s show is] called “The Corporate Ladder” and it’s about how girls and women can climb the corporate ladder and break through the glass [ceiling].

We call our show ‘Girl Bosses.’ It’s about how we can climb the corporate ladder, how we don’t need a man, and how women are sometimes underpaid doing the same job as a man,” freshman Kassidy Smith said.

To be able to compete at WGI World Championships, a team needs only to sign up. In MN’s case, the growth of the team was displayed as their scores at competitions began to rise. This showed that the team was ready to compete at Worlds, prompting winter guard coach Allison Goodman to sign them up.

To ensure they perform their best at Worlds, the varsity winter guard team practices every Sunday from 4 PM to 9 PM. Many of them go above and beyond by attending additional weapons sectionals on Monday nights and spinning on their own during JV winter guard’s practices on Thursday nights. However, it’s not just the amount of time spent at practice; it’s what occurs during practice that counts, whether it is negative or positive experiences.

“Some of us get in our heads sometimes, so that brings the team down, and then we don’t do as well as

we really want to. [One of our challenges is] thinking of the team as a whole instead of just ourselves,” Handley said.

Although practices can be tough, the team perseveres and makes it to the end, encouraging one another.

“When people are in their heads and down, we’re good about bringing each other up, and making sure that we know what’s going on–just keeping everybody in check,” Handley said.

This positive attitude has proved to be a crucial aspect of continuing to improve, even when the team does not perform as well in competitions as they desire to.

“Honestly, out of the gate this season we haven’t been scoring as well as Millard Flipping Flags: North varsity Senior Manogna typically does.

Muktineni practices And a big part of for the WGI. In a that is because couple of weeks, the we’re so young and varsity winter gaurd inexperienced. But will be traveling to they’ve [the team] the Winter Gaurd decided that that’s International World not going to impact Chamionships. them, and they’re Photograph by still going to have a good season and Rebecca Jacobsen they’re still going to put their best foot forward,” Goodman said.

In this vein, the team has adopted a growth mindset by listening to judges’ tapes after competitions and taking the comments to heart.

“They listen to the judges’ tapes and then they immediately implement it into practice,” Goodman said.

Performing is one aspect of the show the team focuses on improving during practice–“Smiling, acting as your character,” Smith said.

“Goodman always says practice makes perfect. We perform at practice so it’s not weird when we go into our actual performance for a competition. It’s not like, ‘What am I doing with my face, this is weird for my body.’ You start practicing it [performing] at the beginning of the season so it carries to all the competitions,” Handley said.

While the team has worked hard to improve their show, that doesn’t always mean the outcome of a competition directly reflects the progress they have made.

“Sometimes your scores don’t really show how hard you’ve been working, and sometimes they do, and that’s really a good feeling. It could go either way,” Smith said.

No matter what the results are at the WGI World Championships, the varsity winter guard team will walk away with a brand-new experience.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP ITINERARY WEDNESDAY, APRIL 6 - 2am departure -3pm estimated arrival -Practice after arrival THURSDAY, APRIL 7 - Preliminaries for Scholar A (MN’s category) FRIDAY, APRIL 8 - Semi-finals in the morning -Finals in the evening SATURDAY, APRIL 10 - Watch Open Class finals in the morning - Watch World Class finals in the evening - Time for shopping

6 • March 28, 2022

MUSTANG MOVING FORWARD

MN Alum and social studies teacher Jackson Gzehoviak leave MN to pursue their PhD SADIE HUGELMAN Staff Writer

Walking through the halls the skywalk and student computers are new for past MN student Jackson

Gzehoviak. Although there is the same principal, same teachers, and forensics coach, some things are drastically different.

Gzehoviak is now a teacher, and the years spent away proved changed for not only the school they once attended but also for the person they are now. After four years as a student and five years of teaching and coaching, Gzehoviak is now ready to leave MN and get their PhD. Their love for language and teaching has inspired them to get their PhD in Language Studies. Although it was not an easy decision and they haven’t chosen a school yet, the choice to leave MN has been made.

“I never want to be the person that abandons a group of people, which is why I think that I’ll never fully leave forensics,” Gzehoviak said.

Gzehoviak has been teaching history and language studies at MN for five years now. Along with teaching, they are also the assistant coach for the Forensics team.

Gzehoviak coaches aloangside head coach Sabrina DenneyBull, the same speech coach who taught Gzehoviak while they were in high school.

“It was really interesting to see how things had changed and how things had stayed the same in so many ways. It was kind of cool to be able to work with some of my former teachers and learn from them and partner with them too,” Gzehoviak said.

Over the past years, the two coaches have built not only a partnership, but also a friendship. Gzehoviak finds that working alongside their past teacher and coach works well because both of them work at the same pace and share similar values on how to coach the team. Together, Gzehoviak and Denney Bull have won three state

TAKING THE LEAP Learning for the Empowerment of Palestine is a program with the goal of providing English proficiency to Palestinian refugees and advance their education. Gzehoviak is a leading member of this program and has been for 8 years.

championships during their partnership and coached a speech student to first place at 2021 NSDA Nationals.

“I think both of us have this idea that every student and every competitor is worth just as much as the other.

It’s not like we’re only coaching our most competitively successful kids, we both really believe in and care about treating everybody with the same amount of attention and care. I really like coaching for a team that trained me to have that value, and with the person [DenneyBull] that gave me that lesson,” Gzehoviak said.

Students describe Gzehoviak’s teaching style as more hands-on. In the language studies class that they teach they prioritize challenging their students to study and research the basics of speaking different languages rather just learn about a language.

“I’m really sad to be honest, I was really hoping that with my last season I would really have them around because they’ve done so much to really help me understand extemp and just forensics in general and they inspired me to take a lot of classes. I was really hoping to have them my senior year,” junior Vikram Menon said.

Menon finds that over the years spent being coached by Gzehoviak he has found them to be a mentor rather than just a teacher.

Some of Menon’s favorite forensics moments have been spent with Gzehoviak; whether it’s being called out in a Zoom call at an online tournament or eating homemade falafel in extemp meetings after school, Gzehoviak has made each student and competitor feel important.

“It [the team] will be different, it will be like there’s a small hole, but I’m sure it will still be good. The team will just lack a good extemp coach,” Menon said.

After graduating at MN, Gzehoviak went to Harvard, earning a secondary teacher certification from the Harvard school of Education as well as a B. A. in Psychology from the university.

After their graduation from Harvard, Gzehoviak returned to the high school where they were once a student and worked alongside thier old teachers as a colleague and a coach.

Since 2014, Gzehoviak has travelled to Lebanon, working as the Education Director for the voluneer organization Learning for the Advancement of Palestine. This organization strives to educate Palestinian refugees.

OPINIONS • 7

ATHLETES VS. PE CLASSES

Even athletes should be required to take physical education courses THE HOOFBEAT STAFF EDITORIAL

C

ompared to Lily’s after school gym and basketball workouts, the 45 minutes of physical activity seems insignificant to her 2 hours of intense practice. Yet, she still has to come to PE class everyday, where her physical activity is walking the whole class period.

Many student athletes argue that they should not have to take P.E. due to the fact that they are receiving more than the recommended amount of physical activity. Also, being required to take three semesters of Physical Education constricts them from taking other classes that they need or are interested in. They are not able to take 0 or 8th hour classes as a consequence of morning and afternoon practices.

Though athletes make a valid argument, they should still be required to take P.E. These classes teach athletes how to play more than one sport, show them healthy living styles, and there is no way to measure who gets to be exempted from physical education classes.

“As a P.E. teacher, I would like to think that I would teach more than just one sport, so we go over multiple sports. Some classes we are going to learn healthy eating habits, different types of stretches, weights in weight class, so you would get different training than if you were

just a soccer player,” Michael Etzelmiller, P.E. department head said.

Individual sports mainly focus on skill sets that improve their playing style for their sport while P.E. introduces students to numerous sports and ways to be physically active. So, athletes still learn material that is important in having a healthy living style well after their high school sports career.

According to a study by the National Library of Medicine, “We found that daily PE intervention throughout compulsory school encourages a more physically active lifestyle in children who remain after the programme into young adulthood”. The National Library of Medicine found that students who took PE for the 4 years of high school had a better healthy living style in their future. PE builds habits that are going to be conditioned into students’ minds that they can use for forever.

When it comes to Millard North High School’s P.E., though, many students have not learned anything significant about maintaining a healthy living style. If student athletes are required to take PE, the class should be beneficial to them. PE teachers should be teaching students about how to make healthier food choices and increase body movement to create new healthy behaviors. Implementing this in class, and making it a more prominent part of the curriculum will encourage athletes to participate in PE class.

STUDENT SPEAK

“What you’re trying not to do is separate the athletes from the regular students. Basically if you do something like that, you’re saying athletes are better than the other people,’’ James Abueg, varsity girls soccer coach and a P.E teacher, said.

Even though athletes do more physical activity outside of school, both athletes and students benefit from interactions and environments that PE. provides. PE can help students respect their bodies, classmates, and relationships around them. Abueg compares student athletes in sports to students in math club. Being in a math club doesn’t stop them from being in math class even though they are doing more math than required.

“Where does it stop? Does it stop at athletics? If you are in a marching band does that count? If you are in a show choir does that count because that is dancing and moving?” Etzelmiller said.

There is no way to calculate who gets to be excused from PE and who doesn’t. There are many activities that involve physical exertion, so which ones are allowed to be excluded from PE. Therefore, student athletes should be taking P.E. to have a better understanding of other sports and healthy living styles, but also the school and PE department should encourage these healthy living styles more so athletes understand the importance of PE.

EDITORIAL CARTOON

SHOULD ATHLETES WHO PLAY SPORTS OUTSIDE OF SCHOOL STILL BE REQUIRED TO TAKE PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES?

ZACH SCHULTZ

I’d have to say no because most likely they are playing a club sport, and club sports are already pretty demanding as well as take up a lot of their time.

JUNIOR

AARON WHELAN FRESHMAN

Yeah because it is a graduation requirement. If other people have to do it then why not athletes as well.

PAIGE SALCEDO SOPHOMORE

I really don’t think they should be because they are already doing extracurricular activities that require phyiscal activeness.

ANDREW CARLSON SENIOR

No because PE classes are required to instill active lives in their students. So, if they already have that then they do not need the PE class.

By: Aiden Lewald

8 • March. 28, 2022

ADVOCATING FOR ATHLETES Deeksha’s Details

Women’s sports should receive the same acknowledgment and support as men’s sports

With March Madness and the

Winter Paralympics in full swing, millions of viewers are tuning in to watch their favorite winter sports. From the daring moves done by snowboarders to the basketball shots Deeksha Sridher taken by NBA players, it seems there is Staff Writer something for almost everyone to watch.

While men and women are receiving the same acclaim on an Olympic level, the unfortunate truth is that there is a much larger gender disparity in professional sports. According to a survey carried out by the Morning Consult in 2021, 77% of sports fans enjoy watching men’s professional sports, while only 42% enjoy watching women’s professional sports.

But what is it that creates such a large bias between men’s sports and women’s sports in the professional world? What differentiates between either gender when both are in fact playing the same sport?

Professor Cheryl Cooky from Purdue University claims, as stated in an article from The Atlantic, that our perception of sports can also depend on how the media portrays it. Men’s coverage typically has better commentary and higher quality production as compared to women’s due to more funding being put towards them, and highlights from games often feature better-quality angles for men’s sports.

Furthermore, the differences in physical athleticism between men and women could be a factor in which sports are more popular for which gender. Commentary from the article from The Atlantic further states that women’s team sports that are identical to men’s team sports- such as basketball and soccer- won’t be as popular as sports that are generally considered to be more grace-

#SeeHerGreatness 2022 marks the 50th anniversary of Title IX, which mandated gender equality in education and athletics. Yet, female athletes still recieve less than 10% of media coverage despite making up 40% of the athlete pool. Buick and TOGETHXR have partnered to showcase female athletes who “changed the game”. Keep and eye out for their videos during March Madness.

ful, such as figure skating and gymnastics.

When comparing the team sports of basketball and soccer with the performative sports of gymnastics and figure skating, the latter trumps the former in terms of popularity. Instead of athletic uniforms that are similar to what men wear, women in gymnastics and figure skating don sparkling, colorful costumes and precise makeup.

But what does this say about society’s general stereotype for women’s sports? When it comes down to the crux of the gender differences, do people generally connect women with the “prettier” sports as opposed to the ball sports that their male counterparts receive more attention for?

According to Taniya Spolia from The Gazette, women only receive 4% of sports coverage despite comprising 40% of athletes overall. This extreme underestimation of women’s capabilities is matched by the low budget their sports receive. An NPR article written by Jaclyn Diaz claims that the NCAA spends anywhere from $1,500 to $2,500 more on male Division 1 athletes than they do for female Division 1 athletes.

This lack of fair budgeting has led to clear disparities between the treatment of male and female athletes at major events, such as March Madness. According to an NBC Sports article from 2021, women were given pre-packaged meals as food while men were given access to buffets. Furthermore, men had access to full weight rooms while women were only given dumbbells and yoga mats.

It’s time that our society as a whole begins appreciating the determination and endurance of our world’s female athletes. Their hours of training without stopping and performing to their maximum potential should no longer go unnoticed and overshadowed by the performance of their male counterparts.

Regardless of confining women to the more “graceful” sports, they should receive the coverage that their hard work merits without any bias. One’s intellectual and physical capacity does not define who they are, nor does it define their performance.

From a school level to the national and international stage, it is imperative that women are given the support they deserve. Instead of limiting them, their strengths deserve to be respected and received equal to those of men.

There are many ways that our own communities can and should bring attention to female athletics.

Whether it is through spreading awareness on social media or attending women’s sports events in schools and local settings, we can give them the voice and coverage they deserve.

In the end, the strength and perseverance of female athletes should be better acknowledged in society.

As said by Australian writer G.D. Anderson, “Feminism isn’t about making women strong. Women are already strong. It’s about changing the way the world perceives that strength.”

The average viewership for the 2019 NBA finals was 15.14 million, while the 2018 WNBA finals averaged 231,000 viewers.

In 2018, the men’s World Cup had 3.572 billion viewers worldwide. The last Women’s World Cup in 2015 had 764 million viewers.

The Women’s College World Series drew an average of 1.2 million viewers while the Men’s CWS had 775,000.

In 2021, the women’s college volleyball match had 1.2 million viewers while the men accumulated 269,000 viewers.

IN-DEPTH • 9

What effects does the weather have on the environment, sports, and mental health?

Illustration by Riya Kannapareddy

10 • March 28, 2022

WEATHERING THE WEATHER

Rapid weather spikes shake Nebraskans with a lasting impact on the environment AIDEN LEWALD Design Editor

F

rom remote starting their cars before leaving to walking outside in a t-shirt and shorts, Nerbaskans have been dealing with the state’s drastic weather spikes for weeks.

Despite this inconsistent weather, Nebraska is currently experiencing what WOWT senior meteorologist Rusty Lord refers to as an inactive year.

“You’ll have active years, you’ll have quiet years,” Lord said. “Take snow, for example. Going back to last year we had similar weather patterns to this year. We had nearly 50 inches of snow last [year], and we can’t even get 10 this year.”

It’s true that the weather here has been rapidly changing, but the amount of severe weather has decreased compared to last year. From the previously mentioned snow to the lack of tornadoes, Nebraskans are facing less severe weather, although they are facing more damaging weather.

Damaging weather is weather that is more dangerous for the environment. For example, the impact of droughts and floods compared to blizzards and tornadoes.

“We are already in a drought heading into this spring.

That could have a very big impact this year,” Lord said.

This upcoming drought will be intense compared to previous years, where NE suffered with an overabundance of water rather than a lack thereof.

The drought will, without a doubt, cause damage to the soil that will negatively affect farmers.

With the inconsistencies in weather, the agricultural grounds that NE bases its economy on will be taking extreme hits for this upcoming farming season.

“My grandpa [said that] we’re going to get flooded, and then we’ll have a drought, and then we’re getting flooded again,” junior Rook Jacobsen said in reference to their grandparents’ farm.

Jacobsen’s grandparents have been lifelong Nebraskan farmers, harvesting corn and the occasional bean, while also raising cattle for beef.

Y R SO I V D A R E H T EA W

FLOODING:

- Don’t walk through flowing water - “Turn around, don’t drown” -- Don’t drive through flooded roads, car’s can be swept away in two feet of water - Gather non-perishable supplies and food

Source: cdc.gov & mass.gov

The inconsistent weather has been a point of anxiety and annoyance for the Jacobsens, as the rapid weather changing not only affects the soil in which they farm, but the behavior and happiness of their cows.

Farming season may only be a small section of the year, but the weather leading up to it will affect the upcoming harvesting season.

Specifically, the winter season previewing the next year has a drastic effect on the farming outcomes. “[We have a] cold winter, but the winter stops when it is supposed to stop. It doesn’t keep going,” Jacobsen said, “And the summer isn’t ridiculously hot, it still has rain in there and it’s not drowning the plants.”

Having the perfect weather conditions year round is something desirable, but due to this inconsistent NE weather, it is fairly unachievable.

The weather is one of the few conditions of farming that is not in the control of farmers, but arguably one of the most important aspects to the farmers dependent on their crops for their livelihood.

WIND

Go to STORM: a base ment, windo don’t ws. If go o utside lay fac , take near doors e dow or co n, and protec ver in a ditc t your h, head

POWER OUTAGES:

- Use a generator ONLY outdoors and away from windows - Don’t use a gas stove or oven to heat your home - Disconnect appliance and electronics to avoid damage from electrical surges

Source: ready.gov

SEVERE THUNDERSTORMS:

- Take shelter in a sturdy enclosed building - Avoid open spaces, isolated objects, high ground, and metallic objects - Get away from bodies of water - If you can hear thunder, you are close enough to be struck by lightning

Source: weather.gov

MNHSONLINE.COM • 11

MOTHER NATURE’S BALLGAME Varying weather and its effects on athletes TORN ADO G

ES o to a basem : out w e nt or r ind oom w somet ows, try to hing s get un ithtordy der

WIN

Mak TER ST e prop sure you ORMS : erly insu r home weat is lated her ,a str keep cold ips on d nd put o air o ors t ut o

ball travels, the small, hair-like ‘fuzz’ on its surface helps it travel forward, backward, or sideways.

Similarly to how hair flattens out after a shower, tennis ball fuzz only inhibits play after becoming wet. eather changes, and that’s a fact, but it’s Tennis, unlike some other spring sports, is very heavonly a facet of life for peoily affected by the onset of inple in competitive sports. clement weather. Senior Michael As we’ve recently seen in Hugelman, who plays baseball, You just have to Omaha, weather is indiscernplays in a whole different ballpark. ible at times, with drops from focus that much harder on Similarly, soccer player Leoppromising highs of 60 degrees what you’re doing [during old Juhel and his teammates are plummeting low enough for late troubled by inclement weather. starts and potential snow days. inclement weather]. A “I’d say weather is a huge part The negative effects of rapidly team’s a team, we’re always of how we plan our [matches],” changing weather show for tennis Juhel said. “The rain doesn’t afplayers like Apoorva Kasireddy. hyped up no matter the fect much, but the ball does move “The wind definitely affects weather, no matter what. a lot faster in the rain.We have to how the ball goes when you hit be more weary of that, but wind is it,” Kasireddy said, “A lot of the probably the biggest factor for us.” time, you could hit it really hard, Although what may be most MICHAEL HUGELMAN evident but if the wind is pushing at you, as a spectator is the moveSENIOR ment of the ball, inclement weathit could not go over the net.”

However, it is more common to er can get in the way of a lot more. see weather getting in the way of play“We just have to coming and canceling practices, meets, or even tournaments. municate more when there’s inclement weath“Rain [means] the whole practice is can- er conditions, so it forces us to be a lot more voceled, so you don’t have as much practice time cal on the field with our teammates,” Juhel said. to help you with matches,” Kasireddy said.

No matter if it’s rain or shine, windy or Tennis, unlike other spring sports, includes a still, or cloudy and pouring, MN’s athletes alball made out of rubber wrapped in felt. As the ways show up and put their best cleat forward.

ELIAS PIPINOS Sports Editor

W

“

”

GLOBAL WARNING

Source: cdc.gov mass.gov the personal.com georgiapower.com

13% of the sea ice in the Arctic is lost annually.

Melting ice caps causes the sea level to rise, covering coastal cities globally.

Source: worldwildlife.org

Temperatures are rising due to greenhouse gases being caught in the atmosphere, causing droughts to be longer and more extreme worldwide.

Source: usgus.gov

Extreme heat, droughts, and severe weather is decreasing production of wheat, maize, and more.

Global yields could decline by up to 30% by 2050 if nothing is done.

Source: unfoundation.org

12 • March 28, 2022

WEIGHT OF WINTER

The emotional and physical effects of weather on students and teachers “From fall to winter, I tend to develop a much sadSNEHA SELVARAJ der ‘resting state’ from the lack of sunlight, warmth, Opinions Editor and greenery,” Mukherjee said. “From spring to As senior Manali Mukherjee lifted her backpack onto summer, I find that my ‘resting state’ begins to reher shoulders, she felt an unusual kind of pressure weigh- adjust to feelings of calmness and contentment.” ing down on her. It was not a stress that stemmed from A smaller group of people feel the opposite emotions. homework, her job, or the books in her bag, but rath- Their mood becomes happier as winter approaches before er the snow piling up outside of her fogged-up window. returning to a more sad Over the past few decades, an instate during the summer. creasing number of studies have come “My emotions don’t It can be helpful to out suggesting a link between menchange much when it tal health and the weather. Mayoclin- remember that time moves gets colder. But when it ic states that when the weather out- forward and heals on some begins to warm up, that’s side is cold and gloomy, people tend to when seasonal depreshave more depressed moods than when level, even if all you do sion starts to hit,” senior the weather is bright with sunlight. sometimes is sit there and let Abby Adam-Spitzer It can be helpful to remember that it. Taking things one day at a said. I try to exclude mytime moves forward and heals on some self from things and my level, even if all you do sometimes is time and finding things that grades tend to drop the sit there and let it. Taking things one bring you some joy is very last months of school.” day at a time and finding things that These changes in bring you some joy is very important. important. mood can have harmThe official term for this condition ful effects that extend MANALI MUKHERJEE into the lives of those is called “Seasonal Affective Disorder”, which is a mood disorder characteraffected by them.

SENIOR ized by depression that occurs at the “SAD can make same time every year. The most comit hard to keep mon form is depression that surfaces as winter begins. healthy relationships with family and friends like de-

“

”

ON

RAINING Source: mayoclinic.com SAD isn’t a separate disorder, but a type of depression with a seasonal pattern lasting four to five months

Physical activity can release feel-good endorphins that enhance a sense of well-being.

YOUR Getting cognitive behavioral therapy and talking with a therapist about modifying negative thoughts can increase healthy behavior.

pression does,” Mukherjee said. “The most difficult time of school for me has always been the end of first semester. It’s an extreme amount of stress while the weather is unforgiving and dark.”

It’s not just the younger generation that struggles to control their emotions as the seasons change, but also adults. Teachers like MYP coordinator Leslie Irwin reflect on their experiences with seasonal affective disorder to make their student’s lives easier.

“There are days where I’ll see that something is going on. While it may not be due to the weather, I will change the course of my lesson to fit the energy of the room,” Irwin said. “It is absolutely okay for teachers to give themselves grace and change the course of their lesson plans.”

Mukherjee also explained the importance for children and adults to take care of themselves as their moods change.

“Having patience with yourself is really important.

These months are difficult for many people and can bring out the dreariest of emotions,” Mukherjee said.

Additionally, Irwin stressed that there is no shame in reaching out for help. Having support can greatly assist in getting through such a difficult time period.

“When COVID started, the key buzzword was ‘grace’, which is really good and I hope we continue that,” Irwin said. “Everybody needs a little grace no matter what the situation is.”

PARADE Source: nimh.nih.com

Going to bed at a later time each night around the clock can help reset the off balance sleep schedule.

Usage of a light box can help mimic the sun and help fix the body’s internal clock that was disrupted in the winter and fall seasons.

OPINIONS • 13

STOCK TALK

THE HOOFBEAT

My take on the best ways to invest in the stock market

M

Emily’s Expanatory

y entire life, my grandpa has always stressed to me the importance of knowing how to wisely save your money. “ T h ere’s no better way to do it than investing,” he would Emily Schmucker say with a smile.

As a child, his Staff Writer old saying went in one ear and out the other. But as I get older, I am seeing the meaning and value behind his words.

Since then, I have taken an interest in investing and the stock market itself.

I realize that as high school students, saving and investing may not be at the top of our to-do lists. However, I want to encourage you to give investing the benefit of the doubt.

With my grandpa’s words ringing in my ears, I have been researching the ins and outs of investing, as well as the stock market. So let’s dive in!

When it comes to the stock market, there are many different tactics and strategies you can use to determine the right companies to invest your money in.

However, actually going forth and investing can be difficult. Don’t worry, because that’s exactly what I’m here for…to be your personal guide through the stock market.

So, let’s start with the basics: what exactly is the stock market and why should you invest?

In simple terms, the stock market is where buyers and sellers trade stocks of public businesses.

As for why you should invest, where do you even begin? Whether you are just looking to grow your money, want to gain financial experience, or you’re simply looking to get a head start on expanding your savings, investing can help you achieve any, if not all, of these things.

Individual Stocks

Comparing Costs

- Stock for only one business - You become a “part owner” of the company - Receive a share of the profits or losses depending on the success of the company - Necessary to keep track of the rises and falls of the market since individual stocks are more volatile Source: TheBalance

There are obvious pros and cons to each and every company on the stock market, which you could spend hours and hours researching. But why do that when I have a way easier suggestion that screams simplicity?

This leads us to index funds, which happens to be my best and safest recommendation. And believe me, by the time I’m done explaining the advantages of them, you’ll be sold.

Index funds are a group of companies that fit together in a certain category. An example is the S&P 500 Index, which includes the top 500 largest companies in America.

The benefits of index funds appeal to many investors, making them a piece of cake to buy and sell. Their reliability and low cost make them not only affordable but also practical.

Not only that, but in 2021 the S&P 500 Index gained 27% with a very modest amount of risk.

Meaning that if you put $100 in that index, your $100 would be worth $127 at the end of the last year.

At this point, you might as well invest in one right now. I mean what do you have to lose?

Let’s talk individual stocks. I would not recommend individual stocks for anyone who does not have lots of investing education and experience.

Why? It’s a lot riskier to put all your money in one stock than it is to have it spread out over 500 stocks (such as the S&P 500 index).

Also, a lot of things could go wrong in singular companies. One of the most recurring is that the company’s competitors may have better and more affordable products and services.

On top of that, supply chain issues are common.

The supply chain is defined as a group of people that work to transport goods from production to consumers.

These issues would cause the company’s revenue to significantly decrease, allowing one to lose more money. So yeah, if you can’t tell by now the S&P 500 index fund, or a similar index fund is one of the most prime and prudent ways to invest.

Now, after all that, I hope you are inspired to go forth and invest!

Index Funds

- Stocks across multiple businesses, which are meant to mimic a specific market index - Indirectly own shares in hundreds, or thousands, of companies with varying success levels - A relatively more stable investment that does not require keeping strict track of the stock market’s ups and downs

The Hoofbeat staff will publish six issues of the paper at Millard North High School (1010 South 144th St., Omaha, NE). Type and Layout are done using Macintosh and HP computers. Printing is done by White Wolf Printing in Sheldon, Iowa. The Hoofbeat is a member of the Nebraska High School Press Association and JEA. The Hoofbeat exists for the 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 Editor-in-Chief Anna Pipinos Front Editor Anna Pipinos News Editor Morgan McCormack Opinions Editor Sneha Selvaraj In-Depth Editor Olivia Torrez Lifestyle Editor Mahika Kanchanam Sports Editor Elias Pipinos Design Editor Aiden Lewald Adviser Sarah Crotzer Principal Brian Begley

Cartoonist Aiden Lewald Illustrator Riya Kannapareddy Aiden Lewald Photographer Aiden Lewald Staff Writers Asim Adhikary Adithi Deeduvanu Reema Guda Sadie Hugelman Amina Hussain Rebecca Jacobsen Teagan Lynch Cooper Piercy Anuj Singh Deeksha Sridher

Submit story tips to @mnhshoofbeat or mnhsonline.com

14 • March 28, 2022

“DON’T SAY GAY” BILL Kanchanam’s Konscious

Florida’s new bill discriminates against LGBTQ+ students and creates an unsafe environment

On March 8th, 2022, Flor-

ida passed the Parental Rights in Education bill.

This bill states that educators and school staff cannot withhold information about a student’s Mahika Kanchanam sexuality and gender identity.

Staff Writer And while supporters of this bill believe that this will protect their children, many opponents believe that it does the exact opposite.

Now coined the “Don’t Say Gay” bill, the bill states, “Classroom instruction by school personnel or third parties on sexual orientation or gender identity may not occur in kindergarten through grade 3 or in a manner that is not age-appropriate or developmentally appropriate for students in accordance with state standards.”

Referring to gender identities and sexual orientation as being “not age-appropriate” or “not developmentally appropriate” degrades the LGBTQ community.

It’s an idea that is causing us to take a huge step backward in inclusion and diversity in our world rather than forward.

It’s imperative that from a young age, students understand sexuality. If they are taught that it is an inappropriate subject, it will make it much more challenging for them to express who they are or explore their sexuality. It will make them feel ashamed for simply being who they truly are. Early exposure to this topic in classrooms, on the other hand, allows all students from a young age to be informed and taught about the LGBTQ community in a respectful and inclusive manner. Growing up, it

Bill Breakdown

teaches them to better understand the LGBTQ community and allows LGBTQ youth to feel comfortable and safe in their skin; it could save lives.

According to “The Trevor Project”, a non-profit organization focused on suicide prevention among the LGBTQ community, “LGBTQ youth are four times more likely to seriously consider suicide, to make a plan for suicide, and to attempt suicide than their peers.”

School, a place where students should feel safe to express who they are, shouldn’t become a place where kids need to hide who they are. Coming out is a personal decision that individuals must make for themselves. It should be their decision when it comes to who they share this information with and when they decide to do it. Unfortunately, schools aren’t always as safe as we expect them to be.

When asked about circumstances where students of the LGBTQ community have been hurt or unsafe, here is what Millard North Principal Brian Begley said, “Sadly, yes, such things happen at Millard North just as they happen in society. Whenever our administration team receives a report that any student, whether a member of the LGBTQ+ community or not, is victimized in violation of our MPS policy rule, we move swiftly and surely to investigate while holding students accountable in keeping with due process.”

While Millard North has policies in order to protect the LGBTQ community against discrimination and division, Florida is doing the exact opposite, making the LGBTQ community look like they are somehow less than others.

According to a Pew Research Survey, 4 in 10 individuals who are part of the LGBTQ community are rejected by their family or friends. An article by the Williams Institute states, “LGBT people are nearly four times more likely than non-LGBT people to experience violent victimization, including rape, sexual assault, and aggravated or simple assault.”

With these numbers in front of us, this law can largely endanger the LGBTQ community. Schools can-

1

Restricts school district from prohibiting parental notification & involvement in critical decisions affecting student’s mental, emotional, or physical well-being

2

Prohibits classroom discussion about sexual orientation or gender identity in certain grade levels

3

Requires school districts to notify parents of their child’s healthcare services

Sources: myfloridahouse.gov, fbanews.com

not advertise themselves as inclusive and diverse when internally directly encouraging discrimination between students.

An NBC article goes on to share, “Democrat Shevrin Jones, the first openly gay Florida state senator, urged his colleagues to narrow the bill’s language to say instruction should not be ‘intended to change a student’s sexual orientation or gender identity.” But Jone’s proposal failed.

While the world outside may feel scary and unfair, schools should always be a place where students can feel respected and understood. At Millard North, Begley strives to create an inclusive environment where every student can feel safe and equal. Begley explains that this also plays a role when it comes to hiring the teachers and staff at Millard North.

“I have constantly reminded our teachers and staff to be vigilant in support of our students and our safe learning environment. In addition, as principal, I have regularly attended SAGA meetings each year so that I can listen, offer support, and be a positive role model for our LGBTQ+ student community which is a reflection of our greater community,” Begley said.

It’s all-important that students of Millard North understand the importance of inclusion and equality.

“I believe it is our students’ responsibility to be respectful, to be kind, and to never bully, harass, sexually harass, or mistreat any student or staff member within our Millard North community,” Begley said.

Begley is proud of the environment he was able to foster at Millard North and hopes to continue to see movement in the positive direction.

“Millard North is a kinder and more inclusive school than it was in 2007 when I became principal. I would like to see this positive trend continue, and under Dr. Bearinger’s caring and capable leadership, I am confident that it will,” Begley said.

Everyone comes from different backgrounds, and everyone faces different experiences. It’s important to allow people to embrace who they are and support them, not

61%

support the passing of the bill

39%

are against passing the bill

LIFESTYLE • 15

THE DAILY GOTHAM

A film deserving praise it received, gripping from the first second to the last MORGAN McCORMACK News Editor

T

he theater is full of hushed conversations and bristling with excitement for the new “The Batman”, a film surrounded by fanfare, as the preceding trailers play. When the lights begin to dim and the haunting chords of Ave Maria begin to ring out, the room goes silent and grows heavy with anticipation.

Throughout the “The Batman” (2022) movie, the anticipation only builds as you see the elite in Gotham begin to be killed by a man named the Riddler, who seems to be targeting the Batman specifically. The man leaves him cards and riddles, almost daring Batman to find him, laughing in his face as he fumbles through political corruption and dead ends.

While the movie is called “The Batman”, Robert Pattinson’s character refers to himself only as Vengeance for the majority of the film. “The Batman” (2022) is an origin story of sorts. While it doesn’t show Bruce Wayne’s parents being assassinated or his childhood, the film shows a transformation from his vengeful career into his heroic one. His transformation from Vengeance to Batman.

“The Batman” features an all-star cast and jaw-dropping performances, with Robert Pattinson, playing Bruce Wayne, the star of the show. He is brooding and gloomy, obsessed with fulfilling his family legacy

of helping the helpless in his own way, and stalking the streets, and helping those who need it. Zoe Kravitz looks absolutely stunning as Catwoman, but more impressively, her performance is emotional, swinging from desperation to save a friend to vengeful and angry with grace and heart.

The performance that stood out to me the most, however, is Paul Danos as the Riddler. He plays the unhinged maniac perfectly, leaving an uncomfortable atmosphere in every scene he is in. He leaves the audience terrified and on edge for the duration of the movie, never letting the audience fully relax, as they sit in their seats with their skin crawling.

As the movie progresses, a secondary plot emerges of a drug lord and of the corruption in Gotham, leading to the villain’s motive seeming righteous, but carrying out his goal brutally. The film is as much horror as it is a mystery or superhero film. With brutal, disturbing and horrifying scenes, it is well-deserving of a PG-13 rating.

The film slows down at points, but you’re hooked and uneasy for the duration of the film. Pieces of the puzzle slowly reveal themselves, and the atmosphere created by director Matt Reeves keeps your eyes glued to the screen.

It can be cruel, poetic, or blind. But when it’s denied, it’s violence you may find!

Riddle me this: The less of them you have, the more one is worth?

You are el rata alada.

Since your justice is so select, please tell us, which vermin you’re paid to protect?

Follow the maze until you find the rat. Bring him into the light and you’ll find where I’m at.

Completely devoid of humor and lacking anything that falls outside the realm of gloom and grit, it is truly a return to form of the “Batman”, reminiscent of Christopher Nolan’s Batman trilogy of the 2000s with wonderful cinematography and set design and a score perfectly fitting the tone.

The movie’s downfall, however, is the extensive run-time. Spanning nearly three hours, it becomes difficult to sit still after what should’ve been the climax.

The movie does not end when it seems the conflict is resolved, continuing another 30 minutes to clean up loose ends in character development. As I sat in the theater, all I could think for that last half hour was how unnecessary it seemed.

Despite this, the last half hour still provides great moments of character development and sets up for a perfect conclusion, with an ending that leaves you anticipating a sequel with an iconic antagonist.

Overall “The Batman” is gritty, gripping, gloomy and a film well- deserving the hype that has surrounded its release since the first trailer dropped. With stand out performances, a thrilling mysterym and an ending that will leave you with chills of both fear and anticipation, “The Batman” movie is a cinematic success and movie that shouldn’t go unwatched.

Riddle me this:

What does a lier do when he’s dead?

What’s balck and blue and dead all over?

If you are justice, please do not lie.

What is the price for your blind eye?

16 • Mar. 9, 2022

A SACRED MONTH Ramadan, a sacred month focusing on giving back to the community and focusing on the self ASIM ADHIKARY Staff Writer

W

hat is Ramadan? The holy month of self-improvement, discipline, and reflection.

In the next coming weeks, Muslims from all over the world will gather together to celebrate Ramadan.

Falling on the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, the floating holiday is devoted to praying, fasting, and gratitude.

“Ramadan is a time of getting together, and fostering empathy for those who are less fortunate,” Junior Yazzed Abayazid said. “Religiously, it is the most impactful and holiest time of the year. You are trying to do the most for faith, charity, and the five pillars of Islam.”

The holy month commemorates the first verses of the Quran spoken to the Prophet Muhammad - the messenger of Islam - more than 1400 years ago. After 23 years, the verses instructing Muslims to fast the entire month of Ramadan soon came into effect.

“I typically wake up at 5 AM for the meal before dawn, known as Suhoor, and break my fast with my family with an evening meal known as Iftar.” Senior Fauzan Siddiqui said. “Those who partake in Ramadan cannot eat or drink from sunrise to sunset. Although, there are exceptions for the pregnant, elderly, and sick.

And kids usually don’t fast until puberty.”

Although celebrated by over 1.5 billion individuals worldwide, the Islamic tradition has many misconceptions, mainly concerning that of fasting.

“Ramadan shouldn’t be perceived as just a month of tormenting fasting. We’re learning and growing with each other while adopting different perspectives. On top of that, it’s a time of self-love and improving your relationship with God. So, there’s much more to it than just

not eating or drinking,” sophomore Yara Omar said.

Fasting is a way for Muslims to feel solidarity with the millions of poor and hungry individuals around the world who fast without a choice, those who don’t have the same privileges and resources that many of us have.

Senior Nasrin Elrokhsi said, “People rarely take food and water for granted and don’t know what hunger truly feels like. We share the pain that millions of others go through every day through fasting. We abandon both our physical and mental needs, helping us become more selfless and conscious of the world around us.”

After countless days of sacrifice and worship, Muslims mark the end of Ramadan with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr. This is a time when friends and families come together to exchange gifts and blessings while showing their gratitude towards God. “After morning prayer we visit our mosque where they have bouncy houses and food for everyone. Then for the rest of the day, we visit people from our religious community at their houses to eat and celebrate. And then at night, we host our own gathering for our friends and families.” Abayazid said.

Even if you don’t celebrate the holiday, you too can do your part this Ramadan.

“I’d appreciate it if teachers and other students took time out of their days to become more aware of our situations. Whether it’s certain discussions during class about being respectful or when there is food in the classroom. I also wish people weren’t so afraid to ask questions about Ramadan. Don’t be afraid, because most Muslims are open to answering your questions about Ramadan.” said Elrokhsi.

So, with Ramadan around the corner, I hope you learned something new and valuable about this sacred Islamic holiday.

Eid

Eid marks the end of the month of fasting. It begins at sunset and the first appearance of the crescent moon. Depending on the country this holiday can last 1-3 days.

Many celebrate by preparing tasty dishes, wearing new clothes, and henna.

The Five Pillars Of Islam Shahada (Faith)

belief in the god of Allah

Salat (Pray)

Fajr - before sunrise Zuhr - early afternoon Asr - late afternoon Maghrib - after sunset Isha - night

Sawm (Fasting)

During the month of Ramadan, to give up food and drinking during daylight hours

Zakat (Almsgiving)

To give a share of ones wealth to help people in need and also to support the Muslim community

Hajj (Pilgrimage)

To perform a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a liftetime

LIFESTYLE • 17

MISS NEBRASKA TEEN

Senior Faron Medhi achieves title of Miss Nebraska Teen USA after many years in pageantry EMILY SCHMUCKER Staff Writer

her every step of the way,” L. Medhi said.

Medhi has come a long way from her first pageant, Medhi’s face, and she holds her breath as the announcer both internally and externally. She has learned a lot booms into the microphone “Miss Nebraska Teen USA from her many years in pageantry and is applying those 2022 is…Omaha!!” life-long skills in her daily life.

The crowd erupts in applause as Medhi excitedly “I definitely have matured so much through pagjumps up and down and accepts this prestigious award. eantry, and I’ve grown so much personally just through Medhi has accomplished a great amount throughlearning about myself, learning about what makes me out her time as a high school student. Medhi’s hardwork happy, learning about my passions and what I can do to and dedication to helping her community and collaboimpact others,” Medhi said. rating with diverse groups of individuals has helped her Medhi also has many key takeaways from competachieve not only the title of Miss Nebraska Teen USA ing in pageants. but many other things.

“I think something that’s super Medhi started her important that a lot of people don’t unDeveloping my pageant career at nine years derstand about pageantry is you get a old when her mom, Lynlee platform was a huge thing huge platform to advocate for changes.

Medhi, entered her into the for me. It’s always been You don’t just use it to look pretty or do National American Miss certain things,” Medhi said. about wanting to inspire Pageant.

Medhi herself is all about self em“She entered me for fun, self-confidence in others. powerment and is using her personal and then I fell in love with platform to uphold that. being on stage,” Medhi said.

“Developing my platform was a FARON MEDHI Medhi has been comhuge for me,” Medhi said. “It’s Miss Nebraska Teen USA alwaysthing peting in pageants ever since been about wanting to inspire she was nine years old. She self-confidence in others.” has dreamt of becoming Miss Nebraska Teen USA for In addition, Medhi is also spreading awareness many years, and now she has fulfilled it. about the power of making a difference. She is positive“I knew there was no one else fit for the title but her. ly using her platform to do just that.

I’ve watched her grow her platform from the ground up, “Every pageant girl I’ve met has a different platand it’s honestly so impressive. I’m so proud of her and form, that’s like something that’s very special about everything she’s done.” Medhi’s long-time best friend pageants is because every single woman is in her comsenior Lauren Pierson said. munity usually leading change for different things that Medhi’s mom, L. Medhi, has played a major role are super important to be talked about,” said Medhi. throughout Medhi’s pageant and modeling careers. She Medhi isn’t stopping there. Her next goal is to has always been by her side, her love and support for become Miss USA. With the Miss USA competition her daughter never wavering. coming up, Medhi continues her hard work, learning “I guess you could say I’m her agent. I’m there for more and more about herself and others as she goes.

The iridescent lights shine onto senior Faron

“

”

MISS USA Initiatives

Miss Nebraska Teen:

FELS photo does a photoshoot with Senior Faron Medhi a day after she was crowned Miss Nebraska Teen USA. She stands with Natalie Pieper who is Miss Nebraska.

Photograph provided by Faron Medhi

The MIss USA organization uses their platform to raise awarness and give back to the community through different programs and organizations

“Smile Train is an international children’s charity with a sustainable approach to a single, solvable problem: cleft lip and palate. Millions of children with untreated clefts live in isolation, but more importantly, have difficulty eating, breathing and speaking.”

“Best Buddies is a nonprofit organization dedicated to creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment and leadership development for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”

Best Buddies

Smile Train

Source: missusa.org

18 • SPORTS • March 28, 2022

STRIKING OUT WITH THE SCOUTS

MN varsity baseball players make a Players to Watch list for recruiters OLIVIA TORREZ In-Depth Editor

P

rep Baseball Report (PBR) is one of the country’s “[Making the list] made me happy because I know biggest independent high school baseball scouting ser- that I can be one of the good players on the team and vices, focusing on providing year-round coverage. Based that I can be a leader on the team too,” junior Will Henry around the country, they help shine a spotlight on high said. “Even though there are kids who are committed [to school baseball players in different states. colleges], I have to be a leader with them as well.” “[PBR] offers great opportunities Henry is on MN’s to play college baseball through showvarsity baseball team cases, tournaments, a website with starting this spring. He’s [Making this list] shows player stats-- like exit velocity and fastbeen playing baseball ball velocity-- and player evaluations me my gauge of achievements since he was five years by using the latest technology in the and how far I’ve come since old. As a first-year varsity game,” Director of Scouting Nebraska being a little kid on the diaplayer, he’s looking forfor PBR Pascal Paul said. ward to his spring season.

PBR puts out statistics on high mond, to going to college and “[Making this list] is schoolers, results of games, and sets up just getting better. an accomplishment for tournaments. On Feb. 20, Paul put out sure. Our coach selected a Player’s to Watch list on PBR’s webme for this, so it’s really site. It details player information across CAMERON PICKENS an honor to be on it and the state, each high school getting its I’m thankful for it,” HenSenior and Varsity Baseball Player own. ry said.

The Players to Watch list doesn’t Cork selects varsity grant any special favors to players members for PBR’s list whose names end up scrawled on it, it does the opposite: every year. This year, out of the 50 players in the prowhoever winds up on this list is now seen as a leader on gram, 21 made it to varsity and 13 made it on the list. their team with responsibilities to help other players and “[Making this list] shows me my gauge of achieveto their team. ments and how far I’ve come since being a little kid on

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the diamond, to going on to college and just getting better,” senior Cameron Pickens said. “I was excited. Really excited [when I found out I made the list]. It got me even more excited for the spring season and what’s to come.”

Pickens is a varsity member and is committed to Concordia University in Seward NE, where he plans to keep playing baseball after his graduation.

Pickens has been playing baseball since he was four years old, his senior year marks the fifteenth year he’s played. “[Making this list] isn’t too big of a deal to me, but it’s pretty cool that our coaches think that I’ll be a good player this year. So I hope to live up to that,” junior Brayden Gum said.

Gum is a varsity baseball player this spring. He has been playing baseball since he was five and has aspirations of UNO or UNL once he graduates.

“I’m ready to get at it. Just ready to play some baseball. Our spring season was canceled when COVID hit, and things have been picking back up, so I’ve been playing wherever and whenever I can,” Gum said.

As their season continues, varsity players hope to work together, help each other, and grow as a team.

“I’m excited about this spring season, but I’m also saddened to see my last season. Mostly, I’m excited to see what we can do,” Pickens said.

PREP BASEBALL REPORT’S:

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Brandon Lundquist - Sr. - UNL Commit Dane Garner - Sr. - Concordia Commit Ben Weindel - Sr. - Allen County CC Commit Aaron Petty - Sr. - SECC Commit Cameron Pickers - Sr. - Concordia Commit

Juniors To Watch Ty Pankonin Connor Michaud Will Henry Bryson Gibson Conor Palmer Michael Hugelman Brayden Gun Luke Spidle

Swingand-a-Hit:

Senior Dane Garner, midswing. Dane Garner, like many other players this year, made the Prep Baseball report list in the past.

Photograph by Scott Fleck

MNHSONLINE.COM • 19

BACK TO BACK

Boys Basketball takes state for second time in last two years ANNA PIPINOS Editor-in-Chief

“In the metro tournament we lost to Westside, but it

coming from the other school, but obviously, I would hear them at points throughout the game,” Harmon said. “The students just use it as a tactic to get into your head, and luckily, my teammates would all tell me that what they say does not matter, and it really doesn’t matter what they say.”

With the first quarter coming to an end, MN and Bellevue West were at a tie with each team having a total of 18 points. As the eight-minute timer of the second quarter began to count down, the chants and roars of the crowd echoed throughout the arena. However, minutes into the second quarter, an uneasy silence came over everybody as Harmon fell to the ground.

“When I saw David go down, I did not think that he was going to come back, but when he stood back up, I was so relieved,” senior Jasen Green said. “I would say that knowing that he was still able to play and still contribute to the team again even after he took that fall and hit his head on the ground was my favorite moment.”

At half-time, the players walked off the court and into the locker room, more motivated than ever before to walk out of that stadium as state champions.

“In the locker room at half-time, we were losing by one, but we were all having a good time and were confident in ourselves and believing in each other,” Dolezal said. “This was way different than earlier in the year because when we played them before, we were down by like 20 points at half-time. Just to see us grow that way and not be down was really cool to see and experience.”

While talking about their game plan for the second and third quarters, many of the players recollected previous experiences, encouraging them to continue giving it their all.

“Sophomore year, I wasn’t on the basketball team, but I still was with the team at the game. After we lost at state, we were walking towards the bus, and one of the Bell West players come out, dancing with his medal. Ever since then, that’s all I have thought about, and I just took that motivation and ran with it,” Dolezal said.

With a drive so fierce, the united team came together for the last two quarters of the game and made sure that all of the sweat and tears they had put Dream Catcher: in throughout their season was worth it.

Jasen Green (23), holds up the state championship basketball With 10 seconds left on the clock and an court’s net. The Mustangs took the champion spot, winning eight-point lead, the team knew it was game over and Harmon took the final against Bellevue West with a score of 67-57. shot of his high school career, making Photograph by Usman Syed the score 67-57. was never a real downer. After the game, I walked into the locker room, and everyone was sitting in their chair, stone silent,” Boys Basketball coach Timothy Cannon said. “I knew at that moment that we were going to rebound and grow from that.”

With a winning record of 26-2, MN’s Boys Basketball team went on to compete at the state tournament at Pinnacle Bank Arena on March 12. Walking onto the court, the team felt a nostalgia creeping over them, recollecting their time on the court.

“You could feel the difference in the atmosphere because of the crowds of people, and I knew deep down that the stakes were way bigger. There wasn’t more pressure, but it was more of a fun type of game. I also thought about what it was like the last two years we came to play at state,” senior Nick Dolezal said.

After warming up and the starting lineup being called, the game began.

“The greatest moment on Saturday was when they announced all the starters. When they called us, it just made me realize that we really made it there and that it was our last high school game,” senior David Harmon said.

With the commencement of the game came the start of the chants from both MN’s and Bellevue West’s student section.

“While in the game, I tried to zone out the chants

Sinking It:

David Harmon (5), going up for an ungaurded shot. This championship win brings the Mustangs to a strong two years in-a-row of first-place titles, leaving the audience wondering about next year’s results.

Photograph by Usman Syed

“I just went out there, and I was hot. My teammates recognized that I was playing really well, and at the end of the game, I was told to just dribble it out by the coach, but it was the last play of my career, and I knew that I had to end it the right way,” Harmon said.

With the buzzer calling the end of the game, cheers of happiness radiated throughout the stadium, and the players on the team ran to each other to celebrate their back-to-back state championship win.

“It was a bittersweet moment to walk off the court because it sucks knowing that we won’t be able to play with each other again, and we had such a great team this year. It was a great experience being a part of the team and one I’ll be holding onto,” Dolezal said.

20 • March 28, 2022

ON THE BALL

The Six Most Popular Club Sports World Wide (By Participation)

#6: Rugby

style and atmosphere as its pace is much faster and is more locally-based.

Since the season is squeezed into only 8 short weeks, once it begins there are no breaks. Practices are typically held every day after school, with about two to even three games per week.

This fast-paced environment is perfect because it makes the time spent playing with my team even more special. Within those short eight weeks, I see my friendships and relationships with my teammates take off and evolve into something much greater.

There’s something indescribably special about high school sports. Playing for and representing your school is an experience that you just don’t have for club sports.

One of the most memorable moments of my life happened playing high school soccer: the 202021 Class A Girls Soccer state finals. Seeing and hearing my classmates and friends cheering the team on made me feel connected and it pushed me to play even better.

Since the season is so short, I feel that high school sports are a much bigger commitment during the course of time they are played.

However, the cost commitment is much higher for club teams. In fact, according to USA Today, fees can get up to about $2,500-5,000 per year.

Part of the reason I love playing both high school and club soccer is the amazing people I have met. I’ve formed connections and friendships with both people in my school and with people from other schools.

From my experience, playing for both school and club teams is an amazing opportunity, especially for grade school students as we get to meet and connect with a diverse community of people.

Those who play both club and school sports may have their own opinions on which is better, but it is undeniable that both programs have their own advantages and disadvantages. For me, participating in both of these programs is a score!

#4: Baseball #5: Volleyball

Teagan Talks

is no place I would rather be than on the soccer field. It is my favorite thing to do, and I try to savor every moment I have on the field and with my team.

For those of us who really love TEAGAN LYNCH the sport we play, one season is nevStaff Writer er enough. So, we split our playing time between two different types of programs: club and school.

I love the differences between these two because they provide me with two completely different but equally beneficial and fun experiences in my sport.

Club sports are community based teams, while school sports are based out of, of course, the school that you go to.

Oftentimes, clubs are considered a higher level because of the much greater time spent playing and the cost of being a part of the team. Another very well known aspect of club sports is that you get to travel all over the country for competitions.

An all-time favorite travel experience of mine was a trip my team took to Florida for a showcase.

Over fifteen college coaches came to watch our games, which was absolutely exhilirating. Additionally, being able to hang out, go to the beach, and having meals with the team greatly helped to improve our team’s chemistry both on and off the field.

The long season is enjoyable for me as it allows more time for bonding with teammates and improving skills.

High school, however, is a completely different

#2: Cricket #3: Basketball

There

#1: Soccer

The differences between playing club and school sports

Source: TopEndSports.com

JOCK TALK Which do you enjoy more, club or school sports? Why? Carson Obrecht SOPHOMORE Baseball

I feel like I get more out of club sports during the summer because we are able to travel a lot more and get a lot more exposure. School sports are also a really good bonding [activity] and [enable you to build] trust with your coaches.

Emma Cook SOPHOMORE Soccer

I like both, but there are different things that I like about each one. I love the atmosphere at school, but then I love the experiences I get at club. I’d say it’s pretty even.

Nathan Liu JUNIOR Soccer

I like school sports better because, with highschool, I am playing with my friends. I feel like that because we spend so much time practicing, it’s essentially every day [that we are together]. We also do things like pasta feeds, we all get a lot closer.