Don't Tread On Newman Catholic

By Marshall De Lonay

Newman Catholic Schools have always prided themselves with their respect and honor for school history and tradition, but one of those traditions has fallen by the wayside.  The Newman “N”, as it has been called, does not have the high respect that it used to.  In the front entranceway of the high school, the “N” is a prominent feature on the tile and its history and story are one that should never be forgotten.

The “N” was made when the school first opened. It was actually made by Ed Creske, now of Wausau Tile, and was his claim to fame.  Once he made the Newman “N”, his name spread like wildfire and everyone, especially the school, was astounded by his tile inlay work and because of this some students came up with an idea. 

Mr. Robison stated recently, “I believe some seniors in the 60’s decided it would be a good idea to put up a barrier of some sort around the “N” to make sure no one would step on it.  It was there when I went to school here and I’m not really sure why it was taken out.”  The barrier in question was a heavy metal ring that encompassed the “N” and was very heavy to move, so even if someone bumped into it, it would not move.  It was put up for numerous reasons, one of those being school support and respect.  The “N” was a symbol of the school and to walk on it was like desecrating the school.  During this time there also was an issue with opposing schools.  When they came for games and they lost the worst thing they could do on the way out was to step on the “N”. With the barrier up it was impossible for them to do so. 

“It was taken out about 12 years ago,” stated Mr. Robison.  “I believe the reason why it was taken out was because it was more of a nuisance than expected and we had to cut it in half to even move it down the steps,” explained Mr. Robison when asked what happened to the barrier.  The barrier is still in the school, in Mr. Robison’s room and it is still in only two parts.  When asked whether he would like it to return Mr. Robison said, “It could possibly come back and I personally would not have a problem putting it back in because it shows such respect for the school.” A lot of others have the same feelings towards the “N” as he does. 

What better way to show respect for our school and to keep traditions alive at Newman Catholic than bringing back a memory and admiration for our school.  Replacing the barrier around the “N” would not only do all of these things, but it would hopefully allow the younger generations to understand the respect we have for our school.