THE HOOFBEAT
PLASTIC PERFORMANCES
The Musical Mean Girls, performed by the theater department, comes to Millard North May 1-4 Pages 2 and 3
Photograph by Lydia Harlow
THAT’S SO FETCH
A “behind-the-curtains” peek into MN’s upcoming production of Mean Girls, The Musical
LYDIA HARLOW
Co-Front Page Editor
From “On Wednesdays, we wear pink” to “Get in loser, we’re going shopping” to “She doesn’t even go here!” “Mean Girls” is one of our time’s most iconic and quoted movies.
In the first week of May, MN Drama is bringing this piece to life with a performance of “Mean Girls, the Musical”. With 46 actors and approximately 60 crew members and ‘techies’, a lot goes into a production of this size.
Since so many talented students are participating, selecting which musical best showcases their collective talent takes a lot of consideration.
“My assistants and I take a look at musicals that we haven’t done. [Focusing on] the ones we know will challenge us, whether it’s technical challenges, acting, or singing… we knew we had a good group that would be able to take on this production, and we hadn’t done it before,” director Michelle Williamson said.
This ensemble is jam-packed with talented actors ready to take on these contemporary challenges to produce the best show they can.
“I think it was a good choice because it’s more modern and it’s more relatable for people,” ensemble member Ellie Hill said.
As a more well-known, contemporary musical based on a popular movie, “Mean Girls” presents some interesting challenges for the actors. Audience members may come in with preconceived notions about the musical and may be expecting it to be performed a certain way, which creates additional pressure for the cast.
“A lot of people know the movie, and so that’s a challenge because [the actors] have a lot to live up to as far as acting and everything else vocally,” Williamson said.
work, there is also extensive singing, dancing, and choreography, with around 15 different dance numbers throughout the show.
“I’m excited for the dancing because there’s a lot of big musical numbers… it’s a good show to do as an ensemble member because you’re so involved,” Hill said.
Another unique element of this show is the first-time use of projections for the set. Instead of using traditional, larger set pieces for the scenery, backgrounds will be set up using a projector and will allow for smoother transitions with fewer blackouts.
“We’re still using a lot of properties, hand props, and things like that, but as for big set construction, we’re replacing it with projections… We wanted to push ourselves, and it will help to show the setting,” Williamson said. “We hope [the audience] will see that we’re trying to change with the times. Hopefully, it will also help them [the audience members] to be able to immerse themselves in settings they couldn’t before.”
Goin’ Solo
Junior Finley O’Malley prepares for her solo in the auditorium. She is performing the lead role as Cady Heron in this upcoming musical.
Within these expectations, however, there is still room for the actors to make stylistic choices about how to present their characters to make them pop on stage.
Photograph by Lydia Harlow
Since the show has a wide range of vibrant and interesting characters, the actors can interpret their roles in many unique ways.
“I think there’s a lot of character choices that you can make in [the musical]. It’s a big show that’s up for interpretation, so you can really make it your own,” Alaina Bowden, who plays Karen, said.
Along with increased opportunities for character
Choreo Sophomore Katie Tooher rehearses her choreography for musical number Where Do You Belong? This number features cafeteria trays and is essential to establishing the setting of the musical.
Photograph by Katelyn Judd
Using projections will help to explain and improve transitions during the musical’s drastic scenery shifts. For example, at the very beginning of “Mean Girls”, Kady is in Africa and then the setting quickly switches back to her high school in the United States.
Without using projectors, this scene change would be a lot harder to communicate to the audience. They’d need to create additional sets for Africa and switch these sets out shortly into the show, which could interrupt the flow of the musical and hinder the development of the storyline.
“There will be parts that aren’t as 3D as in the story, but [the audience will be able] to see things that they wouldn’t if we used actual [physical] scenery,” Jennifer Bonge, who plays Regina George, said.
Yet, while it has its advantages, projections bring a plethora of new challenges, especially for actors who have never interacted with them in the past.
“It’ll definitely be different because we haven’t done it before, so we’re going to have to figure out and learn how to still communicate the story
throughout, but they did it in the Broadway production, so it’s not super out of the usual,” Bonge said.
In many ways, “Mean Girls” is a very different musical from any MN has attempted in the past. With its contemporary nature, increased choreography and dance numbers, and new use of projectors and technology, this show is a testament to MN’s growing theatrical capabilities.
“I think the biggest thing that makes it different is our viewpoint: since it is a more modern piece, we’re going to go 100% in that direction and utilize projections and use those kinds of things that we haven’t before… it’s a challenge, but I’m excited for it,” Williamson said.
Williamson hopes that the challenges they face will help the actors and crew members to grow their skills and allow for the show to shine, and the actors seem to readily agree.
“I’m just excited to showcase everyone’s talent. I think this is a show that really grows people as actors, and I’m so excited to show it,” Bowden said.
Clever
ProjectorPossibilities
Setlist
Snippet
Movie-MN-Musical
MUSTANG MIGHT
1, 2, 1, 2, 3, 4! Unified Cheer team wins Grand Champions at annual competition, reflects on successful season
SARAH ROBEY
Online Editor
“G
o Big Blue! Go Mustangs!” The cheerleaders’ voices ring out in the gym as they chant the cheers and perform the routines they have been perfecting for weeks.
The Unified Cheer team had a successful and exciting season, wrapping up on Feb. 9 by winning Grand Champions at the 2025 Sarah Spohn Memorial Unified Cheer Championship.
This annual unified event is organized through the Special Olympics. Unified Cheer teams in all unified events consist of alternative curriculum program students (ACP) and general education (Gen Ed) students. MN was one of six schools competing. Winning the championship brought much excitement to the team.
“I felt happy and excited,” freshman Tessa Pietro said.
Pride and a sense of accomplishment was also shared by many team members.
“I felt super proud of our team on how we competed and all of the hard work was worth it winning the championship,” freshman Peyton Knoell said.
The team had many spectators at the event to show their support and cheer them on.
Cheesin’ Cheerleaders
Seniors Arianna Lymous and Chloe Murphy pose at the 2025 Sarah Spohn Memorial Unified Cheer Championship. The team was recognized as Grand Champion for their performance that day, while being cheered on my parents, friends, teachers, and supporters.
Photograph contributed by Alexa Williams
“A lot of the parents came and my mom even was there. Some of the Gen Ed [stu-
dent’s] parents came, paras, and other teachers, which was super cool,” ACP teacher Alexa Williams said.
In addition to the championship, they also performed at Jam the Gym hosted by Millard West High School. The event showcased the performances of many schools with JV, varsity, and unified teams. The team met once a week for five weeks preparing for this competition and the rest of the season.
“We worked on some sideline cheers. Then we learned a little dance all together. We had some of the freshman cheerleaders that helped us learn some of the sideline cheers that they do at football and basketball games, so that was really helpful,” Williams said.
Being part of the team is a great experience for all and is an easy way to get involved and meet new people.
I love how the unified program makes everyone feel welcome and anyone can join,” Knoell said.
Unified Cheer is one of the many unified programs offered at school. Other activities include Unified Basketball, Unified Track, Unified Bowling and Unified Club. Many of the cheerleaders also participate in these programs, which has led them to explore new interests.
“I got into Unified Cheer because I have been doing unified activities for a while. I have made connections with so many of my teammates and many of them asked if I was going to do Unified Cheer. I was instantly on board,” freshman Journey Siedlik said.
I love how the unified program makes everyone feel welcome and anyone can join.
“ “
PEYTON KNOELL FRESHMAN
“I love seeing everybody come together and seeing my kids with some of the Gen Ed kids that they might not interact with during the day,” Williams said. “Sometimes we feel cooped up down here in this hallway. It’s nice to be able to get out and make new friends and see new faces that we might not see.”
Many of the cheerleaders have created lots of new friendships and met new people.
“My favorite part of Unified Cheer is getting to spend time with everyone and making new friendships.
POWER IN UNITY
Interested in joining an Unified Activity, but not sure which one? Look no further. Follow the flow-chart to discover what your best fit would be.
Anyone can join any of the unified activities, and no experience is required. It is a great opportunity to make new friends.
“I love the unified program because of the experiences I have been able to have with so many people I never would have met before. Unified club is a place where anyone can come to have fun, make new friends, play games, and have dance parties, without fear of being judged,” Siedlik said.
If you are a student and would like to be involved in unified programs, more information is available on the MNHS website’s activities page. Unified Club meets after school on the last Tuesday of each month. More information can also be found on the Unified’s Instagram account, @millardnorthunified. As always, anyone is welcome.
Meetings are the last Tuesday of every month. Acitivities include games, and some outof-school outings,
ECHOES OF THE MUSE
MN’s literary magazine makes a return, inspires and empowers student artists
MAHDIS RIAZIKHAH Co-Opinions Editor
After several years of silence, “The Muse”, MN’s literary magazine, has finally returned with the creative spirit that once filled its pages with vibrant voices, bold ideas, and untold stories. This isn’t just a comeback; it’s a literary revolution that is bound to happen sooner or later.
The last time MN’s literary magazine existed was back in 2014. Junior A.J. Johnson brought it back 11 years later with the help of English teacher Whitney Hansen. The name “Muse” was chosen because of the nine muses and Greek mythology.
“I think it’s important to inspire peo-
to put pieces on their resume,” Johnson said.
Johnson and the rest of the members provide a platform for a diverse range of student voices and promote “The Muse” by displaying posters and speaking to classrooms to spread the word.
“I like how “The Muse” encourages members to produce meaningful insights on other students’ creations. We can be creative together and help each other’s creativity,” junior Samantha Le, a member of the literary magazine, said.
A”-Muse”-ing Artistry
“The Muse” aims to represent all kinds of art, as noted in these magazine examples. The left image is a magazine cover from 2006 and the right from 2012. Poems are also a staple of “the Muse”, as shown above. Photographs contributed by Whitney Hansen
ple to do art and put out their art and writing because it’s a powerful thing, and people should feel encouraged to do that in a safe environment,” Johnson said.
Submissions, which were due by Feb. 28, allow students to publish poetry, art, fiction, nonfiction, comics, visual art, short films, and music. “The Muse” has not set a date for the first issue yet, but it hopes to go in print next year.
“It [“The Muse”] helps expand our horizons and helps people look at other perspectives and understand the meaning of creativity,” Johnson said.
The first issue’s theme is “New Beginnings,” and it was chosen because as a symbolic phrase for the magazine’s recommencement.
“The meaning can be broad. We accept anything in the category that represents new beginnings like moving, starting in a new school, starting a new mentality, changing the way you think, etc,” Johnson said.
After the Feb. 28 deadline, editors will review submissions and discuss what should be published. They will strive to include every piece and ask submissions to revise if necessary.
“I hope people will gain some experience in art, writing, etc.
The magazine’s positions include readers, who review submissions; editors, who are in charge of revisions and resubmissions; and, lastly, the Co-Editor-in-Chiefs, Johnson and junior Katie Sykora.
“My goal for “The Muse” is for our club and body of student creators to continue expanding. Every person counts towards creating an epic student-led online literary magazine and building a more united Millard North community,” Le said.
Le submitted a drawing to improve her drawing skills. As a reader, she would like to help the magazine grow and is enjoying the process of publishing the first issue.
“I joined “The Muse” because I was excited to be part of a cool school organization that has returned after years of hiatus,” Le said.
Junior Annabel Averett is the editor of “The Muse”, and she focuses mostly on fiction and poetry. She joined “The Muse” because she was invited by Johnson to come to one of the meetings, and she liked the idea a literary magazine.
‘My goal for Muse is to get lots of submissions, lots of views, and to get people creative,” Averett said.
Averett submitted a picture of a crochet rose she made her sophomore year representing the theme of new beginnings.
“I like that it’s a creative and safe space for people to be able to put art out there [and] say they published something and have everyone see what they are talented at,” Averett said.
The return of “The Muse” brings a fresh wave of creativity to Millard North, offering a platform for students’ talents. As it prepares for its first issue, “The Muse” marks the start of a new creative era.
NEWS BRIEFS
LOCAL NEWS
Omaha police vehicle crashes into car while responding to a robbery (Mar. 17)
UNO selected for NCAA March Madness tournament for first time in program history (Mar. 16)
NATIONAL NEWS
4 dead and 200 injured in Oklahoma wildfires (Mar. 18)
Government releases small group of JFK assassination files (Mar. 18)
WORLD NEWS
Putin agrees to pause Ukraine energy attacks but no complete ceasefire (Mar. 18)
12 found dead in Honduras plane crash (Mar. 18)
AROUND THE WORLD IN A DAY
Students
KAI PAVLOVA Staff Writer
come together to celebrate varying cultures through dance, cuisine, and education
old flavors, lively dance performances, and vibrant cultural booths. These were all features at the first ever MN cultural expo.
As part of an IB CAS project, senior Pavithra Raghavan and several other students have been working hard to put together a cultural showcase, held on Mar. 8.
The event featured diverse cuisine, music, cultural booths, live dance performances, and more. Senior Binodini Ganeshkumar was in charge of fundraising, Juniors Pravantika Kriphakarren and Sahashra Pallamala oversaw the dance performances, and Junior Anagha Vemmelesseril ran the cultural booths.
The event began with the cultural booths, which ran for the first hour of the event, and there was a mix of Mexican, Korean, and Tajik cultures. Each booth offered something unique.
“
audience, and the people you dance with,” Kriphakarren said.
Kriphakarren aided in choreographing an Indian wedding performance for the event, and it features beautiful, fast-beat songs from South India. She was also a part of the Millard North Middle School Diyas performance.
Additional performances included the Omaha sparklers, the Dynamic Devis Creighton’s K-Jewels, a celebration of Mexican culture, our Live and Performing Arts club, and Japanese pop music.
One of the key things that sets Millard North apart... is the diversity of experiences, cultures, and people... ANAGHA VEMMELESSERIL JUNIOR “
The Mexican booth featured facts about the country, traditional candy, and dances. The Korean booth had a traditional sugar candy challenge and explanations of history and tradition. The last booth had a person dressed in traditional clothing, and their poster had sayings written in Tajik.
An hour into the event, the performances began. They showcased Korean, Mexican, Palestinian, and Indian cultures and history, and there was a mix of students and adults performing.
“I think dance is such a lovely way to display your culture and show off your talent. I see dance as a medium to create a soul-to-soul connection with you, your
A Meeting for the Masses
IB students, attendees, and organizers set up one of the many cultural booths at the Tapestry of Travels event on Mar. 8.This table featured small treats and sweets, sold to fundraise for the Malala Fund.
Photograph
by
Kai Pavlova
The Dynamic Devis showcased diverse songs from diverse languages, such as Hindi, Nepali, Tamil, and Telugu, offering the audience a glimpse into the essence of South Asian culture.
There was also a traditional Palestinian and Levantine dance, named Dabke, that reflected the hope, struggles, and history of the Palestinian people. The rhythms of the dance symbolized the steadfastness and joy of their people, even when faced with adversity.
On the other end of the event, Ganeshkumar was a part of the “Crafted with Love, Baked with Purpose”, a student-led charity event with all proceeds going to the Malala Fund.
The Malala Fund is an international, non-profit organization that advocates for women’s education, especially in countries where it is banned.
“My favorite part has been planning an event, specifically something that is meant to promote a good cause; there’s so much value and importance in what
KCC Up Close
I’m giving to this event,” Ganeshkumar said.
The students sold a variety of baked goods and crocheted hearts, with prices ranging from $3 to $5.
Additionally, attendees and participants had the opportunity to enter a raffle to win a basket with goodies from different countries, such as Vanilla Wafer Kit Kats, Strawberry Pocky sticks, Buldak ramen, and shrimp-flavored chips.
Twirls of Tradition
In a customary Mexican dance, a participant at “Tapestry of Travels” twirls and dances to the upbeat, traditional music of Mexican culture. This particular culture and performance was just one of the many celebrated at “Tapestry of Travels”.
Photograph by Kai Pavlova
“One of the key things that sets Millard North apart from a lot of other schools is the diversity of experiences, cultures, and people, and having the opportunity to bring that to the forefront through the Tapestry of Travels is special,” Vemmelesseril said.
While you may not be able to physically travel to all of these destinations, Tapestry of Travels successfully provided attendees an avenue to explore the world outside MN.
Gain insight into Korean Culture Club (KCC), one of the clubs featured at “Tapestry of Travels”, with one of Korean Culture Club’s presidents senior Seha Ok.
Q: Who leads the Korean Culture Club?
A: The Korean Culture Club is run by Seha Ok, Elle Ok, and Lucy Cho.
Q: Why did you start the Korean Culture Club?
A:With Korean culture getting more popular worldwide, we wanted to bring the fun and excitement of it to our school—mainly as a way to enjoy it with our friends!
Q: What has your favorite KCC event been?
A: One of our most memorable events was the Squid Game activity. It was super chaotic since way more people showed up than we expected, but in the end, everyone seemed to have a great time.
Photograph courtesy of @millardnorthkcc
EDUCATION EVICTION
With the current presidential administration attempting to dismantle the Department of Education, it is essential to remember its necessity
THE HOOFBEAT
Staff Editorial
magine waking up to the news that the U.S. Department of Education no longer exists. No federal oversight of public schools. No Pell Grants. No regulations on student loans. In its place, each state holds the reins of its own education system.
For some, this represents a victory for local control. For others, it signals a chaotic unraveling of protections and financial support. But what would actually happen if the Department of Education were abolished?
One of the most immediate consequences would be student loans. The federal government currently provides loans to about 43 million borrowers, contributing to a staggering $1.6 trillion in debt.
If the department were dismantled, responsibility for these loans could shift to private lenders or individual states. This would likely lead to higher interest rates, fewer repayment protections, and increased financial strain on borrowers.
Currently, federal programs offer income-driven repayment plans and loan forgiveness options. Without a central education authority, these safety nets could disappear, leaving students vulnerable to skyrocketing debt.
Beyond student loans, eliminating the Department of Education would transfer full power to the states. Each state could determine its own curriculum, testing standards, and funding priorities without federal intervention.
This might allow for more tailored education policies, but it could also widen existing inequalities. Wealthier states could enhance their school systems, while underfunded states might struggle to provide basic services. Federal education funding is essential for support-
are your plans after high school?
Rilee Kirkpatrick
I’m going to attend Lincoln doing the Premed route and majoring in biology.
I’m going to UNL to study business administration.
ing state budgets, especially in rural areas. Nebraska, for example, receives 12.3% of its total education funding from the Department of Education.
Meanwhile, states like Mississippi and South Dakota rely on federal funding for nearly 20% of their education budgets.
Without federal support, rural states could be left scrambling to fill the gap, resulting in teacher shortages, outdated resources, and school closures in underfunded districts.
The Department of Education also ensures critical support for vulnerable student populations, particularly students with disabilities and low-income students.
Through programs like the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the federal government helps guarantee that students with disabilities receive necessary accommodations and services.
Without federal oversight, states might reduce these programs or fail to enforce them consistently, leaving students without essential support.
Low-income students also benefit from federal programs like Title I funding, which provides additional resources to schools serving high-poverty communities.
If the Department of Education were eliminated, these funds could vanish, not only further deepening the educational divide between wealthy and struggling school districts, but increasing the divide in society as a whole as well.
Advocates of this change argue that cutting the department would streamline bureaucracy and return control to parents and local governments.
The Trump administration, for example, championed education reforms that emphasized school choice and reduced federal oversight.
Owen Hickenbottom
I plan on going to the Raikes program at UNL and majoring in business administration.
I’m going to Dordt University and I’m going to major in social work. Elizabeth Jacobsen
Critics, however, warn that the Department of Education is essential for enforcing civil rights laws, ensuring protections for students with disabilities, and holding schools accountable for educational standards.
The debate over the Department of Education isn’t just about government structure—it’s about the future of millions of students. The Department of Education’s initiatives and programs make education a reality for millions of students across the country. While reforming education policy is always worth discussing, dismantling an institution that provides funding, oversight, and protections would have far-reaching consequences.
Educating the Masses
50 million students nationwide and
18,200 school districts across the U.S. depend on the Department of Education’s elementary and secondary programs
Source: U.S. Department of Education
If we’re serious about improving education, we must think critically about the systems we change and the safeguards we might be removing. The stakes are too high to act without a clear plan for what comes next; too many people depend on programs ensured throughthe Department of Education to be even attempting to move ahead without a viable alternative for these individuals.
EDITORIAL CARTOON
By Lydia Harlow
MORE THAN MEETS THE QUIET
Exploring the impact of labels and how embracing individuality leads to personal growth
Mahdis’s Mentality
have always been a quiet person, often blending in the background of a noisy room. People might perceive me as shy, distant, or uninterested, but the truth is that my mind is constantly buzzing with ideas. I’m not silent because I have nothing to say; rather, it’s because I think and observe. I find my energy and strength in these quiet moments when I’m alone with my thoughts.
Introverts are like cameras with limited storage, and social interactions are the photos that fill up the space. They need time to delete and refresh before they can capture more moments.
Extroverts are like power outlets, and people are the devices that plug in to recharge them. The more connections they make, the more energized they feel, constantly drawing strength from the energy around them.
When one thinks about an introvert, the words quiet, shy, antisocial, and social anxiety come to mind. When one thinks about an extrovert, the words talkative, adventurous, loud, too energetic, etc., come to mind. While these can be true, they are just misleading
Individualsmayexperi-enceheightenedpositiveemotions,suchasexcitementandenthusiasm. (knownaspositiveeffect).
stereotypes.
Stereotypes hinder moments to learn about diverse people. They create boundaries and misconceptions, fostering misunderstandings.
I’m usually quiet during class and big group discussions, but during small group discussions or one-onone discussions, classmates seem shocked when I have something to say.
According to Healthline, psychologist Carl Jung coined the terms introvert and extrovert in the 1920s. He described introverts as people who easily get drained from social interactions and need time to recharge. Conversely, extroverts get their energy from social interactions and can become anxious when left alone for some time.
I usually keep to myself, not showing my true self to someone until I get to know them. I typically like to observe and listen to others around me, but I will talk if it’s important. I don’t need to fill the silence; it saves me time for internal processing. Once I reach my limit for social interaction, I need time for myself to recharge.
Labeling oneself as introverted, shy, socially anxious, or extroverted can be harmful to one’s mental health by oversimplifying complex behaviors and creating unnecessary limitations.
However, being an introvert is different from being shy or socially anxious. Just because introverts enjoy solitude and being in smaller social settings does not mean they never want to socialize or are incapable of doing so. Shyness refers to feeling nervous and fearful when talking to others, while social anxiety refers to having an extreme fear of social interactions.
Conforming to the behaviors associated with what
BALANCE OF ENERGY
incentivesReactsstronglytopositive whileshowinglittleresponsetonegative consequences.
AMBIVERT:
-They’re able to adapt to different situations.
you placed yourself in can cause one to feel anxiety and inadequacy and limit behavior based on what is associated with that behavior.
For example, when someone is shy, they might avoid personal growth like leadership roles, even if they would like to do it. Someone introverted might avoid social interactions and just keep to themselves, even if they would like to join the conversation. Someone extroverted might feel the need to be social all the time, even though they might not be in the mood.
We should not let labels define our actions; instead, we should use them to help us better understand ourselves and others.
I, myself, am a victim of this. On days when I would like to join social events, I hesitate because I feel like I’m not acting the way an introvert is expected to behave.
Like political affiliations, introverts and extroverts fall on a spectrum. Each introverted and extroverted person differs from their respective peers.
Some are extremely introverted or extroverted; most people fall into the middle category, which is an ambivert in which people are both introverted and extroverted, and depending on their situation, they will lean towards one side more.
One introverted person can easily get out of their comfort zone, but for another, it will take time for them to do so.
Being an introvert or an extrovert does not define one’s capabilities. Both can be social, leaders, creative, imaginative, etc.; there is not a rule book that says exactly what is expected of you if you identify as an introvert or extrovert. Be yourself, and don’t let a label dictate you.
The person gains energy from social interactions and frequent engagements with others. Shows assertive tendencies.
Enjoysbeing thecenterof attention.
-Being good at com municating by listen ing and speaking.
-Comfortable being in large and small groups.
Experiencesincreasedsensitivitywhenprocessing stimuli.
Shows increased brain activity after stimulation.
seeking.noveletyThrilland innerIsmotivatedby reflectionsexploration.andpersonal
Sources: Simply Psychology & Positive Psychology
ulatingAvoidsoverstimsituationspassive.andismore
The focus is on their inner mental world, directing personal energy forward.
Don’tliketobethecenterofattention.
MAHDIS RIAZIKHAH Co-Opinions Editor
A State of Control and Confusion
Analyzing the lenses in which people view forms of media and its extent on individual opinions
Illustration by Nadirah Johnson
EXPLORING NOTABLE BANNED BOOKS
1984
Written by George Orwell Published in June 1949
Credited as an archetype of the dystopian genre, 1984 dives into the grim consequences of government control and its extent on society. Readers will follow Winston Smith through a future world of totalitarianism, witnessing the effects of power on the human psyche.
Challenged due to themes of communism and explicit content
The Catcher in the Rye
Written by J.D. Salinger
Published in July 1951
Post World War Two and consumerism culture provide the context for the narrative of the rebellious teenager Holden Caulfield. J.D. Salinger weaves themes of identity and morality throughout the trials and tribulations of an adolescent on the uncertain cusp of adulthood.
Challenged due to use of profanity and depiction of youth rebellion
To Kill A Mockingbird
Written by Harper Lee
Published in July 1960
Set in the fictitious Maycomb, Alabama, To Kill A Mockingbird details the permeation of racism and discriminaton through the eyes of a young child. By describing the grave consequences of racial injustices, Harper Lee symbolizes the effect of racism’s deep-rooted role in America.
Challenged due to graphic topics, description of racism and use of racial slurs
WHEN PROTECTING CLASHES WITH SILENCING
What role does banned literature play in English classrooms at
KATELYN JUDD
Co-Front Page Editor
Through the Millard North English Department, students have been able to stand in a courtroom with Atticus Finch, attend lavish parties thrown by Jay Gatsby, scheme and sabotage with Holden Caulfield, and experience unrequited love with Romeo and Juliet.
Classics that are taught at MN, like “To Kill a Mockingbird”, “Fahrenheit 451”, “The Catcher in the Rye”, and “Romeo and Juliet”, are only a slim number of the books that have been nationally challenged and considered a banned book at a point in history.
A banned book is a novel that has, at some point, been challenged by a group of individuals in a society for themes they may deem inappropriate. In a school setting, this can cause books to be removed from curriculums, classrooms, and library shelves.
Mostly, the grounds on which a book is banned or challenged can be related to controversial societal issues, such as race, gender, sexuality, and class. To understand why these issues are handled the way they are in these novels, it is necessary to understand the environment where they were developed and examine how they differ from today.
“It’s easy to look at things from 50 years ago and think about how foolish they were. But we need to be mindful that 50 years from now, there will be many things that we do that will be looked down upon [like how it was then],” English teacher Barry Glynn said.
Millard North?
One of the main arguments for banning a book, especially in an educational setting, is for the safety and protection of exposure for children in classrooms. Where this gets tricky is deciding what is considered appropriate and inappropriate.
“I don’t think anything should be banned for adults, but young people should be protected from seeing or having to worry about things before they need to,” Glynn said. “It’s done to protect innocence.”
English teacher Allycia Gutierrez acknowledges that there needs to be a balance between protecting and allowing students a chance to learn.
“I recognize that there is rhetoric out there that is harmful to society, but I also agree that books cannot exist without context and you can’t read a book without knowing the benefits and problems that it has,” Gutierrez said.
Furthermore, it is important to consider if students should be involved in advocating for their education, and how it can manifest if their safety and well-being are a concern with these books. Gutierrez is aware it isn’t as simple as it sounds.
“[Banning a book] is just trying to keep kids safe, but it’s an unrealistic goal. Ultimately, you’re going to grow up and be confronted with many ideas, but if you are in a safe environment, such as a school where you can ask questions and get feedback, you would be in a better place [than if you were on your own],” Gutierrez said.
If a family expresses disapproval, the process for
objecting to a novel in Millard has two different pathways, depending on the intended goal. One form is intended to oppose a book being taught to their children, and the other is to object to a book for all students.
English teacher Taylor Van Vliet admits that a parent’s role should only extend to their own children, and can be harmful if applied to all.
“Parents have a right to monitor their own child’s education,” Van Vliet said. “But objecting for your own student is different than removing a book for all students.”
Though the information remains confidential, according to MPS English Curriculum Facilitator Jan Dahlgaard, four books have been challenged here at Millard North in the previous seven years, although nothing has appeared to have gone through removal.
The main counterargument is that the banning of books infringes on the First Amendment right of Free Speech and can silence authors and readers.
“[Banned books] are the cornerstones of our society and literature. They are expressions of the human experience and it’s important for students to be aware of,” Gutierrez said. “I haven’t encountered a book that I teach that isn’t somehow still relevant in 2025.”
Authors of these novels are trying to share a critique of society they find pertinent, which can be displayed through different works of fiction and nonfiction.
“Authors are trying to portray real-life situations and real-life perspectives. Life isn’t always pretty and easy to read,” Van Vliet said.
BEYOND THE BAN
Society is developing a realization regarding the recent surge of censorship in the media, particularly with the TikTok ban
TEJA SRIDHER
Co-Opinions Editor
In today’s ever-evolving world, the daily life of a high school student is a combination of gaining educational insight while continuing to foster relationships both online and in person. However, with the rise in technology, teenagers in particular have been more prone than ever to intertwine themselves in the loop of social media.
Whether checking how many followers you have, falling victim to the endless page of TikToks, or keeping up with the latest trends, we as a collective society have found ourselves stuck in a digital era controlled by fake news, privacy threats, and especially, data breaches.
TikTok, an app that has almost 1.9 billion users, according to Statistica, has recently been the spark of controversy due to its temporary ban on January 19th, 2025.
As mentioned by CBS News, TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance, was supposedly posing a threat to national security by being involved in various data breaches.
This ban enraged many since some people think of TikTok simply as a platform that helps content creators share their views and lifestyles with the world. This poses the question in our modern society regarding the censorship of media, and if there are any ethical dilemmas associated with this.
AP Government and Politics teacher, Douglas Drum-
18th Century
1740
First antiliteracy law was passed in the colony of South Carolina in order to prevent enslaved people from learning how to write.
1775
Isiah Thomas, publisher of The Massachusetts Spy, had to relocate his printing press from Boston to Worcester in order to avoid the paper’s destruction by the British.
1829
mond, believes that there are a few potential concerns that may have driven the calls for a TikTok ban.
“[In terms of freedom of speech], A TikTok ban raises First Amendment concerns, as it would restrict the ability of millions of Americans to express themselves and access information on the platform,” Drummond said.
The banning of TikTok poses several aspects to consider such as the restricted freedom of speech, the safety of national security, and the relevance of data privacy in our digital world.
Social Studies teacher Terry Meyer also has a few concerns when it comes to these issues.
“I think the primary concern is who controls the algorithm. If a foreign company, who must comply with the laws of their country, controls the algorithm that decides what people see [and thus believe], that could then be used against the US,” Meyer said. ”I don’t see this as a limit of speech since there are numerous other platforms where one’s ideas could be expressed. It does seem to me to be a matter of national security.”
Generations X, Z, and Alpha have had strong reactions to this ban. However, this change would significantly impact those of younger generations, as they have been growing up in the digital age.
“A TikTok ban would represent a significant shift in the online lives of younger generations. It would disrupt their social interactions, creative expression, and access to information. It would also have economic consequences for content creators and businesses,” Drum-
19th Century
David Walker, a prominent abolitionist, wrote Walker’s Appeal, which prompted enslaved people to rebel against slave owners. Many Southern states sought to ban this leaflet, prompting an influx of smuggled copies to the region.
1873
The insititution of the Comstock laws, which prohibited the U.S. Post Office from delivering materials deemed indecent, affected many newspapers pertaining to women’s health, such as Margarent Sanger’s The Woman Rebel.
20th Century
1918
mond said. “It is important to remember that younger generations are very adaptable, and would likely find other ways to communicate, and find entertainment. However, a ban would still cause a large disruption.”
Many content creators have worked hard to build their platforms over the years, and this ban may result in a few ethical dilemmas.
“The ethical dilemmas presented by the ban must be weighed out by considering the common good. Is TikTok a threat to national security? If so, this would outweigh any individual concern based on the enjoyment of an app for entertainment,” Meyer said. “If TikTok is not a threat, then there should be no reason to ban it. However, there should be conversations about the good of social media, in general, specifically about the algorithms that direct engagement.”
While there are several pros and cons to having the popular app banned, we have to consider who is truly being impacted as a result of this. Some pros could include avoiding potential security risks, while cons could include how the careers of many creators would be affected significantly.
All in all, the debate over government censorship of foreign social media platforms such as TikTok is far from easily solvable. Platforms such as TikTok help the public voice their opinions and spread awareness about topics they feel are crucial to be heard. At the end of the day, we as users need to remain vigilant while continuing to have these types of open conversations, ultimately allowing us to help shape the future of technology.
21st Century
2006
During World War Two, many books were prohibited due to encouraging pacificism or promoting socialism. Examples include World Peace by Leon Trotsky and The Last Weapon by Theodora Wilson.
1986
A group of students and their parents challenged a series of books at El Camino High School. Some of the novels include Roald Dahl’s The Witches and Chales Poncé’s The Game of Wizards. Complaints were focused around the promotion of witchcraft and themes of reincarnation
THE ROLE OF CENSORSHIP IN AMERICAN HISTORY
The children’s book And Tango Makes Three, written by Justin Richardson and Peter Parnell, was named the American Library Association’s most banned book of the year, as it features a same-sex family.
2021
A function at Roosevelt Alexander Elementary School in Katy, Texas that would feature Jerry Craft, author of Newberry Medal winning graphic novel New Kid, was called off, as Craft’s novel was said to be teaching critical race theory.
CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?
The effects of misinformation in media and how to evaluate sources
GRACE EVERT Staff Writer
Have you heard about the monumental unicorn sighting in Scotland last month? The unicorn, characterized by its ivory color and famous spiraled horn, is said to be one of just under ten still existing in the wild. Since the sighting, the unicorn has been declared an official species and given a scientific name. Or was it? How do you know what you read in a newspaper is true?
Turns out that not everything you see in the media, both physical and online, is always accurate. There are copious amounts of partial truths and inaccurate facts. Freedom of speech, while having numerous benefits, also presents drawbacks.
According to an article by Iowa State University, freedom of speech is defined as the right to “articulate opinions and ideas without interference, retaliation or punishment from the government.”Therefore, through free speech rights, everyone is able to say as they wish and express their belief. However, the rise of social media has completely changed the game when it comes to free speech and misinformation.
“If people are able to say anything that they want to say, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the information they are saying is true,” Digital Media and English teacher Monica Kauffman said. “With the spread of fake news, many people believe what they hear without looking deeper into it. Social media has contributed to
What is the structure?
the spread of misinformation.”
According to Statistica, 67% of Americans have come across fake news on social media. Even worse, 10% of U.S. adults have knowingly shared fake news.
Social media’s accessibility ensures that anyone can voice their opinions or make false claims. Because there are so many perspectives on social media, people are often inclined to select sources that align with their values and believe that information as fact.
An article by King’s College London stated, “the spread of fake news via social media stems in part from the absence of fact-checking and proof-reading, which other media platforms, such as newspapers, often have to go through.”
Because of this new age of information, it is important to learn how to fact-check information to ensure that you are well-informed.
“It takes time to verify the accuracy of what is being said. One of the things I focus on is media awareness. I want students to be aware of what is out there and what is being said. I also want them to become critical thinkers and learn how to verify information,” Kauffman said.
In Kauffman’s Digital Media class, students analyze many different aspects of the media, such as sitcoms, documentaries, movies, and articles. The class covers topics like the history of media, news, social media, and the effects of media on men and women.
“I always tell students that they need to look at a story from multiple sources to see what they all have in common. The common aspects are usually what the story is,” Kauffman said. “I also have them look at the source and see what they can find out about the source. I typically tell them if they hear something, they need to look it up to find out what else is being said.”
An article by Stevenson University recommends three steps to verify credibility. First, check the author’s credentials and experience on the topic. Second, compare the information with other sources on the topic. Third, ensure your source is up to date and relevant. Even if you have historically found a source to be reliable, it is still important to recognize any bias your source may have.
“One of the tools I use with students is to look at the media bias chart. I have them choose three different news sources (one that leans left, one that leans right, and one that falls in the neutral category) and look at one topic that is discussed in each of the different media sources. Then, they analyze the similarities and differences from each source and draw conclusions,” Kauffman said.
As the media continues to involve and shape society, verifying information will become increasingly important. The next time you hear about unicorn sightings in Scotland, take a few minutes to consider the source before sharing.
Designed for U.S. news consumption only, the chart is divided on a spectrum of political biases, with the most neutral sources located in the center. How does the chart measure bias?
Through a combination of blind surveys to the American public, editorial reviews, and independent reviews, the AllSides Media Bias Chart seeks to gage the relative bias of prominent U.S. news sources.
Why is it important to check for bias?
• Allows for active engagement in varied perspectives
• Able to see complex, multi-facted issues with a more open mindset
• The AllSides: Media Bias Chart provides the public with a simple, data supported method to challenge preexisting beliefs
• Awareness of bias illustrates the power opinions have on everyday actions
THE MEDIA BIAS CHART: OVERVIEW AND BENEFITS
Source: AllSides
CAGED AND TRAPPED
Adoption and responsible breeding are necessary to end the cycle of abuse
ARGYRENIA PIPINOS
Lifestyle Editor
ows of cages stacked on top of each other, the stench of filth thick in the air, eyes peering out from rusted bars—this is the hidden world of puppy mills. Dogs live in confinement, denied the most basic comforts. They never touch grass, feel a loving hand, and never know what it means to be a dog.
I’ve seen this suffering firsthand. My neighbors, the Fredricksons, adopted a rescue dog named Lady Bella, who had spent almost all of her life in a cage. She was terrified of every-thing—stairs, open spaces, even human touch. It took months for her to trust us, and years later, she still was closed off to meeting new people.
Puppy mills don’t just produce dogs—they produce suffering. Puppies born in these conditions often have genetic disorders, weak immune systems, and severe anxiety. Many are taken from their mothers too early and sold online or in pet stores before they’ve properly developed.
I remember visiting a pet store as a child, staring at playful puppies through the glass. It wasn’t until I was older that I realized they had likely been taken from their mothers and shipped across the country. The reality behind those displays is one of pain, not perfection.
The only way break this cycle is through responsible breeding and adoption. Ethical breeders prioritize health and temperament, while shelters and rescues offer dogs waiting for a second chance.
“Most dogs end up in shelters because humans have let them down, not because of something they did,” Fredrickson said. “They deserve love, stability, and a second chance.”
Organizations like Bailing Out Benji fight to expose puppy mills, pushing for stronger laws and public awareness. Some states have banned the sale of commercially bred dogs in pet stores, but laws mean nothing without enforcement.
THE HOOFBEAT
The Hoofbeat staff will publish six 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 402715-1404.
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
Mia Castro Front Page Editors
Lydia Harlow Katelyn Judd
News Editor
Mia Castro
Opinions Editors
Mahdis Riazikhah
Teja Sridher
In-Depth Editor
Mira Mukherjee
Cartoonists
Brady Bredenkamp
Nadirah Johnson
Lydia Harlow
Artists
Brady Bredenkamp
Nadirah Johnson
Photographer
Kai Pavlova
According to the Humane Society of the United States, around 10,000 puppy mills operate in the U.S., many with little oversight. People walk into pet stores expecting healthy puppies, not realizing they’re buying from mass breeding operations where profit comes first and health comes last.
“They never even get to experience the world the way we do,” Jennifer Fredrickson, a foster parent for Bailing Out Benji, said. “Their lives are confined to a cage, only to be sold to the highest bidder.”
Yet, puppy mills thrive because people keep buying. Many think they’re purchasing from responsible breeders but are unknowingly supporting inhumane mass breeding. Even carefully bred dogs suffer—pugs and bulldogs struggle with lifelong breathing problems, while large breeds develop joint issues.
Ending puppy mills isn’t just about better laws— it’s about better choices. Every person who adopts, researches breeders, or refuses to support pet stores selling mass-bred dogs is taking a stand. When we stop buying from puppy mills, we stop giving them power. And maybe, one day, those cages will finally be empty. I still see the effects of puppy mills every month when my neighbors foster another dog. While their fear may never fully go away, they will forever be safe, sleeping on the couch instead of shivering in a cage with a loving and caring family. He reminds me why this fight matters.
No dog deserves to live in confinement, waiting for a freedom that never comes. Until the last cage is empty, we can’t stop fighting for them.
Lifestyle Editor
Argyrenia Pipinos
Sports Editor
Matthew Um
Online Editor
Sarah Robey
Adviser
Sarah Crotzer
Principal
Aaron Bearinger
Staff Writers
Lucas Day
Grace Evert
Rhea Jain
Sumanas Reddy
Kai Pavlova
Anuj Singh
213,978 dogs are kept solely for breeding purposes in USDA licensed facilities.
Source: Humane Society
Around 2.6 million puppies are sold from puppy mills every year.
Source: Humane Society
3 million puppies are killed in shelter at puppy mills annually.
Source: Do Something
DEI DISPARITIES
Unpacking the anti-DEI viewpoint and the role of DEI in the world around us
Mind
“U
niversity-wide
DEI cuts”, “The DEI candidate”, “Dismantle DEI Act”, “Affirmative Action”. It’s all enough to make your head spin. In today’s turbulent political scene, we often hear about “DEI”.
But what does this term mean? Why are so many people against this? And why the sudden shift?
I recently had the opportunity to attend the United States Leadership Institute Conference in Chicago, Illinois, where I heard from seasoned Latino industry leaders who held thought-provoking viewpoints on DEI’s role in today’s society.
These in-depth forums and workshops couldn’t have come at a better time for me, as I’m now able to relay some of the information and advice these Latino business magnates shared with the audience and me.
DEI, in itself, stands for diversity, equity, and inclusion. Diversity ensures a safe space for everyone, no matter your background or beliefs, and equity means exactly what it sounds like, equality for everyone. Inclusion doesn’t stand for anything shady either. It simply means incorporating people of all cultures and situations.
So if there’s no funny business regarding DEI, where’s the sudden backlash coming from? What’s the argument?
DEI isn’t a new concept. These initiatives can be traced back to the 1960s, according to Forbes. These efforts came to light after the Civil Rights Movement. Many speakers had ideas outlining the sudden rise
DISCOVERING
of xenophobia and fear around the current immigration policies that have risen in the past and current presidential administrations.
As the new Trump administration attempts to develop a new immigration agenda for the United States, the topic of race has been touchy not only in the media but in the workplace and across the nation in public educational facilities.
But I am setting forth that DEI isn’t political. Or at least, it shouldn’t be.
DEI is as simple as it sounds: diversity, equity, and inclusion. This includes not only people of different races, but of various ages, genders, sexualities, and socioeconomic statuses.
“DEI is the first step to ending irrational racism or ungrounded hate… there’s no basis for any opposition against DEI,” President & General Counsel of the Mexican American Legal Defense & Educational Fund Thomas A. Saenz said.
There is no solid argument against DEI. DEI simply aims to root out systemic mechanisms aimed at putting minorities at a disadvantage.
Affirmative action in college admissions, for example, was a hotly debated DEI initiative. The objective of this set of policies was to get more people from underrepresented communities into the same educational opportunities as people who had no societal obstacles when it came to college admissions.
DEI’s goal is only to make sure everyone is on equal footing, with the key word here being equal. DEI is not about giving anyone a “free pass”, so let’s make this clear. If a minority competitor beats someone out at an opportunity, it’s not because of any DEI effort, it’s simply because they are more qualified. Period.
“DEI is only making promise [the goal] of the Civil Rights Movement… its implementation is merely on the basis of equality,” Cid Wilson, the President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility said.
As the nation plummets towards extremism and
THE HISTORY OF DEI
1980
The DEI Movement began addressing equality on a broader scale, focusing on religion, ethnic groups, and LGBTQ communities.
1960
After the US Civil Rights Act, policies were enacted to address underrepresented populations
2000 Workplaces started introducing this program to their employees. Diversity training programs spread to help employees understand about different culutres and inclusive practices.
polarization, there has been a widespread movement toward ending and defunding DEI programs across the country.
Cutting out all DEI programs would not only harm the welcoming nature of many public systems, but it would also impair the overall effectiveness and productivity of many businesses.
“From the business perspective, inclusion of everybody is essential to the leaders of America. Most of us [the minority population] are young and only getting stronger,” co-founder of Angeles Investors Adela Cepeda said. “No one is opening businesses as often as Latinos, for example, and the number of businesses opened is only higher for Latinas.”
U.S. Latinos now generate an astounding $3.6 trillion GDP, making the Hispanic community the 5th largest economy in the world, larger than India, the U.K., and France. And these rates are not set to stall anytime soon. Sol Trujillo, Chairman of Trujillo Group Investments shared that Hispanic GDP is growing faster than every other country except China, positioning this community to surpass Germany by 2027 and reach a whopping $5.7 trillion by 2029.
So, in short, discounting the Hispanic market is not only deliberately discriminatory, but it’s a missed business opportunity and stark liability for any business trying to expand its market share or increase its revenue in any way. Ignoring this community will only mean a strong opportunity cost for any business venture.
No matter if we’re referring to the employment of DEI principles in the business, private, or public sectors, the anti-DEI movement is plain in its purpose. It should be called out for exactly what it is: bias and racism.
The question now is, what will you do against this blatant hate? Will you move with us or against us? Because we’re not going to be slowing down anytime soon.
Keep up or get left behind.
2010
Businesses began recognizing this movement.The #MeToo movement began and gained momentum.
Present Day
Currently, DEI courses are common is many workplaces, helping organziations understand more about these different communities.
Source: Forbes
HAYMARKET HOTSPOTS
Check out the best places to visit in Downtown Lincoln, Nebraska
LUCAS DAY
Staff Writer
Whether you’re looking for a fancy getaway, some exhilarating entertainment, or just a place to relax and eat, Downtown Lincoln has it all.
The downtown area has been a hotspot for mar since 1864, was simply for buying selling wagons and
certs to comedians, this performing arts center brings arts from around the world to Lincoln.
Whimsically built, the Lied Center’s remarkable structure can’t help but draw your eyes to the stage. Comfortable scarlet seats are arranged in endless rows, all illuminated by the gold lights streaming from above. The wide stage leaves just enough room for the music to resonate across the audience.
The enormous auditorium can seat over 2,000 people, whether it be close-up in the pit or overhead in the balconies.
The establishment offers valet parking, which requires a seasonal pass, and they have multiple park-
The museum is home to thousands of ancient artifacts and covers 12,000 years worth of history, including Native American tribes and lifestyles, early settlements, archeological discoveries, and more.
The museum has several different historical exhibits covering various parts of Nebraska’s past. One such exhibit is “Frozen in Time,” which recounts old winters in Nebraska and community perseverance through the season.
They also offer guided tours to delve into each exhibit, requiring at least ten adults with $5 admissions per adult.
In these tours, knowledgeable guides lead your group through all three floors of the museum while individually exploring each artifact and exhibit. With these tours, it’s nearly impossible to miss out on any
Things to Do
Whether you’re seeking a delicious meal, a thrilling
StateRecreation Area
SchrammPark andAgreatspotforhiking,photography, learningattheeducationcenter.
classic cheesecake, flan drenched in homemade cara mel sauce, or delicious crème brûlée, each dessert is soft, rich, and the best way to finish the meal.
The lively atmosphere at Rodizio Grill makes it an unbeatable spot to enjoy a nice meal, whether you’re visiting for a celebration, reunion, or just passing by.
If you’re seeking live entertainment and the fine arts, the Lied Center is a top choice. Hosting everything from Broadway musicals to dance performances to con
-The Bay: Skate, chill, and catch live music all in one spot.
-Escape Lincoln: Solve puzzles and crack codes in thrilling escape rooms.
-Arcade Lincoln: Classic arcade games, pinball machines, and retro vibes.
Food for Teens
-Ali Baba Gyros: Quick, tasty gyros and loaded fries.
-Ivanna Cone: Homemade ice cream with fun flavors like Cookie Monster and Cereal Milk.
Best Photo Spots
-Haymarket Murals: Bright, bold street art for epic pics.
-Tower Square’s “Ascent” Sculpture: -A glowing masterpiece that lights up at night.
-P Street Alley: Graffiti walls perfect for edgy photo shoots.
Eugene T. Mahoney State Park
Take a walk by the lake, climb the 70-foot observation tower, or snap pictures of the beautiful landscapes.
THE BUZZ ON BEEKEEPING
Science teachers work, bond together in their beekeeping hobby
MATTHEW UM
Sports Editor
For many, the buzzing of bees provokes strong reactions of fear and nervousness. However, science teacher Heather Bieber is appreciative of the unique roles our small friends play.
“I’m a biology teacher, and I also teach Environmental Science. I’m really passionate about our pollinators,” Bieber said. “I keep bees…mostly for honey and pollination.”
Bieber became interested in beekeeping two years ago when she desired to get fresher honey. Already a gardener, Bieber looked online to investigate how she could learn the art of beekeeping.
“I really thought it would be nice to get honey from my own bees,” Bieber said. “I looked into whether there’s anywhere in the Omaha Metro that offers bee courses, and I took one through the Omaha Bee Club.”
worked out great!”
Eblen immediately was hooked on the idea of beekeeping.
“He said he was going to try it and asked if I was interested,” Eblen said. “So we went and took some classes with Mrs. Bieber and teamed up on a friends-working kind of thing.”
Eblen also, like Mertz, was concerned about the declining number of honeybees and the effect that it may have on the environment.
“I wanted to promote pollinators in the community, and there were big articles about the honey bee population decreasing,” Eblen said.
The Omaha Bee Club is a nonprofit organization that specializes in educating its members on bees and training them on how to keep them. Aspiring beekeepers can take an introductory course, and stay connected with the community later.
“This is my third season. I took a bee class with the Omaha Bee Club, with two other teachers. We learned how to become beekeepers and got our own bees,” Bie ber said.
Retired physics teacher Walt Mertz and fellow science teacher Sharon Eblen have assisted Bieber since the beginning, taking courses with her and keeping the bees.
“I was first interested in keeping bees a few years ago because I noticed a lack of pol linators for my garden and fruit trees,” Mertz said. “After a bit of googling, it turns out there is an Omaha Bee Club whose mission is to educate and mentor new beekeepers.”
Mertz, intrigued, joined the Omaha Bee Club and became fascinated.
“One of the Omaha Bee Club suggestions was to work with a mentor...Mrs. Eblen and I decided to be each other’s mentor and learn this together,” Mertz said. “It
It’s true that the honeybee population, essential to the growth of many species of plants, has generally been on the decline since the 1990s. While the population is starting to make a comeback, the number is still well below where it was at its peak.
After receiving their certificates and obtaining their bees, the teachers got to work. The first necessity was to find a place to keep them. Bees need good shelter, as well as a dependable water source and many sources of pollen. Fortunately, Mertz had the perfect place in mind.
While many might find interaction with bees terrifying, Eblen thinks that they aren’t as scary as one might initially dismiss them to be.
“It depends on the time of year. Early in the spring, I can just reach in with my bare hands because they’re surprisingly chill,” Eblen said.
Hive Hustle
Science teacher Sharon Eblen and retired science teacher Walt Mertz examine the beehives, checking on the health of the colony. Both are wearing protective beekeeping suits as they manage their personal beekeeping project. Photograph contributed by Sharon Eblen
“We recently attained a lot next to our house that was farmland the previous year,” Mertz said. “We planted a lot of Dutch White Clover that would be great for bees and to help hold in soil once established the clover tends to choke out other less desirable weeds. We also started working on establishing prairie grasses and flowers which helps out the honeybees, native bees, and other pollinators.”
The actual keeping of the bees came next.
That’s not to say that beekeeping is a no-risk endeavor, however.
“As the summer goes on and they have more and more honey stored up, they get more possessive,” Eblen said. “Sometimes they thump you or run into you and try to scare you away. I had one bad day where I got stung a lot.”
This doesn’t deter the teachers from continuing to work with bees, however. Bieber, Eblen, and Mertz, continue to work while excitedly looking forward to the future.
“It’s a really interesting hobby,” Eblen said. “Bees are a lot more complex and social [than we think]. They’re really fascinating creatures.”
The teachers, in the end, continue to learn more about these remarkable insects while continuing to help their ecosystem. With a little enthusiasm, even just a small interest can go a long way into picking up a quirky hobby and making a difference, discovering new and exciting things during the journey.
FROM RIBBONS TO RUNWAYS
Senior Kyra Fulkerson’s work featured in Omaha Fashion Week, marking her achievements in clothing design
MIIRA MUKHERJEE
In-Depth Editor
The sewing machine emits soft clicking noises as it diligently waits to stitch seams. A wide array of fabrics, from cotton to upholstery, await the fate of the scissors, which are nestled unassumingly on the table. Imminently, the methodical process of measuring, cutting, and sewing will be underway, representing the days, weeks, and months spent creating an original vision of fashion interpretation.
This process is familiar to senior Kyra Fulkerson, who is experienced in the world of clothing design. Fulkerson’s designs have been featured in both last year and this year’s Omaha Fashion Week, which seeks to celebrate local talent and foster an appreciation for fashion. This year, Omaha Fashion Week was from Feb. 26th to Mar. 2nd, with the 26th being the night when college and high school students can display their designs.
for three years and is a professional artist herself, has witnessed Kyra’s talent in the fashion track.
“I believe that Kyra has a gift for designing. She shows her creativity by designing and making her own patterns. Sometimes she will freestyle it and begin draping fabric on a dress maker’s form and before I know it, she has created an amazing garment,” Hinson said.
Fierce Fashion
Kyra Fulkerson walks down the runway at Omaha Fashion Week 2025, showing off an outfit she designed and created herself. She displays her work with confidence at the Omaha Design Center.
Photograph by Heather and Jameson
“I’m walking on the same runway as professional people who have years and years of experience in design and have made a name for themselves,” Fulkerson said. “I’m walking on that same runway, and it’s incredible. I was flabbergasted.”
Fulkerson has earned the opportunity to walk her own designs in Omaha Fashion Week due to being a mentee of the Joslyn Kent Bellows Mentoring Program, which was created in 2007 and established in 2014.
“High school students are paired with professional artists in the community. Each mentee can expand their art skill set by exploring different art disciplines,” director of the Joslyn Kent Bellows Mentoring Program Pamela Hinson said. “The program is a safe space for mentees to be themselves, create artwork, and grow artistically and socially.”
Hinson, who has been the director of the program
Fulkerson first took an interest in fashion after viewing the 2015 live-action Cinderella movie, with many of her designs being influenced by movies, TV shows, and the fashion designer Iris Van Herpen.
“I love her work, and I’m very inspired by her because she does a lot of stuff with unconventional fabrics and unconventional pieces. She always makes it into these gorgeous garments, and it’s super impressive,” Fulkerson said.
Fulkerson makes a point to use more unconventional fabrics, such as utilizing upholstery fabrics to make pants.
“There’s so much cool fabric in the world, and if no one’s using it, then I’m going to use it,” Fulkerson said.
As a freshman, Fulkerson honed her fashion skills in the Textiles and Clothing Design course.
“Not even just Kyra, but students in general, have no idea how to even thread the machine, and then you go from not knowing how to thread the machine or put a piece of fabric on the machine to creating a garment that is actually wearable,” Textiles and Clothing Design teacher Madison Wieck said. “I think that’s the coolest part, and I know that Kyra was able to develop that in the three months that we were sewing on the machines.”
Throughout the design process, there are some key components to a successful product. Fulkerson encourages
aspiring designers to consider these learnings as they embark on their fashion journey.
“Always measure what you’re designing. And just be adventurous and have fun, because you never know what might come out of it,” Fulkerson said.
Along with being meticulous and creative, clothing designers also need to be flexible.
“Trust the process, and you will be able to come out with something that maybe even if you didn’t initially think that that’s how it was going to look, you adapt throughout the process,” Wieck said.
For Fulkerson, clothing has not only enabled a creative outlet but has allowed for another means of self-expression.
“I’m a very shy person, so I realized that if I want to still express myself, the best way I can do that is my appearance. And what better way to express yourself through your appearance than make your own clothes,” Fulkerson said.
Fulkerson is continuing this passion by attending the University of Nebraska-Omaha to major in art history and Metropolitan Community College for fashion, eventually planning on becoming a fashion historian.
In the meantime, Fulkerson will culminate her experience as a mentee of the Kent Bellows program in Omaha Fashion Week.
“I don’t really like to put myself out there, even though I do with my clothes, but I never really liked to be the center of attention. But in the moment, everyone is looking at me, but they’re looking at my clothes and not me, and it feels so good,” Fulkerson said.
From Fabric to Fashion
Step 1: Inspiration
-Start by searching for fabric that inspires you
-Upholstery fabrics and fun-patterned cottons are Fulkerson’s favorites
Step 2: Vision
-Imagine what the fabric could become
-Design the outfit based on that vision
Step 3: Cutting & Ironing
-Cut the design directly from the fabric (no mock-up or trial)
-Irons the pieces for a clean, crisp look
Step 4: Sewing & Finishing
-Sew the pieces together and serge the edges
-Hem what needs to be hemmed
-Favorite moment: Seeing her vision take shape
Step 5: The Reward
-The satisfying moment when your finished piece comes to life
KICKIN’ OFF STRONG
New
boys soccer team head coach Jovan Sudar brings ambitious plans and aspirations to the program
LYDIA HARLOW Co-Front Page Editor
Coaching has the power to make or break a team. When a new coach steps in, a team can be completely uprooted and reshaped- for better or worse. Every change in leadership creates a fresh start, a new chapter filled with untapped potential.
The two-time state champion boys’ soccer team is beginning a new chapter of their own with the arrival of their new head coach, Jovan Sudar. With his years of dedication to the sport, Sudar brings lots of experience to the team.
“I’ve been involved in soccer for nearly my whole life. After high school, I went to Europe and played a bit of soccer down there. Then I started coaching, and I’ve been coaching for close to 15 years now. Right now, I’m at Omaha United Soccer Club, and I have around 10 years of experience at the high school level,” Sudar said.
Sudar’s vast experience and fresh perspectives are expected to help propel this team to new heights.
“He’s got very high expectations. He’s expecting a lot from us, so there’s a bit of pressure there,” senior winger Ayrton Kline said.
A change in coaching is always stressful for athletes as they adjust to differing coaching styles and
Practice Makes Perfect
Senior Vincent Dempsey runs a shooting drill during a chilly morning practice on Mar. 17. Although this day meant no school for students, the team decided to capitalize on this and scheduled an efficient morning practice.
Photograph by Joaquin Zaragoza
Jock Talk
What are your personal goals for soccer this year?
Vincent Dempsey
Senior
preferences, but the team is adapting smoothly, embracing the challenges and changes.
“Whenever a new coach comes in, there’s new expectations because it’s different from what you’ve been expecting the last six or seven years,” Shaun Hoover, the junior varsity coach, said.
“He’s definitely changed our mindset. We’ve had a lot of practices, about 40 so far, and we’ve trained way harder. So now, we have a better idea for state and where we’re going to be positioned,” junior defensive back Gannon Timmermier said. “[The change] is hard, but I think we’re adapting well.”
Last year, the varsity team fell just short of making state, losing in the district finale. This year, however, hopes run high, and both the teams and the coaches are optimistic about what the future holds.
This integration between teams will encourage more movement and communication between the teams, giving players opportunities to grow. Additionally, the increased interaction between teams is strengthening team spirit and mutual trust.
“ We focus a lot on working on footwork and improving our technique and our passing, so later on we can implement that in the game.
“My favorite part [of playing soccer] is definitely the team dinners and the friends I’ve made,” Timmermier said.
With the additional practices, the bonds between teammates have deepened as they work together in the long hours of the off-season.
“
JOVAN SUDAR HEAD BOYS
“In the past we’ve done a lot of things but didn’t quite reach our goals [of making state]. So [Sudar’s] new perspective and new thoughts will be interesting,” Hoover said.
Sudar brings with him a history of success and a wealth of experience, placing emphasis especially on the more technical, fundamental aspects of the game.
“We focus on training and technique… we focus a lot on working on footwork and improving our technique and our passing, so later on we can implement that in the game,” Sudar said.
The team is putting a lot of work into the technical skills, cleaning up passes, and refining footwork to ensure more fluid gameplay.
To achieve this fluidity, Sudar is pushing the athletes to work harder, emphasizing conditioning and ball control, working to nail the fundamentals. He’s also increasing both the number and length of practices, especially in the offseason. Yet, this is not the only change Sudar is implementing.
“His idea is to practice varsity and JV in the same field. In the past, we kind of went our separate ways and did our own drills, and now we’ll do them all together,” Hoover said.
Will Hunsaker
Junior
My personal goals for this soccer season is to improve as a player in general... and this year as a team.We’ve im proved so much since since last year.
For the team to get better throughout the year and everybody work together and nobody be selfish and at the end of the year, hopefully make it to State.
“If anything, Sudar has brought us closer because we’ve done a lot of training in the off-season, which we didn’t do a lot with our previous coach. So we’ve spent a lot more time together, which you could argue that it’s brought us closer together,” Kline said.
SOCCER
COACH
Strong teammate relationships are vital to a successful team, as is having strong mutual respect and camaraderie with the coaches. The team’s coaches work diligently to build this respect, which is integral to the team.
“I love the camaraderie and the relationships you develop with the athletes. Seeing students out on the playing field instead of in a classroom is a different dynamic,” Hoover said.
But, leadership doesn’t only come from the coaches. Sudar is impressed with the initiative and mentorship the athletes themselves have shown.
“The senior leadership, it’s really amazing. The boys have bought into what we’re trying to preach here as coaches, and the leadership has been amazing from the seniors,” Sudar said.
Overall, the boys’ soccer team is looking strong and feeling hopeful for their future with Sudar at the helm. The community is tighter than ever, and hopes for the season are running high.
“Last year, we made it to the district finals, and I’m hoping we can do that again this year but instead actually win. I’m hoping we can win Metros, and if we can make it to state, that’s our goal right now,” Kline said. “...This is just a new challenge for us. It’s a new opportunity and we’re all excited for it.”
Pratham Dhakal
Sophomore
I hope we win Districts and make it [to State] this year.
Connor Robbins
To make it down to State and just have
BREAKING RECORDS, MAKING WAVES
Senior Lucas Feng makes waves in his MN swimming journey as he breaks numerous records along the way
SUMANAS MARAM Staff Writer
ith water as his second home, senior Lucas Feng has spent his life showcasing his strides in the pool. His relentless determination and unwavering commitment to swimming cultivated in historic achievements: breaking the Millard North’s 100 backstroke school record, all the relay records, and being top ten in multiple events. Once the race was over, Feng glanced at the clock and knew his name would be in school history. The feeling was not only of excitement, but also of relief.
“I knew I was fully capable of breaking the record from the times I had been putting up in practice, but having everything go right—not getting sick, sleeping well, and executing my race plan—were all things that had to line up,” Feng said.
Growing up in Miami, water was a big part of Feng’s life, and swimming was just an extension of having fun. Overtime, his childhood pastime developed into a competitive spirit, with his mindset and training evolving along the way.
“As a young swimmer, my training had always been focused on improving myself and making sure I consistently got better as an individual. As I matured, I realized that I had a role in motivating others and pushing my teammates in practice just as much as I pushed myself,” Feng said.
the discomfort” Feng said. His commitment and hard work ultimately paid off. His teammate, senior Grant Inman, witnessed first hand the dedication that led to his success.
“There was New Year’s Day practice and we weren’t really supposed to have a hard practice, but Lucas worked very hard that day while everyone else wanted to take it easy and chill out. He always wanted to do the hard stuff and work harder than everyone else,” Inman said. Through ups and downs, Lucas has always found a way to push forward. He has been able to show his resilience and adapt to various situations.
Child Champion
Senior Lucas Feng accepts his medal at the 2017 Midwest Long Course Championships. Feng finished second overall with 128 points. Photograph contributed by Lucas Feng
Yet, his impact on the team extends beyond the school record board. Millard North Swim Coach Andy Cunningham has seen how Lucas’ work ethic and leadership has set a standard for his peers.
“[Lucas] has taken full responsibility for his success. He has embraced the daily challenge. He challenges himself to be better and the other swimmers see that. He wants to always perform at his best. He does not settle for subpar swims,” Cunningham said.
Despite his success, Feng’s journey has not come without its struggles. There were moments where he even wanted to quit the sport and take a break, but he understood that perseverance mattered more than frustration.
“I wanted to quit on a daily basis, whether it was from jumping into a cold pool at 5:15 AM or enduring a grueling set with no energy left. But what kept me going was the understanding that my times at the end of the season wouldn’t care how I felt in the moment. This mindset pushed me to lean into the pain and embrace
very memorable, and hanging out, doing karaoke, having matching rapper t-shirts. There were so many fun memories. To me, Lucas contributed a great friendship, he was a great leader, and he was just awesome and fun to be around,” Inman said.
On Your Marks
“He and I have worked together to allow him to excel outside the pool. 4.0 GPA, All state orchestra 4 years, on the podium at state all 4 years, IB program, and more. He has learned how to balance it all and succeed.” said Cunningham.
Feng prepares to dive into the backstroke. Feng eventually placed 3rd at the Lincoln Southeast Invitational.
Photograph contributed by Lucas Feng
Beyond his own training, Feng’s presence has helped cultivate a culture of excellence within the swim team. He was not only a competitor, but a friend, teammate, and mentor for the younger swimmer who looked up to him, making many memories along the way.
“Getting all the three relay school records is
SWIFT SWIMMING
T hroughout his time as a swimmer, Lucas has grown a lot, understanding that his journey meant more than just results.
“The most defining moment in my swimming career was the moment my career ended. Only then could I truly recognize the journey that I had embarked on the past 12 years and how immensely this sport had shaped who I am,” Feng said. Now as his swimming career comes to an end, Feng is looking ahead to new passions. He plans to transition to track while preparing for college, carrying with him the lesson’s he’s learned from the pool.
“Swimming has shaped how I approach every aspect of life, understanding how resilience, failure, and hard work is a part of learning and improving as an individual. It has also helped me develop friendships and given me experiences I will never forget,” Feng said. Even though he’ll step away from competitive swimming, Feng’s impact will remain. His dedication, resilience, and love for the sport will make him go down as one of the greatest in Millard North history.
In his 4 years at Millard North, Lucas Feng has broken four school records.
100 Backstroke (52.34)
200 Medley Relay - with Matt Brailita, Arnav Gupta, Grant Inman (1:35.31)
2025 2024
400 Free Relay - with Matt Brailita, Arnav Gupta, Grant Inman (3:10.03)
200 Free Relay - with John Allen, Grant Inman, Jeffrey Sookram (1:27.17)
A LEGACY OF COMMITMENT
Girls basketball team seniors leave their mark on MN Athletics
RHEA JAIN
Staff Writer
ym lockers slam shut as the girls basketball team concludes another grueling season full of after-school weight training sessions to early morning practices, dedicating hours to refining their skills and building unbreakable bonds.
However, for some players, this season wasn’t just a chapter in their careers. For seniors Sara Harley and Avril Smith, this experience marks the continuation of their dream.
With several District Championships and State apperances, their consistent hard work and intense commitment didn’t go unrewarded. This success has opened doors to new opportunities beyond high school.
As a result of this dedication, Harley and Smith have committed to playing basketball at Concordia University in Seward, Nebraska.
senior, Harley has used her challenges to shape herself into a better player today.
“I play the game; I also surrounded myself with talent. My teammates constantly push me to become better, and I do the same for them,” Harley said.
SARA HARLEY SENIOR “
Although Concordia University was neither of the plaers’ first choices during the recruiting process, they were both drawn to it for the same reason: the people.
“The Concordia coach is everything I want in a coach. Supportive, hard-working, high basketball IQ, and gave me a plan for what he saw in me,” Harley said.
Because of the instant compatibility between the players and faculty and the short one-hour drive back home, Harley and Smith knew this school was right for their future.
Having played since elementary school, Harley and Smith have had time to refine and hone their talents.
From a young, underconfident freshman to a well-rounded and fierce
“
The Concordia coach is everything I want in a coach. Supportive, hard-working, high basketball IQ, and gave me a plan for what he saw in me.
With the support of teammates and coaches, Harley and Smith have built a connection that sets them apart from the rest: their chemistry. Their intuition in training and in the game has allowed them to push the boundaries of the sport altogether.
District Dub
The Girls Basketball Team celebrates becoming A-2 District Champions. The team beat Papio-La Vista 61-39 to win the championship. Photograph contributed by Millard North Girls Basketball X
“I think our chemistry will help us because we have always played together, we also played in club and in the summer which helped us for the high school season as well. I think it will make us even stronger players in college,” Smith said.
Through this teamwork experience in and out of school, Smith and Harley have achieved extreme player highs as record-breakers.
Smith broke the MN career rebound record with 766 offensive rebounds and Harley broke the career 3-pointer record with 155 3-pointers made.
These achievements highlight the incredible opportunities and enduring encouragement available for ath-
REMARKABLE RECORDS
letes at Millard North.
“We practice and play at a high level and have high expectations and demands of our players,” girls basketball coach Christopher Paulson said.
Beyond the physical aspects, MN fosters a mindset of perseverance and teamwork.
“Both [Harley and Smith] have brought a winning mindset to our program,” Paulson said.
With the combination of strong mindsets, physical priming, and optimism, Harley and Smith have created a work ethic and motivation that drives them toward success.
Although Smith and Harley have shared experiences and techniques, they must learn to navigate the unfamiliar waves of college athletics.
“The biggest challenge is matching everyone’s physicality and adjusting to college life while balancing a sport and school work,” Harley said.
However, Smith and Harley feel prepared to face their shining future head-on. With this new chapter, they reminisce on the journeys that led them here.
As Harley and Smith prepare for the upcoming journeys of collegiate athletics and life, they carry with them not only the skills refined over the years but also the friendships and lessons learned along the way. Their experiences on the court have shaped them into resilient individuals ready to endure the challenges ahead.
As a team the girls basketball team were A-2 District Champions and qualified for State, but three seniors also broke individiual school records.
Photographs
contributed by Millard North Girls Basketball X