The HoofbeatMillard North High School Issue 6 | March 6, 2012Sn

eak

Peek Page Three

Catch up on how Safe Schools Hotline

is a success at MN

Page Six and SevenStroll down

memory lane with students’ childhood

shows, toys, and more

Page ElevenCheck out the

highlights from basketball’s

district championship

You don’t need biology to recognize that evolution is a force that affects everything in life. The evolution of the marvels of Mr./ Ms. Mustang has been one that began in 1997. In its 15th annual contest this year on March 23, 11 junior and senior contestants will continue the tradition.

The contest originated from Beveridge Middle School counselor Bev Johnson’s idea. There had been a similar competition when she had worked at Ralston High School, and Millard South also hosted a Mr. Millard South contest. Johnson thought it was MN’s time to showcase the talented leaders in the school.

For the first two years,

it was called Mr. Mustang as it only contained male contestants.

“It began as only Mr. Mustang because we were mimicking Ralston and theirs was primarily based on male sports participants. The contest started small, built up, and took suggestions from the members,” Johnson said.

The boys were originally escorted onto stage by their mothers. Now, since there are also girl contenders, the boys and girls pair up and walk together. But it’s just as much about the charities as the students’ individual talents.

“At the beginning, Mr. Mustang didn’t include any of the visual stuff that it does today. The technology was different,” Johnson said.

Each year, another component was added to the show. Whether it was

baby pictures or video advertisements for the show sponsors, the students were the ones who made Mr./ Ms. Mustang the way it is today.

“The contest really reflects the talents and ingenuities of the kids,” Johnson said. “With every component that has been added, it was the kids’ ideas because I let them take the reign.”

Competitors have two months to prepare for all aspects of the show which include: character clothing, superhero/famous person wear, talent/stupid human trick, formal wear, and an interview. Judges are selected from the charity, Men’s Wearhouse (who donates the tuxes), and the middle schools.

One aspect that has remained consistent throughout the evolution of Mr./ Ms. Mustang is the focus on fundraising.

“Mr. Mustang started out being one of the biggest fundraisers of the year. I wanted a fundraiser for a different social agency every year. It became a general fundraiser of the kid’s choice,”

Johnson said.The charity selection

was relevant to the kids. For example, one year a contestant’s brother had juvenile diabetes so they donated to that. Another year, a contestant volunteered with the Make-a-Wish Foundation so that charity was chosen.

Today, MN counselor Vicki Griffin heads the show. This year, the school is hoping to donate $1000 to the Methodist Women’s hospital.

“I just love watching the kids get up there and act so goofy. The best part is the surprise of them doing things you wouldn’t expect,” Griffin said.

A memory that stands out the most for Griffin is Paul Graff’s “Single Ladies” dance three years ago that has become a popularly watched YouTube hit. Griffin mentioned that there have been so many good acts over the years though.

“When Mr./ Ms. Mustang is going on, I love it. It’s the preparation I don’t look forward to,” Griffin said. “But the night of the show, everything comes together.”

The evolution of Mr. / Ms. Mustang:

Elizabeth MoranFeatures Editor

15th annual tradition showcases MN’s marvels

Kendrick AuQ: What is your secret weapon to ‘wow’ the judges? A: I am really, really, really, really, ridiculously good-looking.

Justin CouchQ: What are you looking forward to most about the contest?A: As Charlie Sheen says, “Winning!”

James GeigerQ: What are you looking forward to most about the contest? A: The disappointed looks on the faces of the other contestants when I win.

Monica IrwinQ: What are you doing to prepare for the contest? A: I’m practicing picturing people in their underwear.

Chelsea Jansen Q: What are you doing to prepare ? A: I’ve been doing a lot of hand stands around the house, princess wave practice in the halls, and occasional “Sand Storm” jam

sessions.

Brad KutlerQ: Why do you think you represent Mr./Ms. Mustang? A: A mustang is powerful and majestic. I don’t personally have any of those traits; I am a fast learner.

Somi Singh Q: Why do you think you represent Mr./Ms. Mustang? A: I’m president of five clubs, captain of the cheer team, super popular and…oh wait, no, that’s not me.

Matt SundermanQ: Why do you represent Mr.. Mustang? A: Mustang is literally my middle name… Matt Mustang Sunderman, so I have been called Mr. Mustang since I was born.

Casey Waughn Q: Why should you win? A: The juniors carry every other team in the school; they might as well carry the pageant, too.

Hannah Worrell Q: Why should you win?A: I’m the underdog.

Amelia Howard Q: What are you doing to prepare for the contest? A: My personal trainer, Michelle Obama, works with me daily. She’s got great arms.

Mr. Student Council

Mr. Theater

Mr. SCB

Mr. Band

Mr. Forensics Ms. Cheer

Ms. MMP

Ms. Newspaper

Ms. Lunch Bunch

Ms. Golf Ms. DECA

2Hoofbeat News Issue 6 | March 6, 2012

InternationalFollowing the resignation of former Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh, new Yemeni President Abdrabbuh Mansour Hadi was sworn into office on Feb. 25. In response, U.S. President Barack Obama said the U.S. would be “a steadfast partner to Yemen” in its transition to democracy.

>> NationalOn Feb. 28, or Super Tuesday, Republican primaries were held in Arizona and Michigan. Presidential candidate Mitt Romney received 47 percent of the Arizona vote and 41 percent of the Michigan vote, beating presidential candidate Rick Santorum by a margin of 20 percent and 3 percent in the respective states.

>> LocalAfter dedicating much of his life to ministering orphans and troubled youth, Father Edward J. Flanagan is now being considered for sainthood in the Catholic Church. The Omaha Archdiocese is heading this campaign to canonize the late founder of Boys Town.

>> MNMarch 15 is the end of third quarter. March 16 is the beginning of fourth quarter, and is also a teacher work day (no school for students). The week of April 2 to April 6 is spring break. Additionally, there will be a pep rally on March 8 in preparation of the boys State basketball tournament.

>>

Whether it is biology classrooms filled with eager students ready to dissect a crayfish, chemistry classrooms layered with elements and atoms, or physics classrooms packed with equations ready to be solved, the MN science department is almost always busy. Now, students will be able to take a plethora of new classes in the science department.

On Oct. 6, 2010, the Nebraska Board of Education added new science standards, which included an earth and space science part of the state science test. Maintaining its policy of excellence in education, the Millard School Board approved changes to the science curriculum in January 2012.

“Earth and space science have been incorporated into the Biology, Chemistry, and Physics classes where

appropriate. It’s important to us that we better prepare students for the state science test,” science department head Dave Noodell said.

All ninth grade students, starting in Fall 2012, will be put into Biology as opposed

to having the option

of taking Physical Science In Action (PSA). With this immediate entrance into Biology, students are able to take more science electives. A part of the new requirements is that students will now have to take one biology, chemistry, and physics related course.

The new classes that will be available are Physical

Science: Chemistry, Physical Science: Physics, and AP Environmental Science. These are all semester courses.

“[The changes] give students more choices. After Biology, it opens a whole set of electives. Some students who took PSA couldn’t get [in]

all of the electives they wanted. We may have a little bit higher expectations for the incoming eighth graders, but in return, they get more electives,” science teacher Maureen Ord said.

One of the changes includes the addition of AP Environmental Science for 11th and 12th graders. It is not a required course, but it helps accomplish the Millard goal of getting every student to take an AP or IB course.

“We think kids can take all kinds of courses through the AP courses. It’s important to us that kids get an AP or IB

course and better prepare for college,” Noodell said.

While the freshmen currently in PSA this year need to take Biology next year, the majority of underclassmen will also be taking Biology. This means that there will be a massive number of students in Biology. It is predicted to be about 1,000 students.

“Many teachers are going to probably be expected to teach more Biology. Some teachers who haven’t taught Biology in a long time will probably be asked to help out,” Ord said.

The new curriculum changes will start next fall. Students will see an influx of Biology students next year, but that will eventually die down. In coming years, students will have many options to take in the science department.

“We are trying to preserve what we do here at MN. We want to give kids choices and get them into an AP course,” Noodell said.

Science curriculum changes allow students to dissect new courses

“We are trying to preserve what we do here at MN. We want to give kids choices and get them to an AP course.”Dave NoodellScience department head

Alan DavisStaff Writer Science Changes to be

Implemented Fall 2012:

Physical Science in Action (PSA) will no longer be available.

Earth Science and Space lessons will be worked into the existing

core classes —Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.

AP Environmental Science will be offered as a semester elective to 11th and 12th graders. The only prior requirements are Biology,

along with ten credits from a chemistry or physics related

course.

Incoming freshmen will be required to take one biology,

chemistry, and physics related class.

3Hoofbeat News Issue 6 | March 6, 2012

Fact not fiction

Nithya RajagopalanEditor-in-Chief

Fame rapidly curdled into infamy for entertainment celebrity Chris Brown when, three years ago, on the eve of the 2009 Grammy Awards, Brown severely beat up his girlfriend at the time, singer Rihanna.

However, apparently, nothing—not even unapologetic domestic abuse on his part—could keep Brown down forever.

Though Brown made no sincere apologies or dramatic character transformations since the incident, the Grammy Awards committee invited Brown back to perform in February 2012.

Frankly, it was unacceptable enough that the Grammys allowed Brown back on stage despite his actions against Rihanna and his ensuing lack of remorse. However, even worse was how Brown, after paying a $30,000 bail, got off with just five years of probation and 180 community service hours.

And arguably worst of all were the reactions of the American public.

Though brevity demands a limit on stupidity, a downright appalling amount of idiocy was somehow still packed into countless 140-character Tweets posted by Twitter users during Brown’s 2012 Grammys performance.

“I don’t know why Rihanna complained. Chris Brown could beat me up anytime he wanted to,” one Tweet stated.

Almost invariably, Twitter users unabashedly made light of, or even defended, Brown’s domestic abuse in favor of his physical attractiveness.

“Not gonna lie.. I think I’d let Chris Brown beat me #sosexy #lovehim #awkwardtweet #dontevencare,” another Tweet remarked.

And apparently, Brown’s violent attack of Rihanna couldn’t hold a candle to his musical talents.

“Chris Brown could serenade me and then punch me in the eye. I’m down for it,” a third noted.

Despite Brown being an indisputably gifted singer and dancer, his personal character cannot simply be divorced from his professional talents.

In December 2009, just a few months after his felony assault on Rihanna, Brown released his third studio album, which sold 100,000 copies in its first week and debuted at #7 on the Billboard charts.

Again, in March 2011, Brown released his fourth studio album, which debuted at #1, earning Brown the Billboard title of “Artist of the Year.”

But by placing Brown on a musical pedestal, the Billboard continues not only to propel Brown’s album rankings, but also, to simulaneously overlook his unapologetic domestic abuse actions.

Meanwhile, the media is also ablaze with rumors of Rihanna and Brown reportedly getting back together after Rihanna had been seen doing several collaborations with Brown this year.

All in all, the actions taken by Brown, the Billboard, American society, and Rihanna have all been less than acceptable, and we can only hope that situations such as these are better handled in the future.

Look at Him Now

ScienceScientists are currently baffled as to why the day length of Venus is seemingly getting longer. In the 1990s, the Venusian day lasted 243.018 Earth days, but now, the day of Venus is six and a half minutes longer. A possible theory is due to the slowing spin of the planet.

>> HealthIn the New Zealand Medical Journal’s new list of 49 foods to avoid, condensed milk came in at 7th place, energy drinks came in at 15th place, and fruit juice (excluding tomato juice) came in at 20th place. Mayonnaise, salami, and fruit rollups also made the list.

>> Human InterestAfter having a $133 lunch, an upper-management banker paid his server a tip of one percent, or $1.33, in reference to the Occupy protest slogan regarding the “99 percent.” In addition to this miniscule tip, the banker scribbled down another tip of his own for the server—to “get a real job.”

>>

Teachers stop teaching their lessons when MN principal Brian Begley’s voice comes out of the intercom and announces a Code Yellow. Students groan as they face a longer class period in their classes. It’s the latest of many recent Code Yellow days, often an inconvenience to students, but a necessity for administrators.

One universal link that connects schools all over the world is their unyielding commitment to one vital necessity in an academic environment: the safety of all students.

With the recent substance crackdown at MN, administrators have utilized many resources in order to keep the school safe from the

ensuing drug problems MN has faced. The Millard Public Schools Safe Schools Hotline has allowed administrators to uncover the sources of the problem and enforce school rules.

Calls to the hotline have aided the administration to not only know about the problem first hand, but also take action against it using numerous trips from drug enforcement units, such as Dolly, the drug dog.

“We have received dozens of credible and specific reports that we have been able to act on and enforce the student code of conduct,” Begley said.

The calls that were received by the hotline came in the form of anonymous tips from students that had information about the substance issues at MN. The tips can also be used for other concerns that callers

might have about MPS.“The tips serve primarily

a positive role in helping us proactively address any safety concerns related to drugs, alcohol, suicide prevention, weapons, and other safety concerns,” Begley said.

The administration understands that it takes great commitment and courage to call the hotline and give a tip when a student has information, but they also

know how necessary it is to keep MN safe.

“I would tell [students] there is nothing to be nervous about.  If the caller does not wish to talk to anyone, they don’t have to [and] can  simply  leave a message.  I would also tell them to step outside of themselves and consider the  bigger picture; their tip could actually save a life  without them even knowing it,” MPS Director of Pupil Services Bill Jelkin said.

Anonymous assurance:Tips provided to MPS hotline help to keep school safeElisha-Kim DesmanglesEditor-in-Chief

MNDT achieves goal of top five for Nationals

Safe Schools HotlineB r e a k t h e C o d e o f S i l e n c e

VICTORY DANCE: The MN dance team poses with the trophies that they won at Natonals. This year, the team placed fourth in the Large Varisty Jazz division and ninth in the Large Varsity Pom division at Nationals, in addition to winning the two Jazz and Pom divisions at State earlier. | Photos contributed by Alissa McMahon

Jenna PfingstenStaff Writer

The team holds hands as they anxiously wait for MN to be called during the awards ceremony. They’ve done the best they’ve ever done as a team and hope it paid off.

They hold their breath as the announcer calls out, “And in fourth place, Millard North High School!”

The team starts screaming and crying as they all hug each other. This is the moment they have been working towards all season.

The MN Dance Team (MNDT) attended the Universal Dance Association National Dance Competition and placed among the top five in the Large Varsity division

and won two State titles.MNDT has attended

Nationals the past four years. Their goal in the beginning was to make it past the preliminaries and semi-finals, and make it into the finals. The team made finals in 2009 and placed in the top ten in 2010.

“Our goal this year was to get into the top five, which is very, very competitive,” MNDT varsity head coach Andrea Feltz said.

MNDT took home ninth place in the Large Varsity Pom division, and fourth place in Large Varsity Jazz.

“It was a goal we really wanted to complete. It’s really cool to say that I made it that far,” senior Keara Glandt said.

The team qualified for Nationals after attending a

camp during the summer. Nationals were held at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida on Feb. 4 and 5. About 300 teams from across the country competed.

“You’re competing against the best teams that were there, so [Nationals] really is a hard competition,” Glandt said.

MNDT has also taken part in the Nebraska State High School dance competition the past four years. Of those four, the team has won the Class A Pom division three times, and the Class A Jazz division two times. This year, the team took home first place in both the Jazz and Pom divisions.

“When you go to state, it’s more about being with your team and representing Nebraska,” freshman Sierra

Horan said.One thing that contributes

to the team’s success is their bond and the level of respect they give each other. Feltz encourages the girls to treat each other well outside of dance and to have each other’s backs.

“It’s definitely like a family. We all get annoyed with each other and probably snap at each other every once in a while, but we are really close,” Glandt said.

The pressure may be on for the team next year to live up to what has been accomplished in the past few years.

“We will set goals next year and go from there. It’s up to next year’s team what kind of success we want to work towards,” Feltz said.

Add this phone number to your cell phone contacts for a chance to be awarded a free Godfather’s Pizza coupon from Mr. Begley in the hallway.

*

The phone number 1-888-809-4754 is available to student, parents, staff, or community members

24 hours a day, 365 days a year.If you have information that will protect the lives of

students and keep schools safe, please call.

4Issue 6 | March 6, 2012Hoofbeat Opinions

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

The Hoofbeat Elisha-Kim DesmanglesNithya RajagopalanBridget van BeaumontNithya RajagopalanCasey WaughnElisha-Kim DesmanglesElizabeth MoranElizabeth GrothEmily SeymourJames GeigerBridget van BeaumontKelly BastJennifer Newton

Editors-in-Chief

Front EditorNews Editor

Opinions EditorFocus Editor

Features EditorEntertainment Editor

Sports EditorOnline Editor

Graphic EditorIllustrator

Photographer

Clayton AnnanNick BeaulieuAlan DavisJustin DeffenbacherDavid FamilettiElizabeth GraffBrent GriffithsMarin HartfieldEmily HefeliAthira JayanJenna PfingstenSarah CushmanBrian Begley

Staff Writers

AdvisorPrincipal

Makin’ the Case

Casey WaughnOpinions Editor

The third grade play “Harry the Hamburger,” put on to accompany learning about the digestive system, was the peak of my acting and stage career. Nine years old and virtually fearless, I, Gloria Gallbladder, bottle of “vile” and all, was the highlight of the show—at least in the eyes of my parents.

Somewhere in the eight years between then and now, I have developed glossophobia, more commonly known as stage fright, where the utter thought of being up on stage, or up in front of any group of people, with all eyes on me is enough to send me running off, stage left.

However, facing fears is often a necessity, especially the fear of stage fight. With the looming professional world lurking closely around the corner, chalk full of presentations, and my dreams of a becoming lawyer standing up in packed court rooms in front of dozens of people, it is high time I face my fear and conquer it head on, before being forced to do it in the professional world. To do this, I signed up to be in the famed Mr./Ms. Mustang pageant.

Crazy? Maybe, but what better way to face a fear of stage fright than to get up on stage in front of hundreds of people. After a ridiculous dance number, showing baby pictures, dressing up as a famous person and being embarrassed by a family member, hopefully my stage fright will be assuaged, and giving presentations in the future to employers and colleagues in the professional world will feel like nothing.

Similar to the difficulties it is to find a job without a high school diploma, and oftentimes even without a college diploma or certificate, in today’s time, it is virtually impossible to go into the job world without some sort of basic speaking skills and the ability to stand up in front of others. People who lack this ability, or who are afraid of talking to groups, are often perceived as unintelligent.

Take the example of the former president George W. Bush. The man’s speaking ability when in front of large groups was atrocious, comparable to that of a five year old. This greatly affected the way that the public perceived him. MPS even recognizes the need for speaking skills and requires all students to take either speech, debate or forensics.

Although even with the moderate case of glossophobia that I have, in the words of Whip Hubley in A Cinderella Story, when 7 p.m. comes on March 23, I will not let the fear of striking out keep me from playing the game, and face my fear of stage fright, head on.

Standing up to stage fright

“My parents don’t want to take me places that are farther away which is a problem because my friends don’t live close to me.”Olivia Krueger, 9

StudentsSpeak

How will rising gas prices affect your plans to go out or

travel?

“I had to get a job to pay for my own gas so I could actually go out on the weekends .“

Kyle McClane, 11

“[Higher gas prices] limits where I can go I can’t really go across town or downtown, which limits your opportunities.”Colin Burkhalter, 10

“I won’t be able to go out with friends, and sometimes we will just have to hang out at someone’s house.”Brittany Sutton, 12

G.I. Jane: Need to combat gender barriers

The term “army” tends to typically stir up images of handsome male soldiers in emblematic camouflage uniforms.

However, on February 9, 2012, the Pentagon enforced tentative new measures to allow women closer to the trenches and front lines of battle.

Still though, these new rules are expected to continue the longtime prohibition that prevents women from serving as infantry, armor and special operations forces.

Yet because women can, in fact, handle the adversities of

combat and because women are readily available to serve in combat, it is high time that Congress remove what currently stands as the last hurdle to full equality in our armed forces.

In 2004 and 2005, Michael A. Baumann, now a retired lieutenant colonel, commanded 30 enlisted women and 6 female officers in the extremely dangerous Rashid district of Baghdad. An old-school Army warrior, Baumann had “seriously doubted that women could physically handle infantry duties, citing the weight of the armor and the gear, the heat of Baghdad and the harshness of combat,” as reported in an Aug. 15, 2009 New York Times article.

These sentiments have

been echoed by countless others who believe that the limitations on women in combat should remain in place. However, these beliefs, and the sexism that fuels them, falter when taken to battlefields.

“I found out differently,” Baumann said. “Not only could they handle it, but in the same way as males. I was with them. I was next to them. I saw with my own eyes. I had full trust and confidence in their abilities.”

After meeting the same mental and physical requirements as men, the ability of women to handle combat is indisputable.

In addition to allowing women to climb up military ladders faster to secure higher-level specialist positions,

removing these current gender restrictions would also eliminate enlistment shortages in the U.S. corps by opening up numerous positions for women.

Although the Pentagon reported that their new policies would open up about 14,000 additional jobs to women, this is only a fraction of the positions that could be amassed if women were allowed in combat roles.

Integrating women in these fields would also reduce the amount of tours that men have to take, thus allowing them to return home to their families sooner.

Ultimately, the rationale behind turning away those willing to do—and capable of doing—what so few are, is utterly nonexistent.

Nithya RajagopalanEditor-in-Chief

New truancy bill positive, fixes faults in law

Roughly two years ago, Senator Brad Ashford of Omaha, initiated a truancy bill in the state of Nebraska pertaining to students attending primary and secondary school. Any student absent for more than 20 days out of a school year is automatically reported to a county attorney and must appear in court to see if this excessive absenteeism is a true problem.

This law was initiated primarily to prevent students from missing too much school, but the majority of students who have missed school may have justifiable

reasons for their absence. So, this law, originally seeking good intentions, has now posed an excessive amount of unneeded stress to families and students alike.

Due to this truancy law, students who are excessively truant must attend a meeting with a county attorney and school officials who determine the root of their problem and help students choose the right path to success.

However, parents now go against the better judgement of their doctors and themselves, by sending their children to school sick for fear of legal implications.

Even though this law has proved to be an annoyance for some students and their families, the law still embodies important principles.

New bills proposed by

Ashford, Tony Fulton and Abbie Cornett have the ability to mold the truancy law and allow it to be more tolerant and lenient.

The LB933 by Ashford would require schools and county attorneys to review each student with more than 20 absences. The LB1165 by Fulton would have the school district review a case when a student is habitually truant and absent for more than five days in one quarter or ten days in a school year. The LB917 by Cornett would not count student absences due to documented illnesses or military deployment of a parent.

If students are missing school, whether they’re excused or not, they’re missing valuable time in class. Time that they have to make

up after school, or even worse, over the summer.

This places an unnecessary amount of work on the teacher who has to create makeup work for kids who are habitually truant, and spend a majority of their time helping these students catch up. This truancy law was positive in preventing that from the start.

This adjusted law will not only continue to prevent kids from skipping class, but also from dropping out of school and from obtaining negative behaviors such as alcohol and drug abuse.

Staying in school is obviously the best chance to receive a proper education and the modifications to the truancy law only emphasize the need for a healthy education that includes consistent attendance.

Clayton AnnanStaff Writer

5Issue 6 | March 6, 2012Hoofbeat Opinions

Editorial Cartoon

April 14 has been one of the most awaited nights of the school year, a night dreamed of by many since they were young kids. Glitzy dresses embezzled with rhinestones, sharp tuxedos with an array of tie colors, hours spent getting ready and dancing with the people closest to you, are many things that make prom night special.

Another element that makes prom night

All students should strongly consider attending After Prom because it offers fun and safe games to coincide with the memories that prom is sure to bring.

After Prom provides safe, enjoyable atmosphere Staff Editorial memorable is what

comes after the dance. With options ranging from sketchy parties to others like the safe, cheap and fun that After Prom provides, each student should strongly consider attending After Prom.

While some would rather spend their night in a dingy, dark basement with their friends and 70 other party-crashers, After Prom provides a range of activities that anyone would enjoy.

Activities taking place at After Prom this year include a hypnotist, mechanical bull, photo booth, miniature golf, inflatable obstacle course, bingo, and more. These activities appeal

to everyone, from the adventurous types to those who enjoy more laid back activities.

Another benefit After Prom offers that other parties and post-prom activities can’t is something near and dear to every high schooler: endless food.

Food at after prom last year included Qdoba, coffee, Subway, and different dessert options. This year is expected to boast even more.

One of the most important aspects of After Prom is the price. While all of the games, and food would normally add up cost wise, at After Prom, you are charged one fee of $15 dollars

when buying tickets. Once inside the door, all of the games and food are free.

However many students’ idea of a fun night doesn’t include being locked inside the school from midnight to 4 a.m., which is the case at After Prom. However, there is an early out offered at 2 a.m. with parent’s permission.

This means that if against all efforts, you aren’t having fun, there is no way of leaving and finding something better.

Despite being stuck at school, one of the most important aspects of After Prom is the safety. For many parents, knowing their child is

attending After Prom provides a peace of mind from the worry they could otherwise have. When at After Prom, parents don’t have to worry about their teen being out past midnight

on the roads or

at parties with minimal supervision.

With food, games, and a safe environment, there is no better way to cap off a great prom night than to attend After Prom.

“For many parents, knowing their child is attending After Prom provides a peace of mind from the worry they could otherwise have.

Keystone Pipeline: More flaws than favors

The Keystone XL Pipeline seems to be on everyone’s mind. Many people are divided on whether or not it should be passed, and when President Obama rejected the plan, it sent a firestorm of controversy and debate throughout the nation over its flaws versus favors.

The main argument against the pipeline was that it would go through the Ogallala Aquifer. But now, according to a New York Times article published Feb. 9 2012, the Keystone XL Pipeline has been rerouted so that it now avoids Ogallala Aquifer.

Yet, even though TransCanada has offered to reroute the pipeline, it’s still not a beneficial option for Nebraska, or the nation.

First, even though the pipeline would no longer go through the Sand Hills region, there is still the possibility that there could be a massive leak of oil, and this could cause troubles in the region.

If there was a leak in oil from the pipeline, many animals and plants would be affected. Not only that, but the agricultural lands in Nebraska could also be damaged.

Because the pipeline is so long, this means that there is a greater chance of a leak. Also, there has been no extensive research into whether or not the pipeline is actually safe so until it has been reviewed, it is too risky to pass this plan.

Not only that, but America has been struggling to try to find an alternate energy source and building the pipeline would contradict

what the U.S. has been trying to achieve.

Having the pipeline would discourage many researchers from trying to find an alternate source of fuel. By passing the plan, the message is sent across that the U.S. doesn’t care about finding another source of fuel, and is content in relying on oil.

Many people who are for the pipeline have argued that it will create thousands of jobs and would improve the economy, but this isn’t necessarily the case. According to a CNN article published Dec. 14 2011, the pipeline is expected to create

2000 jobs, but only

200 to 300 jobs will actually be permanent. According to a study by Cornell University published in September 2011, the pipeline could actually lead to a decline in jobs in the long run.

This means that using the pipeline as an economic solution is only temporary, and isn’t worth the environmental risks that the pipeline poses. If the pipeline leaks, it could cause devastating economic effects, like with what happened in the Gulf with the BP oil spill.

It’s too much of risk with little benefit to create the pipeline. There could still be serious environmental problems. It would demoralize America’s quest to find an alternate source of energy, and it isn’t an effective solution to our sluggish economy.

Athira JayanStaff Writer

“Even though TransCanada has offered to reroute the pipeline, it’s still not a beneficial option for Nebraska, or the nation.

T h e Sports S m a c k d o w n Tennis 0% What is the best

spring sport to watch?

15 35 55 * Based on a survey of 50 people

Golf 4%

Track18%

45255

Soccer30%

Baseball48%

6Hoofbeat Focus Issue 6 | March 6, 2012

MN remembers favorite pastimes* 1. Space JamSpace Jam, starring Michael Jordan and the cast of “Looney Tunes,” was released in November 1996. The film grossed over $230 million worldwide. It depicts the fictional retirement of Jordan from the NBA and his eventual return.

2. Dexter’s LaboratoryDexter’s Laboratory, which aired on Cartoon Network, ran from 1996 to 1999 and then returned from 2001 to 2003. The cartoon revolved around a young scientist named Dexter who had a secret laboratory in his house and his constant fights with his sister, Didi.

1. Lizzie McGuire Lizzie McGuire, a popular Disney Channel show, aired from 2001 to 2004. The show centered around the McGuire family, focusing on main character Lizzie and her challenges in her adolescence such as school, bullies, and balancing friends and family.

3. Spongebob SquarepantsSpngebob Squarepants, the lovable yellow sponge first ran in May 1999 and continues to run today on Nickelodeon. The show features Spongebob’s daily life in the underwater city of Bikini Bottom.

1. Nintendo 64The Nintendo 64 was released in 1996 and has sold over 32.93 million units worldwide. The unit was first sold for $199 and featured the slogan, “Get N, or get out.”

2. BarbieThe 50-year-old fashion doll was created by Ruth Handler in 1959. The 90s featured several new Barbie dolls such as “Totally Hair Barbie” or “Baywatch Barbie.” Barbie was the number one selling toy in the 90s, selling two Barbies ever second.

3. LegosThese construction toys were originally designed in Denmark during the 1940s. Legos have been an international phenomenon spawning movies and contests. The 90s featured several new Lego collections such as the “Bionicle” series and “Lego Star Wars.”

“It was really fun combining Michael Jordan and the ‘Looney Tunes’ and I loved watching the ‘Looney Tunes,’” freshman Zach Jones said.

2. The Lion KingThe Lion King was released in 1994 and has grossed over 951 million as of 2011. The movie centers around a lion prince who faces the loss of his father before he takes the thrown. It won two Academy Awards and a Golden Globe for “Best Picture.”“The Lion King really was my favorite movie because it made me discover that I want to go into animation,” junior Katelin Antley said.

3. Monsters, Inc. Monsters, Inc. is the story of two monsters in the city of Monstropolis facing trouble with banishment and even losing their jobs. It was released in 2001 and has grossed over $525 million.“My brother and I always fought over who was the better monster, Sully or Mike, and we still haven’t decided,” junior Cort Johnson said.

“She was my idol because I looked up to her,” sophomore Katie Azer said.

“It taught me everything about being a scientist. Also, I loved the relationship between Dexter and Didi because it reminds me of my siblings,” junior Yasmeen Bora said.

“I have always dreamed of living in Bikini Bottom because I like Sandy Cheeks,” senior Ryan Walters said.

“I loved it because it has Super Smash Bros and because the character ‘Pikachu’ reminds me of my friend Jaylyn Odermann,” senior Lexie Loos said.

“I thought they were cool because I could act out fancy lives,” junior Brittany Nelson said.

“My dad and I built a house out of Legos that you could stand in which allowed me time to spend with him,”

junior Lauren Clark said.

Infographic designed by Elisha-Kim DesmanglesInformation compiled by Justin Deffenbacher

*Based on a survey of 50 MN students.

Illustration by Kelly Bast

7Hoofbeat Focus Issue 6 | March 6, 2012

From catching music videos on MTV to indulging in binge YouTube sessions, there’s one thing every teenager has in common. Whether it’s Barney, the Backstreet Boys, or not much of anything past the nursery rhymes of kindergarten days, music has; in one way or another, permanently ingrained itself into our being.

From the sweetness of pop to the swagger of Drake, teenagers have experienced an evolution of their rhythmic cravings. While pop culture shifts and musical preferences change, a connection to music continues to remain.

“When I was little I listened to whatever song was popular at the time, but now I listen to music that expresses me more like classical music and jazz,” sophomore Erin Albright said.

Among the usual suspects of boy bands and bubble-

gummy pop singers also lie exceptions; niches that some students happened to fall into as children. For some MN students, musical taste was something inherited from their parents rather than picked up from Disney Channel Radio or princess movie soundtracks.

“[My taste in music] was pretty much the same as it is now,” freshman Nate Padilla said. “I listened to rock and the Beatles because I remember my dad playing them around the house a lot. I also remember my mom playing Abba, David Cassidy and Bob Seger.”

Aside from the thrills of seeing favorite musicians perform on TV, one of the most impactful experiences of childhood concerns first encounters with music.

“[My first concert] was Shania Twain,” junior Emma Mazour said. “I remember obnoxiously singing along, asking ‘Whose bed have your boots been under?’ in

extreme ignorance.”Boy band crooners and

lovelorn pop stars were the seemingly consistent, if only themes in music from the 90s, and much of the popular music from that era have now

shifted forms from

being socially acceptable to guilty pleasures.

“*NSYNC, I remember them—and Britney Spears, the Backstreet Boys. I guess I liked them because they were the “hip and cool” thing to listen to,” senior Brittany Sutton said.

Now, the hackneyed

lyrics of heartbreak often associated with childhood have transformed into messages of partying, and the natural voices of pre-pubescent teens have been overshadowed by the auto tunes of a new generation of

music. “There were

more pop songs in the 90s, but now it’s more rap and right now music seems more about the sad times than it was in the 90s,” freshman Chris Aleti said.

W h i l e music has helped aid broken hearts, prolong

happiness and fuel angst, one of the most impactful ways music touches lives is through its timelessness. Music is constantly linking itself to memories and, at the same time, bridging the connections between the now and then.

“When I was really little,

Students share memories of musical moments

“[My first concert] was Sha-nia Twain,” junior Emma Mazour said. “I remember obnoxiously singing along, asking ‘Whose bed have your boots been under?’ in extreme ignorance.”Emma Mazour Junior

Emily HefeliStaff Writer

my sister and I used to dance around in her room to ‘Float On’ by Modest Mouse, and it’s stayed one of my favorite songs since,” Junior Christian Jensen said.

The simplicity of childhood can often feel unobtainable to high schoolers flooded with flurries of ACT test dates, finals, and scholarship a p p l i c a t i o n s . Rarely is it realized that the nostalgia of childhood is as close within reach as an iTunes account or YouTube playlist.

The power of music extends its reach far beyond something to pass time or create. Within it are the vivid memories of a childhood that is all too often forgotten, but never left behind.

Notes and nostalgia:

Infographic designed by Elisha-Kim DesmanglesInformation compiled by Justin Deffenbacher

8Hoofbeat Features Issue 6 | March 6, 2012

Diving deep:Emily SeymourSports Editor

When sophomore Jack Roberts was in grade school, he had his first brush with scuba diving. At age nine and a half, Roberts took his first dive. Roberts’ interest was first sparked by a presentation from a scuba diver at Montclair Elementary School.

“Humans aren’t supposed to be underwater. All the advances in technology [with scuba] have allowed us to do that,” Roberts said.

The technological advances have enabled Roberts and many others to dive in all different locations. Roberts has spent time at dive sites in Belize, the Bahamas, Cozumel, Turks and Caicos, and Florida.

“When we go on trips, we dive five times a day. I was living on a boat for a week in the Bahamas,” Roberts said. “You don’t have to worry about suiting up and switching out tanks. The staff is really nice [and they] take you to awesome spots [where] the water is really clear.”

While Roberts travels to exotic locations to scuba dive, he dives in more local areas, including a few locations in Nebraska and Missouri. The local diving does not feature the vast array of fish found in the ocean dives, however some sites pose the opportunity for exploring mines.

“Oronogo is an old mine that’s a giant pit flooded over.

[The scuba company] takes stuff from junkyards. You can see the growth, [but there’s] not a lot of fish,” Roberts said.

When he is not out on dives, Roberts is still immersed in the scuba world.

In June 2010 Roberts’ father, Mark Roberts, founded DiVentures with Dean Hollis, the largest scuba shop in North America. M. Roberts and Hollis met while on a mission trip with the Rainbow Network in Nicaragua.

“[Hollis and I] got to know one another while traveling the dirt roads between jungle villages in Nicaragua and, as we talked, discovered we both had a passion for scuba. Disheartened with the local scuba shops, we joked about opening one of our own. The ‘joke’ turned into an idea and, from there, a plan,” M. Roberts said. “A year and a half later, we were starting construction on the Omaha shop.”

Since the opening of DiVentures, Roberts has helped out in the shop. Starting out by cleaning glass and scrubbing the pool area, Roberts has begun working in the shop’s retail sales store.

Aside from just offering “try scuba” classes and full scuba diving certification, DiVentures also offers a multitude of swimming lessons for all ages and full retail and repair shops. DiVentures’ popularity in Omaha has led to expansion in other areas of the country;

they are currently in the process of opening another shop in Springfield, MO.

“We’re talking with a few shop owners in other parts of the country about acquiring their businesses and see an amazing amount of opportunity for growth. I really don’t know how many stores we’ll have over the next few years, but it’s very exciting to be where we are today and looking at the potential for future expansion,” M. Roberts said.

For the Roberts’ family, scuba diving is just another facet of their lives. The passion for scuba diving led not only to the construction of DiVentures, but also the continued encouragement for all to try scuba.

“More people should definitely get certified. It’s something that everyone can do in their life,” Roberts said. “People in the diving community are really nice [and] it’s an awesome community to be in.”

SCUBA DIVING: Sophomore Jack Roberts (left) and his father, Mark Roberts (right), scuba dive while on vacation in Exuma Keys, Bahamas. J. Roberts became certified at age ten after becoming interested in scuba diving in elementary school. | Photo contributed by Jack Roberts

Looking for Lancers

“More people should definitely get certified. It’s something that everyone can do in their life. People in the diving community are really nice [and] it’s an awesome community to be in.”Jack RobertsSophomore

Senior Vince Pedrie Junior Matt Gaudreau

• “My dream schools areNorth Dakota, MichiganState,andMinnesota.Theyareallhockeypowerhouseswithgreat facilities,”Pedriesaid.

• He has taken multipleunofficial visits to schoolssuch as Miami UniversityinOhio, Bemidji State, andNorthDakota.

• Anunofficialvisitiswhenaplayer visits the school buthastopayhisownway.

• However, Pedrie has yet toreceiveanofficialoffer.

• Gaudreau is committed toBostonCollege.

• He loved the programand the city; he feels aplayer should commit towherever they feel themostcomfortable.

• TheLancersareachanceforhim toget ready for collegeby competing againstplayers with similar size,skill,andspeed.

• “I always have to play hardeach night because youworry [the college] mightpushyoubackforacoupleofyears,butIlovethegameofhockey,”Gaudreausaid.Infographic designed by Elizabeth Moran

Information compiled by Brent GriffithsPhotos by Jennifer Newton

Student shares unique activity, works in family scuba shop

MN Lancers experience recruiting process

9Hoofbeat Features Issue 6 | March 6, 2012

?Guess Who?

Answer: Security Guard Mike Kripal

When I was 16...

I had to be carried around at prom. I got in a car accident and hurt my knees on the way to pickup my tux.

Elizabeth MoranFeatures Editor

Dress. Belt. Cross body bag. Dangling earrings. Sandals. Layered bracelets. Long, knotted necklace. Curled hair. Painted nails. Mascara. Smile to match.

This is the combination of an outfit I know I feel good in. There’s no denying the feeling of walking out of the house in your freshest, flyest outfit. You know you look good and it shows in your swag. It’s hard to not smile and want to catch people’s attention when you’re dressed in your best.

As you walk down the halls and catch glances, we can all admit that we think “Dang, I do look good today!” For me, my outfit doesn’t just make me look good, it makes me do good. My productivity is drastically enforced; a definite step up from its usually nonexistent self.

A couple weeks ago, my outfit combination made all the difference at school; it was like magic. Something came over me, and my senioritis subsided for a day. Not going to lie, my sweats and I normally spend the school day sleeping and just slipping by in all of my classes, but not that day. I finished projects before the looming due date and was motivated to power through my article. Sadly, I can’t remember when this type of miraculous event happened last.

Not only that, but people demand much greater respect when you dress professionally wherever your journey takes you. Adults don’t regularly take teens seriously in any situation, for example, when I attend a formal newspaper interview. But when well-dressed, you carry yourself in such a way that demands the attention and respect you deserve. And consequently, I always get the information and quotations I indubitably need.

In the journalism (or almost any) field, dressing the part is half the job. The outfit or uniform shows what you are, what you can do, and your attitude. Even serial killers in court wear their nicest collared shirts with ties hoping the grand jury will hopefully see their innocence, (which really just seems like wishful thinking to me).

Who knew a change in outfit could change up your whole day? Sometimes the sweats should stay at home. Break out your best and see what you can accomplish to rid your day of unproductivity.

Dress for success

Gnome what I’m sayin’

Heating up at Hot Shops:

I worked at a Baker’s grocery store as a checker and loved it.

I was close to my sis-ter who was a year older. She led me astray, but it was fun.

I’m one of the best dancers. They called the dances “sock hops.” As an added talent, I was best in polkas.My sports included football, wrestling, parties, girls, etc.

Bent over an open flame, eyes fixated on the glass rod melting and flowing in front of her stands senior Lara Wegrzyn glass blowing jewelry. In an activity associated with blacksmiths and artists alike, Wegrzyn creates the very accessories she wears on a nearly daily basis.

Wegrzyn has used the torches and glass at Hot Shops, located at 1301 Nicholas Street in downtown Omaha, to blow her own glass pendant jewelry for approximately a year.

The glassblowing process begins with melting a solid glass rod over a torch and letting the molten glass flow into the desired shape. The glassblower may then help ‘push’ the glass to help form it into and achieve the desired shape. After this process has been completed, the artist can begin designing the piece.

“At first you don’t know the way it’s going to move and how you’re going to work with it, but after a couple of times you just get used to how it flows together, how it moves when it melts, and how you can push it and move it to make whatever you want,” Wegrzyn said.

One of the appeals of such a seldom participated in activity is the individuality that sets

one apart from a group. “It’s unique. I don’t know

anyone [at MN] that’s done it. No one in my friend group does it, so it’s special. I also get jewelry out of it. And it’s really fun working with the glass,” Wegrzyn said.

Such freedom has allowed

Wegrzyn to have much variety in her original pieces. Though she does primarily pendant work, her pieces transcend just one jewelry classification.

“My favorites are the pieces with the frit [small bits of broken glass]. If you don’t put loops and stuff on them, you can make smaller ones and

stick them on rings. You can pretty much turn them into anything,” Wegrzyn said.

Wegrzyn wasn’t the only person partial to the use of frit in hand-made jewelry, however.

“My personal favorite out of all of our pieces is Lara’s first.

We used frit, which is ground up glass, and pushed it up into the pendant. She happened to push hers up perfectly and magnify it perfectly as well, giving it a very uniform, yet chaotic effect,” Wegrzyn’s glass blowing partner and 2011 MN graduate Mitchell Raznick said.

No more shopping for the perfect accessoryElizabeth GrothEntertainment Editor

However, even the most exciting hobbies have obligatory and unavoidable trials and drawbacks.

“On occasion it gets really frustrating because the glass doesn’t always move the way you want it to. You can work forever on a piece, and right at

the very end it can just crack. It can be really frustrating,” Wegrzyn said.

T h e g l a s s b l o w i n g experts know of many difficulties g l a s s b l o w i n g beginners face, and, as many would have guessed, working with extreme heats is a prime example.

“[B eginners] try to work it too cold because the glass gets very fluid and the fluidity of the glass [makes them feel] out of control,” owner of Crystal Forge in Hot Shops Ed Fennell said.

H o w e v e r , despite the lack

of control and the frustration they face, artists who create these pieces love what they do. They are also able to incorporate intricate details into their work.

“All of our pieces are really optical illusions. The glass dome on the top magnifies all of the colors beneath it, giving it a 3D effect,” Raznick said.

Dedication to her work is what keeps Wegrzyn committed to creating.

“It’s really rewarding when you open the kiln and you finally see what the final product looks like. When you put it in the kiln, it’s still glowing red-hot and you can’t really tell, but when you find out what it looks like and you’re like, ‘Oh, that’s, something I would definitely wear,’ then you get a good feeling,” Wegrzyn said.

GLASS JEWELRY: Senior Lara Wegrzyn displays her glass blown jewelry pieces. Wegrzyn creates glass rings, bracelets, and necklaces at a glass studio called Hot Shops.|Photo by Elizabeth Moran

Driving, homecom-ing, and prom made junior year the best school year of all.

10Hoofbeat Entertainment Issue 6 | March 6, 2012

The winning wing bracket:Score at the best wing spots in Omaha for March Madness

Infographic design by Elizabeth Groth

At Oscar’s Pizza and Sports Grille, I ordered ten wings, half regular and half Char-buffed. I paid $7.56 for the wings and a side of celery.

The Char-buffed wing flavor was an absolute surprise that introduced me to an entirely new way to order an entrée of Buffalo wings. The Char-buffed wings are prepared dry rubbed in seasonings rather than the traditional sauce-drenched preparation.

Although these wings did not have sauce, they did not lack flavor. While they packed a spicy punch, they were completely delicious and the heat was easily subdued with a little blue cheese, which also added some moisture to the nearly perfect wing.

The regular wings were more traditional, but were not drenched in sauce. The chicken was juicy enough though, and the lack of sauce was hardly even noticeable.

My favorite wings were from Wingstop. I ordered ten wings, five original wings and five Garlic Parmesan wings for $8.12. The wings were larger than at the other places I sampled, making the slight increase in price not an issue.

The Garlic Parmesan wings were flavorful, but the parmesan flavor overpowered the garlic. These wings reminded me of small chicken fingers.

Wingstop wings were salty with the appeal of potato chips—once I started, I couldn’t stop. The crisp outer coating was paired perfectly with the succulent meat.

The original hot wings carried the most heat out of any the wings I tried, but the heat was more of a flavor rather than just a spice. These wings were very saucy, yet the sauce didn’t soak the skin of the wing. When looking for the best traditional Buffalo wings this March, Wingstop’s original hot comes out on top.

1 Basketball = 1 StarBased on a 5 basketball scale

Rating Rating Rating

Buffalo Wings and Rings sounded promising. It can be assumed whenever “wings” is in a title, the wings served will be great. However, Buffalo Wings and Rings failed to deliver their implicit promise.

I ordered five wings for $3.50 and followed their “mild barbecue” recommendation. Fortunately, the wings came drenched in sauce because without the sauce, the wings would have been unbearably dry.

The sauce was tangy with only a small hint of heat. Unfortunately, the mild tangy sauce was unable to mask the overcooked chicken underneath.

The only good thing about these overly fried wings was that the order came out on time.

Buffalo Wings and Rings served the only wings I considered unsatisfactory, and I will go out of my way not to eat their wings again.

Buffalo Wings & Rings Oscar’s Pizza and Sports Grille Wingstop

Marin HartfieldStaff Writer

Pictures from:http://jeffcreech.com/blog/?p=253http://oscarspizzaandsportsgrille.com/menu.phphttp://www.wingstopwestsac.com/menu/

12240 L Street Omaha, NE 11983 Blondo Street, Omaha, NE17330 Lakeside Hills Plaza Omaha, NE

11Issue 6 | March 6, 2012Hoofbeat Sports

The Big PicTureThe Big PicTureJUMPING FOR JOY: Senior Rachel Hagge and junior Jess Rands chest bump prior to the game as the starting lineup is read off. The Mustangs finished their season with a 60-53 loss to Columbus in the District Championship. | Photo by Kelsey Kalinski

use starting blocksHow to...

Step 1. Using your feet, measure out the placement of the blocks.

Step 2. Tebow...oh wait...

Step 3. Raise up, keeping hands on ground, ready to go. Listen for the starting gun.

Step 4. GO!!!

with seniorJill Schomers

Nick BeaulieuStaff Writer

Casey WaughnOpinions Editor

In Gus We Trust:

Beyond the game: MN athletes overcome diabetes struggles

Phot

os b

y Em

ily S

eym

our

Junior Zane Stull comes out of the basketball game and finds his spot on the crowded bench. He reaches under his seat and pulls out a package of Mike and Ikes and a bottle of Gatorade. While it is fairly unusual for athletes to eat things like this during games, it is common for Stull who does so intentionally to raise his blood sugar levels. Stull, diagnosed at age nine, is a type 1 diabetic.

Type 1 diabetes, or juvenile diabetes, is a disorder where the pancreas produces little or no insulin, causing the body’s blood sugar levels to be in a constant state of flux.

“If not taken care of, it can cause me to sit out or not be at my peak performance. This can cause me to be off during a practice or game,” Stull said. “The constant monitoring of your blood sugar causes you to be aware of how your body feels at all times.”

Like Stull, sophomore baseball player Jack Wilson is

also a type 1 diabetic, who was diagnosed at age three.

“Before and after games, it’s kind of a hassle because I have to monitor my blood sugar levels but I guess it kind of helps me because I have to eat healthy,” Wilson said. “Exercise really drops your blood sugar. It doesn’t really affect me during games. It’s really just before and after that I have to pay attention.”

Normal blood sugar levels are between 100 and 140, however due to the way the body naturally drops in blood sugar during exercise, Wilson likes to start games at about 180, and starts taking insulin at 230. He carries glucose tabs in his pockets in case his levels get too low.

“When I’m low, its hard to focus, I start shaking and get light-headed. When my blood sugar is elevated, it’s hard to focus and I get irritated,” Wilson said, “Sometimes I get fake lows where I feel low, but I’m really just dropping.”

With any diabetic, athlete or not, if not monitored closely, dropping too low or

letting sugars get too high can be extremely dangerous.

“One time at a Creighton camp, we were scrimmaging and I dropped to about 36. My vision was blurred and my reaction time was slow,” Wilson said. “You feel like a ghost inside your own body because you can see everything, but everything is off. It’s like I’m there, but I’m really not.”

Similar to Wilson, Stull also recalls a time when his diabetes affected his play.

“I was just released from the hospital after being diagnosed and played in a baseball game. It was a weird feeling because it made me feel out of shape and tired,” Stull said.

Although diabetes affects athletes during play, it affects them in numerous ways off the field or court as well.

“[The worst part is] the sleepless nights when you have to get up three or four times during the night. It takes a toll on your body. It also affects your family, but I’m thankful for all the support they give me,” Stull said.

Gustafson’s buzzer beater sends Mustangs back to StateDISTRICT CHAMPS: After cutting down the nets, juniors Josiah Gustafson and Nick Roth celebrate their 64-62 victory over Benson. “When [Gustafson] hit the shot, it was hard to believe. After the fact I was relieved and I just got caught up in the moment,” Roth said. | Photo by Courtney Cain

“We gon’ do it” has been the team motto for the MN basketball team this postseason.

That mantra came to the test, as the team clashed

with Benson for the District Championship, and a trip to the state tournament.

Both MN and Benson went back and forth in a high-energy matchup, until ultimately junior Josiah Gustafson sealed the win with a last second shot in overtime.

“That’s the way you want to end it in the Stable; you can’t describe it. It was the best game I’ve ever played in,” senior Trevor Lane expressed following the emotional win.

The two teams battled back and forth throughout the game in what turned into

a very intense contest with many lead changes.

“There was a lot of pressure, but we just had to trust our team to make plays,” Gustafson said.

Gustafson came up huge once again for the Mustangs, scoring 33 points and grabbing 9 rebounds.

Tied up with 2.9 seconds left, Gustafson posted up just outside the lane, made his move toward the basket, and scored as time expired.

“You can’t be nervous when [Gustafson] has the ball in OT, you know he’ll make the shot,” Lane said.

Gustafson’s late game heroics have become a consistent trend for the team, as he as also hit clutch shots in previous games against Millard West and Omaha North.

“I try to stay relaxed and stay under control, and I know I can hit the shot if I get an open look,” Gustafson said.

Once again Gustafson seemed unstoppable for the defense, as over a third of his flawless effort at the free throw line, going 13 for 13.

“He’s so good, you can’t stop him, no matter how many guys you put on him,” Lane said.

Along with a guaranteed return to Lincoln, the Mustangs got the opportunity to cut down the nets, and celebrate the last home game at MN.

“It’s the best way to end it in front of all those people along with a buzzer beater,” Lane said.

Monday’s game was the last basketball game played in the Stable this season, before MN moves to a bigger court, the Devaney Center in Lincoln, on Thursday.

“This one was really big for us, and now we’re in the state tournament. It feels good but the ultimate goal is to win State,” Gustafson said.

12Issue 6 | March 6, 2012Hoofbeat Sports

Sip on that haterade

Emily SeymourSports Editor

Babe Didrikson Zaharias was the ultimate triple threat. This golfer, basketball player, and track star braced the sports world for the ultimate show of athleticism from any woman in the 1930’s.

Going pro in one sport was apparently not enough for Zaharias, as she went professional and excelled in all three of the sports. There are no questions as to why the woman who strove to be the greatest athlete of all time was dubbed Woman Athlete of the 20th Century by Associated Press.

Do you know how many other athletes went professional in three sports? Well, neither do I, but I doubt the number is high. The days of finding these three-sport athletes like Zaharias seem to be over.

In an age of club sports and traveling teams, little room is left to participate in multiple sports. As a child, it seems easier to play three, even more, sports. Once athletes reach about middle school, sometimes elementary school, a decision often has to be made about which sport to sacrifice.

When you are younger, this is a difficult decision. Should I stick with soccer? Continue on with baseball and football? Or switch to solely playing volleyball?

For a kid, this decision is rough. Some choose to stick with multiple club sports, but risk having no social life. Others choose to specialize in one sport and play the other sport recreationally. A few even opt for the specialization route and play just one sport.

We have created a society where sports are not limited by their calendar season, but extend throughout the whole year. In the winter, when snow blankets the ground (disregarding this year), indoor facilities offer the venue to practice. As spring, summer, and fall roll around, practices, tryouts, and conditioning are still in full swing.

Once athletes enter high school, reality sets in. The athletes who specialize in just one sport generally have a clear edge, because all of their time is invested in that one sport. It is almost a disadvantage to participate in more than one sport if you want to play for your high school level.

For instance, with soccer (only because that is what I am most familiar with), once the spring high school season comes to a conclusion, club tryouts are just around the corner. The summer and fall months leave little room to participate in other sports.

Want to run high school cross country and play club soccer? This requires key time management, because, typically, as one practice ends, the other begins. But the club team practices are a pivotal component in preseason preparations.

For an elite few, however, the multisport participation is just a way of life. The trend of being a three-sport athlete seems to be decreasing.

The Babe Didrikson Zaharias’s of the world seem to disappearing. It is likely that no one will reach the level of athleticism as Zaharias, especially with the way sports in society are now played.

There’s no way to be a professional golfer, basketball player, and track star if playing more than one sport hinders our performance.

The fall of the three-sport athlete

What is your favorite Dr. Seuss book?

What is your biggest irrational fear?

How tall is Lucky the Leprechaun?

How many times does your phone ring before you answer it?

Jock Talk MN athletes share their interests in and out of the sports world.

Kevin Dickey

7.40 x 10-4 nautical miles

Soccer12

I suffer from Caligynephobia(fear of beautiful

women)

The 500 Hats of Bartholomew

Cubbins

e0

As tall as the pot of gold

Fear of trees

Green Eggs and Ham

3.57694 times

5’ 16”

Chris Davidson abandoning my lab

group

Cat in the Hat

One too many

I hate Lucky Charms

UPS men

Horton Hears a Who

Average of 3 rings

4 foot nine

Butterflies

The Lorax

3

Kristen KuwitzkyTrack & Field

10

Kyle RegenGolf

12

Allison JohnsonTennis

11

Cale EwaldBaseball

11

MN wrestlers successful at CenturyLink

Swimmers earn State medals, break records

David FamilettiStaff Writer

Elizabeth GraffStaff Writer

RUNNER-UP: Junior Devon Rupp wrestles in the State tournament in the 138 lbs. weight class. Rupp went on to place second in the tournament. | Photo by Amber Baesler

For every athlete, no matter the sport, there is a common goal shared to be successful, and getting the opportunity to be considered the best.

Wrestling is no different, and an entire year of practice centered around qualifying for

the Nebraska State Wrestling Tournament.

Eight members of the MN wrestling team earned this opportunity. With the culmination of all their hard work allowing them to compete at the CenturyLink Center for the right to be called a state champion.

Junior Devon Rupp

finished second in the 138 lbs. division, capping off a successful season for the Mustangs.

“It felt great because I had a good sense of accomplishment and I had to beat two wrestlers, I had lost to earlier in the season; it felt good to win when it counted,” Rupp said.

Despite the high finish at state, Rupp still acknowledged the desire to improve.

“Since I’m only a junior and considering my place, it shows how I can improve and do even better next year,” Rupp said.

Six other members of the MN team who qualified for state will also be returning to the team, likely ensuring an even better finish at the state tournament next year.

“Next year there’s going to be a lot of seniors, we’ll have a really solid team,” Rupp said.

Although wrestling isn’t always a team sport, the MN wrestlers continued to encourage each other throughout the season.

“Even though it’s an individual sport everyone watches and continues to support and cheer each other on,” Rupp said.

However it wasn’t just underclassmen who would go on to represent MN at the tournament. Adam DeVries, the lone senior, also competed.

For DeVries in his final season making the state tournament was especially significant.

“It was important to make state because all of your hard work pays off, it was a big relief,” DeVries said.

DeVries would go on to win his first match at the state meet and cap off the season with a 9-6 record.

In light of the wrestling season coming to an end DeVries was very reminiscent about the team.

“I’ll miss the guys and competing everyday and the hard work you put into everything you did, and the feeling of accomplishment you get throughout the season,” DeVries said.

Stands are packed with fans on their feet screaming. With television cameras rolling, the MN girls swimming relay team focuses on senior Natalie Renshaw’s finish.

MN’s girls medley relay team consisting of Renshaw, junior Amber Baesler, and sophomores Mary Kate Luddy and Laura Ney, finished first at State swimming on Feb. 25.

“Before any race I am extremely nervous because it’s not a team sport like soccer or football where there are 11 people out there representing your school. It’s just you; all eyes on you,” Renshaw said.

Renshaw set two new individual school records in the 50 freestyle with a time of 24.1 and the 100 freestyle with a time of 52.79, placing second overall at state in both.

“Before m y individual races I stand behind the block and clock ever ything out. It’s like I have tunnel vision and can only see my lane,” Renshaw said. “When they blow the whistle all nerves go and you stand on the block. They say ‘Swimmers, take you

mark, go!’ Right at that instant you give yourself over to the pool and just race.”

To prepare for State, practice began having shorter sets with longer intervals. The team also practiced race pace.

“ T h e w e e k l e a d i n g up to state isn’t physically hard but mentally,” Renshaw said.

The night before State consisted of a carb load, reshaving legs, and trying to sleep through nerves for Baesler. It resulted in

her placing 11th in the 100 breaststroke.

“I didn’t do as well as I wanted; my times remained consistent all season. That just makes me want to work even harder,” Baesler said.

Last year the girls team placed seventh in the overall team standings. This year the team earned fourth place.

With three relay winners and other State qualifiers returning, the team only hopes to improve upon their success.

“The swimmers obtained their goals of making top 12 and ensuring a spot to swim for points. They competed very well and many will be returning next year,” head coach Tara O’Shea said.

“The week leading up to state isn’t physically hard but mentally.”Natalie RenshawSenior